Open Workshop by Yves- Martin Felker: Multiple learning pathways in acquisitions, towards a rule based approach

In this paper, we examine how multiple learning pathways manifest in acquisitions. Drawing from organizational theory, we suggest that firms adopt a portfolio of learning mechanisms. Making use of acquisition experience, codification and routines to foster acquisition performance. Furthermore, deploying codification and routines in parallel increasing learning to task effectiveness along the integration process. Our theoretical framework was tested empirically across a sample of 116 transactions in the German-speaking part of Central Europe. The result of our study supports the demand for a portfolio perspective of learning pathways in rare strategic situation. 

Yves-Martin Felker is a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant in Management at Lancaster University. Prior to his research career, he was responsible for the coordination of strategic partnerships between businesses and the University of Applied Sciences Kaiserslautern in Germany. His research interests cover the performance of merger and acquisitions — the impact of management capabilities on firm performance and the micro-foundations of capabilities. He is a member of the Academy of Management and the Strategic Management Society and presented his research findings at the Strategic Management Conference in 2019.