Values at the core – guided by heart, hand, and mind
A characteristic feature of the model is its clear focus on leadership:
The values of the organization are at the center. They form the foundation for how
decisions are made, change is communicated, and behavior is practiced.
This is why effective leadership is based on three elements:
• Head: analysis, strategy, structure
• Heart: creating meaning, motivation, culture
• Hands: implementation, consistency, daily leadership practice
This combination increases effectiveness in the turnaround because it links hard facts with
lived culture and consistent implementation.
An overview of the 10 steps to successful change
1. Understand reality
A clear picture of the situation in terms of figures, market, culture, and stakeholders.
2. Develop meaning and a vision for the future
A comprehensible and motivating “why” as a starting point.
3. Create urgency
Comprehensible urgency – based on Kotter, but with a stronger emotional foundation.
4. The right people first
“Right people in the right seats” – early, clear, and consistent.
5. Shared vision and strategy
A compelling vision for the future and an agile, understandable strategy process.
6. Strengthen communication and performance culture
Clear messages, a culture of feedback, and visible leadership.
7. Achieve early successes
Short-term wins stabilize energy and momentum.
8. Measure progress & readjust
Regular tracking, consistent control, and flexible adaptation.
9. Sustainable anchoring
Secure new routines, structures, and behaviors permanently.
10. Secure momentum
Vigilance, perspective, and consistent leadership to avoid relapses.
Why this model is so effective for turnarounds
The Heupl/Steyrer model combines:
• the structure and logic of Kotter’s 8 steps,
• scientifically validated macro-phase models,
• and real implementation experience from international projects.
The result is a clear, practical guide that helps management teams take the
right steps in the right order—and anchor change in a sustainable way.
Conclusion
Turnaround management requires clarity, consistency, and a balanced
interplay of analysis, motivation, and implementation.
The 10-step model developed by Heupl & Steyrer provides an effective framework for this,
guiding organizations safely through critical phases and securing lasting change.
As a member of RETURN, the independent expert forum for
restructuring, reorganization, and turnarounds in Austria, VOMA
Management contributes in-depth expertise and a strong network.
The model ideally complements our own approach—from analysis and operational
stabilization to culturally anchored transformation.
