A transaction is one of the most significant events in a company’s life, and the choice of adviser shapes the outcome. The right one earns their fee many times over; the wrong one can cost value and time. Here is what matters.
Relevant experience
Look for a team with genuine experience in transactions like yours — your size, your sector, your market. Experience is what allows an adviser to anticipate where deals stall and to guide you around the pitfalls.
Senior involvement
Ask who will actually run your transaction day to day. In some firms, senior people win the mandate and junior people execute it. The best outcomes come from senior attention throughout.
Independence and alignment
An independent adviser, compensated largely on a successful outcome, is aligned with you. Understand how the adviser is paid and whether any other interests could influence their advice.
Trust
Finally, you will work closely with this team on a confidential, high-stakes process. Choose people you trust, who communicate clearly, and who treat your business as carefully as you do.