If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably dreamed of striking out on your own. The allure of being your own boss, pursuing your passion, and building something meaningful is hard to resist. But let’s face it—getting there can feel overwhelming. That’s why Sarah’s story is so powerful. It’s not just inspiring; it’s full of lessons you can take to heart.
The Spark of Curiosity
For Sarah, it all started with curiosity. Growing up in a working-class Northern family, her parents emphasized stability—secure jobs, pensions, the works. But Sarah couldn’t help wondering why people made the choices they did. Why did they wear certain shoes? Pick specific brands? Hum the same jingles?
That spark of curiosity led her to study international business. It wasn’t a straight shot to success (she struggled with her A-levels), but once she found her passion, she thrived. Business wasn’t just a subject for Sarah; it was a way to explore how people connect, influence, and grow.
Falling in Love with Hospitality
If you’ve ever worked in hospitality, you know it’s not for the faint of heart. But for Sarah, it was magic. The feedback loop in the industry hooked her. Make someone smile? You’ll see it instantly. Need to adjust? You can do it on the spot.
Her early days were a whirlwind—working at the Paris Stock Exchange during the week and pulling shifts at a pub called the Frog and Roast Beef on Sundays. It was there she got her first big break. The owners recommended her for a role helping to open Planet Hollywood on the Champs-Élysées. That’s where Sarah fell in love with the business side of hospitality—figuring out what makes a restaurant thrive.
The Game-Changer: Pizza Express
Every entrepreneur has a turning point, and for Sarah, it was joining Pizza Express. Her job? Managing international expansion. Her office? Shared with the CEO and managing director. For a year, she soaked up everything—growth strategies, equity markets, operational efficiencies.
It was her “aha” moment. Sarah realized that scaling a business wasn’t just possible; it was logical. She learned how to balance investor expectations, operational costs, and ROI. And most importantly, she gained the confidence to try it herself.
Taking the Leap
By her late 20s, Sarah was at a crossroads. She wanted a family and flexibility. Her high-powered international career? Not exactly conducive to that. So, she decided to bet on herself.
Inspired by the fragmented market of Indian restaurants in the UK, she pitched the idea of creating a chain to Pizza Express. When they passed, she didn’t give up. Instead, she launched Bombay Bicycle Club—a venture that grew to employ 1,500 people.
The Secret Sauce: Transparency and Purpose
What sets Sarah apart isn’t just her business acumen; it’s how she leads. She believes in transparency—explaining the “why” behind every decision. It’s not just a management style; it’s a superpower. When people understand the purpose behind their work, they’re more motivated and invested.
For Sarah, her “why” has always been clear: autonomy and family. That clarity guided her through tough decisions and kept her focused when distractions loomed.
What You Can Learn from Sarah
Let’s break it down. Here are the lessons you can take from Sarah’s journey:
- Follow Your Curiosity: The questions you can’t stop asking might just lead you to your passion.
- Learn from the Best: Surrounding yourself with smart, experienced people is a game-changer.
- Stay True to Your Why: Knowing your purpose keeps you grounded and focused.
- Empower Your Team: Transparency isn’t just nice—it’s essential for motivation and trust.
Your Turn: What’s Your Why?
Sarah’s story is a masterclass in resilience, passion, and purpose. But it’s not just her story; it’s a roadmap. So, what’s your “why”? What’s driving you to take the leap into entrepreneurship?
Whatever it is, remember this: Stay curious. Learn from those who’ve been there. And never underestimate the power of a clear purpose.
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