Ken Tallmadge brings a lifetime of business expertise to Murphy Business & Financial and Murphy M&A Advisors, where he serves as a vital member of the Murphy Carolina team. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, Ken assists small and middle-market business owners in preparing their companies for sale and executing transactions, allowing them to focus on day-to-day operations. Additionally, he aids buyers in finding businesses tailored to their strategic and economic needs.
Before joining Murphy, Ken owned and operated a highly successful Kinetico water treatment dealership in the Charlotte, NC area. Holding plumbing licenses in both North and South Carolina and certified as a water specialist, Ken managed all aspects of the business, including operations, human resources, accounting, sales, and marketing. Under his leadership, the business experienced remarkable growth, expanding by over 500%.
Ken{s entrepreneurial journey began in his hometown of Conway, SC, where he established his first retail business over three decades ago. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in entrepreneurship, Ken gained invaluable experience from his parents, who owned and operated various small businesses, including seafood restaurants, gift stores, and a motel where he resided. This upbringing instilled in him a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which he further cultivated after earning his BS in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina (Coastal Carolina Branch) in 1993.
Before venturing into business ownership, Ken graduated from the SC Criminal Justice Academy and served as a Law Enforcement Officer for the city of Rock Hill, SC. During his tenure, he fulfilled various roles, including Field Training Officer and Ethics Instructor, demonstrating his commitment to public service and leadership.
With a diverse background encompassing law enforcement, retail, and water treatment industries, Ken brings a unique perspective and skill set to his current role at Murphy Business Sales - Charleston. His dedication to helping businesses thrive and his innate understanding of the complexities of entrepreneurship make him an invaluable asset to the team.