JANUS HENDERSON FUND MANAGEMENT UK LIMITED

THE EUROPEAN SMALLER COMPANIES TRUST PLC

Legal Entity Identifier: 213800N1B1HJCQG2W4V90

28 April 2025

THE EUROPEAN SMALLER COMPANIES TRUST PLC

Appointment of non-executive director

The European Smaller Companies Trust PLC is pleased to announce the appointment of Nadia Meier-Kirner to the Board as a non-executive director with effect from 28 April 2025.

Nadia has 18 years' experience in European mid-market private equity with Triton Partners in Germany. At Triton she currently serves as the Head of Strategic Investments and prior to that held Sector Co-Head roles in Business Services and Healthcare. Nadia has considerable private board expertise across the DACH region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland), and in Belgium and Sweden.

James Williams, the Chairman of the Board, commented, 'We are very pleased to welcome Nadia to the Board. Given our objective of investing in European smaller companies, we value the insight which our Europe-based directors bring to discussions and Nadia has considerable experience in the area of European equities.'

Nadia will be a member of the Company's Audit Committee, Management Engagement Committee and Nomination & Remuneration Committee on appointment.

In accordance with paragraphs 9.6.13 (1) to (6) of the Listing Rules, there are no additional details to be disclosed in relation to Nadia.

For further information, please contact:

Janus Henderson Secretarial Services UK Limited

Corporate Secretary to The European Smaller Companies Trust PLC

+44 (0)20 7818 1818

Harriet Hall

PR Director

Janus Henderson Investors

Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7818 2919