Data-Driven Operational Turn-around 

Built on Analysis, Structure & KPIs

This decade of operational leadership provided foundational expertise in turning real-world business challenges into scalable, data-backed solutions.

This is where my hands-on data mindset was shaped - enhanced by my natural analytics mind and the ability to spot patterns.

Over a 10-year period at Statoil, I was assigned to lead five different retail locations — all facing serious operational and performance challenges. This became the foundation for my work with data, structure BI and performance insight.

Through hands-on management, KPI tracking, LEAN workflows and Excel-driven dashboards, I transformed day-to-day operations into scalable, measurable success.

By integrating KPI analytics, reporting, and financial modeling into daily operations, I laid the groundwork for the data-driven mindset that today defines my approach to data analysis, business intelligence and strategic decision support. 

Challenge

As a Store Manager at Statoil, I was repeatedly assigned to underperforming retail locations, tasked with restoring operational efficiency and performance.

Multiple retail units within Statoil Fuel & Retail were underperforming due to lack of operational frameworks, inefficient processes, high shrinkage rates, poor customer satisfaction, and unsystematic employee development.

The business required a complete transformation, grounded in data-driven insights and scalable strategic interventions. 

Approach

To address these issues, I deployed a structured, data-driven approach focused on KPI development, LEAN methodologies, and process optimization.  

Taking full ownership of each location from day one, I initiated a structured turnaround strategy based on:

• KPI Dashboard Design:
  Developed daily, weekly, and monthly KPI tracking systems to measure sales, shrinkage, customer satisfaction, and operational compliance.
  
  

• Operational Data Analysis:
  Built and analyzed performance pipelines for HQ finance to identify bottlenecks and optimize local store operations.

• Business Intelligence:
  Built reporting systems for operational and financial metrics to inform smarter stock management, sales forecasting, and workforce planning.
  
  

• LEAN 5S Methodology:
  Applied LEAN principles across daily workflows, minimizing waste, improving inventory management, and boosting operational efficiency.
  
  

• Process Automation:
  Introduced structured routines and checklists to automate recurring tasks, freeing time for customer service and sales activities.
  
  

• Team Performance Management:
  Used KPIs & data insights to restructure teams, develop skills through targeted training, and foster a performance-driven culture.

Results

• Reduced employee turnover significantly by creating structured development paths and fostering a data-driven performance culture.

• Increased customer loyalty and store brand perception through improved stock availability, service levels, and operational consistency.

Technologies and Methods Used

• Statoil’s 'My Performance – KPI tracking & management system used for daily operations, compliance and team alignment

• Excel – Dashboards, Strategic planning, forecasting, and local performance analysis

• LEAN 5S Methodology – Forecasting Automation, visual workflows, inventory control, and daily structure

• Manual Task Automation – Paperless checklists, staff routines, and operational templates

• Performance Index Management – Financial Analysis Tools, localized improvement targets and audit readiness tracking
  
  

Key Insights

This project demonstrated the transformative impact of KPI analytics, LEAN methodology, and structured performance data in turning around underperforming retail environments.

It laid the foundation for my approach to data-driven decision-making, operational excellence, and stakeholder alignment — principles that continue to guide my work today in data analysis, business intelligence, and scalable performance strategy.