Harry Ward has more than 30 years of senior executive and M&A advisory experience across a range of industrial and technology sectors. He has advised on both buy side and sell side transactions, including the sale of 3 Phoenix to Ultra Electronics, AOCE to CAE, and the divestiture of GlobalTrak to Orbcomm. His buy side clients have included NASA, defense contractors, and companies in the aviation, SATCOM, and maritime technology industries.

Mr. Ward has extensive experience with the creation of ESOPs, notably advising on the sale of Linxx Global Solutions to a private equity funded leveraged ESOP, and regularly assists clients in evaluating strategic alternatives. He also brings a strong background in managing and growing small to mid-sized companies, as well as technical expertise in technology and maritime segments. Over a three-year period, he led a West Coast distribution company through the development and execution of a growth plan, culminating in its successful sale to a strategic buyer.

Based in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area, Mr. Ward frequently travels throughout the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico region, Southern California, and Huntsville, Alabama, the nation’s space and missile hub. He regularly publishes industry M&A reports and serves as a guest speaker and panelist for business and civic organizations. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Mr. Ward served multiple deployments from both U.S. coasts as a Navy helicopter pilot and survival instructor (SERE School). He earned an MBA in finance from San Diego State University.

Professional Credentials

• Certified Exit Planning Advisor
• FINRA Series 63, 79
• Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) – Marine vessels and equipment

Mr. Dufour has more than 40 years of asset valuation and marine transportation experience. He joined Stickney Marine Surveying, Inc. in 1977, and was promoted to Vice-President of Operations in 1978. In 1988, he assumed the duties of President.

Mr. Dufour has surveyed all types of commercial marine vessels, including ships, tugs, towboats, crewboats, supply vessels, barges, derricks, dredges, and lift vessels, including their machinery. He is qualified in various State and Federal Courts in marine surveying, safety, engineering, and appraisal.

Education:

• United States Coast Guard Academy Graduate
• Naval Damage Control School
• USCG Merchant Marine Safety School
• EMD Engine School
• Marine Gear Design & Application

Memberships / Professional Certification:

• NAMS
• Certified Marine Surveyor
• National President 1996-1997
• National Vice-President 1994-1995
• Regional Vice-President East Gulf Region 1988-1991
• ASA
• Accredited Senior Appraiser
• Local Chapter President/Vice-President 1991-1994 and 2009-2010