51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Oliver Woolley (MBA 1992)

Oliver Woolley is the CEO of Envestors, a private investor network, and sits on 51³Ô¹ÏÍø's governing body, the Court.

What first encouraged you to volunteer?

It wasn't until my two sons started growing up that I decided to reconnect with 51³Ô¹ÏÍø. Looking at them, aged seven and ten, I realised the importance of education and the value of my 51³Ô¹ÏÍø MBA. After losing touch for about 15 years, I re-engaged with the College a decade ago and haven't looked back. Initially, we employed two interns from 51³Ô¹ÏÍø at Envestors, which was a useful experience, and as a result I joined the Business School's Alumni Advisory Board. Then I was very flattered to be invited to join the Court, which is a fascinating, diverse group of people - quite different from the 'male, pale and stale' boards I often encounter.

What are the benefits?

Last year I was making a business trip to China and got in touch with the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø College Alumni Association for South China. They set up a drinks party, which I hosted and gave a talk at - it was well attended and gave me a fantastic opportunity to meet alumni. Not entirely without self-interest - we are always on the lookout for new investors. I have a huge fondness for 51³Ô¹ÏÍø and choose to support the College with my time (and in mine and my wife's wills) regardless of any benefits to myself and my business. But through volunteering I have met so many interesting people that it is definitely two way traffic.

What outcomes can you expect?

I see the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Court as having two roles - providing a sounding board for the College's strategy and acting as ambassadors. Currently, I am encouraging the College to support its own investment community and in June this year I put together a panel for a sell-out talk on crowdfunding versus angel investing. I hope it will result in greater investment in spin-outs from alumni and so I may have done a bit of good in 'giving back' - the evening was also great fun!