We first started working with Laura from The Affable Partnership when we completed our very first acquisition at Parklands Capital. At the time, we quickly realised that buying a business is only part of the process, managing the people side of the transition is where the real complexity lies.

Laura supported us through the entire people element of the acquisition, helping us navigate communication with employees, structure and the practical HR challenges that come with bringing two organisations together. Laura's approach was calm, pragmatic and commercially focused, which made a significant difference during what could have been a very uncertain period.

Since then, we’ve continued to work together and The Affable Partnership have become a trusted partner to our business. We are now in the process of acquiring our fifth company, and having consistent HR support across multiple acquisitions has been invaluable. It has allowed us to approach each deal with far more confidence, knowing the integration plan and employee considerations are being handled properly.

I would highly recommend them to any business owner or investor involved in acquisitions. The people aspect of a deal is often underestimated, but it can determine whether an acquisition succeeds or struggles and having the right HR expertise in place makes all the difference.

I had the benefit of working closely with Laura throughout the acquisition of our latest hotel, a transaction that involved inheriting a team of around 100 colleagues, her support to me as the operator leading the transition was invaluable.

Acquisitions move quickly, and the people implications can easily become one of the most complex part of the process. Laura brought structure and clarity, she helped navigate the full people landscape; from due diligence and risk identification to TUPE considerations.

What I valued most was her balance of technical expertise and pragmatic judgement. She anticipated issues before they surfaced, ensured we were fully compliant, and gave me the reassurance that every people‑related element of the deal was being handled with care and precision. That allowed me to focus on the operational and commercial priorities, knowing the people side was in safe hands.

For any business considering an acquisition, especially one involving a sizeable workforce, involving a dedicated people specialist from the outset is essential. Laura’s support strengthened the process, protected the business, and set us up for a smooth and respectful integration.