Ad Tech Professional Kicking Off ETA Journey in NJ

🔹 Hi Searchfunder community! I’m Stuart Carroll, a sales and marketing executive based in New Jersey. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with major brands like Amazon and Wayfair, helping scale 8-figure digital media investments across platforms such as Meta and Pinterest. I recently jumpstarted my research into Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition and am in the early stages of this journey—actively learning, refining my investment focus, and connecting with others who’ve successfully made the leap into small business ownership. So far, I’ve found myself most drawn to: * Digital marketing and media agencies (where I can directly apply my background in performance marketing and business development) * Home services and light B2B service providers (especially those with strong customer relationships and room to grow) I’m seeking to acquire a business in Northern or Central New Jersey, ideally with $300K–$1M in SDE, and a clear path to scale through: * Operational streamlining * Improved marketing and sales execution * Modernization through tools like generative AI and workflow automation This won’t be a passive investment—I’m eager to step in and lead, bringing hustle, strategic insight, and long-term commitment. 👥 I’d love to connect with: * Brokers and advisors who know of businesses in these sectors * Experienced operators in marketing, creative, or local service-based businesses * Fellow searchers—especially those from non-MBA or non-finance backgrounds—who’ve made the leap from corporate into ETA On the personal side, I’m a new dad and lifelong Jersey guy, looking to build a business I can be proud of for my family and community. Thanks in advance for any connections or advice you’re willing to share. 📧 redacted | 📍 Based in Cranford, NJ