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Welcome to The Human CEO, where we explore the critical role that leadership plays in creating a positive and healthy culture in organisations. At Human, we believe that the culture of an organisation starts with its leaders, and that creating a healthy culture starts with strong, empathetic leadership. Through engaging interviews and thought-provoking discussions, we aim to inspire and equip current and aspiring leaders with the tools and insights they need to cultivate a culture of trust, collaboration, and innovation. Our guests are CEOs and business leaders who have successfully navigated the challenges of leadership and created thriving, healthy cultures. Subscribe and stay up-to-date with our interviews, and don’t forget to share your own insights and perspectives on leadership and organisational culture. Thanks for joining us on this journey to create healthier, more positive, and more successful organisations.
Episodes
3 days ago
3 days ago
In this powerful episode of The Human CEO Podcast, host Amy sits down with Howard Trotter, Business Manager at Shelforce, to share an extraordinary story of resilience, transformation, and inclusion. Shelforce, a company established in 1839 and part of Birmingham City Council, employs a workforce where 75% of team members have disabilities. Under Howard’s leadership since 2013, the business has gone from financial distress to becoming a thriving, award-winning enterprise with an annual turnover of £8.9 million and a profit exceeding £1 million.
Key Insights from the Episode:
- Transforming Perceptions: Shelforce overcame negative assumptions about employing people with disabilities by focusing on quality, efficiency, and fostering a culture of empowerment.
- A Winning Culture: Howard highlights the steps he took to revitalize Shelforce, including introducing lean manufacturing practices, improving profit and loss visibility, and fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
- Leadership Through Inclusion: Shelforce’s hiring process challenges traditional methods by prioritizing paid work experience over interviews, creating opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities to succeed.
- Award-Winning Impact: From the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year to the King’s Award for Enterprise, Shelforce’s achievements reflect its resilience and commitment to excellence.
- The Power of Vulnerability: Howard shares how open communication, trust, and teamwork have built a family-like culture, enabling the business and its people to thrive together.
Recommended Resources:
- Book: Improving Business by Sid Johnson – A practical guide for leaders on managing people and driving business growth. Howard credits this book for shaping his leadership approach. Find the book here.
- Podcast Inspiration: Howard also draws leadership lessons from Andy Farrell, head coach of the Irish rugby team, who emphasizes family, culture, and understanding individual strengths to build a world-class team.
Memorable Moments:
- Howard’s reflection on winning the King’s Award for Enterprise and the life-changing impact it had on his team’s confidence and morale.
- Stories of resilience, including Shelforce’s journey from a £1.8 million loss to sustained profitability.
- Howard’s bold approach to leadership, including his challenge to the workforce to define their identity: "Are we a factory that employs disabled people or a factory that manufactures quality products?"
Why This Episode Matters:
Howard’s story is a testament to the power of inclusive leadership and what happens when businesses focus on their greatest asset—their people. This episode offers valuable lessons for leaders looking to drive transformation, create meaningful opportunities, and build a legacy of impact.
Connect with Shelforce:
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Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
In this episode of The Human CEO, Amy Stephenson sits down with Ben Rousseau, founder of Rousseau Design, to dive into his 20+ year journey creating high-end, collectible design pieces. Ben’s work focuses on bespoke lighting and functional art for luxury homes and corporate spaces, blending art with utility.
He shares his philosophy on leadership, team dynamics, and fostering creativity in a small business setting. Ben also introduces his latest venture, the "Kiss My Art" project, which transforms a personal connection into unique artwork, and his timepieces, designed to redefine our relationship with time.
Key Highlights:
- Introduction to Rousseau Design
- Leadership and Team Collaboration
- Creativity and Team Dynamics
- The “Kiss My Art” Project
- Time Pieces: Connecting with Time
- Upcoming Projects and Exciting Plans
- Connecting with Ben Rousseau
Tune in to hear more about Ben’s creative journey, his vision for redefining luxury design, and how he inspires creativity within his team.
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
In this episode, Glen Banks talks about the challenges and opportunities he's faced as the MD of Kinspeed Limited, a business that specialises in Sage accounting systems. Glen reflects on the effects of the pandemic, the complexities of managing remote teams, and the importance of maintaining a collaborative office environment for skill development. He also shares how his leadership style evolved from his experiences at Lloyd Catering to Kinspeed and offers valuable advice for leaders navigating similar transitions.
Key Points:
- Navigating the uncertainty of the post-pandemic market
- Challenges in staffing and the impact of remote vs. in-office work
- Glen’s leadership journey and how it shaped his management style
- Influences from Alex Ferguson’s leadership approach and the book "Traction"
- Celebrating Kinspeed's 40th anniversary and plans for future growth
- Importance of being true to yourself as a leader
Recommended Book:
- Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Human CEO, we sit down with Simon Kenney, CEO of multinational supplier of specialist scientific materials, Goodfellow. Simon shares his journey of professional growth from a Sales Manager to CEO, navigating challenges in various industries and markets. He discusses the critical role of leadership in fostering resilience and adaptability, especially during times of global disruption such as COVID-19. Simon also talks about the importance of aligning personal goals with professional aspirations, the value of cross-departmental experience, and how companies can maintain a strong internal culture while scaling globally.
Key Takeaways:
- How adapting to changing markets and customer needs can build business resilience.
- The importance of understanding different business functions, such as sales and purchasing, to become an effective leader.
- Why maintaining strong leadership and company culture is crucial during periods of growth and acquisition.
- Insights on balancing personal and professional goals, and why setting clear objectives is key to success.
- Simon’s advice for aspiring CEOs on taking risks, making decisions, and learning from failure.
- The future of sales and leadership in a world influenced by AI and digital transformation.
Quote of the Episode: "For me, it’s about understanding. I’m taking from the good whilst being cognizant of how you feel when you’re being led by people that you don’t think are so good... there’s times when you work for leaders and they made you feel in a certain way and you go right, actually, I’m not going to do that."
Resources Mentioned:
Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
Follow Simon:
LinkedIn: Simon Kenney
Company: Goodfellow
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
In this episode of The Human CEO, we chat with Paul Turton, CEO of PACT Coffee, about leading a purpose-driven business in a competitive market. Paul shares how PACT Coffee balances profitability with a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, ensuring transparency and fair trade practices from farm to cup.
He also delves into the importance of building a strong company culture, driving customer-centric innovation, and the challenges of scaling a business sustainably. With valuable advice for aspiring leaders, Paul provides insights into how companies can thrive while making a positive impact.
Why You Should Listen:
If you’re interested in ethical leadership, sustainable growth, and the future of the coffee industry, this conversation with Paul offers practical lessons on how to build a business that leaves a lasting impact.
Connect with Paul Turton:
- LinkedIn: Paul Turton
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jayne, CEO of the Elephant Group, a charity dedicated to supporting bright young people in state schools to access top universities. In this episode of the Human CEO Podcast, Jayne discusses the challenges and triumphs of leading a charity focused on social mobility, the importance of compassionate leadership, and her inspiring journey from psychology graduate to CEO. Learn about the innovative solutions the Elephant Group is implementing to bridge the gap in university access and how you can get involved.
📌 Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction
0:03 - Welcome Jayne
0:28 - About the Elephant Group
1:24 - Challenges in Education and Social Mobility
2:20 - Current Organizational Challenges
3:18 - Importance of University Matching for Students
4:29 - Funding and Economic Challenges
5:25 - Longevity and Burnout in Leadership
6:20 - Self-Care and Compassion in Leadership
7:18 - Jayne's Career Journey
9:16 - Transition to the Elephant Group
10:31 - Realizing Leadership Potential
11:52 - Leadership Mistakes and Lessons
12:28 - Importance of Passion and Fire in Leadership
13:28 - Maintaining Authenticity and Confidence
14:27 - Defining Personal Leadership Style
16:27 - Core Values in Leadership
17:22 - Influential Leaders and Inspirational Stories
18:23 - Story of Sir Charles Evans and Leadership Lessons
20:37 - Reading Recommendations and Mountaineering Analogies
24:01 - What's Next for the Elephant Group
27:07 - Closing Thoughts and Thanks
Overview: In this episode, Jayne shares her inspiring journey from studying psychology at the University of Sheffield to becoming the CEO of the Elephant Group. She discusses the importance of social mobility, the challenges faced by state school students in accessing top universities, and the innovative programs her charity implements. Jayne also reflects on the importance of compassionate leadership, self-care, and maintaining authenticity. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with valuable insights for leaders and educators alike.
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Join us in this episode of the Human CEO Podcast as Matt Lesser, author of "UnEngaged," discusses his second book and shares profound insights on creating thriving organizational cultures. Discover the three pillars of a flourishing organization—empathy, empowerment, and excellence—and learn how leaders can implement these principles to enhance engagement, reduce turnover, and foster a more fulfilling work environment. Matt also revisits the Flourishing Life Model and offers practical tips for leaders at every level.
What’s Your Human CEO Culture Score? Take the free scorecard to find out now.
Website - https://humanculture.scoreapp.com
Watch the episodes on Youtube - / @thehumanceopodcast
Follow: Instagram - @humanpeopleculture
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-people-culture
Guest Details:
Website - https://www.uniquelynormal.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lesser/
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Join us in this episode of the Human CEO Podcast as we sit down with Russell Harvey, the Resilience Coach, to explore the vital role of resilience in leadership. Discover how Russell's extensive experience in coaching and development has shaped his approach to helping leaders thrive in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments. Learn practical tips and insights to enhance your own resilience and lead your team through challenging times.
Russell Harvey shares his journey to becoming the Resilience Coach, highlighting the importance of resilience in leadership. Learn how to navigate a VUCA world, balance optimism with reality, and build adaptability in your team. Discover practical tips and insights on how to enhance your own resilience and lead with confidence through uncertainty. Russell also shares influential books and leaders that have shaped his approach, making this a must-watch for anyone looking to improve their leadership skills and organisational culture.
What’s Your Human CEO Culture Score? Take the free scorecard to find out now.
Website - https://humanculture.scoreapp.com
Watch the episodes on Youtube - / @thehumanceopodcast
Follow: Instagram - @humanpeopleculture
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-people-culture
Guest Details:
Website - https://www.theresiliencecoach.co.uk/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/russelltheresiliencecoach/
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
In this episode of the Human CEO Podcast, we chat with Jo Ritzema, Managing Director of WCF, a unique employee-owned company with a diverse portfolio of businesses. Jo shares her journey from a finance role to leading a multifaceted organization, emphasising the importance of empowerment, long-term vision, and maintaining a family-like culture. Discover how WCF's innovative approach and strong values have led to its success and longevity.
Overview:
Join us for an engaging conversation with Jo Ritzema, Managing Director of WCF, as she shares her unique insights into leading an employee-owned organization. Learn how WCF's innovative approach, strong values, and commitment to employee empowerment have driven its success for over a century. Jo discusses the challenges and rewards of managing a diverse portfolio of businesses, the importance of effective communication, and the impact of fostering a family-like culture. Whether you're interested in leadership, organizational culture, or innovative business models, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration.
What’s Your Human CEO Culture Score? Take the free scorecard to find out now.
Website - https://humanculture.scoreapp.com
Watch the episodes on Youtube - / @thehumanceopodcast
Follow: Instagram - @humanpeopleculture
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/human-people-culture
Guest Details:
Website - https://www.wcf.co.uk/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-ritzema-27103952/
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
In this episode of the Human CEO Podcast, we sit down with Tom White, CEO of C-Capture, to delve into his journey and the ground-breaking work his company is doing in carbon capture technology. From leading military cadets to heading a pioneering start-up, Tom shares invaluable insights into leadership, innovation, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to climate change. Learn how C-Capture is revolutionising the industry and what it takes to lead a team with a shared purpose of decarbonising the world.
Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction
0:03 - Meet Tom White, CEO of C-Capture
0:29 - What is C-Capture?
1:09 - The Mission: Decarbonising Industry
1:34 - Tom's Journey into Leadership
2:13 - Early Leadership Experiences
3:15 - Military Training and Leadership Lessons
4:33 - Volunteering and Professional Growth
5:09 - The Role at C-Capture
6:17 - The Evolution of C-Capture
7:50 - Challenges in Carbon Capture Technology
8:56 - Navigating the "Valley of Death"
9:28 - Funding and Policy Challenges
10:32 - Scaling Up and Team Growth
11:04 - Tom's Leadership Style
12:12 - Adapting Leadership Styles
13:15 - Influences on Tom's Leadership
14:18 - Defining Company Culture
15:30 - Collaboration, Tenacity, and Expertise
16:05 - Inspirational Leadership Quotes
17:12 - Creating a Fearless Organization
18:35 - Balancing Creativity and Financial Pressures
19:01 - The Urgency of Climate Action
19:38 - Funding and Government Support
20:08 - Trust and Accountability in Climate Initiatives
21:42 - The Importance of Immediate Action
22:15 - Inspirational Leaders
23:22 - Recommended Leadership Books
24:29 - What Got You Here Won’t Get You There
25:43 - The Evolution of Personal Values
26:17 - Leadership Bloopers and Lessons Learned
28:42 - The Future of C-Capture
29:51 - Industrial Emissions and Carbon Capture
30:55 - Closing Thoughts and Farewell
Overview: Join us for an engaging conversation with Tom White, the CEO of C-Capture, a leading start-up dedicated to developing innovative carbon capture technology. In this episode, Tom shares his unique journey from military leadership to heading a pioneering company, tackling the urgent issue of climate change. Discover the challenges and triumphs of scaling up a technology that promises to decarbonise industries worldwide. Tom also offers valuable insights into effective leadership, building a purpose-driven team, and the critical role of policy and funding in sustainable innovation. Whether you're interested in environmental sustainability, leadership, or cutting-edge technology, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and actionable advice. Don't miss out on learning from Tom White's experience and vision for a cleaner future.
That's all for today's episode of The Human CEO Podcast! Thanks for tuning in and don't forget to join us next time for more inspiring conversations with human CEOs!