Gamechangers

The Difference

A Culture of Higher Standards

Benchmark International is a place where everyone is in your corner, and everyone contributes. A place where opinions are valued and hard work is rewarded. Walk into any of our offices around the world and you will feel the team spirit and our company values in action.

We especially understand the importance of business culture because we study those of our clients in order to make deals that are a good fit. We strive to keep our employees inspired and always evolving ahead of our business. Whether you are a potential team member or a potential client, we look forward to hearing from you.

Belong & Thrive

I enjoy working in a dynamic environment, where we are all challenged as individuals daily to broaden our way of thinking and to enhance the value we deliver for our clients. Each day brings a new opportunity to excel, supported by colleagues and directors who boast unrivalled experience and expertise in this industry. 

Jack Redwood
Associate, Oxford

Each day working at Benchmark International poses new challenges. Challenges trying to match buyers with sellers, negotiating the right deal, and overcoming obstacles along the way. The team dynamics and collaboration across the company help us to overcome these challenges and benefit from being successful in what we do. It’s these challenges that make working here so rewarding.

Alex Forshaw
Associate Director, Manchester

Benchmark International is a welcoming environment that has allowed me to feel comfortable and confident in my working life - every day my colleagues and I are able to challenge one another to reach new heights. Working with such a team motivates me to push my limits.

Andrew Cullinane
Analyst, Cork

The professionalism from the top to the bottom is second to none, management are approachable and give help and guidance when requested, a good business to work for.

Peter Sale
Analyst, Manchester

Benchmark International is an exciting and dynamic place to work with the continual expansion of the brand worldwide. This brings with it many opportunities for employees at any level to grow and develop in their respective roles or transition into new ones.

Lorna Holden
Associate, Manchester

Benchmark International is a fantastic company to work for, after 23 years of only ever working for one company previously, I can truly say that I have never felt happier in my job and the company I work for. Your work is a large part of your life, and you are only truly satisfied and feel accomplished if you believe in what you do and you are passionate day-to-day. We are focused, determined, passionate and love what we do. I feel so thankful for the opportunity to work in M&A and Benchmark International teaching me all that I know right now and having fantastic mentors. The market is always growing and the company too, and I feel honoured to be a part of it.

Helen Sharples
Associate, Manchester

Benchmark give its employees the opportunity to progress and shape their future, giving great job satisfaction along the way. The atmosphere in the office is always buzzing and you can recognise that the company is continually investing, both in its employees and the business infrastructure, to be at the cutting edge of the industry.

Nick Lamont
Associate, Manchester

Benchmark is a great company to work for, all employees are valued and everyone is treated equally and with respect. This also goes for the clients too, every member of the team works hard to ensure the best results. I have worked here for 5 years and it is the best career move I’ve made. Friendly colleagues are always on hand to help with any questions you may have. I have learnt so much about M&A and have been given the opportunity to progress and gain new skills. This has helped me to develop knowledge in all areas of the company.

Imogen Platt
Associate, Manchester

Benchmark International has not only developed me in terms of profession, it has also helped me to develop as a person. The growth I have seen in my confidence through the years with the help from management is life-changing. I never thought sales would be a career suited to me, but now I can’t imagine doing anything different.

Niamh Connell
Senior Analyst, Manchester

By working at Benchmark International, my working life involves working with talented professionals who are constantly upscaling to be the best they can be to deliver an excellent service to our clients. In addition, there are always plenty of opportunities to socialise outside of work which I think is one of the reasons why we have such a happy team with a real sense of togetherness. You spend a hefty chunk of your life at work so why shouldn’t it be both professionally and personally rewarding? We think so!

Andrew Roberts
Associate, Manchester

Explore

Our Instagram

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One Community. One Partnership. Countless Unforgettable Moments. Happy 813 Day & Benchmark International Arena Day! #BenchmarkInternationalPartnerships #BenchmarkInternational #SettingTheBenchmark #813Day #TampaBay #BenchmarkInternationalArenaDay
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🫢 Quiet on set...production says, "we're live." What if the most important part of selling your business isn’t the price? Host Dara Shareef sits down with Doug Starcher, Managing Partner at @nelson_mullins, to unpack the legal terms that can shape the outcome of an M&A deal, and why understanding them before signing can make all the difference. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Like, Subscribe & Share. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #Podcast #Business
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Testimonial Tuesday This week, we hear from Carlos Moncho of PushTech, who reflects on the key moments throughout his transaction and the dedication Benchmark International brought to the process. When it mattered most, our team remained focused on moving the transaction forward and delivering results. #BenchmarkSuccess #BenchmarkInternational #TestimonialTuesday #MergersAndAcquisitions #Business
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One decision in a business sale can completely change how it’s taxed. It’s not just what you sell; it’s how you sell it 🤔. Doug Starcher, Managing Partner at @nelson_mullins, explains why selling stock and selling an LLC interest can lead to very different tax outcomes, and why that distinction matters long before closing. Host Dara Shareef uncovers one of the key considerations business owners should understand when planning an exit. Tune in tomorrow at 6 AM for insights every business owner should hear. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #Podcast #BusinessLeader #Business #SellingABusiness
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Winning isn’t just a result; it’s a culture. Dara Shareef sits down with Josh Weis, CEO of Vehlo, to share lessons from Ministry Brands and supporting automotive partners, including how celebrating wins and shifting from “playing not to lose” to “playing to win” can transform team performance. Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music to learn how mindset shapes culture. Like, Subscribe & Share. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational
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The sell-side M&A process starts well before your business reaches the market. Join us on August 20 at 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT to learn what drives a successful process and how to prepare your business before a sale. Register through the link in our bio. #BenchmarkInternational #Webinar #MergersAndAcquisitions #SettingTheBenchmark #Business
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What’s the easiest thing to manipulate in an earnout? Host Dara Shareef explores why the answer matters and what business owners should understand before agreeing to an earnout. In this episode of Closing Remarks, he and Wade Duncan break down one of the most misunderstood parts of M&A. 🎙️Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #Leadership #Earnouts #Podcast #Business #MergersAndAcquisitions
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“Nothing’s going to change.” That's often the first reaction when organizations face change. Dara Shareef talks with Josh Weis, CEO of Vehlo and former Executive Vice President of Ministry Brands, about leading through change and why transparency builds stronger teams. Josh shares why transparency, a structured integration plan, and a long-term growth mindset are key to helping teams embrace change and build stronger organizations. Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #BenchmarkInternational #ClosingRemarks #BusinessLeader #Leadership #Success #BusinessGrowth #Podcast #Business #Entrepreneur
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Benchmark International is honored to receive two prestigious recognitions at the 18th Annual Americas M&A Atlas Awards. Americas M&A Deal of the Year (Small Middle Markets) Outstanding Firm: Americas Boutique M&A Investment Bank Thank you to the Global M&A Network for this honor and to our clients for their continued trust. #BenchmarkInternational #SettingTheBenchmark #MergersAndAcquisitions #MandA
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"I try to find the win for everyone along the way." — Josh Weis. What if the best leaders aren't trying to win more; they're helping everyone else win too? Dara Shareef and Josh Weis, explore the leadership philosophy that's changing how successful organizations like @Ministry Brands and Vehlo grow and why that mindset matters. Watch the full episode of Closing Remarks on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music to see why this approach makes all the difference. Link in bio. #BenchmarkInternational #ClosingRemarks #Podcast #Business #Leadership #Winning #Leadership
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Cue the opening scene. We're LIVE! What do the Rule of 40, @mitsubishimotors, @ministrybrandsofficial, AI, and building a winning culture have in common? Dara Shareef sits down with Josh Weis, CEO of Vehlo, to share leadership lessons on scaling high-performing companies, including the buffalo mindset. Run through the storm, not away from it. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Like, Subscribe & Share. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #BusinessLeader #Entrepreneur #Success #AI #Podcast #Business #Winning
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Testimonial Tuesday This week, we hear from Chet Joglekar of Conarc, Inc., who reflects on his experience working with Benchmark International. Through a strategic process, the right opportunities and buyers were identified, giving Chet the confidence to move forward with the next chapter of his business. #BenchmarkSuccess #BenchmarkInternational #TestimonialTuesday
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Can private equity actually fuel growth? Join Dara Shareef and Josh Weis, CEO of Vehlo, as they discuss scaling @Ministry Brands, creating long-term value, and what it takes to build enduring businesses. 🎙️ Tune in tomorrow. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #BusinessLeader #Leadership #Success #Podcast #Business #BusinessGrowth
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The best business decisions begin with better conversations. One of the biggest challenges in the business world is the language barrier between industry experts and everyone else. Conversations about finance, private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and business growth are often filled with unfamiliar terminology, making complex topics harder to understand than they need to be. Hosted by Dara Shareef, the Closing Remarks Podcast helps break down language barriers by turning complex business concepts into clear, practical conversations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, advisor, business owner, or simply curious about the world of business, you’re in the right place. Like Share your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear from you. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.     #BenchmarkInternational #ClosingRemarks #Podcast #Business #MergersAndAcquisitions
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Don't miss one of our most insightful Closing Remarks episodes! “Every opportunity is a unique snowflake.” @champa_sully, Managing Director at Benchmark International, explains why not every business opportunity is the same and why the goal isn't to find every buyer. It's to find the one who sees your business as the missing piece. Host Dara Shareef and Will discuss what that perspective can mean for business owners. 🎙️ Watch now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #SettingTheBenchmark #MergersAndAcquisitions #Business
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One of the biggest misconceptions about selling a business? That the buyer wants to take over. In this Q&A episode of Closing Remarks, Dara Shareef explains why many buyers are actually investing in strong management teams and providing the capital, governance, and resources to help businesses grow. 🎙️ Watch the full episode with @kaylasullivan3 now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational
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“$6 trillion is expected to flow into data centers over the next four years.” Host Dara Shareef shares why that figure matters beyond AI and what it could mean for manufacturing, infrastructure, and the competition for capital. Joined by @champa_sully, Managing Director at Benchmark International, the conversation explores whether today’s investment trends are reshaping tomorrow’s M&A landscape.🎙️ Watch now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #MergersAndAcquisitions #BusinessLeader #AI #Podcast
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A successful exit starts long before your business goes to market. Join us August 20 at 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT for a live webinar on the sell-side M&A process and learn how to better prepare your business for a successful transaction. Register today through the link in our bio. #BenchmarkInternational #MergersAndAcquisitions #SettingTheBenchmark #Webinar #MA #SellSide #MAProcess
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“Lower-middle market companies tend to be insulated from the bad news, but able to benefit from the headlines faster.” — Will Sullivan. What are buyers seeing that the headlines miss? Host Dara Shareef sits down with @champa_sully, Managing Director at Benchmark International, to explore why lower-middle market businesses can be uniquely positioned during periods of market uncertainty and what that means for business owners. 🎙️ Watch now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #MergersAndAcquisitions #Podcast #Business #SettingTheBenchmark #MiddleMarket #MarketTrends
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The director says… action..…We’re LIVE! Where is private equity investing in 2026, and what does that mean if you’re thinking about selling your business? On this week's episode of Closing Remarks, host Dara Shareef sits down with @champa_sully, Managing Director at Benchmark International, to talk about where buyers are deploying capital, which industries are attracting the most attention, and the market trends shaping middle market M&A. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #Podcast #MergersAndAcquisitions #MiddleMarket #MarketTrends
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Testimonial Tuesday This week, we hear from Bob Turner of MSA Software Systems Limited, who shares what made Benchmark International the right partner for his business and the factors that stood out throughout the selection process. #BenchmarkSuccess #BenchmarkInternational #TestimonialTuesday #SettingTheBenchmark #MergersAndAcquisitions #Success #Business
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What are buyers seeing that the rest of the market might be missing? Tomorrow, Dara Shareef welcomes @champa_sully, Managing Director at Benchmark International, for a conversation about the trends, buyer perspectives, and investment themes shaping today's M&A landscape. Tune in tomorrow at 10 AM for insights every business owner should hear. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #MergersAndAcquisitions #Business #Podcast #MandA #Seller #Buyer #MarketTrends
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Five generations. Two world wars. The Great Depression. The Spanish Flu. COVID. Many businesses never make it through one defining challenge. The Gonzmart family built a legacy through all of them. On Closing Remarks, host Dara Shareef sits down with Casey Gonzmart Jr. to discuss what it takes to preserve a family business for more than a century and the lessons behind @columbiarestaurant, @uleletampa, and @santostefanotpa. 🎙️Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #Podcast #BenchmarkInternational #Entrepreneur #Leadership #BusinessLeader #Business #BusinessPodcast #GenerationalBusiness
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Would you go elk hunting without a guide? Probably not. So why navigate one of the biggest financial decisions of your life without experienced advisors? In the latest episode of Closing Remarks, Dara Shareef and Wade Duncan explain why selling a business is about more than finding a buyer. It’s about having the right guide when the unexpected happens. 🎙️Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Link in bio. #ClosingRemarks #BenchmarkInternational #Podcast #Business #Success
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What does a 50-pound bag of onions have to do with leading a fifth-generation family business? Host Dara Shareef asks Casey Gonzmart Jr. about the lesson that has stayed with him throughout his career, and the answer starts in the kitchen, not the boardroom. Discover how those early experiences helped shape the legacy behind @columbiarestaurant, @uleletampa, and @santostefanotpa. 🎙️Watch on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Link in bio. #BenchmarkInternational #Podcast #ClosingRemarks #Business #Success #Leadership #Entrepreneur #BusinessLeader