Oliver Shah – The Fearless Voice of British Business Journalism
From Investigative Reporter to Strategic Advisor in the Corporate World
Introduction
Oliver Shah is a distinguished British journalist renowned for his sharp investigations, fearless reporting, and deep insight into the world of business and finance. Best known for uncovering the story behind the collapse of British Home Stores (BHS) and exposing the controversies surrounding retail tycoon Sir Philip Green, Shah has built a legacy of integrity and impact within UK journalism.
A Cambridge-educated writer and former Sunday Times Business Editor, Oliver Shah’s journey reflects a powerful blend of intellect, courage, and leadership. Over nearly two decades, his words have shaped public understanding of corporate accountability and influenced both journalism and business ethics across the UK.
Quick Bio
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oliver Shah |
| Date of Birth | April 1984 |
| Age (2025) | 41 years |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | University of Cambridge (English Literature), City University of London (Journalism) |
| Profession | Journalist, Author, Business Advisor |
| Major Roles | City Editor & Business Editor – The Sunday Times |
| Company | Founder, Newcome Advisory Ltd |
| Famous For | Investigative reporting on Sir Philip Green and the BHS collapse |
| Book | Damaged Goods (2018) |
| Awards | Business Journalist of the Year (2017) |
| Current Focus | Strategic Communications & Corporate Advisory |
Early Life and Education
Born in April 1984, Oliver Shah grew up with a passion for language, writing, and critical thought. His intellectual foundation was laid at the University of Cambridge, where he studied English Literature—a discipline that honed his analytical skills and narrative craft.
After Cambridge, Shah pursued a postgraduate degree in Newspaper Journalism at City, University of London, a leading institution for media professionals. There, he cultivated the investigative techniques and ethical grounding that would later define his career in journalism.
Start of Career
Oliver Shah’s professional journey began in the vibrant yet demanding world of business journalism. He started by contributing to trade magazines, where he developed his understanding of market structures, corporate governance, and financial reporting.
In 2009, Shah joined City AM, a London-based business newspaper. His early reporting on financial markets and retail sectors quickly established him as a journalist with precision, courage, and a strong grasp of economic dynamics.
Rise at The Sunday Times
In 2010, Shah moved to The Sunday Times, one of Britain’s most prestigious newspapers. Initially serving as a Retail Correspondent, he covered major brands, market shifts, and the evolving landscape of the British high street.
His deep analytical writing and investigative flair led to his promotion as City Editor in 2016, and later, Business Editor and Associate Editor. During his tenure, he became known for exposing corporate misconduct and holding powerful business leaders accountable—a hallmark of his journalistic philosophy.
Major Investigations and Achievements
Oliver Shah’s defining moment came with his groundbreaking investigation into Sir Philip Green and the collapse of British Home Stores (BHS). His reporting unveiled how mismanagement and neglect led to one of the UK’s most infamous retail failures.
For this work, Shah received multiple honors:
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Business Journalist of the Year (2017) – Press Awards
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Business Journalist of the Year (2017) – London Press Club
His fearless approach and fact-driven analysis transformed him into a trusted name in British business journalism.
Author of “Damaged Goods”
In 2018, Shah published his acclaimed book Damaged Goods: The Inside Story of Sir Philip Green, the Collapse of BHS and the Death of the High Street. The book became a Sunday Times Bestseller and was praised for its depth, accuracy, and storytelling power.
Damaged Goods not only chronicled the downfall of BHS but also offered a critical reflection on greed, leadership failure, and the fragility of corporate ethics in modern capitalism. The book solidified Shah’s reputation as a journalist-author capable of shaping national debate through meticulous research and compelling narrative.
Newcome Advisory – A New Chapter
After nearly 15 years at The Sunday Times, Oliver Shah transitioned from journalism to strategic business advisory. In July 2025, he founded Newcome Advisory Ltd, a London-based communications and reputation management firm.
Through Newcome Advisory, Shah now counsels CEOs, board members, and communication leaders on corporate reputation, crisis response, and media strategy. His shift from newsroom to boardroom demonstrates the evolution of a journalist who continues to influence the business world through insight and ethics rather than headlines alone.
Other Professional Roles
Apart from running his advisory firm, Oliver Shah remains active in thought leadership and public discourse. He serves as:
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Trustee of the Wincott Foundation, a UK charity that promotes high-quality business journalism.
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Columnist for Green Street News, where he contributes regular analyses on real-estate and business trends.
His commentaries frequently appear on BBC News, Sky News, and Radio 4, where he offers expert perspectives on market movements and corporate leadership.
Legacy and Influence
Oliver Shah’s career represents the golden standard of ethical investigative journalism. His meticulous reporting exposed the undercurrents of corporate greed and protected public interest in an era of financial complexity.
His journey from journalist to entrepreneur reflects both positive evolution and critical reflection. On the positive side, Shah has demonstrated adaptability, integrity, and vision—qualities that continue to inspire upcoming journalists. On the critical side, his departure from traditional media underscores the growing challenge of maintaining investigative depth in today’s fast-paced, commercially driven press.
Nonetheless, Shah’s voice remains vital. His commitment to truth and transparency ensures that his legacy extends beyond the newsroom—into classrooms, boardrooms, and the conscience of the corporate world.
Conclusion
Oliver Shah stands as one of the most respected figures in British journalism. His fearless pursuit of truth, profound storytelling ability, and transition into corporate advisory demonstrate a rare blend of intellect and influence.
From uncovering financial scandals to shaping executive reputations, Shah’s work embodies the essence of responsible journalism—challenging power, inspiring accountability, and championing ethical leadership. His journey proves that integrity, curiosity, and courage remain timeless assets in both media and business.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Oliver Shah?
Oliver Shah is a British journalist, author, and business advisor best known for his investigative reporting at The Sunday Times and his book Damaged Goods.
Q2: What is Oliver Shah famous for?
He gained fame for exposing the collapse of British Home Stores (BHS) and revealing the business dealings of Sir Philip Green.
Q3: What is Newcome Advisory?
It is a strategic communications and reputation advisory firm founded by Oliver Shah in 2025, focusing on guiding executives and corporations.
Q4: Which awards has Oliver Shah won?
He received the Business Journalist of the Year award in 2017 from both the Press Awards and the London Press Club.
Q5: What is his educational background?
He studied English Literature at the University of Cambridge and completed postgraduate journalism studies at City, University of London.
Q6: What is his current profession?
He is currently a business advisor, columnist, and trustee, after a celebrated journalism career.
