Our mission.
Our philosophy.
Our partners.

A win for everyone

Whether buying or selling, we only play favourites with our clients. Success is all that matters and it’s our pledge to get you there. So much so that we work on a fee model that only sees us benefit when businesses are bought or sold.

A personal touch

We aren’t a group of stuffed shirts. And you aren’t just a prospect. We’re a team of M&A experts and we’re all looking for the best possible outcomes. We guarantee that the personal nature of buying and selling is never forgotten. Rather, it’s front and centre in everything we do.

A network of experts

We are proud to work with many financial institutions, accounting firms and business advocates to stay current on industry trends and standards, and identify opportunities for our clients and theirs.

We’re always open to making new connections and finding new ways to work with old friends. If you’re looking to build your network or need advice, just reach out.

Our Team

JIM FRIESEN

FOUNDER/PARTNER – MBA, CPA, CM&AA

As a founding partner of Portage and a business owner himself, Jim is passionate about entrepreneurship and guiding owners through the sale and purchase of businesses. He has an extensive background with large national and global companies working on all things M&A. Learn more about Jim’s professional background here.

VIVIANA SERGIO

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Viviana epitomizes a “service-first” approach, efficiently managing our internal operations. She handles diverse tasks including marketing, KPIs, events coordination, bookkeeping, and recruitment, ensuring smooth management essential for our organization’s success. She also co-produces Bar Talk and Cocktails, a long-running YouTube show.

GINA VERSACE

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

A natural organizer Gina’s exceptional skills come in to play with senior management to keep all internal administration flow on track and on time on a daily basis. Her previous experience in a business valuation environment, file management, and customer service is a great asset to the firm. Learn more about Gina here.

LIANNA STACK

PROJECT COORDINATOR

Lianna’s many years of experience in administration have shaped her to be organized, client focused, and a team player. Lianna takes pride in her work and strives for the success of her team and satisfaction of Portage’s clients.  More on Lianna here. 

SANJEEV MAKKAR

ASSOCIATE – MBA 

Sanjeev, experienced in a diverse range of valuations and sell-side mandates, offers invaluable insights into complex transactions, leveraging his accounting and financial analysis background. He earned a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Dalhousie University’s Rowe School of Business. His full profile is here.

CHARLIE IZAGUIRRE

ASSOCIATE – MBA

Charlie leverages his extensive experience in financial analysis and pricing strategies to provide invaluable insights into the firm’s valuation and buy-and-sell side mandates. He earned his Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the Goodman School of Business at Brock University. His full profile is here.

MARIO ROJAS

AI SYSTEMS ANALYST 

Mario combines over a decade of project leadership with a passion for technology to design AI-powered workflows that streamline operations and support strategic outcomes. His background in communications, project management, and computer engineering provides a multidisciplinary perspective for solving complex challenges.

RYAN BUIST

PARTNER – MBA, CBV

With more than 19 years of professional finance experience, Ryan helps business sellers create value for future sales and guide them through exit strategies. For buyers, he identifies, evaluates and negotiates prospective acquisitions. Do your own due diligence on Ryan here.

BRETT NORRIS

VP of M&A – CA, CFA, MBA

Brett brings more than 13 years of experience in corporate finance and accounting, having worked in both advisory and corporate settings. He is passionate about working with mid-market businesses and has developed expertise in advising on transactions, as well as other financial and strategic matters. More on Brett here.