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Executive Search firm Carlyle has acquired a majority stake in School for CEOs, the management development company founded by former rugby international David Sole and Patrick Macdonald.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Carlyle and School for CEOs\u2019 combined client base includes Aberdeen, Wood Mackenzie, Scottish Rugby, Quorum Cyber, Edrington, Aviva, Baillie Gifford, SSE, Greene King, and Gallagher.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n
Mr Sole, managing partner at School for CEOs, said:\u00a0\u201cSince establishing the business fifteen years ago, we have created and delivered programmes and coaching for a wide range of clients across the UK and beyond.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we considered our future growth and development, Carlyle\u2019s pedigree and brand stood out as an obvious acquirer and partner.\u201d<\/p>\n
Fiona James-Martin, managing partner at Carlyle, said:\u00a0\u201cHaving worked closely with boards and leaders for over 20 years, Carlyle has witnessed a growing client sentiment around not only identifying and securing the best leaders, advisers, and board members, but also to work more closely with them to develop leadership capability.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Founder Duggie Carlyle said:\u00a0\u201cThe market and demands of board and leadership teams are evolving quickly.\u00a0\u00a0We are excited to be adding such a proven and respected team to our wider offering and see this as a natural evolution.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis investment from Carlyle was very much made in response to consultation from our key long-term clients, around what they needed from a key leadership partner.\u201d<\/p>\n
School for CEOs will continue to trade under its own name with David Sole remaining with the business. <\/p>\n
Mr Macdonald, who is stepping down, said:\u00a0\u201cWe built the School on the premise that we could help CEOs and aspiring leaders accelerate their learning and board readiness. <\/p>\n
\u201cOur hundreds of alumni are testament to the success of that vision. I wish David and the team all the best in their new\u00a0\u2018home\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n
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