Maidenhead: Wilson Partners advises Rockpool on investment in Expolink

Wilson Partners Corporate Finance has advised Rockpool on its investment in the management buyout of Chippenham-based Expolink Group. The transaction is Rockpool’s 12th investment completed so far in 2016 and takes the total amount invested since 2013 to £220 million.

Anthony Francis of Rockpool Investments said: "Flexible, responsive and commercial – the Wilson transaction services team delivered a great product and service, and added genuine value to the deal process.” 

Expolink provides outsourced whistleblowing and contact-centre services to over 500 customers. It was established in 1995 by David and Jackie Crook and currently employs 230 people. The company has grown strongly over recent years and is set to continue to do so on the back of continued demand for whistleblowing services. Whistleblowing is likely to become increasingly important for companies due to increasing regulation and in response to corporate scandals which have been damaging to stakeholder value.

The existing management team remains unchanged, with Dominic Mehta staying on as managing director along with finance director Kate Hewitt, while John Wilson is appointed CEO and Nick Bacon as chairman.

Wilson commented: "Rockpool Investments provided a flexible approach to the transaction. They completed their diligence in a timely manner and brought with them an enviable network of high-net-worth investors.”  

Dan James, head of transaction services at Wilson Partners, commented: “Rockpool is a very proactive and pragmatic investor and we look forward to doing more with it in the future.”