The Mills & Reeve team acted for the growth equity investor on a deal that will accelerate the growth of Greenwoods Legal Services. Greenwoods, which has offices in London, Cambridge and Peterborough, has grown by nearly 45% in the past two years. The funding will enable it to capitalise on that success through the roll out advanced technology (including AI), sustainability initiatives, and learning and development programmes for its people.
As part of the transaction, Rob Dillarstone will continue to lead the business by stepping into the role of CEO, while Clare Harris will become managing partner and COO. The business will also welcome an independent chair, Graham Coxell, and a non-executive director, Mark Stroud, who bring a wealth of experience scaling professional services businesses both organically and through acquisition.
The Mills & Reeve team was led by corporate partner Ryan Hawley and principal associates Christina O’Brien and Hayley Simonds.
Ryan Hawley said: “This is another excellent investment by Gresham House Ventures – a deal that perfectly complements its investment thesis of backing fast-growth and scalable businesses that are digitally driven and stretch the boundaries in their chosen sectors. We’re delighted to have worked alongside the team and look forward to watching the new investment partnership flourish.”
Greenwoods Legal Services Limited is a UK-based law firm providing specialist legal advice to businesses and individuals across a wide range of sectors including agriculture, charity, education, media and pharmacy.
Greg Blin, investment partner at Gresham House Ventures, said: “We are delighted to partner with Greenwoods, a firm with a strong track record and a clear vision for the future. Our investment will support the business’ plans to innovate and grow – both organically and through acquisitions – while maintaining the culture and values that has already set it apart.
“We were delighted with the commercial and responsive support provided by Mills & Reeve throughout the transaction.”
