As of 2025, Kristi May is the owner at J&E Business Group, bringing a proven track record of driving growth, streamlining operations, and delivering results for organizations across multiple industries. With a career spanning Marketing, Communications, Sales, and Operations, Kristi has served clients in the arts, medical, pharmaceutical, and real estate sectors—helping service-based businesses in the $3M–$12M revenue range achieve revenue increases of 40% or more.

In addition to her role with J&E, Kristi is an experienced business consultant for both for-profit and non-profit organizations, specializing in creating scalable systems, optimizing workflows, and developing high-level strategies that strengthen foundational business structures. She is also a licensed real estate agent with EXP Realty and a Ramsey Solutions Master Financial Coach, giving her unique insight into the financial and operational aspects of business ownership.

Kristi holds a B.A. in Communication from Messiah College, along with certifications in grant writing and information architecture, and has completed graduate-level coursework toward an MBA at Delaware Valley University. She is recognized for her deep industry knowledge, disciplined work ethic, and ability to build strong, lasting partnerships.

Harry Jeffries is the co-founder of J&E Business Group, a company built on decades of business brokerage, real estate, and management expertise. With over 14 years of experience as a partner in a leading business brokerage firm, Harry has helped countless entrepreneurs and investors navigate the complex process of buying and selling businesses. He launched J&E Business Group alongside his longtime friend and colleague, Larry Etherton, with a shared mission to bring clarity, integrity, and results to every transaction.

Prior to his work in business brokerage, Harry spent more than 35 years as a full-time real estate professional, serving as a sales associate, broker, manager, trainer, and team owner with Century 21 and RE/MAX. He specialized in residential, investment, and commercial properties, earning a place in the RE/MAX Hall of Fame for his outstanding performance and client service.

Harry also brings over a decade of leadership experience in the steel industry, where he worked in industrial engineering, finance, and management consulting. A U.S. Army veteran, he served in Military Intelligence during the Vietnam War and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Corporate Finance from Allegheny College.

Civically engaged, Harry has served as President of two Rotary Clubs, a school board member, and a local township planning committee member. His extensive business acumen, leadership background, and community involvement make him a trusted guide for clients at every stage of business

Larry Etherton is the co-founder of J&E Business Group, LLC, where he brings over four decades of experience in real estate, business ownership, and corporate finance. Alongside his long-time friend and business partner, Harry Jeffries, Larry founded J&E with a shared commitment to providing strategic guidance to individuals and entrepreneurs navigating business and real estate transitions.

Larry’s career began in finance, serving as a financial analyst with industry leaders CertainTeed and FMC Corporation. In 1976, he transitioned into real estate, launching a distinguished career that spanned nearly 50 years. Larry was an Associate Broker beginning in 1979 Century 21 as well as RE/MAX. He also held leadership roles across several prominent organizations, including Director of Century 21 of Eastern Pennsylvania, where he oversaw agent and broker training, and Regional Training Director for Weichert REALTORS, where he also led the company’s pre-licensing school.

Beyond real estate, Larry was an entrepreneur and former owner of three child daycare centers, giving him first hand insight into small business operations and ownership. His diverse background in finance, education, and entrepreneurship makes him a valuable resource to clients seeking clarity and confidence in buying or selling a business.

A U.S. Army veteran, Larry served as a Specialist 5 from 1968 to 1970. He holds a BA in Economics from Grove City College and an MBA in Management from Widener University. A proud Pennsylvania native, Larry resides in Chester Springs with his wife. He is a devoted husband, father of nine, and grandfather of fifteen.

Larry’s lifelong dedication to service, leadership, and mentoring continues to shape the client-centered approach at J&E Business Group.

With over 20 years of experience as a business owner, investor, broker, and active PA realtor, Carmen Swinehart understands exactly what it takes to close a deal. Her background in business management, finance, education, consulting, buying and selling personal investments, business evaluation, and building a solid reputation in executing transactions across multiple industries throughout the Northeastern United States has allowed her to become well versed in market trends.

If you’re thinking of buying or selling your business, Carmen is your go-to professional. She provides a thorough business analysis, develops a confidential marketing plan, screens all buyers, facilitates negotiations, coordinates transaction details, and works with established SBA lenders and attorneys to complete successful transactions.

Carmen’s goal is to secure her clients’ future, and she takes pride in earning their referrals.

Jim Bitner is a Lancaster-based real estate agent with Contigo Real Estate, serving clients across Lancaster and the surrounding counties. He focuses on helping buyers, sellers, and investors navigate the local market with practical, results-driven guidance.

At J&E Business Group, Jim works closely with buyers, providing dedicated support to help them find the right business and make confident decisions throughout the purchasing process. His commitment to clear communication and personalized service ensures clients feel supported from start to finish.

Mark Pedersen is a Business Broker with J&E Business Group, based in Lewes, Delaware, and serving clients throughout the region. He brings decades of experience in business brokerage, marketing, and communications, helping business owners navigate complex transitions with confidence. Mark’s expertise spans marketing management, strategy, and communications, allowing him to position businesses effectively and maximize value for clients.

A graduate of West Chester University (B.A., 1980) and Miami University (M.B.A., 1991), Mark combines a strong academic foundation with practical, hands-on experience in the field. His professional career reflects both strategic insight and a results-driven approach, making him a trusted advisor for entrepreneurs looking to buy, sell, or grow their businesses.

Originally from New York and now based in Manheim Township, Pennsylvania, Jay Perez is the President of MMJ Legacy Solutions, LLC, where he specializes in nationwide hard money lending and loan origination for commercial real estate investments and business loans. Jay has expertise in DSCR loans, construction, fix-and-flip projects, mixed-use properties, equipment financing, and commercial vehicle lending. He structures financing solutions ranging from $100,000 to over $10 million, tailoring each to meet the needs of investors and entrepreneurs.

In addition to his lending work, Jay has enjoyed partnering with buyers at J&E Business Group since June of 2024, guiding them through the buying process and helping them secure financing to achieve their goals. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Jay values strong relationships and clear communication with every client.

Family is central to Jay’s life, and when he is not serving clients, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three amazing children and building lasting connections within his community.

With more than a decade of experience as an airline pilot, Jesh Shuman brings a unique perspective to both aviation and business. His career has spanned cargo, passenger, corporate, and private operations, giving him a broad understanding of the aviation industry. Alongside his aviation work, Jesh has cultivated a strong passion for business, expanding his expertise in sales, marketing, finance, and management through practical experience and continuous professional development.

At J&E Business Group, Jesh applies his diverse background to help business owners navigate transitions, strengthen operations, and achieve their goals. His commitment to continuous learning and professional growth drives his ability to deliver value to both clients and colleagues.

Outside of work, Jesh enjoys spending time with family and friends and is always eager to build meaningful new connections.

Rob Russell brings a wealth of experience in sales, project management, and leadership to J&E Business Group, where he has been a valued team member since 2018. With a proven ability to manage projects and resources efficiently, Rob has successfully led teams of over 100 employees across diverse backgrounds and age groups. His strengths in strategic planning, implementation, and problem-solving allow him to deliver consistent results under pressure while maintaining professionalism, tact, and diplomacy.

Throughout his career, Rob has excelled in both B2B and B2C sales, with expertise spanning technology, services, and home improvement industries. Known for his exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, he works seamlessly with varied personalities to meet strict deadlines and exceed expectations.

Dedicated, innovative, and highly adaptable, Rob continues to play a key role in supporting J&E Business Group’s mission to help clients achieve lasting success.

Originally from Illinois, Karen Boughton has proudly called Lancaster County home for the past 40 years. After relocating with her husband, Ron, who transferred to the area with Sperry New Holland (now CNH), Karen built her life here, raising two daughters and now enjoying the joy of six grandchildren.

When her youngest daughter started school, Karen began her career in real estate as an assistant—a role she has held for more than 30 years. Much of that time was spent working alongside Harry Jefferies, where she developed a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. When J&E Business Group launched, Karen joined J&E as their office assistant, where she continues to play an essential role in supporting the team and clients alike.

Karen’s long-standing dedication, attention to detail, and deep roots in the community make her a valued part of J&E Business Group.