15 Years of Impact, Insight and Peer Support in Leeds

At The Alternative Board UK, we’re lucky to have a community full of experienced business leaders who live and breathe the values of support, integrity, and long-term impact. And every now and then, someone stands out in a way that reminds us exactly why TAB exists.

That someone is Dave McCartney, our Franchisee of the Year 2025.

Dave has been part of TAB since the early days. He recently celebrated 15 years of running TAB Leeds North, helping countless business owners across the region navigate challenges, think strategically, and grow their businesses with confidence. This is Dave’s third time winning the award, with his last recognition in 2015, placing him in a select group of TAB franchisees to have received the honour multiple times.

This milestone isn’t just about how long he’s been with us. It’s about the impact he’s made.

A Force for Good in the Leeds Business Community

Dave McCartney has facilitated over 500 advisory board meetings in the Leeds area and knows first-hand the difference peer support makes. His work has helped shape the direction of numerous businesses offering leaders the space, structure, and challenge they need to think more clearly and act more decisively.

Over the last 15 years, Dave has supported a wide range of business leaders across sectors and business stages. Whether it’s helping someone scale up, step back, or find clarity on their next move, his calm leadership and belief in the power of peer support have remained constant.

“My time with TAB has allowed me to work closely with numerous business leaders across Leeds and the surrounding areas. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have made a real difference in their journeys.” – Dave McCartney

What makes Dave stand out is his consistency and commitment. As our MD Ed Reid shared during the awards:

“Dave’s unmatchable enthusiasm has always been one of his greatest assets. His belief in the life-changing impact of what we do remains as strong as ever.”

This year, Dave also played a key role in supporting one of TAB’s newest franchisees in a neighbouring Leeds territory, Mark Williams, who leads TAB Leeds Central. His willingness to collaborate, share insight, and offer mentorship is a true reflection of the community spirit that makes TAB so powerful. Together, Dave and Mark are helping to build a strong, connected TAB presence across the wider Leeds region—one that continues to support and empower local business owners.

Leading by Example

Dave’s professional background brings real-world depth to every conversation. Prior to joining TAB, he led businesses at director and CEO level, managed B2B distribution operations, and even secured a major international licensing deal while working with a VC-backed tech firm. His knowledge is wide-ranging, but his focus is clear: helping business owners achieve more.

That dedication doesn’t go unnoticed by the business owners he supports. Bridget Petty, Managing Director of JPS Limited and a long-standing member of Dave’s TAB board, shared this:

“Being with TAB has been great. It's like having a group of mentors but also that double bonus of having Dave, my TAB facilitator, to keep me focused and on track.” - Bridget Petty, MD, JPS Limited

Bridget joined TAB over seven years ago and credits Dave and her peer board for helping her through a period of business restructuring and strategic realignment.

When the time came to sell the business, Dave supported her through the entire process, connecting her with the right advisors and helping her prepare for a successful exit. Even post-sale, Bridget remains an engaged part of the TAB community, continuing to value the support and shared insight it offers.

It’s that combination of care, experience, and commitment that makes Dave such an asset to the Leeds business community and to TAB.

“This award isn’t just about me. It’s about the brilliant business owners I’ve had the privilege to support. A heartfelt thank you to all my TAB members, past and present. You are the reason I do what I do.” – Dave McCartney

Celebrating 15 Years and Looking Ahead

TAB is built on the belief that business owners make better decisions when they’re supported by people who understand the journey. For 15 years, Dave has been putting that belief into practice and proving just how transformational peer support can be.

We're proud to recognise his dedication, energy, and long-standing contribution to the Leeds business community. He continues to raise the bar for what it means to be a TAB facilitator and franchisee.

Here’s to Dave, to 15 years of real impact, and to the continued growth of the Leeds business community powered by peer support and shared success.