Sustainable business growth goes beyond being in the right place at the right time. If you don’t review your market and keep an eye on what your competitors are up to, you are unlikely to be able to take advantage of opportunities when they arise. Neither will you be able to consolidate your business position when leads become sales if you do not have the appropriate systems in place to support the demand.

Personal leadership qualities are equally important. To do well in business you need to take calculated risks, have an unswerving passion and belief in what you are doing, adopt a willingness to learn and use the strengths of those around you to compensate for your weaknesses.

If you are keen to know more, why not download the full version which is an analysis of the themes that have arisen during my interviews with Board members from companies featured in the Sunday Times top 100.