Meet Dave Graesser
From Tech Entrepreneur to Empowering Business Coach
A Humble Beginning: The Tech Guru
In January 1999, Dave embarked on a mission to make a living, armed with his unparalleled expertise as a Novell NetWare guru. Little did he know that this venture would blossom into something extraordinary. Through dedication, long hours of learning, and a genuine passion for technology, he quickly earned a reputation that preceded him. His client base expanded through word-of-mouth, setting the foundation for his future success.
Trials and Triumphs: Forging Ahead
Dave’s journey was not without its challenges. As a tech expert, Dave initially lacked experience in sales, marketing, finance, HR, and the intricacies of running a business. Despite lacking prior experience in these vital business aspects, he found himself facing uncharted territory as the business grew. Nevertheless, with a determined spirit and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Dave tackled each obstacle head-on. His reputation as a technical wizard paved the way for growth through word-of-mouth referrals, and he skilfully navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Seizing Opportunities: A Catalyst for Success
One pivotal moment in Dave’s journey came in 2002 when he received a life-changing call while buying stationery. This simple conversation led to a significant project with Network Rail in London and laid the foundation for creating an IT Helpdesk in his business. Embracing technical hires and adopting a growth plan, he expanded his reach and influence, tapping into the talent and expertise of skilled professionals in the industry. This strategic approach enabled him to broaden his impact and achieve substantial growth in his endeavours.
Streamlining Operations: The Power of Database Systems
Recognising the need for scalability and efficiency, Dave leveraged his relational database development skills and expertise to systematise his growing tech business. As the company expanded and took on more clients and projects, Dave understood that managing everything in his head was no longer sufficient, nor were manual processes, nor spreadsheets, to manage the business workloads effectively.
With a clear vision of creating a well-organised and streamlined operation, Dave initially designed a comprehensive database system using MS Access and SQL Server. This bespoke solution became the backbone of the organisation, centralising data and automating repetitive tasks, including customer relationship management (CRM), a helpdesk system, quotation tool, purchase order system, renewals tracking, invoice management, and more.
Later, as technology advanced and the business continued to grow, Dave recognised the need for modernisation. In the subsequent years, he undertook a significant effort to upgrade and modernise the business systems, ultimately transitioning to FileMaker as the platform of choice. The migration to FileMaker allowed for a more seamless and robust integration of various business functions within a single, user-friendly interface.
Systematising the business became a cornerstone of Dave’s successful business model. Dave would never have been able to step back from the day-to-day operations of the business without having systematised the business first.
The Power of Adaptation: From Setbacks to Resilience
After experiencing some ups and downs, Dave’s keen business acumen prompted him to make strategic changes and revamp operations. In 2005, he faced a setback when the growth plan resulted in the company’s first-ever loss. Undeterred, he chose to downsize, making strategic adjustments that transformed a larger team into a nimble and efficient squad. This move marked a turning point, as Dave’s resilience and resourcefulness became evident, leading the way to a more successful path for the business.
An Unexpected Transformation: Expanding the Business Horizon
In 2007, a fortuitous encounter with Birmingham Arts IT (BAIT) opened new doors for Dave. Given the opportunity to act as CEO during a challenging period for the not-for-profit organisation, he proved his mettle by turning the tide and securing valuable contracts. This experience not only solidified his leadership skills but also presented a unique proposition that would shape his future.
Seizing the opportunity, Dave ultimately acquired and merged Birmingham Arts IT into his business in April 2008, a strategic move that further expanded his company’s reach and capabilities. His brilliance as an acting CEO allowed him to acquire the remaining Arts organisations as clients while offering opportunities to BAIT staff, showcasing his visionary approach to business.
Embracing Growth: Acquisitions and Vendor Finance
As Dave’s business continued to thrive, he exhibited his prowess in business acquisitions. In 2009, he further demonstrated his ability to identify growth opportunities by using “vendor finance” to acquire Presence Security Solutions, showcasing his negotiation skills and financial acumen.
These transformative experiences not only demonstrated Dave’s ability to lead and strategise effectively but also served as catalysts for future growth and success. His remarkable journey exemplifies an entrepreneur’s ability to transform challenges into triumphs, leaving a lasting impact on the business world and the communities he served.
Expanding Horizons: A New Normal
In 2016, Dave’s life took an unexpected turn as his wife, Sue, faced a breast cancer diagnosis. This life-altering moment reinforced his commitment to family, and it also aligned with his long-term plan to achieve a better work-life balance. Understanding the importance of supporting his wife and prioritising personal responsibilities, he proactively made the heartfelt decision to step down as MD and initiate a partial-Management Buyout (MBO) with his management team. This strategic move allowed him to focus on being a dedicated source of support for Sue during her health journey while ensuring the company’s continued growth and success.
By implementing the partial-MBO – while still retaining 51% of the business – and stepping back from the day-to-day management and involvement in the business, Dave found the freedom and flexibility to fully dedicate himself to Sue’s well-being while also maintaining a vested interest in the business. With the transition of responsibilities to his capable management team, Dave embraced a new chapter in his journey, one that allowed him to strike a balance between his personal and professional life.
As Sue’s health improved, Dave gradually resumed a more advisory role within the company, using his expertise to provide strategic guidance and mentorship to his team. The legacy he built over the years continued to thrive, now under the guidance of a dedicated management team, while he found harmony in his redefined role.
In retrospect, this transformative period was a testament to Dave’s leadership and his ability to proactively navigate through life’s challenges with grace and determination. Embracing the new normal, he accomplished his long-term plan of achieving a balanced lifestyle, leaving a lasting impact on both his company and his own sense of fulfilment. The future held uncharted territory for Dave, with more remarkable chapters in his journey yet to unfold.
A Bittersweet Realisation: Embracing a New Chapter
Sadly, Sue’s cancer returned, and she passed away in 2018, leaving Dave’s life forever changed. The profound loss prompted deep reflection on his journey and the need for a new beginning.
Over the following years, Dave continued to focus on his strategic role within the company, continuing to entrust the day-to-day management to his capable team. In mid-2022, a serendipitous call from a business broker presented a momentous opportunity, aligning perfectly with Dave’s contemplations about the future of the business.
With a mix of nostalgia and clear-eyed perspective, Dave made a heartfelt decision to sell the entire company, marking the end of an era and heralding an exciting new chapter.
Coaching with Purpose: Empowering Others
With a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a profound commitment to empowering business owners across diverse industries, Dave has embarked on a new mission as a highly sought-after business coach. Drawing from two and a half decades of challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned, he now utilises his expertise to guide fellow business owners on their own unique paths to success.
Dave passionately imparts valuable wisdom on a wide range of crucial business aspects, including sales, marketing, people culture, leadership, motivation, recruitment, finance, legal matters, as well as acquisitions, mergers, negotiation, and various exit strategies. Through his coaching, he equips entrepreneurs with a comprehensive toolkit, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the business world with confidence and strategic foresight. Dave’s dedication to mentoring others and sharing his insights underscores his unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact on the current and next generation of business leaders.
Looking Ahead: A Journey Continues
At 51, Dave’s remarkable journey culminated in the sale of his entire business in September 2022. This landmark achievement underscores his capacity for growth, adaptation, and resilience. Equipped with a profound grasp of the business landscape and a secure, debt-free financial standing, Dave’s story continues to evolve, offering inspiration and insight drawn from his wealth of experience.
Fuelled by a profound passion for helping people, particularly young entrepreneurs and owners of small and medium-sized businesses, Dave has embarked on a new mission as a sought-after business coach. His core values of accountability, customer-centricity, positivity, diligence, empowerment, authenticity, resilience, self-awareness, and self-improvement underpin every aspect of his coaching journey.
Through his coaching, Dave aspires to make a difference by sharing his knowledge and utilising his extensive experience as a seasoned business owner. He finds fulfilment in making the difficult not so and finding solutions to problems, empowering others to navigate their business challenges with confidence and strategic foresight.
The reasons for becoming a business coach run deep for Dave. His passion for helping others, coupled with his entrepreneurial background and expertise, led him to this fulfilling path. Enjoying the role of a mentor and teacher, he finds immense satisfaction in building meaningful relationships with his clients and inspiring positive change in their lives.
As a business coach, Dave contributes to the business community, leaving a lasting impact on both the current and next generation of business leaders. His unfiltered approach and commitment to making a positive impact align seamlessly with his core values, making him a driving force for success and growth in the entrepreneurial landscape.
With his passion, knowledge, and dedication to empowering others, Dave continues to shape his journey, exploring new horizons while leaving a positive mark on the lives of those he guides. The path ahead remains filled with promise, and Dave’s unwavering commitment to excellence and transformation is an inspiration to all.