M&A Strategy Forum 2026

M&A Strategy Forum

Meet the Masters of M&A Strategy 

Why do some companies consistently create value through acquisitions while others struggle to realize their investment thesis?

M&A has become much more than a tool for growth. For many organizations, acquisitions are a core strategic capability used to enter new markets, acquire capabilities, accelerate transformation and build market-leading platforms. Yet the most successful acquirers do not simply execute more deals. They develop a clear acquisition thesis, make deliberate choices about the targets they pursue and invest heavily in integration and value creation after closing.

During the M&A Strategy Forum, we will bring together corporate M&A leaders, investors and advisors to discuss the decisions, frameworks and lessons that enable organizations to build successful acquisition programs over time.

Join us for an afternoon of practical insights, discussion and peer-to-peer learning on the strategic decisions that shape successful acquisition programs.

Program

16:00 Sessions by invitation only

Session 1: Roundtable, Winning M&A Strategies in Today's Market

During this exclusive roundtable, M&A directors from leading corporates will exchange experiences on the strategies that are delivering results today.

From platform acquisitions and buy-and-build to minority investments, partnerships and international expansion. Under Chatham House Rules, participants will discuss how they are sourcing opportunities, creating value and navigating an increasingly complex deal environment. 

Moderated by Melle Eijckelhoff, founder M&A Community, hosted by KooKoo Strategies

Session 2: Masterclass Tax & Transactions: Protecting Value Before, During and After the Deal

Tax considerations can have a significant impact on transaction structures, shareholder returns and post-deal value creation. In this masterclass, leading tax expert Nancy De Beule from PWC will explore the latest developments affecting M&A transactions, management participation plans, holding structures and capital gains taxation in Belgium. Through practical examples and real-life cases, participants will gain insights into how tax influences deal outcomes and investment decisions. A must-attend session for dealmakers, investors and business owners navigating today's evolving tax landscape.

By Nancy De Beule, partner at PWC

17: 30 Welcoming reception

We welcome you with drinks and plenty opportunity for networking

18:00 Masters of M&A Strategy

Session 1: From Local Agency to European Powerhouse: The iO M&A Playbook

Twenty years ago, it started with 400 euros in an attic. Today, more than 2000 people across Europe help brands and organizations grow through marketing, technology, and AI.
Backed by leading private equity investor Waterland Private Equity, iO has grown into one of Europe's leading digital services groups through an ambitious and highly successful buy-and-build strategy. But what does it really take to identify the right acquisition targets, win their trust, and create value after the deal is signed?

In this exclusive session, the CFO of iO will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the company's M&A strategy, sharing how iO sources opportunities, prepares for acquisitions, evaluates cultural and strategic fit, and works closely with the leadership teams of acquired businesses to ensure long-term success. You will gain practical insights into the decisions, challenges, and lessons learned that have shaped one of the most successful buy-and-build stories in the Benelux. 

With: Collin J. Seyger, CFO at iO  and  Roel Van Aelst, Strategic Events & Partnerships Director at iO

Session 2:  Acquiring for Growth, Integrating for Value: The SD Worx Story

As one of Europe's leading HR and payroll solutions providers, SD Worx has built extensive experience integrating acquisitions while simultaneously transforming and strengthening the businesses it acquires.

In this practical and insight-rich session, the Head of Strategic M&A Integrations at SD Worx will share how the company approaches integration as a driver of long-term value creation rather than a one-off post-deal project. Attendees will gain an inside view of SD Worx's integration playbooks, tailored to both small and large acquisitions, and learn how the company aligns commercial objectives, technology, operations, HR, and leadership teams around a common goal.

The presentation will introduce a powerful shift in thinking: moving from post-merger integration as a finite project to post-merger value creation as a continuous process. A must-attend session for M&A professionals, corporate development leaders, investors, and advisers looking to maximize value beyond the deal itself.

With: Csaba Farkas-Pall - Head of Strategic M&A Integrations at SD Worx

19:00  Break

19:15  The M&A Strategy Panel

With valuations shifting, financing conditions evolving, and competition for quality assets remaining fierce, M&A leaders are being challenged to rethink their growth strategies.

In this interactive panel discussion, leading corporate acquirers, investors, and M&A experts will share how they are navigating today's deal environment. The panel will explore what separates successful M&A strategies from the rest in today's market.

With: Panel members to be announced soon

20:00 Networking

Join us for drinks, snacks and networking.