From Syria to the UK: Founding an Award-Winning Cheese Brand

Razan Alsous shares her journey from fleeing conflict in Syria to founding Yorkshire Dama Cheese, now one of the UK’s most celebrated artisan cheese brands.

In this episode you will learn:

How Razan started the business with just £2,500 and repurposed equipment
How she identified a gap in the market for fresh, locally made halloumi
How Yorkshire Dama has won over 65 awards, including at the World Cheese Awards
How the brand supplies Michelin-starred restaurants and top farm shops
How Razan balanced business growth with studying food technology to strengthen the company

Listen for an inspiring story of grit, vision, and building something truly special against all odds.

Lessons in Leadership, Succession and Building a Loyal Team

In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, Mark welcomes Guy Armitage, Managing Director of York Handmade Brick, to discuss family business leadership, craftsmanship, innovation, and the future of sustainable manufacturing.

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AI, Automation and the Future of Engineering Leadership

In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders' Podcast, Mark Bracknall is joined by Tim MacLaren, Operations Director at Industrial Technology Systems (ITS). Tim shares his unconventional career journey, from starting out in the police force to building a successful career in digital operations, technology and engineering leadership.

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What the Best Leaders do Differently

In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders’ Podcast, Mark Bracknall is joined by Ian Kinnery who shares his journey from leading multimillion-pound operations in the motor industry, including serving as managing director of the largest Mercedes-Benz car and truck dealership in Europe, to becoming a business and leadership coach.

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