Integration project managers are responsible for managing the complex process of amalgamating two businesses. This involves collaborating with stakeholders across all levels and functions of both companies, and being adept at managing and communicating vast quantities of information incisively. There are a host of attributes that are required to perform in this role effectively; we have distilled a few of the most critical skills below.
Firstly, organisation is key to being an effective integration project manager. The entire integration period involves various phases — from due diligence, to Day 1, to post-merger integration — so you must be able to manage your time well in order to keep track of multiple tasks and deadlines across all functional workstreams throughout the project lifecycle. You will be responsible for keeping Gantt charts updated and using data to build out management reports; your organisational prowess will ensure that all integration deadlines are hit, the project remains on budget and that progress is continually monitored.
Integration PMs must also be strong and authoritative communicators. The likelihood is that you will not be line-managing anyone directly as part of integration, but you will be required to effect change, by getting others to complete tasks and hit deadlines on top of their day-to-day jobs. Effective communication will help you to explain details of the project, answer questions and provide feedback so that you can coach people beyond their typical BAU remit. You may also be required to negotiate with stakeholders and resolve conflicts to ensure the project does not lose momentum, where your communication skills will also come into play.
Finally, as an integration project manager you must be able to effortlessly pivot between close, attention-to-detail work and big-picture strategic thinking. As previously mentioned, you will be collaborating with individuals across all seniority levels — from workstream leads, to investor boards, to the wider employee population — and therefore you must be able to adapt your approach to your audience.
By keeping a close eye on task management, communicating authoritatively and providing all stakeholders with the appropriate level of insight, you are on the right path to ensure that your integration project is a success.
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