What others say...

Working with Rick Dent and the TAB board has been a fantastic opportunity for myself and my organisation to gain clarity in our strategic planning.

Rick has a great ability to tease out information from you so you can formulate a plan moving forward. The one-to-one sessions with Rick provide structure and I always leave with a call to action list, these sessions are invaluable.

The TAB board provide a safe confidential environment to discuss any issues you are facing within your business with likeminded associates. You gain an insight into what works for others and provide each other with tips and tools to overcome any internal problems.

Personally, it has provided a clear pathway and my business has gone from strength to strength since I became a member of the TAB board.

Dawn Dines, SOS Global

I began working with Rick a few months after the launch of my business. His insight, advice and coaching has been invaluable alongside the advice and experience of fellow board members.

Rick has had a positive impact on me and the business from a coaching perspective – having a space & time to discuss numerous things, hold me accountable to previous points and talk through scenarios are just a few examples that have helped develop both.

I would recommend Rick and TAB to any business owner who is looking to develop, grow or simply have an experienced soundboard!

Tristan Courtney, Stamp James Solicitors

“It’s given me coaching sessions, focusing on the positive elements of my business and helping to grow and develop during what is probably the most difficult trading period we have encountered. TAB has also invited me to a monthly board meeting where I joined 6 existing members, all of whom have extensive business experience and have provided me with some invaluable advice, guidance and accountability.”

Kelly Smith, Juice Personnel

“As a new member of TAB I’ve sat on 4 peer board meetings and have had 7 coaching sessions with Simon. 22 hours that has helped me grow my business by 140% over the worst, strangest and most challenging months that any company could face.

Being a TAB member has been insightful, engaging, and time well spent working on my business.”

Samantha Stones, WF Web Design

“When I was asked to join a TAB board, I’d heard a lot of good things about it from my sister, but I wasn’t 100% sure how it would work for me.

But now… I look forward to the meeting each month. Its a chance to share my business issues with other like minded business owners I listen to their impartial views, and ideas and use their advice to move forward in the right way for me.

Its a business meeting that enables you to problem solve with many different options. It’s also great to air your issues to a board outside of your business, fresh ears let’s say, not your usual sounding board at home!”

Jayne Cave, Stackhouse and Cave Ltd

“During my time I have realised that a large percentage of business failures could have been due to the fact that business owners had no guidance and lacked planning through accountability. I have maintained for years that every business owner should have support ether from a business coach or other business owners. I am therefore practicing what I preach and have joined TAB. Business owners can let things drift and the accountability that TAB provides is already helping me stay on track for the vision I have for my business. I’m really excited about the future and the support I will get from TAB”

Tim Calverley, Laurus Business Advisory Services

“My confidence has grown enormously as a result of the support from Dougie and TAB. Every time I take what feels like a big issue to my Board, I come away feeling that it is much easier to deal with because of the advice I’ve been given by people from very different businesses and backgrounds.”

Jolanta Jankowski, Sampson Products Ltd

“Working for yourself can at times be stressful and lonely. Since joining TAB, Simon has helped me to find focus on the issues that are important to me both personally and professionally. I have identified areas of my business that are of benefit to its survival and growth. The Covid-19 crisis has made it even more important to have clarity and confidence in my plans for the future.”

Julie Austin-Lee, The Yorkshire Handbag Company

I thoroughly enjoyed the TAB experience.

I met some great people from a wide-range of sectors and industries. The collective knowledge and experience at each meeting is impressive and means that any business issue you experience can be discussed professionally in confidence.

The monthly meetings were everything you would hope a meeting to be. Well structured, well chaired, interesting, informative, engaging and a brilliant confidential sounding board for any Director, Manager or Business Owner.

I’d recommend TAB to anyone in business as it will improve you both professionally and personally.

Danny Cowie, Jasmine Holdings

I would recommend the TAB board to any Business Owner regardless of the size of their business, it allows you to take time out, reflect on the issues you may be facing, and gives you access to discuss with likeminded people, who are also facing the natural challenges and issues of running their own business.”

Keith Fletcher, Fletcher Group

Rick has helped me hugely through what has been an extremely difficult time for both the business and for me personally. When you’re running a business, it’s easy to think that you are the only one meeting challenges but being part of the board makes you realise that that is definitely not the case.

I have received some great advice on my pain points from the other board members and I find it so valuable to be able to put my ideas and problems to people working outside of the business and industry. I have put in place many of the solutions given to me by the board and I know we are a stronger company as a result.

Sophie Grafton, Mystery Shoppers Ltd

Without Ian’s perspective we would have explored the inside of many more rabbit holes. He has always kept us focused on what is important to us and provided that sounding board that kept me sane!

Paul Dodgshon, Uscita

I am challenged over my own and company plans, encouraged to look at fresh options and ideas and have had to re-visit areas of business I have previously said no to…it’s fun.

Paul Ritchie, Foremost Security Ltd

While previously sceptical on the benefits of a business mentor, I have now employed Ted’s business coaching services for the past 2 years, and I have been proven wrong! Ted has directly and significantly contributed to our success at BoldType during our 1st year, enabling us to surpass many of our goals and targets. His advice, guidance, and most importantly, challenging questions have helped me succeed as a business owner, giving me the strength and confidence to achieve and overcome the inevitable hurdles and challenges. I look forward to the next two years working with Ted, knowing our investment will be repaid many times over.

Ben King, BoldType Marketing

I have been working with Ted now for the past few months and have found him to be extremely knowledgeable in his field. I joined Ted’s TAB Mastermind Group in October and since then my business has only been improving and going from strength to strength. Ted’s mentoring style is also one which I truly respect, no frills and he’ll make you accountable for what you need to be doing. This is the right kind of challenge that any business can really benefit from and should seriously consider doing. I can highly recommend Ted as a coach and mentor and also TAB as a great organisation to really take you forward.

Sharon Brown, Revival Sanctuary

I’ve been using Ted for 1:1 coaching and could not recommend him enough; having a sounding board who’s so knowledgeable and business-minded really helps me align my ideas, remain diplomatic and make the best decisions for growth.

Sarah Burns, Handled PA

Event Specialists took the risky decision to commence working with Ted (and The Alternative Board) at the height of the Covid pandemic. Working in the event industry as we do this was quite a leap of faith; we see it as a good gamble. Throughout lock down Ted stayed with us, giving us focus and advise from new potential revenue streams through to how to manage the banks. He has provided us with practical advice, strategic direction and not to be underplayed he is a thoroughly nice bloke to work with.

Rachel McGowan-Kemp, Event Specialists Ltd

I find the sense of community one of the most useful aspects of TAB. Stuart has worked really hard to develop a sense of team among his Board members and that has resulted in a tight community which means we bring more insights and honesty to our discussions. He has also worked hard to help me develop my business by making valuable introductions to people who can use my services which has been a surprising and delightful unexpected extra.

Deborah Kingsley, KP Comms

The Alternative Board has helped me to focus on the company’s key goals and objective. You really don’t feel you are alone, there is a whole team of other business professionals to support you through any challenging issue you or your company is facing. It really is a great and positive motivating experience. Most importantly, the Board has made a fundamental difference to the performance and profitability of the business.

Bradley Walters, Hi Fi Racks Ltd

I was first introduced to the TAB at an event at Derby arena, after a discussion with Max I decided to join. TAB takes coaching to the next level as not only do you have a great one to one session you are involved in a monthly board coaching session where other business owners share their day to day challenges. It brings to the table other people’s thought process and really does challenge your own mindset and thought process helping towards your own daily focus and running your business.

Neil Cockings, PNE Controls Ltd

TAB changed me quite a lot in that, ultimately, I ended up changing role. When I moved into another organisation, it [TAB] helped immensely with looking at the business tools that could be used to make the organisation much more effective and more sustainable, which in the third sector is really important. And so yes, it’s helped me do a lot of things that I hadn’t really thought about before.

Emma Bellu, Community Food Initiatives North East

Being a member of a TAB Board has really helped me to focus on moving my business forward. We now have clear goals and the learning from the support materials and board challenge has been invaluable. Martin is a fantastic mentor who listens and truly understands my business. The advice and motivation he has provided has been truly inspirational. TAB is great value for money and I would recommend it to any business.

Melissa Thompson, Managing Director of Safer Food Scores Limited

I was lucky to meet Martin shortly after being promoted to Managing Director of Kane International. Martin has extensive business experience and has proved to be a valuable mentor as I transition into my new role. Martin’s approach is very professional and he helps me understand where I need to improve at work, at home and within society.  During these unprecedented times Martin and the TAB community have been very generous in sharing information which has greatly benefited Kane and myself.  Working with Martin is certainly giving Kane a competitive advantage!

Jonathan Hoole, Managing Director of Kane International

The Alternative Board has been a real game changer for me personally and my business. Ishaun puts together meetings which are incredibly thought provoking and encompass discussion between a wide range of people from different business perspectives. The insight into other businesses and the feedback I have received on my business has been fascinating and incredibly useful. It is also comforting to discover that you are not alone and that many other business owners are facing the same type of challenges that I am. Furthermore, just the the contacts alone I have already made from attending make this process a no brainer. Then there’s the ongoing support and mentorship – I could go on…… As you can probably tell, I’m sold on this and would recommend any business leader to sign up for TAB!

Edward Crowther, Director at Agent and Home/AirHomes

Elliot allowed me to talk openly and honestly in a private environment. His outstanding knowledge and advice on sometimes basic matters are invaluable. He always provides me with a sensible, thought provoking and realistic approach to my ongoing business challenges. It’s refreshing to know that I can pick the phone up at any time for a friendly chat and reassurance in what we are doing is correct.

Richard Metcalfe, Managing Director, Rogerthorpe Manor Hotel

I think all of us are in constant transition. You have the big obvious ones like career change or moving country and then some are subtle and more reflective, like when you are ready to make a personal leap forward in how you will hold yourself accountable. The death of my father was just one of the events that precipitated a personal crisis and a crisis in our family business. As I stepped up and into a new role as MD, I sought out professional executive support to assist, advise and help me through this transition. Elliot and TAB came highly recommended and have become an integral part of my business and my circle of trust. Elliot offers a progressive balance between coaching, mentoring, teaching and challenging that has helped me move strategic initiatives forward in a more balanced, comprehensive and effective manner. Elliot encouraged me think more deeply about my role, he helped clarify my focus, he challenged me to develop new ways to lead people over a long and sustained period. Elliot helped my personal development and as we discussed my business in depth I became more comfortable sharing my thoughts. Furthermore; Elliot pushed me to review and make substantive changes to my interactions with peers, leaders and staff so that I may provide the clear feedback and guidance they need from me. I would summarise the most important tangible benefits as… • Elliot provides frank, independent, neutral advice that may be difficult to find inside your own workplace • Elliot allows you to talk about how to run a business or consider new ideas with other company directors • When needed, Elliot is my conscience and mentor, he keeps me on track and accountable. • Elliot is a confidant who demonstrates genuine empathy and understanding – whether you need to change abruptly or evolve gently, Elliot will be there. Nick Turnbull, Managing Director, incDOT DESIGN & PRINT

Nick Turnbull, Managing Director, incDOT, York

Business support comes from different ways. Our companies use services that support procedures and staff. But as business owners where do you turn to for good honest advice, especially guidance you can trust! Without sounding like a marketing sales person you need Elliot Rich. In the past 2 years he has really helped the transformation of our business and myself as a business owner. Working with Elliot on a 1-2-1 level and as part of a TAB board in York which Elliot facilitates. I know that everyone is different and responds to help in different ways, this is by far Elliot’s strength in working with you in a way that resonates. Trust is hard earned and I can honestly say that I know that any advice and coaching Elliot does with me is based on his 25 years’ experience in a Directors role. If you are thinking how best to support yourself and your business I would recommend Elliot to make that difference.

Simon Hudson – Managing Director, Soapy Group, York

I joined my TAB board in September 2017. My business had been successful for many years and as far as I was concerned it was delivering all I needed. However, when I met Leslie and he told me about TAB I was intrigued and became curious about the possibility that I could improve the way I ran my business.

Since I joined TAB, my TAB board colleagues have shared with me in the TAB boardroom their different approaches to marketing, operations, pricing and costing, staff management and more. I have been able to cherry pick from the fantastic advice they have given me and feel that I understand the key drivers of growth and profit in my business even better and how to take my business on to a new level.
Leslie, my TAB facilitator and business coach, really holds me to account for delivering my business plan throughout the year and challenges my thinking across a wide range of business activities. I have learnt a lot, in fact more than I thought possible, and would recommend TAB to any business owner that has become a bit complacent and inward looking and wants to be challenged in an honest and caring way.

Bert Picariello, AAP Architecture Ltd

“I joined TAB some months ago and not really sure what I or my company would gain from this experience but I have been delighted with the outcomes so far. My monthly one-to-one meetings are extremely productive. It’s a mixture of mentoring/coaching and one’s own conscience. You can talk to him with total discretion and no inhibitions that you could not with your Chair or your partner. Then there are the Boards where you get sound advice on issues that are concerning you from many different perspectives and you learn from their own problems and others advice. A truly good experience and well worth the investment. On top of it all, Jonathan is a delightful and personable chap who is very good at what he does.”

John Hoskinson, Milestones Trust

“Jonathan has been coaching me for a year now and I wanted to endorse his work as I know it can be hard to demonstrate making a difference as a coach. Working with Jonathan and TAB has been most helpful for me and my business. I find the combination of working with Jonathan on a 121 basis and meeting the board every month particularly useful and it has changed the way I approach many things in my business.

Yafit Davis, Your Business Development Ltd

“Having looked at a number of business groups, I chose to join Jonathan’s TAB group specifically because of Jonathan and the very knowledgeable but human way he came across. I have been a member for 6 months now and Jonathan has proved himself to be an excellent facilitator and coach. He is a great listener and skilled at questioning and understanding. He keeps the group on track and focussed, a steady guiding presence – always aware of the group, never focussed on himself. Highly recommend him.“

Louise Dell, Portal 47 Ltd

“The guidance, support and challenge that Jonathan has provided me through TAB has helped me think completely differently about my business and aim much higher than I had ever previously considered. His structured approach, keen ear and wealth of leadership expertise is helping to push the UIC on to bigger and better things. I’d like to say that working with him has been invaluable but there is a very real and measurable value-add coming down the road if I continue to heed the advice of Jonathan and my fellow TAB Board members.”

Lucy O’Melia, The Universal Improvement Company

“I have been a part of The Alternative Board for six months now. During that time I have found Jonathan’s help and guidance invaluable and the feedback from by TAB board incredibly useful. I am making ongoing changes in my business as a result which is already yielding positive results so highly recommend both Jonathan and the TAB set up.“

Debbie Staveley, bClear Communications

“We have been members of TAB for a few months now. Stuart has proven to be a great facilitator and business mentor. He has an excellent, patient manner and has helped us focus our business and goals. We thoroughly enjoy working with him, and we are certain that that through TAB, he will continue to support our business needs, as well as develop our strategy and implement it.“

Dan Neatherway, FTHV Ltd

“Tim has helped me and my business through his work at TAB in many ways. A particular tool that stands out is DiSC profiling and how it can help each of us learn to work with personality types that are very different from our own. Tim came along to one of our #dynamo events and took us through a really entertaining, short exercise that split us all up based on our broad preferences and responses to given situations. It gave everyone a lot of food for thought and insight into “thinking across the divide” when working with others. Great stuff.“

Mark Spencer, Dysfunction Media Ltd

“I have been a member of Andrew’s TAB Board for 4 months now. The experience with the Board allows me to completely step away from my day to day role once a month, to think about and share key challenges or opportunities I have in my business. The Board helps me solve these problems, while the accountability of sharing my actions on these challenges each month keeps me on course. Andrew facilitates the meetings and creates a perfect environment which is fun, relaxed and trusting, while remaining structured to make sure we are all working collectively to achieve our individual goals. This I am sure isn’t easy, yet Andrew, like any pro makes it look effortless. I also get massive benefit from the insights Andrew offers me about my business outside of the Monthly Meeting.”

Simon Darlaston, Sandler (Harrogate)

“I’ve been working with Andrew and The Alternative Board for a few months now and our business has really fast forwarded it’s growth since doing so. We were ticking along nicely for a few years but I stumbled upon TAB and it seemed a great concept. Having experienced peers to run ideas by before executing has been priceless and one of the best business decisions I’ve made so far. As well as the regular peer board meetings, the 1 to 1 sessions with Andrew have brought so much value. I now see Andrew as an important part of our business and look forward to working together into 2019.“

Gary Thompson, Smartflow Couplings Ltd

“Andrew Jackson – wisdom, clarity, composure – it’s been a privilege being guided by you on your TAB board. Great board. I’ve learned a great deal from you, from the board members and from the TAB process. Appreciated.”

Andrew Gray, Truth Legal

“I have been working with Andrew and The Alternative Board for 6 months now and the progress we have made with our business as a result has been fantastic. Andrew has provided immense value as my coach – his approach is calm, rational and quietly challenging which has the effect of focusing my mind and getting to the root of any inaction on my part. I have turned to him a number of times to ask his opinion on key decisions for our business and have always found him an excellent support. I would be happy to recommend him and look forward to working with him and TAB going forwards.”

Victoria Moulds, Moulds&Co Ltd

Neil Addley, JudgeService

“Since joining TAB I have made some good friends who laugh and cry together, which is testament to how strong the bond of the Board is. The different skills and diverse range of businesses on our Board means you get such a variety of views to help you see things from a new perspective. I couldn’t be without it to help me through some of the challenges I face and the bit of time I need to invest each month in the Board meetings and 1-to-1 sessions has made me more efficient and focused.”

Rob Watson, PH9

“By being more focussed on doing the right things and using my team better, I can genuinely say that TAB has saved me a couple of months a year.  My TAB Board made me realise you only live once and encouraged me to take time off.  That was great news for me and my family who I wasn’t spending enough time with.  We hadn’t had a holiday in 7 years and I am now planning two this year and every other weekend off.”

Craig Daley, Northern Print Solutions

“The direct questioning from my facilitator and TAB Board members is as important as the advice they give me – it really gives clarity to my thoughts and ideas. Having a direct link to experienced business owners is genuinely making some of my decisions easier and clearer.”

Mark Frankland, Motor Marque

“The accountability I get from my TAB Board and facilitator makes me do the things I say I’m going to do – integrity is a key value for me “I am less likely to let things drift if I share my plans and intentions with someone.”

Ian Kirk, Opportunity Marketing

“My TAB Board helped me through a very difficult period with another business I was running.  They gave me sound advice on dealing with the other shareholders, meaning the outcome was much better than it might otherwise have been.”

David Abbott, Insight Best Practice

“TAB has helped me with some delicate issues I’d been shying away from, or just wouldn’t have thought to address, “I was constantly fighting fires but now I have the right people and procedures in place, I have been able to book to go away in the Summer for 3 weeks and I know the business will be fine without me.”

Darren Aggasild, Rose Recruitment

“To share my years of experience and help others with their business challenges is very cathartic and rewarding.”

Bob Howden, Grass Concrete Ltd

“I realise that when times are hard, I need to be at my best and my TAB Board have helped me get my ‘mojo’ back.  They show empathy, understanding and importantly hold me accountable to things I say I’ll do! TAB made a great difference to me when I needed to make some tough decisions for our office structure.  I’m pleased that we have implemented changes and have a new streamlined and dynamic environment which I’d have struggled to achieve on my own.”

Adrian Wing, KCA Ltd & Extreme Designs

“It provides a wide range of support to help me make the right decisions.”

Marc Allison, Walker Law

“I value taking the time to share the ideas and challenges of growing my business with other similar business owners who give me reassurance and guidance to do the right thing.”

Gareth Barber, The Stable Company

“Clare’s experience shows in the way she asks perceptive questions that get you to think about problems differently. Her persistence style cuts through woolly thinking and enables you to get clarity on a way forward that is then actionable. Always come away feeling meetings with Clare feeling energised.”

Dave Nyss, D2 Solutions

“My experience as a TAB member has had a very positive impact on my business and on my own personal development. The monthly board meetings provide an opportunity to draw on the experience and fresh perspectives of other business owners and hold me accountable to taking the necessary action required to achieve my goals. The one to one support, and using the planning tools has enabled me to stand back and look at what I want in my life and how best to achieve this in my business”.

John Seddon, Allied Computer Solutions

”I’ve worked with TAB for more than four years now, which in itself is a testament to the help and support that the Board has given me and my company.

I’ve been through some severely testing times over this time, not knowing whether the business would run out of cash by the end of the month and the TAB members were there to help and support me. I’ve felt like everything was going wrong in the world and the positivity and support from the board and Julian, the facilitator, has helped me through. The TAB Board ensures that I run through the company figures every month, so that I am accountable to them, but also ensuring that I am alive to what’s going on too. I am challenged over my own and company plans, encouraged to look at fresh options and ideas and have had to re-visit areas of business I have previously said no to. It is not always an easy ride, but it is fun, interesting and involves interaction with people who are genuinely interested in me and my company doing well. We’re currently looking at a 20+% increase in turnover this year.

Julian has lead me through some soul searching moments in our coaching sessions which has made me check out options I would have avoided if it had been left up to me. He has a knack for picking up on or eliciting that which I’ve left unsaid and managed to coax me towards at least trying to look at different aspects of my future. All in all, it’s been great for me and excellent for my business.”

Paul Ritchie, Foremost Security Ltd

I very much value sharing a problem or issue with like-minded people, and the discipline of taking time out to look at my own business and the bigger picture is invaluable.

Sean McClarron, McClarrons Ltd

“What I value most about The Alternative Board is the opportunity to discuss my business opportunities and challenges with an experienced business coach and fellow business leaders. They give me different perspectives, great ideas and advice, and hold me accountable for completing the actions needed to take my company to the next level.”

Jonathan Bell, Tyne Valley Motorhomes

Sonya Whitworth, BTL Group

I have worked with Dave McCartney of The Alternative Board for over four years where he has coached me on a monthly basis.  The coaching he offers and the addition of the TAB monthly board meetings with other business owners have been extremely useful in focussing me to what matters to run my business. Dave has been there to help me drive through the changes that have been necessary. Dave is always professional in his approach, is always approachable and I would be very happy to recommend him to any business owner as he can always give a constructive viewpoint to an issue or opportunity.

Stephen Osborne, Oaklands Wetherby Ltd

Jonathan & TAB have made a tangible difference to how I think about my business. 1:1 sessions with Jonathan are always productive, a stretch – but also fun. He’s great at holding me accountable in a way that doesn’t chafe while helping me see fresh perspectives. Group meetings add another level of tough-love and honest feedback – and Jonathan facilitates with a light, but firm touch. Inspirational. 

Martin Dell, Kyero.com

Andy Cecil has worked wonders for my business and me personally. Since 2015 Andy has been my business coach and my company has been reaping the rewards of his excellent work. Andy is a very professional, trustworthy and driven business coach. He has an obvious passion to help others succeed which is backed by extensive hands-on business management experience. Andy really understands both me and my business. He gently guides me to realise, define and achieve my goals. With his help I am developing my management team so the business can continue to grow in a sustainable way.

Quentin Lister, BitBox

Clare’s vast diversification of experience enables her to achieve a deep understanding of all businesses, whilst she delivers her support in a sympathetic and empathetic style, without ever passing judgement.  She is able to cut to the real issues that we face and together we design and agree strategies to help us -whilst holding me to account as I progress to the agreed outcomes. I always conclude our meetings more energised, more optimistic and with my self-belief topped up.

Mark Hynes, Wealth Strategies

Working with Andy as my business coach has been a valuable experience and a decision I wish I’d made sooner. With the additional accountability and coaching, I’ve found I’m leading the direction of my business and there’s much less reactive work. Progress has been rapid and changes I’ve initiated have all led to growth in the business metrics and a far better work life balance.

Nichola Stott

TAB has really helped me cut out the ‘noise’ and focus on what’s really important in the running of my business.

Alison Wells, Plane Talking

Since working with Andy at The Alternative Board, I have changed the way I am working for the better. His wealth of experience in business brings a new perspective on everyday issues that I come up against. Andy questions me in a way that gives me focus and confidence in decision making. His mentoring has helped to rapidly improve our business and I could not recommend Andy highly enough.  If you want to grow your business and make positive changes you should have a chat with Andy.

Neal Purvey, Impella Windscreen Repair

It’s a combination of support and encouragement, and challenge and hard questions that I just don’t get anywhere else.

Anna Gillings

I’ve found a new energy and clarity since I’ve joined TAB: the mix of group and one-to-one meetings gives me a safe space to work on my business rather than in it, and that has been transformative. The necessity of preparing my issue for the board each month in itself helps me think more clearly. Other board members always bring perspectives and ideas I would never have considered and are generous in offering help and contacts and the one-to-one sessions are the perfect mix of support and challenge. I’d recommend it without hesitation.

Alison Jones

Damien has been an inspiration and an invaluable asset to our business and our practices. The 1-2-1 sessions have ventured through brilliant business advice, accountable actions and useful contacts. Occasionally almost venturing in to business counselling and at times with solid and honest home truths that even if hard to admit, are incredibly valuable. The board meetings have always brought up fantastic insights and the benefits of being able to discuss any issues in a safe and respected environment should not be underestimated. Helping each other’s businesses to traverse obstacles and find solutions is both incredibly useful and rewarding. I would gladly recommend The Alternative Board to any business owner.

Peter Bird, WATB

One of the best business decisions of my career was to join Paul and the TAB board. Paul is a fantastic Chairman and superb mentor who challenges you to raise the bar every time you meet be it within the board structure or on a one to one basis. At times running an SME is a lonely place so it’s extremely reassuring to know that within the TAB board we have an extremely tight knit team of critical friends/ Non exec directors for support. Linking up with Paul and TAB was one of the defining moments in the development of Howorth Air Technology and it will continue to have a major impact for years to come.

Jim Liptrot, Howorth Air Technology Ltd

There’s no doubt that being a member of TAB has saved me money.  My TAB board members have given me advice and suggested things I might do that I would never have thought of myself.  What I really like is that everyone is so open.  There are no clashes, no one competes, everyone just wants to help one another … and importantly, it all stays in the room!

Colin Burney, SUBC

TAB gives me a monthly task of thinking about a very specific part of my business. Without it, some of these issues may never get my fuller attention and with it, the attention of others. It motivates me to talk about things you may not want to discuss in the business. The sounding board, confirmation of my thinking, motivation to ‘get on with it’ are all very valuable to me. Honesty and an objective view to a sole owner is valuable in a quantitative way.

Mark Kemp, FortyTwo Studio

I’ve been working with Paul as a business mentor for nearly 3 years, and as I look back at the issues we’ve covered, I can see areas of the business that have transformed from dysfunctional to high performing. Whilst there is still lots of work to do and areas to improve, my approach to a monthly board has changed from “HELP!!!!” to “What do you think of…”

As a sole owner director of a business it’s hard to find someone to turn to that can appreciate your concerns and challenges. Your partner, your team, your friends will all have their opinion, but rarely one that has your business’s best interest at heart. Paul and my peers challenge my thinking and give me accountability, as well as a fresh pair of eyes.

Adrian Hancock, Clear Visual Communications

I had always been quite cynical about mentoring groups and such organisations, being bombarded daily with them on LinkedIn. Something resonated with me when I met Leslie though and it’s probably one of the very best things I’ve done for me and my business.

Sharing experiences and issues with fellow board members provides an invaluable wealth of ideas and support, along with the confidence that comes when realising you can contribute ideas and solutions for their challenges too.

1-2-1 sessions with my TAB Facilitator allow me to work on, not in, the business. Their vast experience and knowledge is invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend TAB to anyone who is serious about growing their business, wants to learn better practices and improve the health of their business (and probably their own mental health too).

Tina Keeble, Valiant Design LTD

Becoming members of TAB has been hugely valuable to our business. Our fellow Board Members are a really good bunch of people for whom we have great respect. The ongoing nature of our relationship with one another has built up a lot of trust and we have been given some useful advice, which we would not have been able to gain easily elsewhere. Tom’s one to one sessions have been vital in helping us to plan the growth of our business, and allowing us to tap into his many years of business experience and contacts.

Sharon Klein & Sue Alderson, Azure Consultants

During the protracted two year process of selling my hotel business, with all its ups and downs, the Board’s support and advice has been invaluable. Their support made me feel that there was a plan and light at the end of the tunnel.

Peter Banks, Rudding Park Hotel

I’ve had some good advice from the Board, and my monthly one to one session with Tom is a great opportunity to stand back from the business and formalise my thinking.

Kevin O’Connor, RSM

I have been a member of one of Terry’s TAB boards for over a year. Having a group of like minded business people to bounce ideas off and to get advice from is invaluable. If you are serious about wanting to improve your business I would recommend that you check TAB out.

Howard Soltau, Beech Financial

I’ve been an active member of Terry’s High Peak/Macclesfield TAB board for over a year now. Terry is not only a great facilitator of our board meetings but always has some insightful and positive input into the members monthly topics. Terry and TAB has helped me put aside time to work on my business rather than in it. I’d recommend TAB and Terry in particular to any business owner looking for help growing their business.

Carl Dean, Silkmoth Ltd

Running a business is a challenge, but today’s new problem is something someone else has already dealt with, this week’s craziness is next week’s learning, and tomorrow’s insight is sometimes the inspiration another needs. So it’s about being part of a community who can share, support, and guide and celebrate. We are all individuals but together we are strong.

Simon Hudson, Cloud2

TAB meetings enable me to meet and talk with like minded people, gain new angles and fresh ways of thinking for my business. They understand the trials and tribulations that every organisation, irrespective of size, is faced with everyday. It is this hard won, practical experience that TAB brings together and which is readily shared around the table to the benefit of all. Whatever problems arise I know that I am not on my own.

Bob Gomersall, Virtual College

As a member of Martin’s board, he has supported me and the growth of my business over the past nine months. His advice and guidance has been hugely valuable and I always enjoy our conversations. He is supportive, challenging and thought provoking. I strongly recommend him as a personal and business mentor.

Richard Waddell, Talent ID

Martin is unflappable, productive and a great facilitator, couple that with a good sense of humour then you have the qualities required to run a successful TAB board. I would recommend Martin to anyone I meet especially where a seemingly intractable situation needs resolving.

Paul Songaila, Twin Systems Plc

My experience of being a TAB member is absolutely positive! The support I have been shown is of tremendous importance through very difficult and stressful times. TAB has been instrumental in helping me to overcome my business demons and develop my business knowledge and understanding.

Paul Hastings, Manor Electrical

Julian is highly adept at seeing straight to the heart of an issue. He has the ability to create a level of trust and understanding very quickly when interacting with my team and they value his advice and suggestions as much as I do. He offers unflinching support and his ideas and solutions are incredibly valuable.

Kirsty Davies-Chinnock

Jonathan is a man who brings a depth of experience and wisdom to any business challenge. He is a very good listener, and he is able to ask the right questions and get you to a better solution. Jonathan is very efficient, personable and someone who can be trusted to deliver on his promises. I have no hesitation in recommending Jonathan and the work that he does with The Alternative Board.

Ed Rowberry, Bristol & Bath Regional Capital

I have worked with David over the last year on a number of projects. With his breadth of business experience he brings an external view and perspective to issues that you can’t get from work colleagues. This has proven to be invaluable to me and I would recommend David to other business leaders.

Andrew Moorby, Tait Walker

The TAB coaching sessions and Board meetings give me the opportunity to work on the business not in the business. I really value the independent advice and sounding board TAB provides and thoroughly enjoy working with my fellow Board members to solve not only my own business issues but theirs as well. It is great to know that, in business, you do not need to be alone.

Iain Richardson, Winn Solicitors

The TAB Board meetings are a great way to get quality advice from experienced business leaders, and to hear about the challenges they have faced and the solutions they developed to achieve success. In addition, the one to one meetings with David give me the time and space to step back from the day to day business and focus on the strategic challenges. David brings a wealth of business experience and an independent, external perspective which is hugely valuable.

Susan Bell, Watersons

David supported me through a transitional period in my business. He was of immeasurable help facilitating a structure that puts us in great shape for the future. He demonstrated great insight into the challenges and the people involved. I would have no reservations in recommending him and the Alternative Board.

Nick Lock, Carrot Juice Creative

Many thanks to Dave, for the time invested with CimLogic via TAB. Being part of a ‘relevant’ network has made an extreme difference to the way we do business. I have saved money, paid less tax, received better service from existing suppliers, and been able to us a wide range of new business services which I didn’t even know existed. Well done Dave & TAB – much appreciated.

Mike Hodge, CIM Logic

“I have worked for AES for 20 years and I assumed full ownership and control of the business, following a 5 year management buy-out. I joined TAB with the expectation that it would provide me with an opportunity to discuss, implement and manage changes that would allow the business to grow, with the support and experience of other business owners. During the last 12 months that I have been a member, TAB has been a vital resource to challenge my ideas and enable me to make better decisions. Working on a Business Advisory Board with other like-minded business owners from various sectors has enabled me to access support, experience and knowledge to help me to run my company.”

Lee Johnson, Advanced Electrical Services

Eight years after taking the decision to leave employment and set up my own business, and as anyone in my position will tell you, it can still be a lonely place to operate. That changed when I met Chris. Working with, and being supported by Chris in his capacity of MD at The Alternative Board has been nothing short of invaluable to me. To share topics of discussion with, be held accountable by, and receive advice from other business owners in a format chaired expertly by Chris is something I look forward to each month. Should Chris offer you the opportunity to meet, take it

Martin Bown, My Management Accountant Ltd

What I know I have in common with many small business owners is a difficulty in planning the direction of the company when day to day work never goes away. Andy has worked hard in putting structure into my thinking and ensuring priorities are dealt with. The day to day stuff doesn’t go away but the regular support through monthly meetings means that development of the business doesn’t get forgotten. Having someone outside of the business that you can call on to get an alternative and valuable opinion also reduces stress levels by a notch or two.

Mark Judkowski, Clean & Care

I met Andy through TAB but he has recently worked with me to complete a full business analysis and 3 year plan. He is extremely focused and knowledgeable in business affairs and if he doesn’t know about something, he will research it & find out. Through Andy’s sessions, my daughter and I have clearly outlined where we want to be, how we can get there and faced up to the realities of our previous weaknesses.
I have worked with other coaches, through courses I have been involved in, who have given what I would call ‘woolley’ comments whereas Andy is very specific. We are only at the beginning of putting our plan into action but I have every confidence that we have a really achievable set of goals and feel far more confident that serious growth is within our grasp.

Helen Rhodes, Bow Basket

I’ve now worked with Andy for 8 months and can safely say he has helped me achieve results a lot faster than I would have on my own. Andy is a fantastic listener and has a strong foundation of knowledge in all areas of business. His guidance has provided valuable insight into areas I may have never considered had I not got involved with The Alternative Board. If you’re looking for a trusted and experienced person that can help you take your business to the next level, Andy’s your man!

Jag Panesar, Xpand Marketing

Andy has been fantastic with his support and help through our transition through the startup period! I look forward to learning more from him in the future.

Chris Morris, Shoo Social Media

I’ve had the pleasure of being mentored by Paul for over a year and the difference that his counsel has made, together with my membership at The Alternative Board, has exceeded all my expectations. Paul has a brilliant coaching style which helps you work through the many challenges that come from running a business. Owning and running a business can be a lonely tough place at times – and working with Paul and my membership of The Alternative Board has been one of my best purchasing decisions of 2016. Having had quite a few ‘business advisers’ seek my attention the past two years – I can honestly say that Paul’s way, his knowledge and his commitment puts him in a league of his own.

John Quinton-Barber, Social Communications

“Working with Paul through The Alternative Board (TAB) has completely transformed my approach to running the business. From the 1-2-1 coaching sessions to the monthly board meetings with other business owners, Paul’s input and professional approach has helped my business mature from a small “friends and family” operation to a well-structured and strategically sound operation.

Paul has been instrumental in facilitating this transformation with a personable yet professional style that really suits our manner of working. I would recommend Paul and TAB membership to any business owner looking at taking the next step.”

Rob Sandbach, Indiespring

“I first met Paul in early 2015 and he introduced me to The Alternative Board. It is no exaggeration to say that this was a turning point in my professional life.

The support that I received from Paul and the other members of our board was a key element in the improvement of our business. TAB helped us to define our company vision; to set goals; to plan strategies to achieve those goals and most importantly for me – to not let me off the hook if I was slacking!

It is not easy being a small business owner, but Paul and the rest of the TAB team make it much easier.”

Tyler Lappage, Nabarro Poole

Almost a year ago I asked Paul if I could join one of his boards, it was one of the best things I could have done for both my development and the growth of my company. Having worked with Paul for the last year, I know first-hand why he has been awarded facilitator of the year by his peers for three years running. The input from Paul’s board and the direct mentoring he has given to me and my co-director have been vital during what has been a massive growth curve for Linten Technologies. In my view, every company owner who wants to grow should be asking to join a board.

Steven Allan, Linten Technologies

With Paul and The Alternative Board I find myself with a complimentary non-exec Board of like-minded professionals with far wider skills to draw on than I possess, additionally I get 1-2-1 time with Paul to help keep me focused and on track with my goals. For me, the chemistry of the group matters far more than the structure, with TAB I’ve found both great chemistry and diversity of skills alongside a structure that really suits my working style. In short, exactly what I need post-Goldman Sachs for our onward journey.

Mike Andrews, John Bradshaw & Sons

“I have been thoroughly impressed by each aspect of work that Paul helps me with; through The Alternative Board and in 1-2-1 coaching sessions. He has guided me through some big changes with great insight, wisdom and practical advice.

I am very grateful to him and hope this recommendation helps him to help more people. Thank you, Paul.”

Flora Maudsley-Barton, Parsonage Financial

The insight of the others, and their frank, open and honest advice is refreshing. It enables me to see things more clearly and use the wisdom in the room to help our business progress. As someone who was unsure to begin with, the depth of trust and the strength of the relationships that I have with my fellow TAB members is something I didn’t foresee. I would recommend joining TAB to any business owner who is looking at growing their business and maturing their role within that business.

Steve Coburn, Projectfive

“Paul is a skilled coach, great diplomat but has a real knack of making everything simple and therefore more sticky.

To be an effective Board member you need only two things, an open mind and the common sense to accept you haven’t got all the answers, if that’s the case working with Paul & TAB will make your business better.

I would strongly recommend you give it a go & would be happy to share a few of the gems that have helped us to develop & grow wisely.”

Mark Brocklehurst, MD Sharples Group Ltd

“I’ve known Paul for over 3 years and joined a TAB Board facilitated by Paul just under 2 years ago. The support I get from Paul and the other members of the board has been and is invaluable to me. The coaching and mentoring compliments the regular TAB Boards superbly and Paul’s style has helped me make real progress the effects of which are being felt in my business and personal life. I have a clear vision and goals that are driving initiatives which are making a real difference to me and the business.”

Stephen Attree, MLP Law