Meet the Team

Greg Carpenter is the President of Horizon M&A Advisors and has over 30 years of experience selling businesses. 

Greg is a Vietnam-Era Veteran, having served in Finance, Accounting, and Budget in the US Air Force.  Greg holds several industry credentials including M&A Master Intermediary, Certified M&A Professional, and Certified Business Intermediary.  Greg has been active in professional organizations including M&A Source, International Business Brokers Association, California Association of Business Brokers, and Alliance of M&A Advisors.  In 2019 Greg was awarded the status Fellow of the M&A Source for his many years of contributions to his profession, including presenting workshops at national conferences and working on various committees.  Greg also served 4 terms on the CABB Board of Directors, chaired the state conference, and served 14 years on the Forms Committee, which creates and maintains form documents used by the CABB members to sell established businesses.

Prior to entering the M&A profession, Greg worked in tech companies as Marketing Manager, National Sales Manager, European Sales Manager, and Materials Manager.  As a young man, Greg’s first career was as a machinery erector for textile machinery, which required skills as an industrial controls technician, millwright, pipefitter, electrician, and certified pressure vessel welder.  So it is no surprise that Greg is knowledgeable about metal fab businesses, industrial control systems, and contracting businesses.  Greg has sold a wide range of businesses in his career, from software and consulting to automated contract manufacturing companies.

Greg also serves as a Fee Arbitrator for the Santa Clara County Bar Association, with 20 years of experience in this function.

Greg graduated from Santa Clara University with an MBA, and University of LaVerne with a BA in Business Management.  As a believer in continuous learning, Greg attends national professional conferences and studies continuing education courses every year.

DRE # 02058745 / 00898668

Designations:

Mergers and Acquisitions Master Intermediary (M&AMI)

Certified Merger & Acquisition Professional (CM&AP)

Fellow of the M&A Source

Certified Business Intermediary (CBI)

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Professional Affiliations:

California Association of Business Brokers (CABB)

M&A Source (MAS)

International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)

Santa Clara County Bar Association (SCCBA) (non-attorney arbitrator)

Tom’s 30+ years of business ownership, followed by the sale of his businesses, gives him a deep understanding of owners contemplating selling their business. His multiple ownership experiences also give him the ability to advise sellers on how to prepare their business for sale and maximize its value.

Dida Goudreau is an Mergers & Acquisitions Advisor with Horizon M&A. She represents sellers of Manufacturing, Technology and Design businesses throughout the United States. With a background of diverse business experience, Dida leans on her financial analysis and high emotional intelligence to optimize your experience and final agreement. She values strategy, efficiency and informed decision making.

Dida was drawn to M&A after spending several years working closely and confidentially with business owners as a leader and consultant, always considering opportunities to increase the value of the business and optimize the owner's exit. She understands that it takes time to prepare for an exit while also understanding the pace needed once a listing is in motion.

Dave has over 10 years of experience managing strategic partnerships by sourcing and evaluating businesses to accelerate innovation for Intel. Through the leading of attorneys, financial analysts, decision makers, and technology experts, he is highly skilled in business structure modeling, technology analysis, deal management, and risk assessment. With the highest standards of confidentiality, he is the ideal partner for business owners seeking to sell their business.

Rob is known for his professionalism, exceptional service, and determination to complete even the most complex transactions. Each of his clients receives the same personalized service, regardless of business size. From restoring British cars and helping to build his family home to working in high-tech Silicon Valley and operating his own Commodity Trading Advisor hedge fund, Rob can relate to just about any client and business situation.

John is the Managing Partner of the San Jose office of Horizon M&A Advisors, a sell-side M&A advisory firm in the Western US. John has over 25 years of experience representing Sellers and Buyers in the CONFIDENTIAL sale of privately owned Businesses across a wide range of industries including Manufacturing, Service, Technology, Software, Distribution, Construction, Automotive, Food & Beverage Related Businesses as well as other industries with sales from $0 to more than $90MM per year. In recent years, John has focused on companies with sales from $10MM to $30MM.

John has been licensed with the California Department of Real Estate since 1992 and his credentials include a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics from Texas Tech and post graduate work at the Harvard’s President’s class taught in conjunction with IBM. Additionally, John has earned the designation of Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) from the International Business Brokers Association. The CBI designation is granted to a select group of individuals who are seasoned in the industry, have completed over 68 hours of course work including financial analysis, pricing/valuation, legal and tax implications related to the sale or purchase of a business and have passed a comprehensive exam. With this designation comes the assurance that you will be working with an individual who is specifically trained and has met all the requirements to be a professional and knowledgeable intermediary on your behalf.

John is also a member of the California Association of Business Brokers (CABB) and has earned the Certified Business Broker (CBB) designation. John has served as President of CABB for 2000 – 2001. John helped design CABB’s two-day Introduction to Business Brokerage class and was an instructor for this class throughout Northern California from its inception in 2008 through 2012. John also helped design and teach the CABB’s Certified Business Broker re-certification class. John was on the CABB Board of directors from 1995 through 2013, and during that time chaired several committees to include the organization’s website and education committees.

John knows that selling or buying a business of any size can be a complex and time-consuming process. John’s hallmark strength, and commitment to his clients, is to make this process as smooth and fair, as possible for both parties, so that both Seller and Buyer leave the Closing table satisfied that they have participated in a successful transaction. References are available upon request. John can be reached at  JMitt@horizonmaa.com or at (408) 460-5446.

Kris Moe is a M&A Advisor for middle market businesses specializing in Construction (design, install and service with Solar, HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing) and Manufacturing businesses with a passion for getting deals done.

Kris knows that selling or buying a business can be a complex, intimidating and time-consuming process. He is committed to making this process a smooth and successful experience for all parties involved. 

His skills include tirelessly finding the right buyer for a business. And successful experience at being a good coach and responsive partner to the sell-side team to keep the momentum of the deal moving toward the goal line.

Kris is also an avid golfer and has competed at the highest levels, including six years on the US and European PGA tours and a 25th place finish in the 1985 British Open.

Michael L. Mogin

Managing Director

Office (650) 513-6900   Mobile (650) 224-6911

mmogin@horizonmaa.com

DRE # 02058745 / 00947495

Business sales and acquisitions are complicated.  Successful outcomes require the skills, knowledge, and guidance of a seasoned professional.

Mike Mogin is a deeply experienced merger and acquisition advisor who sellers and buyers of privately owned businesses have trusted to manage their transactions from concept through closing for over thirty years.  He is known for his diligence, attention to detail, sound advice, and dedication to helping clients achieve their financial and personal goals.  He has successfully managed several hundred transactions in a wide variety of industries.  His primary focus is on manufacturing, wholesale/distribution, and business service companies with revenues of up to $100 million.  He is qualified as an expert witness in business transactions and valuation in California Superior Court.

Typical seller clients are business owners who want to retire, move on to other opportunities, or achieve greater scale through becoming part of a larger enterprise.  Mike works with them to identify and maximize the value drivers that will make their company highly attractive to potential acquirers.  He then advises on likely market value, prepares marketing materials, identifies and contacts prospective buyers, facilitates negotiations, coordinates due diligence and contract preparation, and manages each transaction through closing, advising clients throughout the process while enabling them to stay focused on business operations.

Buyers include public and private companies seeking growth and diversity, private equity groups, family offices, search funds, and individuals with prior executive or ownership experience.  When retained for acquisition searches, Mike works closely with clients to establish their acquisition criteria, identify and contact target companies, negotiate purchase terms, coordinate due diligence and contract preparation, and manage transactions through closing.  Several clients have hired Mike for second and third transactions.

Mike received a BA in economics from Johns Hopkins University and has done graduate work in economics and finance at American University and New York University.  He continues to expand his knowledge through educational conferences and professional seminars.  He is an active member of

- M&A Source, the leading professional association for lower middle market merger and acquisition advisors

- International Business Brokers Association

- California Association of Business Brokers

- ProVisors, a network of seasoned professional advisors to businesses and their owners, which enables its members to refer other trusted advisors to clients for all aspects of their transactions and other business needs. This makes Mike an ongoing resource for his clients.

Mike began his career in economic and financial consulting at Planning Research Corporation in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles.  He followed that with a decade in various management positions in financial planning and analysis, corporate development including mergers and acquisitions, operations, and turnarounds at Fortune 500 companies CBS, Pfizer, and Revlon – experience that has proven to be a distinct advantage in arranging mergers and acquisitions for current clients.

Building on that experience, in the 1980s Mike founded Mogin Associates, an M&A and corporate development firm serving privately owned companies and their acquirers.

From 2004-2013, he was Managing Director at a major M&A and business brokerage firm in San Francisco, where he built and led a team of intermediaries in the purchase, sale, and valuation of companies with sales of up to $100 million.

Mike was a founding member of the California Association of Business Brokers and has served as a director, officer, and chairman of several committees.  He serves on the M&A Advisory Council at Bank of San Francisco and has been a member of the Advisory Board of Maverse, Inc., and a Director of the Woodside, California, School Foundation and Chairman of its Policy and Planning Committee.

When you’re considering a business sale or an acquisition or have been approached with an unsolicited offer, contact Mike Mogin at (650) 513-6900 or mmogin@horizonmaa.com for a confidential consultation.

Here is what some of Mike’s clients say about him:

“Mike is a highly experienced professional with an intimate understanding of the M&A market.  Mike successfully negotiated and completed my exit from Extranomical for which I am thankful.”

Founder and CEO of a market-leading sightseeing tour company

“Mike is truly the best.  Without any doubt, he knows his stuff and I would hire him for any forward transaction.  Without him, I would not be where I am today.”

Acquirer of a value-added window and door distributor and a subsequent add-on acquisition

“Mike is knowledgeable, resourceful and effective.  He has been instrumental in our growth, going well beyond the traditional scope of M&A advisory services.  He sourced and investigated a number of target companies and helped us acquire two office product companies.”

Owner and CEO of New York’s largest independently owned dealer of office products and services to large corporate clients

“I have no hesitation in recommending Mike as a broker to any buyer or seller.  He would be a strong advocate for his client.”

Buyer of a charter bus company and a subsequent add-on acquisition

“I recently led an investment group that purchased a business where Mike served as the seller’s M&A advisor.  Mike skillfully helped his client with all aspects of the transaction from initial marketing through negotiations, a due diligence review, and legal documentation to a successful closing and smooth transition.  I strongly recommend Mike Mogin.”

Founding partner of a private equity firm

“We worked together on several successful merger and acquisition transactions.  If you are seeking the best professional partner to handle your next business transaction, Michael is that person!”

M&A intermediary

“Michael has an enormous amount of experience and brings practical solutions to small to medium size companies looking to sell or merge their businesses.”

M&A attorney

“Mr. Mogin's transactions are built on solid terms and conditions.  His attention to detail and transaction guidance instill important confidence in the Buyer and Seller.”

Founder and President, business escrow service

Ray is a seasoned business professional with over two decades of experience in the real estate industry.  He graduated from San Diego State University in 2000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.  Throughout his career, Ray has served as a trusted advisor to clients across a range of industries.  As a licensed Broker, he has developed a deep understanding of market trends and has an unmatched ability to find the best opportunities for his clients.  During his successful career, he has honed his skills in marketing, advertising, collaborating with professional advisors, negotiating, analyzing, and leading projects.   Looking to expand his skill set and broaden his horizons, Ray has transitioned into the M & A field.  He believes that his wealth of experience, combined with his strong business acumen, makes him uniquely qualified to service his clients.  He is excited to bring his talents to bear in helping businesses navigate the complex world of M & A.  As a Broker, Ray has developed a vast network of professional advisors, including lawyers, accountants, and financial analysts. He understands the importance of collaborating with these experts to ensure the smooth and successful completion of complex transactions. He is adept at negotiating deals, analyzing data, and leading projects, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and working towards a common goal.

Lala Darrah is a business advisor and M&A intermediary with over 20 years experience in the financial services industry.  She has a deep understanding of business ownership, having founded and operated several businesses in the health and wellness field.  She also has experience in investment banking and equity sales, and has worked for leading banks and brokerages in the City of London.

Lala's work experience combines financial and business skills with personal and sales skills.  She is fluent in English and Russian, and has lived and worked on both the East and West Coasts of the United States, as well as in several European countries.  This gives her a unique perspective on business ownership and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

In addition to her M&A advisory services, Lala is also a licensed mortgage loan originator.  She can provide financing for companies with regard to working capital, equipment, and real property.  Lala has an active network of lenders who specialize in helping small to mid-size companies.

Lala's education includes a B.A. degree in applied mathematics and economics from Barnard College, Columbia University, and a degree in accounting and finance from the London School of Economics.  She also studied Law at St Petersburg Law School in Russia.

Lala is passionate about helping business owners achieve their goals.  She is a skilled negotiator, crucial to helping owners sell their businesses for top dollar. 

Sudarsan is an accomplished M&A Consultant with over 2 decades of experience in strategizing and leading business transformation while serving as management leader in the Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Medical Devices and Biotech Industry.

Sudarsan has an Entrepreneurial spirit that helped him build and exit a new technology product startup for the Real Estate Industry while being a licensed founder of a Real Estate Brokerage. Sudarsan had advised startup founders on growth and Exit and is credentialed as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA). Sudarsan has excelled in Exit Planning with his ability to bring structure to unclear situations with conflicting priorities and incoherent timelines.

Sudarsan works in a focused manner in advising small and middle market businesses uncover opportunities, de-risk the business, identify the right buyers, structure the deal and maximize the sale proceeds. Along this journey he also helps the business owners exit and transition seamlessly to their next endeavors.

Sudarsan loves to play Cricket and is learning Golf. Sudarsan is an MBA specialized in Strategy and Marketing with an Engineering bachelors in Chemical Engineering and Information Technology.

Lora is responsible for overseeing all administrative support functions at Horizon M&A. With her extensive training, experience, and meticulous attention to detail, she excels in preparing financial analysis spreadsheets, maintaining confidential marketing documents, and assisting in the creation of business valuation reports. Leveraging her background as a paralegal, Lora effectively manages secure data rooms, develops confidential information memorandums, handles communications, generates leads, and efficiently organizes the infrastructure for the Horizon team. She diligently reviews all offering documents to ensure their completeness and client approval prior to publication. Lora plays a vital role in supporting agents' marketing activities by conducting research in proprietary databases, compiling prospect lists, executing mass email campaigns, and following up with phone calls. Her consistent support enables agents to devote more time to working directly with clients, thereby improving their overall productivity.