Our approach / We always welcome the chance to talk to Chief Executives and Chairmen who may be interested in working with us, whether now or in the future.
Our network of contacts with managers is the lifeblood of our business and we work hard to develop and sustain relationships with potential partners.
But we have a very clear idea of the sort of investment opportunities that interest us.
What we do, how we do it
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1. Acquisition
- Build relationships with CEO, to identify the opportunity.
- Develop and agree growth plan.
- Conduct detailed due diligence and agree price.
- Structure debt and equity for acquisition.
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2. Structuring the board
- Work with CEO to assemble the management team capable of accelerating growth.
- Appoint a Duke Street Operating Partner with sector expertise, usually as Chairman.
- Identify need for other non-executive directors with specific expertise.
- Appoint DS investment team to board.
- Agree 100-day plan.
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3. Buy and build
- Set KPI's and growth targets.
- Improve operational performance.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for follow-on acquisition.
- Increase investment in key areas such as sales and marketing and R&D.
- Hold regular strategic reviews to ensure the company is on track.
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4. Exit
- Appoint adviser well in advance of exit process.
- Educate potential buyers whilst minimising impact to business.
- Work with management and Chairman to minimise conflicts over timing of exit.
- Plan exit strategy and timing to achieve maximum value for all shareholders.
