Our Team
Our Team
Meet Our Churchill Mergers Team
Churchill Mergers Team is composed of seasoned M&A professionals with deep expertise in business sales, acquisitions, and advisory across the UK, USA, and Middle East. Together, we guide you through every step of the deal — from valuation to closing — with integrity, experience, and confidence.
Jamal Khan
Founder & Chairman
Imad Ilyas
Chief Operating Officer
John Hanna
Vice President - USA
Akin Ceylan
Board Member
Martin Clay
Board Member
Steven Berry
Board Member
Derrick Monroe
Board Member
Andrew Edelstein
Associate Director
Nasim Malik
Head of Closing
Sara Goldsmith
M&A Coordinator
Sophie Wood
M&A Coordinator
Samantha Baker
M&A Coordinator
Sue Robinson
M&A Coordinator
Zoe Stevenson
M&A Coordinator
Charlotte Fahy
M&A Coordinator
Liz Marshall
M&A Coordinator
Emma Wilson
M&A Coordinator
Natalie Stone
M&A Coordinator
Stacey Cole
M&A Coordinator
Sam
Office Administrator
Imran Sadiq
Team Lead
Ali Zeeshan
International Client Manager
Muhammad Omar Saeed
International Client Manager
Ali Abbas Naqvi
International Client Manager
Awais Ahmad
International Client Manager
Mirza Aslam
International Client Manager
Ali Mirza
International Client Manager
Aqeel Muhammad
International Client Manager
Haseeb Akmal
M&A Coordinator
Hamid Shakir
M&A Coordinator
Hafiz Arslan Akbar
Software Specialist
Usman Akbar
Graphic Design and UI Expert
Adeel Bashir
Server and IT Manager
Hammad Khan
Systems Security & Backend Manager
Founder & Chairman
Jamal Khan
Jamal is a serial entrepreneur and has over three decades of experience in advising businesses on various matters including Mergers and Acquisitions and Corporate Finance. He worked with Deloitte in the M&A team in his early days. Since leaving Deloitte, he started his own entrepreneurial journey.
Jamal currently owns various businesses under Churchill Group which he started and scaled. These include Churchill Mergers, Churchill Tax Advisers & Accountants, Churchill Executive, Churchill Technologies, Churchill Solutions, Elite Hub, EcoTrack360, ComplyZap and real estate portfolios.
Jamal is the author of two books on Business Buying Secrets and Selling For The Highest Price. Both available on Amazon.
Having spent time with Sir Richard Branson on his private Necker Island and other billionaires learning about scaling successful businesses, Jamal founded Churchill Partners with a vision to create a trillion dollar empire by 2040 with the help of a carefully selected Board.
Jamal is a visionary and strong believer that unprecedented success comes from strong / experienced leadership and a team sharing the same vision and values. These values are the foundation of Churchill Partners.
Chief Operating Officer
Imad Ilyas
Imad has years of experience in advising businesses on various matters including acquisitions and sale process. Imad is a key team player in managing large deals and advising both the buyers and sellers on each step of the process to completion.
Vice President - USA
John Hanna
John Hanna is an experienced M&A strategist/advisor, CEO and Merchant Banker with a strong track record in building, acquiring, and scaling businesses. He has raised over $1.2 billion in debt and equity, led companies through public listings on Nasdaq and the NYSE, and successfully executed transactions across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
With a background in merchant banking and hands-on CEO leadership, John has advised KPMG in Saudi Arabia, led billion-dollar projects, and managed both domestic and cross-border transactions. He is committed to identifying high-potential opportunities in M&A roll-ups, licensing, and digital-first brands, especially in the fragmented lower middle market.
Board Member
Akin Ceylan
Akin Ceylan is a highly experienced executive with over 26 years in Media and Entertainment, including more than 20 years in senior leadership roles. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Home Entertainment and Global Content Delivery at Lionsgate, where he led global distribution and operations across theatrical, digital, and packaged media, overseeing a library of 20,000+ titles. He was responsible for technical operations, supply chain, P&L management, and strategic partnerships, driving both revenue growth and operational efficiency.
Prior to Lionsgate, Akin held senior roles at MGM Studios, where he oversaw domestic operations and played a key role in establishing distribution for the MGM content library. He began his career in retail, spending nearly two decades in operational and commercial roles before transitioning into media.
Akin holds a BSBA from Chapman University Argyros School of Business and Economics and has further qualifications in contract management, board governance and M&A and Corporate Development Strategies (Wharton), and executive coaching (Columbia). He is a Trustee at Chapman University and serves on multiple committees, while also holding board and advisory positions across organisations.
In addition to his corporate career, Akin is a certified executive coach with credentials in leadership coaching, emotional intelligence, and cognitive assessment. He is passionate about mentoring, governance, and driving high performance, bringing a well-rounded perspective shaped by operations, strategy, and leadership development.
Board Member
Martin Clay
Martin is an experienced Chair, NED, Consultant and Board Advisor with a track record of guiding organisations from startups to large corporations through transformation, growth, and turnaround across the UK, Europe, USA, China and Latin America having lived and worked across continents.
With over 25 years in senior executive roles (CEO, COO, VP, Supply Chain Director) in global, regional and UK companies – Martin has deep insight into strategy, supply chains, retail, ecommerce, operations, trade, manufacturing and cultural transformation, and has delivered complex change while ensuring sustainable, long-term outcomes.
He combines strategic clarity with independent challenge, offering boards a balanced perspective, cross-sector expertise, and the ability to navigate disruption. With an AMBA Accredited MBA (Distinction), university Visiting Fellow and lecturer, Martin thrives on continuous learning to maintain insight into current business and economic challenges.
Board Member
Steven Berry
Steven M. Berry, MBA, is an accomplished executive leader with extensive experience guiding complex, multi-state organisations through growth, transformation, acquisitions, and operational scaling across healthcare, behavioural health, pharmacy services, and integrated care. He brings deep expertise in strategic planning, M&A execution, turnarounds, and post-acquisition integration, consistently delivering improvements in EBITDA, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability. His leadership spans startups, mature businesses, and restructuring environments, with a strong focus on governance and financial discipline.
Most recently, Steven served as Chief Executive Officer of a home health start-up, where he led strategic vision and multi-state expansion in home health and therapy services. He previously held CEO and COO/CFO roles at WestBridge Inc., overseeing a multi-site behavioural health and substance abuse organisation through succession planning, cultural transformation, and restructuring.
Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles at Walgreens, PharMerica, CareGroup (including Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center), and other leading healthcare organisations. He has also advised clients through HTC Group LLC, supporting growth strategy, acquisitions, operational improvements, valuations, and competitive positioning.
Steven holds executive education credentials from The Wharton School, an MBA from Regis University, and a Bachelor of Science from Northeastern University. His board experience includes leadership and governance roles with The Wharton School Executive Education (President), Churchill Partners, AnchorPoint Health Partners, WestBridge Inc., and the Recovery Opportunity Fund.
He brings to the boardroom a proven ability to shape strategy, oversee complex operations, and guide organisations through periods of growth, change, and regulatory complexity.
Board Member
Derrick Monroe
Derrick is an accomplished investment banker and seasoned executive with deep expertise advising lower middle-market companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital formation, and strategic growth initiatives. Over the course of his career, he has guided founders, investors, and management teams through complex transactions and value-creation milestones. Complementing [his/her/their] advisory background, Derrick has founded and successfully exited two companies, including a healthcare technology venture and CargoStax in the supply chain sector, providing a rare operator-investor perspective at the board level. Derrick earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Bauder College and completed graduate studies in Economics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Mr. Monroe serves on the Board of Directors of Churchill Partners, advising on strategic growth, governance, and long-term value creation.
Associate Director
Andrew Edelstein
Andrew brings over 20 years of experience in real estate, legal services, and business acquisitions and disposals. He’s known for building strong client relationships and takes a personal, hands-on approach—making the process clear, stress-free, and supportive from start to finish.
Head of Closing
Nasim Malik
Nasim has almost 30 years experience in brokerage and advising on mergers and acquisitions. Nasim spent almost 15 years in the intermediary sector advising on raising finance for deals. Nasim is well connected in M&A industry.
M&A Coordinator
Sara Goldsmith
Sara Goldsmith provides essential coordination and administrative support to the firm’s M&A transactions. Working closely with both buyers and sellers, Sara helps to manage the day-to-day tasks involved in each stage of the deal process. Her responsibilities include scheduling meetings, preparing and organizing documentation, and ensuring timely communication between all parties. With a keen eye for detail and a structured approach, Sara supports the smooth progression of transactions by maintaining data rooms, tracking deliverables, and assisting with due diligence activities. She is a reliable point of contact for clients, ensuring they have the information and assistance they need throughout the transaction. Outside of work, Sara enjoys traveling and exploring new cuisines
M&A Coordinator
Sophie Wood
Sophie Wood plays a key role in providing coordination and support services across the firm’s mergers and acquisitions projects. She works directly with buyers, sellers, and advisors to ensure that all administrative aspects of the transaction run efficiently and on schedule.
Sophie’s role includes organizing meetings, managing data rooms, assisting with document preparation, and helping facilitate due diligence processes. Her proactive and approachable manner helps keep communication flowing smoothly between all parties, ensuring clients receive consistent support throughout their transaction.
In her spare time, Sophie enjoys running and volunteering in community programs.
M&A Coordinator
Samantha Baker
Samantha Baker plays an integral role in supporting and coordinating the firm’s mergers and acquisitions projects. She works closely with buyers, sellers, and their advisors to help ensure that all administrative and logistical aspects of each transaction progress smoothly and on time.
Her responsibilities include scheduling meetings, overseeing data room management, assisting with document preparation, and supporting due diligence activities. Samantha’s organised and collaborative approach fosters clear communication between all parties, helping to deliver a seamless experience for clients throughout the transaction process.
Outside of work, Samantha enjoys hiking and contributing to local charity initiatives.
M&A Coordinator
Sue Robinson
Sue Robinson plays a key role in facilitating the firm’s mergers and acquisitions, ensuring seamless coordination between buyers, sellers, and advisory teams. Her strong organizational skills and proactive approach keep transactions running efficiently, from initial due diligence to final execution.
Sue’s responsibilities include scheduling high-level meetings, managing virtual data rooms, preparing critical deal documentation, and liaising with stakeholders to maintain clear communication. Her ability to anticipate logistical challenges and streamline processes ensures clients experience a smooth and well-supported transaction journey.
Outside of work, Sue enjoys hiking, mentoring, and theatre.
M&A Coordinator
Zoe Stevenson
Zoe Stevenson plays a vital role in coordinating the firm’s mergers and acquisitions, ensuring flawless execution of all transactional elements. Her exceptional organizational abilities and proactive mindset keep deals progressing efficiently from due diligence through to completion.
Zoe’s responsibilities include managing virtual data rooms, coordinating due diligence processes, preparing essential transaction documents, and maintaining clear communication between all parties. Her talent for anticipating challenges and optimizing workflows guarantees clients a seamless and well-managed deal experience.
Outside of work, Zoe enjoys running, painting, and travel.
M&A Coordinator
Charlotte Fahy
Charlotte Fahy plays a vital role in coordinating the firm’s mergers and acquisitions, ensuring flawless execution of all transactional elements. Her exceptional organisational abilities and proactive mindset keep deals progressing efficiently from due diligence through to completion.
Charlotte’s responsibilities include managing virtual data rooms, coordinating due diligence processes, preparing essential transaction documents, and maintaining clear communication between all parties. Her talent for anticipating challenges and optimising workflows guarantees clients a seamless and well-managed deal experience.
With a wealth of professional experience, Charlotte values meaningful connections and enjoys engaging in cultural events, visiting historic locations, and exploring new experiences.
M&A Coordinator
Liz Marshall
Liz Marshall is an integral member of the mergers and acquisitions team, providing essential support to ensure transactions are managed with precision and efficiency. Known for her attention to detail and methodical approach, Liz plays a key role in keeping each stage of the process running smoothly, from initial enquiries through to final completion.
Her role encompasses organising and monitoring virtual data rooms, coordinating due diligence activities, drafting and reviewing transaction documentation, and maintaining effective communication between all stakeholders. Liz’s forward-thinking approach and ability to identify potential issues early help to deliver a streamlined and positive experience for clients.
With a depth of experience in professional services, Liz values collaboration and the opportunity to see projects come to fruition. Beyond the office, she enjoys cultural activities, visiting places of historical interest, and spending quality time with those close to her.
M&A Coordinator
Emma Wilson
Emma Wilson plays a central role in supporting the firm’s mergers and acquisitions activity, ensuring that every transaction is handled with professionalism and care. With a strong ability to manage multiple priorities, she ensures that key milestones are met and that each stage of the process progresses without unnecessary delay.
Her responsibilities include setting up and maintaining virtual data rooms, coordinating due diligence workflows, preparing and reviewing documentation, and facilitating clear communication among clients, advisors, and other stakeholders. Emma’s proactive nature and problem-solving mindset help to maintain momentum and deliver a smooth, well-organised deal process from start to finish.
Bringing a wealth of experience to her role, Emma takes pride in building strong working relationships and supporting clients throughout their journey. Outside of work, she enjoys literature, exploring new travel destinations, and attending cultural events.
M&A Coordinator
Natalie Stone
Natalie Stone plays a key role in supporting the firm’s mergers and acquisitions activity, bringing a high level of professionalism, organisation, and experience to each transaction. Known for her calm and methodical approach, she ensures that processes are well-structured and that timelines are carefully managed from start to finish.
Her responsibilities include overseeing due diligence coordination, managing virtual data rooms, preparing and reviewing transaction documentation, and facilitating clear communication between clients, advisors, and internal teams. Natalie is particularly strong at maintaining control of complex processes, ensuring that each stage of the transaction progresses efficiently and with minimal disruption.
With a wealth of professional experience, Natalie provides a steady and reliable presence throughout the deal lifecycle. She takes pride in delivering a disciplined and well-organised approach, helping to create a smooth and professional experience for all parties involved.
Outside of work, Natalie enjoys travelling, cultural activities, and spending quality time with family and friends.
M&A Coordinator
Stacey Cole
Stacey Cole plays an integral role in supporting the firm’s mergers and acquisitions activity, bringing a practical, hands-on approach and strong attention to detail to each transaction. She is highly effective at managing multiple workstreams and ensuring that all stakeholders remain aligned throughout the process.
Her responsibilities include coordinating due diligence workstreams, managing virtual data rooms, preparing transaction documentation, and acting as a central point of communication between clients, advisors, and internal teams. Stacey’s proactive mindset and ability to anticipate challenges help to maintain momentum and keep transactions moving forward efficiently.
With a strong professional background, Stacey is well suited to the demands of a fast-paced M&A environment. She takes pride in building strong working relationships and providing consistent, dependable support that contributes to successful outcomes for clients.
Outside of work, Stacey enjoys staying active, travelling, and spending time with family and friends.
Office Administrator
Sam
Sam is the backbone of our day-to-day operations, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the office. As our Office Administrator, she provides vital administrative support across the team and plays a key role in keeping everything organised and on track.
From managing schedules and coordinating meetings to handling office communications and maintaining records, Sam’s attention to detail and proactive approach help create a productive and welcoming environment for both staff and clients. She is often the first point of contact for visitors and inquiries, providing a professional and friendly introduction to the firm.
Sam’s dedication, organisational skills, and commitment to delivering excellent support make her an invaluable member of our team. Outside of work, she enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.
Team Lead
Imran Sadiq
Imran Sadiq has over 10 years of experience in customer support. He is a dedicated and results-driven professional, currently serving as Team Lead at Churchill. Known for his strong work ethic and unwavering focus, Imran effectively manages his team to ensure seamless operations within the office. His leadership and expertise play a pivotal role in driving success and achieving goals.
International Client Manager
Ali Zeeshan
With over 15 years of experience in customer service and sales management, Ali Zeeshan is a results-oriented professional focused on driving operational excellence, improving team performance, and ensuring exceptional customer satisfaction. Holding a Master’s degree in Commerce, specialising in Accounting and Statistics, he has developed a solid foundation in business analysis and strategic planning. Throughout his career, he has successfully led teams, implemented quality assurance programmes, and developed effective training strategies to enhance overall performance. His commitment to continuous improvement and building strong client relationships has been central to his success.
International Client Manager
Muhammad Omar Saeed
With over 12 years of experience in customer service, audit, and sales, Muhammad Omar Saeed specialises in managing international client relationships and ensuring the delivery of exceptional service. In previous roles, including Head of Operations and Audit & Operations Manager, he focused on streamlining processes, enhancing sales pipelines, and developing robust quality control procedures. Holding a Chartered Accountancy qualification (interim level) and a Master of Public Administration, he is dedicated to driving business success through strategic planning, team development, and the optimization of both customer experience and operational excellence..
International Client Manager
Ali Abbas Naqvi
Ali Abbas Naqvi holds a Master’s degree in Banking and Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce. With more than Eight years of professional experience, he has developed expertise in training management, product specialization, sales, and quality assurance. His experience includes designing and delivering training programs, evaluating performance, managing client relationships, and driving sales growth. Ali is skilled in communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, complemented by strong technical proficiency and customer focus. He brings a proven ability to manage multiple projects, support teams effectively, and enhance business performance through innovative training and sales strategies.Ali Abbas Naqvi holds a Master’s degree in Banking and Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce. With more than Eight years of professional experience, he has developed expertise in training management, product specialization, sales, and quality assurance. His experience includes designing and delivering training programs, evaluating performance, managing client relationships, and driving sales growth. Ali is skilled in communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, complemented by strong technical proficiency and customer focus. He brings a proven ability to manage multiple projects, support teams effectively, and enhance business performance through innovative training and sales strategies.
International Client Manager
Awais Ahmad
Awais Ahmad is a results-driven professional with over 12 years experience in corporate finance, sales, customer service, operations, and management. He holds an MSc in Quality and Performance Management and Bachelors in Computer Sciences, providing him with a strong foundation in strategic analysis, operational excellence, and performance improvement.
Throughout his career, Awais has developed expertise in managing sales processes, driving customer engagement, and coordinating multiple projects simultaneously. He has a proven track record of thriving in fast-paced environments, ensuring smooth operations, and delivering measurable results. Recognised for his ability to collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders, he consistently drives successful outcomes and long-term growth.
With a commitment to integrity, efficiency, and continuous improvement, Awais combines academic knowledge with practical experience to achieve high-impact results across diverse business functions.
International Client Manager
Mirza Aslam
Mirza Aslam Baig is a results-driven International Client Manager with over a decade of experience in operational leadership and global stakeholder management. Most recently, he served as a Manager for a multi-national FinTech firm, where he was responsible for directing cross-functional project teams, leading technological integrations, and ensuring the rapid resolution of complex service requests. His professional background is defined by a strong command of international client relations, having managed high-level communications for global mobility and financial service providers while consistently exceeding performance metrics and customer satisfaction targets. With a foundational background in Accounting and experience in international market analysis and business development, Mirza combines analytical precision with a proactive approach to risk mitigation and strategic coordination, making him a vital asset in navigating the complexities of international mergers and acquisitions.
International Client Manager
Ali Mirza
Strategic Operations and Growth Leader with 7+ years of experience driving revenue expansion, cost optimisation, and operational scalability across BPO, fintech, sales, and service-based business models. Brings a strong investor-oriented mindset with hands-on experience improving unit economics, strengthening contribution margins, and aligning execution with EBITDA-focused outcomes. Strong background in business development and recurring revenue environments, with direct experience in CRM-driven sales optimisation, territory planning, revenue forecasting, and customer lifecycle management. Skilled at strengthening retention models and improving lifetime customer value through operational discipline and performance management. Comfortable operating at the intersection of strategy and execution—translating financial and operational data into actionable insights for leadership decision-making. Experienced in preparing executive dashboards, conducting performance audits, validating financial submissions, and supporting business reviews that influence investment and growth strategies.
International Client Manager
Aqeel Muhammad
Aqeel has over 7 years of experience in business development and customer experience. He is a dedicated and smart professional, currently serving as International Client Manager at Churchill. Known for his strong communication skills and strategic mindset, Aqeel effectively manages international client relationships to ensure seamless coordination and growth.
Outside of work, Aqeel enjoys reading philosophy, and watching Formula 1.
M&A Coordinator
Haseeb Akmal
Haseeb is a dedicated member of the Churchill Mergers operations team. He leverages 13 years of extensive customer support background to drive key functions, including email campaign deployment, database administration, chaser communications, and back-office coordination. With a proven track record in effective query management and issue resolution, Haseeb delivers reliable, client-focused support that upholds the firm’s commitment to integrity and excellence in business sales and acquisitions.
M&A Coordinator
Hamid Shakir
Hamid Shakir is a professional with a strong background in customer service, business development, and operations support. With over six years of experience working across international markets, he has developed expertise in client communication, process management, and relationship building.
Hamid has worked with global organisations in transportation, food delivery, and executive services, gaining hands-on experience in managing customer interactions, coordinating business communications, and maintaining operational efficiency. He is recognised for his professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to fast-paced business environments.
Software Specialist
Hafiz Arslan Akbar
Graphic Design and UI Expert
Usman Akbar
Server and IT Manager
Adeel Bashir
Systems Security & Backend Manager
Hammad Khan
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Marketing techniques, technological investment and ‘big data’. Our expertise covers creative exit plans, investments and alternative routes.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Marketing techniques, technological investment and ‘big data’. Our expertise covers creative exit plans, investments and alternative routes.
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