Author William P. Edwards is the current chair of the Royal Society of Chemistry Consultancy Group and has worked as a consultant since 1990. His key insights into consultancy, including case studies and anecdotes from his own career and network, provide a wealth of information for the newcomer and experienced consultant alike. This work contains a number of lessons from the school of hard knocks.Covering the essential business functions, from the basics of being a sole trader, partner or trading as a company to accounting and marketing, this book also pays attention to the necessary mind set required for those making the move from employee to consultant. Activities aimed to raise the profile of any consultant, including writing, running training courses and acting as an expert witness are also discussed. While dealing primarily with chemical consultancy, many of the principles covered can be applied more broadly, making this book a terrific guide for anyone aiming to set themselves up as an independent consultant.