Let's Talk Mergers
Manage episode 493610834 series 3650462
In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle dive into one of the most complex and increasingly common topics facing the Australian not-for-profit sector: Mergers.
Drawing from personal experience leading both successful and failed merger processes, they unpack:
- Why NFPs are considering mergers now more than ever
- The top drivers of mergers: economic, regulatory, and technological
- What due diligence really involves (and what often gets missed)
- Why culture, brand, and legacy can make or break a merger
- The CEO's unique role in both the pre-merger and post-merger phases
- What to do when mergers don’t proceed — and how to manage comms
- Navigating your own identity, leadership, and value in a merged entity
- This is a practical and honest conversation that explores the realities behind the strategy - the human dynamics, the workload, and the leadership required to guide your team through change.
🔍 Key Topics and Timestamps
[01:00] Why mergers are front of mind for NFPs right now
[02:02] The three big drivers: economic pressures, regulation, and tech capability
[05:55] Integration: the hidden cost and who carries the load
[06:56] Brand, culture, and the emotional side of merging
[08:44] A cautionary tale: when mergers destroy the value they seek
[10:57] How CEOs can lead a successful integration (and what not to do)
[12:00] Pre-merger strategy: who’s in the tent and how to manage risk
[15:00] Announcing a merger vs keeping it confidential
[16:30] When mergers don’t proceed – managing with grace
[17:00] Board decisions, risk appetite, and the power dynamics of “mergers”
[20:00] Systems vs. culture: where should a CEO invest their time?
[22:00] What happens to the “other” CEO? Navigating identity post-merger
[24:00] CEO leadership through transition and how to prepare for the toll
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn
Website: thenfpceo.com.au
Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn
Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn
18 episodes