BGF bolsters London team with new hire

BGF has expanded its London team with the appointment of Rowan Bird as an investor. Rowan joins from the M&A team at Lazard where he spent three years working as an Investment Banking analyst, specialising in basic industries and the natural resources sector. Rowan’s role at BGF will involve all aspects of the investment process from building relationships with business owners, supporting opportunities through BGF’s investment process and actively working alongside a number of portfolio companies post completion. BGF has invested more than £370m across 54 businesses based in London since it was set up in 2011. Recent investments include fire and security business BB7, talent acquisition consultancy Elements Talent Solutions and filtration equipment manufacturer Amazon Filters. Commenting on his appointment, Rowan said: “BGF’s long-term outlook is a real point of difference in the market, as is the excellent reputation it has carved out across the UK and Ireland over the last eight years. I’m excited to be working with a well-respected team and in partnership with some of London and the South East’s most exciting and diverse businesses to achieve their ambitions.” Grant Paul-Florence, head of BGF’s London office said: “We’re delighted to welcome Rowan to the team as we continue to expand our investment offering in London. He brings a track record of deal experience which will be a real asset to the London investment team.”