Forum - Autumn 24 by Allies Group Ltd

Leading with purpose

Jessica Williams

Disrupting the pet food industry

Mark Scott

Adventure of a lifetime

Nikki Renton

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autumn 24 welcome

Welcome to our autumn edition of Forum which shines a light on the best entrepreneurial talent in our region with our preview of the finalists for this year’s Entrepreneurial Awards. We celebrate the 17 finalists who are trailblazing their own paths and championing entrepreneurship for the North East.

Our cover story features Jessica Williams, former Business Development Manager at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, now a successful entrepreneur. In her interview she talks about why Just Williams and The Just Williams Sales Academy have become B Corps and the importance of maintaining ethical business practices as you grow.

Our Centre Stage interview is a

throwback to our spring conference where Mark Scott, founder of Bella & Duke, stood on stage and shared his journey from door to door salesman to building a £50 million turnover pet food company.

We cover the 'people challenge' in our Addressing the Issue article, in which entrepreneurs give their insights into how they have managed to build the right team to help them to scale their respective businesses. At the Forum we understand that being an entrepreneur is a life choice that only other entrepreneurs can understand. We are an independent organisation, founded by entrepreneurs, offering a toolbox of support to help you scale, survive and sustain your business journey. Our membership continues to grow and if you’d like to get involved, or know someone who would benefit from being part of our community, please get in touch. Details on how to join are on page 34.

Executive

inside

for growth the transformative impact of mentoring with Sasha Warr and Neil Henry

centre

Mark Scott on his journey to founding Bella & Duke

long standing members reflect on the impact of their Forum membership

Nikki Renton, owner of J Renton Groundworks, discusses her adventure of a

Editorial Sally Cowling sally@entrepreneursforum.net

Amy Mason amy@entrepreneursforum.net

Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com

Advertising

Debi Coldwell debi@allies-group.com

Design studio@allies-group.com

NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD

autumn 24 plan ahead

16 September and 19 November 9am-11am ROUND TABLE

Scale-up Leaders' Alumni

RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle (16 September)

LDC, Newcastle (19 November) FREE for SULA Alumni

27 September 6pm-11.30pm

2024 ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARDS

Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead

Our gala awards dinner is a fabulous evening of entertainment where leading figures in the North East business community come together to celebrate entrepreneurs who stand out from the crowd, lead dynamic, innovative businesses and are making a genuine change to our region. Awards include One to Watch, Impact, Scaleup, Champion, Entrepreneur of the Year and Lifetime Achievement.

Individual ticket £120+VAT

Table of 10 £1,200+VAT

17 September 6pm-10pm FOCUS DINNER

With Julian Leighton

Middleton Lodge, Middleton Tyas

£90+VAT for entrepreneur members

1 October 9.30am-12.30pm ON-SITE VISIT

Hays Travel

Hays Travel, Sunderland FREE for entrepreneur members

9 October 9am-12:30pm WORKSHOP

The Power of PR

Vertu Motors Arena, Newcastle

FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests

To view all upcoming events, and to book, visit: entrepreneursforum.net/events/upcoming-events

24 September 9am-11am PANEL EVENT

Secrets to Growth and Survival

SIX at The Baltic, Gateshead FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests

3 October ROUND TABLE

Finance 101

9.30am-11.30am

Business Central, Darlington 1.30pm-3.30pm

RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle FREE for entrepreneur members

11 October 12:30pm-2:30pm SOCIAL Member Lunch

The Impeccable Pig, Sedgefield For entrepreneur members Costs payable on the day

16 October 5.30pm-7.30pm PANEL EVENT

Exploring Expansion - Strategies for Success

RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests

17 October 9am-11am ROUND TABLE

Building a Sales Pipeline

LDC, Newcastle

FREE for entrepreneur members

6 November 1.30pm-3.30pm ROUND TABLE

Growth Through Acquisition

Agilico, Gateshead

FREE for entrepreneur members

13 November CONFERENCE

Together We Can Take on the World

Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead

Join us for a day packed with inspirational speakers and opportunities to meet up with other members of our community of entrepreneurs. Be the first to hear about the speaker lineup by following us on LinkedIn.

Book your early bird tickets now.

Member early bird offer (for all tickets purchased by 4 October)

Individual Day Pass £120+VAT

Individual Day Pass plus Guest £200+VAT

26 November 9.30am-12.30pm WORKSHOP

Elevated Leadership, Empowered Teams

UMi, Durham

FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests

5 December and 13 December 12.30pm-2.30pm SOCIAL Christmas Lunch

OVEN Restaurant, Middlesbrough (5 December)

Broad Chare, Newcastle (13 December) For entrepreneur members

Costs payable on the day

Tharsus spins out new

Miller unveils specifically designed buckets in support of charity

Leading global manufacturer of quick couplers and buckets, Miller UK, will be showcasing its support to the Lighthouse Construction Charity as it unveils limited edition buckets at this year’s largest quarrying, mining and recycling exhibition.

Reheat secures National Trust renewable heat opportunity

Northumberland firm Reheat has been successful in its bid to deliver renewable heat operations and maintenance for Europe’s largest membership organisation,

Four Forum businesses become B Corp Certified in 2024

Blu Sky, Definition IP, EMG Solicitors and Square One Law are the latest Forum members to cement their commitment to sustainability by becoming B Corp certified. They join existing Forum members Just Williams (certified since 2023), Robson Laidler (2022) and UMi (2022).

Swarm launches Hub:One to boost solar savings

Green energy firm Swarm has launched its first product - Hub:One - a home energy management system that will enable homeowners to exert unparalleled control over their renewable energy usage and savings.

Pulse Reviews launches revolutionary platform to elevate business insights

Pulse Reviews has launched its innovative dashboard designed to transform online customer feedback, including Google Reviews, into actionable business intelligence.

the National Trust.

Moody Cup debuts at Gateshead International

Moody Logistics and Storage is continuing its support of the Moody Cup, an annual celebration of grassroots rugby league, following a debut at Gateshead International Stadium.

autumn 24

Seller Presto expands into larger office in Middlesbrough

Seller Presto, an Amazon specialist marketing agency, has expanded its operations by relocating to a larger office in Middlesbrough's vibrant Boho Zone. Whilst doubling their office space, the move accommodates the agency's growth and fosters a collaborative environment where team members and clients can work together seamlessly.

Northern Pride for O with raft of significant new wins Newcastle-based O.agency has been chosen to bring its creative talent to a raft of key players involved in the infrastructure of the North East including Port of Tyne, Lumo, NE1 and Pride in the City.

BeaconHouse Events recognised at global industry awards

North East based events agency BeaconHouse Events has been recognised as ‘Highly Commended’ at The micebook Awards 2024 in the category of ‘Best Sustainable Event’, a category focused on ambitious and innovative approaches to sustainability in the global events sector.

Agilico put in the miles for Alan Shearer Foundation

This September, 30 members of Agilico’s team will be lacing up their trainers to take part in the iconic Great North Run, all in support of the Alan Shearer Foundation. The funds they raise will go directly to the Alan Shearer Centre, a specialist facility offering respite, residential care, and social services for individuals with complex disabilities and severe sensory impairments.

RGCF bucks summer trend with active period of M&A transactions RG Corporate Finance (RGCF) has bucked the trend of the summer being a traditionally quiet period for M&A transactions, having completed a number of transactions in July and August.

Robson Laidler wins ESG Impact Award

The first B Corp in the North East, accountancy and advisory firm Robson Laidler, has scooped the ESG Impact Award at the North East Accountancy Awards 2024, weeks after being named one of the Best Places to Work in the UK by The Sunday Times.

One to Watch Programme

autumn 24 cover story Jessica Williams

In a world where entrepreneurship often involves navigating complex challenges and seizing opportunities, Jessica Williams has carved out a unique niche of her own. Here, we uncover how she continues to go from strength-to-strength, building businesses with purpose and passion.

As the founder of Just Williams, a leading sales and marketing organisation, as well as The Just Williams Sales Academy, Jessica has built an impactful reputation in the industry. Her journey into entrepreneurship began in 2015, after a career in banking and corporate finance, and a pivotal role at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum. Her story is one of determination, passion, and undeniable grit.

Jessica’s journey began not in a traditional business school but in the practical world as an employee. Her entrepreneurial spark, however, was ignited at a young age watching both her parents run their own successful companies.

“I left school in an untraditional way at 16, moved to the North East at 18 and spent over a decade in business banking,” she recalls.

“I joined the Entrepreneurs’ Forum as Business Development Manager and it was during my time there that I realised there was a significant gap in the market for skilled sales professionals. I’ve always loved interacting with people and communication is something I’ve always been good at and passionate about. In every business I’ve worked in, I saw that communication was at the forefront - especially in sales. But

one thing I did notice is that there was a struggle to find great salespeople and retain them.

“This, combined with my background and an MBA, led me to establish Just Williams in 2015,” she begins to explain.

“Just Williams was established to create an industry standard in an otherwise non-standardised industry. The aim was to professionalise the sales industry,” she adds.

The transition from employee to entrepreneur wasn't simply a career shift for Jessica; it was a fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“Both my parents and grandparents were entrepreneurs, so running my own business felt like a natural path. I said when I was 14, ‘I’ll be a chief executive by the time I'm 30’, and while I didn't know what that meant at the time, I clearly knew what I wanted. I don't accept things at face value and I challenge the status quo. The environment at the Entrepreneurs’ Forum was incredibly inspiring, pushing me to think outside the box and challenge conventional norms. It's amazing now to think I’ve come full circle, from working for them to now being a member.”

Just Williams started as a small sales and marketing organisation but quickly grew, thanks in large part to

Jessica's hands-on approach and deep understanding of client needs. The business now boasts a strong presence in the North of England, with a growing list of international clients.

“We’ve recently celebrated nine years in business, and it's been a journey of continuous learning and adaptation,” Jessica says, “In 2021, we launched The Just Williams Sales Academy, which has since trained nearly 4,000 people in customer service and sales.”

Jessica's businesses are distinguished not just by their success but also by their ethical standards. Both Just Williams and the Sales Academy are B Corp certified, reflecting a commitment to responsible business practices.

“Becoming B Corp was huge for us. ‘Make Business a Force for Good’ is fundamentally what we stand for as a business. We started the process back in 2021 and were one of the first to certify in the Tees Valley. It was a rigorous process, but it was essential for us. It aligns with our values of making a positive impact on our community and the environment. The framework that the B Corp process has given us has set the standard for future growth within the business and our foundations are strong for our future ambitious growth plans.”

Her commitment to social responsibility is evident in Just Williams’ operational ethos.

“As a B Corp, we focus on ethical practices, from our supply chain choices to our environmental policies. We've also set up initiatives like donating a portion of our profits to charity and team development.”

Like many businesses, Just Williams faced challenges, particularly during the pandemic. This year, Jessica participated in the Scale-up Leaders’ Academy, an Entrepreneurs’ Forum

programme designed to support business leaders in navigating growth.

“The Academy provided us with the tools and clarity to map out a five-year growth plan. We brought in a nonexecutive director, doubled our team size, won multiple new clients, including international customers, and won two awards for our ESG impact, as well as strengthening our company culture,” she explains.

This period of reflection and planning was crucial for Jessica, who recognises the importance of resilience and adaptability in business.

“Owning a business means you’re constantly dealing with challenges. It's not just about working hard; it’s about being resilient. You have to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.”

“I think one of the things you have to have as a business owner is survivability. I don't often share this story, but the business is called Just Williams and the reason for that is because my little brother died of cancer when he was just seven years old. My parents called their business ‘Just Williams Leisure’ after him, but now the Williams name dies with me. So that's why the business is called Just Williams, to continue that legacy and to keep the memory of my little brother alive,” Jessica proudly explains.

Going above and beyond, and bringing about change plays a pivotal role in Jessica’s success. “When Just Williams was founded nine years ago, our aim was to professionalise the sales industry. Sales isn’t typically a career people actively choose; many end up in it without formal qualifications, and there are few certifications to prepare individuals for success.

“Since the pandemic, the sales landscape has changed considerably,

It's not just about working hard; it's about being resilient. You have to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.

as have consumer expectations.

We launched the Sales Academy to support sales professionals in the North where resources were scarce. Every business needs sales, regardless of the stigma around the term. It's crucial to uplift and professionalise the industry, similar to the marketing sector, which has numerous events and meetups.

“We had our third Sales, Service and Success Conference this year, which was a great success. We plan to continue hosting it annually. As a fellow at Northumbria University, I’m also proud of our efforts to promote

the B Corp movement and sustainability. This partnership is what led to the North's first Responsible Business Conference which is scheduled for January 2025. We’re currently planning this exciting event, and I'm proud that Just Williams is associated with Northumbria University in this endeavour.”

Like many of us, Jessica has been guilty of burning the candle at both ends and is now dedicated to ensuring she has a healthy work-life balance.

“I’ve learned the hard way that you can't pour from an empty cup. Now,

I make sure to take a week off every quarter to recharge. Yes, I might still check my emails, but that's just me. As long as I set clear boundaries and stick to it, that's what's important for me. I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by a great team too.”

Beyond business, Jessica is passionate about giving back to the

community. She has been a prolific charity fundraiser, raising approximately £42,000 over the past few years.

“This year, we organised the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge with regional CEOs, raising £10,000 for local charities. It’s important to me that we contribute positively to our community, and I'm proud of the work we've done.

“I’ve always been dedicated to helping charities. I think in the last two years I've run nine marathons, climbed Mont Blanc, done an ultramarathon, lots of hiking and more for charity. It’s going back to the B Corp principle. My ethos is very much around we have a responsibility to give back and pay forward. But I also like to eat and I love my red wine, if I'm honest with you, so I have to do something to balance it out,” she jokes.

“In all seriousness, I’m a really big believer that you can't be mentally fit, unless you’re physically fit and vice versa. For me to operate at my highest possible level and to be the best possible leader I can be, I have to be both mentally and physically fit. I’m a huge goal setter and having goals keeps me driving forward,” she adds.

On a personal level, Jessica is gearing up for a series of physical challenges, including an ultramarathon, Lone Survivor and Hyrox. These activities, she notes, are not just about physical fitness but also about mental resilience.

“Pushing myself outside of my comfort zone is something I thrive on, both in business and in life.”

Humble and inspiring, speaking to Jessica shows what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and integrity. Whether through ethical business practices, community involvement, or personal growth, Jessica embodies a modern entrepreneur’s spirit, committed to making a difference in every aspect of her life.

justwilliamsltd.co.uk

autumn 24 mentoring for growth

Forum checks in with Neil Henry, a successful entrepreneur turned mentor, and Sasha Warr, the owner of Outsourced HR. Their mentoring journey has had a transformative impact on Sasha's business, here’s how…

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, navigating the complexities of business can be daunting. Recognising the need for guidance and support, the Entrepreneurs’ Forum offers a unique opportunity for its members through regular mentoring sessions. These confidential one-to-one sessions

provide dedicated time to seek advice and discuss the intricacies of business with experienced entrepreneurs. A recent mentoring pairing between mentor Neil Henry and mentee Sasha Warr showcases just how beneficial these sessions can be to both parties. Neil Henry, after successfully running

a building services business for over two decades, made the decision to exit the business in March 2023. Reflecting on his journey, Neil shares: “Running the business had its novelties and its challenges. We took the business from a start-up with three employees to a business of 135 employees turning

over nearly £40 million. It had its ups, downs, and a few economic hurdles to climb along the way, but I learned a lot over the years.”

Having exited the business, Neil found himself frequently sought after for advice. “During that month off, a lot of people were asking if they could pick my brains over a coffee. So, I kind of decided that there must be an opportunity out there for someone like myself, who’s been in business for over 20 years, to share their knowledge. People want that information and there’s no better valuable commodity than experience.” Neil subsequently founded Option3 Logic, a consultancy service for SMEs and business owners. “I’ve been a

member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum for about five years. I spoke to them about mentoring opportunities, and the ball started rolling from there,” he recalls.

Sasha Warr, owner of the HR consultancy Outsourced HR, has been running her business for 14 years. She joined the Entrepreneurs’ Forum earlier this year, finding the experience transformative.

“I’m quite a new member of the Forum, only joining earlier this year, but it’s the best thing I ever did. The membership is amazing; I feel really supported, the quality of events is exceptional, and I’ve met some incredible people.”

The mentoring sessions provided Sasha with the guidance she needed during a crucial growth phase. "The biggest thing for me which I wanted to address within the mentoring sessions was quality. I had operated on my own for 11 years, and when the business started to grow and I was bringing other people in, how do I ensure that the business continues to operate in the way I want it to operate and that the clients receive the quality of advice they’re expecting.”

Upon reviewing the profiles of potential mentors, Neil Henry’s stood out to Sasha. “After reading through it, I knew he had the knowledge and expertise to help me.” Their mentoring sessions have pushed Sasha out of her comfort zone and encouraged her to implement changes she hadn’t considered before. “Neil questioned me on certain areas of the business, for example, how do I know which clients have taken what services, what do I do with proposals, which clients are on a retainer etc., and he highlighted to me that I needed a CRM system.”

Neil’s insight into business operations has been invaluable to Sasha.

“We’ve implemented a lot of new elements following the sessions. Neil talked to me about changing my retained contract a little bit, tweaking to give me a little bit more security in the business. Another big way he’s helped me is with my brand awareness, helping me to make changes to better position the business.”

For Neil, mentoring is not about

financial gain but about making a difference. “I’m in a fortunate position where I’m not doing the mentoring for financial reasons, but because I want to. I feel extremely lucky and grateful to be able to share the knowledge I’ve gained over the years and share it with others. I’m a firm believer that if you’ve got the knowledge to share, then share it.”

Sasha’s experience highlights the transformative power of mentorship.

“Joining the Forum and taking part in these mentoring sessions has made me sit up and think I need to start thinking like a bigger business and investing in things like a CRM system and marketing staff, which all would have seemed a bit scary before.”

Beyond the mentoring sessions, Sasha has benefited from the networking opportunities provided by the Forum. “Being a member of the Forum has introduced me to some fantastic people. I managed to secure some funding for a brand-new website and maybe something towards the CRM system and some digital content.”

Neil’s advice to seasoned entrepreneurs is clear: “If you’re a business owner, or someone who's been in business with a lot of experience, definitely consider becoming a mentor. And likewise on the flip side, if you’re a business owner who wants some sort of advice or help, don't be afraid to ask because you’ll be amazed what resources are on your doorstep. Being a mentor is really rewarding and it’s great to give something back.”

The mutual benefits of the mentoring relationship are evident in the growth and confidence Sasha has gained.

“Participating in the mentoring sessions is a golden opportunity to tap into knowledge and support that you don't otherwise have. You’re speaking to people that have been around the block and have had a similar journey to you. Why wouldn’t you tap into that resource?”

The mentoring sessions provided by the Entrepreneurs' Forum offer a unique opportunity for business owners to gain insights and advice from seasoned entrepreneurs. Neil Henry’s journey from a successful

business owner to a mentor shows the value of sharing knowledge and experience, while Sasha Warr’s growth trajectory highlights the tangible benefits of mentorship. Whether you’re an experienced

Mentoring Drop-In

entrepreneur or a business owner seeking guidance, the Forum's mentoring sessions can be a gamechanger, providing the support needed to navigate the challenges of business.

Our mentoring drop-in sessions are confidential one-to-one sessions, giving you a rare chance to talk through business challenges with other experienced entrepreneurs. To book a space, check out our website.

For entrepreneur members only.

As someone who struggles with planning and organising aspects of business the Sprint Session was perfect for me. Robson Laidler really opened my eyes and gave me some great resources to move my business forward. I would urge every business owner to give this a go. Claire Khan, Fin Proms.

The Sprint Session was comprehensive and delivered in a way that made the content very easy to understand. The Robson Laidler business advisors created an excellent atmosphere in the room.”

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forum partner Tees Valley

Tees Valley is rapidly placing itself at the forefront of the creative industries with new and

ongoing programmes

to boost businesses and support our excellent creators and entrepreneurs.

Five local artists have been named as the first successful Tees Valley Artists of the Year 2024. This is a new scheme run by Tees Valley Combined Authority supporting five leading local artists, who will receive a careerchanging £30,000 investment, as it develops the region as an engine room for creative artists. They are Middlesbrough singersongwriter Amelia Coburn; Darlington author Lisette Auton; Stockton-based visual artist Claire A Baker; theatremaker Scott Turnbull and Stockton film-maker Andy Berriman. The project is a bold new approach to nurture the next generation of musicians, filmmakers and writers, which could provide a groundbreaking model for other areas. Each will receive investment over a year, which includes a real-living wage bursary and a professional development budget.

They will also receive industry mentoring and tailored business support to take their creative career to the next level. The successful artists were selected after a competitive process involving panellists from the region’s leading cultural organisations, Arts Council England, and TVCA.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’ve got a great wealth of talent in our region, and we can all do more to shout it from the rooftops. We want to help our brightest talents thrive and build their careers here – and this award is one part of that plan.”

The award is part of a wider £20.5million programme of investment by the Combined Authority to grow the region’s creative and cultural industries and visitor economies.

The artists were chosen ahead of the three-year anniversary of another

pioneering partnership to nurture talent, support TV and film creatives and businesses and bring blockbuster films to Teesside.

The BBC’s agreement with the North East Screen Partnership (NESIP) brought a push to boost homegrown talent in our region on its launch in 2021. In that time, Teesside has hosted the filming and premiere of star-studded movie Jackdaw, as well as seeing a rise in a raft of TV and film productions coming here.

The £11.4million North East Screen Industries Partnership, backed by £4.5million of investment from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, is being delivered by North East Screen.

It was established to capitalise on the BBC’s commitment to invest £25million in the region to help fund TV production and talent development across the region’s

Mayor Houchen said: “Our region has fantastic locations, amazing talent, and huge potential as a centre for TV and film making – so it has been great to see the development of new shows in our area as part of this growing partnership with the BBC. “We are building a growing reputation as a place where opportunities in the creative and digital sectors are thriving. This is why the expansion of the BBC in places such as Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool is so important as it not only shows off the best of our area but provides long-term careers for local people in well-paid skilled industries.”

Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen, said: “The landmark BBC partnership was a substantial catalyst for the growth of the screen industry in the North East. Over the past two years production has grown by 86% making

We are building a growing reputation as a place where opportunities in the creative and digital sectors are thriving.

creative sectors. As the Hartlepool Development Corporation continues to evolve, a modern Production Village will be created, helping link businesses and entrepreneurs with the Northern Film and TV Studios.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie met Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen in Darlington in August to discuss the region’s future and mark the threeyear anniversary.

our region the fastest growing in the UK.

“We have welcomed home grown and inward productions from the BBC, ITV, C4, Sky, Netflix, and Amazon, as well as major feature films. We have generated £12.7m of GVA (calculated by Saffery Champness on behalf of NE Screen) and secured regional jobs equivalent to 264 FTEs.”

centre stage Mark Scott autumn 24

Mark Scott shares the path that led to Bella & Duke becoming a multimillion-pound business specialising in healthy pet food and emphasises the importance of taking a break.

When Mark Scott left the stage at the Forum’s spring conference, Fortune Favours the Brave, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

The heartwarming story of his success tugged at the heartstrings of every animal-lover in the room as he shared his entrepreneurial journey, inspired by two beloved pet dogs, Morpheus and Trinity.

From the heartbreak of losing his first treasured pet, Morpheus, grew a multi-million-pound business which is helping transform the pet food industry, setting new standards and educating pet owners about the importance of what they feed their animals.

Leaving school at 16 with no qualifications, the future looked bleak for the young man from Ponteland. “I was that kid, the one with no GCSEs, the one who was just continually bored at school,” he recalls.

“I knew nobody was going to employ me, so I decided I’d have to create my own career.”

Taking a job as a door-to-door salesman, he enjoyed the hustling and hard work as he pitched vibrating pillows, among other things. From there, he developed several internet sales businesses and while not unhappy in this line of work, he always knew he needed more. But the turning point came at the age of 42 when he took a year out. Having discovered biohacking, the practice of using technology, biology, and various techniques to enhance or modify one’s own body, Mark had

already begun to turn his life around.

“I’d been 17-and-a-half stone, really good at smoking, really good at drinking but I felt awful, lethargic all the time and I knew something had to change.

“I started reading up on biohacking, which came from the USA, and I realised there was something there, this business of putting the right things into your body and the difference it makes. I watched my reflection change in the mirror but more important was the change in me. I was eating healthily and cleanly and I was a different person.”

It was this transformation in himself

that led to the business idea which would change his life.

At around the same time, Mark’s dog was diagnosed with cancer and as he and the family dealt with the shock, he began to think about his own health journey and quickly realised a similar attitude should be taken with animals.

“I looked at what they ate and knew how much my physical and mental health had turned around once I began eating fresh, healthy food, so why shouldn’t it be the same for dogs, cats or any other animal?”

Putting Trinity, his remaining Border Collie, on a raw diet was clearly paying dividends, with a visible difference almost as soon as he changed her diet.

From this idea, Bella & Duke was born. Initially aimed at dogs only, it later expanded to cater for cats too - but none of it came without hard work.

And for Mark, a man who had never

really stopped since he left school, this time it was a bit different.

“After doing sales, I ran so many businesses it was a bit crazy. I had Go Bananas, I ran double decker party buses in seven cities including Newcastle, organised stag and hen party travel, a recruitment business, a property portfolio, and an SEO company in India employing 60+ people… the list was endless.

“With all of them, it was just a way of making money. There was never really a purpose other than to gain material things.

“But this was different. With Bella & Duke there was a purpose, and it was too important to get it wrong. It had to be big, if I was going to disrupt the industry, I really had to go for it.”

The company was initially named RG as in ‘Raw Goodness’ and after gathering feedback and making a few changes, it eventually evolved into Bella & Duke.

Social media advertising helped it

rocket in popularity, as pet owners keen to give their pets the best they could, quickly became customers.

As business grew so did the profits and with it the team. However, one thing that didn’t waver was Mark’s commitment to transforming the lives of pets - along with his staff.

“I’m a pet lover. I’ve never tried to be or tried to position myself as a vet, scientist or nutritionist, but this business has always been different to the others. This one wasn’t about me, it was about doing right by pets, but I also wanted to build a culture for my team.

“I wanted the team to come into work and enjoy their day and leave feeling better than when they arrived. Along

with encouraging people to be kind, it’s about encouraging them to push themselves out of their comfort zones.”

Having built a strong relationship with his team and a successful business, Mark decided to make what he regards as the second biggest decision of his life: to step down as CEO.

“Bella & Duke was always about something more important than me, that’s why I’m no longer CEO. After seven years, I had reached the stage where I knew it wasn’t about me, it was about the mission. The company had great growth and, importantly, is profitable.

“I knew there were people out there

who would be better to take this business to the next level. That’s what Richard Branson does. He is a founder, he’s not an operator. He knows there are better operators out there and that’s how I see it.

“Bringing someone new in makes a huge difference because they come in with new eyes, they don’t have the history, they aren’t worried about offending and they come in, make changes and you see the benefits.

“I’ve found it really interesting going to that stage, letting someone else

come in to run it and it frees me up to do other things.”

With Bella & Duke, Mark is convinced much of the success has been down to finding the right people - and is keen to get across that when it comes to finding the ‘right’ people, one size doesn’t fit all.

“Attitude is the number one thing for me but I love people who really push themselves. I don’t mind someone who has had several jobs, it really just depends on the role I’m filling.

“Sometimes I’ll want someone who is really detailed in their thinking, sometimes I want someone who can do things I can’t… it all depends.

Often you find someone who isn’t quite at the level you're looking for but you can see it’s there in them.

“Sometimes you meet people and you can just see they have that fire in their belly and I think getting a couple of core people like that in your business is really, really important.”

With Bella & Duke now in 400 Pets at Home stores across the country, and a £50-million business to his name, it’s fair to say Mark is a shining example of success.

And he is convinced that if he can do it, others can too.

“Sometimes the biggest thing you can do is to take a break. When things aren’t working out, take a break and re-evaluate. That’s what I did. I had taken a year out to try and figure my next move and four years later I had a multi-million pound business.

“My advice to anyone would be if you see an opportunity and you know you can do it, then go for it. Don’t be a busy fool. If it isn’t working then step away. But if you can do it, throw everything you can at it. Go for it, and go all in.”

autumn 24 forum partner Ward Hadaway

Your Heads of Terms – the key to getting the best deal from your investor.

You have an offer! Your prospective investor was impressed with your business plan and financial progress to date, wowed by the opportunities in your growing market, and captivated by your superb team. So, what next?

How do you understand what your new relationship will look like once your would-be investor has a stake in your company? Are you really getting the best deal, not simply for now, but as you begin to grow?

Know your investor

If this investment is to be a genuine catalyst for growth, your prospective investor's requirements must not hinder the performance of the Company or supress any returns for you going forward. Consequently, it is imperative that you know your investor, including ensuring you have clarity on what the investor's

requirements are at an early stage, that they are proportionate from your perspective and you can comply with them.

Proactive negotiation of Key Terms

The approach of your would-be investor in an early negotiation of key terms, whether as part of a competitive bidding process or otherwise, provides an important opportunity to test whether the investor will be the right partner for you and the growth of your business going forward.

The offer letter/heads of terms is often the first evidence you will have of their approach to the key elements of their investment and how they will document the nature of your relationship at the point of investment.

Most active equity investors will adopt a relatively standardised approach to settling their legal documents for making investments, so the heads provide the primary opportunity to understand the influence your investor is seeking and for you to challenge any aspects of their approach that you are uncomfortable with before you begin to spend significant time and cost to complete the investment. Experience suggests that an

eagerness to sign off heads and get into the process rather than using the heads as an opportunity to properly identify and address any concerns up front will result in a significantly diminished negotiating position later down the line, not to mention the impact on your relationship with your investor going forward.

Typically deals that fail at an advanced stage do so as a consequence of something which could have been addressed at an early stage.

A properly considered and negotiated set of heads provides you with a perfect opportunity to determine what legal protections and controls an investor may seek with any offer and identify those key issues to address with your future investor at an early stage. Indeed, it may be that you are able to drive any competitive tension to invest in your business at this stage to ensure you achieve better terms.

Engage advisors early

A key factor in settling favourable heads of terms is to get your advisors involved early. Do not wait until after you've signed the heads.

Engagement with knowledgeable advisors at an early stage will undoubtedly add value. It provides you a forum to ensure that you can fully understand any of the legal protections and controls that an investor may seek to offer, you know whether aspects of the heads reflect a market recognised approach, as well as helping you decide what key terms you would like to address "up front" with your would-be investor which may be missing from the initial draft.

This approach should ensure that you are able to flush out your investor's position on any key terms early. It also tends to be welcomed by an investor as it provides an impression of an organised, investable business which has considered all aspects of the things that may be relevant to the company's governance moving forward.

At Ward Hadaway our corporate team has a strong track record of working with investors and owner managed businesses at all stages of the growth cycle, and we would be delighted to have a chat with you to help you settle a strategy for negotiating your investment documents.

To initiate a discussion please do not hesitate to get in touch with Corporate Partner James Nightingale. www.wardhadaway.com james.nightingale@wardhadaway.com

join us in

2024 Entrepreneurial Awards

Friday 27th September, 6pm - midnight

Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

Open to all

Individual ticket £120+VAT

Table of 10 £1,200+VAT

Get ready to raise your glass to the entrepreneurs who are rewriting the rules — the trailblazers, pioneers and innovators of the North East.

Secure your place at the most anticipated event of the year: the 2024 Entrepreneurial Awards!

Scan to find out more:

entrepreneursforum.net/awards

entrepreneurial awards meet our 2024 finalists

Since 2004, our annual awards have recognised, celebrated and illuminated the North East's best entrepreneurial talent with finalists representing every stage of the business lifecycle from 'One to Watch' to 'Lifetime Achievement'. Now, we’re delighted to unveil our finalists for 2024.

One to Watch

2024 Finalists

An entrepreneur who is building a new business with the potential to positively impact our region.

Supported by

Hamish Adamson Harlyn Solutions

Natasha Boulding Low Carbon Materials

Ian Brown Chestnut Bio

Dr Olusola Idowu Hexis Lab

James Widmer Advanced Electric Machines

2024 Finalists Impact

An entrepreneur behind a resilient and inclusive business which is making a sustained contribution to making the North East a better place.

Supported by

Bethany Ainsley OptiMe

Kari Owers O.agency

2024 Finalists Scale-up

An entrepreneur behind a high growth business which is having a positive economic impact on our region, and has the potential to continue to benefit the North East.

Supported by

Charlotte Staerck The Handbag Clinic

Charlotte Windebank FIRST

Simon Briton and Neil Henry Grace House North East

Mark Edmondson Inflo Group

Victoria Lynch Additional Lengths

Champion

An entrepreneur who is a role model for entrepreneurship in our region.

Supported by

2024 Finalists

Ammar Mirza CBE SME Centre of Excellence

Steve Pugh Roadmap MBA

Charlie Hoult

Steven Rawlingson Samuel Knight International

In addition to our four category winners, on the evening of our Awards ceremony, we’ll also unveil our winners for the following titles:

Entrepreneur of the Year

Our category finalists will go head-to-head for the prestigious title of Entrepreneur of the Year. The judges will focus on the performance of our finalists over the past 12 months to determine our ultimate winner.

Supported by

Lifetime Achievement

Our Lifetime Achievement award recognises a business leader who has shown huge commitment over a significant period of time and made a major impact to the regional economy.

Scaleup North East Programme

The Scaleup North East Programme is part-funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the North of Tyne Combined Authority and is now administered by the North East Combined Authority.

The project provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

Why Join Scaleup North East?

1. Workshops and Events to Drive Your Growth

Our workshops and events are crafted to deliver valuable insights, connect you with other professionals, and uncover new opportunities for scaling your business. Whether you're refining your strategies or seeking fresh ideas, these sessions provide the knowledge and connections to move your business forward.

2. Proven Success for North East Businesses

Hundreds of local businesses have transformed their operations and boosted their growth by participating in the Scaleup North East programme. By participating and with the support from our partners, they’ve gained the tools to enhance profitability, improve strategic focus, and reach their growth potential.

3. Eligibility

If your business has growth potential and you’re based in

Credit: North East Times

Northumberland, Newcastle, North or South Tyneside, or Gateshead, you could be eligible. While certain sectors are prioritised, visit our website for full eligibility criteria and to check if you qualify.

4. Simple Application Process

The application is straightforward, and all you need are your company incorporation details and latest financial accounts to get started.

Take the first step toward accelerating your business growth. Join our workshops and events, and tap into the insights and networks that can help you thrive.

About Our Partners: “Angelina's creative insights and collaborative methods have sharpened our strategic focus. She has helped us revitalise our vision, values, objectives, and goals, bringing a welcome clarity to our business planning.”

- Business Owner, Scaleup North East

From Our Events: “The value has been incredible –a real breath of fresh air. What stood out most was meeting others, leading to potential collaborations. The speakers were inspiring, offering a genuine insight into the realities of being a Founder and Entrepreneur. For me, the biggest takeaway was to be bold and seize opportunities – it’s been absolutely worth the time.”

Scaleup North East Upcoming Events

The Essential Employment Law / HR Masterclass

10th September 2024

A fully funded 3-hour masterclass on employment law and HR.

Stand Out! How to Attract and Retain the Best Talent 11th September 2024

A programme for organisations to attract and retain top talent.

Planet First: Pollution Prevention & Legal Mastery 17th September 2024

A workshop on managing environmental pollution risks.

The Fundamentals of an Effective Marketing Strategy

17th September 2024

A 3-hour marketing strategy planning session.

How to Connect Powerfully with Customers AND Employees

26th September 2024

Enhancing brand communication with customers and employees.

The World Famous 1-3-5 Action Plan

16th October 2024

An interactive session for senior leadership.

scaleupnortheast.co.uk

autumn 24

addressing the issue

Scaling up? Get your team right, first. In the journey of scaling up, possibly the most critical challenge faced by entrepreneurs is building the right team.

In the latest Entrepreneurs' Forum member pulse survey, 44% of respondents identified ‘people’ as their main challenge to business growth, with many attributing this difficulty to the struggle of identifying the 'right' candidates and balancing salary demands with business profitability.

“When embarking on the journey of growing your business, the first question to ask is: are your people happy and engaged and would you enthusiastically rehire them all?” says Ian Kinnery, business leader and coach for the Forum’s growth programme, the Scale-up Leaders’ Academy (SULA). “It’s important to understand that loyalty to those who helped you start may hinder your ability to scale. The skillset needed for scaling up is different and entrepreneurs need to evolve their teams as their business matures.”

Here, Ian references the bestselling

business book Good to Great where author Jim Collins famously compares a business to a bus and its leader to the bus driver. The author stresses the importance of starting with "who" rather than "where" when it comes to steering a company towards greatness.

“Imagine yourself as that bus driver,” Ian continues, “Your company, represented by the bus, is poised at a pivotal moment; the route ahead is clear in terms of where you want to go, and how you plan to get there, but the success of this journey hinges significantly on the people you have on board.

“Navigating growth requires more than just a roadmap of your destination; it requires a team that not only shares your values but also possesses the skills and dedication to propel your business forward.”

Entrepreneurs’ Forum member Jon Dudgeon, co-founder and CEO of Blu Sky, vividly illustrates this through his own experience.

Stepping up to the role of CEO in 2023, Jon soon realised he needed support to free up his time and capacity.

“I realised early on that I couldn’t grow the company on my own and you need a diverse team around you that compliments your skill set. I get easily distracted by admin and my busy schedule can become overwhelming. My board and mentor both said I needed to bring in an Executive Assistant (EA) who could support me to apply more discipline and structure to my diary so I could

work efficiently and free up time to spend with the team, clients and on my own personal development."

By bringing in an EA who could provide structure and support, Jon not only gained clarity and efficiency but also found a team member who shared his vision and contributed to the company's overall growth.

Jon’s insight resonates with many entrepreneurs who find themselves overwhelmed by the administrative demands of fast growth, while his experience highlights a crucial aspect of team building: the recognition that the right people can alleviate burdens and enable the leader to focus on more strategic initiatives.

Ian acknowledges that Jon's experience is unique to his own journey and that different businesses may require different solutions.

“Whilst employing an EA may not be the answer for everyone,” Ian explains, “it’s one example of how a team can evolve to become more efficient as they expand. Roles that were crucial in the early stages may become redundant, and new expertise will be required to

navigate different challenges."

“Some of your original team may be capable of stepping up to the new challenge but leaders must assess individual skill sets and make hard decisions if required,” comments Ian, “This evolutionary process ensures that the team remains agile and capable of supporting the business’s expanding needs.”

Here, Ian references the growth of Talentheads which was launched by Sam Spoors from her kitchen table in 2020.

In four years, Sam has grown the company into an award-winning business with two sites across the North East. Sam herself has won multiple accolades for her leadership including Global 100 Women in Leadership and the North East Chamber of Commerce 2023 Entrepreneur of the Year.

“We were growing and scaling, however, we needed to continue to work on our foundations to ensure we could grow and scale with the long term in mind,” comments Sam, adding, “I invested in the development of our leadership team

Jon Dudgeon and Dave Gibson, Blu Sky

Ian Kinnery, Scale-up Leaders' Academy coach

in 2023, which has allowed me to focus on the vision and the strategy of the business.

“As a result of my attendance on the Forum’s SULA course, we created a learning culture in Talentheads – one which the team have really embraced, we all invest time in our own learning and development. The benefits that this has brought to us individually and collectively have been a game changer. Our business is so much further forward because of it.”

Building a strong team and fostering a culture of continuous learning is crucial for sustainable growth - but it comes at a cost.

The Forum's latest member pulse survey also revealed that many members find balancing salary demands with business profitability to be a delicate challenge.

Financial and time resources allocated to recruiting, training and retaining top talent, while investing in the company’s future prosperity, can be substantial. By developing strategic hiring practices and cultivating a supportive growthoriented culture, businesses increase the odds of success.

For Jon and co-founder Dave Gibson, investing in their team has been pivotal to Blu Sky’s transformation from a fledgling start-up in 2005 to a prominent accountancy firm. In fact, Dave explains that Blu Sky’s success is rooted in their commitment to nurturing their team’s development.

“Growing the team is not just about

growing headcount, and indeed, that’s far less important than growing the individuals,” comments Dave, adding, “The most fulfilling part of growing Blu Sky has been watching people, clients and team members grow and reach their own potential.

“I’m proud to believe that those who’ve been with us for a solid stint have all progressed and almost all who have been and left, left in a better place than when they joined.

This isn’t just about technical skills, it’s about growing emotional maturity, communication skills, empathy and decision making.”

To Ian, the experiences shared by Jon, Dave and Sam serve as prime examples of how evolving your team as you scale drives business growth.

“These journeys emphasise the importance of strategic hiring, nurturing talent and continuously adapting the team to meet the evolving demands of a growing business,” comments Ian.

“The foundation of business success lies in the individuals who drive it forward. As a bus driver leading your company towards its goals, remember that your greatest responsibility is not just to define the destination, but to ensure that you have the right team alongside youindividuals who are not only skilled but also share your passion and commitment.

“By focusing on "who" first, you set the stage for a journey that moves from good to great.”

Forum favourites

From motivational reads, insightful documentaries and podcasts, Forum picks out a selection of inspiring media…

read

The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance – Africa Brooke

In our deeply divided, binary world, honest discussion is stressful for all sides. In this manifesto, Africa teaches us how to return to critical thinking and reduce societal divides by opening our minds and being more self-questioning in difficult discussions. You’ll learn to share your views, hear others, make a point you feel must be made, and try to find common ground without self-censorship or self-sabotage.

This book helps readers move away from rigid thinking, allowing them to enter any potentially difficult discussion while maintaining integrity, authenticity, and openness, and successfully expressing opinions while listening to contrary points of view. She offers readers a new path for communication, critical to building trust and fruitful relationships.

watch

The Lakes: Our Life on the Edge, BBC iPlayer This documentary debut from Entrepreneurs’ Forum members, WANDER, in the BBC One series ‘Our Lives’ explores the relationship between free-solo climbing couple, Anna and Mat, as they embark on a monumental 100 mile challenge across the rugged and majestic landscapes of the Lake District. The documentary uncovers both the physical and emotional challenges that come with climbing some of the country's most dangerous peaks, without any ropes or protective equipment. Viewers are given a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the highs and lows of the sport, as newly engaged Anna and Mat face the biggest challenge of their climbing careers and confront some of life's biggest questions along the way.

Listen

WorkLife with Adam Grant

Organisational psychologist Adam Grant takes you inside the minds of some of the world’s most fascinating people to discover the key to a better work life. From learning how to love your rivals to harnessing the power of frustration, join Adam with guests including Sir Richard Branson, Julia Gillard, Australia’s first female Prime Minister, and the Airbnb co-founder and CEO, Brian Chesky. Adam also tackles emotions and mental obstacles that impact our work, like loneliness, procrastination, burnout and bouncing back from rejection. In immersive interviews, Adam vividly brings his observations to life, weaving together stories with social science and revealing key insights in a friendly, accessible style.

Sam Spoors, Talentheads

autumn 24

forum legends

In this new feature, we ask some of our longest standing members about their memorable experiences and the impact the Entrepreneurs' Forum has had on them over the years.

Karen Weir Weir Insurance

What initially attracted you to join the Forum?

A client recommended the Forum to me. That was over 11 years ago and I’ve been a member ever since.

What elements of membership have been most beneficial to you?

In the early years, the mentoring was hugely helpful and I’m really grateful to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to help me on my business journey.

Can you share an example of a time when the support from the Forum has helped you to overcome a business challenge?

The Forum was always a place to come for personal and business development, not a networking/trading platform, and that was always refreshing. I have asked many questions of other members without feeling like I was selling to them or being sold to, which is so unique. That said I have won lots of new clients from introductions originally made at the Forum events. It’s just great that these came as a byproduct and not the main reason for attendance.

Can you share a memorable experience or event organised by the Forum which has had a lasting impact on you?

Years ago, I helped as a panellist to judge some innovation awards with students and their business ideas, I was blown away by some of the technological projects.

What advice would you give to new members or anyone considering joining?

Don’t join with the sole purpose of winning clients, the Forum is as much about personal development and giving back as it is about growing your business. Talk to as many people as you can and learn everything you can.

Paul Drake Sapere

What initially attracted you to join the Forum?

I joined the Entrepreneurs’ Forum in 2010 as I could see the huge learning opportunity the Forum presented to business owners. When you start out in business you don’t know a great deal, but the Forum had hundreds of members prepared to share their stories, failures and successes.

What elements of membership have been most beneficial to you?

The element of membership I’ve found most beneficial are the Focus Dinners. Running a business is tough and you can sometimes lose focus on why you are doing what you are doing as you get tied up in the day to day running. The Focus Dinners provide an environment where you can focus purely on your business by hearing from other business owners and leaders that have achieved great success. The journeys often cover adversity and difficulties before they’ve reached the point they are at, but this provides assurance and inspiration which you can bring back to your own business.

Can you share an example of a time when the support from the Forum has helped you to overcome a business challenge?

Another business wanted to buy our company, this came out of the blue, we weren’t geared up for a sale and had no idea what to do, how to value a business or even if we should consider this. James Robson (Forum Chairman at the time) kindly offered his time to share his knowledge and thoughts to help us understand the proposition. His knowledge allowed us to take control of the situation and we ultimately decided not to progress with any form of sale.

Can you share a memorable experience or event organised by the Forum which has had a lasting impact on you?

The recent Fortune Favours the Brave conference sticks in the memory and in particular the speaker Mark Deeks. Mark had the full room singing. I can’t remember the song now but he taught the room how to sing. I was one of probably many that instinctively said I can’t sing, but that’s because I’ve never been taught. A few basic steps from Mark and I felt like I could sing a few words in harmony. Totally outside of my comfort zone, like most I’d imagine, but it was a brilliant experience and a reminder that the good stuff lies beyond your self-imposed comfort zone!

What advice would you give to new members or anyone considering joining? You’ll only get value out of the Forum if you commit the time to attend the events, but you’ll not find a better setup to learn and be inspired by other like-minded business owners and leaders who have all been on a similar journey.

Chris March Allies Group

What initially attracted you to join the Forum?

I joined the Entrepreneurs’ Forum in 2008, having set up my first business in 2007. As a new entrepreneur, I was initially attracted to the opportunity to rub shoulders with the likes of Sir Peter Vardy, Lorna Moran OBE, and Tom Maxfield. Hearing their stories, sharing their enthusiasm for supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and receiving their advice was invaluable at that time. Not to mention, Elle Macpherson was the headline speaker at the 2008 conference. What can I say...

What elements of membership have been most beneficial to you?

The most beneficial element of being a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum for me has most certainly been the network. Like-minded individuals come together to share stories of success and failure with no judgement, just outright support for each other. That’s the great thing about the Forum membership: we all have a vested interest in seeing each other do well.

Can you share an example of a time when the support from the Forum has helped you to overcome a business challenge?

Over the years, I’ve faced some difficult challenges. Anyone who has been in business for 20 years has been through the mill and experienced the good, the bad, and the downright awful times. There are numerous instances where the advice I’ve received, the connections I’ve made, and the relationships I’ve formed through the Entrepreneurs’ Forum have helped me navigate choppy waters, whether financial, people-related, or health-related. I am grateful for them all.

Can you share a memorable experience or event organised by the Forum which has had a lasting impact on you?

‘Will it make the boat go faster?’ was a phrase I heard at a conference some years ago. The speaker was Ben Hunt-Davis, who was part of an underachieving men’s eight Great Britain rowing team at the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000. The emphasis of his presentation was that every decision made - whether related to personnel, equipment, or strategy - was calculated to make the boat go faster.

Pride was put aside, diets changed, rowing strategies evaluated, and positions in the boat shifted, all to make the boat go faster. A fellow entrepreneur and I looked at each other, and it was like a lightbulb moment. We instantly understood the analogy: from the smallest to the largest and most painful changes, progress needs to be made to achieve your goals. In recent years, since COVID, I’ve lived by this mantra. Every decision I make is aimed at achieving the end goal and that gold medal for my business.

What advice would you give to new members or anyone considering joining?

To borrow a quote from Nike: ‘Just do it!’. For the modest membership fee, you will benefit significantly from the network, the support, the inspiration, and the camaraderie. I’ve been a member of the Forum for over 15 years, and in that time, I’ve never once regretted or questioned my membership.

Caroline Moody Moody Logistics

What initially attracted you to join the Forum? Over 13 years ago I sat next to Tom Maxwell’s (founder member) wife on the train to London and chatting to her she told me about the Forum and suggested I joined.

What elements of membership have been most beneficial to you?

Attending events and networking.

Can you share an example of a time when the support from the Forum has helped you to overcome a business challenge?

Not a business one, but more recently they have really encouraged and given me the platform to open up about the homeless charity I have started with my husband, Core Foundations.

Can you share a memorable experience or event organised by the Forum which has had a lasting impact on you?

Probably one of my first events, when I went to Jesmond Dene House for dinner. There were 12 of us around the table including Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, Sir Peter Vardy and Dame Margaret Barbour. I sat thinking ‘How on earth am I here? These guys are out of my league.’ I barely said anything for fear of sounding stupid but it inspired me. I still get nervous now when I walk into a room wondering who to talk to, but it pushes me out of my comfort zone.

What advice would you give to new members or anyone considering joining?

It's time away from the day-to-day operation of your business to allow your thoughts to formulate on how to move forward and gain inspiration from others.

autumn 24 forum partner LDC

Growing a business with the support of a private equity

partner

Chris Fraser, CEO of Gatesheadheadquartered cyber security and managed service provider Aspire Technology Solutions, looks at the business’ growth journey to date, and how the support of private equity partner LDC is helping it reach even greater heights.

My co-founder Nigel Begg and I launched Aspire Technology Solutions back in 2006 and the ICT industry looked very different to what it does today.

Aspire was born from the simple observation that, all too often, IT caused frustration. We knew we could overcome this by creating a customer-first organisation that made sure customers received a hasslefree path to getting the right solutions and the right advice. While our core beliefs haven’t changed a bit from that first day, what certainly has changed is the business itself. Fast-forward 18 years, and today Aspire has expanded from a twoperson venture to a team of around

280 people. We’re proudly serving circa. 2,000 customers across the UK, Ireland, continental Europe, and Australia with cutting-edge technology solutions spanning cyber security, cloud, connectivity, managed services and unified communications.

Investing for growth

One driver of this expansion has been our ability to move with the market as technology has diversified. We’ve capitalised on emerging technology and strengthened the value proposition we offer our customers. While we’ve always been an MSP (managed service provider), this approach has seen us also

become an ISP (internet service provider), a cloud provider and launch our own in-house SOC (Security Operations Centre), delivering round-the-clock managed security services, and leveraging world-class security tools.

As an ambitious team, targeting further growth, we knew we needed to keep evolving to stay ahead of the market and our customers’ needs, and to further extend our reach. Something that we identified would help us to do this, and move our business to the next level, was working with a private equity partner and, in 2022, we secured a significant minority investment from leading private equity investor LDC.

This is already generating real results. For one, it’s accelerating our plans to create new jobs in our home ground of the North East – both at our sites in Gateshead Quays and Stockton’s Northshore.

It’s also helped kick-start our buyand-build journey – a critical part of our ongoing growth plans.

Just a year into our partnership with LDC, we acquired Glasgow-based Cloud Cover IT, a dynamic cloud and IT MSP. This not only enabled us to keep expanding our portfolio of cutting-edge tech solutions, but also extended our UK reach. With LDC’s support, we expect to make more strategic acquisitions to keep extending our geographic reach, and deepening our capabilities.

Achieving ambition

In my experience, having a private equity partner on board can be a major accelerator, bringing financial support, alongside expertise and new perspectives to the business. I’d also encourage management teams to look for partners with a real passion for supporting their vision. That’s what we’ve found in LDC, and now together we have our sights set on even bigger things to come.

In 2015 our turnover was around £8m, and we set a target to reach a £20m turnover by 2020. We achieved this one year early. With a current turnover of circa £40m, we now have further ambitions to reach a £50m turnover by 2026.

Looking ahead, we anticipate that cyber security solutions will be a key area of growth. The number of businesses experiencing a security breach is expected to rise, so we want to ensure that our customers are always protected. Across the country we're actively helping companies shift from reactive to proactive technology, making sure they stay secure and future ready. My advice for other founders considering their own expansion is twofold: stay true to what makes your business special, but don’t be afraid to evolve, and don’t overlook what partners – like private equity investors – can help to unlock. With the right backing behind you, the sky really is the limit.

For more information contact:

Gareth Marshall, Head of North East & Scotland, LDC gmarshall@ldc.co.uk

new members

who’s joined recently

Kayleigh Laverick

Mamma Social Co

Robbie Redpath

Robson and Redpath

Jason Redpath

Robson and Redpath

Willow Redpath

Robson and Redpath

Emily Pearson

Our Mind’s Work

Mark Renney Wubbleyou

Tell us about yourself

I strongly believe that the UK economy will grow quicker, with more scaling businesses innovating with tech. To do this, we need to turn scaleup founders into innovators, who bring revenue generating tech products to market. This is why I run Wubbleyou, a software business which brings tech platforms to market for fast growing businesses. We’ve created tech products which have generated millions of pounds of revenue for fast growing businesses by allowing them to disrupt their sector, and also high profile products for the NHS and Department for Education.

Why did you decide to join the Forum?

I want to meet other ambitious people, and other scaling

Trevor Shingler

T&G Direct Funeral Services

James Clinghan

Trusted Business Partner

David Brophy Waymark

Joshy Jin WowzaBox

Mark Renney Wubbleyou

businesses. It is hard, but I think surrounding yourself with the right people makes it easier.

What do you enjoy most about running your own business?

The ‘freedom’ of it – whilst sometimes it feels like a prison, the autonomy and selfaccountability is compelling.

I think the ability to set a direction, see a hard challenge, and charge towards it with a great team is just a really cool thing to do and achieve.

I also like empowering others. There is nothing better than watching a team member grow with purpose or see themselves empowered to create a better life, or seeing a client achieve great results. The ability and action to foster those outcomes is a phenomenal feeling.

Small businesses can have outsized positive impact on their employees’ lives – we should do our best to do that.

What are you most proud of?

The team we have at Wubbleyou. It has been hard work getting here, but we have a legitimately great team. I am proud of what we build, their conscientiousness and the impact we have as a team. I called a customer recently, who let us know the product we built with them hit £2m in revenue – it’s a nice result.

James Clinghan

Trusted Business Partner

Tell us about yourself

I’m the Director of Trusted Business Partner (TBP), a North East based finance brokerage which I set up in 2018. I’m originally from Northern Ireland but moved to the North East for University and stayed. We have built our business on being ethically motivated and providing specialist support to our clients, professional partners and trade bodies.

Why did you decide to join the Forum?

Sometimes you need a change of perspective. As a business, we want to progress so joining a network with like-minded people will hopefully help me grow and push my business forward.

If you weren’t running your current business what do you think you would be doing now?

Professionally, if it hadn’t been for a ‘Sliding Doors Moment’ of a bad rugby accident, I would probably have been in the police or military.

What are you most proud of?

Being from a Northern Irish farming family, the thing that made me most proud was the day that my Mum and Dad told me they were proud of me. I took a leap of faith when I left banking, I never intended to set up a finance brokerage, I always worked on the basis that if it didn’t work out I could just go back. Six years later and I’ve not looked back.

Kayleigh Laverick Mamma Social Co

Tell us about yourself

I’m a mam of two and I found myself isolated and lonely after having my second child. This made me realise that there was a need for more support in the community and so I set about creating Mamma Social Co. Struggling with the changes that had come about in my life, I reached out online to other mams and asked for anyone feeling the same to meet up for a walk. Myself and nine other mams turned up the very next day. It grew from one walk to 52 parent leads, all hosting weekly Talk & Walks and Walk & Plays Nationwide. I have plans to expand services and host additional events all over the UK throughout the year.

Why did you decide to join the Forum?

I wanted to join the Entrepreneurs’ Forum for the networking and growth potential. Winning the Scaleup category in the Startup Awards North East has been an incredible help for us as a start up to get access to the Forum.

What do you enjoy most about running your own business?

Changing my pain into purpose and seeing a real change in the landscape of parenthood.

autumn 24

31 dining out

Our region is packed with excellent venues to eat out. Here’s our tried and tested suggestions for dining out this autumn.

Middleton Lodge Estate

At Middleton Lodge Estate, the estate-to-plate ethos is at the heart of both Forge and The Coach House. Ingredients are grown on-site or sourced locally, with zero-waste practices and low food-mile menus guiding their culinary approach. Forge, with its Michelin Green Star, offers intricate tasting menus inspired by the estate’s landscape, while The Coach House provides a more relaxed, seasonal dining experience, with daily changing menus rooted in sustainability. Forge is open Thursday to Sunday, for evening reservations only. The Coach House is open all day, every day.

Middleton Lodge, Middleton Tyas, Richmond, North Yorkshire DL10 6NJ info@middletonlodge.co.uk 01325 377 977

The Ship

Here at The Ship we believe we have something for everyone; foodies, drink connoisseurs, dog lovers, families wanting that little bit of TLC. We pride ourselves on celebrating the famous Teesside dish called a ‘Parmo’. Our creative team have been ‘burning the midnight oil’ to create more than 40 different ‘hand-prepped’ Parmos, which take their inspiration from around the world!

The Ship, Redmarshall, Stockton-On-Tees TS21 1EP 01740 630378 theshipredmarshall.co.uk

St. Vincent

Part wine bar, part restaurant, a city centre venue with a city centre buzz. St. Vincent is an after-work drinks spot, supper-with-friends place and general ‘snack-with-a-glass-or-two’ hang out with a big-hearted ‘everybody welcome’ attitude. Inspired by the neighbourhood bars we’ve found on our travels through France and Italy, we offer interesting wines, charcuterie and crowd pleasing dishes full of punchy flavours. We’re a place where an hour spins into several without anyone noticing. Open evenings Tuesday to Friday, all day Saturday and close late. Enough said. Come and find out.

29 Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ stvincentnewcastle.co.uk

SIX

SIX is the iconic Baltic rooftop restaurant, offering stunning panoramic views of Gateshead and Newcastle. The restaurant focuses on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, led by Food Director Greg Lambert. Following a full refurbishment in early 2024, SIX introduced a new tasting menu experience, quickly leading to inclusion in the Michelin and AA food guides. The venue also offers a relaxed bar menu, Sunday roasts, and is popular for private events and celebrations.

SIX Rooftop, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art NE8 3BA eat@sixbaltic.com Phone/WhatsApp: 07922 427019

out of office Nikki Renton autumn 24

Forum sits down with Nikki Renton, owner of J Renton Groundworks, to discuss her passion for fitness and adventure during her time out of the office…

With over 40 years' experience in the construction industry, J Renton

Groundworks has solidified its reputation as a leading North East business. Catering to a diverse clientele that ranges from private homeowners to large commercial organisations, the business has become a preferred contractor for Bellway Homes, one of Britain's top four house-building companies. Now under the ownership of Nikki Renton, the company continues to uphold the high standards of quality, reliability, and value-for-money.

When Nikki isn’t busy running the day-to-day operations of the business, you’ll likely find her spending time with her family or off on an adrenaline junkie-fuelled

adventure. Her most recent escapade? A trek to Everest Base Camp.

“Around 25 years ago I climbed Kilimanjaro and absolutely loved it. When it comes to going on holiday, I love an adventure in comparison to lying on a beach. I got myself all excited after Kilimanjaro and decided I wanted to climb to the top of Everest. But then I brought myself down a little and reminded myself that getting to the summit is extremely dangerous and quite expensive, so I decided reaching Everest Base Camp would be my next challenge. That was 25 years ago, so it’s safe to say that it’s taken me a long time,” Nikki explains. As the saying goes, ‘Life is what

happens while you’re busy making other plans’, and in this case it couldn’t be any truer for Nikki. After falling pregnant, juggling mum life and running a business, the Everest plans were put on the back burner.

“I sadly lost my husband six years ago and I think that reminded me about our goal. So, around five years ago, I started making plans for Everest Base Camp with the support of my parents. However, by the time I had everything sorted, I never got around to it. Then, I was reintroduced to an old friend whom my husband and I had known 20 years ago. He mentioned he wanted to do Everest Base Camp as part of his bucket list. We decided to do it together, and that friend has now become my partner. He's a firefighter

and wanted to raise funds for the firefighter charity. So, that's what inspired us to finally get it done,” explains Nikki.

Nikki and Glenn's paths had crossed again at the perfect moment. Glenn had already been researching the trek and found Evertrek, a company based in Wales that organises trekking holidays while supporting the local Nepalese community. They decided to embark on the journey together in April 2024.

The 17-day trek included 14 adventurers who quickly bonded and supported each other through the gruelling journey. “We all rallied around each other and we were fortunate to be a group of mentally strong people who pushed through all the difficult moments,” explains Nikki.

Preparation for such a trek goes beyond physical training. Nikki’s previous experience with Kilimanjaro provided insight into how physical training isn’t the be-all and end-all. “It made me aware that it doesn’t matter how fit you are, if the altitude is going to get you, it’s going to get you. You could be the fittest person in the world, but still become so unwell due to the altitude. Fortunately, because we were both really busy beforehand, we didn’t prepare as much as we wanted but it also meant we didn’t worry too much about it either. But we’re both very strong-willed and that definitely helped. You’ve almost got to train your mind just as hard and I definitely think that’s what helped me. I knew that it was a bucket list item that had been there for 25 years and I wasn’t going to let anything get in the way of that,” she says.

Logistics were a crucial part of the trek. We were allowed 15 kilograms per person in a duffel bag, carried by porters, while they managed their own day packs with essentials like

layers of clothing, snacks, and water.

“Food wise, we were advised to stick to a vegetarian diet for obvious reasons, and food was lovely, but it was the same every night,” she explains. The accommodations, known as 'Tea Houses,' were basic shelters with minimal comforts.

“They're just purpose-built shelters for trekkers. Some even have holes in. It’s absolutely freezing at night and the toilet is just a hole in the ground with no running water. It's definitely not pleasant and is probably the coldest you'll ever be."

The trek posed numerous challenges along the way, from unpredictable weather to the physical and mental demands of high-altitude trekking.

“The weather can change so drastically from one minute to another. You’ll be in your shorts and a t-shirt one minute and the next you’re bundling up in layers because of the snow,” Nikki notes.

Altitude sickness was a constant concern, slowing progress and making each step more difficult.

“Everything takes longer when you're at altitude - even walking. Since the avalanche back in 2015 in Nepal, the trek itself is no longer a path in certain areas. There's lots of big rock boulders you need to climb over, which is difficult when carrying your rucksack at altitude and you're heavy breathing and tired, it takes a lot of effort,” she says.

Navigating hurdle after hurdle became the norm. Some of which are expected, but avoiding local wildlife and fellow climbers on the busy route isn’t always something people take

into consideration. “When we went, it was climbing season, so it was very busy, and we had to keep avoiding the porters’ path as they were trying to get to the summit. We also had to make sure to avoid the yaks. They are absolutely huge and if you don't get out of their way, they will budge you out of the way with their horns. There’s also ponies and donkeys along the way. So, there’s a lot going on,” she adds.

One of the most daunting aspects for Nikki, however, was confronting her fear of heights. “I never used to be, but I went to visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona a number of years ago and I suddenly froze and have been terrified ever since and when you cross the rivers throughout the trek, they're just little bridges. They're very high up and the wind gets them which makes trying to cross extremely difficult. They haven't got complete planks of wood across either, so you have to watch where you're putting your foot. There's just a rope on the side so you can't really hang on either because that causes the bridge to sway, and then you've got yaks crossing at the same time as well, so it’s certainly not easy - especially with a fear of heights. When we got to the Hillary Bridge, I just looked at it and thought ‘right I've just got to go for it’. I just hung on to Glenn and walked across as quickly as I could while it was swaying around,” she explains. Nikki’s determination to complete the trek mirrored her approach to business. “I wasn’t going to come home and say I didn’t make it because of fear. In business, every

single day you have your challenges. Some days don’t go as planned and you face unexpected hurdles. Everybody has that in business, but I think it’s about how you overcome those challenges. I'm quite good at trying to remain positive and look for solutions rather than problems. When we came to the bridge and I really didn’t want to cross, I just thought to myself, well, you haven't got a choice really, so what are you going to do about it? I thought to myself you’ve spent so much time and effort on getting to this point, so just do it. And I did,” she says.

Despite the challenges along the way, Nikki and her group finally made it. “There’s no feeling quite like trekking along and finally seeing the Base Camp with all the tents. It looks amazing, but it's also a huge relief to say ‘we’ve made it’. It feels like something you only see on TV. When we arrived, the emotions took over. Everyone hugged and had tears in their eyes.

“I had promised my son I would take a picture of him and his dad to Base Camp, which I did. My partner Glenn took a photo of his mum and dad, who he had also lost. We found a nice spot and put their photos down. I videoed it for my son. It was eight o'clock in the morning in the UK, just as he was heading to school, so I called him to say I made it. I was crying so much I could barely speak. He was over the moon because he had asked me to call when I got

there, so I was pleased I could do that. I sent him the video of me placing the photo of him and his dad, which is a memory he can treasure forever,” she smiles.

Reflecting on the experience, Nikki acknowledges the profound impact it had on her. “The trek has influenced me both personally and professionally. One thing I learned is how easy it is to let work consume your life and impact your work-life balance.

“On the flight home, I told Glenn I didn’t want to slip back into full-on work mode. Work has taken over in the past and I didn’t want to fall back into routine. I’d previously find myself doing emails instead of taking my son to basketball training and that had to change. Since returning, I've been trying hard to be more present for my son and not delegate those moments to someone else,” she adds.

Nikki’s Everest trek, despite its many challenges, was an unforgettable adventure. “It was an amazing trip in an amazing country. I love Nepal and their way of life is just fascinating to watch. Despite having so little, they make do with what they have and are always happy. In our Western world, where we have everything, sometimes that doesn’t make you happy. If Everest Base Camp is on your bucket list, I would definitely recommend doing it. However, I think my days of trekking above three thousand metres are over,” she laughs.

autumn 24 join us

Become a member of the Entrepreneurs' Forum and you'll be part of the largest community of entrepreneurs in the North East. We're here to inspire and energise, to give you that boost to drive your business forward and provide you with support to help you scale, survive and sustain your business journey.

The benefits

How to join

Joining is easy:

1. Head to our website to find out more about our membership packages

2. Choose the membership package that's right for you and your business

3. Complete the online application form

4. We'll be in touch to finalise your membership

If you’d like to discuss the different options in more detail, or for any other membership enquiries, please contact Michael Dixon: michael@entrepreneursforum.net

The Entrepreneurs’ Forum has been an amazing place to network with like-minded business leaders. I have met mentors, investors, friends and so many inspirational people who have been invaluable to both my personal development and my businesses success. The Forum offers a friendly place and great contacts with incredible positive energy to help you and your business thrive.

Dan Martin Swarm

Since joining the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, I have been exceptionally impressed by the quality of the events organised. They have been varied, in terms of the locations and times of day, which has enabled me to attend and fit them around my work commitments. The high calibre of business people attending the events have led to some superb opportunities to do business.

Sally Marshall Marshall Robertson Group