Owner / Co-Founder
A former partner at KPMG, James co-founded Dow Schofield Watts in 2002. It is now one of the UK’s leading business advisory firms, with over 80 professionals in seven locations, and operates a unique licensing model enabling professionals to build their own business under its brand. In December 2021 James also led the successful IPO of DSW Capital, the company which owns the Dow Schofield Watts brand.
James has over 35 years’ experience in corporate finance, having advised leading companies and football clubs. He is also co-founder of two investment businesses, PHD Industrial Holdings and DSW Ventures, and author of a number of books on corporate finance and investments.
James is the co-author of Private Equity: Law and Practice and specialises in deal structuring.
James is a past “Dealmaker of the Year” winner at the Insider Deal Awards.
James is also a non-executive director of the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.
Disposals
Multisol, Timeform, PH Jones, Handleman, Projen UK
Acquisitions
GB Group plc, Multisol
Buy-outs
Ideal Shopping, Multisol, MTL
Creativity
John Wainwright & Co, Multisol
Refinancing/restructuring
Elan Homes, Martin Dawes, MBL plc, Davenham
Investments
Liberty Printers, Barber of Sheffield
In his spare time, James enjoys training and completes triathlons.
Dow Schofield Watts – Daresbury Office