MML is an independent financial firm which provides capital to private businesses for expansion, acquisitions, recapitalisations and management buyouts.
The firm’s partners are experts at structuring elegant financial deals that benefit all parties. They pride themselves on their creativity and flexibility. For nearly 30 years, they have worked side-by-side with management teams to deliver positive outcomes through imaginative deal structuring – investments that achieve management ambitions, create business value and, for their investors, deliver return multiples consistently greater than the associated risk.
Efficient IT systems are key to the smooth running of this international business.
THE CHALLENGE
MML’s existing IT supplier was struggling to deliver the required standard of service. Costs were increasing, but service levels were falling below agreed levels. Communication was proving inefficient and key responsibilities were not clearly defined or effectively addressed. MML identified a need for one single point of contact with an overall understanding of their IT/telecoms landscape and business requirements. Alison Jackson, MML’s Financial Controller commented “We wanted an IT provider who was approachable and able to respond quickly and efficiently to any issues raised” adding “It was important for us to feel we mattered as much as any of their larger customers” she concluded “Every member of the Pro Drive team gives us exemplary attention at all times and ensures that any problems are quickly addressed and solved.”
THE APPROACH
Pro Drive was recommended to MML by an existing customer. After conducting an in depth audit of MML’s IT and communications systems a plan of action was devised. Pro Drive implemented a full technology refresh to improve IT reliability. In addition they instigated a connectivity overhaul and migrated MML’s email system to the cloud to increase access speeds and enable access across all overseas offices.
As well as running the refresh project, Pro Drive negotiated more cost effective services with a new telecommunications supplier. Going forward Pro Drive have put in place comprehensive service level agreements and lines of communications, so that all parties are clear on how to get IT issues resolved quickly. “Pro Drive handled the project so well, Matt was on site for several weeks and always on hand to ensure that everything was in place to make the handover was as smooth and painless as possible” said Alison
THE RESULTS
The changes brought in by Pro Drive have led to increased efficiency and streamlined costs for the business. With an up to date IT system in place and a solid IT supplier in Pro Drive, MML is now well placed to concentrate on and serve the requirements of its own customers. Ms Jackson concludes “The Pro Drive service continues to be excellent, I am particularly impressed with their ability to remotely administer and fix issues from their Woking office which saves time for all” adding “The Pro Drive team have delivered an IT infrastructure which will take us into the future and can handle any changes that may arise.”
