Let's Talk Mergers

Author: Michelle Cutler and Danielle Ballantine
Published: Wed 09 Jul 2025
Episode Link: https://thenfpceo.com.au

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle dive into one of the most complex and increasingly common topics facing the Australian not-for-profit sector: Mergers.

Drawing from personal experience leading both successful and failed merger processes, they unpack:

Why NFPs are considering mergers now more than ever
The top drivers of mergers: economic, regulatory, and technological
What due diligence really involves (and what often gets missed)
Why culture, brand, and legacy can make or break a merger
The CEO's unique role in both the pre-merger and post-merger phases
What to do when mergers don’t proceed — and how to manage comms
Navigating your own identity, leadership, and value in a merged entity
This is a practical and honest conversation that explores the realities behind the strategy - the human dynamics, the workload, and the leadership required to guide your team through change.

🔍 Key Topics and Timestamps

[01:00] Why mergers are front of mind for NFPs right now

[02:02] The three big drivers: economic pressures, regulation, and tech capability

[05:55] Integration: the hidden cost and who carries the load

[06:56] Brand, culture, and the emotional side of merging

[08:44] A cautionary tale: when mergers destroy the value they seek

[10:57] How CEOs can lead a successful integration (and what not to do)

[12:00] Pre-merger strategy: who’s in the tent and how to manage risk

[15:00] Announcing a merger vs keeping it confidential

[16:30] When mergers don’t proceed – managing with grace

[17:00] Board decisions, risk appetite, and the power dynamics of “mergers”

[20:00] Systems vs. culture: where should a CEO invest their time?