Jon Little, founder of Northill Capital, is close to pulling off his biggest deal to date, Financial News can reveal, by buying a majority stake in Longview Partners.

UK-based Longview manages $19.5 billion, comprising global equities. The investment team, led by Ramzi Rishani, has won business from wealthy investors and institutions. The UK Shipbuilding Industry pension scheme is Longview's latest convert, confirming its hire this year.