Delivering deals with clarity, momentum and determination
One of the market’s most respected M&A advisers, David Gardner has built a formidable reputation among private equity funds, trade buyers and entrepreneurial business owners alike.
A Managing Director at K3 Deal Advisory, David brings over 20 years of experience advising entrepreneurial businesses through high-value, complex transactions. His standing across the investor and private equity community is exceptional, built on a consistent record of deals that deliver more than clients ever anticipated.
David began his career in audit before moving into corporate finance, drawn by the opportunity to work alongside business owners and deliver strategic support during the most significant moments in their commercial lives. He later played a founding role in developing what became KBS Corporate Finance, now part of K3 Deal Advisory, growing the practice to advise on some of the most sought-after businesses in the market.
David was also involved in the flotation of the parent company, K3 Capital Group (now K3 Advisory), when it was listed on AIM in 2017. Today, his immediate team focuses on businesses valued between £20m and £100m, with David himself, regularly advising on transactions exceeding £100m. What sets David apart is his hands-on, director-led approach, present and engaged at every stage, from positioning a business for market through to final closing of the transaction.
David’s expertise covers:
Sell-side advisory
Guiding shareholders through every stage of a sale process — from pre-market preparation and buyer outreach to negotiation and close — with a track record of achieving outcomes that set new benchmarks.
Private Equity and Investor Relations
Deep, long-standing relationships with leading PE funds, evergreen investment portfolios and family offices. David understands what institutional investors need to see — and how to present it compellingly.
Strategic Trade Sales
Access to a broad international buyer pool, with the market intelligence to identify the right strategic acquirers and position a business to attract competitive tension in any process.
Complex and Cross-border transactions
Proven experience executing deals across multiple jurisdictions with pace and precision. From international carve-outs to multi-geography businesses, David’s team delivers where complexity is highest.
Business Preparation and Positioning
Identifying and addressing value drivers before going to market, so buyers can move with confidence. Early, honest preparation is the foundation of every successful process David runs.
Fundraising and Growth Capital
Supporting ambitious management teams in accessing the right capital partners — whether that is minority investment, development capital or full institutional backing for the next phase of growth.
