Success doesn’t come without risk, failure, and some uncomfortable truths. My journey has been anything but linear, and it’s the lessons learned along the way that have shaped the way I work and lead today.

I graduated in 1998 with no clear vision, no connections, and a world cup stealing my attention. My first big opportunity came through a combination of being prepared and standing out. When I landed a final interview at MC Saatchi, I knew I had to differentiate myself. While others delivered polished, predictable presentations, I leaned into my personality and used humor, originality, and credible insights to make a lasting impression. Yup David Beckham wearing a sarong (aka skirt) is how I got my first job.

But here’s the reality: the dream job wasn’t a dream at all. Long hours, low pay, and no sense of ownership quickly showed me that corporate life wasn’t for me. Within a year, I made a bold choice to quit. Life’s too short to operate in fear or stay stuck in a role that doesn’t align with who you are. I took a risk, booked a ticket to travel, and found myself needing money—which led me to recruitment.

From the moment I stepped into recruitment, I knew I had found something different. It was a world where success was in my control, performance was rewarded, and results mattered more than politics. Within weeks, I was earning more than I had at Saatchi in a year. That was my turning point. I realized that if I wasn’t going to play football for England, I wanted a career where I could drive my own success, take ownership, and be rewarded for it.

By 2008, I co-founded ConSol Partners, a tech recruitment business built on a clear philosophy:

• Control and Accountability: Success is driven by individuals, not luck or circumstance.

• Specialization: Focus on high-value, future-proof industries rather than low-value, high-volume models.

• Learning and Development: Invest heavily in training and progression for every team member.

• Innovation: Focus on what’s coming next and stay ahead of the curve.

We stayed true to these principles, growing the business to $50 million in annual sales with offices in four global locations and placements in over 60 countries. By 2019, after 12 years of growth and hard work, we achieved a full exit by selling to a public company at 8.6x multiple. Financial independence achieved. 

That’s when I embraced my next chapter.

Today, I’m based in Los Angeles, where I focus on investing in tech, private equity, and real estate while consulting for recruitment and tech companies around the globe. Through MDC Ventures, I help businesses and leaders master the art of growth, innovation, and leadership. My approach is built on hard-earned lessons and straight-talking honesty.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

1. Be Yourself: People buy into people, not façades. Show your personality, admit mistakes, and let others see who you really are.

2. Take Risks: You can’t achieve something extraordinary without stepping outside your comfort zone.

3. Know Yourself: Your career should reflect your values, not someone else’s expectations.

4. Build a Philosophy: Success comes from having a clear approach to how you work and lead.

5. Focus on the Future: Always look five years ahead. Where will the opportunities be? How can you prepare now?

6. Embrace Accountability: Own your success, and take responsibility for your outcomes.

When it comes to leadership, I believe in being into the details, building a culture of progression, and creating real accountability. Data may guide the questions, but it’s people who provide the insight. And when it comes to engaging teams, honesty and sincerity are non-negotiable.

I’ve built a multi-million-pound business, interviewed hundreds of people, and now work as an advisor and investor. But the truth is, I’m still learning every day. If you’re ready to embrace the same mindset—one of urgency, accountability, and action—then I’d love to help you carve your own path to success.

Let’s get to work.