I’m Keith Ruddock, and I provide hands-on support to help businesses grow and succeed.

I don’t sell off-the-shelf solutions or promise overnight success. What I offer is honest advice, a wealth of experience and a track record in supporting business owners across Yorkshire.

Experience overview

  • 40 years of management experience
  • 12 years in Managing Director roles
  • MBA from Warwick Business School
  • Business mentor since 2013
  • Company Chairman since 2023
  • Independent Director on a Employee Ownership Trust since 2024

My early career was spent with British Coal in various operational roles at several mines. I then moved through food manufacturing (Walkers Crisps), packaging, printing (Yellow Pages) and financial outsourcing. I’ve managed businesses with as many as 800 employees and turnovers of £75 million.

In 2013, I founded Ruddock Associates so that I could share my expertise with business owners in Yorkshire who needed some guidance and support. I genuinely enjoy helping people to not only develop their business but also to develop themselves, becoming more confident and assured in their abilities.

The support I offer isn’t just based on theory and text-book learning, it’s based on real experiences and a first-hand understanding of how a successful business works.

Barbara Nixon, Success & Leadership Coach

“It’s always a pleasure to work with Keith. As a very solution-focused individual, he has a considered approach which ensures the best possible outcome for your business.”

My Values

  • Trust and Integrity – your business is nobody else’s business
  • Partnership – it’s about working with you
  • Commitment – is guaranteed
  • People count – everyone has untapped potential
  • Results matter – otherwise what is the point?
Gary Pearce, Task Business Supplies

“Keith works in a structured, unfussy manner and with a high degree of integrity. Whilst being candid when required, he is also positive and encouraging.”

Next Steps

If you’re still in two minds about whether business mentoring is right for you, let’s have a chat.

There will be no hard sell – the decision has to be right for both of us. You don’t want to bring someone into your business that you don’t feel comfortable with, and I don’t want to work with someone who doesn’t trust me to deliver what they need.

Let’s have a call to see if there is common ground and whether I am the right fit for you. If I am, then we can discuss exactly how I can support your business in a way that works for you.

Next Steps

If you’re still in two minds about whether business mentoring is right for you, let’s have a chat.

You have my word that there will be no hard sell – the decision has to be right for both of us. You don’t want to bring someone into your business that you don’t feel comfortable with, and I don’t want to work with someone who doesn’t trust me to deliver what they need.

Let’s have a call to see if there is common ground and whether I am the right fit for you. If I am, then we can discuss exactly how I can support your business in a way that works for you.

Keith Ruddock, Ruddock Associates - Family Business Advice

Family Business Advice

Many of the businesses I support are family-owned. The challenges they face are the same as most businesses, but there are a few extra to deal with too. Find out how I can help your family business grow and thrive.

Keith Ruddock, Ruddock Associates - Business Mentoring

Business Mentoring

When you’re in the thick of your business, it can be hard to stay objective and remove the emotion from decisions. I can provide a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to help you move your business forward.

Keith Ruddock, Ruddock Associates - Business Management Advice

Business Management Advice

Sometimes you need more than just a bit of advice and guidance; sometimes you need someone to jump in and make things happen. I can provide non-exec or interim director support or help you plan a strategy for growth.