Buzz Black Enhances AXOM Partners' Advisory Practice in Software, Cybersecurity, and AI
Buzz Black Joins AXOM Partners as Partner
AXOM Partners, the technology-focused investment bank, has made an exciting announcement about the addition of Buzz Black to their team as a Partner. Transitioning from Morgan Stanley, Buzz brings over a decade of specialized experience in software investment banking, significantly enhancing the firm's M&A advisory services in enterprise software, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Buzz's career is highlighted by his participation in transactions exceeding $35 billion in volume. His extensive experience includes senior advisory roles at Morgan Stanley's Menlo Park office, where he focused on technology investment banking, as well as advisory roles at Evercore and BofA Securities. Noteworthy engagements include providing strategic advice for Blackstone and Vista Equity Partners on their $8.4 billion acquisition of Smartsheet and advising KKR on its $4.8 billion acquisition of Instructure, among other pivotal transactions.
In welcoming Buzz to the firm, Brandon Hightower, co-founder and Partner at AXOM, expressed enthusiasm about Buzz's prestigious background and unique qualities that set him apart. "We're absolutely thrilled to have Buzz on board. His elite skill set is complemented by his enthusiasm for building relationships and his drive to provide insightful advice in high-stakes situations. Buzz’s relentless pursuit of excellent outcomes for clients is truly remarkable," Hightower stated.
Alan Bressers, also a co-founder and Partner, echoed Hightower's sentiment, highlighting that Buzz's expertise will elevate the firm's competitive edge in the tech advisory landscape. "Buzz is a remarkable strategist whose insights into the future of software will deepen our firm's capabilities. His choice to join AXOM underscores our momentum as a prominent advisor for technology companies," Bressers remarked.
Former clients of Buzz have expressed their excitement regarding his addition to AXOM. Will Conway, the former CEO of Pathwire, shared his appreciation, praising Buzz for his pivotal role during a critical sale which showcased his exceptional judgment and creativity. "Buzz balanced strategic vision with hands-on execution, resulting in an outcome that surpassed our expectations. His unparalleled stamina and ability to maintain a fun and steady presence in high-pressure situations make him an invaluable asset to AXOM's clientele," Conway noted.
In his own words, Buzz expressed his enthusiasm about joining AXOM Partners, stating, "The vision and expertise of AXOM align perfectly with the industry's future trajectory. Software and AI are fundamental forces reshaping all markets, and AXOM is strategically positioned to guide clients through this transformation. I'm excited to collaborate with the team to establish a premier advisory firm for the next era of technology."
Buzz will be operating out of AXOM's San Francisco office, alongside Alan Bressers, as the firm further expands its presence in the area. This growth follows the recent onboarding of Thomas Kim as a Vice President, who has also transitioned from William Blair, further emphasizing AXOM's commitment to excellence in technology advisory.
About AXOM Partners
AXOM Partners is recognized as a premier technology-focused investment bank providing strategic mergers and acquisitions and capital-raising advisory services. Since its inception in September 2023, AXOM has been delivering tailor-made, high-caliber advice and execution in transactions. The firm has already participated in several significant advisory assignments, including various AI-centric transactions manifesting its robust capabilities in a rapidly evolving market.
With offices in San Francisco and Lehi, Utah, AXOM continues to broaden its reach within the technology sector, positioning itself as a key player in providing strategic advice amidst the burgeoning landscape of software and AI advancements.