Our Story
Our team is not just made up of brokers; we’re entrepreneurs, innovators, dreamers. We don’t just facilitate transactions; we optimize businesses for sale, we ignite transformations, and we build bridges to new beginnings.
We’ve been privileged to guide numerous businesses through their transition journey. But for us, success is not measured in the number of deals closed, but in the dreams realized, the potentials unlocked, and the legacies honored.
So, come, join us on this exciting journey. Let’s not just buy and sell businesses. Let’s XCEL. Let’s create stories of success, one business at a time.
Our Team
Richard Barkley
Partner
As a certified Business Exit Planner, I have helped countless businesses achieve financial freedom and peace of mind by facilitating the successful sale of their companies. My expertise in business valuation and finance allows me to assist clients in accurately determining the worth of their business and understanding how to market it for sale. Additionally, I provide reliable advice and guidance throughout the process, helping my clients navigate any challenges that may arise with ease and confidence.
Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) through the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts. Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) through the Exit Planning Institute and Certified Exit Planner (CExP) through Business Enterprise Institute (BEI).
Matt Nelson
Partner
Embarking on his entrepreneurial voyage in 1995, Matt Nelson has since been a guiding force in the business realm. His dedication to propelling companies to peak efficiency has positioned them to command premium value at the time of sale. His mentorship extends across various industries, where he illuminates the path to operational excellence for fellow business owners.
As a wealth advisor, Matt is renowned for his tailored financial strategies that cater to the unique needs of businesses and affluent individuals. His expertise allows clients to confidently traverse complex financial landscapes, ensuring their decisions lead to sustained success and tranquility.
Bentley Ford
Partner
Bentley’s professional ethos is rooted in the belief that financial well-being is as distinct as the individuals seeking it. His passion lies in meticulously unraveling each client’s financial tapestry—identifying their issues, aspirations, and objectives. Bentley crafts bespoke strategies that not only address these elements but also pave the way for achieving personal financial milestones.
He possesses a strong background in consulting and underwriting credit deals for businesses, which has equipped him with valuable financial acumen. Prior to his current tenure as a wealth advisor, he meticulously guided companies through the intricacies of credit facilitation. Now, he dedicates his expertise to aiding families with business ownership, concentrating primarily on devising bespoke financial strategies that address the unique challenges and aspirations of these entrepreneurial families.
Amy Watson
Partner
Amy Watson is an accomplished executive with a proven track record in the financial services and insurance sectors. Her expertise with founder-led and privately owned firms spans marketing, business operations, and mergers and acquisitions, where she has been instrumental in fueling business growth and securing strong market positioning.
As Chief Marketing Officer at a SaaS and cloud-based software firm, Amy led strategic marketing initiatives that significantly increased revenue, brand awareness, and lead generation, leveraging advanced segmentation techniques and competitive positioning. She played a key role in building a new business channel within a Fortune 500 financial services firm and has spearheaded efforts in channel development, organizational structuring, and market strategy formulation.
Amy's dedication to helping businesses excel has earned her opportunities to restructure and build teams, enhance business operations, and architect business plans that drive organizational growth. Passionate about fueling connections, she has worked closely with company owners, founders, and their families to grow their businesses, deeply understanding the importance of securing their legacy for the future.
Craig Desmond
Principle Advisor
Craig Desmond is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 30 years of experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Rice University and a Master's in Healthcare Administration from Trinity University.
Known for his strategic vision and inspiring leadership, Craig excels in strategic planning, operational efficiency, financial management, and stakeholder engagement.
He adeptly navigates regulatory landscapes and implements technology-driven solutions for improved patient care and organizational performance. Craig's leadership is defined by integrity, ethical decision-making, and transparency. His commitment to excellence and patient-centered care has earned him a stellar reputation, consistently delivering operational excellence and financial health in healthcare organizations.
Curtis Garmon
Fractional CFO
Curtis Garmon is a highly skilled financial professional specializing in tax planning and compliance for high-net-worth families and entities. With over 35 years of experience, he excels in overseeing comprehensive financial operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls.
Curtis ensures accurate tax return preparation across various entities and manages insurance portfolios to minimize financial risks. He provides strategic insights into budgeting, cash management, and expense control, optimizing financial outcomes. Curtis is adept at presenting actionable financial analytics and collaborating with stakeholders and advisors on tax and estate planning strategies. He stays current with industry trends to drive business success and compliance.
William Fisher
Coach / Consultant
William (Bill) D. Fisher, former President & CEO of Sysco Corporation, excels in business development and strategic planning. He led Sysco Central Texas (2011-2015) and managed the consolidation of Sysco San Antonio and Sysco Austin (2009-2011). Bill began in Sales & Marketing, rising to President & CEO of Sysco San Antonio (1997-2009).
He studied Business at Texas Lutheran University and Criminal Justice at Southwest Texas State University. Bill supports non-profits like Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries and the American Red Cross and is involved in the San Antonio Restaurant and Chefs Associations. He also coaches for the Texas 7 on 7 High School Football Association.
Jacques DuBose
Broker / Consultant
Jacques DuBose, a distinguished Naval veteran, brings a wealth of experience to XCEL Business Brokerage. After his naval career, he returned to Texas, where he became a prominent community volunteer, serving on numerous boards and committees, including as PTO President and Ambassador for the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce.
Jacques held various leadership roles during his military career, initiated the Military Volunteers in the Classroom program, and organized Native American celebrations. He holds an AAS in Opticianry, an AA in Liberal Arts, a BS in Criminal Justice Administration, and an MBA in Public Administration.
As a Boerne City Council member and Mayor Pro Tem, Jacques led community initiatives and advocated for veterans' causes in Washington, D.C. He views consulting as a calling, driven by curiosity and a passion for solving complex problems, aiming to craft tailored solutions and make a real difference for his clients.
Torin Cerasoli
Business Development | Financial Analyst
Torin Cerasoli, a Business Administration graduate from Texas State University, co-founded a successful hemp venture with two physical stores in Austin, Texas, and an e-commerce platform. His expertise includes branding, marketing, management, and talent management. He’s ventured into various sales fields, expanding his skills and knowledge. His business approach prioritizes compassion, education, and mutually beneficial relationships. Now based in San Antonio, he’s committed to using his expertise to foster business growth and community connections.
Gary Ladyko
Fractional CFO
Gary Ladyko is a skilled financial professional with over 35 years of experience in the hospital industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from The University of Kansas, and a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, also from The University of Kansas. His areas of expertise include financial analysis, budgeting, financial reporting, and auditing.
Gary’s experience encompasses a range of facilities large and small, urban and rural, for-profit and not-for-profit, acute care and specialty care, academic medical centers, and corporate settings. He is a Member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), and the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). He is recognized as a Certified Healthcare Professional (CHFP) by the HFMA. He is also currently active in his local Chapter of HFMA, having held positions on the Board of Directors, and has Chaired various committees.
Danielle Allen
Strategic Advisor / Analyst
Danielle is Partner + Co-Founder of ATX Venture Partners, an Austin-based venture capital firm and co-investment platform founded in 2014 with over $700M AUM. She oversees the global co-investment platform, is on the investment committee and is responsible for ongoing business operations and implementation of strategic initiatives.
Prior to co-founding ATX, Danielle worked on Wall Street for 14 years at top hedge funds, private equity firms and investment banks, including JPMorgan, Perry Capital and Millennium in various roles from investment analysis to institutional client account management.
Danielle graduated from Tulane University and earned an MBA focusing on Finance & Investments from the Zicklin School of Business. She is a native New Yorker and currently resides in Austin, TX where she enjoys rooting for the UT Longhorns.
Our Approach
At XCEL Business Brokerage, our approach is holistic and client-centered. We begin by helping businesses maximize their value. Our team of experts conducts a thorough analysis to identify areas of improvement and growth, implementing strategies that enhance profitability and market appeal. Once the business is primed for sale, we leverage our extensive network and innovative marketing techniques to find the right buyer - someone who appreciates the unique value proposition of the business and has the vision to carry it forward. But our support doesn’t end at the sale. We understand that the proceeds from the sale of a business are often crucial to the seller’s future financial security. That’s why we offer post-sale wealth management advice, helping our clients navigate investment options and plan for a financially secure future. At XCEL, we’re not just about transactions; we’re about transitions, transformations, and lasting success.