In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, Lisa Scott sits down with Don Yakulis, a seasoned M&A integration leader who has managed over 50 global deals across countries like Finland, Japan, Korea, and Malta. With executive experience at a variety of companies including:  Light & Wonder, Visa, SAP, Nokia, Cisco, and Synopsis, Don brings invaluable insights into building integration frameworks, navigating cultural complexities, and executing successful post-merger transitions.

From his non-traditional career path that started in physical therapy to leading integration efforts at major corporations, Don shares key lessons on aligning leadership, managing change, and handling the high-pressure environment of M&A. Whether you're leading your first deal or your 50th, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to enhance your integration approach.

 

Key Discussion Points:

1. Don’s Unconventional Path to M&A Integration

Transitioning from physical therapy to business school and consultingLearning operations and process re-engineering at Arthur AndersenBreaking into M&A at Synopsys and building integration playbooks

 

2. The Role of Playbooks and Planning in M&A Success

Why detailed integration plans matter—but why they must be flexibleThe importance of involving key stakeholders in the integration processRolling 90-day planning: Keeping integration efforts dynamic and adaptable

 

3. The Human Side of M&A: Managing Change and Uncertainty

How to handle employee concerns, role changes, and layoffs with transparencyThe power of communication, trust, and leadership alignment in integrationStrategies for ensuring acquired employees buy into the new organization

4. Navigating M&A in a Global Environment

How cultural differences impact deal execution and integrationCase study: Managing an acquisition in Japan and respecting business customsThe importance of patience, relationship-building, and understanding local decision-making processes

 

5. Lessons from the Field: The Best and Hardest Parts of M&A Integration

The rewarding experience of working with cross-functional teams globallyThe challenges of high-pressure deals and executive expectationsWhy adaptability, influencing skills, and problem-solving are crucial to success

 

6. Don’s Top Best Practices for M&A Integration Success

Align on the "Why" – Clearly define and communicate the strategic rationale behind the dealDevelop a Baseline Plan – Start with a structured approach that evolves as new insights emergeEngage Cross-Functional Teams Early – Involve internal and target company leaders in planningMaintain Proactive Communication – Address issues quickly and ensure leadership alignmentBe Adaptive and Responsive – Recognize that integration is dynamic and requires constant refinement

 

Final Takeaways:

M&A integration isn’t just about checklists and financial synergies—it’s about people, culture, and execution. Whether managing an acquisition across different countries or handling high-stakes decisions, Don emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, proactive communication, and the ability to navigate uncertainty.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to refine their integration approach and learn from a veteran who has seen it all.

Connect with Don Yakulis on LinkedIn for support and more insights: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/donyakulis/

Learn More About In2edge:

In2edge helps businesses tackle the most complex challenges of mergers, acquisitions, and spi

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