Savills Private Finance (SPF), the mortgage advisory arm of global real estate giant Savills, completed a management buyout (MBO) in 2019, marking a significant shift in ownership and strategic direction for the well-established business. The MBO was led by Paul Welch, SPF’s then-managing director, backed by private equity firm NorthEdge Capital. The deal provided an exit for Savills, allowing them to focus on their core real estate activities while granting SPF’s leadership team greater autonomy to drive growth. The rationale behind the MBO stemmed from a desire to accelerate SPF’s expansion and capitalize on the growing demand for specialist mortgage advice, particularly within the high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) client segments. While SPF had thrived under Savills’ umbrella, the management team believed that independent ownership would unlock new opportunities for innovation, strategic partnerships, and talent acquisition. The backing of NorthEdge Capital provided the necessary financial resources and strategic expertise to fuel these ambitions. Key to the MBO’s success was the strength of SPF’s existing team and established reputation. The firm had cultivated a strong brand within the specialist mortgage market, known for its expertise in arranging complex mortgages for wealthy individuals, property developers, and international investors. The experienced team of mortgage brokers possessed deep market knowledge and strong relationships with a wide network of lenders, enabling them to secure favorable terms for their clients. The MBO allowed SPF to implement several strategic initiatives designed to enhance its competitive advantage. These included investing in technology to improve operational efficiency and enhance the client experience, expanding its geographic reach through strategic acquisitions and recruitment, and developing new service offerings tailored to the evolving needs of its target market. The transition also fostered a more entrepreneurial culture within the organization, empowering employees and fostering a sense of shared ownership. Post-MBO, SPF continued to build upon its strong foundation. The partnership with NorthEdge Capital enabled the firm to invest in its infrastructure and expand its team, further strengthening its position in the market. The company focused on organic growth, leveraging its reputation for expertise and exceptional client service to attract new business. The MBO has demonstrably enabled SPF to operate with greater agility and focus, solidifying its position as a leading provider of specialist mortgage advice in the UK and beyond. The success of the MBO serves as a testament to the strength of SPF’s management team, its market-leading position, and the potential for growth within the specialist mortgage advisory sector.