Build the Right Deal Team to Avoid M&A Mistakes

About the Episode

Wondering how to build an M&A team that will help you maximize your business’s value? In this episode, Dustin Williamson, CFO, discusses the importance of seeking good advice from experienced professionals. He highlights the critical stages of the M&A process, including the need for financial advice, investment banking, and legal counsel who specialize in M&A. 

The cost of having good advice far outweighs the cost of going alone and making a huge mistake.

Dustin Williamson

What You’ll Learn

  • Build an experienced advisory team: A successful sale often hinges on the team you build. This includes a dedicated CFO, investment banker, M&A attorney, and tax advisor. Their combined expertise is crucial for a smooth and profitable sale.
  • Don’t settle for a general business attorney:  An M&A attorney specializing in mergers and acquisitions is critical. They understand the intricate details of deal structuring, negotiation tactics, and legal terms, helping to close deals efficiently. Using the wrong attorney, on the other hand, can easily derail your entire transaction.
  • Prepare for intense and emotional negotiations:. That’s why objective advisors are invaluable. They provide crucial perspective, helping you avoid costly emotional decisions and recognize the buyer’s negotiation tactics. This detachment ensures you make the best strategic choices.
  • Be cautious with informal advice: It can be dangerous if taken out of context or without thorough analysis. Always ensure any advice you receive is relevant, well-informed, and specifically tailored to your unique situation. 

Topics Covered

Valuation and Tax Considerations [6:36]
Advice for Sellers and Negotiation Tactics [10:26]
Building a Strong Advisory Team [18:34]
Role of Tax Advisors and Informal Advisors [26:58]
Valuation and Due Diligence [32:43]
Mistakes and Lessons Learned [34:54]

Want More? Related Resources: 

Meet Our Guest

Dustin Williamson

Dustin Williamson

Houston Managing Director of vcfo | Austin, Texas

Dustin Williamson is the Houston Managing Director of VCFO, where he leads the charge in enhancing business value through innovative solutions like v360™. With a sharp focus on strategic financial planning and operational efficiency, Dustin is a forward-thinking leader known for transforming businesses and driving substantial growth. His leadership philosophy revolves around problem-solving and proactive financial management, ensuring that companies are prepared for the future and poised to thrive.

Selling Your Business?

Work with an industry leader that gets you results.

We invested over a decade perfecting every step of the process. The result is a method proven to reduce your risk and maximize your price.

View Our Process Now

Any questions about selling your business?