Pre-Close Planning & Integration Preparation
Prior to Close, we work with key stakeholders to understand enough about the M&A transaction and companies to be able to provide a thoughtful proposal. Once approved, we start post-merger integration planning and getting ready for Day 1.
Setting Objectives and Deliverables
Our approach begins with a thorough understanding of client needs and expectations. Clients typically share due-diligence including the deal thesis, expected outcomes and target synergies. This enables us to develop a full proposal including deliverables, approach, costs, team and timing.
While each integration is unique, we typically cover ~10 workstreams, each comprising a wide range of deliverables and potentially thousands of activities.
Sales & Distribution
Finance/Accounting
Marketing/Customer Support
Products/Services
Synergies
Human Resources
Supply Chain Management
Legal/Compliance
Communications
IT/Systems Integration
Typical Workstreams
It is crucial to engage in discussions with private equity and C-level executives before a deal closes. This helps define integration strategy, understand how each company operates, determine Integration Team members and stakeholders, and address challenges or issues that may arise.
By the time Day 1 arrives, we aim to have a high-level acquisition integration roadmap and action plan, initial internal and external communications plan including frequently asked questions (FAQs), and ready-to-go formal public announcement.
It is ideal to conduct a Town Hall meeting, facilitated by the CEO of the merged entities, on the same day as the public announcement or as soon as feasible.