Welcome to my blog, I will be updating it every month so check back to keep up to date with what’s happening in my life and with Hamilton Bradshaw, my private equity firm.
01/12/09-14/12/09
The past 2 weeks have been a whirlwind of parties, travel, awards and media appearances.
Monday saw Rupert Sweet Escott and myself on Panorama talking about the trials and tribulations of cutting carbon emissions in time for the Copenhagen Conference on climate change. It was so inspiring to watch Rupert speak so passionately about his products and determined efforts to cut carbon emissions. If only we had more likeminded people like Rupert developing the future, carbon emissions would be greatly reduced!
I was honoured to be asked to host the Independent Publisher awards that celebrate the dynamic contribution made to the publishing industry and the entrepreneurial spirit of the smaller publisher. This coincided with the announcement of my chairmanship at The Big Issue, a prospect which I am tremendously excited about and for a magazine that I have long supported. I have big hopes for this magazine, one of which is to take it into the digital age by increasing its online exposure and stimulating corporate giving. Watch this space over the coming months to find out how this will be implemented
A highlight of the past two weeks was of course the Hamilton Bradshaw Christmas party. To celebrate the festive season, the team went down to All Star Lanes and indulged in some rather competitive bowling. A truly fun and enjoyable day was had all round as we tucked into mince pies and sang along to ‘simply having a wonderful Christmas time….’
On Thursday I flew with my fellow dragons Theo, Duncan and Deborah to Kenya to see the great work that Sport Relief has been carrying out. I was, however, a little unwell when I arrived but thankfully soon got over this and was able to set out to the various projects that comic relief have been working on. Spending time in these Aids-inflicted areas, really opened up my eyes to the scale of the disease and left me totally speechless. Each time I am faced with such poverty, desperation and misery, I find myself completely overwhelmed and unprepared for what is before my eyes. Through my work in Pakistan, I have seen so much heartache and so many lives completely shattered, sometimes instantaneously. As inhabitants of this world, we really do have a responsibility to help those less fortunate than ourselves, and if everybody contributed in a just little way, as cliché as it may sound, the world REALLY would be a better place.
I wish you all a wonderful holiday season and I will be back in the New Year who knows what 2010 will bring !
Posted on: Wednesday, December 16, 2009.  0 comments.
23/11/09-30/11/09
This week started well, my family and I enjoyed a relaxing weekend in Cannes – where I have since become a fan of Twilight, much to my daughters’ delight.
Monday came around soon enough and that evening I attended the iAwards, a celebration of British science, technology and innovation. A great night was had by all and I found it particularly inspiring to be involved in a Government backed scheme with such passion and enthusiasm behind it. I truly believe by investing time and knowledge in science, technology and innovation, we can create more jobs and build Britain back up.
Global Entrepreneurs Week has also taken place this week, a celebration of entrepreneurs around the world expressing their enterprise talents and sharing ideas. On Tuesday I opened the parliamentary reception which was a great honour to be asked to do. On Thursday, I held a workshop at London South Bank University for graduates interested in self employment or starting a business. It was such a joy to see young people as enthusiastic as I was at that age, they have a bright future ahead of them!
Lastly, Friday was a great night down at BBC television studios. It is always a fantastic thing to get involved with and the BBC always throw a great event every year. A huge £20 million pounds has been raised so far, but keep donating! Posted on: Monday, November 23, 2009. 0 comments.
26/10/09-02/11/09
This week I was really quite excited to be attending an event in honour of Dame Stephanie Shirley. She quite rightly, was recently appointed as the governments’ ambassador for philanthropy. I really do have a lot of admiration for her and was so humbled to be given the honour of introducing Dame "Steve" on Wednesday's event. Coming to London in 1939 from Germany as a child refugee she has been through a lot. She was welcomed by Britain with open arms, and began making steps towards building her business with only £6, eventually turning it into a multi million pound organisation. She has donated over £50 million to charity, and plans to donate the rest of her wealth before she dies. Her aim as ambassador for philanthropy is to bring attention to philanthropists across the UK, promote philanthropy, and working with the Minister for the Third Sector to make it a priority in government to recognise and promote the philanthropists themselves, and furthermore, to improve legislation for charitable givers like herself.
I also attended an exclusive and thought provoking seminar with fellow Jewel Awards winners from the last 7 years which was followed by a sit down lunch. I think the discussion was over lunch? We discussed the characteristics of Asian Entrepreneurs and the impact that they have had on the UK economy. BBC presenter Riz Lateef joined discussion to explore these issues further. The event saw many high profile individuals come together in a relaxed, yet thought provoking environment.
This week was a week of fine dining as I visited two fantastic restaurants. First it was off to Leeds and Bradford to eat at both of the famous Mumtaz restaurants. I had absolutely excellent meals at both and thoroughly enjoyed my evening day up North. It is really great to see other Asian entrepreneurs excel in business. Both Rab and Mumtaz Khan are good friends of mine inspiring individuals and I love what they have done with Pakistani food, turning it into a thriving empire and is a truly excellent entrepreneur.
Later that week I was off to an exclusive pre launch dinner at ROKA for their new restaurant in Canary Wharf. Nic Watt is one of the best chefs in the UK and everytime we eat at ROKA, the menu of contemporary Japanese food never fails to set my taste buds racing.
In the news this week Barack Obama went public again on his plans to stimulate the economic recovery. Obama wants to create greater opportunities for small business by allowing them access to capital much easier. The program will focus its attention to trying to increase the amount of money small businesses can get in loans from the banks. It’s really great to see people in the highest of power pay respect and attention to the small business people of today.
Posted on: Tuesday, November 03, 2009. 0 comments.
19/10/09-26/10/09
Last week I was absolutely thrilled to visit suit maker and tailor Terence Trout, which to my convenience is based in Mayfair just down the road from Hamilton Bradshaw offices, to pick up a stunning bespoke suit. I would like to take this opportunity to show my gratitude and thanks to all those at Terence Trout, it really is a lovely piece. I was accompanied by Peter Moule from ChocBox http://www.terencetrout.net
To top this rather eventful day off, to my delight Chelsea beat Athletico Madrid rather convincingly at the Bridge getting into the next round of the Champions League.
On Thursday it was to Westminster for me as I attended a Business Reception at 10 Downing Street, very interesting evening amongst a great variety of people.
I have also recently confirmed I will be appearing at a Herman Miller conference to talk about ‘How to Succeed in Business’ in November. Herman Miller are the company responsible for wonderfully furnishing our offices here in Mayfair.
As you may or may not be aware, the situation in Pakistan at the moment has deteriorated. I am obviously very concerned for the welfare of the people of Pakistan, my school in the north of the country, and of course it’s many students, and I truly hope the state of affairs are peacefully resolved sooner rather than later.
On a much lighter note, we were very proud to announce Eden Browns talented social care consultant Charlene Russell made it into the final 12 acts on the reality TV show The X Factor as one third of girl group "Miss Frank". Unfortunately it was a shame to see them go on Sunday.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGItRqamm8E
Projects and Events involved
The iAwards are soon approaching and were launched by the Government to recognise and celebrate the very best of British science, innovation and technology. Backed by Science and Innovation Minister Lord Drayson and myself, this is an event not to be missed. The award ceremony will take place at The Science Museum on 16 November 2009. You can check out the Website at www.iawards.org.uk
Also, I have recently finalised the details for the Vinspired National Awards that are kicking off on 26th November. To find out more please visit www.vinspired.com.
Posted on: Wednesday, October 28, 2009. 0 comments.
07/09/09 -21/09/09
With summer coming to an end, this past weekend I managed to hop across the channel to Cannes to relax at the boat show !
The end of the summer, also means the end of this series of Dragons’ Den. It has been one of the most interesting that I have participated in – with my investments ranging from sandals to chimney pot wind turbines! Each of them will be requiring varying levels of help and we will seek here at HB to take each of them to the next level over the coming months… I hope you have had a chance to check out the DD on Tour episodes that have been on the past few Sundays! It's great to catch up on the successful ventures that I invested in.
With the next few months approaching, you may notice some changes to my website.
The iawards is something I hope you might also have heard of and discovered on the HB website the last few weeks! The iawards are the first Government-backed innovation awards that I have launched with Science & innovation Minister Lord Drayson. The awards will exhibit a number of British based companies and products that are at the forefront of technological and scientific advances – companies that could lead our future economy. <Click here for more>
I’ve recently become an ambassador for v, the National Young Volunteers Service. I felt it was about time we recognise young people for the contribution they make to their communities though volunteering and it is also an opportunity to showcase the experience volunteers can get that may help them move in the right direction when looking for work. v has recently launched the vinspired award scheme, which is a certificate to recognise young people for the work they do. In addition, the vinspired National Awards will be taking place in November, a ceremony which will celebrate volunteers from across the country. Check out all the the great things v is getting up to at www.vinspired.com
Posted on: Tuesday, September 22, 2009. 0 comments.
01/07/09-21/08/09
01/07/09- 21/08/09
Following the a very busy month, I have finally found some spare time in my hectic schedule to update the website with a new blog entry!
Recently, I received an honorary degree from Leeds Metropolitan University. I must admit to this being one of the most special days of my life – to have received a title of such high academic recognition is an absolute privilege. Moreover, it was an incredibly rewarding experience having never been to university when I was younger – I must once again express my gratitude to Leeds Met University for this accolade. Incidentally, the past few weeks have been quite rewarding for the family as a whole as both my daughters and wife graduated as well!
The new series of Dragons’ Den started a few weeks ago, with the highest audience figures to date – it just shows there is no stopping this show! I’ve been working closely with Sharon Wright of Magnamole, who Duncan and myself had the pleasure of investing in on episode two. The coverage Sharon has received since the airing of the episode has been incredible and it is testament to her own determination. I have no doubts that the MagnaMole will be one of the most successful products I have ever invested in and after seeing the show again; I would also have to agree with everyone who has called it on of the best pitches ever presented in the Den.
The first episode of the series saw me invest in Rupert Sweet-Escott and his assortment of inventions. This was a very eccentric pitch but I really believed in his passion; check out his website http://www.airbikeuk.co.uk
Another project I am involved with is The i-Awards. The i-Awards are first Government-backed innovation awards which I recently launched with Science & innovation Minister Lord Drayson. The awards will exhibit many companies aiming to receive support for their new developments in science, technology and innovation, some of which may solve future problems such as climate Posted on: Thursday, September 03, 2009. 1 comment.
15/06/09- 21/06/09
One of the most exciting things about Dragon’s Den is seeing one of my investments come to fruition.http://www.portelli-popicon.co.uk/index.php?inc=intro
Now, those amongst you with good memories might recall Theo, Peter and I investing in a a rather unusual proposition in the last series from a rather talented commercial artist by the name of Guy Portelli.
Guy’s specialism is the artistic interpretation of modern pop and music stars into art, and his proposition to the Dragons was to produce 18 limited pieces depicting pop artists who have really contributed to youth and popular culture. In his words:-
Music is the language of youth culture, the vehicle by which a generation finds and expresses its unique identity and aspirations.
The Portelli Pop Icon collection starts with Frank Sinatra as the first musical icon to be adopted by teenagers in the new radio and television world.
The 18 pieces I have chosen for this collection have been selected because they represent a cultural shift and are therefore a milestone along the route that is a documentary on social history spanning 6 decades.
In order to bring this collection into the public domain I chose to present my concept to the Dragons' Den panel of entrepreneurs, which could either sink the boat or bring the project into the public eye at a level I have aspired to for the last 30 years.
Well, after working together for some time now I can assure you the boat is well and truly floating, and we have an exciting week ahead of us with the unveiling of the full collection at The Mall Galleries, London on June 25th 2009.
I can assure you that all of the Dragons involved are really looking forward to an inspirational night featuring some amazing work by a man of true passion. Two of my particular favourites are John Lee Hooker and Frank Sinatra- both very abstract, but highly representative of those music stars, although I am convinced that, when unveiled, I’ll be very tempted to purchase a couple of others, even though Guy, displaying the commercial characteristics of the true entrepreneur, is refusing to budge on discounting his rates!
Do check out Guy’s work-
http://www.portelli-popicon.co.uk/index.php?inc=intro
In other news, I spent the weekend relaxing in Vienna, but I managed to keep track of the T20 Cricket Final at Lords via my Blackberry, and was delighted to see Pakistan get home in a truly exciting final. Even though I’m not generally too much of a sports fan, I have enjoyed the short form of Cricket and, judging by the crowds, colour and coverage, I’m sure it’s here to stay.
With Guy’s exhibition, many investments to look at, and some more ‘After the Den’ pieces to film, the week ahead promises to be as busy as usual, but I hope to find some time to update the blog towards the end of the week.
Thanks for reading and speak to you soon,
Best wishes,
James.
Posted on: Monday, June 22, 2009. 0 comments.
05/06/09-12/06/09
Back to Reality
So, after another hectic round of Dragon’s Den filming I feel back in the real world and now I’m spending time clearing the vast backlog of business meetings and investment opportunities that inevitably happen when I am away.
Dragon’s Den this season promises to be especially exciting – there’s a couple of investments I am very pleased about – one in particular that I believe might be the best opportunity I’ve found to date- but of course you’ll have to wait and see!
In this weeks news Sir Alan Sugar has been appointed as Gordon Browns Tsar.The burning question on everyone’s lips right now is can a highly successful entrepreneur really assist with economic growth?
Well I’m in!
In my opinion, it’s highly possible he’ll add great value- look at what we have endured recently- banks not lending, public not spending- this will inject more positivity and I’m sure, knowing Sir Alan, there will be a lot of out of the box thinking. He has the gravitas and the inspirational qualities to catalyse both interest and activity.
I have no particular party political agenda and I want nothing but success for the country, but I do know, as with a good business, we need to seek stable, consistent governance- a long term vision- which clearly depicts how we as a nation are going to climb back and resume our role on the world stage. Sugar has those qualities in abundance.
Business skills of Sir Alan’s ilk are truly transferable- he is a people person and understands how to drive passion and action, and most of all, understands how to unlock value. The fact he’s prepared to take a risk in this area is truly inspirational and I hope it succeeds.
Brown-Sugar? It could be sweet for the economy!
So that’s just about it from me, other than to say, with all the doom and gloom of the economic climate I’d like you to remember that in times of change opportunity knocks- so be one of those that seizes the opportunity and don’t resist the change.
All The Best,
James.
Posted on: Friday, June 12, 2009. 0 comments.
18/05/09- 22/05/09
Princes Trust and Deutsche Bank
This week has seen me back in the office, having a week off from filming Dragon’s Den filming enabling me to spend time in the office and catch up with my team.
I have also been involved in a few events this week, one of which was for the Prince’s Trust. I am a member of their Enterprise Fellowship and they are running a fundraising campaign as part of Million Makers:The School Challenge, to encourage disadvantaged young people into work. I will be supporting the students and schools to set-up their own mini-enterprise to raise money for The Trust. To be asked to lead the fundraising project was a real privilege and I am very much looking forward to the following months working with the schools.
My other event was with Deutsche Bank Group. I gave a speech to 150 bankers, motivating and encouraging them to embrace the current financial changes and the challenges they may face.
Those who know me, know how much I enjoy meeting people so it’s always nice to be asked to lead these events, especially as it allows me to understand and advise on the issues people are facing.
Let's see what next week brings when I'm back in the Den.
All the best,
James
Posted on: Wednesday, June 03, 2009. 0 comments.
11/05/09 - 15/05/09
Guy Portelli makes your Heart Throb
After a relaxing weekend in Cannes for the film festival, I am back in the office for 2 weeks whilst I have a break from filming Dragon’s Den. The film festival was a good opportunity for me to relax with my family and enjoy the weekend away, which is very rare.
Prior to the weekend I was in the studio most of the week filming Dragon’s Den, and, as always I’m eager for an investment to catch my eye. One of my previous investments, the ‘Pop Icons’ collection by artist and sculptor, Guy Portelli, has been the hype of activity within my press team this week. The sculptures are being exhibited on the 24th June for an exclusive viewing ' Heart Throb : The Golden Age of the Pop Icon' , followed by a global tour. In the collection are works of Amy Winehouse, The Who, Bob Marley, Spice Girls and many more. It is a truly fascinating exhibition showing a voyage of social history, fashion, poetry and youth aspirations as well as celebrating iconic youth culture. It is open to the public from the 25th June until 3rd July at The Mall Galleries, London.
All the Best
James
Posted on: Wednesday, June 03, 2009. 0 comments.
04/05/09-08/05/09
Dragon’s Den Filming
This week saw the beginning of Dragon’s Den filming. It is always great to get back in the Den and work alongside the other Dragon’s . In the past shows I have invested with Duncan, Peter and Theo but never with Deborah, I hope I get the chance to work with her this series.
My day starts early, which is no different to when I am in the office. My driver picks me up in the morning as filming starts at 8am and that’s where I can gather my thoughts and prepare for the investments coming into the den that day.
We see so much potential coming through the door when filming, only the most innovative ideas will be invested in. Each dragon is looking for something different and if it is in our best interest to invest together we will do so.
This is my 3rd series of Dragon’s Den and I continue to be impressed with the calibre of investment that come on the show, I can’t wait to work with some new projects. Over the next 6 weeks I look forward to sharing my busy schedule with you and maybe share some inside gossip from the new Dragon’s Den series.
In the meantime, my team have been finishing the move in to our new offices in Mayfair. Even in the best run companies a move of this size creates some degree of organised chaos, although we all know our new location will be worth it in the long run.
I also managed to get some time out last week to meet with some children at The Haverstock School in North London, to encourage some young entrepreneurs in a Car Washing scheme to raise money for the Princes Trust. I was wowed by their enthusiasm, and have to reflect that, judging by their commercial spirit and hard work, I'm going to have some serious competition in the Entrepreneur stakes in the years to come!
All the best,
James
Posted on: Monday, May 11, 2009. 1 comment.
20/04/09-01/05/09
Work, Life Balance
Another busy week after the Bank holiday weekend means there’s even more to do and less time to do it. I tend to work late into the evenings and I’m also an early riser just to ensure that I get everything done.
It’s a very exciting time at the moment with so much going on. The Hamilton Bradshaw team is settled into the offices, and there are quite a lot of new faces, but the team is working together and everything is fitting into place quite nicely.
I was lucky enough at the end of the week to spend time in Italy with my wife and daughters. I treasure these moments and try to switch off from work whilst I’m with the family.
It is also a great opportunity to recharge my batteries in order to be ready for Dragon’s Den filming next week.
All the best,
James
Posted on: Tuesday, May 05, 2009. 0 comments.
13/04/09-17/04/09
Getting Prepared For Dragons Den
It is all systems go this week, there are still a few elements to the new offices that have to be addressed and I am busier than ever. Dragon’s Den Series 7 filming starts next weeks so there’s a lot to get done before then as I’ll be on set almost every day for the next month!
My week is full of meetings with very diverse people, I have meetings with ambassadors one day to discuss plans for the Ethnic Minority Business Task Force, and the next I am interviewing candidates for the new Brand Manager role.I love the buzz in the office and enjoy being involved in everything that is happening in the company. I make the time each week to catch up with projects my investment team are involved in and ensure things are on track. It’s important to use my time carefully as I don’t have a lot of it at the moment.
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This week Virgin Atlantic approached me to give a motivational speech to its employees. Virgin Atlantic are an airline at the top of their game during such challenging times, With a background in aviation investments I thought it was a great opportunity to take and I was impressed in the way it turned out. |
Work is still going on in the offices so I am hoping it will all be finished next week.
All the best,
James
Posted on: Tuesday, May 05, 2009. 0 comments.
06/04/09-10/04/09
The Big Move
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Last week was very chaotic, whilst I was in back to back meetings the team and I have also been presented with the task to pack our up offices in Hanover square and head only a few streets away, to Grosvenor Street. Over the past 6 months I have been working on the task of redesigning a new office space for my private equity company Hamilton Bradshaw. Finally the project is finished -just about- and Friday saw the move to the new address. It’s very exciting as I have overseen the entire project from start to finish, deciding upon everything from the meeting rooms to the light fittings – with a little help from my wife Aisha.
The move itself was all hands on, with the team and I getting involved in packing files away, transporting boxes as well as everyone keeping on top of their normal day-to-day job. We’re going through some really exciting times at HB and don’t have a lot of time to stop for breath. This week saw us complete a deal with a unique company operating in the recruitment sector – Rida. HB Rida, as it’s now called, is a consultancy firm working exclusively with recruitment companies to help them successfully develop at any stage of their life. It’s a great proposition and I’m excited to be involved.
As you can imagine it was a little hard to keep up with everyone when computers were in transit and Internet was yet to be working. Conversations in the office tended to focus on who had received an internal or external email!
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With all the team now at Grosvenor Street the next task was to organise the furniture and seating plans. The offices are set over 4 floors, the HB team has the entire lower-ground floor and the remaining rooms will be put to good use by some of our portfolio businesses.
I am extremely pleased with the end result, the reception looks great and I can’t wait to get the glass-wall board room finished with a picture of my new yacht in Cannes!
All The Best,
James
Posted on: Tuesday, May 05, 2009. 0 comments.
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