Private business introductions

The right buyer exists.
Most owners never find them.

I work with a small number of business owners and corporate acquirers to create introductions that would not otherwise happen — off-market, pre-process, and without the noise of a formal sale.

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The approach

Not a broker.
Not a banker.
Something more useful.

I came to this through commercial experience, not a career in financial services. The difference shows in how I think and what I can actually deliver.

I identify founder-led businesses and introduce them directly to corporate acquirers — companies that are actively buying, have defined criteria, and move without the delays of a formal process. The introduction happens before a broker is appointed, before a data room is opened, before any of that.

There is no large firm behind me. No conflicting mandates, no fee structures pulling against your interests. When I take on an engagement, it gets my complete attention.

I work quietly and I take confidentiality seriously. Most of the people I work with were referred to me. If you are here, something brought you — and that is probably enough of an introduction.

The work

Three things I do well

Each engagement is different. These are the consistent elements.

01

Identifying businesses worth introducing

Not every business suits an off-market approach. I work selectively — sourcing founder-led companies where the timing, fit, and buyer appetite align. Quality of match matters more than volume.

02

Preparing owners for a better conversation

Most business owners reach a buyer unprepared. I ensure the timing is right, expectations are grounded, and the introduction itself is worthwhile — for both sides. I do not negotiate or advise on terms.

03

Sorting specialists and structure before the intro

The right legal, tax, and financial advisers need to be in place before an introduction happens. I know who to bring in and when to bring them in, so the seller is ready from the first conversation. The advice comes from them, not from me.

For business owners

You have built something. The question is who finds out about it — and when.

  • –You are considering an exit in the next one to three years
  • –You want to understand what options exist before committing to a formal process
  • –You would rather have a quiet conversation than run a public auction
  • –You want a straight conversation, not a pitch
For buyers & acquisition teams

Curated opportunities, properly prepared

  • –You are looking for grouped or platform acquisitions in the sub-£20m EBITDA range
  • –You need sellers who have been prepared for a process, not surprised by one
  • –You value speed and discretion over volume
  • –You want a counterpart who understands both sides of the table

Why it works

“The best introductions happen before anyone else knows a business is available. That window is short, and most people miss it.”
COTSWOLD KEEP

Enquire

If it is a fit, we will know fairly quickly.

I do not take every enquiry forward. But if there is a genuine basis for a conversation, I will find the time. Initial discussions are confidential and without obligation.

COTSWOLD KEEP introduces business owners to corporate acquirers. It does not provide financial, legal, or investment advice, and does not act as a broker or intermediary in the execution of any transaction. COTSWOLD KEEP is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Any engagement with specialist advisers is independent of COTSWOLD KEEP. Nothing on this website constitutes a financial promotion or an invitation to buy or sell any investment.