Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 03.06.2025
Length: 7 pages
Data source: Field research
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Abstract
This is part of a case series. The case study explores the first phase of ABB's 2018 to 2024 transformation journey as it tackled longstanding challenges: financial underperformance, declining market confidence and inefficiencies in its complex matrix structure. To streamline operations, CEO Ulrich Spiesshofer initiated a restructuring of its main business areas in 2018, including the sale of the Power Grids business to Hitachi. However, the following April, Spiesshofer stepped down unexpectedly. Would the transition in leadership signal a continuation of the existing strategy, or did it indicate a complete shift in direction? How should the new leadership transform ABB?
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 2018-2024.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
Switzerland
Featured company
Asea Brown Boveri
Employees:
10000+
Turnover:
USD 32.2 billion
Industry:
Electric and electronic equipment
Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 06.10.2025
Length: 22 pages
Data source: Field research
Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 05.11.2025
Revision date: 26-Nov-2025
Length: 11 pages
Data source: Field research
About
Abstract
This is part of a case series. The case study explores the first phase of ABB's 2018 to 2024 transformation journey as it tackled longstanding challenges: financial underperformance, declining market confidence and inefficiencies in its complex matrix structure. To streamline operations, CEO Ulrich Spiesshofer initiated a restructuring of its main business areas in 2018, including the sale of the Power Grids business to Hitachi. However, the following April, Spiesshofer stepped down unexpectedly. Would the transition in leadership signal a continuation of the existing strategy, or did it indicate a complete shift in direction? How should the new leadership transform ABB?
Settings
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 2018-2024.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
Switzerland
Featured company
Asea Brown Boveri
Employees:
10000+
Turnover:
USD 32.2 billion
Industry:
Electric and electronic equipment
Related
Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 06.10.2025
Length: 22 pages
Data source: Field research
Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 05.11.2025
Revision date: 26-Nov-2025
Length: 11 pages
Data source: Field research