Andrew Milson - Stone Soup
Who are you? What do you do? Where do you do it?
I am Andrew Milson. I am Business Development Director for Stone Soup Ltd. I do it all over Yorkshire and beyond but our offices are in the middle of picturesque York.
Why did you start-up a business?
I wanted to be able to work in lots of different areas, gain the rewards for my own hardwork and push myself.
How (and when) did you start-up a business?
I started the business shortly after graduating, it was in 1999. I began by taking a job with flexible shifts and working on Stone Soup in my ‘freetime’.
What have been the biggest challenges in running your own business? How have these been overcome?
I set the business up with friends so there was a huge amount to learn about the strains a business relationship can put on a friendship. However you do start with a good understanding of each other, and trust, which is very important. Following this was the challenge of finding enough work and then taking on and managing staff. Every day brings new challenges.
What have been your greatest achievements in running your business?
Attracting and retaining great clients and producing fantastic work they are delighted with.
What would be your advice to any young aspiring entrepreneurs?
Don’t underestimate how hard it is and how long it will take to get yourself established. Don’t underestimate how much you can achieve by being passionate and focused in what you want to do. Enjoy the journey, don’t get too hung up on the destination.