Build and Exit
As a chartered management accountant by trade, I uncovered my true potential at 37, moving from a well-paid corporate job to building my own accounting and consultancy firm. Having worked on 5-10 acquisitions or business exits each month for clients, I understand the key challenges business owners face, including getting the real value they want for their business, whilst having the right controls and processes in place so the business can run independently of the owners. The Build and Exit podcast will include conversations, stories and real-life examples of day-to-day challenges business owners face, different methods of growth including acquisitions and top tips on how owners can transition from working in their business to working on it, enabling them to maximize their value on exit. I will also include episodes where I share my own learnings on business management and how Wilkinson Accounting Solutions are planning to continue to grow by acquisition.
Listen on:
Episodes
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
Are you having a negative impact on the value of your business?
So many business owners aren’t aware of the effect they are having on the value of their business before sale. They take on too many roles across the business, aren’t tracking what they pay themselves over the year, and all this impacts what they could be taking home from selling it further down the line.
In this episode I go into the fundamentals of financial concepts all business owners should know to be able to sell their business for as much as possible. I cover EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and the impacts of salaries and dividends on valuations.
With enough knowledge and a few adjustments, you can maximise what you can sell your business for.
Listen up to find out how!
"Are the decision you make maximising profit?" – Julie
You’ll hear about:
Why adjusted EBITDA is crucial for understanding business value during sales.
The accruals concept helps match income with costs for accurate financial reporting.
Business owners often overlook the impact of their roles on company valuation.
Dividends taken by owners can distort profit margins and business valuation.
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Will the business you are building last beyond you?
Many business owners are building a lifestyle business rather than one for generational wealth. If you want to create a legacy rather than a job it all starts with you.
In this, my first solo podcast episode, I explore what it means to build a legacy with your business and what you need to do to prepare for the future if you aim to sell your business.
From understanding what generational wealth means, to implementing effective governance structures. I highlight the challenges of scaling a business and the role of financial leadership in ensuring operational efficiency and long-term success.
It’s not too late to create your legacy, listen up to find out how!
"Are you building a legacy or a job?" – Julie
You’ll hear about:
Educating business owners on acquisition and exit strategies.
Financial controls are essential for scaling a business effectively.
Generational wealth means creating a business that lasts beyond the owner.
Many businesses fail to sell due to lack of preparation and knowledge.
A CFO can provide strategic value, but timing is key.
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Selling your business can feel lonely and emotional.
You are parting with the thing you have devoted a significant portion of your life to, and that can feel hard. But beyond that is an opportunity to re-invent yourself.
In this episode I speak with Luke Winter, a creative director who recently sold his shares in the video agency Wallbreaker. Luke shares with great honesty the emotional toll the sale has had on him. From the moment of knowing it was time to try something new to a final week full of doubt, Luke experienced it all.
Now, with the opportunity to explore his next steps, Luke emphasis the need for support and understanding during this transformative time.
"It was a lonely experience." – Luke
You’ll hear about:
The emotional toll of selling is often underestimated.
It's important to have support during the selling process.
Many entrepreneurs feel lonely when selling their business.
Routine changes can impact mental health during transitions.
Navigating the sale requires clear communication between parties.
Connect with Luke Winters:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-winter-75a2885a/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Over 612,000 Baby Boomer business owners will need to sell or exit their companies in the coming years. The question is—will they get the deal they deserve?
In this episode I am joined by Clive Margetts and Oli Luke, founders of Acquisition Masters, to explore how business owners can maximise their exit strategy and secure a profitable sale.
The UK economy is facing a serious threat if these businesses fail to sell or get swallowed up by the market leaders. Jobs will be on the line.
We explore the nuances of consulting for equity, exit strategies, and the importance of business structure and governance.
If you're a business owner looking to sell, scale, or structure your company for the future, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you exit on your terms.
"612,00 businesses are operated by baby boomers" – Oli
You’ll hear about:
✅ Why so many Baby Boomers are struggling to sell their businesses✅ The real value of your business—and how to get the price it deserves✅ How consulting for equity can boost business value before selling✅ The transition from owner-operator to investor and why it matters✅ The biggest risks in M&A, from pricing mistakes to client concentration
Connect with Clive Margetts:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clivemargetts/
The Business Success Consultant - https://thebusinesssuccessconsultant.com/
Connect with Oli Luke:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oli-luke-3451b150/
Business of Hearing - https://businessofhearing.com/
Listen to Oli’s Podcast – The Business of Hearing - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-business-of-hearing/id1536591535
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Imagine buying a business for £1 and it all goes wrong.
The previous owners have been paying themselves with the staff’s wages but not paying the staff. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
This was the experience of my guest Charlie Norton. Charlie shares the whole story of how he went from a £1 business purchase to sinking £40k of his own money into the business just to pay off immediate debts, but that still wasn’t enough…
He discusses why due diligence could have saved him from ever going through this challenging acquisition that he says left him in poor health because of the stress. He has since gone on to successfully sell his group of businesses and move on from this experience.
Charlie's experiences highlight the complexities of business acquisitions and the importance of learning from failures to inform future decisions.
"One bad experience doesn’t define your whole life" – Charlie
Timestamps
01:56 - Charlie's Journey in M&A
05:49 - The Stressful Acquisition Experience
11:51 - Overcoming Challenges in Business Acquisition
18:08 - Lessons Learned from a Failed Acquisition
23:46 - Transitioning to a New Business Model
30:00 - Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Connect with Charlie Norton:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-norton-767953227/
Vamos - https://vamosbusiness.com/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
What would you do if you faced losing everything?
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Céline Aloé, CEO of UKLC, saw her business revenue drop to zero overnight. But instead of giving up, she made bold moves to survive and thrive.
In this episode we dive into Céline’s journey of resilience, personal growth, and strategic reinvention.
Discover how investing in coaching, embracing acquisitions, and leading with empathy transformed her business.
If you're an entrepreneur facing uncertainty, Céline’s story will show you that even in crisis, opportunities await.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights!
"Once I opened my mind to growing through acquisition opportunities began to present themselves" – Céline Aloé
Timestamps
01:43 - An introduction to Celine
07:23 - Investing in herself at challenging times
10:43 - Not taking the work into her personal life
16:50 - Finding the route into acquisitions
21:53 - Building groups by acquisition
23:53 - The impact of bringing in the right people
25:55 - Celine's vision for the future
Connect with Céline Aloé:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/c%C3%A9line-alo%C3%A9-ceo-at-uklc-education-group-b665541/
UKLC - https://uklc.org/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
The tables are turned in this episode.
I am in the hot seat revealing all about my own acquisition story.
I am joined by Astan Morarji, a Multi-Exited Founder and Leader, who interviews me on the importance of acquisitions in business growth and the challenges faced during my recent acquisition.
We discuss the significance of understanding client relationships, the learning process in acquisitions, and the drive to help business owners maximise wealth and create generational wealth through strategic business decisions.
Financial literacy is so important for business owners, especially in acquisitions. So, we explore the common concerns sellers have during the acquisition process, the significance of warranties and fair terms, and the misconceptions surrounding no money down deals.
This was a lot of fun to be hot in the hot seat, I do hope you enjoy this episode!
"Acquisitions should be a growth vehicle" – Julie Wilkinson
Timestamps
01:27 - An introduction to Astan
03:13 - Julie's background and journey into business
08:25 - How her background shaped her as a business owner
09:59 - The details of Julie's acquisition
12:30 - How long did the acquisition process take?
15:07 - The complexities of the asset sale
20:52 - The seller's relationship with the clients
24:08 - De-risking concerns with the deal
30:50 - What has Julie learned from this deal?
36:10 - Are buyers always visionaries?
Connect with Astan Morarji:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/astanm/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Financial literacy is the biggest barrier to successful M&A.
Both sellers and buyers need to know how the numbers work to ensure they get the best deal.
In this episode I am joined by Erin O'Leary, an M&A and exit advisor. We explore the intricacies of business acquisitions and exits. Erin shares insights from her extensive experience, including a case study of a legacy bus company and the factors influencing business valuation.
We also share our experiences as women in the M&A space, from representation of women to the strengths women have as CEOs.
This episode is full of insights into what buyers and sellers need to know to get the best out of their deals.
" Valuation is relative to the buyer's situation " - Erin O'Leary
Timestamps
01:53 - An introduction to Erin
03:50 - The biggest issues in acquisitions
07:26 - The lack of financial expertise in acquisitions
13:37 - Why founders need to be financially literate
17:55 - A laborious bus company acquisition
22:15 - Where adjustments in the valuation happen
28:01 - Erin's current projects
Connect with Erin O'Leary:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinolearymba/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Imagine selling your business for 9 figures.
Would you start imagining what you could do with it all before the deal is done?
My guest in this episode not only imagined he started spending it. Only to find that half of it fell through between the letter of intent to the final deal.
Alexis Sikorsky shares his journey of building and exiting a software company for a nine-figures. He discusses the challenges he faced during the financial crisis, and the role of private equity in his business growth.
We also highlight the differences between lifestyle and growth companies and offer insights into how entrepreneurs can maximize their business value.
"From the letter of intent to an actual sale half of the deal fell through" - Alexis Sikorsky
Timestamps
01:45 - An introduction to Alexis
07:48 - From hard times to 9 figure exit
12:27 - How bringing in expert knowledge helped
14:08 - Did Alexis have to get creative with cashflow?
14:36 - The timescale to sell after bringing in the PE firm
17:39 - Alexis on his experience with the PE firm
24:32 - The big issue with pre-negotiations
31:05 - Moving away from a lifestyle business sooner
Connect with Alexis Sikorsky:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-sikorsky-consulting/
Website - https://www.asikorsky.com/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
There are simple things you can do to get your acquisitions completed faster.
So many people aren’t prepared in the way they should be, which dramatically slows down the process of buying or selling a business.
In this episode I am joined by Jamil Anakkar, the CEO of Tandy Ventures, who shares where he sees the massive opportunities in M&A right now.
Jamil outlines the challenges he faced during his first acquisition, and the importance of effective communication and financial health in the acquisition process. To be best prepared you need to deal in person with the seller as much as possible before handing over to solicitors.
Leave too much to them and it will slow you down.
If you want to find out how you should be prepared for your business acquisition, listen up!
"Bigger deals are generally easier. " - Jamil Anakkar
Timestamps
01:46 - An introduction to Jamil
06:57 - How many owners are hands off in their business?
09:07 - Jamil on closing his deal in 6 months
13:05 - Agree as much as possible with sellers before solicitors
16:02 - Identifying big risks at heads of terms
26:54 - The biggest trend in businesses below audit level
30:26 - Not investing in the right people
36:48 - Jamil's future aspirations
Connect with Jamil Anakkar:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamil-anakkar/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC21gxYXKncu-ir8zbiqRgqA
Tandy Ventures - https://www.tandygroup.net/
Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/
Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
