Rob Knight

Why did you choose to join MML?

I was excited to join MML for two reasons. Firstly, I saw a big opportunity to apply MML’s investment strategy of partnership capital, and its philosophy of investing alongside owner managers, to the lower mid-market.  And secondly, I was attracted by the people and the culture. So much of our job and making successful investments, is about people, and building relationships, and all of the team that I met came across as intelligent, motivated, and good fun … all of which have fortunately proven to be the case!

What is the most exciting part of your job?

I am excited by many aspects of my job, but probably none more so than building a relationship with a management team. I have had the pleasure of backing some brilliant management teams across the UK and northern Europe, and I find it very rewarding helping to facilitate their growth plans, whether that be through international expansion, investment in technology, or add-on acquisitions.

What advice would you give a founder seeking private equity investment?

I would recommend spending as much time as possible in the run up to, and during, a deal process building a relationship with a private equity partner. Chemistry is so important, and it’s imperative to find a partner who: shares your level of ambition for what you can build together; is a challenging “sparring partner” in the board room; and (hopefully!) is also reasonably good company over dinner if you are going to be working closely together for several years.

What does life look like when you leave the office?

I am fortunate to have two wonderful young children, so most of my weekends are spent chasing after them with occasional moments of calm to build Lego.  With any free time remaining, I enjoy: football, running, cycling on Zwift, and a competitive board game, with Settlers of Catan my favourite pick.