In this Forbes article, Jennifer Fondrevay highlights a truth many acquirers overlook: culture isn’t a “soft” consideration in M&A—it’s a strategic lever that determines whether a deal delivers on its promised value. Drawing from her work advising CEOs and executive teams through complex integrations, Jennifer outlines three culture‑first strategies that help acquirers avoid the costly missteps that derail so many deals.
She explains why leaders must assess cultural alignment as rigorously as financials, prepare teams for the emotional realities of transition, and communicate early and often to prevent fear from filling the silence. Jennifer also underscores the importance of equipping managers with the tools to navigate uncertainty, since they are the ones employees turn to first when change hits.