J.F. Lehman & Company Finalizes the Sale of Global Marine Group to Keppel Infrastructure Fund
On March 10, 2025, J.F. Lehman & Company (JFLCO), a prominent middle-market private equity firm, announced the completion of the sale of Global Marine Group (GMG) to Keppel Infrastructure Fund (KIF). While the terms of the deal remain undisclosed, this strategic divestiture marks a pivotal moment for both companies involved.
Founded in 1850, Global Marine Group has established itself as a key player in providing subsea telecom maintenance and installation services. The firm operates from the United Kingdom and has built a reputation for delivering high-reliability solutions that bolster the integrity of undersea communication networks globally. This sale to KIF aligns with JFLCO's intentions to streamline its investments within its focused sectors including aerospace, defense, maritime, and environmental industries.
Since GMG’s acquisition by JFLCO in 2020, there have been considerable efforts to sharpen the company's focus on its primary telecommunications market. Under JFLCO’s guidance, GMG has optimized its operations and expanded its service offerings, which has enhanced its relationships with critical customers worldwide. This strategic realignment has made GMG the leading independent provider of installation and maintenance services in the subsea telecom landscape.
Alex Harman, the Chairman of GMG's Board and a partner at JFLCO, remarked on the transformation witnessed during JFLCO's stewardship, praising management's efforts to amplify GMG’s position within the global telecom infrastructure market.
CEO Bruce Neilson-Watts expressed optimism about the company’s future, highlighting that the deal underscores GMG's strength and operational efficiency. With the telecommunications sector currently poised for significant growth, he is enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead in collaboration with KIF.
Will Hanenberg, also a member of GMG's Board and Managing Director at JFLCO, commended the team's dedication to ensuring the reliability of the world's critical subsea communications networks. He expressed confidence that KIF would provide the necessary support for GMG to navigate its next growth phase.
JFLCO’s decision to sell GMG is indicative of a broader trend within private equity where firms seek to refocus on their core competencies or sectors. The firm has been strategic in its investments, and the successful turnaround of GMG showcases its adeptness in fostering value within its portfolio companies.
Evercore acted as the exclusive financial advisor for JFLCO in this transaction, while legal counsel was provided by Jones Day and Blank Rome. Since its establishment in 1992, J.F. Lehman & Company has been unwavering in its commitment to invest in sectors that align with its expertise, demonstrating a disciplined approach in a rapidly evolving marketplace. With the completion of this sale, JFLCO is expected to continue pursuing opportunities that further solidify its presence in the aerospace, defense, and maritime industries.
In conclusion, the sale of Global Marine Group to Keppel Infrastructure Fund is a significant development that reflects both companies’ aspirations and positions within the telecommunications sector. The transaction not only enhances GMG's capability to meet the increasing demand for secure communications infrastructure but also supports JFLCO's strategic pivot towards its core investment areas.