Rouse appoints new Joint COO to support M&A ambitions

Paolo will work alongside Rupert Ross-Macdonald leading the management of the business both at the group and local level and driving group-wide operational projects. He will also take a leading role in supporting Rouse’s M&A ambitions particularly in the area of integration to ensure Rouse continues to deliver a seamless one-team service.

Paolo was previously Head of Asia Pacific at corporate services firm TMF Group. He brings a wealth of experience in growing and leading professional services businesses, particularly through M&A quadrupling revenues of the region he led from 2014-2022. Paolo has worked across a range of geographies, including Europe, the US, Thailand and Hong Kong.

The 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 capability globally.

Luke Minford, Chief Executive of Rouse, says: “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.”

Paolo Tavolato adds: “I am excited to join Rouse. As one of the leading firms in the IP space boasting a collaborative and inclusive culture, it offers a rewarding and an intellectually stimulating opportunity to leverage my skillset and experience to the fullest. 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.”