Rob Rickard
FD & Deal Lead
What part do you play in the Entrepreneurs Hub team?
I’m a deal leader and financial specialist. I prepare a project for going to market, then take it to market, liaise with interested parties and then negotiate the shape of the deal with the preferred buyer. Then I oversee due diligence and the details of the detailed contracts to achieve a successful completion, assisting owners at each step to prepare and understand the process, which is often a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience.
What experience do you bring to the table?
During an extensive corporate career, I led business units across UK, Europe, Asia and Southern Africa. I also worked on many acquisitions of smaller companies and completed a management buy-out before a subsequent sale to a listed company after 6 years. For the past 7 years I have focused on selling UK SME businesses to suitable acquirers, many of which have been international.
What do you like to get up to outside of work?
Ball sports and family holidays. Football was my strongest sport but tennis is more suitable for my ageing body! I also dabble at cricket and golf as more relaxing and social activities. I’ve always enjoyed travelling to new places and experiencing different cultures with close family.
What’s the best thing about working at Entrepreneurs Hub?
The people. Everyone in the team is genuine and ready to help each other. I mostly work from home but always enjoy a team get together.
You can only listen to one artist or band for the rest of your life. Who is it?
Coldplay. Their concerts are amazing experiences.
What’s something we might be surprised to learn about you?
I once played in a non-league football match against a World Cup winner.
