Event Review – May 14, 2025: “Achieving Acquisition Success Through Professionalism and Structure”

“Strategic insights, practical expertise, and lively discussions”

The impressions from our evening event on May 14, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel in Zurich reflect an inspiring night filled with enthusiasm, lively exchange, and valuable insights.

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming over 100 decision-makers and M&A professionals to our buy-side evening event titled “Achieving Acquisition Success Through Professionalism and Structure.” Two high-caliber panel discussions provided deep insights, practical takeaways, and plenty of space for personal exchange in an inspiring setting.

For approximately one hour, the theme “Achieving Acquisition Success Through Professionalism and Structure” took center stage in two panel discussions. In the first panel, senior executives from international corporations shared the challenges they face in M&A transactions — ranging from complex internal structures to cultural integration. The second panel brought together decision-makers from mid-sized companies, highlighting how approaches and success factors differ in the SME environment. Both panels were expertly moderated by Reto Lipp from Swiss national broadcaster SRF, who skillfully drew out valuable insights and personal experiences from the participants.

Panel I: Focus on Large Corporations

In the first panel, Pablo von Siebenthal, Global Head of Mergers & Acquisitions at Swissport International AG — the world’s leading provider of ground handling services in passenger and cargo operations — and Peter Zihla from the Straumann Group — the global market leader in dental implantology — joined Oaklins partner Daniel Spring to discuss proven M&A practices in large corporations.

The discussion focused on key success factors for recurring transactions — from strategic preparation and the development of effective internal M&A structures to post-merger integration, ensuring the successful incorporation of acquired companies into existing organizations.

One key takeaway became clear: cultural fit, internal alignment, and a systematic approach to capturing “lessons learned” are critical to achieving sustainable buy-side success. Particularly insightful were the candid reflections on less successful transactions — a reminder that meaningful learning often stems from the courage to openly analyze setbacks.

From left to right in the video: Daniel Spring, Peter Zihla, Pablo von Siebenthal and moderator Reto Lipp.

Panel II: Focus on SMEs

The second panel explored the topic from the perspective of leaders from small and mid-sized companies. Roger Baumer, Co-Owner and Delegate of the Board of Directors at Hälg Holding AG, shared insights from a more than 100-year-old family business active in building technology, automation, and facility management. Ueli Eckhardt, Managing Partner at eevolve AG, represented a specialized private equity firm with 17 employees and a clearly defined investment focus. The discussion was further enriched by Daniel Wäger, Group CFO of Metrohm AG — a long-established company in laboratory and process analytics. Owned by a charitable foundation, Metrohm has a history spanning 82 years and, while deeply rooted in its home region, operates globally with an export share of 90%. Finally, the advisory perspective was contributed by Jürg Stucker, Partner at Oaklins.

The discussion demonstrated that small and mid-sized companies can also execute successful transactions — provided they follow a clear strategy, maintain a focused acquisition profile, and apply resources pragmatically. Particular emphasis was placed on conducting early-stage cultural due diligence, maintaining realistic expectations around synergies, and ensuring the presence of a reliable transaction sponsor at both executive and board level.

From left to right in the video: Jürg Stucker, Daniel Wäger, Ueli Eckhardt, Roger Baumer, and moderator Reto Lipp.

Photo Impressions

The success of the evening was driven by inspiring contributions, confident moderation, culinary highlights — and an atmosphere that encouraged genuine and relaxed exchange.

Our sincere thanks go to the panelists for their openness, their wealth of experience, and the valuable real-world insights they shared. We also extend our appreciation to Reto Lipp for his expert and pointed moderation, which brought structure and vitality to the discussions — as always.

A heartfelt thank you also goes out to all our guests for their participation. We look forward to continuing the conversation in person.