One of the world’s biggest private equity firms is among a pack of suitors circling RSK, a British-based environmental consultancy, in a deal that would value it at well over £1bn.
Sky News has learnt that Carlyle is one of several parties in discussions with Alan Ryder, RSK’s founder and chief executive, about a possible transaction.
City sources said on Thursday that a deal could involve the outright purchase of a large minority stake in RSK, which employs more than 15,000 people and operates in 40 countries.
RSK, which has struck sponsorship deals to raise brand awareness with partners including the League One football club Charlton Athletic, provides environmental and sustainability services to clients such as major water companies.
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RSK comprises more than 200 individual businesses which have been accumulated through an aggressive acquisition spree spanning 35 years.
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It recently announced that it had passed £1bn in annual revenues, and has set a target of reaching £5bn by 2030.
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Mr Ryder owns roughly 40% of RSK, which has a substantial borrowing facility with Ares Management.
No deal agreed
One source said that an injection of capital could be used to help reduce the company’s indebtedness.
RSK said on Thursday that no deal had been agreed with an investor and that it was not close to doing so.
“RSK has been public about saying they are looking to raise equity,” a spokesman for Mr Ryder said.
“But they are still looking and still in discussions with a whole range of prospective investors.”
