In 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-paced retail environment, but had always wanted to run her own business. She discovered the perfect match at Get Ahead.

Since then, Fiona has established a thriving business, extending her franchise territory beyond Leeds to include York and Harrogate. She has been shortlisted for the British Franchise Association Awards and the Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWIF) Awards, and won the first-ever Great British Franchisee Awards, organised by whichfranchise.com.

“This month marks eight years since I became Regional Director for Get Ahead Leeds,” said Fiona, “and it has been an incredible journey. My fellow Get Ahead regional directors have been supportive. Their collaboration and shared values make this team so special. I am proud to work alongside the talented people in our virtual expert team whose professionalism, care and commitment enable us to deliver such effective client services. Being part of my client’s businesses, their growth and their day-to-day challenges is something I never take for granted.

Get Ahead founder, Rebecca Newenham, has been a fantastic mentor, cheerleader and friend over the years. I have discovered a love of networking and found the right balance between a career I love and watching my children grow up. I am proud to celebrate flexible working, relationships that matter, and look forward to many more years of supporting brilliant local businesses.”

Rebecca Newenham, founder and franchisor at Get Ahead, said: “From those early days to running a truly thriving, respected business, Fiona has built something to be enormously proud of. Her growth, consistency and commitment to doing things properly are exactly why she’s been so successful.

Fiona wanted to break free from the restraints of corporate life to gain the flexibility she craved, be present for her children, and build a business for herself. 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.”

Get Ahead offers nationwide business support services, enabling companies of all sizes and sectors to get ahead. With franchisees in Ashford, Berkshire, Bournemouth, Crawley, Dorking, Epsom, Essex, Harrogate, Kingston-upon-Thames, Leeds, North Hampshire, Oxford, Redhill, Reigate, Salisbury, Southampton, Suffolk, Surrey, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Winchester, and York, they are well-placed to support growing businesses.