• Develop national cold chain logistics infrastructure and refrigerated transport networks to improve food distribution efficiency.
• Required an experienced interim project manager to coordinate project work streams and manage key stakeholders effectively.
• Conduct a thorough examination of project structure, assess stakeholders, identify improvements, and ensure effective project execution.
• Successfully acquired a temperature-controlled warehouse, planning hub and spoke network, ensuring efficient refrigerated transport.

The development of a national cold chain logistics infrastructure and refrigerated transport networks is crucial for efficient food distribution. Our client, a leading logistics company, sought to address this need but faced significant challenges due to their lean structure and limited availability of technical and managerial staff. This case study explores how our consultancy provided an experienced interim project manager (PM) to coordinate project work streams, manage key stakeholders, and successfully implement the project.

The client operates within the logistics sector, with a specific focus on cold chain logistics. Their goal was to enhance their infrastructure to support the distribution of temperature-sensitive goods across the country. This required a robust cold chain system that included temperature-controlled warehouses and a reliable refrigerated transport network. The client needed an expert interim project manager to oversee the project, given the limited availability of their internal resources.

The client, with its reputation for excellence in logistics, sought to expand its capabilities in cold chain logistics. The primary objective was to develop a comprehensive cold chain logistics infrastructure that could meet the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive goods distribution. The project aimed to ensure food producers and retailers could rely on an efficient and reliable logistics network to maintain the quality and safety of their products.

The main challenge the client faced was the lack of internal resources to manage and execute such a large-scale project. Their lean structure meant that technical and managerial staff were only available for project tasks to a limited extent. This limitation posed a significant risk to the project’s success, as effective coordination and stakeholder management were critical components. Without a dedicated and experienced project manager, the client risked delays, miscommunication, and potential failures in meeting the project’s objectives.

Furthermore, the client needed to ensure that the project would be seamlessly handed over to internal resources upon completion. This required a strategic approach to identify and develop key personnel who could take on business-as-usual tasks post-project closure. The interim project manager needed to balance the execution of current project tasks while preparing internal staff for future responsibilities.

Our consultancy firm developed a detailed scope of works in collaboration with the client, clearly outlining project tasks and specifying what was out of scope. The interim project manager conducted a thorough examination of the client’s existing project structure through stakeholder interviews and process mapping. This approach provided valuable in sights into different work streams, assessed stakeholder dependencies, and identified potential areas for improvement. By leveraging industry expertise in logistics and cold chain operations, the interim project manager ensured effective communication and understanding across the organisation and with external providers.

The initial phase involved embedding the interim project manager within the client’s organisation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project requirements. This hands-on approach allowed the PM to identify critical areas needing improvement and ensure all stakeholders were aligned with the project goals. The PM’s industry expertise facilitated effective communication, ensuring technical aspects were understood and addressed promptly.

With the support of a back-office team of logistics design engineers and business intelligence specialists, the interim PM conducted detailed technical analyses to inform project decisions. This collaborative effort ensured that all project aspects were thoroughly considered and addressed, from warehouse design to transport network planning. After the initial period, the interim PM was given full responsibility for project execution, ensuring a focused and dedicated approach to meeting project milestones.

One of the significant achievements was the acquisition of a temperature-controlled warehouse, which formed the cornerstone of the cold chain logistics network. This facility enabled the client to store and distribute temperature-sensitive goods efficiently. Additionally, plans were put in place for several build-to-suit warehouses designed in a hub and spoke network across the country. This strategic network design ensured optimal connectivity between food producers and retailers, supported by a reliable refrigerated transport network.

The project’s implementation phase saw the successful transfer of tasks and responsibilities to internal resources. The interim project manager identified key personnel early in the assignment and guided them through a development journey. This approach ensured that by the project’s closure, the client had a competent team ready to handle business-as-usual tasks independently. The seamless handover of responsibilities was a testament to the project’s success and the interim PM’s effective management.

The successful development of a national cold chain logistics infrastructure for our client highlights the importance of experienced project management and strategic planning. By embedding an interim project manager within the client’s organisation, we ensured effective coordination, stakeholder management, and seamless execution of project tasks. The project not only achieved its milestones but also prepared the client for future success with a competent internal team ready to manage ongoing operations. This case study underscores the value of expert consultancy in overcoming resource limitations and achieving complex project goals.

Here are five key takeaways that are important for organisations to consider:

1. Effective Project Management: Embedding an experienced interim project manager can significantly enhance project execution and stakeholder coordination, particularly when internal resources are limited.

2. Thorough Initial Assessment: Conducting a comprehensive examination of existing structures and processes, including stakeholder interviews and process mapping, is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and aligning project goals.

3. Strategic Resource Development: Early identification and development of key personnel for post-project responsibilities ensure a seamless transition and long-term sustainability of project outcomes.

4. Collaborative Approach: Leveraging industry expertise and support from specialised teams, such as logistics design engineers and business intelligence specialists, ensures all technical and strategic aspects of the project are addressed effectively.

5. Comprehensive Planning and Execution: Implementing a detailed scope of work and strategic network design, including temperature-controlled warehouses and a refrigerated transport network, can successfully meet the demands of temperature-sensitive goods distribution