Rouse hires joint COO to support M&A ambitions

Rouse has appointed Paolo Tavolato (pictured) to the position of joint chief operating officer (COO), expanding the firm’s leadership team in preparation for its growth strategy.

Tavolato, who was previously head of Asia Pacific at corporate services firm TMF Group, will work alongside Rupert Ross-Macdonald in leading the management of the business, and take a leading role in supporting Rouse’s M&A ambitions.

Tavolato brings a “wealth of experience in growing and leading professional services businesses”, particularly through M&A, having helped quadruple the revenues of the region he led from 2014-2022, said the firm.

He has worked across a range of geographies, including Europe, the US, Thailand and Hong Kong.

His appointment comes on the back of the hiring of Elle Shoben as chief people officer and Jarron Stephens as chief technology officer in May this year, to further support Rouse’s objective of building a more efficient and integrated IP service across its regional offices.

Luke Minford, chief executive of Rouse, said: “Paolo’s extensive management and operations experience will provide the leadership capability we need as we aim to grow into new service areas and geographies as well as integrate businesses through M&A. His track record leading TMF in Asia is unparalleled, we’re really excited to have him join the team.”

Tavolato added that he was drawn in by the firm’s collaborative and inclusive culture. “As the industry is expected to go through a major transformation, my role is to ensure clients around the world enjoy a consistent and rewarding experience as we continue to grow. Rouse is one of the few firms in this space benefitting from strong PE support, which is key for unlocking our future,” said Tavolato.

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