A FAST-GROWING Teesside tech agency is on track to hit a major milestone, with the founder praising a leading business coach for his “priceless” help in growing the firm.
Hartlepool-based MGC Agency launched in 2014, supporting hundreds of innovative projects globally, from eCommerce platforms to mobile apps, websites, and software.
Following a major growth period that has seen the business expand into Ahmedabad, it is now forecast to be valued at £5m within the next five years.
“Having been self-employed for over 20 years, the drive to build something without limitations spurred me to create MGC and continue developing it into what it is today and where it is headed,” said Managing Director Chris Carroll.
With an eye firmly on expansion, Chris took part in the Entrepreneurs’ Forum Scale Up Leaders course, which was run by established coach Ian Kinnery, a previous European Business Coach of the Year recipient.
Already aware of Ian’s impressive reputation for helping to grow businesses, Chris said it very quickly became apparent just how much of a role Ian could play in scaling up MGC.
“Given the value he adds to businesses, it was easy to decide to continue working with him,” added Chris, who started working with Ian in early 2024.
“Ian gave me a clear vision of how to grow MGC, offering a detailed roadmap outlining the steps required to expand the business to a substantial size, and he’s expanded my knowledge of how to drive a company forward and avoid the pitfalls associated with significant growth.”
Additionally, Ian helped the company – based in Hartlepool’s innovation centre – redefine its offering, standards, team, and goals, which have been incorporated into the five-year plan.
“As we offer a unique service, we have faced several challenges in client delivery and defining our value proposition, but Ian helped us to form our service clearly and provided insight into our brand voice to better target clients,” added Chris, who is currently recruiting a new team member each month as the company’s expansion continues.
“Through Ian’s advice and expertise, MGC has evolved by recruiting a strong leadership team. The operations side of the business is now run by a Technical Delivery Manager and a Client Services Manager.
“Working with Ian, I gained an understanding of how to build such a team and how to instil responsibility and standards.”
Having started his coaching career 19 years ago, Ian has helped hundreds of CEOs and entrepreneurs scale up their businesses.
“The success Chris has enjoyed is fantastic and he’s now firmly on track to achieve the success both he and his team deserve,” added Ian.
“His story is testament to the power of coaching, and the value it can add to a business in order to help it grow.”
But for Chris, he also gained a lot personally working with Ian, who he states is not only a “fantastic person to be around” but someone who continues to push him and his business forward every day.
“I’d wholeheartedly recommend Ian to any leader struggling to take their organisation to the next level,” he added.
“Bringing Ian in to review your processes, strategy, and vision should be a serious consideration.
“Not only is Ian vastly experienced, but he is also a fantastic person to be around. The sessions are enjoyable, and you leave them inspired to reach the next level.
“Homework is given between sessions, and while that may seem unusual, accountability is crucial.
“Ian wants the best for all his clients, and if you follow his process, you will achieve success.”