DSW Corporate Finance advises on management buyout of Leading Edge UK
Dow Schofield Watts Corporate Finance’s Cardiff team has advised on the Leading Edge UK management buyout, supporting the management team in acquiring the business from its Australian parent company and transitioning the company into full UK management ownership.
Leading Edge UK is a leading provider of outsourced telecommunications sales and services, and an authorised BT partner, delivering connectivity, mobile, cloud and communications solutions to businesses across the UK. Headquartered in Cardiff, the business operates across South Wales, Bath, Bristol and Gloucester.
Following its acquisition of IT managed services provider Contrac IT in December 2024, which was also advised on by the DSW team, the group has expanded its offering into managed IT services, cybersecurity and technology consultancy, broadening its capabilities and geographic reach.
The buyout marks a significant milestone for the rapidly growing business, which has achieved revenue growth of approximately 300% over the past three years and is targeting £20 million in revenue next year. The transaction gives the UK management team 100% ownership and control of the business, providing the independence and flexibility to shape its future strategy, investment priorities and growth ambitions.
The transaction involved navigating the complexities of an international ownership structure, negotiating with overseas stakeholders and managing the separation of the UK business from its Australian parent. The MBO provides a platform for continued organic growth, further diversification and potential acquisitions as the group builds on its established market position.
DSW Corporate Finance’s Cardiff team provided full-service lead advisory and corporate finance support throughout the transaction, including deal structuring, negotiations, project management and fundraising.
The deal builds on DSW’s existing relationship with Leading Edge UK, having previously advised the business on its acquisition of Contrac IT in December 2024. Legal advice was provided by Emma Borrington and James Hawkins of Knights.
Daniel Hill, CEO at Leading Edge UK, said, “This management buyout marks an exciting new chapter for Leading Edge UK. We have achieved significant growth over the past few years, expanded our capabilities and strengthened our position in the market. Taking full ownership of the business gives us the independence to build on that progress, invest in our people and services, and pursue the opportunities ahead.
It’s been great working with Koo and the rest of the DSW Corporate Finance team again. Their understanding of our business and guidance through the complexities of the transaction helped us achieve an outcome that puts us in a strong position for the next phase of growth.”
Koo Aseeley, Partner at DSW, added, “Leading Edge UK has demonstrated impressive growth and ambition, and this MBO gives the management team the independence to build on that success. Having supported the business on its acquisition of Contrac IT, we are delighted to have worked with the team again. This latest transaction gives management the independence to build on the strong platform they have created and continue driving growth.”
This latest deal also showcases our ability to work across complex cross-border transactions for established UK businesses, combining local expertise with international capabilities. We look forward to seeing the group continue its growth journey over the coming years.”
From L-R: Tanya Large, Daniel Hill, and Koo Aseeley.
