Helen Butler - Founder and Managing Director, Simplified Operations
As an Operations Director and Consultant she’s experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly of how businesses work, and the systems, structures and teams that are needed to achieve the best results. She’s now on a mission to enable small business owners to step out of the weeds and put in place the people, processes, and systems that make the big difference.
What did you set out to achieve this year?
This year was all about building momentum. I wanted to get Simplified Operations out therereally increase our visibility, grow some solid connections, and continue building up our client base. At the same time, I wanted to take those first steps in putting together a great team so we’re able to reach more businesses. It’s been about setting the stage for growth while continuing to support clients achieve great results.
Has everything gone according to plan?
Most of it, but not all-when does it ever? We’ve delivered some amazing transformation projects as well as launching our Fractional COO services, which has been a great addition to supporting clients on a regular basis. Along the way, we’ve gotten much clearer on who our ideal clients are-it turns out, who we thought they were wasn’t quite right! That’s evolved a lot this year, and we’re now much more aligned with clients we can add most value to.
I’ve also loved building connections, meeting incredible people, and starting to grow the team. We brought on an operations specialist this summer and kicked off our associate network to support even more clients. It’s been a busy, rewarding year with a few lessons along the way.
What are you most proud of this year?
I’m particularly proud of seeing our clients’ transformations, especially in terms of operational stability and growth. Seeing business owners who felt overwhelmed by constant firefighting find confidence and clarity through the processes we set up together is what it’s all about – and is the reason I started the business initially. On a personal note, I’m also proud of how we’ve been able to attract interest from bigger businesses and have started to build a great support team, including bringing in associate consultants who can help extend our impact.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
“Keep it simple and stay in your lane.” It was such a great reminder that trying to do too much or be everything to everyone only slows you down. This advice has helped me focus on what we do best-supporting businesses with operational excellence-and let go of anything that doesn’t fit. It’s made decision-making so much easier! Sometimes the best advice really is the simplest.
What has been the most enjoyable business event you’ve been to this year?
The Fashion Ball, without a doubt! Its Newcastle launch event in October had such a unique vibe compared to the usual business events. The mix of business networking and awards added a fun twist, and getting to walk the catwalk in the fashion show was a great experience. It was a brilliant blend of work and play, bringing people together from a mix of businesses across the region.
What have you learnt about yourself this year?
I’ve discovered that resilience really is one of my strengths. This year has thrown its fair share of challenges my way, but it’s shown me how capable I am of pushing through and staying focused. It’s also taught me the importance of playing bigger- letting go of self-doubt and stepping into opportunities with confidence. Most of all, I’ve learned to trust the bigger vision, even if I don’t have all the answers yet. Trusting the process has been a huge part of the journey this year.
Describe 2024 in three words…
Growth, Connection, Determination.
What are your aims for 2025?
The aim is to continue the momentum from this year-expanding our client base, growing the team, and continuing to get the message out about how good operations can have a significant impact on profitability and longevity of a business.
We’re on a mission to educate more SME owners to understand what operational excellence really is and how it can transform their businesses. Right now, it’s a concept that’s often only discussed in larger organisations but the truth is, it is a gamechanger for small businesses too. Education is the first step to unlocking the incredible potential for so many businesses, and we’re working on an additional service to help give small businesses the tools and knowledge to embed real operational excellence simply and effectively.
Any New Year Resolutions?
I’m more about embedding consistent habits than setting grand resolutions, so it’s mostly about continuing what works-like taking regular time out of the business to recharge and making space for the things that matter. Travel will definitely be part of that plan!
I do love setting myself a physical challenge each year although I haven’t decided on 2025’s adventure yet-in the mix at the minute is a triathlon, a half marathon or maybe a Hyrox competition. Something that is quite out of my comfort zone and will therefore require some focus and effort!
simplifiedoperations.co.uk