Design agency under new leadership after completing management buyout
Manchester-based design agency for the legal sector, Epigram, has completed a management buyout (MBO) as part of the next phase in the company’s growth strategy.
Founded by Nicky Owen in the early 1990s, Epigram has been active in the creative sector for more than 30 years.
In 2018, experienced legal marketing director Susan Siddall (née Pettit) came into the business to continue the growth of the company, kick-starting a succession plan for the agency.
The MBO, for an undisclosed sum, sees the final part of that plan complete, with the buyout of Nicky Owen’s shares by CEO Susan Siddall, bringing Epigram under sole ownership.
Over the years, the business continued to grow organically through its work with some of the world’s best known law firms including Linklaters, DWF LLP, DLA Piper, Addleshaw Goddard, Eversheds Sutherland and Osborne Clarke.
Since joining the business, Susan Siddall has played a key role in diversifying Epigram’s client portfolio, securing notable appointments to the Cultural Campaign supporting the Commonwealth Games in 2022, as well as bringing on board a number of regional law firms including Pannone Corporate, Rusell Cooke and Taylor Wessing.
Under her leadership, the company has also expanded its client roster beyond the legal sector to work with global brands like Knight Frank and Kraft Heinz, as well as developing online and interactive offerings, guiding clients through the complexities of digital design and emerging AI tools.
Susan said: “I am pleased to announce the successful completion of this MBO which marks the next stage in our growth journey and would like to reassure our clients and partners that we remain committed to delivering high quality, innovative and tailored design solutions.
“It is very much business as usual and we will continue to operate with the same team of talented designers, values and culture that have made Epigram such a trusted and respected creative partner over the last 30 years.”
Nicky, who will retire from the business to focus on her work in the charity sector, said: “Having built Epigram from the ground up, it’s incredibly important to me that the company continues to thrive and grow.
“I have full trust in Susan’s ability to build on the foundations we’ve laid together in recent years.
“Her vision and dedication to both our clients and the team are exactly what Epigram needs to enter this next phase of growth. I’m excited to see how she will steer the company towards even greater success in the future.”
Susan added: “Nicky has created an incredibly strong foundation, and, as we move into this new chapter, I am more committed than ever to driving Epigram’s success. We have ambitious goals ahead and, with the continued talent, dedication and creativity of our team, I am confident we will achieve them.”
Pannone Corporate advised Susan Siddall. Myerson Solicitors and accountants Mitchell Charlesworth acted for Nicky Owen.
