Case Studies
Real-world results for arts, cultural and charity organisations
We have a proven track record of delivering high-quality, insightful internal audit and consultancy reviews.
Here are two examples of how we’ve helped cultural and charity organisations strengthen their governance, modernise their practices, and build lasting resilience.
Case Study One
SERVICE: Consultancy / One-Off Review
PROJECT: Board Effectiveness Review
CLIENT: A major UK orchestra
Helping a major UK orchestra modernise its board and build stronger, more open relationships
A major UK orchestra commissioned an external review of its Board’s effectiveness, as required by the Charity Governance Code. The Board had long-standing working practices that were proving difficult to modernise due to internal resistance. They were also seeking new ways to engage with stakeholders, including employee representatives.
OUR APPROACH
A consultative review was undertaken, with time invested to meet all relevant stakeholders and understand the underlying challenges. The Board’s working practices were benchmarked against both industry norms and good governance guidance. Anonymised feedback was gathered via an online survey to support transparency.
Through a combination of one-to-one and group discussions, issues were explored sensitively and constructively.
THE IMPACT
Facilitated discussion and external context helped shift perspectives and encourage new ways of working.
The Board reported:
✔️ stronger relationships
✔️greater openness
✔️more strategic use of meeting time
Case Study Two
SERVICE: Outsourced Internal Audit
PROJECT: Transition and Change of Provider
CLIENT: A major UK cultural institution
Delivering deeper insight and greater value through a fully outsourced internal audit function
A major UK cultural institution sought greater value from its internal audit function. Having worked with a large professional services firm for many years, trustees felt reports focused too heavily on low-level findings and standard recommendations. We were recommended to the organisation, and after discovery meetings with the trustees and senior management, were invited to become the new internal audit provider.
OUR APPROACH
An initial audit needs assessment was undertaken through meetings with senior management and trustees, and by reviewing strategic objectives and risk reporting. For the first year, three focused audit areas were agreed, each addressing principal organisational risks.
This programme was delivered by experienced auditors with specialist knowledge of the sector and subject matter.
THE IMPACT
The resulting recommendations significantly strengthened the organisation’s approach to risk mitigation for the topics review.
Trustees and senior management fed back that the new audit model provided:
✔️sector insight
✔️stimulated richer discussions
✔️added real value to governance & decision-making
