Strategic Capital: Private Equity and Distressed Deals

Join TMA West Michigan for the second session of our annual  panel series-

February 18, 2026
Strategic Capital: Private Equity and Distressed Deals

In distressed deals, execution—not theory—determines outcomes. Join experienced turnaround specialists and distressed buyers for a practitioner-led conversation on how private equity navigates complex negotiations, misaligned stakeholders, and high-risk capital decisions.

This session will focus on the realities of executing distressed transactions, including:

• Negotiation dynamics among investors, lenders, and sellers in high-pressure situations

• What differentiates successful restructurings from deals that fail to close—or fail post-close

• Common misconceptions sellers and borrowers have about private equity in distress scenarios

• The legal and business terms that matter most in distressed deal documentation

Designed for professionals actively working in turnaround and distressed environments, this event emphasizes real examples, practical lessons, and peer-level dialogue over theory.

Let's get candid and not mince words. This panel is full to the brim with experience!

February 18, 2026
Location: CItyFlats Event Room- Main Floor
83 Monroe Center St NW 
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Time: 11:45 AM - 1:15 PM

Cost: TMA Member | $35
Non Member | $50
NextGen | $20

About the Panelists:
Taso Sofikitis, Chief Executive Officer: Maynards Group
Since 1998, Taso Sofikitis has played a pivotal role in establishing Maynards as a global leader in asset disposition. As the majority shareholder of the Maynards Group of Companies since 2012, Taso has overseen a multitude of projects worldwide, driving the company's growth and success.

In his role as CEO and Chairman of Maynards Group of Companies, Taso directs an internationally renowned name in auctions and asset valuation services. With over two decades of experience, he expertly manages and expands a diverse portfolio of businesses across various sectors and regions. His dedication to delivering outstanding value to clients, partners, and stakeholders fuels a culture of excellence and innovation within the organization.

Additionally, Taso serves as President of Maynards Capital Services, a specialized financial advisory firm focusing on restructuring, financing, and mergers and acquisitions for distressed and under-performing companies.

His extensive expertise encompasses appraisals, auctions, financing, liquidations, marketing, operations, restructuring, and sales. Taso leverages this broad skill set to guide the strategic vision and direction of Maynards' companies, ensuring their long-term success and sustainability. With deep experience across the Automotive, Coal, Construction, Food, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, Mining, and Transportation sectors, he remains committed to the highest standards of integrity, service, and success.


Jeff Stone, Managing Director: TRM Equity
Jeff is a Managing Director of TRM Equity, where he is responsible for sourcing, executing, managing, and exiting investments. Jeff has served in both operating roles and is a member of the Board of Directors in many of our portfolio companies in our Predecessor Fund, Speyside Equity Fund I LP.

Previously, Jeff was an investment banker with Deloitte & Touche Corporate Finance focusing on middle-market mergers and acquisitions. During his career, Jeff held the position of President for a niche manufacturer of commercial playground equipment and was a business development executive for a consulting firm in the area of finance and accounting. Jeff is a graduate of Hillsdale College and obtained his MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Bob Wolford, Member: Miller Johnson
Bob Wolford is a former Managing Member of the firm and has been practicing law since 2001. He is a corporate lawyer who specializes in private equity and distressed transactions representing automotive suppliers and other manufacturers in transactions, business and supply chain matters, as well as debtors, purchasers of assets and other interested parties in turnaround and insolvency matters.

Mr. Wolford regularly represents buyers and sellers throughout the country in mergers, acquisitions of stock or assets, MBOs, recapitalizations, reorganizations, private equity investments and other transactions.   He has a specialized focus on distressed transactions and has significant experience advising closely-held and family owned businesses, private equity funds and family offices in all sizes of transactions.

Additional date to follow:
March 18, 2026- Session 3

Not a member? Click here to join!