New ways of working across unified processes – how operational alignment delivered more than 40% above target

May 19, 2026

Arctic Paper Munkedal, a leading European producer of high-quality graphic paper had already initiated a broader transformation journey several years earlier. Building on previous improvement efforts across the Group, the company partnered with Mantec for the next phase of development, with the ambition to strengthen operational performance, unify ways of working, and create a stronger foundation for future growth.

The transformation resulted in a financial performance that far exceeded the original target, while establishing a more integrated organisation with common processes, shared operational standards, and strengthened leadership capability across multiple production sites.

Background

The project was launched as a strategic transformation designed to accelerate performance across multiple production sites while strengthening collaboration throughout the organisation. Although earlier initiatives had already delivered positive progress, management recognised further untapped potential in harmonising operations and establishing more consistent ways of working across the business.

A key objective was to transition from site-specific operations towards one integrated organisation with common processes, shared standards, and unified management practices. In parallel, the company wanted to strengthen leadership capabilities and improve the organisation’s ability to drive continuous operational improvement in a more structured and sustainable way.

Implementation

The transformation was carried out through a phased implementation model that combined clear structure with the flexibility required in a complex operational environment. The delivery model allowed priorities to evolve throughout the project while maintaining momentum, governance, and alignment with the organisation’s culture and ongoing initiatives.

Core workstreams focused on several key areas:

Administrative and purchasing integration

The organisation transitioned from separate site-based operations to a more unified setup with common processes, aligned responsibilities, and shared ways of working. This created stronger coordination across production sites and improved overall operational consistency.

Operational excellence and performance management

The project introduced more standardised operational practices, structured follow-up routines, and clearer performance management processes. Focus areas included productivity improvements, operational transparency, and the establishment of common methods for identifying and addressing deviations.

Leadership and management development

A significant part of the transformation focused on strengthening leadership capabilities, particularly at first-line and operational management levels. The objective was to create clearer responsibilities, stronger accountability, and more proactive day-to-day management practices throughout the organisation.

Change enablement and sustainability

In addition to operational improvements, the project placed strong emphasis on behavioural change and long-term capability building. A common operational language was established through shared standards, targets, and structured problem-solving routines.

As the transformation progressed, the organisation developed:

  • Increased commitment at first-line management level to resolving daily operational challenges
  • Improved capability to identify deviations and address issues at root-cause level
  • Stronger leadership practices and clearer organisational responsibilities
  • More structured and effective meeting and reporting routines supporting decision-making and follow-up

The strengthened governance model helped ensure progress towards ambitious targets while creating greater alignment across the organisation.

Results

The transformation delivered measurable and lasting business impact while establishing a strong platform for continued development and future improvements.

Key outcomes included:

  • Transition from fragmented site-based operations to one integrated organisation with common processes and shared ways of working
  • Improved production utilisation and operational performance through increased standardisation and structured follow-up
  • Strengthened leadership capability and engagement at operational level
  • Significantly enhanced meeting and reporting structures supporting operational governance
  • Financial performance exceeding the original target by a wide margin, establishing a new baseline for future improvements

Beyond the immediate operational and financial results, the project also created a solid foundation for long-term sustainability. Planned follow-up reviews and ongoing performance management practices were introduced to support continued development after the main implementation phase.

In parallel, the project also supported capex investigations designed to secure strategic investments for future growth and strengthen the company’s position as a key player in the market.


If you want to strengthen your operational core, improve delivery performance, and build a scalable foundation for growth, Mantec can help.

Contact us for a free 45-minute consultation:

Denmark – Bent Hansen
bent.hansen@mantec.eu
+45 20 91 46 36

Finland – Eero Vuorensola
eero.vuorensola@mantec.eu
+358 40 54 45 200

Sweden – Göran Svensson
goran.r@mantec.eu
+46 70 631 86 18

Norway – Jan Erick Olsen
jeolsen@mantec.eu
+47 922 68682

Other countries – Kjetil Barfelt
kjetil.barfelt@mantec.eu
+47 913 13 131

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