3i announces today that Richard Relyea and Andrew Olinick have been appointed co-heads of its North America private equity business with immediate effect following Ken Hanau's departure.

3i's Private Equity team in the US has a strong investment track record and has been active over the past two years investing c.$450m in three companies, Dynatect, Q Holding and JMJ Associates. The US is a key focus area where 3i will seek to continue to expand its team and increase investment levels.

Richard joined 3i in 2007 and is a Partner based in New York. He focuses primarily on the Industrial sector and has been involved in 3i's investments in MoldMasters, Quintiles, Q Holding, Dynatect and Hilite. Richard currently sits on the Boards of Quintiles, Q Holding and Dynatect.

Andrew Olinick also joined 3i in 2007, and is a Partner in New York and Global Head of the Business Services sector. He has played a key role in 3i's investments in Element Materials Technology, JMJ Associates and TouchTunes. He currently sits on the Boards of Element Materials Technology and JMJ Associates.

Menno Antal and Alan Giddins, Managing Partners and Co-Heads of Private Equity, commented:
"Richard and Andrew have been key to our success in the US, where we continue to see an increasing number of attractive mid-market investment opportunities in businesses with a clear international growth agenda. We would like to thank Ken for his contribution to building 3i's business in the US and wish him all the best for the future."

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For further information, contact:

3i Group plc
Kathryn van der Kroft
Tel: +44 20 7975 3021
Email: kathryn.vanderkroft@3i.com

Latika Shah
Tel: +44 20 7975 3157
Email: latika.shah@3i.com

Notes to editors: About 3i Group

3i is a leading international investment manager focused on mid-market private equity, infrastructure and debt management across Europe, Asia and North America. 3i's North America portfolio comprises Dynatect, Element Materials Technology, Quintiles, Q Holding and JMJ Associates.www.3i.com.

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