What Palatine Is All About
Palatine is a private equity firm that’s all about backing ambitious, driven teams with big ideas. Founded in 2005 by Gary Tipper, Ed Fazakerley, and Tony Dickin, Palatine was created out of frustration with traditional private equity firms that often put themselves before the management teams they support. Instead, Palatine flips the script — it’s not about the firm, it’s about the people and plans they back. Based in Manchester with offices in London and Birmingham, Palatine operates both regionally and nationally, proving that you don’t have to be London-centric to raise funding or make a real impact.
The Main Benefit of Palatine’s Approach
Palatine brings more than just capital to the table. Their approach is grounded in collaboration, integrity, and a genuine desire to help businesses grow sustainably. Here are some key facts that highlight what sets Palatine apart:
- Founded in 2005 by three partners who wanted to do things differently
- Headquartered in Manchester with offices in London and Birmingham
- Focus on mid-market private equity investments
- Pioneers of a leading ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework embedded across all investments
- First in their market to raise a returns-focused impact fund
- Strong emphasis on building relationships based on respect and trust
- Belief in “positive equity” — doing well financially while doing right by society and the planet
Palatine’s Unique Take on Private Equity
Unlike many private equity firms that might seem distant or overly corporate, Palatine prides itself on being approachable, down-to-earth, and collaborative. They see private equity as a force for good — a way to support businesses that want to grow while making a positive impact on society and the environment. This isn’t just about financial returns; it’s about backing teams that share a vision for doing the right thing. Palatine’s people are their greatest asset, known for speaking frankly, delivering on promises, and acting with integrity. That’s how they win deals and build lasting partnerships.
Embedding Sustainability at the Core
Palatine believes that doing well in business has to go hand-in-hand with doing good for the planet and society. This belief is deeply embedded in their investment approach. Over a decade ago, they pioneered an ESG framework that’s now a cornerstone of how they operate. They were also the first in their market to launch a returns-focused impact fund, dedicated to investing in commercially driven businesses with missions to positively impact society or the environment. For Palatine, sustainability isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of the DNA.
Building Strong Relationships with Teams
Since day one, Palatine has focused on building strong, mutually beneficial relationships with the teams they back. Their success comes from respect, trust, and a shared commitment to growth. The firm’s combined experience means they know what works and what doesn’t — and they bring that insight to every partnership. It’s not just about money; it’s about being a true collaborator and supporter of ambitious entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Project Impact: Linking to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — supporting mid-market businesses to scale responsibly
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — backing innovative companies with growth potential
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — embedding ESG principles in investments
- SDG 13: Climate Action — investing in businesses that positively impact the environment
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — fostering collaboration between investors and entrepreneurs
Gary Tipper’s Vision and Leadership
Gary Tipper, Managing Partner at Palatine, embodies the firm’s ethos of positive equity. His leadership reflects a commitment to integrity, openness, and doing things differently — but always with sincerity. Under his guidance, Palatine continues to grow while staying true to its founding spirit: supporting teams, driving sustainable growth, and proving that private equity can be a force for good.
