Contact Broker

10 Ozark Spring Lane,
Asheville, North Carolina 28805
(View Map)
About the Company
Navigating the strategic decisions involved in a merger, acquisition, generational transfer or sell of a business are quite complex. CD Gentry associates brings the expertise and guidance necessary throughout the M&A process; since 2018 we haved helped owners of private companies make informed decisions and achieve desired outcomes. Buying, Selling or Recapitalizing a business doesn’t happen unless you make it happen, and most private business owners do not have the time or expertise to handle an M&A transaction on their own. The key is understanding the powerful force of market timing and the intricacies of casting vision to both buyers and sellers. Our confidential, proprietary process includes obtaining an in-depth understanding of your business, valuation, driving competition, and negotiating the right deal with the right buyer or seller. In a market where 40-60% of all private M&A transactions fail during due diligence, we bring the experience and skills necessary to ensure your deal gets closed on time and at the originally negotiated price.
Broker Biography
Introduction
About Duane Gentry, Founder & Team Leader:
Duane Gentry is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. He has a strong background in banking and financial management, having started his career in finance roles within the banking sector and Fortune 500 companies.
In 1998, Duane acquired a home services company and served as its President for 22 years. Under his leadership, the company’s revenue grew twentyfold, leading to a successful sale in 2018. Following the acquisition, he continued as President of his former company while also serving as Chief Operating Officer for a regional platform company.
Since 2021, Duane has been the Executive Vice President at eMerge M&A, a leading investment banking and M&A advisory firm based in New York City. He has extensive experience in business valuation, consulting, and managing M&A transactions, having worked closely with private companies across various industries on Buy-Side, Sell-Side, and Generational Transfer deals since 2018.
Duane earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of North Carolina and later obtained an MBA from UNC Pembroke. He also holds an Executive Mergers and Acquisitions Certification from Columbia Business School. Additionally, he maintains an unlimited mechanical contractor's license in three states.
Beyond his professional achievements, Duane is deeply committed to his community. He is passionate about mentoring young leaders and actively supports various charitable, arts, and mission organizations.
Services Provided
• Buy-Side and Sell-Side M&A respresentation
• Strategic Advice
• Build to sell consulting
• Valuation
• Due Diligence
• Negotiation
• Deal Structuring
• Integration Planning