About this Event
Every growing business hits the same two moments: the point where you need capital, and the point where you need to prove you can be trusted to use it well.
This panel session brings both sides of that scaling story together — River Capital’s Jim Moore and Richard Entwistle of Black Norman Solicitors, alongside DSG's Andrew Moss and Liam Hanlon of The Forshaw Group — for a fast-moving, no-fluff conversation on what actually happens behind a funding decision, and the financial discipline that keeps it paying off. Expect straight answers on what investors and accountants really look for, what businesses wish they'd known earlier, and where the two worlds meet.
45 minutes, four perspectives, real stories — plus your chance to ask the questions that matter to you.
Jim Moore — Investment Manager, River Capital
Jim supports businesses with funding between £100,000 and £500,000 through the North West Business Growth Loan Fund, working closely with management teams like Black Norman Solicitors to back growth at every stage of the cycle — from early expansion, to preparing for the next phase and succession. He brings a hands-on, relationship-led approach to lending, helping businesses navigate not just the funding decision, but what comes after it.
Richard Entwistle — Director, Black Norman Solicitors
Richard qualified as a Solicitor in 2007 and has worked in Private Client law since qualification. Over the years, he has built extensive experience across Wills, Probate, Trusts, Power of Attorney and Court of Protection matters, with a particular interest in Court of Protection applications.
In addition to advising clients, Richard holds significant management responsibilities within the firm. As Compliance Officer for Legal Practice and for Finance & Administration, he oversees regulatory compliance and reporting while contributing to strategic decision-making. He also acts as the firm’s Training Partner and takes an active role in marketing and networking. Richard was part of a Management Buyout funded by River Capital in 2024.
Richard believes that the best part of being a Solicitor is building relationships with clients – listening carefully, understanding their individual circumstances and guiding them through important decisions with clarity and reassurance.
Andrew Moss — Partner, DSG Chartered Accountants
Andrew has worked at DSG for over two decades and has built a strong reputation as a trusted adviser in corporate finance. He supports clients through every stage of the acquisition or sale of their businesses, providing clear guidance on valuation, negotiation, and transaction strategy.
Drawing on experience across a range of industries, Andrew helps business owners understand their options, make informed decisions, and position themselves for long‑term success. He brings a practical approach, steady oversight during complex processes, and is committed to helping clients unlock value and achieve their goals.
Liam Hanlon BSc (Hons) FCIOB DL — Managing Director, The Forshaw Group
Liam has worked in the construction industry since 1984, progressing from a joinery apprenticeship into construction management and business leadership. Joining The Forshaw Group in 1995, he helped grow the business into an award-winning, multi-million-pound specialist in insurance, fire, and flood restoration. Funding secured with the support from Merseyside Special Investment Fund (MSIF) in 2013 facilitated a Management Buy Out (MBO) enabling the growth and further success of the business.
With extensive industry experience and a strong commitment to developing people and creating opportunities, Liam combines practical expertise with a passion for community engagement and philanthropy. He founded the tri-4-life team in 2000, which has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charitable causes and continues to support initiatives that help young people fulfil their potential. Commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside in 2023, Liam remains actively involved in business, education, apprenticeships, and charitable work across the region.
About Navigate
Navigate is a Liverpool Chamber programme created to support the growth of businesses across Liverpool City Region.
Through knowledge sharing, peer learning, events, co-working and stronger connections across the regional ecosystem, Navigate brings businesses together to share practical knowledge, make useful connections and create more opportunities for organisations across the region to grow.
Navigate is designed to support Liverpool City Region's creative, digital, technology, startup, scale-up and professional services community, while creating stronger connections between businesses, support organisations and the wider regional ecosystem.
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We look forward to welcoming you to this Partner Knowledge Session.
Disclaimer:
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Event venue & nearby stays
The Old Hall, Cotton Exchange, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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