Kendrick Steele

Carol is an established Business & Real Estate Broker in Arkansas. She has over 30 years of diversified experience in business ownership, including founding three highly-successful companies, and then selling them after 15 years of solid growth. Raised in Mountain Home, Arkansas and a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University, she is proud of her Arkansas roots. She is married to Rip Gresham- also an Arkansas native. Together, they have also owned and operated multiple businesses in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Their experience and knowledge ( Business ownership, CPA, Real Estate development & construction along with Marketing and a large network) have created a solid base of Buyers & Sellers. Carol has been a licensed real estate broker in Arkansas since 1986. Furthermore, she has worked with apartment developers across the United States as a market research analyst. Her involvement includes providing market research analysis, conducting feasibility studies for potential new properties, and selling existing multi-family complexes in addition to a variety of real estate transactions. For the past 8 Years, Carol has been helping individuals and companies sell their businesses. She works with owners to find and secure qualified buyers for their business. She also works with Buyers/Investors who are interested in purchasing a business and finding the perfect business investment.

With over 30 years as a serial entrepreneur, Dave Godwin has built, scaled, and successfully exited multiple businesses, mastering the key drivers of operations, growth, and profitability. His expertise in deal-making and commercial real estate gives both sellers and buyers a strategic advantage in navigating business transactions. He holds an Arkansas Real Estate Sales License and is a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) with the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)/M&A Source, earning the prestigious Chairman’s Circle Award. As a Certified Value Builder, Dave helps entrepreneurs strengthen and scale their businesses to maximize value at exit. Dave is passionate about helping business owners maximize their exit strategy. He works closely with entrepreneurs to overcome challenges, increase business value, and position their companies for top-dollar sales. With deep expertise in taking businesses to market and navigating the transaction process, he ensures a smooth and successful exit for his clients.

Bill brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the process of selling your business. As a former business owner, he understands the life of an entrepreneur—the uncertainty, anxiety, stress, sleepless nights, and immense pride that comes with building something from the ground up. An Oklahoman at heart, Bill earned degrees from Southern Nazarene University and Oklahoma City University. He began his career as a civilian at Tinker Air Force Base, spending over a decade in the Maintenance Directorate and AWACS program office. Driven by a passion for entrepreneurship, Bill transitioned from his role at Tinker to start his own business, which he successfully grew into a thriving enterprise. Under his leadership, the business expanded to locations in Tulsa, Fort Smith, Little Rock, and across Tennessee, eventually encompassing a portfolio of eight units. When the time came, Bill made the difficult but meaningful decision to sell his business to care for his parents during their final days as their primary caregiver. Bill’s professional journey has given him deep insight into every facet of business ownership, including the challenges and complexities of selling. With his entrepreneurial mindset, straightforward approach, commitment to honesty, Bill is a trusted partner who will guide you through the sales process with expertise and understanding.

John is a lifelong Oklahoman, born in Tulsa and raised in Owasso. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance in 1987 and went on to receive both a master’s degree and doctoral degree. He is also a highly-motivated and national award-winning salesman and sales trainer with several years of experience working with business owners across the state. He is married to the love of his life, Primavera, a beautiful Peruvian who is also a successful Tulsa business owner, and together they love traveling, going to movies, serving and volunteering, University of Oklahoma sports, and between them have seven children and five grandchildren.

Casey Grimes has been helping his clients sell their businesses for well over a decade and has successfully sold dozens of businesses during this time. Before becoming the Market Area President of Central Arkansas with CBI-Team, Casey was Chief Operating Officer of CBI-Team in Northwest Arkansas. Coordinating training, meetings and recruiting for intermediaries during this time gave Casey plenty of experience in business brokerage. His passion to work directly with business owners led him to transition into helping these business owners sell their businesses. Casey has owned a few different small businesses over the years and has worked extensively in business management, sales and marketing throughout Arkansas and Virginia. He is also a member of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) and is a licensed real estate salesperson enabling him to help his clients with real estate attached to their businesses. Casey’s experience brings to the table a healthy understanding of how businesses work as well as a great ability to comfortably deal with and understand people in a business setting. Casey is dedicated and extremely aggressive in helping business owners sell their businesses in the quickest amount of time and connecting them with the right buyers. Born and raised in Arkansas, Casey attended the University of Arkansas in the 90’s. He and his wife have a young son and enjoy traveling all over the world together.

John relocated to NWA from California in 1993, and he calls Arkansas home. He has a wife of 36 years, 3 grown boys and loves to engage with the community he works in. He is active in his local church, Antioch of NWA. John is a member of the International Business Brokers Association.

Jon developed an interest in business sales, including mergers and acquisitions after selling several companies he has owned and after participating in the sale of a large company he managed to a publicly held company. “I found I enjoyed selling companies more than working in them," Jon explained. His broad knowledge of business allows him to serve owners of all sizes and types and he finds all businesses interesting. Jon holds an Arkansas Real Estate Sales license and can facilitate the real estate portion of a deal as well. His objective is to provide his clients with sound business advice and first class service while maintaining the highest level of professionalism and confidentiality. Jon was born in Plainview, Texas and moved to Northwest Arkansas in 1992. He has three adult children, four granddaughters and two grandsons. He resides with his wife DeLee in Springdale, Arkansas. His hobbies include bluegrass music, restorations and old cars. Jon is a member of the International Business Brokers Association and a Certified Business Intermediary.

Marty Buchanan is a well-respected business broker with extensive experience in maximizing business value. His expertise in helping business owners navigate the selling process ends with successful exits. Buyers appreciate his ability to connect them with capital partners and get deals across the finish line.

I am a family man who enjoys spending quality time with my loved ones. I have a wife and two beautiful children who mean the world to me. I am an avid outdoorsman who loves to explore nature and engage in various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. I find solace in the serenity of the great outdoors and enjoys the thrill of adventures. Prior to joining the CBI team, I spent 20+ years as a leader in the hospitality industry where I developed professional and personal relationships with people in a diversified network across Arkansas. I have always had an interest in developing business ideas and implementing simple changes to improve efficiencies and increase profitability. Before that, I served in the U.S. Army for several years, where I developed a strong work ethic, discipline, and leadership skills. I take pride in my service to my country, and I value the lessons I learned from my time in the military. I am a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), where I earned my bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance and risk management. I am also a licensed real estate agent in the state of Arkansas. I am a lifelong learner who is always seeking to expand my knowledge and skills to become a better professional. In all aspects of my life, I strive to be the best version of myself, whether that's as a husband and father, as a business professional, or as an outdoorsman. I believe that hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude are the keys to success, and I embody these qualities in everything I do. I look forward to working with you to better your organization or help you make our next dream come true.

When Charles Rateliff retired from Walmart, he left a company that had changed the face of modern retailing, instituted industry-leading approaches to cost and price controls and provided unmatched global opportunity as it extended its reach around the world. A lot was changed by Charles since his start date in 1979. But his experiences of creating systems and teams to enable unprecedented growth, deploying strategic analysis and uncovering business opportunities, efficiencies or solutions are ones he draws on daily in his current role as an independent consultant to private investment groups and businesses of all sizes. His combination of Christian values and professional determination marked a career that began as an internal Walmart auditor. Sam Walton noticed his contributions and potential, and within five years, promoted him to Treasurer. During his 25 year career at Walmart, Charles served in numerous senior executive roles, working alongside legendary retailing CEOs of the time including Sam Walton, David Glass, and Don Soderquist. Time and again, Charles was sought after to serve as a leader tasked with creating or transforming several divisions. The retailer’s growth was so explosive during this time period, previously developed departments required thoughtful reinvention to achieve Walton’s big, bold aspirations that would change the face of retailing around the world. Sales increased dramatically and Walmart grew from its modest 1979 footprint of 242 US-based stores and $1 billion in sales to become the world’s largest retailer. At the time of Charles’ retirement, Walmart reached nearly $350 billion in sales. and had topped the Fortune 500 ranking of America’s largest companies. Aside from serving as Walmart’s Treasurer, Charles served in leadership roles including Senior Vice President roles for Benefit Plans (401k and Profit Sharing), Workers Compensation, General Liability, Property Insurance, the Self-Insured ERISA Health Plan, Aviation Department, Corporate Commercial Travel Department, Compliance, Food Safety, Risk Management, and Domestic and International Security. Charles retired from Walmart in 2004 and shifted focus to an independent advisory role, guiding business owners as they navigate significant periods of growth as well as providing executive council as they explore mergers, acquisitions, or the sale of their business. Charles earned his BA in Political Science and MBA in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas.

I am the managing partner of Confidential Business Intermediaries Memphis, a reputable business brokerage firm with a track record of success. Since 1994, our proven process has facilitated the sale of over 850 businesses. When you choose the CBI Team, you can be confident that our process works. As a regional business brokerage company, CBI has earned the trust of business owners who prioritize confidentiality, a reliable process, and professional conduct. When you engage the entire CBI Team, we will work together to transfer your life's work to a qualified acquirer. Selling your business is a pivotal moment that can open doors to the next chapter of your life. Whether you're looking to retire, reduce your involvement in day-to-day operations, venture into a new business, or simply cash out, we understand your goals. Unfortunately, statistics show that approximately 80% of businesses listed for sale never actually sell, and less than half of them achieve their desired listing price. However, with my team, you'll have the advantage of industry experts and fellow business owners who can help you sell your business for top dollar. Selling a business is a complex endeavor involving numerous variables. Without a professional team to guide you, you may face uncertainties and challenges in the economy, fierce competition, and sophisticated buyers. Don't navigate these obstacles alone. I am here to provide expert guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring a smooth experience for both parties involved. It's never too early to start preparing for a business sale. We can facilitate transactions in almost any country worldwide. Our comprehensive services include: A complimentary Opinion of Value to determine the worth of your business Expertise in packaging and marketing businesses for sale Access to our extensive database of qualified buyers Attracting serious buyers while filtering out time-wasters Skillful negotiation techniques to close deals with our trusted bank partners A personalized and dedicated approach to your unique needs Ensuring confidentiality with employees, vendors, customers, and competitors I offer professional services that successfully bring buyers and sellers together, ensuring a mutually beneficial transaction. Even if you're not quite ready to sell yet, I can assist you in preparing for the future, so you can ultimately exit your business with maximum value. For a free, no-obligation consultation, please contact me today. I am here to help you every step of the way.

As a lifelong Memphian and seasoned business leader, Fenton E. Wright, Sr. brings a unique combination of operational expertise, entrepreneurial insight, and community-driven passion to the business brokerage profession. With a career rooted in strategic planning, organizational management, and business development, Fenton specializes in guiding business owners through the complexities of buying, selling, and growing their enterprises. Fenton’s diverse professional background includes directing talent development initiatives, managing business operations, and consulting for small businesses and educational institutions. This experience equips him with a deep understanding of business lifecycles, financial management, and organizational structure — critical components in evaluating and positioning businesses for successful transitions. Expertise Includes: • Business Startups & Valuations • Operational and Financial Due Diligence • Strategic Exit Planning • Project Management & Transaction Coordination • Board Governance & Stakeholder Relations His hands-on leadership in nurturing Memphis’ creative economy and supporting entrepreneurs has made him a trusted advocate for local businesses. Additionally, his role as pastor of Christian Love Fellowship Church reflects his commitment to community enrichment and ethical leadership. Fenton holds an Executive MBA from the University of Memphis and a Bachelor of Arts in Banking and Finance from Morehouse College. His educational foundation in finance and executive leadership ensures that clients receive informed, strategic guidance throughout every stage of a business transaction. Whether representing buyers or sellers, Fenton’s mission is to deliver transparent, results-driven brokerage services that empower Memphis businesses and their owners to thrive. Specialties: Business Sales | Mergers & Acquisitions | Financial Analysis | Business Valuations | Community-Based Enterprise Development | Leadership & Board Advisory

A dynamic entrepreneur and dedicated community advocate, I am deeply committed to creating impactful ventures. Originating from Memphis, my academic journey led me to the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, for a Bachelor of Fine Arts. My entrepreneurial path commenced in Nashville, where I established a modest yet ambitious print shop. In 2014, recognizing the potential for growth, I moved my thriving print shop back to Memphis. The business flourished under my leadership, expanding into a franchise with four locations across Tennessee. This rapid expansion culminated in the successful sale of the print shop in 2020. My entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there; I ventured into consulting, advising executives on strategic growth, sales maximization, and sustainability through systematic integration. Drawing from my firsthand experiences in starting up and selling businesses, I founded Woods M&A Group. My mission is to empower others to realize their entrepreneurial ambitions, guiding them through growth and acquisitions. My journey has been one of continuous learning and adaptation, driven by a passion to facilitate success for fellow business owners.