- Founded one of the biggest retailers in the UK
- Pioneer of processes that are now considered industry standards
- Practical and no-nonsense approach to growing a business
Mike Clare is the former Founder, Chairman and CEO of Dreams Plc.
He left his position as Area Manager in the world of Retail Furniture to open his first bed shop aged 30.
In the early years, he did everything himself and his hard work and determination resulted in the opening of a further 3 stores within 2 years of trading.
Fast forward 21 years and the business had grown to become a national household name.
Mike attributes his success to finding and then perfecting a formula that enabled him to open new stores in different locations. That doesn’t mean being a slave to the process – it means adapting and changing, innovating, and restructuring – indeed Mike pioneered processes that have now become industry standards.
Today, Mike runs Clarenco LLP, which owns several unusual properties including Solent Forts – three Napoleonic Sea Forts on islands just off Portsmouth now transformed into unusual holiday destinations. His property interests continue with Bijou Living Ltd, which converts disused commercial properties in cities & town centres into apartments.
He is also an investor in many other businesses and offers short-term business loans through STABLE Ventures Ltd., specialising in small & start-up businesses in the property and retail sectors. He is heavily involved in mentoring businesses and entrepreneurs in his local community.
Mike supports several charitable organisations, including Outward Bound, The Princes Trust, Child Bereavement UK, Heart of Bucks and The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.
He is an Ambassador and Deputy-Lieutenant for Buckinghamshire, a Freeman of the City of London, as well as a winner of numerous entrepreneurial awards. In 2009 Mike was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Bucks New University in recognition of his outstanding achievements in the field of commerce and entrepreneurship.
Mike’s story is one filled with insight for entrepreneurs and leaders who strive to run highly profitable and successful businesses and will be shared at EA Masters on 7th November in conversation with former business broadcaster Dermot Murgnahan.
Find out more about Mike’s Leadership Masterclass with tips on how to scale your business.
Buy tickets, attend Mike’s session and become a better leader.
