Latest Case Studies

The past 12 months have been transformative for CMC Business Advisers, as we’ve worked alongside a diverse range of ambitious owners searching for business transformation. Below are key client case studies that highlight the impactful changes and outcomes we’ve been able to achieve, showcasing the role of our Business Adviser Jon Corns in driving success. 

Case Study 1: Organic Growth & Risk Mitigation 

Challenge: One client faced a high-risk situation, with over two-thirds of their revenue tied to a single customer, putting the business at serious risk. 

Solution: Jon worked with the client to develop an organic growth strategy focused on diversifying their client base. By identifying high-margin, lower-volume market segments and targeting industries with higher barriers to entry, the business reduced dependency on a single revenue stream. He also helped strengthen their sales function, refine their value proposition, and supported recruitment and training efforts. 

Outcome: The client not only de-risked their business but also expanded into new, higher-value markets, setting the stage for sustainable long-term growth. 

Case Study 2: Preparing for Sale – Maximising Business Value 

Challenge: A client wanted to sell their business but needed to optimise their operations to make it more attractive to potential buyers. 

Solution: Jon assisted by improving financial reporting, embedding succession planning, and restructuring key business processes. This included addressing historical financial inconsistencies, refining the company’s day-to-day operations, and streamlining workflows. 

Outcome: The client successfully prepared for sale, presenting a well-structured, attractive proposition to buyers, with strong financials and clear succession planning, ultimately maximising the business’s sale value. 

Case Study 3: Doubling Business Growth 

Challenge: A client sought to double their business within three years but faced structural and operational challenges that hindered growth. 

Solution: Jon collaborated with the business to redesign the organisational structure, recruit key talent, and enhance the leadership team. He addressed operational inefficiencies that impacted client retention and implemented a targeted business development strategy. 

Outcome: The company is on track to meet its ambitious growth goals, with improved operations, enhanced leadership, and a focused strategy driving significant expansion. 

Case Study 4: Integration & Leadership as a Fractional MD 

Challenge: An acquired business required a smooth integration, and the client needed leadership during the transition. 

Solution: Jon took on the role of fractional Managing Director, overseeing the integration project. He managed the financial aspects, including budgeting and cash flow, and handled the TUPE transfers and restructuring of reporting lines. His leadership ensured that synergies were realised, and the project progressed smoothly. 

Outcome: The integration was not only successful but exceeded expectations, with the company over-performing on net profit by 9%. A strong cultural shift towards accountability and empowerment contributed to long-term performance improvement. 

Case Study 5: Strategic Integration & Business Planning 

Challenge: A client needed to merge two service departments from separate legal entities into a unified business unit operating nationwide. 

Solution: Jon facilitated the merger, managing the integration of software systems and aligning operational processes. He identified a £45 million market opportunity (up from £3 million) and developed a business plan to capitalise on it. 

Outcome: The restructuring allowed the business to scale effectively and positioned new leaders to drive continuous improvements, unlocking significant growth potential. 

Case Study 6: Business Turnaround – Returning to Profit 

Challenge: A family-owned business with a 20-year history had started incurring trading losses and needed urgent financial guidance. 

Solution: Jon advised the Managing Director on restructuring the business, including redundancies, reducing costs, and improving financial metrics. He helped the client refine pricing strategies, optimise their supply chain, and increase the accuracy of financial reporting. 

Outcome: The business returned to profitability, stabilising after years of losses, with improved operational efficiency and a stronger financial foundation. 

Other Examples: System Overhaul & Change Management 

Challenge: Several clients needed to modernise outdated systems to support future growth and operational efficiency. 

Solution: Jon conducted thorough feasibility assessments and led the implementation of new business systems. He ensured the systems were tailored to the clients’ needs, capable of supporting their growth ambitions and improving daily operations. 

Outcome: The businesses experienced smoother operations and were better positioned for future scalability, with systems that provided real-time data and improved decision-making capabilities. 

Business Transformation for Long-Term Success 

Across every project, Jon’s approach has been to not only address immediate challenges but to create sustainable solutions. Whether through strategic planning, talent acquisition, or process improvement, Jon’s work has empowered clients to grow resilient, scalable businesses. These achievements over the past year demonstrate how a thoughtful, tailored advisory approach can lead to transformational success. 

If your business is ready to overcome challenges, explore new opportunities, or unlock its full potential, contact us today. Let’s work together to drive your business forward. Contact us via the form below or message Jon directly via LinkedIn.