We’ve been sharing the inspirational stories of our amazing and inspirational community members over the last year or so but we realised that we haven’t been sharing our behind the scene super heroes. The amazing individuals who make up our team of Tree Shepherd mentors. A group of people who are dedicated, just like us, to supporting entrepreneurs who are building something that lasts.
This month, we spotlight William Washington Welch, MBA, a business mentor and independent consultant who helps leaders build stronger, more sustainable organisations.
William is a firm favourite and has supported a wide range of Tree Shepherd clients helping them to move beyond their day-to-day challenges and unlock strategic and sustainable growth.
Over to William!
So who do you help- and what’s your role.
I work with entrepreneurs, small business owners, and charity leaders. They often come to me to strengthen their strategic direction, improve operations, or get a clearer grip on their finances. My role is to help them build the foundations for long-term sustainability and success.
What’s your main focus when working with clients?
My goal is to help organisations clarify their vision, operate more efficiently, and become more resilient. I guide them through strategic planning, marketing insight, and leadership development. These are key areas for building momentum and staying competitive.
What’s your approach to business mentoring?
I believe in collaboration. That means listening carefully, asking the right questions, and co-creating practical solutions. I don’t hand over a checklist. We work together to develop tools and strategies that clients understand and feel ownership of. That is when real change happens.
What’s one quick win a founder can make today?
Step back and view your business as a system. Find one small process to improve, such as how you communicate with customers or how you track orders. That single change can free up time, reduce stress, or improve the customer experience straight away.
What common roadblock do you see among business leaders?
Many are stuck in the daily grind. They are so focused on delivery that they forget to set strategic goals. Reframing time management and focusing on what really moves the needle often leads to a breakthrough.
What’s your favourite tool to use in your sessions?
The Business Model Canvas. It is a simple one-page tool that helps people map how their business works. It shows how everything connects and where opportunities or inefficiencies might be hiding.
Can you share a real outcome from your work?
One client refined their value proposition and built a clearer marketing and pricing strategy. Within a year, their turnover increased by 40 percent. That is the power of clear, focused strategy.
What should clients expect from a session with you?
A reflective but practical conversation. We unpack your challenges, explore solutions, and finish with clear next steps. You leave with something you can apply immediately.
What is your top piece of advice for small business owners?
Understand your numbers. Financial literacy gives you control and confidence. You do not need to be an accountant, but you do need to know what is going on financially so you can make smart decisions.
How can people prepare for a session with you?
Bring honesty and a clear summary of your current goals. It does not need to be perfect. Knowing what you are working toward helps us get straight to what matters.
Where can people connect with you outside Tree Shepherd?
You can find me on LinkedIn by searching William Washington Welch or reach me by email at william.welch@ubele.org.
Final thought: If you could change one policy to support small business owners, what would it be?
I would like to see easier, more empowering access to funding and advisory support. Too often, the system discourages emerging leaders instead of backing them. That needs to change.
Quick Fire Round
- Morning or night? Morning. I value the clarity before the day begins.
- Tea or coffee? Tea, especially peppermint or lemon and ginger.
- Best place to plan? Brixton Village. It is full of culture, creativity, and energy.
- One book you recommend? Good to Great by Jim Collins. Essential reading on leadership and purpose.
Tree Shepherd can help you grow too
Whether you are just starting out or preparing to scale, Tree Shepherd provides expert mentoring, business support, and affordable workspace across South London. If you would like to connect with experienced mentors like William, visit treeshepherd.org.uk or email us at info@treeshepherd.org.uk.
