Zeus Private Equity makes first hire in advance of final close

Manchester-based Zeus Private Equity (ZPE), which raised its maiden fund in December 2006 to invest in regional businesses with an enterprise value of up to £50 million, has appointed an investment executive in advance of its final close.

Beth Houghton, who has recently completed an MBA at Manchester Business School, worked with ZPE partners during her Master's degree to assess investment opportunities across the UK regions.

Her previous experience includes an MBA internship at Morgan Stanley, as well as a lengthy stint as a senior consultant at Chelford SAP, the Basingstoke-based subsidiary of AIM-listed business software provider, Chelford Group plc.

On her appointment at ZPE, Beth said: "Having been involved with ZPE as the fund was first being established, the opportunity to join on a permanent basis and assist in its growth presented an unmissable opportunity. I look forward to working with the partners, local advisers and private investors within the fund on a range of on and off-market deals."

Managing partner at ZPE, Gary Tipper, said: "We are currently extremely busy completing due diligence on our first deal, as well as looking at several other potential transactions. As an experienced management consultant who has worked with clients including RBS, Hewlett-Packard and Lufthansa, Beth’s analytical skills will prove invaluable in assessing the growth prospects of potential investment opportunities and we are delighted with her decision to join us."

ZPE had a second close on its maiden fund in June at £65 million, and is looking to announce its final close before the end of the year. Further appointments are expected at or around the final close.

< Back