Fred Lilley. Trusted by business owners. Respected by their partners.

Fred Lilley in a navy sweater and collared shirt standing on a boat with the ocean and cloudy sky in the background.

The Business Lab Story

Fred founded Business Lab after seeing how easily success can turn to stress — and how the right guidance can reverse it.

Early in his career, he stepped into a company on the brink of bankruptcy and helped the owner rebuild, refinance, and sell for millions instead of losing everything. That experience shaped his belief that every business challenge can be turned into opportunity with the right data, discipline, and decisions.

Over the years, Fred has helped more than 100 businesses do the same — raising $600M+, adding $350M in value, and leading 11 successful turnarounds.

Silhouettes of two businessmen in suits shaking hands while standing on a cracked, abstract platform with contrasting black, blue, orange, and white background elements.

A trusted resource for owners — and their advisors.

Most clients are referred by bankers, CPAs, and attorneys who know when a business needs perspective. Fred serves as a credible, confidential handoff, helping their clients stabilize and grow while strengthening the advisor’s relationship.

Built on data, partnership, and trust.

Fred’s proven framework includes:

1️- Discover — Understand goals and challenges.
2️- Diagnose — Measure financial and operational health.
3️- Design — Create a focused roadmap.
4️- Drive — Execute with accountability and sustained progress.

Meet Fred Lilley, CMA, CEPA

Fred Lilley wearing a white t-shirt and navy blazer, standing outdoors on a street with parked cars, brick buildings, and green trees in the background.

Fred is a Certified Management Accountant and Certified Exit Planning Advisor with over two decades of experience guiding business owners through growth, transition, and turnaround.

He’s known for his steady hand and ability to connect financial clarity with human leadership.

Fast Facts:

20+ years of experience

$600M+ equity & funding raised

$350M+ added client value

11 successful turnarounds

Fred gets it — and he gets results.

“Whether you’re the business owner or the banker who’s supported them for years, Business Lab helps everyone move forward.”

For owners:

  • A confidential, judgment-free space to solve tough problems.

  • A roadmap that connects numbers with people.

  • A clear plan forward.

For partners:

  • A trusted collaborator who strengthens client relationships.

  • Expertise that enhances — never competes with — their role.

Clarity starts with a conversation.