Entries by Sharona White

Mastering the Art of M&A Integration: Insights from Jim Buckley’s Journey at Microsoft, PayPal and VMWare

When it comes to mergers and acquisitions (M&A), the integration phase is where the real work begins. While deal-making and headlines capture public attention, the art of separating a business into a solid stand-alone company or blending two organizations into one cohesive entity is where success or failure is truly determined. This was the focus […]

Herding Cats: Mastering M&A Transitions

The phrase “herding cats” is often used to describe an impossible task. In the context of M&A transitions, it’s a surprisingly apt metaphor. Transitioning businesses post-merger or acquisition involves aligning diverse teams, cultures, processes, and goals—all while keeping operations running smoothly. It can feel as though you’re trying to coordinate a room full of independent-minded […]

Thinking Outside the Box and Being Brave: A Guide to Unleashing Your Creative Potential (Bonus: Case Study)

In a world that often rewards conformity and predictability, thinking outside the box and embracing bravery can set you apart as a creative force, a leader, or simply someone who sees beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re looking to solve complex business challenges, improve your personal life, or unlock new opportunities, thinking outside the box and […]

Navigating Complex M&A Landscapes: Lessons from Microsoft, PayPal and VMware’s Jim

In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, Lisa Scott sits down with Jim Buckley, a veteran in M&A integration with leadership experience at tech giants like Microsoft, PayPal, and VMware. With a career spanning over 150 integrations, Jim shares his insights on managing complex, multi-acquisition environments, working effectively with legal teams, and […]

Leveraging Customer Value During Transitions with Brant Wilson

In this insightful episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott is joined by Brant Wilson, president of Customer Value Systems. With over 30 years of marketing and management experience across industries such as technology, healthcare, and financial services, Brant shares his journey to leading a successful marketing research firm. This episode dives […]

How the M&A Environment Could Change Under a Trump Presidency

If Donald Trump were to return to the U.S. presidency, the M&A environment could see a shift influenced by his administration’s policies on taxes, deregulation, foreign investment, and trade. Known for his “America First” agenda, Trump would likely continue to promote a pro-business stance focused on reducing taxes and regulatory barriers. However, his policies on […]

The Importance of Execution in M&A: Why Fancy Presentations Can’t Replace Action

In the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), much of the attention is often placed on strategy and planning. Deals are typically kicked off with impressive presentations that outline the vision, synergies, and projected ROI. Slides are meticulously designed, full of high-level insights and strategic goals, while the executive team leaves the room buzzing with […]

Harnessing Technology for Enhanced Procurement Transition During M&A Spin-offs

In the dynamic landscape of mergers and acquisitions, particularly with M&A spin-offs, the role of technology has become central to achieving a smooth and strategic transition. As companies navigate the complexities of procurement transitions, technology offers a foundation for ensuring the process is efficient, data-driven, and resilient against errors. This white paper, Harnessing Technology for […]

Supplier Onboarding in Spin-Off Transitions: Requirements, Workarounds, and Tracking

As companies undergo spin-off transitions, onboarding suppliers becomes a critical task that requires balancing immediate operational needs with long-term strategic goals. Spin-offs often need to establish independent supplier relationships swiftly, creating a unique context for supplier onboarding compared to typical scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of the key onboarding requirements, common workarounds during transitions, and how […]