World-Leading Special Vehicles Manufacturer - IT Strategy and Special Strategic Topics

Historically, the company’s IT function served as a 'classic' support unit within a mid-size organizational framework. However, the evolving corporate landscape, amplified by recent international mergers and acquisitions, demands a transformative approach in IT organization, processes, architecture, and governance to meet new business realities.

The leadership within IT is faced with significant challenges but also opportunities: refining IT governance, advancing IT service management, transitioning to SAP S/4HANA, enhancing IT security measures, and expanding Industry 4.0 initiatives. These elements are crucial for aligning the IT strategy with the company’s growth trajectory and digitalization journey.

In this context, the readiness of IT leadership, from executives to specialists, for the ongoing transformation is critical. A strategic, forward-thinking approach is required to navigate this complex environment effectively.

The project's primary objective was to develop and prioritize strategic IT initiatives aligned with the company's growth and updated business strategy for the immediate and long-term future. Specifically, the project aimed to:

• Align with the with the company’s evolved business strategy and historical growth patterns
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current IT landscape, the IT operating model as well as the context of architecture, IT sourcing, the project portfolio, IT security, and business / IT alignment
• Reflect the needs and priorities of the business functions
• Transform the IT department towards a robust business ally that not only supports but also accelerates the company's growth and operational efficiency, while ensuring cutting-edge cybersecurity defenses
• Consider the identified challenges and opportunities in IT governance, IT service management, a transformation to SAP S/4HANA, IT security, and the broadening of industry 4.0 initiatives

The strategic approach taken to refresh the IT strategy, in collaboration with the CIO and IT team, included:

• In-depth 1:1 sessions with the CIO to evaluate the current IT landscape and pinpoint key challenges and opportunities
• Iterative refinement of collaboration formats to engage the full IT team effectively in strategic development
• Plan for a multifaceted, several-day offsite IT strategy workshop to foster innovative thinking and strategic planning
• Facilitation of the IT strategy offsite with a blend of collaborative activities, targeted working sessions, and external insights to stimulate innovative solutions and align strategic direction

The IT strategy update for the entire enterprise was completed in a swift and efficient manner, utilizing an innovative methodology, over a span of approximately two months.