Our Story

BUILT BY TRADIES,
FOR TRADIES

Tradie Network was born out of frustration — and a belief that UK tradespeople deserve better. A platform that truly understands the trades, built by someone who's been on the tools.

UK tradespeople community
The Origin

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

In 2019, James Hartley — a Manchester plumber with 15 years on the tools — was fed up. Fed up with dodgy job boards that didn't understand trades. Fed up with no real community for tradies to connect, share knowledge, and support each other.

So he built one. Starting with a simple forum and a handful of mates in the industry, Tradie Network grew organically — tradie by tradie, trade by trade — into the UK's most trusted platform for tradespeople.

Today, over 10,000 tradies across the UK use Tradie Network to find work, grow their businesses, and be part of a community that genuinely gets what it means to be a tradie.

2019

Tradie Network founded in Manchester by James Hartley

2020

First 1,000 members join during the pandemic — tradies needed each other more than ever

2021

Expanded to cover all major UK cities and regions

2022

Launched job board and business profile features

2023

Reached 5,000 active members across 50+ trades

2024

10,000+ tradies — the UK's largest dedicated trades community

Our Mission

OUR MISSION

"To give every UK tradesperson the tools, connections, and community they need to build a thriving business — and to make the trades the respected, rewarding career they deserve to be."

We believe the trades are the backbone of Britain. Plumbers, electricians, builders, carpenters — without them, nothing works. Tradie Network exists to make sure they get the recognition, support, and opportunity they've always deserved.

What We Stand For

OUR VALUES

Community First

Everything we build starts with the tradie community. Real people, real trades, real connections — no fluff, no corporate nonsense.

Trust & Integrity

We verify our members and hold the network to a high standard. When a customer finds a tradie through us, they can trust they're getting the real deal.

Built for Growth

We're not just a directory. We're a platform designed to help tradies win more work, build their reputation, and grow their businesses long-term.

Proud to Be a Tradie

We celebrate the trades. The skills, the graft, the pride in a job well done. Tradie Network exists to give the trades the respect they deserve.

The People Behind It

MEET THE TEAM

A small but passionate team — most of us have worked in the trades or alongside tradies. We know this world because we've lived it.

James Hartley

James Hartley

Founder & CEO

A former plumber with 15 years on the tools, James built Tradie Network after struggling to find reliable work and connect with fellow tradies. He knows the industry inside out.

Rachel Osei

Rachel Osei

Head of Operations

Rachel brings a decade of experience scaling UK tech platforms. She keeps Tradie Network running smoothly and ensures every member gets the best possible experience.

Connor Walsh

Connor Walsh

Community Manager

A former electrician turned community builder, Connor is the voice of Tradie Network. He manages our forums, events, and makes sure every tradie feels at home.

BECOME PART OF THE STORY

Over 10,000 tradies have already joined. Whether you're a sole trader just starting out or a seasoned pro, there's a place for you in the Tradie Network.