Issue 1 2023

www.acquisition-international.com • Issue 1 2023 A Goliath in Management Consultancy Advisory Group AG offers a wide range of strategic change advisory services from strategy design to successful implementation and transformation. Following the firm’s recognition in the 2022 AI Leading Advisor Awards as the ‘Leading Boutique Management Consultancy Firm of the Year’ for Switzerland, we spoke with Managing Partner Dr. Wladimir Kovacic to find out more.

2 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 From our Editor Welcome to the January edition of Acquisition International magazine. Recognised as a voice of modern business, we are passionate about providing vital updates to corporate readers so they can always be one step ahead. As we welcome the new year and the fresh start it brings, we would like wish all of our readers a happy and prosperous one. For it is a time to reflect on what has been, while looking towards new hope and opportunities on the horizon. We are excited to be starting 2023 off strong by shining the spotlight on businesses that have been taking their industries by storm with great expertise, excellence, and resilience. They have inspiring stories to tell, having come out on the other side of some truly turbulent periods, and they are now ambitiously looking towards the future. We showcase a variety of outstanding companies that we feel are truly deserving of recognition. They are showing their industries how it is done, always putting the client first and knowing how to keep thriving and moving forward. Notably, our cover feature, Advisory Group AG is doing just this as a leading firm renowned for its strategic change advisory services. We speak to Managing Partner, Dr Wladimir Kovacic to find out more about the company’s work and how its solid culture of trust and being able to make mistakes aids in its growth. We hope you enjoy reading this issue and look forward to welcoming you back in February. Rebecca Scotland - Editor Contents 4 News 6 A Goliath in Management Consultancy Advisory Group AG 7 Practical, Reliable, Prompt – Excellence in Tax Advisory Services Global Advisory Tax Solutions AE 8 Criminal Law Specialists Rechtsanwalt Wamser 9 Corporate Finance Advisory on a Global Scale You Are Capital 10 Building A Legacy in Litigation Cowper Law LLP 11 Justice Served The Gillam Law firm 12 Medical Malpractice Mitigated Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. 13 Incredible Innovation in Business Development Coega Development Corporation 14 Lynch Law Firm - Fighting in Your Corner Lynch Law Firm 15 African Excellence in Law EXPERTISE GROUP No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. Editors Sofi Bajor, Senior Editor Rebecca Scotland, Editor Designers Daniela Levinte, Graphic Designer Lauren Baldwin, Graphic Designer 16 Over 35 Years of Sensational Success Marc J. Bern & Partners LLP 18 A Technology Company That Wants to Change the Way the World Works Rise-X 19 Say Goodbye to Change Noise Cimcor, Inc. 20 One Platform, Unlimited Possibilities Minnovation Technologies 21 Best On-Demand Pay Platform 2023 DailyPay 22 By Entrepreneurs, For Entrepreneurs! Tecola PLLC 23 Professional Support for Complex Needs GTA Legal Studio 24 JM Finn – Client Service, Trust, Foresight JM Finn 25 Enabling AI to Help Agents Upstream Works Software 26 The Power of Partnership U.S. Oral Surgery Management 28 In the Business of Justice Stone & Associates 29 Best Video Production & Marketing Agency 2022 – China Creavidia 30 Leading Asset Valuation & Specialist Auction Firm of the Year - UK SIA Group

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 3 14 26 18 35 31 Honest, Supportive Law Pascua & Pascua Law Offices 32 Cypriot Innovation in Cross-Border Transactions Andreas Th. Sofokleous LLC 33 Leading Corporate and M&A Attorney of the Year 2022 – Greater China Fangda Partners 34 Delivering Exceptional Global Solutions for Cross-Border Transactions Horizons Corporate Advisory 35 Leading Tax Law Firm of the Year 2022 – Indonesia Mul & Co 36 Winners’ Listings

4 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 News: from around the world DM Hall appoints Davidson and Elsby to partnership DM Hall, one of Scotland’s largest independent firms of chartered surveyors, has appointed two new Partners. Martin Elsby, formerly Director of the firm’s national Building Consultancy and Ian Davidson, formerly Director of DM Hall’s East of Scotland commercial agency arm, join the firm’s 126-year-old partnership, taking its number to 26. Martin, who joined the firm in July 2019, is a Chartered Building Surveyor with over 20 years’ experience gained across a broad range of property sectors throughout the UK including commercial, industrial, retail, leisure, healthcare, education, transport and utilities. His Building Surveying experience includes project management, contract administration, pre-acquisition surveys, building condition surveys, dilapidations and related legal, technical and statutory advice to property owners, occupiers and investors. He said: “DMHall is agreat Scottish firmwithaproud recordof achievement over the past 125 years and I am proud to have been appointed a Partner. “I will continue to do my utmost to maintain and, if possible, enhance the firm’s nationwide reputation for integrity, professionalism and client service.” Ian qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 2001 and worked for a two year spell at DM Hall in 2005-2007 before leaving to join Lambert Smith Hampton where he ultimately became Head of Office. He rejoined DM Hall in December 2020. “I have long admired DM Hall’s culture and approach to business and am delighted to have been invited to join the partnership of such a highly respected firm.” In welcoming both to the partnership, Managing Partner, John McHugh, said: “In Ian and Martin, we have two outstanding talents whose professionalism shines through everything they do. “We are delighted to welcome them to our Scotland-wide partnership and trust that they will continue to provide the highest possible level of client service over the coming years.” With 24 offices and over 230 members of staff, DM Hall is one of Scotland’s largest independent firms of chartered surveyors and last year celebrated 125 years since its foundation in 1897.

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 5 Global law firm Reed Smith today announces the hire of Linn Mayhew as partner in its Financial Industry Group and London office. Mayhew joins from McGuireWoods where she was partner. She has also previously worked at DLA Piper, Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. With over 15 years’ experience, Mayhew specialises in private credit, leveraged and acquisition finance, real estate finance (including sports finance), fund finance and restructuring. Her clients are made up of leading alternative investment funds, private credit providers, specialty lenders, banks and private equity sponsors. She advises borrowers and creditors at all levels of the capital structure and has extensive experience in syndicated lending, Term-Loan Bs, first and second line financings, working capital lines, unitranche financings and subordinated debt instruments. In addition, Mayhew advises on financings at fund level, including capital call facilities, NAV facilities, hybrid credit and other speciality financings. Panos Katsambas, global co-chair of Reed Smith’s Financial Industry Group, said: “Linn is a hugely talented lawyer and well known to several of our partners and clients. She will enhance our growing private credit practice with her considerable expertise on financing transactions with leading sponsors and credit providers as well as her extensive contacts across the private credit market.” Andrew Jenkinson, Reed Smith’s London office managing partner, added: “We are delighted to welcome Linn to the firm. She is a standout lawyer whose talent reflects the high calibre of our finance team in London.” Mayhew commented: “I am delighted to be joining Reed Smith, which is well known for having one of the leading finance teams in the City. The firm has a truly collaborative approach, an enviable global platform and a desire to dominate the private credit space, which matches my own ambitions. I look forward to working with the team and growing my practice in conjunction with the wider finance practice.” Reed Smith is among a select group of global law firms with a dedicated private credit group that can provide seamless, fullReed Smith strengthens London finance team with private credit partner hire service, cross-border advice on private credit transactions. The firm’s global private credit practice includes teams in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East focused on special situations & distressed, speciality finance and direct lending, with a particular emphasis on bespoke sectoragnostic finance and hybrid credit solutions.

6 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 A Goliath in Management Consultancy anagement consultancy is an immensely difficult landscape to navigate and secure enduring success. Yet, Advisory Group AG has certainly cultivated an impressive portfolio of work and reputation in the sphere through its dedication to strong solutions that, simply, achieve observable results. For Wladimir, Advisory Group AG is in the business of transformation, metamorphosis, growth, momentum – revitalising their clients through expert services. Here, Wladimir speaks on the ethos of the firm and how it has strengthened its impressive image since its establishment. “We see ourselves as more than Advisors as we share transformational risks with our clients. Sharing risks relates to our core values to support our customers to create innovations, growth and improve quality and efficiencies. Our specialities are: Strategic change, business design and transformation, compliance and risk management, operational excellence and similar pursuits. These tie fundamentally into our core values such as a strong dedication to customer orientation, trust, and creating excitement to take positive action.” This approach has certainly proven to be successful, as – since 2005 – Advisory Group AG primarily builds its client base through referrals, references and past engagement experiences. Wladimir is keen to emphasise the role of the firm’s staff in driving this reputation to greater heights. “Our staff is a key factor of our success. when we recruit new talent, we look to their achievements: did they finish and how they finished their jobs and project engagements. Furthermore, we look for people who wants to have the freedom to bring in their own opinion and have the freedom to solve problems in their way and being team players at the same time. We look for people who can integrate and enhance our current teams and capabilities. People who have personalities rather than just nice CVs. M Nov22609 “Our internal culture is built on strong trust. we trust each other and support each other where possible. furthermore, we allow our people to make mistakes and encourage them to take risks. this is the only way to grow and this is one of our real differentiators.” As for the future, Wladimir is keen to grow the firm with scalability in mind – that is to say, growing in a way that doesn’t impact the quality of the services it produces. “We face the challenge that we have more client requests than Advisory Group teams to fulfil our growing demand. Nevertheless, we believe that our boutique character and setup is the baseline for our USPs and therefore we are defensive to grow. We want to grow in quality not in quantity. This is where we see our future. “We also plan to hire new talent. People who want to make the difference, personalities with interesting (non-linear / not streamlined) carrier paths. Finally, we would like to increase awareness for new and innovative nearshoring opportunities at our nearshore centre in Tunis.” Company Name: Advisory Group AG Contact Name: Dr. Wladimir Kovacic, Managing Partner Address: Schärenmoosstrasse 78, CH-8052 Zurich, Switzerland Web Address: www.advisorygroup.ch Contact Email: [email protected] Telephone Number: +41792070432 Advisory Group AG offers a wide range of strategic change advisory services from strategy design to successful implementation and transformation. Following the firm’s recognition in the 2022 AI Leading Advisor Awards as the ‘Leading Boutique Management Consultancy Firm of the Year’ for Switzerland, we spoke with Managing Partner Dr. Wladimir Kovacic to find out more. “We are well known and famous for our effectivity to successfully implement highly critical and politically charged initiatives successfully by sharing the risk in every stage of our client engagements.”

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 7 Established in 2010, Global Advisory Tax Solutions AE has cultivated a reputation built around providing a wide range of high-quality tax advisory services on a national and international basis. Following the firm’s recognition as Greece’s ‘Leading Taxation Services Firm of the Year’, we spoke with Partner Theodoros Dimitropoulos to find out more. Nov22604 redominantly working alongside major banks and insurance companies, Global Advisory Tax Solutions has become a known and reputable entity in the greater sphere through a dedication to the needs of the client. Of course, as Theodoros explains, the crux of the company hinges on the equilibrium between client service and expert solutions. “Whether an individual business or a multinational company, we analyse with accuracy the needs of our clients and prepare realistic and customized action plans in order to jointly achieve the goals entrusted with us. Our vision was originally based on timeless core values, such as “promptness”, “customisation”, “practicability” and “development”. The ability to work across borders with major establishments speaks volumes about the quality of work that Global Advisory Tax Solutions provides. It requires a commitment to constant professional development, ongoing research, a distinguishing and notable expertise in the sphere and an ability to exceed all expectations. When it comes to Global Advisory Tax Solutions’s core philosophy, it is easy to see how the firm has managed to thrive over the last 13 years, “Our philosophy goes beyond the narrow limits of tax and accounting services. We try to keep such P Practical, Reliable, Prompt – Excellence in Tax Advisory Services values relevant as part of regular conversation and “focus on long-term impact”, “integrity” and “be direct” have been added as core values.” Ultimately, that is where Global Advisory Tax Solutions has secured its position, and in turn, its recognition in the programme. The firm’s expertise is unquestioned, its reputation global and growing, with a client base that requires an intense dedication to client centricity and pacesetting solutions. In the challenging tax environment, Global Advisory Tax Solutions has impressed, and shown an ability to weather all challenges that come its way. By all regards, the future of the firm is one defined by capitalising on the growth it has so far attained, further building a reputation that few in the sphere can match. Company Name: Global Advisory Tax Solutions AE Contact Name: Theodoros Dimitropoulos Address: Kifissias 64 Avenue, 151 25 Marousi, Greece Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Telephone Number: +30 210 7249795

8 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 Nov22070 Criminal Law Specialists Founded by Ingo Klaus Wamser in 2005, Rechtsanwalt Wamser is a law firm based in Passau, Germany which specialises predominantly in criminal law. We speak to the firm’s founder and find out more following him being recognised as ‘Leading International Criminal Law Attorney of the Year 2022 – Germany’. t the time of the firm’s inception, Ingo Klaus Wamser was the youngest attorney in Germany. Since then, his successful company has represented countless clients in both German and European criminal cases, as well as cross-border investigations in all fields of criminal law. The spectrum of the clients that Rechtsanwalt Wamser looks after ranges from individuals with classic criminal defence to small and medium-sized companies to listed insurance groups and international security companies. In addition, there is particular experience in the area of international litigation, also in cooperation with experienced foreign lawyers and in representation in proceedings before the Federal Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights. Alongside delivering these tailored services, Rechtsanwalt Wamser also builds teams in different jurisdictions which are based on their network of proven experts in criminal law to handle cross-border investigations and the European Arrest Warrants and cases of international criminal law. Over the years, the firm has had continuous success and has reached great heights based on the permanent training and lecturing it provides, with both Ingo and his associates engaging in on-the-job training of young professionals which often leads them into lucrative careers in international organisations. Ingo himself was born in Passau in 1979. After a longer stay abroad, he studied law at the University of Passau from 1998 to 2002 before being admitted to the bar in 2005 as the youngest lawyer in Germany at the time. In 2009, he was authorised by the Bar Association for the Munich Higher Regional Court to use the title of Criminal Law Specialist. He is also admitted to the International Criminal Court and the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague and the Special Tribunal for Lebanon in Leidschendam. Due to his expertise and high standards in professional ethics, Ingo worked as a legal expert for cases regarding lawyer’s remuneration for the Munich bar authority and in 2015, he was appointed as a judge at the Anwaltsgericht München for cases of counsel’s misconduct by the Bavarian Ministry of Justice. In 2020, he was appointed as a judge at the Bayerischer Anwaltsgerichtshof, the Court of Appeal for cases of counsel’s misconduct and for deciding court cases on administrative issues in connection with bar admissions. In 2019, he co-drafted the Code of Conduct for Specialist Counsel at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers and was amember of the working group for the establishment of an independent representative body for counsel at this court. A He is serving as a member of the Executive Committee of the Independent Representative Body for counsel, acting before the Kosovo Specialist Chambers (IRB-KSC) and he served as the Chairperson of the Membership Committee of the International Criminal Court Bar Association (ICCBA), handling disciplinary cases within the association for three consecutive terms before joining the Professional Standards Advisory Committee of the ICCBA. Ingo has many publications to his name, including authoring various articles on criminal and maritime law and of a book on the counsel’s disciplinary proceedings at the International Criminal Court. He also co-authored a commentary on the German Federal Lawyers’ Act which is actually available in its 17th edition. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the European Law Institute, as well as a consultative committee member of the project “Admissibility of E-Evidence in Criminal Proceedings in the EU” and the project “ELI-Mount Scopus European Standards of Judicial Independence”. Recently, Ingo Klaus Wamser gained further recognition in the Leading Adviser Awards 2022. A prestigious accolade such as this is most fitting for the hard work and commitment that Ingo has dedicated to the law industry over the years. Regarding the future, Ingo and the team at Rechtsanwalt Wamser aim to continue to deliver exceptional services to clients, ensuring that they not only meet the expected requirements but exceed them. Company: Rechtsanwalt Wamser Contact: Ingo Klaus Wamser Email: [email protected] Website: www.wamser.org

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 9 ounded by Jean-François Alandry, You Are Capital is an international corporate finance advisory firm headquartered in Madrid and operating out of three offices. With over 30 partners leading it to be the number one independent mid-cap M&A advisory in Spain, YAC relies on an international internal execution team specialising in cross-border buy and sell-side M&A, private placements, capital restructurings, fundraising for both equity and debt, financial and strategic advisory, and private equity advisory. Whilst able to support clients in many different environments, the firm has a distinct edge when it comes to IT services, technologies, healthcare, life sciences, environment and renewable energies, B2B services, consumer brand, retail, leisure, and media. One of the aspects of YAC that sets it aside from competitors is its ability to deliver cross-border transactions. These deals leverage the extensive networks of its international partners and team. The global nature of the business also puts it in another league altogether when compared to the competition, while the specificity of its support ensures that the team can lead the way when helping clients. As a company which is entirely independent, but able to draw on multiple pools of specialist talent, the team can ensure that the solutions they devise are always aligned with the needs of their clients. As an advisory firm, the talents of those who work on the team are what drives trust in the business. The partners selected to work with the team at YAC are some of the best professionals in the business and possess consolidated experience in M&A and corporate finance, as well as both origination and execution capabilities. Any new recruits must fit into this desire to achieve corporate excellence within the firm. Meanwhile, it’s no secret that Covid-19 rocked the world, bringing many industries to their knees, however YAC was able to navigate its way successfully through the pandemic and the subsequent unexpected economic slowdown. Jean François explains more about how this was executed. “During the lockdown period, very few deals were closed as PE firms and businesses adopted a prudent strategy, giving priority to the F management of ongoing activities and postponing the implementation of plans based on external growth,” he begins. “When the market started to open up again, the firm saw an opportunity in the M&A space and started scouting for potential M&A deals, understanding that, pandemic or not, people would not stop living, and business won’t come to a standstill. Since September 2021, the company saw a massive come-back in M&A activity, which has come as a muchneeded breath of fresh air.” The turnover of circa €2 million in 2020 compared to the initial forecast of €10 million was an unexpected outcome of the pandemic, however Jean François is confident on achieving exponential growth from 2021 onwards and expects annual revenues to be between eight million and ten million euros. Now, looking towards the future, Jean François and the team have further plans to consolidate YAC’s leading position as an independent advisory firm in Spain, and they want to increase its market share in countries such as France, UK, Germany Italy and Portugal, as well as the Asian market. “Our objective is to become a global corporate finance advisory firm with expertise in multiple verticals.” As an international corporate finance advisory firm with more than 30 partners worldwide and a team who has been in the business for over three decades, You Are Capital (YAC) stands head and shoulders above competitors when it comes to expertise. We find out more from the company’s founder, Jean-François Alandry in the wake of it being recognised as ‘Leading PE Advisory of the Year 2022 – Spain’. Sep22252 Corporate Finance Advisory on a Global Scale Contact: Jean François Alandry Company: You Are Capital Email: [email protected] Web: www.youarecapital.com Nov 073 Whilst able to support clients in many different environments, the firm has a distinct edge when it comes to IT services, technologies, healthcare, life sciences, environment and renewable energies, B2B services, consumer brand, retail, leisure, and media.

10 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 Building A Legacy in Litigation owper Law LLP specialises in products liability, drug and medical device, consumer protection, class actions, and major personal injury cases. It has grown from one office to six offices in the last eight years and is currently on the Plaintiff Steering Committee or co-leading three major mass torts in State and Federal Court in California and New Jersey. Moze Cowper has over 22 years of experience in complex litigation. He has been recognized as “one of the most innovative attorneys in the United States” by Law360, and he was recognized by the Association of Corporate Counsel as a “rising star” while an in-house lawyer at the largest biotech in the world – Amgen Inc. Mr. Cowper is recognized in both Chambers USA and Chambers Global where he is described as “exceptional.” Mr. Cowper has been a member of the faculty of Georgetown Law School’s Advanced eDiscovery Institute as well as part of a project between Duke Law School and the Electronic Discovery Institute involving changes to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. He has published widely on these topics and is an associate editor on the book Spoliation. As a result, he is often asked to lecture on changes to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Most recently, Mr. Cowper has briefed and argued a number of significant motions involving preemption and Class III medical devices. Mr. Cowper prevailed on both motions which led to significant victories in two separate litigations and allowed thousands of cases to proceed to trial. Mr. Cowper has been instrumental in continuing to strengthen this body of law in California (and a number of other States) involving a claim for failure-to-warn the FDA which allows plaintiffs to defeat a preemption defence raised in cases involving Class III medical devices in the United States. As a result of this and Mr. Cowper’s ability to move the law forward, it is our privilege to congratulate him on becoming the Leading Mass Tort Attorney of the Year 2022, California, from Acquisition International. Contact: Moze Cowper Company: Cowper Law LLP Web Address: https://cowperlaw.com/ Telephone: 877-LAW-3707 C Nov22129 Cowper Law LLP is a boutique litigation firm that focuses exclusively on plaintiff mass tort litigation. The firm is led by Moze Cowper who spent fifteen years as a pharmaceutical defence lawyer before switching sides and representing those injured by pharmaceuticals and medical devices. We think this makes Cowper Law LLP unique -- and is why we have awarded Moze Cowper the Leading Mass Tort Attorney of the Year 2022 for California. “In a sea of sameness . . . this law firm is different.”

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 11 For decades, The Gillam Law Firm has been vigorously defending the rights of former and current employees who have been wronged by their employers. As skilled in assertively litigating cases as it is in designing non-litigation resolutions to the client’s individual situation, the goal is provide the highest standard of legal services to the client and their business in a timely fashion. Bestowed with the title of ‘Leading Employment Rights Litigator of the Year 2022 – California’, we learn more. Nov22407 arol Gillam has been a prominent member of the legal community since she began practicing in 1978, going on to found The Gillam Law Firm in 1994. Ms Gillam has tried numerous cases in verdict and award, including those that have received national and even worldwide publicity. She was recognised as a Southern California 2010 Super Lawyer and was recently inducted as a fellow of the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers. An acclaimed trial lawyer, Carol has won many challenging and hardfought cases in federal and state courts throughout California. She has litigated in states across the country and before federal and state agencies including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Merit Systems Protection Board. She has brought and successfully resolved numerous cases alleging gender, race, and religious discrimination and failure to accommodate, in addition to handling age, disability, FMLA, sexual harassment, whistleblower, and other challenging cases. At The Gillam Law Firm, Carol is joined by attorney, Sara Heum, and together, they are committed to seeking justice for those employees who have been wronged by their employers, be it discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, or wage and hour violations. Experienced, diverse, and determined professionals, they understand the importance and uniqueness of each case, and they are also experts in handling a wide variety of civil disputes as well as white collar criminal defence and tax controversies. C Justice Served The attorneys will provide informed advice to the client with regard to the best possible outcome of their unique situation, and they will do everything in their power to achieve it. Indeed, they have secured many favourable results for clients, the whole time taking into account their tolerance for risk and need for closure. Carol and Sara have been very effective in representing defendants as well as plaintiffs. The overwhelming majority of The Gillam Law Firm’s plaintiff clients are satisfied with the settlement amount obtained on their behalf. Contributing to such results are factors including the strength of the evidence in the client’s case, their performance at their disposition, the financial resource of their employer, whether or not their employer has insurance that covers the litigation, their willingness to take the case to trial, and the number and quality of witnesses that will support the allegations being made against their former employer. In addition to any monetary compensation the client may receive, they may also benefit from the feeling that justice was served, that changes will be made at their current or former employer, and that they can now move on with their life. Company: The Gillam Law firm Contact: Carol Gillam Email: [email protected] Website: www.gillamlaw.com

12 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 Nov22427 Medical Malpractice Mitigated As we all know, accidents happen. We don’t plan for them, and we can’t foresee them, but we can react to them when they occur. Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. is a specialist law firm that can help us get through, and even win our cases when we’ve suffered from the negligence of others. We’ve found an adept attorney who has helped a vast amount of people to win their cases – and here we learn more about Joseph P. Awad as he wins Leading Medical Malpractice Attorney of the Year 2022, New York. ilberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. (SAM) is an expert medical malpractice law firm that deals with accident and injury cases such as car accidents, catastrophic injury, construction, motorcycle, pedestrian accidents, and more. However, its medical malpractice law proficiency – for nursing home abuse and medical malpractice in general – shines bright. With tried and tested techniques, and a proven track record, SAM “has achieved numerous million and multimillion dollar verdicts and settlements. We often take cases that other firms have refused and win.” Its 35 plus years of involvement in this area ensures that clients are heard, and cases are settled in a timely manner – with fantastic outcomes. Over $1,000,000,000 has been recovered for victims of medical malpractice, and even more has been won spanning across SAM’s other areas of law. When it comes to establishing medical negligence, S and to prove a case, the team at SAM tells us, “Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor or healthcare provider fails to provide the requisite standard of care and as a result, causes injuries to the patient. The standard of care is measured by the level of care that medical providers in the same or similar field would offer in a similar situation. When a doctor breaches this standard of care, injured patients may have a valid medical malpractice claim.” A patient’s lawyer must also prove that the breach in the standard of care directly led to the injuries sustained by the patient. Cases that SAM has worked on include – but are not limited to – birth injuries, surgical errors, misdiagnosis, cosmetic surgery errors, and prescription drug errors. Joseph P. Awad is an attorney/partner at Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. He dedicates his practice for trial and appellate advocacy on behalf of consumers in medical malpractice, construction site injury, premises security, automobile accidents, municipal liability and unsafe products. Joseph P. Awad’s experience includes million-dollar recoveries in more than forty cases, including the highest jury and appellate award in a single year. As a result of his extensive experience and education, Mr. Awad often conducts lectures and presentations. Contact: Joseph P. Awad Company: Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C. Web Address: https://ask4sam.net/ Telephone: 1-877-ASK4SAM “Our firm works with a skilled team of medical experts to highlight the facts of your case and communicate your injuries to the defense with certainty.” “We know who to talk to, where to find the answers, and what steps are necessary for success.“

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 13 he current business and professional climate – rife as they are with challenges and obstacles – relies on experts to help others navigate through a maze of potential pitfalls. Equally, though the pan-African climate is one of growth, it is still developing and maturing. By all regards, a guiding light is needed to ensure that momentum is maintained. CEO of CDC, Khwezi Tiya understands the crucial role that the company plays across South Africa and the greater continent. “Wholly owned by the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, our vision is to be the leading catalyst for the championing of socioeconomic development through the sustainable development and operation of the 9 003-hectare Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a trans-shipment hub and leading African investment destination, providing competence and capacity for advisory on and the execution of complex infrastructure and related projects.” “The Coega SEZ is home to 55 operational investors with access to three economically viable ports and has created more than 130,500 jobs since its inception in 1999.” Sustainability is clearly at the heart of CDC’s approach and mission, with a focus towards building growth in an organic, maintainable, robust way. It is, in every way, impressive that the corporation has sought to build up the greater infrastructure in a way that is future-proof, scalable, and resistant. “Our advanced capabilities enable economic zone development and management, real assets management, infrastructure planning and development, technology integration, and skills and SME development. “With a mission to provide competitive investment locations, holistic infrastructure and value-adding business solutions, the CDC is ISO certified in quality management, environmental management, occupational health and safety, IT service management and information management.” “The foundational culture of the CDC’s approach, backed by core values, is innovation and continuous improvement.” With all of this in mind, Khwezi is keen to emphasise the role of CDC’s greater team in delivering its sky-high mission, as he moves to discuss. “Our staff members are our most important asset. An T organisation is only as successful as its employees. Our employees, at all levels, play an integral role in our overall organisational success by using their respective knowledge, skills, abilities, expertise, and innovative ideas to improve business efficiency and effectiveness. The aforementioned can be summed up in the good old saying: “Employees are the soul, heart and life of any organisation” – cliché but true.” Utilising this team is key to CDC’s future, which aims to reinforce its position in the market, with a commitment to fighting back against the effects of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war. “As the CDC attempts to break into established global supply chains by offering location solutions to the world’s pharmaceutical, battery, electronic vehicle, and chip value chain participants. The challenge of Africa being considered as a source of raw materials for the production as well as final consumers of the end product remains still in 2022. The disruption to global supply chains due to Covid-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war have seemingly encouraged countries to localize rather than locate and invest into the African Continent. The CDC will continue to work tirelessly to changes this status quo.” Company: Coega Development Corporation Website: https://www.coega.co.za Address: Coega Development Corporation, Coega SEZ Business Centre, Corner Alcyon Road & Zibuko Street, Zone 1, Coega SEZ, Gqeberha, 6100 Coega Development Corporation, P/B X6009, Gqeberha, 6001 EAST LONDON OFFICE: Coega Business Centre, Ground Floor Harraway House, 10 & 12 Pearce Street, Berea, East London, 5241 Tel: +27 43 711 1600 MTHATHA OFFICE: 24 Park Road, Mthatha, 5099 Tel: +27 47 531 1246 DURBAN OFFICE: Coega Development Corporation Durban, 18 Cranbrook Crescent, Umhlanga, 4051 Tel: +27 31 584 1760 PRETORIA OFFICE: 145 Herbert Road, Eastwood, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0083 Tel: +27 12 423 0980 CAPE TOWN OFFICE: Coega Business Centre, 1101, 11th Floor, South African Reserve Building, Cape Town, 8001 Tel: +27 21 423 0533 South Africa is a country on the rise, with recent years defined by incredible growth and enduring momentum. Indeed, the African continent as a whole is undergoing an invigoration of world-leading businesses looking to revolutionise their respective industries. Following Coega Development Corporation’s (CDC) success in the Leading Adviser programme as the Best Trade & Development Company in South Africa, we endeavoured to take a closer look. Incredible Innovation in Business Development Nov22426 ISO 9001:2015 ISO 14001:2015 ISO 45001:2018 ISO 20000-1:2018 ISO 27001:2013

14 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 Lynch Law Firm - Fighting in Your Corner ow celebrating over 47 years since its establishment, there’s no denying that Jeffrey S. Lynch has become a stalwart of the personal injury sphere, with a renowned name in the greater legal space. Operating out of Dallas, Jeffrey describes the firm and his practice as being “committed to assisting business, personal industry, and complex financial family law clients with professionalism and dedication.” Time and time again, this statement has been reinforced by Jeffrey’s history as an attorney, with a career defined by success after success. He holds the distinction for one of the largest premises liability jury verdicts in the history of Texas, with a reputation for being fearless in his willingness to take his client’s cases to trial when it becomes necessary. As a result, he has tried over 300 jury trials and over 50 bench trials to date, with no signs of momentum slowing. Whilst being based in Texas, Jeffrey has handled matters of litigation across numerous states, such as New Mexico, Colorado, California, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nevada, and Connecticut, and further, several international cases. “The majority of my clients have resulted from client referrals, my reputation, and occasionally opposing parties who have been in trials against me. I consider myself client centric in my approach. I ensure that each case is thoroughly evaluated and investigated; appropriate experts are retained and consulted, followed by the creation of a trial preparation plan, a litigation budget, and a plan to commence settlement discussions. If the case cannot be settled fairly, the client will have an opportunity to try the case to a judicial outcome,” Jeffrey explains, touching on the diligence of his approach. Of course, as briefly mentioned there, Lynch Law Firm isn’t just comprised of Jeffrey as a sole practitioner – but a team of experts working to ensure success for each client. “The staff at the Lynch Law Firm is the backbone of our organisation, and they gladly and courteously assist both the clients and the attorneys in handling each case, dealing with opposing counsel, scheduling, and communicating with the court personnel.” Jeffrey, alongside Lynch Law Firm, is maintaining its impressive position in the legal field with a future defined only by further growth – new clients, new cases, but the same commitment to the pursuit of justice and fairness. “We are continuing to grow and prosper as we prepare to move into 2023.We look forward to meeting new friends N Nov22446 and clients in the new year and to vigorously representing our clients in their pursuit of justice and fairness.” Jeffrey S. Lynch is a Board Certified Civil and Personal Injury Trial attorney by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (for 38 years), a member of the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a Diplomat (Highest Rank for 42 years) of the American Board of Trial Advocates, and an Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy and Tactics at Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law (for 9 years). Company Name: Lynch Law Firm Contact Name: Jeffrey S. Lynch, Owner Address: 5922 Mapleshade Ln, Dallas, TX USA Web Address: www.lynchlawfirm.law Contact Email: [email protected] Telephone Number: 01 (214) 662-1200 When the worst happens, it helps to know that you have an expert at your back and fighting your corner. As one of 2022 AI’s Leading Advisers, with the title of Leading Personal Injury & Trial Attorney of the Year for the state of Texas, Jeffrey S. Lynch has built a client base and reputation as a dominating presence in the industry. We spoke with Jeffrey to find out more about his experience, achievements and history of success.

Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 15 Industry-defining firms exist at all corners of the globe. Unfortunately, the African continent often goes under the radar when it comes to spotlighting legal experts. As a 2022 AI Leading Adviser - recognised as the Leading Business Taxation & Investment Lawyer of the Year 2022 – we spoke with Mahamady Zango of EXPERTISE GROUP to find out how he and the firm have looked to redefined the West African legal landscape. Nov22464 hilst EXPERTISE GROUP has been recognised for its work in West Africa, it has built a robust reputation on a panAfrican basis, known for delivering exceptional experiencebased services in the corporate taxation and investment sphere. Mahamady, in particular, has distinguished himself in what is a highly competitive sphere – an impressive feat by all regards. For Mahamady, the focus for EXPERTISE GROUP has been, from its establishment, to help accelerate business growth across Africa. “Our vision is deep and gives meaning to all of our actions on a daily basis. It’s about ending the cycle of poverty in Africa by helping businesses grow and transform lives. Thus, we offer to SMEs in Africa corporate governance services, legal and tax advice, financial and strategic advice, investment advice, human capital management services, management of merger and acquisition operations,” Mahamady explains in detail. While the focus is on driving SME growth, EXPERTISE GROUP also endeavours to bolster larger corporates in capitalising on the benefits of building a strong foundation on the continent. “We offer them a unique experience and we guarantee the quality of the professional W African Excellence in Law services we offer them. We are committed alongside the companies we support, and we help them overcome their growth challenges in the best possible way,” Mahamady adds, before moving to discuss how EXPERTISE GROUP’s ethos has informed their internal culture. “Human capital is the raw material of our industry, and the quality of our services is closely linked to the quality of the women and men who make up our teams. Our company is guided by excellence, which is why we prioritise quality and the intrinsic values of our employees. Today, within our teams, we have the best African experts in our fields of intervention, and we have invested the necessary resources and time to have them in large numbers on our teams.” All in all, it’s clear to see how EXPERTISE GROUP and Mahamady have harnessed a leading skillset and expertise to shift the paradigm when it comes to the pan-African legal arena, with a future defined by further innovation and growth in turn. Company: EXPERTISE GROUP Contact: Mahamady ZANGO Address:12 BP 195 Ouagadougou 12, Burkina Faso Web: www.expertise-holding.com Email: [email protected]

16 Acquisition International - Issue 1 2023 Nov22410 Over 35 Years of Sensational Success Complex litigation law can be extremely challenging to navigate however, with a strong, level-headed load of experience, we find ourselves in good hands with Marc J. Bern & Partners LLP. Let us find out more as its Founding Partner, Marc Bern, wins Leading Complex Litigation Lawyer of the Year 2022, New York, from Acquisition International. omplex litigation cases contain many parties. From multiple individuals to a selection of lawyers, and often several geographical locations, these cases can take months, and even years, to be settled. Many cases face problems that add insult to injury, but we’ve found a law firm, and a reputable lawyer, which knows how to tackle anything. Marc J. Bern & Partners LLP is a dedicated complex litigation law firm that has grown at an immense rate. Marc J. Bern & Partners provides its support in New York, and around the country, to ensure its clients receive the best help imaginable when it comes to personal injury, medical malpractice, construction accident, defective product, dangerous medication, consumer fraud, and product liability cases. For 9/11 victim compensation funds, abuse claims, opioid crisis aid, FELA railroad claims, and much more, Marc J. Bern & Partners has a lawyer for every area of complex litigation. The case turnaround time is rapid, but there are no details missed or swept under the rug. Marc J. Bern & Partners is committed to helping anyone who is in a difficult situation, and it does so with empathy, concern, and care. “Dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients.” Striving to understand and solve every case that is presented to them, each lawyer is steeped in years of experience that give them the edge on the competition. With over 60 years of combined experience, including working as legal attorneys and mass tort lawyers, each person on the team has something to bring to the table. There for us 24/7, Marc J. Bern & Partners has the experience needed to look after numerous cases of all sizes and issues. Always taking the right approach to each case, the firm promises, and delivers, the highest quality of service – every time. Supporting individuals, and their families, Marc J. Bern & Partners provides the help that it knows they deserve. It works seamlessly to provide its undivided attention to each case and, despite its large size, it still serves incredible assistance with a personal touch. Its Founding Partner, Marc Bern, created Marc J. Bern & Partners to help a wide variety of people through some of the most difficult cases imaginable. He has been with the firm for over seven years, and he is leading the way for the entire industry. Graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1972, with a degree in Political Science and Government, Marc has always shown C his passion for what he now does. Building Marc J. Bern & Partners from the ground up is a huge achievement worth celebrating, and we know that this remarkable business is set to receive even more recognition for its hard work. Resulting in excess of 3 billion in settlements and many awards such as The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, Lawyers of distinction, and more, Marc J. Bern & Partners has become a name we won’t forget. By being entirely client-focused, the team provides the best possible client experience no matter the case – the size, or the complexity. It gives free consultations to anyone in need of its expert services, and it is easily reached by telephone any time of day or night. No matter the issue – from personal injury to medical malpractice, dangerous drug, or defective product help – Marc and the team have solutions that will support its clients’ legal rights. Marc has become extremely respected, and for good reason. He has a huge repertoire of experience with “plaintiffs’ catastrophic injury cases, Pharmaceutical Products Liability, Environmental and other Toxic Torts including MTBE gasoline contamination, Cresote, MGP (manufactured gas plants), PCB, and Mass Torts.” We have learned a lot about Marc, and the whole team at Acquisition International is impressed with his work. He is a nationally recognised trial attorney, with over 35 years of experience, and it’s clear to see why people flock to him. This is due to his client-focused attitude, compassionate aid, and track record for trying more than 100 cases to jury verdict – with hundreds more settled, amassing to over $1,000,000. As the Co-Liaison Counsel in the World Trade Center Disaster Litigation, Marc helped to settle “over $800,000,000 for police officers, fire fighters, and other first responders injured by toxic smoke and dust at the World Trade Center during the 9/11 clean-up efforts.” He is dedicated to helping others and is delighted to be able to do that on a daily basis. Marc Bern has now won Leading Complex Litigation Lawyer of the Year 2022 in New York, and he shows no signs of slowing down as he reaches new heights within his career. Congratulations, Marc! Contact: Kelly Carson Company: Marc J. Bern & Partners LLP Web Address: https://bernllp.com/ Telephone: 1-800-LAW-5432

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