PITTSBURGH, PA – April 14, 2025 – REAG Vice President Jaclyn Ring, M&AMI, CM&AP, known for her expertise in lower middle market M&A transactions, recently shared valuable insights from her distinguished career in an exclusive interview with M&A Source’s The Bridge, highlighting the human elements that drive successful deals while preparing to make history as the next Chair of the M&A Source Board in 2026.
Ring, who transitioned to M&A from a career in the sports industry with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates, brings a unique perspective to the field. “Selling a business isn’t just a financial decision – it’s often an emotional one,” Ring noted in the interview. “In M&A, understanding the human side of business while continuously being challenged in other aspects creates opportunities for deeper client relationships.”
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Ring believes her attention to detail and ability to create environments where people feel comfortable sharing information gives her a competitive edge. “I have a strong ability to pick up on small details that others might overlook, which can be critical in negotiations and deal-making,” she explained.
Ring’s expertise has been instrumental in developing REAG’s proprietary buy-side process, which has become a core component of the firm’s success. This process enhances how REAG identifies and approaches acquisition targets, allowing them to better serve clients through proprietary deal sourcing.
When asked about essential qualities for M&A advisors, Ring emphasized three key attributes: “Integrity, trust-building skills, and problem-solving ability.” She stressed that honesty and transparency with clients must always come first, followed by building trust on both sides of the table, and maintaining the ability to find creative solutions when deals encounter obstacles.
Looking ahead to industry trends, Ring noted an increase in international companies making acquisitions within the United States, particularly in manufacturing. “As the global market evolves, there’s a growing need for international companies to establish a presence in the United States,” she observed.
Ring’s advice to new M&A professionals reflects her collaborative approach: “Find a team that continuously supports you while pushing you to be your best. Having the right people around you can make all the difference, especially in a field as dynamic as M&A.” She also emphasized the importance of curiosity: “Always stay curious. The drive to research, ask questions, and understand every detail of a deal will take you a long way.”
In October 2024, Ring was elected to serve as the Chair of the Board for M&A Source in 2026, marking a significant milestone as the organization will have two consecutive female chairs for the first time in its history.
The Investment Banking Team at REAG specializes in Mergers and Acquisitions and Private Capital Market Advisory in the Lower Middle Market, with a commitment to meaningful engagement and long-term collaboration. For over two decades, REAG has helped leadership teams, private equity groups, and family offices optimize cash flow, overcome challenges to grow, maximize business value, and successfully transfer ownership.
Bio: Jaclyn Ring CM&AP, M&AMI joined REAG in 2013 and has over 10 years of mergers and acquisitions experience. She is responsible for the execution of buy-side and sell-side transactions. Jaclyn is an active member of the M&A Source earning the prestigious CM&AP designation in 2020 and more recently, the M&AMI. She is also a recipient of the 2023 Gold Club Award from the M&A Source and more recently the M&A Source Service Award. She is a member of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth and an active participant in the ACG Women’s Network and the recipient of the 2024 ACG Pittsburgh Women in Transaction Award. In 2023, Ring was elected to the M&A Source Board of Governors and serves as the sponsorship chair. In 2026 she will serve as the Chair of the Board for M&A Source.
Prior to joining REAG, she worked in the front office of the Pittsburgh Pirates, where she had a strong track record of client service, satisfaction, and retention. Jaclyn lives in Pittsburgh with her husband and three children. She enjoys being on the sideline for children’s youth sporting events. As a family they enjoy skiing, exploring new places through travel, and spending time outdoors.
About M&A Source:
The M&A Source® is the leading not-for-profit association for individuals and firms engaged in lower middle market business transactions. The association provides education, benefits, conferences, support programs and networking opportunities, and awards the Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary® (M&AMI®) designation to qualified advisors.
