Manufacturing Leaders

Hosted by Mark Bracknall

Business Management Entrepreneurship

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Episodes

128

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

Currently the Number 1 Manufacturing Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Mark Bracknall, Founder of Theo James Recruitment is the host of Manufacturing Leaders. The UK is still a powerhouse in Manufacturing & Engineering. We speak to those who are helping to make those firms a success. By motivating, inspiring and managing teams. Are you new to management? Are you keen to hear from those who are dealing with the same day-to-day challenges you are facing? In this podcast we get inside the minds of the Managers in Manufacturing & Engineering, and understand how they get the best our of their teams and make Manufacturing & Engineering great.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 1846 min

AI, Automation and the Future of Engineering Leadership

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

May 28, 2026Episode 1749 min

What the Best Leaders do Differently

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

May 21, 2026Episode 1658 min

Webinar: Employment Rights Act 2025: What HR Teams Need to do Now

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

May 7, 2026Episode 1559 min

The Reality of Startup Life in Manufacturing & Engineering

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

April 2, 2026Episode 1453 min

Leadership Without Ego: Why the Best Leaders Work from Within

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

March 19, 2026Episode 1349 min

The Leadership Shift: Helping Engineers Step Up and Stand Out

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

March 5, 2026Episode 1248 min

172 Years of Leadership: Building a Business That Lasts

Send us Fan MailWhat 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.

February 18, 2026Episode 1152 min

Building a World-Class Business from the North East

Send us Fan MailIn 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.

January 29, 2026Episode 1045 min

Unlocking the Secrets of Manufacturing Efficiency

Send us Fan MailIn the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, we’re joined by Mark Greenhouse - a highly experienced manufacturing consultant who’s spent years working hands-on in the industry.Mark’s career spans from high-speed food production to advising factories across a wide range of manufacturing environments. Along the way, he’s built a deep understanding of how factories really work - from improving productivity and efficiency to getting business models and operations properly aligned.In this episode, Mark shares practical strategies that can seriously lift factory performance - in some cases by as much as 40%! We dig into how to spot bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and why the way a business is set up can have a huge impact on manufacturing efficiency.We also talk about the everyday challenges manufacturing leaders face and how to tackle production constraints head-on. Mark explains why things like order frequency and readiness matter more than you might think, and how understanding them can help factories run far more smoothly.Drawing on real-world experience, Mark makes the case for focusing on time rather than cost, and rethinking traditional process control to keep up with changing market demands. It’s a packed conversation full of practical insights to help leaders rethink their approach and unlock hidden potential on the factory floor. An absolute must-listen if you’re a manufacturing leader looking to boost productivity, tackle bottlenecks, and get more out of your existing operations - without adding complexity or cost.You can connect with Mark on LinkedIn right 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.

January 15, 2026Episode 944 min

What Great Leadership Really Looks Like in the Modern Workplace

Send us Fan MailIn the latest episode of the Manufacturing Leaders podcast, Mark is joined by Krystina Snowden, HR Manager at Blachford, for an honest and insightful conversation about what modern leadership really looks like - and why people-first cultures matter more than ever.Together they explore how leadership has evolved from command-and-control management to creating safe, supportive environments where people are encouraged to grow, learn from mistakes, and ultimately thrive. Krystina shares her journey into HR, the realities of managing people in manufacturing environments, and why the best leaders aren’t afraid of developing people who may one day take their place.The conversation dives into key workplace challenges including:The importance of strong onboarding and early supportWhy training managers in people skills is just as vital as technical abilityHow businesses can create more open cultures around mental healthThe role HR plays in empowering managers rather than just enforcing policyWhy trust, communication, and giving people a genuine voice drives retention and engagement From mental health awareness to employee forums, from difficult conversations to building trust at every level of a business, this episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone responsible for building stronger teams.A thoughtful, real-world discussion on how leadership done well doesn’t just improve performance - it changes lives.Tune in to learn how robust HR practices and leadership approaches can transform workplace culture. Click here to connect with Krystina 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.