Smarter Capital

As Chairman of Smarter Capital, my role is to drive results and find solutions that enhance the Groups performance. I am responsible for overseeing the acquisition of digital marketing agencies for the Group, as well as supporting acquisitions in the e-commerce and Support Services verticals. 

Since June 2022, we have successfully integrated eight companies into the Group, expanding our reach and capabilities locally, nationally, and now globally.

My primary focus is on growing the Digital Agency vertical and supporting the growth of our e-commerce vertical, each with a target of achieving £3 million in EBIT. This growth objective demonstrates our dedication to maximising the profitability and success of these sectors within the Group.

In addition to my responsibilities within the Group, I also prioritise assisting founders in maximising their shareholder value. This indicates our commitment to fostering strong relationships with the entrepreneurs behind the acquired companies, providing guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

Furthermore, I am leading the development of our "Smarter Fund," which aims to generate above-average returns for everyday capital. This fund offers a secured solution that provides attractive financial opportunities while mitigating risk.

As Chairman of Smarter Capital, I am a results-oriented leader, driving growth in the digital marketing and eCommerce sectors, maximising shareholder value, and providing secure investment opportunities through the Smarter Fund.

Chairman

Smarter Media Ltd

Setting the strategic vision and objectives, and striving for growth through acquisition.

Executive Chairman

Delivering growth and profit through fantastic working relationships, exceeding expectations for our clients and delivering over and above on their campaigns.

Managing Director

Svensoni Paraplanning Ltd

Assist and advise the Board on the growth, marketing and sales strategy.

Non-Exec Director

SOKP Media Ltd.

SOKP Media

Operations Manager - Partner

I am proud to be one of the founders at Smarter Capital and working with an amazing and growing group of people. We excel at maximising shareholder value through strategic acquisitions and driving growth in the dynamic realms of digital marketing, e-commerce, and Support Services verticals.

At Smarter Capital, we are dedicated to cultivating business growth and assisting founder-owners in realising their exit strategies. Our team of passionate professionals is driven by a founder-centric approach, ensuring that your vision remains at the forefront of our partnership.

Specialising in collaborating with owner-managed businesses within the digital marketing, website design and development, e-commerce, IT and support services sectors, we focus on companies with annual revenues ranging from £500,000 to £10,000,000. With our expertise and resources, we are committed to propelling these businesses to new heights.

To better understand who we are and what we do, I invite you to explore our website at www.smarter-capital.co.uk

Here, you will discover the breadth and depth of our capabilities, as well as our unwavering dedication to our people and everyone’s success.

Since June 2022, we have successfully acquired several businesses, including Smarter Media Ltd, ActivelyAds, Outsearch, Dexterous Designs, and Refresh Support. These strategic acquisitions have not only strengthened our portfolio but have also expanded our market reach, enabling us to deliver comprehensive solutions to our many hundreds of clients throughout the Group.

Furthermore, our entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond our core strategy. We embrace opportunities that may not align perfectly with our existing ventures. As a testament to this, we recently completed a corporate carve-out and introduced Smarter Export, demonstrating our ability to adapt and capitalise on diverse prospects.

If you have an opportunity that you believe warrants discussion, I encourage you to reach out to me directly. We welcome conversations about majority, and full acquisition opportunities, as we are constantly seeking new avenues for growth.

Join us on our journey of cultivating success and making a lasting impact in the business landscape. Together, we can unlock untapped potential and achieve remarkable results.

Message me today to explore how we can collaborate and drive growth for you and your business.

#SmarterCapital #BusinessGrowth #Acquisitions #DigitalMarketing #Ecommerce #SupportServices #IT #Distribution

Karl Paul

VirtualNonExecs.com

Virtualnonexecs.com, in addition to being the industry's most dynamic and innovative community for board advisors and non-executive directors, is also the proud home of the VNXD Operator Network. This unique network serves as the cornerstone of our platform's offerings, making Virtualnonexecs.com the unparalleled go-to online community for company directors, CEOs, and chairpersons.

With a robust and ever-growing community of more than 20,000+ members, our platform has firmly established itself as an essential meeting place for not only board advisors and non-executive directors but also their peers across various industries. Here, professionals from diverse backgrounds converge to share invaluable insights, exchange information, nurture and expand their professional networks, and engage in lively debates on key issues shaping the business landscape.

The VNXD Operator Network further enhances this vibrant ecosystem by providing specialized support and resources for individuals making the transition from full-time executive roles to portfolio careers. This dynamic hub empowers these professionals to explore new opportunities, connect with seasoned mentors, and access a wealth of knowledge and expertise to excel in their non-executive director roles.

In essence, Virtualnonexecs.com and the VNXD Operator Network together offer a comprehensive, forward-thinking solution for those in pursuit of board advisory positions and non-executive directorships, making us the ultimate destination for anyone looking to thrive in today's corporate landscape.

Book a demo of the VNXD Operator Network at https://virtualnonexecs.com/opnet-demo

CEO & Founder

EVONA

EVONA recruit exclusively for the entire space ecosystem; from the companies building rockets, rovers, landers or satellites, to those utilising space data through applications and software to help improve and protect our planet. Our mission is to prove there’s space for everyone, no matter their background.

Board Advisor

Viddyoze

Viddyoze is a web based 3D animation software that allows absolutely anybody, regardless of technical knowledge, to create stunning professional animations with just a few steps.

Users simply log in on their web browser (either on desktop or from their phone) and select a template they like. Then they can upload their logo into Viddyoze, customise the template with a few clicks and hit "Render"​. Viddyoze will then go and create their professional animation in the cloud within a few minutes.

Over 100,000 companies use Viddyoze across the world.

Clients include Vodafone, Sony, DHL, Tesla, Verizon, Phillips and Scania.

Street Solutions UK

Advising the Board as a shareholder in a Non-Executive capacity.

Street Solutions UK is an online provider of traffic and event management products.  The brand is  synonymous with both quality and value for money. With exceptional growth, the business sells across all main platforms - their own website, eBay and Amazon.  With a strong reputation and a solid stable of products, the business goes from strength to strength.

If you're working in the trade or just looking to stock up for an upcoming event we've got you covered, carrying large stocks of all items and offering fast, tracked courier deliveries.

Our staff are trained to offer realistic advice when recommending products to suit your project to maintain our goal in keeping customer safe and satisfied.

Board Advisor (Shareholder)

Sustainability Yard

SustainabilityYard is a SaaS business focused on reducing WASTE within the building and DIY industry. Every year 420million tonnes of building materials are bought with 120million tonnes of that going to landfill…can you believe it?

Sustainability Yard are so passionate about cutting down on waste within the industry that they have made their App completely FREE to download and use – taking no commission from your sale.

Buy/sell or giveaway your excess building or DIY materials for FREE and stop them from going to landfill, or even worse, having to pay to put it in a skip!

Board Advisor & Investor

I founded SubbyNetwork.com in 2017 as a job sharing app targeting subcontractors.  Following a period of growth I sold the business and maintained a stake and board advisory role.  

The company has recently moved part of its focus to "sustainability" by removing the 10,000,000s of tonnes of unnecessary waste created by the construction and DIY industries, each year.

Non-Executive Director & Shareholder

The Webinar Vet

Working with the CEO and Board to deliver exceptional growth across this Tech100 business.

We have trebled the business (revenue and profitability)between 2017 and 2019.  

Acquired strategic target 2019.

Non Executive Director

TRIBES

Tribes is a different kind of digital agency. Our home is Manchester but our resources are global – a worldwide network of skilled digital specialists ready to deliver on demand for you. By building bespoke teams matched to every project, we create effective solutions quickly, efficiently, expertly. Every single time..

Non-Executive Director

Careermap Ltd

CareerMap is the leading website for 15-19 year olds looking for a pathway into apprenticeships and early career opportunities. Careermap support over 100 FE Colleges and Training Providers across the UK. We have also powered successful campaigns for BT, British Gas, Lloyds, RBS, The British Army, Rolls-Royce, Sky, ITV and The BBC.

Invested in Dec 2016 - Successfully sold the business to trade buyer in October 2018.

Non Executive Chairman

NonExecutiveDirectors.com

Built the company from Start up to exit. Multi award winning. 

Sold the business in Jun 2016 in a Private Equity backed MBO.

Equinox Financial Search & Selection Ltd

Equinox Financial Search & Selection was set up specifically to deal with senior finance roles throughout the UK. Through our partnerships and our strong networking style, we access a high number of positions which are not advertised in the conventional media; meaning we often deal with vacancies on an exclusive basis.

Equinox combines its mix of business professionals and search professionals to bring a combination which guarantees both the candidate and client a well-informed and efficient service. We take on assignments throughout the United Kingdom and Overseas, providing staff at senior levels. 

Our search oriented approach means that we go one step further than most "recruitment" companies as we rely extensively on the recommendations of industry contacts and networking relationships to identify the highest calibre candidates, not always available through traditional means.

Our focus at Virtualnonexecs is on empowering the non-executive and chair community to build exceptional portfolios. We achieve this by partnering with Private Equity, VC, and Family Office funds, who leverage our Operator Network platform to recruit top board talent without "per hire" fees. As the home to over 22,000 non-executive and chair members, Virtualnonexecs offers unparalleled access to more than 45,000 boardrooms through our members' extensive networks.

Our platform allows members to bring off-market deals forward, connecting them with sell-side advisers and prospective buyers or investors via our DealDirect module. This unique approach bridges key relationships, supporting members in finding opportunities to expand their portfolios.

Throughout my career, I have specialised in guiding non-executive directors and those transitioning from executive careers to successful portfolio roles. My experience includes founding and growing the world’s largest non-executive director network, which was acquired by Private Equity in 2016 following consistent recognition in the Deloitte Fast Track and awards for growth. Additionally, I've built and sold various businesses to both trade and PE buyers.

Today, Virtualnonexecs.com serves as the industry's leading community for board advisors and non-executive directors. With over 22,000 members, it provides a thriving platform for company directors, CEOs, and chairs to connect, share insights, and support the growth of boardroom talent across industries. Visit us at https://virtualnonexecs.com to see how we’re transforming the non-executive space.

Ian Wright

What if you woke up this morning, checked the bank… and realised you couldn’t make payroll, all while your accountant is busy telling you that you’ve made £2m profit?

Sounds ridiculous but it isn't and it happens all the time.

I've heard: “Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity" a lot!  Fine. But businesses aren’t run on a P&L statement. They’re run on cash! 💰

I checked the bank this morning. Yes, on a Sunday. I’ve done that in every business I’ve built for the last 20 years. Not the pipeline. Not the forecast. The actual money in the actual bank!

My rule has always been simple: Minimum of 12 months of runway, minimum.  If sales stop tomorrow, the business continues! That discipline has carried me through some interesting moments and helped me to a few significant exits along the way.

Advisors can pore over the FDD, multiples and forecasts. They should. That’s their job.  Just don’t underestimate the quiet power of a healthy cash balance. It tells you far more about the real strength of a business than a spreadsheet ever will.

Revenue impresses, profit reassures.... but CASH protects!

Not sure if that is too "business like" for a Sunday morning, sio we are off to take the dogs for a swim (yes "swim" because a walk on its own won't suffice with labradors! ha ha)

#Virtualnonexecs

Board Advisor & Non‑Executive Director | Founder & CEO of VirtualNonExecs | Private‑Equity & SaaS Investor | Governance & Growth Strategist

Working from my home office in the Lakes today! Only while the kids are getting ready, then it's walk time!  They'll be chuffed. Not.

Anyway… why am I working?

Because there simply aren’t enough days in the week right now.  In the past few weeks alone we’ve:

• Appointed two board advisors to a PLC
• Made multiple hires into fast-growing SMEs
• Placed a £60m+ enterprise value deal into an M&A firm (and the legals on that deal also went to one of our DealDirect clients after an intro at one of our private dinners)

In the past quarter, there have been over 1,000 searches of our non-exec membership via the Operator Network.  This is where PE and VC Funds search and contact our 29,000 non-exec and chair members.

And… we’re about to launch the fractional c-suite platform of ALL fractional c-suite platforms -  included for all Networker Pro members. 🚀 ⏳ 

With the whole team working flat out to support career transitions and portfolio expansion, our run of events and private dinners is taking shape. (More dates announced soon.)

Not enough days in the week, but wouldn’t have it any other way.

P.S. What’s an office without a lonely pot plant in the corner? Mine looks like it’s drafting its resignation letter. 🌱 😂 

#Virtualnonexecs #nonexecutivedirector

Ian W.

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This Wednesday.....we’ll be hosting another private dining (drinks!!) experience in Mayfair, in collaboration with Barclays Eagle Labs and Barclays Private Bank.  The incredible Amy Morgan will be leading the charge!

These rooms are reserved for our Networker Pro community - where investors, portfolio managers and decision-makers connect without the noise of traditional networking!

Behind the scenes, our Operator Network (ask Laura Archbold) gives investors direct access to exceptional non-execs and chairs who are advising some of the most exciting boards, largely off-market.  From nascent SMEs to global players....

The most recent off-market deal is a £60m++ Enterprise Value opportunity, passed directly to a PE House, where our eco-system has introduced the supporting lawyers and tax advisors.

That deal wasn’t run by a broker. And it won’t be an exception.

We see hundreds of opportunities each year that never touch the open market.  This is where deals, roles and advisory relationships actually start.

Not online. Not in a pitch deck. In the room!

If this is the kind of room you should already be in, now’s the time to ask how.  Michael Wain and Millie Egan can help you access Networker Pro status, if you are a non-exec or chair.

#Virtualnonexecs #offmarket

Journalists keep screaming “AI bubble” and pointing at Nvidia like it’s 1999 all over again 🫣

Nvidia just reported a $57 BILLION quarter.

That’s not some pre-revenue startup in a hoodie with a slide deck and a “vision”. That’s real demand with real customers and more than anything, real cashflow!!

This isn’t Pets.com with better branding.

And let’s talk about the language!!

“Company swoops for acquisition…”

No it didn’t. It ran a process, hired advisors, negotiated for 6 months and sat in 47 data rooms.  No one swoops in corporate finance. Ever.

Calling this an “AI bubble” is lazy analysis by people who don’t understand what’s actually happening: a fundamental rebuild of the world’s digital infrastructure. 

Lumping Nvidia, hyperscalers and enterprise AI adoption in with loss-making ‘unicorns’ is like comparing Amazon’s data centres to a Shopify store in someone’s spare bedroom. 😆

One is hype and the other is hard capex, contracts and global dominance.

If this is a bubble… it’s the most profitable bubble in history. 💰 

#NVIDIA #AI

Earlier this week I was working to this view in Bellagio, Italy… 🇮🇹 

This morning? Dead car battery. Miserable weather. Reality restored. 😭 

But the upside, we’ve moved our product development significantly forward this week. Thanks Sarah Mann and Adam Hembrough for a serious sprint!  

Now it’s a huge final 5-week push, running up to Christmas, with some major enhancements and new additions for our 29,000 non-exec and chair members… and for the private equity and wider investor market.

Italy one minute. British winter the next. 

#virtualnonexecs

Today has been another full-on day, even with the usual last-minute cancellations! 

That said, it was great to catch up with a founder now gearing up for their next £2m raise, a journey we’ll be supporting. Even better, the non-exec (that we recruited) is leading the charge. 

Proof, once again, of how plugged-in our members are to the M&A world.

Tonight, we’re heading to our drinks evening in collaboration with Barclays Private Bank and Barclays Eagle Labs.

These are the rooms we put our Networker Pro members into. The right rooms, the right boardrooms, and the right off-market deal flow for our corporate partners.

#virtualnonexecs #nonexecutivedirector

Where did the Metaverse go? 🙃 

Remember when Meta Platforms (the old Facebook) promised a utopia-in-VR  immersive worlds, digital boardrooms, a full-blown future of online-life? They dumped tens of billions into it. 

Estimates show the “metaverse/VR/AR” division (Reality Labs) has burned through around US $36,000,000,000 since 2019.  Almost as much as a 1st Class ticket these days on Avanti 😆 

The result? 

A giant let-down. The “big new world” never really materialised, just like Avanti West Coast's 1st class service! NO food, NO drink, NO SERVICE! NO STAFF! Just premium-priced disappointment AGAIN!

#Avanti #Avoid

The average time to hire a C-suite executive in the UK is 4 to 6 months! WHAAAT!?

In sectors like healthcare? Try 9 to 12 months, because obviously what’s really needed is more checks, more stakeholders and more people saying “one last interview” before going on holiday! 😜 

Some sources claim a quicker average of 21 weeks. Which is still… 5 months.

Now for Non-Executive Directors and Chairs:

8 to 12 weeks in the private and non-profit sectors and over 200 days in the public sector (that’s 29 weeks / 6+ months for those playing along at home!!!). Honestly, this blows my mind.

Here are a few stats over the past 6 months at Virtualnonexecs:
- Initial longlist: 36 hours
- Refined shortlist: under 5 days
- Time to hire: just 19 days (Even with a few diva-level outliers in there)

This is exactly why PE and VC firms use the Operator Network.  Whether it’s a “problem child” in the portfolio or a looming transaction that suddenly needs adult supervision at board level…

📬 Postman Pat always delivers 🤝 So do we!  AND - we are often 1/3 of the cost of the search firms, but we "deliver" the same package!

And unlike Pat, we don’t even need a cat.

#Virtualnonexecs #nonexecutivedirector

Imagine if we opened up our platform to founders and businesses who are looking to connect with 7,000+ highly established operators with £750m+ of angel funds to invest (and thousands of years of business contacts and networks to bring to the party!) 

Imagine. 😉

Britain’s Startup Welfare Problem...

Billions go into “enterprise” schemes each year, but how much of it goes into experience?  It appears to me that too many programmes are run by well-meaning consultants who’ve never built or sold a business!

We’ve created an ecosystem that funds the theory of entrepreneurship, not the practice of it!  It’s time to tap into Britain’s most underused resource - its exited founders and operators!

That’s exactly what Virtualnonexecs.com does: connecting real business builders to the next generation of scale-ups and investors.

If government wants ROI from taxpayers’ money, it’s simple:  Stop subsidising startup welfare. Start funding real-world wisdom.

Department for Business and Trade HM Treasury Department for Science, Innovation and Technology

#nonexecutivedirector #funding #virtualnonexecs

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Karl Paul

Ian Wright

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The Battle

Karl Paul

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Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Ian Wright's LinkedIn Performance

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