Oecotrophologie · Facility Management
Purpose. Strong leadership can be success-critical in M&As. The purpose of this study is to present what HR practice can offer if such leadership is absent and puts the success of the merger or acquisition at risk.
Design/methodology/approach. Drawing on a recent merger, this paper clarifies the interplay between trust, leadership, and conflict.
Findings. HR can take an active role in supporting top management during major organizational change by (a) avoiding a leadership vacuum, (b) effectively communicating promises by the new owner, and (c) offering support in inter-familial conflicts during the integration phase.
Originality/value. Supporting a smooth exit for the target owner, assisting the owning family in their communication activities, and taking conflicts within the family seriously, all help to effectively merge two family firms.