How to Navigate Mergers and Demergers
Barbra Carlisle • May 1, 2025
Hold position or yield, or even collaborate - approaches to mergers and demergers
While there are considerably few charitable mergers now than 10 years ago in the UK the total value of merger delas in 2023-24 hit £192 million. And last year there was a 31% increase in mergers.
Leading a merger whether it is a strategic opportunity or a last resort can be a nightmare, even when everyone is ‘on the same page’.
The Charity Commission for England and Wales reported in its 2022 guidance on charity mergers that while mergers can deliver stronger services, cost savings are rarely immediate and cultural alignment is the biggest risk factor. Here we focus on the latter.
Due diligence is non-negotiable.
Beyond finances, leadership teams must examine organisational values, governance structures, and service delivery models.
Engage, engage, engage stakeholders
Research by ACEVO (Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations) found that poor communication during mergers was the leading cause of disruption and dissatisfaction among charity staff and volunteers.
I remember walking into a room of board members of a recent LSVT who were all smiles, saying it had been a wonderful experience for all involved. An hour later I walked into a room of tenant representatives…. Guess what they told me? A totally different story! Engage early!
Demergers are not failures.
The NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) points out that demerging can sometimes be the best way to refocus mission and impact. Clear exit strategies and open communication are critical.
Matt Cliff, CEO of the recently demerged Bradbury Fields told me he was energised to be focused on the organisation’s core purpose now.
Tips to navigate success:
✅ Build a joint vision early
✅ Respect legacy and culture
✅ Communicate transparently with beneficiaries, funders, and the public
Reflection:
If your organisation is considering a merger (or undoing one), have you put culture and communication at the centre of the strategy?
Whats App Barbra on 07952 311806 to share your thoughts on this article or email barbra@gleecoaching.com
Share and repost to someone who you might think get some value from reading it.
Sources:
Charity Commission for England and Wales, Making Mergers Work: Guidance for Charities, 2022
ACEVO Speaking from Experience: Charity Mergers and Collaboration, 2021
NCVO, Thinking About a Merger? Practical Guidance for Charities, 2022
Eastside People Ltd -website accessed 27th April 2025
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