Insights / 12-01-2021 / Bristol

Nexus, a national recruitment group based in Portishead, has been acquired by recruitment specialist Paul Archer in a deal led by Ince Metcalfes.

The Nexus Recruitment Group, which recently became an Official Partner and Sponsor of Bristol City Football Club, comprises Nexus Interim Management, Nexus Searchlight, Novus Career Transitions & Outplacement and ThreePeople Ltd. The group as a whole covers the entire range of recruitment and resourcing activities, from interim contract placements to Executive Search & Selection for permanent positions. The Nexus arm of the portfolio of business specialises in sourcing management and director level candidates with a particular focus on the IT, Technology and Industrial sectors with clients ranging from FTSE listed companies to SMEs, local businesses and start-ups.

Paul Archer, through Papa Newco Limited, acquired the group from co-owners Jon Donaldson and James Walker, who were open to the approach after running the company for almost twenty years. Paul has nearly two decades of technology recruitment experience having held senior management positions across Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

Paul Archer commented: 

“The opportunity to acquire such a highly-reputable and successful recruitment company was too good to miss. I am excited to build on their already well-established client partnerships and drive the business forward, reinforcing its strong position both regionally and nationally.”
Jon Donaldson added: 

“Over the last 20 years we have really enjoyed growing Nexus from a South West recruitment company to a national recruitment specialist for the technology, manufacturing, transportation and defence sectors. Paul has the recruitment and sector expertise required to further expand the group, allowing us to act in a consultancy capacity only and enjoy our leisure pursuits a little more - leaving our highly-valued clients in his and the wider team’s very capable hands.”

The deal was led by Edward Chapman, Managing Associate at Ince Metcalfes, supported by Lydia Cammiade, Trainee Solicitor.

Edward Chapman commented: 

“It was a pleasure to work with Paul to acquire this highly successful national portfolio of recruitment companies. The recruitment sector will be of crucial importance as we emerge from the current situation and I look forward to supporting Paul in the months and years ahead as he takes the group from strength to strength.”

James Hawkins from Meade King acted for the sellers.