How can I help ?

 

I can help you with your exisiting business or new project.

I work with founders, owners and leadership teams to help businesses grow, scale and, where appropriate, prepare for a successful exit.
Businesses are like widgets. whether you are developing a new venture or strengthening an established organisation, many of the fundamentals of building value remain consistent. These include clear strategy, strong governance, disciplined execution and effective decision making.

My role is to support these areas at board level, drawing on experience gained across multiple industries and business stages. I work as a Non-Executive Chair, Non-Executive Director or Board Adviser, providing
independent challenge, strategic perspective and practical guidance, without becoming involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

My focus is to help you and your business become the strongest version of itself, whether you are a start-up, a growing company or a mature organisation navigating change, complexity or transition.
If you would like an informal, no-obligation conversation about your ideas, plans or challenges, please do get in touch. I will be very pleased to hear from you.

Each of my engagements is bespoke. I am adaptable to fit in with your specific needs.

Company Chairman

I have experience as a company chairman and as such, my role will be to  ensure that the board is effective in its task of setting and implementing the company’s direction and strategy. I’ll ensure that the business’ projects remain on track.

Non-Exec Director

I am an experienced non exec director and if you appoint me to this role, I will provide a valuable and creative contribution to the board by providing independent oversight and constructive challenges to the executive directors. I’m known for speaking my mind, which in the long run is usually appreciated.

Business Advisor

I’ve worked on an “Ad-hoc” basis as a business advisor to a number of companies and individuals. I’m a good sounding board for new ideas and projects ,or if you are thinking of making changes in an existing business.

Introductions

I have extensive contacts across a broad range of industries. I can help introduce you to the right people that can help your business. I can help prepare proposals for fund raising.

Coaching & Mentoring

I  believe that external coaching is often overlooked in businesses.  I have coached and mentored many directors and senior staff. In my experience a fresh pair of eyes (and ears) can greatly assist business development.

Corporate Governance
Many businesses operate without formal Shareholder or Partnership Agreements, creating unnecessary risk. I support initial discussions, coordinate with legal advisers and review documentation to ensure agreements are properly completed and signed. I also guide owner-directors on corporate governance, employee share schemes and preparing for future succession or exit.

 

Business Divorce

Differences can arise in any business, regardless of stage or success. When directors become misaligned, early intervention is essential to protect stability and value. I provide calm, structured mediation, helping boards resolve disputes constructively and reach fair, practical outcomes that support the long-term interests of the business.

Exiting a Business

Planning an exit, whether through retirement, sale, management buyout or Employee Ownership Trust, requires careful preparation. I work with owners and stakeholders to design clear, structured exit strategies that balance commercial objectives with personal goals, ensuring aligned outcomes and a smooth transition for all parties involved.

My Services

I can help with any of the following:

  • Company Chairman
  • Non Exec Director
  • Business Advisor
  • Business Introductions
  • Corporate Governance 
  • Business Divorce
  • Exiting a Business
  • Fund Raising
  • Problem solving
  • Skill development.
  • Staff Development
  • Formulating marketing plans,
  • Product development & implementation,

Whatever your business, I feel with my broad experience across many industries I will be able to help you achieve your goals. If you wish to have an informal chat, please do get in touch, I’ll be pleased to hear from you and learn about your ideas and plans.

Please use the contact form below, I look forward to hearing from you.

GET IN TOUCH

Lincombe Keep, Lincombe Drive, Torquay, TQ1 2HQ

 077 688 23700

alan@alanmarks.co.uk

In my ideal world I would to keep standard office hours of
Monday to Friday 9.00am-5.00pm

However, as I am working with real businesses in their world and in mine things happen anytime so I am happy to schedule a call, or an online meeting at a time to suit you from 8.00am to 8.00pm or outside these times if it is possible.