Carl Bradshaw

CEO

Private Site • Full-time

Dec 2004 - Present • 21 yrs 7 mos

At Forshaw Associates, we work alongside SME leaders and trustees who want a stronger, more effective board — without overcomplicating things. Based in Manchester and Lancashire, and supporting organisations across the UK, we bring practical board advisory and management consultancy support to growing businesses and not-for-profits. Our aim is straightforward: help leaders gain clarity, improve board performance, and make confident decisions that lead to steady, sustainable growth. How We Support You We don’t sit on the sidelines. We work with you. Strategic Growth Support – Helping you spot new opportunities, pressure-test ideas and move forward with confidence. Board Effectiveness – Strengthening accountability, improving decision-making, and ensuring the board adds real value. Independent Perspective – A calm, experienced voice around the table who can challenge constructively and support privately. Operational Focus – Identifying where small improvements can create meaningful commercial impact. Risk & Governance – Ensuring the right controls are in place without drowning in paperwork. Corporate Finance Insight – Practical guidance around funding, cash flow, and commercial arrangements. Advisory Board Setup – Helping you build the right structure and skills mix as your organisation grows. Why Leaders Choose Forshaw Associates Running an SME can feel isolating. Board conversations can sometimes go round in circles. Growth can stall when clarity is missing. We provide steady, experienced board-level support that cuts through noise and focuses on what truly matters: better decisions, stronger governance, and measurable progress. If you’re looking for an independent adviser who will both support and challenge you — and help your board perform at a higher level — we’d be glad to have a conversation.