Meet Tom Phillips – Our New Investor Relations Director

We’re delighted to welcome Tom Phillips to YFM Equity Partners as an Investor Relations Director.

Tom joins us at an exciting time of growth and evolution for YFM. His focus will be on deepening relationships with our existing investor base and developing connections with new investors.

With over 18 years of experience in financial services and having held senior roles across investment and distribution, Tom brings a wealth of insight and energy to our team.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Tom to YFM. He’s someone who really understands the role we play as a trusted partner for both investors and investees, in our mission to help build better businesses. His background across investment and fundraising makes him a fantastic addition to our team and, most importantly, Tom really gets our culture and what YFM stands for.”

Tom began his career at Lloyds Bank in 2005, as part of the Retail Bank graduate scheme. Over the following years, he moved into Large Corporate Credit, where he developed a keen eye for business risk and resilience, before working in the Bank’s restructuring department during the global financial crisis— experience that gave him a solid foundation in understanding how businesses evolve through both growth and challenge.

In 2011, Tom joined Downing, where he spent more than 13 years, gaining experience across a variety of departments, as that business went through an extended period of growth. His work spanned investment management, product development, marketing and sales, giving him a holistic view of how to build and run effective investment products, whilst delivering strong relationships with investors, advisers and intermediaries.

“I’m delighted to have joined YFM. I have been impressed with the team and their focus on supporting ambitious, fast-growing businesses right across the UK — and doing it in a way that’s personal, purposeful and grounded in real partnerships. The business has built an incredibly loyal investor base over the years and I’m looking forward to working with our investors and their advisers.”

Tom’s arrival signals a continued focus on delivering high-quality, well-managed investment funds – and on ensuring that YFM’s investors feel informed, engaged and valued every step of the way.

As we continue to back dynamic small businesses across the UK, Tom will play a key role in making sure our approach to investor relations remains personal, transparent and aligned with our long-term vision.

Away from the office, Tom’s time is mostly spent with family and friends, including his three children who keep him happily busy. When he gets a rare moment to himself, he enjoys running and getting out on the golf course.