Steve Burles is the founder of Burles & Co, where he works as a business mentor, advisor, and non-executive director to owner-managed and family-run businesses.

With over 25 years’ experience, Steve has founded, grown, and successfully exited two creative agencies. This gives him first-hand insight into the realities of building a business — from early growth and pressure points through to leadership challenges, sustainability, and exit planning.

Steve’s mentoring style is pragmatic, supportive, and grounded in real-world experience. He works closely with business owners and leadership teams to improve clarity, confidence, and decision-making, helping them step back from day-to-day noise and focus on what really matters. His work often centres on leadership effectiveness, strategic direction, accountability, and creating businesses that work for their owners — not the other way around.

Alongside his client work, Steve is actively involved in the local business community, including leadership roles connected to the Keighley & Airedale Business Awards and board-level experience within education. He is a member of the Association of Business Mentors and is committed to maintaining high professional and ethical standards in business mentoring.