Laurence is a Chartered Accountant with approaching twenty years' experience in senior financial and Board roles. He now works as a business mentor, consultant Chief Financial Officer and angel investor.

Laurence began his career with Deloitte, later holding senior finance roles at international technology-based businesses, including Telsis, Hamworthy plc and Quindell plc.  Achievements include taking an AIM listed plc from £30m market cap to the successful sale of its major division for over £600m. He has completed over 50 acquisitions and disposals ranging from SMEs to listed companies and international groups, and has worked across a wide range of industry sectors including fintech, engineering, support services, legal, health, telecoms and software.

For Catalyst, Laurence is an advisor and member of the judging panel.  He guides Founders on commercial strategies, the preparation of financial plans, capital raising, reporting processes and HR/team/board structures. He says: “The degree of technical knowhow and entrepreneurship here in the southern region is impressive. Leaders of new businesses often possess an unerring ability to swim against the flow, and have a well-founded belief in their own instincts. However, to deliver rapid results and to make more right decisions first time it is also critical to know when to draw on the experience of trusted individuals. Whether acting as an investor, advisory board member or simply helping to foster industry introductions, I am passionate about working with Founders, their teams and co-investors to achieve significant shareholder value.”