Testimonials

“I learnt about Dave’s work from attending a Local Authority workshop about Social Enterprises and I knew that we needed this support to help partners

Dave Lane facilitated a series of cluster meetings with five community and voluntary sector organisations that host community cafes. We are now seeing the benefit of these sessions as those organisations take responsibility for shaping their future together. His understanding of the nature of their business and skill in clarifying the opportunities was key. Although we have worked in partnership with these organisations for several years, we learnt what was missing. An interface between the community aspect and the business sense.We needed support to be able to understand what our efforts could become and we needed to remain realistic in this financial and political climate. Dave maintained a calm and focused discussion at a pace that all could contribute. Appropriate resources and literature were provided to set our work in context. All notes, diagrams and ideas were shared and the process was transparent.

Having myself worked with all of the five organisations in the past I know how difficult this really is – but he had techniques to guide and ground the process.

I would (and will) recommend Dave Lane to colleagues working across the community, voluntary, public and private sector if they need support to shape and take their work forward.”

Angela Blair, Sandwell Primary Care Trust, Food Policy Team

 

“Dave’s approach to Business Planning makes the subject come alive and makes the business plan suddenly seem very real.

He uses simple techniques to help build up a clear picture of what you are trying to achieve, how you will do it, what you will need and what the results will be.

Although I knew what I wanted to do, I was struggling to express it coherently. One of Dave’s training sessions and problem solved.

He certainly knows his stuff and how to share it.”

Charles Rapson Solihull SUSTAiN and Colebridge Trust

“David is a highly professional and talented manager, experienced in developing and running complex projects, and dealing effectively with a wide range of people. His communication skills are excellent and he’s a great Trainer- inspiring confidence in his trainees and business partners alike. With impressive inter-personal skills, David accepts challenges willingly and adds value to everything he’s involved in. Strongly recommended!” November 30, 2010

Top qualities: Great Results, Expert

The Future Melting Pot,
hired David as a Business Consultant in 2010, and hired David more than once

“Dave has a unique insight into the current challenges facing the social enterprise economy that ensures his counsel is both sound and of practical use. I would suggest using Dave and ISE’s services to any 3rd sector leader who is looking to build a platform for stability and growth.” November 29, 2010

Dan Freshwater, Chief Executive Officer, BEST Network
was with another company when working with David at Initiative for Social Entrepreneurs [ISE]

“David, is a great business consultant who has enabled Start Again Project to review our working practice and ensure we work to a full cost recovery model. I would recommend any social entrepreneurs to seek ISE & Dave support if possible.” November 24, 2010

Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, On Time

Mark Peters,
hired David as a Business Consultant in 2009, and hired David more than once