Executives & Leadership

Buyer & Business Development Team

Timothy El Alaoui - Executive Managing Director - timothyke@gideonliberty.com
Megan Buckels - SVP  of Client Success mbuckel@gideonliberty.com
Sharon Allen - Sr. M&A Director - sallen@gideonliberty.com
Joe Cowan - Sr. Buyer Data Analyst - jcowan@gideonliberty.com
John Woods - Sr. Managing Director - john@gideonliberty.com
Tammy Roebuck - Chief Business Development Officer - tammyr@gideonliberty.com
Mike Longstreth - Chief Revenue Officer - mikel@gideonliberty.com
Kyle Barker - Sr. Buyer Data Analyst - kyleb@gideonliberty.com
Brad Holmes - Sr. M&A Advisor - bradh@gideonliberty.com

Advisory Board

Our advisory board includes our co-founders along with many other leaders in their respective industries, that have founded companies from 18-390 million in annual revenues and had very successful exits ranging from 33 - 522 million. With a combined corporate & CEO experience of over 190+ years and 65+ years in M&A, 2 of which have worked directly with some of the largest WallStreet firms including Bank of America, Carlyle Group, Merril Lynch, & Citi Group. Our board combined with, an extremely driven and intelligent Executive-Leadership team gives us the punching power of a large wall-street firm without the upfront wall-street prices & large upfront fees. Our board is helping guide us to ensure we can democratize the approach for owners with giving them the resources and connections they need in order to exit/sell with confidence, while giving the deal the true attention it deserves and using time tested deal-making principles along with extremely sophisticated and very proactive dealmaking & multi-channel buyer-investor marketing approaches that are AI-Driven powered. Gideon also does a thorough quantitative market analysis & marketing strategy for both our valuation & dealmaking teams to reach the most ideal & likely of buyers/equity investors to get your deal done for maximum liquidity, while ensuring a good strategic alignment. We handle the entire process from proper buyer-investor documentation (that highlights both tangible & intangible assets - customized valuation - assets & liabilities - strategic operational structure - and last but certainly not least highlighting your firms forward-earning GROWTH potential to ensure an aggressive topline, while mitigating tax liabilities, (Capital Gains) through intelligent deal structures. 
To contact anyone specifically from our Executive Leadership or Advisory Board, simply email transactions@gideonliberty.com or feel free to check out our company LinkedIn page.

Melissa Sabourin
CPP Administrator
msabourin@gideonLiberty.com

Melissa Sabourin began her professional journey in restaurant management before transitioning into sales, where she excelled for several years. Her passion for technology and analytics led her into recruiting for the automotive sector at MSX International, and later into a role as a Business Analyst contracted to DaimlerChrysler Corporation in Supplier Quality. Before joining Gideon Liberty, Melissa honed her operational and analytical skills in diverse industries. As CPP Administrator at Gideon Liberty, she supports Terry Sherah in overseeing the Corporate Partnership Program. Melissa is an alumna of Oakland Community College, where she specialized in business administration.

Richard Scarlata
Financial Analyst
rscarlata@gideonliberty.com

With more than 15 years as a Chief Financial Officer for Chicago-based financial institutions, Richard Scarlata brings seasoned expertise in financial restructuring, capital budgeting, and investment management. He also served a decade as Director of Research at a leading Chicago investment advisory firm. Richard earned an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, cementing his expertise in finance and strategic planning.

Bo Dodson
President & Executive Managing Partner
bdodson@gideonliberty.com

Robert ("Bo") W. Dodson started his entrepreneurial career by founding and operating a leasing company during his undergraduate studies. His professional background spans machinery manufacturing, international marketing, and law, where he managed major accounts with Fortune 500 companies. Bob acquired Gideon Liberty in 1986 and continues to lead with a visionary approach. He earned his BSBA from the University of Connecticut and his JD from the University of Miami School of Law.

Melisssa Sabourin
Executive Vice President, Capital Markets
msabourin@gideonliberty.com

Melissa Sabourin began her professional journey in restaurant management before transitioning into sales, where she excelled for several years. Her passion for technology and analytics led her into recruiting for the automotive sector at MSX International, and later into a role as a Business Analyst contracted to DaimlerChrysler Corporation in Supplier Quality. Before joining GLC, Melissa honed her operational and analytical skills in diverse industries. As CPP Administrator at Gideon Liberty, she supports Perry Sheraw in overseeing the Corporate Partnership Program. Melissa is an alumna of Oakland Community College, where she specialized in business administration.

Sara K. Sheldon
Executive Vice President, Capital Markets
ssheldon@gideonliberty.com

Sara Sheldon has over 20 years of experience helping business owners maximize enterprise value. Before joining GLC, she served as Managing Director of Citigroup’s middle-market investment banking division, where she led numerous M&A transactions across industries, including IT, manufacturing, and retail. Earlier in her career, Sara worked at Ernst & Young LLP, specializing in business valuation for tax, consulting, and acquisitions. Sara holds an MBA in International Business from the American Graduate School of International Business (Thunderbird) and dual undergraduate degrees in Business Administration and French from San Diego State University.

Terry Sherah
Senior Vice President, Corporate Development
psheraw@gideonliberty.com

Terry Sherah's career began as a business inside sales reps for several Fortune 500 companies and then landed job as a controller for Boeng. She later transitioned into financial services and now manages GLC’s Corporate Buyer Development division, overseeing investment banking, financial analysis, and operational strategy. Terry studied English Literature at George Washington University.

Richard S. Staudt
Sports and Recreation Management Services, Affiliated Principal
rstaudt@gideonliberty.com

Richard Staudt has over 25 years of experience planning, financing, and managing full-service recreation facilities. Before joining GLC, he served as the Owner and President of Tennis Unlimited, Inc., and Fountain of Youth, developing expertise in recreational operations and project management. Richard holds a Doctorate in Educational Psychology and an MA in Educational Guidance and Counseling from the University of Michigan..

Mark Sutton
Senior Associate, Business Development
msutton@gideonliberty.com

Mark Sutton has seven years of experience in investment banking and corporate finance. Before joining GLC, he excelled as a top performer in Citigroup’s middle-market investment banking division and worked closely with private equity firms on portfolio company growth strategies. Mark holds NASD Series 7 and 63 licenses and studied marketing at Michigan State University.

John L. Thompson
Development & Construction Management Services, Affiliated Principal
jthompson@gideonliberty.com

John Thompson began his career in 1966 with E.L. Thompson Co., a family-owned interiors contracting firm. By 1978, he became the sole owner and expanded operations significantly, creating additional companies focused on construction and development. Before joining GLC, John oversaw the $650 million Atlantis Resort project in the Bahamas. He holds a BA from the University of North Carolina.

Ary Vojdani
Financial Analyst
avojdani@gideonliberty.com

Ary Vojdani brings over 15 years of financial services experience, with six years focused on M&A advisory. Before joining GLC, Ary worked at Citigroup’s middle-market investment banking division, managing over 300 sell-side engagements. Ary holds a BS in International Business from San Diego State University and attended the University of London for advanced studies in financial management.

Fred G. Wall
Senior Vice President
fwall@gideonliberty.com

Fred Wall has a 40-year career in management and finance, including roles as president and CEO of Robbins & Myers, Inc., where he executed numerous acquisitions and divestitures. Fred has served on multiple boards and is the current Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Miami University (Ohio), where he earned his BS in Business.

Russell Wayt
Executive Vice President
rwayt@gideonliberty.com

Russell Wayt specializes in guiding business owners through transitions, bringing nine years of Wall Street M&A experience to GLC. Before joining, he founded and sold a national marketing firm with $8 million in annual sales. Russell holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Rice University and is a Series 7 Registered Securities Representative.

Bill White
Executive Vice President, Client Services
bwhite@gideonliberty.com

With more than 25 years in financial services, Bill White has deep expertise in M&A for the middle market. Before joining GLC, he served as EVP for RSM EquiCo and Geneva Companies. A certified public accountant and former FBI agent, Bill holds a BS in Accounting from the University of Oregon and a master's in criminal justice administration from California Lutheran University.

Edwin A. Wilcox
Senior Managing Director
ewilcox@gideonliberty.com

Ed Wilcox has over 30 years of leadership experience in manufacturing and industrial gas industries. Before joining GLC, Ed was CEO of a public manufacturing firm grown through middle-market acquisitions. He earned a BS and MS in Chemical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Cornell University, respectively, and an MBA from SUNY Buffalo.

J. Michael Zampieri, III
Marketing Services, Executive Principal
jzampieri@gideonliberty.com

Michael Zampieri joined GLC in 2001 with over 40 years of sales and management expertise. He has built and operated businesses in direct marketing, telecommunications, and financial services. Michael’s career reflects a commitment to operational excellence and innovative growth strategies. He holds an associate degree in Business Administration from Texas State University.

Richard S. Staudt
Sports and Recreation Management Services, Affiliated Principal
rstaudt@gideonliberty.com

Richard Staudt has over 25 years of expertise in planning, financing, and managing full-service recreation facilities. Before joining GLC, Richard was Owner and President of Tennis Unlimited, Inc. and Fountain of Youth, Inc., where he developed and managed high-profile recreational and fitness projects. Richard holds a Doctorate in Educational Psychology and an MA in Educational Guidance and Counseling from the University of Michigan.

Mark Sutton
Senior Associate, Business Development
msutton@gideonliberty.com

Mark Sutton has a robust background in corporate finance and investment banking. Before joining GLC, he excelled in Citigroup’s middle-market division, where he specialized in business development and portfolio management. Mark also worked closely with private equity firms, supporting growth strategies for educational products companies. He studied finance and marketing at Michigan State University.

John Littleton
Development & Construction Management Services, Affiliated Principal
jl@gideonliberty.com

Mr. Littleton’s construction and development career spans over four decades. He expanded his family-owned interiors contracting business into a multimillion-dollar enterprise and played a pivotal role in landmark projects, including the $650 million Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Since joining GLC, John continues to leverage his expertise in large-scale development. He attended college only to find his first of 3 companies 2 of which he exited fully for over 10 figures.

Ary Vodani
Financial Analyst
avojdani@gideonliberty.com

Ary Vadani offers over 15 years of experience in financial services, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. Prior to GLC, Ary was a Senior Associate at Citigroup’s middle-market investment banking division, leading over 300 sell-side engagements across various industries. He holds a BS in International Business from San Diego State University and pursued advanced financial management studies at the University of London.

Fredrick Wall - Senior Vice President
fwall@gideonliberty.com

Fred Wall has a distinguished career spanning over four decades in executive management and finance. Before joining GLC, Fred was President and CEO of Robbins & Myers, Inc., where he led successful M&A transactions and strategic divestitures. Fred is a trusted board advisor, serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Miami University (Ohio), his alma mater, where he earned his BS in Business.

Russell Newsome - Executive Vice President
rnew@gideonliberty.com

Russell Wayt specializes in business transitions and strategic growth initiatives. With over nine years of M&A experience on Wall Street, Russell has facilitated the acquisition or divestiture of more than 18 companies. He previously founded a marketing firm that grew to $8 million in annual revenue within three years. Russell earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Rice University and is a licensed Series 7 Securities Representative.

Bill White - Executive Vice President, Client Services
bwhite@gideonliberty.com

Bill White has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 15 years dedicated to M&A advisory for the middle market. Prior to joining GLC, Bill served as EVP at RSM EquiCo and Geneva Companies. A former FBI Special Agent and CPA, Bill holds a BS in Accounting from the University of Oregon and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from California Lutheran University.

Ed Wilcox - Senior Managing Director
ewilcox@gideonliberty.com

Ed Wilcox brings 30 years of leadership experience in manufacturing, sales, and engineering management. He was previously the CEO of a diversified manufacturing company grown through strategic acquisitions of privately held middle-market firms. Ed earned a BS in Chemical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, an MS in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University, and an MBA from SUNY Buffalo.

Tes Vogel - Buyer Marketing Services, Affiliated Principal
tvogel@gideonliberty.com

Tes joined GLC just after its inceptions, bringing over 40 years of expertise in sales and direct marketing. As a successful entrepreneur, Michael has owned and managed companies in telecommunications and financial services, excelling in sales strategy, operations, and financial management. Michael studied business administration at Texas State University.