About Us
Built on relationships.
Defined by results.
Dealer Direct Advisory was founded on a conviction that the most consequential automotive dealership transactions deserve an advisor with both institutional rigor and deep operational credibility.
Our Story
The firm that
dealers trust.
Dealer Direct Advisory was established to fill a gap that had long existed in the Canadian automotive M&A market: a firm with genuine dealer credibility, institutional-grade advisory capability, and an unwavering commitment to confidentiality.
We do not operate as a listing brokerage. We do not advertise your dealership. We do not run public processes. We identify the right counterparty, structure the right transaction, and execute with precision — protecting your interests at every stage.
Our clients are dealer principals, dealer groups, private equity firms, family offices, and OEMs. What they share is a need for an advisor they can trust completely — one who will be there long after the transaction closes.
30+
Years of Automotive
Transaction Experience
$7B+
of Businesses
Valued
Former Dealer Principal — Paul Stern, CEO & Partner
Paul spent over 30 years as a franchised dealer principal — buying, operating, and selling multiple dealerships across Canada. He has sat on both sides of the table, which means he understands exactly what is at stake for every client he represents.
Accredited Valuation Expertise — Charles J. Saleh, CFO & Partner
Charles holds four of the most rigorous valuation designations in North America, ensuring every mandate is supported by institutional-grade financial analysis and accredited business valuation methodology.
Our Team
Partner-led. Always.
Every mandate at Dealer Direct Advisory is led personally by a partner. You will never be handed off to a junior associate.
Paul Stern
CEO and Partner
Founding President & CEO of Dealer Direct Advisory. Paul has personally led some of the most significant automotive dealership transactions in Canadian history, with a career spanning $6B+ in deal values across sell-side, buy-side, and valuation mandates.
Charles J. SalehCPA, ABV, ASA, CEIV
CFO and Partner
Chief Financial Officer at Dealer Direct Advisory specializing in financial analysis, deal structuring, and valuation. Charles brings institutional rigor to every mandate, ensuring clients are represented with the credibility and precision that sophisticated transactions demand.
Client Testimonials
What our clients say.
Michael Carmichael
CEO
UpAuto
Paul approached me with an offer to acquire one of my stores. I had no interest in selling the store and I told Paul that quite clearly. He put a bonafide, no games, LOI in front of me that caused me to change my mind. Paul made the process very easy and worked to maintain a clean flow of communications throughout the process. Be careful if Paul stops by for a coffee. It could cost you a store! Thank you Paul!
1 of 9 testimonials
Verified client
Get In Touch
Start a confidential
conversation.
Whether you're considering a sale, exploring an acquisition, or simply want to understand what your dealership is worth — reach out. All inquiries are handled with complete discretion.
Phone
+1 (416) 543-9390
info@dealerdirectcanada.com
Offices
Toronto · Calgary · Vancouver
Sell Your Dealership
All submissions are strictly confidential.
Begin the Conversation
Ready to explore
your options?
Whether you're considering a sale, seeking an acquisition, or simply want to understand what your dealership is worth — we're here to have a confidential conversation.