Business Exit Programme

Program Overview

The Business Exit Programme at Cranfield School of Management is a two-day residential course designed for SME business owners or managers contemplating selling their business within the next 12-36 months. The program aims to provide participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools necessary to navigate the complexities of selling a business, maximize its value, and achieve a successful exit. The program is led by experienced faculty from Cranfield School of Management and supported by industry experts from Mishcon de Reya, Azets, and OneWealth Ltd.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Business Exit Programme (BEP) at Cranfield School of Management is a two-day residential course designed for SME business owners or managers contemplating selling their business within the next 12-36 months. The program aims to provide participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools necessary to navigate the complexities of selling a business, maximize its value, and achieve a successful exit.

Objectives:

• Understand the various exit options available and determine the most suitable one for your business.
• Identify your "magic number" and define your desired financial outcome.
• Develop a comprehensive roadmap for the sale process, including timelines and potential challenges.
• Gain insights into business valuation methods and strategies for maximizing value.
• Assess your "deal fit" and identify next steps toward achieving your desired exit.

Outline:

Day 1 - Getting Ready for Sale:

• Scene Setting:
• The Magic Number
• The M&A Marketplace
• Exit Options
• Sale Timeline
• Preparing for Sale:
• Quality vs Quantity
• The Valuation Process
• Due Diligence Process (Guest Speaker)

Over Dinner:

• Networking with fellow participants, faculty, and professional advisors.
• Insights from a successful entrepreneur who has navigated the exit process.

Day 2 - Managing a Successful Process:

• The Sale Process:
• Securing the Right Advice
• Competitive Tension
• Deal Structuring and Negotiation
• Heads of Terms and Legal Process (Guest Speaker)
• After Exit:
• Post-exit options and considerations
• Non-Executive Director (NED) and Angel Investing opportunities
• Options for wealth management (Guest Speaker)

Assessment:

Information about assessment methods and criteria used in the program is not available in the provided context.

Teaching:

The BEP utilizes a combination of interactive lectures, workshops, case studies, and guest speaker sessions to provide participants with a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. The program is led by experienced faculty from Cranfield School of Management, including Professor Stephanie Hussels, Group Head: Strategy, Entrepreneurship & Sustainability (SES) and Director of the Business Growth Programme.

Careers:

The BEP equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully navigate the exit process and achieve their desired financial outcomes. The program can lead to a variety of post-exit opportunities, including:

• Full or partial retirement: Enjoying the fruits of your labor and pursuing personal interests.
• Investing in other ventures: Utilizing your capital and expertise to support new businesses or causes.
• Continuing involvement in your business: Transitioning to a non-executive director role or providing ongoing support in an advisory capacity.
• Pursuing a new entrepreneurial venture: Leveraging your experience and network to launch a new business venture.

Other:

• The program is designed for business owners or senior managers with the ability to implement change and who are looking to enhance their knowledge across key business areas.
• Participants come from a variety of industries and backgrounds, creating a diverse and enriching learning environment.
• The BEP is delivered in a small group setting, ensuring personalized attention and ample opportunity for interaction with faculty and peers.
• The program is supported by Mishcon de Reya (legal), Azets (accountancy), and OneWealth Ltd (wealth management), providing participants with access to expert advice and resources.
• Previous participants have described the BEP as "invaluable" and "life-changing," highlighting its positive impact on their business exit journeys.

Conclusion:

The Cranfield School of Management Business Exit Programme is a comprehensive and valuable resource for business owners and managers who are considering selling their business. The program provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of the exit process, maximize their business value, and achieve a successful outcome.