Manzanita Capital
Family officeLondon · Seed–Growth · 6 people tracked
Investment thesis
Manzanita Capital specializes in the beauty sector, investing in luxury and premium niche brands and platforms with strong growth potential. Backed by patient family capital, it takes a long-term view unconstrained by strict investment horizons, aiming to build enduring global brands. The firm backs founder-led businesses, providing more than capital through active board-level involvement, operational scaling support, and expertise across e-commerce, wholesale, and retail distribution. It also makes early-stage venture investments in companies with potential to disrupt the beauty industry. Investments span the US, UK, Europe, and Asia, giving global reach with deep local market knowledge.
Source: firm website, verified Jul 30, 2026.
Team · 6 people
from the firm's websiteBill Fisher founded Manzanita Capital in 2001. He previously founded and served as President of the International Division of Gap Inc., leading its expansion into Canada, Japan, and Europe. He holds a BA from Princeton and an MBA from Stanford.
Andras Szirtes has served as a board director for numerous retail companies including Hamleys and All Saints, chaired eCommera and Souk, and held operating roles at Gap Inc. and Pepsi Cola. He holds an MBA from UC Berkeley.
Fabienne Mauny is an ESCP graduate who began her career at Yves Saint Laurent, later leading Diptyque for over 16 years and Byredo (2013-2019). She joined Manzanita Capital, bringing extensive luxury-sector experience.
Paula Levitan was formerly a partner leading the retail practice at a US law firm's London office and previously served as Gap's International Division lawyer. She is licensed to practice law in England and Wales, New York, and California.
Harry Richards was previously a business analyst at Value Retail, focusing on expansion in China. He holds a BA in Classics from Oxford University.
Matthew Johnston was previously Finance Director at Trinity Limited and held roles at Fung Capital. He is a Chartered Accountant (PwC), a CFA Charterholder, and holds an Honours BA from the University of Toronto.
Investments · 7 tracked
founders shown can be your intro pathFragrance brand (prior investment).
High perfumery and luxury fragrance house.
Skincare brand (prior investment).
Cosmetics brand (prior investment).
Beauty retailer; described as Manzanita's first investment providing broad insight into the beauty industry.
Principals & officers · per Companies House
what is this? ⓘLLP designated member · since 2022
LLP designated member · since 2020
Corporate LLP designated member · since 2013
Manzanita Wfl Limited — 75–100% of voting rights, right to share surplus assets 75 to 100 percent limited liability partnership, right to appoint and remove members limited liability partnership
Frequently asked questions
- What stage does Manzanita Capital invest at?
- Manzanita Capital invests at the Seed, Series A, Growth stages.
- What sectors does Manzanita Capital focus on?
- Manzanita Capital focuses on Consumer, Direct to Consumer, E-commerce, Sector Agnostic.
- Where is Manzanita Capital located?
- Manzanita Capital is headquartered in London, GB.
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