Episódios
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 Timestamps00:00 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
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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
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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 Timestamps00:00 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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