Join us for breakfast in the Executive Dining Hall before the conference

Welcome Remarks: Michigan Ross ETA Leadership

Keynote: Jeff Stevens // Managing Director, Anacapa Partners

Explore different ETA models, including traditional search, independent sponsor, self-funded, and accelerator models. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each model, as well as the skills and resources required for success in each variation.

Moderator: Dave Hiemstra, Ross ETA Lecturer

Panelists: Sarah Andrews, Live Oak Bank | Timothy Bovard, Search Fund Accelerator | Sam Hyde, Circle Surrogacy

Gain insights into essential decision-making aspects, including knowing when to pull the plug on a potential acquisition, effectively identifying serious sellers, and making informed choices when selecting and preparing for industry conferences.

Moderator: Stephen Goddard, Kamylon

Panelists: Clay Brownlee, Boulay | Peter Ciaverilla, Sharon’s Heating & Air Conditioning | Jessica Liang, Steadfeather Capital

We will be highlighting affinity search groups and will have speakers talk about the communities they build in the ETA ecosystem.

Black Search Network // Jason Jackson, Futaleufu Partners

Women’s Search Network // Tatiana Gaspar, Next Coast ETA

Hispanic Search Network // Julien Ham-Ying, Mosaic ETA

Asian Search Network // Jessica Liang, Steadfeather Capital

Delve into the most impactful strategies for enhancing value that drives revenue and profitable growth. Utilizing case studies, we will analyze methods such as process optimization, product development, or the integration of bolt-on acquisitions.

Moderator: Michael Abdella, LineDrive

Panelists: Thomas Askew Jr., Promise Venture Fund | Micah Smith, Ethos Risk Services | Jonathan Dunn, Cerbo

Develop proficiency in workforce management by creating solid management frameworks, employing best practices in recruitment, making informed decisions about terminations, and mastering the art of talent development.

Moderator: Jason Jackson , Futaleufu Partners

Panelists: Ned Tomasevic, Toma Capital Management | Liza Cherney, Pacific Lake | Alex Rosenau, CrossFire Group & MedNational Staffing

Enjoy a short break before the remaining afternoon sessions

Explore the intricate legal aspects of ETA. This session addresses common challenges in ETA, including due diligence complexities, adept contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and risk management strategies. It emphasizes essential legal considerations such as intellectual property protection, employee transition, and post-acquisition compliance, vital for the success of ETA entrepreneurs.

Moderator: Monica Kwok, Goodwin

Panelists: Brian Axelrad, HMB Law | Kevin Henderson, SMB Law | Raam Jani, BakerHostetler

Explore the leadership qualities and strategies required to navigate challenges, crises, and economic turbulence in the ETA context. Discuss crisis management, adaptability, and the importance of maintaining stakeholder confidence during difficult periods.

Moderator: Mia Jackson, Athari Partners

Panelists: Tony Boden, Chase Creative | Tony Ehrbar, American Tent & Renegade Plastics | Tatiana Gaspar, Next Coast ETA

A wrap-up to a day of learning and forging relationships