CapEQ M&A Team

Critics and consultants: they all know how it’s done, but can’t do it themselves. Doug is the antithesis. Like everyone at CapEQ, he brings practical ‘been there, done that’ experience to bear on any transaction, advising from a position of insight and knowledge. Whether leading a deal, running a team or make a cross-border transaction stick, his proven expertise and credibility build trust and propel deals to positive conclusions.

As with his fellow directors, Doug has started successful companies, grown them, then moved on to conquer new challenges. Having held senior positions in technology and professional services companies, he understands strategy, motivation and the best way to get from problem to solution. Within M&A, his successful transactions include the sale of CAN UK to RSK Group; Vista Equity-backed Granicus’s acquisition of Firmstep; Cynergie UK to Davies Group; PCM Healthcare to Cogoora; and File Express to Iron Mountain. Many of his M&A deals have involved private equity-backed and international buyers, particularly within technology, online retail and regulated sectors (though he loves applying his existing knowledge in fresh fields).

Sharing his CapEQ’s partners’ love of rugby, Doug can often be found going one further, standing touchlines in the rain, shouting at the sub-Wilkinson efforts of his four children. A runner and snowboarder, he’s probably the fittest of CaqEQ’s leaders: wise heads might point out this makes him the most prone to injury.

Meet Co-founder and partner James Pugh