In January 2018, Fiona Ibbetson’s dream of running her own business became a reality as she launched Get Ahead Leeds. Following a career spanning two decades at grocery giant Morrisons, Fiona was ready for a new challenge. She loved managing people and the fast pace of retail but had always wanted to run her own business. She discovered the perfect match at Get Ahead.
Since then, it has been a rollercoaster few years. COVID had a considerable impact, but Fiona didn’t give up. By 2021, she had extended her territory beyond Leeds to include York and Harrogate. In the same year, she won the first-ever Great British Franchisee Awards, organised by whichfranchise.com and was shortlisted in the British Franchise Association awards. In 2022, she was one of just four finalists in the Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWIF) Awards Woman Franchisee of the Year category.
“I’m proud and thankful that the business has gone from strength to strength despite the pandemic. I have discovered a love of networking and found the right balance between a career I love and being able to watch my family grow. I haven’t looked back!
I couldn’t have done it without my fantastic clients, who have believed in me. The Get Ahead team has also been a huge support. It’s comforting to know that I am not running a business alone but part of a collaborative and growing partnership.”
Rebecca Newenham, founder of Get Ahead, said: “I am so proud of all that Fiona has achieved in the last six years – from meeting us at an event to then launching our outsourcing agency in Leeds and expanding into York and Harrogate too.
Fiona wanted to break away from the restraints of corporate life to get the flexibility she craved, to be present for her children, to build a business for herself, and, importantly, to give flexibility to others, both clients and our virtual experts.
Her journey from corporate career to franchise ownership is nothing short of inspiring. She didn’t just switch careers; she carved out a career path that resonates with her values and ambitions. She is living proof that with the right support and determination, women in business can truly thrive.”
It has been a pleasure to support her on her journey so far. I know she will continue to go from strength to strength as she grows her specialist outsourcing team further and enables even more businesses to get ahead.”
Get Ahead offers nationwide marketing and business support services, enabling businesses of all sizes and from all sectors to get ahead. With regional directors in Berkshire, Bournemouth, East Midlands, Essex, Harrogate, Leeds, North Hampshire, Oxford, Southampton, Suffolk, Surrey and York, they are well-placed to support growing businesses.
To learn more, contact Fiona Ibbetson on 01423 206645
