Kester Capital backs management buy-out of ComplianceOnline

The investment comes at a time of significant momentum for Kester, which recently expanded its investment team and completed its third portfolio bolt-on acquisition in twelve months.

Through its Gambling Compliance, Payments Compliance and RegData products, ComplianceOnline enables compliance and legal teams around the world to manage risk confidently and discover new market opportunities by providing in-depth insight, analysis, commentary and research.  As the volume and pace of regulation increases globally, ComplianceOnline is well positioned to take advantage of this growing market.  Since inception in 2007, the Company has been at the forefront of the gambling regulatory landscape, growing its subscription-based information services at an exceptional rate, and, in 2015, launched a similar offering for the payments industry.  This new deal with Kester Capital means that ComplianceOnline is able to fuel its ambitious growth plans, continuing to help industry professionals make timely and informed strategic business decisions.  

Following the acquisition, founder David Morgan will step down.  Mike Woolfrey, who has been CEO since 2018, will continue to lead the business.  Prior to joining ComplianceOnline, Mike held numerous senior executive roles within B2B media and information services. 

Mike Woolfrey, CEO, ComplianceOnline, said: “This deal is an important and significant milestone for ComplianceOnline, and we are delighted to be partnering with Kester Capital.  We have huge potential for growth, and I am looking forward to leading the organisation as we move into this next phase”.

David Morgan, owner and outgoing Executive Chair, said: “I have been proud to have led ComplianceOnline to this point and am delighted to be handing over to Mike.  His experience and expertise will take ComplianceOnline to the next chapter of growth.”

Adam Maidment, Managing Partner of Kester Capital, said: “We are delighted to be investing in ComplianceOnline and look forward to partnering with Mike and the management team.  Its ambition, management talent and potential for continued strong growth make ComplianceOnline a great example of the type of business that we are looking to back with first time institutional capital and support.”

Kester Capital is a primary buy-out specialist, led by an entrepreneurial and experienced team, and focused on UK businesses that require capital in order to unlock their potential.