Beyond the Myths: Unlocking Growth in the Public Sector with Shiona Campbell, BDS

Today’s episode tackles a commonly missed growth avenue – selling to the public sector. Why do so many smaller firms avoid it? Is it really too complex or competitive, or are those just myths?

Helen Lipscombe is joined by Shiona Campbell, founder of BDS – Business Development Support Ltd. With 15 years’ experience in local government and the third sector, Shiona now helps owner-led businesses bid for and win public contracts.

You’ll hear her journey from project management to business consultancy, unpack the misconceptions around public sector sales, and get practical guidance on how to find opportunities and stand out in tenders.

Connect with Helen Lipscombe:
LinkedIn: Helen Lipscombe FBCI | LinkedIn
Website: Resilience Continuity | UK

YouTube: Resilience Continuity Consulting - YouTube

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Until next time, stay ready and stay resilient

Chapters

• 4:13 From charity funding to business growth
• 9:16 Starting out with a scattergun approach
• 10:48 Focusing on what really matters
• 15:06 Building sustainability and resilience
• 18:13 Managing supplier risk strategically
• 21:07 Challenging assumptions in planning
• 24:57 Navigating public sector contracts
• 28:06 How small businesses can seize opportunities
• 32:02 Creating a flexible, sustainable model
• 33:45 Making collaboration simpler
• 37:13 Networking that drives business growth
• 41:26 The value of asking questions
• 43:04 The stress of not bidding
• 46:24 Choosing the right work for you