Built for the Lower Middle Market
HNS works exclusively with closely-held private companies to achieve outstanding capital-centric outcomes.
We serve as the transaction advisor to leading lower middle market businesses. Our hands-on, bespoke approach to the
M&A process resonates with our clients. Our deep transaction experience allows us to understand our clients’ objectives and deliver outstanding results.
Meet the Team
Laney Naramore
MANAGING PARTNER
205-837-5409
laney@hns-partners.com
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Laney has spent the majority of his career in investment banking and corporate finance. He has extensive experience helping lower middle market and middle market companies execute mergers, acquisitions, capital raises, recapitalizations and other strategic alternatives. He is actively involved in all phases of the transaction process.
Laney graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and received his MBA from The University of Alabama. He holds FINRA Series 79 and 63 licenses.
Perry Still
MANAGING PARTNER
205-504-0470
perry@hns-partners.com
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Perry is a senior financial executive with 20 years of investment banking experience. He has completed transactions with an aggregate transaction value of over $5 billion. Perry represents clients across a wide range of industries and strongly believes that the key to a successful transaction is understanding objectives on the front end and working tirelessly to exceed expectations.
A Birmingham native, Perry received his BA from the University of Virginia and his MBA from Vanderbilt University. Prior to founding HNS Partners, he worked for Bank of America's Global Corporate & Investment Banking group (formerly Banc of America Securities) in its San Francisco office, as well as for a middle-market investment bank. He holds FINRA Series 79 and 63 licenses.
Outside of the office, Perry enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons. He is a member of the Advent Episcopal School Board of Trustees and Chair of its Endowment. He is also an alumni of Leadership UAB.
Jeremy Berman
VICE PRESIDENT
205-617-6773
jeremy@hns-partners.com
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Jeremy is a senior member of the firm's transaction team. His primary responsibilities include developing relationships with founders and executives, leading deal execution, building financial models, managing due diligence, participating in deal negotiations, and reviewing transaction agreements for clients.
Prior to HNS, Jeremy was a financial analyst for a large Express Oil Change franchise. He also spent two and a half years in the front office of the San Antonio Spurs, where he was focused on the trade and free agency marketplace, contract negotiation, and salary cap rules to assist in roster strategy decisions.
Jeremy graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with degrees in Sport Management and Business. He resides in Birmingham with his wife, Anna Cate, and their beautiful daughter Eden.
He holds FINRA Series 79 and 63 licenses.
Austin Eck
ANALYST
330-903-0526
austin@hns-partners.com
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Austin is an experienced financial professional on the firm’s transaction team at HNS Partners. He specializes in client communication, financial analysis, preparing marketing materials and supporting deal execution efforts. Austin has a strong background in GAAP accounting and project management, beginning his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in their Assurance practice, where he focused on revenue recognition, internal controls, and complex accounting matters.
Originally from Akron, Ohio, Austin graduated from Samford University with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Accounting. He holds FINRA Series 79 and 63 licenses, as well as a CPA license.
Jason McClain
Senior Advisor
205-915-1980
jason@hns-partners.com
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Jason is a Senior Advisor to HNS Partners where he advises clients on financial planning & analysis. He is also the Founder and Principal of Fox One Solutions, a finance and accounting consulting firm. Previously, Jason was an investment banker at Goldman Sachs, the CFO of a large nonprofit organization, and an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps.
He earned an MBA with Honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, an MA from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and a BS with Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy.
Brooke Wahl
MANAGING DIRECTOR
205-447-1704
brooke@hns-partners.com
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Brooke built her reputation during a decade-long career as one of the top real estate agents in her market, closing over $350M in transactions. Renowned for her sharp negotiation skills, client-focused approach, and ability to close complex deals, she consistently ranked as a leader in sales volume. Her deep understanding of financial structures and creative problem-solving enabled her to deliver tailored solutions for clients ranging from first-time buyers to high-net-worth investors.
A Birmingham native, Brooke returned to the city to work in commercial banking at Cadence Bank after receiving her BA from Auburn University. Before formally joining HNS in 2024, Brooke consulted for the firm and a New York-based family office, specializing in real estate portfolio analysis. She also advised an international REIT on U.S. investment acquisitions.
Today, Brooke leads business development and client strategy for HNS. In this role, she combines financial insight, strategic thinking, and a human-centered approach to drive growth, forge lasting partnerships, and deliver innovative solutions for clients navigating complex transactions. Her unique ability to blend analytical precision with relationship-building continues to position her and the firm as industry leaders.
Julia Donald
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
205-396-6766
julia@hns-partners.com
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Julia serves as the Director of Operations at HNS, where she excels in streamlining processes and enhancing client satisfaction. A graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in Restaurant and Hospitality Management, she began her career managing luxury events nationwide, mastering client service and operational efficiency. Drawing on this experience, she transitioned into a four-year real estate career, seamlessly managing the business operations of one of the top-producing agents in the state. Known for her efficiency and strong work ethic, Julia oversees critical functions that drive operational efficiency and client satisfaction. Her role spans multiple responsibilities, including optimizing workflows, managing client relationships, and contributing to the team's overall strategic objectives. Her attention to detail and expertise in process optimization has made her an invaluable asset in every role she's held, including the fast-paced world of investment banking.