Double vision (mergers)

Citation

Tahmincioglu, E. (2006), "Double vision (mergers)", Strategic Direction, Vol. 22 No. 7. https://doi.org/10.1108/sd.2006.05622gad.007

Double vision (mergers)

Double vision (mergers)

Tahmincioglu E. Workforce Management, January 2006, Vol. 85 No. 1, Start page: 1, No. of pages: 6

Purpose – Describes how the cultures of US Airways and America West are being integrated following the merger of the two companies in September. Uses this discussion to illustrate the importance of integrating company cultures for the success of a merger and the difficulties in doing it. Design/methodology/approach – Quotes the new chief executive, Doug Parker, about how he is trying to keep the best from both organizations’ cultures, how he understands why employees feel suspicious of the merger and how he intends to change this. Also quotes Larry leSuer, vice president of culture integration, on the practical steps that will be taken to achieve cultural integration, including communication with employees, training for managers, and the empowerment of managers and front-line workers. Discusses the challenges that remain. An inset describes the unions’ reactions to the merger and how they are trying to integrate their structures so that they can represent workers effectively. Findings – Underlines the need for effective communication with employees to overcome their doubts and distrust of the new management. Also acknowledges that there is no quick way to build cohesive and integrated teams across a newly-merged organization. Originality/value – Profiles the recent merger of US Airways and America West, assessing the progress made in integrating the two organizations.ISSN: 1092-8332Reference: 35AE699

Keywords: Airlines, America west, Corporate culture, Employee attitudes, Mergers and acquisitions, Trade unions, US Airways, USA