Consultancy M&A

SI Global advises consultancy founders, management teams, corporate groups and investors on sales, investments, mergers and acquisitions. Our experience covers strategy, innovation, research and insight, communications, public affairs and specialist professional services.

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Selected consultancy deals advised by SI Global

  • The Forge sold to MSQ: SI Global acted as lead sell-side advisor to the strategy and innovation consultancy.
  • Thinks Insights & Strategy sold to AVENIR GLOBAL: SI Global advised the strategic research and consultancy business on joining an international communications group.
  • Instinctif Partners’ MENA operations sold to Excellera Advisory Group: SI Global advised LDC and Instinctif Partners on the cross-border divestment.
  • Red Flag Global sold to Ankura Consulting Group: SI Global advised the strategic communications and public affairs consultancy.
  • Bladonmore sold to Headland, backed by LDC: SI Global advised the international digital, brand and content business.
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Understanding what creates value in a consultancy

Financial performance tells only part of the story. Buyers also assess the firm’s expertise, the transferability of client relationships, the quality of its intellectual property, management depth and whether growth can continue beyond the founders.

The sale case must explain why clients choose the consultancy, where it can grow and how its knowledge, people and methods would add value to a buyer or investment partner.

Our approach

Consultancy deals have to be managed carefully around clients, employees and senior leaders. We prepare the business, establish the valuation case, approach the most relevant counterparties and keep the process from disrupting day-to-day performance.

We also work with acquisitive consultancies, corporate groups and private equity-backed platforms, defining acquisition criteria, mapping markets, approaching targets discreetly and supporting negotiation and execution.

Frequently asked questions

What types of consultancy businesses do SI Global advise?

SI Global advises strategy, management, innovation, research and insight, corporate communications, public affairs, reputation, digital transformation, data and other specialist consultancy businesses.

What makes a consultancy attractive to buyers?

Attractive consultancies usually have a clear position, strong client retention, limited reliance on any one individual, a capable second-tier management team, good-quality revenue, repeatable IP or methods and a clear path to growth.

How important is founder dependency in a consultancy sale?

It is a significant consideration. A business is generally more transferable when client relationships, intellectual property, delivery capability and leadership are distributed across a broader team.

Does SI Global advise on mergers and minority investments?

Yes. Depending on shareholder objectives, SI Global can advise on full sales, partial realisations, minority or majority investments, mergers and strategic partnerships.

Considering your options for your consultancy?

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Explore other sectors SI Global operate in

Digital agency M&A Marketing & comms M&A Technology & data M&A

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Strategy & Investment Partners Consulting Limited, registered office at Gladstone House, 77-79 High Street, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW20 9HY, Company Number 09051131. Strategy & Investment Partners Consulting Limited (FRN 945861) is an Appointed Representative of Strata Global Ltd (FRN 563834) which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Principal is registered in  England & Wales, registered office at 7-11 Moorgate, London EC2R 6AF, Company Number 07707508.