Great question and perspective. One thing that I have seen often is an over-emphasis on the financial and operational metrics and benefits rather than on the cultural benefits. I think we play a role in pushing leaders to consider the culture/people metrics (in due diligence if engaged at that stage) or certainly as a measure throughout the integration. Too often, the financial/operational benefits are overstated without a recognition that benefits and synergies do not happen (or happen slower) if the people and culture are not aligned.
I've seen universities put together dedicated certifications and courses for M&A and have not seen one focused more specifically on the M&A phases. Given the nature, scale, cross-functional needs, and disruption/opportunity that M&A's bring, I think there is an opportunity for a dedicated certification.
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Evan Piekara
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Original Message:
Sent: 2026-01-14 11:51
From: Frank Gorman
Subject: Is this a growth specialization?
We have been striving for 15 years to elevate CM in the eyes of Industry and we continue to succeed. M&A has a key role to play in the CM realm. How can we elevate what we do to a recognized specialization? Should we have a unique sub-certification for M&A? What do you think?
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Frank Gorman, Former ACMP Board Member, Transformation Consultant
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