Todd Manderfield, vice president, Spire Capital Advisors
Name: Todd Manderfield
Title: Vice President
Company: Spire Capital Advisors
City of Residence: Muskego
Family: Dana (wife)
How does the market look to you? "We are seeing a good amount of activity. On the sell side, business owners we speak with can best be described as cautious with regard to the volatility of the economy. On the buy-side, private-equity groups and strategic buyers are being proactive and are searching for acquisitions that make sense. Deals are getting done, although they may be taking a bit longer."
What are you working on now? "Our firm has two transactions that should be closing in the fourth quarter. We have recently signed three new clients: an interactive media agency, a specialty foods provider, and a manufacturing company. We are also having in-depth discussions with three potential clients."
What was the best deal you’ve been involved in? "The best deal I’ve been involved in is with a new client we will be bringing to market in the next few weeks. They are a manufacturing company with a 40-year history, patented products, and a sound worldwide brand within their industry. Our buyer interest for this type of company is strong and we are excited to introduce this client to our buyer network."
What was the funniest or most interesting moment of your career? "Last month, during a meeting with potential sellers, they began by commenting, ‘We think we may be wasting your time.’ Based on their view of the volatility within the financial markets, they felt there were no M&A deals being done. Though it was an interesting way to start a meeting, it confirms the ‘perception is reality’ concept and reaffirms the need for business owners to discuss their exit strategies with their advisory team well in advance."
