After a chance viewing of the Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) franchise opportunity, Stuart’s launched his very own franchise in February 2018.

He had long harboured ambitions to start his own business and to be his own boss, but with a young family and financial commitments, the time had just never been quite right. Stuart says he experienced his very own ‘Eureka!’ moment when he turned 55 and realised he could access his pension. True to nature, he took decisive action and embarked on the journey that would lead him to ERA.

“What attracted me to ERA more than anything else was the material that I had picked up and read, the quality of the literature and the people I had seen and also the conversations I had with Matt. Throughout it all, I never felt pressured. It just felt right. The fact that you’re one of many, part of a collaborative network and never just a one man band – you’re very much part of a team. It all fit for me. After the exhibition, I went to a Discovery Day at Head Office and made my mind up there and then. I really enjoyed the day and they offered me the opportunity to attend the Christmas conference. I signed up in December and met people who offered help immediately. I couldn’t wait to get started!”

“Training was a great – all the marketing material was fantastic and different specialists led each module. It was helpful to go through it together with other new Franchise Partners and share knowledge and experience from day one. Since training, I’ve been allocated a ‘buddy’ who is an experienced Franchise Partner. He provides advice and mentoring and he’s taken me out to meetings. Going to a first meeting was very insightful, it helped me to tailor my own meetings when they’ve come along. I have weekly calls and regular meetings with the support team – everyone is very accessible. On top of that, we have regional meetings and Academy meetings which are for everyone who has been in the business under two years. Our training group has a call every month – basically, there’s a lot of support and it’s there for you if you want it. It’s up to you if and how you use it.”

“My focus right now is to work as a Business Development Manager or a Client Relationship Manager and build my business by leveraging the skills and specialisms of other ERA Franchise Partners. That’s the beauty of ERA – we’re stronger and more successful when we work together.”