Blue River Welcomes New Team Member and Announces Promotion

October 29, 2025 – Blue River Financial Group welcomed a new team member and announced a promotion in Q3 of 2025. The Research team welcomed Merlin Sebastian as Analyst, and the Buy-Side team promoted Randy Babi to Director. These updates reflect an ongoing commitment to growth and excellence, marked by strategic team expansion and strengthened leadership.

Merlin Sebastian, Research Analyst, is a graduate of Georgetown University’s Master’s in Management program. She previously worked as a Senior Risk Analyst at Ernst & Young, where she led audit and risk engagements for clients in the retail and FMCG sectors. Through this experience, she built a strong foundation in financial analysis and strategic problem-solving. Merlin is passionate about data-driven decision-making and creating tangible and meaningful impact.

Matthew Kanterman, Director of Research, said, “We’re delighted to have Merlin join the research team, bringing a unique background of experience both educationally and professionally. Her skills, positive attitude and desire to help solve our clients’ problems help elevate our team as a whole. We’re looking forward to seeing Merlin continue growing in the role, honing her skills, and becoming an integral member of the team.”

Connect with Merlin on LinkedIn or reach out @ msebastian@goblueriver.com.

Randy Babi was promoted to Director. Randy is a seasoned business owner and technology enthusiast with a flair for networking. He earned a BA in Political Science from Wayne State University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, with a specialized focus on counseling and negotiation. He is licensed to practice in Michigan and the Federal courts. Randy previously worked at Ford Motor Company as IT Contracts Manager. He later leveraged this corporate experience to establish his law firm, taking on complex criminal cases and professional licensing, a testament to his capability to excel in high-pressure scenarios.

“We’re thrilled to have Randy on the Blue River team and look forward to the impact he’ll make in this new role. His enthusiasm for the business and positive attitude are truly contagious. Combined with his unique background and innovative approach, Randy has a bright future ahead,” said Rich Phillips, Managing Director & Software / Technology Segment Leader.

Connect with Randy on LinkedIn or reach out @ rbabi@goblueriver.com.

About Blue River

Blue River Financial Group is a middle market merger and acquisition advisory firm. We assist corporations, private equity groups and individuals in the sale and acquisition of businesses and have completed assignments in multiple business segments. With over 20 years of experience spanning across 50 global industries, Blue River provides a suite of services to middle market clients including corporate development, private equity support, valuations, and transaction consulting, placing a premium on relationship-centered transaction counsel and client focus.

Learn More