How Xavier Leveraged his Experience to Build his own Business

How Xavier Leveraged his Experience to Build his own Business

Xavier Crépet joined ERA Group after a successful 30-year career in the automotive industry. Having held senior leadership positions with premium vehicle manufacturers, including roles in marketing, quality management, site leadership, and financial services development, he reached a point where he wanted to put his extensive experience to work in a new way and pursue an independent business opportunity.

ERA Group offered him a compelling combination of entrepreneurship and support. He was attracted by the opportunity to operate independently while benefiting from the strength of a global network of consultants. The prospect of building his own business within a proven framework, refined over nearly three decades, gave him confidence to make the transition.

During his first six months, Xavier completed ERA Group’s foundational training programme at the company’s headquarters in Kent, where he gained a thorough understanding of the methodology and business model. He then focused on developing his client base through active business development and leveraging his professional network. While he notes that building a consulting business requires commitment and perseverance, these efforts enabled him to secure his first client within six months, with additional engagements already progressing.

He also highlights the significant investments ERA Group has made in recent years, particularly in technology and productivity tools designed to support consultants and category experts. In his view, these developments are helping to strengthen the business and create even greater opportunities for growth across the network.

Looking ahead, Xavier sees considerable potential for both ERA Group and the cost optimisation market. He believes the organisation is experiencing strong momentum and that the timing is particularly favourable for professionals considering joining the network.

Beyond the business opportunity, he values the people-focused culture within ERA Group, describing an environment where consultants are supported, collaborative relationships are encouraged, and the conditions for success are firmly in place.

Reflecting on his decision to join ERA Group, he says:

“ERA offered me the opportunity to be independent while being part of a global network of consultants. That combination of independence and support is what attracted me.”

For professionals seeking to leverage years of corporate experience in a more entrepreneurial setting, Xavier’s journey demonstrates how ERA Group can provide the freedom of business ownership alongside the backing of an established international network.

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