Nigel Coates has worked in consumer and B2B roles for SMEs and in marketing and commercial management roles at a multinational company. He led the establishment of the Business Clinic in 2013 and has advised several universities on the setting up of business clinics. Since then, the Business Clinic has provided pro bono consultancy to more than 600 organisations.
Mr Coates is also a national judge for Young Enterprise, Start-Up Programmes and the RSA Student Design Awards. He is chair of the board of trustees for the Marketing Trust and a trustee and board member of Smile for Life Children’s Charity. Nigel is also a governor and board member of Sir Charles Parsons School.
What was your first job (and how much did it pay)?
When I was a student at the end of my first year in the summer, I worked as an assistant in the men’s wear section at C&A on Northumberland Street in Newcastle. I found it challenging to the extent of me trying to give advice on what was a good fit and looked right on other people – particularly as I’ve never had any real fashion sense! I can’t remember what I was paid; however, I do recall at that time C&A paid better than many of the other retailers.
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What is the best advice or support you’ve been given in business?
An appreciation of the importance of ensuring there is sufficient profit margin in the products/services that you are providing to your target customers. Unless the business has sufficient headroom, it will not be able to grow and invest in the future.
What are the main changes you’ve seen in your business/sector, and what are the challenges you’re facing?
Working with a lot of different businesses/organisations in diverse sectors, the main challenges are digital skills and use of technology and for any the recruitment and retention of staff, particularly those at entry level (minimum wage jobs).
How has the pandemic changed the way you work?
During the pandemic we quickly realised that organisations still wanted and needed Business Clinic support and assistance. We delivered this throughout lockdown periods with students, tutors and clients, engaging and working with them online.
Who is your role model in business?
People who are passionate about what they are doing.
What would your dream job be?
Any role in which I am making a difference. In my current role, that is what I feel I am doing in helping to develop graduates who are ready to join organisations and make a contribution straightaway. However, I get a real buzz from seeing the impact when organisations implement the consultancy recommendations; things that they didn’t know or didn’t have the resources to find out.
What advice would you give to someone starting out a career in your sector?
I have always tried to encourage students and graduates to not just consider working for big consumer brands, but to look at some of the great opportunities in the B2B sector. Over the years, many female graduates have really excelled in male dominated sectors!
What makes the North East a good place to do business?
The quality of life is so much higher compared to many other parts of the country. Property is more affordable, commute times to work are shorter and access to the coast and countryside is excellent.
How important is it for business to play a role in society?
Essential. We are all part of the community and we should be working with a diverse range of organisations and people to enable all to benefit.
Outside of work, what are you really good at?
As a trustee of Smile for Life Children’s Charity and a governor of Sir Charles Parsons School, I’m helping to improve lives of young people with disabilities and special needs. I am also chair of the Marketing Trust, a charity that supports training, education and research. I enjoy walking in the countryside and the coast. I am not saying I am really good at any of these but I find them all rewarding!
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