Wilkins Kennedy Corporate Finance

Wilkins Kennedy Corporate Finance (WKCF), now part of the Azets group, provided a range of advisory services to businesses, primarily focusing on the mid-market. Their expertise spanned several key areas, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), financial due diligence, valuations, and strategic advisory.

In M&A, WKCF assisted clients in both buying and selling businesses. For sell-side engagements, they would typically manage the entire process, from preparing the business for sale and identifying potential buyers to negotiating terms and managing the deal through to completion. This involved crafting compelling information memoranda, conducting buyer searches, managing data rooms, and coordinating with legal counsel.

On the buy-side, WKCF helped clients identify and assess potential acquisition targets, performing detailed financial analysis and providing strategic guidance to ensure the acquisition aligned with the buyer's overall objectives. This included conducting market research, evaluating synergy opportunities, and structuring the deal effectively.

Financial due diligence was another core offering. WKCF's team of experienced professionals conducted thorough investigations of a target company's financial records, assessing the accuracy and reliability of financial statements, identifying potential risks and opportunities, and providing insights into the target's underlying performance. This service was crucial for buyers seeking to understand the true value of a target and avoid any unwelcome surprises post-acquisition.

Valuations were frequently required in the context of M&A transactions, shareholder disputes, tax planning, and other corporate events. WKCF provided independent and objective valuations based on a variety of methodologies, including discounted cash flow analysis, precedent transaction analysis, and market multiples. Their valuations were relied upon by clients and other stakeholders to make informed decisions.

Beyond transactional services, WKCF also offered strategic advisory services, helping businesses develop and implement growth strategies, improve operational efficiency, and enhance profitability. This could involve conducting market analysis, identifying new business opportunities, and providing guidance on organizational structure and financial management.

While historically operating under the Wilkins Kennedy banner, the corporate finance division now benefits from the broader resources and capabilities of Azets, a leading international accounting, tax, and business advisory group. This integration has likely expanded WKCF's reach and expertise, providing clients with access to a wider range of services and a deeper pool of talent. However, the core focus on providing tailored, hands-on advice to mid-market businesses likely remains central to their approach.

Key to WKCF's success was their understanding of the mid-market and their ability to build strong relationships with clients. They typically worked closely with business owners and management teams, taking the time to understand their specific needs and objectives. This personalized approach, combined with their technical expertise and transactional experience, enabled them to deliver value-added services and achieve successful outcomes for their clients.