Octopus Ventures has announced the appointment of Erin Platts as its new CEO, effective from January 2025. Platts has extensive experience of almost two decades at Silicon Valley Bank, where she was CEO of the UK & EMEA, and later CEO of HSBC Innovation Banking UK.
The objective of Platts’ appointment is to refine and enhance Octopus Ventures’ equity capital business to broaden its remit into adjacent capital provision, increase the number of start-ups it supports across the UK and Europe while ensuring the best interests of the innovation community. Alliott Cole, the current CEO, returns to a full-time investment role.
Octopus Ventures, part of Octopus Group, is the largest and most active venture capital investor in the UK and Europe, with assets worth £2 billion. The VC firm holds stakes in over 180 businesses through venture capital trusts and institutional funds, including Zoopla, Secret Escapes, Depop, Swiftkey, Graze, HURR, Orbex, ManyPets and Skin+Me.
Reflecting on her appointment, Platts said she was honoured to join one of the most active early-stage investors in the technology sector. Her goal is to promote positive, meaningful change by amplifying and supporting the characteristics of the technology ecosystem in the UK and Europe.
Simon Rogerson, Octopus Group CEO, believes that Platts is the perfect candidate for this role and is genuinely thrilled about her joining the team. He also believes that entrepreneurs and founders can make a significant impact on the world, and as such, championing their vision is crucial for advancing their success.
