Meet the Team

Brent Elsass

Principal

Brent is a seasoned financial strategist and Principal at C Squared Advisors, LLC, where he leverages his extensive experience to deliver expert advisory services in sell-side and buy-side transactions, succession planning, and financial solutions for closely held businesses and middle-market corporate clients.

Since joining C Squared Advisors in April 2018, Brent has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s strategic direction and enhancing its service offerings. His deep expertise in financial strategy enables him to provide tailored solutions that address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by multi-unit franchisees and corporate clients. Brent’s contributions include overseeing complex transactions, crafting strategic financial models, and guiding clients through multifaceted financial processes, ensuring they achieve their business objectives.

Before his tenure at C Squared Advisors, Brent accumulated significant experience at The Wendy’s Company, where he held key management roles within the finance organization. At Wendy’s, he was instrumental in the acquisition and disposition of both corporate and franchised restaurants, developing comprehensive financial models, leading due diligence efforts, and structuring intricate tax strategies. His role in several corporate reorganizations and a landmark $2+ billion whole business securitization underscored his capability to manage high-stakes financial initiatives. Brent also led a Lean Six Sigma team focused on operational improvements and cost-saving opportunities, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing organizational efficiency.

Brent’s career also includes a notable position as Chief Financial Officer at Automax Motor Group, where he managed cost-saving initiatives, created a consolidated shared services center for finance and human resources, and navigated the acquisition of multiple automobile dealerships. His role in these transactions highlighted his adeptness at managing complex financial and operational challenges.

Starting his career as a Senior Tax Advisor at Schneider Downs, Brent provided critical tax consulting and business advisory services, laying a strong foundation for his subsequent roles in finance. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Cum Laude, from Ohio University and is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) in the State of Ohio.

Brent’s diverse background in advisory roles, corporate finance, and public accounting equips him with a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in successful financial transactions and the vital roles that various stakeholders play.

To connect with Brent or learn more about his work, visit his LinkedIn profile.

C Squared strategically positioned us for a successful transaction in a difficult M&A environment. Pete and Patrick provided us with invaluable advice and support throughout the entire acquisition process. We were impressed with their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to getting the deal done.

Renu Aggarwal, CEO & Founder  KK Corporation
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