PJ Tips Podcast Leading Business Change with Sacha Tanner, Leading Without Fear

Leadership is one of the most talked about topics in business today, and for good reason. In a world of constant change, shifting markets, and increasing pressure on both performance and people, the way we lead can make or break an organisation, and the people in it.

Yet too often leadership is treated like a badge of status rather than what it truly is, a responsibility.

In this episode of the PJ Tips Leading Business Change Podcast, I chat with Sacha Tanner, General Manager at Spinneys, Abu Dhabi, for a refreshingly honest and practical conversation about what it really means to lead without fear.

Sacha isn’t your stereotypical business leader. He’s open, humble and deeply committed to the growth, wellbeing and success of his people as much as the business itself. Over his career, he has faced the dilemmas, tough calls and personal challenges that many leaders encounter but don’t always act on or talk about. Here, he shares those lessons openly, giving real insight into the highs and lows of modern leadership.

Whats in it?

This conversation is packed with useful, real world insights for anyone in leadership or aspiring to be. Among the topics we cover:

What leadership really means, why it’s about supporting others to succeed, not status and ego.

The challenges of leading upwards, why influencing and persuading senior stakeholders is often harder than managing your own team.

Guardianship in leadership and shifting to genuine responsibility for people, shareholders and communities.

Letting go of ego and control and creating space for others to thrive.

Learning from customer focus. Sacha shares how Spinneys transformed performance and mindset by analysing customer accounts in detail in order to re-focus attention effectively.

The Context for the podcast is Leading in a Competitive Market

Sacha’s leadership story is also shaped by the market in which he operates. Spinneys Abu Dhabi has grown and stands out in a fiercely competitive space. When he started, there were just five competitors. Today, there are more than 25. To continue to grow and lead in this market, Spinneys has had to differentiate on service and quality rather than simply chasing volume.

That shift has been bold, including a move from a volume-driven model to a value-based strategy. Even more striking, under Sacha’s guidance, Spinneys is to become the first carbon-neutral liquor distributor in the Middle East, which represents a pioneering step that shows leadership is as much about responsibility as it is about results.

Why This Conversation Matters

We’re living in an era where the expectations of leaders are higher than ever. Employees want more purpose, customers demand higher standards and stakeholders are under increasing scrutiny around sustainability and responsibility. Yet at the same time, leaders are under pressure to deliver results faster and leaner.

That’s why my podcasts matter. They give us a glimpse into how successful leaders actually think and operate, and why leading without fear — without clinging to ego, control or outdated notions of authority — is not only possible, but essential.

Who Should Listen

If you’re a business leader, manager or aspiring leader who wants to hear what genuine, grounded leadership looks like, this episode is for you. Whether you’re navigating change in your organisation, facing pressure from both above and below, or simply looking to grow as a leader, you’ll find valuable takeaways here.

It’s a straight talking, practical look at the reality of leadership, told through the experience of someone who living it one of the most competitive markets in the Middle East.

🎙️ Listen now to PJ Tips: Leading Business Change — “Leading Without Fear” with Sacha Tanner, General Manager of Spinneys Abu Dhabi.

Discover what leadership without fear really looks like — and why it might just be the key to building better businesses in today’s world.

This podcast isn’t just for those in construction or infrastructure. If you’re working with teams, suppliers, or external partners, you’ll take away many practical lessons.

At the heart of it all is a fundamental question: Are we just delivering projects, or are we building something that truly matters?

Join me in this thought-provoking discussion with John Pelton MBE. Whether you’re leading a business, managing projects, or driving transformation, this episode will challenge the way you think about leadership, purpose, and project success. Listen now and discover how to build better businesses through culture, leadership, and purpose.

When it comes to delivering major projects - such as Crossrail, London's Olympic Park and HS2 what really makes the difference - contracts or culture? Contracts set the rules, but culture determines whether those involved actually work together to get things done.

In this episode, I sit down with John Pelton MBE, an experienced leader in infrastructure and major projects, to talk about why culture can be more powerful than contracts and how purpose-driven leadership transforms project delivery.

With a military background and a wealth of experience in complex projects, John has seen first hand how a clear purpose can align teams, reduce conflict, and drive success—even in industries that seem dominated by legalities, contracts, and cost pressures. He shares insights on how defining and communicating purpose can break down silos, encourage collaboration, and help teams push beyond just making money to create real impact.

John also introduces a brilliant leadership model - Competing Values Framework by Quinn & Cameron -   that helps leaders inspire their teams, navigate challenges and deliver better results.

Whether you're leading construction projects, digital transformations, or internal change initiatives, his perspective on ‘sharing’ in multi-stakeholder environments is invaluable. When multiple contractors, suppliers, and teams are involved, success depends on open communication, shared ideas, and a commitment to a collective goal—not just ticking boxes and delivering on individual contracts.

One of the standout moments in our conversation is John's exploration into the Rocky Flats project, a complex and high-stakes initiative that defied expectations by finishing ahead of schedule. Rocky Flats was the most contaminated nuclear plant in the US, it was an environmental disaster and the site of rampant worker unrest. Although it was estimated that it would take 70 years and $36 billion to clean up and close the facility. Its now a wildlife refuge, the project is running 60 years ahead of schedule and $30 billion under budget. What lessons can businesses take from it? We explore how a clear sense of purpose, strong leadership, and a collaborative culture made it one of the most remarkable project success stories.

This podcast isn’t just for those in construction or infrastructure. If you’re working with teams, suppliers, or external partners, you’ll take away many practical lessons.

At the heart of it all is a fundamental question: Are we just delivering projects, or are we building something that truly matters?

Join me in this thought-provoking discussion with John Pelton MBE. Whether you’re leading a business, managing projects, or driving transformation, this episode will challenge the way you think about leadership, purpose, and project success.

Listen now and discover how to build better businesses through culture, leadership, and purpose.

#Leadingbusinesschange #purpose #culture #contracts #construction #infrastructure #buildingprojects #projects #transformation

Will Men Ever Understand the Menopause? They Must—Or Face the Consequences

Menopause isn’t just a “women’s issue.” It’s a human issue. It affects careers, relationships, businesses, and the economy. Yet, far too many men remain unaware, uncomfortable, or worse—dismissive. And that ignorance comes at a cost.

In this episode, I chat with Sally Higham, an expert in talent acquisition, HR and employer branding, who’s on a mission to change the conversation around menopause—especially in the workplace.

For many women, menopause is a life-altering transition that can last years. Symptoms range from brain fog and fatigue to anxiety and crippling joint pain. But here’s the kicker—80% of women say menopause impacts their work, and many leave their jobs due to lack of support. Businesses that ignore this reality risk losing experienced, talented employees.

Sally shares her own journey—how she discovered she was in menopause after a routine scan in Singapore, and how she navigated the challenges that followed. She explains why some businesses have started addressing menopause while others still don’t know how. With over a billion women expected to be menopausal or postmenopausal by 2030, this is not a conversation we can afford to avoid.

For men, the challenge is clear: we have to get educated. Whether it’s supporting a partner, a colleague, or a friend, we must do better. That means listening, learning, and stepping up. Ignorance is no longer an excuse.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself unsure how to approach menopause—or worse, pretending it’s not your problem—this episode is for you. Because understanding menopause isn’t about ‘being nice’—it’s about being a better leader, partner, and human being.

Let’s talk.

In this episode of PJ TIPS, I’m joined by Natalie Rogers, Chief People Officer, and Oliver Stockdale, Head of Talent Development at N Brown Group, the online retail and financial services business behind brands like Jacamo.

We explore the realities of business change, focusing on Agile Transformation—what it is, why it matters, and thechallenges of shifting from a traditional catalogue retailer to a digital-first business. Natalie unpacks the human side of change, including the role of culture and leadership, while Oliver shares how Agile is shaping N Brown’s future. We discuss the friction between old and new ways of working, defining the right culture, and why getting senior buy-in iscritical.

If you're leading change, tackling Agile, or just tryingto get people on board, this episode is packed with insights and practical takeaways.

Listen in and lead change better.

#leadingbusinesschange #agile #transformation #PJTips #Retail #OnlineRetail #DigitalTransformation #Culture

In this captivating episode of PJ Tips Podcast, I sit down with Mark Preston, Motorsport Director at Lola, to discuss his triumphant return to the world of Formula E. Mark's storied career spans decades, from leading the Super Aguri F1 Team and launching it in record time, to winning the Formula E World Championship as Team Principal at DS Techeetah.

Now, as MotorSport Director, he is leading Lola's revival under the ownership of American-based English businessman, Till Bechtolsheimer, returning to Formula E and eyeing a re-entry to Le Mans.

Mark shares insights into the dynamic world of motorsports, where leadership, innovation and the pursuit of marginal gains are critical to success. We delve into what makes Mark’s leadership special and his approach to making "winning a science." His return to the Formula E stage is not just a comeback; it’s a masterclass in strategic thinking and execution under the pressure of fast-paced change. What sets Mark apart as a leader is his ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement, making small yet impactful adjustments that drive performance, both on the track and in the boardroom.

We also explore the challenges of budget caps in motorsports, drawing parallels to the world of business. Mark provides thought-provoking perspectives on how constraints can foster creativity, making a compelling case for businesses to reframe their mindset around limited resources. Instead of seeing budget limits as a hindrance, Mark emphasizes the importance of maximising resources and finding efficiencies in unexpected areas—whether it’s a procurement strategy or team management.

Throughout our conversation, Mark offers valuable lessons in how to lead through ambiguity, adapt to rapid change, and balance risk-taking with reward. He shares stories from his time at McLaren and Arrows, underscoring the fine line between success and failure. His reflections on complacency, risk and strategic intent are must-hear advice for leaders navigating today’s fast-changing and ambiguous business landscape.

Tune in for an inspiring and practical look into the mind of a championship winning leader and discover how motorsport lessons can be applied to business success.

Welcome to the Podcast on Leading Business Change, focusing on Intentional Culture Change. This series brings together top business minds to share their real-world experiences in driving meaningful change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about transforming their organisation’s culture.

Our guest, Robert Rigby-Hall, offers a genuinely global perspective on culture change, speaking from New York. With over 30 mergers and acquisitions under his belt, and a career that spans industries and continents, Robert has faced—and overcome—the complex challenges of culture change in high-stakes environments.

In this episode, Robert shares insights rooted not in theory but in practical experience. If you’re seeking actionable strategies to lead change in your organisation, this is the conversation you need to hear.

What is intentional culture change?

For many, culture seems like a vague concept, a "black art." But as Robert reveals, culture is a measurable driver of business success. It goes far beyond casual Friday policies or team-building exercises. In fact, Robert walks us through a case study where deliberate culture change resulted in tangible improvements in key business metrics like Net Promoter Score (NPS), employee engagement, and profitability. Culture isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a strategic necessity.

The difference between business culture and country culture.

Global leaders often struggle to balance these two, especially when expanding into new markets or managing diverse teams. Robert’s experience across dozens of countries gives him unique insights into how companies can build a brand culture that respects local differences without sacrificing core values. For leaders steering complex mergers or global operations, this episode offers invaluable lessons on unifying teams across borders.

Aligning culture with strategy

One of the most critical takeaways is how to intentionally shape company culture to align with business strategy. A misaligned culture leads to disengaged employees, poor customer experiences, and stalled growth. Robert’s insights are highly actionable, whether you’re leading a start-up or managing a multinational.

Employee engagement and profitability

There’s a direct link between engaged employees and profitable business outcomes. Research shows that engaged employees lead to happier customers, which translates to better financial performance. Yet, many leaders struggle to create environments where employees feel motivated and empowered. Robert shares clear, data-driven strategies for building a culture that fosters this kind of engagement, leading to better performance across the board.

Intentionality is key

Culture change doesn’t happen by accident. It needs to be deliberate and planned. Leaders must define the desired culture, communicate it, and most importantly, act in ways that reflect it. Robert emphasises that alignment between leadership behaviour and cultural values is crucial for sustained change. It’s not enough to talk about culture—you have to live it.

Leadership’s role

As Robert points out, the CEO and senior leadership team play a pivotal role in setting the tone for the entire organisation. If leadership doesn’t live the culture, employees won’t either. Consistency from the top is essential for sustaining a strong, positive culture over the long term. This episode drives home the point that cultural transformation starts at the top.

The PJ Tips podcast is designed to give today’s leaders the tools they need to drive effective change—whether that’s cultural, digital, or organisational. Leading change is never easy. It’s often expensive, risky, and full of obstacles. But as Robert demonstrates, with the right approach, culture can become a powerful asset rather than a stumbling block.

Join us to discover how intentional culture change can transform your organisation’s performance, people, and profit. And if you’re looking for further help, do get in touch.

An inspiring and insightful conversation with MDL Marina's Managing Director, Michael Glanville.

Michael was Voted one of the MOST AMBITIOUS LEADERS in the UK by LDC, and he's certainly one to watch.

In this episode of PJ Tips 'Leading Business Change' podcast, Michael and I talk about the Marine Industry, clients, boats, services, property and expectations.

So is MDL a marina company, a property investment company, a building business, a landlord or an hotel business - indeed I ask Michael if they have plans to run hotels?

Did you know they even have an award winning car park?! I kid you not.

With all this going on, how does Michael lead the business. We discuss his top tips for leading and leadership, and he shares openly about his rise through the business to become Managing Director and how he managed those changing relationships.

MDL has 18 Marinas in the UK and one in Spain. It has a number of Marinas on the South Coast, including the flagship Ocean Village in Southampton, a number on inland waterways. Whilst they strive to offer an aligned MDL service, the difference in geographies, clients, boats and expectations offers up some interesting challenges which Michael talks us through.

Given the significant interest in the environment and sustainability, MDL have a number of projects as part of their Greener Marinas promise, including a greener gym that uses energy from gym bikes to store power in batteries and a project and a native oyster project to clean water in marinas. You can find out more on the MDL website.

Because MDL is owned by a family trust, investment is in long term results, sustainability and customer service. Michael talks through some of the differences between PE and family ownership, and praises the company strategy in its forward thinking.

Both Michael and I very much hope you enjoy this podcast.

#Sustainability

#LeadingBuisinessChange

#leadership

#Culture

#MarineIndustry

#Investment

#BusinessStrategy

#CustomerFocus

#Oyster

#Marinas

In this episode, Emma Straughan hijacks my PJ Tips podcast to interview me.

Emma decided it was time, I opened up, and shared more about me, and why we started these podcasts.

I confess to being nervous!! And its not easy opening up about deeper emotions, purpose and family matters.

In the first half we talk business, change and podcasts. In the second half she asks some quick fire - more personal questions - to open me up! Some of it was quite emotional for me.

So you get the science side of me and my work, and the intuitive and emotional connection.

My beliefs and passion about helping build better businesses and business is well shared.

But there's plenty in here you wont know.

Huge thanks to Emma Straughan for suggesting it and making me do it. Now you owe me a ride in the Aston Martin DB12 as promised.....

By means of a late introduction, Emma totally rocks in the high end and luxury brand world of automotive and change. A specialist in communication, EVP and culture she now helps all manner of businesses and leaders to accelerate change and performance, for good.

Love Emma's insight and feedback on me!!! Talk about speaking honestly..... Have a listen, and give us your assessment.

#seaswimming

#adoption

#leadingbusinesschange

#purpose

#family

#fatherandson

#culturechange

#astonmartin

#bentley

#premierleaguefootball

#financialservices

#executivecoach

#changemanagement

#cancer

#heartattack

#family

#wellbeing

#leadingbusinesschange

As it's National Apprenticeship Week in the UK, we have recorded a podcast to discuss and promote the value of Apprentices and Apprenticeships, with particular regard to Leading Business Change and bridging the Skills Gap in Digital Transformation.

Unlocking the Potential of Apprenticeships: A Journey with

Embark on a transformative voyage as we delve into the world

Recent reports from Forbes highlight a staggering 93% of UK

Against this backdrop, apprenticeships emerge as a powerful

Alison's active engagement in the Government's South East

Tune in to my PJ Tips Podcast to discover Alison's

Is engaging apprentices a sound business decision? According

#NationalApprenticeWeek

#NationalApprenticeshipWeek2024

#ApprenticeshipScheme

#BuildBetterBusiness

#LeadingBusinessChange

#DigitalTransformation

#Technology

#SkillsGap

#Education

#TalentPool

#SuccessionPlanning

#Coaching

#Culture

#Leadership

#Strategy

#GrowthStrategy

In this PJ Tips Podcast on Leading Business Change, our guest Gwen Stirling Wilkie shares insights, stories and top tips on Beyond Hybrid Working.

Gwen has recently published a book Omni-Working, which talks a lot about the need and value of flexibility in work. Not just where we work, but how we work.

If you think Omni or Flexible working is tough to achieve in your world, imagine integrating Omni working into a Construction Firm on the building sites.

Over the last few years, I have worked with and spoken to many leaders and bosses who (excuse the expression) have their proverbial 'knickers in a twist' over whats right and wrong when it comes to flexible working.

Clients such as a Dubai Bank to UK Rail Co are wrestling with this topic. A Top Tip from Gwen is to 'experiment'. You'll hear her use this term a number of times in the conversation.

But, as we discuss, do you - and the business - have the leadership skills and underlying culture to encourage and support experimentation.

We usefully discuss two levels of Leadership :

The strategic level of leadership that vision and strategy for omni working, and

The second tier of leaders who have to try and implement the strategy.

One could argue there's a third level, and that's leadership of self to live the strategy honestly and effectively, not just in service of self, but in service of the project, team and overall purpose.

Given that, in the UK, figures for Performance and Productivity are (relatively) low, we need to upskill (or re-skill) leaders to Lead Business Change. Unfortunately change is most often difficult, expensive , emotional, time consuming .... and failure intensive.

How can Omni Working impact on Performance and Productivity? Listen in to hear Gwen's insights and practical tips for Leaders, leading this change.

For more insights on Omni Working, connect with Gwen Stirling-Wilkie on LinkedIn and Twitter, and her book is available online : Omni-Working: Work effectively in all ways, from all places.

For more insights and top tips on Leading Business Challenge, connect with me PJ Stevens #PJTips

#leadingbusinesschange

#omniworking

#beyondhybridworking

#performance

#productivity

#culture