MEET OUR TEAM
Simon Kelsey
In the mid 1990’s and 2000’s Simon was in the financial markets of the City of London. Whilst at one of the largest City institutions ICAP, he was responsible for managing broking operations and developing new products.
In 2017 Simon was appointed Head of International Development at Leon to instigate and oversee the international development of the brand. He was instrumental in the formulation of the franchise strategy and the selection of franchise partners, resulting in the company entering the Scandinavian and Irish markets, further developing in Holland and securing key relationships particularly across different channels in the UK, and throughout western Europe and the Middle East.
After Leon’s sale to EG Group in 2021, Simon left the company to found Kelaker in order to help brands expand both domestically and internationally.
His key strengths lie in an understanding of financial markets, funding opportunities, creating partnerships, and attention to detail.
Simon Kelsey
Partner
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Adam Blaker
In the 1990’s and 2000’s, Adam was a principal investor in mixed-use property projects responsible for securing investment, debt, acquisitions, planning consents, design, construction, project management and disposal both in the UK and abroad. In 2014, upon LEON’s 10th birthday, he joined Leon to develop the company’s strategic property path and roll-out programme. In so doing, he developed the design and capex model and successfully spearheaded its growth from 17 to over 70 restaurants.
He was instrumental in the evolution of alternative formats and the company's P&L, whilst being a principal driver behind the selection of franchise partners.
After the global pandemic in 2020 he lead the company’s CVA negotiations and secured it’s successful outcome.
He left the company in October 2021 following its sale for £100m to EG Group. His strengths lie in developing property growth strategies, scaling, and relationships.
Adam Blaker
partner
Rupert Hill
Rupert co-founded Harrier Partners, a London-based corporate finance advisory business, in 2016.
He started his career at Apax Partners in 1995 he has advised many companies, entrepreneurs and management teams and completed numerous transactions in the hospitality and leisure industries over the last 25 years.
Rupert helps Kelaker advise its clients and brands on fundraising, strategy, restructuring and M&A opportunities.
Rupert Hill
Adviser
