Bill Holmes studied biochemistry at the University of Leeds before joining Esso Petroleum on its sales and marketing graduate scheme. In January 1990, after just over four years at Esso, he left to found UK Fuels above a hair-dressing salon in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire. From its modest beginnings as a diesel-bunkering and fuel-card distribution business, Holmes led UK Fuels through rapid growth and in 2013, the various group companies merged to form Radius Payment Solutions.

Under his leadership, Radius expanded its service range beyond fuel cards into telematics, insurance, vehicle solutions, telecoms and EV charging, becoming a global player with operations in more than 18 countries and revenues running into billions of pounds. In October 2023, Holmes transitioned into the role of executive chairman to focus on strategic oversight while the group’s CEO takes day-to-day leadership.

Beyond his business ventures, he is a trustee of The Helvellyn Foundation, a charitable organisation focused on biodiversity and opportunity for young people. Holmes is known for combining entrepreneurial drive with hands-on leadership. He remains deeply involved in shaping company culture and growth strategy at Radius. His story — from a small start-up in Cheshire to a global mobility-services provider — reflects sustained ambition, innovation and operational discipline.