The Happy Index

Lessons in Upside-Down Management

Description

Discover the key to positive workplaces and better results from one of Britain's most successful leaders

From a CEO who knows what it takes to build a thriving business that puts people first, The Happy Index gives companies, start-ups and leaders the tools they need to bring Timpson’s revolutionary approach into their working lives.

James Timpson has been at the helm of one of the high street’s best-loved brands, Timpson, for over 20 years. During this time, he has transformed the five-generation family business into the modern-day enterprise that it is today, all while becoming increasingly recognised for his groundbreaking, people-focused, upside-down management style.

With a Happiness Director, days off for birthdays and your child’s first day at school, mental health and financial advice available for all, and a workforce comprised of at least 10 per cent ex-offenders at any one time, it is no surprise that Timpson has a colleague retention rate to be proud of.

Now, expanding on his year-long Sunday Times column, James is here to help you create a culture that finds strength in every member of your team, builds trust and focuses on simplicity, all while keeping happiness at its core.

The Happy Index was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2024-02-12.

About the author(s)

James Timpson OBE is a British businessman and politician who has served as Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending since 2024. From 2002 until 2024 he was the CEO of the five-generation, family-owned company Timpson, which includes many of the UK’s best-known high street retailers, including Snappy Snaps, Max Spielman, The Watch Lab and more. In addition to overseeing the daily operations of over 2,000 locations, James was Chair of the Prison Reform Trust and regularly advised figures across the private and public sectors. He is the father to three adult children and lives in Cheshire with his wife, Roisin. The Happy Index is his first book and all of his earnings will be given to the Prison Reform Trust.

Reviews

‘The way that he operates is the way I’d like the whole world to operate.’ Jake Humphrey, host of The High Performance Podcast

‘A must-read for anyone who cares about better ways of doing business.' Oliver Shah, Sunday Times

'James Timpson’s a man who gets things done … His writings about workplace morale, flexibility and welfare breathe a rare spirit of ethical capitalism, head, heart and collaborative energy. He makes profits, values his employees and fixes things. … Everything Timpson says and does has been humane, practical, cheerful, profiting all sides.' Libby Purves, The Times

'Mr Timpson is a role model as an employer. Other businesses could learn from his approach.' The Guardian

'James Timpson knows the secret to making money.' The Telegraph

‘These lessons give you the tools to a brighter, happier workplace.' Roisin Currie, CEO of Greggs

The Happy Index is a beacon of hope for businesses everywhere.' Julian Richer, author of The Ethical Capitalist

'Proves that businesses can be a force for positive change in our communities.' Pia Sinha, CEO of Prison Reform Trust

‘Timpson has much to teach all of us about building a welcoming and winning culture that always puts people first.' Richard Walker OBE, Executive Chairman of Iceland Supermarkets

'The more I learn about the Timpson family and how they run their companies, the more impressed I am.' James O'Brien

'The most interesting and unexpected appointment in Keir Starmer’s government. … He’s respected across the political spectrum for his work.' Fraser Nelson, The Spectator

‘Not only do Timpson look after their own people, but they also genuinely care about helping others in need.' Sir Tom Hunter, philanthropist and entrepreneur

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