About
Across a career of over 30 years, William J. Bettman has handled more than 300 M&A transactions. Private equity firms and the owners of private and family-held companies turn to him to sell a business, buy one, or invest, and he structures each deal with an eye on tax efficiency and lasting value. He earned his J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 1992. He earned an M.B.A. from Loyola University Chicago in 1991. His past as a business consultant and efficiency advisor shapes how he structures a deal and solves problems.
Who is a good fit for William J. Bettman
- Owners of private and family-owned businesses selling their companies.
- Private equity firms pursuing an acquisition or an investment.
- Company owners acquiring another business.
Education and admissions
- Education
- Loyola University Chicago School of Law, J.D., 1992
- Loyola University Chicago, M.B.A., 1991
- Northwestern University, B.A., 1986
- Bar admissions
- Illinois
Recognition
- Best Lawyers in America® - Corporate Law (2024-2026)
- Leading Lawyers - Corporate Finance Law; Mergers & Acquisitions Law, Advisory Board (2008-2026)
Specialties
Buy-side M&A representationSell-side M&A representation
Representative matters
As described on the firm’s website.
- Advised on the sale of a family-owned multinational food related business to a strategic buyer with proceeds in excess of $1 billion.
- Designed a sophisticated estate plan and family office structure in connection with the sale of a large privately owned business.
- Represented a multi-generational family in its sale of a printing and packaging company.
- Represented a private equity firm in its investment in a tech company.
- Represented a private investor with respect to his investment in a premium cocktail machine business.
- Represented a niche art magazine publisher in the sale of its business to a major media company.
- Represented a major water works manufacturer in the acquisition of a leading competitor.
- Represented a leading private equity firm in the sale of an investment to a leading casino company.
- Represented a private family in connection with its leading Greek and Mediterranean food business.
- Represented the sellers of an ESOP billion dollar technology company. (seller side)
Deal profile
- Typical deal size
- Any deal size
- Remote work
- In-person / regional