We understand the significance of this decision, and we are dedicated to partnering with you throughout the entire transaction - whether that's to family, management or a third party.
Unlike larger firms, where clients are passed off to junior staff or upsold unnecessary services, we take a hands-on approach.
Since our founding in 2016, we've dedicated ourselves to being the trusted guide for mid-market business owners navigating the complex terrain of ownership transition.
We specialize in delivering customized, practical corporate finance advice tailored specifically to the unique needs of mid-market private and family-owned businesses.
We recognize that transitioning your business can be stressful and filled with uncertainties. That's where we come in.
Our team of experts offers independent M&A advisory services that cover every stage of the transaction process.
Whether you're preparing for a sale, considering acquisition opportunities, or exploring other strategic options, we're here to illuminate the path ahead.
We help you understand your options, prepare your business for the transition, and guide you through each step to achieve your strategic objectives.With TAP as your partner, you're not just getting advisors - you're gaining allies who are committed to securing better value, better terms, and less stress for you throughout this pivotal journey.
Let us help you transform the uncertainty of "what's next?" into a clear, confident strategy for your business's future.
Meet the Transition Advisory Team
Ian Smith
Ian has over 30 years of experience advising business owners. Ian’s international work experience, including living in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Vancouver, gives him a unique perspective on international business and transaction dynamics.
His expertise is managing complex transactions and assisting with deal structuring and negotiation for privately held businesses. With experience in both buy-side and sell-side roles, Ian is passionate about assisting business owners in identifying their ideal outcomes and then helping achieve the best results possible.
Beyond his M&A experience, Ian is a certified exit planner who advises clients on other aspects of their transition journey. Before establishing TAP, Ian held various senior management positions at two global advisory firms.
Outside of work, Ian loves exploring the outdoors of British Columbia, going on hikes, and riding his mountain bike alongside his wife Jenny and their dog, Marley. Ian is also an avid photographer and scuba diver. He also enjoys supporting the community by mentoring young entrepreneurs and advisors and sharing his knowledge in various forums.
Ian holds an MBA from the Ivey Business School and a bachelor's degree from the Haskayne School of Business.
Marwan Jomha
Marwan joined Transition Advisory Partners in 2020 as a Senior Advisor and brings over 28 years of professional advisory experience gained from working at reputable international firms like KPMG and Grant Thornton, including the last nine years in various leadership positions culminating as a Partner at Grant Thornton.
He guides companies through mergers, acquisitions, financings, and refinancing processes. Marwan also showcases his versatility by helping clients "professionalize" their operations and assisting ownership in liquidating equity positions. His passion for helping clients maximize overall value has made him a sought-after advisor in the corporate world. Before joining TAP, Marwan also served as the Corporate Finance leader for Northern Alberta, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and working in private industry in various CFO and General Manager positions.
When he's not working, Marwan can often be found on the golf course, perfecting his swing and enjoying the great outdoors. His love for sports extends beyond personal enjoyment as he dedicates time to coaching young hockey players. Marwan is a big pet lover and has three adorable cats and a dog named Mango.
He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Alberta and earned professional designations of CPA, CA, and CBV.
Sneha Nigam
Sneha joined TAP in 2021, following five years of intensive experience in corporate finance and investment banking with Goldman Sachs and KPMG in India. After moving to Canada, she briefly worked as a regulatory analyst at Peoples Group before assuming her current position as a Senior Associate.
Sneha is crucial in gathering and analyzing information from various transaction stakeholders. She provides critical assistance to TAP’s senior leadership and to our clients with transaction execution support, presentation preparation, research, and financial modeling. Her expertise lies in ‘crunching numbers’ and managing transaction due diligence, and providing an important liaison between client management and counterparty representatives.
In addition to her professional endeavours, Sneha enjoys a diverse set of hobbies. She is an avid reader with a passion for storytelling, which led her to pursue a screenwriting certification. She also loves outdoor activities, particularly hiking with her husband, Vikram, and engaging in long, meaningful conversations that enrich her life.
Sneha holds a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and a two-year Post-graduate Diploma in Finance.
Types of Clients we Serve
We work with owners of larger, private companies across Western Canada, focusing on owners who want to transition their business with confidence, clarity, and care.
Whether you're ready to step away from day-to-day operations, spend more time with family, or pursue new opportunities, we provide the expert advisory support you need to make that vision a reality.
Our Values
- Integrity: We believe in honest, candid advice that helps our clients make the best decisions, even if it's not always what they want to hear.
- Confidentiality: Your privacy and the protection of your business are paramount. We handle every transaction with the utmost discretion.
- Experience: Our proven track record and years of experience give us the knowledge needed to guide your business sale to a successful conclusion.