You've probably noticed the impressive collection of letters following our team members' names, and we couldn't be more proud of what they represent! Each designation reflects countless hours of study, comprehensive examinations, and an ongoing commitment to professional excellence, all in service of providing you with the highest level of expertise. Let's dive into this alphabet soup!
Behind every set of credentials is a deeper commitment to your success!

CEPA® stands for Certified Exit Planning Advisor. It's a professional designation that focuses specifically on helping business owners plan and execute successful exits from their businesses.
The CEPA® designation is designed for professionals who advise business owners on the complex process of transitioning out of their businesses, whether through sale, succession, or other exit strategies.
Key Topics Covered:
- Exit planning fundamentals and methodology
- Business valuation principles and methods
- Tax strategies for business exits
- Succession planning (family and management buyouts)
- Third-party sale preparation and execution
- Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
- Management buyouts and leveraged buyouts
- Risk mitigation strategies
- Personal financial planning for business owners
- Estate planning considerations for business assets
- Deal structuring and negotiation strategies
- Post-exit wealth management
Requirements:
Candidates must complete comprehensive coursework that covers the exit planning process from start to finish, followed by an examination. The program emphasizes both technical knowledge and practical application.
Continuing Education:
The designation requires ongoing continuing education to maintain certification, keeping professionals current with changing regulations, market conditions, and exit planning strategies.
The CEPA® is designed for financial advisors, CPAs, attorneys, investment bankers, business brokers, and other professionals who work with business owners planning their exits.
Distinction:
This designation addresses a specialized but critical area of financial planning, as business exits often represent the largest financial transaction in a business owner's lifetime and require coordinated expertise across multiple disciplines including finance, tax, legal, and valuation.
Kevin Dick, AIF®, AAMS®, CRPS®, CPFA®, CEPA®,Carrie Dick, AIF®, CPFA®, CEPA,Shane Keith, MBA®, CFP®, CPFA®, CEPA®and Dylan Justice, CEPA®, AIF® bring this Certified Exit Planning Advisor credential to our team! Knowledge to successfully guide in business succession, and exit strategies!
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