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HOME – Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO)
Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO)
The Role of a Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO)
An effective Chief Restructuring Officer (CRO) serves as a reset button for an organization. They inspire and embed the change that needs to happen for an organization to succeed. As role models, they are the leaders that management and employees follow.
A CRO’s role is to balance short term gains with long term value. They are not held back by the failures of the past and can be independent of the business’s history. Performing the same actions repeatedly and expecting a different outcome is a sure pathway to failure.
The Chief Restructuring Officer’s mandate is ensuring that profit and cash targets are delivered. They should be fully integrated into the executive team, reporting to the CEO and Board. Their compensation must be linked to performance, with a bonus for delivering over and above the targets.
The CRO sets the direction and the plan to be executed by the business. They set the tone, create enthusiasm, and challenge the norm.
CROs make decisions based on facts and independent analysis. The most successful transformations we have seen are the result of CROs leveraging the efforts of the team. They recognize and reward outperformance.
When to Engage a Chief Restructuring Officer
Identifying the Need for a CRO
When a business faces financial distress or operational challenges, a Chief Restructuring Officer can be the key to unlocking its potential. The CRO brings a fresh perspective, unburdened by the company’s past, and can drive significant change. A business might use a CRO if the board and management team are overwhelmed, cash flow is becoming tighter, or if fresh ideas, support, and energy are needed to identify and implement solutions.
Overcoming Financial Challenges with a CRO
If your business is struggling with debt, cash flow issues, or declining profits, a CRO can provide the expertise to navigate these financial challenges. They can help restructure debt, improve cash management, and identify new revenue streams. A CRO takes responsibility for developing and implementing restructuring plans, leading negotiations with lenders and creditors, and playing a key role in rebuilding or strengthening relationships with stakeholders.
Driving Operational Restructuring with a CRO
A CRO can also be instrumental in operational restructuring. They can identify inefficiencies, streamline processes, and implement new strategies to enhance productivity and profitability. They work closely with management to redefine and work toward a core sustainable and profitable business, minimizing the risk of business collapse and improving forecasting and cash management.
Key Insight
Speak to the Olvera Expert
PRINCIPAL
Damien Hodgkinson
Damien develops strategic solutions for groups dealing in crisis management and/or distress investment. He has over 30 years of experience working with distressed companies in the financial assessment, recoverability, and sustainability of risk assets.
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