Expert Strategies for Mergers, Acquisitions & Exits
Our Purpose
Guiding your growth at every stage
Palmer-Strategic Partners is dedicated to guiding businesses through acquisitions, mergers, and exit strategies with precision and expertise. Our mission is to provide unwavering support at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey—whether you’re scaling, transitioning, or planning your next move. Beyond advisory services, we actively partner with and acquire companies to unlock growth, drive innovation, and create lasting value.
Meet Our Leaders
Derek Palmer, Chief Executive Officer
Derek Palmer is an accomplished business leader and entrepreneur with over a decade of executive leadership experience. As CEO of Palmer-Strategic Partners, Derek has built a reputation for driving growth and creating value through strategic vision and operational excellence. Throughout his career, he has successfully negotiated dozens of acquisitions, mergers, and exits, demonstrating a keen ability to identify opportunities and execute complex transactions.
In addition to his role at Palmer-Strategic Partners, Derek is the Founder of Level Up Consulting, a premier business consultancy based in Katy, Texas. Under his leadership, Level Up Consulting earned the prestigious “Best Of Award” for Business Consulting in 2025, presented by the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce—a testament to Derek’s commitment to excellence and client success.
Derek has led and owned multiple organizations across diverse industries, consistently delivering results that exceed expectations. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation have fueled the development of a thriving portfolio of businesses in the Houston area. Today, Derek continues to empower businesses through strategic guidance, operational support, and transformative leadership.
Doug Parker- Chief Financial Officer
Doug Parker serves as Chief Financial Officer at Palmer-Strategic Partners, bringing exceptional financial expertise and strategic insight to the organization. As the principal founder of Parker Strategic Advisors, Doug has built a distinguished career grounded in integrity and precision. He is both a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder—credentials that underscore his deep knowledge of accounting, finance, and investment strategy.
Doug began his career in 2008 as a Tax Intern with Deloitte while earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance from Chapman University. Since then, he has advised clients across diverse industries and income levels, earning a reputation for delivering thoughtful, results-driven solutions. His extensive experience in financial planning, tax strategy, and corporate advisory work positions him as a trusted leader in guiding Palmer-Strategic Partners’ growth and fiscal strategy.
Timothy Hunsaker- Vice President Of Aquisitions
Tim Hunsaker serves as Vice President of Acquisitions at Palmer Strategic Partners, where he oversees all acquisition initiatives, driving strategic growth and long-term value creation. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Xavier University and brings a wealth of expertise in sales and project management. Throughout his career, Tim has built a reputation as a strategic problem solver, an exceptional communicator, and a natural leader.
Based in Chicago, Illinois, Tim also serves as a Business Coach for Level Up Consulting. In this role, he specializes in fractional project management and leadership coaching, helping executives and organizations optimize performance, streamline operations, and strengthen leadership capabilities. His dual leadership positions reflect a commitment to delivering measurable results and fostering organizational excellence
Cessa Vidal- Vice President Of Operations
Cessa Vidal serves as Vice President of Operations at Palmer Strategic Partners, where she ensures organizational systems and processes are optimized, the business model remains aligned with the company’s vision, and strategic partnerships consistently deliver value. Acting as the organization’s cultural steward, Cessa safeguards alignment between our vision, values, and operational execution.
Cessa brings years of experience from the hospitality industry, where she developed a proven track record in communication, leadership, and process improvement. At Palmer Strategic Partners, she leads the operations team in identifying challenges, fostering collaboration, and implementing solutions that drive efficiency and excellence. Known for her quick thinking and pragmatic approach to decision-making, Cessa ensures our team operates at the highest level—so we can best serve yours.
Our Strategic Solutions
Business Acquisitions
Mergers & Partnerships
Mergers & Partnerships
Looking for a business to purchase? Ready to grow out of your corporate job and be your own boss but don't want to buy a franchise? We can help.
Mergers & Partnerships
Mergers & Partnerships
Mergers & Partnerships
Growth is often attained through merger's. Have you found a company you want to partner with or are you seeking a partner to align with? We can help.
Succession Planning
Mergers & Partnerships
Seeking a Strategic Partner?
Are you considering retirement or ready for a change? We can help ensure that you are prepared for this transition and will assist you in maximizing your financial benefit as well as ensuring your legacy is maintained.
Seeking a Strategic Partner?
Seeking a Strategic Partner?
Palmer-Strategic Partners is actively seeking businesses to partner with to cultivate and scale growth. Are you ready to work with an award winning team?
Need an Exit?
Need an Exit?
Struggling to find the right buyer? Tired of dealing with brokers and listing sites? At Palmer-Strategic Partners, we simplify the process by purchasing businesses directly—even those with challenging financials or limited company history. Our goal is to make selling your business fast, straightforward, and stress-free.