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Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Manufacturing Leaders’ Podcast, Mark welcomes James Hill, Managing Director of Polar NE, a family-run business specialising in windows and doors for healthcare environments. James reflects on almost 23 years with the business, sharing how working across design, project management and operations shaped his approach to leadership before becoming MD. He discusses the challenges of stepping into the role around the onset of COVID-19, making difficult decisions and helping the team navigate uncertainty and structural change. The conversation explores what it takes to maintain a strong company culture as a business grows. James shares how the Polar NE team pulled together to overcome logistical challenges and deliver on client commitments, driven by a shared purpose of improving healthcare environments. James also talks about transparency, accountability and honest feedback, including why addressing difficult conversations early matters for both leaders and their teams. From clear communication to faster decision-making, this episode offers practical lessons for leaders managing change while keeping their people connected to the purpose behind their work. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark welcomes Laura Black, UK Director of Sales at Smithers Oasis, to talk about sales, leadership and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. Laura shares how she went from studying law to door-to-door sales, and then to leading teams at a young age. She reflects on how hearing “no” early in her career helped her build resilience and taught her to listen closely to what customers need. Mark and Laura discuss why trust and honesty matter in sales, and how Laura has adapted her approach to managing people. She talks about using tools such as Myers-Briggs to better understand herself and her team, as well as recognising when taking on too much was leading her towards burnout. The conversation also covers her experience as a woman in leadership, finding balance as her career has grown, and the work Smithers Oasis is doing on more sustainable products. If you work in sales or lead a team, Laura’s reflections offer plenty to take away!  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark welcomes Andy Nisevic, founder of One Degree Training & Coaching, for an open and honest conversation about toxic leadership, mental health and personal change. After serving in the RAF for 23 years, Andy went on to train and coach leaders and leadership teams. However, his work today is also shaped by his own difficult experiences. Andy reflects on reaching a low point in 2018, when he was diagnosed with depression and recognised that stress, impatience and a lack of time had caused him to become what he describes as a "toxic leader." The conversation explores how good people can develop toxic leadership traits, why the label does not always tell the full story and how pressure can gradually influence the way someone leads. Andy also discusses the importance of humility, acknowledging mistakes and having the difficult conversations needed to create meaningful change. For senior leaders in manufacturing and engineering, the episode offers an honest look at how toxic behaviours take hold, how to recognise them and how leaders can begin to break the cycle. This is a powerful episode about self-awareness, accountability and becoming a better leader. Do not miss it.  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark welcomes Sarah Wright, leadership coach and founder of Career Space, to discuss modern leadership, employee empowerment and creating more productive workplaces. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in leadership development, learning and development, and HR, Sarah explores how leadership has evolved from a focus on technical ability towards effective people management. Sarah discusses the importance of trust, empowerment and psychological safety, explaining how giving employees greater autonomy can improve productivity and support business growth. The conversation also explores why leaders should address difficult conversations promptly, how feedback can be delivered constructively and why listening to employees at every level can unlock valuable insights. Sarah shares her thoughts on the growing role of AI in leadership, highlighting how it can streamline administrative tasks and give leaders more time to focus on meaningful human conversations. The episode also covers cross-generational learning, mentoring and the value of bringing together the perspectives of new graduates and experienced professionals to encourage innovation and improve retention. This is an episode you do not want to miss! Click here to connect with Sarah on LinkedIn. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark welcomes Katie O’Brien, General Manager of HR at Komatsu, to discuss leadership, workplace culture and the complexities of creating change within a well-established manufacturing business. The conversation explores the qualities Katie believes are essential in effective leaders, including curiosity, judgement and commitment. Katie explains how these traits can influence leadership decisions, strengthen relationships and help create a more positive culture throughout an organisation. She also discusses the challenges involved in transforming long-established leadership styles and the importance of encouraging leaders to remain open, ask questions and understand the experiences of their teams. The episode explores employee engagement, meaningful work and what businesses can do to create an environment where people feel valued, supported and fulfilled. Katie shares valuable insight into how leadership behaviours shape workplace culture and why lasting change requires commitment from leaders at every level of an organisation. Don't miss this one! We have recently launched the Manufacturing Leaders Community!  If you are an MD, CEO, Operations Director, Plant Manager, Engineering Director, HR Director or Supply Chain leader working in manufacturing and engineering across the North East, Yorkshire and beyond, this is open to you! Click here to learn more and get on the waiting list. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark Bracknall welcomes Gareth Kane, Managing Director of Terra Infirma, sustainability consultant, author, and host of the Net Zero Business Podcast, to discuss sustainability leadership, organisational change, and achieving meaningful environmental progress. The conversation explores Gareth's journey into sustainability and the lessons he has learned from over twenty years of helping businesses implement effective environmental strategies. Gareth emphasises the critical role leadership plays in delivering successful sustainability initiatives, explaining why organisations must understand their own unique business case for sustainability rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.  He also discusses the psychology of organisational change and why engaging teams in the process is essential for long-term success. The episode explores how businesses of all sizes, from major organisations to manufacturing SMEs, are adopting innovative approaches to sustainability while creating commercial value. This is an episode you do not want to miss! You can connect with Gareth on LinkedIn here. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, Mark welcomes Guy Armitage, Managing Director of York Handmade Brick, to discuss family business leadership, craftsmanship, innovation, and the future of sustainable manufacturing. The conversation explores Guy’s journey within a business built on generations of expertise, tracing York Handmade Brick’s evolution from its founding in 1988 to becoming a recognised name in the production of premium handmade and bespoke bricks.  Guy shares insights into the responsibility of carrying forward a family legacy while continuing to adapt and grow in a rapidly changing industry. Guy discusses the challenges of leading a manufacturing business in today’s environment, from embracing new technologies and improving production efficiency to maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that define the company’s work.  Listeners will gain an authentic insight into the realities of running a family-owned manufacturing business, the importance of adapting to change, and the values required to build a successful organisation that stands the test of time. This is an episode you do not want to miss! Click here to connect with Guy on LinkedIn.  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders' Podcast, Mark Bracknall is joined by Tim MacLaren, Operations Director at Industrial Technology Systems (ITS). Tim shares his unconventional career journey, from starting out in the police force to building a successful career in digital operations, technology and engineering leadership.  The conversation explores the importance of authentic leadership, with Tim sharing his thoughts on developing your own leadership style rather than trying to emulate others.   Mark and Tim dive into the work being done at Industrial Technology Systems, discussing the role of systems integration in sectors including pharmaceuticals, nuclear and energy.  They explore how technology, automation and AI are helping manufacturers improve efficiency, reduce downtime and future-proof their operations. The episode also highlights the strength of the North East business community, with Tim sharing why collaboration, support and knowledge-sharing have played such an important role in both his career and the region's continued growth. This is an insightful discussion on leadership, career development, innovation and the opportunities that come from embracing change. Whether you're leading a team, navigating a career transition or interested in the future of manufacturing and technology, this episode offers plenty of valuable insights and practical takeaways. Click here to connect with Tim on LinkedIn. Click here to see our upcoming events. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders’ Podcast, Mark Bracknall is joined by Ian Kinnery who shares his journey from leading multimillion-pound operations in the motor industry, including serving as managing director of the largest Mercedes-Benz car and truck dealership in Europe, to becoming a business and leadership coach. Following a significant personal breakdown that reshaped his perspective, Ian now works with business leaders to help them navigate the pressures of growth, leadership and personal wellbeing. The conversation explores the difference between management and true leadership, with Ian highlighting the importance of vision, self-awareness and genuinely understanding the people you lead.  He shares practical insights for leaders looking to create healthier, more sustainable businesses, including simple mindset practices that can shift focus and improve performance.  This is a thoughtful discussion on leading with intention, balancing ambition with wellbeing, and building businesses that have a positive impact on everyone involved. Whether you're leading a growing business or looking to become a more effective leader, this episode offers valuable takeaways on building resilience, leading people with purpose, and creating long-term success without sacrificing your wellbeing.  Click here to connect with Ian on LinkedIn. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this recent webinar, Mark Bracknall sat down with Keith Ivory, founder of Transition HR Ltd., for a timely discussion on the major employment law changes set to impact UK businesses. With more than 30 years of HR experience spanning engineering, executive leadership, and employment law, Keith brings practical insight into the Employment Rights Act 2025 and what it means for employers navigating an increasingly complex legal landscape. Together, Mark and Keith explore key reforms including changes to unfair dismissal qualifying periods, extended tribunal claim windows, and the introduction of the Fair Work Agency - a new body designed to strengthen enforcement of employment rights across the UK. The conversation highlights the challenges these changes may create for businesses, particularly SMEs, and offers practical guidance on how employers can prepare - from reviewing contracts and policies to improving onboarding processes and management practices. A valuable episode for business leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for people management, this discussion delivers clear, practical insight into one of the most significant shifts in UK employment law in recent years. You can connect with Keith on LinkedIn here. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark is joined by Gavin Duffy, CEO and Founder of Zeromachine, a pioneering business at the forefront of hydrogen-powered heavy machinery and sustainable engineering innovation. With more than 30 years of experience across automotive, electrical engineering, and off-road vehicle electrification, Gavin shares the journey that led him from hands-on engineering roles to launching a company focused on transforming the future of construction machinery through hydrogen fuel cell technology. Together, Mark and Gavin explore the realities of building a business within a rapidly evolving industry, discussing the challenges of innovation, entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable solutions that can genuinely impact the future of manufacturing and construction. Alongside the technical innovation, Gavin speaks openly about leadership, company culture, and the importance of building a business where collaboration, openness, and shared vision are at the centre.  He discusses the pressures of startup life, the challenges of securing investment within engineering-led businesses, and the lessons he’s learned while scaling Zero Machine. From sustainable supply chains to the future of clean energy in heavy industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights for leaders, engineers, innovators, and anyone interested in the future of manufacturing. This is a conversation about innovation, resilience, leadership, and building the technologies that could shape the future of industry. Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark is joined by Malcolm Humble, Managing Director of Arian EMS, who has built his career from the shop floor through to leading a successful electronics manufacturing business. Together, they explore Malcolm’s journey through the manufacturing industry, reflecting on the key moments, challenges, and decisions that shaped his path into leadership. From early hands-on experience to running his own company, Malcolm shares how his perspective on leadership has evolved over time. The conversation dives into what effective leadership really looks like in practice - from leading as part of the team to creating a culture built on respect, trust, and open communication. Malcolm discusses the importance of authenticity and adaptability, and why involving people at every level of the business is critical to long-term success. They also touch on the realities of stepping into leadership and entrepreneurship, including the self-doubt, pressure, and personal challenges that often come with it. Malcolm speaks candidly about navigating uncertainty, making difficult decisions, and learning from mistakes along the way. From building a business from the ground up to maintaining a positive and resilient mindset, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone working in manufacturing or stepping into leadership roles. This is a conversation about growth, resilience, and what it truly means to lead from within. You can connect with Malcolm on LinkedIn here. Are you a leader in the manufacturing and engineering space? We're hosting an epic event on the 30th April 2026 and we'd love to see you there!  You'll join Manufacturing Leaders from across the North East at New College Durham to share insights, challenges, and ideas shaping the industry's future. Find out more and register your interest for the Manufacturing Leaders Summit 2026 by clicking here.  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark is joined by Ashleigh McKendrick, founder of The STEM Coach and an experienced chemical engineer turned leadership coach. Together, they explore the often-challenging transition from technical expertise into leadership roles within engineering and STEM. Ashleigh shares her own journey from the oil and gas industry into coaching, highlighting the key moments that shaped her path and the insights she’s gained along the way. The conversation dives into what it really takes for engineers to step into leadership - from building influence and visibility to maintaining technical credibility while developing a new skillset.  They also discuss the unique challenges faced by women in engineering, from navigating cultural barriers to establishing authority in male-dominated environments. Ashleigh offers an honest perspective on what needs to change, alongside practical ways both individuals and organisations can better support progression. From the role of mentorship and strategic career planning to understanding personal strengths through tools like DISC, this episode is packed with actionable insights for engineers looking to grow into leadership roles. This is a conversation about evolution, self-awareness, and bridging the gap between technical brilliance and impactful leadership. You can connect with Ashleigh on LinkedIn here. Are you a leader in the manufacturing and engineering space? We're hosting an event on the 30th April 2026 and we'd love to see you there! You'll join Manufacturing Leaders from across the North East at New College Durham to share insights, challenges, and ideas shaping the industry's future. Find out more and register your interest for the Manufacturing Leaders Summit 2026 by clicking here.  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail What does it take to lead a 172-year-old business in a world that doesn't stand still? In the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast, Mark is joined by Kiran Fothergill, Executive Vice Chairman of the Kipling Group and sixth-generation leader behind Pickering Lifts.  Together, they explore the balance between legacy and innovation - and the responsibility that comes with stewarding a historic family business into the future. Kiran reflects on what long-term thinking really looks like inside a family-owned organisation.  From navigating economic and political cycles to expanding into new markets such as escalators and loading systems, he shares how patient, strategic leadership has shaped the company’s evolution. The conversation also turns to the future of engineering - the growing skills gap, youth unemployment, and why apprenticeships are more important than ever. Kiran speaks candidly about the role businesses must play in developing talent early and creating real pathways into industry. This is a conversation about stewardship, resilience, and building something designed to last for generations. If you’re leading through change, or planning for the long term, this episode is well worth your time. Tune in now! -------------------------------------------------- Are you a leader in the manufacturing and engineering space? We're hosting an event on the 30th April 2026 and we'd love to see you there!  You'll join Manufacturing Leaders from across the North East at New College Durham to share insights, challenges, and ideas shaping the industry's future. Find out more and register your interest for the Manufacturing Leaders Summit 2026 by clicking here.  Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.

Send us Fan Mail In this latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, Mark welcomes Richard Bradley, CEO of SST Group, to discuss leadership, organisational culture, and the future of the engineering industry.  The conversation delves into Richard’s journey of transforming business environments through strategic vision and growth initiatives.  Emphasising the significance of values, Richard articulates the vitality of having a shared purpose within the team, highlighting how a collaborative atmosphere can propel organisations towards excellence. Richard discusses the importance of fostering a culture built on mutual trust and accountability. He shares how the SST Group, under his guidance, has been successful in navigating challenges often faced by manufacturing SMEs.  The episode explores the integration of leadership training, the strategic use of apprenticeships, and the importance of communication in achieving business sustainability.  Richard also reflects on personal and organisational achievements, offering listeners an authentic look at the journey from struggling enterprise to thriving industry leader. This is an episode you do not want to miss! Please like and subscribe - it genuinely helps grow the show and, in turn, helps push the industry forward. Theo James is a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.  If you’d like more information about Theo James, feel free to get in touch with the team or Mark anytime. You can call us on 0191 511 1298.