Operating model consulting

When organisations question their operating model, uncertainty quickly follows. Is it still aligned to strategy? Is its scope right? Who should be involved? When the scale of change is underestimated, risk aversion, resistance, and short-term thinking can stall progress before it starts.

An Operating Model defines how value is delivered—through roles, skills, structures, processes, assets, technology and data. A Target Operating Model sets out the future state: how the organisation must be designed to succeed in evolving markets, environments and technologies.

First steps to operating model transformation

The design approach must be tailored to organisational context, scope, and the challenges and opportunities at hand. In practice, this varies by situation—such as leadership change, a new strategy or business model, or a pressing performance imperative.

Our approach begins by aligning the business strategy with a clear set of operating principles and defining future-state requirements over a 3–10 year horizon. Using our framework for assessment, we evaluate the current state against the organisation’s strategic ambition, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and capability gaps.

This diagnostic provides a fact-based foundation for decision-making and stakeholder engagement. It ensures that the operating model review is grounded in business priorities and focused on what matters most. By building clarity and alignment early, we reduce resistance to change and create momentum. This phase is not about launching transformation, it’s about building the insight and consensus needed to make informed, confident design choices.

Operating model implementation

We work with clients to evaluate multiple operating model scenarios using robust quantitative analysis and modelling. This allows leadership teams to assess trade-offs and select the model that best supports strategic goals, balancing agility, cost, risk, and value creation.

We co-develop a pragmatic roadmap and business case, grounded in realistic ROI and cost-of-change analysis. Strong programme governance keeps delivery on track, while built-in reviews enable timely course correction. Beyond execution, success requires leadership alignment, customer focus, and the courage to challenge legacy assumptions. We help clients implement with confidence and build operating models fit for the future.

Helping with operating model challenges

Our team of consultants dig deep to identify the root of complex problems and focus on delivering tangible results for clients.

We apply a combination of technical expertise, operational experience, business knowledge and common sense to help our clients solve operating model issues and deliver lasting results. Our positive, flexible and personal approach, with challenge where needed, ensures buy-in at all levels of our clients’ businesses and a positive outcome. Learn more about us here.