QED Investors, one of the top VC firms focusing on Fintech, has acquired boutique search firm Lingua Franca Search. QED already held a majority stake in the firm, but the company increased its ownership as part of a strategic focus of investing in firms providing “portfolio support capabilities.”
QED Investors Managing Partner Nigel Morris said they founded LF Search in 2017 to fill a talent void within the Fintech space:
“Over the past five years, it has placed scores of C-Suite executives and critical hires at some of the world’s best-known financial services brands. I couldn’t be more excited to bring LF Search more into the fold and provide our portfolio companies an internal resource to hire the talent they need to succeed.”
Originally focused on credit, risk, analytics and performance marketing roles, LF Search has expanded its services to include other leadership roles, including multiple chief operating officer, chief financial officer, chief revenue officer and general counsel positions.
LF Search CEO Thomas King said whether they are working with established firms or pre-revenue Fintechs, they bring their decades of experience in every search:
“Our team takes great pride in the work that we do and we are thrilled to help some of the world’s most innovative fintechs recruit their most critical talent.”
Since 2017, LF Search reports that it has placed more than 100 executives, senior and professional hires at some of the world’s most recognized fintech brands. In 2021, LF Search had its best year on record.
While now wholly owned by QED Investors, LF Search is expected to continue to serve both QED portfolio companies, as well as companies outside of QED.
