Laura Clark on taking over OA Group from her mum and leading it into the future

This week on The RAG Podcast, we are revisiting my episode with Laura Clark, CEO of OA Group.

Laura’s journey is one of the most unique I’ve ever shared on the show. She grew up watching her mum build Osborne Appointments (now OA Group), joined the business at 19, and earlier this year bought it from her mother to take over as CEO.

We talk about:

• What it was like growing up with an entrepreneurial mother as inspiration
• Joining the business at 19 and proving herself in recruitment
• Navigating four children while building her own career and leadership style
• The emotional and strategic process of negotiating the buyout with her mum
• Her vision for OA Group, balancing legacy with innovation

This was the first time I’ve had a guest who has bought their business from a parent, and it raises so many relatable themes for any founder, from negotiating long-term relationships to building a business that truly reflects your values.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Rag Podcast and Laura Clark

02:21 Laura's Journey in Recruitment and Family Dynamics

12:03 Early Career Challenges and Growth in Recruitment

18:19 Transitioning to Management and Leadership

28:38 Taking Over the Family Business

32:44 Navigating Business Challenges

34:37 The Emotional Dynamics of Family Business

38:35 Reflections on Business Exits

41:30 Post-Acquisition Vision and Growth

49:54 Balancing Remote Work and Team Dynamics

55:03 Gender Equality in Leadership

59:43 Juggling Work and Family Life

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