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Mark Naughton
Corporate Finance Partner at FRP Advisory
Professional Background
Mark Naughton is a highly accomplished and respected leader in the field of Corporate Finance, with a rich professional journey spanning over 20 years. Currently, he presides over the Corporate Finance team at FRP Advisory in the South West and Wales, where he has established himself as an expert in guiding companies and shareholders in navigating their strategic financial options. Mark has held significant roles across various reputable firms, including Grant Thornton and PwC, which collectively have built the foundation of his extensive experience in corporate finance.
Mark's impressive career commenced at PwC, where he honed his skills in the corporate finance domain until 1999, when his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a dedicated Corporate Finance team at Grant Thornton Bristol. From 2002 to 2004, he expanded his expertise by working with the Private Equity team in London and subsequently relocated to Southampton from 2004 to 2007. The year 2007 marked a pivotal moment for Mark as he returned to Bristol to lead the Corporate Finance team, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to professional growth and excellence.
Further solidifying his reputation, Mark assumed the role of National Head of the Healthcare Corporate Finance team at Grant Thornton in 2012, showcasing his versatility and depth of knowledge across different sectors in corporate finance. In July 2017, Mark embarked on a new journey with FRP Advisory, where he established and currently leads the Corporate Finance team for South West and Wales.
Education and Achievements
Mark’s educational background is as robust as his professional experience. He began his academic journey by studying for a BA in Accountancy at the City of London, laying a solid foundation in financial principles. Additionally, he completed his studies at Downside School in Somerset, which equipped him with essential skills for his future endeavors.
To further enhance his financial acumen, Mark pursued additional studies with the ACA Chartered Accountants and earned a qualification in Corporate Finance through the CF program. His commitment to professional development is evident through his studies at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, demonstrating his passion for the discipline and a keen understanding of the evolving financial landscape.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Mark has achieved numerous significant milestones, reflecting his dedication and expertise in the corporate finance sector. He specializes in advising companies and shareholders on strategic options—including preparing businesses for sale, identifying buyers to maximize value, negotiating transactions, and facilitating management buyouts (MBOs). His strategic oversight and transactional insight have been pivotal for a diverse portfolio of clients.
Some of Mark's notable highlights include:
- Orchestrating the successful sale of Prowrap, a leading rewinder of aluminium foil and film servicing the food and beauty sectors.
- Facilitating the sale of Hilditch, the foremost UK medical equipment auctioneer.
- Advising on the sale of Avon Engineered Fabrications, a notable transaction involving Avon Rubber plc.
- Leading the advisory team during private equity investments in companies like ZipWorld and Hydro International.
- Steering the sale of W. Stevenson & Sons, reinforcing his expertise in guiding companies through transitions.
- Overseeing the acquisition of Dutch-based Hotbath by FM Mattsson Group AB, showcasing his capability in cross-border transactions.
- Successfully managing the refinancing and corporate restructuring of Taylor Maxwell, one of the UK's largest brick and timber distributors, with an impressive turnover exceeding £175 million per annum.
- Guiding the sale of Orchard Valley Foods Ltd to the Norwegian-listed Orkla Group and the sale of Premier Buying Group to Henry Schein Inc.
- Facilitating the sale of Vetswest to MWI Inc. and Watson Petroleum, the UK's largest independent fuel distributor, to World Fuels Inc.
- Engaging in private equity fundraising for Advanced Insulation and managing the sale of Mangar International to management.
- Supporting the MBO of Phoenix Learning and Care, a provider dedicated to care and education for young people.
- Advising on the sale of Pullman Rail to the French company Colas and the sale of Leonhard Lang to DCC plc.
- Providing fundraising and acquisition advisory to The Consortium Group on their acquisition of West Mercia Supplies.
Mark Naughton's dedication and expertise in corporate finance, coupled with an impressive track record of successful transactions, make him a sought-after partner for businesses looking to achieve their strategic financial objectives. His commitment to excellence, combined with his extensive knowledge, allows him to navigate complex financial landscapes proficiently, making a lasting impact in the industry.
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