International mergers and acquisitions : The role of HR functions

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer, who adds their own, impartial, comments and places the articles in context. Findings – Despite the recent boom in international mergers and acquisitions (IM&As) driven by globalization, technological change and deregulation, statistics show that the outcome of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) is mostly disappointing. It has been argued that the challenge of M&As is the management of people and the human resource (HR) function Practical implications – This paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.