Our Team

Jim Afinowich
Founder & Principal, Managing Partner, - Southwest / Pacific Coastal
jima@ibgbusiness.com | 480.327.6610
Profile:
Jim Afinowich is a Founding Principal and Designated Broker at IBG Fox & Fin in Phoenix, AZ, and a nationally recognized leader in the mergers and acquisitions industry. With more than 30 years of experience and over 500 successful transactions to his name, Jim is known for his deep expertise, creative deal structuring, and commitment to ethical, high-impact advisory. He co-founded Fox & Fin in 1993 and has overseen its growth into one of the most respected M&A firms in the Southwest, earning Arizona’s number one business broker and investment banking firm for 18 consecutive years by Ranking Arizona. A charter inductee into the IBBA Hall of Fame, Jim brings unmatched industry leadership to every engagement. He leads IBG’s Arizona office, supervising a team of seasoned dealmakers and guiding business owners through complex sales ranging from $5 million to $150 million in value. Jim’s practical experience as both an advisor and entrepreneur informs a disciplined process designed to maximize value and deliver optimal outcomes for his clients. Jim has sold businesses across diverse sectors including manufacturing, B2B services, education, aviation, and distribution. A trusted voice in the industry, he has taught, mentored, and served in leadership roles for every major U.S. M&A trade association.
Experience:
Jim’s career began as a serial entrepreneur, launching and operating 15 businesses across three countries in industries ranging from publishing to aviation. After successfully selling several of his own companies, he transitioned into the advisory space—where he quickly became a top-performing M&A intermediary. In addition to leading Fox & Fin, Jim is a Managing Partner of the International Business Group (IBG), which operates nationally with offices in four North American markets. He also serves as an expert witness in legal cases involving brokerage standards and practices.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.A., Business Administration – University of Arizona
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI)
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI)
- Business Brokerage Specialist (BBS)
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Broker
- Nevada Licensed Real Estate Broker
- Series 63 & 82 Securities Licenses (Ceiba Financial, LLC)
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) – Hall of Fame Inductee, Fellow, Past President, Director, Treasurer, Education Committee Chair
- M&A Source – Charter Member, Chair of Education and Credentialing Committees
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation – President and Director
- Member: ACG, AM&AA, Arizona Business Brokers Association, Turnaround Management Association
Honors and Awards:
- IBBA Hall of Fame, 2024
- Tom West Award for exceptional industry contributions
- Top Global Producer of the Year, IBBA, 2015
- Advisor of the Year, M&A Source, 2021
- Az Business Leaders, AZ Big Media, 2018–2024
- Platinum Club, M&A Source, 2023
- “Jim Afinowich Day” – Proclaimed by the Valley Board of Business Brokers
Community and Personal:
Jim is a lifelong Arizona resident and licensed pilot with a passion for aviation. He is active in organizations like the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Reno Air Racing Association, and Wings for Kids. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and participating in community initiatives throughout the Phoenix area.

Tim Atwell
Principal, Managing Partner - Mountain States / Pacific Northwest
tatwell@ibgbusiness.com | 303.758.0374
Profile:
Tim Atwell, Managing Partner for IBG Business' Denver CO, office, joined the firm in 2010 and specializes in the sale of private, closely held businesses. With 15+ years of experience as a Mergers and Acquisitions professional, Tim is a trusted advisor to business owners exploring the sale of their company. Tim has advised on over 30 successful transactions with total deal volume exceeding $350 million.
Tim leads M&A execution for IBG Business, providing business owners, and their teams, with end-to-end guidance and support through the complex process of selling their company. With deep expertise in financial modeling and analysis, deal marketing, due diligence, negotiation, and deal structuring, Tim is committed to maximizing value for all IBG clients.
Having advised companies across a wide range of industries, including aerospace, construction, distribution, engineering, manufacturing, professional services, retail, telecommunications, and vehicle wash systems, Tim brings diverse experience and best practices to every IBG engagement.
Experience:
Tim began his M&A career with Trinity Capital Services (a Denver-based investment bank and consulting firm), serving as Vice President and focusing on corporate divestitures and private placements of equity.
Prior to joining IBG, Tim directed financial analysis and business analytics for DISH Network's subscription-based programming divisions. He has also held positions in sales and training & development at Deutsche Bank and DWS Asset Management (formerly Scudder Investments).
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Finance, Miami University
The M&A Source
International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
Community and Personal:
Outside of IBG Business, Tim can usually be found driving to or from one of his kids’ many sporting events or performances. Tim is an avid skier, loves seeing live music with his wife and keeps close tabs on where the best chile rellenos are in Colorado. Bags of Fun, Brent’s Place and the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado are important causes for Tim and his family.

Matt Frye
Principal, Managing Partner - Central USA
MFrye@ibgbusiness.com | 918.749.6016
Matt is the Managing Partner responsible for the operations of IBG Business/Bluestem Resources Group, LLC (Bluestem USA). A native-Tulsan, Matt joined IBG Business/Bluestem following twenty-one years in Executive Management roles for multiple energy-based technology companies in Houston, Texas. Matt started his career in Tulsa in the domestic exploration and production business and migrated into commodity trading with Tulsa-based The Williams Companies. He then advanced to a series of executive-level positions with technology start-ups and enterprise-wide software development ventures. His last ten years as a corporate executive culminated in the launching of the U.S. division of the Natural Gas Exchange, an online energy commodity exchange and clearinghouse, which is now a subsidiary of the Intercontinental Exchange Group (ICE NYSE).
Experience
Matt’s vast leadership experience base spans from private-equity based technology startups to publicly held energy companies and commodity exchanges. He has launched multiple new ventures that introduced new products and services both domestically and internationally. This experience base combined with expertise in joint venture development and M&A serves IBG Business/Bluestem clients by maximizing their intrinsic and extrinsic value to broad target markets.
With over thirty years of deal-making experience, Matt’s primary roles at IBG/Bluestem include: buyer and seller representation, pre-sale consultation, market segment analysis and company valuation.
Education & Awards
- BS in Finance from Oklahoma State University
- MBA from the University of Tulsa
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger and Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): The IBBA
- Licensed Real Estate Agent: Oklahoma
Areas of Expertise
- Energy
- Information Technology/Software
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale Trade
- Construction
- Professional Services
Interests
When not serving the needs of IBG/Bluestem clients, you can find Matt and his wife at their hobby ranch south of Tulsa or serving at their church.

John C. Johnson
Principal , Managing Partner - Central USA
JJohnson@IBGBusiness.com | 918.232.5723
John C. Johnson, M&A Broker and Advisor, is a specialist in selling a business. An IBG Business Founder, he is Managing Partner of the Tulsa, Oklahoma office. John also founded and built Bluestem Resources - BluestemUSA. He is a past President of the International Business Broker Association and The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) Source, and is a Certified Business Intermediary and Lifetime Master Merger & Acquisition Intermediary.
John's career began as a roustabout at Amoco Production Company/ Standard Oil of Indiana, then in operations research and in field offices while completing his Petroleum Engineering degree. He worked at Champlin Petroleum/ Union Pacific Corporation as he earned an MBA at Texas Christian University. At the two Fortune 100 companies - Standard of Indiana and Union Pacific - John held staff and management positions in strategy, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions.
John's expertise is demonstrated through his track record of success for clients, professional M&A certifications, as a court-appointed receiver, and as an expert witness in business valuation and petroleum property management. He has written "M&A Expert" series articles for international business publications, has taught peers in M&A broker courses and lectured on "best practice" panels.
Entrepreneurial/Industry Experience
John was raised in an entrepreneurial family and understands the sacrifices, stress, risks, and hard work that business ownership brings to an owner and the owner’s family.
He is an experienced business owner. John owns and manages a land and cattle business with ranch lands, minerals, petroleum and timber resources. John grew a startup petroleum gathering and distribution venture to a $12 million business before completing a strategic sale. He organized and manages properties for a group that bought distressed petroleum loans from the FDIC. He has bought and resold private businesses in manufacturing, business services and oil processing.
John was born in Kansas and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His corporate career took him to Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, New York City and back to Tulsa before he settled near his northeast Oklahoma ranch. In quiet times, John enjoys time with his wife, children and grandchildren as well as fishing, hunting, gardening, and working at their ranch.
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Acquisition International: USA M&A Broker of the Year
- The M&A Source: Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Chairman’s Award for Leadership
- Tulsa’s Small Business Person of the Year: Finalist
- U.S. Small Business Administration: Oklahoma Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Memberships
- The M&A Source: Founding Member, Chairman, Officer, Director, Strategic Issues Task Force Co-Chair
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow; Life Member; President; Member, President’s Advisory Council; Director; Treasurer; Strategic Planning Chair; Co-Author, M&A Course and Certification Exam; Instructor; Speaker and Panelist
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Founder and Director
- Tulsa Metro Chamber’s Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Business & Community Involvement
- Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Director
- Oklahoma Academy for State Goals: Director
- Leadership Oklahoma: Graduate, Director, Officer
- Tulsa Executives Association: Director
- Tulsa Economic Development Corporation: Director
- Entrepreneurs of Tulsa: Director & Officer
- Oklahoma Private Enterprise Forum: Director & President
- The Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence: Director
- M&A Joint Industry Campaign for Clarity: Steering Committee Co-Chair
- Rotary International: Paul Harris Fellow; President, Rotary Club of Vinita
- Youth Recreation Association: Director, Coach, Referee

Robert Latham
Principal, Managing Partner - Gulf Coast
blatham@ibgbusiness.com | 713.463.9222
Bob Latham is a managing partner and principal at IBG Business where he manages both the Southwest and Gulf Coast regions. Bob offers extensive M&A experience in the purchase and sale of businesses in the manufacturing, construction, maintenance, and distribution sectors and in logistics and other B2B services. Buyers and sellers benefit from Bob’s 30-plus years of hands-on business experience and a uniquely broad range of skills, experiences and abilities. His key attributes in deal-making are creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and follow-through – qualities that provide him with a rare perspective in helping business owners achieve their purchase and sale objectives.
Bob holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Texas A&M University and an MBA from the Columbia University Graduate School of Business. An instrument-rated licensed pilot having logged more than 1,200 hours, Bob volunteers his time and aviation skills at Angel Flight South Central and Angel Flight West, charitable organizations dedicated to transporting patients in financial need who require critical medical treatment in distant cities.
Certifications/Licenses
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Licensed Real Estate Broker: Texas
Honors and Awards
- Transworld Business Advisors President’s Club Award, 2015-2021
- M&A Source Executive Club Award, 2021
Professional Memberships
- International Business Brokers Association
- The M&A Source
- Texas Association of Realtors
Business & Community Involvement
- Volunteer pilot, Angel Flight South Central

Gary Papay
Principal, Managing Partner, Founder - Eastern / Mid Atlantic
gpapay@ibgbusiness.com | 570.971.6106
Gary Papay is a professional intermediary and business appraiser specializing in the sale and transfer of privately held mid-market companies since 1976. Gary is the partner in charge of the IBG Pennsylvania and North Carolina offices.
Entrepreneurial/ Industry Experience
Gary Papay’s career started at Agway, Inc., a Fortune 100 company, where he held a progression of positions in the company’s petroleum division, including plant manager, corporate propane operations manager, district manager, and division operations manager. He was responsible for acquisitions and divestitures and business valuations.
After 18 years in corporate management, Gary joined CK Business Consultants, an M&A business transactions firm that specialized in oil and gas-related industries. He acquired the business in 1999 and then expanded the company into the manufacturing and distribution sectors.
Gary’s business commitment: “Assisting business owners in valuing and selling their companies at the appropriate time and for maximum value.”
Gary and his wife have three grown daughters, two granddaughters, and two grandsons, and reside in Hughesville, PA and Greensboro, NC. Gary is an active Rotarian and enjoys hiking, biking, and traveling to warm climates during the winter months.
Certifications and Designations
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser/Broker (CMEA): NEBB Institute
- Senior Business Analyst (SBA): NEBB Institute
Honors and Awards
- The M&A Source Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award: International Business Broker Association (IBBA)
- Lifetime CBI
- Lifetime M&AMI
- Fellow of the IBBA
- Fellow of the M&A Source
- Chairman’s Award for Leadership: International Business Broker Association (IBBA)
- The M&A Source Platinum Club Award
- Champions Award: The M&A Source
- Paul Harris Fellow – Rotary International
Memberships
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Board of Directors
- Empire State Energy Association (ESEA)
- International Business Broker Association (IBBA): Fellow; Board of Directors, Secretary
- M&A Source: Fellow; Board of Directors, Secretary
- Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA)
- National Equipment & Business Builder’s Institute (NEBB)
- National Propane Gas Association (NPGA): Board of Directors
- New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA)
- Pennsylvania Business Brokers Association (PBBA): Board of Directors, Secretary
- Pennsylvania Petroleum Association (PPA)
- Pennsylvania Propane Gas Association (PAPGA): Board of Directors
- Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA)
- Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE)
Business & Community Involvement
- IBBA and The M&A Source Leadership – Director; Officer; Chair, Credentialing Committee, Bylaws Committee, University Affiliation Task Force, International Credentialing Task Force, Bylaws Task Force
- Published contributor and speaker for industry publications and national conferences
- Volunteer, various local charity organizations and projects
- Flight 93 National Memorial: Founding Sponsor
- World War II Memorial: Charter Member
- Wolf Township Planning Commission: Chair
- Church of the Resurrection: Finance Council Chair; Planning Committee Chair – built new church
- Rotary International: President, Hughesville Rotary; District 7370 Chair Short-Term Youth Exchange Program
- Williamsport/ Lycoming Chamber of Commerce
- Leadership Lycoming: Graduate
- Greater Hughesville Business Association

John Zayac
Principal , Managing Partner - Mountain States / Pacific Northwest
zayac@ibgbusiness.com | 303.758.4000
John Zayac founded International Business Group in 1986 to provide the mid-market business seller with the high-quality resources and sophisticated M&A service traditionally reserved for firms valued over $100 million.
From IBG’s inception, John’s vision was to build it into the merger and acquisition industry’s most comprehensive provider of acquisition advisory services for mid-market business sellers. His oversight of handling each client from start to finish built a record of success as a business intermediary, including hundreds of completed transactions in manufacturing, distribution and service industries.
Entrepreneurial/ Industry Experience
In addition to founding IBG Business, John Zayac has owned and operated a spectrum of businesses, including a printing company, an automobile importing agency and a chain of car washes. According to Professional Car Washing magazine, his is the 10th largest chain of self-service car wash locations in the U.S.
John is a court-appointed expert in business valuations and transactions and is a nationally recognized speaker on the sale of privately held mid-market firms.
His personal business philosophy is mindful: Most business owners sell a firm only once in a lifetime; capitalizing on this opportunity requires experience, resources and knowledge to ensure nothing is left to chance.
A native of Binghamton, New York, John has resided in Colorado since 1982 and is actively involved in many industry associations and civic organizations. John is a competitive race pilot in the T-6 Racing Association, most recently placing second in the 2010 T-6 Gold Class National Championship Air Races in Reno.
Certifications/ Licenses
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Series 63 and 82 securities registration under CEIBA Financial, LLC
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Fellow of the IBBA: International Business Brokers Association
Memberships
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
- M&A Source: Board of Directors
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Board of Directors
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- Alliance of Merger and Acquisition Advisors (AM&AA)
- Internet Safety Commission: Board of Directors
- Colorado Association of Business Intermediaries (CABI)
- Strategic Initiative Task Force (SITF): Board of Directors
Business & Community Involvement
- Air Power West: Board of Directors
- Association for Corporate Growth
- Morgan Adams Foundation
- T6 Racing Association: Board of Directors
- Wings Over the Rockies: Steering Committee Member

Garry Barnes
Managing Director - Southwest / Pacific Coastal
gbarnes@ibgbusiness.com | 602.429.0406
Profile:
Garry is a Veteran Commercial Banker having served as President/ CEO of banks in Arizona, California and Utah. He has been involved in C-level management, credit policy, lending, portfolio management, as well as risk & sales management. Extensive experience working with bank boards and banking supervisory authorities. Additional experience includes troubled bank turn-a-rounds and de novo start-ups. He has been associated with Fox and Fin Financial Group since 2005.
Experience:
He has taught at the university level, is a frequent writer/lecturer on banking, business brokerage and real estate matters and has conducted over 2500 seminars. Garry has served on the SBA National Advisory Council, hosted a radio talk show and served as a consultant to the Central Bank of Russia (in-country).
Education & Awards:
B.S.- Business Finance. Minor Real Estate, Boise State University
Graduate, Pacific Coast Banking School
Graduate School of Banking, University of Washington
Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI)

Steve Bisbee
Managing Director - Southwest/ Pacific Coastal
sbisbee@ibgbusiness.com | 480.327.6634
Profile:
Steve Bisbee is a Managing Director at IBG Fox & Fin in Phoenix, Arizona. With more than two decades of experience as an M&A attorney and business advisor, Steve brings deep transactional insight and operational perspective to every engagement. His legal background, combined with his experience as a former Naval Flight Officer, business owner, and defense program manager, equips him with a rare blend of strategic, legal, and practical business expertise. Steve has worked extensively with buyers and sellers across a wide range of industries, guiding clients through every stage of the sale and acquisition process. His understanding of deal structure, risk management, negotiation, and regulatory complexity enables him to deliver sound, results-oriented advisory services to business owners navigating high-stakes transitions.
Experience:
Before joining IBG, Steve spent over 20 years as an M&A attorney, representing business owners in sales, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions. He also served as a Program Manager for an international defense training corporation, leading multimillion-dollar projects for the U.S. Air Force and other military clients around the world. His contributions included serving on five major defense proposal teams and managing training programs for both domestic and foreign military aircrews. Steve’s background also includes business ownership and board leadership, giving him firsthand experience in the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. His strong foundation in both aviation and corporate law makes him a trusted resource for clients in aerospace, manufacturing, and distribution.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Business – Arizona State University
J.D., Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law – Arizona State University
MBA, with honors – Thunderbird School of Global Management
- Licensed Attorney, State Bar of Arizona
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Agent
- Member, Arizona Business Aviation Association
Speaking Engagements:
- “Selling Your Law Practice”, State Bar of Arizona Annual Meeting, June 2021
Industry Focus and Expertise:
- Aerospace & Defense
- Distribution & Logistics
- Manufacturing & Industrial Services
Community and Personal:
Steve serves on the Board of Directors for both a nonprofit federal credit union and a senior living organization, reflecting his long-standing commitment to community service. A former U.S. Naval Flight Officer, Steve remains passionate about aviation and service-oriented leadership. He lives in the Phoenix area and enjoys staying connected to both the legal and business aviation communities.

Mike Cauley
Managing Director
mcauley@ibgbusiness.com | 480.421.9532
Profile:
Mike is a Managing Director at IBG/Fox & Fin in the Phoenix Arizona office. He has years of experience successfully assisting businesses from multiple sectors and industries as they look to initiate, navigate, and complete a business sale or acquisition. As Mike leads, facilitates, and drives lower middle market business sales, acquisitions, and M&A efforts, he leans not only on his in-depth M&A experiences and know-how, but also draws from his operational experiences that include financial management and reporting, financial planning and analysis, marketing, and operations and real estate across several business types.
Experience:
Mike has been leading, facilitating, and driving lower middle market business sales, acquisitions, and M&A efforts for over 15 years. Over this time, he has delivered for numerous clients by applying his skill set and experiences to the provision of a comprehensive suite of services that include deal origination and initiation, marketing, representation, transactional structuring and negotiations, financial analysis, contracting, and underwriting— all across a multi-sector, multi-industry portfolio of business types.
Mike is immersed in the business sales and acquisitions marketplace, its activity and related analytics; he has developed numerous tools, products, processes and systems to optimally serve clients; has conducted valuation and pricing studies; and has successfully led, facilitated, and driven numerous business sales and M&A initiatives across multiple sectors and industries.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Engineering – Northeastern University
MBA, Finance – Boston College
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Agent
Industry Focus and Expertise:
Distribution and Supply
Engineering
Manufacturing
Environmental
Professional Services
Energy
Security
Transportation
Facilities Management and Maintenance
Construction Products and Materials
Construction Services and Management

Keeton Frye
Vice President
kfrye@ibgbusiness.com | 405.233.8750
Profile
Keeton is a Vice President and is responsible for managing client engagements and operations of the Oklahoma City office for IBG Business/Bluestem Resources Group, LLC. Keeton joined IBG Business/Bluestem after working in corporate development for a software company based in Virginia. He has more than 10 years of experience in financial modeling, valuation and analysis.
Experience
Most recently, Keeton worked on merger and acquisition activities for an enterprise resource planning software company that is owned by Roper Technologies (NASDAQ: ROP). During his time there, he worked on a variety of deals ranging from $50mm to over $450mm. Keeton was responsible for financial modeling, investment board presentation materials, financial due diligence and ad-hoc analysis. Keeton also has investment due diligence experience supporting the Merchant Banking and Special Situations divisions of Goldman Sachs through real estate investment modeling, analysis and investment memo preparation. Keeton also has exposure to the energy and logistics industry through several roles at Sunoco LP. Before Sunoco LP, Keeton worked on financial derivative valuation at J.P. Morgan. At the beginning of his career, Keeton worked on the commodity trading desk of Deutsche Bank.
Education & Awards
- BS in Finance from Oklahoma State University
- MS in Finance from the University of Oklahoma
Areas of Expertise
- Energy
- Information Technology/ Software
- Logistics and Transportation
- Real Estate
Interests
- Outside of work, Keeton enjoys traveling with his wife Lanie and spending time with family and friends. Keeton also likes to fly-fish and go to his family’s ranch in Henryetta, OK. He and his wife attend Frontline Church in downtown Oklahoma City.

Jim Kuykendall
Managing Director - Southwest/ Pacific Coastal
JimK@ibgbusiness.com | 480.367.7912
Profile:
Jim Kuykendall is a Managing Director at IBG Fox & Fin in Phoenix, AZ. With over 20 years of experience as a corporate attorney, sales executive, and business owner, Jim brings a uniquely well-rounded perspective to the mergers and acquisitions process. He has led and supported transactions across five continents, with deal values ranging from $1 million to over $1 billion. Known for his global business insight and strategic acumen, Jim helps business owners navigate complex transactions with clarity and confidence.
Experience:
Jim served as General Counsel – Asia Pacific for a global industrial minerals company, working on the ground in 11 countries and leading legal strategy for the region. He later held the role of Vice President and General Counsel – North America. Transitioning into operations, Jim managed a $200 million budget as Sales Director, overseeing major accounts with Fortune 500 customers. In Arizona, Jim owned and operated a successful business in the underground utility sector, giving him firsthand experience with the challenges and rewards of business ownership. His legal and business leadership roles have made him a trusted advisor in both domestic and international M&A.
Education and Professional Credentials:
B.S., Business Administration – Finance, University of Arizona
J.D. – University of San Diego
MBA – University of San Diego
- Licensed Attorney, State Bar of California
- Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor (CM&AA)
- Series 63 & Series 79 Securities Licenses (Ceiba Financial, LLC)
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Agent
Select Speaking Engagements:
- “Selecting Counsel in HR Matters”, Society for Human Resource Management, Atlanta, GA
- “Navigating the M&A Landscape”, Mumbai, India
Community and Personal:
Jim is a third-generation Phoenician and remains deeply engaged in his local community. For over 25 years, he has been a committed fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. He is an active member of the Fiesta Bowl Committee (Yellow Jacket). Jim has completed multiple marathons and enjoys staying active with his wife and three children.

Lance Meilech
Managing Director
lance@ibgbusiness.com | 602.741.7876
Profile:
Lance Meilech is a Managing Director at IBG/Fox & Fin in the Phoenix Arizona office. His specialization is in the technology market and has many strong connections to Silicon Valley. He has been extremely successful in the Arizona market and has earned the reputation of being one of the top deal makers in the State. His in-depth practical experience in multiple aspects of business operations, financial background and educational credentials enables Lance to understand the concerns of business owners and buyers. This unique combination of experience and skills enables him to help clients through all aspects of the business transfer process.
Experience:
Lance started his business career in sales, representing companies that selling software and computers, and eventually became a securities representative. He has extensive experience in international markets and is fluent in multiple languages. As an entrepreneur, Lance has started, built and sold several companies, including a software development company and a multi-location education company. Immediately prior to his association with Fox & Fin, he started and built from the ground up one of Phoenix's top tax firms.
Lance has decades of experience in valuing businesses and advising clients on a wide range of strategic and management issues for companies small and large, and he has testified frequently in depositions and courts of law as an expert witness on business valuations.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Accounting and Statistics – University of Cape Town
Master of Finance – Arizona State University
Master of Taxation – Arizona State University
- Accredited in Business Valuation from the AICPA
- Series 82, 79, and 63 Securities Licenses (Ceiba Financial, LLC)
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Agent
- Arizona Technology Council
- Arizona BioIndustry Association
- French-American Chamber of Commerce
Areas of Expertise:
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Construction
Community and Personal:
Lance is passionate about language, global business, and lifelong learning. A dedicated polyglot, he enjoys exploring international culture and communication. Outside of work, he is an avid sports fan and competitor, with particular interests in basketball, football, and tennis.

Troy Stapley
Managing Director - Southwest/ Pacific Coastal
tstapley@ibgbusiness.com | 602.429.0414
Profile:
Troy Stapley is a Managing Director at IBG Fox & Fin in Scottsdale, Arizona. Since joining the firm in 2011, Troy has worked closely with private equity groups, family offices, corporate buyers, and business owners on both buy-side and sell-side M&A engagements. With a background in business consulting and commercial lending, he brings more than 25 years of experience advising companies across a range of industries, from early-stage ventures to Fortune 500 enterprises. Troy is known for his strategic insight, transaction discipline, and ability to structure deals that align with the long-term goals of all parties. He has successfully negotiated and closed dozens of transactions throughout the Southwestern U.S., supporting clients in manufacturing, distribution, construction, home services, and technology sectors. His business philosophy—“Planning for a future exit builds better companies now”—reflects his proactive, value-building approach to business sales.
Experience:
Prior to joining IBG, Troy built a successful career in nationwide consulting and commercial lending, helping clients structure financing and growth strategies across a wide spectrum of industries. This experience laid the foundation for his hands-on expertise in M&A, where he now advises closely held companies on maximizing enterprise value and achieving successful exits. Over the past decade, Troy has developed deep transactional knowledge in industries such as building products distribution, specialty trade construction, professional services, online retail, and tech-based firms. He is recognized for his ability to understand operational nuances and financial drivers that matter most to buyers and sellers alike.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Communications & Business Management – Brigham Young University
MBA, Finance & Leadership – Arizona State University
- Certified M&A Professional (CMAP)
- Arizona Licensed Real Estate Agent
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)
- M&A Source
Industry Focus and Expertise:
- Distribution
- Construction
- Professional Services
- Manufacturing
- Technology
Community and Personal:
Troy is actively involved in the W.P. Carey School of Business Alumni Association and gives back to his community as a high school wrestling coach. A passionate supporter of local and collegiate sports, Troy enjoys attending events and spending time outdoors with his family. He’s an avid fan of ASU, BYU, and Arizona’s professional teams.

Sonja Wood
Managing Director - Southwest/ Pacific Coastal
swood@ibgbusiness.com | 505.305.7888
Profile:
Sonja Wood is a Managing Director and M&A advisor at IBG Fox & Fin, where she brings nearly two decades of experience helping business owners navigate successful sales, mergers, and ownership transitions. With a dual focus on mergers and acquisitions and real estate, Sonja provides comprehensive advisory services that align closely with each client’s strategic and financial goals. Her approach combines analytical depth, exit planning expertise, and a client-centered mindset to deliver seamless and value-driven outcomes.
A Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) and Certified Exit Planner (CExP), Sonja works closely with business owners to optimize value before a transaction and guide them through each phase of the sale. She is known for her thorough due diligence, market insight, and ability to align buyer and seller interests to create win-win deals. Licensed in Colorado, Texas, and New Mexico, Sonja also brings a regional real estate perspective to transactions where property assets are involved—especially in the senior housing and healthcare sectors.
Experience:
For nearly 20 years, Sonja has been advising business owners on growth, transition, and exit strategies. Her work spans valuation, strategic consulting, financial analysis, and post-sale integration. She has developed a niche in senior housing and care-related businesses and has built strong relationships within the industry through board service and professional affiliations.
Sonja is also a seasoned real estate professional, which enhances her ability to guide clients through business sales involving commercial property components. Her interdisciplinary knowledge allows her to deliver holistic solutions in complex transactions.
Education and Professional Memberships:
B.S., Finance – Metropolitan State University of Denver
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) – International Business Brokers Association
- Certified Exit Planner (CExP) – Business Enterprise Institute
- Certified Senior Housing Professional™ – Seniors Real Estate Institute
- Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) – National Association of REALTORS®
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), since 2007
- M&A Source, since 2024
- Colorado Association of Business Intermediaries (CABI), since 2011
- Colorado Managing Broker License ER.100000744 (2005)
- Texas Sales Agent License #712269 (2018)
- New Mexico Real Estate License #REC-2022-0300 (2022)
Industry Focus and Expertise:
- Senior Housing & Assisted Living
- Healthcare and Real Estate-Integrated Businesses
- Exit Planning and Value Optimization
Community and Personal:
Sonja has served on multiple industry boards including the Colorado Assisted Living Association and the Colorado Association of Business Intermediaries, reflecting her commitment to elevating standards and outcomes in both M&A and senior housing. Outside of work, she enjoys contributing to community causes and exploring the landscapes of the Southwest.
New Mexico Real Estate License
Associates, Analyst & Staff
Jessica Dilullo
Office Manager - Colorado

Jessica Dilullo
Office Manager - Colorado

Karen Berger
Executive Assistant - Pennsylvania
Karen joined IBG Business/CK Business Consultants, Inc. in 2007. As Mr. Papay's executive assistant she is responsible for the preparation of all aspects of the merger and acquisition process, and the day-to-day operations of the business. Prior to IBG Business/CK Business Consultants, Inc. Karen was an office manager responsible for receivables, payables, payroll, purchasing, and quoting for a contracting firm. In her spare time, she is a "soccer mom" and enjoys cooking and reading.

Jennifer Freese
Client Services Manager - Arizona
Jen joined IBG Business/Fox & Fin in July of 2024 and provides comprehensive support to Partners and Directors. Jen came to the firm as a seasoned Executive Assistant with a robust career supporting executives across a range of industries, including law, non-profit, and aviation. With a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Jen brings a keen eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills.
In Remembrance
Samuel David Cheris

Jim Afinowich
Managing Partner, Founder & Principal - Arizona
Jim Afinowich is a Partner and Designated Broker at IBG Fox & Fin in the Phoenix office, a mergers and acquisition firm founded in 1993 that handles business sales between $5 million and $150 million. The firm has been selected Arizona’s number one business broker and investment banking firm for 18 consecutive years by Ranking Arizona.
Jim’s primary responsibility is overseeing his office’s deal makers and expediting transactions. He has more than a quarter century of successful experience in the M&A industry and has managed and supervised more than 500 transactions. He is well-known a creative problem solver.
A nationally honored industry leader, Jim has developed and presented classes for regional and national trade associations for nearly 20 years. He has also provided expert witness services in cases relating to brokerage practices and standards of care.
Certifications/Licenses
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Business Brokerage Specialist (BBS)
- Real Estate Broker, State of Arizona
- Series 63 and series 82 securities registration under CEIBA Financial, LLC
Honors and Awards
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- “Jim Afinowich Day,” Valley Board of Business Brokers
Memberships
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow, President, Director, Vice President, Treasurer, Education Committee Chair
- M&A Source: Charter member; Chair, Education Committee; Chair, Credentialing Committee
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation: President and Director
- Valley Board Of Business Brokers
- Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)
- Alliance of Merger and Acquisition Advisors (AM&AA)
- Arizona Business Brokers Association
- Turnaround Management Association
Business & Community Involvement
- Volunteer, various local charity organizations and projects
- Aircraft Owner Pilot Association
- Reno Air Racing Association
- Wings for Kid
Jim Afinowich, Nevada Real Estate License #B.1002070
Darrell Fouts

Matt Frye
Managing Partner & Principal
Matt is the Managing Partner responsible for the operations of IBG/Bluestem Resources Group, LLC (Bluestem USA). A native-Tulsan, Matt joined IBG/Bluestem following twenty-one years in Executive Management roles for multiple energy-based technology companies in Houston, Texas. Matt started his career in Tulsa in the domestic exploration and production business and migrated into commodity trading with Tulsa-based The Williams Companies. He then advanced to a series of executive level positions with technology start-ups and enterprise-wide software development ventures. His last ten years as a corporate executive culminated in the launching of the U.S division of the Natural Gas Exchange, an online energy commodity exchange and clearinghouse, which is now a subsidiary of the Intercontinental Exchange Group (ICE NYSE).
Experience
Matt’s vast leadership experience base spans from private-equity based technology startups to publicly held energy companies and commodity exchanges. He has launched multiple new ventures that introduced new products and services both domestically and internationally. This experience base combined with expertise in joint venture development and M&A serves IBG/Bluestem clients by maximizing their intrinsic and extrinsic value to broad target markets.
With over thirty years of deal making experience, Matt’s primary roles at IBG/Bluestem include: buyer and seller representation, pre-sale consultation, market segment analysis and company valuation.
Education & Awards
- BS in Finance from Oklahoma State University
- MBA from the University of Tulsa
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger and Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): The IBBA
- Licensed Real Estate Agent: Oklahoma
Areas of Expertise
- Energy
- Information Technology/Software
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale Trade
- Construction
- Professional Services
Interests
When not serving the needs of IBG/Bluestem clients, you can find Matt and his wife at their hobby ranch south of Tulsa or serving at their church.
Bruce Fox

John C. Johnson
Managing Partner & Principal
John C. Johnson, M&A Broker and Advisor, is a specialist in selling a business. An IBG Business Founder, he is Managing Partner of the Tulsa Oklahoma office. John also founded and built Bluestem Resources - BluestemUSA. He is past President of the International Business Broker Association and The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) Source and is a Certified Business Intermediary and Lifetime Master Merger & Acquisition Intermediary.
John's career began as a roustabout at Amoco Production Company/Standard Oil of Indiana, then in operations research and in field offices while completing his Petroleum Engineering degree. He worked at Champlin Petroleum/Union Pacific Corporation as he earned an MBA at Texas Christian University. At the two Fortune 100 companies - Standard of Indiana and Union Pacific - John held staff and management positions in strategy, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions.
John's expertise is demonstrated through his track record of success for clients, professional M&A certifications, as a court-appointed receiver, and as an expert witness in business valuation and petroleum property management. He has written "M&A Expert" series articles for international business publications, has taught peers in M&A broker courses and lectured on "best practice" panels.
Entrepreneurial/Industry Experience
John was raised in an entrepreneurial family and understands the sacrifices, stress, risks, and hard work business ownership brings to an owner and the owner’s family.
He is an experienced business owner. John owns and manages a land and cattle business with ranch lands, minerals, petroleum, and timber resources. John grew a startup petroleum gathering and distribution venture to a $12 million business before completing a strategic sale. He organized and manages properties for a group that bought distressed petroleum loans from the FDIC. He has bought and resold private businesses in manufacturing, business services, and oil processing.
John was born in Kansas and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His corporate career took him to Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, New York City, and back to Tulsa before he settled near his northeast Oklahoma ranch. In quiet times, Johns enjoys time with his wife, children and grandchildren as well as fishing, hunting, gardening, and working at their ranch.
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Acquisition International: USA M&A Broker of the Year
- The M&A Source: Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Chairman’s Award for Leadership
- Tulsa’s Small Business Person of the Year: Finalist
- U.S. Small Business Administration: Oklahoma Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Memberships
- The M&A Source: Founding Member, Chairman, Officer, Director, Strategic Issues Task Force Co-Chair
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow; Life Member; President; Member, President’s Advisory Council; Director; Treasurer; Strategic Planning Chair; Co-Author, M&A Course and Certification Exam; Instructor; Speaker and Panelist
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Founder and Director
- Tulsa Metro Chamber’s Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Business & Community Involvement
- Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Director
- Oklahoma Academy for State Goals: Director
- Leadership Oklahoma: Graduate, Director, Officer
- Tulsa Executives Association: Director
- Tulsa Economic Development Corporation: Director
- Entrepreneurs of Tulsa: Director & Officer
- Oklahoma Private Enterprise Forum: Director & President
- The Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence: Director
- M&A Joint Industry Campaign for Clarity: Steering Committee Co-Chair
- Rotary International: Paul Harris Fellow; President, Rotary Club of Vinita
- Youth Recreation Association: Director, Coach, Referee
Charles Martz

John C. Johnson
Managing Partner & Principal
John C. Johnson, M&A Broker and Advisor, is a specialist in selling a business. An IBG Business Founder, he is Managing Partner of the Tulsa Oklahoma office. John also founded and built Bluestem Resources - BluestemUSA. He is past President of the International Business Broker Association and The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) Source and is a Certified Business Intermediary and Lifetime Master Merger & Acquisition Intermediary.
John's career began as a roustabout at Amoco Production Company/Standard Oil of Indiana, then in operations research and in field offices while completing his Petroleum Engineering degree. He worked at Champlin Petroleum/Union Pacific Corporation as he earned an MBA at Texas Christian University. At the two Fortune 100 companies - Standard of Indiana and Union Pacific - John held staff and management positions in strategy, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions.
John's expertise is demonstrated through his track record of success for clients, professional M&A certifications, as a court-appointed receiver, and as an expert witness in business valuation and petroleum property management. He has written "M&A Expert" series articles for international business publications, has taught peers in M&A broker courses and lectured on "best practice" panels.
Entrepreneurial/Industry Experience
John was raised in an entrepreneurial family and understands the sacrifices, stress, risks, and hard work business ownership brings to an owner and the owner’s family.
He is an experienced business owner. John owns and manages a land and cattle business with ranch lands, minerals, petroleum, and timber resources. John grew a startup petroleum gathering and distribution venture to a $12 million business before completing a strategic sale. He organized and manages properties for a group that bought distressed petroleum loans from the FDIC. He has bought and resold private businesses in manufacturing, business services, and oil processing.
John was born in Kansas and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His corporate career took him to Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, New York City, and back to Tulsa before he settled near his northeast Oklahoma ranch. In quiet times, Johns enjoys time with his wife, children and grandchildren as well as fishing, hunting, gardening, and working at their ranch.
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Acquisition International: USA M&A Broker of the Year
- The M&A Source: Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Chairman’s Award for Leadership
- Tulsa’s Small Business Person of the Year: Finalist
- U.S. Small Business Administration: Oklahoma Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Memberships
- The M&A Source: Founding Member, Chairman, Officer, Director, Strategic Issues Task Force Co-Chair
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow; Life Member; President; Member, President’s Advisory Council; Director; Treasurer; Strategic Planning Chair; Co-Author, M&A Course and Certification Exam; Instructor; Speaker and Panelist
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Founder and Director
- Tulsa Metro Chamber’s Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Business & Community Involvement
- Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Director
- Oklahoma Academy for State Goals: Director
- Leadership Oklahoma: Graduate, Director, Officer
- Tulsa Executives Association: Director
- Tulsa Economic Development Corporation: Director
- Entrepreneurs of Tulsa: Director & Officer
- Oklahoma Private Enterprise Forum: Director & President
- The Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence: Director
- M&A Joint Industry Campaign for Clarity: Steering Committee Co-Chair
- Rotary International: Paul Harris Fellow; President, Rotary Club of Vinita
- Youth Recreation Association: Director, Coach, Referee
Tom Smart

John C. Johnson
Managing Partner & Principal
John C. Johnson, M&A Broker and Advisor, is a specialist in selling a business. An IBG Business Founder, he is Managing Partner of the Tulsa Oklahoma office. John also founded and built Bluestem Resources - BluestemUSA. He is past President of the International Business Broker Association and The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) Source and is a Certified Business Intermediary and Lifetime Master Merger & Acquisition Intermediary.
John's career began as a roustabout at Amoco Production Company/Standard Oil of Indiana, then in operations research and in field offices while completing his Petroleum Engineering degree. He worked at Champlin Petroleum/Union Pacific Corporation as he earned an MBA at Texas Christian University. At the two Fortune 100 companies - Standard of Indiana and Union Pacific - John held staff and management positions in strategy, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions.
John's expertise is demonstrated through his track record of success for clients, professional M&A certifications, as a court-appointed receiver, and as an expert witness in business valuation and petroleum property management. He has written "M&A Expert" series articles for international business publications, has taught peers in M&A broker courses and lectured on "best practice" panels.
Entrepreneurial/Industry Experience
John was raised in an entrepreneurial family and understands the sacrifices, stress, risks, and hard work business ownership brings to an owner and the owner’s family.
He is an experienced business owner. John owns and manages a land and cattle business with ranch lands, minerals, petroleum, and timber resources. John grew a startup petroleum gathering and distribution venture to a $12 million business before completing a strategic sale. He organized and manages properties for a group that bought distressed petroleum loans from the FDIC. He has bought and resold private businesses in manufacturing, business services, and oil processing.
John was born in Kansas and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His corporate career took him to Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, New York City, and back to Tulsa before he settled near his northeast Oklahoma ranch. In quiet times, Johns enjoys time with his wife, children and grandchildren as well as fishing, hunting, gardening, and working at their ranch.
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Acquisition International: USA M&A Broker of the Year
- The M&A Source: Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Chairman’s Award for Leadership
- Tulsa’s Small Business Person of the Year: Finalist
- U.S. Small Business Administration: Oklahoma Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Memberships
- The M&A Source: Founding Member, Chairman, Officer, Director, Strategic Issues Task Force Co-Chair
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow; Life Member; President; Member, President’s Advisory Council; Director; Treasurer; Strategic Planning Chair; Co-Author, M&A Course and Certification Exam; Instructor; Speaker and Panelist
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Founder and Director
- Tulsa Metro Chamber’s Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Business & Community Involvement
- Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Director
- Oklahoma Academy for State Goals: Director
- Leadership Oklahoma: Graduate, Director, Officer
- Tulsa Executives Association: Director
- Tulsa Economic Development Corporation: Director
- Entrepreneurs of Tulsa: Director & Officer
- Oklahoma Private Enterprise Forum: Director & President
- The Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence: Director
- M&A Joint Industry Campaign for Clarity: Steering Committee Co-Chair
- Rotary International: Paul Harris Fellow; President, Rotary Club of Vinita
- Youth Recreation Association: Director, Coach, Referee
Mark Greenberg

John C. Johnson
Managing Partner & Principal
John C. Johnson, M&A Broker and Advisor, is a specialist in selling a business. An IBG Business Founder, he is Managing Partner of the Tulsa Oklahoma office. John also founded and built Bluestem Resources - BluestemUSA. He is past President of the International Business Broker Association and The Merger and Acquisitions (M&A) Source and is a Certified Business Intermediary and Lifetime Master Merger & Acquisition Intermediary.
John's career began as a roustabout at Amoco Production Company/Standard Oil of Indiana, then in operations research and in field offices while completing his Petroleum Engineering degree. He worked at Champlin Petroleum/Union Pacific Corporation as he earned an MBA at Texas Christian University. At the two Fortune 100 companies - Standard of Indiana and Union Pacific - John held staff and management positions in strategy, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions.
John's expertise is demonstrated through his track record of success for clients, professional M&A certifications, as a court-appointed receiver, and as an expert witness in business valuation and petroleum property management. He has written "M&A Expert" series articles for international business publications, has taught peers in M&A broker courses and lectured on "best practice" panels.
Entrepreneurial/Industry Experience
John was raised in an entrepreneurial family and understands the sacrifices, stress, risks, and hard work business ownership brings to an owner and the owner’s family.
He is an experienced business owner. John owns and manages a land and cattle business with ranch lands, minerals, petroleum, and timber resources. John grew a startup petroleum gathering and distribution venture to a $12 million business before completing a strategic sale. He organized and manages properties for a group that bought distressed petroleum loans from the FDIC. He has bought and resold private businesses in manufacturing, business services, and oil processing.
John was born in Kansas and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His corporate career took him to Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, New York City, and back to Tulsa before he settled near his northeast Oklahoma ranch. In quiet times, Johns enjoys time with his wife, children and grandchildren as well as fishing, hunting, gardening, and working at their ranch.
Certifications/Licenses
- Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI): The M&A Source
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI): International Business Broker Association
- Industry Expert Designation: Business Brokerage Press
- Licensed Real Estate Broker
Honors and Awards
- Acquisition International: USA M&A Broker of the Year
- The M&A Source: Darrell Fouts Award for visionary leadership in the M&A profession
- Tom West Award for exceptional contributions in promoting goals and ethics in business brokerage
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Chairman’s Award for Leadership
- Tulsa’s Small Business Person of the Year: Finalist
- U.S. Small Business Administration: Oklahoma Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Memberships
- The M&A Source: Founding Member, Chairman, Officer, Director, Strategic Issues Task Force Co-Chair
- International Business Brokers Association (IBBA): Fellow; Life Member; President; Member, President’s Advisory Council; Director; Treasurer; Strategic Planning Chair; Co-Author, M&A Course and Certification Exam; Instructor; Speaker and Panelist
- Business Intermediary Education Foundation (BIEF): Founder and Director
- Tulsa Metro Chamber’s Financial Services Advocate of the Year
Business & Community Involvement
- Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Director
- Oklahoma Academy for State Goals: Director
- Leadership Oklahoma: Graduate, Director, Officer
- Tulsa Executives Association: Director
- Tulsa Economic Development Corporation: Director
- Entrepreneurs of Tulsa: Director & Officer
- Oklahoma Private Enterprise Forum: Director & President
- The Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence: Director
- M&A Joint Industry Campaign for Clarity: Steering Committee Co-Chair
- Rotary International: Paul Harris Fellow; President, Rotary Club of Vinita
- Youth Recreation Association: Director, Coach, Referee
"We referred to our team as the 'dream team' because we felt like we had the best combination of people in place to help us get the best deal."
