Who are we?
The E-Factor Group is a not-for-profit organisation that through its commercial property portfolio and the Business Hive Membership, prides itself on being entirely dedicated to the success of SMEs in our local area.
The Business Hive Team
Here to help you along your journey to success
Mark Webb
Managing Director
About Mark
After being brought up in the sunny climes of Zimbabwe, I arrived in London with a rucksack, £50 and a lot of ambition.
Since that time (and no small amount of adventure) I have worked in all aspects of business and have been involved in starting several ventures from market stalls to screen printing, from public speaking training to local newspapers, and most recently, E-Factor Group Ltd.
I am a passionate believer in the importance of local business and encouraging enterprise in all parts of the community. I can honestly say, through all the roles I have held, there is nothing more challenging, more scary and yet more invigorating than running your own business.
I and everyone at E-Factor Group are absolutely certain that local businesses are the lifeblood of this area and our mission is to ensure they are given all the meaningful support and recognition they deserve. We will strive to provide that support and champion their cause on every local, regional and national platform available.
Natalie Cresswell
Property & Operations Manager
About Natalie
I have been with E-Factor for the past 15 years and am the Property & Operations Manager, as well as part of the Leadership Team.
I am passionate about supporting the Business Community that we serve and take very seriously our ethos of being more than just a landlord. We strive to ensure that Tenants and Facilities Management clients receive personal, outstanding support and customer service at all times, and that our Property Portfolio is maintained to the highest of standards, so it represents us, and our tenants’ businesses perfectly.
In my spare time I like to lose myself in a good book or a Marvel film, or jumping on a plane with my family, and finding a quiet beach or pool so we can sit and soak up the sun and have a good time together.
Emma Cox
Property and FM Coordinator
About Emma
I have been with E-Factor for over 10 years and love watching local businesses flourish with the support and passion all staff have here at E-Factor.
My role at E-Factor is to ensure the smooth running of our Property Portfolio and Facilities Management provision. I ensure all buildings whether these be our own, or buildings we look after are compliant with current legislation. Whilst responding to reactive, planned and proactive maintenance.
I strive to ensure excellent customer service is given at all times to both colleagues and customers. Â
I am predominantly based at the Enterprise Village, but you may see me around at the Business Hive.
If you have any questions, would like to view one our available properties or would like to discuss our FM Provision please contact me.
Out of work I am mum to my lovely daughter Delilah and my fury four-legged son Cooper.
Hazel Wilson
Receptionist & Customer Service Support
About Hazel
My role here at E Factor is Receptionist and Customer Service Support and I am your first point of contact as you come through the doors at the Enterprise Village. With over 20 years of experience in retail and customer service it is my aim to ensure that your experience with E-Factor is a positive and a friendly one.
On a day-to-day basis my role includes connecting you with both the Business Advisors and our Hive Ambassadors as well as ensuring your property needs are met, whether as a tenant or a casual user of one our meeting rooms or conference facilities.
You may also see me from time to time at the Business Hive where I will always welcome you with a smile – so please feel free to say hi.
Catherine Espin
Project Compliance Administrator
About Catherine
My entire career has been involved in providing and recording accurate data and information, starting with over 15 years’ experience in banking and most recently, managing the compliance of a £2.4M ERDF contract for business support through E-Factor.
With the change in funding, I am now administering E-Factor’s UK Shared Prosperity contract, which enables us to maintain a knowledgeable and experienced team of Business Advisors and Ambassadors who are dedicated to the support of local businesses across Northern Lincolnshire.
My current role also requires me to keep abreast of all processes in E-Factor to ensure that the team operate as efficiently and effectively as possible, whether providing Property, Business Support or Business Hive services.
I have always had a passion for providing excellent customer service both to clients and colleagues and love to have a place for everything and everything in its place.
Laura Bradshaw
Business Hive Administrator
About Laura
Following completion of a BA Hons degree from the University of Hull, I worked for several charities and the local authority, supporting vulnerable children and adults, before moving into my current role as Business Hive Administrator for E-Factor.
I am responsible for the smooth running of the Business Hive, making sure that the membership is properly connected to each other as well as our Ambassadors and Business Advisors. I also ensure that all our fantastic events, including First and Third Tuesday networking, go without a hitch.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me and I will try my best to answer them or point you in the right direction.
Outside of work, I am a mother of 3 children, I am an avid reader and I love to dance.
Paul Slade
Business Consultant
About Paul
My background includes over 15 years in the business banking industry working with a wide range of businesses in the SME space, delivering business support and helping with finance enquiries. My specialism in that role was in property investment and development.
My role within E-Factor as a Business Advisor is to provide impartial and independent support to individuals and local businesses, to help them assess their options and meet their ambitions. Whether this is for starting up, business expansion, consolidation or to develop a company’s workforce, I would be more than happy to discuss your future ambitions and help create an actionable plan.
I am a big believer that small business owners and entrepreneurs are a vital and significant part of our local economy and I really enjoy working with them to see them achieve their goals.
Gina Waterhouse
Business Consultant
About Gina
I began my career at E-Factor Business as a coach helping individuals at the very start of their journey. Today, as a Business Advisor, I help businesses grow, access grants, and build resilience and love working hands on with SME’s. With over 20 years’ experience in business support, I have worked across all sectors in North East Lincolnshire, Greater Lincolnshire, and the Humber region.
As joint owner of a local manufacturing business, I understand the day-to-day challenges of running your own business and can work closely with you to help identify the opportunities and threats and support you in achieving your goals. I can tap into the many strands of support available through my role as Growth Hub Advisor for Business Lincolnshire.
Working with businesses to develop a thriving SME community, boost our local economy and support the creation of jobs is the best part of my role at E-Factor Business.
Sophie Surfleet
Business Consultant
About Sophie
I would describe myself as a passionate Business Leader, People Connector and Proud Grimbarian!
For me, business and people are more than a vocation—they’re my true love and passion. With over two decades of experience and expertise as a business leader, I’ve had the privilege of shaping transformational journeys in both the private and public sectors, while also operating my own company, Grimsby Fish. I have a unique perspective in understanding the challenges, triumphs, and tribulations from every aspect of business life. Organisational growth, improvements and making a difference culturally, ethically, and financially are the real outcomes of sustainable business.  Environments matter—whether it’s your workplace, friendships, or colleagues.  Invest in People. They’re the heartbeat of any thriving business.
In my role I connect people, industries and aspirations alongside offering support, planning, risk mitigation and guidance, making your business stronger. If you are in business and have a vision, idea, ambition that you need to realise then contact me. Helping businesses in Northern Lincolnshire grow and achieve their goals is what we do best – its etched in the fabric of our ethics.
I don’t take myself too seriously, but when it comes to achieving results, making an impact, and adding value—I’m all in!
Family, friends, sport and socialising, keep me sane and happy!
sophie.surfleet@e-factor.co.uk
01472 242667
Jodie Searby
Reception & Customer Service Support
About Jodie
Within my role as Reception & Customer Service, I pride myself on being friendly and approachable and providing a warm welcome to anyone who walks through our Business Hive doors.
You will usually find me at The Hive where I am responsible for the smooth running of membership etc all the way through to supporting the delivery of events where you may also find me on a first and third Tuesday.
I feel privileged to be a part of E-Factor and I am excited to see where this role takes me.
As your first point of contact for membership, please always be free to ask me any questions and I will always try to help to the best of my ability.
Outside of work, you’ll often find me at Starbucks, spending time with family and friends, or at home with my fur babies.
300+ enthusiastic local business people
Welcome to The Business Hive, a vibrant business community in Northern Lincolnshire, bringing together over 300 members through workshops, events, and valuable networking opportunities. This includes Hive Connect, our exclusive new online social channel developed by Business Hive for members looking to strengthen their connections within this dynamic network.
As a member, you gain access to this diverse range of real-world activities, complemented by a wealth of resources dedicated to protecting and expanding your business. Supported by Business Hive professional business consultants, our team offers confidential consultations and can connect you with grants and other supportive organisations.
Explore our online digital resources, including the Business Hive Shield, a vital tool for safeguarding your business in HR and Health and Safety matters. Plus, we provide a free helpline exclusively for members, ensuring you receive the support you need.
Discover a world of opportunities for personal and business growth by joining the Business Hive Club and let us be a part of your future success!
