Next Practices Group (NPG), an investor specializing in founder-led data, technology, and communications companies, has announced its first investment outside North America. The group has acquired a minority stake in Williams Nicolson, a strategic communications and change management consultancy based in the UK.
Founded in 2021 by industry veterans Steffan Williams (formerly of Portland and Porta) and Louise Nicolson (formerly of Newgate), Williams Nicolson boasts a team of 17 experts. NPG, established three years ago and headquartered in Austin, Texas, is led by managing partner David Gallagher (ex-Ketchum and Omnicom) and chair Bob Pearson, CEO of The Bliss Group.
NPG's portfolio includes healthcare specialist Fuse Health (Canada), digital marketing agency Matchfire, and reputation management firm Next Solutions Group.
"NPG empowers talented founders to achieve their full potential," stated Bob Pearson. "Our team of 275 individuals is driven by a spirit of innovation and a relentless pursuit of progress. Williams Nicolson has built an impressive business model, combining powerful data insights with best-in-class counsel to unlock client growth. Their strategic and technological expertise perfectly aligns with our investment goals."
Louise Nicolson commented: "We were immediately impressed by NPG's unique approach to fostering growth and driving innovation. Collaborating with the NPG team over the past year has already yielded significant benefits. We're actively working together on international campaigns and developing cutting-edge data platforms to empower our clients in reputation management. This partnership will be a springboard for global expansion and exciting new opportunities. We're thrilled about the future."
