About Bold
Decisions

Nigel Lambe

Following 18 years gaining experience as a CEO and Divisional MD within large, blue chip multi-nationals I left the corporate world in 2009 and embarked on a career as a successful entrepreneur and business advisor.

I am available for a number of advisory or Non Executive roles while developing some new businesses on my own or with partners.

A strategic thinker, effective leader and team builder who has had a fast track career built upon delivering results in developing businesses in Food & Drink, Hospitality, Logistics, Manufacturing and e-commerce through organic development and acquisitions.

Specialties: Rapid Profit Improvement, Turnaround, Growth, Strategic Direction, Supply Chain, Technology, Private Equity, Team Building, Value Creation, Banking, Fundraising

Entrepreneur Experience

Co-Founder & Chairman - Brighton Gin – Oct 14

Brighton Gin was launched in December 2014 and has quickly grown to be one of the leading artisan Gins in the UK. Working with 3 partners we developed the concept, product and brand, and have grown sales to in excess of £500,000 p.a. within 2 years. I have been involved in all areas of developing the business from recipe formulation, brand development, sales and marketing strategy, funding, business planning and operations.

Chairman – Cocoa Loco Chocolate Company – April 17

Cocoa Loco is a family run chocolate business comprising of a single shop and a production kitchen employing 10 staff. The business produces high quality handmade organic chocolate and sells to a range of retailers, wholesalers and distributors at home and abroad.
Investor, Director, CEO - Small Batch

Small Batch Coffee Company – Sept 10 – Oct 16

I initially joined Small Batch Coffee as an investor when it comprised a single espresso bar and small wholesale business. During a six year period as Chairman, MD and CEO we grew the business from £186k annual revenue to above £4.2m with 8 outlets (& 2 in development) and 100 staff. We achieved this through a combination of new store openings, a small acquisition and organic growth of the wholesale business.

Throughout this period, I was responsible for delivering on the growth strategy with direct responsibility for property acquisition, finance and business development and latterly all operations and marketing.
I led a buy out in 2015, which crystalised a return of 28X my original investment in addition to retaining a 15% shareholding. I relinquished executive duties in October 2016 to focus on other projects.

Founder & CEO – Velo Cafe – June 13 – July 16

Developed and built Brighton’s first cycling café in a major regeneration development. Sold the business after 3 years giving EIS investors a partial exit.

Co-Founder & Chairman – Urchin shellfish gastropub – Nov 14 – Nov 15

Working with partners, we developed a concept for a shellfish & craft beer pub/restaurant. I was responsible for concept development, finding and purchasing a venue, financing, and marketing. The business was a smash hit from the beginning and I sold my interest to my business partners for a significant profit to allow me to focus on other ventures.

Chairman & CEO – WJ King Brewery- June 10 – June 13

WJ King microbrewery was my first personal acquisition. In 3 years we overhauled the company, product & brand which resulted in a 100% increase in revenue and 200% increase in profits. I sold the business on the 3rd anniversary of acquisition for a total return on investment of 4.9x.