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Dutton joined WestBridge from Dow Schofield Watts in January 2024 as senior investment manager and has played a pivotal role in the firm’s growing presence in the region, where he works closely with partner Peter Barkley.
As well as leading on deal origination, Dutton works closely with several portfolio companies, including APEM and Alpine Fire Engineers, which are both headquartered in the region.
Earlier this year, he was instrumental in securing a £70m refinance package for Alpine and led its recent acquisition of DAS Fire, its first transaction as it pursues an ambitious growth strategy.
Of his promotion, Dutton said:
“I have loved my time with WestBridge to-date and am thrilled to have had my contribution recognised with this promotion. WestBridge is a well-respected and established national player. Over 40% of our second Fund is invested in companies based in the North and I’m looking forward to continuing this strong deployment focus in the region.
“The region is teeming with companies that are poised for further growth, either organically or by strategic acquisition. With the ongoing success of raising Fund III, we have abundant capital to deploy and I’m really looking forward to 2025 and further cementing the WestBridge profile and presence in the region.”
Peter Barkley, partner, who heads the firm’s Manchester office, said:
“It’s been a joy to work with Tom this past year. His considered and pragmatic approach continues to impress everyone he works with, whichever side of the table they sit. He provides excellent strategic and operational support to our portfolio companies, where his deployment of our value creation model is consistently reaping results for all stakeholders.”
Guy Davies, managing partner, added:
“Tom has made a huge contribution to our deal activity in the region since joining us last year. We’re confident that with his great network and impeccable reputation, our deal activity in the region will remain buoyant in the year ahead. His promotion is well deserved.”
Dutton’s promotion follows a successful 12 months for WestBridge which saw the firm perform the second close of its third fund; complete two platform transactions; two exits; and five bolt-on acquisitions.