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

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

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