Forget about the quick deal, it’s all about the long-term
By Phil Bailey, a partner at Leeds-based Armstrong Watson
IT IS not a one-off affair, more like a partnership that develops over time.
Understanding deepens and the relationship strengthens as it does. That really is the best way I can illustrate what I believe is the best approach to all areas of corporate finance.
Whilst doing the deal for the client is clearly important, I think it’s vital to understand their needs and objectives fully to become a trusted advisor for the long term.
We like to look after our clients, and approach their businesses, in a more holistic way and stay with them before – and in many cases after – the transaction to develop longer term relationships.
That’s not to say we don’t move quickly, of course, and our advisory-led and strategic planning approach provides clients with highly commercial and innovative solutions to corporate finance.
This approach is possible because of the ‘real’ business people we have in our team – which is now brought together under one roof in our Leeds office. And by real people, I mean they have an understanding and experience of life outside of the financial services profession. Our team comprises those who have senior level experience in business ownership, operations, acquisitions, funding and general management. This is underpinned by tax and personal financial planning expertise, and of course we come ready with the expected contacts with funders, bank and private equity, and other relevant professionals.
And we’re not ‘yes men’, but we will always be part of our clients’ teams – on their side and supportive yet challenging – because their success is our success.
Keep talking. Stay involved. Keep interested. Isn’t that the secret to every successful long term relationship?
