About Us

Founder, Managing Director

gabrielbuck@gkbventures.com

Gabby has over 40 years of experience in Investment & Corporate banking working across a range of asset classes with strong international credit background with deep experience across the developing markets through various financial cycles.  Previously Managing Director and Global Head of Barclays Capital, Export Credit Agency & Structured Trade Finance business. Previously the Chair of the British Bankers' Association Export Finance and Trade Committee for 6 years.

Strong relationships with sovereigns, civil servants, multinationals, project companies and exporters globally.  Proven track record in facilitating economy growth for both Exporters and Buyers.  Strong interpersonal skills with a deep understanding of cultural differences, working with clients in over 90 countries. 

A pioneer within the banking industry receiving numerous accolades based on many market firsts. Able to champion change whilst maintaining a strategic perspective, focusing on risk mitigation and strong operational controls. 

Gabby also was a Commissioner on the UK “Cole Review”, set up to assist UK Government to define future strategy for UK Exports, and more recently became the Lead Judge for the UK National Export Excellence Awards. He also sits as a Trustee for the National Youth Agency. 

Managing Director 

edharkins@gkbventures.com

Ed is a Managing Director at GKB Ventures.  He has 20 years’ experience of working in structured export finance. He started his career as a solicitor at Simmons & Simmons specialising in cross border transactions and then moved to Barclays Capital where he was head of emerging markets on the Capex Financing Solutions team. Focusing on Africa he led numerous transactions advising exporters helping to secure large transformational contracts. Most notable was the NMS Infrastructure Ghana Hospital transaction which won many awards including GTR and the FT’s, Banker Magazine, “Deal of the Year”. 

After leaving Barclays, and before joining GKB, he advised UKEF on their Direct Lending programme. He is also chair of the Financial Services Committee for the Business Council for Africa and a judge for the UK National Export Excellence awards.