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Press releases > Behind Jack Nicklaus’ Marketing Alliance With Generational Group

Behind Jack Nicklaus’ Marketing Alliance With Generational Group

By Generational Group

Nov 12, 2021, 07:00 et
Jack Nicklaus Visit

“We share many of the same core values, in life and work.”

Jack Nicklaus could have teamed up with anyone.

In March 2021, Nicklaus – considered by many to be the greatest golfer in history – formed a unique corporate alliance with leading middle-market investment bank Generational Group. The Dallas-based, privately held financial services firm has offices in 16 North American cities and specializes in helping business owners with strategic growth, enterprise valuation, and full or partial exit strategies.

“Without question, Jack could choose to work with any investment firm in the country,” said Ryan Binkley, Generational Group’s CEO. “He chose us. That’s an honor, and it’s a testament to the type of company we’re striving to create here.”

Nicklaus was in Dallas this week for “The Generational Salute: A Tribute to Our Troops”, a fundraising event sponsored by Generational Group that is held each year in conjunction with the Veterans Day holiday. The two-day event will raise money for foundations that improve the lives of our nation’s veterans by providing critical resources and services.

Giving back to the community is just one more connection between the Golden Bear and Generational Group.

“I’ve always taken pride in choosing the right partners, whether in golf or in business,” Nicklaus said. “The Generational Group is family-owned, like-minded. We share many of the same core values in both life and business.”

“I also believe in the importance of creating a legacy, leaving things better for the next generation,” Nicklaus continued. “That is part of Generational’s mission as well. They are focused on what a client is trying to accomplish in business, in life and for future generations.”

Generational Group and Nicklaus share many of the same core values, including integrity, focus, preparation, commitment to family – and a belief in giving back to the communities where we live and work. Thus, the marketing alliance between Generational and Jack Nicklaus is more than just an endorsement deal. The three-year agreement makes Generational a Nicklaus Companies’ partner for helping business owners plan strategic growth, enterprise valuation, exit strategies and multi-generational planning.

Generational’s suite of financial services includes mergers and acquisitions, business consulting, and wealth advisory services.

Generational is also working with Nicklaus Companies to develop a five-year strategic growth plan for Jack’s companies, as well as with business development and lead generation for Nicklaus Design, the renowned Nicklaus golf course design company.

Jack Nicklaus is one of the world’s most iconic brands, not only in the sports world but in global business as well. Commonly referred to as the “Golfer of the Century”, with a record 18 major championships, Nicklaus is a renowned entrepreneur and business owner, having created dozens of companies over 50 years. In 2007, Nicklaus partnered with golf entrepreneur, banker and philanthropist Howard Milstein to institutionalize the Nicklaus brand and its global business – which is similar to the goals of Generational’s clients, who seek to monetize their business and establish a legacy for future generations.

“Jack Nicklaus is the gold standard,” Milstein, Executive Chairman of the Nicklaus Companies said. “Beyond golf— where he left so indelible a mark—what Jack has accomplished in business and philanthropy is equally remarkable. There is perhaps no greater responsibility or honor than being entrusted with protecting and enhancing this legacy. We look forward to continuing our work with the Generational Group to establish success for both our companies.”

In conjunction with the new relationship, the Golden Bear has contributed a series of videos on the Generational website describing his approach to golf, to business and to life – on topics that include market timing, preparation and working with the right partners.

A Unique Partner to Growing Companies

Based in Dallas and with offices in 16 North American Cities, Generational ranks near the top of most league tables for deals up to $1 billion. The firm is home to more than 250 professionals whose goal is to help clients with growth strategies designed to ensure business success and, when the time is right an exit strategy, with either a full or partial sale of their business.

“We combine the capabilities of the large ‘bulge bracket’ banks with the agility of a boutique,” Binkley said.

“Ultimately,” he continued, “we want to be known as a different kind of investment bank – more focused on client relationships as we work towards a transaction, or whatever our clients’ goals are.”

In 2020, the firm was listed in Refinitiv’s 2020 rankings as the No. 1 investment bank in deals closed for valuations up to $25 million and No. 2 up to $100 million. The firm was also ranked No. 8 in deals valued up to $500 million––one of only two privately held investment banks in the top 10.

Binkley points out that many Generational executives are themselves former business owners, so they have the “business owner’s DNA.”

“We understand this journey: the challenges, the emotions and the risks. We have a unique understanding, which we believe translates into a competitive advantage in the marketplace,” Binkley said.

A Banner 2021 in Middle-Market M&A

In October 2021, Generational Group closed its 1,100th deal – just six months after doing so on its 1,000th deal. The firm’s closings are up more than 60% year-to-date over 2020, which had previously been the firm’s best year.

“This is very gratifying for us,” Binkley said, “as we strive to make a difference in the lives of our clients and their families.”

A major advantage for Generational Group is its data on more than 34,000 potential global buyers that tell the firm what they’re looking for. Generational leverages technology through its proprietary platform, DealForce, which allows buyers to efficiently preview acquisition opportunities in the industries where they have interest.

Generational Group also offers services in growth consulting through the Generational Consulting Group and wealth management through Generational Wealth Advisors.

In the end, the relationship between Generational Group and Jack Nicklaus and his companies comes down to trust – the same critically important element business owners seek as they work to solidify their legacy and ensure a prosperous future for themselves and their families.

"I know how important and how emotional it is to create a company and build it over many years in hopes of one day providing for the next generation,” Nicklaus said. “This is why I believe we identify so well with the Generational Group’s clients and prospects.”  

To learn more about Generational Group and its alliance with Jack Nicklaus and the Nicklaus companies, visit generational.com.

Generational Equity educated and informed us – so that we could be on the upside of a good decision (to sell).
Bil MacLeslie, CEO, ipHouse
We were represented by Michael Goss with Generational. The due diligence was grueling and exhausting, but Michael propped us up and kept us motivated throughout the process. Debi and I continued to ask each other how we could possibly make it through this process without the assistance of Michael. Michael's professionalism and knowledge is absolutely amazing, and we are so blessed to have had him by our side as we made our future dreams come true.
Bob and Debi Lee, Owners of BL Technology, Inc and BL Tl Services, LLC
Michael worked tirelessly, He followed every lead meticulously and urgently to make sure nothing was missed.
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I couldn’t have asked for a better team than Michael and Deborah. We couldn’t have done it without them.
Robert Evans, President and CEO of Mealtracker Dietary Software
Generational Equity’s assistance was invaluable in compiling and marketing our business.
Bil MacLeslie, CEO, ipHouse
The process was much more involved than I expected and your help, experience and advice was a big factor in making the negotiations go as smoothly as possible.
Terry D. Wickman, President, Keytroller
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I would like to thank you and your firm, Generational Equity, for being our valued advisors in our journey.
Bil MacLeslie, CEO, ipHouse
We thank you Eric and Generational Equity making our dream come true.
Larry Moore, Owner, A Company Portable Restrooms
I need to say an immense thank you to Don Ho for his stellar work ethic, attention to detail, and tireless effort. Also thank you to the whole crew at GE! Without you, Don could not do such a phenomenal job. We were shooting for closing and funding before the end of 2020, due to the uncertainty of the political landscape and taxes. I am happy to report we closed last week and will be funding tomorrow.
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I quickly recognized that Don was working for Sharpe Mixers above all else, and held our interests above others.
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Generational Equity’s professional staff helped me every step of the way. Their network and professionals are the only reason I sold my company this quickly. For me this is a once in a lifetime sale and I was unfamiliar with the process. I was able to lean on them with questions and concerns.
Betty L. Brennan, President, Taylor Studios
Your wisdom and experience were invaluable to me during this once-in-a-lifetime transaction.
Ralph Noblin, President of Noblin & Associates
The most important contribution I think Ahmad made was with his personality and work ethic. He is sincere, efficient, and very hard working. He was available to me at all times, whether it was for specific detail of the negotiation or just to talk through the bigger picture. He listened, advised, and recommended, but never forced his idea or opinions. In the time we worked together, he became a valued colleague and also a friend.
Salvo Stoch, Founder and CEO of Sleeping Partners
I must say that I have never worked with a more driven, competent and focused individual as Don Ho.
Jay Dinnison, Owner of Sharpe Mixers
Thanks to you, the entire GE team and especially Michael Goss for driving a great valuation, coaching me and driving the process across the finish line. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to support GE going forward.
Tom Currier, Former President & CEO, Rackmount Solutions
Greetings Mike. Thank you for the captivating and compelling presentation you made at the Phoenix presentation last week. Over many years in business yours was the most informative and well-presented presentation, on any subject, that I have ever attended! Your energy and enthusiasm combined with your concise and captivating support of your positions with easily understood examples and data was compelling.
Pete L.
We are very happy with the end result, and are very happy to be able to move forward with all of our future growth plans.
Rick Nowak, President/CEO, Kurz Electric Solutions, Inc.
I wanted to write you a quick letter to express our appreciation and our delight on the outcome of helping us through the process of our recent sale. We are very happy with the end result, and are very happy to be able to move forward with all of our future growth plans.
Terry D. Wickman, President, Keytroller
Thank you again for all your guidance and support. Any company will achieve what they intend, if they have you on their team!
Rick Nowak, President/CEO, Kurz Electric Solutions, Inc.
After attending a conference with GE, I decided that the value they bring would be worth the expense and as soon as I started working with them, I realized that was the right decision. When we started to get LOIs, Fred Zweifel took the lead on the communication and supported negotiations throughout the process, which got tricky as we moved forward. I learned that it can be common for companies to make a great offer then work to erode that price with their discoveries, but Fred and the GE team kept that from happening.
Caroline Connelly, CEO, OptoTest
We had the pleasure of working with Mr. Ahmad Behjati Managing Director, M&A, for Generational Equity during our acquisition of Papa's Dodge in late 2021. Generational Equity and Mr. Behjati represented and marketed Papa’s Dodge. As our primary contact, Mr. Behjati was professional in every facet of this acquisition process, conveying valuable advice most times and assisting us in every step of the process.
Rick Greene of Dobbs Equity Partners LLC
T.D., thank you so much! You are a great leader! I love how you are using your gifts and talents to better others. You are clearly a GREAT COACH! This 3 day session undoubtedly changed the future of our business, and very well may have been the sole catalyst to save my company, my health and my marriage! A genuine “thank you” from the bottom of my heart.
Bryan D. Horn, Owner, Over Under Clothing
I am pleased that I was able to work with Andrew Byrd throughout this experience. From the first meeting we had in Minneapolis I felt that I was in good hands. His knowledge and expertise is second to none. He guided the process consistently throughout. I feel lucky that I was pared with Andrew and could not be happier that I chose Generational Equity to handle this major life event. Thank you Andrew and GenEq for everything!
Eric Erlandson, Owner, Action Fastenings, Inc.
I decided to attend the conference and hopefully receive some guidance on how to structure an exit plan of my business. Upon arriving at the conference, I was so impressed with the presentation given by Generational Equity that I set a future appointment that week to discuss the possibility of selling my business with their Senior Managing Director David Robinson.
JoAnn Ellis, Owner of Fondren 5 Star Kennels
We knew it would be a difficult task to have someone really understand our business and our market, prior to researching a possible buyer, so it was imperative that we found someone of your caliber, with definite proven experience in this area.
Rick Nowak, President/CEO, Kurz Electric Solutions, Inc.
The help you provided us during each step of this process made us feel very comfortable and confident we were selecting the right approach to transition our Company.
Andy Graham, Vice President, Modern Heating & Plumbing
Through the sale process, Generational brought in several interested buyers and we closed in about 6 months. I am so glad I accepted that invitation to the conference and could not be happier with the whole process. The team at Generational coupled with their knowledge and guidance was so valuable that in the end, I know I could never have done this on my own!
JoAnn Ellis, Owner of Fondren 5 Star Kennels
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have done for us. Not only did you take care of all the aspects of the sale but took extra care to make sure we knew what it looked like every step of the way. I will definitely recommend your company to anyone that is in a position to or looking to exit their business.
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