About This Session

Session Overview

A strong offer doesn’t always lead to a successful exit. Learn how today’s M&A market works, the different types of buyers you may encounter, and the common deal terms and tactics that can reduce your payout or derail a transaction. You’ll leave better prepared to evaluate buyers, anticipate challenges, and protect the value of your business throughout the sale process.

Practical Takeaways

What You’ll Learn

Understanding the current M&A landscape and how it affects business owners
Recognizing the differences between strategic buyers, private equity firms, independent sponsors, and direct buyers
Evaluating more than the headline purchase price
Understanding earnouts, re-trades, and other terms that can affect your final payout
Preparing for the demands and risks of due diligence
Identifying common issues that can delay or derail a transaction
Using a structured sale process to protect value and improve the likelihood of a successful exit

Session Details

Session Type

Workshop - Wealth/Exit

Date

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Time

1:20 PM

Location

Stanford

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Meet the Speaker

Samuel Smoot & Tyler Garrett

Benchmark International

Samuel Smoot is a Managing Director at Benchmark International, a global M&A advisory firm specializing in the lower middle market. During his career with Benchmark, Sam has worked with hundreds of privately held business owners as they evaluate their strategic options and prepare for one of the most significant financial and personal decisions of their lives. Having originated hundreds of sell-side M&A engagements, Sam brings extensive firsthand experience helping owners understand the M&A market, assess transaction readiness, navigate buyer interest, and identify factors that can influence the value and success of an eventual exit.

As the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Benchmark International, Tyler spearheads the development of impactful strategies across the company’s portfolio. Based in Tampa, Florida, he drives the creation of new partnerships through diverse channels, applying his expertise to acquire new clients and enhance services for existing clients. He is recognized for his adeptness in client engagement, playing a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless onboarding process throughout the transaction lifecycle. His leadership and strategic vision contribute significantly to the success of Benchmark International’s endeavors. With a wealth of knowledge and experience on the sell-side of M&A, Tyler cultivates relationships that drive growth and facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships.