Lisa Gordon appointed to the Capital Markets Industry Taskforce
By CavendishIt’s an honour to be appointed to CMIT at such a critical juncture for smaller companies. Smaller companies make up a significant proportion of UK capital markets by number and are material contributors toward UK investment, jobs and growth across all regions. The health of the UK capital markets affects every individual and every business in the country and CMIT’s role has never been more important as we work to ensure that the capital markets remain dynamic and accessible to businesses looking to scale and thrive. I look forward to contributing to the Taskforce’s work and representing the unique needs of smaller companies as we navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities ahead.”
Lisa Gordon
Chairman, Cavendish
Cavendish is pleased to announce that Lisa Gordon, our Chairman, has been appointed to the Capital Markets Industry Taskforce (CMIT), where she will be representing the interests of smaller quoted and listed companies. Lisa joins Erin Platts, CEO of Octopus Ventures, as one of two newly appointed members, further broadening CMIT’s representation of the UK’s capital markets ecosystem.
The appointments come at a pivotal time for the UK’s capital markets as CMIT continues to drive reforms aimed at creating a more competitive, inclusive, and dynamic environment. Together, Lisa and Erin bring a wealth of experience from the worlds of growth-focused investment banking and venture capital, adding fresh perspectives to the Taskforce’s mission.
Lisa Gordon, who has over 30 years of Executive and Non-Executive experience with public and private companies—including Alpha Group International Plc, JPMorgan UK Small Cap Growth & Income Plc, and M&C Saatchi Plc—will represent the unique needs of smaller quoted and listed companies. Her appointment underscores Cavendish’s commitment to championing the businesses that form the backbone of the UK economy.
Erin Platts, with over two decades of experience supporting investment and innovation in the UK, joins CMIT’s investment workstream. As the CEO of Octopus Ventures and a former leader at HSBC Innovation Banking UK and Silicon Valley Bank, Erin’s expertise will bolster CMIT’s efforts to foster an environment where high-growth, innovative companies can secure the capital they need to thrive.
Speaking about the appointments, Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO, LSE plc, and Chair of CMIT, said:
“Erin and Lisa bring a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to improving the competitiveness of the UK’s capital markets. We are delighted to welcome them to CMIT and are certain the fresh perspectives they will offer will greatly enhance our work and further support us 2 CORPORATE to build on the progress already made. On behalf of all of my fellow Taskforce members, I would also like to extend a huge personal thanks to Klaus, Sam and Lakestar for their invaluable support and dedication to strengthening the UK market during their tenure on CMIT.”
As CMIT continues to lead discussions on the future of UK capital markets, these new appointments mark a crucial step in ensuring the needs of businesses—large and small—are at the heart of reform. By bringing together expertise across venture capital, investment banking, and beyond, the Taskforce is well-positioned to drive meaningful change and deliver long-term growth for the UK economy.
About the Capital Markets Industry Taskforce (CMIT)
CMIT is a strategic body designed to engage with policymakers and market participants to ensure that the UK’s capital markets are dynamic, accessible, and responsive to the evolving needs of businesses. CMIT works to address the challenges and opportunities facing various sectors, with a particular focus on improving access to capital and enhancing the competitiveness of the market.
More details can be found in CMIT Press release here