Firstport welcomes new Head of Investment Programmes
We are delighted to announce that Emily MacDonald has been appointed as Head of Investment Programmes at Firstport following a competitive recruitment process. Emily succeeds Daisy Ford-Downes, who is stepping down from her role at the end of February.
Emily joined Firstport in 2024 to lead LaunchMe, our investment readiness programme. Under her leadership, LaunchMe has rolled-out a new programme format, expanded its network of expert partners, and introduced LaunchPad, a new learning platform. She has also overseen the launch and delivery of a similar programme, Boost Invest, in the North East of England.
Before joining Firstport, Emily built a career in finance and risk management with roles at Dresdner Kleinwort Bank, Investec, and Gatehouse, a Shariah compliant UK bank. She has also worked on freelance projects, founded her own social enterprise, and gained valuable experience as a trustee for several community charities, including a community library and a local development trust.
Firstport CEO, Gael Drummond, said:
“I am delighted to welcome Emily to the Firstport leadership team. Over the last couple of years, she has delivered tangible results across our investment readiness programmes, always bringing exceptional energy and a client-focused approach. With a new Catalyst Fund strategy and a talented investment team in place, Emily is well-positioned to strengthen and expand our social investment offering.
“I would also like to thank Daisy for her outstanding contribution over the past five years. She played a pivotal role in designing and launching the Catalyst Fund and has deployed more than £2 million to innovative social enterprises delivering social and economic impact at scale. On behalf of the staff and board, I wish her every success in her future endeavours.”