Context
A global IT/ITeS player, operating akin to a private equity entity, had acquired a diverse portfolio of companies over the previous decade — spanning technology products, digital services, hardware, design, and professional services. Leadership wanted a systematic EBITDA improvement programme across the entire portfolio.
The challenge
Each portfolio company had a different business model, cost structure, market position, and operational maturity. A one-size-fits-all approach would not work. The engagement required bespoke diagnostics and tailored strategies for each entity, delivered in parallel and reported against consistently.
What we did
We deployed a specialist team strategically assigned across 10+ portfolio companies based on their expertise. For each company, we conducted comprehensive financial diagnostics, identified cost inefficiencies and performance drivers, and designed tailored EBITDA uplift strategies — including resource reallocation, workforce relocation to nearshore/offshore locations, and implementation of shared service centres.
We established detailed tracking systems to continuously monitor the financial impact of each initiative, reporting regularly to the parent company’s leadership while maintaining alignment with each portfolio company’s management team.
Results
- Achieved an overall 15% EBITDA increase across the portfolio
- Optimised workforce efficiency through an 18% reduction in total resources, strategically balanced by a 6% increase in sales-focused roles to protect revenue growth
- Reduced administrative and back-office expenditures by over 8% across the portfolio
Related service areas: Profitability