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“/>The businesswoman Tracy-Jane (TJ) Duncan-Moir, whose new advice was a great success despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

But not Tracy-Jane (TJ) Duncan-Moir, a 30-year veteran of the die-hard industrial world in the Mansfield area and a doyen of rolled-up sleeves and the philosophy to get involved.

Resolutely and defiantly, TJ refused to let the little thing of Covid-19 get in the way of her new business consultancy.

Your initiative not only survived, but has had success since it was founded 12 months ago.

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And behind her face covers, she breathed life into Business Glu, drawing on her vast experience and range of skills to transform businesses in the East Midlands.

“It went a lot better than I expected,” said TJ. “I thought I would run into barriers with people who say we were an unaffordable luxury.”

“In fact, however, they have realized that their investment is not only financially worthwhile, but also in terms of stress relief.

“It was slow when I started last April, but now I’m starting to journal dates to make sure everyone gets what they want.

“So far we have nine companies in Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire on our books.”

Mom of two, TJ, 49, decided to go it alone in 2019 after leaving her position as longtime, pioneering director of the A1 Flue Systems family business based in Boughton, near Ollerton.

“I had come as far as I could and was starting to feel frustrated,” she explained. “It all got sour.

“I was looking for a job, but then I suddenly realized that if I choose to do something, there is a risk of suffocation.

“I had acquired a range of skills, from working in the workshop to economics and finance, human resources, business law and leadership and management. So I decided to become a consultant myself.”

“Although I had worked for the same company for 30 years, I had continued my commercial training. So I thought it was time to bring my knowledge and experience to other companies to help them succeed.”

The name Business Glu came about because TJ saw itself as “the glue that holds every part of a business together and creates a strong bond.

“This bond would come about through coaching, mentoring or counseling on a temporary or ongoing basis.

“We would also give companies the keys to unleash new ideas, strategies or innovations that drive positive change and offer a new perspective,” she added.

By the time Business Glu was born, the dreaded pandemic had already raised its ugly head, and TJ admitted she was facing a daunting task.

“Not only because of Covid,” she said, “but also because it was the first time in my career that it was just me. I used to have a team around me and had a regular salary. Now here.” was nothing in front of me. “

First, TJ had to operate online. However, it made an impression when companies saw how to benefit from the advice of an outside expert who could “see the big picture” and provide “a bird’s eye view”.

Her specialty was design, manufacturing, and manufacturing, and she was able to tailor her service to meet the needs of all types of customers.

In addition, she had an army of freelancers with expertise in areas such as marketing that she could win over to assist.

Last July, she was invited to her first in-person appointment with a Grantham company, manufacturer of portable buildings, Avalon Cabins Ltd.

“We marketed them, launched a new website, reviewed their accounts and processes, and introduced them to new suppliers,” said TJ.

It was their first success story, and from there it was covered in snow.

By September there were more customers on board and TJ was getting some “great testimonials” from manufacturing companies.

Jane O’Reilly, Avalon’s chief financial officer, said, “With TJ, we have grown our business and we are excited about the future.”

Anthony Heathcote, Head of Rollin Fabrications in Boughton, said, “TJ is very knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects of the business. She also has many good contacts in the business world. “

Kate Burgess of Areofab Fabrications Ltd in Leicestershire said, “TJ immediately identified all the positive aspects of our business, areas for improvement and numerous sales opportunities, and designed new infrastructure.”

It all combined proved that TJ’s risky gambling had paid off. “Getting such credentials is priceless,” she said.

“One company grew sales 196 percent in six weeks. Another company saw cost savings of £ 2 million, while another company added 12 jobs in six months and another increased its customer database by 34 percent, which is additional Income brought in of £ 520,000.

“We created the wow factor in a number of companies where the owners couldn’t believe what had happened – and not just financially.

“One boss said he couldn’t believe how his employees’ morale has improved. When employees can see the vision of their company, they feel more positive.

“I don’t regret starting Business Glu even though it coincided with Covid. In fact, I wish I had done it sooner.

“I love what I do. Customers are so much more grateful than employers.”