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Summary

How do Family Offices make strategic acquisitions that stand out in the competitive world of M&A? 

Fasten your seatbelts because we’re about to dive deep into the journey of James Carey. Imagine starting your career in mortgage banking, only to find yourself working alongside the legendary Wayne Huizenga at his family office. From there, the journey takes you through the corridors of HIG and Peterson Partners, finally landing you at NextSparc, a family office where James currently sits as a partner. This isn't just another career story; it's a masterclass in the art of deal-making.

James Carey reveals the nuanced dance between private equity and family offices, shedding light on the unmatched flexibility and personal touch that family offices bring to the table. With their own capital at stake, these entities can structure deals with a level of creativity and agility that’s hard to find elsewhere. But it’s not just about the money – James will tell you that relationships are the lifeblood of deal sourcing. Partnering with founders and entrepreneurs, building trust, and creating value are at the heart of every successful transaction.

In this riveting conversation, James shares the secrets of deal sourcing and evaluation from a family office perspective. He'll take you through their proactive approach, leveraging vast networks and collaborating with top-tier recruiting firms to unearth potential gems. Initial screenings and quick decision-making are the norm, guided by a blend of experience and razor-sharp intuition. And when it comes to due diligence, James emphasizes the paramount importance of trust and rapport with sellers.

You'll hear captivating stories of red flags and triumphs, from minority investments that exploded into rapid growth to strategic exits that define success. Plus, the critical role of industry experts and operating executives in sealing the deal. Get ready for an insider’s look at the intricate and rewarding world of M&A through the eyes of a seasoned pro.


Chapters

00:00 James Carey's Journey into the M&A World
06:37 The Difference Between Private Equity and Family Office
10:06 The Value of Relationships in Deal Sourcing
23:03 Deal Sourcing and Evaluation
24:41 The Importance of Boring Businesses
27:17 Light Data Requests in Due Diligence
28:40 Counters and Back-and-Forth in Deal Negotiation
33:14 Red Flags in Deal Evaluation
37:35 Successful Deals and Quick Exits
42:28 Involvement of Industry Experts and Operating Executives