MBO of a Care Group by Its Registered Manager in the North East
£920,000 · 8 years · 7.25% fixed. The registered manager of a small care group operating two domiciliary care businesses in the North East had been offered the opportunity to acquire the group from the founding owner who wished to retire.
The Client
Registered manager of a small North East care group
The Challenge
The registered manager of a small care group operating two domiciliary care businesses in the North East had been offered the opportunity to acquire the group from the founding owner who wished to retire. The group had £1.8m combined revenue, 94 staff, and strong CQC 'Good' ratings at both businesses. The manager had £80,000 of personal savings and needed £920,000 of MBO finance.
Our Solution
Doulton arranged specialist healthcare MBO finance assessed on the group's recurring revenue, CQC compliance record, and the manager's fifteen years of operational experience. Her role as registered manager - already holding the regulatory responsibility - was a significant positive, as it removed the transition risk that often concerns healthcare MBO lenders.
The Outcome
MBO completed. The manager is now the owner-operator of both businesses. CQC ratings maintained. Staff retention was 91% in the first year - exceptional for a care business ownership change. Loan being repaid from care fee income. Key highlights: Manager already held regulatory responsibility - transition risk; CQC ratings maintained under new ownership; 91% staff retention in year one - exceptional for care business.