Bailey Fisher has partnered closely with Rapidrop during a pivotal period of transformation, helping to build the leadership capability required to support its ambitious international growth plans.
A business entering a new chapter
Headquartered in the UK, Rapidrop is a leading manufacturer of fire sprinkler systems and components, supplying customers in over 80 countries worldwide. Operating in a highly regulated and safety-critical market, the business has built a strong reputation for product quality, technical expertise, and global certification standards.
Following a sustained period of growth, Rapidrop reached an inflection point in 2024, seeking to strengthen its leadership team and position the business for international expansion.
CEO appointment to lead growth
Bailey Fisher was initially mandated by Rapidrop’s shareholders in 2024 to lead the search for a new Chief Executive Officer. Working closely with incoming private equity investor BGF and Rapidrop’s board, we identified and appointed Chris Shelley, who joined the business in early 2025.
Chris brought a strong track record of scaling industrial and manufacturing businesses, alongside the commercial and operational expertise required to guide Rapidrop into its next phase.
Shortly after his appointment, Rapidrop secured a multi-million-pound investment from BGF (July 2025) — a significant milestone that further accelerated the company’s growth trajectory.
Building the team to deliver international expansion
With investment secured and a clear growth strategy in place, Bailey Fisher continued to support Rapidrop in strengthening its leadership capability in key areas.
We were subsequently retained to deliver:
- Middle East Sales Manager – to drive regional revenue growth and establish a stronger commercial presence
- Project Manager, Middle East Business Transfer – to support the operational transition and localisation of capabilities in the region
- Head of Markets & Portfolio (2026) – to shape market strategy, product positioning, and long-term portfolio development
Each search required a tailored approach, combining sector understanding with a deep appreciation of Rapidrop’s culture, technical environment, and international ambitions.
A partnership-led approach
Our Managing Partner, Andrew Moore, has worked closely with Chris Shelley throughout this journey, developing a detailed understanding of the business, its strategic priorities, and the leadership profile required at each stage.
This ongoing partnership has enabled us to move at pace while maintaining a high bar for quality — ensuring that each appointment contributes meaningfully to Rapidrop’s long-term success.
Client perspective
“Andrew has been a trusted partner throughout a critical period for Rapidrop. From my own appointment through to building out the wider leadership team, Bailey Fisher has taken the time to truly understand our business, our culture, and what we are trying to achieve.
The quality of candidates, the rigour of the process, and the consistency of support have been excellent. It’s a relationship we value highly as we continue to scale the business.”
— Chris Shelley
Delivering leadership for growth
Our work with Rapidrop reflects Bailey Fisher’s focus on supporting ambitious, growth-oriented businesses at key moments of transition.
From CEO appointment through to building out international and strategic leadership capability, we are proud to have played a role in helping Rapidrop translate its strong foundations into a clear and executable growth plan.
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Case Study: Supporting Rapidrop through its next phase of growth
