Runner Interview

James Battershill

Founder, Echo Square | Angel Investor

The best time to start is now

Can you give a brief introduction about yourself?
I am the founder of Echo Square, a sustainable building solutions company operating across the UK and Ireland. We specialise in water tank relining and water tank replacements, helping clients extend asset life, reduce waste, and improve the efficiency of their critical water systems. I am a keen runner, having ran marathons and ultra marathons across Europe. Additionally, I am also the co-founder of Brixton Run Club based in South London!
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur/startup founder?
From a young age I had always had the desire to be in control of my own journey. I knew that owning and operating my own company would be the vehicle required to achieve this.
What problem does your startup aim to solve?
Water tank replacements can be costly and unsustainable for our clients. Echo Square predominantly specialises in providing the most sustainable and cost-effective alternative solution.
Can you describe your startup in a single sentence?
We provide sustainable solutions for all types of liquid retaining structures.
How did the idea for your startup come about?
I had over ten years of experience in the industry before founding Echo Square. I recognised a growing need for sustainable solutions to help clients meet their carbon neutrality goals.
What's the most unique aspect of your solution or business model?
Echo Square provide full turnkey solutions, allowing clients minimal involvement in each project, so that they can focus on operating their own businesses efficiently.
What’s the most challenging aspect of building your startup?
We now deliver projects directly for globally recognised clients, from large tech companies to royal families. Early on, our biggest challenge was building credibility to a level where these clients would choose to partner with us.
How have you overcome obstacles and challenges in your journey so far?
I’ve always lived by the motto ‘fail fast and move forward.’ I avoid getting stuck in perfectionism when overcoming an obstacle. I firmly believe that the most effective way to get from point A to point B is to simply get started!
What's the most valuable lesson you've learned as a founder?
Big goals can feel intimidating, much like running your first marathon, but when you focus on each day and take it step by step, the journey becomes much more manageable.
How do you manage work-life balance, especially with the demands of a startup?
I don’t believe in perfect balance, I believe in being clear about what matters. When I’m building something, it gets most of my focus. However, I prioritise the things that keep me performing at my best such as training, sleep and a bit of headspace. It’s less balance, more intentional imbalance.
What’s the next big milestone for your startup?
I’m exploring acquisitions, with complementary niche services, to help expand Echo Square. Beyond growing my existing business, I’m also actively seeking promising investment opportunities
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or startups?
The best time to start is now! Be strategic, pick a lane, don’t overthink it, and just get started!
Any ideas on how we could improve Seed Run?
Introducing an annual Regents Park 5km race, that would be fun!
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