Posted: 3 November 2020

Getting to know Peter Barkley

Getting to know Peter Barkley

Business is built on people and relationships. So you can get to know us a little better, over the next few weeks, each member of our team will answer the same five questions. Next up is our man in the North, Pete Barkley.

1. Explain a little about your role at WestBridge.

I joined WestBridge as Investment Director in September 2019 and am responsible for originating new deal opportunities and transacting investments across the North West, Yorkshire and the North East.

In addition to my transactional responsibilities I work with the management teams we partner with to support their business strategy and add value over the period of our ownership. I currently sit on the board of Manchester based APEM and Aptus Utilities and South London based Wilcomatic.

2. Tell us about one of your career highs.

Before joining WestBridge, as an advisor, I enjoyed working with a team that helped deliver strategic goals to several businesses.  It can be very rewarding to see people achieve both personal and professional goals over the period of your working relationship.

The opportunity to do this as a sponsor is what excited me about the opportunity at WestBridge and I look forward to completing this journey with the teams and businesses I am currently working with.

3. What’s one of the best pieces of advice you’ve ever been given?

Building personal relationships based on honesty and integrity should be a core foundation of any business transaction.

4. If there was one thing you could change about the world of private equity, what would it be? 

Its reputation. Some founders and entrepreneurs are wary of private equity as a result of a handful of horror stories that hit the front pages.

On the whole, mid-market private equity is a positive force and we are out to support entrepreneurs to grow their business, drive innovation and create capital value. I guess this links to the advice point above – taking the time to get the right partner that you can work with is important.

5. Finally, what to you enjoy doing outside work?

I enjoy keeping active and am a keen cyclist, skier and very average golfer. I’m also a big Leicester City fan and enjoy spending time with friends and family.

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