Our Method

The CEO Transformation Compass™ – the PONS Model

The PONS model is applied across all of our engagements – especially in transformations. Every offering follows these four phases. The model is the common thread running through every mandate.

P
Create transparency

Perceive

Analyze critical processes and make margin erosion and accountability visible.

Benefit
You see "what's really going on."
O
Define priorities

Order

Structure processes, strategy, and leadership; clearly define the levers for profitability.

Benefit
A clear target vision & prioritized levers.
N
Guide implementation

Navigate

Introduce new structures and have leaders implement measures – without disrupting day-to-day operations.

Benefit
Smooth implementation in everyday operations.
S
Secure results

Stabilize

Lock in margin, efficiency, and controllability for the long term; make the organization future-ready.

Benefit
Sustainable profitability & scalability.
Interplay

How the Pieces Fit Together

PONS and the maturity models together form the core of the CEO Transformation Compass™:

Component
Role in the System
Function
PONS Methodology
The Process (How)
Defines the step-by-step path (Perceive → Order → Navigate → Stabilize).
Maturity Models
The Current-State Assessment (Where)
Provide the objective measurement tool for current and target maturity.
🎯

Your Maturity Level in Practice

Before we start "Perceiving" together, you need an objective assessment of where you stand: in the Quick Check, you'll determine your individual maturity profile across six dimensions in around 5 minutes – the starting point of the Perceive phase.

Start the Quick Check ↗
How We Work

A Harmonious Triad

Methods and tools only deliver results when paired with the right structures and the ability to apply them correctly – in constant interplay.

1

Capable People

Knowledge of how to correctly interpret available information – and the ability to reach and act on sound, well-informed decisions.

2

Steering & Decision-Making Tools

Strategic and operational controlling tools generate the information needed for both long- and short-term decisions.

3

Structures & Processes

Structures and processes tailored to the company organize leadership, steering, and the efficient use of the tools.

1

Capable People

Knowledge of how to correctly interpret available information – and the ability to reach and act on sound, well-informed decisions.

2

Steering & Decision-Making Tools

Strategic and operational controlling tools generate the information needed for both long- and short-term decisions.

3

Structures & Processes

Structures and processes tailored to the company organize leadership, steering, and the efficient use of the tools.

↻ and back around to "Capable People"
Service Portfolio

From Strategy to Everyday Practice

Six transformation building blocks that can be booked individually – but which usually mark the start of a broader, holistic engagement.

🎯

Strategy Development & Implementation

We advise on and facilitate strategy development and support you through the change process all the way to implementing the vision you've defined – methodically, with proven tools and coaching.

⚙️

Process Optimization & Lean Management

We instill the mindset behind an efficient value chain. Using our maturity model, we develop your individual path to embedding lean thinking for the long term.

🔄

Organizational Development & Change

We strengthen adaptability and competitiveness in a changing market environment – with clear goals, open communication, and actively engaged employees.

📋

Project & Program Management

We establish project and program management tailored to your company. Clear standards and training improve collaboration and help you consistently hit your goals.

📊

Controlling

We bring your controlling system up to date and support you in selecting and implementing the right BI system – so you can steer with precision at all times.

💡

Innovation Management

We establish efficient innovation processes for new products and services – from ideation through project execution to a successful market launch.

Signature Offerings

Concrete, Bookable Formats

The Strategy Workshop is usually the easy, low-commitment starting point – a "low-key" beginning from which further engagement develops organically.

Typical entry point

Strategy Workshop

2-day workshop · 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Goal: You know how you want to develop your company – and the "how" is defined.

What's Included

  • Trend, market, customer, and competitive analysis
  • Internal company analysis
  • Strategic options & strategy definition
  • Economic review of the strategy
  • Project planning for strategy implementation
Value: Instead of a vision on paper, you get a roadmap, prioritized levers, an action matrix, and a dedicated point of contact for implementation.
Building block

Project Management Workshop

2-day workshop · 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Goal: A shared understanding of projects across the entire company.

What's Included

  • PM fundamentals, teams & leadership styles
  • Launching projects successfully
  • Planning projects effectively
  • Steering projects correctly
  • Closing projects sustainably
Value: Coffee-chat meetings with no follow-through become project sessions with clear roles, tools, and traceable results.
Ongoing support

PMO Support

12 months

Goal: Ensure your projects are handled cleanly and strategically.

What's Included

  • A clearly defined project charter
  • 2–3 project sessions per month, including minutes & action lists
  • Monthly steering committee meeting with management
Value: We stay until your organization masters independent project management – including acting as a sparring partner for management.
Building block

Coaching Support

6 months

Goal: From newcomer to professional in day-to-day project and leadership work.

What's Included

  • Weekly check-in meeting
  • Knowledge transfer & advice on urgent business situations
Value: Behavior, presence, and assertiveness for the new role – guided, not left alone.
Who We Work With

Four Target Groups, One Shared Core Pain Point

Upper mid-market companies in the DACH region: 150–1,500 employees, €20M–700M in revenue, with a focus on mechanical engineering, automotive, medical technology, aerospace/defense, and logistics. All four segments share the same core issue: growth or change that internal structure can no longer keep up with.

🏢

Executive at an Established Company

Division heads, plant managers, heads of strategy, controllers

Caught between management directives and daily operations – without the capacity to drive change themselves.

🔧

Mid-Market & Skilled Trades

Owner-managed businesses with an industrial core

Order books are healthy – but margins aren't. The lever is in structure, not sales.

🚀

Start-Up Leadership

Rapid growth, young organization

Growth is outpacing structure – project discipline and controllability are missing before it gets expensive.

💼

Investors

PE and portfolio managers

Need a reliable transformation partner for portfolio companies – profitability as a value driver.

Does this fit your situation?

In a free initial consultation, we'll work out together which building block is the right starting point for you.