Primary is pleased to announce the promotion of Oliver Melliss and Alec Parkinson as Joint Managing Partners with effect from 1 January 2024.  

Oliver joined Primary in 2010 and leads Primary’s Services team, with investments such as GatenbySanderson, Readypower and ICS Learn. Alec joined Primary in 2007 and leads Primary’s Technology team, with notable investments including Diversity Travel, ASL and Leisure Pass Group. 

Neil Wallace transitions from Managing Partner to Senior Partner. Neil has played an active role in Primary’s development since 1997, spanning five funds and remains full-time in the business. 

Neil Wallace commented “Alec and Oliver have been leading members of the Primary team for over a decade and this is a well-deserved promotion for both of them. They have been instrumental in leading the shift in Primary’s investment strategy, refocusing its efforts to B2B businesses operating across Services and Technology, and are well placed to lead the firm under this re-focused strategy.”

Oliver Melliss commented “The narrowing of our efforts onto two core sectors is a natural evolution in our investment strategy and reflects the current focus and excellent track record of the partner group here at Primary, led by myself and Alec.” 

Alec Parkinson added “We remain totally committed to investing in the lower mid-market, targeting businesses in the £20 – £100 million range, and backing talented management teams to build outstanding businesses.”