Catalyst

Davide Andrea Picone leads Catalyst Business Consultancy, helping organisations turn complexity into clarity and sustainable growth.

With a multidisciplinary background in Environmental Science, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and over a decade as a martial arts practitioner and anatomy & physiology educator, Davide combines human insight with strategic, systems-based thinking. He successfully built and ran his own multidisciplinary TCM clinic, where he gained invaluable experience in business management and leadership before transitioning into consultancy to support leaders through meaningful transformation.

Trained by leading experts at BGU Ltd, Davide applies modern Agile practices, the Toyota Production System, and continuous-improvement methodologies to strengthen resilience, enhance decision-making, and unlock team potential.

Fluent in English and Italian, he brings a multicultural, people-centred approach that helps organisations become more adaptive, aligned, and purpose-driven.

Mark Smith is a business consultant specializing in agile transformation, Lean practices, AI transformation, software development, LLMs designer, and continuous improvement, with deep expertise in Kaizen and Toyota Production System principles.

He helps organizations streamline operations, strengthen team performance, and embed a culture of sustainable improvement. With a strong academic background in East Asian studies, Mark complements his professional practice with decades of experience in traditional martial arts, drawing on the discipline, clarity, and systems thinking these traditions cultivate.

He has provided advisory support to leading institutions, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Stirling University, as well as governmental organisations. Mark is known for his practical, structured approach to solving complex organizational challenges.

Beau Hill is an international business consultant and import/export expert with deep expertise in cross-border trade, market entry strategies, and global supply chain management. He helps businesses navigate the complexities of international commerce, from regulatory compliance to strategic partnerships.

With a BA in East Asian Studies and graduate-level training in Japanese Language and Culture from Doshisha University and Nichibun, Beau brings a unique cultural and linguistic perspective to international business. His fluency in Japanese and English enables him to bridge Eastern and Western business practices effectively.

Beyond his professional expertise, Beau is a dedicated martial artist, drawing on the discipline, focus, and strategic thinking cultivated through years of practice to inform his consulting approach.

Alassane Diop is a Learning and Development Consultant, Facilitator, Instructional Designer, and Business Consultancy Advisor with an international and multicultural background. He partners with organizations to design and implement impactful learning programs, develop high-performing teams, and drive strategic growth. With experience across both global corporations and startups, Alassane combines expertise in organizational development, program management, and business operations to deliver practical solutions that enhance performance and leadership.

Fluent in multiple languages, he supports international market expansion and fosters cross-cultural collaboration, bringing a global perspective to every project.

Alassane holds a Bachelor's in International Business and an Associate's in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Loyola University Chicago, blending business strategy with a deep understanding of organizational behavior.

Outside of work, he is a former gymnast and enjoys weightlifting, reflecting his commitment to discipline, focus, and personal growth.

Emanuel Vaughan is a business consultant specialising in marketing, strategic development, the Toyota Production System, and Modern Agile. He supports organisations of all sizes in improving efficiency, sharpening strategy, and building adaptable systems for lasting growth.

Known for helping teams gel and work cohesively, Emanuel blends operational insight with practical, people-focused methods to solve complex challenges. His foundation was built through an apprenticeship under leading consultants at BGU Ltd, where he developed a strong grounding in operational and strategic excellence.

Beyond consultancy, Emanuel is a lifelong martial artist holding black belts in Kempo, Taiji Quan, and Choy Li Fut. He is also a writer and musician. This diverse background shapes his unique, multidimensional approach—combining creativity, discipline, and systems thinking to deliver well-rounded, effective solutions for his clients.

Fluent in Italian and English, with basic Mandarin, Emanuel brings a multicultural perspective to his consultancy work.

Josiah Hague is a specialist in digital marketing, software development, and small-business growth strategy. He works with entrepreneurs and SMEs to strengthen their digital presence, streamline systems, and unlock sustainable long-term growth.

Known for his clear, practical approach, Josiah blends technical expertise with strategic insight to help businesses innovate and compete with confidence.

In addition to his consultancy work, Josiah serves on the board of GOODWILL IN ACTION TO PREVENT SUICIDE CIO, contributing to the charity's mission of supporting vulnerable individuals and promoting suicide-prevention initiatives within local communities. His involvement reflects a strong commitment to social impact and responsible leadership.

Outside of his professional and charitable roles, Josiah is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner. The discipline, resilience, and problem-solving learned on the mat influence his work, shaping a calm, focused, and performance-driven consulting style.