Available Formats
Paperback
Published: 1st January 2026
Hardback
Published: 3rd July 2024
Paperback
Published: 25th July 2024
The Happy Index: A People-first Approach to Leadership
By (Author) James Timpson
HarperCollins Publishers
HarperNorth
1st January 2026
11th September 2025
United Kingdom
General
Non Fiction
Management decision making
Business ethics and social responsibility
Family and Owner-Managed Companies
Business communication and presentation
Business strategy
Self-help, personal development and practical advice
Organizational theory and behaviour
Personnel and human resources management
658.409
Paperback
320
Width 129mm, Height 198mm, Spine 20mm
270g
Discover the key to positive workplaces and better results from one of Britain's most successful leaders.
'Mr Timpson is a role model as an employer. Other businesses could learn from his approach.' The Guardian
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The Happy Index: a tool designed to measure and enhance workplace satisfaction, boost morale and empower teams.
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James Timpson is renowned for leading with empathy and understanding, often by example. His acclaimed people-first approach to management empowers colleagues, putting measurable job satisfaction at the heart of corporate strategy.
The Happy Index invites readers into a world where employee happiness isn't just a buzzword it's a powerful catalyst for success that should be at the core of any successful organisation. Drawing on his decades of experience leading one of Britains best-loved high-street brands, Timpson shares the secrets behind his unique approach to upside-down management. His infectious passion for people shines through every page and in the very real measures he has introduced from days off for birthdays to free-to-use luxury holiday homes. And with a workforce comprised of at least 10 per cent ex-offenders at any one time, Timpson shows the value of an imaginative approach to hiring, with a staff retention rate to be proud of.
From a leader who knows what it takes to build thriving organisations, The Happy Index gives companies, start-ups and leaders the tools they need to bring Timpsons revolutionary approach to their working lives.
The way that he operates is the way Id 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 Timpsons 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 had 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 Starmers government. Hes 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 the CEO of the five-generation, family-owned company Timpson, which includes many of the UK's best-known high street retailers, including Snappy Snaps, Max Spielman, The Watch Lab and more. In addition to overseeing the daily operations of over 2,000 locations, James is Chair of the Prison Reform Trust and regularly advises 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.