Fast-paced transformation programme in UK and India

Profile

Hydrodynamic White Metal Bearings Designer & Manufacturer
Employees: 190
Turnover: £20m
Locations: North East, UK and Bangalore, India

The Business Challenge

After many years of underinvestment, the business was divested from a large multinational and subsequently acquired by a family owned business. Although profitable, the business’s core markets were under competitive threat and their position was being eroded by new market entrants. The business required an £8m investment programme, including restructuring, relocation, and a strategic review of its markets.

 

Kelly Jones, Turnaround & Transformation Director Kelly’s Bio

How We Helped

Kingsgate’s Head of Private Sector, Kelly Jones, took the role of CEO in a business that designs, manufactures and services hydrodynamic white metal bearings for specialist marine and industrial applications.

  • Developed strategic plan for long-term market growth, reversing the erosion in core markets. Through involvement and open active coaching, the management team were engaged in owning the execution of the plan.

  • Worked collaboratively with employees and unions to execute the programme delivering 25% workforce reduction, factory relocation, and implementation of new manufacturing practices, in parallel to introducing a new ERP system.

  • Oversaw a £2m factory modernisation in Bangalore, India; transitioning machines, systems, and workforce skills to create a step change in manufacturing capability and performance.

Results

  • On time delivery of transformation programme across both UK and India that strengthened operational capabilities and modernised manufacturing processes.

  • Delivered the programme without negative impact on customer quality. Delivery performance of overdue orders decreased by 50% (£350k from £700k).

  • Retained existing business critical skills and strengthened team performance.

  • Established robust foundations for an aggressive 5-year growth plan, successfully delivering the first two-years of the plan.

Kelly did a great job in integrating the organisation into the Group, restructuring the business and reinvigorating the management teams. She spends the time to get to know her employees and builds trust and motivation in her teams. She is very bright, good at analytical complexity, and achieves clear objectives.
— Customer Non-Executive Director
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