OUR TEAM | Fortis

Meet Our Team

Behind Fortis is a team of experienced professionals with a shared commitment to precision, relationships, and results. We bring decades of expertise in private equity, M&A advisory, and deal origination — united by a passion for helping our clients win.

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Meet the Team

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Founder- Managing Partner

Blake Collins

Blake is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Fortis M&A Partners, where he leads client engagement and drives proprietary deal sourcing through the firm’s DealForge platform. He partners with private equity firms, independent sponsors, family offices, and ultra-high-net-worth investors to originate off-market acquisition opportunities aligned with specific investment mandates.

With a background spanning strategic advisory, buy-side intermediary work, and ultra-high-net-worth client solutions, Blake has been involved in sourcing and executing closed middle and lower middle market transactions across sectors including manufacturing, business services, logistics, and financial services.

Prior to founding Fortis, Blake held advisory roles at Merrill Lynch, Bank of America, and MML Investor Services. He later contributed to Bright Path Ventures and founded Collins Capital before moving into buy-side intermediary work.

Co- Founder- Partner

Bernard Reed

Bernard is the Co-Founder of Fortis M&A Partners, bringing over 15 years of experience advising ultra-high-net-worth and high-net-worth clients. He has participated in over $400 million of enterprise value across business transitions, providing strategic guidance to founders, operators, and investors.

Prior to Fortis, Bernard held senior roles at Charles Schwab, Regions Bank, KeyBank, and BMO Harris Bank. His experience leading wealth management teams and advising on complex transactions brings a disciplined, relationship-driven approach to client partnerships.

Bernard is a graduate of the Kelley School of Business and holds a Certificate in Private Equity from the Wharton School.

Managing Director

Kyle Mugica

Kyle leads business development at Fortis M&A Partners, focusing on sourcing, cultivating, and executing strategic partnerships with private equity firms, independent sponsors, and family offices.

He plays a key role in driving targeted outreach and developing proprietary acquisition opportunities.

With nearly a decade of experience in M&A business development, Kyle has built a strong track record of identifying high-fit opportunities and fostering long-term relationships that drive successful outcomes. Based in Los Angeles, he combines strategic vision with hands-on execution to support both clients and internal sourcing initiatives.