Acquisition of United Malt by InVivo: Securing the closing and optimization under Microsoft D365FO

With the acquisition of United Malt by the French InVivo Group, through Malterie Soufflet, a swift and seamless integration of financial and Supply Chain processes was essential. I had the opportunity to lead a strategic assignment aimed at delivering the first close on time and analyzing areas for improvement following the implementation of Microsoft D365FO. This assignment took place across three key sites: Portland (Oregon, USA), Pocatello (Idaho, USA) and Arbroath (Scotland).

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1. Securing the First Close

Integrating a new group into a unified ERP environment always presents challenges, particularly in terms of data reliability, consolidation and financial reporting. The primary objective was to ensure the closing was completed on time by :

  • Verifying the quality of data migrated into Microsoft D365FO.

  • Automating some accounting and consolidation processes to reduce the risk of manual errors.

  • Coordinating local teams and headquarters to align practices.

Thanks to these actions, the first closing under the unified ERP was completed on time, with a notable improvement in the traceability and reliability of financial data.


2. Quick Wins and Long-Term Improvement Analysis

Following the successful close, we identified areas for improvement, across both the short and long term :

Quick Wins

  • Fine-tuning of D365FO configuration to accelerate validation and reporting processes.
  • Automation of logistics and financial flows between United Malt and Soufflet.
  • Training of local teams to strengthen ERP adoption and reduce errors.

Long-Term Improvements

  • Harmonization of financial workflows between sites and headquarters.
  • Overhaul of inventory management and forecasting for better demand anticipation.
  • Implementation of advanced KPIs for more precise performance monitoring.

 


Conclusion : A Transformative Integration for the Future

This assignment demonstrated the importance of a methodical and pragmatic approach in a post-acquisition integration project. Securing the closing enabled a smooth transition, while the improvement analysis paves the way for a more high-performing Supply Chain and financial management under Microsoft D365FO.

As a Supply Chain and Business Project Management expert, it was a rewarding experience to support this transformation across three international sites, contributing to the success of this strategic acquisition.

Sources :

  • Official InVivo / Soufflet press release on the acquisition of United Malt

  • Microsoft D365FO documentation on financial management and Supply Chain

  • Feedback from local teams

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