Meet The Team

Neil has had a career with the Bank of England spanning 40 years during which time he worked at the Bank’s Head Office in London and in two of its regional offices, Liverpool, and Cardiff. He held a number of positions in banking and market operations, the Bank’s international division and its regional Agency network.

Since retiring from the Bank, he has held several non-executive and trustee positions including Chair of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, Chair of Disability Sport Wales and as a director of Cartrefi Conwy and Creating Enterprise. He has also held positions in higher education including as a governor of the University of Liverpool and Wrexham University and as an advisor to the University of Liverpool Management School, Liverpool Hope Business School, and Bangor Business School.

Helen brings more than 20 years’ of vital experience in leveraged finance. Her M&A track record with N M Rothschild and Director at Alcentra, Europe’s leading CDO fund manager, with strong tech focus and €20bn undermanagement speaks for itself and underpins her extensive experience across various financial sectors. Helen also brings extensive board experience with roles in finance, social housing and property development. Helen also acts as a vital link between MSIF and fund manager River Capital.

Liverpool Chamber Chief Executive Paul Cherpeau ensures the Chamber represents the commercial interests of Liverpool businesses and enables them to connect, support and thrive. Having joined the Chamber in 2006 and having worked his way from graduate to CEO his role varies from oversight of the Chamber operations, connecting with city partners on all issues connected to the economy and supporting and engaging individual businesses within the network. With his finger on the pulse of all things Liverpool, Paul is a fantastic link between MSIF and the SME community.

Richard Thomas is a proven business leader with over 25 years of experience as a successful commercial lawyer, insolvency practitioner, and entrepreneur. He co-founded the law firm DTM Legal LLP in 2008 and grew it to a £6 million business with 75 staff across two offices in Liverpool and Chester. Previously, Richard was an equity partner at Walker Smith Way, then Chester’s largest law firm. His unique blend of legal expertise, business acumen, and commitment to the local community makes him an ideal member of MSIF Board.

Louise Towers, FCA, brings a wealth of financial leadership experience in high-growth companies and non-profit organisations. She currently serves as the Global CFO of Bikmo Insurance, a specialist bike insurance broker, where she has helped drive the company’s European expansion. Louise has held CFO and director roles at various organisations, including Broadway Partners, the Energy Innovation Centre, Marketing Cheshire, and high- tech companies like Spiral Software and Netcall plc. Her expertise in finance, strategy, and operations are invaluable to MSIF.