HomeServe founder to depart after three decades of leadership

The founder of HomeServe Richard Harpin has announced his departure as chair of the home repairs company after more than three decades.
Harpin set up HomeServe in 1993 as a joint venture with South Staffordshire Water. It aimed to connect homeowners with reliable tradespeople by offering plumbing and drainage cover for an annual fee.
The Walsall-headquartered business grew to serve more than 8.5m customers worldwide and expanded into heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
Two years ago, Harpin stepped down as CEO of HomeServe and became the group’s chair after it was acquired by Brookfield Infrastructure Funds in a £4.1bn takeover deal.
Through his investment fund Growth Partner, Harpin said his goal is to double the number of large companies in the UK from 7,500 to 15,000 over the next five years. He will also remain as Chair of Checkatrade eLocal.
Growth Partner has invested in Crafter’s Companion, run by Sara Davies MBE, in clothing business Passenger and in Stubble & Co.
Harpin said on LinkedIn: “It really has been a fantastic journey. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside brilliant colleagues who have helped make HomeServe what it is today – a global, multi-billion-pound business employing over 10,000 people around the world. Together, we’ve had a significant impact on homes, communities, and the economy.”