ACF expands into Germany with appointment of Bernd Wendeln as Head of M&A Europe
ACF Investment Bank is expanding its operations into Germany, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s European growth strategy. The move underscores ACF’s commitment to strengthening its presence in one of Europe’s most dynamic and influential markets, following its success in the UK and USA.
To support this expansion, ACF has appointed, Bernd Wendeln as Head of M&A Europe, to lead its regional growth initiatives. Wendeln brings over 20 years of experience in Media and Entertainment M&A, along with deep relationships across the DACH region, including media owners, private equity funds, and family offices. Based in Munich, he will play a key role in driving ACF’s European strategy and expanding its footprint across the continent.
Bernd Wendeln
Bernd previously served as Head of M&A at Verve Group and as Chief Operating Officer (Board Member) at Your Family Entertainment AG. He previously held senior M&A and corporate development roles at Tele München Group (now part of Mediawan/Leonine), and at ProSiebenSat.1 Media AG.
Bernd has a strong track record in building platforms, transforming media businesses, and creating value through strategic M&A.

“I’m excited to join ACF and help lead its European expansion. ACF’s entrepreneurial spirit, deep industry relationships, and commitment to execution make it the ideal platform to help European clients navigate complex transactions and accelerate growth through access to global investors.“
Bernd Wendeln, Head of M&A Europe, ACF Investment Bank
“Germany represents a cornerstone market for ACF’s next chapter of growth. With our existing relationships, sector expertise, and local leadership, we are ideally positioned to provide clients with deeper market insights, innovative financial solutions, and a global platform to achieve their ambitions.”
Thomas Dey, Chief Executive Officer, ACF Investment Bank

ACF Strengthens Leadership Team
This appointment follows ACF’s recent launch of its New York City office, led by Jason Rejebian, who joins from Lazard’s Media & Entertainment team. Rejebian brings extensive experience advising clients across TV, film, distribution, talent, IP, and agencies.
Together, Bernd and Jason strengthen ACF’s multi-faceted growth strategy, which focuses on scaling across Europe and the USA, investing in talent, and deepening relationships with clients and partners. By entering Germany, ACF enhances its ability to support clients locally and globally, reinforcing its mission to deliver excellence and innovation worldwide.
As part of ACF’s continued investment in talent, Milos Perovic has been promoted to Director, recognizing his pivotal contributions in several landmark transactions, including the sale of See-Saw Films to Mediawan. ACF has also launched ACF Growth, a new service designed to support emerging media and entertainment companies and strengthen our relationships with clients.
Capital Access
As part of the Forest Road family, ACF benefits from enhanced access to both internal and external sources of capital, enabling us to also support our clients in pursuing both organic and inorganic growth strategies. Forest Road maintains longstanding relationships with a broad network of capital providers, including established lenders, private funds, investor syndicates, and high-net-worth individuals.