Mobeus has invested £13 million for a minority stake in the fast-growing, international public policy firm, Access Partnership, which advises many of the world’s largest technology companies on matters ranging from data policy to infrastructure regulation and compliance.
Multinational firms not previously considered technology companies are increasingly affected by the scale and scope of regulatory and technology change. Access is positioned at the heart of these complex issues with a deep understanding of both policy and technical aspects of dataflows and data delivery systems.
As a result, the company has experienced rapid growth, with revenues doubling over the last three years. Headquartered in London, the business manages its international service offering from offices in the US, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. This operational scope enables Access to serve its world-leading multinational client base wherever their policy needs arise.
Mobeus’s investment will enable the consultancy to expand its services both geographically and to the growing number of verticals affected by changing data rules.
Freddie Bacon, Mobeus Investment Manager, said
“We are excited to support Access as it continues its high-growth trajectory across international markets, underpinned by strong dynamics that favour the innovative solutions it offers. Access’s combination of technical skill, policy knowledge and extensive market experience sets them apart. Mobeus has built a strong relationship with the senior management in advance of this transaction and we are delighted to be partnering with Greg and his high-calibre team.”
Simon Jones, former CEO and Vice-Chairman of Analysys Mason, has been appointed as Access Partnership’s Chairman. Guy Blackburn, Mobeus Portfolio Partner, will join the board to support Access in achieving its full potential.
Chris Price, Mobeus Partner, and Freddie Bacon sourced and led the transaction.
The Access shareholders were advised by Ed Groome, Saif Shubana and David Sparrow of Equiteq. Legal advice was provided by Melanie Wadsworth and Jonathon Gunn at Faegre Baker Daniels (Access shareholders); Tim Hewens, Seamus McKimm and Sarah Crabtree at Osborne Clarke (Mobeus). Due diligence was provided by RSM (Financial), Roland Berger (Commercial), Grant Thornton (Tax structuring), Stratton HR (Management). Clearwater International assisted Mobeus with buy-side support.
“Access is uniquely placed to capitalise on the significant market opportunity driven by regulatory and technology change. Having got to know the team at Mobeus, we are delighted to partner with them to make this happen.”
Gregory Francis, Access Managing Director