Leading Through Acquisition

Episode Details 

What does leading through an acquisition look like? 

For me, leading through an acquisition isn’t about control, it’s about connection. When two businesses come together, you’ve got two sets of values, two ways of working and a lot of history on both sides. Success doesn’t come from trying to hold on to what was, or choosing one way over another. It’s about creating something new together, something that reflects the best of both. 

“It wasn’t about picking one culture over another. It was about building something new.” 

How did the team support clients through the change?  

We’ve built strong relationships over many years, so communication was critical. We made sure to stay in touch, to be clear and timely, but also human, not just ticking boxes, but listening and reassuring people. Because of that approach, 96% of our clients were signed up and ready to go on day one of the transitions. 

“It’s people and it’s relationships, that’s what matters.” 

What advice does Gavin have for firms joining Foster Denovo? 

If I could give any advice to advisers or leaders joining Foster Denovo and Secondsight, it would be this: bring your identity with you. Ask questions, be open, and keep communicating. And most importantly, give people time to find their feet. Culture doesn’t appear overnight, it grows when people feel supported, trusted and heard. 

“Culture doesn’t arrive on day one, but it grows quickly when it’s shared and supported.”