Image credit – Nick Treharne
In a groundbreaking move set to redefine corporate sustainability, Lexington Corporate Finance has announced a strategic partnership with Green Ibex, a leading sustainability and ESG consultancy. This collaboration aims to provide Lexington’s clients with cutting-edge ESG advisory services, bolstering their carbon reduction goals and enhancing their appeal to investors.
Based in Cardiff and the South-West, Lexington Corporate Finance is renowned for its expertise in corporate finance, offering bespoke advice to business owners contemplating exits, succession, growth, and buyout ambitions. The firm has now joined forces with Green Ibex, a consultancy that operates across the UK and EU, shaping and delivering sustainability strategies for businesses transitioning towards net zero. Founded by seasoned project manager Jonathan Jones, Green Ibex recently strengthened its leadership by appointing former BBC Cymru Wales COO, Gareth Powell, as a non-executive director.
The growing importance of ESG in investment
The partnership between Lexington and Green Ibex is driven by the increasing emphasis that banks and investors place on robust ESG policies. Warren Lewis, a senior advisor at Lexington, highlighted the critical role of environmental and social responsibility in today’s investment landscape. ‘It’s becoming increasingly apparent that businesses that prioritise this will make themselves more attractive to investors together with prospective employees and external stakeholders,’ Lewis noted. ‘All of this is being driven by customers who can vote with their feet and want to support organisations that ‘do the right thing’.’
The UK Government’s target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 has catalysed significant commitments from businesses, with four in five FTSE 100 companies and 40% of SMEs aiming for net zero. Despite these pledges, only 26% of SMEs have measured their emissions, underscoring the need for comprehensive support and guidance.
Empowering businesses on the path to sustainability
Green Ibex specialises in providing companies with actionable roadmaps to achieve their sustainability goals. Jonathan Jones emphasised the commercial and economic opportunities presented by the transition to net zero. ‘Often businesses have good intentions, but they don’t know where to start, particularly where 90% of their emissions are out of their immediate control,’ Jones explained. ‘We help businesses evaluate the challenges they face, and provide the knowledge, tools and support they need to make the changes they aspire to.’
The partnership is mutually beneficial, with Lexington also engaging Green Ibex to enhance its own sustainability efforts. ‘I am hugely passionate about addressing climate change,’ Lewis added. ‘[We are] excited about augmenting our traditional offering with these ESG advisory services.’
Long-term success vision
Both Lexington and Green Ibex share a dynamic and ambitious vision, driven by the value of long-term relationships with clients, investors, and intermediaries. ‘I’m looking forward to seeing where this partnership takes us,’ Lewis remarked.
Lexington Corporate Finance, with offices in Cardiff and Bath, has established itself as a boutique corporate finance specialist. The firm has received numerous accolades, including Corporate Finance Advisory Team of the Year, Deal of the Year, and Private Equity Deal of the Year, all at last year’s Insider Wales Dealmakers Awards. Additionally, it was honoured with the Sustainable Growth Award at the Wales Fast Growth 50 Awards 2023. In the past year, Lexington has advised on deals exceeding £200 million and became the first UK addition to Eaton Square’s international network of corporate finance advisors.
The partnership between Lexington Corporate Finance and Green Ibex marks a significant step forward in the corporate world’s journey towards sustainability. By combining Lexington’s corporate finance expertise with Green Ibex’s sustainability acumen, this alliance is poised to help businesses navigate the complexities of ESG and achieve their net zero ambitions. As the global emphasis on environmental responsibility intensifies, such partnerships will be crucial in driving meaningful change and fostering a sustainable future.
Find out more about Lexington at lexingtoncf.co.uk and discover Green Ibex’s work on greenibex.org