- 10 Marks
Question
The management team of SavvyTech plc is concerned about how the staff union group with 60% shareholding might react if the 2022 dividend payout is withheld to finance the subsidiary acquisition in Utopia, particularly the production staff with 80% shareholding of the total staff union’s interest of 60%. There are a number of stakeholder mappings. Two most popular are the ‘stakeholders position/importance matrix’ and ‘stakeholders power/interest matrix’.
Required:
You have been contracted as an independent consultant by SavvyTech plc to review the stakeholder mapping using the ‘stakeholders position/importance matrix’. Draw the diagram, illustrate, and explain using a brief internal memo to guide the management team’s engagement with the stakeholders as presented in the case study.
Answer
Internal Memorandum
To: Management of SavvyTech Plc
From: Independent Consultant
Date: 7th July 2023
Subject: Explanation of Stakeholder Position/Importance Matrix to Guide Engagement
The stakeholder position/importance matrix is a useful tool for assessing how different stakeholder groups are likely to react to the proposal of withholding the 2022 dividend payout and using the funds to acquire the subsidiary in Utopia. The matrix compares two dimensions:
- Position on the issue: ranging from strong opposition (+5) to strong support (-5).
- Importance to the organization: ranging from not important (-5) to very important (+5).
Application to SavvyTech plc:
- Antagonistic Stakeholders (e.g., production staff with 48% ownership): These stakeholders are likely to oppose the withholding of dividends due to concerns over job security and potential outsourcing. Their high importance places them in the top-right quadrant of the matrix, requiring careful management and engagement.
- Supportive Stakeholders: Other stakeholders, such as the Board or external partners, who may support the strategic acquisition, would appear in the bottom-right quadrant. The goal is to maintain their support while balancing other interests.
- Problematic Stakeholders: These stakeholders have little influence but may cause minor opposition. The focus should be on minimizing their concerns.
Diagram:
The matrix below categorizes stakeholders according to their position and importance:

Recommendations:
- The management should focus on engaging the production staff, offering clear communication and compromises to avoid losing their trust.
- Engage other important stakeholders who support the acquisition and ensure their continued alignment with SavvyTech’s strategy.
Yours faithfully,
Consultant
- Tags: Influence, Mapping, Matrix, Stakeholders, Strategic Engagement
- Level: Level 3
- Topic: Strategy, stakeholders, and mission
- Series: JULY 2023
- Uploader: Theophilus