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CIO &  Transformation

Value Creation Through Technology in Private Equity Portfolio Companies

Strategic CIO & Transformation Leadership Driving PE Value Realisation

Over three decades of experience leading digital and IT-enabled transformation across Private Equity-backed portfolio companies positions Richard Keenlyside as a proven driver of enterprise value creation. Richard’s strategic leadership accelerates ROI by unlocking operational efficiencies, optimising IT landscapes, and leveraging cutting-edge technology—from AI to ERP modernisation—to transform underperforming assets into high-performing, tech-enabled growth platforms.

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Value Creation Through Tech

Aligning IT Strategy with Private Equity Objectives

Richard works closely with PE operating partners to design and deliver robust IT strategies that align with investment theses. Across various mid-market to enterprise-level transactions, he has developed five-year IT blueprints, executed technology carve-outs, reduced technical debt by millions, and transitioned legacy systems to scalable cloud-native solutions, enabling future exits.

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Sample Impact Highlights

  • £2M tech debt reduction in 8 months through cloud migration.

  • £1.4M turnover uplift from eCommerce tech enablement.

  • 75,000 hours saved p.a. via RPA—equivalent to 50 FTE.

  • £20M+ vendor savings through strategic procurement and outsourcing.

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Accelerating Performance Through Digital Transformation

Whether serving as interim CIO, advisor, or programme lead, Richard has repeatedly delivered measurable performance uplifts:

  • Optimised infrastructure & security: Executed global cybersecurity enhancement and Azure cloud migrations, cutting legacy costs and strengthening compliance.

  • ERP and WMS modernisation: Delivered global ERP transformations with NetSuite, SAP S/4HANA, and Oracle Cloud to unify operations across finance, supply chain, and manufacturing.

  • AI-driven automation: Implemented AI chatbots, RPA, and machine learning to cut operational costs, enhance service levels, and improve reporting accuracy.

  • Data-driven value creation: Established centralised data lakes, defined data strategies, and delivered Power BI dashboards for enhanced analytics and governance.

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Enabling Value Realisation Throughout the Deal Lifecycle

Richard’s Private Equity expertise spans the full deal lifecycle:

  • Pre-deal tech due diligence for over 20+ transactions, identifying red flags and synergy opportunities.

  • Post-deal transformation to integrate acquisitions, reduce costs, and build scale.

  • Exit readiness by aligning IT with business KPIs, boosting valuation and exit multiples.

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Sector Experience Includes

  • Retail & eCommerce

  • Manufacturing & Supply Chain

  • Financial Services

  • Telecommunications & Utilities

  • Engineering (Oil & Gas) & Automotive

  • Facilities & Logistics

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Sample Impact Highlights

  • £2M tech debt reduction in 8 months through cloud migration.

  • £1.4M turnover uplift from eCommerce tech enablement.

  • 75,000 hours saved p.a. via RPA—equivalent to 50 FTE.

  • £20M+ vendor savings through strategic procurement and outsourcing.


Advisory for PE-Backed Startups & Growth Companies

Richard advises AI-driven startups and mid-sized enterprises on product and technology strategies, including monetisation, MVP evolution, and fundraising (SEIS/EIS). His input helps scale platforms using cloud, AI, and data.

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