Case Studies

Strengthening HR Operations for Scalable M&A Growth

2 minute read

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: A private equity firm acquiring multiple manufacturing companies faced operational risk from inconsistent HR processes and fragmented organizational structures. Catena partnered with the firm to stabilize HR foundations, improve compliance, and build a repeatable integration model, delivering a comprehensive HR roadmap across four structured phases.

The Challenge: Disconnected HR Processes Slowed M&A Integration

Rapid acquisition activity exposed critical gaps in HR and operational processes across portfolio companies. Inconsistent policies, unclear organizational structures, and misaligned total rewards programs were creating inefficiencies, legal exposure, and friction in integration timelines.

The Solution: Building a Scalable HR Operating Model

Phase 1: HR Due Diligence & Compliance
Completed a full audit of the current state to surface compliance gaps and legal exposure. Delivered a prioritized remediation plan with clear ownership and timelines.

Phase 2: Organizational Design
Assessed the firm’s org structure for efficiency and future readiness. Identified critical role gaps and design changes needed to support growth initiatives.

Phase 3: Total Rewards Strategy & Integration
Developed a unified total rewards framework—consolidating benefits, compensation, and incentives—paired with a communication strategy to preserve culture through change.

Phase 4: HR Business Continuance
Deployed embedded HR leaders across the organization to provide continuity support and guide implementation of the new operating model.

The Benefit: A Strong Foundation for M&A Success

  • Faster, more consistent acquisition onboarding
  • Improved legal and regulatory compliance
  • Standardized HR processes across portfolio
  • Stronger retention of key talent
  • Healthier, more aligned company culture
  • Scalable blueprint for future integrations

Catena’s experts helped the client build the HR infrastructure and operational capabilities needed to grow confidently through acquisition, not just for this deal cycle, but for every one that follows.

Contact us to learn how we can support your next phase of transformation.

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