Tariffs are at the center of a rapidly changing global trade landscape, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick are joined by Michael Allen, co-founder of Beacon Global Strategies, to explore the state of U.S. trade policy, its impact on private equity, and how businesses can adapt.

Michael provides an inside look at the current administration's approach to tariffs, bilateral trade negotiations, and the implications for global supply chains and domestic industries. Together, the panel discusses what companies can do now to manage supply chain disruptions, adjust pricing strategies, and find opportunities amidst uncertainty.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders navigating the intersection of trade, policy, and business strategy.

Episode Highlights:

01:05: Lloyd introduces Michael Allen and his background in Washington policy and intelligence.

03:35: The current state of trade policy: Tariffs, geopolitical strategy, and their influence on the global economy.

10:07: Bilateral negotiations with 90 countries: Leveraging trade discussions to isolate China and restructure agreements.

24:50: Portfolio company impacts: Rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and ripple effects on consumer demand.

39:30: Playing to win: Strategic steps for businesses, from diversifying supply chains to leveraging domestic opportunities.

For more information on Beacon Global Strategies, go to: https://bgsdc.com/

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

Merger integration is a critical component of private equity strategies, especially in buy-and-build models. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick break down what it takes to successfully integrate acquisitions, why careful planning is essential, and the risks that come with getting it wrong.

From cultural alignment and change management to IT systems and operational processes, the team provides actionable insights for portfolio companies and investors alike. Whether it’s a strategic roll-up or a single add-on, this episode covers the strategies needed to create value and avoid common pitfalls in mergers and acquisitions.

1:01: Sean kicks off the discussion with the fundamentals of merger integration and its importance for private equity firms.

4:05: Lloyd outlines the key elements of integration planning, including reporting structures, branding, IT systems, and organizational design.

7:09: What happens when integration fails? The team discusses the risks of poor execution and how they can destroy value.

9:14: Doug shares three common integration scenarios: geographic expansion, product synergies, and improving cost positions.

20:48: Why cultural alignment matters: Lloyd and Doug dive into how to blend team dynamics and organizational values effectively.

48:02: Solving IT challenges: Doug discusses why unified processes are the backbone of successful ERP systems.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this featured episode, we’re excited to share a conversation from Thoma Bravo’s Behind the Deal podcast. Join managing partner Holden Spaht as he sits down with Leagh Turner, CEO of Coupa, to explore how Thoma Bravo and Coupa are revolutionizing business spend management, leveraging AI, and driving innovation post-acquisition.

Hear how Coupa is transforming inefficiencies in the $33 trillion global trade ecosystem using its $7 trillion transaction dataset and AI-driven insights. Leagh also shares her leadership philosophies, strategies for cultural alignment, and how Coupa continues to set itself apart in business spend management.

Discover why Thoma Bravo’s $8 billion acquisition of Coupa is a case study in growth, innovation, and leadership.

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow Thoma Bravo’s Behind the Deal for more exclusive stories from the world of private equity and tech investment.

• 0:07: Sean Mooney introduces the episode, featuring Thoma Bravo’s Behind the Deal.
• 2:24: The $8 billion acquisition of Coupa and its industry-leading position in business spend management.
• 9:09: AI-powered opportunities: Coupa’s use of its $7 trillion dataset to eliminate inefficiencies.
• 12:34: Appointing Leagh Turner as CEO: leadership in scaling organizations and go-to-market expertise.
• 23:54: How Coupa’s Inspire event empowers its customer community and sparks innovation.
• 30:43: Leagh’s vision for Coupa: redefining global trade through AI and collaboration.

For more information on Thoma Bravo's Behind the Deal, visit https://www.thomabravo.com/behindthedeal

Learn more about Thoma Bravo: https://www.thomabravo.com/

Visit Coupa’s website: https://www.coupa.com/

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net