Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Meet the M&A Team Transworld Business Advisors of South and West Texas G-2HFGM7XN2F

Meet the M&A Team

Our M&A Team
Steve Merritt Houston Business Broker

Steve Merritt

President & CEO
CPA, CBI, CM&AP, M&AMI
M&A Intermediary

Steve Merritt, President and CEO at Transworld Business Advisors of South and West Texas, New Mexico and Wyoming, brings over 30 years of unparalleled expertise in finance and business...

development. With experience spanning diverse industries, including transportation, oilfield services, and fast food, Steve’s strategic insights are unmatched. A Certified Public Accountant and a seasoned M&A professional, he has a proven track record of managing investment portfolios exceeding $200M and successfully building businesses from the ground up. Steve’s unique blend of corporate and entrepreneurial experience makes him the go-to expert for business acquisitions and sales.

Steve is the former Director of Finance for a large publicly-traded company where he managed the investment portfolio with a collective valuation in excess of $200M. Within that role, he was a board member and advisor to many of the portfolio companies, creating deals that promoted growth and innovation. His extensive experience as an owner/operator of a multi-unit nationally recognized fast-food franchise brings a unique perspective that will help his clients achieve their business objectives.

Steve’s exposure in building a business from the ground up brings a beneficial perspective to his clients. He is versed in finding solutions to challenges that were not otherwise visible to others. Steve is a Certified Public Accountant with a BBA from the Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University. He holds designations of Certified M&A Professional, Certified Business Intermediary and is a licensed real estate professional in Texas.

Steve is a native Texan and lives in Houston with his wife of 20 years, and two teenage daughters. His hobbies include watching sports, boating, wake surfing, and spending time with family and friends.

(713) 303-4668

[email protected]

 Carmen Hanna Houston Business Broker

Carmen Saad Hanna

Senior Vice President & COO
MBA, CBI, M&AMI
M&A Intermediary

Carmen Hanna is the Senior Vice President and COO of Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas, New Mexico, and Wyoming, headquartered in Houston. She has over 30 years of experience ...

in international business and finance. She has held executive leadership positions in corporate finance, venture capital, and non-profit management, and has been an advisor and mentor to entrepreneurial ventures in the U.S. and emerging markets.

As a former investment banker, Carmen has extensive experience in buying and selling businesses and has executed several transactions including mergers & acquisitions, initial public offerings and private equity placements. She is well-versed in valuation techniques to determine the best entry and exit price for an investment.

During her 10-year tenure at Transworld in Houston, Carmen successfully closed several transactions, covering diverse industries including Metal Building Manufacturers, Duct Cleaning Services, Chemical Transportation, Vineyard & Winery, Wedding & Events Venue, and Day Cares. Her experience in M&A transactions has led to her induction in the M&A Source organization and a focus on lower middle market transactions.

Carmen holds an MBA in management from Imperial College Business School, London, UK, where she specialized in corporate finance and customer-focused strategy. Carmen is a member of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) and the Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Source where she has earned both a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) designation and a Merger and Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI) designation. Carmen also holds a Texas Real Estate License.

(281) 769-4277

[email protected]

Tony Keane Texas Business Broker

Tony Keane

Vice President & CFO
Senior Business Advisor
Houston & Wyoming

Tony Keane is Vice President & CFO of Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas, New Mexico, and Wyoming. He has previously held leadership roles as president, CEO, and COO of several...

global organizations.

He is a former CPA and has owned three small businesses. His understanding of the challenges and opportunities running a small business allows him to understand the dynamics of your business. His experience in acquisitions, financial analysis, and market assessments make him a great asset to buyers and sellers.

He serves on several advisory committees for various companies where he applies his extensive global business expertise. Past positions over the last thirty-plus years have provided him with a broad range of skills, from accounting to business management. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Cincinnati with a business degree in accounting and management. He is a non-practicing Certified Public Accountant and has an Executive Leadership Certificate from Rice University.

(713) 591-2768

[email protected]

Bobbi Coffey Texas Business Broker

Bobbi Coffey

Vice President
MCBI, M&AMI, CM&AP
M&A Intermediary

Bobbi Coffey, Vice President of Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas, New Mexico, and Wyoming, is a strategic financial visionary with over 30 years of experience across a wide range...

of entrepreneurial support roles in both domestic and international organizations. She has excelled as a CFO, providing strategic financial guidance to CEOs and business owners across various industries with revenues ranging from $5M to $850M. Her comprehensive understanding of organizational management, including operations, legal, HR, IT, systems, and FP&A, has enabled her to drive success in diverse business environments.

As a Senior M&A Intermediary specializing in lower middle market, Bobbi brings her exceptional negotiation, acquisition, and integration skills to the table. Her hands-on approach and problem-solving abilities have earned her a reputation for delivering successful outcomes while ensuring the satisfaction of both sellers and buyers. Bobbi's unique business structuring approach and strong leadership qualities enable her to navigate complexities and maximize value for all parties involved.

Her deep industry expertise spans technology, services, construction, and manufacturing among others. Bobbi’s broad experience, coupled with her financial acumen, sets her apart in the industry. Her strong network and creative partnering skills allow her to connect buyers and sellers seamlessly, facilitating smooth transactions and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.

As a forward-thinking professional, Bobbi remains ahead of market trends and industry developments, consistently delivering tailored solutions to clients. Her passion for facilitating successful transactions, combined with her dedication to exceptional service, positions her as a highly sought-after business advisor.

If you are seeking a seasoned and results-driven business broker with a strong financial background, Bobbi Coffey is the professional you need. Contact her today to discuss how she can leverage her expertise to help you achieve your business objectives and unlock the full potential of your strategic exit or begin your entrepreneurial journey.

 

(832) 481-4406

[email protected]

Austin Zhao Houston Business Broker

Austin Zhao

Vice President
M&AMI, CM&AP, CBI & BCA
M&A Intermediary

Austin Zhao, Vice President at Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas, New Mexico, and Wyoming, has over 36 years of business experience with an extensive international trade...

background, business management and operations, and deal negotiation. After joining Transworld Business Advisors at the end of 2015, Austin specializes in business sales, mergers and acquisitions, and business valuation.

In addition to leveraging being part of the Transworld network, Austin is certified by the International Society of Business Appraisers, as a Business Certified Appraiser (BCA). This certification is a high achievement in the Business Broker industry with very few certified nationwide. His expertise in business valuation helps his clients understand the value of their businesses and set the right pricing strategy for a successful sale process. There is no question why Austin’s approach yields excellent results and higher sale conversions compared to other brokers in the industry.

Austin has been an executive officer for several Chinese and U.S. companies. Formerly he was General Manger of A & G Toys, Inc., Houston, Texas; Executive Vice-President of DL America, Inc., Houston, Texas; and General Manager of Shunlida Company, a unit of The Import and Export Corporation of Dalian Development Zone, which was a state-owned international trade corporation ranking in the top 500 companies in the foreign trade industry in China. He was also one of the eleven Board Directors of the Paraffin Wax Committee for China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters in 1995 and 1996.

Austin speaks Chinese, English and basic Japanese, and has extensive cross cultural experience in business communication between China and America. He is also a Certified Business Intermediary, Certified Mergers and Acquisitions Professional, and a Business Certified Appraiser.

(281) 630-6666

[email protected]

Ron Hankamer

Ron Hankamer

Senior Business Advisor
CM&AP
CBI

Ron has over 20 years of experience as a franchise owner and franchise development executive with several franchise brands, including Shipley Donuts, Marble Slab Creamery, Papa Murphy's Pizza, and...

Closet Factory. Ron's prior experience includes assisting hundreds of new franchisee candidates with opening their own businesses. He also facilitated dozens of franchise resales and has purchased and sold businesses ranging from $200K to $20M. His strengths include problem-solving, creative solutions, and “win-win" transactions.

Ron has a BBA in Finance from Texas Christian University. He is also a licensed real estate broker in the state of Texas. Ron was born and raised in Houston and enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids, traveling, and playing tennis.

(713) 854-1302

[email protected]

Bo Hudson

Bo Hudson

Senior Business Advisor
CM&AP
M&A INTERMEDIARY

Bo Hudson is a Senior Business Advisor with over 20 years of Executive Corporate Management experience. His career path has provided an extensive background with multinational corporations in both the...

private equity and public sector. While serving as CEO for building product manufacturers DECRA Roofing Systems and Royal Manufacturing he fostered business growth by creating value, making transformational business process changes, and providing exceptional leadership. As an “entrepreneurial” executive, he thrived on the daily involvement with business operations and sales while spearheading product development initiatives which included the granting of 6 different patents. His background provides complete insight into the daily workings of organizations both large and small. Business Brokerage provides Bo with an opportunity to continue being a successful team builder while delivering a win-win situation for all parties involved. He received a BS Degree in Psychology from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama and an MBA from the University of Dallas. His spare time is usually spent with family and travel, but he is always up for the challenge of a woodworking project.

(714) 343-0669

[email protected]

Molly Adames

Molly Adames

Senior Business Advisor
M&A
INTERMEDIARY

With over 20 years in healthcare consulting, development, and finance, Molly Adames brings a depth of knowledge and a wide range of experience to her role with Transworld Houston. She has held...

executive leadership roles in large management groups, start-up entities, and publicly traded organizations. In addition, Molly’s experience as a lawyer and small business owner gives her a hands-on approach and a practical perspective in bringing deals to a successful close for all parties involved.

Over the years, Molly has earned a reputation as a well-respected and recognized leader in for-profit medicine across the country, providing consulting services and much needed legal structure, focused not only on risk management and compliance, but also on creativity and innovation. Since moving to Houston and starting her own business in 2010, Molly has focused on providing exceptional leadership and direction to clients from a variety of industries, providing her expanded focus and insight. Her experience, business acumen, and ability to think “outside the box” have allowed Molly’s clients to achieve success in business investment, acquisition, and de novo development.

Earlier in her career, Molly was an established figure on Capitol Hill, leading political advocacy efforts, fundraising, membership recruitment, and public relations, while operating a non-profit national trade association. She has also served as a board member and advisor for various business entities and public commissions, including three terms as a Governor appointed member of the SD Healthcare Commission. Molly received her Juris Doctorate with honors in 1997 from the USD School of Law, where she was awarded the prestigious Gavel Award as the most promising graduate, and served as the Editor in Chief of the Law Review.

Molly enjoys spending her time with her husband and three children, and shares her passion for music and the arts through various volunteer and philanthropic opportunities.

(281) 881-3460

[email protected]

Gerald Brisson

Gerald Brisson

Founder
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

Gerry Brisson first founded Transworld Business Advisors of Houston in 2014. During his time as President and owner, he successfully built and led a team that facilitated the sale of over 500 businesses ....

across Houston markets. Under his leadership, the Houston office consistently ranked as one of the top-performing organizations in Transworld’s 300-office global network.

Before establishing Transworld Business Advisors of Houston, Gerry cultivated over thirty years of global business experience, which included managing international business units, directing global marketing efforts, and leading a strategic procurement organization on a global scale. He had been involved in hundreds of negotiations spanning five continents and held executive leadership positions in three Fortune 500 companies, covering operations in over 50 countries across North America, Latin America, Central America, the Caribbean, Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Gerry was a remarkable leader, a master business broker, and a steadfast champion of those around him. His passion for fostering success through education, leadership, and unwavering support laid the foundation for the company and played a pivotal role in shaping its ongoing success. After his passing in July 2024, Gerry’s legacy endures through the trusted team of advisors he personally selected to continue his mission.

Gerry will be remembered not only for his achievements but for the profound impact he had on those who had the privilege of working with him. As he often said, “My goal is not to make myself successful, but to make everyone around me successful.” In this spirit, the team remains committed to carrying forward Gerry’s vision, striving to honor his memory and make him proud.

Today, Gerry leaves behind more than just a legacy—he leaves a lasting inspiration that continues to inspire and guide us all.

Past achievements:

President of Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas, Wyoming, and New Mexico
President of Transworld Business Advisors’ National Franchisee Council
Past President Texas Association of Business Brokers Houston Chapter (2021-2022)
Past Texas Association of Business Brokers Board of Directors Member (2021-2022)
Transworld Business Advisors Hall of Fame Member (Elected 2015)
Certified Business Intermediary (CBI)
Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional (CM&AP)
Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary (M&AMI)
Member of the International Business Broker Association (IBBA)
Member of the Mergers and Acquisitions Source (M&A Source)

(281) 769-4277

[email protected]

Support Team

Lore Gonzalez

Lore Gonzalez

Director of Operations
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

As the Director of Operations for South and West Texas, Lore has a proven track record of delivering tangible results and improving efficiency. Equipped with years of leadership, experience...

and expertise, she has honed her skills at managing teams, streamlining processes, and optimising productivity. She possesses a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on problem-solving, making her the go-to person for any operation challenge. She proudly served as a Human Resource Team Lead in the U.S. Army before making the decision to return to Houston. Lore graduated from Sam Houston State University with a double major in business management and marketing. She is a Texas notary and certified in APHR. During her free time, she enjoys CrossFit, puzzles, and spending time with her friends and family.

(346) 319-5955

[email protected]

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Marketing Director
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

Elizabeth Gonzalez is Transworld Houston's exclusive Marketing Director, she joins Transworld with several years of education and hands-on experience working with various marketing platforms...

She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Austin College where she double-majored in Business Finance and Psychology. Elizabeth is primarily responsible for creating and driving the company’s marketing and community relations initiatives. She also directly supports the Houston M&A team along with manages vendor relations for the office. She is a Texas Real Estate Licenses Agent and her hobbies include dancing, fishing, spending time with family, watching crime shows/movies. She is also the proud owner of a pavement princess oIIIIIIIo.

(346) 319-5955

[email protected]

Karissa Bensenberg

Karissa Bensenberg

M&A Director
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

As the Director of Mergers & Acquisitions Analytics for Transworld Business Advisors of Houston, Karissa Bensenberg supports the M&A Intermediary Team on lower middle market transactions. Her responsibilities...

include industry research, market analysis, financial analysis, creating executive summaries, strategic buyer identification, buyer management, and due diligence process support. Karissa plays a major role on our M&A Intermediary team.

Prior to joining the TBA of Houston team, Karissa worked in the financial services industry for 7 years in increasingly sophisticated positions. She graduated from NYU's Stern School of Business with a bachelor's degree in finance and from University of Texas School of Law with a Juris Doctor. Continually seeking to expand her professional horizon, Karissa is currently a CPA candidate. Her hobbies include watching football, hiking, reading, and solving logic puzzles.

(281) 769-4277

[email protected]

Shuba Grewal

Business Development Director
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

Shuba is the dynamic and accomplished Business Development Director at Transworld Business Advisors of South & West Texas. With an impressive background in managing...

high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective operations in customer service and consumer product environments, she is a driving force behind excellence in complex projects and strategic initiatives. In her previous roles, Shuba demonstrated her exceptional leadership by efficiently managing the daily operation of litigation orders and the medical records retrieval process, leading to optimized business efficiency. Through the implementation of KPIs and improvements in employee performance, she achieved remarkable enhancements in operational effectiveness. Moreover, her commendable history of recruiting and training 40+ direct/indirect reports and contract employees showcases her commitment to fostering professional skills enhancement within the team. She also played an integral role on executive teams, overseeing job/training schedules, site inspections, and building permits. Shuba's ability to excel in a data-driven, fast-paced environment is a testament to her exceptional leadership skills. She thrives in making sound recommendations and effectively managing complex problems, ensuring the company's continued growth and success. With Shuba's strategic vision, operational acumen, and unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, Transworld Business Advisors is poised for remarkable growth and continued success under her inspiring leadership. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shuba is known for her innovative thinking, teamwork spirit, and boundless energy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Apparel Merchandising and Management from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and is a licensed Notary Public. During her free time, she enjoys spending quality moments with family and friends, exploring new destinations through travel, engaging in creative DIY projects, and giving back to the community through volunteering.

(346) 314-0010

[email protected]

Lynn Urback

Lynn Urback

Digital Marketing Manager
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

Lynn Urback is a skilled digital marketer distinguished for her creative strategies in the constantly evolving digital landscape She possesses a deep understanding of digital marketing, as evidenced...

by her 10+ years with SEO optimization, social media engagement, website management, and content marketing. Lynn excels at keeping pace with the latest digital trends, analyzing online data analytics, and implementing marketing campaigns, effectively boosting brand awareness and audience engagement. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Stephen F. Austin State University. Outside of her professional pursuits, Lynn is passionate about reading, exploring various AI platforms, and cheering for the Houston Astros.

(281) 769-4277

[email protected]

Ana Ruiz

Ana Zavala

Internal Resource Manager
South & West Texas, New Mexico, & Wyoming

Introducing Ana Zavala, our esteemed Internal Resource Manager at Transworld Business Advisors. Ana ensures seamless coordination between departments and optimizes processes...

to foster successful business transactions and client relationships. Her crucial role in driving efficiency and maximizing our firm's overall effectiveness is a testament to her highly qualified and versatile professional background.

Before joining Transworld, Ana's career as an Assistant Marketing Manager at Stage Stores showcased her exceptional talent for planning and executing events with meticulous attention to detail. As a liaison between Stage Stores and the community, Ana's leadership in associate fundraising campaigns highlighted her exceptional relationship-building abilities, leading to the success of numerous initiatives. Additionally, Ana's role as a Print Production Coordinator demonstrated her adept project management skills. Efficiently coordinating cross-functional teams and managing print materials distribution resulted in compelling collateral for campaigns and events.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ana holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Trinity University, specializing in Marketing. She is Fluent in Spanish and proficient in various software applications, she effortlessly navigates our dynamic work environment. During her free time, she enjoys quality moments with family and friends, exploring new city restaurants, and exploring new destinations through travel and cooking adventures. Ana's vibrant personality and diverse interests add a touch of warmth and creativity to our small business atmosphere.

(281) 769-4277

[email protected]