In the course of building exhibition and bookfair businesses focusing mainly on English-medium schools abroad, I had a unique opportunity to research the sector. Visiting schools and interviewing heads in many countries over several years produced a unique data set. The research showed that the children of wealthy local parents were starting to dominate enrolment and I was convinced that there would be enormous market growth.
Accurate information is always key to good decisions. I founded ISC Research in 1994 to provide research, data and market intelligence services to all stakeholders, from the schools themselves, to investors, universities, consultancies and suppliers. The company has tracked the market ever since.
I attended grammar school, Britannia Royal Naval College Dartmouth and York University. My flying career ended abruptly after getting lost over Scotland at 10,000 feet.
Although I’m no longer involved in the day-to-day running of the business, I chair the board and continue to take an active interest in the market.