Capstone Partners advised Rook Security on its acquisition by Sophos (LSE: SOPH). Barnes & Thornburg LLP served as legal counsel to Rook on the transaction.
Rook Security is a pioneer and leader in managed detection and response (MDR) services. The Indianapolis-based company provides a 24/7 team of cyberthreat hunters and incident response experts who monitor, hunt for, analyze and respond to security incidents for businesses of all sizes. Rook Security is privately owned and was founded in 2008.
Capstone’s understanding of the market, commitment to the process, longstanding relationships and deal management were key factors in the success of this transaction.
“This acquisition was the perfect fit and we are very excited to bring our experts and service delivery innovation to Sophos, a global leader in next-generation cybersecurity,” said J.J. Thompson, founder and CEO, Rook Security.
Sophos is creating re-sellable MDR services by combining Rook Security’s threat detection, investigation and response capabilities with its recently acquired DarkBytes technology platform.
“Rook Security offers a unique combination of technology-enabled analysis and incident response expertise, born out of a strong culture of innovation,” said David Brinkley, co-head of Capstone’s Cybersecurity Practice. “We look forward to the impact the business will have now as a part of Sophos.”
“Bringing together Rook Security’s unique MDR capabilities with Sophos’ expansive technology and product portfolio creates strong synergies that open new market opportunities and bring benefits for all stakeholders,” said Thomas McConnell, co-head of Capstone’s Cybersecurity Practice. “We are proud to have represented Rook Security, its founder, shareholders and employees, and congratulate both the Rook Security and Sophos teams on the transaction.”
As the pioneer of synchronized security, Sophos develops its innovative portfolio of endpoint, network, encryption, web, email and mobile security solutions to work better together. More than 100 million users in 150 countries rely on Sophos solutions as the best protection against sophisticated threats and data loss.
“Capstone team that represented Rook Security during our acquisition of the company was extremely professional. It makes a difference when advisors are direct, resourceful, and offer negotiation options that help both parties reach agreeable terms and close the deal,” said Joe Levy, chief technology officer, Sophos.
