Insights of a Maverick Exit Advisor: The diary of 12 years of investment banking in Central Europe and the United States (Maverick Series)

“Insights of a Maverick Exit Advisor” is a collection of diary notes I wrote while selling my investment banking business in Europe and moving our family to the United States, to start a new career as an exit advisor and CEO coach.

These mini essays recorded my thoughts and experiences working with over one hundred and fifty entrepreneurs and CEOs over a time span of fifteen years, advising them on growing, funding and scaling their businesses.

In most cases, they were looking to harvest the value they built up in their companies by way of selling to a private equity group or a strategic buyer. In other instances, they wanted to create more robust businesses that could be handed over to family successors or professional management teams.I hope you enjoy reading these short stories as much as I did writing them.

“Steve’s experiences and anecdotes are immediately applicable to anyone running a business. His points of view are provocative, enlightening and a lot of fun to read. This book will make you better at your business and bring a smile to your face.” -- Matt Williams, CEO, The Martin Agency

“Steve Preda has accomplished an impressive feat with a book that's full of insightful, valuable perspectives on business, while presenting a vulnerable look into his own experience. This book offers something to every businessperson.”-- Clyde Northrop, Master Chair, Vistage International

“Excellent read! It brought back memories of some of my most challenging and bizarre assignments when I was advising at Matrix. I also have several takeaways that I plan to apply immediately with RTK Family Capital.”-- Jeffrey G. Moore, Former President, Matrix Capital Markets Group

“This is an entrepreneurial wisdom-book that helps you understand how to get into a business and how to create and execute an exit strategy. A senior-level graduate course in entrepreneurship, with clear examples and in simple language, that allows you to digest the theoretical ideas presented.”-- Matthew Marek, Founder and CEO, Good Neighbor Community Services

“Insights of a Maverick Exit Advisor is a straight-to-the-heart diary of an investment banker. Steve's style is honest, transparent, and raw, and each of his essays contains valuable lessons from start-up founders to the most experienced CEOs. If you are interested in buying, selling, or starting a business, this is a must read. No need to learn these lessons the hard way when you have Steve's insights to light your path.”-- Ryann Lofchie, CEO, Frontier Academy; Owner, The Frontier Project

“Whether you are considering becoming an entrepreneur, growing your company, being a better leader, or exiting your business, you'll find insights, inspiration and value throughout the book. Mr. Preda's style is straightforward, honest and often bold. The book can be a quick read or you can chew on the words, reflect and revisit chapters. I encourage every entrepreneur to read this book.”-- Terry Fink, CEO, Planet Central

“Steve's unique international background and diverse group of clients make 'Insights … ' an intriguing read. From creating the business you have long been thinking about, to growing it and then to cashing out, Steve covers ideas, concerns and things to watch out for. An enjoyable and thought-provoking read no matter where you are on your own business timeline”-- Mark A. Smith, Owner, Midas of Central Virginia

“Welcome addition to other successful business strategy resources. The golden nuggets embedded in Steve's experience are priceless and his practical advice is a solid foundation for any business owner considering a sale or even the “what next” when dealing with a business transition plan.”-- Jeri Turley, President, BCG Companies