In this episode of the BNI UK Podcast, Ed Nell and outgoing National Director Mike Holman introduce the new UK National Director of BNI - Ollie Turpie. Just three weeks into the role at the time of recording, Ollie shares his background in franchising, how he came to land the job and what he is already thinking about as he finds his feet.
It is a warm and candid episode that gives BNI members, franchisees and chapter visitors their first proper look at the man who will be shaping BNI UK's next chapter.
Key Takeaways
Ollie brings over 15 years of franchising experience to the role.
From automotive parts distribution to senior leadership across major franchise networks, supporting business owners to grow is what Ollie describes as his genuine passion - and precisely what drew him to BNI.
The appointment came via a nine stage interview process - and a near miss first time around.
Ollie originally applied for a Franchise Director role at the end of 2025, got to the final two and was not taken forward. When the National Director role was advertised, he reached back out and went through the process again. He got the call on a Monday morning and nearly crashed the car.
BNI has significant white space across the UK still to be filled.
Mike makes the point clearly - as well-known as BNI feels, there are large parts of the country with no chapter presence at all. Growing the franchisee network into those areas is one of Ollie's primary missions.
Member return on investment is the thing Ollie is already losing sleep over.
Within the first 48 hours, Ollie identified that too many members are not getting the referrals and results they came for. Fixing that experience is where he sees the biggest opportunity to create momentum.
2027 is shaping up to be BNI UK's year.
Mike's view is that Ollie has the rest of 2026 to land, build his thinking and communicate his vision - and that 2027 should be a landmark year for the organisation.
Key Moments
\"I've purposely been quite cloaked in my social media presence - but I'm here now.\" - Ollie Turpie: International Man of Mystery
\"When I started three weeks ago I had a full head of hair. Sadly it's all gone.\" - Ollie about his start in BNI
\"I nearly crashed the car a couple of times. I was that excited.\" - about becoming BNI UK National Director
\"It's learning. It's listening. And then we work out where we need to be.\" - Ollie's plan for his first few weeks
About the Host
Ollie Turpie is the UK National Director for BNI, the world's largest business networking organisation. He works with thousands of members across the UK to help them build strong relationships, generate consistent referrals, and grow their businesses through structured networking.
BNI is built on the philosophy of \"Givers Gain\" - supporting others to succeed in order to achieve your own success. With a strong focus on commitment, accountability, and personal development, BNI provides a proven framework for long-term business growth.
Find out more: https://bni.co.uk/
The BNI UK Podcast is produced by The Media Insiders
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