Stu Allan: Guiding Business Success with Link Business Brokers
For Stuart Allan, or “Stu” as he’s widely known, the art of business brokering is about more than just facilitating transactions, Stu brings a unique blend of business acumen, empathy, and genuine care for each client, shaping a service that’s as much about connection as it is about commerce.
Growing up in Napier, Stu’s early years in a tight-knit, seaside community shaped his values and outlook. “Napier was a wonderful place to grow up,” Stu reflects. “I always appreciated the sense of community, sporting endeavours, the access to the sea, the bush, clean air, and the opportunity to explore.” This foundation laid the groundwork for a career built on relationships and a commitment to helping others succeed. I’m wired to help people.
Stu’s journey to Nelson followed 16 years in Wellington, where he honed his business consulting skills and grew his network across various sectors. Originally moving to Nelson with the aim of finding a better work-life balance, he quickly embedded himself in the local business landscape, carving out a niche as a consultant with a passion for helping companies thrive. “In 1999 my then wife and I wanted to start a family in a lifestyle location and after a South Island tour,” Stu recalls. “Nelson offered the lifestyle we sought, and it’s been home ever since.”
His early experience in Wellington’s radio industry, combined with his time in sales and consulting, gave him a broad understanding of diverse business models. However, it was his work consulting for optometry practices that sparked his interest in business brokering. “I’d developed a succession plan for several practices, helping owners map out a path for their eventual exit,” Stu explains. “A few clients said, ‘You know my business inside out—why not sell it for me?’ That was the catalyst.”
Since joining Link Business Brokers, Stu has found a company that aligns with his values and vision. “Link has the systems, the people, and the reputation,” he says. “Their databases and processes allow me to offer clients unmatched exposure, which is invaluable in this industry.”
Stu’s niche focus within Link has become consulting-driven business sales. He excels in structuring deals and providing in-depth guidance that goes beyond traditional brokering, bringing a consulting approach that’s steeped in his years of hands-on experience. “It’s more than a sale for me—it’s a project where I’m committed to the client’s best outcome,” Stu shares. “After 18 years of brokering and well over 100 sales, I’ve learnt to only take on businesses I’m confident I can sell. I make sure the process is straightforward and thorough, but I’m always looking to find ways to improve service delivery. Around 40% of new clients are referrals from lawyers or accountants across the region and I’ll never shy away from a referral, so occasionally I’ll take on listings that I’d not normally chase. “
The biggest weakness across the industry is client communications, so Stu front-foots that by limiting the number of clients I have at any one time. ”I’m engaged every step of the way, and I’ve never liked shortcuts; they have a tendency to bite when you least expect it!” says Stu.
In addition to his professional work, Stu has also developed deep roots in the Nelson community. He’s actively involved with Sailability Nelson, a charitable organisation providing sailing opportunities for disabled children and adults. “It’s close to my heart,” he says. “Seeing the joy and confidence sailing brings to these kids and the renewal of a passion for experienced elderly sailors is incredibly rewarding.”
His role as a co-coach and manager for Three Special Olympics basketball teams further underscores his commitment to giving back. “It’s more than just a sport; it’s about acceptance, community and belonging. For this reason, we train year-round, as the benefits for the athletes are beyond Basketball. Basketball is just the glue that holds it all together. In a word, it’s addictive!”
Stu values the chance to blend his professional and personal life in Nelson. “The longer you live here, the smaller it feels,” he notes with a smile. “It’s a privilege to walk down the street and see familiar faces, to know I’m part of something larger.”
Looking to the future, Stu sees untapped potential in Nelson’s business community and believes a regional approach could drive significant growth. “If we could unite our councils, I think we’d see amazing efficiencies and a clearer long-term vision for development,” he suggests. “We need to attract more tax-paying families. We need to hustle for more businesses, not just retirees. This region has so much to offer—it’s just about ensuring the infrastructure and support are in place. Public and private collaboration should focus on filling the region, across the winter months. “
In his downtime, Stu is an avid reader, especially captivated by stories of human endurance. “I’m fascinated by survival stories,” he says. “It’s not just about physical endurance but mental resilience. The personality traits of survivors have been a personal topic for 20 plus years.” When he’s not working or reading, Stu enjoys art, tramping (body willing) and motorcycle riding. “I can wake up, see the weather, and decide on a whim which direction to head. There’s nowhere else quite like it.”
“I’m really lucky, I love the region, and I finally found what I should have been doing. My partner is studying in Australia (Geelong) so I’m able to work 24/7, which is just how I like it. People often ask what will you do when your retired, and my response is, I am retired! This is exactly what I want be doing, every day is different, every client has a different motivation and driver, I couldn’t be happier.” Says Stu
As a broker and a community advocate, Stu Allan brings a distinctive perspective to his work with Link Business Brokers. His combination of business expertise, local knowledge, and a deeply ingrained sense of community allows him to deliver a service that’s not only professional but profoundly personal.
You can learn more about Stu and Link Business at https://linkbusiness.co.nz/business-brokers/nelson-tasman/
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