Spirant Group

About Spirant Group

Spirant Group, now operating as The MAPD Group, is an investment and holding company focused on the UK legal services sector. The organization's journey began in 2012 with the launch of a single law firm. A significant milestone occurred in 2020 when Brian Cullen and Joanna Kingston-Davies led a management buy-out of the Jackson Lees Group, backed by a £20 million loan facility from Shard Credit Partners, which established the foundation of the current group structure. Co-founders Brian Cullen and Joanna Kingston-Davies operate under the philosophy of MAPD: Making a Positive Difference. Their business model centers on acquiring majority stakes in successful, regional law firms. The group provides what it terms "rocket fuel"—investment capital and centralized operational infrastructure—to accelerate growth while allowing the acquired firms to maintain their established brand identity, leadership, and culture. For instance, in its acquisition of Bermans, the group took a 75% stake, with the existing partners retaining the remaining 25%. The group's portfolio consists of several UK-based law firms, demonstrating a focus on the North West of England. Its brands include the Jackson Lees Group (which itself comprises Broudie Jackson Canter), Stoke-based Myers & Co, and Liverpool and Manchester commercial firm Bermans. This strategy allows the group to build a network of successful local practices, leveraging shared best practices and a unified mission while preserving the individual character of each firm. The initial stated mission to transform the legal, technology, and medical sectors is primarily actualized through its targeted acquisitions and support within the legal industry.