Simon Orange: From Corporate Acquisitions to Co-Owner of Sale Sharks – A Journey of Business and Sports Success

Simon Orange, a name recognized in both the business and sports worlds, is a self-made millionaire whose influence spans across multiple industries. Known as the co-owner of the Sale Sharks rugby club, Orange has made his mark in the corporate acquisitions world and sports management, demonstrating a keen eye for identifying and nurturing potential in both fields. His career, while marked by notable achievements, also reflects his drive for continuous growth and success, despite the challenges that come with competing in a highly competitive landscape.

Early Life and Background

Simon Orange’s journey to prominence began long before he made headlines with his involvement in rugby. Growing up in Manchester, Orange’s early life was grounded in a working-class background, where rugby was far from the sport of choice. “We didn’t play rugby where I grew up – it was football or stealing and fighting,” he has famously remarked, offering a glimpse into his humble beginnings. The world of rugby, a sport perceived as somewhat elitist during his youth, was far removed from his daily reality. However, this would change dramatically as Orange found his way into the sport as an adult.

A Self-Made Millionaire

Orange’s entrepreneurial journey truly began when he founded CorpAcq in 2006. The company was designed to acquire, manage, and grow smaller businesses through a strategy of acquisition and consolidation. With a focus on building a portfolio of UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), CorpAcq became known for its buy-and-build approach. Under his leadership, the firm acquired a range of brands, with Cotton Traders being one of the most prominent examples.

The success of CorpAcq caught the attention of private equity firms, and in a deal worth over £1bn, Orange sold his business empire to TDR Capital, a private equity firm With a broad investment portfolio spanning prominent brands like Asda, Stonegate, and David Lloyd Leisure, TDR Capital continues to diversify its holdings. This sale marked a significant turning point in Orange’s career, solidifying his position as a successful businessman.

Despite selling CorpAcq, Orange’s entrepreneurial spirit remains strong. He continues to explore new opportunities, as evidenced by his recent acquisition of a majority stake in William Hare, a leading UK steel contractor. The deal, which saw Orange take control of the company, is an example of his ongoing commitment to growing businesses and expanding his influence across various sectors.

The Sale Sharks: A Family Affair

While Simon Orange’s business ventures are impressive, it is perhaps his role as co-owner of Sale Sharks that has brought him the most public attention. In 2016, Orange, along with business partner Ged Mason, acquired the rugby club. Since then, Orange has played a crucial role in the club’s resurgence, turning it into a family affair. His wife, Michelle, has been particularly influential, encouraging her husband to invest further into the club and helping to establish a women’s rugby franchise within the Premier 15s.

Orange’s approach to the Sale Sharks has been methodical and strategic. Despite the dominance of football in the North West, Orange has sought to grow rugby’s appeal in the region, where it competes for attention with Manchester’s football giants, United and City. His goal is not only to improve the club’s performance on the field but also to expand its reach and make rugby more accessible to a wider audience. To this end, Orange has proposed that the sport should do more to explain its rules to newcomers, likening it to the way American football has been marketed in the UK.

The growth of Sale Sharks under Orange’s ownership is a testament to his vision for the future of the club. The team has become a competitive force in Premiership Rugby, with a squad that combines home-grown talent, such as the Curry twins, with top-tier international players like Faf de Klerk. This carefully curated mix of players has contributed to the club’s success, allowing it to punch above its weight in a league dominated by larger, wealthier clubs.

Simon Orange’s Business Philosophy

At the heart of Simon Orange’s business success is his philosophy of strategic growth through acquisition. With CorpAcq, Orange focused on identifying promising businesses that could benefit from his expertise in scaling operations. The company’s portfolio included over 40 businesses, many of which saw significant growth under his leadership. This buy-and-build approach has been a key factor in Orange’s success, and it is a model he has continued to follow in his other ventures, including the acquisition of William Hare.

Orange’s business style is characterized by a pragmatic approach to risk-taking and a willingness to invest in businesses with long-term potential. His ability to spot value where others may not see it has been a hallmark of his career. Whether it’s in corporate acquisitions or sports management, Orange’s strategy revolves around building businesses that are capable of weathering economic storms and delivering consistent growth.

The Role of Family in Simon Orange’s Ventures

A significant aspect of Simon Orange’s success is the role of his family in both his business and personal life. His wife, Michelle, has been a constant support throughout his business ventures, offering advice and encouragement when needed. Her passion for rugby has played a key role in shaping the direction of Sale Sharks, as she has been instrumental in securing further investment for the club. Her influence is evident in the club’s growing focus on women’s rugby, a key area for future development.

Orange’s brother, Jason, who was an original member of the boy band Take That, has been less involved in the rugby world. Despite this, he remains a supportive figure in his brother’s life, even if he hasn’t yet developed a deep interest in the sport. This dynamic within the Orange family reflects a supportive and collaborative approach to both business and personal endeavors.

Simon Orange’s Net Worth and Financial Success

As of 2025, Simon Orange’s net worth is estimated to be between £500 million and £1 billion, a figure that reflects his successful ventures in both business and sports. The sale of CorpAcq to TDR Capital, along with his ongoing investments in companies like William Hare, has contributed to his considerable wealth. Orange’s ability to build and sell businesses for significant sums has cemented his reputation as a shrewd businessman with a knack for identifying lucrative opportunities.

Despite his wealth, Orange is known for his grounded approach to business. He has always maintained that his success is not just about making money but also about creating value and contributing to the growth of the companies he invests in. His role as a co-owner of Sale Sharks is an example of this philosophy in action, as he works to ensure the long-term success of the club while also making it a more accessible and enjoyable experience for rugby fans.

Challenges and Future Endeavors

Despite his many successes, Simon Orange has faced his share of challenges. The difficulties in navigating the competitive sports landscape, particularly in the face of stronger football clubs, have made growing the Sale Sharks a tough but rewarding endeavor. However, Orange’s resilience and business acumen have helped him overcome these challenges, and he remains focused on furthering the club’s growth both on and off the field.

Looking to the future, Orange is likely to continue making strategic investments in businesses and sports ventures that align with his vision for growth and innovation. His recent acquisition of William Hare highlights his ongoing interest in the construction and infrastructure sectors, while his work with Sale Sharks suggests that he will continue to be involved in the world of sports for years to come.

Conclusion

Simon Orange’s journey from a working-class background in Manchester to a self-made millionaire and prominent figure in both business and sports is a testament to his determination and business acumen. His success with CorpAcq and his co-ownership of Sale Sharks have made him a well-known name in the UK, and his continued focus on strategic growth and innovation promises further success in the years to come. Whether in the boardroom or the rugby field, Orange’s approach to business and sport reflects his commitment to building lasting success.