Transform acquires public sector consultancy Cadence Innova

Transform UK has purchased consultancy Cadence Innova, as it looks to grow its presence in the public sector market. According to Transform CEO Emma Robertson, the deal represents an “exciting chapter” for the combined firms.

Robertson added, “We’re delivering exceptional work across many government departments and the acquisition of Cadence Innova, who we’ve been hugely impressed with for a while now, provides us with a breadth of expertise that will enhance both of our offerings in the sector.”

Formerly part of the Engine Group, Transform UK was formed by a 2022 carve-out from investor Next 15. Since then, the purchase has supported Transform’s group level plans to expand its consultancy offering.

Transform specialises in technology and data consultancy. Its move for Cadence Innova brings expansive expertise in public service transformation to the company, along with trusted advisors who are well known by central and local government clients, as well as the rail and road industries. 

Founded in 2007, Cadence Innova is a consultancy focused on public transformation. Specialising in change consulting, the advisory firm is known for working across public services and the nation’s transport network. It was recently rated silver in the local government and public sector categories of Consultancy.uk’s annual list of top advisory firms in the UK.

Both organisations will continue to operate independently until February 2025, when the new company will become fully operational. At that point, the merger to create a combined firm will provide “a platform for accelerated growth”, offering a greater breadth and depth of capabilities to clients. This end-to-end service will run from strategy through to implementation, alongside partnering to scale solutions – services which “Transform and Cadence Innova are well known for”.  

Cadence Innova’s Founding Partner Gary Ashby commented, “This acquisition marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we are thrilled about the opportunities it presents for both Cadence Innova and our customers. Working with Transform, we’ve seen first-hand that they share our commitment and passion to enable positive change, and access to their deep digital, data and AI skills strengthens our capabilities to better serve our clients and drive the next stage of growth.”