Leadership defines company culture, whether intrinsically or extrinsically, and leaders at each level of the company will impact culture. Executive leaders, mid-level leaders, and individuals that emerge as leaders among their teams can be both formal and informal leaders. They will influence day-to-day operations, company culture, and the success of the team. It is imperative to examine the varying leaders that shape operations, rewards, values, production models, customer experiences, and company culture throughout the M&A process.
Attention to leaders at each level can demonstrate the nuances of company culture at varying levels to better understand the company as a whole. Clear, empathetic, and committed leaders are essential to create a collaborative culture that is aligned for both day-to-day operations and long-term success.