Steve Parkin: From Corporate Leader to Entrepreneurial Success
Steve Parkin is a name that resonates within the world of business and entrepreneurship. A prominent figure in the UK business scene, Parkin’s journey from corporate leadership to running his own enterprises is one that speaks to his skill in management, innovation, and growth. His influence is particularly notable in the logistics, furniture, and sports sectors. Throughout his career, Parkin has amassed a wealth of experience, transforming businesses, and winning prestigious awards along the way. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Steve Parkin’s career, his business ventures, and his extraordinary achievements.
Early Career and Education
Steve Parkin’s career began with a solid educational foundation. He attended the University of Nottingham, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Chemical Engineering. His time at university also involved participating in various extracurricular activities, including playing on the University Football 1st Team and the University Squash Team. During his summer vacations, Parkin gained valuable experience by working at major companies such as Exxon, Foster Wheeler, and Unilever. These early experiences provided him with a strong understanding of business operations and a glimpse into the corporate world that would later shape his career.
After completing his degree, Parkin ventured into the corporate world, initially working with Exxon for five years, where he honed his skills in business development and operations. His career then took a turn towards the food industry when he joined Mars. Over the next 12 years, Parkin held several key roles, including Business Development Manager for Mars Confectionery, European Business Development Director for Mars Ice Cream, and Global Brand Director for Mars Electronics.
Stepping into Leadership: The FA and Continuum Group
After his time at Mars, Parkin’s career expanded further into different industries. His next major move was becoming the Director of National Game at The Football Association (FA). In this role, he was responsible for overseeing all football activities below the English Football League (EFL). He worked on increasing participation in football through structured programs and initiatives. Parkin’s leadership skills were evident during his four-year tenure at the FA, and this position helped him build a deeper connection with the sports industry.
Following his work with the FA, Parkin took on the challenge of leading Continuum Group, a £30m childcare business owned by 3i. As the Group CEO, Parkin successfully turned around the company, merging four entities and cutting the workforce from 1,300 to 800 employees. Under his leadership, the company became profitable within nine months, showcasing his talent for business transformation.
Technogym and St Ives: A Proven Record of Growth
Parkin’s leadership abilities were further demonstrated during his time as the UK Managing Director for Technogym, a leading fitness equipment supplier. He grew the company from £36 million to £50 million, cementing its place as the top gym equipment supplier in the UK. His success at Technogym was due to his focus on creating strategic partnerships and growing the business’s presence in both the fitness and luxury goods sectors.
In 2010, Parkin joined St Ives PLC, a company known for its focus on print and visual communication services. He held two significant roles within the company as Managing Director of SP Group and Managing Director of Service Graphics. SP Group was the largest business within St Ives, and under Parkin’s guidance, the company’s profit rose from £3.8 million to £7.4 million. Service Graphics, another division, was turned around and became profitable for the first time since 2006, thanks to Parkin’s leadership.
Moores Furniture Group: The Turning Point
In 2015, Parkin was appointed as the CEO of Moores Furniture Group, a leading UK designer and manufacturer of kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Initially owned by Masco Corporation, Parkin played a crucial role in the acquisition and management of Moores. By 2017, he completed an MBO (Management Buy-Out), taking full control of the company. The business, which had a turnover of £70 million, became even more successful under his leadership. Moores continued to design, manufacture, and install kitchens for major housebuilders, public sector projects, and retailers like Homebase.
Parkin’s remarkable turnaround of Moores earned him recognition within the industry. In 2019, he won the TRI Turnaround of the Year Award, and in 2020, he was named the EY Entrepreneur of the Year for the North of England. These accolades highlighted his exceptional skill in driving growth and profitability, even in challenging times.
Steve Parkin: Net Worth and Lifestyle
Thanks to his successful business ventures, Steve Parkin’s net worth is estimated to be in the multi-million range, with some estimates placing it around £1 billion. His wealth has primarily been accumulated through his work in logistics, furniture manufacturing, and business turnarounds. The sale of Clipper Logistics in 2022 for nearly £1 billion played a significant role in boosting his financial standing. Parkin’s net worth continues to grow as he expands his business ventures and investments.
Outside of his business ventures, Parkin is known for his luxury lifestyle. He has an interest in yachting and horse racing, owning several racehorses and operating a stud farm in Newmarket. Parkin’s interest in these activities further emphasizes his success in both business and leisure. Additionally, he resides in Harrogate, where he has invested in a luxurious property that aligns with his high-profile lifestyle.
Steve Parkin’s Role in Clipper Logistics
One of Steve Parkin’s most notable business ventures is his involvement with Clipper Logistics, a leading provider of logistics and supply chain solutions. Clipper Logistics, which Parkin helped grow into a prominent player in the logistics industry, was sold in 2022 for approximately £1 billion. His leadership at Clipper helped the company establish itself as a key supplier of logistics services to major retailers, including Next and DHL.
Parkin’s expertise in logistics and business transformation was crucial in Clipper’s success. As a result, he earned significant recognition within the industry. Even after the sale, his influence within the logistics sector remains noteworthy.
Controversies: The Joe Foley Dispute
Like many high-profile entrepreneurs, Steve Parkin’s career has not been without controversy. One of the most notable legal disputes was between Parkin and Joe Foley, a former business advisor in the horse racing industry. In 2025, Parkin was involved in a High Court case regarding the ownership of the racehorse Sands of Mali. The case revolved around allegations of threats made by Parkin against Foley, resulting in a legal battle. The outcome of this dispute is still pending, but it highlights the sometimes turbulent nature of high-stakes business dealings.
Conclusion
Steve Parkin’s journey from corporate employee to successful entrepreneur is a testament to his resilience, leadership, and business acumen. His achievements in business, particularly in logistics and furniture manufacturing, have earned him a reputation as one of the UK’s most successful entrepreneurs. With a net worth of over £1 billion, a passion for yachting and horse racing, and a continued focus on business turnarounds, Steve Parkin’s legacy is sure to leave a lasting impact on the business world for years to come.
