The Firebird Partnership

Combining the CEO experience of founder Ian Finlay with the corporate finance experience of co-founder Stewart Lambert, Firebird’s specialist offering helps great travel businesses grow, raise investment or achieve a successful exit for owners and MDs.

Founded in response to the pandemic, Firebird supports a range of companies in travel to thrive, with a leading team of experts who have worked with businesses of every size, from start-ups to PLCs. Current growth clients include ABTOT members Absolute Escapes, Evertrek and McCabe.

Initially the team worked on larger transactions for SMEs, with successes including the sales of One Traveller, Distant Journeys and Travel Editions, along with the management buyouts (MBOs) of Expert Africa and Artisan. In 2026, they expanded the breadth and depth of transactions they offer, to ensure that even the smallest TOs have access to high-quality advice. 

Unmatched in terms of commercial expertise and acumen, Firebird’s Directors are Chris Thompson, Safia Bhutta, Mark Bush, Gordon Mathie, Brian Hayes and Caleb Lewington. Together they work with businesses at every stage of their journey to deliver rapid growth and take teams forward.