The Bottom Line What Happens When Brands Change Hands?
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Jan 29, 2026 Farshid Azadegan, M&A researcher who has lived through ~19 deals. Pip Hulbert, agency leader who has led cultural and operational integrations. Vittorio Colao, telecoms CEO with deep dealmaking experience. They explore why deal-making is rising. They recount defining mergers, cultural clashes, communication and trust, handling people changes, and practical tips for making integrations work.
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Caught In A Hostile Takeover
- Vittorio Colao described being caught between Vodafone and Mannesmann during the hostile takeover that formed Vodafone Group.
- He recalled being invited to shape the new company's operating principles, which launched his international career.
Merging Two Creative Powerhouses
- Pip Hulbert recounted merging Wonderman with J. Walter Thompson and becoming CEO of the combined UK business.
- She described rallying two different cultures to offer more connected capabilities to clients.
When A Takeover Breaks A Company
- Farshid Azadegan described STC being acquired by Nortel and then broken up and sold to other firms.
- He said the takeover 'butchered the company' and left it never quite the same.