James McLaughlin

James McLaughlin is an experienced business advisor with over 35 years of expertise in financial services andfintech. He has held senior leadership roles in businesses, helping UK companies navigate important transitions and identify growth opportunities.

Currently, James serves as the Membership Advisor for theFederation of Small Businesses(FSB). In this role, he assists small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and self-employed individuals with business governance, compliance, and general support. He helps members access resources and advocacy to aid in the growth of their businesses and ensure long-term success.

James is also the UK Partner for BizVal, a professional business valuation service. In this capacity, he expands BizVal’s reach across the UK and provides expert business valuations in areas such as strategic planning, exit preparation, acquisition analysis, and compliance requirements. He works closely with business owners,entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders, building relationships with professional advisers, including accountants, solicitors, and corporate finance specialists.

Previously, James held key positions, including Director of Life Project at Creative Benefits Limited and Founding Director of Equilibrium 4 Ltd. His work has focused on succession planning and exit strategy development, assisting businesses with smooth transitions through family succession, management buyouts, or third-party sales. His expertise in market analysis, competitor positioning, and business strategy helps clients identify new growth opportunities and improve operational performance.

James is a registered professional with the Chartered Insurance Institute. He holds an HNC and an ONC in Mechanical Engineering from Newtownabbey TEC and a Business Coaching Diploma from Entrepreneurs Circle. His diverse background in business management, strategy, and valuation makes him a valuable advisor for businesses in the UK.