Now that a management buy-in has taken place at well-established Cardiff firm b2b IT, Board Meetings are held on two wheels. John Hurst has bought into the IT firm for an undisclosed sum, bringing a wealth of experience and a track record of business success. The deal was brokered by accountants O’Brien and Partners.
John, who is 34, joins fellow mountain bike enthusiast Luke Hodge as an equal shareholder -and the two like to discuss business while enjoying their favourite past-time.
The firm is aiming to grow only at a rate at which it can still sustain its high levels of customer service – a core value of the business. Already the approach is paying off with a number of new clients signing up in recent weeks.
“We do not employ a sales team, which makes us unusual,” commented John. “We prefer to inform customers of our services and ensure we are what they are looking for. In the longer term this is best for all concerned.
“Several clients have been with the firm since its inception 13 years ago and we are extremely proud of this.”
New clients include a leading public relations firm in South Wales, an events firm, as well as Mamhilad Park Estate near Pontypool.
“Having been a client of b2b, John knows first-hand what we are about. So, I am delighted that John has decided to join the team bringing his business experience,” commented Luke. “John’s skill base will enable us to add more value to our clients whilst ensuring we stick to our core values – customer satisfaction and staff retention.”
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“It is really a ‘business as usual’ approach in the same manner that has brought b2b success in the last 13 years,” added Luke.
John was previously Managing Director of an international manufacturing company selling to over 100 countries, and sits on the marketing and advisory board of Cardiff Business School, as well as chairing the IOD Policy Committee in Wales.
He also worked for fast-growth businesses such as Messagelabs and Energis, and in 2015 he was in the Wales Online top 35 business people under 35, and is an Insider Rising Star.
The buy-in was arranged by accountants O’Brien and Partners. Mark Aherne, Tax Director commented:”We are delighted to have been involved in this deal, bringing John’s business experience and marketing flair into this firm.
“We are sure the new management team will work very well together and the firm will develop and prosper under its new team.”
b2b IT, which prioritises customer service and technical excellence, has a strong client base across South Wales, to whom they offer IT support, and business continuity creating cyber resilient businesses.
As well as serving its clients, the firm emphasises an excellent work culture and ethos within the business. “We take great care when recruiting and we have an excellent record on staff retention,” added Luke.
Staff retention has always been high at b2b IT and the new team plans to continue working to create a harmonious working environment and ‘extended family culture’ in the firm.
