Finance firm enters new era with merger and board appointments

Private finance firm Debrett’s has merged its Heritage and Private Finance divisions, combining its expertise in genealogy, society and etiquette with its financial and wealth services.

The new business will offer a range of services, including coaching, publishing, M&A advisory, corporate investments up to £10m and wealth management.

A new advisory board has been set up to oversee the delivery of these services, featuring experienced finance professionals.

Darryl Eales remains Chairman, with Richard Swann, a private equity leader at Inflexion and Richard Sanders, a corporate adviser and founder of Catalyst Corporate Finance, joining the board.

James England, formerly head of Debrett’s Private Finance, will lead the combined business in an
executive capacity.

He said: “Debrett’s remains the authority on this country’s culture, its people and their
etiquette. We now supplement this with advice and coaching to those seeking personal or business
development, value realisation and wealth growth. We remain experts in the aristocracy and champions of meritocracy. We celebrate success and aim to help others achieve their potential. We now have the experience and skills to become the ultimate partner in the UK’s SMEs and their people.”

Darryl Eales said: “This is a hugely exciting time for Debrett’s. It is fantastic to have all our services combined and available to all people, organisations and companies seeking to realise their potential. We remain a relationship-based organisation, and I look forward to growing the business with our clients and partners for the long term. I am particularly delighted to be working alongside Richard, Richard and James, whose blend of experience and expertise will be hugely beneficial.”