Stakeholder Perception & Reputation Review – ASCO
Company Information:
With our local headquarters in Great Yarmouth, ASCO is a global specialist in logistics, materials, and operations management.
We combine strategic insight with hands-on execution. From concept to completion, we orchestrate safe, optimised operations that increase efficiency, reduce risk, and generate measurable value.
With nearly 60 years of experience in high-risk, complex industries, our teams mobilise operations and keep them moving forward.
Operating in 70+ locations worldwide, we deliver integrated services including supply base management, materials and warehousing, logistics and marine, environmental services, fuels, lifting assurance, workforce solutions, training, and consultancy.
Project Overview
ASCO is a global specialist in logistics, materials, and operations management, with its UK headquarters in Great Yarmouth. The company works in complex, high-risk industries and operates across more than 70 locations worldwide.
This project focuses on understanding how ASCO is perceived by key trade associations. These organisations help shape industry standards, influence policy, and affect how companies are viewed within their sector. By analysing ASCO’s reputation and visibility, the project will help the company understand where it is seen as a leader and where improvements could be made.
Project Aim
To assess ASCO’s reputation and perception among key trade associations and produce evidence-based recommendations that strengthen influence, visibility, and strategic relationships.
Key Research Questions
• Which trade associations are most relevant to ASCO’s business?
• How is ASCO currently represented or referenced by these organisations?
• How does current perception compare to ASCO’s desired positioning?
• Where are there gaps, risks, or missed opportunities?
• What actions could improve ASCO’s reputation and influence in the short and longer term?
What You Will Do
• Identify and map key trade associations linked to ASCO’s activities
• Carry out desk-based research using association websites, newsletters, publications, and events
• Record and organise findings in a structured way
• Analyse how ASCO is currently perceived compared to how it aims to be seen
• Identify gaps, opportunities, and areas of reputational risk
• Develop clear, prioritised recommendations
• Distinguish between quick wins (next 6 months) and longer-term strategic actions (12–24 months)
• Prepare a professional, executive-ready slide presentation
Science, Engineering and Technical Understanding
This project develops STEM-adjacent and analytical understanding through:
• Applying structured research and analysis methods
• Interpreting qualitative and quantitative information
• Evaluating organisational performance against defined objectives
• Supporting evidence-based decision-making in complex industries
Planning and Organisation
• Break the project into clear stages (mapping, research, analysis, reporting)
• Keep organised records of sources and findings
• Use clear criteria to compare current and desired positioning
• Justify recommendations using evidence
• Manage your time independently
Skills Developed
• Research and data analysis
• Project management awareness
• Strategic thinking
• Independent working and self-motivation
• Professional communication and presentation skills
• Organisational and administrative skills
Final Outputs
• A short written summary of the research process and findings
• A professional presentation outlining:
– The process used
– Key information gathered
– 3–5 key findings
– 5–10 prioritised recommendations
– Quick wins (next 6 months)
– Strategic plays (12–24 months)
• Clear, actionable recommendations for ASCO
Reflection and Evaluation
Your report may include:
• What you learned about stakeholder perception and reputation management
• How confident you are in the findings and why
• Challenges encountered during the research
• How the recommendations could benefit ASCO in the future
https://www.crestawards.org/resources/crest-gold-student-guide