The Simpson Group

Jan 10 2008 by The Journal

MARK Simpson of Washington-based retail display specialists The Simpson Group, has been participating in Talent Den for three months and already he sees it as an experience which has revitalised his approach to both his business and personal life.

Since Mark Simpson joined his family’s small firm as a young man he has always prided himself on having a hands-on role, building the company from humble beginnings to the large-scale operation it is today.

He recalled: “My father started the Simpson Group as a local jobbing screen print company producing anything and everything from posters to printed mirrors.

“I joined in 1983 having worked in a range of different jobs but I had no professional qualifications so it was a case of learning on the job.”

Mark worked his way through the ranks to become managing director and then at the beginning of 2007 became company chairman.

His intention was to step back from the day to day minutiae of working life and focus more on his business’s long-term goals – a plan that sat perfectly with the way that Talent Den guides its participants.

“I first heard about Talent Den six months ago. An invitation to participate dropped onto my desk and the timing was just right,” said Mark.

“My colleague Bill McNally had taken over as md, allowing me to concentrate on the larger picture, and where the business as a whole was heading. My goal was to focus on the strategic side of things, so Talent Den was ideal for me.”

In just under three months Mark has found the support and advice offered by The Talent Den mentors invaluable, finding their years of expertise and personal success a great inspiration for driving his own business forward.

One particular aim of the Talent Den team is to promote the pursuit of real wealth acquisition for their clients, which struck a chord with Mark.

“Profit isn’t my only priority but Talent Den has made me consider how many business people get so involved in the details of running their companies that they lose sight of making money,” he said.

“It gave me a different perspective. I’ve realised I want a good return on Simpson Group. It’s about creating a profitable, well run business. I now see it as an investment rather than just a job.”

It’s early days yet but it’s clear Mark expects on-going positive benefits from his relationship with Talent Den.

“The process has really made me think clearly about myself and my business” he said.

“I’ve put together a strategic plan that’s very different from those I’ve created before and I feel Talent Den has offered a totally fresh perspective.”