Summary

Implementation of a new Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider for SGN’s Logistics services. Additional support was required to effectively manage activities across service elements (e.g., Distribution Centres, Depots) and workstreams (e.g., Operations, Property, IT, People & Change) through the establishment of a Programme Delivery Office (PDO). This included ensuring the Logistics programme was aligned with strategic objectives and supported the delivery of benefits to SGN.

The Requirement

Having supported SGN in the competitive dialogue procurement, Deecon were engaged to continue support through the implementation phase of the new 3PL.

The Solution

The establishment of the Programme Delivery Office (PDO) brought together key stakeholders from across different functions to ensure the successful implementation of the new logistics programme.

Key stakeholders included the PDO Lead and Contract Manager (supported by Deecon), the Change Manager, IT Project Manager, Distribution Centre Manager, and Operations Managers representing both Scotland and the South. This structure enabled coordinated delivery across multiple functions and locations, supporting effective governance and decision‑making throughout the implementation. 

Scope – Programme Delivery Office (PDO): 

Coordinated the overall implementation of the new Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider, ensuring all project workstreams were aligned and progressing in line with agreed milestone plans

Oversaw the development and execution of stakeholder engagement, communication, and training initiatives to support operational readiness and adoption of the new 3PL model

Supported operational continuity during transition through proactive risk management, readiness assessments, and cutover planning

Ensured milestone adherence and forward visibility of risks

Lead weekly touchpoints and steering forums with various stakeholders

Maintained a programme-level risk register, with cross-functional ownership of mitigation actions

Conducted change impact assessments and ensured change control documentation was completed ahead of phase transitions

Scope – Contract Management: 

Supported the Logistics and Finance teams in validating cost and benefits assumptions associated with the 3PL model

Ensured the programme is contractually aligned to the service contracts (Lot 1 and Lot 2)

Commercially managed any incoming changes to scope and costs, including monitoring forecast impacts

Reporting of forecast and actual cost benefits tracking for the programme

The Results

While the Logistics Implementation Programme remains ongoing, Deecon has supported SGN in achieving a number of critical delivery milestones, including: 

Establishing and embedding a cross-functional Programme Delivery Office, providing clear governance, decision-making forums, and integrated oversight across multiple workstreams. This enabled consistent milestone tracking and controlled escalation