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Jonathan O'Shea presenting Champagne

From Chief Executive to TAB Business Facilitator

Finding the Next Challenge

Before joining TAB, Jonathan O’Shea had already built an extensive leadership career spanning more than 30 years. His professional journey naturally evolved, starting in accountancy, progressing into Finance Director roles for national charities, before eventually becoming a Chief Executive within the not-for-profit sector. But after years leading organisations, Jonathan found himself looking for something different.

Alongside his executive roles, he had increasingly become a mentor and sounding board for other leaders. Supporting senior decision-makers through challenges and growth became one of the most rewarding parts of his work, and it sparked a new thought: 

“I started to wonder whether there was a way I could actually make a living doing this.” 

While searching for new opportunities, Jonathan unexpectedly came across TAB. Although he had originally been cautious about franchising, his early conversations with TAB quickly changed his perspective.   

After exploring several options in the executive coaching space, TAB’s collaborative culture, structured support, and values-led approach made the decision an easy one.

Jonathan O'Shea

Bristol
TAB Franchisee since 2016
Jonathan O'Shea presenting Champagne

“What stood out immediately was the quality of the people and the values behind the business, it never felt transactional. They genuinely cared about finding out if the fit was right for me and them.”

Transitioning to TAB

Moving from employed leadership roles into business ownership was a significant shift. Jonathan was used to leading large organisations with teams and infrastructure around him, but TAB offered something entirely different — independence, flexibility, and the opportunity to build something of his own.

“The biggest adjustment wasn’t coaching or facilitating boards. It was learning to run every part of the business myself.”

Coming from an accountancy background, Jonathan approached the transition methodically. He treated TAB as a full-time business from day one, carefully managing cash flow while immersing himself in networking, prospect conversations, and learning the commercial side of the role. 

The early years were focused on building momentum. Initially using telemarketing and LinkedIn to generate opportunities, Jonathan steadily developed a reputation within his network. Over time, referrals became his strongest source of growth — something he sees as a reflection of the long-term relationships built with members. 

“Most of my members now come through referrals. That only happens when people genuinely value the impact you’ve made.” 

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Building a TAB Business 

Ten years on, Jonathan has built a thriving TAB business centred around coaching, peer advisory boards, and strategic facilitation. What he enjoys most is the variety the role brings. No two weeks are the same. Between one-to-one coaching, board meetings, networking, and strategic workshops, Jonathan works across a wide range of industries — from charities and agencies to offshore wind and infrastructure businesses. 

"That variety keeps the role interesting. You’re constantly learning and working with people facing a wide range of challenges.” 

Jonathan has also become one of TAB’s leading facilitators of StratPro, a programme helping leadership teams create long-term strategic clarity and accountability. 

One company he worked with completely transformed their ambitions through the programme. Originally targeting £10 million turnover within five years, the leadership team reshaped their vision and increased that target to £30 million. As a result, the business is now on track to more than double turnover within a single year. More importantly, Jonathan saw a significant shift in how the leadership team operated. 

“They moved from relying on one person with all the answers to becoming a genuinely aligned senior team.” 

The Reward of Being a TAB Facilitator 

For Jonathan, the most meaningful part of the role isn’t just business growth — it's helping people navigate major moments in their lives and careers. Over the years, he has supported members through promotions, career transitions, business challenges, and personal setbacks. 

One member achieved their long-term ambition of becoming a Chief Executive after years of development and support. Another business owner faced the collapse of their company following the economic impact of Brexit and COVID. Jonathan continued supporting them through the difficult transition, helping them rebuild confidence and eventually secure a new role. 

He believes TAB’s peer boards are just as valuable, arguably more so, during difficult times as they are during periods of growth. 

Jonathan O'Shea presenting Champagne

“It’s incredibly rewarding when you can help someone through a difficult period and see them come out stronger on the other side. When someone suddenly feels isolated or under pressure, having a trusted group around them makes a huge difference.”

My Greatest Member Success Story 

One of Jonathan’s proudest success stories came through his work with a leadership team using StratPro. 

When the company first began the process, communication within the senior team was limited, and much of the strategic direction sat solely with the business owner. Through the structured planning and accountability process, the team developed greater clarity, alignment, and confidence. 

The result was transformational. The business shifted from targeting £10 million turnover to aiming for £30 million within five years, while building a far more collaborative leadership culture internally. 

“For me, the biggest success wasn’t just the financial growth — it was watching them become a true leadership team.” 

A Business That Fits Around Life 

Beyond the professional rewards, TAB has also given Jonathan something equally important: flexibility.

Having been a TAB franchisee for many years, he now structures his business around the lifestyle he wants to live — including regular extended trips to Australia to spend time with his grandchildren. 

The ability to work remotely, build his own schedule, and maintain strong client relationships while travelling has completely changed his work-life balance. For Jonathan, that flexibility has become one of the greatest long-term rewards of building a TAB business. 

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Jonathan O'Shea presenting Champagne

“I plan my holidays first and fit the business around them. That freedom is something I never had in previous roles.”

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Advice for Future TAB Facilitators 

Jonathan’s advice for anyone considering TAB is simple: approach it like any serious business venture. 

“This isn’t a shortcut or an easy option. You’re building a business, and that takes commitment, consistency, and patience.” 

However, he believes the support and community within TAB make a significant difference, particularly in the early years. 

“You’re independent, but you’re never completely on your own. There’s always support there when you need it.” 

And after a decade with TAB, Jonathan still feels energised by the opportunities the role continues to create. 

“You just ride the wave and see where it takes you. If you keep doing the right things, opportunities appear that you’d never expect.” 

Interested in Becoming a TAB Franchisee?

If Jonathan’s journey resonates with you, and you’re interested in helping small businesses thrive while enjoying the support of a collaborative community, TAB could be the perfect opportunity. Whether you come from a similar background like Jonathan or have your own entrepreneurial experience, TAB offers the training, resources, and ongoing support to help you build a successful business.

If this sounds like something you’d like to explore, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us today to find out more about how TAB can help you achieve your business and personal goals.

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