Francesca O'brien

Fran has six years' investment experience and in-depth knowledge of a wide range of sectors, including life sciences, software and energy, to name a few. She has significant experience of negotiating fair investment terms, managing due-diligence processes and EIS documentation, as well as client relations.

Since she joined SR as its first employee, in 2013, Fran has overseen more than 200 early-stage funding-round transactions, leading sales, legal and deal-analysis teams. She has also been instrumental in building the business and co-creating a strong, supportive culture. Fran is a regular panel speaker and presenter, and her investment commentary has attracted media coverage in The Telegraph, The Times and CityAM.

In her student days, Fran read Psychology at the University of Cambridge, where she was president of the St John's College students' committee, representing more than 500 undergraduates. She also has a post-graduate diploma in Law. Fran has an ongoing interest in psychology, particularly with regard to investment behaviour.