This past summer I interned with what was formerly known as Aon Consulting. I enjoyed my experience and have actually decided to take the full-time offer they extended to me.
However, also during the summer Aon acquired Hewitt Associates and although it was titled an acquisition it seemed more as of a merger. Both companies specialize in HR consulting but serve different markets . . . so my question is what was the strategic position behind the merger?
After reviewing some of the cases and article we have read thus far this semester I have come to the conclusion that it was so that Aon could broaden their market. Aon traditionally served mid-market clients and had tried multiple times to get into the higher market without success. Hewitt on the other hand had premium services. They were know to all as the quality brand and Aon more of the quantity.
Instead of trying to push and penetrate a new market, the Aon strategic team decided to merge to eliminate potential failures and increase their brand value. The had overcome the barriers of entry into the high-end market by acquiring an already high-end provider. Now the question is what will happen when I get there?
I know that many of the people that I worked with over the summer are no longer there . . . what does that mean for me? Growth opportunities? Limited exposure? New fields and projects to tackle? Although I don't know what AonHewitt will be when I get there, I do know that through hard work and patience I can become part of their strategy.
