The $50M Question: Are You Ready to Sell Your Business? – with Iliya Zogovic (S2:E5)

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Iliya Zogovic

Iliya Zogovic is the Founder and Managing Partner of DBD Partners, bringing extensive experience in investment banking and corporate growth. Previously, he served as CEO of ONEtoONE Corporate Finance USA, where he successfully launched and led the U.S. division to become the bank’s most profitable branch in under four years. Before that, Zogovic was President and CEO of EMG & GSP, a major sales and marketing organization in Mexico and Central America, growing it into a global operation with over 10,000 employees. 

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

Iliya Zogovic  Social Media

• LinkedIn: Iliya Zogovic
• Instagram: DBD Partners
• Website: DBD Partners

Episode Highlights:

Imagine running a business forever, knowing that the key to true success isn't just selling, but buying — buying a thriving business at 27, taking the helm, and steering it to even greater heights. What does that kind of bold vision look like? For many entrepreneurs, it’s a dream come true, and one that sets them apart. But how do you get there?

In this episode of Business Unchained, host Bobby Mascia is joined by Iliya Zogovic, a seasoned entrepreneur and investment banker, to explore the intricacies of entrepreneurship, business management, and the vital role financial acumen plays in building a successful company. 

(00:01) "I started working when I was still in college. I eventually ended up buying that business when I was 27. The most successful people are the ones who look at businesses holistically; you need to understand your strengths and weaknesses."- Iliya Zogovic

(08:13) “At one point, we had around 10,000 employees across Mexico and Central America. That creates, I would like to say, one issue a day, but it's really like 100 different bombs that explode every single day."- Iliya Zogovic

(44:35) “Run your business like you were going to run it forever because great companies are bought, they're not sold"- Iliya Zogovic

The decision to sell a business is often fraught with emotional challenges, especially for entrepreneurs who have dedicated decades to building their companies. Iliya stresses the need to address these emotional concerns early in the process to ensure a clear and balanced decision.

(54:13) “Stop comparing yourself against others. Think about how this changes your life and how that moves you.”- Iliya Zogovic

By following Iliya’s insights, entrepreneurs can better navigate the complexities of their business journeys, ensuring long-term success and personal fulfillment.

 In this episode:

• [00:00:46] Introduction to Business Unchained
• [00:05:08] Common business challenges
• [00:10:36] Starting DBD Partners
• [00:19:31] The business owner's plight
• [00:32:53] Importance of long-term planning
• [00:28:26] Learning from different businesses
• [00:31:04] Challenges in deal negotiation
• [00:31:57] Stressful deal experiences
• [00:39:50] Understanding business valuation
• [00:40:17] Convincing clients on valuation
• [00:46:28] Aligning logic and emotion
• [00:52:32] Cash is king
• [00:54:12] Balance sheet focus
• [00:54:45] Contacting Iliya