BGF has announced the successful exit of Antser Group, a leading tech-driven provider of assessments and social care training, following a management buy-out (MBO) backed by YFM Equity Partners (YFM).

BGF, the UK and Ireland's largest and most experienced growth capital investor, originally invested £8.5 million in Antser Group in September 2021. The transactions follows on from BGF's partial exit of the business in 2022.

Headquartered in the Midlands, Antser Group has two strands to the business – Carter Brown and Antser Learning. Carter Brown is the UK's leading provider of independent psychological, psychiatric and social work assessments for child-related safeguarding. Antser Learning is a Birmingham-based VR-led 'behaviour change' training tool for front-line children's care practitioners. It enables learners to experience the impact of trauma through the eyes of children and young people.

The transaction was led by CEO Richard Dooner and will support the further development of its people proposition and new service offerings, along with acquisitions to accelerate growth.

Richard Dooner, CEO of The Antser Group, commented:

"BGF's investment in 2021 helped us to lay strong foundations for future growth. What's more, their support during the investment period has given the management team the confidence to take over the reins, as we strive to achieve our strategic ambitions in the coming years.

"Our business was born out of a desire to achieve positive change in the health and social care sectors through a connected and transformative approach.

"In the years since our founding, we have combined best practice with innovation and new and emerging technologies, so that we can lead the way in ‘doing things better'. Our goal now is to take our talent and technology and apply it to support better outcomes for even more children, families, vulnerable adults and communities."

As part of the transaction, James Greenbury has been appointed Chair. James brings a wealth of experience in the business services sector, along with acquisition expertise.

Nick Holder, investor at BGF in the Midlands, said:

"It's been an absolute pleasure to work alongside Richard and the management team, as part of their ongoing growth journey, culminating in a successful exit for all stakeholders.

"The MBO not only demonstrates BGF's flexibility when it comes to exit routes, but it will enable the well-established team to continue to move forward in a positive way, as they strive towards their ambitious strategic goals. We wish the business every success in the future."

Cooper Parry provided sell-side advisory work, and vendor tax advice was provided by PwC. Legal advice was provided by Mills & Reeve and Shoosmiths.