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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.

Discover how to future-proof your business against energy market volatility while exploring various funding mechanisms such as asset finance, grants, and power purchase agreements. Stephen and Chris provide an insider's view on the return on investment for solar panels, explaining how businesses can see financial payback within as little as four to five years. They also emphasize the critical role sustainability plays in modern supply chains, ensuring you stay competitive and responsible in today's market.

Get inspired by Outpower's industry-leading approach to solar energy. With everything managed in-house—from design to installation—quality and customer satisfaction are guaranteed. Learn why forming key business partnerships can elevate your operations and how minimal disruption during project implementations can be a game-changer. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to solar energy, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make informed, impactful decisions for your business's energy future.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Discover the transformative power of promoting from within as we explore the dynamic relationship between internal talent development and company growth. Jon shares his wisdom on nurturing young, inexperienced employees and the balance between early promotions versus waiting too long. Learn how fostering loyalty through internal promotions not only strengthens organizational culture but also boosts employee morale and ambition, creating a robust employee value proposition.

Lastly, we dive into the subtleties of non-monetary incentives, personality assessments, and supplier relationships. Understand how personal growth opportunities, regular feedback, and understanding individual goals contribute to a supportive work environment. John also discusses the benefits of using personality and intelligence assessments to tailor management approaches and improve team performance. Rounding off, we highlight the importance of strong supplier relationships and continuous employee development in driving business success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to enhance their leadership skills and build a thriving workplace.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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Ever wondered how emotional intelligence and authenticity can redefine leadership?

Join us as Paul Colman, a seasoned leader who recently found a better work-life balance by leaving a demanding side hustle, uncovers the transformative power of being true to oneself. Drawing inspiration from figures like Pep Guardiola, Winston Churchill, and Michael Jordan, Paul emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, humility, and vulnerability in leadership. Learn how these qualities can inspire and foster a more connected and effective team.

Paul takes us through his unexpected career journey, beginning at Magnet Kitchens during the mid-90s recession and progressing through various leadership roles. Listen as he shares how personal ambition can align with company growth, illustrating his rise from team leader to factory manager and beyond. This episode offers valuable insights on the balance between staying with a single employer and seeking new opportunities, and how passion and ambition drive ongoing personal development.

In this enriching conversation, we also explore the influence of sports on management styles and the need for adaptability in modern office environments. Paul reflects on cultural shifts post-COVID, the importance of self-reflection and resilience practices like cold water therapy, and the challenges and rewards of maintaining an emotionally intelligent leadership style. Tune in to understand the evolving expectations in management and how embracing fear and vulnerability can lead to greater freedom and authenticity in decision-making.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Since 2015, Phil's innovative approach has not only led to significant environmental certifications but also uncovered surprising benefits for team morale and operational costs. Whether it's adopting simple "low hanging fruit" measures or aiming for B Corp certification and a four-day workweek, Phil's narrative is a trove of practical wisdom and motivational insights for any business looking to make a meaningful impact.

The tides are changing in the corporate world, and sustainability is at the helm. In our enlightening conversation, we explore how businesses like ours are drawing in a new generation of talent by aligning with their values on environmental and governance issues. This isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about fostering a genuine commitment to the future—an ethos that's already reaping rewards in employee dedication and shared principles. Stay ahead of the curve in this evolving corporate landscape, as we discuss the hopeful prospect of government policies eventually reflecting the pioneering steps taken by companies leading the charge in sustainability.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Embark with me on a personal recount of my own ascent, from orchestrating outdoor adventures to navigating the corporate landscape. The conversation spans the spectrum of leadership avenues, emphasizing the universality of interpersonal skills, whether on the factory floor or beyond. Jonathan and I dissect the ingredients for retention and growth within a company, infusing the dialogue with the cultural intricacies of engineering workforces in Germany and the UK, and addressing the current challenges shaking the foundations of the manufacturing industry.

Wrapping up, our focus shifts to the exciting horizon of workplace safety and technological innovation. We delve into the role of our company in championing fire prevention and efficiency, teasing the launch of a game-changing product for the furniture industry. This episode isn't just a discussion; it's an invitation to rethink leadership dynamics and find inspiration in the everyday actions that shape an organization's future. Tune in for an enriching experience that promises to ignite your approach to management and communication.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Throughout our conversation, we traverse the peaks and valleys that have defined Chris's tenure at Ford Engineering. We reflect on the heartache of personal loss, the tough decisions wrought by economic shifts, and the unifying power of a global crisis that brought competitors together in unexpected solidarity. It's a testament to the strength of community within the industry, and how a robust support network is essential for any business leader facing adversity.

As we wrap up our enlightening discussion, Chris offers a glimpse into his future endeavors, where the lessons from his journey at Ford Engineering will serve as a guiding light. The conversation leaves us with a profound appreciation for the values-driven leadership that has propelled a century-old company into the modern era and how nurturing talent within can lead to unforeseen success. Join us for this rich narrative, where the principles of a family business illuminate the path for aspiring leaders and steadfast companies alike.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Navigating the nuanced symptoms of menopause can be akin to deciphering a cryptic puzzle, but Sharon lays out clues that can lead to early recognition and much-needed support. From understanding how symptoms can be misleadingly attributed to stress or Dementia, to the intersection of menopause with conditions like ADHD, we illuminate the importance of awareness for women's careers, self-confidence, and overall well-being. The dialogue progresses to actionable insights, urging a proactive embrace of self-care and the necessity for businesses to adapt and retain the invaluable expertise of women in their prime.

Wrapping up, we spotlight the undeniable need to view business policies and culture through a 'menopause lens.' These aren't just empty words; we share concrete examples of small adjustments that can make a profound difference, like switching from over the head fleeces to zip-up fleeces. Sharon and I aim to galvanize male listeners, who form a considerable segment of our audience, to advocate for change and recognize the significance of menopause as a universal issue. The dialogue culminates in a powerful message: by educating ourselves and cultivating an inclusive environment, we can transform the taboo into a topic of empowerment and proactive engagement.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.

Embrace the journey of growth through the lens of feedback—how it shapes us and our decisions as leaders. We ponder the delicate dance of receiving and filtering critiques, the power behind radical candor, and the path to creating a culture that values honest exchanges. Paul and I delve into personal growth narratives, sharing experiences from emotional intelligence courses and the balancing act between empathy and neutrality in HR scenarios. It's about transforming not just our professional approaches but also the way we connect with others and view ourselves.

As we wrap up our conversation, we reflect on the authenticity that fuels our drive to lead and the passion that aligns our work with our personal values. We underscore the critical role of intrinsic motivation and resilience in confronting life's adversities, and the importance of mentorship and genuine emotional engagement. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that promises to ignite self-reflection and inspire a leadership style that resonates with your authentic self, fostering a positive impact wherever you go.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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Embark on a compelling exploration with Richard Taylor of Green Lithium, as he chronicles the establishment of the UK's first Lithium refinery. This episode promises to immerse you in the innovative spirit of Teesside's green industrial revolution, where you'll witness the power of a united team's unwavering dedication to sustainable practices. Richard's journey from concept to reality is a masterclass in adaptability, showcasing the importance of a skilled team.

As Richard unfolds the story of Green Lithium, he brings to light a newfound appreciation for natural resources and the insatiable drive to foster a cleaner future. You'll gain insights into the strategic formation of a delivery-focused team, the environmental implications of site selections, and the discovery of a green byproduct with the potential to revolutionize the construction and manufacturing industry. The chapter on sustainability highlights the significance of awareness and education in natural resource management, as well as mentorship's vital role in crafting the next wave of environmental stewards.

Finally, Richard shares the perspective-shifting opportunities awaiting in the green lithium industry, inviting listeners to contribute in various capacities – from internships to investment. His reflections on carbon reduction strategies and inspirational figures emphasize the importance of incremental change and learning from historical successes. The conversation culminates with an inspirational message: the path to a greener future is not linear, but with passion and perseverance, progress is inevitable. Join us for an episode that not only educates but ignites a spark of optimism for the sustainable advancements shaping our world.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

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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.
 
 Dive into the heart of manufacturing leadership as James shares his journey of integrating just-in-time systems at MyWorkwear, striking a harmonious balance between exceptional customer service and leveraging the latest in technology. The episode shines a light on the transformative power of networking and community engagement in the manufacturing sector. James reveals how authentic relationships and a robust community presence have woven the fabric of his company's expansive growth.
 
 Moreover, this conversation explores the pressing challenges and burgeoning opportunities within the UK's manufacturing industry, spotlighting the skills gap, the indispensable role of governmental support, and the vital need to attract new talent to the field. As a fervent supporter of Race Against Dementia, James also touches upon the personal and philanthropic drives that propel his ambitions beyond financial gains. Plus, anticipate exclusive insights into an upcoming project set to revolutionize MyWorkwear's digital interface and customer interactions.
 
 Join us in this insightful episode that interlaces personal achievements with professional acumen and deep-seated industry insights - a compilation of lessons from a business leadership perspective, dedicated to not just outfitting businesses but also pioneering industry-wide transformations."
 
 

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298