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Gary Light on fuelling community growth at OBS.

By Gary Light

Head of Membership Acquisition, Old Bond Store

Gary has joined the OBS team at an exciting time, ready to put his extensive experience in business development and sales to use to grow our community even further.

Whilst his work has found him in the property and automotive sectors, he’s always been a people person who understands the value of great relationships, but also the power of community.

Now, he’s found a new one at the Old Bond Store.

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With a decade in the automotive industry, Gary progressed through his career fast. He quickly became an accredited business manager (IMI), where he would coach and develop a succession of trainee sales staff, greatly improve product penetration and increase profit across a team of 18.

This wasn’t just about sales – it was about a commitment to getting the customer the product that best suited their needs, and on their terms.

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"I’m here to start initial conversations and build relationships with more people who belong at OBS. Together with the rest of the team, we will ensure they’re not only the right clientele for our space but also that they’re the right fit for our unique culture."

Gary Light, Head of Membership Acquisition, Old Bond Store

After reaching a glass ceiling, it was time for a new challenge. And getting a business off the ground at the start of the pandemic would prove to be just that. Alongside the Chairman of a wider company, Gary set up and established a lettings network of over 130 agents, increasing revenue and strategically developing sales strategies along the way.

With that operating in the background, he has recently spent 7 months on secondment in central London, taking control of a large lettings office to overhaul business operations and implement a new sales team and strategy.

Gary’s role at OBS is to use his experience, candour and personability to deliver the next stage of growth to our business, but more importantly, our members.

Already, he’s become a part of the community on the ground and seen the value our space has to offer to local business owners. And he knows first-hand the importance of working on the business, alongside working in the business.

He intends to provide consistency and steady growth, placing a special focus on nurturing our community in the right way that benefits us all.

"We’ve got a fantastic working environment here, but really the true value lies in the unique ecosystem, a hub for education, innovation and conversation. I believe this space is a catalyst for personal and professional growth for innovators across Southampton and beyond. I want more people to experience what we’ve worked so hard to build."

Gary Light, Head of Membership Acquisition, Old Bond Store

Spark a conversation

With a passion for music that stems from his childhood, you’ll find Gary listening to 60s Soul, Classic Indie, Modern Rock and everything in between. Once a DJ, the mic is temporarily hung up – but who knows for how long.

If pub quizzes are your thing, Gary is always happy to be tested on his music knowledge.

An avid Bournemouth supporter and golfer, Gary was a member of Ferndown Golf Club for 10 years and still gets out onto the course when time allows.

The best piece of business advice that’s helped Gary

“Never be afraid to ask questions. Starting conversations is how we learn about people and you never know where a conversation may lead.

"I’m looking forward to welcoming more members, having great conversations and learning about their story to ultimately add value to the OBS community."

Gary Light, Head of Membership Acquisition, Old Bond Store

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