Association Mergers: Timing Is Everything

When and how two associations combine in a merger depends a lot on circumstances at the beginning, middle, and end of the transaction. From leadership transitions to board meeting schedules to advocacy needs, here’s how timing often influences the merger process.

Association mergers have proliferated in recent years. The association press reports on one or another regularly. Ever wonder how these complex projects get started, develop momentum, and make it all the way to closing?

There are lots of ways. For example:

• The CEOs of two complementary associations in the same field come up with the idea, “sell it” to the volunteer leadership of both organizations, and then “quarterback” it to finalization.