About us
Empowering Business Leaders to Thrive
Sterling Academy was founded with a simple mission: to equip business owners and leaders with the skills, connections, and strategic insight they need to succeed.
In today’s fast-changing business climate, leaders often find themselves working harder than ever while navigating uncertainty and complexity. Sterling Academy provides the clarity, support, and peer community to help leaders not just survive—but thrive
Our Story
Worcestershire’s business landscape is evolving, and Sterling Academy was created to meet that moment. Founded by five highly experienced business professionals — Jenni Henderson, Neil and Tracey Davis, Nick French, and Julia Williams — the Academy brings together a powerhouse of expertise, industry knowledge, and local connections.
With a sharp focus on workshops, peer boardrooms, and leadership training, Sterling Academy is designed to help ambitious leaders sharpen their skills, grow their businesses, and develop the confidence to face challenges head-on.
Nick French – Director & Boardroom Facilitator
Nick has held director and board-level roles across the food service, retail, and builders’ merchant industries. Specialising in leadership development, strategic thinking, and team dynamics, he helps business owners clarify their vision, set goals, and implement actionable strategies. At Sterling Academy, Nick leads workshops and boardroom sessions that empower leaders to make informed, confident decisions.
“It’s a tough time out there, but in a positive environment, we can ride the storm. Sterling Academy provides real-world solutions, expert guidance, and a community of like-minded professionals to support business leaders at every stage.” — Nick French
Julia Williams – Director & Growth Compass Facilitator
A respected business leader and Worcestershire Ambassadors board member, Julia transitioned from a successful career in education to launching, scaling, and selling two businesses of her own. She understands both the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship and is passionate about supporting local leaders. At Sterling Academy Julia leads the Growth Compass sessions.
“Our mission is simple: to empower business owners with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to succeed. We’re creating a space where leaders can learn, collaborate, and grow with confidence.” — Julia Williams
Jenni Henderson – Director & Business Growth Champion
With years of experience building and supporting business networks across the region, Jenni, Neil, and Tracey are deeply connected to the Worcestershire business community. They know first-hand the struggles leaders face in today’s economy and are dedicated to ensuring Sterling Academy delivers the right support at the right time.
“We engage with business leaders daily and see the impact of the economic climate. Sterling Academy was born out of the need to provide structured, practical support that drives real results.” — Jenni Henderson
Neil Davis – Director & Business Growth Champion
With years of experience building and supporting business networks across the region, Neil is deeply connected to the business community. He knows first-hand the struggles leaders face in today’s economy and is dedicated to ensuring Sterling Academy delivers the right support at the right time.
Tracey Davis – Director & Business Growth Champion
With years of experience building and supporting business networks across the region, Tracey is deeply connected to the business community. She knows first-hand the struggles leaders face in today’s economy and are dedicated to ensuring Sterling Academy delivers the right support at the right time.
What We Offer
Sterling Academy creates an environment where business leaders can step back from the day-to-day and focus on strategic growth. Our programmes include:
- Sterling Boardrooms – Peer-to-peer groups for honest conversations, accountability, and problem-solving.
- Sterling Growth Compass – A framework to help you map where you are now, define where you want to go, and build a clear path forward
- Sterling Workshops – Practical, focused sessions on leadership, growth strategies, and navigating change
- Leadership & Business Training – Structured learning that equips leaders with the skills to thrive in complex times.
Why Sterling Academy?
- Real-world experience from a team who have built, scaled, and led successful organisations
- A trusted peer community who understand the challenges of business leadership
- Practical, actionable strategies you can implement immediately
- A positive environment where leaders grow together