Tag: Business Leaders

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Forbes Article: ’Conclave’ Reveals Drivers Of M&A Leadership Power Plays

In addition to its best adapted screenplay Oscar, the movie “Conclave” stands out as a masterclass in the intricate dynamics of succession planning and stakeholder management—two critical elements that can upend merger or acquisition (M&A) deals. The mesmerizing movie provides a rare peek inside the Vatican’s traditionally secretive process for selecting a new Pope, revealing coalition-building, strategic negotiations, and competing interests that parallel leadership challenges I’ve witnessed in M&A deal-making transactions.

Click here to read the full article in Forbes, where Jennifer explores the intricate dynamics of leadership in M&A deals, drawing parallels with the movie “Conclave”. The film’s depiction of coalition-building and strategic negotiations within the Vatican’s secretive process for selecting a new Pope offers valuable lessons for executives navigating complex M&A transactions. Jennifer highlights five key lessons for effective leadership and stakeholder engagement in M&A.

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Forbes Article: Avoid An M&A Deal ‘Lame Duck’ Period After Acquisition

To be a ‘lame duck’ is to lose power. Or so the thinking goes. Popularized in politics, the term lame duck refers to an elected official still in office who will soon be succeeded. The official typically experiences diminished influence and authority as they await their successor’s assumption of power. President Joe Biden’s extended lame duck period since withdrawing from the presidential election, is a perfect example of a leader appearing less effective at the end of his term as the public focuses on the newcomer.

Click here to read the full article in Forbes, where Jennifer talks about how ineffective leadership during a transition can undermine M&A deal success. She outlines the three leadership behaviors that can hinder post-deal results, and three strategies for being an effective leader during the transition.

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Podcast: Thriving Through Change

In this enlightening episode of “The Future of Human Experience,” host Eric J. Rodriguez welcomes Jennifer J. Fondrevay, a renowned expert in organizational transformation and the human dynamics of mergers and acquisitions.

As the founder of Day1 Ready™ and author of the acclaimed book “NOW WHAT? A Survivor’s Guide for Thriving Through Mergers & Acquisitions,” Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge on how companies and employees can navigate the complexities of change.

Eric and Jennifer delve into:

-The critical role of leadership in guiding teams through transitions.

-Common pitfalls organizations face during M&As and how to avoid them. Strategies for maintaining a human-centric approach amidst technological advancements and structural changes.

-The importance of communication, empathy, and culture in successful transformations. -How embracing change can lead to innovation and growth.

-This conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked human element in business transformations and offers practical advice for leaders and professionals aiming to thrive in times of change.

Whether you’re facing an organizational shift, leading a team through uncertainty, or looking to future-proof your career, this episode provides actionable insights to help you navigate the journey.

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Podcast: Keeping Culture through M&A

Jennifer shares her journey and expertise on maintaining company culture during mergers and acquisitions. Learn why the people strategy is crucial and how leaders can ensure a successful transition. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

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Article: New marketing blitz pressures government to OK U.S. Steel sale

U.S. Steel has sent mailers to homes in Western Pennsylvania with a more direct appeal: “Tell your elected officials to support the U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel partnership.”

It’s common for companies in takeover talks to notify customers or, for major sales, lobby members of Congress, according to mergers and acquisitions consultant Jennifer Fondrevay.

But this is the first time Fondrevay has seen a company talk directly to voters in this way, which she said is a product of the political climate.

“If you go back and see what the mergers and acquisitions deal ratio is, it has slowed with the current administration,” Fondrevay said. “I think they made it almost a platform, which is why (U.S. Steel) may be going to extreme lengths.”

Read The MonValley Independent full article to read about Jennifer’s insights alongside those of Rep. Chris Deluzio and Kristin Kanthak, a political science professor at the University of Pittsburgh.

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Article: Can Rival Partnerships Succeed? Look At Successful M&A Deals For Clues

As political pundits try to identify Donald Trump’s vice-presidential pick, one name leading the dark horse list is former presidential rival, Nikki Haley. Haley surprised the political world when she announced she would vote for Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Her feelings for the former president are no secret. Watching how Haley and Trump have navigated their rivalry, reminded me of numerous merger and acquisition (M&A) deals where rival companies came together. Some successfully, more – not so much.

Valuable lessons can be learned from the challenges rival companies face when partnering and what is required for their alliance to succeed. Who knows? The lessons may even be helpful guidance for politicians, as they consider how to make their partnership successful where it counts: a general election.

Read Jennifer’s full article on Forbes as she looks at lessons from M&A mergers:

  • Rival Marriages Are Rocky In The Short Term
  • Rivals Face Unique Risks When Coming Together
  • Overcoming Distrust Takes Time
  • Company Culture Trumps Strategy
  • A Competitive Edge Can Be Lost
  • Patience and Respect Drive Success in Rival Partnerships
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Podcast: Unveiling Women’s Superpowers in M&A

Jennifer & podcast host Natalie Benamou discuss the powerful roles that intuition, empathy, and emotional intelligence play in M&A success.

Jennifer recounts her eye-opening experience interviewing over 60 CEOs and discusses how women can transform the M&A landscape by leveraging their unique skills. Get inspired by real-life stories of female M&A professionals who have become trusted advisors by tapping into their foresight and emotional intelligence. 

Jennifer also offers actionable advice for women aspiring to board roles, emphasizing the importance of human capital management and the often-overlooked process of re-interviewing for jobs post-acquisition.

Explore how women’s intuition, empathy, and foresight can reveal unseen factors, foster open communication, and anticipate future challenges in M&A. Jennifer shares a compelling story about a woman who kept a deal on track by minimizing ego conflicts and discusses the importance of having allies in the boardroom.

Discover the intricate interplay between data-driven decisions and cultural alignment in M&A. Jennifer highlights the often-underappreciated superpowers women bring to the table, such as intuition and emotional intelligence, and provides actionable advice for women seeking board roles. Jennifer also touches on the critical aspect of re-interviewing for jobs post-acquisition and its impact on employee morale.

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Article: Are Introverts Better Leaders In Uncertain Times?

In the noise that follows a merger or acquisition (M&A), the louder voices more often break through to command the attention of senior leaders. Extroverts, with their outgoing and assertive nature, tend to better position themselves to take on roles of responsibility as leadership evaluates where everyone fits within the new structure. However, as companies unite post-deal and the criteria for success evolve, leaders with different profiles can begin to shine. Introverted leaders, with their capacity for deep listening, thoughtful analysis, and a calm demeanor, can be exceptionally effective in navigating the intricacies of integration. When facing the uncertainty of an untested strategy, considering the leadership styles of both extroverts and introverts is not just beneficial but necessary.

Read Jennifer’s full article at Forbes where she dives into:

  • Challenging the Stereotype for Leadership in Uncertain Times
  • Embracing Introverted Leadership for Successful Integration
  • Fostering a Culture of Contribution
  • Mastering the Art of Focus Amidst the Noise
  • Soliciting for Friction, Not Simply Agreement