Scale to Exit: Crossroads for UK’s Entrepreneurs?
M&A and growth investing in UK technology is regaining momentum. Strategic buyers are returning, private capital is becoming selective but more decisive and well-positioned companies are seeing renewed interest from both domestic and international acquirers. CUTEC and Farrer & Co bring together perspectives from VC and Operators to explore trends and underpinning strategies. The discussion will focus on
The key themes that will drive transactions this year
Why high-quality UK tech assets are attracting renewed acquisition interest
How founders can position for strategic optionality as markets reopen
What boards, acquirers and investors are prioritising in 2025 and into 2026
Networking drinks will follow, offering an informal setting to continue the conversation with speakers and peers from across the Cambridge tech and investment ecosystem.
Panel: Simon Ward (Farrer & Co), India Benjamin (Farrer & Co), Laurence Garrett (Highland Capital) and Peter Harris (Co-founder Hotel Chocolat)
Who Should Attend
Company founders and early operators, MBA EMBA / MFin students, Aspiring VC PE or Coporate Lawyers and anyone interested in how UK companies scale into global outcomes
Event Details
Where: Cambridge Judge Business School
When: 22 January 2026
5:30 – 6:45pm | Panel discussion & audience Q&A
7:00 – 8:00pm | Networking drinks (free, on-site)
Panel Details
Simon Ward - Partner, Corporate | Farrer & Co
Simon advises founders and investors on technology M&A, growth equity and strategic exits. His recent work includes multiple UK acquisitions and supporting US and European VCs investing into UK sustainability and industrial technology companies. He regularly works with founder-led businesses preparing for scale, capital raises and exit.
India Benjamin - Senior Associate, Corporate | Farrer & Co
India works across venture-backed growth companies, strategic transactions and complex partnerships. Her experience spans innovation-driven businesses scaling into international markets.
Laurence Garrett - Partner | Highland Europe
Laurence is a growth-stage investor at Highland Europe, backing European software and internet companies scaling globally. He has led or worked on investments in category leaders including Featurespace, Medallia, and Adjust, supporting businesses through international expansion and strategic exits.
Peter Harris - Co-founder | Hotel Chocolat
Peter Harris is the co-founder of Hotel Chocolat, helping scale the brand from a 1980s startup to a luxury global retailer. The company's £534 million sale to Mars Inc. the culmination of a 35-year entrepreneurial journey. He is an Enterprise Fellow for The Prince’s Trust and supports as a business mentor.