Self-Study: ExitPro Plus CEOA Module 5: Financial Analysis and Readiness

Megan Gordon, Project Equity

Currently based in San Rafael, CA, Megan was born and raised in Berkeley, CA. Encouraged by two politically active, progressive parents, she grew up engaging in direct action, ranging from protests, to volunteer work, to local political campaigns.

Professionally, she’s run the gamut: restaurants, start ups, established corporations, and nonprofits in sectors ranging from hospitality to entertainment, tech, medical devices, biotech, and co-working. The throughline of her career has been a passion for people and engagement, which has equated to customer service, business development, sales, marketing, and the general herding of (metaphorical) cats. Her work across multiple sectors gives her a unique lens on the challenges facing small businesses across many trades. She is thrilled to bring her diverse experience and skillset to the mission of Project Equity.

Megan graduated NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a B.F.A. in Theatre Studies and a double major in Political Theory. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, attending the theater, cooking, exploring new restaurants, reading, and quality time with her husband and two (actual) cats.

Trevor Gilmore, The Menke Group

As CEO of The Menke Group, Trevor works closely with founders and owners to guide them through the ESOP process, helping them transition to employee ownership in a way that benefits everyone involved. His role is focused on advising businesses to achieve their succession, liquidity, and ownership goals, leveraging his expertise in finance, tax, and strategic planning. Over his career, he has raised hundreds of millions in bank financing and other funding sources and has created tax structures that advantage founders and business owners.