Global growth, local flavour.

Do you remember the view at 35,000 feet? Even though we were racing from one meeting to another at no less than 500 miles per hour, there was something very peaceful about the world outside the window. Having spent the last 12+ months in the grips of a global pandemic, it has been a long time since many of us have set foot on a plane, and while the view from 35,000 feet may look the same, the context has changed. Sustainability, well-being and agile working are now embedded in our everyday conversations and are driving strategy for businesses across the globe.

Background.

A leading finance company embarked upon taking their mobility strategy global. With European markets already wrapped in, the focus turned to the high growth international markets. With limited structure around their current engagement programmes, both the USA and India were strong on influence but lacking in current programme infrastructure.

Hearts and minds.

The current travel and expense policies needed significant localisation in order to meet the needs of the American and Indian markets, which had to be achieved by adding a good deal of local flavour, without losing global consistency.

With strong and independent travel technology, financial regulation and local cultures at play, understanding the detail was essential if we were to win over hearts and minds.

Co-creating.

Our brief was clear. Make this work so our people are kept safe, our talent sees the benefit and our expenses are contained.

Working alongside the procurement team, we benchmarked the current travel programme against peers of a similar profile and geographical coverage. We went hunting for the small moments within a policy that make the difference, that make it feel local and work global.

So we conducted deep dives and digital white board sessions with finance teams, HR, mobility and procurement.

The outcome.

A comprehensive review paper that set out a plan, highlighted risks and secured opportunity, ready for a fully supported roll out.

Looking to launch a global programme with local flavour?