Clearwater International adds Onno de Groot to Dutch partnership
Clearwater International has strengthened its partner team in the Netherlands with Onno de Groot.
The experienced dealmaker brings over 15 years of experience in mergers & acquisitions to the firm, all of which he gained at Big Four firm PwC in its M&A team. During this time, he also completed secondments at PwC in London and the in-house M&A team at FrieslandCampina.
De Groot’s track record spans over 50 completed M&A transactions with an aggregate deal value above €5 billion. He has worked with both corporates, midmarket business and private equity investors on acquisitions and divestitures.
Some of De Groot’s notable transactions include the sales of Lyceo, Vitaminstore, B&C International, Zeelandia’s Scandinavian business and assets, and Partou, plus the distressed sales of MS Mode Group and Bernard Matthews. He has also advised on the private equity acquisitions of European Bakery Group (by 3i Investments), KIWA (by SHV Holdings), and Yarrah Organic Petfood (by AAC Capital).
Commenting on his move, De Groot said: “I am delighted to have joined Clearwater International and I look forward to using my experience and ambition to help drive growth across the business.”
The appointment comes months after Clearwater International launched in the Dutch market, after integrating local player PhiDelphi Corporate Finance into its network.
“During the past decade we have seen a shift in competitive dynamics in the Netherlands and internationally, with the global M&A advisory boutiques taking market share. A trend that especially benefits a firm such as Clearwater International, combining longstanding local relationships with strong global sector expertise and reach.”
In his partner role, De Groot will focus on expanding the position of Clearwater International in the consumer, food, agriculture, retail, and leisure sectors. He will spearhead opportunities in both the origination and execution of transactions.
“Onno’s M&A experience and focus will further broaden and enhance our sector coverage and growth. With him on board, our M&A team can continue to grow alongside the needs of our clients, both in the Netherlands and internationally,” said Willem Daris, a Netherlands-based partner at Clearwater International.