Business Advisors
Each team is supported by an experienced business advisor. Meet our business advisors and which team they are supporting.
Meet our Business Advisors
Isle of Wight College
Public Service 1 - Lifeline
Mark Lee
To follow
Cindy Newham
To follow
Savannah Lee
To follow
Public Service 2 - PC Consultants
Jonathan Thornton
As one of the Isle of Wight’s most prominent business figures, Jonathan Thornton is best known as CEO and Managing Director of PC Consultants, the company where he began his career over twenty years ago and which won a King’s Award for Enterprise in 2025.
Jonathan is a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK programme, which supports leaders of high-growth small businesses and social enterprises.
He has long represented the Island’s business community, as current Chairman and former President of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, and as a much sought-after mentor to others in business.
Nicola Johnston
Nicola is a well-respected figure within the Island’s business community. As Chief Operating Officer of PC Consultants, she holds full membership of the Association of Accounting Technicians (MAAT), a professional status confirming her financial expertise and commitment to the highest standards.
As COO, Nicola directs and controls all aspects of company operations, maintaining the standards of excellence on which PC Consultants has built its reputation. A commitment recognised in 2025, when it received the King’s Award for Enterprise, the most coveted honour in British business. Through her leadership, Nicola has become an inspiration to colleagues and businesses across the Island, showing what can be achieved through professionalism, integrity and determination.
Dale Howarth
Dale is a well-known figure on the Island, working as a business advisor to many leading local businesses and serving as director of Ryde-based PC Consultants. He is also an Ambassador for the CPD Standards Office, championing high-quality, consistent Continuing Professional Development across industries.
For almost three decades, Dale’s popular business seminars have brought together entrepreneurs, community groups and charities, offering fresh perspectives and practical lessons to support their success. In 2022, he brought TEDx to the Island, hosting ‘If Not Now, When’ at The Anthony Minghella Theatre, a celebration of bold ideas and community action.
Public Service 3
Scott Dougan
A Finance and marketing executive Ive operated in over 50 countries for major organisations in Engineering and The Health and Beauty sectors. Positions have ranged from Finance Director to General Manager of international companies. Now run my own boutique company specialising in growing Beauty Industry brands.
Business
Dan Carley
Client and Commercial Director at NOSY
Christ The King College
Guy Wells
Client and Commercial Director at NOSY
To Follow
Medina College
Mark Lounds
Head of Contracts - RPL Construction
Mark has worked in the construction industry from an early age and, despite an early career diversion into the medical field, has steadily progressed through a variety of trades before moving into management. Mark joined RPL Construction in 2020 and has thoroughly enjoyed his time working alongside a dedicated and talented team.
Mark is also passionate about supporting local charities and volunteer across a number of initiatives, including men’s mental health. Mark sits on the board of a local charity, where he provides one-to-one counselling and support, as well as helping to organise and host local wellbeing walks.
Outside of work, Mark is a keen outdoorsman and enjoys spending time in the fresh air as a way to relax and unwind.
St George's School
Marnie Janaway
Business, Brand & Strategic Development
Marnie’s background is working for large Global multi-national – Next, Sainsburys. through to smaller aspiring Companies – Brands, Retailers, Suppliers through to individuals with developing their potential.
Moving to the Island in 2018 / 9. Marnie started to be involved in various projects with the Chamber and Local Council. This led to working with the Wild Heart Trust, Liz Earle and many others such as the Garlic Farm.
Through to helping many SME’s via Go for Growth.
In 2023, there was the inception of “INCLUSIVE ISLAND” – which has engaged with over 30 companies, individuals to bring all together to realise their potential.
With an extensive background in Team building, Marketing, Business planning – through to Product and Buying side. Marnie helps people to realise their aims & ambitions. Working in a collaborative, holistic way – a plan is achieved that is right for the person.
Specialist knowledge in Retail, CSR, Brand & Strategic alignment to market needs, a person’s People and a person’s Brand.
Cowes Enterprise College
Richard Perrott
Business Owner - Perrott Partners Recruitment
Richard Perrott FREC is a business owner, entrepreneur , talent “head hunter” and executive recruitment specialist with over 30 years’ experience working with businesses ranging from start-ups to established professional firms. As founder of Perrott Partners Recruitment, he helped organisations attract talent, grow teams and achieve their business goals. Richard’s experience includes business development, sales, marketing, strategic planning and leadership. Having overcome a childhood stammer and built a successful career through determination and resilience, he is passionate about supporting young people to develop confidence, entrepreneurial thinking and the practical skills needed to turn ideas into successful businesses.
Ryde School 1
Steven Holbrook
Business Advisor
Steve, helped bring and launch many famous international brands into the Middle East and South Africa, including Burberry, Go Pro and Sports Direct. Responsible for opening over 100 retail stores across many brands. Created, designed, and launched new retail concepts stores into the Middle East market. As CEO, had over 300 staff and managed a devise operation of distribution, wholesale and retail. Responsible for buying and selling businesses, working in the Private Equity sector. As CEO of the IOW Chamber of Commerce, worked across a wide sector of business, helping and advising. Now working as a business consultant, advising businesses of all sizes with a specific focus on the development and use of Ai.
Island 6th Form
Tracy Osborn
Director - Quarr Abbey
Tracy began her career as a Saturday assistant at Mothercare, progressing over 17 years to Area Manager for Kent, Sussex and London. Tracy led 23 branches and 350 staff, overseeing a turnover of 22 million and specialising in business turnaround. At English Heritage, Tracy held a national role covering 120 sites, grew the retail business from 2 million to 10 million, completed over 80 shop refits and served on project boards, including the Stonehenge visitor project.
Tracy is now Director of Fundraising and Operations at Quarr Abbey and a board member of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, following six years on the Hampshire Cultural Trust board. For the past three years, Tracy has supported island schools through the business programme, helping young people recognise and fulfil their potential.