BACK HOME TO TAKE ON THE WORLD
Ex banker turned Master of Main Beach tips start-up surge
A Gold Coaster who reached the upper echelons of international investment banking wants to put his home on the world stage as an innovation hub.
Former JP Morgan Chase banker Ryan Holsheimer has set up his own venture capital firm in Main Beach with an eye towards investing in local and international start-ups.
Admiralty Capital Group has opened its doors and will focus on “early-stage and growth-stage companies”.
Mr Holsheimer, who was based in Asia for 25 years, said the Gold Coast and South East Queensland was at the forefront of innovation.
He said he wanted to “take advantage of the region’s dynamic business landscape, alongside the most enviable environment to live and work in Australia”.
“Deep talent fuels our city’s innovation, especially in the technology and property sectors but now in fields even more diverse, including healthcare, sport and professional services. With global guidance, these innovators can make a worldwide impact,” he said.
“After 25 years, I see the Gold Coast as a thriving hub of progressive, hardworking entrepreneurs ready to conquer the world
“Our strategic approach fosters long-term value creation, where we will aim to deliver exceptional returns while driving positive change in the communities we invest in.
“Admiralty Capital Group believes in the power of disruptive ideas. We look forward to collaborating with passionate founders and helping them navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.”
The Gold Coast has seen dramatic growth in its startups in the past decade, creating hundreds of jobs across the city.
Among the biggest and most successful has been Gilmour Space Technologies, which has grown into Australia’s first rocket company, while Griffith University and the state government have invested heavily in expanding the Health and Knowledge Precinct.
Mr Holsheimer grew up on the Gold Coast before moving overseas to follow his banking career, which included senior leadership roles at Goldman Sachs and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Before returning to the city he served as JPMorgan’s head of Asia Pacific Cash Equities and Equity Distribution, including 25 years in Hong Kong and Tokyo.