For many SMEs, strategy is left until the new financial year has already begun. This article explains why the penultimate month of the accounting year is often the best time to think strategically. Using real year-end insight rather than early-year assumptions, it shows how SME leaders can separate strategy from business planning, test long-term direction and make better decisions in uncertain conditions.
Elliot Harris
Risk: The One Business Expense You Can’t Ignore
Many SMEs run lean and fast but risk is the one thing you can’t afford to overlook. In this practical guide, UKBA advisor Elliot Harris explains how risk shows up across finance, people, operations and reputation. He shows what simple steps business owners can take today to protect their company and future.
Profit First: How One Manufacturer Boosted Margins by 14% Without Losing a Key Client
When a UK manufacturer found themselves working harder for shrinking profits, UKBA advisor Elliot Harris uncovered the real issue: a high-profile contract delivering less than it cost to fulfil. With honest conversations, smart analysis, and some bold renegotiation, the business turned a 6% margin into a sustainable 20% win—without losing the client.
How UKBA Advisors Deliver Bespoke Business Solutions That Really Work
UK Business Advisors take a different approach. With real leadership experience and no cookie-cutter fixes, they deliver tailored strategies built on deep listening, insight and hands-on support. Learn what makes UKBA advisors the partner of choice for SME leaders across the UK.
Choosing a Business Advisor – How to Find the Right Expert for Your SME
Hiring the right business advisor can make or break your success. The right advisor brings expertise, fresh insight and the ability to challenge your thinking when needed. But how do you choose one? This guide breaks down what SME leaders should look for in an advisor, the red flags to avoid and why taking the time to find the right fit is critical for long-term growth.
Future-Proofing Your Business: Why Succession Planning is Essential for Growth
Is your business prepared for the future? Many companies overlook succession planning—until it’s too late. Learn why leadership transitions matter, how poor planning has led to corporate failures, and what successful businesses are doing right. Explore practical steps to secure your company’s long-term success and ensure smooth leadership handovers.
Top 11 strategies for taking your profitable business to the next level
Congratulations! Your company has transitioned from startup to profitability—a major milestone that few businesses achieve. However, with success comes new challenges, and the most pressing one's how to grow beyond your current level. Here are 11 things you can do to...
The Cost of Not Taking Risk Seriously
Charities and PLCs have long been aware of the need to assess risk but there is little sign of Owner Managed Businesses following suit. The reason is that the first two have the need to assess risk enshrined in recommended practice (although judging by recent reports...
Don’t let your business fall off a cliff—two areas of risk assessment SMEs should pay attention to
While charities and PLCs formally assess business risks, many owner-managed enterprises fail to follow suit. One reason is that sole traders and partnerships don’t have external stakeholders who require risk assessment. Another is that SME owners believe that the only...