The Scottish National Investment Bank (“the Bank”) has appointed Graeme Sands to its newly created chief portfolio officer (CPO) role.
This appointment to the executive team reflects the growing maturity of the Bank’s portfolio and the funder’s evolving approach to the active management of its assets.
Graeme will lead the Bank’s post-investment function, working closely with investee company leadership teams to drive performance and support long-term growth.
He joins the Bank from his role as director of retail banking at Virgin Money, with a career at the company spanning two decades, during which time he held senior roles in business banking, product development and digital delivery.
A Chartered Accountant, he moved into banking following an advisory role at PwC and senior management positions in the technology industry.
David Ritchie, chief executive of the Bank, said: “Since launch, we have invested in a promising portfolio of businesses, working across a diverse range of sectors. As the portfolio grows in scale and maturity, it is increasingly important that we support these businesses to capitalise on strategic growth opportunities, navigate uncertainty or challenge, and maximise their long-term economic and social impact across Scotland.
“Graeme brings considerable banking and advisory experience, alongside valuable knowledge of the technology sector. His leadership will be instrumental in strengthening how we manage and support our portfolio to help the businesses we invest in scale their growth, build resilience and deliver meaningful contributions to Scotland’s economic growth.”
Graeme said: “Since its inception, the Bank has established itself as a leading impact investor and an important player in shaping Scotland’s financing ecosystem. I am honoured to be joining the team and supporting our portfolio companies. From expanding the supply of Scotland’s housing stock to accelerating the energy transition, the Bank’s investments are helping unlock opportunities across all sectors, as well as creating a more sustainable and resilient economy.”
