Stephen Folwell

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT STEPHEN FOLWELL

I’ve founded and grown businesses from concept to national scale. At LOVESPACE, I created a new category, raised £8m+, built an outstandig team, developed a proprietary logistics platform and led the business to EBITDA profitability before a successful merger. At Muddy Trowel, I built a mission-led D2C gardening brand with exceptional customer loyalty (NPS 80+, Trustpilot 4.8) and launched an innovative digital garden design service used by thousands of customers.Before founding companies, I helped shape the Guardian’s global digital-first transformation as Director of Strategy, driving major portfolio restructuring and significant digital revenue growth. Earlier in my career at McKinsey, I built the strategic and analytical foundation that underpins my leadership today.Across all of my work — whether as CEO, founder, advisor or non-exec director — my focus is consistent:• Build high-performing teams• Create clarity in complexity• Blend data, design and operational rigour• Deliver outstanding customer experience• Grow businesses that contribute meaningfully to the worldI thrive in environments where fast growth, operational complexity and mission intersect — whether launching a new market, scaling a D2C brand, transforming a heritage business, or leading a PE-backed organisation through its next chapter.Now open to CEO, General Manager, COO or Country-Head roles in purpose-driven consumer, digital or tech-enabled businesses, as well as select NED opportunities.If you’re building something ambitious — or want a thought partner for complex growth challenges — I’m always happy to connect.