Restructuring, amalgamations and take-overs

Universities and colleges are increasingly aware of the need to reform themselves and their corporate structures in response to the inevitable and inexorable commercialisation of their marketplace.

Many of them anticipate substantial growth in multi-institutional partnerships, alliances and networks; the emergence of new types of HE providers; and a greater independence from government. While some are confident of their ability to adapt, others feel heavily constrained by outdated academic portfolios, lack of funds and a culture unaccustomed to repositioning and restructuring their operations.

Penningtons Manches Cooper's corporate team advises a wide range of educational establishments – from private schools and privately owned colleges to publicly funded universities, overseas education partners and other education providers – to help them meet the challenges of reshaping their businesses to respond to marketplace changes. Typically, we advise on development and restructuring strategies involving amalgamations and take-overs, collaboration and partnering arrangements and diverse re-organisations. We also assist with status changes and establishing new structures.

Our specialist India team can assist UK education providers wishing to take advantage of the huge opportunities to set up their operations in India. We also have a not-for-profit team specialising in the unique complexities of charitable foundations, royal charters and other historic trading structures by which many schools, colleges and universities are governed.

In addition, we have good relationships with educational advisers within banks, accountancy firms and corporate finance houses with whom we work to provide an integrated approach to resolving corporate development issues.