SDO Associates was a one-person venture just twelve months ago. Today, it is a growing business development and commercial partner with a core team of eight and more than thirty Associates, having supported 16 clients with their engagement across the defence, aerospace and space sectors.
This remarkable growth has been matched by milestones that tell the story of a business on the move. Over the past year, the business has relocated twice, each move reflecting the pace of expansion and the need to create the right environment for its people. What began with it’s founder, Stu Olden, working from a kitchen table has evolved into a dedicated office in a Swindon business centre that supports collaboration, energy and a culture where the team can thrive.
Equally significant has been the arrival of new staff, transforming the organisation from an individual-led venture into a team-driven business. Every new hire, from marketing and HR to account management and operations, has brought fresh expertise and perspective, strengthening the company’s ability to deliver for its clients. The growth of the team has created a collective identity and shared purpose. Successes are now achieved together and the spirit of collaboration and teamwork has become one of SDO Associates’ defining strengths.
The company’s progress has also been recognised externally with nominations for the South West Business of the Year Awards (Start-Up category) demonstrating its impact and growing reputation.
Alongside these achievements, SDO Associates has broadened its services and now delivers four core offerings: the Discovery Report, Business Development Support, Event Support, and Associates Services. These offerings provide SMEs with tailored solutions designed to expand networks, unlock new opportunities and accelerate growth. As an example of how the business has scaled, in September seven members of the team supported twelve clients at the largest global Defence trade show, DSEI, in London, delivering over 150 high quality meetings resulting in new business opportunities and the building of valuable relationships.
The business has also invested in its brand and visibility, unveiling a refreshed website and expanding its social media presence. In addition to recently surpassing 1,000 LinkedIn followers, SDO Associates has launched an Instagram account, offering even more opportunities to share insights, connect with clients and showcase success stories from across the industry.
Reflecting on the last year, CEO Stu Olden said:
The journey from ‘one man band’ to a growing team has been both humbling and energising. Along the way I’ve had to learn how to build structure and accountability into roles while giving people the freedom to shape them, balance cashflow and reinvest profit to sustain growth responsibly, strengthen our brand and market presence, while always keeping our core purpose front and centre: supporting SME engagement and growth. Perhaps the biggest shift has been in my own mindset — moving from what I can do to what we can achieve together as a team
He continues: “The highlight has undoubtedly been the people. Identifying, onboarding and working alongside outstanding talent has accelerated our growth, sharpened our reputation and made this past year one of the most rewarding of my career. Every step of progress we’ve made has been a true team effort, and I’m proud to work alongside such a talented group. And we’re only just getting started.”
With its people, services, and digital presence stronger than ever, SDO Associates is set to continue its upward trajectory into 2026 and beyond.
About SDO Associates
SDO Associates supports Defence, Aerospace and Space SMEs with structured, campaign-led commercial strategies that drive measurable growth. Our proven Approach to Business Growth combines over 40 years of sector experience with hands-on delivery across strategy, business development and commercial support.
