Podcasts Technology Acquired Episode 18: SpecialAn Acquirers View into M&A with Taylor Barada, head of Corp Dev at Adobe

Episode 18: SpecialAn Acquirers View into M&A with Taylor Barada, head of Corp Dev at Adobe

Published: Aug. 22, 2016, 12:48 p.m.

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Ben & David are joined by special guest Taylor Barada, VP and Head of Corporate Development & Strategic Partnerships at Adobe, to discuss how large tech acquirers approach buying companies. This episode is full of great insights for startups & entrepreneurs who might find themselves navigating the M&A process, as well as anyone curious about the craft of dealmaking and the strategic approach of large acquirers.\\xa0

Sponsors:
Vanta: https://bit.ly/acquiredvanta
Crusoe: https://bit.ly/acquiredcrusoe
Modern Treasury: https://bit.ly/acquiredmoderntreasury


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Topics covered include:\\xa0
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  • How conversations begin between startups and acquirers
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  • The importance of building a relationship with acquirers over time and "investing in lines, not dots\\u201d (just like raising VC)
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  • The often under-appreciated role of culture fit between acquirers and acquisition targets\\xa0
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  • How entrepreneurs should evaluate acquirers throughout the M&A process\\xa0
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  • Two examples of successful acquisitions Taylor completed at Yahoo in Citizen Sports and IntoNow\\n
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  • The M&A process at large technology acquirers, from initial conversations to LOI, due diligence and the definitive merger agreement\\xa0
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  • The relative roles of Corp Dev, business/product owners and executive sponsors in the M&A process
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  • Common mistakes startups (and VC\\u2019s) often make in the M&A process
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  • Different \\u201ccategories\\u201d of M&A that acquirers think about, and the relative risks & opportunities of \\u201ccore" acquisitions vs transformative new businesses\\xa0
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  • What percentage of deals Adobe looks at actually happen, and the importance of being willing to say no
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  • M&A as a tool for strategy, and the different M&A cultures & approaches at different companies\\xa0
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  • Tech themes Taylor and Adobe think about as part of their M&A strategy
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  • Evaluating the longterm success of deals and the importance of the M&A integration function\\xa0
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\\xa0 Followups:\\xa0

\\xa0 The Carve Out:\\xa0

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