Cinven announced that it has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Flint Global, marking the second investment from its new European mid-market strategy. The deal will be completed by the end of the year. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Flint Global, founded in London in 2015 by Ed Richards and Sir Simon Fraser, has grown rapidly over the past decade into a leading advisory group specializing in regulatory, policy, competition and economic matters. The company expanded early into Brussels in 2016 and now operates across London, Brussels, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Hong Kong and Singapore. Its multidisciplinary team works with clients across technology, energy, financial services and infrastructure.
Cinven identified Flint as a compelling primary investment opportunity due to the strength of the professional services market in which it operates, the firm’s long-term organic growth and recurring revenue model, and the depth of its leadership and culture. Cinven plans to support Flint in expanding its practice areas, scaling internationally and pursuing future acquisitions.
Flint’s founders will remain significant shareholders and will continue serving on the Board of Directors. CEO James Purnell will lead the next chapter of the company’s expansion, with Cinven aiming to enhance Flint’s offering for global corporates, investors and institutional clients.
KEY QUOTES
“We are delighted to be investing in Flint and to work with the founders and the partner group to drive the firm’s next phase of growth. Flint’s technical expertise, high quality client base, and exceptional people provide a strong base for the future. We look forward to working with the team to internationalise the business further and accelerate the firm’s growth, including by extending its practice areas, supporting M&A, and enhancing the proposition for institutional investors.”
Anthony Cardona, Partner at Cinven
“Flint exemplifies the qualities we seek in our investments: sector-leading positions, a strong and repeat client base, and a clear track record of growth. Cinven’s experience within the professional services sector has shown the value that strategic support and investment can create alongside ambitious founders and management teams.”
Luigi Sbrozzi, Partner at Cinven
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Cinven at this pivotal moment in Flint’s journey. Their backing will enable us to build on our strengths, invest in our people, and offer our services in more countries. Together, we are ideally positioned to provide great service for our clients and even better opportunities for our colleagues.”
James Purnell, CEO of Flint
“We founded Flint to help clients navigate an increasingly complex policy, regulatory, and economic environment. We are very proud of the company’s achievements over our first ten years. We thank our clients and colleagues and our existing investors for their support. Cinven’s investment recognises that success and will accelerate Flint’s next phase of growth under James’ leadership.”
Ed Richards and Sir Simon Fraser, Co-Founders of Flint
