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Mastering M&A: The Critical Role of People Due Diligence

September 01, 20252 min read

In the whirlwind of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), it's easy to get caught up in the numbers and logistics. But as Klint Kendrick points out in his latest episode of Master Your Merger, there's a crucial piece of the puzzle that often gets missed: the people. Understanding the human side of M&A can make all the difference.

Cracked puzzle pieces with business figures and data charts, symbolizing M&A challenges and cultural risks.

The Overlooked Element: Big names like Bain, Deloitte, KPMG, and PwC have all flagged a major blind spot in M&A: people due diligence. It's not just about HR; it's about the very value of the deal. Mismanaging people and cultures is a top reason why deals fall apart. Ignoring this can cost you dearly.

What Good People's Due Diligence Looks Like:

Illustration of leadership mapping and cultural assessment in M&A, featuring businesspeople analyzing charts and deal risk factors with a magnifying glass.

Real people due diligence isn't just a headcount or an org chart. It's about mapping out leadership, checking if cultures mesh, and spotting potential deal-breakers. Kendrick emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions and taking the time to really understand what's at stake.

Business collaboration concept with puzzle pieces and digital icons for teamwork, strategy, and integration

The Shift in M&A Strategy: The winners in today's M&A game are those who see people as a key part of the process, not an afterthought. This shift is essential for keeping the momentum going and holding onto your best talent.

Join the Conversation: If you're keen to learn more, the People Synergy Summit is the place to be. Hosted by Master Your Merger, this virtual event is a chance to hear from those who are nailing it in the field. It's all about weaving people's diligence into M&A without slowing things down.

Looking ahead, the firms that come out on top will be those that are not just quick but smart. They'll see the value in people's due diligence and make it a core part of their M&A strategy. Don't miss the chance to learn more at the People Synergy Summit.

Subscribe Now: Stay updated with the latest insights on M&A by subscribing to our blog. Don't miss out on valuable content that can transform your approach to mergers and acquisitions.

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Klint Kendrick is the founder of Master Your Merger, chairs the HR M&A Roundtable, and teaches HR M&A at NYU. He’s led more than 150 deals and written two books on getting the people side right. Klint helps corporate and private equity leaders close the value gap by aligning people, leadership, and culture.

Dr. Klint C. Kendrick

Klint Kendrick is the founder of Master Your Merger, chairs the HR M&A Roundtable, and teaches HR M&A at NYU. He’s led more than 150 deals and written two books on getting the people side right. Klint helps corporate and private equity leaders close the value gap by aligning people, leadership, and culture.

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