In September 2009, Mthente was commissioned by Old Mutual South Africa (OMSA) to conduct an internal audit and benchmarking study for the Old Mutual Foundation. As a follow up to this study, Mthente was further commissioned in February 2010 to assist the Foundation in defining the nature of flagship projects in the context of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in South Africa.

To develop a working definition for the Foundation, Mthente reviewed Old Mutual’s strategic objectives and best practice (in terms of focus areas, structure, budgets and M&E) which was identified in its earlier benchmarking study. The study also involved a review of the way other foundations in South Africa approach flagship projects. Six case studies were presented to the Foundation, based on desktop research and/or interviews with ABSA, Investec, Standard Bank, Eskom, Vodacom and Woolworths.

Following a workshop with Old Mutual’s General Manager of Corporate Affairs, the proposed definition was presented to the Foundation’s Board to assist them in reformulating the Foundation’s strategic approach to large projects.