Sophie Kaldenhoven

Sophie Kaldenhoven is a trusted partner to agency founders, helping them navigate the M&A process with confidence and clarity. As an Acquisition Manager at Merge, she specializes in crafting deals that align with a founder’s vision—whether that means securing a well-earned exit, easing into retirement, or funding their next big venture.

With a background in finance and investor relations, Sophie blends storytelling, sales, and financial analysis to drive transactions forward. She excels at bridging the gap between buyers and sellers, translating financial statements into compelling narratives that justify valuations and get deals done. But for Sophie, M&A isn’t just about numbers—it’s about relationships. She ensures that every match is both financially strategic and culturally aligned, recognizing that in the agency world, a strong team is just as valuable as the bottom line.

Sophie thrives in mentorship and leadership, constantly working to improve processes, foster collaboration, and create an environment where everyone can succeed. She played a pivotal role in the sale of a U.S.-based PR agency to an international buyer, navigating the complexities of cross-border negotiations, cultural differences, and multiple time zones to ensure a seamless transition.

Passionate about advocating for women in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Sophie values Merge’s collaborative, female-founded culture. She brings a resourceful, adaptable, and relationship-driven approach to every deal, ensuring that founders feel supported at every stage of the process.

Outside of M&A, Sophie is all about live music and NYC’s concert scene. And while she doesn’t own a dog, you’ll still find her at the dog park—soaking in the good vibes and plotting her next big transaction.

At Merge, Sophie isn’t just closing deals—she’s shaping founder-led M&A with strategy, heart, and vision.