What industries do you specialise in?

All kinds! I take pride in my ability to learn the fundamentals of virtually any industry or technology quickly. Some of the markets I have covered to-date include beauty, FMCG, environmental, floristry, photography, internet / ecommerce, recruitment, manufacturing, retail, food service, consumer products, media and entertainment and networking. However, there are specific industries and situations where I may not be the best fit. I am happy to discuss your situation confidentially, and will immediately let you know whether or not I think I am a good fit for your company. I am also able to point you in the right direction of someone who will.

Do I really need a business plan?

If you run a business, then yes. Businesses tend to need different types of plans at different stages. Some may even require more than one business plan: one for raising capital and one for running their business. The former plan required for investment is usually an easily digested strategic document that is designed to persuade potential investors to meet with you. The latter is a more detailed document serving as a day-to-day roadmap, detailing the tactics supporting your overall strategy. The former needs to sell; the latter is usually a working document of spreadsheets, lists, research summaries, and other documents that you refer to and update on a regular basis. I specialize in the operating business plan and strategic growth within this planning but can also prepared business plan for companies looking for investment or a bank loan.

Can you start immediately?

This is entirely based on what is required both from myself and yourselves . I am freelance so there is only one of me. But diaries considered I should be able to start quite quickly.

Why don’t you list companies you have worked with on your website?

Most of my clients insist on strict confidentiality, so I cannot divulge any information about them beyond their industry and a general description of the type of services provided.

How does the process work?

Every situation is unique. However, some fairly common steps include:

· Initial discussion to understand your needs.

· Agree upon the scope and fees for the project.

· Review of existing materials (current business plans, financials, market research, competitor research, etc.).

· Several discussions to better understand the details, develop strategies, and agree on all major elements of the business plan and financial model.

· Conduct additional research, as needed.

· Prepare a draft outline of the outcomes.

· Presentation of results

· Steps moving forward

How much do you charge?

My initial contact/call with you is free; the intention of which is to learn more about your business, your project, goals, timetable budget and what exactly you are looking for and if there is anything that I can help you with. At that point I will agree a commercial rate with you. Typically this is based on a rate appropriate to the service needed:

· Hourly/daily rate

· Monthly retainer

· Per-project rate

The work can be performed on-premises, off-premises or as a combination of the two depending on your business needs.

How long does it take?

There is no straight answer to this, generally a business plan and strategic projects including financial forecasts can take 6-8 weeks. More involved projects can require several months, and depending on the existing materials, the complexity of your business model, my current workload and your level of participation this can be longer or shorter.

Will you sign a non-disclosure agreement?

Yes. I am happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS