Sequoia Welcomes M&A Expert Michael Marhofer as In-House Counsel
People | Mar 19, 2025 | EIN
Sequoia Financial Group, an Akron-based registered investment advisor with $22.6 billion in assets under management, has recently hired Michael Marhofer as its in-house executive vice president, general counsel, and corporate secretary. Marhofer, who previously advised Sequoia as a partner at Benesch Law, will have an equity stake in the firm. With over 30 years of experience in corporate legal affairs, particularly in M&A, Marhofer has already guided Sequoia through 11 deals. His appointment underscores the firm's commitment to expanding its in-house M&A expertise as it continues its growth strategy, having previously been supported by investments from Valeas Capital Partners and Kudu Investment Management.
Sectors
- Financial Advisory
- Legal Services
- Private Equity
Geography
- United States – Sequoia Financial Group is based in Akron, Ohio, and Michael Marhofer previously partnered with Cleveland-based Benesch Law, indicating the principal geographic relevance of the U.S. market.
Industry
- Financial Advisory – Sequoia Financial Group operates within the financial advisory sector, managing significant assets and engaging in mergers and acquisitions to fuel growth.
- Legal Services – The involvement of Michael Marhofer as general counsel highlights the importance of legal services in the M&A and advisory processes within the financial sector.
- Private Equity – The article mentions previous private equity investments by Valeas Capital Partners and Kudu Investment Management, indicating the influence of the private equity sector.
Financials
- $22.6 billion – Assets under management by Sequoia Financial Group.
- $200 million – Private equity stake taken by Valeas Capital Partners in 2022.
- $3.8 billion – Client assets managed by Carlson Capital Management, acquired by Sequoia.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sequoia Financial Group | Target Company | Company | An Akron, Ohio-based registered investment advisor with $22.6 billion in assets under management. |
| Michael Marhofer | Recruit | Person | Former partner at Benesch Law, now joining Sequoia as executive vice president, general counsel, and corporate secretary. |
| Benesch Law | Legal Advisor | Company | A Cleveland-based law firm where Michael Marhofer previously worked. |
| Valeas Capital Partners | Investor | Company | Provided a $200 million private equity stake in Sequoia in 2022. |
| Kudu Investment Management | Investor | Company | Made a minority investment in Sequoia in 2020. |
| Carlson Capital Management | Acquired Company | Company | A Minnesota-based firm with $3.8 billion in client assets, acquired by Sequoia in January 2025. |