How Gymshark embraced Influencer marketing to achieve UNICORN status. #49

Stay humble, stay challenged.

In this previously live episode of Speaking About Speaking I speak with Director, Financial Strategist, and former CFO of Gymshark, Philip Daw.

 

Chartered accountant, Phil spent 28 years as senior partner in general practice, before in 2019, he was tempted by fast-growing gym wear brand, Gymshark to join them as chief financial officer (CFO).

 

A brave move considering founder, Ben Francis, was only 27 and the average age of Gymshark employees was 28, but Phil embraced the challenge.

During his time with them they became what’s known as a ‘Unicorn’ business, that is they achieved a billion-dollar valuation!

 

Now, as Director and financial lead at We Are Whanau, alongside former Gymshark president, Steve Hewitt, Phil helps other companies find their ‘North Star’ and progress to Unicorn status.

 

Of course, this is fascinating stuff but - I hear you ask - what has this got to do with Speaking About Speaking?

 

Let me explain...

I knew very little about Gymshark, the business or its ethos before Phil asked me in September 2021 to go to Gymshark HQ in Solihull and work with him and the team to help improve their public speaking skills. They were presenting to an important and formidable audience and Phil in particular needed a confidence boost.

 

As I always do, before heading off I did a little research and found that founder, Ben Francis, being an introvert, realised his lack of speaking confidence was making his audience feel uncomfortable, so decided it was his duty to learn the art of public.

 

I also found that the company motto is ‘Stay Humble.’ Which I love!

For me, humility is an underestimated but crucial quality that creates curious and compassionate speakers.

 

I was honoured and excited to have Philip join me for this conversation.

We discussed all of the above.

Plus, the power of ...

• Building a culture that empowers people.
• Influencer marketing.
• A simple business model.
• The sliding doors moment.

To find out more about Phil go to: https://wearewhanau.com/

Or find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-daw-02780810/

To find out more about Power To Speak coaching follow Jackie Goddard on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiegoddardpowertospeak/

Or message her through the website: www.powertospeak.co.uk

For tips and techniques on improving your public speaking and getting in front of your audience, sign up for the fortnightly Power To Speak newsletter: https://powertospeak.co.uk/newsletter/