Woodbridge International, a mergers and acquisitions firm completing transactions in the lower middle-market, and Vistage, a business advisory and executive coaching organization, announced a strategic partnership to benefit Vistage’s 21,000 members around the world.
As a Vistage National Sponsor, Woodbridge International will sponsor the Vistage Deal Network, where members can access expert resources and uncover strategies for expanding and operating their business, specifically around mergers and acquisitions, growth capital and liquidity events. Woodbridge International will also participate in Vistage Executive Summits and other events across the country. At select events, Woodbridge will provide an educational session to help Vistage members understand the critical issues related to valuing, marketing, and potentially selling their businesses. These sessions will be led by Woodbridge’s Managing Director Raymond Norris, a former CEO, entrepreneur and business consultant who has added value to privately-held companies in a broad range of industries.
“I’m very excited about the opportunity to interact with Vistage members and Chairs at Vistage Executive Summits and other forums,” said Raymond Norris. “When they are ready, business owners want to sell their company for the highest dollar possible, to the best possible buyer with the absolute best fit for the company and their employees. They are looking for practical tips to help them be more prepared for a potential sale and what comes after. I’m looking forward to sharing what I’ve learned in my career in business and investment banking to help them benefit from good experiences and save them from potential bad experiences.”
“One of the most common topics our members discuss with their Chairs and fellow Vistage members is exit strategies, including the potential sale of their companies,” said Sam Reese, Chief Executive Officer of Vistage. “We strive to persistently increase the value for our members, and Woodbridge International’s expertise will be invaluable in helping our members explore their options as they make decisions about the future of their businesses, employees and themselves.”
Andy Buchholtz, Partner/Head of Investment Banking added, “Woodbridge’s bankers have completed more than 750 transactions in the middle-market and have spoken with many more business owners as they go through the process of deciding whether they are ready to sell their companies. This interaction has provided us with unique insights into the needs of mid-sized business owners, valuations in the middle-market, and what it takes to successfully market and sell a business. We are eager to share this knowledge with Vistage members worldwide, many of whom are either currently considering selling their business or will be considering a sale in the near future.”