Cooper Parry Joins Forces with Lee Equity for Transformational Growth in UK Accounting Sector

Cooper Parry Partners with Lee Equity for Growth

Cooper Parry, a dynamic accounting and business advisory firm based in the UK, recently announced a groundbreaking investment from Lee Equity Partners, a private equity firm based in New York. This partnership is aimed at propelling Cooper Parry's mission to evolve into the next-generation professional services group.

Lee Equity will replace Waterland Private Equity, which has supported Cooper Parry in its ambitious journey over the past few years. Under Waterland's guidance, Cooper Parry integrated 11 acquisitions, including notable firms like Haines Watts London and UHY Manchester. This transformative phase has resulted in remarkable organic growth, with a turnover that has quadrupled in just two years, reaching £180 million. The company has experienced sustainable growth of over 24% annually over the last three years.

The firm has established a reputation as a disruptive player in the accounting industry, offering a wide range of services including audit, tax, innovation, and digital transformation. Known as “the rebels of accountancy”, Cooper Parry operates from several locations across the UK, including East Midlands, Birmingham, and London.

A key part of this new chapter comes with the leadership of Ade Cheatham, the CEO of Cooper Parry, who commented on the significance of this partnership. He describes the investment as a monumental milestone that will equip Cooper Parry with the necessary financial resources to solidify its market position and enhance capabilities.

Danny Rodriguez, a partner at Lee Equity, stated that the firm has been on the lookout for a transformative accounting firm and found that in Cooper Parry with its robust management team and impressive growth rates. He further emphasized the alignment in values and culture between the two companies, hinting at an exciting future ahead.

As Cooper Parry continues to grow, the firm maintains its commitment to quality and a unique client experience. Their focus on attracting and retaining top talent is highlighted by their recognition in the Sunday Times' list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, along with their B Corp status, which underscores their dedication to social responsibility.

The collaboration with Lee Equity is expected to occur in the first half of 2025 and will open new horizons for Cooper Parry as it aspires to be a leader in the next-generation professional services landscape. With this partnership, Cooper Parry aims to create an integrated approach to services that will redefine accounting and advisory in the UK, ensuring they remain at the forefront of innovation in the sector.

This partnership also highlights the innovative spirit that characterizes the firm, setting the stage for further developments and expansions in the coming years. As they embark on this journey with Lee Equity, the expectations are high, and the team at Cooper Parry is energized to make significant impacts in the professional services realm.

In summary, Cooper Parry's partnership with Lee Equity is not just a financial transaction; it represents a shared vision for the future of professional services in the UK. By embedding innovation and a customer-centric approach into their operations, Cooper Parry is poised to lead the charge into a new era of accountancy and advisory services.