Altrincham-based IF. has today announced the successful completion of a management buy-out.
The independent brand communications agency has spent the past two years investing in people, skills and services, building itself into one of the leading agencies of its type in the region.
Founded in 2006 by Christian James and Brian Rees, IF. delivers brand marketing services for the likes of Freshpet, Go Outdoors, Minova, Faith in Nature and YHA.
And now founder and MD James is handing the reins to new managing partners Jo Whiteley, Myke Hamilton and Laura Selby.
He said: "Succession was always part of the plan, so I’m hugely excited to finally share this news.
"The last two years have been transformational for IF., with Jo, Myke and Laura driving the business to a best-in-class position in the independent agency sector.
"After 20 years at the helm, it’ll feel strange to step away, but the agency couldn’t be in better hands. I can’t wait to see them take IF. to the next level."
Speaking about the buy-out, the new leadership team added: "This is a huge moment for IF. and we’re incredibly proud to be leading the business into its next chapter.
"Over the past two years we’ve significantly expanded our digital capabilities and proven how powerful the combination of brand creation and multi-channel activation can be.
"With recent client wins like Starpowa, YHA and Faith in Nature, and by becoming an official TikTok partner agency, we’ve shown the direction we’re heading. Our ambition now is to keep pushing the agency forward - building on what makes IF. special while setting a new benchmark for what clients can expect from an independent."
James added: "I’ve got a few big ideas up my sleeve, but first there are a lot of thank yous to say - to Brian, to the IF. team past and present, to our brilliant clients, and to so many in the industry who’ve been part of this journey."
