About Discovery Capital
Discovery Capital makes venture capital investments in B.C.-based technology companies in the areas of information technology, communications, health & life sciences, and environmental & energy technologies.
We have helped create value in over 300 early-stage technology companies by providing proven expertise in strategic planning, management development, innovative financing strategies, corporate governance, and positioning for liquidity.
Discovery Capital expects to continue its successful track record in venture capital investment and fund management through the BC Discovery Fund.
Discovery Capital’s strength is based on:
- a commitment to value creation to drive profitable exit strategies
- an extensive network of investment and industry contacts
- strong deal flow of business plans
- a long standing presence in the BC technology community
About the Team
John McEwen
CEO of the Manager
John McEwen co-founded Discovery Capital Corporation in 1986 and was its President and Co-CEO, and has been CEO of the Manager for over ten years. He has over thirty years’ experience in advising technology companies, managing technology funds, in sourcing, analyzing and closing venture capital investment opportunities, and corporate finance transactions. He has extensive experience serving on the Boards of portfolio companies, was former Chair of the Operating Committee of the Vancouver Enterprise Forum and is an active member of B.C.’s technology and investment communities. Mr. McEwen holds a B.Comm. degree from the University of British Columbia. Until becoming a principal of Discovery Capital, Mr. McEwen provided management services to several technology companies raising capital from private and public sources.
Charles Cook
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Manager
Charles Cook, formerly Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of Discovery Capital, has served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Manager for over ten years. Prior to joining Discovery Capital, Mr. Cook had over 10 years of investment banking experience in advising public and private companies. He holds an M.B.A. from the University of British Columbia and is a CPA, CMA.
Harry Jaako
President of the Manager
Harry Jaako co-founded Discovery Capital Corporation in 1986 and was its Chairman and Co-CEO, and has been President of the Manager for over ten years. He has over thirty years’ experience in advising technology companies, managing technology funds, in sourcing, analyzing and closing venture capital investment opportunities, and corporate finance transactions. Mr. Jaako has extensive experience serving on the Boards of portfolio companies, and on the Boards of Canadian Exchanges, including; Toronto Stock Exchange, TSX Group, TMX Group, Inc., and TMX Group Limited, with subsidiaries Montreal Exchange, and TSX Venture Exchange. He served as an advisory board member of the National Research Council IRAP program. Mr. Jaako holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Lakehead University.
Patricia Parisotto
Corporate Secretary
Patricia Parisotto, Corporate Secretary, joined Discovery Capital after serving as Corporate Secretary for Wajax Ltd. (TSE: WJX). At Wajax, she played a key role in administration and governance, managing legal and securities filing requirements, and implementation of various integration challenges. Her previous experience includes Corporate Finance Consultant for law firm Davis & Company, and 6 years with the B.C. Securities Commission, including as a manager in the Corporate Finance department. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of British Columbia and is a CPA, CMA.