Client Successes - Case Study Six

Project: Managing growth - water meters

Background issue

This world-wide market-leading water meter business exported 70% of its output and operated 2 sites with over 450 employees. It was experiencing extraordinary rates of growth as the UK market for domestic water meters expanded dramatically.

Firth Interim Management Input

The assignment, as managing director was to lead the UK team through this dynamic transitionary period.

In order to establish tighter control, a customer-focused budgeting system was established along with sales and operational planning.

Results

Consequently, overdue customer orders were reduced by 50% and on-time deliveries increased to 95%.

Major investment was made in machinery and modern manufacturing methods - cells, robotics, quick set-up, Kanbans - which led to an improvement in turnover per employee of 31%.

A world-wide sales agreement for a GEC manufactured product was renegotiated leading to a doubling of its sales to £3.5 million in two years.

Overall, over an eighteen month period, company sales grew by 18% to £35 million and profits increased by 17% to £8.1 million. At the end of the assignment, the divisional MD was able to reassume responsibility for a more stable operation.

Endorsements

"Throughout this period, Stuart managed this challenging task with tremendous professionalism. I would certainly employ him in similar situations on a future occasion".

John Notley, divisional chief executive, ABB Kent Meters