Led Change Management for PE Portfolio Firm

My Client
KKR Portfolio Firm
Case Duration
4 Months
Year
2024
Country
USA & Switzerland

Challenge

A KKR portfolio company in the consumer sector, headquartered in Europe and the USA, had undergone multiple restructurings and reorganizations in recent years. However, the lack of change management had resulted in confusion, inefficiencies, and misalignment across teams. As the company prepared for its most significant transformation yet—particularly within its marketing and commercial functions—there was an urgent need to establish robust change management capabilities and project governance.

Approach

I led change management and PMO, collaborating closely with the VP of Talent, Director of Learning & Development, and the CMO, along with their leadership team and direct reports, to ensure a structured, leadership-driven transition. Additionally, I developed and launched a company-wide toolkit to guide future people and process changes.

Key initiatives included:

  • Strategic Alignment: Designed and co-facilitated a workshop with the CMO and leadership team to define key strategic priorities and a cohesive communication approach.
  • Roadmap & Execution Plan: Developed an eight-month transformation roadmap with clear milestones and a detailed 90-day action plan to drive structured implementation.
  • Plan Execution: Led the execution of the 90-day action plan as PMO, ensuring progress through daily stand-ups, weekly check-ins, structured workflows, and continued stakeholder alignment.
  • People & Process Change:
    • Supported the design and facilitation of training sessions to help employees adapt to personal and process-related changes.
    • Led process improvement workshops, co-creating new workflows, RACI frameworks, and governance models to enhance clarity and accountability.
  • Measurement & Adoption: Identified mechanisms to track change adoption for sustained progress and long-term impact.

Results

The structured change process enabled leadership to drive transformation with clarity, alignment, and measurable impact. Targeted training sessions empowered employees with practical tools to navigate personal and process changes, boosting confidence, collaboration, and engagement across teams. The newly introduced change management capabilities were highly welcomed by employees, who appreciated the structured support and actionable guidance during the transition.

These initiatives not only delivered immediate results but also established a foundation for long-term success. With clear governance structures, streamlined workflows, and a culture of adaptability, the organization is now better equipped to embrace future transformations with confidence and agility.

"Vera is a highly motivated and thoughtful person who always acts in the best interest to deliver excellent results for the client and our team."

Author Img

Mark Reimer

Director, Monitor Deloitte

"High performing and agile execution of a large complex project. Very satisfied. Would be happy to work together again at any time."

Author Img

Michael Wolz

Commercial Director, GSK

"As a project manager she built an outstanding trust-based relationship with the team, proactively asking for and offering feedback and integrating this into her work. The analysis was very well executed."

Author Img

Partner

Consulting Firm

"High level of competence in project management, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of work, leading the team through challenging situations with resilience."

Author Img

Benedict Löwnau

Senior Consultant, Jester Consulting

"Outgoing, open, and reliable. Great commitment and positive energy. Strong analytical skills."

Author Img

Daniel Morf

Digital Lead, MIGROS Industries

"Fantastic partner. Very organized.
Helped keep team focused and moving forward."

Author Img

Director

KKR Portfolio Firm

"She has exceptional skills in targeting high-net-worth individuals. Vera's ability to blend high-end aesthetics with effective digital strategies positioned us as a key player in the luxury market."

Author Img

Nikita Fahrenholz

Fahrengold, Co-Founder