Ensemble IQ

Summary

Lender Advisor

Chicago, IL

EnsembleIQ is a North American business intelligence company that provides actionable insights and connections to professionals in retail, technology, consumer goods, healthcare, and hospitality sectors.

The company encountered financial difficulties as it transitioned from a print-focused model to a more diversified business. Formed through the merger of three separate entities, it faced challenges with underperforming publications and the inefficiencies of multiple inherited ERP systems.

To address these issues, EnsembleIQ implemented a turnaround plan, including restructuring the executive team, improving KPI tracking, instituting cost controls, and consolidating duplicative publications. Investments were made in scalable digital platforms and primary research offerings, with the sales force realigned to support these initiatives. The company also integrated back-office operations by consolidating facilities and ERP systems.

Carl Marks Advisors (CMA) served as Lender Advisor, evaluating the company’s business plan, financial forecasts, and cash management processes. CMA provided critical recommendations, ensured lender confidence, and supported the finalization of an amendment agreement.

Key Challenges

Shifting Industry Trends: Print to Digital

Post-Acquisition Integration

Brand / Publication Profitability

Management Turnover

Cash Flow Management

Breach of Lender Covenants

Engagement Highlights

The Company implemented a turnaround plan that consisted of the following:

Overhaul of the executive management team, adding experience and aligning focus across the business units
- Developed reports to assist management in tracking performance
- Instituted cost controls and a focus on meeting KPI expectations
Reviewed underperforming publications for profitability improvement opportunities
- Consolidated duplicative publications and adjusted pricing / go-to-market strategy where necessary
Invested in a scalable digital platform and the Company’s primary research offering
- Realigned the existing sales force to focus on these platforms
Integrated the back-office: consolidated facilities and ERP systems

CMA served as Lender Advisor, providing recommendations and evaluating the viability of the Company’s business plan, financial forecast and the cash management processes

Provided comfort to the senior lender and assisted in the finalization of an amendment agreement

Ensemble IQ

Summary

Lender Advisor

Key Challenges

Engagement Highlights

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