Mergers & Acquisitions names 2021 Top 25 Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A, including Sperry, Mitchell & Co.’s Beatrice Mitchell.

Describe a recent accomplishment.
Frankly, 2020 was the most difficult and trying deal environment I have experienced in my career. By March, every one of our deals was put “on pause.” Most of our private company sellers felt the impact of lockdowns and supply chain disruptions. And, with little visibility on how the pandemic was going to play out, buyers were understandably hesitant. 2020 had the makings of a terrible year. Thankfully, by the summer, the market calmed down, business for many companies began to stabilize, and buyers regained confidence. In the end, we completed a number of deals in 3Q and 4Q. I am proud of how adroitly our team was able to pivot to a remote working environment.

How are you advancing the state of women?
I helped advance the career of one particular young woman. This woman was referred to me for career advice, as she was disillusioned by her professional life and its future opportunities. Given her background, demeanor and career goals, I suggested that she explore putting together a pledge fund to buy and run a business. Surprisingly, this idea had never occurred to her, despite having several male business school friends who had already established pledge funds. In the end, she did indeed follow my advice, and I am pleased to report that she is close to closing on a very attractive deal.

Tell us more about you.
I co-founded Sperry, Mitchell & Co. 34 years ago with my partner, Paul Sperry.