Applying M&A and Corporate Strategy to Global Banking and Fintech Growth
Praveen TM, former President and CEO of Opus Technologies, shares how joining the M&A and Corporate Strategy program strengthened his ability to evaluate opportunities and guide strategic decision-making.
Praveen TM, former President and CEO of Opus Technologies, is a senior banking and fintech leader with more than two decades of experience guiding organizations through mergers and acquisitions, corporate strategy, business development, and large-scale technology transformation. His career spans engineering, delivery, revenue leadership, and executive management, where he has worked closely with senior executives, investment bankers, and corporate development teams to strengthen shareholder value and support complex transactions across global markets.
During his participation in Columbia Business School Executive Education’s M&A and Corporate Strategy executive education program, Praveen deepened his financial acumen and gained a comprehensive understanding of the entire process behind successful deals—from due diligence and valuation methods to deal structuring and post merger integration. We asked him a few questions to better understand his learning journey and how the program is shaping his approach to strategic decision-making.
What motivated you to apply for the M&A and Corporate Strategy Program?
With consolidation accelerating across technology and financial services, mergers and acquisitions have become a core strategic capability for senior-level executives. I wanted to strengthen my understanding of valuation, transaction structuring, and long-term value creation. This mergers and acquisitions program stood out because it offered academic rigor alongside practical tools that could be applied immediately to real-world situations.
What was your overall experience of the M&A and Corporate Strategy program?
My experience was outstanding. The program was thoughtfully structured, combining foundational concepts with real-world case studies, interactive discussions, and practical financial tools. It delivered a comprehensive understanding of the full M&A lifecycle and connected strategy, finance, and execution in an impactful way.
What stood out for you most in the program?
What resonated most was how effectively the program connected financial analysis to strategic intent. The sessions on valuation, synergies, deal rationale, and post-merger execution were particularly valuable. The real-world cases made the concepts tangible and highlighted how organizations think through and execute complex transactions.
Was there anything that surprised you about the program?
I was pleasantly surprised by the high level of engagement and collaboration in the classroom. The diversity of professional backgrounds across industries and geographies added tremendous value. Complex topics became intuitive quickly because of the interactive teaching style and practical examples woven throughout the sessions.
What was it like learning from Donna Hitscherich?
Learning from Donna was exceptional. She brings deep expertise, clarity, and energy to her teaching. She has a unique ability to simplify complex concepts such as valuation, deal design, and governance while grounding them in real transactions and market context. Her passion for the subject and experience made every session insightful and memorable.
How do you believe this program will influence your work and career moving forward?
The program strengthened the strategic lens through which I evaluate opportunities. I now approach growth initiatives, partnerships, and investment assessments with greater financial precision and a clearer understanding of value creation. It has enhanced my ability to contribute at the board and executive levels and will continue to shape how I guide organizations through strategic decision-making.
What type of professional would you recommend this program to?
The M&A and Corporate Strategy program is ideal for business leaders, financial analysts, and executives involved in growth, corporate restructuring, or strategic investment decisions. Anyone responsible for guiding organizations through complex mergers and transactions—especially in fast-evolving industries—would benefit from this executive education experience.
Upcoming M&A Program
$10,550
M&A and Corporate Strategy
4 CIBE Credits
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