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Examples of our work

Case study: Post-merger healthcheck

The client

International chemical specialities manufacturer with a turnover of 500m euros operating in over 30 countries.

The issue

The client had recently acquired a US-based global company, which would enable them to strengthen their presence in a different market segment. The integration of the two companies was well planned and seemed to have been well executed. However, after some months, it became clear that there were serious tensions over the 'soft' factors

Persistence of 'them' and 'us' culture
Poor communication across the two companies
Confusion over roles and responsibilities
Each organisation felt that its way was superior, both were unwilling to change
Poor morale which could have resulted in key senior people leaving

How we helped (Post-merger healthcheck)

We conducted confidential interviews with the senior management team from both companies. This process provided valuable insights into concerns about unresolved issues, misunderstandings and cultural differences which were getting in the way of a successful integration. These issues were analysed and an objective report was presented, highlighting people's experiences of the integration process between the two companies, clearly identifying specific difficulties and problem areas behind the tensions.

Outcome and benefits

Underlying problems identified and articulated quickly and objectively
Platform created to enable both parties to address the problems
Clear process developed to address them
Original management team stayed on (with one exception)
Acquisition is now successfully operating as a division within the chemcial specialities group