Mergers, acquisitions and divestments continue to shape the UK utilities landscape. The integration of two companies is a challenge that often benefits from external guidance and temporary specialist resources. Atos Origin, together with Atos Consulting, has a deep body of experience in post-merger integration – from strategy and planning through transition and change management to communications and technology integration.

Strategy and planning

When an acquisition or divestment becomes a real possibility, it is crucial to clearly understand the organisation from the perspective of how easy or difficult it will be to implement rapid change. Such an analysis can significantly impact a financial or market-motivated strategy. We have the skills and experience to identify critical issues that could threaten the success of a new venture or conversely open up opportunities for greater benefit.

Target assessment

It is vital to gather appropriate knowledge regarding the other party in any transaction. Assessment and due diligence processes are often focused on financial and legal issues, but of similar importance are the human and technical aspects of a business. It is particularly important to understand the way in which people, processes and systems will operate in a new company before the deal is completed.  

Transition and integration

The optimum speed and depth of a transition programme is dependent on business strategy, but in most instances there is significant benefit from a large and rapid first step in forming a new organisation. It may be appropriate to absorb an acquisition into the existing culture or it may be necessary to create a completely new set of corporate values. We can advise, manage and resource an appropriate transition team and ensure that the change creates maximum value while minimising any disruption to business as usual.

Continuous improvement

After the initial transition, and as both external and internal conditions change, there will be opportunities for considerable further improvement in any new organisation. We offer a comprehensive range of capabilities to assist companies in business transformation and change management processes through the application of new technology, development of new business processes and outsourcing of services and functions.