Maven completes profitable exit from graduate recruitment platform

Maven has completed an exit from GradTouch to London private equity firm, Pelican Capital.

The sale of the Manchester based technology platform for graduate employers has generated a return of up to 1.7x* for Maven client funds. Maven first invested in the business in December 2017 through NPIF Maven Equity Finance, with the Maven VCTs providing its support in 2019 following the achievement of key commercial milestones.

Over the term of the investment GradTouch evolved from an emerging graduate recruitment website to a leading provider of training enabling services, both in-person and online, including assessment centres for professional recruiters. GradTouch has also continued to offer traditional graduate recruitment services while expanding its client offering. The successful integration of several bolt-on acquisitions as well as further funding rounds of investment through the Maven managed funds have helped GradTouch deliver year-on-year growth in revenues and earnings.

The sale to Pelican Capital will enable the business the continue its impressive growth to date, supporting an ambitious buy and build strategy to further expand its brand portfolio of innovative businesses focused on transforming the early career development space.

"GradTouch has built a strong operating culture and has executed a number of strategic acquisitions that have delivered significant growth. We are pleased to have supported the business from its early start-up days to the thriving, profitable enterprise it is today. The team at GradTouch has increased its footprint in the early career development space, and this exit reflects their hard work and vision. We are confident that the company will continue to expand its innovative brand portfolio and reach new heights in this dynamic industry."

Karen de Meza, Portfolio Director at Maven

"The backing we have received from Maven over the past seven years has been instrumental in the expansion of GradTouch. Their strategic guidance and financial support have proved valuable in fuelling our growth and we are now in a strong position to embark on a new chapter with Pelican Capital and to continue to develop our range of services and geographic reach. Maven delivered on what was agreed pre-deal and having a supportive funding partner has enabled our business to strengthen its proposition.”

Zac Williams, CEO at GradTouch

*The overall return shown includes a small element of deferred consideration due to be received on/or after 31 December 2024. The anticipated return varies between the VCTs, as Maven VCT 1 and VCT 5 participated in an additional round of follow-on funding.