entrepreneur of the year
Mark Edmondson a resilient risk taker
Jess Butcher MBE fundraising together
Warren Colby
spring 25
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spring 25 welcome inside
I start 2025 fuelled with optimism that North East entrepreneurs can achieve success, despite the challenges faced by higher business taxes. Our latest pulse survey confirmed that two thirds of our members remain optimistic about their business prospects for 2025, with 60% forecasting increased turnover. There’s lots to be positive about.
Middlesbrough was recently named as the fastest growing tech hub in the UK, outside of London. This accolade is certainly down to businesses such as Double Eleven, whose founder, Lee Hutchinson will speak to members at our Chairman’s Dinner on 30th January. This a night not to be missed.
The cover article features our
Entrepreneur of the Year, Mark Edmondson, founder of Inflo Software, who is taking the world by storm with his proprietary auditing technology. On a mission to become a unicorn, Mark is entrepreneurial to the core and candid in his views on the importance of being in your best shape physically and mentally to be able to handle the challenges of scaling up.
The Forum is most valuable when you are under pressure and our 1-1 connections are designed to help you to navigate your own path by tapping into others’ lived experiences. We create a safe space for you to share experiences and stories and support each other and we know hundreds of other entrepreneurs who are eager to step in and support others in our community.
The Forum is for you, the entrepreneurs of the North East, so reach out and get more involved this year. We can’t wait to see you.
Elaine Stroud Chief Executive
4 plan ahead upcoming events you need to know about 6 business bulletin the latest news from our members
8 entrepreneur of the year Mark Edmondson on transforming an industry 10 mentoring for growth the importance of a good mentor
14 centre stage the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur with Jess Butcher MBE 16 autumn conference shining a light on an inspiring day 18 behind the business going behind the scenes in this debut feature 19 forum favourites read watch listen a selection of motivational media 22 navigating your own path celebrating your wins 24 new members introducing new faces to the Forum 26 out of office
Warren Colby rallies the Agilico team to take on the Great North Run
29 bounceback valuable lessons from seasoned entrepreneur, Matt Mavir
30 how to join everything you need to know about becoming a member
proud to be partnered with we're stronger together
Editorial
Sally Cowling sally@entrepreneursforum.net
Amy Mason amy@entrepreneursforum.net
Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com
Simon Rushworth simon@allies-group.com
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NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD
spring 25 plan ahead
14 January and 22 January 1.30pm-3.30pm ROUND TABLE
Setting Goals That Count
RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle (14 January)
Business Central, Darlington (22 January) FREE for entrepreneur members
5 February 9.30am-12.30pm WORKSHOP
AI in Action: Tools to Transform Your Business Gateshead College, Gateshead FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests
4 March and 6 March
ROUND TABLE
Impactful Internal Communications
Visualsoft, Stockton (4 March, 1.00pm-3.00pm) Agilico, Gateshead (6 March, 1.30pm-3.30pm) FREE for entrepreneur members
17 January 12.30pm-2.30pm
SOCIAL
Member lunch
The Ship, Redmarshall
For entrepreneur members
Costs payable on the day
11 February 9.30am-11.30am
ROUND TABLE
Planning Your Exit
Ward Hadaway, Newcastle FREE for entrepreneur members
7 March 6pm-10pm
SOCIAL
Basketball
Vertu Motors Arena, Newcastle FREE for entrepreneur members
To view all upcoming events, and to book, visit: entrepreneursforum.net/events/upcoming-events
30 January 6pm-11pm
CHAIRMAN'S DINNER
Guest Speaker - Lee Hutchinson
SIX, Baltic, Gateshead £99+VAT for entrepreneur members
18 February 9.30am-11.30am ON SITE PLUS BRUNCH
Behind the Scenes with Chloë Clover Wander, Middlesbrough FREE for entrepreneur members
18 March 9.30am-12.30pm WORKSHOP
Successful Spontaneous Speaking
Gateshead College, Gateshead FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests
20 March 6pm-10pm
FOCUS DINNER
Herb Kim SIX, Baltic, Gateshead £90+VAT for entrepreneur members
2 April 1.30pm-3.30pm ROUND TABLE
Retaining Talent
RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle FREE for entrepreneur members
9 April 9.30am-11.30am ROUND TABLE
In Conversation with Pete Daykin
Wordnerds, Gateshead FREE for entrepreneur members
13 March 9am-1pm ON SITE
Nissan
Nissan, Sunderland FREE for entrepreneur members
25 March 9.15am-11.30am
MEMBER EVENT
Angel Investing 101 UMi, Durham FREE for entrepreneur members, partners and guests
22 May 8am-5pm CONFERENCE
Fortune Favours the Brave Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield
Join us for a day packed with inspirational speakers and opportunities to meet up with other members of our community of entrepreneurs. Follow us on LinkedIn and be the first to hear about the speaker line-up.
Book your early bird tickets now.
Member early bird offer (for all tickets purchased by 31 March)
Individual Day Pass £120+VAT
Individual Day Pass plus Guest £200+VAT
26 September 6pm-11.30pm AWARDS
2025 Entrepreneurial Awards Hilton NewcastleGateshead
Celebrate the region's entrepreneurs at our awards dinner where leading business figures in the North East come together for an evening of fabulous entertainment.
Individual ticket £120+VAT
Table of 10 £1,200+VAT
spring 25 business bulletin
Edwards Commercial Cleaning Welcomes Egger to Its Client Portfolio
Edwards Commercial Cleaning has announced its newest partnership with EGGER UK, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based materials, including cutting-edge solutions for furniture, interior design and flooring.
Wubbleyou Launches Three Tech Scholarships at Northumbria University
Wubbleyou has announced an inspiring new initiative with three tech scholarships created in partnership with Northumbria University. This initiative reflects Wubbleyou’s commitment to fostering the next generation of innovators while celebrating the community that shaped its own journey.
Recite Me Eyes Growth After £4.6 Million Support
Digital accessibility software firm Recite Me says it has taken a “significant step forward” after securing £4.6m support from capital investor BGF.
Steel Benders UK Powers Renewable Energy Future with Cutting-Edge Innovation
Steel Benders UK is boosting the UK’s green energy transition with the acquisition of advanced machinery that enables the creation of essential components for the renewable energy sector.
Inflo Reports Rapid US Growth
Inflo, a leading digital audit platform, has reported significant momentum in the U.S. market. Reporting a 254% year-on-year increase in revenue in the U.S., Inflo has secured several major deals this year with Top 100 firms, including GBQ, Horne, KSM, and YHB.
Teesside Tech Firm on Course to Hit £5m Target Thanks to ‘Priceless’ Scale-up Coach
Hartlepool-based ResolveBeyond is on track to hit a £5m valuation in five years thanks to ‘priceless’ help from scale-up coach Ian Kinnery.
cover story Mark Edmondson spring 25
From the security of a corporate career to entrepreneurial success, Mark Edmondson sits down with Forum to discuss his journey, sharing how he’s making waves in the industry, championing the North East, and transforming audit from a chore into a powerful tool for business growth.
Mark Edmondson, CEO of Inflo and recipient of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum Entrepreneur of the Year award 2024, is on a mission to reshape how the world perceives audit and accountancy. In 2016, he made a bold decision to leave a secure corporate role, setting his sights on building Inflo from the ground up. Today, his company is a leader in accounting technology, partnering with global clients and gaining recognition from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) for training future chartered accountants.
Inflo Software’s mission is as revolutionary as it is simple: 'to make audit more attractive' by elevating it beyond its reputation as a mere compliance service. “We’re a group of former auditors and accountants,” says Mark, “and we want to shake off the stereotype of auditing as a traditional, mundane profession”. Inflo achieves this by automating repetitive tasks, freeing accountants to deliver valuable insights that help businesses grow. The goal, he explains, is to make audit “not just a necessary check, but a valuable tool for strategic decision-making. Audit isn’t only about financial checks. When done right, it becomes an invaluable tool that provides actionable insights
to help clients make better business decisions.”
Leaving a high-profile position at one of the UK’s top accounting firms wasn’t a decision Mark took lightly. "After leading a major global project and receiving what felt like minimal recognition, I realised I’d reached a crossroads in my career,” he recalls. Raised on a small family farm, Mark has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but finding himself at odds with the corporate world was a catalyst. “I felt like an entrepreneur trapped in a big corporation, and that itch to create something on my own became too strong to ignore.”
With a young family at home, it was far from an ideal time to take risks. However, Mark was motivated by a desire for long-term impact and personal legacy. “In a corporation, you retire, and someone else just steps into your shoes. I wanted to build something lasting that I could look back on proudly,” he reflects. While not originally from the North East, Mark chose the region as Inflo’s base, and he’s confident he made the right choice. “Both my co-founder and I attended Newcastle University, and we began our careers here in the North East, so it felt natural,” he shares. Mark advocates passionately for the region, highlighting its quality
of life and access to talent as key advantages. “The North East is a fantastic place to build a business,” he says. “The quality of life is unmatched, and we have access to a strong talent pool thanks to the universities in the area.”
Although Inflo’s workforce is entirely virtual, Mark is committed to keeping their core presence in the North East as they expand globally. “We’re building out internationally, but the North East remains our nucleus,” he explains.
Following huge success in the UK and the European market, breaking into the US was the next challenge on the horizon for Mark and his team. This ambitious goal for Inflo has required both commitment and strategy. “You can’t enter the US market half-heartedly,” Mark says. “American clients often have reservations about UK or European companies, so showing up consistently is key.” To demonstrate his commitment, Mark spends three to four months each year in the US, often aligning his trips with his family’s schedule. “Being there in person builds trust,” he adds. “American clients want to know that you’re fully invested, and being present allows me to gather real-time feedback.”
Mark’s hands-on approach has been crucial in overcoming American clients’ initial reservations. “By listening to their concerns and
adapting to their needs, we’ve built strong relationships that have become the foundation of our success in the US market,” he explains.
Scaling quickly in a competitive field requires clarity and a strong sense of purpose, both of which Inflo maintains through the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) Traction model. “EOS gives us a clear framework for defining our target market and long-term goals,” explains Mark. “In a high-growth business, opportunities are everywhere but knowing what to say ‘no’ to is essential.”
This structured approach has been instrumental in guiding Inflo’s growth. “Having a North Star is crucial,” he explains. “With EOS, we know who our audience is, what our goals are, and what we need to focus on to achieve them.” Today, Inflo has grown to a team of around 150 people, all aligned with this clear vision.
For Mark, the journey isn’t solely about rapid expansion. One of Inflo’s long-term goals is to achieve 'Unicorn Status' - a valuation of $1bn or more. “We’re already in over a hundred countries, so we know there’s potential. Unicorn Status would signify that we’re not just a disruptor but a serious player,” he explains.
However, this milestone is more than just a financial goal. “Our mission is to create a significant impact on the
The North East is a fantastic place to build a business, the quality of life is unmatched, and we have access to a strong talent pool thanks to the universities in the area.
accounting profession,” he explains.
“The audit industry is evolving, and we aim to be at the forefront of that change.”
In a field where external funding is common, Inflo’s entirely self-funded model is unique. Mark is passionate about retaining control over his company’s destiny. “We’ve chosen to stay independent to protect our culture and autonomy,” he shares.
“We don’t want to be acquired or involve outside investors. We believe we can achieve everything we envision on our own.”
This approach has allowed Inflo to grow at a sustainable pace while preserving the values that have contributed to their success.
“Remaining self-funded has given us the freedom to shape the business our way,” he says.
One of Inflo’s most groundbreaking achievements is its partnership with the ICAEW, which has integrated Inflo’s technology into the chartered accountant accreditation process.
“This collaboration introduces modern audit tools to future
accountants during their studies,”
Mark explains. “We’re seeing junior accountants enter the workforce with advanced skills, and they’re driving positive change in the firms they join.”
The benefits are twofold: young accountants are better equipped to use cutting-edge tools, and firms are more likely to adopt modern technology as a result. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’re shaping the future of the profession,” he adds.
Looking back on Inflo’s journey, Mark reflects proudly on the milestones they’ve achieved, from winning the Queen’s Award for Innovation to expanding internationally. “The Queen’s Award was an incredible honour,” he shares. “It’s a testament to the hard work of our team and the impact we’re making in the industry.”
Mark’s recognition as Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2024 Entrepreneurial Awards is another accomplishment that holds personal meaning. “The award was very flattering. It was actually the first individual honour I’ve ever received,” he admits. “I don’t put
myself forward for individual recognition because, for me, this journey is a team sport. Someone else nominated me, which made it all the more special.”
One of Inflo’s most unique achievements is the publication of a series of books that explains their mission in a fresh, engaging way.
Designed in the style of children’s books, these publications make audit more approachable, using vibrant illustrations by Kris Lillyman to convey complex ideas in a visually appealing format. “We wanted to showcase our brand and culture through storytelling and creative visuals,” Mark explains.
“It’s a project we took a lot of pride in, and the positive response from clients and partners has been incredible.”
When asked for advice, Mark offers an unexpected yet valuable tip: “Stop drinking alcohol.” He credits this decision with giving him 20-30%
more capacity, enhancing his focus, health, and resilience - qualities he sees as essential for entrepreneurship. Reflecting on his journey, Mark explains: “I stopped drinking three years ago after I broke my arm badly and had to take pain medication for five months. I wouldn’t have considered it if I hadn’t reached that point myself, but it’s made a huge difference.”
“Running a business requires resilience,” he continues. “The highs and lows are part of the journey, and you need to be in your best shape, physically and mentally, to handle them.”
Mark’s entrepreneurial journey is made up of courage, clarity, and a commitment to innovation. As Inflo continues to expand and make a global impact, he remains focused on his mission: to transform audit from a checkbox exercise into a powerful tool for growth and insight.
what makes a good mentor? spring 25
Having connected entrepreneurs for over 20 years, at the Forum we’ve seen first-hand how impactful mentoring relationships can be. Mentoring is more than sharing knowledge or advice; it's about fostering growth by sharing experiences, offering insights and encouraging progress. But what makes a mentor truly effective and how can you begin?
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need years of experience to be a good mentor. Mentorship is about perspective, not just experience. Whether you have 30 years of knowledge or only a few, your insights can still be valuable. Additionally, it’s a myth that you need to be in the same industry or share the same skills as your mentee. In fact, mentors from different backgrounds often provide a more objective viewpoint. A mentor’s role is less about technical advice and more about helping mentees navigate challenges, make decisions and consider perspectives they may not have seen.
Another misconception is that mentoring requires a long-term commitment. While some relationships evolve into long-term partnerships, others might be as brief as a single, impactful conversation. So even if you can’t commit longterm, a one-off interaction can still be powerful.
What makes someone an effective mentor? First, establish a good connection with your mentee. Mentoring relies on trust and rapport;
if you and your mentee don’t connect, it’s okay to suggest they seek guidance from someone else who might be a better fit. Your time is valuable and it’s essential to ensure you’re making a meaningful impact. A successful mentor also understands that mentoring is about the mentee, not themselves. Your goal is to support their growth, not impose your own experiences or expectations on them. Clarity is also crucial. Mentees often seek mentors when feeling stuck or overwhelmed. By helping them cut through the noise, listening carefully and summarising what you’ve heard, you can aid your mentee in processing their thoughts and breaking down complex problems into manageable actions. Simplifying the situation can help them regain momentum.
Preparation is essential. Before you begin, set ground rules: How often will you meet? Will the mentee outline topics for discussion in advance? Clear expectations prevent misunderstandings and keep both parties on the same page. Come prepared to each session by
reviewing notes or actions from previous meetings — this respect for each other’s time ensures productive meetings.
A critical goal of mentoring is to inspire. After a session, your mentee should feel energised, motivated and ready to face their challenges. Your role isn’t just to offer advice or critique but to encourage them to believe in themselves. Knowing someone has faith in them can give a mentee the confidence to pursue their goals with renewed energy. Another key aspect is sharing your experience in a supportive, nonprescriptive way. Rather than telling them what to do, share your own experiences, explaining how you approached similar situations. This way, they gain insight while retaining space to make their own choices. Making decisions and learning from mistakes are valuable parts of the growth process.
Finally, a generous mentor opens doors for their mentee. If you have
contacts who could benefit your mentee, consider making introductions. Sharing your network is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer, providing access to opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Being a good mentor doesn’t require years of experience or a shared industry background. What it does require is a willingness to listen, a commitment to supporting someone else’s growth and the ability to offer perspective, clarity and encouragement. Whether you’re helping someone with a single conversation or building a longerterm relationship, mentoring can be one of the most rewarding ways to give back. As demonstrated by mentors like Caroline Theobald CBE, a true business champion and winner of our Special Recognition Award at the 2024 Entrepreneurial Awards, mentoring is a role that makes a lasting impact — not just on the mentee but on the mentor as well…
Mentoring Drop-In
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.
17 February 1pm-4pm razorblue, Stockton 12 May 10am-1.30pm RBC Brewin Dolphin, Newcastle
For entrepreneur members only.
Unleash your mentoring power
Caroline Theobald CBE
Everyone has a super-power. Mentoring is about a two-way relationship that unleashes that power to benefit both parties and the businesses they represent or the lives they lead.
In my view, successful mentoring is about active listening and mutual trust. I’d like to share some of the tools that I’ve found useful, and which amplify the content of the article.
• The point has been well made that a mentor can be better placed to have insights if they come from a separate industry. I can’t recommend Matthew Syed’s book, ‘Rebel Ideas’, highly enough. He draws our attention to the immigrant entrepreneurs who bring unique strengths to innovation and economic growth because of their experiences and the challenges they’ve overcome through adapting to new cultures, languages or environment. ‘Cognitive diversity’, he argues, builds on ethnic and social diversity because it challenges established ways of thinking and consequently fuels progress.
• Listening is key. For me this is mutually useful if it’s done from the mindset ‘I wish to learn how this person thinks and what’s going on underneath the words.’ Communication is said to be 70% non-verbal after all. The Socratic method, which uses open-ended questions like “What do you think?” or “What if someone were to say…?” encourages mentees to reflect deeply. Productive results are also achieved through silence – we all need to welcome the helpful tension it creates. AND the mentor should be a learner too. Be curious!
• The pace of the session (or sessions) is important. It should be neither faster nor slower than the mentee can handle.
• Essential mentor ingredients are making the mentee feel safe, engendering confidence and creating trust. Tread carefully to avoid upset – but the Socratic Method teaches us that ‘productive discomfort,’ once a relationship is mature, can produce great results. Consider making third, rather than first-person observations, such as ‘some may say’ and ‘can you think of another way.’
• Creating trust - be open to whether there really is mutual trust or when that trust changes. Trust turns a good relationship into a great one. This enables the introduction of trusted third parties to enrich the learning. Network leverage for mutual benefit is my thing. If there isn’t mutual trust, it’s better to avoid pressing on when you know the mentee is not responding or doesn’t appear interested in learning different perspectives. Gently step away and help them find someone else.
• And finally, being asked to mentor someone is a privilege. It also opens new doors and experiences. Treasure that gift of appreciation and harness its power for your own personal growth.
Thursday 6th February 9:30am – 4:00pm
Holiday Inn, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne Teas / Coffees on arrival and lunch provided
With Special Guest Speakers:
• TedX speaker Alfie Joey will talk about how to craft your message and communicate it effectively
• Social media expert Helen Arnold will show you how to attract your audience through the latest social media techniques
• LinkedIn trainer and marketing coach Ian Nicklin will explain how to turn your audience into hot leads
• Sales strategist JP Addison will end with how to close the sale
Tickets: £60
Type RL Business Club into Eventbrite or email: ba@robson-laidler.co.uk to reserve your spot.
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forum partner Newcastle University
Leadership in entrepreneurial businesses
Newcastle University Business School
Executive Education programmes are designed to support organisations and their people to lead in a fast-changing world and enhance business performance.
These flexible, work-based programmes focus on real-world challenges, fostering responsible leadership and innovation. Learners come from a diverse range of roles and sectors. They gain new knowledge, skills, and behaviours which support their personal growth and advance their organisations.
The benefits of Executive Education were discussed with Sophie Milliken, CEO of Moja and Rachael Cook, Executive Education alumni and COO at Moja.
Tell us about Moja?
We work with entrepreneurs and senior executives to increase their visibility and improve their reputation in their industry. Whether that's through speaking engagements, award recognition, media and press coverage or hosting their own podcast.
What is your leadership role in Moja?
Rachael: As the COO, I oversee the operational side of the business, ensuring it aligns with our strategic objectives to drive growth. I lead the team and ensure we consistently deliver exceptional service to our clients.
Why did you sign up for the level 7 Senior Leadership Apprenticeship and complete the MSc Strategic Leadership?
Rachael: I wanted to enhance my leadership skills and gain a deeper understanding of leadership theory to support both my personal growth and my team's development.
Completing the Level 7 Senior Leadership Apprenticeship gave me the knowledge and tools to implement meaningful changes directly in the workplace.
Having never been to university before, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn and grow in my role.
Everyone thought I was mad; it's not something you tend to take on in your 40s. It did involve making sacrifices and overcoming a few challenges along the way, but the experience, opportunities, and connections I gained during my apprenticeship were worth it.
How has the programme developed you as a leader?
Rachael: I struggled with imposter syndrome. The opportunity to explore and apply different leadership perspectives in the
workplace cemented my leadership experience and has given me the confidence to fully own it. I now approach decision-making more thoughtfully and take a more strategic perspective.
What has been the most significant benefit for Moja?
Sophie: Rachael's final project explored the connection between a people resource strategy, start-up growth performance, and business exit. This was pivotal in shaping Moja's people strategy. The insights and best practices from her research have been incorporated into our recruitment processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting future growth with a clear plan for how each role aligns with the broader organisational goals.
What does the future hold for you and your leadership?
Rachael: With a strong team now in place to support our operational goals, my focus is on nurturing their growth and empowering them to
take on more responsibilities. This will allow me to dedicate more time to business development and increase my visibility to support the transition to Managing Director when the time comes.
What would your advice be for another business considering the Level 7 Apprenticeship and or the MSc Strategic Leadership?
Sophie: I'm an advocate of both lifelong learning and supporting colleagues who want to develop themselves. This programme stretches individuals in a positive and supportive way and provides lots to take back into the business.
Rachael: Don't let a non-academic background stop you. Balancing work, university, and home takes a lot of effort and is challenging but worth it!
Plan and think about how you can link your assignments directly to the workplace so you're demonstrating the knowledge you've gained while positively impacting your organisation.
centre stage Jess Butcher MBE spring 25
She’s experienced the highs and lows of life as an entrepreneur and, as Forum discovers, Jess Butcher MBE’s refreshing honesty is both inspiring and insightful.
Resilient. Risk taker. Rebel with a cause. Jess Butcher MBE is entrepreneurial to the core and yet she’s by no means the finished product. “I have wibbles,” she admits with the disarming honesty that drew such warm applause in the wake of a thought-provoking talk at November’s Together We Can Take on the World conference.
“And, you know, there are dark moments and crises of confidence and imposter syndrome. But ultimately, I always have the ability to come back to centre — to centre myself or, at the very least, know the right people who can centre me.” Everyone attending the conference was taken on a fascinating journey from her roots as an accidental entrepreneur to co-founder and CMO of multi-award winning UKbased start-up Blippar.
“I see myself as a nerd translator,” jokes the Oxford University graduate who studied ancient and modern history before emerging as an unlikely trailblazer for the tech sector. “I’ve always been good at explaining what nerds do and taking their ideas to market.”
That’s how Blippar started: three dreamers chatting in the pub and envisioning a successful augmented reality technology business capable of revolutionising the sector. “I left behind the business I’d been brave enough to establish in Kenya — sustainable travel firm Integritour — and took another step into the unknown,” adds Jess. “Fortunately we were blessed with a visionary CEO in Ambarish Mitra and plenty of enthusiasm.
“Almost overnight I tapped into my core skills to become a hustler, translator, and sales marketer all in one. I found myself in this perfect moment in time and I said to myself ‘let’s give this a shot’.
“We didn’t really know what we were doing but you don’t turn down a seat on a rocket ship! And Blippar was so visual and so sensory that everyone was very excited by the product and its potential.”
A CNBC Top 50 Disruptor business globally for 2016 (alongside Uber, Spotify and AirBnB), Blippar attracted more than $100m in funding and grew from the four co-founders to hundreds of staff across a network of international offices, working with many of the world's leading brands. Nevertheless, its sudden fall was almost as dramatic as its rapid rise and Jess, who exited the company prior to its move into administration in 2018 (it was brought out of administration the following year) adds: “Those early years of Blippar were hugely exciting. But I learnt a few lessons too.
“I think as a company we started to take our eye off the fundamentals and I’m a great believer in the saying ‘hire slowly, fire fast’. I think that’s where we could have done better. But I enjoyed the journey.”
and lows, Jess is approaching the future with renewed confidence.
With a long list of accolades behind her — 3x TedX speaker, 'Inspiring 50' Woman in European tech, BBC ‘100 Women’ list, Fortune Magazine 'Top 10 Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs', Evening Standard's 'Progress 1000' and winner of the Natwest EveryWoman Iris award to name but a few — she has nothing to prove. But Jess, appointed Commissioner for the Equality and Human Rights Commission in 2020, is only just getting started.
Almost overnight I tapped into my core skills to become a hustler, translator, and sales marketer all in one.
Jess went on to co-found Tick. Done. - a short-lived video platform for peer-to-peer sharing of 'how to' knowledge. “We were breaking through at around the same time as TikTok,” she adds. “In retrospect, that didn’t help! But it was another fantastic experience and I’d made the move towards something more altruistic, with educational intent.” Emboldened by her experience of entrepreneurship’s inevitable highs
Talk to her and it’s immediately apparent that nothing’s off limits. At a time when she intends to tackle head on the fast-encroaching scourge of negativity bias within the mainstream media, an honestly held opinion is her kryptonite. As a self-styled open book (check out Jess’s illuminating articles on her Substack: ‘Antidoters’), she’s created a few page-turning headlines in her time and yet she embraces
criticism and rolls with the punches. The resilience, you see, is real.
“I think that is one of the most important words on earth at the moment,” she muses. “Resilience is key when it comes to the idea of entrepreneurship and it’s in rapidly shrinking supply within society as a whole.
“In fact, a lot of my effort and time at the moment is spent thinking about how we can instil more of it back into people and, in particular, children.
“Social media and smartphones, parenting habits and a doom mongering economy — it’s all combining to prevent the building of resilience.
“And yes, it's because I think I am quite a resilient person that I recognise its importance. The one thing I’m blessed with is strong mental health.”
Perhaps that’s why no matter how frequent or serious the knockbacks (and there have been a few), Jess is able to bounce back and bring the energy, optimism and focus to every fresh chapter of a well-lived life.
Happily describing her own unconventional career path as a ‘squiggly journey’ — and actively encouraging the next generation to embrace the full ‘zig-zag blur’ of a multi-faceted approach to work
— she’s been described as both a Most Powerful Entrepreneur (Fortune) and a Dotcom Flop (Sunday Times). It’s that juxtaposition between success and failure that makes Jess’s entrepreneurial journey all the more remarkable.
“I think the term entrepreneurship has changed massively since those early days at Blippar,” she adds.
“When I started, it described business building, the profits and losses, corporate accounts and limited companies.
“But that traditional sense of business building has morphed into almost anything of a creative nature that you bring to the table. The whole concept of the side hustle is massive and entrepreneurship can be as much about a hobby and developing a life skill as it is about a career choice.
“Social entrepreneurship, for instance, is very, very different from commercial entrepreneurship. Maybe we should look at it as a skill and not as a profession — I think it's imperative for everybody, particularly in an AI driven world, to have that skill because we have no idea what the jobs of the future will or won't look like.
“Entrepreneurship is a critical life skill that needs to be taught, irrespective of whether you end up being a business owner or not.”
spring 25 conference autumn conference
Our autumn conference ‘Together We Can Take on the World’ took place in November at the Hilton NewcastleGateshead. Hosted by Charlie Charlton, our audience of North East entrepreneurs enjoyed a day of inspiration from our lineup of speakers including Steve Hewitt (Gymshark), Jess Butcher MBE (Blippar), Dr David Lee (Sleep Unlimited) and Charles Rolls (Fever-Tree).
Breakout session walk
Dr David Lee, Sleep Unlimited
Charlie Charlton and Jessica Butcher MBE, Blippar Kari Owers, Richard Lane and Toby Bridges
Steven Sadi and Ian Kinnery
Alistair McLeod
Jessica Williams
Catherine Duhaut and Paul Edwards
Peter Moore and Pete Watson
Adrian O'Connell, Amy Mooney and Angus King-Davies
James Cartmell and Joshy Jin
Sasha Warr, Mike O' Brien and Graham Sleep
Charles Rolls, Fever-Tree
Mike O'Brien and Charlie Hoult
Alan Bell, Caroline Moody and Kieran James
Sarah Callender, Laura Weaving, Toby Bridges and Julia Austin
Steve Hewitt, Gymshark
Simon Rushworth, Gill Hunter, Chris March and David Stubbs
Charlie Hoult, Jon Dudgeon, Tania Cooper MBE and Richard Lane
behind the business spring 25
In Forum’s debut 'Behind the Business' feature, we talk to David Porter, Director of Surge, a Middlesbrough-based agency specialising in web development, design, and digital marketing. David shares how operational transformations have strengthened his business, setting a foundation for growth and resilience.
Since its founding in 2014, Surge has grown substantially, but as the team expanded, so did the need for organisational change. David recently took part in the 2023 Scale-Up Leaders’ Academy (SULA) with the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, a move that led him to reassess and reshape how his business operates.
David’s background spans nearly two decades in marketing, covering everything from press and radio to digital marketing. His early experience revealed that clients often knew the results they wanted but struggled with how to achieve them.
“When I started Surge, I felt there was a gap in the market for a full-service agency,” David explains. Today, Surge’s team of 18 specialists delivers 'The Right Digital Solution' for clients across the UK. But as Surge grew, it became clear that the company needed more structure to continue thriving - and for David, that realisation came with a personal milestone.
“Knowing I wanted to start a family made me reflect on the business’s reliance on me. Despite having managers, we still operated with a flat hierarchy,” David says. With this insight, he recognised that changes were necessary to shift the company from one reliant on his presence to a team-driven organisation. He turned to the SULA programme for support, finding guidance from leaders who
had already navigated the challenges of scaling up. “Running a business is like driving with only the rearview mirror to guide you forward. You need help from people who have already been on the road ahead.”
Introducing a new structure wasn’t without challenges. David recounts facing issues like miscommunication, unclear accountability and overreliance on his input. “We had processes, but as the team grew, they needed to evolve. Running a team of five is very different from managing 20, not to mention our goal of 30 to 40 in the future,” he shares.
Realising the gap between their processes and ambitions, David understood that significant operational adjustments were essential for long-term growth. One pivotal decision was to implement routine meetings - daily,
weekly, and monthly huddles - to improve communication flow. Alongside these, he redefined accountability across teams and involved the entire company in creating a new set of core values.
“After nine years, our old values felt outdated. Now, our values are a handbook guiding everything, from recruitment to client interactions,” David notes. These values, refreshed with team input, have become the foundation for decision-making at Surge.
Surge’s revised core values now anchor its processes, driving recruitment, onboarding, and team interactions. With new quarterly team surveys to measure engagement, David has been able to keep a close eye on morale. “When we started, our engagement score was at 40%. Now, after listening and acting on
feedback, we’re consistently above 80%,” he reveals. These changes haven’t only improved employee satisfaction - they have directly impacted client relationships.
David also introduced NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) training across the team to enhance communication.
“The way we speak and interact affects both internal dynamics and client satisfaction,” he explains.
The training helped the team better understand diverse communication styles, leading to improved collaboration and client engagement.
“Investing in NLP meant that our team could adapt to how clients preferred to communicate, creating stronger connections,” he adds.
Of course, restructuring also brought about some difficult decisions.
As Surge introduced greater accountability, some team members left. Reflecting on this, David says: “At first, it felt daunting. But looking back, it was the best thing for the business.”
This transitional period allowed Surge to rebuild with the right mix of talent, centred on shared values and a readiness for change. With the aid of the ‘performance matrix’ learned from SULA, David ensured his team consisted of ‘A and B players’ -individuals who aligned with Surge’s
culture and skill requirements. David’s approach also integrated NLP techniques into recruitment, enabling Surge to select people who thrive in a collaborative and accountable environment. “We want everyone to feel empowered to speak up and bring ideas forward,” he explains.
“With the right team, our operations are not only more efficient but more innovative.”
The results of these operational changes have been evident in every corner of the business. David notes improvements in team satisfaction, client loyalty, and profitability. “It’s taken time, and there were periods where cash flow was tighter as we focused internally,” he admits, “but it’s been worth it. We now have a strong foundation that supports growth.” The benefits of these changes extend beyond processes - Surge’s culture has become more collaborative and focused on shared goals.
As for the future, David remains committed to continuous improvement. Surge’s new system includes quarterly focuses, with progress and success visibly tracked for the entire company to see. “If we can make even 1% gains every quarter, those small changes will
compound, leading to substantial growth,” he says.
For entrepreneurs contemplating similar changes, David has learned that “without the right people, even the best strategy won’t hold.” He likens it to constructing a building without a solid foundation. “No matter how well you design the structure, it will collapse without the right support,” he advises. “It’s about having people who are not only skilled but willing to adapt and support growth.”
With Surge firmly set on a path to structured growth, David’s journey offers valuable lessons for other business owners. Emphasising the importance of team engagement, adaptable values, and a culture of accountability, his experience highlights the role of operational adjustments in driving sustainable growth. Surge’s story is a testament to the fact that sometimes, stepping back and reshaping the foundations of a business is the key to building something that lasts.
For David Porter and the Surge team, the journey continues, but with the confidence that they now have a blueprint not just for success, but for longevity.
Forum favourites
In this issue, we’ve chosen our recommendations from our Forum Faves wall at our autumn conference.
Thank you to everyone who shared their inspirational books, podcasts and TV programmes.
read
Alchemy by Rory Sutherland
Drawing on his experiences as an advertising executive, Rory Sutherland’s book is a fascinating exploration of the unconventional thinking that drives success in business and life. Through anecdotes and insights, he demonstrates how seemingly illogical ideas can solve complex problems and create extraordinary value. Alchemy challenges conventional wisdom, inspiring readers to think differently and embrace creative solutions in an unpredictable world.
watch
Slow Horses (Apple TV)
Now in its fourth season, Slow Horses is a gripping spy drama based on Mick Herron’s book series. The story follows a group of disgraced MI5 agents exiled to Slough House, a drab office far from the action. Led by their obnoxious boss, played by Gary Oldman, these so-called ‘Slow Horses’ are relegated to menial tasks but soon find themselves entangled in dangerous missions. Balancing sharp wit, tense espionage and compelling characters, the series explores themes of loyalty, redemption and the murky world of intelligence.
listen
Feel Better, Live More
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee hosts this popular health and wellness podcast which aims to empower listeners to take control of their health, exploring a wide range of topics from nutrition and fitness to mental wellbeing and personal development. Each episode features conversations with leading experts, scientists and inspirational guests offering practical advice and insights to help improve everyday life. If you’re short on time, check out the ‘Bitesize’ clips with highlights from some of the full-length episodes.
spring 25 forum partner NET
At the foothills of great change...
With a new magazine design complemented by a high-profile acquisition and wider operational changes, NET is writing a new chapter in its history. Here, Pete Mallon, the multi-platform publisher’s creative and managing director, talks about its transformation, which will take the company from regional operator to national organisation.
With headline devolution deals now in place across the entire region, the North East is undergoing significant revolution – and so is North East Times.
As the area unites at the foothills of change, we too are headed in a fresh direction.
Where once we were North East Times, today we are NET.
An umbrella term for a publishing house of brands that includes the bi-monthly N magazine, NET also comprises the N website – which melds latest business news with insightful feature articles – the national digital business news platform Bdaily and a high-level events calendar.
The change marks the culmination of one growth journey and the beginning of another.
Ever since the team and I revived and relaunched the North East Times brand a decade ago, we have celebrated our region’s incredible commercial sector through original and compelling journalism, striking photography
and a unique design palette.
And it has had great effect.
We have become the North East’s most established and authoritative business voice.
We have attracted a dedicated audience and catalogue of commercial partners through our commitment to quality, fairness and transparency.
And we’ve won national acclaim for our passionate advocacy of the North East.
But we are an ambitious business –and NET provides the bridge for us to expand into new territories.
Our new structure retains our regional heritage while removing geographical limitations of the past, and provides each brand with its own identity, values and strategy.
N magazine is the new name for North East Times Magazine, the bi-monthly publication that complements regional success stories with an analytical focus that aims to lobby further economic and social advances.
Our N website is a market leader in
servicing digital marketing campaigns, with our events channel similarly impactful in delivering roundtable and panel-based discussions that reshape narratives and catalyse action points for growth. Bdaily – which we acquired over the summer – is continuing to provide the latest business news from across the country to a 45,000-plus email subscriber list while servicing clients’ PR campaigns.
And it is all underpinned by a commitment to deliver at least 40 per cent independent (without charge) coverage across all platforms, a proposition provided by no other similar media channel in the North East.
We are the North East’s largest B2B media network, which exists to support, shout and amplify amazing business stories.
We work independently, which means we have our own voice and have no conflicts of exclusivity with clients or businesses.
We’re here to support every company to succeed.
And with our operational changes, we are readily placed to apply the same passion and commitment we have shown towards our region’s commercial community to national audiences.
It promises to be an exciting journey, and it's one we’re thrilled to be embarking upon.
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navigating your own path celebrating your wins spring 25
In the fast-paced world of running a business, it’s easy to focus so intently on goals that you forget to celebrate the wins along the way.
For many entrepreneurs, the momentum of reaching new heights can overshadow the simple but crucial act of celebration. Yet
acknowledging these achievements isn’t merely a nice gesture; celebrating milestones can foster a positive, productive and loyal
workplace, directly benefitting business performance.
The Forum’s recent Quarterly Pulse Survey highlights that people management remains one of the biggest challenges for businesses based in the North East of England and underscores the need for workplaces where employees feel engaged and valued.
With this in mind, infusing fun into the workplace can foster an environment where both business success and
employee satisfaction thrive. By incorporating joy into your company culture, you can create a vibrant organisation that not only pursues success but also celebrates it. As we look ahead in 2025, consider this: what have you done to celebrate your wins recently? And how will you bring fun into your business this year?
Ellen Hedley, co-founder of Vida Creative, understands that a positive workplace goes hand-in-hand with productivity. A full-service branding
Reclaro
and creative agency, Vida Creative has embraced fun as a “nonnegotiable” part of their culture, ensuring their team has plenty of opportunities to enjoy their successes.
“We strive to make every day enjoyable,” Ellen shares, highlighting a memorable moment from 2024: an overnight team trip to the Lake District. There, the group participated
in an exhilarating outdoor adventure day featuring activities like archery, quad biking, off-roading and clay pigeon shooting and an evening of board games, food and drinks. Ellen explains that the trip wasn’t about work presentations or future planning - it was simply a way to celebrate an incredible year together.
“We purposely didn’t include any kind of business presentations on
Taking time to recharge is vital, it fuels us for the next leg of our journey together.
either of the two days and took it as a chance to forget about work and treat the team as we’ve had an amazing year.”
Vida Creative continues to incorporate monthly team lunches and quarterly activities like escape rooms, team games and bowling into their schedule.
“These events help us step away from the day-to-day and have fun together as a team outside the office,” Ellen says. For 2025, they plan to continue these gatherings, embracing new ways to keep work both rewarding and enjoyable. Similarly, at Harlyn Solutions, celebrating wins has become a part of the company’s DNA. For founder Hamish Adamson, creating a fun and supportive environment has helped build a workplace that his team enjoy being part of. One of the most anticipated events is their annual company-wide barbecue, a tradition that brings the team together to enjoy food and camaraderie.
“It’s a day filled with laughs and some amazing food, with drinks to go along with it,” Hamish says. “It’s a reminder to our staff that they’re appreciated, and it allows us all to step back from our daily responsibilities.”
In 2025, Hamish plans to continue the annual barbecue tradition while looking for other ways to celebrate his team’s contributions. “We believe in recognising our team's hard work and dedication through thoughtful and meaningful gestures,” he says.
“It’s all about creating an environment where people feel supported, valued and excited to come to work.”
For Pete Wilkinson, founder of Reclaro, 2024 was a memorable year. Knowing the importance of celebrating every achievement, big or small, Pete made it a priority to recognise the team’s successes. A standout moment for Reclaro came when they attended the Northern Echo BUSINESSiQ North East Awards
in April, where they were honoured with the 2024 New Business of the Year Award.
“We were thrilled — and genuinely surprised — to be recognised among so many ambitious startups,” says Pete. “I took the entire team to the Awards to celebrate what we’d achieved and to thank the team for their work. We didn’t expect to win but were honoured when we did. It was an unforgettable experience that celebrated not just our growth but the hard work of everyone involved.”
Monthly gatherings, whether a champagne toast in the office or a team meal in Newcastle, have also become a tradition, giving the team time to connect, reflect and celebrate wins both big and small.
Looking to 2025, Pete is setting ambitious goals: once Reclaro hits its revenue target, they plan to launch a new fundraising round, with conversations already underway with two potential venture capitalists. To celebrate, Pete envisions a team getaway — perhaps a hotel stay, group dinner and even a spa break for the team and their partners.
“Taking time to recharge is vital,” he explains, “it fuels us for the next leg of our journey together.”
As we enter 2025, the importance of celebrating milestones and incorporating fun into business is more important than ever. For entrepreneurs like Ellen Hedley at Vida Creative, Hamish Adamson at Harlyn Solutions and Pete Wilkinson at Reclaro, making celebration a part of the company culture has proven to be a powerful driver of engagement, loyalty and productivity.
These stories remind us that achievements are not merely milestones on our journey; they are moments to embrace and take pleasure in. By recognising our progress, we can inspire both our teams and our businesses to reach new heights together.
Harlyn Solutions
Vida Creative Reclaro
new members spring 25
who’s joined recently
Victoria Lynch Additional Lengths
James Widmer Advanced Electric Machines
Josh Thompson Endeavour Windows + Motor Finance Broker
Jack Deverson
Evidence Based Education
Charlotte Windebank FIRST
Sola Idowu Hexis Lab
Mark Edmondson Inflo Group
Philip White Irrigonics
Lee Robinson JohnJasper Associates
Andrew Knowles Knowles & Co.
Shak Asghar Like Us
Dan Kitchen razorblue
Steve Pugh Roadmap MBA
Grant Davidson Rotational Engineering
Jamie Petterson Sales Boutique
Matthew Strain Silva Lex
Angela Carrington The Bigger Picture
Charlotte Staerck The Handbag Clinic
Michael Coulthard ThreeSixty Talent
Peter Eagle TMS Grid
Oliver Bennett Tyne Bank Brewery
Ryan Ingram Vacant Nests
Phil White Irrigonics
Tell us about yourself
I first started out in the business world as a young 19 year old in commercial property back in 2007 working for a large property developer and asset manager in Scotland (quite a way from my original home town of Scarborough). I then moved to Newcastle and studied Planning and Development
Surveying at Northumbria University, and my entrepreneurial nature led to me starting my own businesses in 2008 just before the global recession! Over the years I have started, grown, sold, bought and developed businesses in quite different sectors from property, coffee and now water hygiene. Nearly four years ago, just before the pandemic, I started a new business which we needed to pivot quickly and one of the areas I looked into was water hygiene which is how we came to acquire Irrigonics in 2021. The business was very small at the time but had great contracts and systems in place enabling us to look to grow the business. Over the last four years I have grown this business by 400%.
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
I have been aware of the Forum for many years but never took the step to join. I felt that now was the right time in my life and journey to be able to get involved in the Forum fully and meet more likeminded entrepreneurs.
If you weren’t running your current business what do you think you would be doing now?
Apart from always dreaming of being a world championship rally driver, I suspect if I wasn’t in business for myself I would probably still be working in commercial property or something related.
Charlotte Windebank FIRST
Tell us about yourself
I am passionate about empowering enterprise skills and entrepreneurship for underrepresented founders. I have been cofounder and MD of FIRST
for 10 years. FIRST is a learning and development agency providing entry level experiences in enterprise skills and entrepreneurship so everyone gets the chance to consider self employment.
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
We run Startup Awards North East and I am always looking for entrepreneurial partners who would like to empower and support the next generation of business owners in the North East.
What do you most enjoy about running your own business?
Watching the team and learners build their courage and take on new challenges, believe in themselves and achieve their ambitions.
What are you most proud of?
Running a business in a pandemic and it not only surviving but thriving.
Oliver Bennett
Tyne Bank Brewery
Tell us about yourself
I went straight from school into hospitality and have been involved in clubs, bars, hotels, festivals, and marquees over the past 20-plus years.
I am now a director of Inn Hospitality Group, which operates four rural hotels and pubs, Tyne Bank Brewery event space, and Pitched Events, offering a full range of outdoor event services specialising in marquees and mobile bars.
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
I had always viewed forums and network groups as a luxury I didn’t have time for. However, as my business has grown (and I have grown older!), my
role has evolved to a point where building business connections is probably the most impactful thing I can do for growth. Plus, I actually have time now!
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
I love the excitement and flexibility that comes with being in charge of my own destiny. The opportunities out there are endless, and each day can be a new adventure.
What are you most proud of?
I have been involved in some fantastic and exciting events over the years, from operating all the bars at Lindisfarne Festival to putting on some really elaborate private parties. But I am most proud to have survived and flourished during and after COVID in the hospitality sector. It has been a real challenge, but the operators who invested and diversified are the ones who will continue to thrive. Although significant events like COVID can seem like the end of the world and are undoubtedly stressful, there is always an opportunity to be found.
Angela Carrington
The Bigger Picture
Tell us about yourself
I'm MD of The Bigger Picture Agency, a full-service media content provider for marketing agencies and in-house comms teams. I came to Newcastle to study for my degree in photography back in the late nineties and never left!
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
After a period of significant growth in 2024, we're poised to scale in a major way in 2025 and I recognise that it's important to surround myself with fellow entrepreneurs at a similar stage and also those with vastly more experience of scaling and then successfully exiting their businesses.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
I've loved developing the team so far and get a great amount of satisfaction from delivering major projects.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I spend my spare time in uniform as a senior officer in the Maritime Volunteer Service.
What are you most proud of?
I'm really proud that we've successfully pivoted and developed our range of services to mirror the ever-changing demands of modern marketing, though my greatest satisfaction comes from doing this without external financial backing and from the jaws of financial ruin back in 2009.
Andrew Knowles Knowles & Co.
Tell us about yourself
I’m a Chartered Building Surveyor, Director and Co-owner of our established family business Knowles & Co. with my father Robert. Family is at my core and I have two children, Seb, 11, and Isla, 7, with my wife Rachael (our finance backbone at the company). In my spare time I enjoy football, basketball and cricket with my son.
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
Knowles & Co. work across the UK but we are now more so heavily rooted in the North East, supporting a number of high profile projects including the new NHS Diagnostic Centre at the Metro Centre. The region offers an exciting moment of growth and joining the Forum promises an ideal opportunity to further build my B2B network, raise awareness of my firm and increase business knowledge and personal and professional development.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
As any business owner knows running a business brings a number of challenges at times, but there are so many benefits such as the ability to make my own decisions that affect the direction and vision of the firm and to have the pride of winning and completing projects. It also gives me a work life balance for my family and the opportunity to work with my father Robert, and wife Rachael.
What are you most proud of?
Taking the leap of faith from working for a national building consultancy company to starting my own business.
If you weren’t running your current business what do you think you would be doing now?
Well, given my lack of skills to make it as a professional footballer I think I have always taken an active interest in law, therefore a job as a lawyer would be exciting, there is such an overlap between surveying and law.
Joshua
Thompson Endeavour Windows + Motor Finance Broker
Tell us about yourself
I’m a Middlesbrough born and bred entrepreneur who started my working life in a call centre at 18, an experience which changed the path of my life. I now own multi-million pound operations in several sectors including the glazing industry to motor finance and a wide holiday let and property portfolio.
I was also recognised in the 30 under 30 most successful entrepreneurs at the 2023 Glass & Glazing Fit Show.
Why did you decide to join the Forum?
With me being involved across multiple industries I wanted to pass on my knowledge and stories to help others, alongside learning from other local entrepreneurs in the North East to expand my own personal network.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business/
The thing I love most is I know I’ll never get the sack! Not only that I love learning from failures, as nothing’s a better lesson than a good smack in your own pocket!
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of working hard enough to put myself into a position to buy my local village police station and turn it into a profitable business, alongside buying my mother a house whilst I was still in my twenties.
out of office Warren Colby spring 25
We sat down with Warren Colby, the Managing Director of Agilico’s Print division, to discuss how his fundraising idea became a team effort and the impact this had on everyone involved.
The Great North Run (GNR) is a highly respected event in the North East, known for bringing communities together for a day of sport, charity, and camaraderie. For Warren Colby, this year’s event was more than just a challenge; it was a team-building experience that not only grew company unity but also raised an impressive amount of money for the Alan Shearer Foundation.
Warren had never been much of a runner, and after a few knee operations from his football days, he had always steered clear of the GNR. But, as with many great ideas, this one was born over a glass of wine. As Warren recalls: “It came about from a conversation with the Alan Shearer Foundation. I’ve never done the Great North Run, and it’s something I’ve avoided because of my knee surgeries. But after a couple of glasses of wine, Matt Bowmaker from the Foundation approached me and suggested we take on the challenge as a team.”
The seed was planted. Warren, alongside his team at Agilico, agreed to take part in the GNR. What started as a fun, somewhat impromptu idea,
quickly grew into something bigger.
Warren continues: “I thought, ‘Yeah, I could probably get 30 people from the company to do that,’ but I had no intention of being one of them.”
However, as soon as he mentioned it to the senior management team, they responded with, “Well, if you do it, we’ll do it” and before he knew it, he was taking on the challenge.
As Warren reached out to his colleagues, he was surprised by how many were eager to participate.
“Initially, we had 35 places, but around mid-August, I got a call on a Friday saying I needed to submit all the names by Monday morning. It was a tight deadline, and a few people got injured, so we ended up with 27 runners. It was a real team effort,” he says. The idea of tackling the GNR as a group rather than an individual challenge resonated deeply with Warren, who believes that such events can have a lasting impact on team morale.
Warren’s connection to the Alan Shearer Foundation is personal. The charity, which supports people with complex disabilities, has been close to his heart for years. “The Foundation is something I’ve been involved with for a long time. I’ve seen the incredible work they do. All the funds they receive are through donations, so it’s vital that they continue to raise money.” The Great North Run provided an opportunity for Agilico to contribute in a meaningful way.
But there was another driving force behind Warren’s determination to make the event a success: healthy competition. “I was told the maximum they had raised previously was £8,000. That was a red rag to a bull. I knew we could beat that. It wasn’t just about raising money for a good cause, but also a chance to bring the team together and do something that aligned with our company values, like supporting the local community.”
In the end, Agilico’s team raised an impressive £23,500 for the Alan Shearer Foundation, far surpassing expectations. “We smashed that previous record, and I’m incredibly proud of the team for their efforts,” Warren says with pride.
Another rewarding aspect of the GNR for Warren was the sense of camaraderie it created within the team. “The experience definitely brought the team together and had us in high spirits," he reflects. “We were all there for the same reason. We had our own agendas, but collectively, it was about raising money for the Foundation. It wasn’t just a bucket list item; it was something bigger.”
Agilico’s participation in the GNR also had a significant impact on team dynamics. Warren explains: “You find out personal things about people when you’re training and doing something like this. It opens up conversations that you might not
have in the office. You learn what motivates them, what they care about, and how they deal with challenges.”
The team’s preparation for the event was equally collaborative. “We did some training runs together, and we even had Alan Shearer come down to Gateshead Stadium to support us which was a great boost for everyone involved, and importantly, it helped raise the profile of the Foundation.” Warren’s own training was a personal challenge, with knee issues slowing him down. “I started training, but my leg started to play up, so I ended up getting a cortisone injection to get me through the run.”
On the day, running the 13.1 miles was a significant physical hurdle. “I’d only managed to run eight miles in training, so when I hit mile eight during the race, my body was done. And to top it off, my music stopped after four miles because my phone locked. It was pouring down with rain, and I ran for three miles in a poncho. It wasn’t the best look,” he laughs. Despite these obstacles, Warren’s determination kept him going. “I had to finish. I received so many
sponsors, and I didn’t want the embarrassment of not finishing. Plus, my partner did the GNR 10 years ago, and I had to beat her time – which I did, by half an hour!”
The team faced their own challenges, but Warren was proud of how everyone came together to support each other. “We used Strava to track our training and keep each other motivated. We had people running on holiday, including myself running on a cruise ship which led my watch to believe I was running three-minute miles,” he laughs.
The day of the race was a test of endurance and resilience for everyone. “We all ran independently because you get put into different groups. There’s an app that lets you track others in the race, and it was the worst thing I could have done! By the time I reached the start line, one of our guys was already at mile 10!” he says, chuckling. “But one of the younger lads didn’t start until after me so I was pleased I wasn’t last.”
Despite the rain and individual challenges, the team spirit kept them going. “The camaraderie was fantastic. Despite the difficulties,
everyone’s spirits were high, and we all encouraged each other to keep going.”
For Warren, this was more than just a personal achievement; it was a way to bring his team closer together and make a tangible difference in the local community. As he reflects on the experience, he says: “It’s good for team morale, good for getting people out of the office and moving, and it’s good to have a common goal. We even gave everyone who hit their fundraising target an extra day off as a reward. It’s an experience I’d recommend to any business leader looking to bring their team together for a good cause.”
He also believes that events like the GNR help to create a sense of community and give employees a chance to bond outside of work. “It’s important to show people why they’re doing something like this. We took a lot of our staff to the Alan Shearer
Foundation Centre so they could see firsthand the impact of their efforts.”
After the success of the GNR, Warren is already thinking about what challenge to take on next. “We’ve had some people mention Tough Mudder, something a bit different. We also do a lot of other charity events, and we’re currently doing a Strava challenge – a virtual ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ challenge where we’re collectively walking or running a certain number of miles.”
Agilico’s involvement in the Great North Run is a testament to the power of teamwork, community spirit, and the positive impact businesses can have when they come together for a common goal. Warren Colby and his team have not only raised significant funds for charity but also strengthened their bonds as colleagues, proving that sometimes, stepping out of the office can lead to the greatest achievements of all.
spring 25
Dame Allan's developing the spark of entrepreneurship
What do Year 7 pupils and business owners have in common? As a School
Principal who sees first hand these young people at work, I would say there are many similarities, and indeed, many skills that we work hard to encourage in the young people under our care.
First up, enthusiasm. When you’re a fresh-faced secondary school pupil, aged 11, and looking forward to your time in ‘big school’, for the most part you are eager to get started and learn. Those who take the leap and start their own business too often are those who are eager, keen to learn new things and not phased by new beginnings. Vera Wang, the hugely successful fashion designer, was an editor at Vogue before turning her hand to bridal gowns. And, before that, she was a figure skater.
Learning to look at a new start as something exciting, rather than something to be feared, is a great skill. Our Year 7 pupils have many chances to learn more about Dame Allan’s before they officially begin their schooling, including Open Days and ‘Jump In’ classroom taster sessions. These touchpoints help to reduce nerves and build excitement and enthusiasm.
Resilience is another key skill that is integral to entrepreneurs, and to our Year 7 pupils. Learning to try
something new, fail, learn, and try again is something we are passionate about developing in all of our pupils. For example, every pupil is encouraged to take part in at least one co-curricular club a week to try out a new hobby or sport. Our co-curricular programme offers a wide range of opportunities to suit all tastes - from chess and dance, to the fencing and plant club. Reframing failure as progress and a tool for learning is not only a great way to build confidence in young people, but also an essential mindset for any budding business owner: just look at James Dyson, who created 5,127 prototypes to reach the first bagless vacuum! This ‘growth mindset’ was recently championed amongst our pupils in a talk by renowned journalist and author Matthew Syed, who spoke in the most recent edition of our inspirational speaker series, The Lectures.
When it comes to the vital spark that makes an idea become a business reality, a level of creativity is also required. At Dame Allan’s, we ensure that our pupils nurture their creative spirit from their first weeks in school, with art, dance, drama, and music classes part of every Year 7 pupil’s timetable. With our dedicated dance studio, high quality art rooms and studio space, plus our music labs, we
hope to nurture that spark of creativity - what may be a painting, a dance piece, or a melody at a young age, could become the plans for an innovative, problem-solving business as an adult.
Older pupils too carry these lessons throughout their schooling, with pupils from Years 9 - 13 invited to attend The Lectures - a series of inspirational talks - that have often featured renowned business owners sharing their stories and tips for success. Previous speakers have included Dragons' Den star Sara Davies, bakery boss Jonathan Warburton, and Jo Fairley, of Green & Black’s chocolate fame. Once they reach the Sixth Form, students can formally study business and economics, with many choosing to take their interest in entrepreneurship to fruition with an enterprise module. This sees them set up their very own small business; in the past we have had Dame Allan’s merchandise created, a staff car wash set up, and raffles aplenty.
So, for anyone reading who may be thinking about setting up their own business, why not think like a Year 7 pupil? Embrace your enthusiasm, resilience, and creativity, and see where it may take you.
Written by Mr Will Scott, Principal at Dame Allan’s Schools, Newcastle.
Find out more at
Matthew Syed and Principal Will Scott at Dame Allan's Schools, Newcastle
bounceback Matt Mavir
Matt Mavir, founder of Last Night of Freedom, shares personal insight and valuable lessons for any entrepreneur facing tough times…
Having grown a university project into one of the UK’s most successful stag and hen party providers, Matt has weathered many challenges over the past 25 years. From unexpected beginnings to battling through the COVID-19 crisis, Matt’s story shows us that the low points can make us stronger.
His entrepreneurial journey began by chance while he was still at university and what started as a simple project to create a website soon evolved into a fully-fledged business. “I wasn’t from an entrepreneurial background,” Matt recalls. “It all started as a university project on ‘can you set up a website?’ Turns out, I could. And that’s how it all began,” laughs Matt, “I’m definitely an ‘accidental entrepreneur.’”
Fast forward two decades and Last Night of Freedom has grown into a major player in the stag and hen industry, organising over 50,000 trips and fulfilling more than 350,000 accessory orders. Despite this success, Matt acknowledges that his entrepreneurial path was never straightforward. "At 26, I reached a crossroads: do I continue with this or get a 'real job'? And as much as my mum would have liked me to go down the path of getting a ‘real job’, I decided to get serious about the business."
Weathering the storm: the COVID-19 crisis
Of all the challenges Matt faced, none compared to the impact of COVID-19. “If anything could have been
designed to be the ultimate party stopper for stag and hen dos, it would have been COVID,” he says. With travel restrictions and lockdowns bringing their business to a standstill, Matt and his team were faced with thousands of bookings they could no longer fulfil. “We had 3,000 bookings sitting there and had no idea what to do. At one point, we thought, ‘This could be it.’”
The pandemic forced Matt and his team to reimagine their entire operation. “We couldn’t even furlough staff because we were too busy processing refunds,” he explains. “We had to refund over £1.3m.
It was exhausting. I don’t know how we got through it - other than sheer brute force. We did it because we had to.”
Despite the hardship, Matt’s determination remained. “I remember thinking, ‘We just have to come in every day and fight through it,’ There were some really dark times, but in the end, we survived.”
Lessons in resilience
For Matt, resilience has always been about consistency. “You know that over the course of a year, something’s going to go wrongit always does,” he says. “The key is getting out of bed every morning and putting in the effort, no matter how tough things are. Eventually, it pays off.”
Another lesson he’s learned? Don’t make big decisions when you’re at your lowest. “It’s really bad making decisions when things are tough,” he
advises. “You have to take a step back, take a breath, and remind yourself why you’re doing this.”
For Matt, finding headspace and retaining energy is crucial. Whether it’s watching his kids play sports or simply taking time out, this gives him the clarity he needs to make better decisions for his business.
The importance of a strong team “COVID was brutal, but the positive attitude of our team was what got us through,” Matt reflects. “We had a strong team that really pulled together, and I’m incredibly proud of how we navigated our way. The team’s unity and support became a source of strength during the hardest times. “We fought and argued, but we worked together,” Matt says. “It wasn’t fun, but in some ways, it was our finest hour.”
His team’s ability to support one another during tough times is something Matt values deeply. It’s a reminder that no business can
survive without the strength and resilience of its people.
Looking ahead: a new chapter Now, as the business world has emerged from the shadow of the pandemic, Matt has set his sights on new ventures. His latest project, equipped, is a custom-printed clothing and merch business born from the lessons learned at Last Night of Freedom. “We’re trying to take everything we’ve learned and apply it to the next challenge. It's all about moving forward.”
Final thoughts
After 25 years in business, Matt’s journey continues, with resilience remaining at the heart of everything he does.
“For any entrepreneur struggling through a rough patch, don’t let the bad times make your decisions for you. Take a moment to remember why you started, and trust that the good times will come around again.”
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