LDC expands Yorkshire team

LDC, a leading private equity investor, has strengthened its Yorkshire team with the appointment of Connie Smith as investment executive. 

Connie will support Yorkshire businesses looking to scale with private equity backing as part of LDC’s wider UK growth strategy.

She joins from YFM Equity Partners, where she focused on investments in fast-growing companies. 

Connie started her career at Mercia Asset Management, working with early-stage businesses supported by the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

She said: “I am really impressed by LDC’s relationship-led approach to investment and the on-the-ground support Dan and the team provide the Yorkshire business community. 

“They work as true partners to support the growth of their portfolio companies, and I can’t wait to get started.”  

Connie’s appointment follows a busy start to 2025 for LDC in Yorkshire, including a move to a new Leeds office and recent acquisitions such as Skipton-based Whitakers Chocolates by LDC-backed Bramble Foods.

LDC’s Yorkshire portfolio also includes market-leaders like Hull-based Pagabo Group and fourth-generation family firm Bullen Healthcare, with several businesses recognised among the UK’s fastest-growing technology companies.

Dan Smith, partner and head of LDC in Yorkshire, said: “Connie’s appointment will help us to support even more dynamic, home-grown Yorkshire companies, and we’re very excited to have her on the team. 

“Our local presence and understanding of the region’s business landscape means we’re better placed than ever to help management teams to achieve their ambitions.” 

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