Security's Role in a Bank Acquisition - Matthew Speare of M&T Bank

Banks fail, are closed and acquired every week. The business processes behind these conversions are proven and precise. But what is the role of information security in a bank acquisition? When does the security group enter the discussion, and what's its role in the transition? Matthew Speare of M&T Bank, which recently acquired Provident Bank, discusses: The role of information security in a bank acquisition; Successes and challenges in conducting a conversion; Advice to other institutions that might acquire or be acquired. Speare oversees security for M & T Bank Corporation, the nation's 17th largest bank holding company, based in Buffalo, New York. He is responsible for developing and sustaining an information risk program that effectively protects the personal information of millions of M & T Bank customers. His responsibilities include information security management, IT compliance and risk management, corporate emergency and incident response, and business continuity management. Matt is also a Major in the Army National Guard, serving as the 42nd Infantry Division Aviation Operations Officer, and is a AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopter pilot.