
LEADERSHIP

Brad Ruth, CBI
Business Transition Specialist and M&A Advisor
From Restaurateur to Business Brokering and M&A
Hailing from Caledonia, Michigan, Brad embarked on a remarkable career path that blends entrepreneurial spirit with a sharp acumen for business brokering and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). A graduate of Central Michigan University with a B.S.B.A. in finance and marketing, Brad's journey started with an unconventional leap.
In 1998, alongside his wife Kelly, Brad sold everything they had and secured personal loans to open their own restaurant, Bellacino's Pizza & Grinders, in Stow, OH. Their daring venture began on September 26, 1998, and it turned into an 11-year success story. In 2009, they expanded further by constructing a small strip center, relocating their restaurant to its new and improved location.
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However, restlessness often fuels growth. In 2012, Brad transitioned to the role of an account executive at Ritchie Marketing, a renowned manufacturer's representative company in the foodservice industry. By 2014, he ascended to the position of Business Manager, overseeing a three-state territory for three successful years.
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In October 2017, Brad assumed the role of President/CEO at Ascot Valley Foods (AVF). During his tenure, he demonstrated his prowess in enhancing operations, elevating sales, and boosting profitability. His expertise in transforming businesses for the better became apparent.
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While at AVF, Brad's entrepreneurial spirit continued to flourish. In 2016, he founded GLBA Inc., marking his entry into the realm of business brokering with a focus on M&A. His knack for navigating complex business transitions began to shine.
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Brad's commitment to business excellence extends beyond his professional endeavors. He is a distinguished member of the Stow-Munroe Falls Rotary Club for over two decades, serving as a board member and soon-to-be co-president for the 2021-22 Rotary year. Additionally, he lends his expertise as a board member of the Stow Schools Foundation and as a member of the Akron Executives Association.
With over 20 years of business ownership experience and a passion for guiding business owners through the intricate process of ownership transitions, Brad stands as a trusted advisor in the world of business brokering and M&A. His journey reflects the unwavering dedication to fostering successful transitions and maximizing opportunities for business owners.
330-524-8205

Jason Sousa
Business Transition Specialist and Commercial Real Estate Agent
Multifaceted Expert in Business and Real Estate
With over two decades of professional expertise spanning marketing, sales, consulting, operations, and account management, Jason has carved a remarkable career path. His journey has been marked by engagements with industry giants like General Motors, The Chrysler Group, Fidelity, and USAA, where he masterfully negotiated multi-million-dollar contracts. But to him, it's not just about transactions; it's about the relationships he's cultivated along the way.
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Jason's passion for real estate ignited in 2004 when he made his debut in property investment with his first rental property. Since then, he's been a dedicated student of real estate, progressively acquiring larger properties, devouring books and podcasts, managing rentals, and nurturing a robust network. All the while, he's been empowering his clients to achieve their real estate aspirations.
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While primarily focused on business brokering, Jason has also ventured into the realms of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and private equity. His growing familiarity with these areas reflects his commitment to expanding his skill set to better serve his clients. His unique background becomes an asset, driving success for his clients. His primary focus revolves around small to medium-sized businesses in the Midwest, where he guides clients toward wealth-building opportunities through both business and real estate transactions.
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Jason's commitment to business excellence extends beyond his professional endeavors. He founded and leads a thriving Business Improvement and Networking Group called Prosper, fostering connections and driving growth among entrepreneurs and business professionals. It's a testament to his dedication to the success of others.
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A proud alumnus of Central Michigan University, Jason calls Oakland Township, MI, home, alongside his wife Kim and their sons, Clark and Gabe. In his free time, he's often found on the golf course, carving down ski slopes, trekking through nature's beauty, or cheering for MSU football with family and friends.
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When you partner with Jason, you're not just gaining a seasoned professional; you're enlisting a passionate advocate for your business, real estate, mergers, and private equity ambitions. Contact him today, and let's embark on a transformative journey together. Your future success awaits, guided by Jason's multifaceted vision and expertise.
jsousa@glbainc.com
248-821-4889