Mergers and acquisitions remain one of the most powerful levers for strategic growth, yet they also carry a high risk of value destruction. Even in more favourable market conditions, with easing inflation and improving access to capital, evidence consistently shows that between 70 and 90 percent of M&A deals fail to achieve their intended objectives. Too often, deals are driven by compelling narratives rather than disciplined decision-making, resulting in poor outcomes for organisations and shareholders alike.
This taster session introduces the core thinking behind the Mergers and Acquisitions: How to maximise success Executive Education programme.
Led by Programme Director John Colley, the session explores why so many transactions fall short and how leaders can take a more structured, value-focused approach to dealmaking.
The session is built around four essential elements that underpin successful M&A outcomes, known as the STIP framework:
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Strategy, ensuring the deal is genuinely value-creating rather than driven by ambition or rhetoric
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Timing, understanding how market cycles and deal momentum influence long-term outcomes
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Integration, addressing one of the most complex and failure-prone stages of any transaction through effective planning and execution
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Pricing, recognising the irreversible impact of overpaying and the importance of disciplined judgement
Through practical insight and real-world examples, participants will gain a clearer understanding of the leadership decisions that determine whether M&A creates or destroys value. The session also provides an overview of how the full programme equips leaders with the frameworks, tools, and confidence needed to approach deals more effectively and sustainably.
This event is designed for senior leaders, executives, and decision-makers who are involved in mergers and acquisitions, or who expect to be in the future, and want to explore whether the programme is right for their professional development and organisational goals.
More about the Executive Education Programme: Mergers and Acquisitions: How to Maximise Success