In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, we sit down with Gary Sheader, the driving force behind the Manufacturers Alliance, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, personal growth, and what it really takes to lead in today’s manufacturing world.

Join us as we dig into why employee engagement matters more than ever, how it directly impacts productivity, and what leaders can do to create environments where people genuinely want to do their best work. 

Gary highlights key leadership trends in manufacturing, especially the growing importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness.

Gary also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how the Manufacturers Alliance develops leaders through immersive retreats that blend personal reflection with practical, real-world outcomes. 

His message is clear: leadership isn’t static - it’s an ongoing journey that blends self-development with strategic thinking.

One of the biggest takeaways is that real change starts with authenticity, humility, and a willingness to admit there’s always room to grow.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• Purpose-driven leadership - why doing work that aligns with your values makes you a better leader
• Emotional intelligence - how understanding yourself and others is critical in today’s complex manufacturing environment
• Fresh approaches to leadership development - including retreats and reflective practices that push leaders out of their comfort zones
• Employee engagement and productivity - and why one rarely exists without the other
• Starting your leadership journey - how honesty and self-awareness lay the foundation for meaningful change

Tune in for a thoughtful, practical conversation at the intersection of leadership, personal growth, and strategic influence in manufacturing - and keep listening for more insightful episodes from the Manufacturing Leaders podcast!

You can connect with Gary here on LinkedIn.

Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward.

Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.

If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime.

You can call us on 0191 511 1298.