How Checkatrade Connects Millions of UK Homeowners with Vetted Professionals

"We all have a plan until we get punched in the face" - A mindset that helped transform a 25-year-old directory business into a tech-enabled marketplace.

In today's episode of Bricks & Bytes, we sat down with Jambu, CEO of Checkatrade, who shared how he's leading the UK's largest trade platform through its next evolution. From his early days at Uber to now running a company with 500+ employees, Jambu opened up about the realities of leadership and transformation.

Tune in to find out about:

✅ Why Checkatrade is moving from an advertising model to a full-service marketplace

✅ How a tornado in West Sussex sparked the creation of a company that now serves millions

✅ Why the next wave of generational growth in trades is coming (and what's driving it)

✅ The truth about being a CEO - from 4:30 AM starts to the constant challenge of sustainable leadership

Catch the full episode to hear Jambu's insights on the future of home improvement, dealing with competition, and why he believes trades will be one of the most lucrative careers in the coming years.

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Chapters

00:00 Intro 05:10 Introduction to Checker Trade and Jambu's Role 10:09 Jambu's Journey to CEO 15:07 The Incumbent vs. Startup Mindset 20:04 The Future of Checker Trade and Technology Integration 25:07 Market Dynamics and Competition 30:06 Customer Experience and Go-To-Market Strategy 34:55 The Future of Trades and Opportunities 40:06 Advice for Tradespeople 48:11 The Multifaceted Role of a CEO 58:53 The Challenges and Responsibilities of Leadership