September 2025
The Gap Partnership names new CEO and acquires Negotiation Academy Potsdam
by The Gap Partnership
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A new era begins for The Gap Partnership with two significant pieces of news: the acquisition of Negotiation Academy Potsdam, and the appointment of Ann Marie Costelloe as new CEO.
Berkhamsted, UK, 18th September 2025 – The Gap Partnership announces two major
milestones that mark a new chapter for the business.
First, Ann Marie Costelloe has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. With over a decade
at the company, Ann Marie brings strategic insight, creativity and commercial acumen to the
role. She succeeds Graham Botwright, who steps down after 23 years of dedicated service.
Second, The Gap Partnership has acquired boutique German negotiation firm Negotiation
Academy Potsdam (NAP), marking a strategic move to create a market-leading commercial
effectiveness proposition for clients across multiple sectors.
Founded in 2013 and based in Potsdam, Germany, NAP is a university-affiliated consultancy
led by Directors Prof. Dr. Uta Herbst and Prof. Dr. Markus Voeth. Renowned for their
pioneering use of scientific and research-led negotiation methodologies, the duo has
developed AI-powered software that delivers scalable, data-driven solutions to clients across
industries including automotive, logistics, construction, chemicals, aviation and finance and
with procurement and sales functions.
“NAP brings a powerful and differentiated approach to negotiation solutions for the
commercial world,” said Ann Marie Costelloe, CEO of The Gap Partnership. “We are excited
to integrate their proposition to deliver even greater value to our clients.”
NAP has demonstrated impressive growth. Its acquisition complements The Gap
Partnership’s global footprint and core philosophy: that effective negotiation planning and
execution is the key to commercial success. The Gap Partnership currently works with a
significant portion of the Fortune 500, offering advisory, training, diagnostics and digital
solutions.
This partnership will enable The Gap Partnership to collaborate with NAP’s team of
negotiation researchers on the development of cutting-edge, AI-driven negotiation
technologies. Together, they aim to deliver smarter, faster and more impactful solutions to a
joint client base, reinforcing their shared commitment to innovation and excellence in
negotiation.
To find out more, please contact [email protected]
