‘They’re not just writing cheques’

How private equity investor Aliter is driving buy-and-build tech group TXP

Hello Rainmakers,

We’ve got a fascinating deep dive into to the strategy of a private equity buy and build today. Ellie Hollinshead has been talking to the CEO of the newest face in the tech market, who is trying to meet a wider range of complex client technology issues.

“We saw an opportunity to create something greater than the sum of its parts,” says John Antunes, the CEO of TXP, who is getting used to the ways of working with private equity backer Aliter Capital on an ambitious buy-and-build strategy in the tech space.

The West Midlands based company emerged through private equity backing and a clear plan, after it was created when Aliter Capital acquired and merged two established regional firms: Concept, an IT resourcing specialist with 15 years of experience based in Dudley, and Jumar, a Microsoft-focused consultancy with over 20 years in Solihull.

Concept and Jumar had their own identities, client bases, and ways of working. But for Antunes, the move to create something bigger was straightforward and logical.

“Concept’s strength in IT resourcing combined with Jumar’s deep Microsoft expertise gave us a full-service offering,” he says.

“It’s consulting, delivery, and resource supply all in one place, a gap in the market that was crying out for a new approach.”

Aliter Capital’s involvement has gone beyond just capital. Known for backing infrastructure and support services businesses, the private equity house brought a hands-on approach from the start.

TXP's board includes seasoned operators with experience in scaling mid-market firms, and their presence is felt throughout the business.

“They’re not just writing cheques,” Antunes stresses. “Aliter’s people sit with us, challenge us, and help shape strategy. They’ve been instrumental in navigating the complex cultural and operational issues that come with merging two very different companies.”