OBJECTIVE:
The seminar focuses on the core part of a mergers and acquisitions (M & A) project: how to plan, evaluate, analyze, and then synthesize the information accumulated. It will deepen participants’ understanding of the things to consider, plan and watch for in M & A transactions.

The due diligence process has multiple objectives: deciding whether to proceed, providing a basis for pricing the transaction, and preparing for life after the deal is consummated. In this seminar, participants will be able to deepen their understanding of M & A transactions, understand strategic objectives of a due diligence review, plan an acquisition, develop valuation and pricing recommendations, understand critical issues in confidentiality agreements and identify key issues in a prospective acquisition. 

WHO WILL BENEFIT:
Financial managers and accountants who have experience in M & A and would like fresh perspectives, those undertaking due diligence for the first time, and those on the receiving end of a due diligence review.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• identify and execute the components of the due diligence process,
• evaluate financial data and apply financial review procedures,
• describe non-financial due diligence areas of consideration (HR, IT, etc.), and
• identify common lessons learned and tips and traps in the due diligence process.

CONTENT:

•  M & A process overview
• Planning for the transaction
• Financial review: quality of earnings and normalized EBITDA, net working capital and net debt
• Financial, human resources, legal and operational reviews 
• Purchase agreement and purchase price adjustments
• Integration matters
• Common findings and conclusion

PREREQUISITES:
Post-secondary level course in finance or equivalent knowledge and a basic understanding of, or experience in, mergers & acquisitions.

COURSE LEADER: DEAN SCHINKEL, CPA, CA, CBV