M&A refers to the phrase mergers and acquisitions, a term used when one company merges with or buys another and covers the whole process from beginning to end. Today our host, Stuart Elliott, is joined by HR M&A Lead, Graham Poole to speak about why the role of HR is so critical to this process.

During their conversation, Stuart and Graham discuss the role of HR in the M&A process, the aligning of workforce and culture of the two merging entities, the best practice for a smooth transition and some key considerations for companies during the due diligence phase of the merge. They also touch on the challenges HR teams can face during the integration process and tips for HR professionals embarking on an M&A journey.

Graham is an experienced international HR Director with a global track record in successful HR M&A and change projects. He provides HR support to organisations undergoing the M&A process and offers executive coaching for leaders going through change. His expertise includes full-scope HR M&A programmes, organisation design and global transformation initiatives. Previously, Graham has lived and worked in multiple regions including APAC, LATAM, Northern Europe & Russia and Africa.

Key Timestamps:

• 1:24 – An introduction to Graham Poole
• 6:06 – Graham’s early career
• 7:55 – Why the role of HR is so critical in the M&A process
• 12:27 – HR’s role in aligning the workforce and culture of the two merging entities
• 18:10 – Cost elevation and organisation design process
• 20:25 – The due diligence phase
• 27:04 – Challenges and successes when going through the M&A process
• 35:30 – Why Graham likes working within the M&A space
• 38:29 – Tips for HR professionals embarking on an M&A journey

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