Rothschild & Co’s mid-market team has advised the shareholders of Cognite, a Vespa Capital-backed specialist healthcare strategy and communications agency, on its sale to Blue Matter, a leading strategic consulting firm serving the life sciences industry and a portfolio company of Baird Capital.
With a presence in London, Zug and Boston, Cognite creates powerful medical communications for life science companies developing transformative medicines for highly complex diseases. Led by a group of experienced industry specialists, the business supports pharmaceutical and biotech clients in bringing their medical innovations to healthcare professionals and the patients they serve.
The transaction marks an exciting new chapter in Cognite’s development, following a period of significant growth under Vespa Capital’s ownership.
Lee Hurley, CEO, Cognite, commented: “Selecting the right partner as your advisor is clearly vital to achieving the best possible outcome in a business transaction like this and, in addition, to having a stimulating, insightful and enjoyable experience along the way. In choosing to work with Rothschild & Co we absolutely believe we made the right choice. Along with the over-arching direction they provided throughout the process, Karen and the team were always available, solutions-focused, and above all, gave us a great sense of reassurance and confidence that we would achieve what we set out to do.”
Sean Cush, Chief Business Officer, Cognite added: “As business founders, with deep knowledge and passion for our sector, it was a huge plus in selecting and working with Rothschild & Co to find a team who shared our belief and enthusiasm, understood what we were doing and so could add real value, challenge and insight. Critically, it meant we could discuss and shape ideas and approaches together, to take to potential investors and based on the reception we received, over many meetings, and the eventual successful deal outcome, it proved to be a winning combination.”
Karen Dawaf, Managing Director, at Rothschild & Co, responded: “Lee, Sean and the wider Cognite team have built a truly unique and highly specialised agency. It has been a privilege to advise them through this important milestone in their journey. Blue Matter is a highly complementary partner, and I look forward to seeing the business thrive in its next chapter of growth. Congratulations to David, Rob and Vespa Capital on a successful exit.”
Dustin Stevens, Director, at Rothschild & Co, added: “It has been a pleasure to support the Cognite and Vespa Capital teams in securing this compelling partnership. The transaction highlights the strength of Cognite’s specialist expertise and provides a strong platform to extend its reach, bringing science to life for more clients globally.”
