Deals & Dealmakers Summit

Tuesday, September 1 |
Thursday, September 3, 2026

At the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

Experience the premier event for dealmaking in the wealth management industry.

Renowned leaders, professionals and experts in financial services attend and participate in ECHELON’s annual Deals & Dealmakers (DDM) Summit for in-depth conversations on the most strategic and current M&A topics within the wealth and investment management industries.

This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from 50+ industry experts, join intellectually stimulating panel sessions, and network with the industry’s leading professionals.

2025 Featured Speakers

At DDM, we don’t skim the surface—we dive deep. Expect high-impact sessions with worksheets, analysis, and visual tools, led by distinguished, often undiscovered voices with fresh insights. Every session is tailored to deliver depth, relevance, and emotional resonance.

Brooke SouthallFounder and Reporter, RIABiz

Brooke Southall

Founder and Reporter, RIABiz

Brooke Southall is the Founder and Principal of RIABiz.com, a leading digital publication covering the transformation of the financial advice industry. With over two decades of experience in financial journalism, Brooke has reported on RIAs, asset custodians, and advisor technology for outlets including Investment News and Financial Planning.

Since founding RIABiz in 2009, he has led the publication’s editorial and business strategy, ensuring it evolves alongside the rapidly changing wealth management landscape. He holds a B.A. in Economics from Trinity College.

Tray WiltseManaging Director and Wealth Advisor, Carson Wealth

Tray Wiltse

Managing Director and Wealth Advisor, Carson Wealth

Tray Wiltse is a Managing Director and Wealth Advisor at Carson Wealth in Overland Park, Kansas, with nearly three decades of experience consulting high-net-worth families and entrepreneurs on complex financial strategies. His expertise spans business succession, M&A advisory, and multi-generational wealth planning, with a deep understanding of both the technical and personal elements that drive successful outcomes.

Tray’s career has been shaped by firsthand experience: he acquired his initial interest in the RIA space in 2005 and completed that succession and acquisition in 2014. Together with his partners, he grew the firm exponentially before successfully selling and partnering with Carson Wealth in 2023.

This journey gives him uncommon perspective into the opportunities and challenges of building, scaling, and transitioning a business—insight he now shares with clients and fellow advisors navigating similar paths.

His approach to business reflects his authentic personality—personalized, thoughtful, and relationship-driven. Whether you’re engaging with Tray at the office, on the course, or over a glass of wine, you can expect a good story, strategic insight, and a few clutch tips for a steady putt.

Scott GroutenSenior Vice President-Strategic Relationship Manager, Capital Group

Scott Grouten

Senior Vice President-Strategic Relationship Manager, Capital Group

Scott Grouten is an Enterprise Growth Manager at Capital Group. He has 19 years of industry experience and has been with Capital Group for eight years. Prior to joining Capital, Scott was a vice president at American Century Investments.

Before that, he was a vice president of Corporate Retirement Plans at Voya Retirement Plans. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Scott is based in Los Angeles.

Stephanie BoganCEO, Limitless Advisor

Stephanie Bogan

CEO, Limitless Advisor

Stephanie Bogan is the founder, CEO, and Chief Possibility Officer of Limitless Advisor Coaching, a high-impact consulting and executive coaching firm dedicated to financial advisors and wealth-management leaders. A successful entrepreneur and coach, she built and sold her first consulting business, Quantuvis, in a seven-figure acquisition to a Fortune 200 company before joining its executive team to scale advisor programs nationwide. Later, as SVP at United Capital, she developed and led national practice models and client experience initiatives. In 2014, she redefined her focus—and industry impact—around mindset, combining neuroscience with business strategy to empower advisors to build thriving, fulfilling practices

Today, Stephanie runs a thriving coaching practice that enables advisors to engineer high-performance businesses and lives they love while working less. With nearly 30 years of experience, she has consulted with top firms, authored The Power of Practice Management, and writes regularly for InvestmentNews, Financial Planning, Advisor Perspectives, and Kitces.com.

Richard LofgrenManaging Director, Goldman Sachs

Richard Lofgren

Managing Director, Goldman Sachs

Richard Lofgren is a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs in the Asset & Wealth Management Division. Additionally, he has served in the US Navy for over 30 years and is currently a Rear Admiral. Richard has previous experience as a Managing Director at Schwab Advisor Services and JP Morgan and was Chief Operating Officer & Chief Compliance Officer for Capital Advisors, Inc..

He received his B.A at the University of Texas at Austin and is also a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

Jamie PricePresident & CEO, Osaic

Jamie Price

President & CEO, Osaic

Jamie Price has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Osaic since 2016. Under his leadership, the firm has transformed from a network of broker-dealer brands managing ~$150 billion in assets into a unified powerhouse overseeing approximately $700 billion in assets under administration and supporting over 11,000 advisors across the U.S.

He has spearheaded the “Journey to One” integration—bringing eight legacy broker-dealers, including Lincoln Financial’s ~$115 billion wealth management business, onto a single platform, streamlining operations and tech systems to drive scale, efficiency, and advisor support.

A seasoned industry strategist, Jamie draws on diverse leadership experience, including roles at UBS Wealth Management and Prudential Securities, to guide Osaic’s next wave of growth through strategic M&A and advisor empowerment.

He recently outlined Osaic’s AI-focused technology roadmap in Barron’s and ThinkAdvisor, positioning the firm to leverage emerging tools for advisors.

Jared BaucomManaging Director, Cerulli Associates

Jared Baucom

Managing Director, Cerulli Associates

Jared is the Managing Director of Global Sales & Marketing at Cerulli Associates, where he leads the firm’s business development, client service, and marketing initiatives. He also co-heads Cerulli’s strategy consulting and custom research business, coordinating strategies across strategic consulting, competitive benchmarking, product development, M&A due diligence, and more—helping clients optimize growth across asset management and wealth sectors.

Earlier in his career, Jared worked as a buy-side equity research analyst at Baring Asset Management and at State Street Bank. A University of Missouri–Columbia graduate with dual degrees in Finance and Economics, he brings a blend of analytical rigor and client-focused leadership that has fueled Cerulli’s expansion in global sales and market intelligence.

Shannon RosicDirector, Informa

Shannon Rosic

Director, Informa

Shannon Rosic is Director of WealthStack Content & Solutions at Informa Connect, where she leads omni channel growth and development for WealthStack—Informa’s premier event focused on wealth-management technology. In this role since December 2022, Shannon serves as the market-facing representative for wealthmanagement.com, regularly moderating webinars, podcasts, and video series to spotlight emerging fintech and digital transformation themes in the industry.

With over a decade of wealthtech-focused marketing and content experience—previously known as “Gadget Girl” at InvestmentNews—her expertise spans brand storytelling, digital media, and multimedia production. A graduate of Miami University (B.A. in Mass Communication), Shannon is a recognized voice in the space: she hosts The WealthStack Podcast and often moderates high-profile conferences.

Chris FriedenPartner, Alston & Bird

Chris Frieden

Partner, Alston & Bird

Chris Frieden is a Partner in Alston & Bird’s Atlanta office, a member of the firm’s Partners Committee, and former co‑chair of its national Financial Services Group. With more than 100 wealth management and investment advisory transactions since 2020—including mergers, recapitalizations, and minority investments—he guides banks, broker‑dealers, RIAs, and private equity clients through high‑value deals and corporate restructurings.

Chris has played lead counsel roles in transactions exceeding $7 billion—such as a $3 billion RIA recapitalization, $1 billion private equity recapitalization, and over $230 million in standalone RIA M&A.

He also advises on SEC reporting, corporate governance, joint ventures, and new business formation in the financial services arena.

Recognized as a top industry adviser, Chris is listed in Best Lawyers in America for Financial Services Regulation and M&A Law, was named “Financial Services Dealmaker of the Year (Middle Market)” in The Deal Awards (2021), and earned accolades from Chambers USA and Super Lawyers (“Georgia Rising Star”). He also served as an adjunct professor at Emory University School of Law (2001–2008), teaching M&A law, and contributes to high-profile industry transactions—including multiple RIA platform rollups on behalf of clients like Hightower and national multifamily office.

Matt MatrisianPresident, SEIA

Matt Matrisian

President, SEIA

Matt Matrisian is President of Signature Estate & Investment Advisors (SEIA), a Los Angeles-based registered investment advisor overseeing over $30 billion in assets. Effective April 28, 2025, he joined SEIA from AssetMark—where he led growth initiatives and helped scale AUM from $20 billion to $140 billion—bringing more than 15 years of experience in M&A, advisor engagement, and practice expansion.

In his role, Matt co-leads national expansion, focusing on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, while enhancing advisor infrastructure—particularly in estate, tax and financial planning services.

A seasoned industry strategist, Matt’s appointment comes as SEIA reports record-breaking 30% AUA growth in 2024—spurred by a $2 billion acquisition and continued advisor and staff hires.

With a strong M&A background and a vision centered on scalable, relationship-driven growth, Matt is instrumental in SEIA’s evolution into a top-tier national wealth management platform.

David MainzerShareholder, Buchalter

David Mainzer

Shareholder, Buchalter

David E. Mainzer is a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Los Angeles Corporate Practice Group, focusing exclusively on the investment management industry. With over 25 years of experience, he regularly serves as outside general counsel to investment managers, wealth managers, broker–dealers, and private fund sponsors, including portfolio investments, securities offerings, regulatory compliance, tax, and employment law. He has represented dozens of wealth managers and other investment managers in M&A transactions.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Mainzer served as General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of Amerindo Investment Advisors, Inc., an investment management firm with offices in New York, San Francisco, and London, and $8 billion in assets under management. There, he was responsible for managing all of the firm’s legal affairs, including risk management, regulatory compliance, outside counsel, and the structuring and legal management of the firm’s hedge funds, mutual funds, and separately managed accounts. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Nikolee TurnerDirector, Charles Schwab

Nikolee Turner

Director, Charles Schwab

Nikolee Turner is a Director of Business Consulting at Charles Schwab’s Advisor Services, where she supports RIA firms in strategic growth, M&A preparation, and operational excellence. Since 2013, Nikolee has led the Business Consulting team, delivering insights that help advisory leaders align talent, foster culture, and execute complex transactions—recently appearing on RIA Channel to explain Schwab’s three-phase M&A framework: Envision, Prepare, and Connect.

Her data-driven counsel, including findings showing firms that define their “ideal client” attract 45% more assets, reflects her ability to turn research into actionable business strategy.

A thought leader and industry voice, Nikolee regularly publishes guidance on mentorship, employee retention, and equity ownership, underscoring Schwab’s core belief that “Your People Are Your Most Important Asset”. With her background in education (MEd) and business (MBA), she combines academic rigor, coaching expertise, and consulting savvy to guide firms toward sustainable success. Whether through live speaking engagements or Schwab’s benchmarking studies, Nikolee empowers advisors to invest in talent, cultivate culture, and scale effectively.

Linda Paullin-HebdenPartner, Warner, Norcross + Judd

Linda Paullin-Hebden

Partner, Warner, Norcross + Judd

Linda Paullin‑Hebden, Partner at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, co‑chairs the firm’s national Mergers & Acquisitions Practice Group and serves on the management committee. With over 35 years of experience, she leads complex transactions across industries—including automotive, financial institutions, private equity, and venture capital—ranging from equity sales over $100 million to strategic fund formation and adviser compliance. A seasoned dealmaker, she guided 14 M&A deals in 2023 (nine closed that year, two in early 2024, and three pending) and was named ACG® Detroit All‑Star Advisor of the Year. Linda’s national practice is rooted in her ability to “speak the language” of broker-dealers and RIAs, earning her recognition such as “Notable Women Lawyers in Michigan” and repeated listings in Best Lawyers in America.

Beyond deal execution, Linda is a trusted advisor on SEC compliance, cybersecurity, fund formation, and joint ventures. She frequently speaks at industry forums on topics like navigating AI and privacy in compliance, cross-border market entry, and evolving regulatory frameworks.

A Wayne State University Law School graduate (J.D., 1989) and Alma College alumnus, she also serves on the Detroit Regional Chamber Board and mentors future leaders.

Andrew MayDirector, Synovus

Andrew May

Director, Synovus

Andrew May is a Director at Synovus, a financial services company and bank with $60 billion in assets. Based in Atlanta, Andrew leads the Asset & Wealth Management vertical within Synovus’ Corporate & Investment Banking Group providing leveraged finance, debt and equity capital markets, and corporate banking solutions to middle-market, sponsor-backed, and large corporate clients.

Prior to joining Synovus in 2022, Andrew held varying roles in investment banking and private wealth at Truist (formerly SunTrust), where he delivered private banking and leveraged finance solutions to high net worth individuals and corporations in the Sports & Entertainment Group.

He holds a BBA in Finance from Auburn University and earned an MBA from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Pat McHughHead of Investments, Constellation Capital

Pat McHugh

Head of Investments, Constellation Capital

Pat McHugh is Managing Director and Head of Investments at Constellation Wealth Capital. In this leadership role, he leads the sourcing, evaluation, and execution of structured minority investments in wealth management firms, and serves on the CWC Investment Committee.

Previously, Pat held senior investment roles at Emigrant Partners, where he focused on wealth management platform investments, and Wafra, engaging in GP-stakes and seeding strategies, and began his career consulting for the industry at Casey Quirk (Deloitte). A Yale-educated economist, he brings deep sector expertise and analytical rigor to his leadership within the firm.

Since Constellation Wealth Capital closed its inaugural $1 billion fund in December 2024, Pat has been at the forefront of its investment strategy to back high-growth, independent advisory firms. His commitment to thoughtful deal structuring and long-term partner relationships reflects his vision of supporting private RIA evolution in a competitive wealth landscape. In 2024, he was recognized as “Recruiter of the Month” for his role in sourcing and advising on strategic talent moves within the advisor community.

Albert HicksDirector, Crestline Investors, Inc.

Albert Hicks

Director, Crestline Investors, Inc.

Albert Hicks is a Director at Crestline Investors, a $17 billion alternative asset manager based in Fort Worth, TX. Albert is responsible for investment origination and underwriting within Crestline’s Opportunistic and Private Credit Strategies group and leads credit and structured equity investments to wealth and asset management firms.

Prior to joining Crestline in 2022, Albert the spent the majority of his investment career leading investments in both private equity and opportunistic credit.

Albert led direct private equity and private credit investments at two family offices and focused on opportunistic credit and special situations investments at Bowery Investment Management, Beal Bank and Highland Capital Management. He began his career in investment banking at Lehman Brothers.

Albert holds a BBA in Finance from The University of Texas at Austin and a MBA from New York University.

Mark DeLottoPartner, Simon Quick Advisors

Mark DeLotto

Partner, Simon Quick Advisors

Mark D. DeLotto is a Partner at Simon Quick Advisors and as of March 2025 serves as the firm’s Corporate Development Officer leading strategy around growth, succession, mergers, and partnerships. Over nearly two decades with Simon Quick, he has overseen finance, operations, HR, compliance, technology, legal, and served as a member of the Executive Committee. Under his stewardship, the firm has grown to $6.5 billion in AUM and $8 billion in AUA, with 90 employees, 30+ owners, and clients in over 30 states.

A seasoned finance professional with roots as a Financial Advisor at Fleet/Quick & Reilly and Bank of America, Mark transitioned into leadership roles early—mentoring dozens of advisors—before joining Simon Quick in 2007. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration (Finance) from Villanova University, and remains actively involved in the Villanova Alumni Association and Delbarton School. Mark currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors for the ARC of Morris County, an organization dedicated to people affected by intellectual and related developmental disabilities.

Tim WelshCEO, Nexus Strategy

Tim Welsh

CEO, Nexus Strategy

Timothy D. Welsh, CFP® is President, CEO, and Founder of Nexus Strategy, LLC, a leading consulting firm serving the wealth management industry, with a sharp focus on marketing, technology, and product distribution for firms selling into the independent RIA industry.

Before launching Nexus, Tim spent half a decade at Charles Schwab Advisor Services, where he led practice-management strategy, marketing, and industry content, and earlier worked at Merrill Lynch shaping marketing, product development, and advisor training for the financial planning group. A Certified Financial Planner, he earned his BA in Economics from UC Berkeley and an MBA in Finance from the University of Colorado’s Leeds School of Business, and has been an influential industry voice through white papers, columns in RIABiz, ThinkAdvisor, and WealthManagement.com

With more than 30 years in the wealth management world, Tim is a recognized thought leader and frequent commentator on business management and RIA industry trends. His career reflects a strong dedication to advancing independent advisory firms—combining deep financial planning acumen with strategic insight into marketing, advisor development, and technology. His blend of consulting experience, industry engagement, and academic credentials uniquely positions him to guide firms looking to thrive in today’s evolving financial landscape.

Gary AltPartner, Creative Planning

Gary Alt

Partner, Creative Planning

Gary Alt, CFP®, AIF®, is a seasoned Managing Director and Partner at Creative Planning. With over two decades in financial services, including co-founding an independent investment advisory firm before joining Creative Planning, Gary specializes in comprehensive wealth strategies for high-net-worth clients—spanning investments, tax, retirement, estate, employee benefits, and risk management.

His diverse background includes 20 years in the technology industry, which enriches his ability to deliver tailored, tech-savvy financial solutions.

He holds a B.S. in Finance from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and is both Certified Financial Planner™ and Accredited Investment Fiduciary® certified.

Peter MalloukPresident and CEO, Creative Planning, LLC

Peter Mallouk

President and CEO, Creative Planning, LLC

Peter Mallouk is the President & CEO of Creative Planning, the independent wealth management firm he acquired in 2004. Under his leadership, the firm has grown from just $34 million in assets to over $354 billion in assets under management or advisement as of December 31, 2024, serving clients across all 50 U.S. states and internationally.

A lawyer-turned-financial advisor and author of New York Times bestsellers like Money, Simplified, Mallouk has shaped Creative Planning into a top-tier RIA, frequently recognized by Barron’s, Worth, and the Financial Times.

Beyond his impressive growth milestones, Peter is a visionary in financial education and community engagement. He founded nonprofits such as KC CAN! and Pathway Financial Education to extend financial literacy to underserved populations.

His firms’ expansive in‑house model integrates investment, tax, estate, retirement, charitable, and family office services—supported by a team of over 2,100 employees—to offer clients a fully comprehensive wealth-planning experience . A recipient of numerous accolades including Ingram’s 2024 Executive of the Year, Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and multiple Barron’s Top 100 and Worth Power 100 recognitions, Peter blends strategic growth with a deep commitment to client-focused, purpose-driven excellence.

Mark TibergienIndependent Board Member, Management Consultant and Speaker

Mark Tibergien

Independent Board Member, Management Consultant and Speaker

Mark C. Tibergien is a nationally recognized leader in financial services, with a distinguished track record in management, strategy, and transition. From 2008 to 2020, he served as CEO of Pershing Advisor Solutions—a BNY Mellon division—guiding the firm from $45 billion to over $800 billion in assets under custody and helping position Pershing among the top three RIA custodians in the U.S.

Prior to Pershing, Mark held leadership roles at Moss Adams LLP, where he pioneered industry benchmarking studies and authored foundational books on advisory practice valuation and M&A, fueling the growth of advisory firm consolidation.

Since retiring as CEO, Mark has remained an influential advisor and thought leader. He currently serves on the board of Pathstone, joined Nesvold Capital’s advisory board in January 2025, and acts as an Advisor in Residence to EY’s Wealth & Asset Management group. His three-decade career spans executive leadership, consulting, writing, and speaking—rooted in an early journalism background—and is marked by a steadfast commitment to elevating practice management, talent development, and sustainable growth in independent advisory firms.

Dan SeivertCEO and Founder at ECHELON Partners

Dan Seivert

CEO and Founder at ECHELON Partners

Dan Seivert is the CEO and Founder of ECHELON Partners, a leading investment bank and consulting firm dedicated to the wealth and investment management industries. Since founding the firm, Seivert has built ECHELON into one of the most respected names in financial services M&A, research, and strategic advisory.

Seivert brings over 30 years of industry experience, having worked with more than 900 executive teams and boards to develop and execute a wide range of business strategies and transactions. Under his leadership, ECHELON has advised on thousands of valuations, acquisition targets, and capital events, shaping the landscape of independent wealth management.

He is the architect behind ECHELON’s Deals & Dealmakers Summit, the industry’s premier M&A conference, and the firm’s widely followed Quarterly RIA M&A Deal Report, recognized as the authoritative source on transaction trends in the independent wealth space.

Seivert has served on the Boards of AssetMark Investment Services, BridgePortfolio, and Occidental College, and is a frequent keynote speaker at industry events including those hosted by the Money Management Institute (MMI), Financial Services Institute (FSI), American Bankers Association (ABA), and others.

He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, InvestmentNews, RIABiz, Financial Advisor, and Fortune, among other top-tier financial publications.

Seivert holds deep expertise across mergers and acquisitions, valuation, corporate strategy, capital raising, private equity, governance, and equity-sharing structures. His unique combination of industry knowledge, private equity experience, and senior operating perspective enables him to deliver visionary, execution-focused counsel to leadership teams navigating transformational growth.

Fielding MillerCEO, Captrust

Fielding Miller

CEO, Captrust

Fielding J. Miller is the Founding Partner, Chairman, and CEO of CAPTRUST, one of the nation’s largest independent financial advisory firms. Since co-founding the firm in 1997, he has led its growth from a start-up into a national powerhouse with over 80 offices, 1,600 team members, and more than $1 trillion in client assets. Fielding remains deeply involved in the business, chairing both the Executive and Operating Committees, and guiding CAPTRUST’s strategic vision, culture, and client-first mission.

A proud East Carolina University graduate, Fielding is also a committed philanthropist and civic leader. He and his wife Kim established the Miller School of Entrepreneurship at ECU, and he served three terms on the university’s Board of Trustees. He founded the CAPTRUST Community Foundation, which supports children’s charities across the country, and is actively involved with causes like Hope Reins. His legacy blends business leadership with a strong sense of purpose and community impact.

Barnaby AudsleySVP, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley

SVP, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley is a Managing Director at ECHELON Partners and focuses on a diversity of M&A, capital raising, and strategic advisory projects. During his tenure at ECHELON, Barnaby has supported a number of notable transactions such as SEIA’s strategic investment from Reverence Capital Partners, Daintree Advisors and its sale to Cerity Partners, Vestmark’s sale of Adhesion to AssetMark, and Sawtooth Solution’s sale to Simplicity Group. He has over 10 years of experience advising entrepreneurs, investors, and executive teams in the wealth and investment management industries.

Barnaby’s prior experience focused on private equity and financial sponsor coverage at a prominent multi-family office, Bel Air Investment Advisors. During his time with Bel Air, he assisted in the sourcing and underwriting of fund, co-investment opportunities, and direct transactions, culminating in over $400 million of assets deployed. He also participated on the firm’s investment committee and supported strategic planning initiatives across finance, marketing, and operations, coordinating with the board and management team.

Barnaby received his Bachelor’s in Economics from Occidental College, where he was a Director and Alumni Chair of the student-run investment portfolio. Barnaby, a native of London, England, currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Brett MulderSVP, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder

SVP, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder is a Managing Director at ECHELON Partners and spends time across all of the firm’s core activities including M&A advisory, strategic consulting, and thought leadership. He has supported a number of notable transactions in his career thus far, including Heber Fuger Wendin’s sale to Mariner Wealth Advisors, GTCR & Reverence’s purchase of Wells Fargo Asset Management, and Integrated Wealth Advisory’s sale to the Carson Group.

Prior to joining ECHELON, Brett was a Senior Associate with Deutsche Bank Securities, working in their US investment bank and within the Financial Institutions Group. With Deutsche, Brett advised wealth managers, asset managers, FinTech companies, and financial sponsors on a variety of strategic endeavors including M&A, IPOs, SPACs, and leveraged finance. Through that experience, Brett spent significant time cultivating relationships with private equity firms and platform buyers involved and interested in the wealth management ecosystem.

Brett has B.S. in Finance from San Diego State University where he also served as VP of the student investment council. Brett currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Sam SphireVP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire

VP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire is a Vice President at ECHELON Partners and focuses on a diversity of M&A advisory, investment banking, and strategic advisory assignments. Before joining ECHELON, Sam worked as an Analyst at Brookside Mezzanine Partners where he underwrote and analyzed investments for the firm’s investment funds.

Sam has a B.S. in Management with concentrations in Finance and Information Systems from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College where he was a member of the Honors Program Alumni Relations Committee and Outdoor Adventures Club. Sam grew up in Encinitas, CA and now resides in Manhattan Beach, CA.

Jim DilworthFounder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

Jim Dilworth

Founder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

James “Jim” Dilworth is an experienced entrepreneur and investor with a deep background in wealth and asset management. He began his career on the trading floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and later held senior leadership roles at Thomson Reuters in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Jim went on to found a prominent alternatives investment platform and currently invests in wealth management businesses through Entwood Holdings. His expertise spans alternative investments, financial technology, and strategic partnership development. He holds a B.A. from Southern Illinois University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Megan CarpenterCEO, Ficomm Partners

Megan Carpenter

CEO, Ficomm Partners

Megan Carpenter is the CEO and Co-Founder of FiComm Partners, an award-winning marketing and communications agency serving registered investment advisors and financial professionals. With two decades of experience in the wealth management industry, Megan has built a reputation for helping firms accelerate growth through strategic marketing, branding, and public relations.

She serves on the boards of the Foundation for Financial Planning and the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning. Megan earned a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of California.

Jeffrey BischoffFounder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

Jeffrey Bischoff

Founder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

Jeffrey Bischoff is the President and Founder of Old Greenwich Consultants, an executive search firm dedicated to the wealth management industry. With more than 30 years of experience in executive recruitment, Jeff has built deep relationships with top advisors and industry leaders.

He previously held senior recruiting roles at Smith Barney, UBS, and Oppenheimer & Co., where he led regional recruitment efforts following the sale of his prior firm. Jeff holds a B.A. from Villanova University.

2025 Featured DDM Summit Experts

Our signature small-group format offers exclusive access to top-tier experts—M&A strategists, legal advisors, valuation professionals, and consultants. These curated conversations connect attendees with elite minds typically out of reach, creating high-value engagement that attracts sponsors and centers of influence eager to participate and contribute year-round.

Sean MihalVice President Sales, Fidelity

Sean Mihal

Vice President Sales, Fidelity

Sean Mihal believes that launching an independent Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm can be one of the most significant and impactful life events an advisor may pursue. He views launching an RIA as the pinnacle accomplishment of an advisor’s professional career, and one where the journey may benefit greatly from the guidance of an experienced professional.

As a financial professional of nearly 20 years, Sean has worked with and consulted many of the industry’s leading Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firms and has helped hundreds of advisors along their path to independence. As a trusted business coach, he consults with advisors who are seeking to realize their career goals, drive their own business growth, and do their very best work through the RIA model.

Sean’s goal is to provide hands-on support each step of the way, from helping advisors analyze their earnings potential, to proposing custom technology solutions tailored to their firm, to introducing them to other advisors who have successfully made the move.

Advisors have dedicated their careers to helping clients prepare for the future, and Sean is dedicated to helping advisors prepare for theirs.

Sean KeenanManaging Director and Head of Business Development, BNY Pershing

Sean Keenan

Managing Director and Head of Business Development, BNY Pershing

Sean Keenan is a Managing Director and Head of Sales of our Wealth Services segment at BNY | Pershing, which serves wealth-oriented broker-dealers, registered investment advisors (RIAs) and trust companies to provide custody and middle-office solutions.

Sean is responsible for the new revenue and asset growth and a member of Wealth Solutions senior leadership team. Prior to this role, Sean led business development for our RIA custody business and member of Advisor Solutions Executive Committee. Sean brings over 25 years of experience in the financial services and institutional business.

Danielle LembergPartner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Danielle Lemberg

Partner, Seward & Kissel LLP

Danielle Lemberg is a partner in the Business Transactions Group of Seward & Kissel LLP. Danielle represents private companies, investment management firms, business owners and managers in connection with a variety of business transactions, equity financings and general corporate matters. Representative transactions include mergers and acquisitions, private equity, venture capital transactions, seed capital arrangements, joint ventures, and strategic alliances. Her general corporate work includes the formation and organization of various business entities, including corporations, partnerships and limited liability companies, and drafting confidentiality agreements, shareholder agreements, operating agreements, and various other forms of commercial arrangements.

Legal 500 has named Danielle a “Next Generation Partner” for her broad spectrum of transactional work with experts noting that “she is extremely effective”. Danielle received a B.A. from The William E. Macaulay Honors College at Baruch College, summa cum laude, in 2008 and a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 2011, where she served as an Executive Editor of the University of Pennsylvania Journal of Business Law.

Wayne HewettVP, Live Oak Bank

Wayne Hewett

VP, Live Oak Bank

Wayne Hewett joined Live Oak Bank in 2025, bringing in over two decades of experience within the financial services industry. With a solid foundation in investment advisory, Wayne had experience in running a financial advisory practice in North Carolina, and serving in the succession and acquisitions division of a leading independent broker-dealer prior to his role at Live Oak Bank.

Through his prior role as a practice management consultant, Wayne has developed a deep understanding of practice staffing, marketing strategies, operational efficiency, financial oversight, and succession planning. This firsthand industry experience helps leverage his knowledge to assist businesses in achieving their goals with Live Oak Bank. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from NC State.

Vincent GimarelliDirector, Assetmark

Vincent Gimarelli

Director, Assetmark

Vincent Gimarelli is a seasoned financial services executive with over two decades of experience in wealth management, M&A, and business development. Currently Institutional Sales and Consulting Director at AssetMark, he advises RIAs on growth strategies, deal structuring, and operational efficiency.

His prior leadership roles include Mercer Advisors, Charles Schwab, BMO, and Fred Alger Management, where he specialized in UHNW client engagement, custodial referral programs, and strategic partnerships. Vincent holds deep expertise in investment advisory services, private funds, and RIA market trends, and has led initiatives resulting in significant asset growth across the industry.

Stephen CarusoAssociate Director, Cerulli

Stephen Caruso

Associate Director, Cerulli

Stephen is an associate director in the Wealth Management practice where he leads research into the registered investment advisor (RIA) channels. As part of his research, he is the author of Cerulli’s U.S. RIA Marketplace report and has written on topics including private equity investment in RIAs and the role staff play in RIAs’ pursuit of scale. Additionally, he oversees Cerulli’s Advisor Research Collaborative, an initiative that surveys over 2,000 financial advisors a year.

He regularly contributes insights and quantitative analysis to strategic consulting engagements including recent work assessing M&A opportunities for large RIA consolidators and scoping marketplace fit for emerging RIA custodians.

Stephen graduated from Roger Williams University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science.

Rick DennenFounder & CEO, Oak Street Funding

Rick Dennen

Founder & CEO, Oak Street Funding

Rick Dennen is CEO of Indianapolis-based First Commercial Finance, a division of First Financial Bank®, which operates under the brands of Oak Street Funding® and First Franchise Capital Corporation®. As founder of Oak Street Funding, Rick led the specialty finance company from a business concept in 2003 to the nation’s top specialty lender of intangible asset classes. After Oak Street Funding was purchased by First Financial Bank in 2015, Rick took on the additional role of CEO of First Franchise Capital Corporation, a business providing commercial lending to restaurant franchisees.

Additionally, Rick is chief corporate banking officer at First Financial Bank where he leads the commercial growth strategy, including expansion of customized lending offerings and services. In this role he oversees almost $12B in assets across the entire commercial business and nearly 300 employees.

Rick earned both a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business. He is a sought-after speaker and has authored and been featured in numerous articles in leading national publications.

Pablo BizjackSenior Director, BNY Pershing

Pablo Bizjack

Senior Director, BNY Pershing

Pablo Bizjack is Senior Director and Head of RIA Sales at BNY Pershing, where he leads a team focused on expanding institutional relationships with RIAs, breakaway teams, and family offices.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services—including roles at Fidelity and mPower Advisors—Pablo specializes in delivering strategic growth solutions across the wealth management space. He holds a BS in Political Science from Boston College and is based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Oleg TishkevichCEO, Invent

Oleg Tishkevich

CEO, Invent

Oleg Tishkevich is the founder and CEO of Invent®, a leading cloud-enabling software development firm. Prior to founding Invent®, Tishkevich founded Finance Logix, a next generation financial planning software company which sold to Envestnet in 2015.

Finance Logix has pioneered an engaging mobile planning app Retire Logix that was named Best Money Move by Money magazine and voted number one mobile app for advisors. At Finance Logix, Tishkevich led the development team that delivered custom firm-wide solutions for companies such as Wells Fargo, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, Assetmark, Janney Montgomery Scott and other major firms.

Melissa IntezarVP, AssetMark

Melissa Intezar

VP, AssetMark

Melissa Intezar is Vice President and Manager of Enterprise Consulting at AssetMark, where she leads the Enterprise Consulting team and the Leadership Advantage program. She works with advisory firms to improve efficiency, profitability, and growth through consulting on business valuation, succession planning, and M&A strategy.

Melissa brings over 15 years of financial services experience, including leadership roles at National Planning Holdings. She holds a BS in Business Management from the University of South Florida, a Series 7 license, and is a Registered Corporate Coach (RCC™). Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and snowboarding with her family.

Kelli CruzCEO & Managing Partner, Cruz Consulting Group

Kelli Cruz

CEO & Managing Partner, Cruz Consulting Group

Kelli Cruz brings more than 20 years of experience to her role as the founder of Cruz Consulting Group, working closely with advisory firm owners and executives of financial services institutions. With a specialized focus and expertise in working with RIA and broker-dealer affiliated advisory firms, she leads consulting engagements in strategic planning and human capital, including organizational design, compensation planning, performance management, and business succession.

She is a frequent speaker at national industry conferences and a thought leader on talent management related topics.

Julie LittlechildFounder and CEO, Absolute Engagement

Julie Littlechild

Founder and CEO, Absolute Engagement

Julie Littlechild is the Founder & CEO of Absolute engagement and a recognized expert on the drivers of client engagement and growth. Absolute Engagement provides award-winning engagement technology that uses real-time personal sentiment data from prospects and clients to scale a personalized experience.

Julie has worked with and studied successful financial advisors and their clients for more than twenty-five years. She is the author of a popular blog and The Pursuit of Absolute Engagement.

She has served on the national board of the Financial Planning Association and currently sits on an Investment and Wealth Institute advisory board. In 2023 she was awarded the ‘Iconoclast’ award by Bob Veres, the Luminary award for innovation by Think Advisor and a wealthtech leadership award from WealthBriefing. The Absolute Engagement Engine was named one of the 100 most innovative wealthtech firms in 2024.

Dustin MangoneManaging Partner & Director, PPC Loan

Dustin Mangone

Managing Partner & Director, PPC Loan

Dustin Mangone is a Managing Partner and the Director of Investment Advisor Services for PPC LOAN, a cash-flow based lender providing nationwide financing to service sector businesses. He has over 20 years of experience with cash-flow lending and has evaluated and underwritten over $1 billion in loans for investment advisors. Dustin now spends 100% of his time consulting on the M&A financing needs of RIAs and Independent Investment Advisors nationwide and is a regular speaker on these topics.

Dustin’s experience is focused on acquisitions, mergers, buy-ins, buy-outs, equity purchases, succession plans, and debt consolidations.

Dustin is a 2002 graduate of Texas A&M University and spent 2 years as a financial advisor providing retirement planning for non-profit organizations before joining PPC LOAN in May of 2005.

Doug FritzFounder, F2 Strategy

Doug Fritz

Founder, F2 Strategy

Doug Fritz is the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of F2 Strategy, the largest pure-play wealthtech consulting firm in the U.S. Doug has successfully navigated the journey from CTO to start-up founder, to enterprise CEO, and is now an M&A-focused executive chairman.

Doug is a leading voice and sought-after strategist for growth-focused advisory firms needing to make great decisions about their technology and client experience. Doug recently moved from Santa Cruz, CA to Wilmette, IL with his wife, Liz, and two sons. When not talking tech strategy, you’ll find him on the water racing with his new J-70 sailboat team.

Cliff ColbertVP, Goldman Sachs Global Banking & Markets

Cliff Colbert

VP, Goldman Sachs Global Banking & Markets

Clif is a vice president in the Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) Custody Sales and Intermediary Investment Banking coverage group within Global Banking & Markets. Prior to joining GS, Clif was a commercial banker at JP Morgan for seven years where he focused on loan originations, treasury services, and M&A for diversified industries, energy, and VC backed technology.

Clif earned a BS in Quantitative Economics from the United States Naval Academy in 2009 and has an MS in Systems Engineering from Southern Methodist University.

Carol MorseSVP, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Carol Morse

SVP, Wintrust Commercial Banking

Carol Morse is a seasoned commercial banking executive with over two decades of experience serving financial services clients, particularly Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms. As Senior Vice President at Wintrust Commercial Banking, she leads strategic initiatives and delivers tailored banking solutions for the investment advisory sector.

Carol brings deep expertise in relationship management, global finance, and client service, developed through leadership roles at Fifth Third Bank, LaSalle Bank, and U.S. Bank. A University of Wisconsin–Madison alumna with a BBA in Finance, Carol is known for her integrity, client-first mindset, and ability to foster long-term partnerships.

Bryan HuiManaging Director, EY-Parthenon

Bryan Hui

Managing Director, EY-Parthenon

Bryan is a Managing Director at EY-Parthenon, where he leads strategy, transactions, and transformation for financial services clients. He has over 13 years of experience in this field.

He has successfully delivered pre-deal assessments, due diligence, value creation, divestiture/integration planning and execution, Day 1 readiness, and Transition Service Agreement (TSA) projects for various types of private equity / financial services clients, including global banks, wealth managers, and asset managers (traditional and alternative), and insurance. He has also served clients in other industries, such as automotive and mining.

Bryan is passionate about helping his clients achieve their strategic and financial goals, and providing them with insightful and tailored solutions. He is also committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and was a board member of Out on Bay Street, a non-profit organization that promotes diversity and inclusion in the corporate sector.

Aaron RacinoSenior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Aaron Racino

Senior Relationship Manager, PPC Loan

Aaron Racino is a Senior Relationship Manager at PPC LOAN, a cash-flow based lender providing nationwide financing to service sector businesses. Since joining PPC LOAN in 2015, Aaron has worked with countless business owners across a variety of industries and has evaluated and underwritten over $400 million in approved loans during that time.

Aaron now spends 100% of his time consulting on the financing needs of RIAs and Independent Financial Advisors nationwide with a focus on acquisitions, mergers, buy-ins, buy-outs, equity purchases, succession plans, and debt consolidations.

Adam FaragVP, Strategic Markets at Oak Street Funding

Adam Farag

VP, Strategic Markets at Oak Street Funding

Adam Farag is the Vice President, Strategic Markets at Oak Street Funding, based in Indianapolis, Indiana. With 15 years of banking industry experience, he specializes in providing lending solutions to business owners. As a trusted advisor to hundreds of business owners, Adam’s financial knowledge and expertise have helped them grow their businesses into successful companies.

Oak Street Funding’s leadership team, which includes industry experts with years of experience, is dedicated to the success of its clients.

Stephanie BoganCEO, Limitless Advisor

Stephanie Bogan

CEO, Limitless Advisor

Richard LofgrenManaging Director, Goldman Sachs

Richard Lofgren

Managing Director, Goldman Sachs

He received his B.A at the University of Texas at Austin and is also a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

Jared BaucomManaging Director, Cerulli Associates

Jared Baucom

Managing Director, Cerulli Associates

Shannon RosicDirector, Informa

Shannon Rosic

Director, Informa

Chris FriedenPartner, Alston & Bird

Chris Frieden

Partner, Alston & Bird

He also advises on SEC reporting, corporate governance, joint ventures, and new business formation in the financial services arena.

Matt MatrisianPresident, SEIA

Matt Matrisian

President, SEIA

A seasoned industry strategist, Matt’s appointment comes as SEIA reports record-breaking 30% AUA growth in 2024—spurred by a $2 billion acquisition and continued advisor and staff hires.

With a strong M&A background and a vision centered on scalable, relationship-driven growth, Matt is instrumental in SEIA’s evolution into a top-tier national wealth management platform.

David MainzerShareholder, Buchalter

David Mainzer

Shareholder, Buchalter

Nikolee TurnerDirector, Charles Schwab

Nikolee Turner

Director, Charles Schwab

Her data-driven counsel, including findings showing firms that define their “ideal client” attract 45% more assets, reflects her ability to turn research into actionable business strategy.

Linda Paullin-HebdenPartner, Warner, Norcross + Judd

Linda Paullin-Hebden

Partner, Warner, Norcross + Judd

A Wayne State University Law School graduate (J.D., 1989) and Alma College alumnus, she also serves on the Detroit Regional Chamber Board and mentors future leaders.

Andrew MayDirector, Synovus

Andrew May

Director, Synovus

He holds a BBA in Finance from Auburn University and earned an MBA from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Tim WelshCEO, Nexus Strategy

Tim Welsh

CEO, Nexus Strategy

Barnaby AudsleySVP, ECHELON Partners

Barnaby Audsley

SVP, ECHELON Partners

Brett MulderSVP, ECHELON Partners

Brett Mulder

SVP, ECHELON Partners

Brett has B.S. in Finance from San Diego State University where he also served as VP of the student investment council. Brett currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Sam SphireVP, ECHELON Partners

Sam Sphire

VP, ECHELON Partners

Jim DilworthFounder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

Jim Dilworth

Founder and CEO, Dilworth Capital

Megan CarpenterCEO, Ficomm Partners

Megan Carpenter

CEO, Ficomm Partners

She serves on the boards of the Foundation for Financial Planning and the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning. Megan earned a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of California.

Jeffrey BischoffFounder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

Jeffrey Bischoff

Founder and CEO, Old Greenwich Consultants

2025 Deals & Dealmakers Summit Agenda

Download the Agenda

Tuesday, August 26th

Summit Pre-Conference Golf Event at the Monarch Beach Golf Links (Optional)

Time

Noon - 1:00 PM

1:00 - 2:00 PM

5:30 - 7:00 PM

7:00 PM

8:00 PM

Event

Check-in for Golf, Box Lunch, Driving Range

Tee Off

Post-Golf Appetizers, Cocktails, Awards

Chart House Cocktails Reception for Non-Golf Attendees (Invite Only)

Seated Dinner at Chart House (Invite Only)

                                    Noon - 1:00 PM                                

                                    Check-in for Golf, Box Lunch, Driving Range                                

1:00 - 2:00 PM

Tee Off

                                    5:30 - 7:00 PM                                

                                    Post-Golf Appetizers, Cocktails, Awards                                

7:00 PM

Chart House Cocktails Reception for Non-Golf Attendees (Invite Only)

                                    8:00 PM                                

                                    Seated Dinner at Chart House (Invite Only)                                

Wednesday, August 27th

Summit Day One

Time

11:00 AM - 5:30 PM

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

1:00 - 3:00 PM

3:00 - 3:20 PM

3:20 - 3:30 PM

3:30 - 4:25 PM

4:30 - 5:30 PM

5:30 - 7:00 PM

7:00 - 9:00 PM

Event

Registration Open

Networking Lunch with Experts and Sponsors

"Ask the Experts" (5x20 Minute Intro Meetings)

Networking Break

Welcome and Vision for the Summit

Inside the C-Suite: Vision, Strategy, and the Future of Wealth Management

The Anatomy of the Deal: Advanced Strategies in Structuring and Valuation

Cocktail Reception Overlooking Salt Creek Beach

"Dealmakers Dinner" at Sunset

                                    11:00 AM - 5:30 PM                                

                                    Registration Open                                

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

Networking Lunch with Experts and Sponsors

                                    1:00 - 3:00 PM                                

                                    "Ask the Experts" (5x20 Minute Intro Meetings)                                

3:00 - 3:20 PM

Networking Break

                                    3:20 - 3:30 PM                                

                                    Welcome and Vision for the Summit                                

3:30 - 4:25 PM

Inside the C-Suite: Vision, Strategy, and the Future of Wealth Management

                                    4:30 - 5:30 PM                                

                                    The Anatomy of the Deal: Advanced Strategies in Structuring and Valuation                                

5:30 - 7:00 PM

Cocktail Reception Overlooking Salt Creek Beach

                                    7:00 - 9:00 PM                                

                                    "Dealmakers Dinner" at Sunset                                

Thursday, August 28th

Summit Day One

Time

7:00 - 8:00 AM

8:00 - 8:10 AM

8:10 - 9:00 AM

9:00 - 10:15 AM

10:15 - 10:40 AM

10:40- 11:30 AM

11:30 AM - 12:15 PM

12:15 - 1:15 PM

1:15 - 2:05 PM

2:05 - 3:00 PM

3:00 - 3:25 PM

3:25 - 4:15 PM

4:15 - 5:00 PM

5:00 - 5:10 PM

5:10 - 8:00 PM

Event

Networking Breakfast

Welcome and Introduction

What I Wish I Knew: Candid Insights from Successful Sellers

What's Next for the RIA Industry? A Strategic Debate on Growth, Scale, and Succession

Mid-Morning Break

Rewriting the Advisor Playbook: Channel Changes and the Rise of Independence

Halftime and Beyond: The Mindset Behind $1 Trillion and Counting

Lunch and Networking

Risk, Reward, and the Rising Tide of Private Capital

Breaking Away or Breaking Down? The Legal Battle Over Modern Breakaway Deal Terms

Networking Break

RIA Intelligence Report: Key Metrics and Market Shifts

Advisors at Their Best: The Intersection of Team Design and Human Potential

Recap, Review, and Reflect!

"Closing the Deal" Cocktail Reception and Dinner at Sunset

                                    7:00 - 8:00 AM                                

                                    Networking Breakfast                                

8:00 - 8:10 AM

Welcome and Introduction

                                    8:10 - 9:00 AM                                

                                    What I Wish I Knew: Candid Insights from Successful Sellers                                

9:00 - 10:15 AM

What's Next for the RIA Industry? A Strategic Debate on Growth, Scale, and Succession

                                    10:15 - 10:40 AM                                

                                    Mid-Morning Break                                

10:40- 11:30 AM

Rewriting the Advisor Playbook: Channel Changes and the Rise of Independence

                                    11:30 AM - 12:15 PM                                

                                    Halftime and Beyond: The Mindset Behind $1 Trillion and Counting                                

12:15 - 1:15 PM

Lunch and Networking

                                    1:15 - 2:05 PM                                

                                    Risk, Reward, and the Rising Tide of Private Capital                                

2:05 - 3:00 PM

Breaking Away or Breaking Down? The Legal Battle Over Modern Breakaway Deal Terms

                                    3:00 - 3:25 PM                                

                                    Networking Break                                

3:25 - 4:15 PM

RIA Intelligence Report: Key Metrics and Market Shifts

                                    4:15 - 5:00 PM                                

                                    Advisors at Their Best: The Intersection of Team Design and Human Potential                                

5:00 - 5:10 PM

Recap, Review, and Reflect!

                                    5:10 - 8:00 PM                                

                                    "Closing the Deal" Cocktail Reception and Dinner at Sunset                                

2025 Platinum DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Gold DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Silver DDM Sponsors/Partners

2025 Bronze DDM Sponsors/Partners

Reasons to Sponsor DDM

Access firms and decision makers who are influential in deal making
Develop new relationships and strengthen existing ones
Obtain in-depth knowledge on deal related subjects
Establish credibility or stature among key decision makers
Increase the awareness of your firm and reputation as a dealmaker
Meet acquisition targets, buyers, and merger partners

Click here for all sponsorship inquiries

Interactive Sessions. Innovative Networking. Applied Workshops. Real Deal Experience.

C-suite executives in attendence

Deals consummated by DDM attendees over the past five years

M&A subject matter experts present at each summit

One Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629

DDM will take place at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, an iconic oceanfront resort set above the Pacific with expansive coastal views and exceptional amenities. The property offers an elevated, private setting well suited for executive-level discussion, and ECHELON has negotiated a room block at preferred rates for attendees.

Registration Coming Soon