BUSINESS BROKERS - Key Persons
Refai is a high-performing professional with deep expertise in scaling customer relationships generating revenue through customer-focused business development efforts. He is a trusted advisor to clients with global expertise creating new business opportunities, producing significant expansion for existing customers, new clients, and business partners. He engages with key decision-makers and sets an exit plan strategy for qualified sellers.
Refai graduated with a BA in Electrical Engineering from Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport in Egypt and held an MBA in International Business from Lincoln University, CA. Also, he completed Marketing Metrics and ROI program at UC Berkeley. Multilingual with proficiency in English and Arabic. In his spare time, he loves playing tennis and running.
Professional Affiliations:
MBA, State & National Panel of Consumer Arbitrators, USDA Certified. BRE#01951410
Job Titles:
- Professional Affiliations
Carol is a graduate of N.C. State University and holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and an MBA. Prior to moving to the Bay Area in 2005, Carol worked for Air Products & Chemicals (Sr International Project Manager in Asia) and pursued an MBA in Finance/Chinese, where she spent time in China (1994-1996). She eventually moved to Zurich, Switzerland working for Sulzer Group, a major Swiss Conglomerate for 10 years - ultimately managing their Mergers & Acquisition/Strategy department. In this capacity, Carol was responsible for all of the acquisitions and divestitures of the company - ranging from small business spin-offs to large scale game-changing divestitures & acquisitions. After returning to the USA, Carol set about building her personal brand and network, primarily working in real estate in the hot California market. After obtaining her broker license, Carol has thoroughly enjoyed applying her extensive merger and acquisition experience in matching business buyers and sellers - and closing the deal with satisfied parties. She is a high energy professional with in-depth business, transaction and industrial experience.
David was born and raised on the Oregon coast. As he entered his teenage years he began to realize how dependent the town he grew up in was on two industries, timber and fishing. Both industries went down which caused many other businesses in the area to collapse also. David went on to run his own construction company for over 10 years. Due to these circumstances, David's main goal was to help other business owners avoid what he experienced. In 2019 he joined Business Team. He now has the opportunity to help owners. Whether you are looking to sell and exit. Or expand through acquisition, David is here to guide you through your journey. David has two daughters, Jayla and Shelby, and enjoys working out, attending sports events and camping.
Dmytro Shkola, a Ukrainian entrepreneur with a background in management, marketing, and administration. Dmytro brings a successful track record in founding and operating businesses across e-commerce, finance, and services industries. As a business broker at BTI, Dmytro employs a strategic, data-driven approach to facilitate a seamless process for business owners in the sale of their companies. Beyond BTI, he plays a key role in business administration at a Fortune 50 technology company, supporting multiple executives and their teams globally. Dmytro's broader mission centers on fostering innovation and helping people unlock their potential through business ownership; promoting the thriving spirit of free enterprise! Contact Dmytro if you're considering selling your business.
Professional Affiliations:
Team Leader and Managing Director-Washington
, Certified Business Broker, California Real Estate Broker
Flora has been in business brokerage for 19 years. She has helped buyers and sellers of businesses in the Central Coast areas of Monterey, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and San Benito Counties. She also specializes in investment properties and commercial leasing. Flora has a BS degree in nursing from the University of Cal. at San Francisco. She is a Certified Business Broker and has served on the California Business Brokers Board of Directors for 2 years.
Job Titles:
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary
- Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary
Professional Affiliations:
IBBA, M&A Source, ACG, Calif. Licensed Real Estate Broker
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder and past Chairman of the California Association
Professional Affiliations:
Professional Affiliations: IBBA (past board member), CABB (past president)
Ian MacLachlan received his B.S. in Physics from San Jose University. He founded Grand Prix, a manufacturer and mail-order business for specialty motorcycle parts as well as a chain of Kawasaki dealerships. In 1977 GPC was the largest chain of Kawasaki dealerships in the U.S. After selling GPC through a business broker, he became involved in the business brokerage industry founding Business Team -the largest business brokerage firm in the Western United States. Business Team has arranged the sale of over 7000 companies to date.
Ian is a co-founder and past chairman of the California Association of Business Brokers, has previously served on the Board of Directors of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), and is a frequent speaker at IBBA conventions. He is also a member of M&A Source.
He has been qualified as an expert witness in business valuation and standard of care by the California Superior Court.
Professional Affiliations:
Background/Experience:
Job Titles:
- Business Broker With Business Team
Professional Affiliations:
California Association of Business Brokers, International Business Brokers Association
Jeffrey Tait has been a business broker with Business Team for more than 15 years. He has a Bachelor's degree in Economics with a minor in Business Administration. Before joining Business Team he was the top producing salesperson at three different staffing and technical consulting firms. He has been involved in the sale of hundreds of retail, service, manufacturing and distribution businesses. He is the Manager of Business Team's Southern California operations. In addition to his own production, he is responsible for recruiting, training and managing our associates; ensuring that the office runs smoothly; and ensuring that every Business Team client is treated in a courteous and professional manner. He also teaches Business Team's Business Brokerage Training Course and the California Association of Business Brokers CABB 101 Business Broker Training course.
Professional Affiliations:
California DRE Real Estate Sales License, California DBW Yacht & Ship Sales License
Jim Marshall is an experienced business leader with core competencies in company formation and leadership, business turnarounds, mergers and acquisitions, primarily in high-technology product development and manufacturing industries. Following a successful career of more than 36 years in the microelectronics and semiconductor equipment industry, Mr. Marshall purchased and operated a durable medical equipment business which he sold in 2012. Jim joined Business Team in the Pleasant Hill office in January 2013. Mr. Marshall received his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Mechanical Engineering, with Honors from Stanford University. He began his career as a Mechanical Engineer at Hewlett-Packard Company in Palo Alto, CA. Mr. Marshall advanced his career through engineering and product management roles into general management and senior management, working for several companies including Hewlett-Packard Labs, Eaton Semiconductor Equipment, Applied Materials (AMAT), American Semiconductor Equipment (ASET), MESA Technology, Silicon Valley Group (SVG), Plasma & Materials Technology (PMAT), Matrix Integrated Systems, Vitex Systems, American Integration Technologies(AIT) and Berkeley Process Control. Since 1988, Mr. Marshall has held positions as Chief Operating Officer, President, CEO and Chairman at the various companies he has served. During his career, Jim has served in senior management positions at three start-up companies, co-founding one firm (MESA) and helping lead another (PMAT) to and through a successful initial public offering. Jim has also been tapped to lead turnaround efforts at three companies, guiding one company (ASET) through an orderly wind-down of operations and leading another (Matrix) through a successful recapture of competitive market position driven by new products over a seven year period and two industry downturns ultimately leading to a merger with Axcelis (ACLS). As a small business owner, Mr. Marshall has direct hands-on experience in the acquisition, management and sale of a business encompassing both asset purchase and stock sale transactions. At Business Team, Mr. Marshall has leveraged his extensive business background and experience in mergers and acquisitions to assist both buyers and sellers in the purchase and sale of businesses.
With over 13 years of successful business sales experience within the medical and dental industries, Joel worked within the staffing and recruiting industries for 3 years and ran his own successful headhunting firm. Previously, he successfully worked within distribution companies, working on many aspects of the business. Joel holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Fresno State University. He believes that every action taken regarding a business should be to help grow the business at all levels. Joel has earned a top 10 ranking recognition brokerage-wide within Business Team for the past several years. Contact Joel so he can help you sell your business.
Job Titles:
- Business Development Consultant from Sacramento
Joe is a versatile business development consultant from Sacramento, CA, with extensive experience in the bedding, manufacturing, retail, and coworking industries. His expertise spans from product development in bedding to streamlining manufacturing processes, enhancing retail operations, and fostering innovative coworking spaces. Joe's hands-on approach and industry knowledge enable him to deliver customized strategies that drive growth and profitability for businesses in these sectors. Partner with Joe to leverage his diverse background for your company's success.
Professional Affiliations:
California Association of Real Estate Brokers
Karishma has decades of combined business financial accounting and experience. Karishma holds a bachelor's degree in business from California State University Sacramento and is a licensed CPA. Karishma, through her finance and accounting background, analyses the value of a client's company. Karishma utilizes her analytical skills to present written comprehensive business reports and financial performance reviews.
Professional Affiliations:
California Dept of Real Estate License #01353677
Lara Larkin is a Business Broker Associate in Business Team's Roseville office, located in the beautiful Sacramento Valley. She helps business owners create and implement a plan for their business, so that it may live on long after the owner retires. With over 30 years of accounting and finance experience, Lara brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Her background enables her to pay meticulous attention to the numerous details involved in selling a business, ensuring accurate financial calculations and meeting all timelines. Lara's strong work ethic was cultivated during her upbringing on an Oregon farm, where she, as the eldest of four daughters, began working in the family business and caring for her younger siblings from a young age. She firmly believes in delivering exceptional service and professionalism to her clients, striving for a job well done. Lara's passion lies in assisting business owners in reaping the maximum rewards for their years of dedicated effort, preserving the benefits their business brings to the community, and leaving a lasting legacy for the business owner.
Job Titles:
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary
- Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary
Lee Allen has a B.A. Degree from Boston College and did post graduate study at Harvard, Wharton School of Business and Golden Gate University. She has 12 years of experience with top management of an international apparel firm and 9 years as owner of a West Coast manufacturing firm. She has been an Intermediary for the past 29 years and holds the designation "Certified Business Intermediary" (CBI) and "Mergers & Acquisition Master Intermediary" (M&AMI).
Professional Affiliations:
IBBA, M&A Source, ACG, Calif. Licensed Real Estate Broker
Leo has a B.S. degree in business from Edgewood College, Madison, WI, 10 years of corporate management experience as well as 20+ years as a seasoned business owner as Founder & CEO of several companies. With a solid background in accounting and finance, Leo brings critical insight to business owners looking to sell their businesses. Leo has represented sellers in multiple industries on large transactions, representing multi-million dollar paydays for his clients. Leo is a husband & father, author, speaker, and serial entrepreneur, a voracious reader, 80's music fanatic, and travel enthusiast.
Professional Affiliations:
California Association of Business Brokers (CABB). BRE# 01377688
Lloyd brings over 20 years of experience in finance and marketing to BTI Group. As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), he developed expertise in the investment analysis and decision-making process while managing a portfolio of investments for pension funds and high-net-worth individuals. During this time, he was involved in formulating the exit planning strategy and funding numerous privately-held small and mid-market companies. Lloyd went on to establish a digital marketing agency that focused on growing revenue for local businesses. He's founded, acquired, and sold several companies as an owner or partner in the insurance, finance, marketing, tech, and laundromat industries. Lloyd's unique background combining finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship combined with his sales, negotiation, process development, and communication skills allows him to navigate and manage the business brokerage process for the benefit of his clients.
Mani is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in business and entrepreneurship. At Business team )BTI), he has been instrumental in the M&A space of small to mid-sized companies. His extensive experience spans over 30 years, during which he has consistently demonstrated a knack for building and growing profitable businesses.
Prior to his current role, Mani played a pivotal role in two technology start-up companies. Notably, one of these ventures was successfully acquired, while the other achieved a milestone by going public through a successful IPO. Mani's entrepreneurial spirit doesn't stop there - he ventured into the culinary world by opening a chain of successful restaurants in the SF Bay Area. After a decade of running these establishments, he successfully sold them with the assistance of Business team (BTI).
One of Mani's key strengths lies in his profound understanding of the intricacies involved in building and selling businesses. His hands-on experience and expertise make him a valuable asset in guiding sellers and buyers to make informed choices during the acquisition or sale of their businesses. Mani's track record speaks volumes about his ability to navigate the business landscape, ensuring not just profitability but also successful exits through strategic sales
Maty Guiza' has been intricately involved in the financial services industry as a liaison to business and high-net-worth clients for over 20 years. Her expertise includes executive-level C-Suite roles within the private Real Estate investment sector. Her experience includes commercial and residential portfolio management. Ms. Guiza has also held the position of Trustee, Board President, and Financial Officer. Her experience and professionalism offer reliability and dependability to business owners through the sale or succession planning process. Ms. Guiza is a board member of the Orange County Association of Realtors, Institute of Real Estate Management, Chambers of Commerce throughout Orange County and Los Angeles, Mentor at real estate brokerages for agents a member of various councils, and additional various affiliations.
‘Maty Guiza' has been intricately involved in the financial services industry as a liaison to business clients for over 20 years. She has a diverse and comprehensive educational background with a bachelor's degree from California State University Long Beach where Ms. Guiza remains involved. Ms. Guiza is a candidate for the MBA program at Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. Her expertise includes executive level C-Suite roles in private companies. Additionally, Ms. Guiza has held vice-president roles in fortune 100 banks as a business banker, private banker, relationship manager, commercial credit underwriter and licensed securities broker. Credited with extensive formal knowledge, Ms. Guiza has also held the position of trustee, Board President, and Financial Officer. Ms. Guiza currently owns her real estate brokerage and is responsible for the day-to-day operations as well as the property management needs of her clients. As a Business Broker with Business Team, Ms. Guiza exclusively works with privately held companies interested in selling or buying. Her experience and professionalism offer reliability and dependability to business owners through the sale or succession planning process. Ms. Guiza is board member to the Orange County Association of Realtors, Institute of Real Estate Management, Chambers of Commerce throughout Orange County and Los Angeles, member of various councils and additional various affiliations. License information under Matilde Guiza-Leimert.
Michael has had a progressive career in diverse entrepreneurial and corporate industries. Specialist in purchasing, materials/logistics, and administrative planning and process improvement. Strong points- initiative, persistence, and innovative problem-solving. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills which help him focus on understanding his client's goals. Michael holds a Bachelors Degree from CSU Hayward in Political Science.
With an extensive career spanning 15 years in the challenging world of perishable commodities, I bring a unique blend of experience and insight. While my roots lie in the cut flower industry, my professional journey has also led me to navigate a wide spectrum of industries, mastering the art of sales and acquisitions. This diverse background has honed my skills in procurement, sales strategy, and operational excellence, providing me with a comprehensive perspective on the intricacies of business transactions. My commitment to facilitating successful business deals extends to both seasoned business owners looking to sell and first-time buyers seeking opportunities. I am here to guide you through the complex landscape of buying or selling a business, drawing from my wealth of experience in diverse industries. Whether you are in perishable commodities or any other sector, trust in my dedication and expertise to deliver tailored solutions that drive success. Together, we'll explore the possibilities of the business world, where every transaction is a chance for growth and innovation.
Professional Affiliations:
Background/Experience:
Job Titles:
- Professional Affiliations
Raymond brings over 30 years of financial and operations experience in a variety of roles including FINRA Registered Options Principal S4, General Principal S24, Financial and Operations Principal S27, Investment Banking Principal S79, Chief Compliance Officer, CFO, Board Member, Principal Broker, Managing Director and Managing Partner. Raymond utilizes his knowledge and experience to collect, quantify, analyze then effectively communicate the value of a client company through clearly written comprehensive business reports and precise financial performance reviews. A UCLA graduate and Principal Broker in Oregon managing the PNW offices, he readily collaborates with myriad business leaders in his vast network to expand the universe of potential buyers for his client companies. Raymond also represents strategic buyers in unsolicited acquisition attempts. https://business.google.com/reviews/l/06660000547138356120
Paul is an experienced business broker and financial professional. He has degrees in accounting, computer information systems and an MBA from CSU Stanislaus. Paul excels in eliminating sticking points and deal breakers, by quantifying and mitigating negotiation differences in perceptions. To have a successful business transaction call (209) 499-5863 or email thebizbroker@gmail.com.
Paul is an experienced business intermediary that has helped business sellers and buyers across many different industries. He has an understanding of the challenges that both business sellers and buyers face. He is committed to making the business ownership transfer process smooth and effective for all parties involved. He has the ability to quickly identify deal sticking points and come up with innovative solutions to resolve them, creating win-win deals for both seller and buyer. In addition to being a business intermediary, he has many years of experience in Finance and Accounting in various roles. His corporate experience includes the position of a Senior Corporate Accountant and later as a Senior Financial Analyst. He also worked as a stockbroker (Registered Representative) for Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. During that wide range of financial experience, he has analyzed financials of businesses for many different purposes and from different perspectives. That experience provides valuable insights into strategic and financial decision making for buyers and sellers. Paul has multiple college degrees from CSU Stanislaus, including MBA with distinction; Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting; Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems. He also is certified in Data Science from Johns Hopkins University.
Raymond brings over 30 years of financial and operations experience in a variety of roles including FINRA Registered Options Principal S4, General Principal S24, Financial and Operations Principal S27, Investment Banking Principal S79, Chief Compliance Officer, CFO, Board Member, Principal Broker, Managing Director and Managing Partner.
Professional Affiliations:
California Association of Real Estate Brokers
Ricardo boasts a rich 15-year tenure in the real estate industry, honing his expertise in purchasing, renovating, and marketing properties. Augmenting his practical experience, he holds a minor in real estate, underscoring his profound comprehension of the field. His keen interest in anthropology and diversity equips him with the invaluable ability to engage effectively with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Renowned for his tenacity, Ricardo is resolute and driven, delving deep into research until he uncovers solutions to his clients' dilemmas. This unwavering determination stands as a remarkable asset, ensuring unparalleled service to his clientele.
Robert is a graduate of the University of Maryland and holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. In his 25 year sales career he has closed deals totaling more than $135M in revenue across a variety of industries including software, computer hardware, automotive, telecommunications, healthcare and financial services. His current listings include construction, hazardous materials management, animal care, commercial equipment repair, and commercial cleaning services.
Job Titles:
- Business Owner
- Senior Manager
Ron Centers is a seasoned business owner and senior manager with extensive experience in small business start-up, planning, marketing, and operations. Ron graduated with honors from California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration, Marketing. Before starting his own retail and restaurant businesses, Ron had 10 years of experience as a Director and Product Marketing Manager for computer software and services companies. With 20+ years of direct experience in franchising, retail, and restaurant management, Ron understands the challenges of today's small family-owned businesses and enjoys working with firms in all industries. Since 2009, Ron has represented and sold a variety of businesses in the Central Valley to include: Restaurants, Bars, Auto Repair, Grocery Stores, Dry Cleaners, Licensed Contractors, Retail Stores, Machine Shops, Light Manufacturing, Mail Services, Coffee Shops, Bakeries, Liquor Stores, and Gas Stations.
Professional Affiliations:
Project Management Institute
Scott is a serial entrepreneur who has owned a dozen small businesses. He understands what it takes to start and grow a business, including both independent and franchise operations. He has used business brokers to buy and sell a small business and brings this invaluable perspective to sellers embarking on a journey that is often the culmination of a life's work. Scott previously pursued dual careers. He retired as a Captain of the U.S. Navy Reserve after 30 years of honorable service. As a helicopter pilot he sailed on ships of the Pacific Fleet and was forward deployed to the Persian Gulf for Operations Desert Shield/Storm. After active duty, Scott commanded five Navy Reserve units and was recalled to active duty for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. In his civilian career Scott is a self-styled "transportation guy" with experience in all modes of transportation. He built a diverse transportation services company that operated two shortline freight railroads and provided ancillary services in track and bridge repair, locomotive and railcar maintenance, and supply chain logistics. Prior to his rail industry stint, he was head of sales and marketing for two international aviation services companies. Scott has a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Mexico and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). He applies all the best practices of the Project Management industry in achieving the goals of business owners he represents - getting the best value in the most confidential manner and closing the sale of your business.
After obtaining his PhD degree in biology and Immunology, Serge worked for three years as a Senior Product Manager/Marketing Manager for Glaxo Smith Kline plc, a major British multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. Later, Serge became interested in clinical trials and worked for twenty-eight years as a Senior Quality Control Manager for multiple pharmaceutical and biotech companies of various sizes - ranging from giant companies like Amgen and Baxter to smaller companies. Serge also owned a consulting business, which allowed him to work on a contract basis later in his career. Serge's job consisted of overseeing the conduct of clinical trials at clinical sites in the US to ensure the studies at the clinics were performed in compliance with the FDA requirements. Besides extensively traveling all over the territory of the US, Serge also traveled to Canada. The following were Serge's core responsibilities, which sometimes varied to include additional responsibilities depending on each company's rules:
Identifying and assessing the suitability of clinical trial sites.
Selecting investigators for trial site responsibilities.
Conducting site initiation visits to prepare trial sites for subject enrollment.
Training site staff on trial-specific industry standards.
Monitoring trials by regularly visiting sites and effectively managing issues.
Verifying and ensuring timely data entry (Source Data/Document Verification).
Documenting visit reports, confirmation and follow-up letters.
Attending study team meetings and liaising with internal teams, investigators, and sponsors.
Conducting study termination visits to close out site activities.
The upside of Serge's work was that it ensured patients' safety and contributed to obtaining reliable data used by the FDA. The downside of this work was that Serge was a "road warrior" traveling extensively in the US and Canada Monday through Friday every week. In many cases, Serge had to leave Sunday night in order to be at a clinic on Monday. This was a truly grueling schedule. On top of this, Serge had to deal with large volumes of complicated paperwork, such as reviewing clinical research documentation at sites and writing site visit reports while being on the road. This job was also extremely stressful because of the pressure to constantly meet numerous deadlines, dealing with difficult personalities at the clinics, and many other aspects. Not being willing to sustain this stressful lifestyle any longer, in 2019, Serge decided to become a business broker and obtained his real estate license. Many aspects of Serge's previous career became useful in his new career, i.e., dealing with various personalities of sellers and buyers as well as dealing with documentation.
Susan Costa has been a business professional for thirty+ years. She worked for Business Team in 2019 and 2020 and has recently returned. She has an MBA from the University of California and graduated with honors. As such, she enjoys helping business owners buy and sell businesses. In her free time, she enjoys golf, pickleball, and gardening.
Wen is a licensed Business Broker and a Merger & Acquisition Advisor. Wen works closely with business owners of manufacturing, distribution and service companies in various industries: Property Management & Services, Garment, Auto, Medical Equipment, Freight & Logistics and etc..
No matter the size of the transaction Wen always treats each project with the same devotion, giving her best with integrity and professionalism. Her problem-solving skills and persistence allow for smooth transactions with fairness to all parties. Wen's most recent closings include a major national brand truck/trailer manufacturer in the West Coast, a long-established Torrance auto parts distribution company, a Riverside property service firm, a LA screen printing company, and a freight trucking business near LAX.
Wen holds MBA degree from Univ. of IL at Chicago, has strong banking and accounting background both in China and the States before becoming a Business Broker in 2014, and has been helping many overseas clients in acquisition deals due to her Bilingual (English/Chinese) skills, experience in business valuations, and her understanding of Asian business culture and the overseas clients' funding situation.
Wen loves being a business broker for not just connecting the paths of her own diversified past, but also connecting various professionals from different fields and locality. She is a believer and participant that business connects people and builds great community.