Candover opens in Paris

Candover, the European buyout firm, has opened an office in Paris, which will be staffed by Christopher Spencer, Jean-Michel Coulot and Cyril Zivre.

Two administrative executives will support the team.

Christopher Spencer (38) joined Candover in 1998 from UBS where he was one of the founding members of its private equity operations. Jean-Michel Coulot (47) joined Candover in October 2000 from Paribas where he was in charge of PAI’s investments in the manufacturing sector. Cyril Zivre (34) joined Chevrillon-Candover in November 1998. He joined Candover from Generale de Sante (Paris) where he was assistant to the CFO and responsible for M&A activity.

Candover has been involved in the French private equity market for many years. As well as the recent E920 million buyout of leading frozen food business, Picard Surgeles, Candover purchased the leading European supplier of refrigeration installation and maintenance services, MC International for E48 million from Generale des Eaux.

Candover is currently raising and investing its 2001 Fund, which has received commitments in excess of E1.6 billion and is expected to close at E2.5 billion early next year.