Insights from the Inside: The Expert Edition - Rashesh Joshi

At VenturePath, our expert network brings together those who’ve built, backed, scaled, and exited businesses - and who now help others do the same. They’re not here to share theoretical advice, but to offer practical, actionable insights drawn directly from their own experience.

In this edition of Insights from the Inside: The Expert Edition, we’re excited to feature Rashesh Joshi, Managing Director of Alexander Rosse, our expert accountancy and tax partner. With over 25 years of experience in public practice and industry, Rashesh has advised high-growth tech companies on scaling, acquisitions, disposals, and IPOs.

We asked Rashesh to share his thoughts on common scaling mistakes, key changes founders can make to accelerate growth, and the trends that will define the startup landscape over the next 12 months. Here’s what he had to say:

Q&A with Rashesh Joshi

What’s the one mistake you see founders making that holds them back from scaling effectively?

"Mistake(s) usually fall into three key areas that I have seen go wrong time in and time out when a founder tries to scale.  It always go back people, processes and systems. Of these  - hiring the wrong individual undoubtedly sets a company back the most."

What’s one small change that can have a massive positive impact on a founder’s ability to scale?

"As soon as you can, delegate activities that free up your time for the real “value add”.  For instance, you’re doing the demos for how the software works? Think of the AI tools around to record it or train someone up asap and get them to take this on."

What’s one trend you see shaping the future for startups over the next 12 months?

"Apart from general artificial intelligence, the one trend I see is the acceleration of whether the start up will succeed or fail.  The usual stats note that 60% of businesses fail within 5 years - I can see this stat go quicker as AI allows companies to “fail” faster - and with fewer people being utilised."

What’s one thing that founders waste time and money on while scaling that they shouldn’t?

"Until you are in a position to delegate, don't waste so much energy on the founder speaking circuit. Selectively network.  Don’t pay for press articles and think count intuitively to reach your customer base. That’s what should only matter.  Getting that first sale or contract and looking after them to avoid a leaky bucket."

About Rashesh

Rashesh Joshi is the Managing Director and co-founder of Alexander Rosse, a leading accountancy and tax advisory firm. With more than 25 years of experience in both public practice and industry, Rashesh specialises in advising high-growth, tech-focused SMEs on scaling, acquisitions, disposals, and IPOs. He has led over 50 deals with a total value exceeding $5bn, working with companies in the technology sector to navigate the complexities of scaling and funding. Rashesh is a Chartered Director and Chartered Accountant, and he brings a wealth of experience to the table, offering strategic advice and hands-on support to businesses at various stages of their growth journey.

Rashesh is actively involved with VenturePath to support scaling founders. Connect with him and tap into his wealth of knowledge and experience through the platform. If you’re not yet a member, sign up today to access Rashesh’s insights and support as you scale your business.