Fred Heller, VP of Corporate Development and Integration at Microsoft, dives into the world of strategic acquisitions, emphasizing their role in driving growth and innovation. He shares insights on navigating complex negotiations, saving costs on deals, and the significant impact of transformative acquisitions, particularly in AI. Heller also reflects on the importance of mentorship and visionary thinking during these high-stakes processes, revealing how small deals can lead to major technological advancements. A must-listen for those in M&A!