When you’re considering to go public, and you’ve chosen your potential market(s), you need to be in the right shape to begin the process—and the sooner, the better. You’ll need to have a well-thought-out business plan and corporate structure, a compelling equity story, and appropriate governance, financial and IT systems in place. And you’ll need to be ready, from day one, to address new requirements around regulatory compliance, internal control, financial reporting, people and reward, investor relations, and much more. All of this, of course, while continuing to run your day-to-day business efficiently and strategically.

Executing a successful IPO is the culmination of a long, complex process. From strategy, accounting, reporting, financial systems, internal control, corporate governance, media and investor relations, to treasury, IT, legal, tax, people and reward — every piece of the puzzle must be in place and connected before you proceed. Each market has its own rules and its own regulatory landscape and risks to navigate. That’s why it is so important to work with an independent advisor that has the people, presence and experience to help you execute your IPO — in whatever market (or markets) you select.

Your IPO is not the end of the story, it’s only the beginning. Once listed, your company will be under far greater public scrutiny than ever before, with a vastly expanded universe of stakeholders - and a significantly larger portfolio of new risks, and obligations, to manage. Any weakness in systems or failure to comply with regulations may cause a loss of investor confidence – not to mention reputational damage, and the potential for significant company and personal monetary damage as well. In more ways than one, the public’s perception of your company will have a direct effect on the value of your stock. Fortunately, you are not alone.