Cetane Associates hires Don Smith as director

Don Smith has joined Cetane Associates as director.

Smith

With close to four decades of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) expertise, Smith has successfully closed more than 700 business transactions, according to the financial advisory firm. His advocacy for small business owners includes roles in national investment banking firms, regional M&A companies and ownership of a business brokerage firm based in Colorado. He has provided guidance as a consultant and adviser to business owners considering sales.

Before joining Cetane Associates, Smith most recently worked on the buy-side of transactions. He developed and managed the M&A department for MFA Oil Co., one of the nation’s largest agri-energy cooperatives. At MFA, he orchestrated the acquisition of more than 30 LP gas and refined fuel businesses. His involvement on both sides of numerous deals has afforded him a distinctive insight into the processes of business valuations and sales, Cetane says.

Smith has an agriculture degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He is a certified business intermediary, has held Series 7 and Series 63 securities licenses and is a licensed real estate broker in Missouri. He is a longtime member of the International Business Brokers Association and has served on various industry and nonprofit boards. Smith lives in Missouri with his wife, Kathryn, and their two dogs. He is an avid gardener and enjoys traveling and tennis.

“We are delighted to welcome Don to our team,” says Barrett Conway, managing director and principal of Cetane. “His knowledge and experience in business transactions will significantly enhance the value we offer to our clients. Additionally, his affable and effective communication style further enriches our team dynamic.”