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+44 (0)7802 875 163
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+44 (0)2072 057 046
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chris.moakes@shoosmiths.com
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-moakes-90b91735

EIS and VCT expert guiding investors and companies through growth

I’m a Partner in our Tax team, specialising in the enterprise investment scheme (EIS) and venture capital trusts (VCT). I advise investors and investee companies on structuring tax-efficient investments, reorganisations, and exits as well as VCT boards on ongoing compliance obligations. My work helps clients unlock growth while staying compliant with evolving tax legislation.

I joined Shoosmiths in 2019, bringing experience from PwC and a broad corporate tax background. I’ve acted for leading VCTs including those managed by Gresham House, Octopus Investments, and Puma Growth Partners, and regularly negotiate with HMRC to secure advance assurances and resolve compliance issues.

I’m a chartered accountant and a member of the ICAEW. I also contribute to the firm’s thought leadership on venture capital and tax innovation.

Expertise
Legal excellence in action
1,495
Brilliant colleagues driving client excellence.
£217.7m
Turnover in 2024.
1845
180 years of legal excellence.
Tax advice that drives growth, not just compliance
Tax team
We turn tax into a strategic advantage, guiding complex deals and HMRC challenges with clarity and confidence.
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Meet the experts