The Moneris Mosaic Features Samuel Bibentyo

In this feature of The Moneris Mosaic, we shine a spotlight on Samuel Bibentyo (he/him). 

In the dynamic landscape of business, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are monumental events that shape industries and redefine corporate strategies. Did you know that in 2022 alone, the global M&A market reached a staggering $5.4 trillion in deals[1]? This record-breaking activity underscores the relentless drive for growth and innovation among companies worldwide.

Moreover, behind these impressive numbers lies a complex and often challenging process, especially for employees. M&As can bring about significant changes, from shifts in company culture to concerns about job security, while also bringing opportunities for greater growth, collaboration, and streamlining of processes. For instance, maintaining a cohesive company culture during a merger is one of the biggest HR challenges, as it involves blending different values, goals, and practices[2]. Additionally, employees may experience a range of emotions, from excitement about new opportunities to anxiety about their future roles[3]. Such was the case as of January 1, 2025, when UEAT officially integrated with Moneris.

In this blog feature, we sat down with Samuel Bibentyo (he/him) – Team Lead, Customer Service, to discuss his journey following the integration of UEAT with Moneris and what his biggest take away from the experience has been so far. Samuel’s story offers valuable insight into navigating the personal and professional changes that M&As can bring.

Together, let’s appreciate the beautiful mosaic of unique stories, like Samuel’s, that shape our exceptional team at Moneris.

1. Moneris’ acquisition of UEAT happened three years ago, with the formal integration taking place just a few months ago. How has the transition and experience been for you, personally?

When I first heard the announcement that UEAT would be integrating with Moneris, I had many questions just like anyone would in such a situation. I knew Moneris was a great company, but I wasn’t sure where I would fit, what my role would look like, or how this change would impact my career goals. In the months leading up to the integration, I remember feeling uncertain, even contemplating looking for another job because I wasn’t sure if I was ready to transition from a smaller company to a much larger one. 

As I learned more about Moneris, the Customer Experience (CEx) team, and the vision for UEAT within this new structure, my perspective started to shift. I started to feel hopeful, even excited. I realized that this wasn’t just about change, it was about growth. I made the decision to stay, embrace the transition, and give this opportunity a real chance. 

Now, three months after the official integration, I couldn’t be happier with the choice. Working with different teams and individuals at Moneris has been energizing and inspiring. While the company is much larger, I’ve realized that this scale comes with incredible advantages. I’ve felt welcomed, supported, and empowered in ways I never expected. I have access to more resources, more expertise, and a team that truly wants to see us succeed. It’s been a wonderful experience, one that has reinforced my confidence in both the company and my place within it – I am excited for what’s ahead. 

2. What is your best advice for anyone going through a M&A? What’s your biggest take away from it, and how has inclusion played a part in your integration to the team?

My best advice for anyone going through a merger and acquisition is to embrace change with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. It’s okay to feel uncertain and have more questions than answers at the beginning, but don’t let this deter you from giving things a chance. It’s important to stay positive, seek information, engage with the new organization and give things time to fall into place – your decision to stay may very well end up being the best decision you could have made. 

My biggest takeaway from this experience is that change, while sometimes uncomfortable, often leads to incredible opportunities. When I first learned about the integration, I wasn’t sure if a larger company was the right fit for me. But as I leaned into the transition and connected with different teams, I realized that I had access to more support, resources, and career growth than ever before. This experience has reinforced the idea that stepping outside of your comfort zone is often where the most growth happens. 

Inclusion has played a huge role in my integration into the team. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed and supported by my colleagues at Moneris. Despite coming from a smaller company, I never felt like an outsider. I was invited into conversations, encouraged to share my perspective, and given the tools I needed to succeed. The collaborative culture at Moneris made the transition smoother, and I quickly felt like a valued team member.  

3. Now that you have officially joined Moneris earlier this year, how do you envision your future and the team’s integration in our ecosystem?

Now that I have officially joined Moneris, I see a future filled with opportunities, growth and collaboration. Opportunities to work with better tools, systems and processes that I didn’t have access to before. I also see more opportunities for growth as a leader, while having access to more mentors and learning resources to help me gain knowledge in key areas. I see this as a chance to expand my skills, take on new challenges, and contribute in meaningful ways to both my team and the organization. Being part of a company with Moneris’ scale and resources means access to new possibilities – whether that’s through innovation, leadership opportunities, or working alongside talented individuals who push me to grow. 

As for the team’s integration into the Moneris ecosystem, I see it as an evolution that will only make us stronger and better. UEAT’s expertise in the restaurant industry combined with Moneris’ extensive network, experience and support, create the perfect environment for long-term success. While transitions like this take time, I truly believe that through collaboration, staying adaptable, and maintaining a shared vision, we’ll not only integrate smoothly but thrive within Moneris. Looking ahead, I’m excited about the potential we have not just to fit into the ecosystem, but to enhance it. I see our team contributing fresh ideas, leveraging Moneris’ resources to drive impact, and ultimately, building something even greater.

[1] Top HR Challenges During Mergers and Acquisitions - Lattice

[2] What Happens To Employees When There Are Mergers And Acquisitions

[3] Challenges Faced By Employees and the Role of HR in Mergers and ...

About The Moneris Mosaic

The Moneris Mosaic is an employee spotlight program that celebrates the stories of the people who make Moneris truly special. Just like a beautiful mosaic, this program brings together a variety of unique and colorful stories, coming together to create one inspiring image of our Moneris team.

Check back here in the new year when we feature another Moneris employee on The Moneris Mosaic!