From Builder to Business Leader – Johan’s Story
Johan Frielink stood outside an elegant, century-old townhouse nestled in the heart of the city. As the founder of Frielink Renovations, a specialist firm in the restoration of listed buildings, he had taken on some remarkable projects—but this one presented a unique challenge. Intricate period features, heritage restrictions, and painstaking attention to detail were part of the job.
But Johan wasn’t on-site to inspect workmanship or chase suppliers. His focus had shifted. His business had entered the Acceleration phase, and it was time to think beyond the next job—it was time to scale.
The Acceleration phase
Streamlining Systems and Strengthening Processes
In this next stage of growth, Johan concentrated on efficiency. He rolled out a new project management platform to streamline planning and execution, ensuring everyone involved—designers, site managers, contractors—knew exactly what was expected of them. Turnaround times improved, and the quality of delivery became more consistent.
He also introduced clear workflows for every stage of a project, from client onboarding to final handover. These repeatable systems provided consistency, reliability, and the scalability his growing company needed.
People Make the Difference
Johan had always valued his team, but during this phase, he realised just how essential the right people were. He brought on Saskia as a project manager—someone who brought structure, energy, and fresh thinking. In finance, Robert became a steady hand, helping Johan gain a clear view of costs and margins.
Johan reflected: “Have I got the right people in the right roles, sharing my vision?” The answer was a confident yes. With a capable team in place, everyone began to thrive in roles they owned and enjoyed. As a result, the business was able to respond more nimbly to challenges and seize new opportunities.
Improved Cash Flow and Financial Confidence
In the early years, cash flow had often kept Johan up at night. Would there be enough to pay suppliers? Cover payroll? Fund the next project?
Now, things looked different. A steadier pipeline of projects and greater cost control brought stability. The company had begun to complete higher-value jobs, and with better margins. Financial pressure hadn’t disappeared entirely, but Johan now felt more in control—and more optimistic about what lay ahead.
Letting Go and Learning to Delegate
Previously, Johan had a hand in everything. No decision was made without his involvement. But as the business matured, he realised that clinging to every detail was slowing things down.
He began delegating more. Saskia handled daily operations, Robert looked after the finances, and Johan focused on strategy and building new relationships.
Letting go wasn’t easy—but it was transformative. Johan learnt to trust his team, giving them space to make decisions, and even the freedom to make mistakes. In return, he saw increased ownership and accountability across the business.
Evolving as a Leader
Johan’s leadership style also began to shift. He moved from ‘doing’ to ‘guiding’—from project manager to company visionary. He held regular team sessions, not just to track progress, but to talk about values, direction, and long-term goals.
It became clear that leading a growing business meant being a coach, not a commander. Inspiring people, aligning them behind a shared vision, and empowering them to lead—these were now his core responsibilities.
Better Before Bigger
For Johan, acceleration wasn’t about doing more, but doing better. Rather than chasing volume, he doubled down on quality—refining techniques, investing in training, and strengthening relationships with architects and suppliers.
This focus led to higher client satisfaction and helped reinforce Frielink Renovations’ reputation for care, craft, and professionalism. Before thinking about expansion, Johan wanted to ensure they had mastered what they already did best.
Onwards and Upwards
Standing outside the townhouse, Johan could see just how far his business had come. Systems were sharper, the team was stronger, and finances were steadier. Most importantly, the business now had the capacity to grow—sustainably and with purpose.
With a solid foundation in place, Johan was ready for the next chapter.
Is Your Business in the Acceleration Phase?
The Acceleration phase marks a crucial turning point: the shift from surviving to scaling. But how do you know you’re in this phase?
Ask yourself:
- Are your processes and systems set up for consistency and efficiency?
- Do you have the right people in the right roles, contributing to your growth?
- Is cash flow under control, with a healthy project pipeline?
- Are you successfully delegating and trusting your team to take ownership?
- Have you adapted your leadership style to support a larger, more complex organisation?
- Are you focusing on doing things better—not just bigger?
If you answered “yes” to most of these, your business is likely in the acceleration phase—and the decisions you make now will shape its long-term success.
Need Support in This Stage of Growth?
If you’re navigating this transition and could benefit from outside guidance, our experienced business mentors at thexton armstrong are here to help.
👉 Request a complimentary introduction session to discuss your goals and challenges.
Let’s help you take the next step—with confidence, clarity and control.