International corporate, private client and fund services provider Hawksford has secured European fund manager STAR Capital Partnership as a majority investor.
STAR will provide investment capital to drive accelerated growth of the Hawksford business. M&A will be an integral part of the growth strategy, particularly where geographical expansion enhances the company’s service offering.
Hawksford Group Chief Executive Michel van Leeuwen (pictured) said: “Several acquisition targets have been identified, so the partnership with STAR represents an exciting step change in Hawksford’s evolution. We look forward to working as partners to deliver this growth.”
STAR Capital is a private equity firm focused on developing strategic asset-based businesses in Western Europe. Managing Partner Uniti Bhalla said: “Hawksford is a strong fit to STAR’s investment strategy, with established operations in key global locations, a long-term client base and a platform suited to support value-enhancing growth.”
The deal was negotiated by management with STAR Capital and the incumbent investor Dunedin, which will retain a minority stake in the business.
The deal completed on 25 February after receiving regulatory approval from each of the jurisdictions in which Hawksford operates. Hawksford will be supported by Crescent Capital Group via its European Special Lending strategy on financing.
“This is the first major deal of its kind for a Jersey-headquartered financial services company since the global pandemic started,” added Mr van Leeuwen. "It is extremely positive that a private equity firm of STAR’s pedigree values the contribution that companies such as Hawksford make towards international investment and wealth on a global scale."