Tom Johnson Acquires Lord Sugar's Stake in Hernshead Recruitment
Deal News | Mar 26, 2025 | Business Cloud

Tom Johnson, a former business partner of Lord Sugar, has acquired full ownership of Hernshead Recruitment, a company he originally co-founded with Sugar through the latter's investment vehicle, Amsvest, in 2019. Hernshead Recruitment, focusing on the engineering and technology sectors, grew to a £3.5 million turnover under their joint stewardship. Johnson, now sole owner, shares his key business insights drawn from his experience with Lord Sugar, emphasizing the importance of understanding financial metrics, honesty, punctuality, relationship building, and leadership qualities. Hernshead is recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the UK, catering to the needs of diverse multinational clients in areas like additive manufacturing and aerospace. With this buyout, Johnson is poised to expand the company's footprint internationally, targeting markets in Europe and North America. Lord Sugar expressed satisfaction with the company's progress and confidence in Johnson's leadership for future growth.
Sectors
- Recruitment and HR
- Private Equity and Investments
Geography
- United Kingdom – Hernshead Recruitment is based in the UK, and the article refers to its activities and growth within the local market.
- Europe and North America – The article discusses Hernshead's planned expansion into European and North American markets.
Industry
- Recruitment and HR – Hernshead Recruitment operates in the recruitment and HR services sector, specializing in engineering and technology talent acquisition.
- Private Equity and Investments – The buyout involves Lord Sugar's private investment vehicle, Amsvest, making it relevant to the private equity and investment sectors.
Financials
- 3.5 million GBP – Turnover figure of Hernshead Recruitment achieved under the leadership of Tom Johnson and Lord Sugar.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Tom Johnson | Buyer, Sole Owner | Person | Tom Johnson is the entrepreneur who has acquired full ownership of Hernshead Recruitment from Lord Sugar. |
Lord Sugar | Seller, Former Investor | Person | Lord Sugar is a well-known UK business magnate and former co-owner of Hernshead Recruitment through his investment vehicle, Amsvest. |
Hernshead Recruitment | Target Company | Company | A recruitment agency specializing in engineering and technology sectors, co-founded by Tom Johnson and Lord Sugar. |
Amsvest | Investment Vehicle | Company | The private investment vehicle used by Lord Sugar for investing in Hernshead Recruitment. |