Business Support >> Client Perspective

It’s Not All Doom and Gloom in the Finance Sector

Benedix, a company providing training and recruitment for people within the banking and finance sector, came to Prevista in February of 2007 seeking advice on their business model and sources of funding. They met Prevista business adviser Tas Gooden who advised that Prevista was able to offer them free business support through the Business London programme.

The Challenge
The company was in a transitional period when they came to Prevista, they had ideas but needed advice, which Prevista was more than happy to provide. The three directors Ben Heathorn (previously working in real estate) and Simon Dixon (former investment banker & trader) and Charlie Garrett (previously in sales & business development) jointly had a wealth of experience to pull from.

Tas evaluated their original business model which had two sides; part offering free seminars to learn about investment banking, stocks and trading which proved to be a fairly intensive approach with limited scope of clients and part working with people who wanted to become traders and actually work in the sector.

The Solution
Tas surmised that the original model was innovative but heavily impacted by the perception that people offering seminars around “Make money Buying and Selling Property” and city trading might be considered less than trustworthy, despite the team’s credentials. Tas also advised the team to draw out the secondary part of their business model, which formed the basis for their subsequent success and expansion.

Tas advised Ben, Simon and Charlie of the need to develop a strong and reputable business model; building business to business links to ensure continuous supply of clients, especially in the current financial market place.

Through Tas, Benedix created a system utilising students in university network to recruit delegates for events (acting as local agents). Under Tas’ guidance the team successfully devised a profitable model recruiting people for seminars, and furthermore receiving a fee for every person recruited.

The Result
Their flexibility has been paramount to Benedix’s success. They are currently successfully weathering the recession and the company has expanded despite the economic climate. The resulting expansion is testament to the value of their services and the recognition of a profitable market in a sector badly affected by the credit crunch and of course to Tas’ expert guidance.

“Tas really helped us especially in our early days. He was a source of helpful information but most importantly he provided a thorough, external perspective on ways to tackle the challenges we faced. He provided support on our business model, business plan; marketing channels and also provided advice on identify suitable premises. Tas remains an excellent contact who we will continue to use and gain advice from. He encourages creativity and has very positive outlook to support your business no matter how big your dreams are! He will continue to be a source of support and a friend to the business.”