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Communications Critical to Success in the Merger & Acquisition (M&A) process

TE Connectivity involved EMG in the communication of three of its acquisitions. The EMG team was on board from the outset on each occasion. This enabled us to propose, develop and align internal and external communications materials for the announcement of the signing through to closing and the final merger stage.  Co-ordinating M&A communications is complex. It is time sensitive, there is the issue of confidentiality and many points of view to consider. M&A activity creates a challenging period for all parties concerned. In addition to the confidential, multifaceted, behind-the-scenes processes for each organisation, it’s important that all stakeholders are informed with the right message at the right time, using the right channel. A well-considered and well-timed approach can help to moderate the uncertainty that comes with change. We believe that consistent, clear and transparent content is vital to the M&A process. Consistency avoids contradiction and consequent confusion. Clarity is important to create understanding of the messages and the personal consequences for each stakeholder. As much transparency as possible is essential to gain trust and cooperation and make the deal a success. Stakeholder communications and engagement starts before signing, continues during and after signing, but importantly also needs to continue after closing to make the M&A work; it’s important to report on progress and future plans to create buy-in from both internal and external stakeholders.

 

 

PURPOSE

Deliver the TE message as clear as possible to the BU’s stakeholders

  • Employees of both companies
  • External partners
  • Customers
  • Media

Ensure stakeholders are on board through engagement with both internal and external audiences; explaining the key messages and the rationale and benefits of the acquisition

Strengthen TE’s reputation as a world leader in connectivity and sensors, and a reliable enabler of a connected future.

APPROACH

From the outset all parties involved need to agree on the strategic communications plan including storylines, timing and stakeholder/channel mapping:

  • Outline key messages by stakeholder indicating the right channel(s) of interaction
  • Agree timeline, spokespersons, information format and Q&A – who communicates what, when, where and to whom – and stick to it!
  • Content creation - making it consistent, clear and transparent throughout the acquisition process
  • Rollout to internal/external audiences across different regions in local languages using a mix of tools & channels at the agreed date & hour
  • Speed and attention to detail were of the essence for each stage of the M&A communications rollout including: CEO statement/video, intranet announcements, town hall and customer presentations, customer letters and emails, press material, website and social media posting

IMPACT

  • Transactions concluded successfully
  • Effective rollout of internal communications plan resulting in clear understanding by the teams involved of their new roles and the direction moving forward
  • Smooth integration of companies involved
  • External communications implementation in a consistent and timely manner resulting in a positive media dialogue
  • Excellent press coverage 350 clippings across automation, E&E, technology and business media
  • Examples Media materials:

WHAT CLIENTS SAY


"The right internal and external communications can determine the outcome of a M&A process. To plan and deliver effective communications around such a delicate and confidential topic you need to work with a trusted partner like EMG. Our experience has proven that we can rely on EMG and that they have the insight required to deliver success at such a crucial time for the growth of our business!" - Jonathan Graham, Senior Manager Global Communications at TE Connectivity

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