Background

Ryan Marshall, now 31, began his career on the tools like many others—starting as a roofing apprentice in 2011. With a strong work ethic, hunger to learn, and a clear vision for the future, Ryan quickly realised he didn’t just want to work in the trade—he wanted to build something of his own.

Starting Essence Roofing & Building Services Ltd

In 2017, Ryan took a leap and launched Essence Roofing and Building Services Ltd, starting with just himself and a van. With no safety net, just skill, ambition, and a genuine desire to do things better, Ryan began growing a reputation across Glasgow and beyond for high-quality work and professional service.

Scaling the Business

Through consistent graft, learning from mistakes, and reinvesting into the business, Ryan scaled Essence into what it is today:

  • A multi-million-pound operation
  • 30 full-time staff
  • A fleet of 15 vans
  • A full management structure in place to run day-to-day operations without him on the tools
What makes this story different isn’t just the growth—it’s that Ryan achieved it with no silver spoon, no investors, and no magic formula—just the right strategy, mindset, and willingness to evolve.

The Birth of Trade Wizard

With Essence now self-sufficient, Ryan turned his focus to helping others in the trade who want to grow but don’t know how to take that next step. That’s how Trade Wizard was born—a consultancy built by a tradesman, for tradesmen.
Ryan knows the highs and lows of the journey:
  • The 16-hour days
  • The stress of cash flow
  • The chaos of trying to do everything yourself
  • The fear of hiring your first employee
  • The juggle between being on the tools and running the business
And more importantly, he knows what it takes to break through those barriers and build a company that runs without you.

Why Trade Wizard?

Trade Wizard isn’t just theory—it’s real-world, tried-and-tested advice from someone who’s been there. Ryan now works with other tradespeople—plumbers, sparkies, builders, roofers, decorators—helping them:

  • Systemise their business
  • Build strong teams
  • Increase profit margins
  • Market themselves properly
  • Step back from the tools
  • Create financial freedom

The Message

If you’re in the trade and want more—from your business, your time, and your future—Ryan’s journey proves that you don’t need to stay stuck on the tools forever. The path is there. The results are real. And with the right guidance, you can scale your trade business just like he did.

Ready to take the next step?

Trade Wizard is now open for consultations. If you’re serious about growth and tired of spinning your wheels, this is your chance to learn from someone who’s walked the path—and is now helping others do the same.