Luke Birch
About Luke Birch
Luke Birch is a Lead Product Strategist at Carta, where he focuses on venture capital tax automation. He has a strong background in product strategy and investment, having held various roles in organizations such as VAUBAN and Ascension Ventures Limited.
Work at Carta
Luke Birch currently serves as the Lead Product Strategist at Carta, a position he has held since 2023. In this role, he leads product development initiatives, specifically focusing on venture capital tax automation. His efforts aim to simplify tax processes for clients, enhancing operational efficiency. Birch's experience in product strategy is complemented by his previous roles in various organizations, contributing to his expertise in the field.
Previous Experience at VAUBAN
Birch worked at VAUBAN in multiple capacities. He initially joined as Operations/Product from 2020 to 2021, before advancing to the role of Director from 2021 to 2023. During his tenure, he played a significant role in scaling the company to 50 employees, which ultimately led to its acquisition by Carta in 2022. His contributions were pivotal in the operational and strategic growth of VAUBAN.
Educational Background
Luke Birch studied at Imperial College London, where he earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Technology. He achieved a distinction in two out of three terms during his studies. Additionally, he holds a Master’s Degree in Geography and Economics from The University of Edinburgh, where he received a distinction for his dissertation. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his work in product strategy and investment.
Charitable Contributions and Endurance Events
Birch has raised over £400,000 for charities through various endurance events. Notably, he completed a World Record-breaking row across the Atlantic Ocean at the age of 21. He also achieved a solo swim across the English Channel at 18 and participated in ultra marathons, including the Dragons Back and Wadi Rum Ultra. His commitment to charitable causes is evident through his active participation in these challenging events.
Investment and Angel Investing
As an angel investor, Luke Birch has invested in several notable startups, including Wagestream, Credit Kudos, and Lick. His experience in investment roles, including his position as an Investment Associate at Ascension Ventures Limited, has equipped him with insights into the startup ecosystem. This background supports his strategic decision-making in product development and investment opportunities.