Contract Turnaround & Value Restoration
In 2014, a leading services provider secured a major contract with a UK Government Department following a competitive tender process. However, it became clear the contract had been significantly underbid, resulting in unsustainable financial losses, regulatory fines, and reputational damage. Within six months, the company was losing approximately £1.5 million per month and facing escalating complaints from the client.
Client: Blue-chip UK Public Services Company
Contract Value: £500 million+
Sector: Public Sector Outsourcing
Year: 2014
Problem: Severe Financial Underperformance Post-Contract Award
Approach
Brought in to lead a rapid intervention, JW focused on three pillars
Commercial Clarity
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Conducted detailed commercial review to isolate elements of the operation driving losses.
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Identified non-essential activities that exceeded contractual requirements but added no commercial value.
Contractual Reset
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Performed forensic analysis of contract to define the minimum viable delivery standards.
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Re-scoped service delivery to align with contractual obligations, eliminating unprofitable over delivery.
Stakeholder & Team Engagement
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Engaged directly with Government client to realign expectations and establish a transparent improvement plan.
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Re-mobilised and retained internal leadership by articulating credible path to operational and financial recovery.
Results
Financial Impact
Reduced monthly losses by over 60% within six months.
Client Relationship
Preserved trust and avoided contract termination or further fines by managing expectations and restoring delivery confidence.​
Operational Efficiency
Streamlined service delivery to focus solely on what was contractually required—eliminating waste and protecting margins.
Organisational Stability
Re-engaged and retained key personnel by providing a clear roadmap to recovery and future success.
Value Creation Summary
Through decisive commercial analysis, contractual discipline, and strategic stakeholder management, this intervention transformed a failing £500m+ contract into a stabilised operation. Losses were significantly reduced, reputational damage contained, and long-term client relationships preserved—laying the foundation for sustainable value recovery.