Start Bay isn’t just a strategic partner, we’re now a delivery partner too through Start Bay Fractional.

We know that good strategy can stall without the right operational support. That’s why we’ve built a trusted network of associates who can work with your organisation on:

Finance and management accounting

CRM setup and support

Fundraising Strategy

IT Security

Digital Transformation

Reporting and dashboards

Business analysis and insight

These are professionals I trust to work with the same care and clarity Start Bay is known for. They work part-time, flexibly, and under our continued oversight, so you can count on continuity, quality, and value.

Whether you need a few days a month or short-term help to get a system in shape, we’re here to make it happen. No 121s, no sick or holiday, just high-level execution when you need it.

Get in touch to talk about what kind of support would make the biggest difference right now. Read more about fractional leadership

A thinking partner for charity leaders

Under-investment in leadership leads to stagnation, loss of confidence, and sometimes burnout.

With over a decade as an Executive at a £50m+ organisation and deep experience as a Board Member and Church Minister, Mark Preston brings strategic clarity, sector insight, and a calm listening presence to senior charity leaders navigating complexity.

“Opening up whilst listening to Mark’s caring, peaceful wisdom was a breath of fresh air... I’m more connected with who I am professionally, and I’ve already witnessed personal growth.”
— Head of Fundraising, International Development Charity

These sessions aren’t therapy or formal coaching. They’re space to think, be heard, and gain perspective — with someone who’s been where you are.

A free, zero-commitment consultation is available.
6- and 12-month arrangements offered.
Availability is limited. Please contact to enquire

Strategic Support, Designed Around You

At Start Bay, every engagement begins with a conversation, not a transaction.
Before we talk about time or fees, we take time to understand where you are, what is in your way, and what would create real progress.

You can register your interest in one of the private strategy conversations below. Each begins with a short application and is offered subject to availability.

1 Hour Private Strategy Conversation

A focused conversation for leaders who want clarity on a single challenge or decision.
We will explore what is blocking progress and identify the most practical next steps you can take right now.

Availability: limited each month

2 Hour Deep Dive Strategy Conversation

Designed for leaders or teams who want to step back, reflect and reframe.
We will map out the bigger picture, uncover root causes, and define a strategic direction that aligns people and purpose.

Availability: limited each month

Register Your Interest

Ongoing Strategic Partnership

For organisations ready to move beyond one off advice.
Start Bay offers fractional strategic support, giving you access to high calibre expertise without the cost of full time hires.

Learn More

Note on Availability

To protect quality, only a small number of new clients are accepted each quarter.
If you register your interest, you will be asked a few brief questions to help assess fit and timing.

Either with Mark Preston or one of the consultants in the Fractional network, we can provide temporary or ongoing support for leadership, strategy, governance and funding.

Check out the feedback from previous clients here.