Team

The motor vehicle aftermarket is a unique and constantly changing industry. Navigating it requires a diverse skill-set, years of hands-on automotive aftermarket leadership, and a high-quality network.

This is where SA delivers and differentiates – We Know The Road.

Unlike traditional bankers or consultants, our team of industry leaders has the expertise, knowledge, insight and connections you require, whether you operate a local family-owned business or a multinational company.

Rick Schwartz

Co-founder and CEO

Advisor to executive teams and boards of directors
Senior executive experience with Nestle and Macy’s
Trustee for the University of the Aftermarket Foundation
Member, Auto Care Association Board of Directors

Keith Zar

Managing Partner

Expert at structuring M&A deals
Completed hundreds of M&A transactions
Specific M&A transaction experience in the aftermarket
Helps clients navigate legal, financial issues related to M&A

Derek Kaufman

Managing Partner

Senior executive at a wide range of automotive and heavy truck companies
Well versed in current and new powertrain technologies
Helps clients understand how industry trends impact their investments
In-demand speaker at national conferences

Michael C. Buzzard

Managing Partner

Lifelong aftermarket professional, holding leadership roles in corporate development, marketing, sales, and operational management
Successful experience negotiating and closing win-win deals for sell-side clients
Leads successful buy-side outcomes
Works with sponsors to better understand aftermarket opportunities

Brian Cruickshank

Partner

Three decades of motor vehicle aftermarket experience
Strong, nuanced understanding of macro aftermarket trends
Deep contacts help open doors for clients
Recognized expert on auto & heavy truck parts distribution and service

Rick Guirlinger

Partner

CPA & Financial Analyst
Senior management positions at General Parts Inc.
In-depth understanding of the numbers
Works with clients to maximize their investments

David Peace

Partner

Experienced chief executive officer at several notable aftermarket companies
Skilled at strategic business planning, operations management, and business development
Successful experience in turnarounds
Helps position companies for acquisition

Bruce Tartaglione

Partner

Four decades of executive aftermarket manufacturing experience
Strong relationships across many aftermarket channels
Expertise in triage and turnarounds

Curtis Draper

Partner

Decades of global transportation aftermarket experience
Decades of turbine engine component experience in aerospace and industrial segments
Experienced strategist and change agent, personally leading global implementations
Deep relationship connections across the vehicle aftermarket segment

Mort Schwartz

Co-Founder & Partner

Chairman, Chanslor & Lyon, Import Parts of America, and Strauss Discount Auto
Leadership positions in every major trade association
Influential thought leader and inspirational mentor
Inductee, Automotive Hall of Fame

Pete Kornafel

Partner

Understands the independent WD world
Nationally recognized expert on inventory management
Brings a wealth of WD experience to clients
Unsurpassed network of contacts at all levels of the industry

Arun Coumar

Vice President

Passionate automotive enthusiast
Helps clients navigate complex due diligence processes
Financial analysis experience helps position clients for successful transactions
Expert understanding of the automotive enthusiast market

Shireen Doultani

Director of Project Management & Research

Leads research and project management teams
Global manufacturing, process and project management experience
PMP Certified
Active with aftermarket trade associations

Spencer Browne

Associate

Advanced financial modeling and valuation expert
Automotive service industry expertise
Comprehensive strategic consulting
Automotive enthusiast specialist