Business Matters: In Conversation

In this episode, we’re joined by Gary Moffatt, Managing Director, and Lesley Leach, People Director at Chubb Fire and Security UK & Ireland.They share how Chubb Fire and Security UK's leadership philosophy is empowering every employee—from apprentice to executive—to lead with integrity, confidence and purpose.Discover how Leader Labs, mentoring, and a values-first culture are transforming performance, boosting engagement, and shaping the future of the business.Plus, hear the inspiring career journey of COO Dave Dunnigan, who started as an apprentice and rose to the top.

In this episode, Richard Alvin speaks with Sara Sabin, a transformational leadership coach, about the importance of emotional mastery and intuition in leadership. They discuss how emotions influence decision-making, the significance of emotional neutrality, and practical techniques for leaders to process their emotions effectively.Sara emphasizes the role of intuition as a skill that can be developed and its grounding in neuroscience. The conversation also covers the connection between communication, influence, and emotional awareness, as well as Sarah's journey from accountancy to coaching.TakeawaysEmotional mastery is about achieving emotional neutrality.Leaders must be aware of their internal emotional states.Emotions can drive decisions, impacting outcomes.Emotional neutrality helps in making rational decisions.Simple techniques can help shift emotional states quickly.Intuition is a skill that can be trained and developed.Intuition is grounded in neuroscience, not just gut feeling.Effective communication requires understanding emotions.Storytelling can enhance influence and communication.Leaders should prioritize self-care to regain clarity.

Welcome to a new episode of In Conversation, the Business Matters podcast with Richard Alvin. In this episode, we sit down with John Wegman, CEO of Customs Support Group, to discuss the complexities of international trade, the impact of AI on customs processes, and how businesses are adapting to an increasingly turbulent global supply chain. In this episode:• Customs Support Group’s Growth & Global Expansion:• How Customs Support Group has rapidly expanded by acquiring over 40 companies in just two years.• Why businesses are moving towards single customs partners rather than managing multiple brokers across different countries.• The Impact of Brexit, COVID-19, and Global Conflicts on Trade:• How recent global disruptions—from Brexit to supply chain crises—have increased customs complexity and trade risk.• Why companies are now holding more inventory than ever to hedge against uncertainty.• AI & Digital Transformation in Customs Processes:• How AI is being used to organise unstructured customs data, reduce human errors, and accelerate clearance times.• Why machine learning alone isn’t enough—and how AI and human intelligence work together to ensure 100% accuracy in customs declarations.• The Impact of Political Changes on Global Trade:• How the Labour government’s EU relationship is affecting UK importers and exporters.• The potential consequences of Trump’s proposed trade tariffs on US and European supply chains.• How China’s growing dominance in EV production is shifting global shipping routes and tariffs.• The Future of Global Shipping & Trade:• Why businesses are restructuring supply chains and increasing regional manufacturing to mitigate risks.• Predictions for the next decade of global trade digitisation—from real-time customs clearances to AI-driven supply chain forecasting. With supply chains more unpredictable than ever, John Wegman offers expert insights on how businesses can navigate customs, tariffs, and digital transformation in an increasingly complex world. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the podcast. Follo the UKs leagues business magazine Business Matters for more in-depth discussions on trade, finance, and global business trends.

In the latest edition of 'In Conversation: The Business Matters podcast,' join host Richard Alvin as he delves deep into the intricacies of the UK organic farming sector with none other than Guy Singh Watson, the visionary founder of Riverford Farm. In this captivating episode, listeners will gain invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing organic farming in the UK, particularly amidst the complexities of post-Brexit landscapes and the looming spectre of margin pressures. Through a thought-provoking dialogue, Richard and Guy explore the pivotal role of clear government leadership in safeguarding the future of organic farming. With Guy's wealth of experience and expertise, listeners will uncover the nuanced dynamics shaping the agricultural sector and gain a comprehensive understanding of what lies ahead for UK farmers. Tune in to this enlightening discussion to discover the indispensable perspectives on the future trajectory of UK agriculture, and gain invaluable knowledge on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable farming practices.

Richard Alvin sits down with Gareth Scargill from University of Leeds’, Nexus and we thank episode sponsor M&S Corporate Gifts, for more information Visit ⁠marksandspencerforbusiness.com⁠ Now innovation hubs are stepping in to help startups overcome their challenges. One of these pioneering resources is University of Leeds’, Nexus. Here, expert academics advise the surrounding region’s young, innovative businesses - including on best routes to funding and how to scale up rapidly. Members can also take advantage of state-of-the-art labs and office spaces, which further enhance their chances of success. Crucially, Nexus also helps overseas startups bring their offer to Yorkshire and UK markets and promote them there, fostering and maintaining vibrant international trading relationships.