The challenge

Our client, a prominent consumer-focused business was undertaking a critical review of its internal cost structures and operating model. As part of this process, they sought to benchmark their organisation against key competitors to better understand how similar businesses structured specific functions and managed associated headcounts. The goal was to gain external market insight that could shape more informed, efficient internal decisions around organisational design and resource allocation.

Outcomes

Our findings gave senior decision-makers a critical external lens on their internal operations

The results were delivered in a comprehensive report presented to Board-level leadership. We were also invited to participate in follow-up discussions to explore how these insights could guide both short- and long-term talent and business strategy.

While acknowledging the limitations of external data accuracy, the overall intelligence gave the client a strong directional understanding of how their peers operated, informing decisions around cost optimisation, functional resourcing, and potential areas for structural realignment. This audit served as a valuable input into broader internal strategy conversations, helping the client balance internal ambitions with external realities.