The Secret Keepers of M&A: Non-Executive Directors and Their Crystal Balls

In the world of M&A, there's a unique group of individuals who hold the many of the keys to the kingdom of deal flow. They're like fortune tellers, who know what's coming before anyone else does. They are the non-executive directors (NEDs), a fascinating species that inhabits the boardrooms of companies gearing up for an MBO, IPO, or other form of exit. If you're not networking with these soothsayers, you're missing out on a goldmine of opportunity.

The Non-Executive Director's Crystal Ball

Ever wonder how some professional service providers seem to have a sixth sense when it comes to spotting deals on the horizon? It's not magic, it's often NEDs! These skilled individuals occupy a unique position on the board, acting as a conduit between companies and their potential advisers. Think of them as the M&A whisperers, privy to the innermost secrets of a company's strategic plans.

The NEDs' Secret Society

You might think I'm exaggerating, but NEDs truly belong to a secret society of sorts. They're the keepers of confidential information, privy to the company's plans (often up to three years) before a deal is ready to materialise. If only we could get a peek into their secret meetings, we'd be awash in a sea of M&A riches.

The Gatekeepers of Deal Flow

What makes NEDs even more valuable is their ability to act as gatekeepers between companies and the Transaction Services teams in Professional Service firms. They can recommend and introduce potential advisers, law firms, and investment banks to the business, essentially handpicking the players who get to participate in the game. It's like they hold the golden ticket to the M&A chocolate factory, and only a select few are invited inside.

The Art of Non-Executive Networking

Now that we've established the importance of NEDs in the M&A landscape, the real question is: how do you tap into this treasure trove? The answer is simple – network, network, network! If you're not present and networking with non-executive directors, you're basically walking around with a "Please Ignore Me" sign taped to your back.

But be warned, networking with NEDs is no walk in the park. It requires finesse, charm, and a dash of wit. You don't want to come across as desperate or pushy. After all, you're dealing with individuals who possess the sacred knowledge of future M&A deals. They can smell insincerity from a mile away.

So, polish your shoes, practice your small talk, and arm yourself with a healthy dose of humour. Attend conferences, seminars, and industry events where NEDs are likely to congregate. And remember, it's not just about meeting them – it's about forging genuine connections, making a lasting impression, and becoming their go-to contact when a deal is about to hatch.

So, get out there, mingle with the NEDs, and become a part of their exclusive club. A great place to start is Virtualnonexecs , a platform boasting over 16,300 established non-executives, ready and waiting to share their wisdom and expertise. Who knows, you might just find yourself in the middle of the next blockbuster M&A deal, all thanks to your new NED pals, their crystal balls, and the power of Virtualnonexecs.com.

Ian Wright is the CEO and Founder of Virtualnonexecs.com, the UK's largest peer-2-peer non-executive director community. Virtualnonexecs members advise thousands of privately owned company boards as well as businesses who are fully Listed.

For more information, contact Ian directly.