Meet Piers Linney: The New Dragon with a £500 Million Vision

Meet Piers Linney: The Cloud‑Pioneer Who Just Grabs a £35m Deal

From Paper‑Boy to Dragon on TV

At 13, Piers Linney started his first business by selling paper in Manchester—an early lesson that “if you’ve got a product, sell it.” He later sold this venture for a tidy profit. Then he moved through the traditional lanes of law and accounting, only to discover that his real passion was not in a briefcase but in the buzz of business ideas.

Building a Career on a Fault Line of Innovation

Early career: Solicitor at SJ Berwin (1995‑1997); the fine print bit his interest.
Shifted gears: worked at Barclays de Zoete Wedd (1997) and then Credit Suisse First Boston (1998).
2010: Launched Outsourcery, the cloud‑first spin‑off of his telecom empire.
2023: Achieved a float on AIM, raising £13 million from George Soros and BlackRock—selling the company at a valuation of £35 million.

What Outsourcery Is All About

Think of it as the Swiss Army knife for businesses—email, cloud communications, file sharing, and more, all snuck into the cloud so you never have to fuss with hardware.

Beyond the Boardroom

Featured on Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire, where he volunteered in a young offenders’ prison and hired a former inmate for his new firm.
Board member of Cloud Industry Forum—the go‑to think‑tank for cloud experts.
Named one of Reuters’ “100 most influential black Britons” in the Power List.

The Maverick Lifestyle Sheer

Forget the standard suit‑and‑tie stereotype. Piers likes mountain biking, adventure and dreaming of a Virgin Galactic launch with Sir Richard Branson on the horizon.

Future Goals

Following the recent IPO, Linney aims to grow Outsourcery into a £500 million juggernaut. He’s setting out to prove that cloud infrastructures can be as thrilling (and profitable) as any high‑rise skyscraper.

Q. Hi Piers! From being an accountant to a banker, you did a lot of well-paid jobs. So what made you leave it all and become an entrepreneur?

How I Turned a Gamble Into a Digital Powerhouse

Picture this: I’m making a decent living in the city, but I sensed something bigger. And that’s when the idea hit—why stop at a paycheck when I could launch my own empire?

My “Why” – The Interests That Sparked the Venture

Internet – The endless frontier of what’s possible online.
Technology – The tools that turn ideas into products.
Telecom – The backbone that keeps us connected.
Finance – The smart money moves that make the dream real.

Enter Outsourcery: The Result of All Those Skills

Outsourcery isn’t just a company; it’s a showcase of how the web has reshaped everyday tech. We started it by fusing those four passions into a single mission: make outsourcing simpler, faster, and smarter.

Rapid Growth Powering Through Sleep?

It turns out you can build a business while you’re catching Z’s. Our secret sauce? A culture of continuous learning, automation, and a team that never misses a beat. That’s why our growth feels like a velocity boost—no coffee needed.

So, if you’re wondering where the magic comes from: it’s all the pieces I love, stitched together into a venture that’s growing faster than a caffeinated rabbit on a treadmill. And that’s the real story behind Outsourcery.

Q. Why did cloud appeal?

Future‑Proofing the Phone‑First Era

Why the Cloud Is the New Gold Rush

Mobile is still cool, but it’s running on a budget roulette where every price cut is a sprint to break even. We’re talking 120% penetration, which sounds great until you realise you’re already “there” and the game is now “how do we survive the squeeze?”

Cash says, “Hey, I don’t need a fancy surfboard; I just need a sturdy boat.” That’s why we’re diving headfirst into cloud growth, because:

It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about scaling in the cloud without a legacy hamster wheel.
Cloud allows us to move faster than a cat on a laser pointer.
Every dollar we hoard can go straight into expanding our super‑powered services.

The Pure‑Cloud Advantage

While other companies are clinging to their gambling‑lottery legacy platforms, we’re pure cloud—no ballast! That means:

No old‑school IT bottlenecks.
Genuine speed—yes, it’s actually faster.
Less friction, more wow factor for customers.

Bottom line: we’re shuffling cash into the cloud, not the old mobile stack, and it’s paying off in both speed and profitability.

Q. How did you scale the business and do you think people understand how big cloud is becoming?

Building an Empire, Not a Tiny Cottage

Instead of building a tiny shop and then humming up extra workers and servers, we decided to lay a firm foundation for a scalable, credible enterprise from day one. That means big plans, strong infrastructure, and a dose of elbow‑grease.

The Personal Investment Bit

Scaling comes with a price tag that we couldn’t afford in loans or investor cash. So, we put our own money into the mix – no external investors, just a solid personal backing that keeps the wheels turning.

Cloud Wins for the Big Guys – But Small Firms Won’t Miss Out

Our first cloud traction came from big companies that really understand its benefits. We’re betting small companies will jump on board soon as they become aware of what’s available. It’s all about dropping a loud “Listen up!” into the digital market.

Partnering with Industry Titans

Global tender to supply unified communications to Pearson Group, a FTSE100 heavyweight
Strong links with other powerhouses such as O2 and Microsoft

Bottom line: we’re building a business that’s engineered for growth, not just a startup dream. And with these partnerships, the sky’s the real limit.

Q. What are the key challenges you’ve faced in this business?

From Ground‑Zero to Cloud‑Success

Getting into the cloud isn’t a walk in the park; it’s more like a full‑time, hands‑on job that took us years of “learn‑by‑doing.” The first three years, we spent countless hours bragging about the cloud’s magic—yet people really weren’t buying the hype.

So what did we do? We rolled up our sleeves, dove into the trenches, and turned theory into a working model that actually worked.

Who’s Playing the Game Now?

Fast forward to the past couple of years: the cloud market is flooded with resellers who’re just knocking on the door.

They’re bright and eager, but they ain’t got the huge rents of tens of millions we put down.
If you thought you could jump in today and build a behemoth like Outsourcery overnight, think again— it’s a marathon.

What’s on the Horizon?

We’ve watched the landscape shift, and over the next two years it’s going to get a lot clearer as more people actually notice how essential the cloud really is.

Why Most Companies Should Stop Owning Their Own Tech

Imagine you’re the boss of a small business. Handling your own data centers? Yep. That’s a headache. Constant updates, maintenance, and inefficiency everywhere.

Switch to the cloud and you’re trading that headache for:

Higher resilience: Your data’s safer because it lives in red‑undispatched centers.
Better connectivity: Team members stay linked, no matter where they’re actually located.
Boosted security: IT pain goes down, risk goes down, and you get peace of mind.

Bottom line: if you’re thinking about setting up your own ICT Infrastructure, you’d be better off treating the cloud as a partner rather than a babysitter you have to constantly feed.

Q. Which companies do you count as competitors?

We’re the One‑Stop Shop for Your IT & Communications Needs

Why the competition is playing a single‑product game

Most vendors focus on just one product or service.
They’re like shoes that only fit your feet but not your entire wardrobe.
Customers end up hopping from one vendor to another.

Our Big Bold Move

We listened to what you’re actually looking for and expanded our offering to cover the full spectrum of IT and communications.

Instead of a disjointed “file this account, talk about marketing, get tech support” spree, we’ve become the single destination you can trust for:

Network infrastructure
Software & cloud services
Unified communications
Cybersecurity and compliance
And more!

Our Promise

It’s simple: no need to go anywhere else—you can get everything we need in one place.

The Future is Bright—and We’re Moving Fast

Our competitors still play it safe with a narrow focus.

We’re changing the game. By scaling quickly, we’re staying ahead of the curve and giving you the advantage of a single, seamless partner.

Q. Why did you decide to list on AIM?

Why Cloud Needs Credibility (And a Little Fancy Front‑Page)

In the world of fintech, credibility isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the entire foundation. When you get your company listed on the AIM, you automatically unlock a solid governance framework that investors love to read in their coffee‑break spreadsheets.

Build the “Built‑to‑Last” Infrastructure

Customers are Sherlocks – they sniff out every layer of your tech stack for weaknesses.
Show them that your back‑end isn’t a temperamental soufflé… it’s a bullet‑proof fortress.
Remember: robust infrastructure reassures investors that this company will outlast the next bubble.

Access to Capital – The Life‑Line

We’re not shooting for £10 m in revenue; we’re aiming straight at the £500 m crystal ball.
Capital‑access means you can deploy resources faster than a superhero can change costumes. That’s how you dominate the cloud space.

Scale or … Well … “Quit?”

Cloud isn’t for small cats. It’s a horse‑power yard. If you’re not ready to crank up the scale, you’re simply in the wrong business.
Think of it like this: if you’re still selling lemonade on a lemonade stand and dreaming of a sweet‑roll empire, you might want to rethink your business plan.

Q. How are you going to make Outsourcery a £500m business?

Why We’re Shaping Our Future

Hey there! We’re all about the UK right now, but we’re quietly and confidently gearing up our partners for the long game. Big news: our biggest collaborators are globe‑trotting powerhouses, so international expansion is definitely on the radar.

Our Plan in Action

Local Focus: Build strong connections across the UK.
Partner Activation: We’re slowly but surely bringing partners on board.
Future Horizons: With international partners already on deck, global growth is in the cards.

What’s Next?

We’re excited to expand beyond borders once our UK foundation rocks. Stay tuned!

Q. When do you plan to exit Outsourcery?

We’re Stuck With the Ship—No One Is Going Anywhere

As a shareholder, you’re simply chasing that sweet return on your investment. The rest of the crew can hop around, call up their fans, and do whatever—because it’s all about the dividends, right? Well, the truth is, the senior crew (that’s us) aren’t exactly in the mood for a change of scenery. We’re staying on board, holding the helm, and steering the ship straight through the rough waters that others may simply ignore.

Why We’re Not Packing Our Bags

Stability Over Scenic – We prefer reliability over a vacation.
Invested in the Future – Our eye on the horizon keeps us focused.
No Adventurous Travels – While others aim to “go wherever they want to,” we’re rooted to the mission.
Secure Leadership – We’re the backbone that keeps the structure standing.

Bottom line: While the market’s full of quick trips and swift exits, we keep the ship steady. No one’s heading for a beach goodbye— we’re charting a course for steady returns and long‑term growth.

Q. Why don’t we see tech companies as big as Facebook or Twitter coming out of the UK?

Why the UK’s Funding Game Feels Like a Game of “Who Wants to Be Rich?”

In plain English: If you’re trying to grow a business in the UK, you’ll soon learn that most investors have their eyes on the obvious bets, not on the bold, fresh ideas that could turn into a £100 million future.

Our Story – From Zero to (Almost) £100 Million

We weren’t a start‑up, nor private equity. We’re real‑world entrepreneurs who decided to boot‑strap our venture because the usual funding avenues were closed.
Initially, the outcry from potential investors was, “We’re not interested.” That made us click the “do it ourselves” button.
Since those early days, we’ve built a business from scratch, dreaming big, planning seriously, and looking at a future that could reach £100 million.

Where the UK Goes Wrong

Investors often opt for “safe” picks, leaving pioneers like us out in the cold.
There’s a peculiar cultural twist: “Let’s stay on the coast of the line, not go ahead of it.”
Players who want to bring cutting‑edge solutions to the market are treated as “high risk” rather than “high reward.”

We Need a Change

It’s time to flip the script. Let’s be the ones to back the bold stories that are ahead of the curve. Only then will UK businesses gain the traction they need to grow and share their success with the world.

Q. If Outsourcery started out in the US, would it be any different?

Thoughts on Tech Respect

“That’s a good question.” You could say the universe would spin all the other way if the same story had been played out differently.

In the US, you find people who’ve built Oracle and Apple over many years, turning tech into a respectable art form. The industry’s not just a hobby; it’s a trophy‑filled arena where hard work gets the applause it deserves.

Picture a world where tech was still just a side hustle.
Here, however, the field wears a crown—only the kind that jingles when you hit “share.”

Q. What made you a millionaire?

From Startup to Stock Market: My Journey in Business

I’ve been through a whirlwind of entrepreneurship. I’ve owned & sold a handful of companies, dabbling in corporate finance and hedge funds along the way. A few of those ventures actually paid off—selling Genesis was a sweet moment of cash flow.

Rising From the Ground Up

When I first started, I had to lean on investors and partners. But now, with the confidence and experience I’ve built, I can drum up a deal all by myself. No more waiting for the green light from someone else—I’ve got the power to invest where I see the potential.

Highlight Reel: Outsourcery

My biggest win? Building Outsourcery into a solid product and scaling it until we landed on the stock exchange. That step turned our desk‑side hustle into a publicly traded brand. And guess what? It’s just the beginning.

What’s Next? Stay Tuned!

More deals on the horizon—both in finance and beyond.
Leveraging my solo investment power to pinpoint the next big opportunity.
Continued growth for Outsourcery, riding the market waves.

Honestly, the thrill of turning ideas into tangible returns keeps me on my toes. If you’re scouting the next venture to strap on my shoes, let’s chat. The journey’s just started, and the sky’s the limit.

Q. How was it spending time in prison as part of Secret Millionaire?

Truth‑Telling on the Field

It was a sobering experience. I watched people flash a grin when the sunset hit the horizon, but the undercurrent? A room full of folks who could’ve been elsewhere if only their start had been a bit smoother.

The Brilliance of Daniel

We gave him a chance—and he didn’t waste it.
Bright, capable, and already promoted one step up.
His growth shows that the right opportunity can unlock hidden talent.

What Those 10 Intensive Days Actually Looked Like

Picture long days that snake into nights, a journey loaded with emotional ups and downs. It was:

Full on – every moment mattered.
Hard – the clock ran 24/7.
And 10 days in a row? Like the ultimate marathon of courage.

Feeling That After‑taste?

I’m glad I took on the challenge; the lessons are priceless. But, truth be told—I probably wouldn’t dive into this again at a moment’s notice. Those ten days taught me resilience, and I’ve never looked at life the same way.

Bottom Line

Opportunities are powerful when handed out wisely. A Bit supportive. A lot of grit. A few “I could’ve done better” moments. That’s the reality of hard work and why we gotta keep our eyes peeled for those chances to flip a plain life into something remarkable.

Q. How did Dragons’ Den happen?

Got a Strangely Urgent Offer from Producers

They walked up to me with a project and left me scratching my head. Would I jump in or keep my feet firmly planted on the ground?

My Lucky Day in Africa

I was on a safari in South Africa with none other than Sir Richard Branson. I asked him, “What should I do?” He just tipped his head and said, “Go for it.”

What It All Means

Fast forward to today—filming’s wrapped and we’re gearing up for something fresh and unexpected. I watched over 100 pitches, and some folks went on for two full hours if their ideas clicked.

Seeing the sheer inventiveness people brought to the table was absolutely fascinating. It turns out the best ideas still happen in the most surprising places.

Q. What kind of a Dragon are you – strict or easy-going?

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Who Am I? I’m Me, 100% That

I’m not just another face in the crowd; I’m a self‑contained personality that you can’t help but notice. Think of me as the ultimate mix of detail‑obsessed engineer and chatterbox who loves the hustle of small businesses.

Getting Technical… Just for Fun

Obsessive on the Numbers: I love digging into data like a detective on a case.
Precision Matters: Every metric, every metric tweak counts—no room for half‑measures.
Testing, Testing, 1‑2‑3: I’ll prototype until we nail that perfect pitch.

People-First, Always

Behind the spreadsheets is your human side. Let’s face it:

Small businesses need authentic connections.
They crave confidence—proof that the product can turn heads and wallet pulls.
We’ll build that bridge; I’ll keep the tone light and real.

Why It Works

When you’re juggling innovation and street‑wise hustle, it’s all about blend the numbs with the human touch. Imagine a calm, friendly tone saying: “We’ve got the data, we’ve got the charm, let’s get it done together”. That’s the sweet spot I aim for.

Final Thought

In a world that’s data‑driven but people‑centric, I’m your right‑hand, kiss‑the‑deadline‑partner, who will keep the numbers clean, while letting the stories do the heavy lifting. Let’s get to it—because when you like the vibe, the rest follows.

Great, thanks for your time Piers!

Unlocking the Cloud: A Business Gamechanger

Ever wonder how the cloud could give your company the edge it needs to stay ahead? Let’s break it down with a splash of humor and a dash of practical insight.

Infographic Spotlight: How Big Is the Cloud?

Picture this: a gigantic digital sponge that’s growing faster than a toddler’s inbox. That’s the cloud. In 2025 it’s estimated to be over 200 trillion gallons of data—just the right size to keep your spreadsheets afloat, your customer data safe, and your IoT gadgets humming. Check out the numbers:

Storage capacity: Roughly 10 million times the size of the Great Library of Alexandria
Global users: 1.9 billion (yep, that’s a lot of phones!
Annual growth: 15% per year—so if you’re not on the cloud, you’ll be lagging behind faster than a dial‑up modem

SECURING BRITAIN’S FUTURE – Do Somewhere Fun

Some of the UK’s brightest minds—Boris, Martha Lane Fox, Xavier Rolet and Doug Richard—plus 25 other London leaders, penned a heartfelt letter. Their mission? To fortify our economy against the unpredictable. They realized that, like any good defense strategy, the key is a sturdy, flexible network—thanks, cloud.

Key Takeaways from the Letter

Invest in robust cybersecurity—the sky’s the limit, but hackers don’t have a “no‑fly zone” policy.
Adopt AI‑driven analytics to spot trends before they become trends.
Encourage cross‑sector collaboration—because when the tech sector, finance, and retail play on the same platform, everyone wins.
Make sure policy and governance keep pace with technology—think of it as keeping your legislative GPS updated.

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