Question 1

What does a post-merger integration consultant do?

Accepted Answer

They design the integration approach: target operating model, workstreams, synergy identification and tracking, and the governance that reports progress to the board. They advise; the client decides.

Question 2

When do you need an operator instead?

Accepted Answer

When decisions must be made across both companies about people, structure, and priorities, and no internal candidate can make them without being seen as the winner or the loser of the deal.

Question 3

How long does post-merger integration take?

Accepted Answer

Commercial and organisational integration should be substantially done in nine to twelve months. Systems integration often runs longer, but it should not set the pace of the commercial decisions.

Question 4

What does integration leadership cost?

Accepted Answer

An interim integration lead in Europe typically costs 1,200 to 2,200 euro per day. A consulting integration programme is usually priced as a fixed engagement and can be a multiple of that for the same period.

Question 5

Who should own synergy targets?

Accepted Answer

The line manager whose budget contains them, with the integration leader tracking. A synergy that lives only in the integration office is not a synergy, it is a forecast.

Question 6

Can the acquired company's CEO lead the integration?

Accepted Answer

Rarely well. They carry the loyalties, the promises made during the sale, and an interest in the outcome. Neutral leadership protects both sides and moves faster.