Merging and diverging cultures in M&A

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this brief paper is to highlight the role of culture in cross-cultural M&A environments.

Findings

Empirical work as consultants and participant-observers within multiple international organizations in the process of pre or post M&A restructuring has revealed the need to develop three key “best practices” linked to behaviors which facilitate organizational actors’ role in such dynamic and complex organizational environments.

Practical implications

Managers and practitioners may be able to re think their own positioning within the merged or merging firm and question some of their own cultural allegiances and behaviors, whether linked to national culture or organizational (corporate) culture.

Originality/value

The authors have identified three key behavioral skills crucial to effective intercultural interactions, when interacting in cross-border M&A contexts.

Citation

Mielly, M., Alain Rouault, F. and Richards O'Reilly, K. (2016), "Merging and diverging cultures in M&A", Strategic Direction, Vol. 32 No. 9, pp. 7-10. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-05-2016-0082