Reflections on Growth: Lessons from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Programme
Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business Alumni
Completing the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Programme has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my professional journey. The programme brings together founders from across the UK to explore sustainable growth, leadership, and strategic development, guided by some of the most insightful business minds in the country.
After taking some time to reflect, these are the lessons that have stayed with me, insights that continue to shape how I approach growth, leadership, and business operations.
1. The Myth of “No Time”
When asked about my biggest challenge, my answer was always the same: “not enough time.” Like many founders, I was deeply involved in the daily operations, working in the business rather than on it. However, stepping back to focus on growth planning proved that progress only happens when you make space for it. The business continued to function effectively in my absence, a reminder that strategic thinking requires protected time and distance from day-to-day tasks.
2. Growth Requires Letting Go
Founders are often driven by passion, vision, and a strong sense of responsibility. Yet growth sometimes demands that we step aside and empower others to lead. I’ve learned to focus less on the areas where I fall short and more on surrounding myself with people who excel in those spaces and then trusting them to deliver.
3. Focus Matters More Than Ambition
My first draft of a growth plan was full of possibilities, a kaleidoscope of ideas and directions. It looked exciting, but it lacked focus. Refining that plan required difficult decisions about what to prioritise and, more importantly, what to let go. For creative, ideas-led leaders, narrowing focus is a vital part of sustainable growth.
4. Leadership Presence Shapes Culture
How leaders “show up” each day profoundly influences their teams. Fatigue, stress, or a lack of openness can unintentionally stifle communication and creativity. High-performing teams thrive in environments of psychological safety, where challenge and collaboration are encouraged. Leadership, therefore, is not only about vision - it’s about consistency, tone, and presence.
5. Constructive Challenge Fuels Progress
Effective mentorship is not always comfortable. My growth mentor, Sophie Jourlait-Filéni, offered invaluable challenge and insight, pushing me beyond what felt safe or easy. That experience reminded me that genuine growth requires feedback that stretches us, not just supports us. Thirteen weeks of intensive work brought clarity, discipline, and focus, but also the realisation that this is only the beginning.
A sincere thank you to my inspiring Cohort 22 peers whose insight, honesty, and encouragement have left a lasting impact.