Navigating the M&A Process: From Preparation to a Successful Close
Presented By: Blank Rome / J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Selling a business can be one of the most consequential decisions an owner will make—and navigating the process requires careful planning at every stage. This panel brings together experienced dealmakers to examine today’s M&A environment and walk through the critical decisions sellers face along the way. From preparing the business and understanding valuation to evaluating private equity, strategic and family office buyers, negotiating key deal terms and managing diligence, learn how owners can position themselves for a successful transaction, maximize value and avoid common mistakes that can derail a deal
Moderator:
Partner
Blank Rome
Michael Swoyer concentrates his practice on general corporate and business matters. He has represented clients in connection with a wide range of corporate and commercial transactions.
As a Delaware State-barred attorney, Michael also regularly advises clients on issues related to the governance of Delaware corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships.
Prior to joining Blank Rome, Michael was an associate with a Delaware corporate transactional law firm. He also served as law clerk to former Justice Henry duPont Ridgely and Justice James T. Vaughn, Jr. of the Delaware Supreme Court.
Michael has also published several articles on various issues regarding corporate and alternative entity law.
Panelists:
President
Emmy Squared Pizza and Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group
Andrew Castano is President and General Counsel of Emmy Squared Pizza and Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group, a 56-unit restaurant group across 14 states. He was previously a partner in the hospitality practice of a national law firm, and earlier served as General Counsel and SVP of Real Estate for Emmy Squared, leading its expansion and sale to a private equity fund.
Executive Director
J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Chris Cortina is a Banker in the Philadelphia office of J.P. Morgan Private Bank. His team and he guide business owners through the complexities around the sale of their businesses, and help clients adjust to life after a transaction. His work also includes advising executives and successful families through the intricacies of financial management, while delivering the full resources of the Private Bank in a boutique fashion.
Private Investor, Board Director & Advisor; Former CEO
The Archer Group
Michael Derins is an investor, board member and advisor who has spent his career building, scaling and investing in businesses.
He was previously Partner and CEO of The Archer Group, where he helped build a small digital agency into a highly profitable, nationally recognized customer experience firm trusted by some of the world’s leading brands. Archer was acquired by Bounteous in 2020, after which Michael served on Bounteous’ Board of Directors through the company’s subsequent acquisition by New Mountain Capital.
Earlier in his career, Michael served as Executive Vice President and Co-Managing Director of Refinery, where he helped build and lead the digital agency through its strategic acquisition by WPP.
Today, Michael invests across public and private markets and serves as a board member and strategic advisor to a diverse group of companies. He works closely with founders and leadership teams on strategy, growth, capital allocation and leadership.
Michael has been an active member of YPO since 2015 and remains deeply involved in the organization.