Publisher launches with ethical trading standards in mind
A VENTURE has been launched, part funded by Finance Yorkshire, by the former chief executive of Emerald Group Publishing.
John Peters has established GSE Research, a company that aims to publish a variety of materials including academic working papers, corporate research and e-books.
Leeds-based GSE Research is aiming to deal internationally and is looking to launch the GSE Social Enterprise Fund, which will guarantee a percentage of the company’s revenue to good causes internationally.
GSE Research wants to connect research in governance, social responsibility, sustainability and environmental management, to policymakers and practitioners.
The Yorkshire-based business has already established partnerships with a number of high profile organisations in India, the USA and Belgium.
Venture capital and loan fund Finance Yorkshire has backed the business with a £500,000 investment.
Mr Peters said: “New business is the engine of a successful economy, but this is a very difficult time to be starting a business and establishing funding. We are delighted to be supported by our local investors at Finance Yorkshire and advisors at Squire Sanders Hammonds in Leeds, and are pleased they share our vision for the business.
“Sustainable management and good governance is such an important area and one where we are pleased to be playing our part.”
Craig Hopwood, investment director at Northstar Equity Investors, which manages Finance Yorkshire’s funds added: “GSE are aiming to bring an exciting and different approach to a quite traditional industry, and Finance Yorkshire is delighted to be able to support this venture in its early stages.
“John has a very strong background in the sector, having successfully grown and developed much larger businesses and we are looking forward to working with him and the management team he has built around him.”
Squire Sanders Hammonds’ corporate partner, Jonathan Jones led the team advising GSE Research, alongside senior associate Jayne Aarons.
Pinsent Masons, led by Peter Wood and Michelle Kershaw, advised Finance Yorkshire on its investment along with Bill Mitchell at Bertoli Mitchell and Adrian Driscoll at Caxtonia.
