Cooperation and acquisition

A start-up that makes implants out of biosynthetic tissue or a platform that facilitates additive manufacturing: The companies that ZEISS invests in, acquires or with which ZEISS establishes strategic partnerships are diverse and ensure that ZEISS becomes more and more adaptable.

But how do these kinds of transactions even come about? Who checks whether the partners are actually a good fit? And who ensures that ZEISS' interests are represented? As Mergers & Acquisitions Manager – or M&A Manager for short – Johannes arranges and coordinates these partnerships, investments, and company takeovers. Although he was actually doing something completely different when he first joined ZEISS.

Could ZEISS not develop the technology it has acquired itself? Johannes is confident: "In many instances, yes it could. But not so quickly and perhaps not efficiently enough. That's why we look for partners who can complement us and our technological portfolio." But what does this have to do with physics? "Quite a lot! Science and corporate acquisitions revolve around mathematical models, formulas, and key figures, which are then used for accurate research and holistic analysis. With my experience, I can debate from a scientific or a business management perspective based on my judgement and depending on who I'm dealing with."

Initiatives for potential partnerships usually emerge from the ZEISS divisions' strategic areas. This is where Johannes and his colleagues come in. After requesting initial information about the company, talks begin – always in secret. "Both sides appreciate discretion," Johannes explains. "And mutual interest! We try to win them over and build bridges. But not every project leads to a successful acquisition, as we are constantly learning with every M&A process, and initial assumptions can turn out to be incorrect. The important thing is that both sides benefit. If it's not a good fit, we wish them luck and go on our way."

It is worth incorporating a range of expertise throughout the M&A process: Tax consultants and attorneys, accountants and bankers, advisers and decision-makers. Johannes manages all the stakeholders and is proactive in ensuring each project progresses. On average, it takes six months to a year from the first phone call to the final signature.

With his work on various M&A projects, Johannes is also helping to shape the future of ZEISS. "It's very exciting. I'm really grateful that I can get to know so many different sides of ZEISS and therefore make a positive contribution to ZEISS's development," says Johannes.