The Incremental Edge: CFOs and Private Equity

In boardrooms across the UK, finance leaders are navigating the complex world of private equity with varying degrees of confidence. Whether you're a seasoned CFO who's been through multiple investment cycles, or you're considering PE backing for the first time, one thing remains constant – practical and trusted advice from those who've been there is extremely valuable.

That's why we've brought together a panel of industry experts to discuss the  realities of private equity partnerships. These fantastic individuals share insights from their own perspectives of working within this world.

This Incremental Edge spotlight on CFOs and Private Equity cuts through the jargon to deliver actionable wisdom on everything from attracting the right investment partners to maximising value at exit. We'll explore the critical first 100 days, the shift from steady-state operations to growth mode, and the practical steps your finance team can take to thrive under PE ownership.

If you're a CFO or finance leader currently working within a PE-backed business, considering PE investment, or simply wanting to understand how these partnerships really work, this conversation will arm you with insider knowledge.

Meet the experts

Stephen McNicol, VP Retail & SSG, Sage

Stephen has been at Sage for 6 years, prior to that working for Deloitte's Financial Advisory Practice. Since joining Sage, Stephen has taken up a variety of roles, working in both the Regions and Corporate Centre to deliver a variety of commercial and transformational outcomes. Currently Stephen is the VP of Retail and SSG - focusing on specialist solutions and verticals.

Robert Umpleby, Director, Clearwater International Corporate Finance

Robert began his advisory journey eight years ago. Fuelled by a passion for all things tech, he quickly found his natural home within tech M&A, where he now dedicates the majority of his time. He’s fortunate to be part of an established tech team at Clearwater that has an enviable track record of delivering great results for inspiring businesses which allows him to work with passionate and ambitious clients.

Michelle Mullany, Head of Deal Origination, MHA Corporate Finance

Michelle Mullany is Head of Deal Origination at MHA Corporate Finance having spent 20 years at one of the Big 4 accounting firms. Her focus is to build relationships with entrepreneurs, owner-managed and family owned businesses who need support with raising finance, acquisitions and business sales to trade and Private Equity. In addition to her corporate finance role, Michelle is also on the advisory board of the Lowry Theatre and Reform Radio CIC.

Mat Hanson - Group CFO, Evolution Funding

Mat joined Evolution Funding in 2024, bringing a proven track record of leading successful acquisitions throughout his 17-year-long career. With CFO expertise across various technology-driven and PE-backed businesses, his experience includes leading six strategic acquisitions and a significant private equity sale at Cawood Scientific, as well as spearheading financial success at Travel Counsellors.

As part of the executive leadership team, Mat leads on the group’s ambitious plans for growth and business transformation, internationalisation, and mergers and acquisitions with the goal of achieving strategic change and long term value creation.

What to expect from the panel discussion

Behind every successful private equity partnership stands a finance leader who's mastered the art of navigating investor expectations, driving growth, and delivering value. But what does that journey really look like from the inside?

To answer this question, this comprehensive six-part discussion offers candid insights and practical wisdom for CFOs at every stage of the investment cycle.

• Key Fundamentals of Private Equity - Gain essential insights into what private equity actually is, how it differs from other investment types, and which businesses typically attract PE funding.
• The CFO's Blueprint to Attracting Private Equity Investment - Discover the critical priorities your business needs to address when seeking PE investment and learn exactly what transparent reporting investors expect to see.
• Navigating the First 100 Days in Private Equity - Get invaluable guidance on what to expect and plan for during those crucial first 100 days after securing PE investment.
• Shifting from Stability to Growth in Private Equity - Follow the PE journey beyond the initial phase as our experts examine the medium-term goals, including effective funding strategies and how to maximise value from a 'buy and build' approach.
• The CFO's Guide to a Successful Exit Strategy - Explore the later stages in a CFO's PE journey with specific focus on the preparation, strategic decisions, and critical due diligence required to engineer a successful exit.
• The Evolving Role of a CFO - Understand how the modern CFO role continues to evolve within the context of private equity partnerships, requiring finance leaders to balance traditional responsibilities while driving change, innovation, and transformation.
  

Take your PE journey to the next level

The private equity landscape is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for finance leaders who understand how to navigate it effectively. Our expert panel has shared insights that can make the difference between merely surviving a PE relationship and truly thriving within one.

Watch the complete discussion below to hear their perspectives, practical examples, and actionable strategies. You'll walk away with insights on each stage of the investment cycle – from preparation through to successful exit.

Want to continue the conversation? Connect with me to discuss how these insights apply to your specific PE journey, or share this resource with colleagues who could benefit from this insider knowledge.