M&A Science podcast

#Business #Kison Patel #Corporatedevelopment #Finance #Mergers #Privateequity #Acquisitions #Podcasting Education

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Alex (@alex_kamenca) and Carley (@carleymitus) are both members of our Action Academy Community that purchased TWO small businesses last thursday! Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses? 👔🏝️ Schedule A Free 15 Minute Coaching Call With Our Team Here To Get "Unstuck" Want to know which investment strategy is best for you? Take our Free Asset-Selection Quiz Check Out Our Bestselling Book : From Passive To Passionate : How To Quit Your Job - Grow Your Wealth - And Turn Your Passions Into Profits Want A Free $100k+ Side Hustle Guide ? Follow Me As I Travel & Build: IG @brianluebben ActionAcademy.com…

M&A Science

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M&A Science, hosted by Kison Patel (Founder & CEO of DealRoom), is your go-to podcast for mastering the art of mergers and acquisitions. Each week, Kison and his expert guests from leading brands like Xerox, FastLap, and Cisco dig deep into real-world M&A strategies, offering actionable insights to optimize your M&A practice. Whether you're an experienced practitioner or new to the field, M&A Science provides practical advice on key topics like sourcing, due diligence, integration, divestitures, and more. With over 300 episodes, this podcast is the premier thought leadership resource designed to streamline your deal-making process. Start listening today and visit mascience.com/podcast to access over 300 episodes. Brought to you by DealRoom, the leading M&A optimization platform used by the best M&A teams around the world

353 episodes

M&A Science

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updated about 3 hours ago

Series home•Feed

353 episodes

#Business #Kison Patel #Corporatedevelopment #Finance #Mergers #Privateequity #Acquisitions #Podcasting Education

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M&A Science

1
How ZRG’s CEO Built a 17-Deal M&A Engine with Larry Hartmann 58:58

3 hours ago58:58

58:58

Larry Hartmann , CEO of ZRG Partners Larry Hartman, CEO of ZRG Partners dives into aligning strategic M&A with scalable growth. Larry shares how he transformed ZRG into one of the fastest-growing executive search and talent advisory firms through 17 acquisitions in just four years. They break down how to compete with strategic buyers, incentivize founders post-close, maintain deal momentum, and choose the right private equity partner to fuel long-term value. Things You Will Learn How to compete with strategics and win deals through culture and upside Structuring founder incentives: equity, earnouts, employment, and non-competes Why proprietary deal flow beats auction processes—and how to build it The role of private equity in accelerating M&A strategy and funding ________ Try FirmRoom for Free This episode is sponsored by FirmRoom. The World’s Most Intuitive Virtual Data Room With AI Contract Analysis No Per-Page Fees. No B.S. Just Smarter, Faster Deals. Get started with your free trial today! ________ Episode Chapters: [00:01:00] – Larry’s entrepreneurial background and ZRG’s origin story [00:03:30] – Lessons from being acquired by American Express [00:04:30] – Competing with strategics: The second bite of the apple and culture [00:07:00] – Keeping founders engaged post-close with rollover equity and vision [00:09:30] – When M&A became central to ZRG’s growth strategy [00:11:30] – Building the internal M&A team: CFO, corp dev, and beyond [00:14:00] – Structuring founder incentives and employment contracts [00:18:30] – Buyer-Led M&A in action: Vision planning and relationship-building [00:24:30] – Retaining and incentivizing key non-founder talent [00:30:30] – ZRG’s approach to integration: Do no harm, add value gradually [00:35:00] – Managing valuation gaps and founder expectations [00:43:30] – Finding the right PE partner and running a dual-track growth strategy…

M&A Science

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4 Ways to Grow a Multi-Site Business While Protecting Core Values with Clare Roberts 53:34

3 days ago53:34

53:34

Clare Roberts OBE, Founder and CEO at Kids Planet In this episode of M&A Science, Clare Roberts shares her journey of founding Kids Planet and growing it into one of the UK’s largest childcare providers with 225 nurseries. She reveals how she balanced organic growth with strategic acquisitions while staying true to her company’s values. Clare discusses the importance of culture in M&A, managing seller relationships, and how to maintain operational quality during rapid expansion. If you’re scaling a business and want to do it without losing sight of what matters most, this is an episode for you. Things you will learn: How to maintain company culture during rapid M&A growth The benefits of blending organic growth with acquisitions How to build trust with sellers and integrate their teams smoothly Why proactive leadership and transparency are key to successful integrations Episode Chapters [00:01:00] Clare’s background and founding story of Kids Planet [00:09:30] Transitioning from private investment to private equity support [00:12:00] Lessons on choosing the right PE partner beyond capital [00:15:00] Sourcing deals and balancing culture fit in acquisitions [00:23:00] Typical deal structures: flexibility with freehold vs. leasehold [00:26:00] Buyer-led M&A: simplifying the process for sellers and prepping for integration [00:29:00] Integration strategy and the role of personalized support [00:32:00] Embedding and maintaining culture in newly acquired businesses [00:37:30] Common challenges post-acquisition and how to solve them [00:43:00] Exploring international expansion and lessons from growing in new markets [00:46:30] Clare’s advice for new roll-up strategies and maintaining operational quality [00:49:30] Craziest things seen in M&A and why lifestyle businesses pose risks…

M&A Science

1
Managing Risks and Liabilities in M&A with Tina Kassangana 1:06:25

7 days ago1:06:25

1:06:25

Tina Kassangana , Corporate & M&A Lawyer, Associate at Moritt Hock & Hamroff LLP Tina Kassangana joins usto explore how legal counsel manages risk throughout the M&A lifecycle. With firsthand insight from a practicing M&A attorney, this conversation dives into the real-world complexities of diligence, purchase agreement structuring, reps and warranties, and navigating disputes post-close. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned dealmaker, Tina offers sharp, practical guidance that demystifies the legal side of dealmaking. Things you will learn: The three main stages where legal risks arise in M&A—and how to mitigate them Why reps and warranties clauses and disclosure schedules are critical How to align buyer-seller expectations in earnouts and seller financing Legal strategies to prevent conflicts in multi-agreement deals Bookmarks Intro and Tina’s Background – [00:01:00] Early M&A Risk Identification – [00:05:00] Buy-Side LOI and Risk Management Roleplay – [00:06:30] Earnouts vs. Seller Financing and Structuring Strategy – [00:08:00] Escrow, Reps and Warranties Insurance Deep Dive – [00:11:00] Asset vs. Stock Deals and Contract Transfer Issues – [00:13:00] Post-Close Risk & Working Capital Disputes – [00:25:30] Disclosure Schedules and Rep Breaches – [00:28:30] Conflicting Terms in Multi-Agreement Deals – [00:35:00] Post-Close Litigation Triggers (Earnouts, Employment, Equity) – [00:38:00] Jurisdictional Conflicts and Governing Law – [00:39:00] How AI Is Changing Contract Analysis – [00:55:00]…

M&A Science

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Buyer-Led M&A: How To with Carson Group's Michael Belloumini 57:49

10 days ago57:49

57:49

Michael Belluomini , Senior Vice President, Mergers and Acquisitions, Carson Group Kison sits down with Michael Belluomini to unpack how Carson Group scaled its M&A strategy—shifting from internal partner investments to sourcing proprietary external deals at volume. Michael shares tactical insights into managing concurrent transactions, building a sourcing engine, and executing with precision. Things You’ll Learn: The differences between Buyer-Led and Seller-Led M&A—and when to use each How Carson Group built a scalable sourcing engine across multiple deal channels Strategies for managing 3–5 concurrent deals without burning out internal teams Why culture fit and trust are non-negotiables in M&A success Episode Chapters [00:01:00] Michael’s background in M&A and move to Carson Group [00:05:30] Building equity partnerships with independent advisors [00:07:00] Carson’s first external acquisition and shift to full ownership deals [00:08:30] Sourcing strategies: banker-led vs. proprietary sourcing [00:10:30] Key differences between internal and external M&A transactions [00:12:00] The case for buyer-led M&A: process control and long-term outcomes [00:17:30] How Carson builds proprietary pipeline using data, outreach, and coaching [00:20:00] Structuring outreach and qualifying prospective sellers [00:22:30] Building trust in the process and winning deals beyond valuation [00:31:00] Integration strategy and Carson’s one-stage close model [00:35:00] Managing 14 deals in one year with a lean team and specialized roles [00:37:00] Why Carson adopted DealRoom to streamline pipeline and diligence [00:41:00] How to reduce seller fatigue and coach through diligence [00:44:00] Culture fit as a non-negotiable deal criterion [00:50:00] The craziest thing Michael’s seen in a deal [00:52:00] What sellers do after exiting—and why finding your “next” matters…

M&A Science

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How Barry-Wehmiller Built a $3.6B M&A Machine Fueled by Culture with Bob and Kyle Chapman 1:03:41

14 days ago1:03:41

1:03:41

Bob Chapman, Chairman and CEO, Barry-Wehmiller Kyle Chapman , President, Barry-Wehmiller In this episode of M&A Science, Kison Patel sits down with Bob Chapman and his son Kyle Chapman to explore how Barry-Wehmiller built a $3.6B global business through 140+ acquisitions—by putting people first. Bob, known for pioneering the "Truly Human Leadership" philosophy, and Kyle, who co-founded BW Forsyth Partners, share how culture, transparency, and stewardship shape every deal they do. They dive deep into how Barry-Wehmiller evolved from a broken family business into a global leader in capital equipment and engineering services—and why their approach to M&A prioritizes care for people over financial engineering. From pre-close transparency to post-close adoption, this episode is a masterclass in using M&A as a force for good. Things You’ll Learn Why cultural alignment is more important than revenue synergies in M&A How “Truly Human Leadership” became a core differentiator in their acquisition strategy How to build a scalable M&A machine rooted in values, not just valuation Tactical guidance on structuring buyer-led deals with long-term success in mind _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit Only two weeks left to register! This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now: DealRoom.net/Summit ________ Episode Chapters [00:00:00] Introduction to the mission behind M&A Science [00:01:30] Barry-Wehmiller’s origin story and early business model [00:07:00] Pivot to M&A as a growth strategy after financial struggles [00:10:00] Use of EVA (Economic Value Added) in valuation of private company equity [00:14:00] Building a strategic advantage through people-first culture [00:21:00] Cultural assimilation during acquisitions and why legacy matters [00:27:00] Tactical integration planning with transparency from day one [00:30:00] The evolution from distressed to underperforming acquisitions [00:36:00] Why Barry-Wehmiller doesn’t rely on cultural due diligence [00:44:00] Advice for first-time acquirers—what to look for and avoid [00:51:00] Kyle’s journey from private equity to leading Barry-Wehmiller [00:54:00] The future vision for Barry-Wehmiller and global impact…

M&A Science

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How to Build a Global M&A Machine with Local Expertise Part 2 40:35

17 days ago40:35

40:35

Sindre Talleraas Holen , Head of M&A at Visma In Part 2 of this global M&A masterclass, Sindre Holen pulls back the curtain on Visma’s deal execution strategy, valuation methodology, and post-close philosophy. Visma has quietly become one of the most disciplined and prolific acquirers in Europe and LATAM. How? Through extreme clarity on what they buy, why they buy it, and how they operate post-close. Sindre and Kison dig into the nuance of buying software companies in different geographies, how Visma thinks about valuation (hint: rule of 40—and sometimes 50—matters), and why the company chooses to “onboard” rather than “integrate.” This episode is a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how to structure deals, manage cultural differences, and stay true to a scalable M&A playbook. Things you will learn: How Visma sets valuation ranges across different growth brackets and geographies Rule of 40 vs. Rule of 50 and how it impacts multiples Why Visma prefers local advisors over centralized consultants in new markets Inside Visma’s onboarding vs. integration philosophy _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit Only two weeks left to register! This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now: DealRoom.net/Summit ________ Learn why you Shouldn't use Excel for Dilligence If you’re bouncing between Excel trackers, email threads, shared drives, and separate VDR, you’re not alone-but you are wasting time. Join us for 20 minutes of practical ways to save hours, stay on track, and move deals forward faster. Join us live and see the difference. Register Now ________ Bookmarks [00:00:00] – Recap and Starting Part 2: Risk Awareness in Global M&A [00:01:30] – Analysis Paralysis: Knowing When to Say Yes or No [00:04:30] – Visma’s Scalable Diligence Function & Internal Capabilities [00:06:00] – Tapping Freelancers, Ex-Corp Dev Talent for First-Time Deals [00:07:30] – The Strategic Spectrum: PE Mindset vs. Strategic Buyer [00:09:00] – Visma’s “Onboarding,” Not “Integration” Philosophy [00:11:00] – Building Long-Term Founder Relationships Post-Close [00:13:00] – Standardization: Reporting, Tech, and Cybersecurity Rigor [00:14:30] – The Rule of 40... or 50? And Why It Matters [00:20:00] – Earnouts: Bridging Price Expectations Through Growth [00:28:30] – Closing Over 90% of LOIs: Visma’s High Deal Certainty [00:30:00] – What to Do Before Entering a New Geography [00:33:30] – Leveraging Local Advisors, Bankers & Cultural Guides [00:39:30] – Visma’s Expansion Into Latin America via Accidental Entry [00:41:00] – Why LATAM is Surprisingly Ahead in SaaS & Regulation [00:43:00] – The Role of Humility and Trust in Global Expansion [00:46:30] – Trends in SaaS M&A: Consolidators, Rollups & Capital Influx [00:49:00] – Craziest M&A Deal Toy: A Stuffed Eagle…

M&A Science

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How to Build a Global M&A Machine with Sindre Talleraas Holen Part 1 46:51

21 days ago46:51

46:51

Sindre Talleraas Holen , Head of M&A at Visma In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Kison sits down with Sindre from Visma, one of Europe’s most active acquirers in the B2B SaaS space. With over 350+ acquisitions under its belt and a stronghold across Europe and Latin America, Visma has cracked the code for scaling globally while maintaining local authenticity. Sindre shares how Visma transformed its M&A function from a two-man team to a global machine spanning 20 M&A professionals—and 16,000 employees acting as an extended sourcing engine. He walks through Visma’s origin story rooted in M&A, how a bold cold email launched his own career, and the foundational philosophies behind Visma’s buyer-led approach to deal execution. Think You'll Learn: The surprising power of a cold email—and how it helped launch Visma’s M&A team Why Visma prioritizes local presence and cultural nuance in M&A sourcing and negotiation How internal alignment and operational champions drive deal success The three golden rules for successful M&A at Visma _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit Only two weeks left to register! This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now: DealRoom.net/Summit ________ Learn why you Shouldn't use Excel for Dilligence If you’re bouncing between Excel trackers, email threads, shared drives, and separate VDR, you’re not alone-but you are wasting time. Join us for 20 minutes of practical ways to save hours, stay on track, and move deals forward faster. Join us live and see the difference. Register Now ________ Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Introduction to the Guest & Visma’s M&A History [00:03:30] – The €100M Sale That Funded Visma’s Acquisition Journey [00:05:00] – Sindre’s Bold Cold Email That Launched His M&A Career [00:09:00] – The Three Pillars of Visma’s M&A Approach [00:10:00] – Aligning Deals with Equity Story & Internal Champions [00:12:00] – Why M&A Is Always Local: Cultural & Regional Nuances [00:16:00] – Building a Global M&A Team Embedded in Each Region [00:17:30] – Trust and Cultural Dynamics in Deal-Making [00:20:00] – Evolving from Seller-Led to Buyer-Led M&A Strategy [00:21:30] – Proactive Deal Sourcing and Filtering Inbound Leads [00:27:00] – Building Trust with Local Sellers & Country-by-Country Differences [00:29:30] – Rapid Acquisitions vs. Long-Term Relationship Deals [00:31:00] – Case Example: 13-Year Dialogue Before Acquisition [00:35:00] – Country-Specific Negotiation Dynamics & Deal Structures [00:38:00] – Advice for First-Time International Buyer…

M&A Science

1
Transforming M&A: Lessons in Culture, Growth, and Purpose with Ron 'Omani' Carson 58:25

24 days ago58:25

58:25

Ron “Omani” Carson, Founder and Chairman at Carson Group | Founder of Omya We sit down with Ron “Omani” Carson, founder of Carson Group, for a wide-ranging conversation about transformation—both professional and personal. From launching a financial services firm out of a college dorm room to building a national platform with over $30 billion in assets under management, Omani shares the gritty beginnings, his early lessons in love affair marketing and systemization, and why his first M&A deal nearly broke him. But the real story unfolds around age 50, when Omani underwent a profound mindset shift—from fear and scarcity to love and abundance. This new lens on leadership reshaped Carson Group’s culture, unlocked purpose-driven M&A, and set the stage for launching Omya, his newest venture focused on helping entrepreneurs align joy, legacy, and impact. This episode is more than M&A—it’s a masterclass in reinvention, authentic leadership, and building businesses that matter. Things you will learn: How to scale a firm through systemization and “love affair” client marketing What went wrong in Carson Group’s first M&A deal—and how they rebounded How trauma and personal evolution can drive professional reinvention What “conscious capitalism” looks like in a modern financial firm _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit Only two weeks left to register! This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now: DealRoom.net/Summit ________ Episode Chapters: [00:01:00] Dorm room origins and cold-calling farmers in Nebraska [00:07:00] Early success, burnout, and chasing money without fulfillment [00:10:30] Love affair marketing, process systemization, and client growth [00:18:00] Lessons from their first M&A deal: culture clash, team turnover, missed red flags [00:23:30] Partner program and minority investments: a better M&A model [00:27:00] Personal transformation at age 50 and the birth of “Omani” [00:35:00] Embracing spirituality, mental wellness, and psychedelic therapy [00:40:00] Impact investing, farming regeneration, and the trillion-dollar goal [00:46:00] How Carson’s culture shifted—and made M&A better [00:51:00] 7-day water fasts, health optimization, and living life with intention [00:55:00] The craziest M&A moment: the painful first acquisition…

M&A Science

1
Private Equity in Healthcare: Legal Challenges and Best Practices for 2025 with Andrew Bab 52:27

28 days ago52:27

52:27

Andrew Bab , Partner & Co-Chair of the Healthcare Group at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP In this episode of M&A Science, Andrew Bab joins Kison Patel live in New York to dive into the fast-changing legal landscape facing private equity deals in healthcare. From emerging state-level regulations and reverse CFIUS to FDA policy shifts and CVR litigation, Andrew offers a masterclass in legal diligence and deal structuring. They also explore how political scrutiny and increasing regulatory complexity are driving the need for more proactive, buyer-led approaches in healthcare M&A. Things you will learn: How state-level regulation is changing the game for healthcare deals What private equity needs to know about DEI rollbacks and False Claims Act liability Impacts of recent Delaware case law and why some firms are leaving the state When to use CVRs in pharma M&A and the litigation risks they carry How new HSR rules and antitrust dynamics are shifting auction timelines _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit This isn’t just another webinar—it’s an interactive experience designed to give you the tools and strategies to lead your M&A deals with confidence. This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now: DealRoom.net/Summit ________ Episode Timestamps: [00:01:30] Andrew’s background and overview of Debevoise & Plimpton’s healthcare practice [00:03:00] Regulatory updates: DEI rollbacks, reverse CFIUS, foreign direct investment [00:05:30] National security laws expanding into tech, steel, and social media [00:06:00] Antitrust enforcement differences between Trump and Biden administrations [00:09:00] Delaware case law: MFW, Molus, Crispo and corporate governance implications [00:15:00] State-level regulation of healthcare deals (e.g., CA OHCA, MA law) [00:18:30] FDA’s AI guidance and post-Chevron court deference [00:21:00] CVRs in pharma: structuring, litigation risk, and buyer incentives [00:29:00] Put/call deal structures for PE–strategic healthcare partnerships [00:32:30] HSR form overhaul and implications for auction vs. proprietary deals [00:34:30] Increased scrutiny of PE under False Claims Act and integration risk [00:44:00] Political scrutiny of PE in healthcare and rising public pressure [00:47:00] “Craziest M&A moment” – Mercury in the House of Orion delays closing…

M&A Science

1
Private Equity in 2025: Market Shifts, Strategy, and the Rise of AI 1:11:47

4 weeks ago1:11:47

1:11:47

Hugh MacArthur , Chairman of Global Private Equity Practice, Bain & Company In this episode of M&A Science, Hugh MacArthur joins us to discuss the evolution of private equity over the last three decades—from the early days of deal-making and bespoke financing to today’s hyper-competitive, tech-driven landscape. Hugh shares how Bain’s private equity practice scaled from an entrepreneurial idea to one-third of the firm's global business and dives into what differentiates top-performing firms. We explore sourcing strategies, value levers, post-acquisition success, and how PE firms are adapting to rising interest rates and new technologies like AI. Things you will learn: How Bain & Company built and scaled its private equity practice from scratch The shift from margin improvement to growth-oriented value creation strategies How private equity firms are evolving sourcing and financing models The future of deal execution using AI and specialized data tools _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit This isn’t just another webinar—it’s an interactive experience designed to give you the tools and strategies to lead your M&A deals with confidence. This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now : DealRoom.net/summit ________ This episode is sponsored by FirmRoom. The World’s Most Intuitive Virtual Data Room With AI Contract Analysis No Per-Page Fees. No B.S. Just Smarter, Faster Deals. Get started with your free trial today! ________ Episode Chapters: [00:01:30] – Hugh’s background and the founding of Bain’s PE practice [00:03:00] – Evolution from buyouts to a broad private assets approach [00:04:30] – Bain’s entrepreneurial origins in private equity [00:07:00] – Commercial due diligence: Bain’s unique differentiator [00:12:30] – Market valuation trends and EBITDA multiples over 30 years [00:14:30] – Industry sector evolution: from industrials to tech and healthcare [00:20:00] – The impact of software and growth on value creation [00:22:30] – Changes in deal sourcing: proprietary to competitive [00:24:30] – Rise of private credit and changes in deal structuring [00:29:30] – Value creation strategies: growth vs. cost-cutting [00:33:00] – Buy-and-build strategies and integration challenges [00:55:00] – Role of AI and advanced analytics in deal execution [01:00:00] – Growth of private markets and increased retail access [01:04:00] – Common mistakes PE firms make during acquisitions…

M&A Science

1
How to Navigate Bankruptcy and Restructuring in M&A 1:05:51

5 weeks ago1:05:51

1:05:51

Ben Beller , Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP Ben Beller, Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, joins the podcast to walk through how companies can strategically navigate bankruptcy and restructuring during M&A. Drawing from experience on major cases like FTX and Silicon Valley Bank, Ben shares practical insights into Chapter 11 processes, planning strategies, liability management transactions, and how buyers can successfully acquire distressed assets. A must-listen for corporate development professionals, acquirers, and M&A legal teams looking to build competency around distressed transactions. Things you will learn: The differences between Chapter 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcies and when to use each How liability management transactions work and their growing role in restructuring What buyers need to know about acquiring businesses in bankruptcy _______________ What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit This isn’t just another webinar—it’s an interactive experience designed to give you the tools and strategies to lead your M&A deals with confidence. This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now ________ This episode is sponsored by FirmRoom. The World’s Most Intuitive Virtual Data Room With AI Contract Analysis No Per-Page Fees. No B.S. Just Smarter, Faster Deals. Get started with your free trial today! ________ Episode Timestamps: [00:04:00] Ben Beller’s background and major bankruptcy cases (FTX, SVB, Mallinckrodt) [00:07:30] Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 11 – key differences [00:11:30] Signs companies should begin planning for bankruptcy [00:14:00] Prepackaged vs. prearranged vs. freefall bankruptcies [00:17:30] Importance of lender relationships and communication [00:22:00] Role of private credit and debt trading in distressed situations [00:28:00] Liability management transactions explained: dropdowns, up tiers, and more [00:35:00] Trends in liability management and how they defer bankruptcy [00:41:00] M&A in bankruptcy: How buyers can seize opportunities [00:46:30] Understanding stalking horse bids and auction dynamics [00:54:30] Common mistakes in buying businesses out of bankruptcy [01:01:00] Bankruptcy reform trends and cost implications…

M&A Science

1
How to be a Serial Acquirer from Scratch 53:02

5 weeks ago53:02

53:02

Ashish Achlerkar, Founder and Chairman at NearU Starting a business from scratch is challenging, but Ashish Achlerkar, Founder and Chairman of NearU, took a unique path—leveraging M&A as a tool for entrepreneurship. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Ashish shares how he transitioned from investment banking to building a multi-state, multi-million-dollar business in the skilled trades industry. Ashish’s journey is a masterclass in leveraging M&A for business expansion, focusing on strategic acquisitions, cultural alignment, and operational efficiency to build a thriving company in an industry ripe for disruption. Things you will learn: Entrepreneurship through acquisition – Why M&A is a tool, not an end goal How to evaluate industries for acquisition – Why the skilled trades industry was the perfect fit Building a scalable business post-acquisition – The importance of training and technology Working with private equity – How to find the right partner and maintain control What is the Buyer-Led M&A™ Virtual Summit This isn’t just another webinar—it’s an interactive experience designed to give you the tools and strategies to lead your M&A deals with confidence. This half-day event brings together corporate development leaders and M&A experts to explore Buyer-Led M&A™, showing how you can take control of every stage of the deal. Register Now Episode Timestamps: [00:01:30] Ashish’s Journey from Banking to Entrepreneurship [00:02:30] Lessons Learned from the Entrepreneurial Journey [00:07:00] Defining Purpose and the ‘Why’ Behind Entrepreneurship [00:10:30] Making the Leap from Corporate to Startup Life [00:13:00] Selecting a Sector Through First Principles Thinking [00:18:00] Building the Investment Thesis for NearU [00:26:30] Executing the First Deal with a Bootstrap Approach [00:31:30] Sourcing Deals Through Relationships & Reputation [00:37:00] Challenges in Early and Scaling Phases [00:40:00] Working with Private Equity While Preserving Vision [00:48:00] Final Reflections: Transparency, Integrity & Doing the Right Thing…

M&A Science

1
The People-Centric Approach to M&A Success 44:21

6 weeks ago44:21

44:21

Michael Hoy , Executive Vice Chairman, Great Day Improvements In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Michael Hoy, Executive Vice Chairman of Great Day Improvements, joins Kison Patel to discuss how a people-first approach drives M&A success. With 4,500 employees and $1.5 billion in revenue, Great Day Improvements has grown through strategic acquisitions while maintaining a strong culture. Michael shares insights on harmonizing financials post-acquisition, leveraging growth synergies instead of cost-cutting, and building trust to ensure smooth integrations. Things you will learn: How to scale M&A by focusing on people instead of cost-cutting The importance of trust-building and transparency in integrations Why aligning financials and data early ensures a smoother transition How to foster a culture that drives sustainable growth ___________________________________________ Save your seat at the Buyer-Led M&A Masterclass to gain practical strategies to take control, reduce inefficiencies, and drive lasting value in your deals. https://hubs.ly/Q03bF7vS0 ___________________________________________ Trailer Timestamps: [02:00] Introduction to Michael Hoy and Great Day Improvements [05:04] The value of a people-first M&A strategy [07:09] Leveraging growth synergies instead of cost-cutting [16:14] Building a strong referral-based growth model [23:11] Aligning financials post-acquisition [35:05] The decision-making philosophy [42:30] Importance of trust and transparency in integrations [50:45] Cultural challenges in M&A and lessons learned…

M&A Science

1
Mastering Serial Acquisitions 1:10:54

7 weeks ago1:10:54

1:10:54

Gwen Pope , Senior Managing Partner and Head of Platform Solutions Tiger Team M&A and Tracie Smith , Senior Partner and Head of GTM Solutions at Tiger Team M&A Together, Gwen and Tracie dive into the complexities of serial acquisitions, discussing how large strategic acquirers can develop repeatable frameworks to streamline execution and maximize deal value. From building a North Star strategy to decision-making frameworks, they cover what it takes to successfully integrate multiple acquisitions while maintaining strategic alignment. Whether you're leading M&A for a large enterprise or looking to optimize your acquisition playbook, this episode is packed with insights on structuring M&A functions, avoiding common integration pitfalls, and ensuring leadership alignment. Things you will learn: How to structure an M&A function for repeatable success Why decision-making frameworks are crucial for integration The role of executive leadership alignment in deal execution This episode is sponsored by DealRoom BI . Harness the power of real-time data to make data-driven decisions by building, visualizing, and sharing interactive M&A reports seamlessly. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. Episode Chapters [00:00:00] – Introduction [00:02:00] – The backgrounds of Gwen Pope and Tracie Smith [00:05:30] – Common integration challenges for large serial acquirers [00:08:30] – The importance of a repeatable M&A model [00:14:00] – Why education is key for executive leadership teams [00:18:30] – Overcoming integration fatigue and long-tail execution [00:26:00] – Structuring an M&A function: centralized vs. decentralized models [00:36:00] – How to establish a decision-making framework [00:49:00] – Handling unexpected challenges and reducing reliance on leadership for decisions [00:56:00] – Why a decision log is essential for integration success [01:05:30] – Crazy M&A stories and key lessons learned…

M&A Science

1
How to Execute Distressed M&A 50:10

8 weeks ago50:10

50:10

Mimi Wu , Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell When a company is struggling financially, M&A can be a lifeline—but navigating distressed deals is a whole different game. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Mimi Wu, Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell, breaks down how Chapter 11 bankruptcy, 363 sales, and creditor negotiations come into play when businesses are in distress. Mimi has worked on some of the biggest restructuring cases, including FTX and Silicon Valley Bank, and she’s here to explain how distressed M&A really works—without the legal jargon. Whether you’re an investor, a corporate executive, or just curious about how companies handle financial trouble, this episode is packed with insights. Things you will learn: What is Chapter 11? – How bankruptcy protects businesses and gives them time to reorganize The Power of a 363 Sale – Why buyers love these deals and how they can acquire assets “free and clear” Negotiating with Creditors – What happens when companies can’t pay their debts, and the options they have Finding Deals in Bankruptcy – How investors and buyers can identify distressed M&A opportunities before they hit the auction stage ______________ This episode is sponsored by DealRoom AI. Forget spending hours reviewing diligence contracts. Automate the extraction and analysis of key information and create quick summary reports. Harness the power of Buyer-Led M&A with DealRooms proven framework. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. Trailer Timestamps: [00:03:01] – What is Distressed M&A? Key Differences from Traditional M&A [00:05:32] – Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: How It Works and When to Use It [00:06:30] – 363 Asset Sales: Selling a Business in Bankruptcy [00:09:11] – Why Companies File for Bankruptcy: Common Triggers [00:10:36] – The Automatic Stay: Protecting Companies During Bankruptcy [00:14:00] – Alternatives to Bankruptcy: Negotiating with Creditors & Raising Capital [00:18:30] – How the Bankruptcy Sale Process Works: Auctions & Market Checks [00:20:41] – Credit Bidding & How Creditors Influence the Sale [00:24:02] – The 363 Auction Process: How Bidding Works [00:26:39] – Stalking Horse Bids: What They Are & How They Work [00:29:30] – How Sale Proceeds Are Distributed Among Creditors [00:33:00] – Case Study: Carrier & Ketafenol Bankruptcy Sale [00:39:35] – Finding Distressed M&A Opportunities: Buyer Strategies [00:42:00] – The Craziest Thing Mimi in Distressed M&A…

M&A Science

1
How to Navigate Antitrust Complexities in M&A 1:03:11

9 weeks ago1:03:11

1:03:11

Kaj Rozga , Senior Antitrust Counsel at ABB Antitrust scrutiny in M&A is at an all-time high, and companies must be prepared to navigate evolving regulatory challenges. Kaj Rozga, Senior Antitrust Counsel at ABB, brings a unique perspective, having worked both inside the FTC and in private practice, advising on antitrust strategy, compliance, and M&A transactions. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Kaj breaks down the latest antitrust trends, regulatory risks, and strategic approaches to managing antitrust concerns in M&A. He shares how dealmakers can proactively assess risk, structure deals to mitigate scrutiny, and use antitrust as a negotiation tool. Thing’s you will learn: Antitrust in M&A – What business leaders need to know How regulators evaluate mergers – Key triggers for scrutiny Industry rollups & market consolidation – Why private equity is under the microscope Navigating second requests & regulatory delays – How to prepare for costly reviews What not to do between sign and close _________________________________ This episode is sponsored by Buyer-Led M&A™ . Take control of your deals._________________________________ Episode Timestamps: 00:02:30 - Guest Introduction: Kaj Rozga’s Background & ABB Overview 00:07:00 - Antitrust Trends: Government Levers & Key Enforcement Themes 00:13:00 - Substantive Antitrust Challenges: Vertical Competition, Industry Roll-ups & Expanded Deal Horizon 00:21:00 - Government Positioning & Impact on Deals 00:30:00 - Mandatory Filings & Second Requests 00:38:00 - Best Practices for Document Control & Risk Mitigation in M&A 00:48:00 - Gun-Jumping & Pre-Closing Coordination: Managing Compliance Risks 00:54:00 - Structuring Deals to Avoid Antitrust Concerns 01:02:00 - Using Antitrust Considerations in Negotiation…

M&A Science

1
How to Build a Roll-Up Machine 50:25

11 weeks ago50:25

50:25

John Cerasuolo , CEO of Leap Partners Creating a successful roll-up strategy requires a unique combination of industry expertise, strategic planning, and leadership. John Cerasuolo, CEO of Leap Partners, has mastered the art of acquiring and integrating businesses in the home services industry, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services. With 19 acquisitions in less than three years, Leap Partners is rapidly expanding across the Southeast with a people-first approach. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, John shares how to build a roll-up machine from scratch. He discusses selecting the right industry, pitching to investors, sourcing and executing deals, and the critical role of leadership and culture in scaling a business. John also explains how to foster strong relationships with business owners and private equity partners, along with key lessons learned from executing high-volume M&A. Things You’ll Learn: How to build a roll-up strategy from scratch Understand how to pitch to investors and raise capital without an initial deal in place Gain insights into sourcing and executing deals with a people-first approach Discover the importance of rapid integration and operational efficiency Hear how to build strong relationships with business owners and private equity partners _________________________________ This episode is sponsored by DealRoom BI . Harness the power of real-time data to make data-driven decisions by building, visualizing, and sharing interactive M&A reports seamlessly. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more._________________________________ Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction & The Importance of M&A Reporting Automation [00:02:00] Guest Introduction: John Cerasuolo's Background & Key Lessons from the Navy [00:07:00] The Role of Private Equity in Roll-ups [00:10:30] Building a Roll-up Machine: Step-by-Step Guide [00:13:45] Sourcing Deals & Choosing the Right Industry [00:21:20] Securing the Right Investment Partner & Negotiating Terms [00:30:30] First Deal & Launching Leap Partners [00:33:00] Building a Strong Pitch to Business Owners & Characteristics of Leadership [00:40:00] Integration Strategy & Operational Efficiency [00:45:00] Partnership with Business Owners & Culture Building Post-Close [00:48:30] Craziest Thing Seen in M&A & Final Thoughts…

M&A Science

1
Corporate Development Strategy in High-Volume M&A 1:09:37

11 weeks ago1:09:37

1:09:37

Jeff Giles, Executive Vice President at Core & Main M&A at scale requires more than just financial analysis—it’s about building relationships, understanding cultural fit, and executing a seamless integration strategy. With over 60 deals under his belt, Jeff Giles, Executive Vice President at Core & Main, has a proven track record of leading high-volume, buyer-led M&A. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jeff shares his expertise in strategic acquisitions, relationship-driven deal sourcing, and post-merger integration. He discusses the critical role of culture in M&A, how to prioritize acquisition targets, and why technology is essential for managing complex transactions. Things you will learn: Buyer-led M&A – The power of proactive deal sourcing Building a strategic market map – Core vs. adjacent markets How to assess culture in M&A – What makes a deal truly successful Negotiation tactics in valuation gaps – Closing deals with the right structure Integration planning – Ensuring a smooth transition post-close _________________________________ This episode in sponsored by DealRoom AI . Forget spending hours reviewing diligence contracts. Automate the extraction and analysis of key information and create quick summary reports. Harness the power of Buyer-Led M&A with DealRoom's proven framework. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. _________________________________ Episode Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction & Guest Background [00:03:00] Building Market Maps & Identifying Opportunities [00:11:00] Developing Relationships in Buyer-Led M&A [00:19:00] Expanding into Adjacent Markets [00:24:00] Prioritization of Acquisition Targets [00:31:00] Evaluating Cultural Fit & Integration Risks [00:38:00] Building Trust & Transparency with Business Owners [00:42:45] The Due Diligence Process [00:50:00] Managing Bid-Ask Spread & Valuation Challenges [00:55:00] Integration Planning for M&A Success [01:01:00] The Role of Technology in M&A [01:06:00] Surprising Moments in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Navigating Large-Scale M&A Deals and Legal Complexities 50:17

13 weeks ago50:17

50:17

John Orbe, Senior Associate General Counsel – M&A at Emerson Large-scale deals come with layers of complexity—from regulatory challenges and cross-border negotiations to structuring transactions that align with long-term business strategy. Having the right legal approach can make or break a deal. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, John Orbe joins us to break down what it takes to execute high-stakes transactions. He shares insights on the differences between large and small deals, how legal teams can be a strategic partner in M&A, and why cross-border transactions require more than just legal know-how. Things you will learn: Big vs. small deals – Unique challenges and hidden complexities When to involve legal in M&A – Structuring LOIs the right way Cross-border deal challenges – Cultural, regulatory, and legal considerations How technology is reshaping M&A – AI, automation, and data room efficiencies Avoiding post-closing disputes – Drafting airtight agreements Trailer Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:03:17 Entering the M&A World 00:05:26 M&A as a Team Sport 00:07:18 Transition from Law Firm to In-House Counsel 00:10:35 Differences Between Large and Small M&A Deals 00:15:42 M&A Deal Strategy and Business Risk 00:25:10 Legal Due Diligence Process 00:30:22 Cross-Border M&A Complexities 00:35:40 Technology and AI in M&A 00:40:15 Managing External Legal Counsel 00:45:00 Negotiation Strategies in M&A 00:50:30 People and Cultural Considerations in Deals 00:55:10 M&A Deal Execution and Closing Challenges 01:00:20 The Future of M&A and Legal Innovation 01:05:45 Craziest M&A Stories and Lessons Learned…

M&A Science

1
Lessons from the Trenches: Mastering Tech M&A, Integration, and Carve-Out Strategies Part 2 1:02:12

13 weeks ago1:02:12

1:02:12

Dr. Amit Monga , Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT Every deal tells a story of risk, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of value. With M&A evolving into a core function across industries, simply following old playbooks is no longer enough. You need insight, discipline, and a strategy tailored to today’s fast-moving, multi-dimensional landscape. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Amit Monga, Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT, joins us to unpack the intricacies of software valuation, integration challenges, and structuring carve-outs that unlock hidden value. Things you will learn: Trends in software valuation: EBITDA vs. revenue multiples How growth impacts valuation and attracts buyers Navigating deals with difficult CEOs Challenges in carve-outs from the buy-side Key differences between buy-side and sell-side M&A This episode is sponsored by DealRoom AI . Forget spending hours reviewing diligence contracts. Automate the extraction and analysis of key information and create quick summary reports. Harness the power of Buyer-Led M&A™ with DealRoom's proven framework. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 02:31 Trends in software valuation: EBITDA vs. revenue multiples 05:22 Venture capital vs. private equity mindsets 07:48 Who is lending on software deals 09:13 Convincing someone to sell their company 12:41 How growth impacts valuation and attracts buyers 15:46 How to approach your first acquisition 18:54 How to pitch a deal to Founders 22:15 Navigating deals with difficult CEOs 27:46 Challenges in carve-outs from the buy-side 31:36 Networking to find carve-out deals 35:28 Structuring optimal deals for carve-outs and founder-owned businesses 41:46 When to take on investments and build a platform 45:25 Key differences between buy-side and sell-side M&A 50:21 Surprises and lessons learned in M&A 55:09 How M&A strategies have evolved 58:25 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Lessons from the Trenches: Mastering Tech M&A, Integration, and Carve-Out Strategies Part 1 48:37

14 weeks ago48:37

48:37

Amit Monga , Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT M&A is a minefield of uncertainties, let alone the tech space. Missteps in integration, cultural clashes, and unforeseen risks can quickly derail even the most promising deals. That’s why understanding what could go wrong is critical. Dr. Amit Monga, Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT, shares lessons from the trenches to help you anticipate challenges and mitigate risks. Learn how to navigate integration, manage carve-outs, and turn M&A uncertainty into opportunity with actionable insights from a seasoned expert. Things you will learn: Key lessons from the trenches for corporate M&A success Balancing proactive and opportunistic M&A strategies Handling opportunistic deals outside core strategy Evaluating deals that don’t fit the M&A thesis Maintaining control during M&A execution ******************* This episode is sponsored by DealRoom AI . Forget spending hours reviewing diligence contracts. Automate the extraction and analysis of key information and create quick summary reports. Harness the power of Buyer-Led M&A™ with DealRoom's proven framework. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. ******************* Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 03:17 The power of an engineering background 03:48 Key lessons from the trenches for corporate M&A success 06:51 Balancing proactive and opportunistic M&A strategies 08:39 Building and managing an M&A pipeline 10:32 Handling opportunistic deals outside corporate strategy 12:35 Balancing synergies and opportunistic deals 14:54 Deciding how much to integrate a company 17:59 Evaluating deals that don’t fit the M&A thesis 23:06 Planning integration based on partnerships and synergies 25:02 Becoming a buyer-led M&A organization 27:05 Working with the sell-side during M&A processes 30:46 Maintaining control during M&A execution 32:40 Balancing the M&A process management with bankers 34:48 Handling proprietary deals without an advisor 38:34 Scenario: Balancing opportunism with communication in competitive processes…

M&A Science

1
Navigating the Current M&A Cycle, Regulatory Impacts, and 2025 Market Dynamics for Corporate Development Leaders 33:10

15 weeks ago33:10

33:10

Joe Mantone , U.S. Financial Institutions News Desk Manager at S&P Global Market Intelligence (NYSE: SPGI) The M&A market isn’t what it used to be. Deal volumes are rising, but they remain a shadow of the record highs of 2021. Add to this the challenges of regulatory hurdles, high interest rates, and uneven global recovery. Corporate development leaders are left asking: where do we go from here? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Joe Mantone of S&P Global Market Intelligence unpacks the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the M&A cycle. You’ll learn the latest insights to stay ahead in a volatile market and prepare for the opportunities 2025 promises to bring. Things you will learn: The state of M&A, recovering from the 2022 downturn How regulatory challenges are reshaping deal strategies What corporate leaders need to know about private equity and credit trends The rise of AI and sector-specific opportunities for 2025 Actionable advice for corporate development teams in a volatile market ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . DealRoom AI also sponsors this episode. DealRoom AI accelerates the due diligence process by automating the extraction and analysis of key information from M&A documents, reducing contract analysis time by up to 80%. Trusted by leading M&A practitioners, this tool streamlines reviews, minimizes risk, and saves legal costs significantly. For more details, visit the DealRoom AI page today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:03 Current state of the M&A market 07:45 Distinguishing the current M&A downturn 08:51 Factors driving global M&A 10:14 M&A blindspots to lookout for 12:38 How Fed rate cuts will affect M&A 13:38 Financing M&A deals in a changing market 15:22 Investor sentiment and the future of IPOs 16:17 Impact of market volatility on corporate M&A 17:12 Cross-border M&A: Lessons from Asia Pacific and Europe M&A Activity 20:19 How to prepare for the heightened regulatory scrutiny 21:43 Strategies for mitigating regulatory risks 22:24 M&A insights from earnings calls 23:53 Increased investment banking recruiting 24:48 Practical takeaways for corporate M&A teams 25:40 The future of M&A: Trends to watch in 2025 28:13 Emerging sectors for 2025 29:55 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Optimizing Your Corporate Development Team 1:16:34

16 weeks ago1:16:34

1:16:34

Andrew Kelley III - VP of Corporate Development and Ventures at Five9 ( NYSE: FIVN) Achieving success in M&A requires more than identifying opportunities—it demands a thoughtful approach to relationship-building, thorough due diligence, and strategic alignment. Without these key elements, even well-intentioned deals risk falling short of their potential. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Andrew Kelley, VP of Corporate Development and Ventures at Five9, shares his expertise on navigating the complexities of corporate development. From building strong relationships to prioritizing due diligence and leveraging emerging technology, Andrew provides actionable insights for driving successful deals. Learn how to overcome common pitfalls, foster alignment, and build a strategic M&A framework. Things You Will Learn: Strategies for building relationships and sourcing deals effectively How to prioritize and execute efficient due diligence Identifying and overcoming bid-ask spread challenges The role of culture in deal success and integration ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . DealRoom AI also sponsors this episode. DealRoom AI accelerates the due diligence process by automating the extraction and analysis of key information from M&A documents, reducing contract analysis time by up to 80%. Trusted by leading M&A practitioners, this tool streamlines reviews, minimizes risk, and saves legal costs significantly. For more details, visit the DealRoom AI page today. ******************* Episode Timestamps: 4:13 Overview of Experience in Corporate Development 7:17 Foundational Skills for M&A Success 17:39 Efficiency and Prioritization in Due Diligence 22:00 The Role of Culture in Integration 23:22 Green Flags in the Deal 27:12 Red Flags in the Deal 33:18 Predicting Actual Value 37:46 Key Players in Your Letter of Intent 41:01 Relationships in Corporate Development 44:46 Supporting Your Team While Holding Them Accountable 49:01 Dealing with Bid-Ask Spreads 54:35 Building External Relationships 1:08:22 Future of Corporate Development…

M&A Science

1
Synchronizing the Deal Team and Integration Team for Better Outcomes 1:13:13

17 weeks ago1:13:13

1:13:13

Russ Hartz, VP of Corporate Development at Ansys, and Carey Pugh, Director of Corporate Integrations at Ansys (NASDAQ: ANSS) The fastest way to sabotage an M&A deal is to let the deal team and integration team work in silos. Too often, companies nail the transaction only to fumble on execution because the people closing the deal and those delivering the value aren’t aligned. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Russ Hartz, VP of Corporate Development at Ansys, and Carey Pugh, Director of Corporate Integrations at Ansys, unpack how keeping deal and integration teams synchronized can make or break an M&A deal's outcomes. Things you will learn: The positive business outcomes of early integration Managing integration planning milestones Kickoff meeting structure Adapting integration approaches to cultural differences Building a strong partnership between deal and integration teams ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . DealRoom AI also sponsors this episode. DealRoom AI accelerates the due diligence process by automating the extraction and analysis of key information from M&A documents, reducing contract analysis time by up to 80%. Trusted by leading M&A practitioners, this tool streamlines reviews, minimizes risk, and saves legal costs significantly. For more details, visit the DealRoom AI page today. ******************* Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 04:49 Integration planning starts early 07:55 The positive business outcomes of early integration 15:22 Balancing strategy with practicality in early integration planning 21:50 Proactive integration planning 23:58 Managing integration planning milestones 25:11 Kickoff meeting structure 33:07 Adapting integration approaches to cultural differences 30:29 Key factors considered during diligence 44:31 Building a strong partnership between deal and integration teams 46:50 Key traits to look for in an integration partner 49:36 Aligning the deal and integration teams 52:18 Best practices for synchronizing the deal team and integration team 58:52 The power of buyer-led M&A - When you get to the point 1:04:23 Creating a seamless people experience in buyer-led M&A 1:06:43 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Mastering M&A Integration Through Leadership Development and Cultural Alignment 56:12

18 weeks ago56:12

56:12

Jason Lippert, CEO of LCI Industries (NYSE: LCII) M&A integration is notoriously challenging—cultural misalignment, disengaged leaders, and high turnover often derail even the best-laid plans. How do you overcome these obstacles and ensure a seamless integration that drives long-term success? In this episode, Jason Lippert, CEO of LCI Industries, shares his proven playbook for mastering M&A integration through leadership development and cultural alignment. Things you will learn: Correlating culture metrics with financial performance Investing in leadership development for a stronger frontline Proactive culture development for new team members Exploring AI to enhance customer service Identifying strong leadership during diligence ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global. S&P Global Market Intelligence has private companies covered. Whether you’re looking for your next investment or M&A target, conducting peer comparisons, assessing counterparty credit risk, or monitoring your supply chain, S&P Capital IQ Pro's extensive private company data can give you the insights you need for a competitive edge. Uncover tangible insights on private companies by visiting spglobal.com/privatecompanydata This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom . Harness the power of Buyer-Led M&A™ with DealRoom's proven framework. Streamline your acquisitions, from sourcing to integration, for smarter, more strategic deal-making that drives growth and value. Visit DealRoom.net to learn more. ******************* Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 07:37 Evolving from seller-led to buyer-led M&A strategies 10:43 Capital allocation and acquisition strategy in a public company 13:08 Defining and measuring company culture through core values 15:56 Culture as a driver of value in M&A integration 19:50 Assessing and transforming culture in M&A pre-LOI 21:45 Leveraging culture as a competitive advantage post-LOI 22:52 Building a playbook for culture and leadership integration 25:25 Fostering personal and professional growth plans for employees 33:23 Measuring success through culture and leadership metrics 37:30 Using culture to build trust and drive post-acquisition success 40:31 Correlating culture metrics with financial performance 42:14 Proactive culture development for new team members 43:53 Identifying strong leadership…

M&A Science

1
Expert Insights into Building an Empire through Strategic M&A (Part 2) 52:07

20 weeks ago52:07

52:07

Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman Group Many M&A deals fail to deliver their promised value due to gaps in deal sourcing, diligence, and integration. Without a clear strategy and the right tools, even the best opportunities can turn into liabilities. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, hear all the expert insights from Adam Coffey, Founding Partner at The Chairman Group, on how to source the right targets, structure deals for sustainability, and integrate acquisitions seamlessly. Get your blueprint for building an empire through strategic M&A. Things you will learn: • How to find and close proprietary deals for business growth • Building relationships and effective outreach strategies • Structuring deals with financial levers for sustainable growth • Mastering integration and building M&A expertise through experience • Strategic exit points and the value of partnering for growth ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . DealRoom AI also sponsors this episode. DealRoom AI accelerates the due diligence process by automating the extraction and analysis of key information from M&A documents, reducing contract analysis time by up to 80%. Trusted by leading M&A practitioners, this tool streamlines reviews, minimizes risk, and saves legal costs significantly. For more details, visit the DealRoom AI page today. ******************* Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 04:13 How to find and close proprietary deals for business growth 10:28 Building relationships and effective outreach strategies 23:14 Structuring deals with financial levers for sustainable growth 28:34 Mastering integration and building M&A expertise through experience 35:01 Strategic exit points and the value of partnering for growth 45:20 How to perform diligence on private equity buyers as a seller 48:23 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Expert Insights into Building an Empire through Strategic M&A (Part 1) 48:50

21 weeks ago48:50

48:50

Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman Group Scaling a business from good to great often feels like an uphill battle. Organic growth alone can be painfully slow, leaving you far from achieving your dream of building an empire. But how do you supercharge growth without losing control or falling into costly traps? Building an empire takes more than just passion—it requires a clear, strategic playbook. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman Group, shares his proven framework for transforming businesses into empires, from meticulous buyer-led diligence to flawless integration strategies. Things you will learn: • The framework for building a resilient and profitable business empire • The strategic role of software in scaling M&A operations • The power of buy and build for exponential business growth • Building relationships and effective outreach strategies • Structuring deals with financial levers for sustainable growth ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom's BI Reporting tool. DealRoom's BI Reporting tool revolutionizes M&A reporting with real-time, interactive data management. Utilize Looker BI to customize, automate, and export detailed M&A lifecycle reports, enhancing strategic decision-making. For more details, check out the DealRoom BI Reporting page. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 08:09 Simplifying business growth and private equity for everyone 11:48 The framework for building a resilient and profitable business empire 19:11 The strategic role of software in scaling M&A operations 24:11 Building a scalable business through smart acquisitions 30:00 The power of buy and build for exponential business growth 39:23 Strategically structuring growth and valuation for maximum exit potential…

M&A Science

1
How a Tech Founder Transformed into a CEO Championing M&A Growth 1:07:00

22 weeks ago1:07:00

1:07:00

Art Papas, CEO at Bullhorn Growth through M&A is about strategy, timing, and bold leadership. The stakes are high, but the rewards are transformative for those who get it right. In this episode, Art Papas, CEO of Bullhorn, shares his journey from tech founder to M&A leader, and how he turned acquisitions into engines of growth. Things you will learn: • The role evolution from tech lead to CEO • The case for buyer-led M&A • Leveraging customer insights to identify strategic opportunities • Balancing control and growth with private equity sponsorship • Building M&A strategies and handling private equity transitions ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:29 The role evolution from tech lead to CEO 10:21 Lessons in Discipline and Growth 16:27 The case for buyer-led M&A - We were buyer-led 20:30 Leveraging customer insights to identify strategic opportunities 25:27 Balancing control and growth with private equity sponsorship 31:30 Building M&A strategies and handling private equity transitions 32:31 The right way to integrate acquired businesses 40:22 Ensuring smooth M&A integration through detailed planning 43:48 Integration and risk planning post-LOI 46:07 Best practices for handling overlapping products in M&A 49:53 First M&A deal with Vista 54:14 Evaluating deal timing and product-market fit early 55:32 Staying close to core competencies in M&A 58:55 Expanding internationally with organic growth and M&A 1:00:43 Building relationships in early M&A conversations 1:02:14 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
What Elite Investment Bankers Do Differently in M&A 1:14:46

22 weeks ago1:14:46

1:14:46

Avinash Patel , Partner at PJT Partners (NYSE: PJT) ‍ Investment bankers aren't always seen as trusted advisors; some see them as deal-pushers, prioritizing fees over friendships. The skepticism is fair, but many miss the point of what they actually bring to the table. ‍ In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Avinash Patel, Partner at PJT Partners, offers an insider’s view on what investment bankers really do in M&A, from guiding strategic vision to wielding influence in complex transactions. Things you will learn: ‍ • Why investment bankers face a reputation challenge • Building influence and shaping strategy through relationship investment • Working with public vs. private companies as an investment banker • Evaluating the right private equity partner • Finding the right advisory partnership ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global. S&P Global Market Intelligence has private companies covered. Whether you’re looking for your next investment or M&A target, conducting peer comparisons, assessing counterparty credit risk, or monitoring your supply chain, S&P Capital IQ Pro's extensive private company data can give you the insights you need for a competitive edge. Uncover tangible insights on private companies by visiting spglobal.com/privatecompanydata This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 08:37 Why investment bankers face a reputation challenge 13:29 The role of investment bankers 17:21 Building influence and shaping strategy through relationship investment 21:36 Tailor advice and introductions for big-company impact 23:31 Example of companies turning strategic advice into growth 30:08 Working with public vs. private companies 32:21 Role play: Scaling through organic growth and strategic acquisitions 44:19 Leveraging investment bankers to identify strategic carve-out opportunities 48:29 Building selective PE relationships for carve-out deals 50:54 Evaluating the right private equity partner - willing to answer 55:47 The importance of buyer-led M&A integration planning 1:06:29 Finding the right advisory partnership 1:08:18 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Mastering M&A Success with Transparent Leadership and Strategic Agility 1:05:12

24 weeks ago1:05:12

1:05:12

Yogesh Gupta, President and CEO at Progress Software In M&A, closing the deal is just the beginning. The true measure of success comes from effective execution post-close. Mastering this phase demands transparent leadership and strategic agility—qualities that can significantly influence whether an acquisition thrives or flounders. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Yogesh Gupta , President and CEO of Progress Software , explores how clear leadership and adaptable strategies are pivotal for M&A success. He shares insights into building a strong foundation and ensuring seamless integration, even before the deal is inked. Things you will learn: • Crafting a clear and actionable M&A strategy • Establishing leadership and building a foundation before pursuing M&A • Strategic AI integration • Ensuring fit and managing integration risk at the LOI stage • Balancing objectivity and cultural fit in M&A decision-making *Bonus Mini Interview: The Evolving Landscape of M&A Data with Jack Glazebrook, VP and Head of North America Sales and Account Management for Corporates at S&P Global Market Intelligence. Today, data is everything, and the M&A industry is no different. Professionals must learn to harness and utilize the power of technology and data to increase efficiency. In this mini interview, Jack Glazebrook, VP and Head of North America Sales and Account Management for Corporates at S&P Global Market Intelligence, discusses the evolving landscape of M&A data and how it impacts M&A professionals. Things you will learn: • Embracing AI for Enhanced Efficiency • Leveraging Alternative Data Sources • Utilizing Capital IQ Pro • Accessing Private Company Data • Workflow Efficiency through Technology ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global. S&P Global Market Intelligence has private companies covered. Whether you’re looking for your next investment or M&A target, conducting peer comparisons, assessing counterparty credit risk, or monitoring your supply chain, S&P Capital IQ Pro's extensive private company data can give you the insights you need for a competitive edge. Uncover tangible insights on private companies by visiting spglobal.com/privatecompanydata This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Bookmarks 00:00 Intro 07:52 The reality of being a CEO in a publicly-traded company 12:29 Crafting a clear and actionable M&A strategy 15:21 Conducting diligence and understanding the business in the first 90 days 18:22 Establishing leadership and building a foundation before pursuing M&A 24:05 How the strategy evolved 25:05 Strategic AI integration 28:27 Executing successful M&A deals 30:51 Ensuring fit and managing integration risk at the LOI stage 34:26 Balancing objectivity and cultural fit in M&A decision-making 38:42 Building trust through transparency in M&A relationships 40:25 Influencing a sale by building long-term relationships 43:10 Maintaining valuation discipline in acquisition negotiations 45:31 Managing transparent employee communication 51:12 Staying agile to overcome integration challenges in M&A 54:33 Craziest thing in M&A 55:58 Bonus Interview with Jack Blazebrook: The Evolving Landscape of M&A Data…

M&A Science

1
Navigating Investor Relations and Capital Raising for Sustainable Growth 48:55

24 weeks ago48:55

48:55

Dr. Tianyi Jiang, CEO at AvePoint Raising capital is only half the battle. The real challenge is fostering strong relationships with investors while ensuring your business continues to grow. It’s easy to focus on securing funds, but investors look for more than just short-term returns. Without that clarity, it’s harder to build lasting trust and keep things moving forward. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Dr. Tianyi Jiang, CEO at AvePoint, explains how to navigate investor relations and capital raising for sustainable growth. Things you will learn: • Engineering discipline in M&A • Lessons in driving growth through organic and inorganic strategies • Building a strong distribution network • Balancing primary and secondary capital • Capital advantages of going public ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Bookmarks 00:00 Intro 04:53 Engineering discipline in M&A 07:08 Lessons in driving growth through organic and inorganic strategies 11:37 Building a strong distribution network 13:36 The importance of strategic capital raising for long-term growth 17:41 How to recapitalize and scale without losing control 20:30 Structuring a recap 22:11 Balancing primary and secondary capital 24:32 Maintaining control and avoiding founder dilution 28:42 Maximizing returns while retaining control 30:14 How going public challenges companies to maintain discipline and long-term focus 34:20 Capital advantages of going public 36:46 Structuring acquisitions and aligning acquirer and founder interests 40:20 Strategic capital allocation to drive growth 42:29 Key advice for growing, raising capital, and allocating resources 45:30 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Execution Insights in M&A 47:07

25 weeks ago47:07

47:07

Davis Thacker, Chief of Staff and Head of Corporate Development at Carta The M&A process is notoriously tricky—everyone loves talking about getting the deal done, but few focus on the real work that comes after. Integration, valuation shifts, and cultural alignment often prove to be the biggest roadblocks to a successful acquisition. How do you avoid the common pitfalls that derail so many deals post-close? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Davis Thacker, Chief of Staff and Head of Corporate Development at Carta, shares his expert strategies on executing successful M&A. Things you will learn: • Sourcing unbounded deals • Driving accountability for successful integration • Building consistency and early integration • Advice on building a collaborative relationship with your CEO • How to maintain a consistent people experience ******************* This episode is sponsored by S&P Global Market Intelligence . Find insight at every data point with the enhanced S&P Capital IQ Pro platform. It’s the leading data solution for strategics and investors alike. Visit spglobal.com/proinsights . This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Bookmarks 00:00 Intro 07:38 Discovering unbounded deal opportunities 09:00 Sourcing unbounded deals 13:21 Deal execution lessons: Adapting M&A strategy based on business growth 15:22 Driving accountability for successful integration 17:34 Building consistency and early integration 20:28 Working with the CEO 22:08 Advice on building a collaborative relationship with your CEO 24:01 Cultural challenges of international deals 27:42 Creating a positive people experience in M&A 31:04 How to maintain a consistent people experience 35:22 Balancing cultural integration 37:30 Mapping international growth in venture markets 39:18 Key tips for transitioning from domestic to international M&A 41:20 Navigating valuations and stakeholder interests in deal negotiations 43:29 Aligning non-price factors in M&A - Come back to culture 44:17 Craziest Thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Executing Strategic M&A in Today's Market 57:38

26 weeks ago57:38

57:38

Todd Henrich , SVP Head of Corporate Development at Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG) Today's M&A market conditions are volatile, regulatory scrutiny is high, and the pressure to find value is greater than ever. The risks of entering a deal without a firm understanding of today’s market dynamics have never been more pronounced. How do you ensure your strategic acquisitions stay on course? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, we explore the best practices for executing strategic M&A in today's market with Todd Henrich, SVP Head of Corporate Development at Booking Holdings. Things you will learn: • The ripple effects of regulatory overreach on M&A and investment • Shaping strategy through M&A setbacks • Using M&A as a tool, not a strategy • How global regulatory collaboration is impacting M&A activity • Key targets and red flags when building an investment thesis ******************* This episode is sponsored by Grata. Grata is the leading platform for private market dealmaking. With innovative AI and diligence-grade data, Grata makes it easy to find and evaluate targets from the outside looking in. Win more with Grata. This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 05:02 The impact of changing regulations on M&A deals 08:01 The ripple effects of regulatory overreach on M&A and investment 11:40 Shaping strategy through M&A setbacks 12:49 Using M&A as a tool, not a strategy 15:59 How global regulatory collaboration is impacting M&A activity 18:13 Adapting to regulatory rules 19:21 Ensuring strategic alignment and long-term value in M&A 22:49 Sourcing deals 23:38 The Rocketmiles acquisition success story 26:48 Key targets and red flags when building an investment thesis 30:16 The AI hype 31:38 Managing the hidden costs of M&A 36:08 The importance of an integration team in M&A success 37:39 Balancing valuation and integration costs in M&A 39:19 Other reasons deals can go awry 43:39 Key lessons in M&A: Doing deals that matter 46:59 Handling surprises in M&A deals 53:21 The importance of buyer-led M&A processes for long-term success 55:09 Craziest Thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Managing Regulatory Compliance Risks in M&A 1:02:18

28 weeks ago1:02:18

1:02:18

Charles Webb , Lead Antitrust Counsel at FedEx (NYSE: FDX) When it comes to mergers and acquisitions, everyone loves to talk about synergies, growth, and market share. However, these enticing prospects can quickly dim if regulatory compliance risks are overlooked. While not the most glamorous aspect of M&A, compliance forms the bedrock that ensures deals are legally sound and smoothly executed. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Charles Webb, Lead Antitrust Counsel at FedEx, discusses how to manage regulatory compliance risks in M&A. Things you will learn: • Different types of regulatory compliance risks in M&A • Applicability of antitrust framework to companies • The evolution of antitrust laws • The importance of avoiding Gun Jumping • Increased aggressiveness of antitrust regulators ******************* This episode is sponsored by Grata. Grata is the leading platform for private market dealmaking. With innovative AI and diligence-grade data, Grata makes it easy to find and evaluate targets from the outside looking in. Win more with Grata. This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:40 Different types of regulatory compliance risks in M&A 14:41 Applicability of antitrust framework to companies 20:47 Impact of HSR filing on the deal timeline 22:43 What does the HSR form look like? 24:56 How to land the narrative in a merger 28:25 The Origins of the Sherman Act 29:47 The Magna Carta of Free Enterprise 30:03 Fast forward 1914 30:36 Amendments and the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act 31:33 The evolution of antitrust laws 33:47 Risks during the waiting period 39:33 The importance of avoiding Gun Jumping 42:22 Best practices for internal communication during a deal 44:01 Understanding deal review risk in advance 46:11 What happens if a deal is rejected? 50:11 Increased aggressiveness of antitrust regulators 51:41 Real consequences for gun jumping 53:05 Balancing integration planning with gun jumping risks 57:43 The key to preparing for regulatory compliance 58:52 Craziest Thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Strategic Perspectives on M&A 59:08

28 weeks ago59:08

59:08

Henry Ward, CEO and Co-founder at Carta M&A has become a critical tool for companies to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing market. But success in acquisitions now requires more than just speed—it demands a strategic approach that aligns with long-term goals and adapts to industry shifts. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Henry Ward, CEO and Co-founder of Carta, shares his insights on how businesses can refine their M&A strategies to thrive in an evolving corporate landscape. Things you will learn: • Building the case for actionability • How to convince founders to sell • Valuing high-growth companies • Bounded vs. unbounded acquisitions • Balancing disciplined acquisitions with opportunistic ventures ******************* This episode is sponsored by Grata. Grata is the leading platform for private market dealmaking. With innovative AI and diligence-grade data, Grata makes it easy to find and evaluate targets from the outside looking in. Win more with Grata. This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:30 First failed acquisition story 09:13 Lessons learned during early deals 14:06 Building the case for actionability 16:31 Convincing founders to sell 26:06 Valuing high-growth companies 28:26 Bridging valuation gaps 31:48 Acquihires and product tuck-ins 35:39 Bounded vs. unbounded acquisitions 40:40 Lessons from unbounded M&A deals 44:22 Strategic capital allocation 46:33 Evaluating pipelines and allocating resources 48:10 How to make successful Corp Dev team and CEO relationships 50:25 Integration expectations from stakeholders 53:31 Thoughts on international expansion 56:02 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
From Silos to Synergy: Best Practices for Uniting Diligence & Integration in M&A 36:13

30 weeks ago36:13

36:13

Camilo Franco , Director of M&A Integration and Operations and Matt Arsenault , VP of Corporate Development & Strategic Alliances at Jamf (NASDAQ: JAMF) Too often in M&A, diligence and integration operate in separate lanes. Diligence focuses on uncovering risks, while integration is left scrambling to make everything fit once the ink is dry. It’s a classic case of working in silos, and it’s leaving value on the table. But there's a way to break down those barriers from the start. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Matt Arsenault, VP of Corporate Development & Strategic Alliances at Jamf, and Camilo Franco, Director of M&A Integration and Operations, show us how to transform these silos into synergy by aligning diligence and integration from day one. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Implementing a proactive buyer-led M&A strategy • Synchronizing diligence and integration planning • The importance of integration-led diligence • Building and refining the integration thesis • Collaborating with sellers to shape a seamless integration plan ******************* This episode is sponsored by Grata. Grata is the leading platform for private market dealmaking. With innovative AI and diligence-grade data, Grata makes it easy to find and evaluate targets from the outside looking in. Win more with Grata. This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 04:46 Implementing a proactive buyer-led M&A strategy 06:21 Synchronizing diligence and integration planning 09:12 The importance of integration-led diligence 10:25 Early integration planning pre-LOI 13:05 Building and refining the integration thesis 15:58 Balancing due diligence and integration 19:10 Building confidence in early integration planning 21:53 Collaborating with sellers to shape a seamless integration plan 24:48 Measuring success from diligence to integration 27:44 Balancing aggressive integration goals with realistic expectations 29:59 Balancing AI hype with core business strategy in M&A pipelines 32:04 Best practices for evaluating intangible factors in an acquisition 33:52 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
How to Validate the Deal Thesis To Ensure M&A Success 54:43

31 weeks ago54:43

54:43

Jann Lau, Senior Director, Corporate Development at PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) A well-crafted deal thesis is the cornerstone of any successful M&A transaction. It outlines the strategic rationale and anticipated value creation from the acquisition. However, a strong thesis alone isn't enough. To ensure the deal delivers on its promise, it's crucial to rigorously validate its assumptions and projections. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jann Lau, Senior Director of Corporate Development at PayPal, shares key strategies for validating the deal thesis and mitigating risks associated with M&A. Things you will learn: • The importance of validating the deal thesis • The risks of rushing M&A deals without proper alignment • How to effectively validate a deal thesis • Who takes the blame in corporate development for a bad deal? • Other ways to streamline the M&A process ******************* This episode is sponsored by Spearhead Corp Dev , a leading buy-side advisory firm. Spearhead combines traditional deal origination and advisory with advanced AI to help corporations and mid-market PE firms find and close more off-market deals with certainty. Their approach supercharges proprietary deal flow, providing a greater choice of opportunities. Elevate your deal sourcing by visiting spearheadcorpdev.com . This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 04:36 The Yahoo! acquisition 09:27 The importance of validating the deal thesis 13:42 The risks of rushing M&A deals without proper alignment 16:25 How to effectively validate a deal thesis 20:55 Example on how to effectively validate a deal thesis 26:29 Risks of not validating the deal thesis 29:42 Crafting a deal thesis 33:31 Pitching the deal thesis 36:38 Integration as a deal driver 39:47 Who takes the blame in corporate development for a bad deal? 40:53 Key questions to nail down your deal thesis 42:09 Balancing gut instinct and stakeholder buy-in in M&A decisions 44:20 Lessons from deal surprises 46:13 When to walk away from a deal 48:16 Other ways to streamline the M&A process 50:34 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Insights on Portfolio Rebalancing in M&A 1:16:31

32 weeks ago1:16:31

1:16:31

Gregg Albert , Managing Partner - Corporate Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions at Accenture (NYSE: ACN) Companies are facing immense pressure to stay agile, seize new opportunities, and maintain a competitive advantage in today's rapidly evolving business environment. One key strategy to achieve this is portfolio rebalancing, a critical initiative that helps businesses optimize their asset mix and drive sustainable growth. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Gregg Albert, Managing Director of Corporate Strategy M&A at Accenture, discusses in-depth, what is portolio rebalancing and how it could help your company. Things you will learn: • The difference between an opinionated shareholder and an activist investor • Companies that attract activist investors • How to approach portfolio rebalancing • Addressing integration bottlenecks • The challenges of divestitures in portfolio rebalancing ******************* This episode is sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 08:57 The importance of portfolio rebalancing 11:56 The broader scope of portfolio rebalancing 14:56 Evolving perspectives on portfolio rebalancing: activist investors 16:56 The difference between an opinionated shareholder and an activist 19:11 Companies that attract activist investors 21:38 How to approach portfolio rebalancing 26:24 Key stages in M&A transactions 29:38 Addressing integration bottlenecks 32:34 The challenges of divestitures in portfolio rebalancing 35:21 Portfolio rebalancing example 39:57 How influence works in the boardroom 42:21 How to be an activist investor 44:32 Defending against shareholder activism 47:02 Audience Q&A 47:43 Characteristics of companies with a strong M&A muscle 49:31 Challenges faced by companies with a weaker M&A muscle 51:09 The importance of prioritizing capital allocation in M&A 54:40 Portfolio rebalancing in private equity-owned businesses 58:14 Carve-outs in private equity portfolios 1:00:15 Understanding wargaming in strategic planning 1:04:15 Choosing the right advisor for your business needs 1:07:35 Future trends in M&A and portfolio rebalancing 1:09:31 Advice for companies on portfolio management 1:11:46 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
In-House vs. External Legal Insights in M&A 1:02:12

33 weeks ago1:02:12

1:02:12

Anson Lau , Deputy General Counsel at LONGi Solar (SHA:601012) In M&A, it’s not just about the deal—it’s about who’s at the table. In-house and external counsel both play key roles in a deal, bringing unique expertise and advantages. Knowing how to strategically utilize both can help you manage risks, secure favorable terms, and ensure smooth post-deal integration. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Anson Lau, Deputy General Counsel at LONGi Solar, shares how to play to the strengths of both sides to optimize your M&A approach. Things you will learn from this episode: • Balancing in-house and external legal roles • Mindset differences in in-house vs. external counsel • Tactical vs. strategic roles in legal counsel • Risk mitigation: external vs. internal counsel • Choosing the right external counsel for M&A deals ******************* This episode is sponsored by DealRoom AI, the latest innovation from DealRoom designed specifically for M&A professionals. DealRoom AI automates the analysis and extraction of key information from due diligence documents, empowering teams to save up to 80% of their time on document analysis and focus on what really matters—closing the deal. Ready to streamline your M&A process? Visit dealroom.net today. ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:15 Balancing in-house and external legal roles 08:59 The intensity of external legal work 10:06 Mindset differences in in-house vs. external counsel 12:56 Tactical vs. strategic roles in legal counsel 15:54 Understanding negotiation perspectives 20:56 Risk mitigation: external vs. internal counsel 23:47 Cross-functional collaboration in risk mitigation 28:19 Assessing law firm culture 29:34 Best and worst-case scenario of M&A deals 36:15 Choosing the right external counsel for M&A deals 39:36 Building relationships with legal counsel for future M&A deals 42:57 Managing diligence: pre-term sheet vs. post-term sheet 45:45 Identifying red flags before signing the LOI 48:27 Collaborating with internal stakeholders pre-LOI vs post-LOI 54:46 The Impact of AI on the legal profession 58:29 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
The Role of CEO in M&A 1:15:23

33 weeks ago1:15:23

1:15:23

Kevin Lynch , CEO and Board Member at Optiv Beyond the boardroom battles and billion-dollar deals, mergers and acquisitions present a unique set of challenges and opportunities for CEOs. From strategic planning to post-merger integration, it takes essential skills and qualities for CEOs to excel in this high-stakes arena. In this episode of the M&A Science podcast, Kevin Lynch, CEO and Board Member at Optiv, shares his invaluable insights on the role of a CEO and what it takes to lead a company through successful M&A endeavors. Things you will learn from this episode: • Balancing market share and capability in M&A decisions • Crafting a strategic integration thesis • When to communicate your vision for the acquisition • The isolation of the CEO role • Driving speed and growth with battle rhythm and clear expectations ******************* Experience the M&A event of the year and gain actionable insights to scale your M&A practice. Register now for the Fall M&A Science Fair here. This episode is sponsored by DealRoom . Ready to take your M&A to the next level with software made to manage each stage of the deal process? See how DealRoom can facilitate your next deal at https://dealroom.net ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 06:26 Defining the CEO’s role in M&A 09:49 Shaping the M&A strategy 14:26 Balancing market share and capability in M&A decisions 16:13 Navigating imperfect M&A fits 19:42 Crafting a strategic integration thesis 22:18 When to communicate your vision for the acquisition 28:01 The fundamentals of capital allocation 33:59 Managing complexities in leadership 36:47 Communicating the capital allocation approach 40:41 The isolation of the CEO role 43:10 Fostering cultural fit and addressing cultural concerns 48:04 Evaluating culture during executive conversations 51:39 Convincing companies to sell 1:00:08 Driving speed and growth with battle rhythm and clear expectations 1:03:43 Challenges and best practices in M&A 1:11:28 Craziest Thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
How to Execute Successful M&A as a CEO 50:37

34 weeks ago50:37

50:37

Sanjay Poonen, CEO & President of Cohesity M&A isn't just about signing a deal and popping the champagne. Every CEO knows the entire process is a minefield of cultural clashes, integration headaches, and occasional unexpected challenges that could blow up your strategy. But while M&A can be a high-stakes game, it’s also one that can be mastered with the right playbook. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, we’re diving into key strategies CEOs should consider to ensure M&A success, featuring Sanjay Poonen, CEO & President of Cohesity. Things you will learn in this episode: • The CEO’s approach to M&A integration • Key considerations in sourcing deals • Best practices for managing large-scale acquisitions • The impact of market timing on acquisition strategy ******************* Experience the M&A event of the year and gain actionable insights to scale your M&A practice. Register now for the Fall M&A Science Fair here. This episode is sponsored by DealRoom. Ready to take your M&A to the next level with software made to manage each stage of the deal process? See how DealRoom can facilitate your next deal at https://dealroom.net ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 04:06 Exploring high-impact M&A deals 05:33 Shaping the M&A strategy 07:16 Expanding and innovating through acquisitions 11:18 The CEO’s approach to M&A integration 20:08 Key considerations in sourcing deals 25:25 Cultivating cultural alignment 29:42 Convincing companies to do an M&A deal 36:51 Maintaining key relationships 38:36 Best practices for managing large-scale acquisitions 40:38 Strategic considerations for a global expansion 41:37 The right timing for announcing deals 43:35 The impact of market timing on acquisition strategy 44:53 Advice for CEOs on preparing for a successful IPO post-acquisition 46:47 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Dynamic Portfolio Strategy: Rebalancing Using Divestitures 44:31

35 weeks ago44:31

44:31

Jerome Combes-Knoke, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development at Dotmatics (Insight Partners) Strategic focus is a prerequisite to strong corporate performance. Yet, without proactive efforts to maintain focus, companies can “drift” and become weighed down by misaligned business units. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jerome Combes-Knoke, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development at Dotmatics (a portfolio company of Insight Partners), shares his broad M&A experience and presents his approach to portfolio strategy and rebalancing through divestitures. Things you will learn in this episode: • Strategic focus on acquisitions, using Dotmatics’ approach. • Portfolio rebalancing and its challenges • Evaluating divestiture candidates • Building internal alignment for divestitures • Best practices for managing key risks ******************* Experience the M&A event of the year and gain actionable insights to scale your M&A practice. Register now for the Fall M&A Science Fair here. This episode is sponsored by DealRoom. Ready to take your M&A to the next level with software made to manage each stage of the deal process? See how DealRoom can facilitate your next deal at https://dealroom.net ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 05:17 Approaching deals in a software-oriented environment 10:11 Preserving brand integrity in M&A go-to-market strategies 12:43 Approaching valuation 15:16 Strategic pitch for acquisitions 20:41 Portfolio rebalancing and its challenges 25:25 When and how to rebalance a company’s portfolio 27:29 Getting buy-in and alignment from the board and key stakeholders 33:24 Key factors in considering divestitures 36:26 Executing a divestiture for portfolio rebalancing 39:09 Best practices in executing divestitures 43:12 Divestiture success metrics 46:29 Example of portfolio rebalancing and its challenges 53:20 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
How to Run a Successful Cultural Integration 1:01:13

37 weeks ago1:01:13

1:01:13

Court Carruthers, President and CEO at TricorBraun Cultural integration is the often overlooked key to long-term M&A success. It's about creating a shared identity, values, and purpose that unites employees from different backgrounds. When done right, it can transform a merger from a transactional event into a strategic partnership. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Court Carruthers, President and CEO at TricorBraun, shares his insights on how to successfully integrate two cultures and build a stronger, unified organization. Things you will learn in the episode: • The importance of cultural integration in M&A • The role of culture in M&A and business strategy • Approaching cultural diligence • Identifying culture fit in an auction • Best practices for M&A integration ******************* This episode is sponsored by DealRoom. Ready to take your M&A to the next level with software made to manage each stage of the deal process? See how DealRoom can facilitate your next deal at https://dealroom.net ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 03:53 The importance of cultural integration in M&A 05:18 Academic research on cultural integration in M&A 07:32 The role of culture in M&A and business strategy 09:04 A unique M&A strategy focused on family businesses 10:23 Integration strategies for acquired businesses 14:04 Building relationships and structuring deals for long-term success 16:36 Approaching cultural diligence 18:16 Identifying culture fit in an auction 21:46 Assessing cultural fit in M&A 24:20 Walking away from a deal due to cultural differences 26:34 Red flags in cultural fit between LOI and closing 33:05 Building an organization for successful acquisitions 35:19 The importance of seamless handoffs 38:13 Keeping stakeholders comfortable during transitions 40:57 The biggest challenge in dealing with culture 43:02 Best practices for M&A integration 46:25 Working with private equity partners for long-term growth 48:54 Good vs. bad partnerships with PE Firms 50:34 Advice for corporate development practitioners 54:48 Why culture in M&A is important 55:32 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
Unlocking New M&A Strategies: Uniting Venture Capital Insights and Public Equities in M&A 1:11:34

38 weeks ago1:11:34

1:11:34

Thomas Le, Vice President, Corporate Development at Ziff Davis, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZD) The M&A landscape is constantly evolving, making it difficult to predict future trends and identify new opportunities. How can companies maintain a competitive advantage? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Thomas Le, Vice President of Corporate Development at Ziff Davis, Inc., shares his VC-backed strategies for unlocking new M&A strategies. Things you will learn in this episode: • Strategic networking for building a pipeline • The Reverse Coverage method for building a pipeline • How to craft effective cold outreach emails • Integrating the Mosaic theory into M&A strategy ******************* This episode of the M&A Science Podcast is brought to you by Insight. In today’s rapidly evolving business world, staying ahead means embracing change and leveraging technology to not just meet but exceed your strategic goals. That’s where Insight comes in. Insight is a comprehensive solutions integrator that helps organizations transform technology, operations, and service delivery to future-proof the business and innovate. With a client-focused approach to delivery, they combine the power of people and technology to turn the biggest challenges into opportunities. Learn more at insight.com/leave-legacy . ******************* This episode is also sponsored by DealRoom. Ready to take your M&A to the next level with software made to manage each stage of the deal process? See how DealRoom can facilitate your next deal at https://dealroom.net ******************* Episode Timestamps 00:00 Intro 05:40 Venture capital experience in M&A 13:18 Strategic networking for building a pipeline 18:31 Making an effective initial outreach 19:21 How to craft effective cold outreach emails 23:24 Assessing product market fit 29:01 Strategic thinking and culture fit 32:41 Unlocking new M&A strategies 36:02 Leveraging bankers in M&A deals 38:07 Applying the Mosaic theory to M&A due diligence 47:31 Embedding M&A into corporate culture 48:50 Transitioning from public equities and venture capital to M&A 1:07:04 Craziest thing in M&A…

M&A Science

1
How to Execute a Balanced M&A Integration 1:07:01

38 weeks ago1:07:01