Ben Heap has been appointed as the venture-scaling entity’s chairman, after most recently being the chair and founder of fintech-focused venture capital fund, H2 Ventures and an independent director at Colonial First State.
Previously, Mr Heap has held a number of senior roles across the financial services industry. He was a managing director and head of Australia as well as head of infrastructure in the Americas for UBS Global Asset Management. He was also a non-executive director at the Financial Services Council (FSC).
Mr Heap has additionally been a member of the federal Treasurer’s Fintech Advisory Group, as well as being a director at The Star Entertainment Group and Redbubble and president of Gymnastics Australia.
He commented he was looking forward to working in the new role.
“Since its launch, x15ventures has had a relentless focus on creating an environment for new businesses to flourish,” Mr Heap said.
“I look forward to working with the Board and the management team to continue this focus, and further empower Australia’s innovators to bring new solutions to market.”
Alongside Mr Heap’s appointment, x15ventures has also appointed its first external portfolio adviser, Jane Martino.
Ms Martino will be responsible for providing insight and recommendations to x15’s investment committee regarding the funding of potential new ventures.
She is said to have more than 20 years’ experience in entrepreneurial growth and business management roles.
“I believe the next wave of major breakthroughs for customers will be delivered via high-growth start-ups obsessed about solving problems faster and better than ever before,” Ms Martino said.
“I am excited to be able to help x15ventures identify and support these new opportunities, which will ultimately empower Australian customers like never before.”
Toby Norton-Smith, managing director of x15ventures, added: “Both these appointments speak to x15 and CBA’s commitment to bring the right external experience and challenge from the Australian technology, investment and fintech community, to ensure x15 delivers on its promise.”
