The special committee of Dell directors set up to pursue "strategic alternatives" for the PC maker is relying on Sard Verbinnnen & Co's top executives for counsel.

The committee, composed of independent directors of the company, has okayed the $24.4B sale of Dell to investors led by founder/CEO Michael Dell amid rancor from some shareholders who think the price was low.

The committee defended its decision today with a public statement outlining the "rigorous" five-month process that led to the decision.

AP tech reporter Michael Liedtke said although much of the information released by the committee today had already been disclosed, the decision to publicly reiterate the rationale shows "they aren't having any second thoughts" even as the company's largest independent shareholder prepares to lead a revolt.

“The special committee has worked hard, and continues to work hard, to produce the best outcome for Dell’s shareholders," said the statement, which noted advisor Evercore continues to solicit proposals until March 22.

SBV&C's George Sard, chairman/CEO, Paul Verbinnen, president, along with managing directors Jim Barron and Matt Benson are handling communications for the committee.

That shareholder is Southeastern Asset Management, which owns 8.5% of Dell and said expressed its "extreme disappointment" in a letter to the board last month, which it released publicly via PR Newswire.

As previously reported, Kekst and Company is representing Dell Inc.