Garwood Growth and Clearwater podcast: What it really means to be ready for acquisition

INSIGHT

Garwood Growth and Clearwater podcast: What it really means to be ready for acquisition

In a recent episode of the Unlocking Value podcast, ‘How to get ready to be bought…not just ready to sell’, in partnership with Garwood Growth, Clearwater’s Tech M&A Director Jon Grant shares his perspective on preparing professional services firms for investment or sale.

With a track record advising on landmark deals across the UK tech and consulting space, our tech expert offers practical insights into what buyers and investors are really looking for, and how founders can position their businesses for success.

The conversation between Garwood Growth Partner John Howard and Jon explores how the M&A landscape has evolved since 2020, what drives premium valuations today, and the operational and strategic steps leaders should take to ensure their business is not just ready to sell, but ready to be bought.

With a track record advising on landmark deals across the UK tech and consulting space, our tech experts offers practical insights into what buyers and investors are really looking for, and how founders can position their businesses for success.

Key themes include:

Shifts in valuation drivers and buyer expectations
The enduring importance of sector focus and ecosystem alignment
How to manage customer concentration and reduce risk
Building strong, aligned leadership teams
Differences between trade buyers and private equity
When and how to engage with potential investors

Whether you're planning an exit or simply want to build a more resilient, high-value consultancy, this episode offers a candid and actionable look at what it takes to unlock value in today’s market.

Listen to the full podcast here: Episode 11: Jon Grant - How to get ready to be bought...not just ready to sell • Garwood Growth

AUTHOR

Jonathan Grant

Director

I started life as a biochemist in the NHS but soon realised that what I really enjoyed was working with people and businesses, developing and driving technology change. This led me to join PwC, where I helped them with their M&A before I joined Clearwater. In the tech team, I champion our focus on the digital transformation sub-sector and spend my time advising a range of high-growth, high-potential businesses. I’m lucky enough to be part of a great team at Clearwater and even more so to work with clients who are inspiring and passionate.