Expert First Time Sellers Advice When Selling Your Business with Investment Banker, Mark Young
Release Date: 01/31/2024
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info_outlineIn Episode #35 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast, I had the opportunity to sit down with Mark Young, an Investment Banker and Management Partner of CKS Advisors. We talked about his expertise in guiding first-time business sellers.
Mark holds a strong background in investment and commercial banking, focusing on preparing entrepreneurs for the complexities of selling their businesses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and navigating the sale process, aiming to reduce surprises and ensure sellers are comfortable and informed.
A key part of his approach is a thorough assessment of the business, including:
Its financials.
Team dynamics.
Owner involvement.
to make it appealing to potential buyers.
Mark’s approach is geared towards making the transition as smooth as possible for first-time sellers, acknowledging the emotional weight of selling a business often regarded as a personal legacy.
What You’ll Learn:
Guidance for First-Time Business Sellers: The importance of educating first-time sellers about the sale process to minimize surprises and make them feel comfortable and informed.
What’s Involved in a Business Assessment: The importance of a comprehensive assessment of the business, including financials, team dynamics, and the owner's role, before engaging with potential buyers.
Importance of Confidentiality: Mark highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality throughout the sale process, using tactics like anonymous teasers and non-disclosure agreements to protect the seller's identity and interests.
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About Mark Young:
Mark brings more than 35 years of combined experience in investment banking (M&A), corporate finance, and leadership roles to his Clients. His expertise includes structuring company sale transactions, capital raises, debt placements, LBO’s and ESOP’s.
Prior to joining CKS, Mark held executive positions with money center financial institutions including Merrill Lynch and US Bank, as well as several regional financial institutions. During his career, he has successfully structured, negotiated and closed a wide range of transactions amounting to more than $2 billion in value.
Mark is a member of The Alliance of M&A Advisors, M&A Source, and Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).
Professional Licenses: Mark is registered with FINRA as a Limited Representative – Investment Banking Series 79, and Series 63.
Education: Mark received his MBA from Portland State University and a BA in Accounting and Finance from Lewis and Clark College.