Cheshire-based advisory firm Dow Schofield Watts has expanded its debt fundraising arm with the launch of a new operation covering London and the South East.
The firm has appointed Gavin Harrison as head of DSW Debt Advisory in the region. DSW Debt Advisory helps companies and private equity firms seeking debt funding of £3m or above to support acquisitions, fund growth or to refinance existing facilities.
The service was launched in early 2020 at the firm’s headquarters in Daresbury and has since grown rapidly in the North. The new operation will be based at the firm’s London office and is part of its national expansion plans.
Phil Tarimo, who founded DSW Debt Advisory and has held a range of board-level roles in banking, says: “Gavin’s arrival adds further senior level advisory and banking expertise to the firm and enhances the breadth of experience we can bring to bear when structuring funding solutions for our customers.
“It also extends our network into the South East, in line with our plans to build a UK-wide independent debt advisory business. We are currently in talks with other experienced advisors and expect to make announcements on further expansion very soon.”
Gavin Harrison has spent over 20 years in banking and finance, having started his career at PwC and worked at Allied Irish Bank, Barclays and Santander. He says: “Debt funding will play a key role in rebuilding the post-pandemic economy. Many businesses will be seeking funding for growth, while others that taken on significant debt may be looking to refinance on better terms.
“While there is a wide array of different funders and products, and new ones entering the market all the time, it is critical to find the right funding partner and negotiate the best deal. The expertise of the DSW team and its partner-led approach is key to matching borrowers with the right lender for their needs. I look forward to working alongside Phil and the team and building our business in London and the South East.”
