Subscribe: iTunes / Spotify
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.
Watch Full Interview:
Key Discussion Points:
1. Don’s Unconventional Path to M&A Integration
- Transitioning from physical therapy to business school and consulting
- Learning operations and process re-engineering at Arthur Andersen
- Breaking 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 flexible
- The importance of involving key stakeholders in the integration process
- Rolling 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 transparency
- The power of communication, trust, and leadership alignment in integration
- Strategies for ensuring acquired employees buy into the new organization
4. Navigating M&A in a Global Environment
- How cultural differences impact deal execution and integration
- Case study: Managing an acquisition in Japan and respecting business customs
- The 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 globally
- The challenges of high-pressure deals and executive expectations
- Why 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 deal
- Develop a Baseline Plan – Start with a structured approach that evolves as new insights emerge
- Engage Cross-Functional Teams Early – Involve internal and target company leaders in planning
- Maintain Proactive Communication – Address issues quickly and ensure leadership alignment
- Be 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 spin-offs. With our hands-on, results-driven approach, we ensure seamless transitions, exceptional outcomes, and real value creation—without the top-dollar expenses. Dis
To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/
