Guiding Private Business Through Transition.

I specialize exclusively in the lower to middle market, where my expertise runs deep and my buyer network is strongest; to provide a controlled transition process to maintain the continuity of your company, its customers, suppliers, and employees.

Businesses with a purchase valuation of $2 to $35M is my niche. I deliver personalized attention from our first conversation through closing. Each engagement receives the focus and expertise it deserves from decades of hands-on experience and a network of relationships built over a career.

I am dedicated to achieving your goals.

Sokol Associates was established to help privately held businesses discreetly transition ownership. My methodology avoids the ‘for sale’ marketplace to identify and secure the most appropriate buyer to ensure the long-term success of your business.

As an independent M&A advisor, I deliver objective, unconflicted guidance to secure the best possible results.

About Sokol Associates

Daniel Sokol

Founder & Principal

My career began as the youngest owner of medallion taxicabs and 24-hour fleet maintenance centers in Chicago and New York City. A private investor motivated me to sell my business and transition to Wall Street.

My initial sales success led me to Lehman Brothers Kuhn Loeb, ranking in the industry’s top 10% within six months. I subsequently joined a highly successful boutique M&A advisory firm developing my skills and knowledge in deal sourcing, leveraged buyouts, corporate development, and acquisitions.

I was later recruited by a family office to serve as Director of Corporate Development focused on acquiring retail, consumer product, and industrial manufacturing businesses. Working directly with the CEO, I was responsible for deal sourcing, financial modeling, operating support, and performance improvement. Aggregate portfolio sales exceeded $750M.

Following 9/11, I began consulting independently and incorporated commercial & residential construction and industrial services into my purview. Today, I continue to help business owners strengthen and position their companies for transition and long-term success.

What I Do

Industries and Companies Served

I represent a select group of strategic buyers, family offices, and private equity firms pursuing both platform and add-on acquisitions. I have built an extensive network of qualified and respected buyers over decades of M&A experience. I manage a highly controlled and confidential sale process that enables ownership transition to occur discreetly, without the risks of broad market exposure.

Your business represents far more than monetary value—it reflects years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and commitment. This is not just a financial transaction, it’s a life event. I am here to advocate for you, your business, and your family.

Automotive:Fleet and Automotive Services, Auto Recycling, Aftermarket Parts, Truck Services.

Construction:MEP, Specialty Contractors, Suppliers.

Industrial:Rigging-Crane Services, Light Manufacturing, Metal Fabrication, Industrial Cleaning, Distribution, Safety Training.

Consumer:eCommerce and Retail, Food Processing, Distribution and Packaging, Consumer Disposables.

Oath of Conduct

“I will never compromise your company’s reputation and its spirit of doing business. I conduct myself with absolute transparency, confidentiality, and integrity; dedicated in every aspect of my relationship with the company and its owners.” — Daniel Sokol

How I Work

Process at a Glance

I begin by understanding your business in depth — its history, operations, philosophy, and objectives — to effectively position your company to the right audience and create a competitive environment among qualified buyers.

Early in life I understood 100+ hour weeks, managing cash flow, managing people, and solving problems with limited resources. I am ‘the guy who rolls up his sleeves and gets the job done right.’ My ability to interact with people from every walk of life propelled both my fleet business and career on Wall Street.

I established a track record of achieving exceptional results for securing the most appropriate buyer who shares your perception of value and the future of your company. Having been on both sides of a transaction, my experience and insight brings parties together.

Every business is treated as if it were my own.

Confidential Consultation

We listen first. Understanding your goals, timeline, and priorities is the foundation of every successful engagement.

Valuation & Preparation

In-depth financial analysis and professionally finished materials to compellingly present your business to the right buyers.

III

Targeted Outreach

Discreet, strategic outreach to our curated network of qualified buyers — never a mass broadcast that risks your confidentiality.

Negotiation Support

Experienced deal structuring and negotiation, due diligence management, and coordination through a successful closing.