In this episode of SRLV’s Not Just a Number, Partner and Executive Chairman Marc Voulters is in conversation with world-renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author Michael Tobin CBE, who shares his tales of bold leadership, business transformation and building a legacy beyond profit with humility and meaning.

From rescuing RedBus from bankruptcy to selling it for £3.5 billion, and pioneering sustainability in data centres before it was ”a thing”, Mike’s story is a blueprint for visionary thinking, fearless decisions, finding time and relentless execution.

Now heading up the board for some dozen companies and a major voice in tech investment, private equity, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, Mike shares rare behind-the-scenes stories - plus his unique philosophy on integrating work, life, charity, and impact.

Whether you're a founder, investor, CEO, or future leader, this episode delivers real-world insights - how attitude trumps CVs, achieving mission-driven success, and why leadership is about creating more leaders.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How Mike Tobin took a failing business and turned it into a £3.5 billion industry giant
• Why data centres are the next energy dilemma and sustainability in this sector is a must
• Mike’s method for choosing which companies to back and why attitude in people beats a CV
• How to balance multiple board roles, books, philanthropy and home life
• The power of integrating your personal and professional life without compromise
• Plus Mike shares how shark dives, homeless sleepouts and 40 marathons in 40 days define his thoughts on leadership and finding time

0:00 - Intro to Michael Tobin CBE

02:36 - Falling into Data Centres by Accident

03:26 - From Near Bankruptcy to £3.5 Billion Exit

05:50 - Pioneering Sustainability in Tech (Before It Was Cool)

08:00 - Leaving Corporate Life & Starting Tobin Ventures

08:45 - How Mike Chooses Which Companies to Back

09:25 - Why Attitude Beats CVs

11:11 - Why a Team You Can Trust is Key

12:16 - What Drives Mike; Purpose, Action & Legacy

13:59 - Why Changing Your Commitment Helps You Find Time

14:42 - Creative Charity Ideas That Actually Work

16:57 - The Reality of Homelessness from a CEO’s Perspective

19:09 - Forget Strategy, Get Results and Creating Leaders

20:30 - Facing Fear: Shark Tanks & Team Building

22:53 - Live Love Work Prosper - a Mantra for Integrating Work and Life

24:45 - Mike’s Thoughts on The Importance of Building Relationship and Trust with Professional Service Providers Such as SRLV

Prefer to watch? Head over to our YouTube channel to watch the full episode.

Since the time of recording, Michael Tobin has been appointed a CBE for his services to charity at a national level, a promotion to his previous OBE. We would like to congratulate him on this further honour.

Not Just a Number is a podcast for entrepreneurs, creatives and industry pioneers who want to grow businesses and protect what matters most to them and to their families.

Produced by SRLV - one of London’s leading boutique advisory firms - the show goes far beyond tax and accounting to bring a unique perspective on business, innovative thinking and leadership from the people shaping global industries, including music, entertainment, technology, consumer brands, and private wealth.

Each episode’s candid conversation focuses on personal stories, business strategies, top tips and trends - from scaling up companies and international relocations to creative rights and real-world business growth.

Whether they are clients or professional contacts, all our guests are friends of our business and so much more than “just a number”. People and relationships always come first at SRLV.

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