Charis Grants - Chiltern Capital

The Business

Charis Grants (“Charis”) is a market-leader in the distribution of financial support, products, and services to vulnerable households and community projects on behalf of private sector, public sector, and not-for-profit organisations.

Founded in 2003, Charis has continued to grow its positive social impact, with a broad offering that includes tailored Ofgem-approved schemes for the utility sector, outsourced management of dedicated social responsibility funds for corporate partners, and its e-commerce platform, Charis Shop, which assists with the procurement of products and services for people who need them most.

The Deal

Chiltern has invested in Charis to support it into its next phase of growth, building on the strong platform established by the existing senior management team. As part of the transaction, Jessica Taplin, an experienced leader in the charity and social impact sectors, will join as CEO, and Graham Cooke, previously CEO of leading energy consultancy Zenergi, will join as Chair.

Jessica Taplin, Charis CEO, commented:

“I’m delighted to be joining Charis at such an important moment in its journey. The legacy of deep expertise, purpose and social impact is something we are committed to honouring and building upon. Our focus remains exactly where it should be: improving lives, delivering human and empathetic support, and working in close partnership with our clients.

I’m excited to be working with Graham Cooke and the exceptional Charis team, we are all thankful for the invaluable ongoing support from Chiltern - as we strive to enhance the positive, beneficial impact of the organisation.”

Ben Robinson, Director at Chiltern, commented:

“Charis is a standout provider of connecting and distributing funds and products to households that require them most. We are delighted to be supporting the team as they continue to expand the solutions offered, increasing the social impact and providing more support to those who need it. By investing in people, technology and providing the best possible service, Charis will be able to increase it’s reach and have a positive impact on people's lives”.

The Plan

Chiltern’s investment will support Charis’ next phase of growth through ongoing investment in technology, people and service offerings. Chiltern will work closely with Jessica and the team to maintain sector-leading support outcomes and scale Charis’ reach, continuing its history of delivering meaningful social impact.

The Team

Ben Robinson

Director

Jon Rawlings

Director

Freya Savage

Associate

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Ben Robinson

Ben leads new investments as well as playing an active role in supporting portfolio companies with a particular focus on technology and automotive services. Ben has worked closely with a number of our successful investee companies including SiXworks, Steer Automotive, VIMA and Cybit.

Prior to joining Chiltern, Ben worked in Transaction Services at PwC, focusing on mid-market deals, having previously qualified as a Chartered Accountant within PwC’s Assurance practice.

Away from the office, Ben enjoys all things active including running, cycling and golf. Having hung up his rugby boots he remains a keen fan of the Exeter Chiefs.

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Prior to joining Chiltern, Freya worked at KPMG advising local and global mid-market private equity firms. Freya is qualified as a Chartered Accountant.

Freya is involved in the assessment of new investment opportunities as well as supporting our portfolio companies.

Outside of work, Freya previously dedicated most of her time to playing lacrosse where she was a member of the England Senior Women's squad for several years. Following an ACL injury she has stopped playing and is now enjoying taking up new sports such as padel and golf.