Client Successes - Case Study Seven

Project: Business restructuring - medical textiles

Background issue

This international medical fabrics company had just undertaken an impressive and successful reorganisation and factory relocation programme. The headcount of 1200 was reduced by half.

The engineering and maintenance functions of the business had been instrumental in this achievement but their future role was now uncertain - had they worked themselves out of a job?

Firth Interim Management input

The objective of the interim manager's assignment was to act as an independent consultant and to assess what roles, if any, the legacy departments could best play in the refocussed business.

Results

As a result, it was rapidly identified that the residing skills could be adapted and applied with considerable advantage to process and product development. This would enable the company to maintain its position at the forefront of its field. The outcome was welcomed by all parties and resulted in a win-win for all concerned.

Endorsements

".the exercise was extremely delicate and required very considerable diplomacy. Stuart tackled the job with enthusiasm and determination, coupled with great sensitivity and rapidly won the confidence of all concerned. I would not hesitate to call on him for assistance and can heartily recommend him for senior level assignments".

John Hall, managing director, Smith and Nephew Medical Fabrics