Today, I’m joined by Neil Lawrence—someone who’s been at the heart of the UK’s builders merchant scene for decades. From starting out in South London with £20 a week to becoming Chief Operating Officer of Jewson and running some of the country’s biggest brands, Neil’s journey is full of lessons, laughs, and a few hard truths.

If you’re building a career, leading a team, or just want some no-nonsense advice about work and life, this one’s for you.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Down-to-earth insights on leadership and people management.
• Honest talk about what it’s really like climbing the ladder.
• Stories about learning the hard way—and how to bounce back.
• And plenty of humour, straight-talking, and heart along the way.

Neil doesn’t hold back, and that’s exactly what makes this conversation so good.

So whether you're commuting, walking the dog, or just need a break from your inbox—stick around. You’re in for a real treat.

Insightful quotes from Neil;

🧠 Leadership & Career Growth

1. “I didn’t want to be the chief exec—I wanted to do the job I was good at.”
   – A reminder that leadership isn’t always about climbing to the very top.
2. “You don’t have to know everything. What you do need are good people around you.”
   – On building successful teams and letting go of ego.
3. “If someone’s keeping you up at night, that’s the person you need to deal with.”
   – A powerful truth about people management.
4. “I didn’t want to run a company through fear. I wanted it to feel like it was mine.”
   – On ownership and culture as a leader.
5. “You can’t be soft and cuddly in operations—you need to have a bit about you.”
   – Tough love from a seasoned operator.

💬 Workplace Culture & Communication

1. “Humour is a great strength—until it’s not.”
   – On the fine line between levity and leadership missteps.
2. “Most of our staff are trying to do a good job. It’s the few who aren’t that need managing.”
   – A great mindset shift for leaders dealing with people issues.
3. “I always thought the job was to make decisions. Just get more right than wrong.”
   – Simple but powerful advice for decision-makers.
4. “Don’t be afraid to say you want to get on. If you don’t speak up, you’ll be overlooked.”
   – On ambition and visibility in your career.
5. “If you don’t deal with a problem person, it’s not fair on everyone else.”
   – Leadership is about protecting the whole team, not avoiding conflict.

Links:

Neil Lawrence on Linkedin 

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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee'  Bob Wells © 2020

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