Publications
Publications
- June 2004 (Revised June 2004)
- HBS Case Collection
Utah Symphony and Utah Opera: A Merger Proposal
By: Thomas J. DeLong and David L. Ager
Abstract
Anne Ewers, general director of Utah Opera, is awaiting the decision of the members of the board of the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera about whether to merge Utah's top two arts organizations. If the vote favors the merger, Ewers will be asked to assume the helm of the newly created organization and take responsibility for integrating the two organizations. Challenges students to consider the merits of the merger and to develop an action plan for how Ewers would integrate the two organizations, including how to design the new firm, how to manage various constituents--many of whom are upset by the announcement--and how to create a new corporate culture. Students also need to specify what Ewers would do in the first few days if the vote were to favor merging the two organizations. Teaching Purpose: To explore the human capital issues related to mergers and acquisitions.
Keywords
Mergers and Acquisitions; Change Management; Organizational Culture; Human Resources; Management; Fine Arts Industry; Music Industry; Utah
Citation
DeLong, Thomas J., and David L. Ager. "Utah Symphony and Utah Opera: A Merger Proposal." Harvard Business School Case 404-116, June 2004. (Revised June 2004.)