Philip Handke, CFA

Transworld Business Advisors is considered by many to be the world leader in the marketing and sales of businesses, franchise consulting and development. Whether you represent an acquisition-minded corporation, or are personally interested in owning your own company, Transworld offers the professional services that successfully bring buyers and sellers together. From business brokerage, franchising, to mergers and acquisitions; we are the business sale specialists. Since our inception, we have excelled in getting deals done! Call us and you will understand what makes us the best company to handle any business or commercial real estate sale.

With more than 20 years of leadership experience in financial services at JPMorgan and Empower, Ryan McCarthy brings deep expertise in client relationship management, financial planning, and strategic business operations to his role as a Business Broker with Transworld Business Advisors. He has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams, managing complex portfolios, and delivering results through integrity, insight, and clear communication. Ryan specializes in working with Main Street and Lower Middle Market business owners, guiding entrepreneurs through the buying and selling process with confidence and clarity. As the owner of two small businesses, he understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with building, growing, and transitioning a business—experience that allows him to provide practical guidance and real-world perspective to every client engagement. His approach is rooted in professionalism, market knowledge, and a commitment to helping business owners maximize value and achieve successful outcomes. Whether advising on strategic exit plans or connecting clients with qualified buyers through Transworld’s global network, Ryan is dedicated to making each transaction smooth, informed, and effective. A Scottsdale resident, Ryan enjoys golfing, fitness, and embracing the Arizona lifestyle—because he believes great business starts with great balance.

Richard Johnston is a Business Broker with Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix, where he helps business owners navigate one of the most important financial decisions of their lives—selling their business. With a background that spans family-owned operations to large-scale corporate leadership, Richard brings a unique perspective that resonates with both buyers and sellers. Prior to joining Transworld, Richard held executive leadership roles at Sysco, where he led business turnarounds and was directly involved in multiple acquisitions ranging from $25M to $250M in revenue. His experience in due diligence, negotiation, and operational strategy allows him to guide clients through complex transactions with clarity and confidence. At Transworld, he leverages a proven process and expansive buyer network to identify the right opportunities and deliver strong outcomes. Originally from the Midwest, Richard developed his entrepreneurial mindset working in his family’s bakery, where he learned firsthand what it takes to build and operate a successful business. Now based in Scottsdale, Arizona, he is passionate about helping business owners transition to their next chapter while protecting the legacy they’ve worked hard to create.

I am a seasoned professional with a rich background in business ownership and brokerage. As a proud mother of two children and the owner of a beloved Yorkie, I know the importance of balancing my personal life and being able to extend a deep commitment to my clients. As a former business owner, I built and grew my company and strategically sold my business using a broker. In doing so, it fueled my passion for helping small business owners reach their next destination ethically and confidentially. I am passionate about helping, guiding, and offering quality and personable service all the time. I look forward to working with you!

With 30 years experience in assisting business owners in buying, selling and growing their business, I am uniquely qualified to assist business owners in taking the next step in their business and personal lives. There is no better feeling than helping people achieve their life long dreams in growing and selling their business opportunity. I am very hands on, a consistent communicator and will be their with you every step of the way in buying or selling your business.

As a dedicated agent with Transworld Business Advisors, we specialize in guiding clients through the complex journey of buying and selling businesses. Every member of our team undergoes business brokerage training and certification, ensuring we bring unparalleled expertise to each transaction. Over the years, we have helped many businesses around the world with the buying and selling process ensuring our client’s confidentiality every step of the way. Our mission is to help you achieve your business goals with confidence.

What I bring is passion, energy and communication skills that are articulated to all sides. Open and consistent dialogue is the key to getting deals done and that is what we are in the business to do. Over 30 years of experience working with small to medium businesses and dedicated to the task.

For more than three decades, I dedicated myself to executive leadership within the building material, construction, and manufacturing sectors. Concurrently, since 2008, I've operated as an independent consultant, aiding diverse small businesses in enhancing profitability, increasing business valuation, and readiness for sale. Transitioning into business brokerage, I acquired my Arizona license in early 2023. Now, I assist small enterprises in boosting their worth, offering valuation insights, and helping owners to market their business for sale, find a buyer, arrange a deal, and bring the transaction to a succesful sale.

IAs a seasoned business professional with extensive experience in mortgage lending, business finance, and client advisory services. I specialize in helping individuals and business owners navigate financing options, evaluate opportunities, and achieve their strategic financial goals. I am known for my relationship-driven approach, clear communication, and commitment to delivering results for my clients.

With over 25 years of proven success in sales and client relationship management, I bring a wealth of experience and a robust book of business to my role as a Business Broker with Transworld Business Advisors. After relocating from Washington State to Arizona, I’ve continued my commitment to helping entrepreneurs and business owners navigate the complex process of buying, selling, and growing their businesses. My approach is rooted in integrity, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, I’m here to guide you through every step with clarity and confidence. Outside of work, I enjoy golfing and embracing the Arizona lifestyle—because I believe great business is built on great living.

As a former small business lender I've worked with thousands of Main Street businesses, gaining a deep understanding of what makes them successful and marketable. Originally from Nebraska, I've been an Arizona resident since 2011 and am proud to call this great state home! Prior to joining Transworld, I enjoyed a 14-year career in banking, commercial real estate, and SBA lending. I've worked with businesses both big and small, gaining an understanding of their unique challenges and needs. This experience has been invaluable in helping my buyers and sellers get the best possible terms for their deal! Thinking about selling your business? Let's chat!

Tim Tejada is a member of the Arizona Business Broker's Association with over 30 years of executive leadership experience in Fortune Top 100 companies. His career includes leadership positions at Sara Lee, Smucker’s, and Tyson, where he honed his skills in managing financial performance, sales guidance, and strategic business development. Tim specializes in working with Main Street and Middle Market business owners, as well as M&A clients, leveraging his expertise in engagement, sales strategy, and financial guidance to drive shareholder value. Tim effectively advises business owners on strategic exit plans and identifies optimal buyers, utilizing a global network of experienced business advisors to facilitate smooth transactions. Beyond his professional life, Tim resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he enjoys golfing, hiking, fishing, and exploring the Valley of the Sun. He is deeply committed to his family and faith, and actively serves his communities through mentorship as well as engagement with non-profit organizations.

My diverse background in business, leadership and marketing allows me to look at things from a unique perspective. I have a passion for helping people and a desire to help business owners achieve their transitions to a better retirement or new entrepreneurs with their own dreams of business ownership. Providing excellent communications, hands on accessibility, and immediate direct follow up is what sets me apart.

As a Business Broker at Transworld Business Advisors, I specialize in helping entrepreneurs buy, sell, and grow businesses. Leveraging my experience in consulting, data analytics, and small business M&A, I guide clients through each step of the exit process, ensuring smooth transactions and maximizing business value. Before joining Transworld, I built a business from the ground up, growing it to over 65 employees. This journey gave me firsthand insight into the dedication, commitment, and hard work required to succeed as a business owner. Exiting the company was equally rewarding, as it provided me with valuable experience in the M&A process - covering business valuation, operational optimization, and deal structuring - sharpening my skills in scaling and growing businesses. These experiences naturally led me to pursue a career in business brokering, where I can help other entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of buying and selling businesses using the insights I've gained from my own successful exit and background in consulting. Whether you're looking to acquire a business or plan your exit strategy, my focus is on delivering personalized, data-driven insights and support.