Green Shield Group sat down with franchisee James Vincent a couple of weeks after his training to discuss why he chose to work with Green Shield Group and his journey as a franchisee so far.

Can you briefly share your professional background and what led you toward the renewable sector?

I have spent nearly 18 years as a Product Manager in telecommunications for the likes of Carphone Warehouse, TalkTalk (mobile, consumer & business), and Sky Business, working on new mobile phone technology, the move from copper to fibre internet, voice over IP (i.e. TEAMS voice) and security software. 

My interest in sustainability generally has grown over the past 5 years, which has included completing a YTKO delivered Organisational Sustainability course and also the Carbon Literacy certificate.  I believe that I have the transferrable skills to move into Green Tech like Solar PV, but also the tenacity to run my own business. 

When exploring different business options, what were you looking for, and what made this franchise stand out? 

As a Product contractor with consultancy skills and corporate experience, I considered building my own business with various options to earn money including a brief period delivering parcels (less said the better!).  However, my interest was peaked when I saw the ‘First Green UK Franchise’ opportunity ad on LinkedIn.  This triggered my interest in Franchising in general and compared GSG with LMI – a global training brand. 

Was there something specific in the training, support, or business ethos that convinced you this was the right choice? 

My very first conversation with the team was the right level of projecting the excitement of GSG and the reality of the Franchise opportunity, including the significant costs involved.  The training was quickly seen as pivotal, and a significant chunk of the investment and preparation needed for a fast start into the Autumn period.  Simon has been great in supporting me through these initial conversations, even when it meant signing at the eleventh hour! 

The appeal of the GSG franchise business model is strengthened by a robust legal framework, a keen Head Office team and an impressive website and resource library.  The territories are clear, whilst offering flexibility and pragmatism if there is overlap and alongside learning with other newbie Franchisees, I believe represents the potential for financial reward, as well as delivering carbon reduction across the country. 

Why did you want to bring this consultancy to your region? 

In addition to the confident branding and proposition, Bristol and the southwest is my home base and am keen to make a difference locally. 

What do you think are the biggest opportunities or challenges for local businesses when it comes to renewables? 

My region and Bristol in particular, is seen as innovative in renewables, demonstrated by the Heat Pump Main project with UWE as an anchor tenant and the solar farms near the motorways.  As a leader, it would be great to get some national names on board particularly where Bristol has heritage, like aerospace in Filton and the drinks manufacturing sector like brewing, cider making and coffee roasting. 

I suspect the wider economic and political challenges will influence the appetite for renewable technology, particularly for smaller business who are just trying to survive! 

How do you see yourself helping organisations in your area benefit from tailored, rather than generic, renewable advice? 

I am keen to use relevant case studies, for example in the education sector and build credibility within the sector and familiarity with the influencing and procurement processes.

What excites you most about building your business over the next 12 months? 

Genuinely, I would love to deliver projects that I can shout about and be able to point to something physical and say ‘I helped do that’ and have a meaningful contribution to reducing the regions carbon footprint. 

Learning a stack load about renewable tech! 

What kind of impact do you hope to have on your local community and its businesses? 

I am also keen to get involved with the local energy coop and maybe even my home (and business premise!) become a benchmark for renewable energy generation. 

If you had one message for business leaders in your area considering renewables, what would it be? 

Be part of the renewable movement in Bristol with an experienced brand keen to help your business challenges, save money on your energy bills and play your part in reducing carbon emissions.