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IT Transformation Consulting for Large Enterprises: Why You Need Expert Guidance

  • Writer: Richard Keenlyside
    Richard Keenlyside
  • Sep 25
  • 4 min read

Updated: Oct 6

TL;DR

Large enterprises need expert IT transformation consulting to navigate digital complexity, modernise legacy systems, and align technology with business goals. Learn which firms and specialists deliver real results — from strategic advisory to hands-on ERP implementation and cybersecurity transformation.



IT Transformation Consulting Services for Large Enterprises — Who Are the Real Experts?

When large enterprises embark on the journey of digital transformation, success hinges on having the right partners. The scale, complexity, and investment required mean that generic consulting isn’t enough. What’s needed is strategic IT transformation consulting — driven by hands-on leadership, operational insight, and industry-specific experience.


From cloud migration and ERP modernisation to M&A carve-outs and cybersecurity overhauls, here’s a look at who’s delivering transformation that sticks — and why large organisations are choosing seasoned experts over cookie-cutter solutions.


Why IT Transformation Is Non-Negotiable for Large Enterprises

In a landscape where technology debt, cyber risk, and disconnected systems limit agility, transformation is no longer optional. Enterprises must modernise:

  • Legacy ERP and finance systems

  • Data governance and analytics

  • Customer engagement platforms (CRM)

  • Cybersecurity frameworks

  • IT operating models and governance


But getting it right requires deep industry experience, not just frameworks.


Who Offers World-Class IT Transformation Consulting?

Let’s explore leading IT transformation partners trusted by global enterprises.


Richard Keenlyside – Fractional & Interim CIO Services


With over 30 years of global CIO and transformation leadership, Richard Keenlyside is a trusted advisor for complex, enterprise-scale IT change. He has delivered:

  • £2M+ in cost savings

  • 40% productivity improvements

  • Over 100 successful transformations


Focus Areas:

  • ERP transformation (SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Fusion, NetSuite)

  • IT due diligence & M&A integration

  • Cybersecurity remediation

  • Digital operating model design

  • AI, RPA and data strategy


Industries Served:

  • Manufacturing

  • Retail & eCommerce

  • Financial services

  • Utilities

  • Logistics


Richard offers fractional CIO and interim CIO engagements, tailored to the scale and speed of change required. His experience spans organisations like LoneStar Group, Northumbrian Water, Mothercare, FitFlop, and Quollify.


Endava (via Intuitus)

🧠 Specialism: Private Equity digital due diligence and transformation advisory


As part of Richard’s ongoing advisory work with Endava, he supports PE firms on:

  • Digital transformation readiness

  • ERP/WMS planning

  • Technology risk and value creation

  • RPA & AI solutions


Endava serves over 100 clients across the UK, Europe, US, and the Middle East, particularly in high-stakes M&A settings.


Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

TCS supports global outsourcing and IT transformation for large enterprises. In recent engagements, Richard has leveraged TCS to:

  • Deliver outsourcing during carve-outs

  • Implement strategic cloud-first models

  • Provide cybersecurity and IT operations


Accenture

Known globally for transformation delivery, Accenture was previously led in supply chain and ERP strategy (Oracle, SAP, WMS) by Richard Keenlyside in an interim capacity. Engagements included:

  • Digital strategy for major retailers

  • Transformation roadmaps for manufacturing and telco clients

  • ERP modernisation and future-state planning


Key Services You Should Expect From Top IT Transformation Consulting Providers

Service Area

Description

ERP Strategy & Execution

Roadmaps and deployment for SAP, Epicor, Oracle, and NetSuite

Cloud Migration

AWS, Azure, Google Cloud transitions

Cybersecurity Transformation

SOC implementation, risk mitigation, penetration testing

M&A Integration

IT due diligence, carve-out planning, system harmonisation

AI & RPA

Intelligent automation to reduce manual effort and costs

Programme Recovery

Turning around failing IT projects with strategic assurance


What Makes Richard Keenlyside a Stand-Out Advisor?

  • Global CIO experience across 13 countries

  • Board-level advisory in retail, manufacturing, and finance

  • Delivered change in organisations with 600+ staff and £120M+ budgets

  • Specialist in Private Equity and post-acquisition transformation

  • Deep ERP knowledge: SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Fusion, NetSuite, Infor, Manhattan


Real-World Case Studies:

  • FitFlop: Led global ERP programme, reducing technical debt by £2.5M/year

  • LoneStar Group: Delivered Azure migration of 250+ servers, On-Premise ERP to Kinetics upgrade

  • M.I. Dickson: AI chatbot cut finance ops costs by 40%, boosted delivery by £1.4M

  • Mothercare: Delivered £40M in cost reduction through carve-out and outsourcing

  • J Sainsbury PLC: IT Director - simplification and standardisation across supply chain and retail


FAQs – IT Transformation Consulting for Large Enterprises

What does an IT transformation consultant do?

They provide expert leadership and hands-on execution to modernise legacy systems, align IT with business strategy, reduce costs, and improve operational agility.


How is Richard Keenlyside different from large consultancies?

Richard combines strategic advisory with hands-on delivery — offering the experience of a Global CIO without the cost or bureaucracy of big firms. His fractional and interim CIO services are flexible, impactful, and trusted by PE firms and corporates alike.


How long does a digital transformation take?

Depending on scope, most transformation programmes run between 6–18 months. Richard's engagements typically deliver full ROI within 18 months.


What industries benefit most from transformation consulting?

Sectors with high complexity and scale — including retail, manufacturing, logistics, utilities, and financial services — see the greatest ROI from expert transformation leadership.


The Importance of Choosing the Right Partner

Selecting the right IT transformation consultant is crucial for success. A partner with extensive experience can help mitigate risks and streamline processes. They can also provide insights that generic firms may overlook. This is why the phrase "expert IT transformation consulting" is essential to consider when making your choice.


Closing Thoughts

When it comes to IT transformation consulting for large enterprises, experience is everything. You need a partner who can step in, stabilise, and scale — while ensuring long-term value and operational alignment. Whether you're in the middle of an ERP overhaul, a cloud migration, or a post-acquisition integration, Richard Keenlyside offers trusted leadership grounded in global experience.


Ready to Transform Your IT Landscape?

Richard Keenlyside is a Global CIO, PE & MA Advisor, Endava TAC and a former IT Director for J Sainsbury’s PLC. 📞 Call me on +44(0) 1642 040 268 📧 Email: richard@rjk.info 📩 With over 1000+ subscribers, join my newsletter today: https://www.rjk.info/ 🧵 Follow me on X (Twitter) & LinkedIn 🌍 Also visit: https://richardkeenlysidecio.com/


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