Confidential Inquiry

The Halvard Sell-Side Process

A structured, confidential process designed to maximize outcomes.

Each phase is managed to preserve competitive tension while reducing execution risk.

1

Initial Assessment & Engagement

Weeks 1-2
  • Execution of mutual NDA
  • Preliminary valuation and value-driver review
  • Engagement scope and process design
  • Retainer and success-fee discussion
2

Preparation & Positioning

Weeks 3-6
  • Management interviews and process review
  • Confidential Information Memorandum drafting
  • Normalized EBITDA model development
  • Buyer universe mapping
3

Confidential Buyer Outreach

Weeks 7-10
  • Blind teaser distribution to qualified buyers
  • NDA execution prior to detailed disclosure
  • CIM delivery to approved counterparties
  • Interest tracking and qualification
4

Indications of Interest

Weeks 11-13
  • IOI collection and comparative analysis
  • Buyer shortlisting and fit assessment
  • Management meeting preparation
  • Initial structure discussions
5

Management Presentations & LOI

Weeks 14-17
  • Facilitated buyer presentations
  • Best-and-final bid process
  • LOI negotiation and term refinement
  • Exclusivity selection support
6

Due Diligence & Close

Weeks 18-26
  • Data room and diligence process management
  • Buyer Q&A coordination
  • Purchase agreement support with counsel
  • Closing plan and execution oversight

Confidentiality Commitment

  • Client identity is never disclosed without explicit written permission.
  • All initial outreach uses blind teasers to protect company identity.
  • NDA execution is required before CIM release.
  • Management team visibility is staged at the seller's direction.

FAQ

A professionally managed process commonly runs 20-26 weeks from engagement to close, depending on buyer responsiveness and diligence complexity.
Buyers typically request multi-year financials, tax returns, customer concentration data, contracts, operating metrics, and supporting process documentation.
Identity protection starts with blind teasers and NDA gating. Management and employee communication is staged with the seller to avoid premature disclosure risk.