A DIGITAL agency in Lymm has increased its reach within the transatlantic market and added to its workforce after its founder graduated from a business growth programme.
Dan Cordwell, 39, who is the sole director and founder of Visions Design Ltd, has secured more clients in the United States after finding “clarity and confidence” through the course, which is delivered by Manchester Metropolitan University.
He said: “During Covid we were doing some international work, but less than we did prior to the pandemic.
“I sometimes questioned whether I was making the right decisions, but growing a management team and having people around me that I trust opened me up to the idea of signing up to the ‘Help to Grow: Management’ programme.
‘The course has helped me to work through the next steps of breaking into new markets – securing more transatlantic website design contracts in places such as California – and adding to the handful we have previously won. The dynamics and direction of the business have changed following the course – opening a new world of opportunity.”
Dan has recently recruited a new business administrator – boosting his workforce to 14 staff members, as well as freeing up time and creative headspace.
“With increased clarity and confidence comes the realisation that we are just scratching the surface of our potential,” said Dan, who lives in Appleton.
“I started Visions Design to have the time to be more creative. Having recently enjoyed restoring a campervan, I wanted everyone else on the team to identify what would make them happy. We’ve introduced new hybrid and remote-working arrangements, and planned out individual journeys – asking: ‘How can this business help you achieve your goals?’”
Dan has dyslexia, which he describes as a “superpower”. He said that the “Help to Grow: Management” programme has helped him to become a better communicator.
“Without a doubt, I am a better leader for having completed the course,” he added. “I have learned how to think things through more systematically before sharing ideas with my management team for implementation.
“If anyone is thinking of doing the course, I would say: ‘Go for it!’ I met nice people along the way… like-minded people to share ideas with.”
The deadline for applications for the next cohort is Tuesday, October 4.
To register interest, visit www.mmu.ac.uk/business-school/business/sme-support/help-to-grow/
