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Hey, I’m Richard

Strategic Consultant for Startups & Growth Businesses

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About Me

I’m Richard Lee, a strategic consultant with over a decade of experience in building, scaling, and transforming businesses. As the founder and former CEO of a successful digital technology company, I took a startup from an initial concept to a multi-million-pound enterprise, guiding it through rapid growth and operational challenges. During this time, I led the business to a 650% growth surge, even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, by aligning strategy, product innovation, and operational efficiency.

In addition to my entrepreneurial background, I have held senior governance roles across both the public and private sectors. I currently serve as Chair of Finance at Citizens Advice and on the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board for Northumbria Police, where I provide strategic direction and financial oversight. My diverse leadership and governance experience enable me to provide startups and scaling businesses with the tools they need to build strong foundations for sustainable growth.

I also work with a number of start up and scale up businesses on Advisory Boards and in a NED and coach capacity.

How Can I Help You?

1. Strategic Planning for Long-Term Success

Building a successful business requires more than just short-term wins. I work closely with founders and leadership teams to develop comprehensive strategic plans that align with the company’s vision and market opportunities. My strategic planning services are tailored to help businesses:

  • Define a clear roadmap for growth.
  • Identify market trends and competitive positioning.
  • Align organizational structure and resources with strategic goals.
  • Develop metrics to measure progress and adjust as needed.

Whether you’re in the initial stages of a startup or looking to scale your business, I help you create a strategy that not only drives immediate results but also ensures long-term sustainability.

2. Leadership, Governance & Board Effectiveness

Good governance is critical for businesses looking to attract investment, manage risk, and ensure accountability. Drawing from my extensive experience serving on boards, I offer services that ensure your leadership team and governance structure are fit for purpose:

  • Establish governance frameworks that promote accountability and transparency.
  • Provide board-level advisory to improve decision-making processes.
  • Support executive teams in delivering on strategic goals while managing operational risks.
  • Ensure alignment between board objectives and organizational outcomes.

For startups, implementing the right governance practices early can be a game-changer for securing investment and navigating growth challenges.

3. Innovation & Digital Transformation

In a competitive market, innovation is not just an option—it’s essential. I specialize in helping businesses integrate technology and innovation into their strategy to stay ahead. My services include:

  • Advising on the use of digital tools to streamline operations and improve customer experience.
  • Identifying opportunities for product development and service innovation.
  • Leveraging data and digital transformation to drive business efficiency and market adaptability.
  • Providing insights into emerging trends in technology that can benefit your business.

Having built and led a tech-driven business, I understand how to harness the power of innovation to gain a competitive edge.

4. Financial Oversight & Risk Management

Strong financial planning is the backbone of any growing business. I help companies create robust financial strategies that ensure both growth and stability. My financial oversight services include:

  • Establishing and managing financial controls.
  • Advising on cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting.
  • Helping businesses manage financial risks and allocate resources effectively.
  • Providing strategic insight into fundraising, investor relations, and scaling operations.

With my experience as Chair of Finance for a large non-profit and CEO of a high-growth company, I bring a balanced perspective on managing financial resources efficiently while preparing for growth.

Why choose me?

Proven Experience in Scaling Businesses
I’ve successfully led companies through periods of rapid growth, managing the complexities of scaling operations, expanding markets, and optimizing resources. My experience in scaling a digital tech company offers valuable insights for any startup looking to grow.

Expertise Across Multiple Sectors
I’ve worked with businesses in technology, non-profit, and public sectors, bringing a cross-industry perspective that helps me tailor solutions to your unique business challenges. My work with public sector organizations like Northumbria Police has further enhanced my ability to manage complex regulatory environments, which is crucial for startups navigating compliance challenges.

A Deep Understanding of Social Impact and Governance
My personal journey, having been raised in social housing, drives my commitment to making a difference. Whether I’m serving on the board of Citizens Advice or overseeing strategic direction for Northumbria Police, my goal is to support organizations that have a strong social purpose. I apply this same passion to helping startups, ensuring that businesses I work with not only succeed financially but also create meaningful impact in their communities.


Let’s Build Your Business Together

I offer bespoke consultancy services designed to help startups and growth-stage businesses thrive. If you’re looking for a partner to help you navigate the challenges of scaling your company, building a governance structure, or driving innovation, let’s start a conversation.

email: richard@adeptable.co.uk