As an entrepreneurial tax specialist at accountants Chiene + Tait (C+T), Ms Paton has been appointed to a newly formed committee aimed at increasing female representation in the UK’s venture capital sector.

Based in Edinburgh, Ms Paton is the only Scottish candidate and the sole tax adviser to be named to the new group.

The aim of the London-based committee is to help EISA member firms and the wider UK venture capital industry achieve gender balance at all levels and support the progression of more women into senior roles. The members of the group will meet quarterly, looking at practical actions and initiatives to help firms implement appropriate diversity strategies.

Director general at EISA, Mark Brownridge, said: “I’m delighted that Kirsty is to join our newly created Women in Venture Capital committee. She is a successful and well-regarded professional adviser who brings a strong Scottish perspective to the group’s UK remit of supporting more women in the venture capital industry.”

He added: “As the trade body for the industry, EISA is focused on helping provide all member firms with guidance and information and setting the tone to encourage cultural change in the wider venture capital sector across the UK.”

Discussing her appointment, Ms Paton said: “I am very pleased to be part of this innovative and progressive EISA group. I look forward to sharing my own skills and experiences in helping promote more opportunities for women in this sector.”