Ascent Performance Group makes acquisition

Ascent Performance Group, the financial services outsourcing business and part of the Irwin Mitchell Group, has announced that it has acquired Excel Collection and Enquiry Services.

Ascent says that the deal will strengthen its market-leading position in the provision of field and affordability services to major financial institutions such as banks and building societies. The company says that it also commands a strong market position in litigation and BPO support services to financial institutions. Ascent has been very active over the last year providing crucial outsourcing services to major banks throughout the Covid-19 period, helping customers access financial help.

Excel was established in 1994 and is an FCA regulated financial services company with a network of 150 professionals across the UK supporting all types of lenders from banks to car finance companies and personal loan providers as they seek to help customers to manage financial difficulties.

Mark Higgins, Chairman of Ascent, said “Ascent has seen strong organic growth in recent years and we work with many of the biggest lenders in the UK. This deal will help add to that growth by extending the breadth of client base and opening new markets for us.”

“Our businesses have similar values and at Ascent we have a clear purpose “Together we support financial wellbeing”, working with our clients, colleagues and communities to lead the way and always do the right thing. We support customers dealing with financial issues, and we want them to feel reassured and comfortable when engaging with us. We want them to know we’ll treat them fairly, that we care and will work with them towards improving their financial wellbeing.”

Laurence Venn, Chief Executive Officer at Excel, said “We’re delighted to be joining forces with Ascent which is the market leader in providing services to financial institutions. We both share a commitment to providing an excellent client service and I have every confidence Ascent will do a great job of supporting Excel’s clients and customers.”

The Irwin Mitchell Group recently posted accounts showing growth for the 10th consecutive year. As well as Ascent, the Group also includes financial planners and fund managers IM Asset Management which has more than £800m funds under management while the law firm was recently named as the 2nd biggest litigation firm in the UK.