Working on a presentation for a large manufacturing client where we found $847K in overbilling across their 14 facilities. The CFO wants an executive summary that's "no more than 2 pages" but I'm struggling with what level of detail to include. Do you lead with the dollar amount or explain the methodology first? Also wondering if I should mention the smaller findings (like the $3,200 in demand charges) or just focus on the big ticket items like the incorrect tariff classification that cost them $520K over 3 years.
Executive Summary - What to Include/Exclude?
Margaret, always lead with the total dollar impact - that's what gets their attention. I structure mine as: Total Recovery Amount, Timeline, Top 3 Findings (by dollar value), and Implementation Requirements. Save the methodology for the detailed report. The CFO doesn't need to know about CT ratios and tariff schedules in the executive summary.
I disagree slightly Randy. I always include a brief credibility section upfront - "30 years experience, certified by XYZ, similar client results" - before the dollar amount. Builds confidence in the number you're about to present. Then lead with the total, but break it into categories: Billing Errors ($XXX), Tariff Issues ($XXX), Demand Optimization ($XXX).
For a $847K finding, definitely include the smaller items. Shows thoroughness. I'd group them as "Additional Opportunities" or "Ongoing Savings Potential" - makes it clear there's value beyond the big-ticket correction. The demand charge issue might be recurring monthly, so that $3,200 could be $38K annually going forward.
One thing I learned the hard way - always include a timeline for when they can expect to see the money. Had a client get frustrated because they thought they'd get a check next month for the full amount. Now I clearly state: "Historical refunds require 60-90 days utility processing, ongoing savings begin immediately upon tariff correction."
Margaret, what utility are you dealing with? Some have specific requirements for how refund requests need to be formatted. Duke Energy wants everything in their template, while Georgia Power is more flexible. Might affect how you structure the summary if they need to forward it directly to the utility.
It's ComEd for the main facilities, Ruth. I'll check if they have a preferred format. Thanks everyone - going with Randy's structure but including Marcus's credibility section and Connie's timeline. The "Additional Opportunities" framing is perfect Karen, thanks!
ComEd is pretty straightforward with refunds. Just make sure you reference the specific tariff sections - they love seeing Illinois Commerce Commission citations. Helps move things along faster. Good luck with the presentation!