Scaling people strategy in boutique private equity

The challenge

Greyhound Capital is a boutique investment firm with a lean, high-performing team and a strong entrepreneurial culture. As the business scaled, they recognised the need for their first dedicated VP of People – someone who could build a strategic HR function from scratch while remaining hands-on and deeply embedded in the day-to-day of the business. The challenge was to find a candidate who could thrive in a small, fast-paced environment, bring structure without bureaucracy and align people strategy with business goals. The role required emotional intelligence, resilience and the ability to influence at all levels.

The solution

Having worked with several private equity and investment firms on similar mandates, Frazer Jones understood the nuances of hiring for boutique environments. Abigail took the time to understand Greyhound Capital’s culture, values and ambitions, ensuring the search was tailored to their unique needs. We leveraged our network of HR leaders with experience in PE-backed businesses and small, founder-led environments. Our approach combined targeted outreach with market mapping, and we maintained close communication with the client throughout, ensuring alignment and transparency at every stage.

The outcome

Greyhound Capital successfully hired their first VP of People. The candidate brought deep experience in building HR functions from the ground up, managing complex integrations and driving cultural change. Our approach – visible, empathetic and strategic – was a perfect fit for Greyhound’s boutique environment. The client was delighted with the outcome and the quality of the process.

client testimonial

“Abigail was fantastic from start to finish. She really took the time to understand both our brief and our culture, investing real effort to get to the heart of what we were looking for. The relationship was personal throughout and the calibre of candidates they introduced was excellent. She really hit the nail on the head, and we would not hesitate to recommend her or Frazer Jones to work with again.

Ines Verschueren, Investor and Partner | Greyhound Capital