An industry leader in the structuring and execution of ESOP buyouts, Matt brings nearly two decades of financial advisory experience to BaseRock Partners. Matt also has extensive experience in advising middle-market companies in mergers & acquisitions other internal ownership transitions. Prior to founding BaseRock Partners, Matt’s experience included leading global financing, strategy, and M&A for a publicly traded renewables firm; leading M&A and ESOP transactions for Prairie Capital; and as a Managing Director at FMI Capital Advisors, where he advised clients on M&A and internal management buyouts as well as leading the company’s ESOP advisory practice.

Matt has completed more than 50 transactions in his career and is a frequent speaker on topics including ownership transfer, mergers and acquisitions, and ESOPs. Matt is a recipient of the 11th Annual Emerging Leaders Award of 2020 presented by The M&A Advisor (formerly known as the M&A Advisor’s 40 Under 40 Award). Mr. Drake is a graduate of the University of Iowa and received his Master of Business Administration from DePaul University.

Matt currently resides in Kirkwood, Missouri with his wife Kristin, son Nolan, daughter Evelyn and dog Wrigley.