Who we are
With combined team experience across multiple sectors and a strong track record of successfully backing high-growth start-ups and SMEs, we’re confident that we can offer the support and knowledge small companies need to transition from start-up to scale.
Oliver Hancock Founder
“What we offer here is authentic not staged to meet our clients’ expectations. Westerlands wasn’t dreamt up in a boardroom. We are hunter-gatherers in suits. ”
Oliver’s corporate career comprised c-suite-level international stints working across asset management, the energy sector, business turnaround, deal origination and the creation of multiple business development strategies. He brings this significant experience to bear as advisory chair of Lockstep whilst pursuing a passion for regenerative estate management and biodiversity at Westerlands, the family home, in the heart of the South Downs National Park.
Antonia Jamison | Director
“We are committed to helping sustainable, conscious brands develop as well as get the recognition and funding that they deserve.”
Currently holding a number of non-exec roles with some of the UKs most exciting start-up FMCG brands, and with a history of backing some major winners in the space, Antonia specialises in mentoring founders, assisting with fundraising, and creating valuable brand equity. She has a background running a global VC fund and private equity in London and New York, as such, Antonia is ideally placed to help ambitious teams that want to scale rapidly and with purpose.
Julian Davies Strategist
“We support small businesses with big dreams. If your team is your greatest asset, that needs to be celebrated. We know how important it is to collaborate with other businesses who share the same sustainable and innovative values”
Julian scaled the corporate ladder in the alcohol sector, working with a number of global beverage giants. His achievements include significant brand repositioning and turnaround on an international level. He now consults to a number of fascinating SMEs across the FMCG sector, providing strategy, commercial plans, marketing strategies and campaigns, and routes to profitability.
Sara Prior Operations
“Our approach has people at its heart. Brand vision and strategy, clearly defined and communicated to the whole team, means that they can set up processes to support and deliver projects on time and within budget.”
Sara is an entrepreneur in her own right with several successful business ventures under her belt. This experience and understanding enables her to empathise with and help the founders Lockstep works with, whilst ensuring that she can assist with deal flow, operational advice, events and workshops, and funding campaigns.