Supporting Business Owners with Purpose

Running a business can be one of the most rewarding and isolating experiences there is. At The Alternative Board, we believe every business owner should have someone in their corner. Someone to challenge their thinking, keep them focused, and remind them they’re not alone.

That’s precisely the kind of support that Paul Winterbottom has been providing through TAB Manchester West.

Paul brings years of experience from both corporate leadership and private business ownership, and he is passionate about helping SME leaders step back from the day-to-day, clarify their goals, and move forward with confidence.

From Corporate to Community Focused

Paul’s career spans financial services, consultancy, and senior executive roles, but it was his desire to have a more direct impact on local businesses that led him to TAB.

“What attracted me to TAB was the opportunity to help business owners make better decisions and support each other in an environment of trust. That really resonated with me and it’s something I see in action every day with my members.”

After leaving RBS / NatWest, Paul was looking for a role that included the connection that comes from working closely with people, rather than just organisations. Joining TAB allowed him to combine his experience and strategic skill set with his personal passion for mentoring and development.

Understanding the SME Reality

Paul is a firm believer that strategy doesn’t have to be complicated. What matters is clarity. And while every business is different, many of the challenges business owners face are remarkably similar. Feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the day-to-day, or unsure how to move forward.

Through TAB, he works one-to-one with business owners as well as facilitating monthly peer board meetings, helping them stay focused on the bigger picture.

“When you see a member come to the Board with a challenge, leave with a plan, and then report back with a win, that’s incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about solving problems. It’s about helping people build businesses that are sustainable, valuable, and aligned with what they really want.”

Building the Business You Actually Want

As Paul shared in his conversation with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, many business owners start out chasing growth but soon realise what they’re really looking for is balance, freedom, and purpose. TAB helps them regain control on their own terms.

“Success doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some want to scale. Some want to step back. Some want to improve their culture or legacy. My role is to help them define that success clearly and then build a business that delivers it.”

Connected to the Greater Manchester Business Community

Paul’s passion for supporting SMEs goes beyond his TAB boardrooms. He’s a regular at local events, an active listener to the needs of Greater Manchester’s business leaders, and a voice for practical, honest support.

At TAB Manchester West, he’s created a thriving community of business owners who lean on each other for advice, fresh thinking, and encouragement. Even the most experienced leaders benefit from having the right people in the room to provide support and offer constructive challenges.

Celebrating Dedication and Lifelong Learning

At our recent UK Annual Facilitator Conference, Paul was recognised with two awards: the Lifelong Learning CALIBRE Award and the 89% Member Retention Award. These accolades are a testament to the way he shows up not just for TAB but for his board members and their businesses. They reflect a deep commitment to ongoing development, consistent delivery, and genuine care for the people he supports.

What Paul's Members Say

Paul’s impact as a facilitator goes far beyond strategy and planning. His members consistently highlight his ability to challenge, guide, and genuinely care.

“One of the best business decisions of my career was to join Paul and the TAB board. Paul is a fantastic Chairman and superb mentor who challenges you to raise the bar every time you meet. Linking up with Paul and TAB was one of the defining moments in the development of Howorth Air Technology and it will continue to have a major impact for years to come.” — Jim Liptrot, Howorth Air Tech, Member since 2018

“I’ve had the pleasure of being mentored by Paul and the difference that his counsel has made, together with my membership at The Alternative Board, has exceeded all my expectations. Owning and running a business can be a lonely, tough place at times and working with Paul and being part of a TAB board has been one of my best purchasing decisions. His knowledge and commitment put him in a league of his own.” — John Quinton-Barber, Social, Member since 2015

“Paul helps me get my head straight on a regular basis. He’s the person who holds me accountable, helps me deal with roadblocks, and often makes the insurmountable feel straightforward. Since working with him, I’ve made huge improvements to the business and the way I work.” — Daisy Whitehouse, Down at the Social, Member since 2021

This is what makes TAB Manchester West such a powerful community. Trusted relationships, honest support, and a commitment to helping each other succeed.

Find Out More

If you're a business owner in the Manchester area who’s feeling stuck, ambitious, or simply in need of a clearer direction, Paul’s always open to a conversation. Alternatively, if you're a seasoned business owner seeking your next challenge and would like to start supporting local businesses in your area, becoming a TAB franchisee may be the right fit for you.

Learn more about becoming a TAB franchisee here

You can find out more about TAB Manchester West here

This article was inspired by Paul’s original interview with the Greater Manchester Chamber, UK. You can read it here