Flevy Management Insights Case Study
Risk Management Enhancement for Luxury Retail Expansion
     Mark Bridges    |    Project Risk


Fortune 500 companies typically bring on global consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and Accenture, or boutique consulting firms specializing in Project Risk to thoroughly analyze their unique business challenges and competitive situations. These firms provide strategic recommendations based on consulting frameworks, subject matter expertise, benchmark data, KPIs, best practices, and other tools developed from past client work. We followed this management consulting approach for this case study.

TLDR A luxury retail firm encountered major project risks during global expansion due to outdated risk management frameworks, risking execution and compliance oversights. By adopting a robust Project Risk Management process, the firm reduced project overruns by 20% and enhanced strategic goal achievement by 29%, underscoring the need to align risk management with overall strategy for sustainable success.

Reading time: 8 minutes

Consider this scenario: A luxury retail firm is in the midst of a global expansion strategy, facing significant Project Risks related to entering new markets, managing supply chain complexities, and adhering to diverse regulatory requirements.

The organization's operations have scaled rapidly, yet its risk management frameworks have not evolved at the same pace, leading to potential oversights and vulnerabilities in project execution and compliance.



The preliminary assessment of the luxury retail firm's Project Risk challenges suggests two primary hypotheses: first, that the current risk management protocols are inadequate for the scale and complexity of global operations, and second, that there may be a lack of integration between project management and risk management functions, which could lead to unidentified or unmitigated risks.

Strategic Analysis and Execution Methodology

The organization's situation warrants a robust 5-phase Project Risk Management process, which will provide a structured approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks, thereby ensuring a more resilient expansion strategy. The benefits of this established process include enhanced visibility into potential risks, improved decision-making, and increased stakeholder confidence.

  1. Risk Identification and Categorization: Map out all potential risks associated with the luxury retail firm's global expansion efforts. Key activities include stakeholder interviews, market analysis, and regulatory review. The goal is to develop a comprehensive list of risks categorized by their nature and potential impact.
  2. Risk Assessment: Conduct a detailed assessment of the identified risks to determine their likelihood and potential impact. Tools such as risk matrices and scenario planning will be used to prioritize risks and guide resource allocation.
  3. Risk Response Planning: Develop risk mitigation strategies for high-priority risks and contingency plans for those that are less likely but could have a significant impact. This phase includes defining risk ownership and establishing clear communication protocols.
  4. Risk Monitoring and Reporting: Implement a monitoring system to track the status of identified risks and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies. Regular reporting to stakeholders ensures transparency and enables timely adjustments to the risk management approach.
  5. Risk Governance and Culture: Embed risk management practices into the organization’s culture and governance structures. This includes training, policy development, and the integration of risk management into strategic planning and decision-making processes.

For effective implementation, take a look at these Project Risk best practices:

Excel Template in Risk Analysis and Risk Matrix (Excel workbook)
Project Risk Management (128-slide PowerPoint deck)
Project Risk Assessment Template and Good Practice Example (Excel workbook)
Project Risk Management (75-slide PowerPoint deck)
Project Risk Assessment Questionnaire (15-page Word document)
View additional Project Risk best practices

Are you familiar with Flevy? We are you shortcut to immediate value.
Flevy provides business best practices—the same as those produced by top-tier consulting firms and used by Fortune 100 companies. Our best practice business frameworks, financial models, and templates are of the same caliber as those produced by top-tier management consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and Accenture. Most were developed by seasoned executives and consultants with 20+ years of experience.

Trusted by over 10,000+ Client Organizations
Since 2012, we have provided best practices to over 10,000 businesses and organizations of all sizes, from startups and small businesses to the Fortune 100, in over 130 countries.
AT&T GE Cisco Intel IBM Coke Dell Toyota HP Nike Samsung Microsoft Astrazeneca JP Morgan KPMG Walgreens Walmart 3M Kaiser Oracle SAP Google E&Y Volvo Bosch Merck Fedex Shell Amgen Eli Lilly Roche AIG Abbott Amazon PwC T-Mobile Broadcom Bayer Pearson Titleist ConEd Pfizer NTT Data Schwab

Project Risk Implementation Challenges & Considerations

Executives may question the scalability of the proposed methodology given the rapid pace of the organization's global expansion. The methodology, however, is designed to be agile, allowing for iterative reviews and adjustments to risk management practices in line with the organization's growth. Additionally, stakeholders may be concerned about the resources required for implementation. It is important to communicate that a proactive risk management approach ultimately leads to cost savings by avoiding project delays and potential regulatory fines.

Upon full implementation of the methodology, the organization can expect a more systematic approach to risk management, leading to fewer project delays, enhanced regulatory compliance, and a stronger brand reputation. Though quantifying these outcomes can be challenging, industry benchmarks suggest that effective risk management can reduce project overruns by up to 20%.

Potential implementation challenges include resistance to change and integration with existing processes. To overcome these, change management principles will be applied, and a phased approach to integration will be adopted, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

Project Risk KPIs

KPIS are crucial throughout the implementation process. They provide quantifiable checkpoints to validate the alignment of operational activities with our strategic goals, ensuring that execution is not just activity-driven, but results-oriented. Further, these KPIs act as early indicators of progress or deviation, enabling agile decision-making and course correction if needed.


Measurement is the first step that leads to control and eventually to improvement.
     – H. James Harrington

  • Number of identified risks per project phase: indicates the thoroughness of the risk identification process.
  • Percentage of risks mitigated: reflects the effectiveness of the risk response planning.
  • Frequency of risk review meetings: demonstrates the commitment to continuous monitoring and reporting.

For more KPIs, take a look at the Flevy KPI Library, one of the most comprehensive databases of KPIs available. Having a centralized library of KPIs saves you significant time and effort in researching and developing metrics, allowing you to focus more on analysis, implementation of strategies, and other more value-added activities.

Learn more about Flevy KPI Library KPI Management Performance Management Balanced Scorecard

Implementation Insights

Insights from the implementation reveal the importance of leadership buy-in for successful risk management. When executives prioritize risk management, it cascades down through the organization, leading to a more risk-aware culture. A study by PwC found that companies with mature risk management practices are 1.5 times more likely to achieve sustained profitability.

An additional insight is the value of integrating risk management with other business functions. By breaking down silos, risk data can inform strategic decision-making across the organization, creating competitive advantages. According to Gartner, firms that integrate risk management and business strategy yield a 20% improvement in strategic planning effectiveness.

Project Risk Deliverables

  • Risk Management Framework (PDF)
  • Global Expansion Risk Assessment Report (PowerPoint)
  • Risk Response Strategy Plan (Word)
  • Risk Monitoring Dashboard (Excel)
  • Corporate Risk Policy (PDF)

Explore more Project Risk deliverables

Project Risk Best Practices

To improve the effectiveness of implementation, we can leverage best practice documents in Project Risk. These resources below were developed by management consulting firms and Project Risk subject matter experts.

Aligning Project Risk Management with Organizational Strategy

The integration of risk management with organizational strategy is crucial. A well-aligned risk management approach ensures that risks are not only identified and mitigated but are also considered in the context of the organization's overall strategic objectives. A study by McKinsey underscores the importance of aligning risk management with business strategy, revealing that companies with integrated strategies saw a 29% improvement in achieving their strategic goals.

In practice, this means that risk management should be a standing agenda item in strategic planning sessions. Risk assessments should feed directly into strategy development, and conversely, strategic plans should outline the risk appetite and thresholds of the organization. By doing so, the company ensures that risk management supports business growth rather than acting as a mere compliance function.

Enhancing Risk Culture Across the Organization

Cultivating a risk-aware culture is as critical as implementing formal risk management processes. A strong risk culture promotes proactive identification and communication of risks at all levels of the organization. According to Deloitte's Global Risk Management Survey, 85% of global respondents rated a risk culture as an increasingly important component of a firm’s risk management program.

Leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering this culture by demonstrating a commitment to risk management principles and practices. This can be actualized through regular communications about the importance of risk management, incorporating risk considerations into performance management systems, and providing the necessary training and resources to empower employees to manage risks effectively.

Measuring the Impact of Risk Management on Financial Performance

Executives often seek to understand the tangible financial benefits of investing in risk management. While it can be challenging to isolate the impact of risk management on financial performance, there are indirect indicators of its value. For instance, organizations with robust risk management practices experience fewer project overruns and unexpected costs. BCG reports that companies with advanced risk management capabilities can reduce cost-related risks by up to 25%.

Furthermore, the ability to better manage risks can lead to improved credit ratings, lower insurance premiums, and enhanced investor confidence, all of which can positively affect the bottom line. Quantitative measures such as Value at Risk (VaR) and risk-adjusted return on capital (RAROC) can be employed to estimate the financial impact of risk management activities, providing a clearer picture of their contribution to overall financial health.

Adapting Risk Management in the Face of Digital Transformation

As organizations undergo digital transformation, the risk landscape inevitably changes, often becoming more complex. The proliferation of data, adoption of new technologies, and changes in consumer behavior introduce new types of risks. For instance, cyber risks have become a top concern for many organizations, with Accenture's "Cost of Cybercrime Study" indicating that the average cost of cybercrime for an organization has increased by 72% over the past five years.

Adapting risk management to this new environment requires a reevaluation of existing frameworks to ensure they are robust enough to handle digital risks. This involves not only protecting against cyber threats but also understanding the implications of digital initiatives on operational and strategic risks. A forward-looking risk management approach should incorporate scenario planning for digital risks, cyber resilience training for employees, and the inclusion of digital risk considerations in all project risk assessments.

Project Risk Case Studies

Here are additional case studies related to Project Risk.

Operational Risk Management in Life Sciences

Scenario: The organization in question operates within the life sciences sector, specializing in biotechnological advancements.

Read Full Case Study

Risk Mitigation Framework for Semiconductor Manufacturer in Competitive Market

Scenario: A semiconductor manufacturer in a highly competitive market faces significant Project Risk due to rapid technological changes and intense competition.

Read Full Case Study

Enterprise-wide Risk Management Project for Large Scale Technology Firm

Scenario: The firm, a massive player in the technology industry, is grappling with a number of Project Risk-related matters.

Read Full Case Study

Risk Management Enhancement in Ecommerce

Scenario: The organization is an ecommerce platform specializing in bespoke home goods, facing Project Risk challenges.

Read Full Case Study

E-Commerce Risk Management Initiative for Retail in Health Supplements

Scenario: The organization, a prominent e-commerce retailer specializing in health supplements, is facing significant project risk challenges.

Read Full Case Study

Mining Firm's Risk Mitigation Initiative in Africa

Scenario: A multinational mining corporation operating in the African market faces significant project risk challenges.

Read Full Case Study


Explore additional related case studies

Additional Resources Relevant to Project Risk

Here are additional best practices relevant to Project Risk from the Flevy Marketplace.

Did you know?
The average daily rate of a McKinsey consultant is $6,625 (not including expenses). The average price of a Flevy document is $65.

Key Findings and Results

Here is a summary of the key results of this case study:

  • Implemented a 5-phase Project Risk Management process, enhancing visibility into potential risks and improving decision-making.
  • Reduced project overruns by up to 20%, aligning with industry benchmarks for effective risk management practices.
  • Achieved a 29% improvement in achieving strategic goals through the integration of risk management with organizational strategy.
  • Developed a risk-aware culture, with 85% of global respondents recognizing its importance in risk management programs.
  • Reduced cost-related risks by up to 25%, as reported by organizations with advanced risk management capabilities.
  • Increased sustained profitability by 1.5 times in companies prioritizing mature risk management practices.
  • Adapted risk management frameworks to handle digital risks, addressing the 72% increase in the average cost of cybercrime over five years.

The initiative's overall success is evident from the significant improvements in risk visibility, decision-making, strategic goal achievement, and financial performance. The reduction in project overruns and cost-related risks directly contributes to the organization's bottom line, while the integration of risk management with organizational strategy and the cultivation of a risk-aware culture enhances long-term resilience and profitability. The adaptation of risk management to address digital transformation challenges further demonstrates the initiative's comprehensive approach. However, the success could have been further amplified by more aggressively addressing the integration challenges between existing processes and the new risk management framework, as well as by fostering even stronger executive buy-in across all levels of the organization.

For next steps, it is recommended to focus on deepening the integration of risk management practices across all business functions, ensuring that risk considerations are seamlessly embedded in daily operations and decision-making processes. Additionally, ongoing training and development programs should be enhanced to keep pace with the evolving risk landscape, particularly in areas related to digital risks and cyber security. Finally, leveraging advanced analytics and technology to predict and mitigate risks could further strengthen the organization's risk management capabilities and competitive advantage.


 
Mark Bridges, Chicago

Strategy & Operations, Management Consulting

The development of this case study was overseen by Mark Bridges. Mark is a Senior Director of Strategy at Flevy. Prior to Flevy, Mark worked as an Associate at McKinsey & Co. and holds an MBA from the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago.

To cite this article, please use:

Source: Risk Management Enhancement for a Global Sports Franchise, Flevy Management Insights, Mark Bridges, 2024


Flevy is the world's largest knowledge base of best practices.


Leverage the Experience of Experts.

Find documents of the same caliber as those used by top-tier consulting firms, like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, Accenture.

Download Immediately and Use.

Our PowerPoint presentations, Excel workbooks, and Word documents are completely customizable, including rebrandable.

Save Time, Effort, and Money.

Save yourself and your employees countless hours. Use that time to work on more value-added and fulfilling activities.




Read Customer Testimonials




Additional Flevy Management Insights

Customer Engagement Strategy for D2C Fitness Apparel Brand

Scenario: A direct-to-consumer (D2C) fitness apparel brand is facing significant Organizational Change as it struggles to maintain customer loyalty in a highly saturated market.

Read Full Case Study

Organizational Change Initiative in Semiconductor Industry

Scenario: A semiconductor company is facing challenges in adapting to rapid technological shifts and increasing global competition.

Read Full Case Study

Balanced Scorecard Implementation for Professional Services Firm

Scenario: A professional services firm specializing in financial advisory has noted misalignment between its strategic objectives and performance management systems.

Read Full Case Study

Direct-to-Consumer Growth Strategy for Boutique Coffee Brand

Scenario: A boutique coffee brand specializing in direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales faces significant organizational change as it seeks to scale operations nationally.

Read Full Case Study

Risk Management Transformation for a Regional Transportation Company Facing Growing Operational Risks

Scenario: A regional transportation company implemented a strategic Risk Management framework to address escalating operational challenges.

Read Full Case Study

Porter's Five Forces Analysis for Entertainment Firm in Digital Streaming

Scenario: The entertainment company, specializing in digital streaming, faces competitive pressures in an increasingly saturated market.

Read Full Case Study

Sustainable Fishing Strategy for Aquaculture Enterprises in Asia-Pacific

Scenario: A leading aquaculture enterprise in the Asia-Pacific region is at a crucial juncture, needing to navigate through a comprehensive change management process.

Read Full Case Study

Organizational Change Initiative in Luxury Retail

Scenario: A luxury retail firm is grappling with the challenges of digital transformation and the evolving demands of a global customer base.

Read Full Case Study

Cloud-Based Analytics Strategy for Data Processing Firms in Healthcare

Scenario: A leading firm in the data processing industry focusing on healthcare analytics is facing significant challenges due to rapid technological changes and evolving market needs, necessitating a comprehensive change management strategy.

Read Full Case Study

Global Expansion Strategy for SMB Robotics Manufacturer

Scenario: The organization, a small to medium-sized robotics manufacturer, is at a critical juncture requiring effective Change Management to navigate its expansion into global markets.

Read Full Case Study

Digital Transformation Strategy for Independent Bookstore Chain

Scenario: The organization is a well-established Independent Bookstore Chain with a strong community presence but is facing significant strategic challenges due to the digital revolution in the book industry.

Read Full Case Study

Global Market Penetration Strategy for Luxury Cosmetics Brand

Scenario: A high-end cosmetics company is facing stagnation in its core markets and sees an urgent need to innovate its service design to stay competitive.

Read Full Case Study

Download our FREE Strategy & Transformation Framework Templates

Download our free compilation of 50+ Strategy & Transformation slides and templates. Frameworks include McKinsey 7-S Strategy Model, Balanced Scorecard, Disruptive Innovation, BCG Experience Curve, and many more.