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Keir Whitaker

Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers the most common questions about my 1‐1 Strategic Support for Shopify Partners.

If you're wondering how the work fits together, what's included, or whether it's the right fit, you'll find the details here. If you don't find what you're looking for, get in touch and I'll do my best to help.

Working Together

Do you offer marketing or business strategy?

Both. Most of my work sits at the intersection of the two — positioning, pricing, offer design, messaging, and the marketing decisions that shape how your business grows.

Do you offer anything other than the monthly retainer?

Yes. Alongside the 1‐1 Strategic Support, I have a small selection of more focused engagements available on request. You can find those on the Secret Services Menu.

What does working together look like month-to-month?

Most clients work with me through a mix of regular strategy sessions, async feedback, and ongoing support between calls. Some months are focused on bigger decisions like positioning or pricing. Others are about refining marketing, reviewing work in progress, or keeping momentum going.

The goal isn't to follow a rigid process, but to make steady progress on the things that matter most and build a business that's clear, confident, and genuinely memorable.

Is this advisory only, or do you get involved in the work itself?

Sometimes. I don't replace your team, but I do get close to the work — reviewing drafts, tightening messaging, shaping strategy, and giving clear feedback to help things move forward. The level of involvement depends on what you need.

How long do engagements last?

The core offer is month-to-month. Some clients work with me for a short, focused period. Others stay longer for ongoing strategy, accountability, and direction.

Can we add you to our Slack workspace and/or email you for advice between calls?

Yes. I'm happy to be added to a dedicated channel in your Slack workspace (preferably via Slack Connect) and available via email between sessions. I can't promise to reply within the hour, but I will get back to you within 24 hours — usually sooner.

Who It's For

Do you only work with Shopify businesses?

Most of my work is with Shopify Partners — agencies, app founders, theme developers, and specialist consultants. Alongside this, I work with a small number of digital and creative founders facing similar challenges. If you're not sure whether you're a good fit, let's talk.

What if I'm not sure what I need?

That's normal. Most people don't arrive with a perfectly defined brief — which is exactly why I offer a free consultation. We'll work it out together.

Where are you based?

I live and work in Bath in the South West of the UK (GMT+1).

I'm based outside of the UK. Can we still work together?

Absolutely. I work with clients across Europe, the USA, Canada, and beyond. Some early starts and late finishes on either side may be required, but we always make it work.

Experience & Credentials

What qualifies you to do this work?

I've spent 14 years working in the Shopify ecosystem, including seven at Shopify itself. In that time I've supported dozens of agencies, app founders, and specialist consultants through positioning, pricing, and growth decisions. I bring pattern recognition from across the ecosystem — without losing sight of what it actually feels like to run a small business.

Will you sign an NDA?

My reputation rests on keeping client conversations private — that's not something I take lightly. If you'd like me to sign a formal NDA, just mention it when we first speak and we'll sort it out.

May I speak with a couple of references?

Of course. Get in touch and I'll make the introductions.

Pricing

What does it cost?

The 1‐1 Strategic Support is £695/month + VAT (if applicable), billed monthly with no minimum term. If you're interested in something more specific, take a look at the Secret Services Menu.

Can we pause or downgrade our engagement during the holidays?

Politely, no. Our agreement accounts for both of us taking time away, and I make sure we're aligned on this from the start so neither of us feels hard done by. That said, if a family emergency or something of similar seriousness comes up, we can pause.

What are your invoicing terms?

Invoices are issued on the first of the month, in advance, on seven-day payment terms. If we start mid-month I'll issue a pro-rata invoice.

Can I pay by credit or debit card?

I prefer direct bank transfer but am happy to accept card payment. Just mention it when we first speak.

Do you always invoice in £GBP?

Yes. My invoice includes full details for international bank transfers. If that's a concern, let's talk.

The Small Print

Are you a sole trader or a limited company?

I own and run a registered UK limited company incorporated in 2004, listed as Metro 55 Limited #05243642. I trade as "Keir Whitaker" for simplicity.

Are you registered for VAT in the UK?

Yes. My VAT registration number is #177672955. Where applicable, VAT will be charged at 20% and clearly stated on the invoice.

Do you charge for travel expenses?

I'm happy to travel to meet you in person and will always agree expenses in advance. For UK meetings outside the South West I'll typically need train fare and one night's accommodation. For international trips I'd ask for flights and two nights — the night before and the night of our meeting, so we can make the most of the time together.

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