Group strategy review – clear north star, built to execute, lean governance

While the destination of net zero is clear, the path remains contested — especially for utilities operating across multiple geographies, markets, and regulatory regimes. Our client, a European utility with subsidiaries in five countries, approached us with a strategy that had grown overly complex: more than 50 parallel initiatives, fragmented governance, and limited strategic coherence. The energy transition was reshaping every part of the value chain, from generation to customer interface. To seize the opportunities and manage the risks, the client needed a sharply defined, future-proof strategy that cut through internal complexity and positioned the company for long-term success.

We began with an in-depth analysis of the client’s current position and market environment, integrating internal and external perspectives. From this, we co-defined a clear North Star — anchored not only in a qualitative vision but also in quantifiable ambitions to ensure measurability. We then translated the vision into concrete fields of action reflecting the company’s most important strategic priorities, including decentralized energy ecosystems, digitalization, and new collaboration models. The process combined top-down direction with bottom-up input, creating both transparency and organizational commitment. In parallel, we established an effective governance structure to drive disciplined execution across the group.

Within four months, we delivered a clearly defined, future-oriented strategy built on measurable ambitions. Quantitatively, we reduced strategic complexity by more than 60%, consolidating 50+ initiatives into roughly 20 prioritized fields of action, and established a governance structure to safeguard execution. Qualitatively, the review fostered strong alignment across internal and external stakeholders at all levels, creating shared ownership of the strategic direction. Close collaboration with the client’s marketing team ensured transparent communication of outcomes across the organization. The client now has a robust foundation to navigate the disruption of the energy transition and position itself for long-term success.

Our client is a leading European utility company operating across five countries, with subsidiaries active throughout the energy value chain. Navigating the complexities of the European energy transition, the company serves both business and residential customers and is committed to shaping a sustainable, decentralized, and digitally enabled energy future.