TechExits Podcast

Author: (WFS) World Financial Symposiums

The TechExits podcast is for Tech CEOs, founders and investors in software and IT. We discuss best practices around Tech M&A; major trends and shifts driving the market; and the trials, tribulations, and victories of those who have successfully exited their tech companies. Guest speakers include CEOs who've sold, Tech M&A experts and advisors, strategic buyers and investors, and tech luminaries. TechExits is produced by World Financial Symposiums (WFS), an international organization dedicated to educating technology leaders on the current tech and financial landscape, helping them build successful strategies for growth and eventual exit. The WFS is sponsored by Corum Group, the Global Leader in Tech M&A, with ex CEOs and founders as advisors, leading the most successful tech M&A process in history. Corum has sold more software and related technology companies than anyone in the world.
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Language: en

Genres: Business, Investing

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Inside a Strategic Buyer's Playbook: Buyer's Corner with Sharon Van Zeeland, Rockwell Automation
Friday, 6 February, 2026

Sharon Van Zeeland | Vice President, Strategy & Corporate Development | Rockwell Automation What do strategic buyers actually look for before they make an acquisition? In this Buyer's Corner episode of the TechExits Podcast, Sharon Van Zeeland shares how Rockwell Automation approaches M&A—from target identification and diligence through integration and value creation. Sharon explains what founders often misunderstand about buyer priorities, why profitability and focus matter more than ever, and how transparency can make or break a deal. A must-listen for tech CEOs who want to understand how strategic acquirers think—and how to position their company accordingly. Key takeways: • What strategic buyers value beyond revenue • How corporates assess product fit and risk • Why transparency speeds up M&A deals • How founders can prepare to be acquisition-ready 00:00 – Introduction & Sharon's background 01:00 – Rockwell's acquisition strategy 02:50 – What makes a company attractive to buyers 04:30 – Product and technology diligence 07:30 – Common red flags founders underestimate 09:15 – How deals get delayed or derailed 10:20 – Post-close integration realities 11:25 – Advice for founders planning an exit 13:10 – Closing thoughts