Beyond EBITDA: Reframing a brand like you mean business
Date:
Tuesday 8th September 2026
Time:
08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Location:
TBC , , ,
Cost:
Free
Categories:
Member Event
Brand is often the last thing founders think about before an exit - but investors often see it first.
This session makes the case for brand as a powerful commercial lever: one that shapes risk perception, builds growth confidence, and ultimately moves the dial on valuation. The central provocation is simple - two businesses with identical EBITDA can command radically different multiples. Why?
Brand strategist James Summerscales of Influential opens with a keynote on what it means to build a brand that is genuinely fit for purpose - authentic, coherent, and far more than a logo.
James is then joined for a moderated discussion with one of the leaders of Manchester’s private equity community for a conversation on the role brand plays as a valuation multiplier, exploring it as a risk reducer, a growth accelerator, an exit narrative tool, and a marker of revenue quality.
The session will also examine why businesses choose to reframe themselves - whether to support a new growth strategy, move from founder-led identity to institutional credibility, consolidate after M&A, professionalise the proposition, or transition from challenger to category leader.
For anyone in the room asking “if our brand disappeared tomorrow, how much would our valuation change?” - this session is where that conversation starts.
Please note that this event is reserved for members only.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact [email protected] for more information.
About the Speakers:
James Summerscales
Director - Influential Agency
James Summerscales is Co-Owner and Brand & Digital Director at Influential Agency. He helps organisations build brands that drive measurable commercial growth. James has worked across sectors including private equity, healthcare, technology, property, and the public sector. He specialises in supporting ambitious businesses and private equity portfolio companies to scale revenue, attract investment, and navigate key milestones including MBOs, investment rounds, owner exits, and successful sales.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
