Gresham expands

Gresham, the UK regionally based private equity house that specialises in investing in the UK mid market, has appointed Paul Franks as investment manager in its Birmingham office.

Franks is joining Gresham from PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Birmingham office where he was assistant director corporate finance, specialising in transaction origination, marketing, structuring and execution of deals in the mid market.

He trained as a chartered accountant after gaining an honours degree in management science from the University of Hull and was seconded to private equity group Bridgepoint Capital throughout 2002 where he initiated, evaluated and carried out investment opportunities.

“We are delighted to welcome such a well-qualified professional to the Birmingham team. Our regional coverage leverages our mid-market expertise with strong local origination, due diligence and contacts. Paul’s thorough knowledge of the Midlands marketplace reinforces our belief that strong relationships with local intermediaries and corporates are a vital part of generating quality deals. Paul has demonstrated considerable success in this area,” said Gresham director Simon Inchley.