Our comprehensive approach to human capital due diligence applies our deep knowledge of workforce issues to identify risks, estimate costs with expert precision, articulate long-term implications and inform purchase price. Through due diligence, we uncover potential financial, legal and compliance issues and stress-test costs related to workforce expenses and liabilities.

 

Anticipating the risks

Early understanding of and planning related to human capital risks leads to better-informed negotiations and long-term deal success. Our research shows that 60% of deals fail due to unaddressed people-related issues. Understanding people risk is crucial in due diligence and requires the same analytical rigor as commercial, tax, operational and IT diligence.

 

Our due diligence team works seamlessly with your tax, legal and finance teams. Mercer’s local knowledge and actuarial expertise allow us to identify risks and costs across a broad spectrum, including:

 

  • Management teams and key employees
  • Headcount synergies and workforce planning
  • Executive, broad-based and sales compensation
  • Benefits and pensions
  • HRIS service delivery (including systems)
  • Culture risk in areas that are critical to deal success
  • Sources of employee turnover
  • Workforce demographics
  • Labor relations and local regulations

We work with buyers and sellers as well as corporate acquirers and financial investors. On the sell side, our due diligence approach is about uncovering and presenting workforce risks based on the pool of potential buyers.

 

The Mercer difference in M&A Due Diligence 

We are deal experts who understand how to mitigate risks, maximize value and moderate costs to create sustainable value. We use robust financial models that analyze a range of costs and proprietary benchmarking data to track your success. Our understanding of the business strategy and deal thesis allows us to provide distinctive human capital insights that lay the groundwork for long-term integration. 


Why our clients choose us:

 

Global footprint, local expertise

Mercer’s global footprint means we can have experts available in as little as 24 hours — resources who speak the language and know the local laws. Our insights aren’t limited to certain markets. We are where you need us to be.

Deep expertise

We have a deep bench of experts and access to specialists, from actuarial to compliance.

Experienced deal advisors

We have a demonstrated track record across all deal types and throughout all phases. We know how to translate the deal thesis into reality with practical, proven approaches.

Innovation

Our expertise allows us to offer new and cutting-edge solutions to evolving human capital risks.

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From negotiations to post-closing, Mercer’s M&A advisory services team offers clients vital insights on human capital risks — and a distinct competitive advantage.
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 – COO, life sciences industry

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