In this episode of the DevReady Podcast, host Anthony Sapountzis is joined by Kerrie McGilvray, Managing Director of The Admin Superheroes, to discuss the challenges faced by small business owners and how they can scale effectively. Kerrie shares her unconventional career journey, which began as an apprentice mechanic and eventually led her to the role of operations manager in a project consultancy firm. After her position was made redundant, she ventured into fractional operations management, providing small businesses with high-level expertise without the need for full-time employees. Kerrie’s company focuses on streamlining processes, removing bottlenecks, and enabling growth through fractional management services.
Kerrie delves into the struggles many business owners face, particularly in the tech industry, where expertise in their field often does not translate into effective operational management. She explains that while outsourcing certain tasks may seem daunting, it is essential for scaling a business and allowing owners to focus on their core strengths. Many owners hold on to tasks they dislike, which results in burnout and inefficiency. Kerrie advises owners to delegate responsibilities they do not enjoy to improve overall productivity and wellbeing.
She also highlights common problems that small business owners, especially those without formal business training, often encounter. This includes failing to revisit and refine systems as the business grows, struggling with team management due to lack of training, and not fully understanding financials, which can impede growth. Kerrie explains that many owners, feeling stuck, may contemplate selling their business without realising that with a few changes, they could meet their goals and thrive.
Throughout the conversation, Kerrie emphasises her passion for problem-solving, efficiency, and aligning a team’s personal goals with the broader business objectives to ensure long-term success. She shares her insights on the complexities of managing team dynamics, especially when business owners are reluctant to relinquish certain responsibilities. Effective communication and reassurance are crucial to overcoming resistance and ensuring that staff understand how operational improvements will benefit both the business and their career development. Kerrie wraps up by recommending business owners perform a time and energy audit to identify tasks that could be outsourced, ultimately saving time and increasing revenue.
This episode provides valuable insights into the importance of operational efficiency, team management, and outsourcing to scale a business effectively. Kerrie’s experience offers actionable advice for business owners looking to optimise their operations and grow with confidence.
Topics Covered
- Kerrie McGilvray’s Career Journey
- Fractional Operations Management
- Outsourcing for Business Growth
- Common Struggles for Small Business Owners
- Time and Energy Audit
- Team Management
- Financial Understanding for Growth
- Managing Stress and Burnout
- Business Owners’ Enjoyment and Scaling
Important Time Stamps
- Small Business Struggling to Scale? Kerrie McGilvray Has the Solution! (0:07 – 3:28)
- Stuck in the Weeds? Kerrie McGilvray’s Advice for Business Owners (3:29 – 5:54)
- How to Stop Feeling Burnt Out and Take Your Business to the Next Level (5:55 – 9:52)
- Faster, Smarter, Better: Kerrie’s Secret to Business Efficiency (9:53 – 19:23)
- Overcoming Pushback in Business Transformation – Insights from Kerrie McGilvray (19:24 – 22:28)
- 3 Key Signs You’re Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level (22:29 – 25:34)
