Ross Tompkins, owner of multiple businesses and former physiotherapist shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey.

Ross shares his story of transitioning from a clinical role in physiotherapy to becoming a successful business owner, with a focus on occupational health and innovative business growth strategies.

Through a series of epiphanies, Ross learned to prioritise business skills over clinical skills to expand his impact and success.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Ross's Background and Early Career:

   • Started as a physiotherapist in the NHS but moved to private practice after 18 months.
   • Founded his first business in 2006, focusing on occupational health physiotherapy.

2. First Epiphany – Occupational Health Focus:

   • Realised most patients' issues stemmed from their work environment rather than sports injuries.
   • Shifted focus to occupational health and ergonomics to better serve his patients.

3. Second Epiphany – Importance of Marketing:

   • Recognised the need for marketing skills to grow his business.
   • Stopped clinical training to focus on business growth, resulting in significant expansion.

4. Third Epiphany – Growth through Acquisition:

   • Lost a major contract but discovered the potential for business growth through acquisitions.
   • Acquired 13 businesses and plans to complete six more acquisitions this year.

5. Transition from Clinician to Business Owner:

   • Stepped away from clinical work to focus solely on business operations.
   • Discussed the challenges and emotional aspects of changing professional identity.

6. Managing and Leading Teams:

   • Emphasised the importance of hiring skilled individuals for various roles.
   • Focused on strengths and delegated tasks to experts in operations, marketing, and finance.

7. Balancing Variety and Focus – The 70-20-10 Rule:

   • 70% on the main thing, 20% on the next big thing, 10% on passion projects.
   • Focused on high-impact tasks while allowing time for creative pursuits.

8. Educational System and Creativity:

   • Critiqued the regimented educational system for stifling creativity.
   • Encouraged clinicians to apply critical thinking skills to business challenges.

9. Personal Goals and Achievements:

   • Ross's goal to visit every country and complete the Explorers Grand Slam.
   • Discussed how travel fuels his creativity and business acumen.

Memorable Quotes:

• “You can be the best therapist in the world, but if nobody knows who you are, how will your clinic grow?”
• “Focus on your strengths and surround yourself with people better than you in other areas.”
• “Our businesses are helping people every day, even if I’m not putting my hands on patients anymore.”

Connect with Ross Tompkins:

• LinkedIn: Ross Tompkins
• Twitter: @RossTompkins