Tech entrepreneur launches new consultancy

A North East technology entrepreneur has launched a consultancy to help business owners maximise the value of their companies before a sale.

Michael Peacock has established Washington Baltic in Gateshead, drawing on more than 20 years’ experience in software engineering, technology leadership and business advisory services.

The consultancy helps companies prepare for the technology due diligence that often accompanies business sales and investment deals, advising on areas including software, IT infrastructure, cyber security and artificial intelligence.

Washington Baltic will work with business owners preparing to sell, raise investment or pursue a public market listing, while also supporting buyers assessing technology risks before completing transactions.

Michael has supported more than 150 companies through deals ranging from first-time business sales to private equity-backed acquisitions. 

Drawing on that experience, he believes many owners underestimate the influence technology can have on buyer confidence and business valuations.

Michael said: “Technology, software and security are rarely the reason a business doesn't sell, but they can have a significant impact on how attractive a company appears to potential buyers.

“Business owners know exactly what makes their company great because they live and breathe it every day. 

“What they’re often less comfortable doing is explaining those strengths in a way that resonates with investors, buyers and their advisers.

“We help businesses identify and mitigate any areas that need attention ahead of time, but just as importantly we help them tell the story of what they’re already doing well. 

“The aim is to ensure buyers fully understand both the strengths and any challenges before they enter a transaction.”

The consultancy aims to help clients identify and address technology issues early, strengthening their position ahead of investment or a change in ownership.

Michael added: “Many smaller business owners have never been through a sale process before.

“They’ve spent years building a successful company and suddenly they’re faced with requests for documentation they’ve never heard of and questions they weren't expecting.

“That can be overwhelming. 

“What I enjoy most is helping people prepare before they reach that stage. 

“We help them get organised, understand what buyers will want to know and present their business in the best possible light.

“No business is perfect. 

“I’ve never seen a perfect technology environment, and investors and buyers do not expect perfection either. 

“The key is understanding where any issues exist, putting them into context and ensuring there are no surprises.

“When that happens, business owners can approach a sale with confidence, buyers know exactly what they’re getting, and everyone is in a much stronger position to achieve a successful deal.”

Michael’s career began after studying software engineering at university, when he founded a web design agency before moving into software development and technology leadership roles.

He later built and ran his own software-as-a-service business before moving into technology advisory.

While he has advised large organisations throughout his career, Michael said he is keen to make that expertise more accessible to smaller businesses, helping owners identify and address technology issues before entering negotiations.

He added: “A lot of smaller companies don't have access to this type of specialist support. 

“They may only ever sell a business once, whereas buyers and investors do deals all the time. 

“I want to help level the playing field by giving owners the insight and confidence they need to achieve the right outcome.”

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