CIO Services for Private Equity Portfolio Companies

Driving Technology Leadership & Value Creation in Private Equity

CIO Services for Private Equity Portfolio Companies

A Proven Track Record in Private Equity Environments

Richard has worked with numerous private equity-backed businesses, providing critical CIO leadership during acquisitions, carve-outs, and transformations. His experience spans manufacturing, logistics, financial services, retail, telecoms, and engineering sectors. Key responsibilities have included:

Creating and executing five-year IT strategies across global entities
Leading post-acquisition integration and IT enablement
Reducing technical debt by millions through legacy system eliminations
Implementing global cybersecurity and risk governance frameworks
Overseeing ERP transitions (Epicor Kinetic, SAP S/4HANA, Oracle, NetSuite, Infor)

These contributions align directly with the expectations of modern private equity sponsors, who now view CIOs as pivotal in driving operational improvement and enterprise value.

1

Strategic Technology Advisor Across the Investment Lifecycle

From pre-deal due diligence to value creation planning and exit readiness, Richard provides end-to-end technology leadership tailored to the Private Equity investment model.

Due Diligence: Identifying IT risks, capabilities, and integration roadmaps
Post-Acquisition Integration: Aligning digital strategy with operational objectives
Operational Efficiency: Leveraging AI, RPA, and data analytics to streamline processes
Exit Strategy Support: Enhancing IT maturity to improve valuation and readiness

Richard’s engagements include working with portfolio companies and PE firms through Endava/Intuitus, delivering IT and digital due diligence services for over 15 global transactions.

2

Operating Model Transformation

A cornerstone of Richard's value proposition is his ability to design and implement IT Operating Models that scale with business ambition. He has implemented global support structures, introduced governance models, and restructured internal IT functions to increase efficiency and scalability.

For example, at a global EV manufacturer within the automotive sector (PE-backed), Richard designed a global IT operating model that supports seven business units, enabling rapid consolidation and alignment with compliance.

3

Technology-Driven Cost Optimisation

Richard has negotiated over £20M in vendor savings while maintaining service levels. Through intelligent sourcing, cloud migration strategies (e.g., Azure), and application rationalisation, he reduces cost and complexity. His initiatives have delivered tangible ROI, including:

40% improvement in HR/finance process efficiency through AI chatbots
£2.5M reduction in technical debt in a global ERP transformation
£1.4M revenue uplift from new ecommerce and delivery platforms

4

Why Private Equity Firms Choose Richard Keenlyside

Richard understands the nuances of Private Equity operations. His leadership helps portfolio companies:

Scale efficiently across international markets
Optimise digital infrastructure and reduce cost
Improve operational transparency with data governance and analytics
Accelerate digital maturity and support rapid growth targets

His ability to bridge business and technology with clarity, governance, and ROI-focused execution makes him an ideal technology leader for PE-owned businesses.

Explore How Richard Can Support Your Portfolio

To learn more about how Richard Keenlyside can drive IT strategy and digital transformation in your portfolio company, get in touch today or visit his blog for the latest insights on Private Equity, CIO leadership, and technology trends.

Richard Keenlyside brings over 34 years of multi-sector expertise to Private Equity-backed organisations, specialising in CIO, IT strategy, and transformation leadership. As a seasoned Interim and Fractional CIO, Richard supports private equity firms by unlocking business value through targeted IT and digital strategies.