Recognized Mergers and Acquisitions Leaders 2025

As EVP of M&A, Joe leads PRITCHETT's M&A integration practice which has consulted on acquisitions valued in total over $350 billion. He is the architect of PRITCHETT’s M&A integration methodology, an approach that has been used successfully by thousands of acquirers. Joe also conceived of and brought to market the Merger Integration Certification Workshop, the most successful M&A integration training program in the world. Plus, he created MergerIntegration.com which is now the most visited web site on M&A integration. MergerIntegration.com provides step-by step instruction on how to run integration projects and is populated with over 500 deliverables from PRITCHETT consulting engagements. Joe is the author of the books, Street Smart Moves for Selling your Business and What’s Next? He is also a licensed Certified Public Accountant.

***Views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of EY or any of its member firms.*** M&A, integration, divestitures, and corporate transformation business leader who helps global strategic and investment businesses turn deals into value. I'm a Senior Director at EY-Parthenon in New York, where I advise. global companies, private equity firms, and strategic acquirers on M&A, divestitures, large scale corporate transformation, JV, and corporate strategies, commercial and operational due diligence, sign to close transaction management, synergies assessment and value creation, and post-merger integrations. Over the past decade-plus I've worked on transactions ranging from acquisitions and carve-outs to transformations and partnerships - across consumer and retail / CPR, technology, industrials, and financial services companies. Before EY-Parthenon, I spent several years in investment research at S&P Global and Netscribes, analyzing global companies. I'm a CFA charterholder and hold an MBA from NYU Stern, where I collaborated with Nobel Laureate Robert Engle on ESG research published on Nasdaq. I'm happy to comment on deal trends, why integrations succeed or fail, revenue and cost synergies, regulatory shifts like HSR, and how boards evaluate strategic transactions. I respond quickly and speak plainly — no jargon.

I run a buy-side digital advisory firm that works exclusively for organizations selecting AI, software, and design service providers. Before founding Launch Day, I built and led Series Digital for a decade through its acquisition and served as CEO of DOOR3, a global consultancy modernizing critical business applications for Fortune 1000 companies. My background is technical —computational ontology, relational database architecture, and applied AI/LLM systems— layered with 20+ years of direct involvement on both the buyer and vendor sides of the services market. That combination means I evaluate technology decisions not just strategically but architecturally, from data models to contract terms. I've supported engagements with the US Department of Defense, the Department of Justice, The New York Times, Goldman Sachs, Sony, and Stanford University. I write and advise on AI adoption strategy, vendor selection, procurement dysfunction, and why most technology projects fail before a line of code is written.

Jui is the Managing Partner at Next Point, where she leads the firm’s operations and heads the Mergers & Acquisitions division. Specializing in strategic exits for the industrial, medical, and dental sectors, Jui guides business and medical practice owners through the complex process of planning and executing successful exits. She combines high-level strategy with practical execution to ensure a seamless transition for her clients. Her background includes a unique blend of corporate experience working with Fortune 100 companies in financial planning, joint venture management, and risk mitigation, as well as years of entrepreneurial experience. Jui leverages this expertise to advocate for her clients, ensuring they are informed and confident throughout every phase of the deal. Her experience as an entrepreneur gives her a deep understanding of the challenges her clients face, and she works diligently to represent their best interests, aligning strategies with their unique objectives. Jui’s passion lies in serving as a trusted partner to her clients, helping them make informed decisions and transition from their businesses with confidence. With nearly two decades of experience and hundreds of successful transactions, she is known for developing exit strategies that not only maximize value but also safeguard her clients’ long-term goals. She holds an MBA in Finance and is certified in Mergers & Acquisitions, as well as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA).

Senior-level strategy/corporate development/ventures executive in the increasingly concentric media/advertising/tech industrial complex – with 30+ years of pioneering operational experience, investment returns and thought leadership in championing innovation across traditional, digital, and (especially) “emerging” media and marketing firms. Industry vertical areas of expertise: - "Emerging" media and technology: advanced/interactive advertising, media tech platforms, media distribution - especially in TV & video - Digital media operations (online, mobile, digital video, digital audio, digital OOH, social, etc.) - Traditional media operations (TV, radio, out-of-home, print, etc.)- Advertising (media buying, media ad sales, ad/media/digital agency structure/operations) - Consumer media behaviors (consumption, behaviors, trends, preferences, etc.) - Ad/marketing/tech innovation (startups, venture investment, etc.) - Corporate development in media/advertising industries (M&A, corporate ventures, etc.) - Nationally recognized thought leadership in all things "future of TV/media" & "advanced advertising" Functional areas of expertise in above industries/verticals: - Corporate strategy & development, including M&A and ventures - Marketing & PR/corporate communications - Business development - Advertising sales - Media industry analysis & thought leadership

Jay Sunde is an accomplished entrepreneur with deep experience across multiple industries. He began his career in financial analysis, producing complex forecasts and strategic projections for regional and national companies in commercial real estate, residential real estate, and healthcare. Driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, Jay founded a custom homebuilding company in his mid-20s and grew it into a multi-million-dollar business, developing both custom and speculative homes throughout central North Carolina. During the 2008 housing crisis, he successfully pivoted by acquiring two pool and spa retail and service companies. He scaled both operations, overseeing all aspects of the businesses, and later exited through sales in 2012 and 2018. Since 2009, Jay and his wife, Danielle, have partnered to launch, grow, and acquire preschools, daycares, and elementary schools across the Southeast. Along the way, they also acquired the commercial real estate occupied by their schools and built a growing portfolio of residential real estate holdings. Today, their education platform generates more than $5 million in annual revenue, employs over 70 team members, and serves nearly 500 families. Jay is active in numerous entrepreneurial and small business organizations and, for the past eight years, has consistently mentored and advised founders, business buyers and sellers, and individuals seeking greater financial and time freedom through business ownership.

I'm the founder of Negotiation Agency, a specialist procurement and negotiation firm. We do two things: renegotiate vendor contracts for mid-market companies (saving them 20-40% on SaaS, cloud, and service contracts) and negotiate large asset purchases (private jets, real estate, superyachts) for high-net-worth buyers and family offices. Over $100M negotiated across North America, Europe and the Middle East. Clients include family offices, PE firms, and companies ranging from $5M to multi-billion dollar enterprises, including the US Government, Kroger, and Dick's Sporting Goods. Average savings: 23%. Maximum documented savings: 48%. Our model is success-fee only. No retainers, no upfront costs. If we don't help our clients, we don't get paid. Before building Negotiation Agency, I beat cancer, built businesses across 8 countries, and speak 3 languages.

Max Avery, a dynamic business development executive at Digital Ascension Group, drives growth across industries with a sharp focus on market leadership. His deep knowledge of traditional and emerging financial markets, backed by certifications like Capital Markets & Securities Analyst (CMSA)® and FinTech Industry Professional (FTIP)™, informs his strategic approach. Since 2016, he has excelled in raising capital and structuring deals in private equity and real estate. Appointed to the District Export Council by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross in 2018, and a member of the National Small Business Association’s Economic Development Committee, Avery shapes policies for business growth. Guided by a philosophy of excellence, he turns complex challenges into practical solutions, establishing himself as a trusted strategist committed to lasting impact.

Private-equity-trained fractional CFO & exit-prep firm for founder-led businesses. We convert to accrual, build MFRs and KPI dashboards, run forecasting, and package for diligence to lift EBITDA and multiples across trades, e-commerce, tech, and professional services. 35+ clients Serial Founder in Health Tech, Veterinary Medicine, Plumbing, CPGs, Consulting, SaaS. Scaled from 0-2MM, sold or stabilized.

David Jacobs is a business broker specializing in software, SaaS, and tech-enabled service companies. He works with founders of businesses generating $2M–$20M in revenue who are exploring a sale or acquisition. Since 2019, David has advised owners through the exit process, working with private equity firms, family offices, and strategic buyers to create competitive acquisition processes. He frequently comments on SaaS valuations, exit preparation, buyer behavior, and common mistakes founders make when preparing to sell their companies. Website: davidjacobsbusinessbroker.com

Michael Maxwell is a senior figure in the investment migration and private capital space, with experience across fund structuring, real estate, private equity, and cross-border investor strategy. He has spent years working with high-net-worth individuals, advisers, and international partners on residency-linked investment structures that are designed to stand on their own merits. He is Managing Partner of Portugal Panorama and co-founder of Aquila Capital. Earlier in his career, he helped build Dixcart Domiciles within the Dixcart Group, advising internationally mobile clients on residency planning and broader strategic considerations. In 2017, he advised on the first Golden Visa-eligible fund established in Portugal. He later helped grow a Portuguese fund platform to seven regulated funds before a successful exit. Today, Michael is Co-Founder and Head of Capital Raising at Ariete Capital, where he focuses on investor relationships, international business development, and the practical side of helping clients use Italian investment structures as a way to gain long-term optionality in Europe. His perspective is shaped by years of working with clients who care about capital preservation, structure, and flexibility as much as lifestyle.

Patrick Schultz brings a sharp analytical edge to real estate investing, shaped by his experience as a research analyst for Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money. His deep understanding of financial markets, asset valuation, and investment strategies allows him to identify undervalued properties and optimize yield across his real estate portfolio. Alongside his wife, Hilary Schultz—a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Florida— their small family owned portfolio of businesses operate across every stage of residential real estate. They acquire homes, execute strategic renovations in SFR properties, and selectively retain assets that align with their long-term investment strategy. For Patrick and Hilary, real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about crafting solutions for homeowners. Whether purchasing homes for cash, revitalizing physically distressed properties, or helping sellers move forward with confidence, they approach every transaction with a problem-solving mindset. Their goal? Delivering outsized returns for investors while creating a delightful real estate experience for Texas home sellers.​

2x Founder and former Investment banker. Spent 4 years in investment banking focusing on M&A for insurance carriers and brokers. Built and scaled an insurtech company called Coverdash and raised $15mn from Venture Capital firms Founded the fastest growing white glove commercial insurance agency focused on insuring growing businesses.

I’m Blake Renda, an entrepreneur, investor, and co-CEO of Veedor Holdings LLC, based in Naples, FL, with a satellite office in Santa Monica, CA. At Veedor Holdings LLC, we not only make strategic investments but also own and operate Dragon Horse Agency, Dragon Horse Publishing, and Moxie Creed. My professional journey began as an intern at NBC Studios while I was studying at the University of Southern California, which led to a full-time position after graduation. I then transitioned into law and finance, which ultimately brought me to Wall Street in 1996. There, I was part of a small team in Palo Alto, CA, managing over $20 billion in technology-sector assets at J. & W. Seligman & Co. In 2000, I was recognized as one of Institutional Investor Magazine’s “Best of the Buy Side.” In 2006, I joined the New Dimensions Growth Team at American Express Asset Management in La Jolla, CA, serving as the T/M/T manager across six growth funds with over $40 billion in assets under management. I was also nominated for Institutional Investor Magazine's "Best of the Buy Side" in 2004. These experiences taught me the importance of rigorously vetting opportunities and leading with foresight—skills I have consistently applied to every entrepreneurial venture. From 2011 to 2015, I played a key role in transforming a boutique skincare startup in Florida into a nationally recognized, multi-award-winning brand, culminating in its eventual public listing after my tenure. Following my exit from that company, I co-founded Veedor Holdings LLC with Julie Koester. Today, we own and operate Dragon Horse Agency, a multi-award-winning bi-coastal agency known for providing comprehensive business strategy and marketing services to global clients. Additionally, we own Dragon Horse Publishing, an award-winning publishing company, and Moxie Creed, a wellness lifestyle e-commerce platform. Beyond accolades and successes, I hold a deep belief in resilience, mentorship, and shared success. I’m a proud father, a former youth volleyball coach, and a passionate advocate of Ubuntu—meaning "I am because we are." Whether scaling startups, navigating global markets, or building culture, I bring the same competitive spirit and collaborative ethos to every endeavor. Success is not just about accolades; it’s about legacy, community, and the courage to keep moving forward. As Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Shreya Mehta is the Founder of MergeX, a private market intelligence platform providing EBITDA multiples, industry KPIs and valuation benchmarking data across 100+ verticals. Her work sits at the intersection of M&A advisory, deal intelligence, and financial data infrastructure. She specializes in business valuation, private market M&A trends, exit strategy, and what drives valuation multiples across industries, giving founders and business owners access to data that was previously only available inside investment banks and PE firms.

I'm an early Bitcoin investor. Went all in. Originally worked in video games, built my expertise there, then transferred into angel investing. Caught a windfall on gamestop. Three so far successful angel investments, I have a good understanding of market infrastructure. I'm now using that windfall to drive an AI agent firm to mix it with cryptocurrency. And this combination, when these two technologies start to mix, there's going to be absolute fireworks. I actually don't think the world is ready for when agents start hiring people, paying them, buying goods and services. There's a full agentic economy and capital markets that we're building. The future is pretty wild with these technologies. I know not a lot of people take them seriously, but it is going to be such a wild ride. Notable accomplishments: I'd have to say the biggest one is investing in Bitcoin in 2012. Business is new, but it has paying delighted customers.

Ian is a senior associate within KPMG’s Finance Strategy group with a focus on driving performance improvement, integration, and diligence efforts for both private equity and strategic clients. His experience centers around performing functional capability assessments to advise clients on how to develop and manage Finance strategies. Ian also helps clients across industries achieve financial and operational goals through target organization design and operating model development, cost takeout analyses, and process redesign.