I combine hands-on commercial experience with strategic mentoring to help small businesses and not-for-profit leaders achieve faster, more sustainable growth.

Alongside my mentoring work, I am Chief Strategy Officer for the High Value Manufacturing Catapult. I am a Chartered Mechanical Engineer by background, with early career experience in automotive and aerospace product development, followed by senior roles in manufacturing technology, strategy, and business development.

I have first-hand experience of scaling a business from start-up to £100m+ turnover, as part of a small executive team. Having led strategy and business development during a sustained 35% annual growth phase, I understand both the opportunities and the pressures that come with rapid expansion—from cash flow and capability gaps to leadership stretch and market positioning.

For over 20 years, I have helped small businesses grow through practical support and access to funding. I have designed and led programmes supporting SMEs and not-for-profits, and have personally secured and negotiated hundreds of millions of pounds in grant funding. I have also served as a board member and executive in organisations supporting the manufacturing and construction sectors.

Who I help
My ideal clients are founders, CEOs and senior leaders from companies or not-for-profits who want to:
* Clarify and execute a compelling growth or impact strategy
* Strengthen their value proposition and market positioning
* Accelerate product development and innovation
* Navigate scale-up challenges and organisational change
* Access funding and maximise the impact of investment
Or
Subject matter experts who are realising they now need to become business leaders.

My approach is practical, honest and focused on results. I will help you identify your most critical challenges, define a clear path forward, and provide both support and constructive challenge to keep you on track.

Availability
I only work with a small number of clients and only when I believe I can make a meaningful difference. I currently have capacity for up to two additional mentees.

If you’re looking for an experienced sounding board who has “been there” and can help you move faster with confidence, feel free to get in touch for an informal conversation.