Name of Business
Stephen J Pegram Consulting
Who are you?
A specialist in Sales and Marketing, Business Development and Sales Training. I have had a great business career which has allowed me to gain a high level of hands-on experience. Firstly, my work was in the engineering, machine tool, and automation industries, among others, so I have been able to develop and execute highly effective business strategies in different sectors.
I have a wealth of experience in both domestic UK and global markets, having spent 16 years living in the USA and holding several positions, including two Corporate Vice President roles with international companies.
In sales and marketing, my expertise is in my ability to design and implement successful business strategies that have resulted in increased market share and sales. Whilst living in Chicago, I sat on the Hyundai Motor Company’s global business development Board when I was Vice President of Hyundai Wia North and South America. This allowed me to gain further knowledge of what motivates people to buy products or services.
I am also an Ambassador for The Institute of Directors, focused on marketing and PR.
What sets you apart from the competition?
My business career has been a “real-life” experience and perspective on how to start and run businesses that are profitable. My primary function was always leadership, guidance, and education. Many consulting and business advisors do not have my level of experience, this makes a difference to my approach and relationship with clients. It is a privilege when a business trusts you to help them, so my engagement is always 110%.
How did the business come about?
I returned to the UK from the USA to retire early, but after only 6 weeks, I was asked by a large UK company for some help. This developed further, so I decided to start a consulting business which I enjoy very much.
What are your main target markets?
Since conception I have provided consulting and training in the engineering, industrial supply, risk management, legal, fire security, chemical, retail, construction, software, and aerospace sectors. The rules of Sales and Marketing are the same whatever the product or services are within the client’s portfolio.
How long has your business been in existence?
I started in May 2021.
How many staff do you employ?
I do not directly employ any staff; I have several consulting partners and advisors that I work with on projects. By using this consulting model, we provide unique guidance and at the same time we can also keep the costs down for our clients, this is another value-added difference that we bring.
What job or achievement makes you most proud?
That is a tough question. In my work life I would say my journey in the business world is what I am most proud of. I spent 4 years as an apprentice at British Leyland, moved into sales and marketing at the age of 23 and never looked back. I have worked along side some great people, including my managers, who mentored me and gave me great opportunities and education. I have been very lucky.
Where do you see the business being in five years?
My 5-year plan is organic expansion and to keep doing what I do now. It gives me great pleasure to see my clients improve their businesses based on my guidance. Perhaps I could also play more golf!
Tell us one interesting thing about the business that might surprise us?
Starting the Sales Training Academy was a complete accident, a client pushed me to train his sales team, I agreed, and it worked very well. I have a different method because I don’t believe in death by PowerPoint, the feedback was excellent.
Tell us one interesting thing about you that people might not know? (hobbies, amusing fact, etc)
Now this is a secret, when I lived in Chicago I started a part time DJ business, totally different from my executive life but it was great fun, I will tell you all about the rest over a coffee!
Fantasy dinner party – which six people alive or dead would you invite?
Great question and in no particular order. Alan Sugar (Amstrad), Kevin O`Leary (Shark Tank USA), Aurel Bacs (Phillips Auctions watch expert), Tiger Woods (golfer), Ursula von der Leyen (Head of the European Council), Dawn French (Vicar of Dibley)
Now this would be a great dinner party!