Thomas Dutton promoted to Investment Director at WestBridge
People | Jan 06, 2025 | WestBridge Capital LLP
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Thomas Dutton has been promoted to investment director at WestBridge Capital LLP, following a significant year of activity for the firm in Northern England. Dutton joined the company from Dow Schofield Watts in January 2024 as a senior investment manager and has been pivotal in the firm's regional growth. Working closely with partner Peter Barkley, Dutton has focused on deal origination and oversight of portfolio companies such as APEM and Alpine Fire Engineers. Additionally, he played a key role in securing a £70 million refinance package for Alpine and led its first acquisition of DAS Fire as part of its ambitious growth strategy. With over 40% of WestBridge's second fund invested in Northern companies, Dutton is optimistic about future deployments and upcoming opportunities in 2025. The past year has seen WestBridge perform a second close of its third fund, complete notable transactions and acquisitions, and exit from two companies. His promotion is viewed as well-deserved by his colleagues, who are confident in his ability to maintain momentum in the region.
Sectors
- Private Equity
- Corporate Finance
Geography
- United Kingdom – The activities discussed in the article, including those of WestBridge Capital and its portfolio companies, are based in Northern England, a key region of the UK.
Industry
- Private Equity – WestBridge Capital operates as a private equity firm, investing in and managing portfolios of companies, particularly in Northern England.
- Corporate Finance – The article highlights financial maneuvers such as refinancing and acquisitions, reflecting WestBridge's involvement in corporate finance activities.
Financials
- £70 million – Refinance package secured for Alpine Fire Engineers.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas Dutton | Investment Director | Person | Recently promoted at WestBridge with a focus on expanding the firm's presence in Northern England. |
| WestBridge Capital LLP | Private Equity Firm | Company | A private equity firm actively investing and managing portfolio companies in Northern England. |
| APEM | Portfolio Company | Company | One of the portfolio companies under WestBridge's management, headquartered in Northern England. |
| Alpine Fire Engineers | Portfolio Company | Company | A portfolio company that underwent refinancing and acquisition activities led by Thomas Dutton. |
| Peter Barkley | Partner | Person | A partner at WestBridge, leading the firm's initiatives in Manchester. |
| Guy Davies | Managing Partner | Person | Managing partner at WestBridge, endorsing Dutton's contributions and promotion. |
| Dow Schofield Watts | Former Employer | Company | Dutton's previous employer before joining WestBridge. |
| DAS Fire | Acquired Company | Company | The company acquired by Alpine Fire Engineers as part of its first transaction with WestBridge's guidance. |