Our Team

Senior Financial Analyst

Brian Johnston serves as a Private Equity Analyst at Meridian Group, where he focuses on sourcing, underwriting, and executing transactions across a diverse range of industries. With a particular emphasis on uncovering undervalued opportunities, Brian supports the firm’s mission to deliver exceptional returns through rigorous due diligence, precise financial modeling, and comprehensive market analysis.

Prior to joining Meridian Group, Brian worked in corporate restructuring, where he honed his expertise in identifying operational inefficiencies and implementing value-maximizing strategies. His experience includes extensive work in contract negotiations, risk mitigation, and navigating complex regulatory environments—skills he leverages to ensure the success of every deal.

Board of Advisors

Mr. Hill is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive currently dedicating his efforts to Sundial, a global alternative investment firm. Sundial specializes in creating long-term value through private equity, real estate, and hedge fund strategies. By leveraging deep operational expertise, strategic diversification, and proprietary investment approaches, Andy leads Sundial in generating alpha and driving sustainable growth.  

Before founding Sundial, Andy served as the Chief Revenue Officer and later as the Chief Marketing & Innovation Officer for CITY Furniture, one of the fastest-growing retailers in the United States. In these roles, he was instrumental in driving innovation, digital transformation, and revenue growth.  

In addition to his corporate leadership, Andy has founded several successful companies, including Source and Atlis, Co., showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to scale businesses.

Andy earned both an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship, Management, and Marketing from the University of Dayton. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Urban League of Broward County, contributing to civil rights and economic empowerment initiatives in underserved communities.

Andy’s focus remains on creating meaningful impact through innovative strategies and a commitment to excellence in every venture.

Board of Advisors

Mr. Vassallo, CEO and Founder of MOS R.E., LLC is responsible for the overall leadership and management of multiple successful businesses. Utilizing his 30+years of business experience specifically in Real Estate investment and development, John has acquired nearly 300,000 sq ft of Real Estate over the past several years. Beginning in 2005 with an historical apartment renovation project that still proves to be extremely successful sitting at 98% occupied for over 6 years, John continues to expand his portfolio with newly acquired 23acres set to hold a 500-unit luxury apartment complex.

Across multiple states, John is a true innovator for the cities and business communities he has expanded into. With his strategic investment strategy and growth plan, John has created the formula for his vision to become a reality. Overseeing even the finest detail, John takes pride in everything he invests toward and will work until his standard is met.

Select Investments:

1. Houston-based CJ Development plans $125M mixed-use district in League City

2. Grand Center at Long Meadow Farms

3. Fishers shopping center sold for $7.5M to out-of-state firm

4. Posner Building

5. Drew Tower (28 stories)

6. The Shoppes at Grand Crossing (1.3mm SF)

7. Independent Heights Development (5.22 Acres)

8. 100 East Development - One of Downtown Milwaukee's Biggest Towers

9. Mo's Irish Pub

Board of Advisors

Mr. Weiland is the founder and managing director of First Diligence.  He has experience in Corporate M&A, Financial Due Diligence, and Private Equity.  Bobby founded First Diligence on the principle that high quality diligence should be affordable for every investor. First Diligence is a Lower Middle Market and Small Business diligence firm that performs Quality of Earnings and Proof of Cash for independent sponsors, search funds, and entrepreneurs.

Financial Anaylst

Mr.Desai is a seasoned finance professional with substantial experience in investment banking and corporate advisory. Previously affiliated with prominent institutions such as Citi and Keynote, Mr. Desai has executed multiple equity and debt origination transactions, including equity raises ranging from $10million to $100 million and debt financings between $50 million and $1 billion.

Currently, Mr. Desai serves as the Managing Director of Vista Analytics, a corporate finance and advisory firm. The firm specializes in supporting offshore consulting and valuation firms by preparing comprehensive transaction materials and deal documentation. Additionally, Vista Analytics has advised numerous private equity firms in conducting due diligence on target businesses, delivering critical insights and support in complex financial transactions.

With a proven track record and expertise across the financial spectrum, Mr. Desai offers invaluable advisory services to firms and investors navigating intricate deal structures and capital market dynamics.

Chief Financial Officer

Mr. Koyfman is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) with over a decade of experience working with Fortune 100 companies, public accounting firms, and a wide range of small to medium-sized businesses. He began his career in public accounting, earning his CPA designation before transitioning to consulting roles with leading Fortune 100 companies. Drawing on his extensive expertise, Mr. Koyfman now provides Financial Accounting Advisory services, supporting small and medium-sized businesses in achieving their financial and operational objectives.

Mr. Koyfman is highly skilled in reviewing financial statements in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and brings a deep understanding of accounting operating procedures to the team, ensuring precision and excellence in financial management.

Chairman of the Board

Mr. Bethune is a prominent American business executive and aviation industry leader, best known for his transformative tenure as CEO of Continental Airlines from 1994 to 2004. Born on August 29, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas, Bethune began his career as an aircraft mechanic after serving as an aircraft electronics technician in the U.S. Navy for 20years. He later earned a degree in aviation management and held leadership roles at several major airlines, including Braniff, Western Airlines, and Boeing.

Bethune joined Continental in February 1994 as president and chief operating officer, was named CEO in November 1994 and selected as chairman in September 1996. Since joining Continental, headquartered in Houston, he has spearheaded a turnaround of the airline, which has announced record-breaking profits. He has promoted international growth, including the expansion into Latin America and Europe.

The airline has won the Frequent Flyer/J.D. Power and Associates Award for customer satisfaction and was named Airline of the Year by Air Transport World. Business Week magazine named Bethune one of the top 25 global managers for 1996. Aviation Week and Space Technology named him a Laureate in Aviation for 1997.

In his published book, From Worst to First, he tells how he, along with his 40,000 co-workers, achieved one of the most dramatic comebacks in corporate history by transforming Continental into an award-winning carrier.

Prior to joining Continental, he was vice president and general manager of the Boeing Commercial Airplane Group's Renton Division. He joined Boeing in 1988 as Vice President and General Manager of Customer Services after having held senior management positions with Braniff, Western and Piedmont Airlines. He served as a U.S. Navy aircraft maintenance officer.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Abilene Christian University in Dallas and is a 1992 graduate of Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program. He is a licensed commercial pilot and licensed as an airframe and power plant mechanic.

Career: U.S. Navy, 1958–1978, aircraft maintenance officer; Braniff Airlines, 1979–1980, maintenance manager; 1980–1982, vice president, maintenance; Western Airlines, 1982–1984, vice president, engineering and maintenance; Piedmont Airlines, 1984–1988, senior vice president, operations; Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, 1988–1994, vice president and general manager, Renton Division; Continental Airlines, 1994, president and chief operating officer; 1994–1996, president and chief executive officer; 1996–, chairman and CEO.

Awards: Top 25 Global Managers, BusinessWeek, 1996; Laureate in Aviation Trophy, National Air and Space Museum, 1997; 25 Most Influential Executives, Business Travel News, 1998, 2000; 50 Best CEOs in America, Worth, 2001, 2002, 2003; Airline Person of the Year, Travel Agent, 2001.

Financial Analyst

Mr. Khan is a seasoned finance professional with a robust background in corporate and investment banking, real estate investments, and structured finance. He is a CFA charter holder and ACCA member, bringing deep expertise in valuation(both debt and equity), private equity, venture capital, US GAAP, and IFRS standards.

Over his extensive career, Anwar has held pivotal roles at esteemed financial institutions and currently leads the Investment department at Building Communities Initiative (BCI), an Australia-based real estate company focused on the hospitality sector and affordable housing projects across multiple continents.

At BCI, Anwar’s responsibilities include advising the board on potential investment opportunities, creating Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to own and manage projects, and liaising with key stakeholders such as legal counsel, project partners, internal teams, funders, and regulatory authorities. He is instrumental in identifying potential risks and implementing effective risk mitigation strategies. Notably, Anwar played a key role in raising $750 million indebt capital for BCI through Actively Managed Certificates (AMCs).

With hands-on expertise in structured finance, Anwar has structured complex transactions, including asset-backed credit facilities, mortgage-backed securities, and M&A.

In addition to his investment and structured finance expertise, Anwar has provided expert financial testimony, and is currently involved in supporting a class action litigation case in the United States. His litigation support roles highlight his precision in financial analysis and attention to detail.

Anwar’s analytical acumen, leadership experience, and global perspective make him a dynamic professional dedicated to driving innovation in finance, investment, and real estate development.

Board of Advisors

Mr. McAlister IV is a native Houstonian who graduated from the University of Texas in Austin in1986. From 1986 to 1993, Jim worked for CBRE as a Commercial Real Estate Broker in Houston.

Jim is the Founder/CEO of Rockspring, a multidiscipline real estate firm formed in 1993. The firm’s expertise in the Texas Triangle provides investors with local expertise in a $1.3 trillion economy. Rockspring is headquartered in Houston, with satellite offices in Austin and San Antonio.

Rockspring’s residential, retail, and industrial development capabilities provide investors with opportunities across a wide array of real estate asset classes. The Rockspring management team has acquired and disposed of real estate assets in excess of $1,000,000,000 (one billion) through various private equity funds managed by Rockspring or in association with institutional investors. Also, under the Rockspring umbrella, Jim leads a full-service brokerage firm providing third-party representation throughout Texas. 

Jim and his spouse, Mauricio, are active in numerous global and local charities. Jim enjoys active adventure traveling, which allows him to surf, snowboard, hike, and hunt internationally. He also participates in kickboxing and pickleball and runs a high-intensity training program (Gym McAlister) out of his home. Collecting art during his travels has become a passion, and he actively supports local artisans and a variety of charities by hosting events at his home.

Senior Financial Analyst

Erica Adams is a Private Equity Analyst at Meridian Group, where she excels in conducting in-depth financial due diligence, structuring complex transactions, and driving value creation for portfolio companies. Her expertise lies in assessing acquisition targets, crafting detailed investment theses, and ensuring compliance with rigorous regulatory and legal standards.

Before joining Meridian Group, Erica worked in mergers and acquisitions advisory, where she specialized in managing cross-border transactions and navigating high-stakes negotiations. She brings a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to her work, with a proven track record of identifying key risks and opportunities in challenging deal environments.

Her background in both financial analysis and corporate governance allows her to approach each transaction with a comprehensive and strategic mindset, ensuring sustainable, long-term growth for Meridian’s investments.

Senior Financial Analyst

Adam Gardner is a Private Equity Analyst at Meridian Group, where he specializes in deal origination, financial modeling, and operational analysis. Known for his methodical approach and sharp analytical skills, Adam plays a critical role in identifying high-potential acquisition targets and structuring transactions to maximize returns.

Prior to joining Meridian Group, Adam worked in corporate finance, focusing on strategic planning and capital allocation for mid-market companies. His experience includes conducting detailed valuations, navigating complex contractual frameworks, and collaborating with legal teams to mitigate transactional risks.

His deep understanding of market dynamics and his commitment to thorough due diligence ensure that each deal aligns with Meridian’s long-term investment strategy.

Principal of Investment Banking Practice

Mr. Sweetnam is an accomplished Business Development Strategist with nearly a decade of experience in Private Equity and Enterprise-Level Sales. His diverse background and proven track record of success make him an integral leader of the Sell-Side Team at Meridian Group.

Prior to joining Meridian, Josh served as Head of Sales at Acquisitions.com, where he worked closely with both buy-side and sell-side clients. His leadership was instrumental in facilitating one of the firm’s largest transactions—assisting their top client in acquiring 16 businesses within just eight months.

Following his tenure at Acquisitions.com, Josh joined Titan Global Corp, a leading Private Equity firm, where he played a key role in closing multiple large-scale insurance deals. His success and strategic acumen led to his promotion to Principal.

Further solidifying his expertise in high-stakes business development, Josh led strategic initiatives with the Qatari Royal Family Office of White Falcon. His experience working with sovereign wealth and ultra-high-net-worth investors underscores his ability to navigate complex, high-value transactions at the highest level.

With a deep understanding of private equity, mergers & acquisitions, and enterprise sales, Josh continues to drive growth and strategic expansion for Meridian Group.

Vice President, Investment Banking

Ms. Marquez is a seasoned investment banking professional with a strong track record in executing complex financial transactions, strategic advisory, and capital markets solutions. As Vice President of Investment Banking at Meridian Group, she plays a pivotal role in deal origination, structuring, and execution, working closely with clients to maximize value creation.

With extensive experience across mergers & acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and corporate finance, Christine brings deep industry expertise and a results-driven approach to every transaction. Her analytical rigor, strategic insight, and commitment to client success have earned her recognition as a trusted advisor in the private equity and investment banking sectors.

Managing Director

Mr. Chua is the Managing Director of Meridian Group, bringing decades of expertise in private equity, investment strategy, and financial structuring. With a strong track record in leading high-value transactions, he has played a pivotal role in identifying, acquiring, and managing portfolio companies across diverse industries.

Prior to joining Meridian Group, David held leadership positions in top-tier investment firms, where he specialized in growth equity, leveraged buyouts, and operational improvements. His deep industry knowledge and strategic vision have contributed to unlocking substantial value for investors and stakeholders alike.

David holds a distinguished academic background and has been a trusted advisor to numerous companies navigating complex financial landscapes. His ability to drive sustainable growth and maximize returns makes him an integral part of Meridian Group’s leadership team.

Principal

Mr. Bennett is a seasoned finance professional with over 15 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, and corporate strategy. As a Principal at Meridian Group, he is pivotal in leading M&A transactions, capital markets advisory, and strategic growth initiatives for a diverse client base.

Before joining Meridian Group, Chris was a senior advisor at a top-tier investment firm, where he successfully structured multi-million-dollar deals across various industries, including technology, healthcare, and industrials. His valuation, deal structuring, and financial modelling expertise have made him a trusted partner for institutional investors, business owners, and corporate executives navigating complex transactions.

Chris began his career in investment banking at a global financial institution, quickly earning recognition for his analytical rigor and ability to drive value in high-stakes negotiations. Over the years, he has cultivated an extensive network of industry leaders, private equity firms, and corporate partners, facilitating successful deal executions and long-term growth strategies.

He holds an MBA from a prestigious business school and a bachelor’s degree in finance. Outside of work, Chris is an avid sailor and competitive skier and a mentor to aspiring finance professionals.

Principal

Mr. Vrachas is a seasoned finance professional with over 12 years of experience in corporate finance consulting, enterprise sales and entrepreneurship. As a Principal at Meridian Group, he utilises his diverse corporate background to provide strategic advice to clients, as a leader of the Sell-Side Team at Meridian Group.

Prior to joining Meridian, James was a Manager at a top-tier accounting & consulting firm, where he successfully managed multi-million-dollar projects across the public and private sector. James earned recognition in this role for his expertise in business cases, where he created and managed complex financial models documenting the costs and benefits of multi-million dollar transformation projects, across a variety of industries. His financial and strategic expertise as well as his consultative approach have made him a key leader within Meridian group.

He holds a Bachelors degree in Law and Economics, as well as a Chartered Accounting qualification. His diverse background in law, finance and consulting allows him to see the potential growth, risks and opportunities for Meridian’s clients, to provide valuable strategic insights.

Principal

Mr.  Hall is a Principal at Meridian Group, focusing on M&A transactions across the lower middle market. With a background in finance and lending, he brings over a decade of experience, including seven years at Barclays Bank. He plays a key role in executing transactions and supporting the firm’s investment strategy.