M&A and exit masterclass

5th Feb 2026 12:30 pm

1:30 pm
M&A and exit

As ever, our masterclasses are in the strictest confidence. We won’t share your registration with anyone, and no identifying information will appear during the webinar. 


How does IT and tech affect strategic exits and high-value deals? Find out in our exclusive M&A masterclass. 

M&A and exit decisions are increasingly shaped by digital maturity and technology resilience. In this exclusive masterclass, we explore how IT and tech influence valuation, due diligence, and deal confidence in mid-market transactions.

If you’re a founder, CEO, or shareholder looking to maximise returns and navigate negotiations with confidence this webinar is for you. In this informative panel discussion, our experts will cover the issue from three perspectives:

  • Preparing for sale or investment. Your digital infrastructure – including cyber security, data maturity, AI implementations, and scalable systems – directly impact valuation and buyer confidence. So how do you make your business easily digestible?
  • Preparing for acquisition. What are the red flags to look out for, and what are the best pathways to a smooth integration of a newly acquired business? What should buyers look out for during due diligence?
  • Advisors. Articulating a company’s digital maturity, cyber security resilience, and tech scalability is now essential to shaping investor narratives and defending valuations in mid-market transactions. How does an advisors translate IT complexity into commercial value? 

There will be an opportunity to submit questions in advance, as well as ask questions anonymously during the live Q&A.

2026 will have opportunities both for buyers and sellers of well-positioned, well-managed mid-sized businesses. And IT and tech are instrumental, whichever side you’re on. Join us our seasoned experts for an informative look at M&A and exit – exclusively for mid-sized business leaders. 

Successful M&A and exit outcomes increasingly depend on how clearly technology risk and scalability are articulated at Board level

Speakers

  • Graeme Freeman

    Freeman Clarke Co-Founder and CEO

    Graeme Freeman

    Graeme co founded the business in 2012, following leadership roles in IT services, commercial software and corporate CIO positions. He supports US expansion, leads strategic partnerships and contributes to thought leadership and marketing content. With experience as a non executive director, Graeme brings strong commercial insight and strategic perspective to long term growth.

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  • Gerry Lawrence

    Regional Director

    Gerry Lawrence

    Gerry supports business leaders with IT strategy, digital transformation, cyber security and bespoke software. Working across wholesale, manufacturing, professional services, education and software, he helps organisations automate processes, improve performance and exceed business goals. Gerry focuses on practical technology outcomes that create efficiencies and unlock new ways of working.

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  • Alex Hudson

    Principal

    Alex Hudson

    Alex helps organisations deliver rapid technology transformation and develop innovative digital products. He has led programmes involving large scale platforms, HealthTech systems and emerging technologies. Combining strong technical expertise with strategic insight, Alex focuses on secure, scalable solutions that enable organisations to innovate and grow.

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  • Steven Houghton-Burnett

    Principal

    Steven Houghton-Burnett

    Steve is a technology and business leader with strong experience in digital transformation, change management and programme leadership. He defines and delivers IT strategies focused on measurable business improvement. Skilled in Agile environments, he also uses Agile techniques to bring complex programmes back on track. Steve works effectively from board level to operational teams.

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  • Gavin Scruby

    Principal

    Gavin Scruby

    Gavin is a board level technology leader with a PhD in Machine Learning and AI. He supports organisations across M&A, transformation and commercial growth, combining strategic insight with hands on leadership. With expertise in cyber security and service management, Gavin helps businesses manage risk, drive innovation and deliver measurable value during growth and change.

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Sophie

Investment Director 

Sophie Tainton

Sophie is Portfolio Director at YFM, collaborating with our diverse portfolio companies to drive growth and deliver strategic value.

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