University of Twente Student Theses
Culture clashes in business integration : A takeover analysis
Nijkamp, M. (2025) Culture clashes in business integration : A takeover analysis.
|
PDF
1MB |
| Abstract: | This research examines how cultural differences influence employee perceptions and integration during cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&As). It addresses the limited academic focus on the role of specific GLOBE cultural dimensions—institutional collectivism, performance orientation, and uncertainty avoidance—in shaping employee experiences and integration outcomes. A qualitative approach was adopted, with fourteen semi-structured interviews conducted with managers from recently acquired organizations or those with prior M&A experience. Using Gioia’s methodology, the study identifies key themes in cultural integration. Findings indicate that institutional collectivism fosters trust and group cohesion, facilitating smoother integration. Performance orientation poses challenges, as excessive focus on individual metrics can conflict with collective organizational goals. Uncertainty avoidance presents mixed effects—while it can increase resistance to change, this can be reduced through clear communication, structured planning, and employee involvement. The study contributes to M&A literature by providing practical insights for managing cultural challenges, emphasizing the importance of collective goal-setting, transparent communication, and aligning performance rewards with integration objectives. Limitations include the industry-specific scope and qualitative design. Future research could expand by examining diverse industries, employing mixed-methods approaches, and studying cultural dynamics over longer periods to enhance understanding of cultural integration in M&As. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/105315 |
| Export this item as: | BibTeX EndNote HTML Citation Reference Manager |
Show download statistics for this publication
Show download statistics for this publicationRepository Staff Only: item control page