Unicorn AIM VCT Appoints Tamara Sakovska to its Board

Unicorn AIM VCT announced on 15 May 2026 the appointment of Tamara Sakovska as a non-executive director to its board. The appointment is effective immediately. Unicorn AIM VCT (LSE: UAV), a prominent venture capital trust specializing in UK growth companies, aims to use Sakovska’s extensive experience. The trust currently manages a portfolio valued at over £185 million, focused on companies listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM).

Who is Tamara Sakovska?

Tamara Sakovska brings over two decades of experience in corporate finance, private equity, and technology sectors. Her career has been marked by significant roles in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory for technology firms, providing her with deep insight into the growth drivers and challenges of innovative companies. This background aligns directly with the investment thesis of Unicorn AIM VCT.

Prior to this appointment, Sakovska was a managing director at a London-based private equity firm where she oversaw a portfolio of software and fintech investments. During her tenure, her division managed assets exceeding £500 million. Her expertise is expected to be instrumental in evaluating new investment opportunities and guiding the strategic development of existing portfolio companies.

Her appointment expands the board to six members, enhancing its collective expertise in navigating the complexities of the AIM market. Sakovska also serves on the board of two other UK-based technology companies, bringing a current and relevant network to the VCT.

What is the Strategic Rationale for the Appointment?

The decision to bring Tamara Sakovska onto the board reflects a strategic push to deepen the VCT's expertise in the technology and software sectors. These industries represent a significant portion of the AIM market and are key areas of focus for Unicorn's portfolio managers. With technology valuations becoming increasingly complex, her hands-on experience is a valuable asset.

Unicorn AIM VCT’s strategy centers on identifying and supporting high-potential companies with strong management teams and scalable business models. Sakovska’s track record in scaling tech businesses from early stages to successful exits provides the board with practical, operational knowledge. This complements the existing financial and governance skills of the other directors.

The VCT's latest report indicated a Net Asset Value (NAV) per share of 148.5p. The board's primary goal is to drive growth in this NAV through prudent stock selection and active management. Sakovska’s appointment is a direct move to strengthen the VCT's capabilities in achieving this objective within its core investment mandate.

How Does This Affect Governance and Outlook?

The addition of a new independent non-executive director enhances the corporate governance structure of Unicorn AIM VCT. It improves the balance of skills on the board and aligns with UK Corporate Governance Code best practices regarding board composition and diversity of experience. This move can increase investor confidence in the VCT's oversight and strategic direction.

A key challenge for all VCTs is navigating market volatility. The appointment provides the fund with a seasoned expert who has managed investments through multiple economic cycles. However, this appointment does not insulate the VCT from broader market risks. The FTSE AIM All-Share Index has experienced a 4.5% decline year-to-date, reflecting persistent macroeconomic headwinds that affect smaller growth companies.

Investors will be watching to see how Sakovska's influence translates into tangible results, particularly in the selection of new investments and the performance of the existing tech-focused holdings. Her role on the audit and remuneration committees, which is expected to be confirmed shortly, will also be critical for maintaining high standards of financial reporting and executive alignment.

Q: What is a Venture Capital Trust (VCT)?

A: A Venture Capital Trust (VCT) is a type of publicly listed investment company in the United Kingdom. It is designed to provide private equity capital for small, unquoted or AIM-listed companies. In return for the high risk associated with these investments, VCTs offer significant tax incentives to UK investors, including up to 30% income tax relief on the amount invested (up to £200,000 per tax year), tax-free dividends, and exemption from capital gains tax on the disposal of VCT shares.

Q: How has Unicorn AIM VCT performed?

A: Over the last five years, Unicorn AIM VCT has delivered a total return (NAV growth plus dividends) of approximately 28%. Performance can be volatile, reflecting the high-risk, high-reward nature of investing in smaller equities. The VCT aims to pay an annual dividend equivalent to 6.5% of the year-end NAV, though this is a target and not guaranteed. Prospective investors should review the latest annual and interim reports for the most current performance data.

Bottom Line

Tamara Sakovska's appointment strengthens Unicorn AIM VCT's board with critical expertise in the technology sector, directly supporting its investment strategy in growth-oriented AIM companies.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. CFD trading carries high risk of capital loss.