The Graduate Level of Business Ownership

Anyone thinking of starting, running, or selling their own business should read this book. For each phase of a business life cycle, The Graduate Level of Business Ownership lays out the structural steps that are necessary for success and addresses the emotions that come with the journey. On all accounts it is a real-world road map for success-and I should know, since my true story is highlighted in the book!

Dennis A. (a.k.a. Daniel)

Owner, TechnoWorks, Inc.


Terry and Ronen, I want to sincerely thank you and your organization for the invaluable advice you have given me and my family in counseling and transitioning our business to the next level. The end result was transformative. Fortunately, I was introduced to you at a critical time and you were instrumental in transitioning myself and my family to a new reality. The process was not easy, and it took a lot of energy and focus to resolve. In the end, the advice and input you gave was consistent, pointed, and matter-of-fact. Without your knowledge and advice, we would never have achieved the exceptional outcome that we realized. I truly believe in the process and outcomes that you have shared in your book, and I know that anyone that reads and employs the advice delineated in this book will be greatly rewarded.

Craig Bovaird

Former owner and CEO, Reliance Engineering; Built-Rite Tool & Die Inc


The Graduate Level of Business Ownership covers the whole spectrum of creating a successful plan for business and personal success. The authors have decades of real-life experiences, with hundreds of business owner clients in various stages of growth and maturity. The actual examples they share bring all the concepts to life. That kind of expertise is priceless, and they've laid it out for the benefit of anyone who is open to learning what they don't know. This is a must-read for any small business owner.

Kenneth J. Sanginario, CVGA, CM&AA, CTP, ABV, MST, MSF

Founder, Corporate Value Metrics

For those working in their business on a day-to-day basis, improving the enterprise, strengthening management, and eventually selling the business or transferring ownership to the next generation involves a difficult journey, one that few of us have experience with. In The Graduate Level of Business Ownership, Terry Shepherd and Ronen Shefer act as guides, putting into clear terms what the process looks like, as well as outlining the many stumbling blocks there are along the way. Filled with stories and anecdotes, you are sure to see your situation, thoughts, and concerns reflected in these pages. As a client, I have found the ROCG methodology to be a valuable road map-from the initial stages that focus on building value in the enterprise through all the ensuing steps in executing a successful transition. As a business-to-business publisher and event organizer, I'm a true believer in the advice laid out in this book. It's an invaluable resource for any business owner who needs to navigate the path from ownership to the next stage of their life and career, no matter where they are on that journey.

Peter Stanton

CEO & Publisher, New England Business Media LLC