We had a standout evening at TheBusinessDesk.com’s North West Rainmaker Awards 2026, with four impressive wins for the firm.
Our UK Chairman, Michael Reeves, received the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award. As one of our founding members of the firm, Mike was presented with the award, recognising his outstanding contribution across dealmaking. He has been involved in M&A for over 30 years, playing a key role in building Clearwater into the business it is today.
We were also recognised in three further categories:
- National Corporate Finance Advisory Team of the Year
- Rainmaker of the Year – Ed Gale, Partner
- Medium Deal of the Year (£10m–£50m) for advising on Pollen Street Capital’s acquisition of a majority stake in Leonard Curtis
Our team being named Corporate Finance Advisory Team marks the fourth consecutive year we have received this award.
Our team being named National Corporate Finance Advisory Team marks the fourth consecutive year we have received this award. This honour highlights the consistency of our performance and the strength of our platform across the UK.
Over the past 12 months, our North West team has advised on a number of high-quality transactions. This includes deals such as the investment in fulfilmentcrowd from Palatine and UAP Group’s sale to Allegion plc, alongside a number of other shortlisted transactions. This strong track record also includes advising on Pollen Street Capital’s acquisition of a majority stake in Leonard Curtis, which was recognised as Medium Deal of the Year on the night.
Over the past year, Ed Gale has been at the forefront of a number of significant transactions. This includes leading the sale of Interact Software to Castik Capital, the investment in Matcher Technologies Ltd from ReproTech LLC, and the investment in fulfilmentcrowd from Palatine. His activity reflects both the strength of relationships across the market and his ability to deliver complex, cross-border outcomes for clients.
"Mike's recognition is incredibly well deserved and reflects the impact he has made in over three decades in corporate finance."
Mark Taylor, UK CEO, said:
“This is a fantastic result for Clearwater and a proud moment for our team. Mike’s recognition is incredibly well deserved and reflects the impact he has made in over three decades in corporate finance. Also, a big congratulations to Ed on his Rainmaker win – Ed has led on several significant high-profile transactions over the last 12 months, we’re pleased to see our talented team recognised at these events. Well done all.”
Michael Reeves, UK Chairman, added:
“Clearwater is a special place and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our talented team being recognised for the outstanding work they deliver for clients at these awards. I’d like to say a particular thank you to the dealmaking community and Rainmakers, it was a lovely touch to win the Lifetime Achievement award. Congratulations to all winners!”
Michael Loudon, Partner and Head of the North West, said:
“A brilliant result for our team at Rainmakers this year. The range and quality of deals we’ve delivered over the past year has been excellent, and it’s particularly pleasing to see this recognised by our peers once again as National Corporate Finance Team of the year. And to Mike and Ed on their individual awards, we’re hugely proud of their achievements and leading contribution to dealmaking across the market!”
Ed Gale, Partner, commented:
“Delighted to be recognised at this year’s Rainmakers, especially on such a big night for the firm. I’m proud to be part of Clearwater and to work alongside such a talented team. These awards reflect the quality and consistency of our work and the impact we continue to deliver for clients across the North West and beyond.”
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