Boyd Carson
Investor at Queen's University Belfast
United States
Overview
Work Experience
Chairman - Venture Capital lnvestment Fund Incubation & Management
2009 - Current
I work at Sapphire, a multi-award-winning venture capital firm with 50+ funds. I focus on launching and incubating private equity and venture capital funds (with a focus on SEIS/EIS). This is a job I love - as it allows me to be entrepreneurial and help some fantastic clients and investment funds. Sapphire is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Chairman - Cancer Charity
2011
Proudly serving as Chairman of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, one of the UK's leading regional cancer charities, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of those affected by cancer. Over 50 years, the charity has provided essential services, funded groundbreaking research, and driven prevention initiatives. Our ambitious plan to open five Cancer Support Centres will ensure comprehensive care across local towns and cities. Together, we're creating a brighter future and offering hope to our community.
Honorary Professor - Venture Capital
2022
As an Honorary Professor of Venture Capital at Queen's University Belfast, I'm privileged to share my 25+ years of fund management expertise with the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. With a focus on private equity and venture capital, I seek to inspire students to shape the future of business and finance through transformative investments. My global connections and experience in allocating capital to outperforming strategies offer students invaluable insights into the exciting world of venture capital.
Assistant Instructor - Venture Capital
2021
My Harvard email is boyd_carson@fas.harvard.edu Passionate about nurturing the next generation of venture capital leaders, I serve as an Assistant Instructor for Harvard University's graduate course on Venture Capital. Working closely with 30+ students, I help guide them through this dynamic field's intricacies. My objective is to empower students to become knowledgeable, confident, and impactful contributors to the world of venture capital.
Entrepreneur Competition Judge
2024
Judge on the 2024 and 2025 Entrepreneur’s Cup Collegiate Business Plan Competition. The Entrepreneur’s Cup is a statewide collegiate business plan competition that simulates the real-world process of researching a market, writing a business plan and making a presentation to potential investors. For over 20 years, i2E has helped build the next generation of entrepreneurs in Oklahoma.
i2E is a private not-for-profit corporation that invests in technology-based entrepreneurs and companies.
Director - M&A Transaction Services
1996 - 2008
As a Director in the New York-based Transaction Services (M&A) department, I gained valuable experience in due diligence for mergers and acquisitions across the United States. My work involved applying financial, commercial, and operational knowledge and data-driven insights to facilitate successful deals. Working within the competitive US market allowed me to develop a strong understanding of investment strategies and partnership development in the venture capital realm. I had the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of various businesses through my involvement in the industry.
Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
1994 - 1995
I had the privilege of working with the Japanese government in Okayama Prefecture, contributing to the education sector. This experience deepened my understanding of cross-cultural collaboration and Japan's educational system, ultimately enriching my global perspective and appreciation for the impact of education.