Case Study: Leadership, Strategy, and Turnaround at ACI

This case study examines the leadership challenges faced by Astratech Communications International (ACI), a supplier of fiber optic transceiver components. The company experienced declining profitability, order cancellations, quality issues, and lack of focus. The analysis highlights the CEO's responses, including hiring a new CFO, implementing cost-cutting measures like a four-day workweek and layoffs, and emphasizing teamwork and employee skill enhancement. The study explores the lack of a clear business plan and the impact of poor cost accounting. Recommendations include leveraging technology like AI, providing team-building training, and adopting a sustainable development approach. The conclusion summarizes the company's downturn and the implemented solutions, emphasizing the importance of leadership in navigating business challenges. References to relevant academic sources are included.