Article Summary
From Strategy to Results: The Missing Middle in Operational Excellence Programs
Most organizations have strong strategies. Few have strong execution systems. This article explores the “missing middle” that separates intent from results – and how leaders close the gap.
From Strategy to Results: The Missing Middle in Operational Excellence Programs
Most organizations are not short on strategy. They are short on results.
Across Africa, executives approve ambitious strategies, operational excellence programs, and performance initiatives – yet execution stalls somewhere between the boardroom and the frontline.
This gap has appeared consistently across organizations of different sizes, industries, and maturity levels.
This gap is the missing middle.
What Is the Missing Middle?
The missing middle sits between strategic intent and operational reality. It includes governance structures, operating rhythms, decision rights, capability development, and accountability mechanisms.
When this layer is weak, even the best strategies fail.
Why the Gap Persists
KPIs Without Consequence
Metrics are tracked, but underperformance has no owner.
In many organizations we have worked with over time, reviews existed – but accountability did not.
Overloaded Leadership Teams
Transformation becomes everyone’s job and no one’s responsibility.
Frontline Exclusion
Operational teams are asked to execute strategies they did not help shape.
Consultant-Led Execution
External teams drive change, but internal ownership remains weak.
Closing the Gap
Organizations that close the strategy-execution gap embed governance alongside metrics, translate strategy into executable work, build capability through real delivery, and stay engaged until results become routine.
These patterns are rarely visible from a single engagement. They become clear only after years of working alongside executive teams through both success and failure.
The Bottom Line
Operational excellence is not achieved through intent alone. It is achieved through disciplined execution systems.
The perspective shared here reflects decades of hands-on operational leadership and advisory experience across African markets.