LDC Top 50 2024
Philip Miller
CEO
ABCA Systems
After winning a football scholarship to train and study in the US, Philip Miller started his career as a graduate trainee in Ohio before returning to the UK in 2005 to run his father’s electrical systems business, ABCA Systems. “My dad was planning his retirement and wanted me to take the reins. I joined as an engineer and worked my way up to CEO.”
Miller has taken ABCA Systems from a local firm with a dozen staff to a national fire and security systems provider with 380 employees across offices in Newcastle, Manchester, Cambridge and London. He recently completed three acquisitions and expects turnover to hit £100m by 2026.
My mission is to foster a culture of collaboration and encourage future leaders within the business through empowerment.”
Q&A
What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs?
Growing a business is about having the right people, in the right place. For me, that’s been growing ABCA Systems alongside my business partners Phil Batson and Chris Scott. We took over from my dad and his business partner, Russ Colden, and have always been thinking “what’s next?” and “how can we grow?” It’s not just about where you start, but how far you’re willing to go. Since 2021, we’ve also had the backing of Trimountain Partners to continue our expansion and that’s been invaluable.
What sets your business apart?
We’ve concentrated on the social housing market, and we’ve made a name for ourselves there. More than 90% of our business comes from repeat, recurring revenues in that sector. Our clients don’t just think of us as contractors, they think of us as part of their business: we are their fire and security specialists.
As a leader, how do you bring people with you?
My mission is to foster a culture of collaboration and encourage future leaders within the business. I believe strongly in empowerment. I’ve always played football and now I coach it too, so I understand the importance of adapting to those around you, making the best of your team and playing to everyone’s strengths.
