Portfolio Services

Portfolio company leaders turn to us for clear, commercially focused advice that helps them seize opportunities and avoid pitfalls. From structuring bolt-on deals to supporting operational improvements, we work alongside management teams and sponsors to deliver practical solutions that drive results.

Our lawyers support portfolio companies at every stage of the investment lifecycle, coordinating seamlessly across borders and disciplines. We help clients navigate regulatory complexity, manage risk, and execute transactions efficiently—always with an eye on maximising value and preparing for successful exits. Our cross-sector expertise means we can address the full range of legal and commercial challenges, from employment and compliance to technology and IP.

Clients choose us for our proactive, collaborative approach and our ability to anticipate what’s next. By combining deep sector insight with a clear focus on outcomes, we help portfolio companies move forward with confidence in a competitive market.

Our Services

Advising portfolio companies on employment matters

Advising on employment contracts, consultancy contracts and non-executive appointment contracts;
Advising on disciplinary matters and investigations;
Advising on dismissals and settlement agreements

Advising portfolio companies on employee incentive schemes.

Advising on share option schemes.
Advising on employee share schemes including growth share schemes.
Advising on employee bonus arrangements including phantom share bonus arrangements.

Advising on the acquisition or sale of businesses by portfolio companies to drive growth or strategic repositioning.

Advising on bolt-on acquisitions.
Structuring and negotiating disposals of non-core assets.

Recent bolt-on experiences:

Inktavo
Advised Inktavo, backed by PSG Equity and Blue Star Innovation Partners, on the acquisition of Clarity Software Group.
Agathos Management
Advised Agathos on the bolt-on acquisition by its portfolio company, Targeted Provision, of ASEND, a leading provider of educational support for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
TruArc Partners
Advised TruArc Partners in relation to Ideal Tridon Group's recent acquisition of Advanced Couplings Limited (ACL).

Recent disposals of non-core assets:

Wholebake Limited
Advised Wholebake Limited in its sale of Deeside Cereals to the Weetabix Food Company.

Supporting portfolio companies with legal solutions that enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and growth.

Advising on commercial contracts, supply chain, and procurement
Regulatory compliance projects

Preparing portfolio companies for exit, whether through trade sale, secondary buyout, or IPO.

Legal due diligence for exit
Structuring and negotiating sale agreements
IPO preparation and support

Managing legal matters that span multiple countries or regions, ensuring seamless execution and compliance.

Coordinating multi-jurisdictional bolt-ons
Advising on global compliance and regulatory issues

Helping portfolio companies anticipate, manage, and resolve legal risks and disputes.

Advising on litigation and arbitration
Implementing risk management frameworks

Demonstrating experience in key industries relevant to portfolio companies (e.g., technology, healthcare, manufacturing).

Advising portfolio companies in regulated sectors
Navigating sector-specific regulatory challenges

Awards and Recognition

The Legal 500 UK 2025

"Very approachable and experienced team. They are experts in their field and a pleasure to deal with."

Chambers UK 2025

"Stephenson Harwood have a culture of responsiveness and we enjoy consistently high levels of service."

Chambers Greater China 2025 - Investment Funds: Private Equity

"Their responsiveness is superb and the international network is a plus."

The Legal 500 UK 2025

"Stephenson Harwood have a full-service team that is able to call on experts both locally and internationally, providing a prompt and reliable service."

Chambers UK 2025

"The firm has very strong expertise in each of the areas where it's supported us. There is always an expert available who can provide well-considered views and advice, no matter the topic."