Case Study: Interim CEO Leads Turnaround for Private Equity-Backed Facilities Services Business

3 Min. Read

Business Challenge

A private equity-backed facilities services business was struggling with underperformance in two critical regions, driven by outdated sales strategies, a misaligned organisational structure, and a disengaged workforce. In an industry facing rapid market evolution, these inefficiencies were eroding profitability and diminishing the asset’s attractiveness for future exit. A rapid and strategic turnaround was imperative to unlock hidden value and improve operational efficiency.

The Solution

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, ZRG Interim Solutions was engaged to identify and place an experienced Interim CEO to lead the turnaround effort. His mandate was to transform the underperforming business units into lean, agile, and financially sound operations. The solution centered around four key pillars:

1. Strategic Revamp – Conducted an in-depth review of the existing sales pricing model and market strategy to ensure a competitive and sustainable positioning.
2. Operational Restructuring – Redesigned organisational processes and remuneration structures to optimize costs, drive performance, and improve profitability.
3. Change Management – Fostered strong peer-to-peer collaboration and implemented clear communication frameworks to create an adaptive and engaged workforce.
4. Value Creation – Streamlined one business unit’s operations, enhanced the sales pipeline, and positioned it for a profitable sale, demonstrating its future growth potential.

The Action

The Interim CEO adopted a hands-on, strategic approach to address these challenges:

• Conducted a comprehensive analysis of business models to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Implemented a revised pricing strategy to improve revenue generation and competitiveness.
• Realigned organisational structures and updated incentive programs to enhance employee engagement and performance.
• Led change management initiatives, fostering transparency, trust, and collaboration across the organization.
• Worked closely with leadership and teams to drive accountability and ensure alignment with new strategic objectives.

The Results

The leadership and strategic interventions led to a remarkable transformation:

• Enhanced Competitiveness – The new pricing and sales strategies improved market positioning and revenue generation.
• Agile and Motivated Workforce – Restructuring efforts created a more engaged and high-performing team, capable of adapting to market demands.
• Profitable Business Unit Sale – The revitalised division attracted strong interest, culminating in a successful sale at a premium EBITDA multiple.
• Increased Asset Value – The turnaround significantly improved the company’s valuation, making it a more attractive proposition for future investment.

Conclusion

Through decisive leadership and a data-driven approach, the Interim CEO successfully transformed two struggling business units into efficient, profitable operations. The strategic restructuring not only delivered immediate financial gains but also positioned the company for sustainable long-term growth.

If your private equity-backed company needs experienced leadership to drive turnarounds, unlock value, and enhance profitability, partner with ZRG Interim Solutions today. Contact us to explore how our interim executive placements can help your business thrive