CCF has successfully facilitated the transaction between Operam Education Group, a portfolio company of BGF, and Provision Recruitment for an undisclosed sum. Supported by HSBC and BGF, the deal is the Group’s seventh transaction in its buy & build strategy, across the UK Education market and the third acquisition in the Midlands. The acquisition will strengthen the regional footprint further and accelerate Operam’s position in the UK education staffing market.
Established in 2004 at its Nottingham headquarters, Provision Recruitment has a strong foothold in the Further Education sector, supporting colleges and sixth forms with the recruitment of lecturers and teachers. The acquisition is Operam’s first entrance to this part of the Education system, with the group predominantly focussed on primary, secondary and SEND recruitment until now. The integration of Provision is expected to add complimentary expertise, allowing Operam to service its clients across the full education cycle, in the transition from secondary through to further education.
Through the strategic expertise of the wider Operam Group, Provision is poised to develop its market share in further education, with the sector considered highly resilient given consistent labour shortages and the sustained funding available from educational institutions.
Eddie Austin (CEO), Operam Education Group:
“Traditionally, the business has focused on mainstream and SEND education, as part of our buy-and-build growth ambitions. This is our first acquisition in the further education sector which enables us to broaden our reach, both from a geographical and sector perspective, integrating a well-established business into the group that has real potential to scale across different locations in the UK.”
Rob Johnson (Investor), BGF:
“This is another exciting addition to the Operam portfolio – one which will further diversify both our service offering and client base. We look forward to welcoming Provision into the group, as we continue to cement Operam’s position as one of the leading education recruitment services providers in the UK.”
Luke Mitchell (Director, Head of Deal Origination), Connect Corporate Finance:
“We are very pleased to have supported Eddie and Operam with this transaction - providing the group with an entrance into the Further Education Sector. Operam has acquired an outstanding business and it will assist the company in its next phase of growth. We wish them every success for the future.”
