Hidden Value, Hidden Risk: The Critical Role of IP in M&A
Presented By: McAndrews
In transactions involving technology and intellectual property, value and risk are often two sides of the same asset. This session explores how buyers, sellers, and advisors identify, assess, and mitigate risks tied to proprietary technology, data, and other intangible assets. Hear perspectives from an experienced CEO, an investor who views IP as a core value driver, and an IP attorney who advises companies on protecting their assets and preparing for technology-focused transactions.
Moderator:
Content Manager
Smart Business Network Inc.
Courtney Novak is a Content Manager at Smart Business Network, where she builds dynamic panel discussions across the United States and recruits high-level speakers, attendees, and Dealmakers. Previously, she was a Content Producer at S&P Global, collaborating with media outlets worldwide to share S&P insights and host market commentary videos. She began her career at the American Stock Exchange and has also held positions at ESPN and NBC News. Outside the office, Courtney volunteers with her children’s organizations and enjoys the “quiet, stress-free” challenge of convincing her two kids that life exists beyond their iPads.
Panelists:
Owner & CEO
Chartwell Groupe
Vinny is a transformational CEO with a proven record of driving EBITDA expansion, operational turnarounds, and successful exits in metals, defense, and industrial platforms. Brings full P&L ownership, disciplined operating systems, and leadership depth to scale businesses rapidly and position them for high-multiple exits within 2–5 years. Retired fighter pilot who brings out the best in the team.
President & Shareholder
McAndrews, Held & Malloy
Robert Surrette is a Shareholder and serves as President of McAndrews. He focuses his practice on the resolution of intellectual property and technology-related disputes with an emphasis on patent, trademark, trade secret and trade dress litigation. For the last 20 years, Bob has counseled a leading global medical device manufacturer on numerous litigation and transactional matters.
Co-Founder & CEO
Elemental Enzymes
Brian Thompson, Ph.D., is a co-founder and CEO of Elemental Enzymes, an agbiotech company that specializes in the development and production of enzymes, peptides, proteins, and biochemistries for solutions to growers. Brian is a named inventor on over 400 patent applications. Elemental Enzymes has successfully launched 17 innovative products to address challenges such as drought, heat stress, disease mitigation, and fertilizer use efficiency.