A legend of the North West corporate finance world has announced his retirement.
Norman Molyneux, who has previously worked at PwC, is best known as the founder of Acceleris and growing it into one of the UK’s leading venture advisory houses.
In 2022 KPMG UK signed an agreement to form a joint venture (JV) with Acceleris to create KPMG Acceleris.
The purpose of the venture was to deliver a range of fundraising and advisory services to entrepreneurs in the UK and internationally, with a particular focus on businesses in technology, life sciences and ESG-related sectors.
Writing on LinkedIn he said: “It’s true. I am officially retired. Founding Acceleris 25 years ago and growing it into one of the UK’s leading venture advisory houses has been the most rewarding journey of my career.
“Taking the leap into entrepreneurship all those years ago was a risk, but one that brought immense fulfilment as I witnessed the power of innovation transform businesses and industries across the UK.
“I have experienced the ups and downs that comes with an entrepreneurial journey and I come out of this period so proud of the legacy I leave behind in this market.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside some of the most talented entrepreneurs in the UK – visionaries who are driving change and creating lasting impact.
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“Their ambition and resilience have been nothing short of inspiring, and I am grateful to have played a part in helping them realise their goals.
“The clients I have been lucky to work with have inspired me greatly and I take great pride in seeing our clients continue to scale.
“Supporting innovation across the UK has always been my passion, and that passion will never wane. The venture sector is filled with opportunity, and I am excited to see how it continues to grow and evolve in the coming years.
“Venture capital is the most important asset class in my view – it fuels genuine positive impact and powers the companies of the future.
“It is no coincidence that such a high number of currently listed companies have been venture-backed – it is no surprise that job creation is fuelled by venture backed technology driven companies.”
Molyneux is originally from Wigan and started his career in accountancy before spending a year in Canada.
He added: “It was in 2000 when I submitted a university thesis on access to capital for early-stage venture companies. I founded Acceleris alongside doing this study – which was crazy!
“I am very proud to have exited Acceleris to KPMG in 2024. It is an achievement I will cherish and is testament to the team.
“To everyone who continues to shape this vibrant ecosystem, I wish you every success.
“Thank you to all who have been part of this journey—it has been an honour to work with you, and I will always cherish the memories and relationships formed along the way.”