Navitas announces sale of SAE creative media operations in Europe and the UK to Ardian

Today global education provider, Navitas, has announced the sale of part of its creative media institute, SAE, to AD Education (part of Europe’s leading private investment house, Ardian).

Under the binding agreement, Ardian will purchase the SAE operations in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe. Navitas will retain SAE operations in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US alongside its network of licensed education partners operating under the SAE brand in other parts of the world.

Scott Jones, Navitas CEO said:

“Since the acquisition of SAE in 2011 it has been a special part of the Navitas business, and over the ten years since Navitas purchased it, SAE has grown significantly to become the key player in creative media higher education globally. This transaction reflects that success and delivers the best outcome for SAE students and staff in the UK and mainland Europe for further opportunity and growth.

AD Education is a fantastic European-based education company that is as passionate about creative arts, media and digital as we are, and well placed geographically to meet the needs of students, engage with local industry, and navigate the unique regulatory environments in the region. Crucially, a co-existence agreement will ensure that we continue to align on brand, marketing and direction and invest in the continued growth of the global SAE brand.”

The transaction is expected to complete in the first half of 2022, subject to regulatory approvals.

Navitas has performed well during the pandemic and continues to report impressive organic growth across all regions. This transaction further strengthens its balance sheet and positions Navitas well for future acquisition opportunities.