What is the AI Growth Associate Programme?
The AI Growth Associate Programme is VisionXY7's mentored route into AI consulting, with two tracks. On the AI Growth track you find organisations that AI could help; on the AI Governance & Audit track you find organisations that need to use AI safely and prepare for audit. Both use the same 7-step method and hand the client to VisionXY7, which leads the proposal, pricing and delivery. Associates earn commission on the consultancy and training they bring in, and may be invited to join the firm when the collaboration works well.
Which track is right for me?
Choose AI Growth if you like spotting where time, money or customers are lost and you know business owners, managers or teams — no technical background needed. Choose AI Governance & Audit if you have, or are studying towards, a background in audit, risk, compliance, information security, data protection or law. Not sure? Choose 'Not sure yet' on the form; you receive both sets of guides and Dr Seify helps you decide.
Can I bring in training as well as consultancy?
Yes. VisionXY7 offers consultancy (readiness reviews, governance and automation projects) and training (board governance sessions, team training and internal AI auditor training). Commission is the same 10% or 15% of fees received on both. Training is often the easiest first step for a client, and it frequently leads to consultancy.
Can I deliver training or specialist work myself?
Tell us on the application form. If you can deliver a specialist service or training to VisionXY7's standard, we discuss a different rate — or a role with VisionXY7 — after your first project together. Until then, standard commission applies.
What if I don't know any business owners?
You almost certainly know more than you think. Your hairdresser, your dentist, the café you visit, a relative's small firm, a former manager, a lecturer, the company a friend works for: each is an organisation that answers phones, books appointments or handles paperwork. Guide 00 in the training pack walks you through writing a list of 20 names, and most people find their first conversations there. Any size counts, from a sole trader to a large company.
Do I need to be good at sales?
No. You do not pitch, quote prices or promise results. You ask good questions, listen and write down what you learn, using the first three steps of the method. Dr Seify leads the proposal, the price and the delivery. What matters most is clear, honest communication and a wish to learn.
What is the 7-step method?
Seven steps from a problem to a signed project: spot the problem or opportunity, understand how it works today, picture the better future, compare options and recommend one, plan it in small steps, show it is worth it, and get the go-ahead. Associates lead steps 1 to 3, steps 4 to 6 are done together with VisionXY7, and Dr Seify leads step 7. The method is aligned with the seven Needs Assessment processes (4.1 to 4.7) of PMI's The PMI Guide to Business Analysis.
When do I get the training?
Straight away. Your training pack — short guides for your track and a one-page quick reference card — is emailed to you as soon as you apply. You then join a small cohort for four weeks of cohort sessions, role-plays and two shadowed client calls, followed by fortnightly one-to-ones with Dr Seify.
How are associates paid?
Associates are self-employed and paid commission per project: 10% of the fees received when they introduce a client, and 15% when they lead and co-close the work, excluding VAT. Commission is paid as the client pays. There is no fee to join and no cost to the associate. A salaried role follows only if the collaboration works.
Is a salaried role guaranteed?
No. VisionXY7 does not promise a salaried role or set a revenue threshold for one. When the collaboration works well and the projects you bring in generate steady revenue, we invite you to join, with a salary sized to the income you generate and agreed in writing at the time. Commission continues until then.
Can students or recent graduates apply?
Yes. Students and recent graduates with strong communication skills and a genuine interest in AI are welcome. The fit check weighs your results for your career stage, so you are judged on potential rather than track record, and the training is written in plain English. No technical background is needed.
Do I need to live in the UK or have a UK work permit?
No. VisionXY7 works with clients around the world, and associates can be based anywhere. You work remotely as a self-employed associate, so we do not ask for a UK work permit. Please make sure your own visa or local rules allow self-employed work where you live.
Can I do this alongside my current job or studies?
Yes, provided it creates no conflict of interest. Many associates start alongside another role, a practice or their studies, and you choose your own hours. You must disclose any existing client relationships, and you may not introduce your employer's clients without your employer's written consent.