Corporate finance advisory firm Clearwater International has appointed travel M&A and investment specialist Christopher Jones as managing partner and head of its London operation.
Jones specialises in mid-market corporate finance across travel, leisure, e-commerce and consumer brands, including leading two sales of Travel Chapter and advising Travelopia and Vitruvian Partners on its investment in Travel Counsellors.
He was previously at Altium Capital, now Houlihan Lokey, which he joined in 2013 after starting his career at EY and then Arrowpoint Advisory.
In his new role, he will lead the development of Clearwater International’s 35-strong London team, including an expansion and move to new offices.
Fellow managing partner Marcus Archer will work alongside UK chief executive Mark Taylor in an expanded strategic role.
Taylor said: “In challenging times management teams, sponsors and funders demand the best advice, which is why we’re constantly investing to attract and develop the highest calibre talent in the UK and internationally.
“Christopher’s appointment will provide us with additional leadership within the UK as well as heading up the consumer team across Europe.
“This is an exciting period for our business as we continue to look to invest in strategically important sectors and service lines. These plans and the Clearwater brand are enabling us to attract some of the best talent within our industry.”
Jones said: “I have long admired Clearwater and I’m incredibly proud to be joining this highly ambitious advisory firm at a time when it is growing on all fronts, both nationally and globally.
“This investment in the new office and the expansion of the London team will help strengthen our relationships with private equity, which now accounts for more than half of all transactions across the business, as we consolidate our reputation as independent, trusted advisors to entrepreneurs, investors and corporates.”
Clearwater International was founded 20 years ago and increased revenues in 2021/22 by 110% to €153 million.