DATE: Wednesday, March 17, 2027
TIME: 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
LOCATION: Bridgewood Conference Center | Neenah
Fox Cities Stadium
2400 North Casaloma Drive
Appleton, WI 54913
M&A Keynote Presentation Time
3:45 - 4:45 PM
Keynote Topic
M&A Topic
Summary
Awaiting content from keynote speaker.
Keynote Presenter & Biography
Scott Bushkie
Managing Partner & Founder
Cornerstone Business Services
Scott Bushkie is the Managing Partner and Founder of Cornerstone Business Services. With more than 25 years of experience in the M&A industry, Scott is a recognized thought-leader, bringing investment bank level services to buy-side and sell-side transactions in the lower middle market. He has successfully executed hundreds of transactions domestically and internationally, working with private equity firms, family offices, and strategic buyers. As a result, Scott has earned the trust and respect of CPA and financial advisor alliances, investment banks, and other professional service firms around the M&A marketplace.
He is a sought-after expert on the M&A market and has been quoted by the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, and the Associated Press. Scott writes articles for regional business papers, including a monthly syndicated column for Gannett. In 2021, Scott published his book “Finish Strong”, a holistic view at business transitions for owners of privately held companies, and its companion workbook which includes exercises to help put thoughts into action.
As a keynote speaker, Scott has engaged audiences from national organizations to local trade groups and international delegations, with a core message for business owners and their trusted advisors to begin planning now for inevitable business transition.
Awaiting content from CIBC.
Awaiting content from CIBC.
This session explores market dynamics, deal structures, and strategic planning decisions that shape transaction outcomes from start to finish. Learning objectives are as follows:
1. Analyze current M&A market conditions and the factors influencing buyer behavior and valuation
2. Distinguish between headline purchase price and the financial, tax, and structural elements that ultimately determine transaction outcomes
3. Identify planning opportunities that can enhance transaction flexibility mitigate risks and improve post-closing results
Gore Simervil
Director, Business Transaction Advisory Group | BMO
Gore Simervil is a Director with BMO’s Business Transition Advisory Group BMO’s Business Transition Advisory Group (BTAG) is a team of specialized professionals dedicated to guiding business owners through the complex process of selling or transitioning an enterprise. BTAG takes a client-centered approach, helping owners align the vision of their business with their long-term personal and financial goals, ensuring a seamless transition from business ownership to wealth preservation.
Prior to joining BMO, Gore was a key member of Wells Fargo’s Business Owner Advisory team, where he worked closely with high-net-worth business owners, providing guidance on pre-sale planning, business valuation, and transition strategies. Before Wells Fargo, Gore gained extensive M&A experience at Mednax / Pediatrix Medical Group, where he was involved in sourcing, evaluating, and executing acquisitions of physician practices nationwide. He played a critical role in financial modeling, due diligence, and deal structuring to support the company’s growth strategy.
Earlier in his career, Gore was part of the M&A team at AutoNation, the largest automotive retailer in the U.S. There, he focused on identifying acquisition opportunities, conducting financial analyses, and executing transactions that expanded AutoNation’s dealership footprint. His work involved collaboration with senior executives, investment bankers, and legal teams to facilitate complex deal negotiations.
Gore holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Bryant University, where he was also a member of the Division I football team. He currently resides in South Florida with his wife and daughter.
CIBC M&A Market Update & Panel Discussion from 1:00 - 2:00 PM = 1 credit
BMO M&A Professional Development Presentation from 2:15 - 3:15 PM = 1 credit
M&A Keynote Presentation from 3:45 - 4:45 PM = 1 credit
Michelle Weiss
920.750.9110
michelle@mwcommunications.org
Register and send cancellations by noon on 3/10/27.