The Eyes of the CFO: Finance professionals speak out about their evolving roles in the M&A deal process

Finance professionals have a major role to play in a wide range of deal-related activity, although that role tends to vary from company to company. Leading technology companies have been tapping into the finance function, increasingly seen as an "integrated business partner," for much more than verifying the financial rigor of a model. The earlier finance is brought in on a deal, the more influence they can exert to determine whether the business understands the market demand for and profitability of the acquired products or services. Finance involvement, from co-leading the diligence process to achieving synergies to measuring post-acquisition success, is on the rise.