Ideally, pre-deal, the significant causes of 70% of all deals failing to capitalise on the calculated ROI should be addressed: leadership, culture, and unpredictable human behavior.
The psychology during this tense, high-stakes phase mostly won’t let that happen.
We specialize in guiding leaders and M&A advisors to prevent value leakage, pre- and post-deal, in these topics on a strategic level, and can also provide implementation if required.
Don’t expect genius models, politics, or lengthy transformation projects. We like personal, confidential, and to-the-point, highly accurate observations. We do what works holistically. With us, there is truth, trust, and awareness.
The first step in working together is always the Leadership Accelerator Package: In-depth confidential conversations with senior leadership and key stakeholders.
I’m looking forward to speaking with you to figure out whether and how we can be of service.
Elsbeth van Lienden
Founder | The Pink Walnut
Proudly Announcing!
Awarded “Most Pioneering Business & Leadership Consultancy 2025 – Netherlands” by Wealth & Finance
With over 25 years of experience in strategic HR, organisational design, executive coaching, and leadership transformation, we act as your all-in-one transformation partner in complex environments, including mergers, acquisitions, and reorganisations. We know exactly what needs to shift, and we make it happen.
According to KPMG International research, “Mismanaging people and cultures is the reason for two-thirds of failed transactions.”
According to EY, most studies show that 70-90% of M&A deals fail or underperform; culture alignment is cited as a key hidden factor behind this.
From strategic clarity to operational execution, we cover it all:
• Strategic HR & future-ready organisation design
• Culture integration and leadership growth
• Execution and implementation where it matters most
• Hiring and placing the right people to secure results
This ensures that the time and money invested in a merger, acquisition, or reorganisation lead to a real return—not wasted effort.
We treat all forms of capital equally important: people, performance, culture, and business results are inseparable. We turn intuition into insight, revealing the hidden dynamics that drive success or risk. We believe everything is connected because it is.
Our senior team supports a smooth transition, alignment with decisive leadership, and clear actions that empower your organisation to deliver the desired outcomes. And when the change has landed? We step out, not linger.
We work on fixed fees, with integrity and no hidden agendas, and co-create the results you envision.