Mergers and Acquisition activity has declined from the levels seen in the mid 2000's before the Great Recession took its toll on economic activity. Although the sector is down from its peak, it continues to be a very important driver for most industries. One reason M&A activity is down is because companies are being more cautious and taking more time to find the right acquisition target that will fit with their business model and long term goals.The role of the contracts professional in the mergers and acquisition process is often underutilized. The contracts organization or personnel are on the front lines of your company's business and can play an important role in your mergers and acquisition strategy. Effective contract management can even be the differentiator between a successful or failed acquisition. This Ask The Expert call features a discussion on best practices for utilizing your contracts team in both the M&A research and evaluation process as well as the all important implementation phase of your acquisition.Our Expert:\r
Craig Guarente - Craig is the President and founding partner of Palisade Consulting Group, LLC. Palisade and Craig provide clients with expertise and guidance through the enterprise software contracting process, compliance and software audits, and maintenance renewal engagements. Building on 15 years experience in the software industry, most recently as Global Vice President of Contracts, Business Practices, and Migrations at Oracle, Craig has been working with clients to help them establish long-term software management strategies and negotiate more favorable software license agreements that align with their business goals of lowering costs, reducing risk, while providing optimal flexibility.In May 2012 Craig is scheduled to present at the IBSMA Software Asset Management Summit.In addition to his work in the software industry, Craig is also a thought leader in the areas of contract administration, contract automation, outsourcing, and business process reengineering. Craig has been an advisor to companies all over the world helping them to optimize and streamline their contracting policies, practices, and tools. He has been a featured speaker at conferences for groups such as the International Association For Contract And Commercial Management (IACCM).\r
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