YFM Equity Partners (YFM) has successfully completed its second management-led buyout since 2013, with the existing partners acquiring the equity held by the management team that led the previous buyout that year.
The buyout has been led by Jamie Roberts (managing partner), Eamon Nolan (head of fundraising and investor relations) and Marcus Karia (chief operating officer), who have led the firm for the past four years and will continue to deliver YFM’s ambitious long-term growth plan.
Founded 44 years ago, YFM is one of the UK’s longest-established investors in high-growth entrepreneurial businesses. Planning for the buyout began six years ago and ensures the firm’s continued independence and long-term success. The day-to-day operation of the business will remain unchanged, with the same team and continued focus on supporting ambitious management teams across the UK.
YFM enters this new chapter from a position of strength, having recently closed an £85m VCT fundraise and commencing fundraising for its latest Buyout Fund. These milestones underline YFM’s long-term commitment to backing ambitious management teams and driving growth across the UK’s vibrant SME sector.
Managing partner Roberts said: “This buyout marks an exciting new chapter for YFM. Over recent years we have built a strong platform, and we are now in the second year of a five-year plan to significantly grow the business, expanding our regional footprint, increasing the number of entrepreneurs we support, and growing our funds under management. We chose to fund the transaction using debt provided by Triple Point to ensure the business remains fully owned by the partners, supporting our ambition to be the UK’s largest independently owned investor in entrepreneurs.”
Following completion, Dave Hall (pictured), who led the previous buyout alongside David Bell, will continue to support YFM in a consultancy capacity, including as a member of the Investment Committee and as investor representative on YFM’s successful investment in Matillion. Bell will also continue to support the wider YFM portfolio on a part-time basis.
Hall said: “Having been part of YFM for many years, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. I look forward to continuing to support the team as they build on the firm’s strong foundations and drive the business forward.”
YFM invests between £3m and £15m in fast-growing UK businesses. With offices in Leeds, where it was founded, and Manchester, as well as hubs in London, Reading, and Birmingham, and over 40 years of experience, YFM manages over £750 million in funds and supports ambitious teams across a range of sectors.
