Charles started his career with KPMG in insolvency and has worked helping business owners navigate the downturns of 1990, 2000 and 2008. With nearly 30 years’ experience of advising on over 300 deals for business owners and debt and equity providers, there are few scenarios for which he has not had to find solutions. At this time of economic uncertainly he is well positioned to help clients meet the challenges of the months and year ahead, bringing together a blend of debt advisory, turnaround and reconstruction skills.

This experience is combined with a strong desire to understand the aspirations of all parties so that his clients can achieve the best possible outcome. Whilst he is never afraid to call out a counterparty and take a strong negotiating position, he understands the need for pragmatism to deliver a deal.

Previous clients have said: “Charles may be one of the biggest investments you have made outside a house; he is excellent value.”

As a keen sailor, triathlete and ultra-runner, he loves the outdoors (tricky at the moment). When indoors, he enjoys strong political discussion with friends and family around the dinner table. With a family of eight, there is plenty of opportunity to hone the debating skills!

A seasoned corporate finance expert with a strong track record of deals at home and overseas, he has a pragmatic and collaborative approach to finding solutions that work for all parties. With a varied background that includes both Big 4 practice (insolvency and corporate finance) and a spell as CFO for a private equity-backed telecoms and technology group (effecting a turnaround post 9/11), he is quickly able to get to grips with the commercial realities of different businesses and pinpoint where the real value lies.

Richard is the current chairman of Orion, our international network of partners spread across the globe, and as such maintains particularly strong connections he can readily access on behalf of clients.

Clients’ actions speak for themselves with repeat business and recommendations prevalent and gratefully received. Recent client feedback (through a new referral) was clear-cut: “straightforward, pragmatic advice” and “good value” is specifically highlighted.

A seasoned skier and active sailor, Richard spends his spare time on the sea (or Italian lakes when the opportunity arises) or the slopes depending on the season. Two young kids are already following in his tracks and teaching is now an inevitable (and mostly enjoyable!) part of such trips.

Conor graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Kent, before spending six years in London at an investment bank specialised in advising early-stage technology companies in the sustainability sector. Throughout his time there Conor worked across a range of verticals, from agtech and advanced materials, to energy generation and software business.

In his spare time, he enjoys keeping fit by attending CrossFit several times a week and playing squash, hiking when the weather permits, attempting to surf while traveling, and following sports such as football, golf and F1.

Anusheh graduated with a Master’s degree in financial economics from American University in Washington, DC. Before joining Polestar, she worked in consulting for two years at Booz Allen Hamilton in their finance and accounting department.

When not in the office, Anusheh loves exploring new parts of the U.K and spending time with her friends and family.