What do you want your next chapter to look like?
Over the years, many founders we’ve advised have told us that a significant birthday was the catalyst for exploring a business sale. It simply prompted a broader question – what do I want the next chapter to look like?
At Initium, the entrepreneurial founders we work with stay connected through our Fellows network long after their sale. That means we have the privilege of watching their next chapters unfold, sometimes over decades, and the stories that follow are as inspiring as the businesses they built.
Neil Laughton, OPL Group
“I set 3 Guinness World Records in one day”
Following the sale of OPL Group to Balfour Beatty, Neil traded the corporate grind for a life of high-stakes adrenaline and purpose-driven impact.
From hosting a formal dinner party on the slopes of Mount Everest to camping on the world’s largest frozen lake in Siberia, Neil’s post-sale journey is a masterclass in living without limits.
But it’s not all thrill-seeking – his “Adventureholic” spirit has seen him delivering aid to war-torn Ukraine, raising vital funds for Prostate Cancer UK, and launching new ventures centered on his twin loves: extreme adventure and houseboat living.
Life after the big sale for Neil was the beginning of his wildest chapters yet.
David Jonas,
Vegetarian Express
“My big post-sale objective has been to help businesses because that’s what I enjoy doing.”
Following the sale of Vegetarian Express, David Jonas has gone on to help other businesses, putting his expertise to good use, often for free. His latest passion is working with his local community farm, helping to secure the future of the business, and the people that work there.
Dr. Cristina Llamas-Rey,
Naturismo
“I advise and consult on how to invest in Bitcoin”
After selling Naturismo, Cristina turned her visionary gaze toward the next great technological frontier: Bitcoin. Cristina immersed herself in the digital currency space, evolving from a curious investor into a leading advocate.
Today, her post-sale life is defined by a mission to demystify complex financial systems and champion financial inclusion. Co-Founder of ‘Women in Bitcoin’, Cristina’s exit was the launchpad for a global movement centred on freedom and fairness.
Mike Bailey,
Didsbury Engineering
“Every day is now a Sunday”
After selling his Aerospace and Defence firm life shifted from high-stakes boardrooms to “every day is a Sunday.” Mike traded the intensity of the corporate grind for a life that is slower, simpler, and infinitely more human.
The rewards have been personal: 20,000 miles walked with his faithful collie, Molly; being fully present for his four children’s milestones; and mastering the patient art of bonsai. From wildlife travel to quiet afternoons in the garden, Mike’s benefits are in reclaiming time and health.
Scott Russell,
Network Europe Group
“I built an organic coffee farm in East Africa – and a new school!”
After selling Network Europe Group, serial entrepreneur Scott transitioned from Ferraris and châteaus to “for-impact” investing. He co-founded an ethical coffee company, investing the profits back into the local community – even funding a new school that now has over 500 pupils.
Today, Scott mentors CEOs on how to become environmentally sound and use their profits for a driver for good. As his Kenyan name Marrata, suggests, he remains a “man of good bringing.”
Buck Taylor,
Caterfood
“I’ve spent more time with my family and pursuing hobbies”
Tom Cullingford,
Optagon Group
“I’m only required 3 days a week now as Managing Director, so I’ve done some bucket list holidays with the family.”
Sam Pemberton,
Softel
“I’ve gone on to do 5 or 6 exits since.”
What next?
You’ve built an incredible business. Now, imagine what comes next. Whether it’s exploring a new adventure, pursuing a passion project, or creating a lasting legacy, Initium can help.
Contact us for a confidential conversation.
