A Listener. A Leader. A Sound Second Opinion.

The Story Behind Second Opinion

I started Second Opinion because I know what it feels like to carry the weight of business alone.

Years ago, I built a company from scratch into a £30M operation across the UK, South Africa, Hungary and New Zealand—leading 650+ people. But what stuck with me most wasn’t the numbers. It was the culture we created. The people we developed. The tough calls we faced—and worked through.

Now, through Second Opinion, I help other leaders do the same.

Sometimes that means untangling people problems.

Sometimes it’s a last-minute hiring decision.

Other times, it’s just being the one person a CEO can talk to—without spin, politics or pressure.

Facing Business Challenges? You're Not Alone.

Every business encounters hurdles—some expected, others unforeseen. Whether it's navigating leadership decisions, managing team dynamics, or planning for the future, challenges are part of the journey. At Second Opinion, we understand these complexities and are here to provide the clarity and guidance you need.

Preparing Your Business for a Successful Exit

You’re ready to step away—but your business isn’t. Yet.

Maybe you’ve thought about selling, passing things on, or simply slowing down. But you know your business needs tightening before it’s ready. Systems need structure. Teams need clarity. And you need to know the value is where it should be.

Designing Effective Employee Incentive Schemes

Your people are showing up—but not showing energy.

If motivation is fading or results aren’t matching effort, it might be time to rethink how performance is recognised. Second Opinion designs employee incentive schemes that do more than look good on paper—they make people want to perform.

Recruiting and Headhunting Top Talent

You’ve got strong candidates—but can’t afford the wrong call.

Hiring for key roles isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about choosing someone who fits your future. If you’re stuck between final candidates or not sure what “right” even looks like, Second Opinion offers an experienced outside lens.

Common Challenges Business Leaders Face

Running a business is complex, and even seasoned leaders encounter obstacles that are difficult to navigate alone. Here are some common challenges where Ian Fogg's expertise can provide clarity and direction:

  • Maintaining a motivated workforce is crucial. Ian can help identify underlying issues affecting team morale and implement strategies to re-engage employees, fostering a culture of accountability and enthusiasm.​

  • Leadership can be isolating. Ian offers a confidential sounding board to discuss challenges, weigh options, and make informed decisions that align with your business goals.​

  • When candidates are closely matched, Ian provides an independent assessment to help you select the individual best suited for your company's culture and objectives.​

  • Stagnation can stem from various factors. Ian conducts thorough evaluations to uncover hidden obstacles and recommends actionable steps to rejuvenate your business trajectory.

  • Interpersonal conflicts can hinder progress. Ian facilitates open dialogues and implements conflict-resolution strategies to restore harmony and improve teamwork.

  • Staying competitive requires agility. Ian assists in analysing market trends and adapting your business model to meet new demands effectively.

Need Clarity Fast? Let’s Talk It Through.

If something in your business is keeping you up at night—or you’ve hit a wall—you don’t have to figure it out alone.

At Second Opinion, we offer something simple but powerful: a no-strings-attached chat to help you clear the fog, think clearly, and move forward.

Whatever’s going on, this is your space to talk it through—with someone who’s been there, built through it, and knows what calm, strategic thinking looks like in practice.

15–30 minutes. Informal. Helpful. That’s it.