Helen Bartley joins BGF’s direct origination team in the North West

BGF has expanded its North West team with the senior appointment of Helen Bartley.

Helen joins BGF’s direct origination team in Manchester, bringing over 20 years’ experience in corporate finance to the role. She has worked across small, medium and ‘Big Four’ accountancy practices, followed by five years in industry, specialising in disposals, acquisitions and complex partnering arrangements.

At BGF, Helen will be responsible for identifying and connecting the investment team with entrepreneurs and management teams across the North West, who are looking for patient, minority-led capital to help support their growth plans.

Neil Inskip, head of BGF in the North West, said: “Our team plays an integral role in helping the region’s most exciting businesses to fulfil their long-term potential. Helen has a strong network within the local marketplace and a wealth of experience in identifying and positioning companies for growth. We’re delighted to have her onboard.”

Helen Bartley said: “BGF is one of the most experienced backers of growing companies and I’m looking forward to working closely with a diverse range of North West businesses who have the drive and ambition to scale their businesses.”

Last year, BGF invested £53 million into the local North West growth economy, completing seven new deals in 2022. It was also a record year for realisations in the region for BGF, having completed three highly successful exits, with an enterprise value of £400 million and a combined money multiple of more than 3.7x.