Downing was founded in 1986 and is a privately owned business.

Over 25,000 investors trust Downing with over £1 billion of their assets, invested into businesses that make a difference, including renewable energy, care homes, health clubs and children’s nurseries.

Downing say that they strive to provide investments that meet their clients’ needs. We are sensible and measured in our approach, always aiming to get the best return for the least risk.

Downing Ventures EIS has funded over 55 tech companies since its launch in 2014.

Chris Allner – Downing Partner & Head of Investment

Chris is a Partner of Downing LLP and heads up the investment team. He has 35 years’ venture capital and private equity experience, most recently as head of private equity at Octopus Investments. Chris has transacted over 50 investments, from start-ups to well-established companies, and has sat on the boards of a number of unquoted and quoted portfolio companies across a variety of commercial sectors.

Sophie Andre, Portfolio and Operations Manager

Sophie joined Downing in 2016, having previously worked in client relations at a large investment manager. She focuses on portfolio monitoring and building a platform of support services for our investee companies. Sophie also manages co-ordination with other parts of Downing, including fund administration, marketing and sales.

Will Brooks – Downing Investment Director

Will joined Downing in August 2018 where he directs the healthcare activities of the Downing venture funds. Will has over 30 years’ experience in healthcare and biotechnology with over 18 years’ experience in venture capital across Europe and the US.

Mike Kennedy – Portfolio Director

Mike joined Downing in 2017 to lead their engagement with their portfolio companies. Mike has over 10 years’ experience in the venture capital industry with 3i plc, YFM Group and
Electra Partners and is co-founder and director of Inogesis, a start-up connecting blue-chip organisations such as Unilever and GSK to solve business challenges collaboratively.