Pannone Corporate has advised on the acquisition of Sussex-based recruitment specialist Grafton Banks Finance by Stanton House.

The law firm acted as legal adviser to Stanton House, which specialises in placing senior candidates within accountancy and finance, transformation, and private equity roles. The London-based firm acquired Grafton Banks Finance for an undisclosed sum.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Stanton House’s continued growth journey. Grafton’s expertise in accountancy and finance complements Stanton House’s existing capabilities, further strengthening the group’s ability to deliver high-quality outcomes across the market.

The Pannone team was led by Corporate Partner, Tom Hall, with support from Belinda Cheung and Sam Roberts.

Tom Hall commented: “This deal brings together two businesses that are culturally aligned, have deep sector expertise, together with a firm commitment in building excellent client relationships. Combined, they will strengthen their presence in the accounting and finance markets, not only in the South East, but nationwide.

“We’re delighted to have acted for the team at Stanton House in a sector that we have significant experience in, across all practice areas of the firm.”

Grafton Banks Finance, which covers roles across Sussex, Surrey and Kent, will continue to operate under the Grafton Banks Finance brand.

Commenting on the acquisition, Neil Wilson, CEO of Stanton House, commented: “When we founded Stanton House, our ambition was simple: to stand apart through the quality of the experience we deliver. This acquisition builds on that philosophy. We believe that exceptional customer experience drives outstanding performance and Grafton Banks share that belief.”

Rakesh Kirpalani, CFO at Stanton House, added: “Tom and his team delivered outstanding service, working to a demanding timeframe to ensure a timely and successful completion. Over 15 years of working with Pannone Corporate, I have consistently found their support to be agile, reliable and of the highest quality. Their flexibility, responsiveness and expert advice make them a trusted and valued partner.”

Pannone Corporate has expanded its team with a triple appointment as it looks to strengthen the law firm across its specialisms.

Michael McNally and Adam Pavey have both joined as directors in the Employment and HR team. James Brandwood joins the firm as a Real Estate associate.

Michael and Adam will be responsible for advising clients on all aspects of employment law, including providing regular representation and advocacy in the Employment Tribunal.

Michael, who joins from Freeths LLP in Liverpool, has particular experience in acting for SMEs through to multi-nationals in the manufacturing, transport and logistics, hospitality and leisure and care sectors. Adam was formerly a solicitor at Poole Alcock, where he helped to develop the Cheshire firm’s employment department, with clients spanning a number of sectors. He has a particular specialist interest in healthcare.

Pannone Corporate’s employment team works with a wide range of clients, predominantly those with 400-500 employees across a number of sectors, including social housing, manufacturing, retail and hospitality.

James, who joins from Addleshaw Goddard, will work alongside a highly experienced Real Estate team, led by partner, James Wynne, which advises on a wide range of commercial real estate matters for major property groups, together with national retail and leisure operators. James will be responsible for property acquisitions and disposals, financings, as well as development, landlord and tenant transactions.

Paul Jonson, senior partner at Pannone Corporate, commented: “Both the Employment and Real Estate teams have built up an excellent reputation in recent years for their experience and expertise across their core specialisms. We’re committed to enhancing that offering and the appointment of Michael, Adam and James is testament to that drive and ambition.”

The Real Estate team recently advised Palmbest Limited, part of the Bestway Group of companies, on the acquisition of Staples Corner Shopping Park, leading the £28 million retail park transaction.