Having expertise is great, but attitude is even more important

Lisa Bellaert (27), a consultant focused on Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), joined the Technology Strategy & Advisory (TS&A) team in October 2021 after working for three years at another consulting firm and completing a Postgraduate in Corporate Finance.

What convinced you to join Accenture?

During the pandemic, I started a postgraduate in Corporate Finance and the field of M&A sparked my interest. I was contacted by a former university classmate who works at Accenture who informed me about the opportunities in M&A. After a number of interviews, I was convinced. Why? The content of the job and the nice people I met. 

Can you tell us more about your job?

I belong to two teams at Accenture: I’m part of the M&A Gallia Team (BeNeLux and France region) and the TS&A team in Belgium. It’s the best of both worlds: I can focus on my topic of interest, M&A, while also being part of the great Accenture Belgium family. My role is to guide our clients through the M&A process, from Target Screening and Due Diligence to Post-Merger Integration.

Do you feel like you have an impact?

Of course! I finished my first project in January for a client in the automotive industry that has acquired a company in the same industry. We helped the client prepare for Day 1 of the integration, focusing on technical work streams and supported them in identifying synergies following the acquisition. I’m currently working on an M&A assignment for two Belgian banks in the Integration Management Team. We’re rolling-out the integration plan and strategy, which involves various business domains. We always work closely together with our clients and guide them in the best way possible. That’s how we have an impact.

You have a background in both Business and Psychology. Do you use your Psychology background in your current role?

Every business transformation is a big change for the employees concerned. This is also true of M&A. The impact on people is sometimes underestimated and taking their perspective into account is important. My background helps me to focus on that people aspect of our projects and it definitely adds value in my day-to-day job.

Is what you do at the heart of business transformation?

The assignments I’ve worked on so far are indeed at heart of business transformation. Helping our clients to plan and successfully execute the integration phases across all functions (IT, operations, finance, HR, supply chain, etc.) after a merger has a big impact on the future of that business and the people working there.

What gives you energy at Accenture?

I really appreciate how approachable our leaders are. They are people I can look up to and learn from. Having a manager or project lead who not only challenges you but also focuses on your personal growth really makes a difference. Our team culture is also important. We often work on highly demanding projects so having reliable team members who have your back is key. Last but not least, there are always fun activities to enjoy with colleagues, like having a drink together at the end of the week in our B1 office in Brussels.

Who would be an ideal match with Accenture?

Accenture attracts a broad range of profiles. I’m living proof of this! You don’t need to be an IT expert; attitude and personality are just as - if not more - important. If you are interested in learning and not afraid to step out of your comfort zone, Accenture is a great place to work.