The Happy Index

‘The way that he operates is the way I’d like the whole world to operate.’ Jake Humphrey, host of The High Performance Podcast

‘A must-read for anyone who cares about better ways of doing business.’ Sunday Times

‘James Timpson’s a man who gets things done … He makes profits, values his employees and fixes things.’ The Times

‘Mr Timpson is a role model as an employer. Other businesses could learn from his approach.’ Guardian

‘James Timpson knows the secret to making money.’ Telegraph

‘Timpson [has] developed a reputation for being humane.’ Financial Times

‘These lessons give you the tools to a brighter, happier workplace.’ Roisin Currie, CEO of Greggs

‘The Happy Index is a beacon of hope for businesses everywhere.’ Julian Richer, author of The Ethical Capitalist

‘Proves that businesses can be a force for positive change in our communities.’ Pia Sinha, CEO of Prison Reform Trust

‘Timpson has much to teach all of us about building a welcoming and winning culture that always puts people first.’ Richard Walker OBE, Executive Chairman of Iceland Supermarkets

‘The more I learn about the Timpson family and how they run their companies, the more impressed I am.’ James O’Brien

‘The most interesting and unexpected appointment in Keir Starmer’s government. … He’s respected across the political spectrum for his work.’ Fraser Nelson, The Spectator

‘Not only do Timpson look after their own people, but they also genuinely care about helping others in need.’ Sir Tom Hunter, philanthropist and entrepreneur

James Timpson OBE is a British businessman and politician who is currently Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending. From 2002 until 2024 he was the CEO of the five-generation, family-owned company Timpson, which includes many of the UK’s best-known high street retailers. In addition to leading an organisation of 5,600 staff across 2,000 locations, James was Chair of the Prison Reform Trust and regularly advised figures across the private and public sectors. He is the father to three adult children and lives in Cheshire with his wife, Roisin. The Happy Index is his first book and all of his earnings will be given to the Prison Reform Trust.