Acquisition Can Amplify Impact

Michael Ackermann, Allergan

Michael Ackermann, CEO of a medical-device startup acquired by Allergan, discusses the advantages of joining a larger company. Acquired firms can leverage the massive resources and market coverage of a parent company to magnify impact, as well as learn from experienced professionals about how to launch new products, Ackermann says. Now vice president of neurostimulation at Allergan, Ackermann adds that entrepreneurs should see acquisition as an opportunity because it eliminates the funding uncertainties startups typically face.