Richard Branson and the Virgin Group Case Study
A- Needed Presentation structure
Cover slide
Brief Introduction slide
Analyze & Address Assignment questions.
Use relevant academic models (not necessarily all)
Support your ideas, from the case & academic journals, in the Notes section of the slide
Recommendation
Conclusion & Reference
B-Purpose of the Assessment
The purpose of this assignment is to
a) test the student’s knowledge of the core concepts, models and frameworks taught in the module and relevant to the strategy process
b) allow the student to apply their learning in the module to date in a case study analysis and to present their findings in a high level board manner that captures the key issues
Assessment Task
You are required to read the case on Richard Branson and the Virgin Group and prepare a 15 minute board level PowerPoint presentation that addresses the following questions (support your answer in details in the Notes page of the slide):
1. Using appropriate academic models and concepts identify and discuss the chief internal and external factors that have influenced the Virgin Group and the strategies employed up to the time of the case. (30%)
2. Critically assess whether, in your opinion, there was any evidence that Richard Branson and his group management team followed a consistent strategy or not in the major investments. If so, what sort of approach might it have been based upon, and what was the role of the Virgin head office function? (40%)
3. Drawing on resources such as FT.com, update your audience on any new Virgin Group activities since the case, commenting on whether or not subsequent major investments fit in with your findings from Q2 above, or if there was any other strategic rationale. Conclude with recommendations on the future of the group. (30%)
Please prepare your submission as a PowerPoint document, using the notes option putting any narrative or explanatory notes underneath the slide itself. Be conscious about the maximum time allowed, and therefore the number of slides you need to create, if you were to deliver the presentation verbally. Brevity, clarity and key strategic thinking is key, showing that you have understood the essence of the case and can communicate effectively with supporting evidence. This will be good practice for case analysis and communicating your ideas.
