How to Break Into M&A: Lessons from Todd Manley Part 2

33 snips

Jul 3, 2025

In this insightful discussion, Todd Manley, VP of Corporate Development Integration at Intel, shares valuable strategies for breaking into mergers and acquisitions, particularly for those from diverse backgrounds. He emphasizes the importance of intentional networking and active listening in building strong professional connections. Todd also discusses key leadership traits he seeks when hiring and why learning from one’s career journey is crucial. With practical advice on team dynamics and career growth, he offers listeners a roadmap to success in the M&A landscape.

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ADVICE

Value of In-Person Networking

Rebuild in-person connections and attend conferences to strengthen professional relationships.
Personal meeting connections outrank virtual interactions in value for networking in M&A.

ADVICE

Purposeful Internal Networking

Network purposefully within large organizations by leveraging contacts to reach experts.
Use introductions strategically to break down barriers and expand your internal network.

ADVICE

Network Maintenance Strategy

Maintain your network intentionally by scheduling regular check-ins with contacts.
Use brief messages or calls to keep relationships alive and demonstrate genuine interest.

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Todd Manley, VP of Corporate Development Integration at Intel

In Part 2 of our conversation with Todd Manley, VP of Corporate Development Integration at Intel, we unpack how professionals from diverse backgrounds can successfully break into M&A and what it takes to build and maintain high-performing deal teams. Todd shares tactical advice on networking, career transitions, team dynamics, and leadership traits he looks for when hiring M&A talent. Whether you’re early in your M&A career or looking to level up, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate the world of dealmaking.

Things You Will Learn:

How to leverage networking inside and outside your company to break into M&A.
Key characteristics and behaviors Todd looks for when hiring successful M&A professionals.
Why being present and learning from your journey is critical to career growth in M&A.

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Episode Chapters:

[00:02:00] Teaching leadership frameworks and practical skills at Santa Clara University
[00:04:30] The power of intentional networking and early adoption of LinkedIn
[00:06:00] Rebuilding in-person connections post-COVID and the value of conferences
[00:07:00] Strategies for networking inside large organizations
[00:10:30] Maintaining and nurturing your professional network over time
[00:13:30] Building effective M&A teams and recognizing potential during interviews
[00:18:00] The importance of humility, ownership, and curiosity in M&A
[00:25:30] Translating customer experience skills to M&A opportunities
[00:28:00] Knowing when to lead and when to follow on M&A teams
[00:34:00] Defining success post-close and understanding cultural dynamics

Questions, comments, concerns?Follow Kison Patel for behind-the-scenes insights on modern M&A.