The Ceres Podcast

Les Howard, now semi-retired, has spent his working life as a VAT consultant, focusing primarily on helping businesses, charities, and churches navigate the complex world of Value Added Tax (VAT). With years of experience, Les has represented clients in disputes with HMRC, including Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Tax Tribunals. 

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In this episode of the Past Masters, Mark is joined by Kelly & Tim Barnes from Krispies in Exmouth & Exeter.

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In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios discusses the hospitality news with David Nicolaou from Auckley Friary & Charlie Collins from Frydales in Leicester.

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We're excited to welcome back Lee Sheldon from Mastering Multi-Units (MMU), which specialises in developing managers, particularly in the hospitality sector. This is Lee's second appearance on the Ceres Podcast—he previously joined us in episode 112, packed with valuable insights.

Lee brings a wealth of experience from his years in frontline operations, having held single and multi-unit management roles. At MMU, they focus on supporting managers right where it matters most—on the frontline. Lee shares his multi-unit and remote management expertise, emphasising the importance of applying better behaviours and high-impact activities in real-world situations. He's also a passionate advocate for Franklin Covey programs, which MMU integrates into their unique approach to development.

During our conversation, Lee recommended "Radical Candor" by Kim Scott, a must-read for anyone serious about enhancing their leadership skills. Tune in for an insightful discussion on managing people and teams—topics that arebecoming increasingly important as our industry grows.

Learn more about MMU & Lee Sheldon

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In this episode of the Past Masters, Mark is joined by Adrian Tweedale from Elite Fish & Chips Group. Adrian won Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in 1991, and Mark discusses what this was like and what has happened since. 

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In this episode, David & Stelios talk to Terry Jones from Meijer Potato; Terry is a seasoned professional in the potato industry and brings over 30 years of experience to the Ceres Podcast. He resides in North Shropshire and has dedicated his career to advancing the potato sector. Terry began his journey as an operative and factory manager in the fresh pre-pack industry, supplying retailers. In 2007, he seized the opportunity to transition into ware and seed crop management and sales by joining a Meijer-owned subsidiary. Since 2015, he has served as the UK Sales Manager for Meijer Potato UK.

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In this episode of the Past Masters, Mark is joined by Bonny Layhe and James Ritchie, from Simpsons Fish & Chips. They went on to win the Seafish Fish & Chip Shop of the Year award in 2016 and have since expanded their business. 

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Listen to the dynamic conversation between the Ceres Podsquad! Led by Stelios, the director and founder of Ceres, this team is packed with industry experts. Mark Petrou from Petrou Brothers, David Nicolaou from Auckley Friery, and David Miller from Millers Fish & Chips and the one and only Kelly Barnes from Krispies. 

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Join David Miller and Stelios in this Master Class as they discuss using pre-cut chips in your fish & chip shop.

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Today, we have a special guest: Allen Simpson, Deputy CEO of UKHospitality, the leading organisation for the £140bn hospitality sector. Allen's expertise in politics and economic development makes him an invaluable guest. After our conversation, I felt enlightened and relaxed, which is usually rare when discussing politics around election time.

A bit about our guest, Allen has an impressive background. From 2018 to 2023, he was with London & Partners, serving as Managing Director of Strategy and Operations and later as Interim Chief Executive. He played a crucial role in London's recovery post-pandemic. Prior to that, Allen led Barclays Bank's business finance policy team, focusing on trade, SMEs, and scale-ups. He also advised the CEO and Chairman of the London Stock Exchange during the financial crisis. Allen has held various government roles and was Labour's parliamentary candidate in Maidstone and the Weald in 2015 and 2017.

Visit UKHospitality to find out more.

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