Group News
Dan Booth on the firm’s plans since its Pollen Street Capital backing
One year ago, Leonard Curtis sold a majority stake to specialist financial services PE house Pollen Street Capital, and is investing in people to meet ambitious growth targets across the firm. In a recent article for Consultancy UK, CEO Dan Booth talks about working with PE house Pollen Street Capital, 12 months on from the deal, management of change and lasting legacies.
How did the deal come about?
We were first introduced to Pollen Street Capital in 2020 when there appeared to be some increased interest in the restructuring sector. We had some constructive discussions with Pollen at the time, but it was not the right time for us and therefore it would not have been the right time for them either. Fast forward to 2024, we had changed as a business and were ready for the next round of investment and with the support of our advisors, we started off pretty much where we left off with them completing our transaction in August 2025.
Explain what the goals are for the business now Pollen is in place?
Our aims are simple – we believe we can really change the perception of our business and the sector. We intend to double the size of the group in terms of revenue and deliver 2.5x the profit. With a keen focus on what actually makes a difference in terms of distribution, people and technology we are ready to achieve our goals whilst staying grounded and never forgetting where we have come from.
What attracted Pollen to Leonard Curtis?
We would like to think it was the opportunity to get involved with a business that was at the right stage at the right time. Some of our closest peers are listed and whilst that has advantages, it allows those that are not to be nimbler and more flexible in their approach. Our people and our style were clearly an attraction – we like to think we do things differently.
What were your expectations before Pollen were on board?
That there would be a level of expertise and experience that our business had never benefitted from previously.
How do they compare with what has actually happened in the last 12 months?
It is fair to say that they have challenged us and made us look at situations in a different way than perhaps we would have done.
What changes has the new framework allowed the firm to make?
We have become more focused on what we feel will make a difference. We are also more accountable than perhaps we might have been in the past and whilst this presents some challenges at times, it is a positive for our future growth.
What further changes are coming down the line?
Whilst most would suggest AI and tech will play a massive part and we don’t doubt that I think reminding ourselves of what behaviours got us this far - 30 plus years later – is crucial. In a world where it often feels like people are stepping back from human interaction and relationships, we would like to see ourselves leaning more into exactly that. AI has a part to play but it can’t make you feel valued or trusted like another human can.
What has been the biggest challenge in the last 12 months under the new PE-backed era?
Keeping everyone aligned in a fast growing and changing environment.
What do you hope will be the legacy from the investment?
Prior to Pollen’s involvement we wanted to put a long-term incentive plan in place for the next capital event. We have done this now and if we can achieve our goals, we would say that would be a legacy worth having. It is also important to arrive at the destination the right way – it’s not the journey or the destination – it’s the people.
What advice would you give others looking at PE investment?
Back your judgement and have a plan that you can deliver.
Anything else you would like to mention?
Never forget to give back along the way. We set up the Leonard Curtis Foundation in 2020 to try and support causes close to us all. We can talk of growing revenue, generating profit and improving strategy but don’t lose sight of the difference we can all make by just doing something that helps or supports someone who needs it.
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Leonard Curtis is a trading style of Reach Commercial Finance Limited, registered at Leonard Curtis House, Elms Square, Bury New Road, Whitefield, M45 7TA. Company Register number is 09056450. Reach Commercial Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN: 753686. Reach Commercial Finance Limited is an authorised credit broker and not a lender. We work with an unrestricted number of lenders to find a potentially suitable arrangement for your consideration. ICO registration ZA069234 and you can check via www.ico.org.uk. We will receive commission from lenders. Different lenders pay different amounts depending on different commission models. For transparency we work with the following commission models: fixed fee, fixed rate of commission, percentage of the amount you borrow and rate for risk (this is based on the risk profile of the business). Further details of the commission model, calculation and amount will be disclosed to you throughout your customer journey. Privacy notice.
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