LDF Group appoints Lee Carlin as Group CEO to drive next phase of growth
Following the investment from YFM Equity Partners in 2023, LDF Group has continued to grow sustainably through service diversification and, most recently, geographical expansion with the acquisition of Blockbusters Drainage & Plumbing Services. The group’s multi-site offering now covers the Southeast of England, providing essential reactive and planned drainage and plumbing services.
A new chapter in leadership
With the Blockbusters acquisition now embedded, LDF is set to accelerate its operational scaling and service offering to capitalise on further growth opportunities. To support these ambitions, LDF has appointed Lee Carlin as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective November 2025.
After several months in the role, the Group can now confirm that joint MDs and founders Danny and Lucie Fuller will step back from day-to-day activities at the end of this financial year on 30th April, coinciding with their 20th year of establishing LDF. Danny and Lucie will move to Non-Executive Director positions, continuing to support the Group’s development at Board level, drawing on over 20 years of sector experience.
Lee joins the Group with 25+ years of C-suite and board-level experience across the water and HVAC sectors, in both corporate and private equity environments. His strong commercial and operational background positions him well to drive further growth, both geographically and by service offering.
In their words
Commenting on the appointment, Danny Fuller, outgoing MD of LDF Group, said: “Lee’s a perfect fit for the opportunity ahead. He brings a wealth of knowledge, he’s strategically smart and highly motivated to build, acquire and grow the group.”
Stuart Black, Chairman of LDF Group, added: “I would like to welcome Lee to the business and wish him every success. I would also like to thank Danny and Lucie for their service and for creating and building such a fantastic business, one we are all very proud of. I look forward to their continued support and insight as the business develops.”
David Wrench, Partner and Head of Investments South at YFM Equity Partners, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Lee as Group CEO of LDF at this exciting stage of the company’s evolution. Since our investment in 2023, the business has made strong progress, underpinned by a clear strategic vision, the Blockbusters acquisition and a continued focus on service excellence. We believe Lee’s blend of commercial acumen and operational expertise makes him well placed to lead the business and capitalise on the significant growth opportunity ahead. We would also like to thank Danny and Lucie for building such a high-quality business and look forward to continuing to work closely with them in their new Non-Executive roles.”
Group CEO Lee Carlin said: “It is a pleasure and honour to be working with YFM and the wider team at LDF Group to support and drive the ongoing development and growth of the business. The last three months have been invaluable, working alongside Danny and Lucie has given me a full insight into the business, its culture and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”