Woman leads meeting on exit planning with her team
About us

Legacy deserves more than a spreadsheet.

Dietz NextStage Exit Partners is a leadership partner for business owners facing their most meaningful transition.
The story

You’re not alone in this. We’ve walked the path.

Founded by Larry A. Dietz, CLU®, ChFC®, RICP®, and Mike Sur, AExP, Dietz NextStage Exit Partners brings together decades of experience in succession planning, financial strategy, and business leadership. We’ve walked this path with hundreds of owners, and we know what makes transitions successful. At every step, your input is sought after and respected. We listen attentively, guide with sharp and creative minds, and perform with integrity and purpose. Our team communicates clearly using leading-edge technology, and when commitments are made, they are acted upon with clarity and follow-through.
Larry A. Dietz, CLU®,ChFC®Retirement Income Certified Professional®Conferred by The American College, and Mike Sur, AExP Conferred by Business Enterprise Institute, of Dietz NextStage Exit Partners
Our mission

We exist to help business owners make sound judgments and communicate them clearly, so their life's ambitions and legacy move forward in alignment.

Larry A. Dietz, Managing Member of Dietz Nextstage Exit Partners
Founder
Larry A. Dietz
CLU®, ChFC® Retirement Income Certified Professional®
The American College
Larry brings decades of experience guiding entrepreneurs and professionals through the complexities of wealth management. His work centers on weaving together existing resources with innovative strategies to design tax-efficient cash flows that support liquidity, lifestyle, and legacy goals. He holds the CLU®, ChFC®, and RICP® designations from The American College, building on his education at the University at Albany (NY).As much as he is an accomplished advisor, Larry is also a dedicated leader and mentor. At Zaya, he invests in the growth of his team and creates an environment where every voice is heard and every idea has value. Outside of the office, he has devoted a lifetime to service. He served as president of the United Health Services Board and has been a lifelong Scout and Eagle Scout committed to developing the next generation of leaders.Larry and his wife, Petra, live in South Bend, IN. Together, they enjoy an active life outdoors that includes golf, boating, and SCUBA diving.
Our Team

Advice you can trust.

Our team brings decades of real-world experience in business leadership, financial strategy, and succession planning. We’ve guided countless owners through pivotal transitions, and we approach every client relationship with the diligence, clarity, and care it deserves.
Larry A. Dietz
Managing Member
CLU®, ChFC®, Retirement Income Certified Professional®
Conferred By the American College
Read Bio
Mikaela Geller, RPF
First Impressions Manager
RPF
Conferred By American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries
Read Bio
Mike Sur, AExP
Business Growth Strategist
AExP
Conferred By Business Enterprise Institute
Read Bio
Our philosophy

Great transitions start with great conversations.

At DNEP, we believe in OPTIN: Other People’s Time Is Needed. We bring empathy, clarity, and structure to every decision, because you shouldn’t have to navigate this alone.
How We Work
How We Work
Coworkers happily discuss upcoming business transition
Clarity enables courage
When you see your options clearly, you can move forward decisively without second-guessing your choices.
Trust is earned through diligence
We do the work, dig into the details, and follow through because trust isn’t given, it’s built.
Confidence is contagious
When you’re certain of your plan, it inspires everyone around you to get on board.
Preparation prevents regret
Thinking ahead means fewer surprises, better outcomes, and decisions you can live with.
We support every stage of your business
From growth to transition, we’re here with the strategies, tools, and guidance you need to succeed.
Clarity enables courage
When you see your options clearly, you can move forward decisively—without second-guessing your choices.
Trust is earned through diligence
We do the work, dig into the details, and follow through—because trust isn’t given, it’s built.
Confidence is contagious
When you’re certain of your plan, it inspires everyone around you to get on board.
Preparation prevents regret
Thinking ahead means fewer surprises, better outcomes, and decisions you can live with.
We support every stage of your business
From growth to transition, we’re here with the strategies, tools, and guidance you need to succeed.
Where we are

Midwest roots. National perspective.

Our roots are in South Bend, Indiana, but our impact extends across the Midwest and beyond. We’ve spent decades navigating the business, financial, and family dynamics that shape this region. That experience gives us an unmatched perspective when guiding owners through their most important transitions.
View of Lake Michigan from the dunes with a lighthouse and sailboat in the background.
blog

Insights you can act on.

From exit strategies to family conversations, our articles share practical guidance and uncommon perspective to help you navigate your business transition with confidence. Explore real-world advice for owners, buyers, and anyone preparing for what’s next.
Planning Your Legacy
Family & Communication

Selling to Family vs. Selling to a Third Party: What’s Best for Your Legacy?

The best path forward isn’t always obvious.
Learn more
Business Exit Strategy

How Far in Advance Should You Start Planning Your Exit?

The sooner you start, the more control you have over your exit.
Learn more
Business Exit Strategy

Business Broker vs. M&A Advisor vs. Exit Planning Partner: Which Do You Need?

Not all business advisors are the same. Understanding the differences can save you time, money, and frustration.
Learn more
Dietz Nextstage Exit Partners icon

Decide what comes next, on your terms.

Whether you’re years from an exit or ready to make a move, we’re here to help you plan with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Let’s start the conversation that shapes your future.
Start the Conversation
Start the Conversation
Dietz Nextstage Exit Partners logo
Preparing business owners to lead their transitions with courage, confidence, and conviction.
Your legacy, thoughtfully transferred.
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Start the Conversation
Education
Blog