Karl Sakas advises agency founders who want options.
Whether that means preparing for a future exit, stepping back from day-to-day operations, or simply running a calmer, more valuable business, Karl helps owners build agencies they actually like—for an exit they’ll love, when the time is right.
For more than a decade, Karl has worked with agency founders around the world to reduce risk, increase margins, and remove owner dependency—so the business works with them, not because of them.
His work focuses on one core outcome: building agencies that are valuable, transferable, and resilient—whether or not a sale ever happens.
How Karl Advises Agency Owners
Karl brings a calm, strategic approach to high-stakes decisions.
Clients often describe him as the person who helps them slow down, see the full picture, and move forward with confidence—especially when the next move isn’t obvious. He combines practical operating experience with an acquirer’s perspective, helping founders focus on what truly matters long-term.
The result: clearer priorities, stronger leadership, and a business that doesn’t require constant oversight to perform.
Experience That Matters
Karl has seen the agency world from nearly every angle—project manager, director of client services, operations leader, and trusted advisor to hundreds of agencies across 36 countries.
This is his third business. He understands firsthand what it’s like to build something from scratch, carry the pressure of being the final decision-maker, and wrestle with questions about growth, succession, and “what’s next.”
Karl is also the author of four books on agency leadership and growth, including Work Less, Earn More and Calm the Chaos.
Why Agency Owners Work With Karl
Agency owners come to Karl when the stakes are high.
Sometimes they’re thinking about an exit in the next few years. Sometimes they just want the option—without burning out or making short-term decisions they’ll regret later.
Whether the work involves exit readiness, succession planning, leadership structure, or untangling operational risk, Karl offers direct, experience-based advice—not theory, not hype.
Together, clients make smarter decisions faster and build businesses that run smoothly—even when the owner isn’t in the room.
When You’re Ready
You’ve built something valuable.
When you’re ready to think clearly about what’s next—whether that’s an eventual exit or simply more optionality—Karl can help. Explore how Karl works with agency owners.