How2Exit: Buy, Don't Build - M&A of Small Businesses Ronald P. Skelton

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/Fp0i_V5iyU0

About the Guest(s): Michael Mufson is a seasoned investment banker with a career spanning several decades. He started working for a U.S. Senator before transitioning to Ernst and Young in their consulting group. Holding a CPA and an MBA from George Washington University, Michael has been key in underwriting IPOs for family-held businesses and tracking private equity's evolution. Currently a partner at Mufson Howe Hunter & Company (MHH), he specializes in mergers and acquisitions and offers expert advisory services for successful business exits.

Summary: Investment banker Michael Mufson discusses the process of selling a business through investment banking. With a career starting in the '80s, he shares insights on mergers and acquisitions, the evolution of capital markets, and private equity.

Michael highlights the importance of strong financials, business valuation, and understanding saleability factors. He provides practical advice on what buyers look for and how sellers can prepare. The conversation concludes with tips on choosing the right investment banker and the benefits of early engagement for a successful exit.

Key Takeaways: *Preparation is Key: Businesses should have reviewed or audited financials and a quality of earnings report before going to market. *Customer Concentration: Having a diversified customer base protects the business's value and can attract more buyers. *Accurate Valuation: Understanding the true market value of a business is crucial; consult multiple investment bankers to get a clear picture. *Industry Cycles: Timing the market correctly and preparing for cyclical changes can significantly impact the success of a sale. *Engagement Timeline: Start conversations with investment bankers early, ideally when your EBITDA is around $1-2 million.
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Contact Michael on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mufson-b0269/
Website:
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How2Exit Joins IT ExchangeNet's Channel Partner Network!

-Why IT ExchangeNet?
Since 1998, IT ExchangeNet has created $5 billion in value by selling more than 225 IT businesses in 20 countries. IT ExchangeNet works exclusively with IT-enabled businesses generating between $5M and $30M who are ready to be sold, and M&A decision-makers who are ready to buy. For over 25 years IT ExchangeNet has developed industry knowledge that helps them determine whether a seller is a good fit for their buyers before making a match.

"Out of all of the brokers I've met, this team has the most experience and I believe the best ability to get IT service businesses sold at the best price" - Ron Skelton

The IT ExchangeNet M&A Marketplace we partnered with has a proprietary database of 50,000+ global buyers seeking IT Services firms, MSPs, MSSPs, Software-as-a-Service platforms, and channel partners in the Microsoft, Oracle, ServiceNow, and Salesforce space.

If you are interested in learning more about the process and current market valuations, complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day. Everything is kept confidential.

Are you interested in what your business may be worth? Unlock the value of your IT Services firm, visit https://www.itexchangenet.com/marketplace-how2exit and complete the contact form.

Our partnership with IT ExchangeNet focuses on deals above $5M in value. If you are looking to buy or sell a tech business below the $5M mark, we recommend Flippa.
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💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/

►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/

📧For Business Inquiries:...

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/BC2JA35P67s

About the Guest(s): 
Shane Ehrsam, a seasoned business operator specializing in B2B mergers and acquisitions, began his career in entrepreneurial management. After eleven years in an industrial uniform company, he pivoted to business ownership in 2021 by acquiring a three-location trailer dealership in Dallas-Fort Worth. Shane now actively manages this operation, sharing insights on growth strategies and entrepreneurship. 

Summary:
In this episode, host Ronald Skelton interviews Shane Ehrsam about mergers, acquisitions, and operating a business. Shane discusses his journey from being laid off to acquiring and managing a multi-location trailer dealership. He shares practical advice on perseverance, decision-making, and operational excellence.

Shane also provides insights into his strategic approach to identifying and acquiring businesses, leveraging B2B experience, and navigating SBA loans. He emphasizes the importance of understanding business fundamentals, building strong relationships, and hands-on management for smooth transitions and sustainable growth. 

Key Takeaways:Entrepreneurial Background: Shane's upbringing in a family of entrepreneurs and his extensive management experience laid the foundation for his successful transition into business ownership.Effective Search Strategy: Utilizing a combination of personal outreach and education programs, Shane efficiently identified and acquired a viable business within a few months.Navigating SBA Loans: The importance of understanding and working closely with multiple banks during the deal-making process to secure favorable financing terms.Employee Relations: Smooth transitions involve clear communication and building trust with existing employees to maintain operations and morale.Growth and Expansion: The potential for geographic expansion and professionalizing sales processes to double or triple business revenue while enhancing customer and employee experiences.
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Contact Shane on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-ehrsam/
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How2Exit Joins IT ExchangeNet's Channel Partner Network!

-Why IT ExchangeNet?
Since 1998, IT ExchangeNet has created $5 billion in value by selling more than 225 IT businesses in 20 countries. IT ExchangeNet works exclusively with IT-enabled businesses generating between $5M and $30M who are ready to be sold, and M&A decision-makers who are ready to buy. For over 25 years IT ExchangeNet has developed industry knowledge that helps them determine whether a seller is a good fit for their buyers before making a match.

"Out of all of the brokers I've met, this team has the most experience and I believe the best ability to get IT service businesses sold at the best price" - Ron Skelton

The IT ExchangeNet M&A Marketplace we partnered with has a proprietary database of 50,000+ global buyers seeking IT Services firms, MSPs, MSSPs, Software-as-a-Service platforms, and channel partners in the Microsoft, Oracle, ServiceNow, and Salesforce space.

If you are interested in learning more about the process and current market valuations, complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day. Everything is kept confidential.

Are you interested in what your business may be worth? Unlock the value of your IT Services firm, visit https://www.itexchangenet.com/marketplace-how2exit and complete the contact form.

Our partnership with IT ExchangeNet focuses on deals above $5M in value. If you are looking to buy or sell a tech business below the $5M mark, we recommend Flippa. 
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💰If you’d like additional ways to...

Disclaimer: Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation (“Objective”) is a leading investment banking and valuation firm that services middle market companies in select industries of focus: Business Services, Consumer, Healthcare Tech & Services, Life Sciences Services & Tech, Manufacturing & Distribution, and Technology. Within our industries of focus we offer an investment banking group providing sell-side advisory, and a full-service valuation group providing tax compliance, financial reporting, transaction opinion, and strategic advisory services. Founded in 2006, Objective’s seasoned professionals have collectively executed over 500 M&A advisory engagements and thousands of business valuations throughout their careers. Our firm’s name embodies our core mission: to help business owners achieve their objectives. Learn more and find additional resources at objectiveibv.com.

This podcast episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer, invitation or recommendation to buy, sell, subscribe for or issue any securities. While the information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation, makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. All information contained herein is preliminary, limited and subject to completion, correction or amendment. It should not be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice and may not be reproduced. Securities and investment banking services are offered through BA Securities, LLC Member FINRA, SIPC. Principals of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation, are Registered Representatives of BA Securities. Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation, and BA Securities are separate and unaffiliated entities.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/Cgj-nGgDtIQ

About the Guest(s): Trever Acers is an investment banking and valuation expert with over two decades of experience in the industry. He is part of Objective Investment Banking and Valuation, where he has been a key player for 15 years. Akers’ career began in strategy consulting, leading him through roles in technology, private equity, and ultimately landing him in investment banking. His expertise lies in representing sellers in the mid-market range, specifically dealing with companies valued between $20 million to $250 million.

Key Takeaways:
Valuation Prioritization: Akers highlights the significance of understanding and strategically presenting company valuations, focusing on synergies and future earnings potential for acquirers.Industry-Specific Expertise: The necessity of having departmentalized industry expertise within an investment firm is crucial to describe, value, and interact with potential buyers effectively.Aggressive Disqualification: Business owners must critically assess potential buyers early to avoid unnecessary costs and focus on those who are serious contenders.Deal Catalysts: Partnerships and relationships with other companies often act as catalysts for acquisitions, especially when there is an established rapport and understanding of potential synergies.Pre-Exit Strategic Actions: Business owners should consider engaging experts 2-3 years prior to a planned exit to strategize and significantly improve their outcomes.br...

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/2ggutbZru4M

About the Guest(s): Nathan Lenahan is an experienced entrepreneur and former military professional. After serving in the army for six years, including multiple tours in Iraq, Nathan pursued a career in real estate investing and obtained an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. He has since started and sold multiple companies, including a property management company and a tech-enabled real estate brokerage. Nathan is currently the owner of Bart's Heating and Air, an HVAC company, and the founder of Smooth Operators, a recruiting service that helps small and medium-sized businesses find skilled operators. With his extensive experience in hiring and acquisitions, Nathan is passionate about helping business owners find the right talent to drive growth and success. 

Episode Summary: In this episode, Nathan Lenahan discusses his journey from the military to entrepreneurship and shares his expertise in mergers and acquisitions. He highlights the importance of understanding the different phases of a business and hiring the right operators to drive growth. Nathan also introduces his recruiting service, Smooth Operators, which focuses on connecting business owners with skilled operators in the blue-collar industries. He emphasizes the significance of clear communication, setting expectations, and building trust in the hiring process. Nathan provides valuable insights into the challenges and strategies involved in acquiring and growing businesses, offering practical advice for both buyers and sellers.

Key Takeaways:Hiring the right operator is crucial for the success of a business acquisition. Understanding the owner's needs, preparing the role for success, and aligning incentives are essential factors to consider.Identifying the right operator involves assessing their experience, skills, and mindset. Different operators excel in different phases of a business, such as startup, growth, or maintenance. Matching their strengths with the company's needs is key.Building trust and open communication with operators is vital. Clear expectations, ongoing feedback, and a supportive work environment contribute to a successful partnership.The staffing industry offers opportunities for growth and acquisition. Nathan's company, Smooth Operators, focuses on connecting business owners with skilled operators in blue-collar industries, such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical.When acquiring businesses, it is important to have a clear growth strategy. Organic growth through expanding services or geography, as well as strategic acquisitions, can help achieve growth targets.
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Contact Nathan on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlenahan/
Website:
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How2Exit Joins IT ExchangeNet's Channel Partner Network!

Have an IT Company doing between $5M and $30M You may Sell?

The IT ExchangeNet M&A Marketplace @Ronald Skelton - How2Exit Host has a proprietary database of 50,000+ global buyers seeking IT Services firms, MSPs, MSSPs, Software-as-a-Service platforms and channel partners in the Microsoft, Oracle, ServiceNow and Salesforce space.

If you are interested in learning more about the process and current market valuations, complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day. Everything is kept confidential.

https://www.itexchangenet.com/marketplace-how2exit

Our partnership with IT ExchangeNet focuses on deals above $5M in value. If you are looking to buy or sell a tech business below the $5M mark, we recommend Flippa.
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💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here:...

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/WxboHZiZZwc

About the Guest(s): George Moulos is an entrepreneur and the founder of Ecommerce Brokers, a company specializing in buying and selling online businesses, especially within the e-commerce, agency, and SaaS spaces. With a background that ranges from starting businesses at a young age—including Facebook groups and affiliate marketing—to building and exiting various digital assets, George now helps others navigate the intricacies of online mergers and acquisitions. His firm assists a range of clients from first-time acquirers to private equity firms. George's dedication to old-school methods of relationship-building coupled with his innovative approach to the online space has led Ecommerce Brokers to success, including notable deals and acquisitions. 

Summary: In this enlightening episode of the How2Exit podcast, host Ronald Skelton engages with George Moulos to unravel the complexities of buying and selling businesses in the digital realm. George's journey from young entrepreneur to established online business broker presents a multitude of insights for those interested in e-commerce transactions. George dives into his early beginnings and entrepreneurial streak, explaining how his work ethic and vision led to his first business exits and eventual specialization in e-commerce business brokering. He provides valuable insights into current

Key Takeaways:
The Buyer's Advantage: The current market is trending in favor of buyers, making the next twelve months an opportune time for acquisitions.Seller's Market Shift: While sellers have faced challenges in recent years, the market is slowly improving for them. This shift signifies potential balance restoration in e-commerce M&A.Importance of Due Diligence: Buyers should approach acquisitions carefully, utilizing advisors, accountants, and attorneys to ensure a secure transaction.Shopify Over Amazon: George emphasizes investing in D2C businesses on platforms like Shopify that allow ownership of the customer relationship over reliance on third-party platforms like Amazon.Financing Strategies: In light of high interest rates, George suggests exploring avenues such as SBA loans, seller financing, and earnouts to facilitate better deals in acquiring an e-commerce business.
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Contact George on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgemoulos/
Website:https://ecommerce-brokers.com/
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How2Exit Joins IT ExchangeNet's Channel Partner Network!

Have an IT Company doing between $5M and $30M You may Sell?

The IT ExchangeNet M&A Marketplace @Ronald Skelton - How2Exit Host has a proprietary database of 50,000+ global buyers seeking IT Services firms, MSPs, MSSPs, Software-as-a-Service platforms and channel partners in the Microsoft, Oracle, ServiceNow and Salesforce space.

If you are interested in learning more about the process and current market valuations, complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day. Everything is kept confidential.

https://www.itexchangenet.com/marketplace-how2exit

Our partnership with IT ExchangeNet focuses on deals above $5M in value. If you are looking to buy or sell a tech business below the $5M mark, we recommend Flippa.
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💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/

►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/

📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.com

Don't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨

👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREbr...

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/GOlqbiQ_w9E

About the Guest(s): David Lynch is an entrepreneur from the UK who started a business in the healthcare sector. He began his journey by selling mobility and disability products from his spare room. Over the course of 11 years, he grew the business to achieve eight-figure revenue and successfully sold it to a private equity-backed buyer. David is now actively pursuing acquisitions in the healthcare and facilities management sectors through his investment group, 41 Kong.

Summary: In this episode, Ronald Skelton interviews David Lynch, an entrepreneur who built a successful healthcare business from scratch and sold it to private equity. David shares his journey of starting the business from his spare room and growing it organically through contracts with the NHS and other local authorities. He discusses the challenges he faced in implementing systems and processes to prepare the business for sale and highlights the importance of having a clear vision and exit strategy from the beginning. David also talks about his current venture in acquisitions and his plans to combine organic growth with strategic growth in the healthcare and facilities management sectors.

Key Takeaways:
David Lynch started a healthcare business from his spare room and grew it organically over 11 years, achieving eight-figure revenue before selling it to private equity.Winning contracts with the NHS and other local authorities was a catalyst for the business's growth and provided predictable and repeatable revenue.Implementing systems and processes, including a bespoke software system, helped improve efficiency and increase gross margin from 48% to 61%.David's current venture involves pursuing acquisitions in the healthcare and facilities management sectors, combining organic growth with strategic growth.The healthcare sector offers attractive profit margins and opportunities for growth, especially in specialized areas such as patient handling and assistive technology.
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Contact David on
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lynch-42147419/
Website: https://linktr.ee/davidlynchentrepreneur
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How2Exit Joins IT ExchangeNet's Channel Partner Network!

Have an IT Company doing between $5M and $30M You may Sell?

The IT ExchangeNet M&A Marketplace @Ronald Skelton - How2Exit Host has a proprietary database of 50,000+ global buyers seeking IT Services firms, MSPs, MSSPs, Software-as-a-Service platforms and channel partners in the Microsoft, Oracle, ServiceNow and Salesforce space.

If you are interested in learning more about the process and current market valuations, complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day. Everything is kept confidential.

https://www.itexchangenet.com/marketplace-how2exit

Our partnership with IT ExchangeNet focuses on deals above $5M in value. If you are looking to buy or sell a tech business below the $5M mark, we recommend Flippa.
--------------------------------------------------
💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/

►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/

📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.com

Don't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨

👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HERE
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