Hey there, and welcome back to Smart Growth: Scaling with Strategy—the podcast where we dive into the tools, tactics, and talent that fuel today’s fastest-growing businesses. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today we’re talking about one of the most underrated growth strategies for startups and scale-ups: Fractional Executives.

Now, I know what you might be thinking—“Fractional what?” Don’t worry. By the end of this episode, you’ll know why this could be the smartest hire you don’t make full-time.

[Short Transition Sound]

So here’s the deal. For growing companies—especially those in the startup or scale-up phase—hiring top-tier C-suite talent is expensive. Really expensive. And risky. A full-time CFO or CMO can cost you six figures or more, plus bonuses, equity... and they may not even be the right fit long-term.

That’s where fractional executives come in. These are seasoned pros—former CEOs, CFOs, COOs, CMOs—who bring high-level expertise to your business on a part-time or project basis. And nobody delivers this better than NED Capital.

NED Capital has built a platform that gives growing companies access to world-class executive talent—without the full-time cost or commitment. We’re talking about experts who have sat at boardroom tables, navigated exits, driven turnarounds, led international expansion, and built systems that scale.

And here’s what’s really smart about how NED Capital does it: they tailor executive support to your exact growth stage. Whether you're raising capital, building out your finance function, launching a new product, or entering a new market—there’s a fractional leader who’s done it before and can guide you through it now..

[Segment Break: "Real Use Cases"]

Let’s talk examples. Say you're a SaaS startup gearing up for Series A. You're running lean, you need someone who knows how to clean up financials for due diligence, set KPIs, maybe even pitch in investor meetings. NED Capital can bring in a fractional CFO who’s already done that... five times.

Or maybe you're a founder juggling product, marketing, and sales—and growth is stalling. A fractional CMO from NED can step in, build your go-to-market plan, mentor your junior team, and give you the space to breathe.

No lengthy hiring cycles. No guesswork. Just strategic impact—fast.

[Quick Testimonial Clip / Quote Suggestion]

Here’s a great quote from one of NED Capital’s clients:

That’s the power of experienced leadership. You don't just get advice—you get execution.

[Host Reflection]

Now, I’ll be honest—this model isn't new, but what NED Capital is doing is different. They’ve built a curated network of executives across industries—finance, tech, health, manufacturing—people who know what high-growth companies need because they've done it before.

And here's the kicker: NED Capital doesn’t just drop someone in your inbox. They work with you to define the role, match you with the right fit, and support the relationship as it evolves.

[Call to Action]

So if you’re a founder, CEO, or investor-backed business looking to scale smarter, do yourself a favor and check out nedcapital.co.uk/fractional-executives.
Again, that’s nedcapital.co.uk/fractional-executives. I’ll link it in the show notes too.

Don’t burn cash on the wrong hire. Bring in the right expertise—fractionally.

[Outro Music]

Thanks for tuning in to Smart Growth. If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review. Until next time, scale smart.

Welcome back to another episode of Retail Reinvented — the podcast where we explore innovation, leadership, and what it takes to thrive in today’s retail and e-commerce world. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today’s topic is all about something that can make or break a business: leadership at the very top.

So let me ask you: do you have the right minds around your boardroom table? Are your non-executives truly adding strategic value — or just filling seats?

Today, we’re diving into how NED Capital is transforming the way retail and e-commerce companies source, vet, and place non-executive directors. And trust me — if you're a founder, a PE firm, or part of a scaling brand — you’ll want to stick around for this.

[Segment 1 – The Changing Retail Landscape]

The retail and e-commerce sectors have changed more in the past five years than in the previous twenty. We’ve seen everything from explosive digital growth and direct-to-consumer booms to supply chain shakeups and AI-driven personalization.And that means leadership needs to evolve too. It’s no longer just about industry experience — it’s about digital fluency, global perspective, and the ability to challenge and support a CEO in equal measure.

That’s where NED Capital comes in.

[Segment 2 – What NED Capital Does Differently]

Based in the UK, NED Capital specializes in non-executive recruitment for the retail and e-commerce sectors — and they’re not your typical headhunters.

What sets them apart? First, they only work in sectors they truly understand — and retail is at the heart of it. Their team has worked with iconic brands, innovative D2C startups, and private equity-backed scaleups. They know what success looks like — and more importantly, they know how to find the people who can deliver it.

They focus on board-level talent who bring more than just impressive CVs. These are individuals who’ve navigated global expansion, led digital transformations, built omnichannel strategies, and even exited high-growth companies. Whether you need a Chair, an Audit Committee expert, or a digital-savvy NED, NED Capital has the network to deliver.

[Segment 3 – Why Non-Execs Matter More Than Ever]

For founders and CEOs listening: the right non-executive isn’t just a box-tick for governance. They’re a mentor. A sounding board. Sometimes even the reason your next funding round closes or your brand scales without breaking.

In today’s competitive retail market, board-level guidance can be the difference between outpacing your rivals or being overtaken. Non-execs help you avoid blind spots, challenge groupthink, and make bold — but calculated — strategic moves.

[Segment 4 – How to Get Started with NED Capital]

Getting started with NED Capital is simple. Just head over to
👉 nedcapital.co.uk/retail-and-e-commerce-non-executive-recruitment

There, you’ll find more about their process, testimonials from clients, and how they tailor each search to fit the stage, structure, and strategy of your business.

Whether you’re looking to build a more resilient board, bring in retail innovation expertise, or prepare for a strategic exit — they’re the ones you want in your corner.

[Outro – Call to Action]

So, here’s your takeaway: don’t settle for passive board members. The retail world moves too fast for that. If you're serious about growth, brand-building, or navigating disruption, it’s time to rethink your board — and NED Capital can help.

Thanks for tuning in to Retail Reinvented. Don’t forget to subscribe, and share this episode with a founder or investor who needs to hear it.

[Outro Music fades]

Welcome to Smart Boards, Smarter Growth, the podcast where we talk about what it really takes to build resilient, future-ready companies. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today we’re exploring two of the UK’s most exciting business ecosystems: Oxford and Cambridge.

Known globally for their academic brilliance, these cities have become innovation powerhouses—home to deep tech startups, scale-ups, spinouts, and ambitious SMEs. But as companies here grow rapidly, they face a common challenge: boardroom maturity.

And that’s where NED Capital comes in.

[Segment 1 – Why Oxford & Cambridge Are Different]

Oxford and Cambridge aren’t just academic hubs anymore. They’ve become two of the UK’s most vibrant commercial centres, particularly for sectors like biotech, AI, cleantech, and fintech.

But here’s the thing—technical talent and groundbreaking ideas are only part of the story. Growth also requires governance.

Many founders and CEOs in these regions find themselves needing experienced guidance—people who can challenge their assumptions, connect them with capital, and bring strategic clarity.

That’s where non-executive directors (NEDs) play a game-changing role. And that’s exactly what NED Capital delivers.

[Segment 2 – The NED Capital Approach]

Let’s talk about how NED Capital’s tailored recruitment services support the specific needs of businesses in Oxford and Cambridge.

At the Oxford level, they’re often working with university spinouts, deep science ventures, and high-potential SMEs navigating growth and regulation. These businesses need board members who understand both the science and the strategy.

In Cambridge, the demand is often for NEDs with commercialisation experience—those who can help bridge the gap between innovation and market traction, especially in sectors like medtech, semiconductors, and AI.

NED Capital understands these local ecosystems, and their recruitment model goes beyond ticking boxes.

They focus on:

• Strategic fit – aligning board experience with your business trajectory.
• Cultural alignment – ensuring the NED fits your values and vision.
• And real-world impact – because great non-execs don’t just show up; they help move the business forward.

[Segment 3 – Why Now?]

With investment flowing into both cities, there’s never been more pressure—and opportunity—for businesses to professionalise their governance.

Having the right non-executive director on your board isn’t a formality—it’s a strategic decision. One that can shape your next funding round, your market entry, even your exit strategy.

And NED Capital is uniquely positioned to help you find that person.

[Segment 4 – Make the Move]

So, if you’re based in Oxford or Cambridge, and you’re ready to take your board to the next level, here’s what to do:

👉 Visit nedcapital.co.uk/oxford-non-executive-recruitment
or
👉 nedcapital.co.uk/cambridge-non-executive-recruitment

You’ll find more about how their process works, who they work with, and why their approach consistently delivers results.

[Outro music fades in]

Host:

That’s it for today’s episode of Smart Boards, Smarter Growth. If you’re building the next big thing in Oxford or Cambridge, make sure your boardroom is as smart as your product.

Until next time—build bold, lead wisely, and bring the right people to the table with NED Capital.

[Outro music fades out]