3rd June 2009 - Stone Group (“Stone”), a leading IT provider and the UK’s largest privately owned computer manufacturer, has appointed Roger Burdett as non-executive chairman.
Roger, aged 59, has an outstanding track record in working with private equity backed companies for over 12 years. He was chairman of 3 MBOs between 2001 and 2005 from buyout through to disposal, and chief executive of both Trident Components Group and Hay Hall Group, until successful private equity exits in 2005 and 2006 respectively. Roger also has significant experience in M&A activity and successful acquisition integration.
He is currently executive chairman of Jeyes Group Ltd, the UK-based manufacturer of household and industrial cleaning products with a £210 million turnover.
Prior to this, Roger was chief executive of Classic Hospitals, a private equity backed private hospital group, and deputy chairman of Europackaging plc, a £200 million turnover global manufacturer and supplier of packaging products, with 1,800 employees worldwide.
RJD Partners (“RJD”) led the £28 million management buyout of Staffordshire-based Stone Group in April 2008. Stone subsequently acquired Rock Computers, one of the UK’s leading Performance Notebook manufacturers, in May 2008. The company employs over 200 members of staff and had a turnover of more than £60 million in 2008.
James Bird, founder and chief executive of Stone, said: “Stone has achieved significant growth both organically and through acquisition since the buyout. Roger’s strategic experience will enable us to capitalise on our success to date and take advantage of the further growth opportunities facing the business.”
Roger Burdett commented: “Stone is a well-managed business with an excellent service-led reputation and a competitive position in a niche market. I look forward to working with the Board and RJD to take the business forward to the next level in its growth plan. “
John Dillon, partner at RJD, added: “Stone has achieved considerable success by providing a comprehensive first class service to its customers and operates in a traditionally more resilient public sector market which, despite the general economic downturn, is forecasting growth over the next few years. Roger’s excellent track record in adding strategic value to private equity backed businesses will be of considerable benefit.”