Technology Strategy
Digital Transformation for Mid-Market Businesses: The Practical Guide (2026)
Digital transformation in mid-market businesses fails 70% of the time, because it starts with technology rather than with business outcomes. Here’s how to get it right.
Book a ConversationWhere Businesses Get Stuck
The challenges we most commonly see when organisations come to us:
- Your digital transformation is stalling, over budget, or has lost board confidence.
- Technology has been installed but behaviours haven’t changed.
Our Methodology
The Mid-Market Digital Transformation Framework, 4 phases: Define, Design, Deliver, Embed.
What Starkhorn Brings
Daniel Jacobs: 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. VetPartners (BC Partners, GBP1.2bn), Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn). Published author. PRINCE2, ITIL, IIM Full Member. VetPartners and Jardine Motors Group: large-scale transformation delivery.
Starkhorn does not subcontract or use associate networks. You work directly with Daniel Jacobs from the first conversation through to delivery.
Who This Is For
This service is designed for:
- CEOs and boards at mid-market businesses undertaking digital transformation
This is not the right fit for: Large enterprises with dedicated transformation offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can Starkhorn begin?
In most cases we can begin within five to ten working days. For urgent situations such as a sudden leadership gap or an active incident, we can mobilise faster. Contact us to discuss your timeline.
What does a typical Starkhorn engagement cost?
Engagements are structured as monthly retainers or fixed-term day-rate assignments. The cost depends on scope and time commitment. We are transparent about pricing from the first conversation and will give you a clear indication on the call.
What experience does Starkhorn bring?
Starkhorn is led by Daniel Jacobs, with 20+ years in technology and security, 15+ of them in leadership roles. He has served as Interim Group Technology Director at VetPartners (BC Partners-backed, GBP1.2bn), accountable for both technology and security, and as CIO and CISO at Jardine Motors Group (GBP2bn turnover). He holds PRINCE2, ITIL Foundation, and is a Full Member of the Institute of Interim Management.
Does Starkhorn work with PE-backed businesses specifically?
Yes. A significant portion of our work is with PE-backed portfolio companies navigating acquisition integration, technology transformation, or rapid growth. We understand the reporting requirements, value-creation timelines, and governance standards that PE ownership demands.
What is the first step to working with Starkhorn?
Book a no-obligation conversation using the link on this page. In 30 minutes we will understand your situation, tell you honestly whether we are the right fit, and outline what a first engagement would look like. There is no sales process and no pressure.
Next step
Ready to Talk?
Starkhorn works with MDs, CEOs, and boards of growing businesses. If you have a technology leadership gap, a security concern, or a transformation that is not delivering, we can help. Book a 30-minute conversation with no obligation.
Book a Conversation