About Us: The Founding of Pivotal Pathway

Pivotal Pathway was founded by James Hayward-Zhu and his wife Yi Zhu, fueled by their shared passion for data management, process optimization, and helping businesses reach new heights. Together with long-time friends Ed Fisher and Chris Barnard, the team formed not just a consultancy, but a true partnership based on friendship, collaboration, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.

For years, the four of us have relied on each other’s expertise to solve complex digital challenges. Our WhatsApp group has been a constant forum where we’ve leaned on one another for advice, brainstorming sessions, and new ideas throughout our careers. Whether tackling business hurdles, discussing the latest in software development, or figuring out technical infrastructures, we’ve realized that together, we cover the full spectrum of digital transformation. One day, it clicked—we’re the perfect package to offer that same guidance to other business leaders.

The name "Pivotal Pathway" and our “Digital Pathfinders” came from an unexpected but fitting moment. During one particularly grueling session of Dark Souls, a notoriously tough video game, one player ended up "Pathfinding" the rest of us through a difficult section. It was then we realized that “Pathfinder” perfectly captured what we aim to do for our clients: guide them through the toughest parts of their business journey with expertise, care, and leadership.

As a team, our combined strengths cover everything from customer support and hardware infrastructure to cutting-edge software development and data-driven process improvements. Our aim is simple: help CEOs, founders, and business owners tackle complex digital challenges with the same collaborative spirit that we’ve shared as friends for years. Whether you need strategic insight or hands-on solutions, we’re here to guide you.

We’re just as excited to build a community of leaders and Pathfinders—a space where like-minded business leaders can get guidance, share insights, and contribute to a supportive network. If you’re looking for an "Executive Board for Hire", or just want to connect with a team that works with the same sense of collaboration and trust we’ve built with each other, we’d love to embark on this journey together.