Deborah Meaden

At 19 Deborah launched her own glass and ceramics export company straight out of Business College and then went on to set up one of the first Stefanel fashion franchises in the UK.  With several successful businesses in the leisure and retail sector under her belt, Deborah became Managing Director of the holiday park business Westar Holidays, acquiring the major shareholding in a management buyout. She later sold the company to Phoenix Equity Partners in a deal worth £33million whilst retaining a 23% stake which she sold when the business was sold to Parkdean Holidays for £83m.

Deborah first appeared on Dragons’ Den in Series 3 and is known as a shrewd and straight talking dragon.  The show has led her to invest and advise in all manner of businesses leading to a wide ranging portfolio across a variety of sectors.

Deborah supports ethical, fair practice both in business and in life and feels that taking care of people, planet and its wildlife has never been more important.  She is actively involved in numerous charities and is a Fellow for the WWF, a Trustee of Tusk Trust , Ambassador for lendwithcare, Marine Conservation Society and Medical Detection dogs amongst others.

A passionate speaker who really engages with her audience, she speaks on topics such as leadership, change management, whilst interacting constantly with audience members.

Successful and intelligent, Deborah is a role model for so many in business. Sharing her stories of entrepreneurial insights, her unparalleled experience makes her highly sought after on the speaking circuit.