Warburg Pincus has announced a partnership with Marissa Thomas and Steve Varley to launch Unity Advisory, a new CFO advisory firm. Unity Advisory is supported by an initial equity line of up to $300 million from Warburg Pincus funds, alongside significant contributions from its founders. The firm aims to expand further and enhance its offerings over time.
The London-based company distinguishes itself by providing partner-led, technology-driven services free from audit conflicts. AI will be integral to the firm's operations and client service from the outset. Unity Advisory plans to invest heavily in AI and automation, leveraging an experienced team to deliver outcome-focused services. The firm intends to expand into additional markets and regions in the future.
Marissa Thomas, previously Managing Partner at PwC UK, serves as CEO of Unity Advisory. Steve Varley, former EY UK&I Regional Managing Partner and Chair of EY UK, takes on the role of Chairman. David Tapnack joins as Managing Partner. The firm starts with a group of partners and team members recruited from leading firms like the Big Four. Rapid growth is expected through hiring and acquisitions.
“We believe there is a more effective way to serve CFOs, and our extensive market research supports this belief,” said Marissa Thomas, CEO of Unity Advisory. “Clients desire senior-level attention, strong technical and industry expertise and a firm that matches their pace.”
Steve Varley added, “Unity Advisory offers clients greater choice in CFO services, reflecting a deep understanding of what clients want.” He noted that there is already significant client interest fueling growth.
Warburg Pincus' involvement builds on its history in professional services investments, including Evelyn Partners’ business and insurance brokerage McGill and Partners.
David Reis, Managing Director at Warburg Pincus, expressed enthusiasm about supporting the Unity Advisory team: “Based on our sector experience, we believe the Company will offer a highly distinctive proposition to CFOs.”
Unity Advisory provides various Office of the CFO services for private equity-backed businesses and others in the upper mid-market sector. It combines business finance solutions with tax compliance and digital transformation support.
For more information about Unity Advisory or its leadership team members Marissa Thomas, Steve Varley, or David Tapnack's backgrounds in financial services leadership roles prior to joining Unity Advisory are available online.