From strategy to exit: leadership lessons in investment & transaction readiness

On 20th October 2025, Moon Executive Search, in collaboration with partners VWV Law Firm and Narrow Quay HR, successfully hosted the third event in the NED Leadership Lab series.

The exclusive evening gathered Non-Executive Directors, Chairs, and Trustees to explore the critical leadership skills and strategic insights needed to navigate high-stakes business transitions, including MBOs, Private Equity deals, and legal exit strategies.

Insights from the frontline

The session provided attendees with a clear overview of how boards can best prepare a business for sale or investment. The lab was designed to sharpen NEDs’ leadership edge in high-stakes business transitions, covering themes from strategic alignment to the critical role of the board during an exit.

The expert contributions included:

●      Rob Crews, Partner at Momentum Corporate Finance, delivered an insightful overview of the deal process. He detailed the key steps and flagged crucial points that NEDs and Chairs must be aware of when preparing businesses and management teams for a successful exit.

●      Nathan Guest, Partner at VWV, shared legal perspectives on preparing for transactions and ensuring exit readiness. His advice focused on mitigating risk and developing strategies for engaging with potential investors or buyers.

●      Merle Hall shared her journey, offering a candid look at her experience navigating a management buyout (MBO), through subsequent private equity involvement, and successfully building a dynamic portfolio. Her contribution brought a real-world perspective on the strategic and human challenges of these high-stakes transitions.

A growing community of governance excellence

The NED Leadership Lab series has become a key forum for leaders across the South West, driving practical learning and reflection on governance best practices. The success of these sessions demonstrates the community’s commitment to raising governance standards and building stronger boards.

Interested in finding impactful NEDs, discussing your Non-Exec career, or attending future NED events? Contact us here.