About Me: Andrew Scott – Entrepreneur, Investor, and Business Advisor
I’m Andrew Scott, a self-made entrepreneur, investor, and advisor with a passion for business growth, strategy, and helping others succeed. My journey began in the back streets of Belfast during the Troubles in Northern Ireland—a childhood shaped by tragedy and resilience. Those experiences became the foundation for the life I’ve built today.
At just four years old, I survived the Abercorn atrocity, a terrorist bombing in a busy Belfast restaurant. The years that followed were marked by recovery, personal loss, and profound challenges. My brother was left wheelchair-bound after a car bomb, and my father’s death under unknown circumstances remains a painful memory. These events instilled in me an unshakeable drive to rise above adversity.
At 18, I left Ireland for London, determined to turn my struggles into strength. Without qualifications or financial support, I started from scratch. My breakthrough came in 1998 when I turned around a distressed manufacturing business, growing it from £1 million to £12 million in four years. That success led to an eight-figure acquisition by Masco, a Fortune 500 company.
But the path wasn’t always smooth. In 2004, I faced significant setbacks, losing almost everything and rebuilding from a small flat with £116,000 in credit card debt. I refused to give up. I founded Purplex, a business consultancy that has grown into a global marketing agency and the cornerstone of my Ascot Group, which now employs nearly 100 people. Over the years, I’ve launched, acquired, or sold more than 10 companies and built a multi-million-pound property portfolio.
In 2023, I sold Business Leader Magazine, a media and events company I founded to connect over 100,000 entrepreneurs, to Richard Harpin. Alongside running businesses, I’m an Angel Investor with Bristol Private Equity, a keynote speaker, and a business advisor focused on growth, strategy, and marketing.
Achievements I’m Proud Of:
- Successfully turned around a manufacturing company, leading to its sale for an eight-figure sum.
- Built the Ascot Group, including Purplex, a global marketing agency.
- Founded Business Leader Magazine, sold in 2023 to a leading entrepreneur.
- Recognised as ‘Director of the Year’ for CSR by the Institute of Directors.
- Actively support innovative startups as an Angel Investor.
My Approach:
I believe success is about action, resilience, and continuous learning. I’m committed to sharing my knowledge and helping others grow, whether through investments, advisory roles, or keynote speaking. I also prioritise giving back through charitable initiatives and mentoring.
Connect With Me:
Every challenge is an opportunity to build something extraordinary. I look forward to connecting with you and sharing what I’ve learned along the way.
