The M&A Advisor Names Meridian Capital Director Benton Sturt A 2025 Emerging Leader
Published June 4, 2025
SEATTLE, WA (June 4, 2025) — Meridian Capital, a leading independent investment bank serving middle-market businesses, is proud to announce that Benton Sturt, Director and Head of the firm’s Consumer Practice, has been named a 2025 Emerging Leader by The M&A Advisor. This prestigious recognition is part of the organization’s 16th Annual Emerging Leaders Awards, honoring top M&A professionals who have made notable contributions to the industry before the age of 40.
Benton was selected from hundreds of nominees by a panel of independent judges composed of veteran dealmakers and industry leaders. Winners will be honored during a Gala celebration at the 2025 Leadership in Dealmaking Summit, held September 15–16 at the New York Athletic Club.
“Benton has been an invaluable member of Meridian for the past 10 years,” said Brian Murphy, CEO of Meridian Capital. “His contributions have been instrumental to both our growth and culture, particularly through his leadership of our Consumer Practice and oversight of the Salt Lake City office. This honor is a testament not only to Benton’s work ethic and commitment to his clients but to the collaborative energy he brings to our team every day.”
Since joining Meridian in 2015, Benton has advised on dozens of successful transactions, specializing in sell-side M&A for founder-led and investor-backed companies in the consumer, lifestyle, and wellness sectors. His client-first approach and data-driven execution have positioned him as a trusted advisor to business owners navigating complex transitions.
In addition to leading transaction execution, Benton has played a key role in expanding Meridian’s strategic growth in Salt Lake City and the broader Intermountain region.
To learn more about Benton, please visit meridianib.com/team/benton-sturt.
About Meridian Capital
Meridian Capital is a Seattle-based investment bank specializing in mergers & acquisitions, capital raising, and strategic advisory for privately held, middle-market companies across the United States. The firm brings deep industry expertise and a client-first philosophy to every engagement, with a proven track record across the industrial, consumer, and technology sectors.
For more information, visit www.meridianib.com.
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About Meridian Capital
Meridian Capital LLC is a leading independent middle market M&A advisory firm with locations in Seattle, Salt Lake City, the Bay Area, and Portland. Meridian has served as a trusted advisor to business owners on complex corporate finance, M&A and strategic challenges for over 29 years. The firm differentiates itself through its deep industry insights, highly customized service approach, and end-to-end commitment to execution. With a unique combination of financial, transactional, and operational professionals on your side, Meridian offers the depth and breadth of experience required to serve leading middle market companies in multiple sectors including aerospace defense & space, food, beverage & agribusiness, business services, consumer, diversified industrials, engineering & construction, building products, technology, and telecommunications. Meridian also offers clients unparalleled cross-border capabilities through its REACH M&A Partners network.
