GAIN and Capstone Consultants Join Forces to Create Powerhouse Education Practice

Aug. 07, 2026

GAIN, the creative-led, insight-driven company, is combining forces with higher education specialists Capstone Consultants to create a powerhouse practice for universities and business schools looking to drive growth.

The deal gives clients access to Capstone’s specialist capabilities in market insight, programme development, student recruitment and enrolment growth as well as GAIN’s expertise across data, technology, creative, customer experience and performance marketing. At the same time, it enables the business to target universities in international markets.

Helen Robertson and Leyla Gilbey at Capstone Consultants, will become joint Managing Directors of GAIN’s Higher Education practice for universities and business schools seeking world-class performance.

Sector demand is on the rise as tertiary education providers navigate a period where student expectations and search behaviours are changing. GAIN and Capstone both bring extensive experience to tackling these challenges, having worked with institutions including LSE, King’s Business School, UCL School of Management and City St George’s at the University of London, the University of Oxford, Warwick Business School and Henley Business School.

Neil Dennis, CEO EMEA at GAIN said:

"Capstone has an exceptional understanding of the challenges facing universities and business schools, as well as an impressive track record of helping institutions strengthen their offer, attract students and achieve ambitious growth targets. Its specialist expertise and close client relationships make it a natural fit for GAIN and will add real depth to our existing higher education capabilities."

 

Leyla Gilbey, Joint Managing Director at GAIN said:

"Joining GAIN gives us a unique opportunity to broaden the services we can offer universities at a time when the sector is under enormous pressure. By combining our specialist higher education knowledge and dedicated approach to client relationships with GAIN’s global reach and expertise, we can help institutions find new opportunities for sustainable growth and become more competitive."

 

Capstone’s existing team and approach to client confidentiality will remain unchanged and the company will establish a presence at GAIN's offices in Bristol and central London.