Breaking the Chain: Why I Founded Zeb Business Consulting to Revolutionise Supply Chains

Starting my own supply chain consultancy has been one of the most difficult decisions that I have had to make for my professional career. After years of working in the industry achieving so much success, I realised that the next natural step was to take the leap into entrepreneurship and create a business that truly reflected my values, expertise, and vision.

Here’s why I decided to embark on this journey and what it means to me to work for myself.

The Spark: Recognising a Need in the Market

Having worked in supply chain management for over a decade, I’ve witnessed first-hand the challenges that businesses face in optimising their operations. From inventory management to demand planning, the complexities of the supply chain are often underestimated, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. I saw a gap in the market for a consultancy that not only understands these challenges but also has the hands-on experience to offer practical, tailored solutions.

The idea of creating my own business stemmed from a desire to fill this gap. I wanted to offer a service that was not just about ticking boxes but about truly transforming supply chains to drive business success. My vision was to build a consultancy that combined deep industry knowledge with a personal, client-focused approach – something I felt was often lacking in larger firms.

The Drive: Passion for Problem-Solving and Innovation

One of the things I’ve always enjoyed most about working in supply chain management is problem-solving. Every project presents a unique set of challenges, and finding innovative solutions is what keeps the work exciting. By starting my own business, I could take this passion to the next level.

Working for myself allows me the freedom to explore new ideas and approaches without the constraints often found in larger organisations. I can tailor my strategies to each client’s specific needs, ensuring that the solutions I provide are not just effective but also sustainable in the long term.

The Opportunity: Building Something of My Own

There’s something incredibly satisfying about building something from the ground up. For me, starting my own supply chain consultancy was about more than just creating a business; it was about crafting a legacy. It’s about establishing a brand that clients can trust and rely on, knowing that they’re getting the best possible advice and service.

Working for myself also gives me the opportunity to shape the culture and values of my business. I can ensure that my consultancy is built on principles that matter to me – integrity, transparency, and a commitment to delivering real value to clients. This is not just about business growth but about making a positive impact on the organisations I work with.

The Reward: Personal and Professional Fulfilment

Of course, working for yourself comes with its challenges, but the rewards far outweigh them. There’s a unique sense of fulfilment that comes from knowing that every success is a direct result of your hard work and dedication. Each project completed, each client satisfied, is a testament to the value you bring to the table.

Being my own boss also allows me to strike a better balance between work and personal life. I have the flexibility to manage my time in a way that works best for me, which has had a positive impact on both my professional and personal well-being.

Looking Ahead: The Future of My Supply Chain Consultancy

As I look to the future, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. The world of supply chain management is constantly evolving, and I’m eager to continue helping businesses navigate these changes. By staying at the forefront of industry developments and continuously refining my approach, I aim to make my consultancy a go-to partner for businesses looking to optimise their supply chains.

In conclusion, creating my own supply chain business was driven by a combination of market need, personal passion, and a desire for professional independence. It’s a journey that has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to see where it will take me next.

Now the Real Reason

I decided to become self-employed after witnessing both good and bad practices in the supply chain industry. While I had the privilege of working with organisations that exemplified efficiency, transparency, and strategic thinking, I also encountered environments where poor practices—such as miscommunication, lack of innovation, and short-term fixes—were the norm. It wasn't a coincidence that I still have former clients reaching out to discuss their optimisation ideas instead of getting billed thousands of pounds to deliver a solution that can only do a fraction of what is expected.

These experiences highlighted the critical impact that effective supply chain management can have on a business's success, including the quality of a consultant put in front of them. The term consultant is used very loosely in today's age, once upon a time it represented expertise. So ultimately, by becoming self-employed, I knew I could take control of the quality of service we deliver, ensuring that every project reflects best practices relevant to the Client business/industry, and it would actually drive meaningful results, and fosters long-term growth for my clients.