Richard Sharpe
Managing Director
Prior to joining True in 2021, Richard was a Director at Qatar Investment Authority, leading direct private equity investments into retail and consumer companies in Europe, the US and parts of Asia. Before QIA, Richard worked in mergers and acquisitions at Lazard in London. — Catherine Pelton
overview
Prior to joining True in 2021, Richard was a Director at Qatar Investment Authority, leading direct private equity investments into retail and consumer companies in Europe, the US and parts of Asia. Before QIA, Richard worked in mergers and acquisitions at Lazard in London.
meet Richard
Why did you choose True?
True, and the people at True, genuinely want to use their influence to make a positive impact on the world.
How would you describe your job to a five-year-old?
Buying and selling companies, and working with all sorts of different people to help build great companies.
What do you love most — and least — about your job?
I love the intellectual challenge and debate that comes with investing. I dislike the fact that working means that I cannot just endlessly read and travel.
Name an idea or company that reimagined a business or industry — one you wish you’d thought of.
What Amazon has done, and continues to do, with its relentless focus on the customer and innovation despite its size, is clearly impressive.
Which person or people helped shape and inspire who you are today?
There isn’t just one person. I try and take inspiration from many people, be they friends, family, colleagues or others.
True stories featuring Richard
News
We Partner with German Doner Kebab (GDK) and Hero Brands to Support Continued UK and International Growth
Our latest strategic investment with German Doner Kebab (GDK) and Hero Brands to support GDK's continued rollout as the leading Middle Eastern QSR brand in the UK to accelerate growth across existing and new markets globally.
News
Jim Slater appointed as Chair of German Doner Kebab
Jim Slater has been appointed as Chair of German Doner Kebab to support its continued growth both in the UK and internationally.
relevant people
Ejike Onuchukwu
Managing Director
Prior to joining True in 2021, Ejike was a Director at Centricus, leading investments into branded consumer and media companies in Europe and the US.
Paul Cocker
CEO and Co-founder
Paul Cocker, CEO & Co-Founder True. As CEO Paul oversees all aspects of True’s operations but has a particular focus on the private equity business. He has sat on the board of 12 high growth retail/ consumer businesses/brands over the last 18 years. He has particular expertise in digital retail and has been involved at board level across a wide spectrum of industry verticals including apparel, home, consumer technology, health & fitness and FMCG. Paul also leads True’s ESG initiatives which has included partnerships with the Centre for Social Justice, Universify, the Careers & Enterprise Company as well as driving True’s B-Corp Certification, which was achieved in 2021.
