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Laura Ward

Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary & Executive Board Member

Professional Background
Laura Mavert Ward is a respected leader in the fields of mergers, acquisitions, and business valuations. As the Founder and Managing Partner at Kingsbridge Capital Partners, Laura has dedicated her career to partnering with middle-market business owners across various industries, including manufacturing, distribution, and business services. Her unique approach focuses on the intricate balance between achieving personal and professional goals, translating complex business transitions into actionable strategies. Kingsbridge Capital Partners stands out in the competitive landscape of M&A firms by offering tailored Value Enhancement Services designed to help business owners prepare for successful transitions; in fact, Laura emphasizes that up to 90% of businesses may not be ready for a transition without the right guidance.

Through her expertise, Laura addresses the common challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face when navigating the complexities of ownership transitions, management buyouts, exit planning, and succession planning. With a proven track record of successful partnerships, she collaborates closely with a network of professionals that includes attorneys, CPA's, consultants, coaches, and financial planners, ensuring a comprehensive approach to each client’s needs. Laura is not only a capable strategist but also a mentor, offering guidance that nurtures leadership and development within organizations.

Education and Achievements
Laura’s academic journey reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional advancement. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Advertising Photography and Business from the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology. Laura furthered her expertise during her studies in various specialized fields relevant to her practice:

  • Certified Exit Planner at the Certified Exit Planner
  • Certified Business Intermediary at the Certified Business Intermediary
  • Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional at Kennesaw State University - Michael J. Coles College of Business
  • Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser, honing her skills in asset valuation
  • Executive Coach training at Certified Executive Coach
  • In-depth training in Sales Development and Customer Loyalty through Sandler Sales Training

This impressive array of credentials underlines her dedication to mastering the skills necessary to guide businesses through critical transitions. Laura has gained significant recognition within the industry and has held leadership positions including President of Dovetail Business Advisors and Board of Governors Chair at M&A Source. Her involvement in these organizations showcases her commitment not only to her clients but also to the continuous improvement of the mergers and acquisitions field as a whole.

Notable Contributions
Laura Ward's contributions extend beyond her direct service to clients. Her work has significantly impacted the way businesses strategize for exit planning and succession, empowering owners to recognize and harness the full value of their organizations. At Kingsbridge Capital Partners, Laura combines her experience from previous roles—including Managing Director at Chapman Associates and Project Manager at Hallmark Cards—to provide unparalleled insights and solutions for clients.

Additionally, Laura's early career as a Medical Photographer at Yale University's Department of Pathology provided her with a unique perspective and attention to detail, which she brings into her business assessments and evaluations. With a wealth of experience behind her, she enables business owners to identify untapped potential within their enterprises, ensuring they achieve maximum returns during transitions.

Community Involvement
Laura is also a strong advocate for community development and has actively participated in various initiatives that foster entrepreneurism and promote business growth. Her collaborative nature and commitment to excellence not only benefit her clients but also elevate the entrepreneurial landscape in the regions she serves, including Kansas City, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. By fostering strong working relationships with a variety of stakeholders, she ensures that business owners have the support they need to thrive.

Conclusion
Laura Mavert Ward is a dedicated professional whose extensive knowledge and unwavering commitment to the success of business owners make her a standout figure in the mergers and acquisitions field. Laura's comprehensive understanding of business valuations, strategic planning, and exit strategies positions her as a trusted advisor and advocate for entrepreneurs seeking to navigate the complexities of ownership transitions. As she continues to drive positive outcomes for her clients, Laura remains an influential partner to those looking to seamlessly transition their businesses, ensuring they meet their unique goals along the way.

Related Questions

How did Laura Ward develop her expertise in mergers and acquisitions?
What inspired Laura Ward to focus on value enhancement services for business transitions?
In what ways has Laura Ward contributed to the success of middle-market businesses in Kansas City?
How does Laura Ward approach the challenges faced by business owners during exit planning?
What role does education play in Laura Ward's professional achievements in the field of business valuation?
Laura Ward
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Location

Kansas City Metropolitan Area