Sales Leader Secrets

What does it mean to lead with trust and transform an organisation for the future? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats to Anne Unsworth, Head of Retail Operations at Dee Set: Complete Retail Solutions, master practitioner of NLP, and a passionate champion of people in commercial teams.Anne’s journey is a lesson in resilience and curiosity. From building her career at Master Foods (Mars), through two decades at Tactical Solutions supporting iconic brands in retail, to leading ESG strategy and championing diversity, her approach is founded on integrity, transparency, and the belief that people are at the heart of every successful business.If you’re interested in leading sustainable change and tapping into the power of communication, make sure you tune in.Here are the highlights: 00:00 Introduction: Anne’s career journey from hospitality to field marketing02:09 What is field marketing in retail?03:17 Leading ESG: sustainability and social responsibility05:10 Focusing on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion06:52 Anne’s first management role and building relationships07:32 How team meetings shaped her approach to leadership08:45 Learning every day in ESG12:39 The core leadership values: trust, transparency, and integrity13:58 How personal adversity shaped Anne’s leadership journey16:42 Discovering NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) and its impact17:51 Why the language we use matters in sales and leadership22:11 Training Tactical teams in NLP for confidence and communication23:31 Building team resilience and delivering change projects25:43 Advice for sales leaders: be authentic, encourage debate27:25 Anne’s sales leader's secret.Join us each month for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/​About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.​She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.​Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/​About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.​Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Anne Unsworth:With 25 years in the Grocery Retail industry, I have built a successful career in account and field performance management. Working with some of the UK’s biggest retailers and brands.I’ve also led...

What’s it like to build a career around changing the way we think about disability? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs talks with Esi Hardy, founder of Celebrating Disability and a leading voice on inclusion.Esi’s path has been far from typical. From training as an actress and working in performing arts in LA, to moving into health and social care, she’s now running her own business helping organisations and individuals create spaces where disabled people can thrive.If you’re interested in leadership with purpose and building workplaces where everyone belongs, this episode is worth a listen.Here are the highlights:00:00 Introduction04:50 Starting a business after leaving charity work06:42 Driving disability inclusion with Homes for Students09:53 Learning leadership through early challenges13:04 Building inclusive hiring practices18:48 Choosing value-driven clients and redefining authenticity at work22:40 Building a value-led pipeline through SEO and exploratory calls28:36 Disability activism shifted my mindset33:09 Faking It, Making ItJoin us each month for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/​About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.​She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.​Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/​About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.​Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Esi Hardy:Esi Hardy is the founder and Managing Director of Celebrating Disability, a consultancy established in 2017 to promote disability inclusion in workplaces. With a background in public services, social care, and the charity sector, Esi has consistently focused on advocating for the rights of disabled people. Her diverse career path includes experiences as a theatre actress and a psychodynamic counsellor, all unified by her commitment to disability advocacy.As she has cerebral palsy and identifies as a hybrid wheelchair user, Esi draws on her lived experience to highlight the barriers faced by disabled people. This perspective enriches her consultancy work, enabling organisations to implement strategies that foster truly inclusive environments.Celebrating Disability offers tailored services, including disability...

What does it take to lead a team of over 2,500 people and still keep things grounded? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats with Ella Cookson, a standout leader at Tropic Skincare. Ella’s story is one of resilience. After a tough few years, she rebuilt her confidence and has gone on to support thousands of ambassadors across the UK.Ella talks honestly about the ups and downs of leadership, how she’s grown her team, and what’s helped her stay true to herself along the way. You’ll hear how Tropic has shaped a fresh approach to direct selling, and why community and recognition matter more than ever.If you’re leading a team or thinking about taking that step, this one’s for you.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction 05:45 Preservative-free natural skincare (the tropic difference)09:17 Empowering women through skincare sales11:45 Empowering team leadership15:00 Letting go of control19:31 Using human design to unlock your power22:06 Understanding your team25:01 Empower and celebrate your team28:59 Sales leadership secrets revealedJoin us each month between August and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Ella CooksonI’m a mum of two young kids, a skincare enthusiast, and a proud ambassador for Tropic Skincare. I’m part of Tropic’s Diamond Advisory board, which means I get to help shape the future of one of the UK’s fastest-growing ethical beauty brands, while also supporting an incredible team of women to build flexible businesses around their lives.

Ever thought a farm field could turn into a five-star getaway? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats with Joanne Collinge, a former teacher who traded the classroom for a life on the family farm in Lancashire. What started as a challenge to bring in extra income has grown into Little Oakhurst Boutique Glamping, a rural retreat with serious charm.Joanne shares how she built the business from scratch, using creativity, second-hand materials, and sheer determination. With no background in sales or marketing, she learned as she went, often with her daughter by her side guiding her through social media.Listen to hear how Joanne turned a side project into a standout brand, what it’s really like running a business with your family, and why keeping it personal has made all the difference.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction 02:08 A career crossroads, from the classroom to the farm05:14 Glamping begins: A naive idea, and taking a bold leap07:58 Growing with grit: Building with scrap and story10:32 Leading as a family: roles, respect, and Rr16:43 Standing out in sales: Marketing & ‘Four in a Bed’ fame19:34 Values-driven leadership: respect, autonomy, and mistakes welcome22:15 Looking ahead: vision, sustainability, and boutique growthJoin us each month between July and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Joanne CollingeJoanne is a former teacher turned entrepreneur who left the classroom to create a one of a kind glamping site built from upcycled materials on her family farm. Passionate about sustainability and the great outdoors, Joanne's innovative retreat has won multiple awards and even been on TV.  She thrives on connecting people with nature. Find out more: https://www.littleoakhurst.com/

Have you ever wondered how a small food startup with just four people became one of the UK’s leading names in the food-to-go industry? In this episode of Sales Leaders’ Secrets, Amanda Downs sits down with Lee Personius, founder and CEO of Tugo.From humble beginnings in a rundown trading estate, Lee has grown Tugo into a £22 million business and he’s aiming to double that in the next decade. He shares how he secured early investment, won over big customers, and maintained a close-knit team culture along the way.Tune in to learn more about leadership, growth, and why celebrating with pizza matters more than you think.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction 05:16 Early stage mistakes and growth06:56 Startup journey with key support11:23 Balancing family feel & performance13:47 Why some people are built to be entrepreneurs18:39 Developing a softer leadership style over time21:48 Reliable support in tough times24:28 Caution in crisis27:54  Be clear on what you doJoin us each month between May and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Lee Personius: Lee Personius is the Founder & CEO of Tugo Food, a forward-thinking foodservice company on a mission to make great food more accessible, sustainable, and adaptable. Tugo works with partners across the food industry to deliver smart, flexible food solutions that meet the demands of modern service without compromising on quality or values.Under Lee’s leadership, Tugo has grown into a purpose-driven business that doesn’t just talk the talk. They’re proud to be a certified B Corp, a Gold-accredited Investors in People organisation, a Times Best Places to Work honouree, and a National Living Wage Employer. That people-first, sustainability-focused mindset is baked...

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to unlock the leadership potential in others and transform lives through a career in direct sales? In this episode of Sales Leaders' Secrets, host Amanda Downs sits down with Babette Ogden, a seasoned direct selling leader whose journey spans from her early days at Avon in South Africa to her current role as Regional Sales Manager for The 1:1 Diet (formerly Cambridge Weight Plan). Together, they dive into Babette’s inspiring story, unpack the unique challenges and life-changing impact of direct selling, and explore why building relationships and fostering confidence are at the heart of effective sales leadership. Make sure you tune in to listen to Babette’s sales leader secrets. Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction04:18 Launching a UK brand with American training08:43 Expanded the consultant network from 2,500 to nearly 8,00012:39 Build confidence through public speaking, foster genuine caring relationships over direct selling14:00 Direct selling is about making a difference in people's lives17:08 There is equal opportunity in direct selling25:53 Believe in yourself, be brave, and stay true to your values28:35 Unlocking potential through leadership.Join us each month between May  and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Babette Ogden:I've spent the last 35 years in the direct selling industry, and I still wake up every day excited about what I do. This business has given me the chance to help people change their lives—whether it’s finding more freedom, building confidence, or reaching financial goals. I'm incredibly proud to be the recipient of the 2019 DSA award for Excellence in Field Sales Development, one of the highlights of my career, but what means the most to me is seeing others grow and succeed through this amazing...

Are you ready to redefine your sales leadership approach? Join your host, Amanda Downs, as she sits down with Katey Coleman, Associate Director at Carl Zeiss. With over seventeen years of experience, Katey shares her journey from being a young sales manager at only 20, to leading cross-functional teams today. Discover her secrets to maintaining team engagement, fostering emotional intelligence, and navigating the challenges of stakeholder management. Whether you're on the cusp of your leadership journey or looking to refine your skills, this episode is full of insights that will elevate your sales leadership. Tune in and unlock new strategies to empower your team and achieve business success!Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction03:37 Keeping remote teams engaged08:46 The importance of understanding the people around you13:49 Advice for effective stakeholder management18:24 Leading with authenticity and vulnerability 23:53 Katey's tips for future sales leadersJoin us each month between April and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Katey Coleman:With over 17 years of commercial leadership experience in the fast-paced FMCG sector, Katey Coleman has mastered the art of driving exceptional business results while leading with authenticity.Throughout her distinguished career, Katey has successfully led field teams, national account managers, and entire commercial functions for some of the industry's most prestigious blue-chip manufacturers. Today, she brings this wealth of expertise to the optical industry, where her strategic vision continues to create meaningful impact.What truly distinguishes Katey is her unwavering commitment to authentic and vulnerable leadership. She firmly believes this approach represents not merely a passing trend, but the future of effective leadership. Katey genuinely walks the...

What drives successful sales leaders to embrace change and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs talks to Pete Gillett, a pioneer in CRM systems and lead management, to uncover the secrets behind leading customer connections and fostering team motivation. Discover how Pete's journey to becoming a dynamic sales leader offers invaluable insights into nurturing a productive workplace culture and leveraging the power of personalised marketing in the digital age. Get ready to be inspired by a leader who not only champions innovation but also values the importance of a supportive and health-conscious team environment.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction06:44 COVID impacted fundraising significantly08:53 B2B marketing often neglects lead management despite high exhibition spending13:23 They appreciate constant change and development.16:46 We allow flexible operation with clear objectives, focusing on outcomes and direction despite changes.17:49 Leaders should slow down and focus on listening to others 23:15 Lead with fairness, honesty, and hard work27:04 Just do it; success often follows overcoming initial fear and loneliness.27:53 Choosing a business partner requires complementary skills to ensure success and avoid conflicts.32:10 Personalised handwritten notes stand out and are valued over generic emails. Join us each month between March and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda Downs:Amanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Pete Gillett:Pete Gillett is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and industry leader with over four decades of experience in database marketing and CRM. He is the CEO and founder of Zuant, a pioneering company launched in 2007 that specialises in CRM applications for mobile devices. Under Pete’s visionary leadership, Zuant has become a leading provider of tools that enable businesses to

Curious about the secrets behind a thriving family business in the world of vitamins and supplements? Amanda Downs sits down with Holly Thallon Steenson, the Managing Director at Viridian Nutrition, the UK’s leading brand in pure vitamins and supplements. Holly shares her unique journey from event management to stepping into her family's business, emphasising the importance of values, curiosity, and championing causes that matter. This episode offers invaluable sales insights and motivational advice. Join us and learn how to cultivate purpose, passion, and success in your business journey!Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction05:56 Transitioning to a family business10:30 Team communication during times of change14:54 Overcoming self-doubt with mentorship19:48 Cultivating a connected company culture24:31 Leadership and family in businessJoin us each month between March and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire Partnership:Uspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Holly Thannon Steenson:Holly has grown up in the natural products industry and carved out her own career in business and events management, before following in the footsteps of her mother and Viridian Nutrition Founder and Co-owner Cheryl Thallon into the ethical vitamin company. With her hands-on approach to retail and technology, and enthusiasm for the specialist natural products sector, Holly is making her own mark at Viridian. She regularly gives presentations and industry insights into good practice to support and enhance specialist health retail offering.Holly’s values and beliefs are firmly rooted in sustainable, environmentally friendly and ethical health solutions, which form the Viridian mission. Her fresh approach enables her to connect with the current wave of ethically conscious shoppers. In 2024, on the company’s 25th anniversary, Holly stepped into the role of second generation managing director, continuing the Viridian mission of nourishing health and...

Unlock the secrets of sales leadership with Os Quiros, a sales visionary who transformed his career from selling shoes in his school holidays to becoming the CEO of National Organic Products. In this episode your host Amanda Downs sits down with Os to talk about his remarkable journey, exploring the wisdom and strategies he gathered along the way. From his early steps in sales at Colgate-Palmolive to reshaping team dynamics at Kerry Foods, Os's experiences offer insights to any sales leader aspiring to inspire and drive success. Join us for a conversation filled with lessons on leadership, culture transformation, and personal growth! Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction01:59 Os' sales leadership journey07:23 Sales strategy challenges and evolution14:29 Empowering team responsibility and growth19:15 Relying on the team around you24:23 Values and principles for effective leadership30:23 Personal development and reflections33:45 Os' sales leaders' secretsJoin us each month between February and November for the Uspire webinar series “Become a Better Leader” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you achieve sustainable growth that lasts. https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/become-a-better-leader-webinar-series/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Os Quiros:Os is an experienced FMCG leader with over 28 years in the Drinks, Food, and Health & Beauty industries. As CEO of National Organic 160 Products, he is focused on driving the expansion of the Bunalun brand across the UK and Europe, looking to make organic food more accessible while ensuring consumers can enjoy high-quality, great-tasting, and nutritious organic meals.Before leading National Organic 160 Products, Os held senior leadership roles in Ireland at Kerry Group and Pilgrim’s Food Masters, navigating the fast-paced world of Meats & Dairy while building high-performing teams and delivering consistent growth for some iconic food brands like Dairygold, Denny and Cheestrings.Passionate about innovation, sustainability, and talent development, Os has

What are the secrets behind running one of the world’s most iconic department stores? Amanda sits down with Anna Moir, the Deputy Retail Director at Harrods, who shares her extensive knowledge gleaned from three decades in the industry. From core leadership qualities to harnessing talent during peak times, and the importance of authentic leadership, Anna provides invaluable advice for aspiring retail leaders. Tune in to uncover the intricacies of retail management, especially during peak times and learn what it takes to thrive in such a dynamic environment. Join us for an episode rich in wisdom, practical tips, and inspirational adviceHere are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction05:12 Dream job: Leading Harrods' iconic food hall.08:09 Strategically position talent for success during peak season.11:20 Leading COVID at John Lewis was transformative.13:54 Hybrid work model allows remote and on-site work, balancing safety and connectivity.18:55 Discombobulated? Use internal guardrails and collaborate.21:09 Build relationships, invest in your team, and trust intuition.25:28 Supportive managers gave me opportunities, encouragement, and belief.31:39 Stay attentive to your team's subtle cues.About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Anna Moir:Let me introduce myself as Anna Moir, currently loving the last two years as Deputy Retail Director at Harrods. I am lucky as Retail has afforded me a fantastic career, where I have lead shops for most days of my 30 years in Retail. In fact having worked for House of Fraser, Selfridges, Waitrose & John Lewis, I have always fulfilled both operational roles in central functions and roles at the sharp end in shops. I would describe myself as an authentic leader and stand by this approach to achieve the best outcomes, enabling me to lead with energy, integrity & resilience during my many roles and challenges. I am also proud to feel genuine joy from leading teams, who achieve great things together. I am committed to operational excellence and thrive with cross functional working and foster great stakeholder relationships.I still enjoy the customer centricity of my roles and ensuring every decision I make has the customer needs at the forefront. Role modelling personal & organisational...

Unlock the secrets to becoming an extraordinary sales leader with insights from Shaun Smith, General Manager at Birds Eye UK and Ireland. Hosted by Amanda Downs, we're getting into the essence of mastering sales and leadership basics, the necessity of relentless improvement, and the unrivalled value of passion and authenticity in your professional journey. Shaun shares his 20+ years of expertise, stories of significant career milestones, and his heartfelt advice on leadership, customer relations, and creating a lasting positive legacy. Here are the Highlights:05:53 Understanding business end-to-end on tight margins.11:57 Competitors and change drive innovation and adaptability.14:46 Coaches and mentors significantly influenced Shaun's leadership.18:29 Authenticity improves success in larger organisations.22:32 How Shaun's grandfather's advice influenced him.24:56 Master the basics and take true accountability.27:12 Sell passionately, work hard, lead purposefully, and inspire growth.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series “Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Shaun Smith:Shaun has over 20 years of FMCG experience having worked in numerous commercial roles on some of the UK & Ire’s most loved and recognisable brands including Waburtons, Lurpak, Cravendale, Aunt Bessies and more recently Birdseye and Goodfella’s Pizzas. Today he leads the Birdseye UK & Ire commercial business as their General Manager. He is a people-centric leader who relishes leading teams to realise their potential by working collaboratively and cross-functionally with customers to grow both for categories and brands.Produced by

How can a leadership philosophy centred around kindness, integrity, and genuine care make you a pioneer? Amanda Downs sits down with Charly Andrews, a revolutionary leader who turned a stadium into a hub of community resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. From transforming locations to orchestrating unforgettable events and concerts, Charly shares her unique insights on building meaningful relationships, leading with kindness, and thriving through challenges. Tune in to discover how mastering the art of empathy and authenticity can skyrocket your success in sales and leadership.Here are the Highlights:06:26 How Charly managed sales during the pandemic.11:20 Choosing artists based on audience spending habits.15:21 Establishing permanent showgrounds for annual events.17:51 Charly's passion for making a difference through smiles.21:53 Trust and empower your team for success.23:25 Unkind leadership teaches the importance of kindness and support.27:24 Authenticity builds trust in sales and leadership.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series “Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Charly Andrews: Head of Commercial Sales at the Bath and West Showground, Charly Andrews is a passionate leader, with a strong desire to not only excel, but also inspire others to do so. Winner of the miaList Individual of the Year 2023, Charly focuses on excellent revenue results paired with the wellbeing of others, where a real passion for breaking the mental health stigma really shines through. From being called ‘too emotional’ to battling her own mental health struggles, Charly is proving that there is strength in vulnerability.Connect with Charly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlyandrews/Produced bya...

Join us as we explore the business of vertical farming. Amanda sits down with Jon Cummings - a seasoned leader who has seamlessly navigated between retail buying and supply chain management. He brings a wealth of experience to the ever-evolving world of vertical farming. Sharing stories from his time in the meat industry, his strategic moves across major players like Kerry Foods and Morrisons, and his latest venture as the Commercial Director of Fisher Farms. Tune in to discover the secrets behind his success, as he reveals the art of cross-functional collaboration, the nuances of leading diverse teams, and the revolutionary potential of vertical farming. Here are the Highlights:05:35 How working at Asda shaped my business perspective.09:19 Kerry Foods excels in cross-functional collaboration.11:19 Managing brands vs. own label contracts differ.19:40 New job, same pattern. 20:26 Working at an innovative agri tech startup.24:11 Impostor syndrome when changing jobs.27:43 Understanding diverse skills and building complementary teams.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series “Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Jon Cummings:James joined NESI in 2022, bringing over 17 years of extensive experience in FMCG. With a background in commercial and marketing roles across retail, online, food service, and horeca channels, he has a profound understanding of consumer dynamics.Focused on consumer-centric strategies, James is dedicated to leading and developing high-performing teams. He is passionate about fostering engagement throughout the organisation to drive optimal outcomes for NESI, our customer partners, and our teams.He holds an MBA from Alliance Business School, further...

Uncover the secrets behind successful commercial strategies and powerful storytelling to boost your sales. Amanda chats to Sue McVie about her extensive career - from her initial field sales role at McVitie's to becoming a visionary trade marketing director at Walkers and beyond. Tune in to learn how Sue blends extroverted energy with introverted reflection, combats imposter syndrome with data, and emphasises the transformative power of storytelling in sales.Here are the Highlights:04:07 Transitioning to leadership: understanding diverse leadership styles.09:37 Learning leadership on the job through authenticity.13:19 Coping with self-doubt through data and reflection.23:52 Engaging consumers with aspirational branding.28:15 Lead with vision and provide a clear strategic framework.31:49 Empowerment and confidence stem from supportive leadership.34:46 Trained, diverse teams in effective storytelling techniques.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series “Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Sue McVie:Sue is a purpose-led growth leader with a passion for unlocking the potential in both people and ideas. She has worked in a range of commercial, marketing and general management leadership roles for leading UK businesses including United Biscuits, Coca Cola, Pepsico, Vodafone & Kerry Foods. Latterly Sue was the MD for Pilgrim’s UK branded business, leading a £250m portfolio of well-known brands including Richmond and Fridge Raiders in addition to a portfolio of SME businesses - Rollover and Oakhouse Foods. Most recently Sue has taken up the role of Group MD for The Ignite Group, a portfolio of performance marketing agencies that help clients expand their customer base to drive sales.

We are exploring the highs and lows of sales leadership in this episode of Sales Leader Secrets. Amanda Downs welcomes James Guy, the Group Commercial Director for New England Seafood, who shares his remarkable transition from archaeology to leading some of the UK's most prominent brands. James shares his unique insights, hard-earned lessons, and transformative strategies that have propelled him to the forefront of the sales industry. Whether you're steering a sales team or aspiring to new heights in your career, listen to gain insight from James’s sales leadership journey.Here are the Highlights:01:15 From management and cross-functional roles.04:01 Cohesion, strategy, structures and processes.12:54 Managing major supply-demand challenges through teamwork.15:32 Prioritising consumer engagement.18:34 Developing a commercial academy enhances teamwork and engagement.23:02 Life is a continuous learning and evolving journey.27:35 Know yourself deeply, dream big and understand others.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series “Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About James Guy:James joined NESI in 2022, bringing over 17 years of extensive experience in FMCG. With a background in commercial and marketing roles across retail, online, food service, and horeca channels, he has a profound understanding of consumer dynamics.Focused on consumer-centric strategies, James is dedicated to leading and developing high-performing teams. He is passionate about fostering engagement throughout the organisation to drive optimal outcomes for NESI, our customer partners, and our teams.He holds an MBA from Alliance Business School, further enriching his strategic capabilities and leadership acumen.Connect with James: a...

Unlock the secrets of sales success with powerhouse Clare Bocking. From her early days selling household names like Uncle Ben’s, Dolmio, Pepsi, and Robinsons, to leading a commercial team of over 80 people, Clare has navigated the intricate world of sales with expertise and charisma. In this episode, Amanda sits down with Clare to learn about her journey, insights, and the transformative power of authentic leadership and building a great sales team.Here are the Highlights:00:45 Performing arts laid the foundation for sales success.05:26 Managing stock and influencing depot managers was essential.06:57 Leadership requires explanation and adaptation.10:10 Align roles to individuals' strengths for success.15:07 Confidence is crucial for working mothers' success.17:00 Flexible working increases job opportunities for women.20:08 Basic foundational skills are increasingly undervalued.23:00 Human connection balances productivity and creativity.26:20 Inspire, support, enable brilliance, collective success.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series "Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Clare Bocking:Clare is a high-impact leadership consultant, passionate about accelerating performance, organisational productivity, growth and profit through people, culture and talent development.Having worked as a senior executive in the Grocery FMCG industry all her corporate career, Clare is now a commercial capability expert, executive coach and NED. She supports Aston University Business School, is a fractional CCO for small enterprises and as Chair of Women in Wholesale, is a champion for industry diversity.Connect with Clare:

From working the supply chain to becoming a formidable leader in sales - Ian Garrett, Category Commercial Director at Samworth Brothers, joins our host Amanda Downs to share his journey. They explore the shifting dynamics of the retail industry, and particularly how Brexit, COVID, and the cost of living crisis are reshaping the landscape. Ian sheds light on the frequent price movements and the necessity to adapt to ever-changing shopper habits. Join them as they discuss how to manage teams amidst cost increases, emphasising the importance of building resilience, maintaining morale, and adapting to the shift toward remote work and virtual customer engagements. Here are the Highlights:01:31 Transitioned from a customer-facing role and found sales passion.05:48 How do we get the best out of people?10:02 Diverse experiences in sales: exhilarating yet challenging.17:04 Effective leadership through communication, process, and support.21:44 Shift to engaging with customers, and managing remotely.24:34 Impact through listening, learning, and engaging genuinely.28:04 Authenticity, passion, and support drive team success.29:56 Don’t take power away from the sales team. Build trust, and communication.About Ian Garrett After spending his formative career years in Telecoms, Ian moved into the world of FMCG  working for major global food manufacturers in senior leadership & executive roles across Supply Chain, Operations, Commercial & General Management. From a Commercial perspective Ian has covered Brand, Private Label, Chilled & Frozen foods,  and most Retailers and Channels in the GB market.  Connect with Ian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-garrett-6658b632/ About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/Produced by Winter Audio.

What are the mechanics of successful sales leadership? Amanda sits with Cara Williams, Sales Director for Hobart UK, to explore the residual impacts of COVID on the sales industry, the art of managing customer expectations, and the pivotal role of clear communication in building high-performing teams. Cara brings a wealth of experience from her broad career with major brands, offering invaluable advice for aspiring sales leaders and sharing her journey of authenticity, empathy, and strategic leadership. Tune in as we uncover the secrets of thriving in the competitive world of sales with insights that are as practical as they are inspiring.Here are the Highlights:04:41 Thick skin, quick responses, no-nonsense approach.06:39 Leading, understanding, and developing diverse teams.11:12 Imposter syndrome hits hard in technical industries.18:33 Balancing team consistency and external perceptions challenges.20:15 Empathetic leaders focus on positivity and understanding.25:21 Importance of a strong, supportive network and allies.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She also leads Uspire's commercial leadership proposition.She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand experience of the commercial challenges you face. We develop leadership skills and commercial capabilities; delivering profitable growth and a sustainable legacy of change.Connect with Uspire:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uspire-ltd/About Cara Williams:Cara Williams, Sales Director at Hobart Equipment UK&I. A seasoned sales leader, who puts relationships and understanding the needs of people at the centre of her professional DNA.  Her sales career started off in car rental, before spending most of it working for large blue chip FMCG food and drinks manufacturers, most recently moving in the world of commercial kitchen equipment.  Cara’s sales approach focuses on finding the right solution for her customers that works for both businesses through collaborative ways of working.  E,D&I, supporting, and creating opportunities for others is a core value that Cara is deeply passionate about...

Amanda Downs sits down with Matthew Huffer, UK Market Director at Taylors of Harrogate, to talk about the dynamic world of sales leadership. Their conversation covers the challenges new sales leaders face, such as transitioning from manager to leader, and the importance of empowering team members to achieve results in their own unique ways. Matthew reflects on his 13-year journey at Taylors of Harrogate, where he has played a pivotal role in expanding the Yorkshire Tea brand to a commanding 40% of the UK market. As the newly appointed UK Market Director, he's spearheading efforts to integrate sales and marketing, nurture internal talent, and foster a culture that values genuine self-expression and continuous feedback. With invaluable insights on recruitment, leadership behaviour, and team cohesion, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories. So, tune in as we explore the secrets of thriving in a sales leadership role and creating an environment where both businesses and individuals can flourish.Here are the Highlights:01:28 Matthew Huffer's journey in sales leadership.11:01 Transitioning to leadership: coaching, guiding, protecting.16:40 Consciously managing and empowering team roles.21:26 Encouraging movement between functions for career growth.24:39 Encouraging internal recruitment and skill development.28:48 Disagreements stem from issues, not personal feelings.30:53 Filter pressure from above and exhibit pride to teams.33:24 Technical skills can be coached, but behaviour matters.Join us each month between September and January for the Uspire webinar series Build Your Commercial Leadership” and get valuable leadership frameworks and techniques to help you lead your team to sustainable revenue growth. Register here https://theuspiregroup.com/uspire-events/uspire-discover-build-your-commercial-leadership/About Mathew HufferMatthew loves the grocery industry and has been happily working in it for 33 years. He’s gathered plenty of commercial experience along the way (mostly good!) and enjoys sharing his enthusiasm with others.His career to date has seen him progress from graduate trainee (car selling lager in South-East London) to UK Market Director over a career spanning 33 years and 8 companies (namely Taylors of Harrogate, Baxters, Young's Seafood, Nestle, Burtons Foods, United Biscuits, RHM & Carlsberg).With a blue chip background & fantastic experience, he has succeeded where cultural fit rewards time spent considering how to meet the needs of consumers and customers, and most of all building great (& fun) commercial teams.About Amanda DownsAmanda Downs is Uspire's Director of Commercial Leadership and a commercial training and coaching expert. She has worked extensively in Europe, EMEA, the US, and Asia and is an accredited Insights Discovery practitioner. She produces the popular Sales Growth Expert blog and is currently writing her first sales leadership book.Connect with Amanda:Website: theuspiregroup.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandadowns2/About The Uspire PartnershipUspire challenge, energise and upskill leaders to set the stage for business transformation and commercial success. Members of the Uspire team are all industry professionals and have first-hand...