A former BT executive has become the latest corporate high-flyer to join a team of business ‘doctors’ helping small and medium-sized enterprises.
Steve Wheeler, 50, had worked for various companies within BT Group for 24 years, the last five of them as BT Local Business’ Regional Director for London and the South East.
But Steve will now focus his talents on coaching businesses in the Tonbridge and Sevenoaks areas.
He is the latest addition to the growing Business Doctors team and joins other successful executives working around the country.
Steve will be focusing on how to make SMEs more successful by looking at strategy, customer experience, management and leadership, as well as recruitment and retention.
Steve said: ‘I’m looking forward to getting to know businesses in my area better, and helping them to succeed.
‘SMEs are vibrant and all about people; they’re fast-paced and face unique challenges on a daily basis. At BT I discovered that it really mattered to each individual SME what I could do to support them – each problem or solution was a big deal.’
Steve’s achievements as Regional Director included leading the transformation of an under-performing region, by encouraging better collaboration and strengthening sales teams. Responsible for turnover that exceeded £200 million, he succeeded growing revenue and market share growth in the SME sector.
His other roles at the group included Head of New Business (BT Directories, London area) and UK Head of Inbound Services (BT Corporate Sales division).
‘I’m excited about the prospect of sharing my expertise and helping within what I can only describe as a ‘real’ environment,” he added.
‘I’m sure owners of small and medium businesses will know exactly what I mean! So I applied to become a Business Doctor. The culture and philosophy are a good fit – caring, collaborative and supportive.’
Business Doctors is an experienced network of business coaches, with first-hand experience of driving SME growth and creating sellability – there are currently only 45 approved coaches UK-wide, who are based across most regions.
Co-founder of Business Doctors Rod Davies said: ‘While he’s had experience within a very large company, Steve’s roles have always involved successfully working with SMEs. He has genuine interest, understanding and strategic approach to creating success that SMEs in Kent will find very beneficial.’
SMEs can contact Steve on 07860 733321, especially if they are interested in a free, no obligation business health check or visit www.businessdoctors.co.uk/north-west-kent.
