Unlocking Value Through the HR Workstream [VIDEO]

There are significant opportunities within HR that are still being left on the table.

Private equity firms and portfolio companies can create and capture additional value by taking a more strategic approach to HR operations. In this interview from The M&A Advisor’s 2026 Leadership in Dealmaking Summit, David Neikrug, Chief Executive Officer of Optimatum, discusses how organizations can unlock value throughout the HR workstream—from pre-deal due diligence and Day One readiness to post-close integration, operational improvements, and cost synergies.

The conversation explores how optimizing benefits, vendor relationships, HR systems, and workforce operations can reduce unnecessary costs, improve operational efficiency, and generate meaningful EBITDA impact. David also discusses emerging opportunities and challenges across continuation vehicles, private credit, and portfolio operations, including how lenders and investors can mitigate risk by equipping portfolio companies with practical operating tools and experienced partners when business conditions become more challenging.