Portfolio Digital Transformation
$200M EBIT impact across 26 companies. 600+ digital initiatives executed.
The situation
A major industrial conglomerate with more than twenty portfolio companies across diverse sectors had engaged a leading global consultancy to drive a portfolio-wide digital transformation. The programme was well structured and professionally run. The stakes were high, with full shareholder visibility. A Chief Digital Officer was appointed to own it end to end.
What changed
Every initiative was mapped against strategic imperatives with a credible EBITDA impact. No strategic rationale, no investment. Senior management ownership was established at the top of each workstream. Three cross-industry collaboration platforms were created to capture synergies. A dedicated AI company was created to serve the entire portfolio, bringing capability in-house.
The result
$200M of EBIT impact across the 26 companies. More than 600 digital initiatives executed across the portfolio. A standing AI capability serving the group instead of a series of point engagements.
The principles in this engagement
- Clarity — every initiative tied to a strategic imperative with an explicit, credible EBITDA case.
- Focus — ruthless de-scoping of work that did not pass the strategic-rationale test, freeing capacity for what would move the number.
- Momentum — a dedicated AI company and three cross-industry platforms turned a programme into a durable capability.