Join us for a focused webinar exploring the benefits, challenges, and practical steps of implementing a 4-day working week in your organization.

Paul Stockhill shares how apprenticeships and innovation built Agemaspark’s legacy and why people are the key to manufacturing’s future.

Jo Lloyd shares her 12-year journey from admin temp to Head of People at Expanded Metal, revealing how manufacturing leadership is evolving toward a more inclusive, emotionally intelligent, and people-first approach.

Episode Summary: How do you double your workforce in just seven years while the rest of the industry faces major skills shortages?

Dinosaur leather. Lab-grown meat. Replacement corneas. It might sound like science fiction, but it’s happening right now in Newcastle at 3D BioTissues.

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

You're not sitting on your Xbox all summer, you're going to get some work experience!

Matthew Pemrick, Managing Director of Cicor, shares his inspiring journey from apprentice to business leader. He explores how endurance sports like Ironman have shaped his approach to resilient leadership, building inclusive teams, and creating a positive, connected workplace culture.

Peter Cottle, Head of Supply Chain at Walker Filtration, shares insights on leadership and innovation in modern supply chains:

Transformational Leadership in Manufacturing with Daniel Stanway

In this episode, we’re joined by Kelly Maddison, UK Membership Director at Make UK Defence, to dive into the opportunities opening up for SMEs in the defence sector.

In this episode, David Yodaiken shares the lessons learned on his path from working at the ground level in his father's electronics company to becoming CEO of Cyclops Electronics. 

In this episode, Matthew Stephenson, Managing Director of Sweet Dreams, shares his inspiring 18-year journey — from launching a quirky confectionery brand to selling it successfully to Sugar Rich. He opens up about the highs, lows, and key leadership lessons along the way.

Celebrating the 100th episode  of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast with Paul Butler, CEO of the North East Automotive Alliance, who shares insights on the strength and future of the region’s automotive sector.

Elfriede Bretterklieber-Taye, Director at Egger Hexham, shares how strong values and bold leadership have built one of the North East’s most respected manufacturers.

Valda had a dream from the age of 8 years old of building a UK manufacturing factory. She shares her bold journey of grit, vision, and fearless leadership.

Carole Williamson, In-Work Support and Training Officer at Durham County Council, explains why embracing neurodiversity in the workplace benefits everyone.

Ian Brown, Managing Director of Excelpoint Limited, shares insights on no-code technology and its transformative impact on the manufacturing and engineering sectors through data utilisation, process improvement, and technological innovation. His leadership philosophy centers on empowerment, accountability, and creating a culture where people feel valued.

Kieran Wood, General Manager of Tiger Lifting, explores how data is reshaping supply chain management.

What makes an effective leader in today's complex manufacturing environment? Scott Lowrie, Operations Director at Fujifilm, reveals that authentic relationship-building trumps traditional command-and-control approaches every time.

Mark Cholmondeley the Managing Director of Libellum, shares his journey from contractor to business leader, providing insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. The episode centres around the importance of business culture, leadership style, and the philosophy of empowering teams.

Join us for a powerful episode where Mark Bracknall sits down with Craig Duell, General Manager at SAFT, to discuss the challenges of leadership during difficult times. From site closures and redundancies to maintaining morale and fostering resilience, Craig shares real-world insights on navigating the toughest moments in leadership.

Director of Nano Electronic Services Ltd

What if you could lead your manufacturing team to new heights by harnessing the power of AI and data-driven innovation? Join us as we unpack this transformative potential with Jason Penny, Senior Account Manager at Tharsis. Jason shares his extensive knowledge on how technological advancements are reshaping product development, providing companies the agility needed in today’s ever-changing market. He also sheds light on the importance of strong leadership to inspire and drive teams toward growth, particularly amidst the dynamic shifts within the UK manufacturing sector.

Discover the secret to transforming client relationships and refining leadership skills with insights from Will Wallace, the General Manager of Soil Machine Dynamics. Whether you're curious about shifting from bespoke services to productized offerings or eager to enhance your leadership techniques, this episode promises to be a treasure trove of actionable advice. Explore how these strategies not only streamline operations but also bolster customer satisfaction in the rapidly evolving fields of manufacturing and engineering.

Get ready to meet John Fitzgerald, the visionary CEO of Supernode, as he shares his insights on how superconducting technology is becoming a game changer in the fight against climate change. This episode promises to lift the curtain on the cutting-edge developments that are redefining the energy landscape. From Supernode’s strategic move to establish a factory in Belize to the creation of the East-West Interconnector, John discusses how these initiatives are transforming electricity trade and addressing the ever-growing demand for renewable energy.

Jason Pritchard: Transforming Personal Challenges into Leadership Success in UK Manufacturing

Discover the essence of leadership with Peter Fairly, the Group Managing Director of the Fairly Gun Group Ltd. Peter, who co-founded the group with Jonathan James Gun, takes us on a captivating journey from his engineering roots to managing multiple successful businesses. He shares valuable insights on the nuances of leadership, emphasising the balance between managing and mentoring. Learn how an engineering apprenticeship laid the foundation for Peter's career and understand the critical role of hands-on experience in shaping effective leaders.

Unlock the secrets of leadership and sustainability in manufacturing with our special guest, Lina Emilsson, the Chief Operating Officer of Nidec Energy. Lina shares her invaluable insights into empowering teams and fostering environments where innovation thrives. With a critical eye on the electric vehicle industry's challenges, she emphasizes the urgent need for the UK to learn from Norway's successes to remain competitive. You'll gain a deeper understanding of her journey into engineering, spurred by a fascination with factory processes and a pivotal opportunity in the pharmaceutical sector, and how these experiences shape her current role.

Unlock the secrets of leadership and legacy with our guest, John Doyle, an experienced Operations Manager in the agricultural industry. In our conversation, John reveals the transformative power of selfless leadership and the art of fostering a culture of reflection and collaboration. Whether you're aiming to create positive change or build a legacy, John's journey offers indispensable insights into mastering the balance between confidence and humility on the leadership ladder.

Join us on the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast as we sit down with Umayr Idrees, the visionary Global Head of Workload Optimisation at Hitachi Rail. Umayr's journey into leadership was sparked at a young age, and he shares how it shaped his understanding of ethical leadership beyond mere titles. We unravel the challenges and responsibilities that come hand-in-hand with leadership, especially in inspiring and empowering the new generation in the manufacturing industry. Umayr's insights into succession planning and KPIs for manufacturing optimisation are invaluable for anyone striving to make a lasting impact in their field.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Charlie Goodfellow, the dynamic operations manager at Icon Plastics, who shares his remarkable journey through leadership and career progression. Discover how positive mentorship and a supportive company culture propelled Charlie to a prominent position in the manufacturing industry. His story offers invaluable insights into overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome and highlights the crucial role of effective communication, honesty, and integrity in leadership.

Unlock the secrets to exemplary leadership and ethical procurement in our latest episode featuring Tony Watson. Tony, the Director of Procurement at Accord Healthcare, shares his deeply personal philosophy on leadership, emphasising the honor and responsibility that comes with guiding a team. He opens up about the pivotal moments in his early career that shaped his approach to creating a safe and empowering work environment, fostering innovation, and building rock-solid supplier relationships. You’ll walk away with actionable insights and a fresh appreciation for the role of leadership in a thriving business.

Discover the journey of Sam Briggs, Head of HR at Aarsleff Ground Engineering Ltd, as she shares insights on leadership, innovation, and the transformative power of HR. Learn the art of crafting a vision that inspires and empowers teams, along with the significance of nurturing talent to future-proof businesses. Sam's evolving career path, from accountancy to leadership roles in retail, offers a compelling narrative on the unexpected yet rewarding transition into human resources.

Ever wondered what it takes to truly inspire and lead in today's dynamic business environment? Join us as we engage with Paul Edwards, the insightful Managing Director of Jonesco in Preston, who redefines leadership beyond the bounds of authority and command. Discover the transformative impact of mentorship through Paul's personal journey and his unique emphasis on empowering others, drawing from his own experiences with a strong educational and familial foundation. This conversation is rich with anecdotes and real-life examples that demonstrate how teaching and leadership intersect to nurture talent and drive career success.

Imagine transforming your business strategy just like a seasoned engineer tackles complex problems. Join us as we have an enlightening conversation with Dan Mottram, a strategic advisor to the manufacturing industry. Dan takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his beginnings in engineering with aerospace giants to spearheading transformation initiatives in a leading retail company. Learn how his deep-seated passion for STEM and physics not only served as a foundation but also fueled his transition into consulting, where he leverages strategic thinking to drive profound change.

What happens when leaders shift from authoritative to collaborative styles? Find out from Maxine Henry, Group HR Manager at Dyer Engineering, as she shares her invaluable insights on modern leadership and HR culture transformation. This episode promises a deep dive into the evolving dynamics of leadership, where empowering teams and setting positive examples take precedence over having all the answers. Maxine discusses the pressures leaders face, especially during crises like COVID-19, and the importance of thoughtful decision-making in creating resilient organizations.

What if true leadership transcends personal ambition? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Andrew Wood as he recounts his transformation from a driven young leader to one who prioritizes responsibility and integrity. Discover how Andrew's early experiences and a pivotal moment delivering a speech ignited his passion for leadership. We'll dive into the complexities of nurturing a senior team and the profound impact leaders have on their team members' lives and families. This episode promises to offer a nuanced understanding of what it means to truly lead with heart and conviction.

Unlock the secrets of strategic procurement with our special guest, Paul Donaghy, Global Category Manager at Ingersoll Rand. Explore Paul's fascinating journey into the world of procurement and his innovative approach to leadership. Get inspired by his insights on building strong supplier relationships and the importance of effective evaluation methods amidst global challenges like Brexit, COVID-19, and geopolitical conflicts.

What does it take to build a successful sales and marketing firm focused on the demanding manufacturing and engineering sectors? Meet Jessica Williams, the dynamic founder and CEO of Just Williams, as she shares her unique approach to leadership and strategy. Discover how setting a clear course and fostering a strong company culture has helped her navigate common industry challenges, and learn how you can apply these principles to maximize your own business growth.

Unlock the secrets of impactful leadership and the evolving landscape of remote work with our special guest, Jeff Hope! Discover how integrating fun, work-related activities on Fridays can rejuvenate team spirit and sustain engagement, even in a remote setting. Jeff shares his firsthand experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on how to preserve workplace culture and relationships amidst changing work dynamics. Plus, get insights into the necessity of regularly evaluating new work practices to gauge their long-term effects on your organization.

Unlock the secrets of impactful leadership in the manufacturing industry with Julia Wood, a trailblazing leader and mentor. Discover how mastering communication, transparency, and authenticity can transform your relationship with employees and improve organizational success. Julia shares her invaluable experiences on setting clear expectations and defining business direction, both with teams and senior leadership. Get ready to learn the importance of explicit communication, the role of integrity and fairness in decision-making, and the strategies for avoiding misunderstandings.

What truly defines a leader in the manufacturing industry? Join us as we sit down with Paul Hind, a veteran with over three decades of experience, including 25 impactful years at 3M Newton Acliffe, where he rose to the role of plant manager. In this episode, Paul sheds light on his inspiring journey from a fitter quality role to founding his own venture, Amplified Leaders. We'll uncover the subtle yet crucial differences between management and leadership and why the latter often hinges on inherent qualities rather than just learned skills. Paul shares transformative tips on setting a positive tone and fostering a leadership culture that permeates every level of an organization.

Unlock the secrets of solar power with our featured guests, Stephen Armstrong, Head of Commercial, and Chris Barmer, Operations Director, of AR Power. Learn from the experts as they dismantle myths about solar installations and introduce alternative options like carports and ground-mounted systems. Understand the full scope of solar energy's benefits, from significant cost savings to reducing your carbon footprint, making this a must-listen for any business committed to sustainability.

Unlock the secrets of effective leadership with Jon Connolly, Service Centre Manager at Alco, as he reveals his path from a young upstart to a pivotal leadership role. Journey through Jon's reflections on the weight of responsibility and the complexities of setting high standards while staying hyper-aware of a leader's influence. Gain insights into how adapting to new environments, shapes leadership styles and team dynamics.

Ever wondered how emotional intelligence and authenticity can redefine leadership?

Embark on a transformative journey with Phil Atkinson of BTS Fabrication, as he shares the remarkable story of his company's pivot to sustainable manufacturing.

Join the leadership odyssey with Jonathan Hamill, the Managing Director of GreCon Limited, as he shares his extraordinary transition from keeping the peace to steering the helm in manufacturing. Prepare to unravel the fabric of effective leadership through Jonathan's anecdotes; from the lessons of military discipline imparted by his father to the decisive actions against workplace toxicity. This episode is a masterclass in fostering a supportive environment, where visibility, accountability, and the transformative power of listening are not just ideals but practiced virtues for improving work culture.

Taking the reins of a family legacy can be a monumental task. Chris Ford of Ford Engineering steps into our podcast studio to share the weight and reward of guiding a business through the trials of time, personal loss, and the ever-changing global landscape. As we unpack Chris's story, we uncover a treasure trove of insights on leadership, resilience, and the cultivation of a supportive team culture that's as much about people as it is about profit.

Discover how menopause, a lifecycle event typically shrouded in mystery, can be demystified and approached with sensitivity and intelligence. Sharon MacArthur, a beacon of knowledge in the often-taboo realm of menopause, joined me to unpack its complexities and its ripple effects both in personal lives and across the corporate landscape. With candid conversations and real-life stories, this episode promises enlightenment on the true depth of menopause's impact, how it manifests in the workplace, and why it's crucial for all of us to foster a supportive environment for those experiencing it.

Discover the profound impact of emotional intelligence on leadership with our esteemed guest, Paul Cheetham. As a seasoned expert in HR and entrepreneurship, Paul joins us to unravel the intricacies of emotions in guiding teams and making pivotal decisions. We venture together into the transformative realm of self-awareness, where the art of managing and parenting converge, revealing that the essence of leadership flourishes through a deep understanding of oneself. Our dialogue takes us from personal anecdotes of emotional challenges, like grappling with physical pain, to the strategic balance of the thinking and feeling brains in our professional lives.

Richard Taylor - Founding Director of Green Lithium

Step into the realm of  manufacturing leadership  with James Worthington, the innovative co-founder of MyWorkwear, as he charts the course through the evolving landscape of manufacturing and service excellence. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the confluence of business leadership and manufacturing innovation. James discusses the strategic shift from traditional manufacturing processes to a service model that epitomizes efficiency and quality, akin to the precision of a perfectly tailored work uniform.

Discover the heartbeat of empathetic leadership with insightful Jonathan Phillips, Manufacturing Director at Gestamp Talent. As we sit down together, Jonathan unveils how the automotive manufacturing industry has shifted gears towards a management style that values empathy, teamwork, and a deep understanding of the human element. 

Unlock the secrets to elevating the value of your business with corporate finance maestro Carl Swansbury from Ryecroft Glenton. Our conversation takes you through the critical strategies of crafting robust exit plans, fortifying senior management teams, and distinguishing your business in the market. Carl's sharp insights guide you through the maze of maximizing your company's worth, with a particular focus on the manufacturing and engineering spheres. If you're contemplating a sale or preparing for a management buy-out, this episode is your roadmap to a lucrative exit.

Join the two-year celebration of our podcast as we sit down with the remarkable Liam Hunt, the youthful mastermind behind Ambic Manufacturing. As we raise a toast to growth and innovation, Liam unpacks the art of leadership, his strategy for scaling businesses by striving for autonomy, and the blend of inspiring passion with shrewd management that has characterised his journey. If you're itching to up your leadership game and empower your teams, this is a conversation that stands as a testament to what youthful ambition coupled with strategic thinking can achieve.

It's time to watch or listen to the brilliant Tim Williams, Co-Founder of Go Geothermal; as we journey through the multi-layered realm of leadership, business growth, and the stirring world of renewable energy. 

Embark on an enlightening journey with Steve Scrimshaw,, who is about to leave an indelible mark on the manufacturing and energy sectors after an impressive 45-year career. Previously Managing Director of Siemens, before his role as Vide President and Exec Director of Siemens Energy

Imagine surging your company's turnover from £10 million to an astronomical £70 million. That's the reality for Rachel Steed, the indomitable CFO of Janus International, who joins us to map out her journey leading a vast business expansion. Rachel doesn't hold back as she dissects the synergy of leadership and finance, highlighting the transformative role of KPIs and how to sidestep the snares that often entangle growing businesses. She offers a masterclass in steering staff through the tides of cultural change, serving as a playbook for aspiring leaders looking to make their own mark.

Looking to up your leadership game? Ever wondered how the power of language can transform your communication skills as a leader? You're in the right place. We sat down with Claire Walton, a renowned performance coach and best-selling author, who shared her incredible insights into the world of leadership. Throughout her career as a senior HR professional in retail and manufacturing, she navigated the complex world of leadership, and she's here to share those learnings with you. Claire talks about the importance of continuous learning, embracing discomfort, and the crucial role of language in leadership. 

Robert Palmer - Managing Director  - Isoclad

Are you ready to be inspired by an extraordinary journey of manufacturing leadership and adaptability? Join us in an enlightening conversation with Bradley Gaunt, the dynamic managing director of Made for Trade. Together, we explore the vast arena of leadership within the manufacturing industry, touching upon vision, team motivation, and even the challenging art of decision-making. Bradley's insights into his company's evolution offer a gripping narrative of how he and his brother transformed their business through determination, adaptability, and an unending pursuit of opportunities. 

 "Manufacturing Leaders" Podcast with Alan Dunbar - President of Darchem Engineering

Manufacturing Leaders Podcast Episode: "The Highs and Lows of Winning Big Brother – Journey Through Mental Health" with Anthony Hutton! 

"Manufacturing Leaders Episode with Steve Pugh"

Every Manufacturing business must have a plan! 

Manufacturers Ramble on!!

Episode Title: "Creating Organic Growth in Manufacturing - Insights from Martin Hindmarch"

Join us for the upcoming episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, where we delve deep into the world of leadership with Liam Forbes, General Manager at Soil Machine Dynamics.

Join us for a captivating episode on the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast  as we dive into the world of leadership with the incredible Vicky Brockley.

Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Andrew Hewitson, Co-Founder of Reproflex3, as he shares invaluable insights on "The Importance of a Clear Vision and DNA in a Business."

 Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Nima Beni, the Co-CEO of Prima Cheese! 

Sarah Murphy is the HR Director of Authetix Security Print Solutions.

Wow what an episode this was. Lewis is a 28 year old supply chain manager.

Riccardo Tonelli is the Regional Director of Saica Pack, a sustainable packaging manufacturer, with over 10,000 employees across the globe.

Today, we have something a little bit different on the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast.

My favourite episode to date!

Jonny Catto is the Managing Director of Ipac Packaging Solutions, specialists in sustainable packaging, based in Gateshead

The latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders is now live, featuring a captivating interview with Dave Crossman, the Managing Director of Black Hill Products. 

Richard Swart The Managing Director of Berger Closures in Peterlee.

Michael Quin – ‘Working with life saving drugs’

Bill Scott Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Wilton Group, in Teesside.

Creating a culture with purpose’

Ricki Zebik is an Operations Director with vast experience in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing.

After 12 months and 28 guests it was my turn to get the other side of the desk!

Kevin Harland, is the Senior Operations Manager at Intelligent Steel Solutions in Peterlee.

If you are interested in robotics and automation or want to find out more like I did, then this is the episode for you. It really did change the way I see them coming into our lives in a big way.

Nicky Gallagher is the Head of HR at Zentia in Gateshead, The UK’s market-leader in complete ceiling solutions.

Today, I interviewed Adam Childs on the Manufacturing Leaders podcast. Adam is the Ops Director at Daikin Applied in Cramlington.

“Allow your team to make decisions” It’s the second BTS takeover on the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast! 

‘Turning any situation into a positive ‘

Wow, what an episode this is. It was a real privilege to have Russell Richardson on the Manufacturing Leaders podcast.

Randall Smith is a true leader.

‘The importance of having high standards in management'

I am over the moon to bring you this episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, with Patrick Cowan of Birtley Group.

How do you get from Graduating University to Head of HR at board level within 10 years?

If you only listen to one of our manufacturing leader podcasts, then let it be this one!

I am delighted to bring this amazing episode to you. Shirley is the Production Manager of AKZO Nobel and one of the key reasons the Ashington site built up the reputation they have, alongside some influential colleagues she mentions as a crucial part of the journey so far.

Eddie was born in the UK shortly after his parents had arrived here as immigrants In his words, they “started with nothing”

Alex Stapleton is the sales director at Alexander technologies, a custom battery pack manufacturer in County Durham.

Katie Woodward is the Head of Operations at Corrboard, an independent producer of corrugated board, based in Scunthorpe.

Emma Bohan is the General Manager of IMS Heat Pumps.

In this week’s episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, we are bringing something a little bit different!

Craig Conway is one of the most genuine people I have met within Manufacturing.