THE EXIT PLANNING TEAM IS AN EXIT ADVISORY FIRM DEDICATED TO THE FINANCIAL SUCCESS OF BUSINESS OWNERS.
NAVIGATE YOUR COMPANY'S VALUATION, EXIT, SALE, AND WEALTH PRESERVATION WITH EASE.
Our mission is to drive value through each state of your exit with a commitment to delivering strategic support, insight, and measurable benefits throughout the entire business exit process.
Whether it's preparing a company for sale, navigating negotiations, developing a tailored tax strategy, or ensuring a smooth transition post-exit, the focus is on maximizing outcomes for stakeholders at every step.
This approach emphasizes long-term value creation, not just at the point of transaction, but from initial planning through to the final handover and beyond. It underscores a partnership mindset—guiding clients through complex decisions to achieve their financial and personal goals.
Our Story...
...began with two successful entrepreneurs from the finance industry who
shared a powerful vision: to create a place where business owners could find expert
guidance navigating the complex exit process.
Having each built and exited their own companies, they understood firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning a business. Driven by this experience and a passion to help others, they founded our company with a clear mission — to drive value through every stage of the exit process.
From early planning to post-exit strategy, we’re here to ensure that business
owners not only exit successfully but exit stronger.
Dawn Hryshko, CPA, MT, CEPA
Dawn Hryshko is a seasoned CPA and Certified Exit Planning Advisor with over 30 years of experience helping business owners prepare for and navigate successful exits.
As a co-founder of The Exit Planning Team, she specializes in combining tax strategy, business valuation, and financial analysis to drive growth and transition readiness.
Her background includes leadership roles at major firms and advising family-owned and mid-market companies across industries.
With a Master of Taxation and a track record of strategic advisory success, Dawn is a trusted guide for entrepreneurs ready to align their business, financial, and personal goals for a smooth and profitable exit.
Valerie Schmitz CPFA, CEPA
Valerie Schmitz is a seasoned Financial Advisor, Strategic Planning and Certified Exit Planning Advisor with over 15 years of experience in the financial world and over 45
years working in family businesses.
As a co-founder of The Exit Planning Team, she specializes in combining financial, strategic and exit planning strategies that accelerate growth, profitability and financial security which accelerates company valuations for strategic exits. Her background includes CFO of her family’s business, mentor and instructor of COSE Strategic Planning Course while advising family owned and mid-market companies across all industries.
Valerie is an accomplished professional recognized for her ability in both finance administration and exit planning advisory. Her career is marked by a commitment to
guiding organizations and individuals through complex financial landscapes, ensuring each step is underpinned by strategic insight and fiduciary responsibility for a smooth and profitable exit.
