Key Objective

A Private Equity client required an Interim CEO to act as a transformation agent for an industrial business in their portfolio pending an M&A transaction.  The company faced significant challenges in its operations and financial performance, which were critical to address before a potential merger and acquisition (M&A) and eventual sale. The client required a strong interim CEO who could act as a transformation agent to super charge sales and improve operational efficiencies.

Challenges

The issues included underperformance in sales delivery, inefficiencies in contract centre operations, financial instability, outdated technology, and a lack of a cohesive people strategy. Additionally, there was a need to accelerate the M&A strategy in Europe, to merge an adjacent business and complete a debt raise.

Process

A seasoned CEO who had prior experience in re-structuring and transformation in the relevant sector was known to the Warren Partners network. They had a good chemistry with the key stakeholders and started within a week.

Outcome

The Interim CEO achieved a 30% organic revenue growth in the first year by enhancing sales delivery and customer engagement, reducing cost base by 40% year-over-year through leaner operations and improved financial governance. Additionally, they upgraded technical capabilities, developed a compelling people strategy, created a customer-centric contact centre, embedded a risk-alert culture, and accelerated the M&A strategy in Europe, merging adjacent businesses and completing a debt raise to strengthen the company’s financial position.