Investigo’s equity participation scheme is one of the main reasons for the company’s recession-busting growth, according to one of its directors.

The specialist finance andchange management recruitment group’s turnover has risen from £19.2m in July 2008 to £28.84m in June 2009 and operating profit pre exceptionals is £2.6m, up from £1.7m compared to the previous year.

Investigo co-founder Simon Smith told Recruiter the company has created a structure where the senior management are all equity incentivised and have genuine ownership in their business units.

The equity participation scheme offers directors of the business units quarterly dividends based on profitability, as well as proceeds on any exit.

“As such,” he told Recruiter, “it means that these individuals run the businesses as if they were their own.” He believes this structure has given the business a stable senior management team, who are highly motivated, which has in turn created an inspiring and highly driven environment. There are currently 10 people in the scheme.

“The past year has been fantastic for us, despite the difficult economic conditions. To achieve growth in excess of 50% in terms of turnover, profit and net fee income is testament to the outstanding individuals in the business. Our consultants have worked tirelessly in identifying new revenue opportunities and strengthening our existing client relationships.

“Our success has given us the opportunity to increase market share and acquire top talent from organisations that have been less fortunate.”

Investigo staff numbered 48 last year, which has now risen to 60