Mergers and acquisitions (M and A) usually encompass far more than just
the financial aspect. But mergers and acquisitions financial specialists are
key players in the deal. They negotiate the sale and ensure that all parties
involved come away from the deal happy.
In addition, the M and A specialists are responsible for ensuring that
all financial areas of the deal are in order.
It is important to note that M and A financial specialists are not accountants.
Accountants ensure the accuracy of all financial information. M and A specialists
simply oversee that activity.
M and A financial specialists can work for either the buyer or the seller.
When working for the buyer, they perform due diligence (that means they investigate)
to make sure the business is viable and is represented accurately in the financial
paperwork.
They also work to make sure that the buyer gets exactly what they expect
to receive for their investment.
When working for the seller, M and A specialists spend time making sure
all paperwork is in order. They negotiate with both the buyer and the seller
to make sure that goals are reached for both parties. Those goals could be
financial, or they could be product-related.
The average workday varies. For example, if the specialist is in the middle
of negotiations or researching a deal, days might be longer and overtime might
be required. However, that is not the case all the time.
There are no special physical requirements for M and A financial specialists.
However, the stress factor is very high in this career.
"The mergers and acquisitions business is very confrontational," says Bob
Brauns. He is a mergers and acquisitions financial specialist. "Sometimes
you're negotiating with several different entities and your client, all at
one time. Some people love that conflict, and those are the people who do
the best in this job."