Helping to grow technology based businesses…quoteend

Our Team

Playford Capital is a team of successful investment professionals with experience in venture investing and entrepreneurship. They have all held leadership roles in technology companies across a range of markets and geographies. This operational experience is a key factor enabling Playford Capital to deliver on its active ‘business building’ investment philosophy.

Amanda Heyworth – Chief Executive Officer

BA (Acc), MBA (AGSM), SF Fin, FAICD

Amanda has co-founded a software company that sold software to more than 60 countries, held strategy roles at the Australian Stock Exchange and the Wallis Inquiry into the Financial System and taught at the Australian Graduate School of Management. Her experience as an accountant, an investment banker and economic adviser in Australia and the US gives her a broad background in business strategy, finance and marketing. She has particular expertise in helping companies develop, test and execute plans for entry into new markets.  She  is also a board member of the Australian Centre for Renewable Energy, SA Lotteries and the Phoenix Society

Andrew Bollen – Investment Director

PhD (ANU), B. Sc (Adelaide)

Andrew has worked in high tech R&D, start-up management, investment banking, portfolio management and venture investing in Australia, the US and Asia. He has played a key role in raising substantial funds for start-ups, serving on their boards, helping to manage their growth, and structuring and negotiating public and private transactions.

Doug Adamson – Investment Manager

Dip Elect Eng (Uni SA), Dip Fin Markets (FINSIA), GAICD (AICD)

Doug is an experienced entrepreneur who has built media & technology businesses in Australia, the UK and Europe. Originally an engineer, Doug has considerable experience in managing high growth companies and understands first-hand the “growing pains” associated with rapid expansion.

Shane Cheek – Investment Manager

B.Bus (UniSA), MSTC (Adelaide), MAICD

Shane has a strong background in helping companies realise value from intellectual property, including extensive experience negotiating licensing deals and contract research with leading research institutions in Australia and overseas. Most recently Shane has worked with high growth companies in the automotive, medical device, energy and mining sectors seeking collaboration partners and advice in commercialisation strategy.

Garry Prosser – Finance Manager

BA Acc (UniSA), CPA (CPA Aust), Grad Dip (Company Secretarial Practice) Chartered Secretaries Aust.

Garry is responsible for Playford Capital’s finances and administration. His career has spanned senior roles in both the public and private sectors.

Paula Pothoven – Executive Assistant

Paula is an experienced Executive Assistant who has held positions in both the public and private sector.   Paula has considerable experience in corporate governance as well as a background in quality assurance and risk management.  She supports the CEO and Investment team as well as providing support to the business in other areas such as marketing & finance.

Playford Capital Board

  • Ian Kowalick (Chairman)
  • Amanda Heyworth, CEO, Playford Capital
  • Marty Gauvin, serial technology entrepreneur
  • Carolyn Anderson, Director, Information Economy Directorate, South Australian Government
  • Gay Wallace, Company Director