Why human capital due diligence matters
Most M&A value destruction happens after the deal closes — and most of it is people-related. Key talent walks. Cultures collide. The ‘leadership team’ on the org chart turns out to depend on one person who’s leaving in six months. A good human-capital DD finds these before the wire transfer.
What we assess
Culture and how it’ll collide with the acquirer’s. Key-person dependencies and retention risk on the people the value depends on. Leadership bench strength below the founder. Compensation, benefits, and employment-practice liabilities. Engagement signals from the existing workforce.
How we report
A concise diligence report written for deal teams — risk-ranked, with recommended deal terms or integration safeguards for each finding. Pairs well with our integration support after the deal closes.
How the engagement runs
- Document review (org charts, comp, policies, prior surveys).
- Leadership interviews under appropriate confidentiality.
- Optional employee pulse.
- Risk-ranked diligence report.
- Optional post-close integration support.