Carlyle takes stake in Sole’s School for CEOs – Daily Business

Time for Change: David Sole and Fiona James-Martin

Executive Search firm Carlyle has acquired a majority stake in School for CEOs, the management development company founded by former rugby international David Sole and Patrick Macdonald.  

Carlyle and School for CEOs’ combined client base includes Aberdeen, Wood Mackenzie, Scottish Rugby, Quorum Cyber, Edrington, Aviva, Baillie Gifford, SSE, Greene King, and Gallagher.   

Mr Sole, managing partner at School for CEOs, said: “Since establishing the business fifteen years ago, we have created and delivered programmes and coaching for a wide range of clients across the UK and beyond. 

“When we considered our future growth and development, Carlyle’s pedigree and brand stood out as an obvious acquirer and partner.”

Fiona James-Martin, managing partner at Carlyle, said: “Having worked closely with boards and leaders for over 20 years, Carlyle has witnessed a growing client sentiment around not only identifying and securing the best leaders, advisers, and board members, but also to work more closely with them to develop leadership capability.” 

Founder Duggie Carlyle said: “The market and demands of board and leadership teams are evolving quickly.  We are excited to be adding such a proven and respected team to our wider offering and see this as a natural evolution.

“This investment from Carlyle was very much made in response to consultation from our key long-term clients, around what they needed from a key leadership partner.”

School for CEOs will continue to trade under its own name with David Sole remaining with the business.

Mr Macdonald, who is stepping down, said: “We built the School on the premise that we could help CEOs and aspiring leaders accelerate their learning and board readiness.

“Our hundreds of alumni are testament to the success of that vision. I wish David and the team all the best in their new ‘home’.”

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