There’s probably no better way to demonstrate your knowledge of business growth strategy than by expanding your own business enterprise. Which is exactly what the head of RfM Business Consulting, Tony Backhouse, has been doing over the past two years.
RfM Business Consulting was launched in summer 2016 to give clients who were looking to grow their businesses access to an expert with over 30 years’ experience of delivering innovative growth programmes and managing change.
Initially, clients could benefit from a package of services focused on business growth. A clear, strategic thinker, Tony advised and supported business owners to identify and map out a viable plan for growth, providing ongoing expertise to help them achieve their goals. As Tony began to work with more clients, he started to identify opportunities for the growth of his own business. Whilst his focus would remain on business growth, he realised that he could strengthen his offer by providing further specialist support in other areas.
A new phase for RfM Business Consulting
Fast forward to summer 2018 and businesses can now benefit from expert strategic advice on everything from accessing grant funding and R&D Tax Credits to managing change and banking relationships.
“The growth and success to date of RfM Business Consulting is a good example of us practising what we preach,” says Tony. “Indeed, if we weren’t growing, clients would have every right to doubt that we really do understand what it takes to plan for and achieve business expansion.
“The projects we have worked on over the last two years have helped us to identify our strengths and where we can add most value for clients. Having real case studies also helps us to demonstrate to new clients – who may be sceptical about involving a consultant – the difference we can make and the results we can achieve.
“We’re really excited to be entering this new phase with an enhanced range of specialisms. Our services will benefit any business that is looking to grow or to prepare for a future that is increasingly being driven by technology.
“As we grow, we are also looking for the right people to join our team so that more clients can benefit from using our services.”
A growing concern
Growing a business can often feel like negotiating a minefield – and sometimes it takes clear-sighted vision to plot the right course. Tony works with all sorts and sizes of businesses, from individuals to firms with 30-plus staff. Regardless of size or specialism, the goals and outcomes are the same and Tony tailors his approach to achieving these to fit each client.
“When it comes to growth, a key area that businesses find difficult is ensuring they have their priorities in order,” Tony says.
“We manage the process so they can concentrate on running their business. We provide an external, objective view of the business and its growth plans, and we can help to gain access to matched funding routes.”
Furness Cars and Commercials specialises in the servicing, repair and maintenance of cars and commercial vehicles. They also provide 24-hour vehicle recovery services. As the business has grown and evolved, the senior team reviewed their current premises and considered whether purchasing land for new, purpose-built premises would be the best option for them.
A long-standing client of RfM’s Ulverston office, Director Gary Grieve approached his accountant for advice in relation to the expansion and management of the business. Gary’s advisors provided an introduction to Tony and he has now been working closely with Gary and the management team for the past 12 months.
“Over the past year, Tony has provided invaluable support and advice to help us plan and prepare for this phase of significant change for the business.” says Gary. “He is very well connected and has put us in touch with all the right people to help make the project happen, such as land agents, planning consultants and funding bodies. Tony adjusts his way of working to fit the size and nature of the business; I’ve found him to be really proactive and very hands on. Nothing seems to phase him!
“It’s been a positive experience and we hope to carry on working with Tony through to the completion of the project.”
Big business thinking for SMEs
It is common practice for larger businesses to ‘buy in’ the skills of a consultant when they identify a need but they do not have the resources in-house. Smaller businesses are less likely to consider engaging strategic business advisors, often believing the costs will be prohibitive.
RfM Business Consulting allows smaller companies to harness the calibre of strategic thinking usually accessible only to larger organisations, at a price they can afford.
“There are lots of smaller businesses out there who don’t make use of third-party advisors. But the clients we’ve been working with have seen the value in the results that have been achieved by working with us,” says Tony.
To find out more about the services offered by RfM Business Consulting and meet our consultants, please visit our website www.rfmbusinessconsulting.co.uk
To discuss a project, contact Tony Backhouse directly on 07969 900864 or email tbackhouse@rfm-more.co.uk