A-Players Are Hot, Control Freaks Are Not. Scaling Multi-Million-Pound Revenue Companies

This episode features Jamie Darkin, founder of Cornerstone Property Group and CEO of JD Enterprises, sharing his journey from university "dropout" to building a multi-million-pound revenue business in the social housing sector.Jamie discusses the realities of scaling a company that works closely with local authorities across South East England, highlighting the importance of time management, relationship building, and maintaining a balance between profitability and social impact.Jamie also talks about strategic acquisitions of complementary businesses to accelerate growth, provides tips for professional development, and reveals details of his new podcast series, Driven Podcast. Expect actionable insights from a self-made entrepreneur with a track record of success and a vision for expansion across regions and sectors.Chapters(00:00) Introduction(01:20) - What drives Jamie to keep building, scaling, and investing in businesses(02:30) – The reason Jamie quit university and the life lessons he learnt form that decision(07:16) - Why Jamie founded a social housing company (09:58) - The reason the 'apprenticeship' stage doesn't need repeating (10:55) - The business model behind Cornerstone Property Group(12: 00) - How to win contracts with Local Governments(12:45) - How to win and retain business (14:55) - How Jamie financed Cornerstone in its early stages and how he overcame financial challenges (17:15) - How to scale a multi-million-pound business (21:20) - How to find target companies to acquire (23:25) - Strategies for integrating acquisitions into the main business(25:20) - The type of people and businesses Jamie gravitates towards(27:15) - How to hire genuine people(29:00) – Professional development and building and expanding a network(31:00) - Benefits of a mentor and business coach (32:50) - How to maximise and manage time(32:35) - Building meaningful relationships(37:20) - How an introvert can walk into a room and speak to anyone (38:50) - Karis' Helping Hand (40:30) - What people should know about Jamie Darkin – the man behind the business (41:25) - How to take care of business Links Cornerstone Property Group website Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Connect with Stephanie on LinkedInTaking Care of Business YouTube Channel Support Karis' Helping Hand