NASHUA, N.H., March 18, 2014 – Skillsoft Limited (“Skillsoft”), a pioneer in the field of technology-delivered learning with a long history of innovation and delivery of solutions for its customers worldwide, ranging from global enterprises, government, and education to mid-sized and small businesses, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of its subsidiaries to funds managed by Charterhouse Capital Partners LLP (“Charterhouse”). Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.
“We have experienced great success during our four year run with Berkshire Partners, Advent International and Bain Capital, and greatly appreciate the support and guidance they have provided to our team,” said Chuck Moran, CEO of Skillsoft. “We are excited to continue the journey with Charterhouse. We believe that our commitment, ability to execute and proven track record of success, coupled with the experience, enthusiasm and resources that will be contributed by Charterhouse, will provide us with new and exciting opportunities as we continue to deliver significant value to our customers and partners.”
Skillsoft will continue to be headquartered in Dublin, Ireland and led by the current management team, including Moran as CEO. The closing of this transaction is subject to various conditions, including the expiration of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Skillsoft,” said Frank van den Bosch, a partner of Charterhouse. “We see a tremendous future for Skillsoft and look forward to working with Chuck and the Skillsoft team to achieve our goals.”
“On behalf of Berkshire Partners, Advent International and Bain Capital, I would like to thank Chuck Moran and the Skillsoft management team for their partnership over the past several years,” said Michael Ascione, Managing Director of Berkshire Partners. “During our collective ownership, Skillsoft has grown significantly and we believe that the Company is very well-positioned to continue to enhance its leadership position in the field of technology-delivered learning.”
Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Skillsoft. Ropes & Gray LLP acted as legal counsel to Skillsoft. Barclays acted as exclusive financial advisor to Charterhouse. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett acted as legal counsel to Charterhouse.
About Skillsoft
Skillsoft is a pioneer in the field of learning with a long history of innovation. Skillsoft provides cloud based learning solutions for its customers worldwide, ranging from global enterprises, government, and education to mid-sized and small businesses. Skillsoft’s customer support teams draw on a wealth of in-house experience and a comprehensive learning e-library to develop off-the-shelf and custom learning programs tailored to cost-effectively meet customer needs. Skillsoft’s courses, books and videos have been developed by industry leading learning experts to ensure that they maximize business skills, performance, and talent development.
