Brian Steffens, Managing Director, Buy-Side Advisory, of G2 Capital Advisors, has been a dedicated member of AM&AA for over twelve years and in that time has shown a dedication to M&A based education and networking, including holding his CM&AA title for those twelve years as well as participating in AM&AA’s Education Committee and now the Advisory Board.
When asked what drives his commitment to his craft and industry, Brian replied:
I love problem solving and collaboration that comes with bringing two organizations, lots of personalities, egos, and experts together to accomplish a common goal. While there are similarities and experience to draw upon, rarely are two deals the same. No matter how many times you have done it, you cannot get comfortable. I need that discomfort in my life to maintain an edge and drive.
What are some insights or at least one piece of advice you wish you would have known when you first started in the industry?
Some advice for those starting out: (1) Always be curious. Ask lots of questions of your peers, clients, other experts, company leadership, industry leaders. Seek out smart, accomplished people in the field and in each industry vertical your work in. Listen to their needs and focus on providing solutions – the results (successful closed transactions) will follow. (2) Do not be afraid to ask for help. Be comfortable not being the smartest person in the room. (3) Don’t avoid the hard conversation. Often it is not as bad as you think. It is where the real learning and improvement comes from and how progress and traction come from.
What is top of mind for you in your business right now?
All the major macro themes that the industry has been acutely aware (ie, inflation, cost of capital, access to capital and the amount of leverage, and bridging the valuation bid/ask gap) have impacted our clients and how we help them navigate challenges, convert opportunities, and provide thought leadership and support in their decisions. The G2 Capital Advisors platform, which is a fully integrated, investment bank that provides investment banking services (sell side and buyside) with restructuring (operational, financial, and special situations) and capital markets. This offering allows us to activate the right resources for our client regardless of their needs or the market conditions. Our pedigree as former operators and business owners, gives us additional insight and into what these owners and leaders are facing in each industry where we focus (G2 Capital Advisors vertical industries focus: Industrial & Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistics, Technology & Business Services, Consumer & Retail).
How has being a member of a trade association resulted in business growth for you?
Being a member has plugged me into a community of my peers and experts with a wealth of experience, knowledge, and capital to accomplish or solve most problems. Whether it is an opportunity or a problem, I know I have friends and trusted partners I can reach out to advance the conversation and my conviction quickly.
What legacy industry impact would you most desire to be known for?
Honest and direct feedback, respectful, problem solver, hard worker, positive energy and now as I have gotten more experienced (aka older) a mentor. I enjoy watching others succeed and celebrating in their successes’. I’m in a position of influence at a growing platform – G2 capital advisors, that puts me in the right rooms. Chances are our team has seen it or done it. I love our culture and approach FINAO (failure is not an option) to every situation. It might be a little cliché, but in a business sense we are the folks running towards the fire or danger versus taking the first opportunity out of harm’s way. I love that.
