About this episode

The episode features a live panel of experienced business acquirers discussing exit strategies and building confidence for first deals.

From First Deal to Big Exits: What Real Dealmakers Are Doing Differently Host: Jonathan Jay Format: Live panel Q&A — Riverside Studios, Hammersmith Guests: Seven Inner Circle members Overview Seven of Jonathan Jay's Inner Circle members — experienced business acquirers — answer unscripted questions from a live audience. This episode focuses on exit strategies, building deal confidence, and how to get a first acquisition over the line. Exit Strategy The panel agree: start with the end in mind, but hold the number loosely. One member is building a £25m technology group by 55, with a £100m goal by 60 — but stresses the journey matters more than the figure. Another runs multiple buy-and-build projects in parallel, generating a new exit every 3–6 months and ultimately targeting a move into private equity. The consensus: build like you're selling, even if you never plan to. Confidence & Competence Business skills are transferable — sector experience is helpful, not essential. The panel recommend starting with your own supply chain, where trust is already established. Find an accountability partner more productive than you, and lean on your community: you don't need all the answers…

People in this episode

Host: Jonathan Jay

Guest: Seven Inner Circle members

Topics covered

• exit strategies
• deal confidence
• first acquisition
• business skills
• community support

Keywords

• business acquisition
• exit strategy
• deal confidence
• supply chain
• accountability partner

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Riverside Studios

Places: Hammersmith

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