BusinessCloud executive editor Chris Maguire is launching a Mastermind Business Group – and is looking for growing companies to take part.

During his 30+ year career in journalism, Maguire has interviewed 3,000 entrepreneurs and hosted more than 700 events and decided now is the right time to launch an invitation-only business group.

The first cohort of business leaders/ business owners will be limited to eight and will be aimed at companies with a turnover of between £1m and £10m.

Membership costs £450 a month (+ VAT) and involves a package of benefits including a place at a monthly meeting facilitated by Maguire, followed by lunch.

Chris Maguire and Paul WoodsMaguire has joined forces with North West-based entrepreneur Paul Woods, founder and managing director of fast-growing Proactive Despatch, in launching the Mastermind Business Group.

Meetings will take place at The Partridge, in Stretton, next to junction 10 of the M56. The picturesque venue is owned by the Timpson family.

Explaining the idea for the venture, Maguire said: “Whether you’re a start-up, scale-up or unicorn, in my experience the challenges and opportunities are largely the same, just to varying degrees.

“There’s no such thing as a new problem in business, which is where the idea for the Mastermind Business Group came from.

“Running a business is a lonely place and it’s easy to think you’re the only person facing a particular challenge.

“This couldn’t be further from the truth and by leveraging the knowledge of the people around the table, you can not only find solutions to problems but also seek out new opportunities.

“We also plan to bring in experts who will share their experiences with the group.

“The Mastermind group will be there to support our members in their decision-making and Chatham House rules will apply. We’ve deliberately kept the cost as low as possible.”

His business partner Paul Woods said: “I’ve known Chris for more than 10 years and he’s one of the best networked people I know.

“I think the power comes in the collective and sharing challenges and opportunities with like-minded businesses. It’s a great way of making new introductions and growing your network.”

If you’d like to discuss it further please contact Chris at [email protected] or Paul at [email protected]