Services Offered

Mergers and Acquisitions

Full Service on both sell-side and buy-side transactions

Whether planning on a carefully staged exit strategy or responding to an unsolicited inquiry, the experienced M&A professionals of First Chicago Advisors can assist senior management and owners with evaluating and executing a strategy to best maximize shareholder value.

Understanding the M&A Process

Having managed hundreds of transactions, we have a deep understanding the M&A process. In fact, it is the process that will yield the best outcome and it is our unique management and knowledge of the process that separates us from the rest. Other factors include:

The nuances of various valuation techniques - understanding of the true value drivers in a particular industry.

Strategies to professionally market a company's leading attributes, while proactively addressing potential issues that may, if not handled correctly, detract from value.

How due diligence should be done and how to manage it - especially if private equity firms are involved.

Assisting legal, accounting and other consultants in executing a team approach.

Facilitating structure and terms of purchase agreements and employment contracts.

Strategies for integrating an acquisition into a parent company and the personnel questions involved.

As part of the process we see three critical steps to undertake:

Analyze

First Chicago Advisors thoroughly analyzes your business and your market before beginning the process. We listen to our client's goals and analyze the critical factors surrounding the company, the industry and the capital market conditions to advise our clients on the alternatives and best possible outcomes to maximize shareholder value.

Strategize

First Chicago Advisors will develop a strategy based on the alternatives to lead your transaction to the most successful conclusion. We often collaborate with legal, tax, trust and estate and wealth management advisors (if appropriate) in developing a near and long-term strategy.

Execute

First Chicago Advisors will execute your transaction with experience and finesse. We will develop, lead and execute the strategy. This includes collaborating on all marketing materials, market approach and due diligence requirements - done strictly on a confidential basis. Finally, teaming with your legal counsel, we will negotiate and structure the transaction to not only ensure the best value but also address any post close factors which could affect the long-term outcome. Post close conditions are often overlooked and neglected but are elements we take very seriously.

Overall, First Chicago Advisors will:

Consult
Prepare documentation
Negotiate
Deliver