We typically treat M&A’s the same way we do a project. there are two phases and each has an executive project sponsor. I have worked on the integration side the most so I can speak to that area more. This has been helpful because we can work with the integration project sponsor early to make key decisions about strategy. Usually that means we need to bring many department VP’s in for discussion months before closing so that we have a strategy in place for integration. Once the executive sponsor is onboard and understands they are responsible for the strategy, it has been easier for us to get other leadership to work through strategy with them. It holds both the sponsor and the VP’s involved accountable. If someone were to not show up for a meeting on strategy, the sponsor will hold them accountable to ensure they have what they need in order to make a decision.
