Laurie Barkman, MBA and Certified Mergers and Acquisition Advisor, the business transition sherpa, is the former CEO of a $100 million revenue company that was sold to a Fortune 50. As a business transition and acquisition intermediary, Barkman provides a structured process for business owners to plan successful transitions of their companies and let go on their terms. She provides strategic transition planning, business valuations, sell-side, and buy-side intermediary services. Laurie is an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship at Carnegie Mellon University, and hosts the award-winning podcast Succession Stories, where she speaks with hundreds of entrepreneurs who have shared their journeys through succession. Laurie earned her MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, and Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University. She received certifications from The Alliance of Mergers and Acquisitions Advisors, The Exit Planning Institute, and The Value Builder System. www.laurie-barkman.com
"""Laurie's straight talk, illustrative stories, and clear insights will motivate you to take the next step in your personal and business journey to prepare for the next phase of your life."" - JOHN WARRILLOW, author of the Built to Sell trilogy, and founder of The Value Builder System(TM) ""Laurie Barkman provides an essential roadmap for all business leaders, particularly those contemplating the daunting challenge of transition."" - DAVID H. MCCORMICK, Former CEO, Bridgewater Associates ""This book deftly combines a practical approach with relatable stories to help you overcome challenges and drive more value in your business-a must-have book for entrepreneurs in any size organization."" - DAVID MAWHINNEY, executive director, Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship at Carnegie Mellon University ""In economic times with uncertainty, The Business Transition Handbook is the guiding light to a successful exit by a business owner."" - PAUL VISOKEY, founder and president of Stony Hill Advisors ""This book is required reading for business owners and anyone making the climb to build a company who wants to sell it one day."" - BETH ARMKNECHT MILLER, leadership coach and author of Replaceable: An Obsession with Succession ""The Business Transition Handbook is a game changer to help you win at your exit and in life. Hope is not a strategy, especially when your exit is your largest and most important financial decision."" - JEFFREY FELDBERG, co-founder Deep Wealth ""Delivers on the important topics of business transition succinctly, yet answers many if not all of the burning questions every owner should ask as they approach their own business exit."" - DANIEL G. VAN DER VLIET, executive director, Smith Family Business Initiative at Cornell University"