Phoenix Equity Partners (“Phoenix”), a UK-based private equity firm specializing in partnerships with founder-entrepreneurs in the lower mid-market, has announced a series of strategic promotions and new hires to support its continued growth after an outstanding 2024.
Natacha Hirchovitch, who has been with Phoenix since 2022 and contributed to several high-profile transactions, has been promoted to Investment Manager from Investment Executive. James Hope, a team member since March 2020, has advanced to Fund & Portfolio Director from his previous role as Fund & Portfolio Manager.
Additionally, Phoenix welcomes Lauren Sinclair-Williams as Legal Director, further strengthening its leadership team.
Phoenix has also welcomed Vanessa Xie as Investment Manager and Prachi Agarwal as Investment Executive. Vanessa brings extensive experience, having held Associate Investment positions at PwC Australia and Allegro Funds over the past four years. Prachi joins following a 5-year spell at KPMG UK, where she most recently served as an M&A Manager.
The latest round of new hires and promotions follow a hugely successful period for the firm in 2024. Phoenix raised more capital than ever last year, securing £400 million for its latest flagship fund and £200 million for its first continuation fund. Additionally, the firm returned more than £250 million to its investors through the sale of four companies from its 2016 fund.
David Burns, Managing Partner, Phoenix Equity Partners, commented:
“This is a very exciting time to be at Phoenix, and we’re delighted to see progression and expansion within our investment team. The promotions are a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our existing team, while our new joiners will bring valuable experience that adds to the breadth of talent across the firm. We’re looking forward to another successful period at Phoenix, building on the momentum of 2024.”
