#Italy #H.I.G. Capital #Rome #Protos S.p.A. #Technical Consulting

H.I.G. Capital Acquires a Majority Stake in Protos S.p.A.

H.I.G. Capital, a prominent player in the alternative investment landscape, has announced a significant acquisition that is set to reshape its investment strategy. With $67 billion in capital under management, this Miami-based firm has completed the acquisition of Protos S.p.A., a leading independent technical consulting company based in Italy. This partnership is a strategic move aimed at bolstering H.I.G.'s capabilities in the technical consulting sector.

Expanding Horizons in Technical Consulting

Protos offers an impressive range of technical advisory and consulting services, including critical functions such as inspections and certifications. With its headquarters in Rome and additional offices in Milan and Genoa, the firm boasts a multidisciplinary team of experts who are dedicated to providing high-quality and tailored solutions to its diverse clientele. Protos’ expertise spans across various industries, supporting investors, financial institutions, asset managers, and developers, particularly in the realms of infrastructure, energy, real estate, and financial services.

Raffaele Legnani and Giovanni Guglielmi, two Managing Directors at H.I.G. in Italy, highlighted the unique position of Protos within the burgeoning technical consulting market, underscoring the increasing demand driven by energy transition trends and heightened regulatory requirements. Their insights point to the firm's distinct competitive edge, marked by its recognized technical skills and sound business model.

A Partnership for Growth

The collaboration between H.I.G. and Protos is poised to accelerate growth for the consulting firm, with Protos’ leadership, including Franco Masera and Luca Mazzoni, expressing confidence in H.I.G.'s ability to back their management team. They view this partnership as pivotal in enhancing Protos’ status as a prominent player within the Italian market for technical consulting.

This acquisition comes in a climate where technical consulting is becoming increasingly crucial, particularly with the complex regulations and demands in both local and global contexts. H.I.G.’s investment will not only fortify Protos’ existing operations but also facilitate its expansion into international markets.

Protos' Comprehensive Service Portfolio

With a strong reputation for delivering customized solutions throughout all stages of projects, Protos provides a portfolio that includes technical, environmental, and ESG advisory services. Furthermore, it offers due diligence, inspections, insurance risk advisory, and even litigation support. This comprehensive approach enables Protos to serve a vast array of clients, including large corporations, investors, developers, and public institutions, ensuring high standards of technical expertise, independence, and transparency.

As the world shifts towards more sustainable practices and innovations, the need for thorough consulting services in technical, environmental, and regulatory aspects will only increase. Protos is well-positioned to navigate these challenges, and with H.I.G.'s backing, it is ready to meet evolving market demands.

H.I.G. Capital: A Leader in Alternative Investments

H.I.G. Capital’s specialization in both debt and equity investments in mid-sized companies equips it well to support Protos in its growth journey. The firm’s international footprint includes offices across the United States and around the globe, highlighting its capability to tap into diverse markets and leverage opportunities for portfolio companies.

Since its inception in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in over 400 companies globally, demonstrating a robust track record in managing funds and achieving significant returns. This new venture with Protos adds another dimension to its already substantial portfolio, ensuring that H.I.G. remains at the forefront of the investment landscape.

In summary, the acquisition of Protos S.p.A. by H.I.G. Capital signifies a strategic expansion into the realms of technical consulting, leveraging the strengths of both firms to address upcoming challenges in various industries. With a shared vision for growth and innovation, this partnership is set to redefine the consulting services landscape in Italy and potentially beyond.