Expert Advisory Forum (23rd July 2026)
Exit Preparation – Legal Transaction Expertise
Nina Smith & Michelle Gorman | HCR Law
A successful business exit requires far more than strong financial performance. Buyers will examine how the business is governed, whether its contracts and employment arrangements are robust, who owns its intellectual property and whether its compliance obligations are being properly managed.
In this Advisory Expert Forum, Nina and Michelle from HCR Law draw on their experience of working with buyers and sellers to explain the legal issues that regularly emerge during transactions. They share real examples of how incomplete records, unsigned contracts, unclear IP ownership and compliance weaknesses can cause delays, create additional liabilities or lead to reductions in deal value.
The session also explores the important role accountants and business advisers can play in identifying potential issues early and helping clients become better prepared before a buyer arrives.
In this Advisory Expert Forum, experienced business coach Mark Baxter explores how understanding yourself, and adapting how you engage with others, can improve your ability to attract the right clients, communicate your value and build more productive relationships.
Key highlights include:
- Why statutory registers are the “title deeds” to a company’s shares
- The importance of documenting board decisions, dividends and share transactions correctly
- How change-of-control clauses in customer, supplier, property and framework agreements can affect a sale
- Common employment risks involving holiday pay, contractors, pensions and missing contracts
- Why paying someone to create software, branding or other intellectual property does not necessarily mean the business owns it
- How data protection, cyber security and regulatory weaknesses can damage buyer confidence and deal value
- The practical steps owners should begin taking at least two years before a planned exit
- Why competitive tension and experienced independent advice can strengthen the seller’s negotiating position
The central message is simple: run the business as though a buyer is already watching. Clear records, signed agreements and evidenced compliance can reduce risk, strengthen confidence and support a smoother, more valuable transaction.
