This week Nick talks to Charles Skinner

Charles Skinner is a leading authority on Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA). As CEO, he transformed a £3m business into a £100m exit and grew another company’s value 30-fold to £300m, earning AIM Company of the Year in 2016. He is currently the CEO of Restore PLC, and the author of Buy, Run, Build: A Guide to Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition. Charles also advises the ETA search fund Mentmore Associates and chairs four private companies.

Nick and Charles discuss Charles Skinner’s unconventional career path, beginning in investment banking before moving into venture capital, journalism and ultimately discovering his strengths in running and improving real businesses. Charles reflects on how he gradually shifted away from finance-led roles towards hands-on leadership, realising he was far more interested in building companies than simply analysing them. He and Nick explore the early stages of his journey, including lessons learned from missteps, the appeal of smaller operational businesses, and the importance of understanding people, staying humble and learning from failure.

They then turn to the rise, challenges and rebuilding of Restore, the company most associated with Charles’s leadership. Nick and Charles also explore themes such as entrepreneurship through acquisition, decentralised leadership, motivating teams, and managing crises with transparency and decisiveness. Charles illustrates these ideas with candid stories about leadership errors, boardroom politics and the importance of “running towards the gunfire” when problems arise.

Charles’s book choices were:
The Practice of Management by Peter F Drucker
https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/practice-of-management-the-book-peter-f-drucker-9780434903894

Parkinson's Law by C Northcote Parkinson
https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/parkinson-s-law-book-c-northcote-parkinson-9780140023664

Charles’s music choice was:
Bach: The Goldberg Variations played by Glenn Gould
https://open.spotify.com/album/1aCpHSQE5ghxibsQ5gkBe0

Charles' Book - Buy, Run, Build: A Guide to Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition - is available here

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Allan Lockhart

Allan Lockhart is the CEO of NewRiver REIT plc and has over 35 years of experience in the UK retail real estate sector. He began his career with Strutt & Parker in 1988, advising leading property companies and institutions on retail leasing, investment, and development. In 2002, he joined Halladale Plc as Retail Director, where he focused on identifying value-add opportunities within the UK retail market and delivering effective asset management strategies. Following Halladale’s successful sale in early 2007, Allan co-founded NewRiver, serving as Property Director from its IPO before being appointed Chief Executive Officer in May 2018.

Nick and Allan’s discussion focuses on the transformation of UK retail real estate and the future of the sector. Allan Lockhart, CEO of NewRiver REIT, reflects on his unconventional career path from insurance broking to property investment and how shifts in technology, e-commerce, and consumer behaviour have reshaped retail spaces. He explains the evolution from long-term leases to a more operationally driven market and champions omnichannel retailing — where physical stores complement online sales as critical “last-mile” distribution points. He highlights the enduring strength of convenience-led retail, retail parks, and grocery-anchored assets as consumers prioritize accessibility and efficiency.

The conversation then widens into economic and policy themes. Allan emphasizes the resilience of UK consumers amid inflation and high interest rates, buoyed by strong employment and elevated savings. He calls for decisive government fiscal reform to reduce debt and stimulate investment, particularly through business rate and stamp duty reforms that could unlock real estate growth. Looking ahead, he envisions NewRiver doubling in size through strategic acquisitions and data-driven decision-making, with AI and predictive analytics central to this growth.

Allan's Book Choices were:
The Outsiders : Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success by William N. Thorndike
The Fourth Turning Is Here by Neil Howe

Allan's Music Choice:
Sex Pistols -Anarchy in the UK

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Jeff Chatfield

Jeff Chatfield is the CEO of Avation, a publicly listed aircraft leasing company with a global portfolio of commercial and regional aircraft. He has over two decades of experience in the aviation finance industry, leading the company through multiple bond issues and strategic fleet expansions. Known for his pragmatic approach to capital management, Chatfield has built Aviation into one of the few small-scale lessors capable of issuing public bonds. Based between Singapore and London, he is recognised for his clear, data-driven insights into market trends and aircraft investment strategy.

In this episode Nick and Jeff discuss the company’s recent US$300 million bond issue and improved credit ratings from major agencies, marking a significant step forward since its earlier, lower-rated bonds. Jeff discusses how the refinancing provides long-term stability, enabling the company to continue its growth trajectory over the next five and a half years. He explains how the upgraded ratings reflect Aviation’s maturity and scale in a market where even US$20 billion is now considered small, while also noting the flexibility and strategic value of bonds for managing capital efficiently.

The discussion moves to fleet strategy, including the extended lease of a wide-body A330 to EVA Air and the company’s ongoing focus on narrow-body aircraft such as A320s and ATRs. Chatfield highlights the global demand for aircraft driven by replacement cycles and rising air travel in emerging economies such as India and China. He emphasises Aviation’s valuable order book and purchase rights, which position the company strongly amid limited aircraft supply.

Jeff's Book Choice was:
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Julian Roberts

Julian Roberts is an executive coach, author and podcast presenter known for his work in developing personal and organisational resilience.

In this episode, Nick and Julian talk through Julian’s varied career path — from studying medical sciences and starting out in pharmaceutical sales, to spending twenty years in the food industry with brands such as Heinz, before moving into executive coaching following a difficult corporate experience that led him to reassess his direction.

Julian explains how his interest in people and performance encouraged him to retrain as a coach and study psychology and neuro-linguistic programming. He describes how his coaching helps individuals and teams to gain clarity, challenge assumptions and take practical steps towards improvement. He also discusses how adaptability and learning, rather than persistence alone, are key to building resilience and improving both personal performance and workplace culture.

Julian's Book choice was:
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Julian music choice was:
“Intro” by The xx.

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Oktay Kavrak.

Oktay Kavrak is Head of Communications and Strategy at Leverage Shares, a European leader in exchange-traded products (ETPs). Oktay discusses the company’s mission to democratize access to investing, with over $1.5 billion in assets under management as of July 2024. He shares his professional journey from IBM and DeGiro to joining Leverage Shares in its early stages, helping pioneer leveraged ETFs across Europe.

Oktay explains how Leverage Shares introduced the first leveraged single-stock ETFs - products that offer amplified exposure to major names like Tesla, Nvidia, and Coinbase. Designed for short-term, tactical trading, these products allow investors to multiply daily movements of popular stocks while maintaining transparency and regulated exchange access. The discussion also highlights the rise of Income Shares, which generate monthly cash flow through covered call and cash-secured put strategies, offering investors both growth and yield opportunities. Notably, Leverage Shares’ 3x Tesla ETF has been the most traded ETF on the London Stock Exchange for three consecutive years, reflecting the strong retail demand for active, accessible trading tools.

Nick and Oktay look ahead, as OKtay predicts that the ETF industry will continue expanding, driven by retail participation, product innovation, and greater demand for diversified and income-generating strategies. As the market evolves, firms like Leverage Shares are bridging the gap between complex institutional strategies and retail accessibility—bringing structured, transparent products to investors worldwide.

Oktay's Book Choices where:
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed

Oktay's Music Choice was:
Coldplay

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this episode Nick talks to David Keene MBE

David Keene MBE, Founder & CEO of Aurrigo, is a leading figure in the automotive and autonomous vehicle industries. With nearly four decades of experience, David has been recognised as a driving force in the development of autonomous and electric vehicles, earning an MBE in June 2025 for his pioneering work to decarbonise airports through innovations such as the Auto-DollyTug, now in use at airports worldwide. A board member of the UK Automotive Council, Visiting Professor at Coventry University, and Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, David shares insights from his journey as an entrepreneur, innovator, and mentor nurturing the next generation of talent.

Nick and David discuss how Aurrigo is partnering with major airlines, airports, and ground handlers—including Heathrow, Schiphol, Changi, and Swissport—to deploy autonomous technology that reduces emissions and addresses post-COVID staffing shortages by automating repetitive, low-value tasks. David highlights why airports are the ideal proving ground for autonomy—operating at low speeds, under strict regulations, and within confined domains—and explains how AI supports vision systems while safety-critical driving remains rules-based.

The conversation also explores digital twins, airport electrification, and the next wave of autonomous applications, from cargo and baggage handling to security patrols, catering vehicles, and even remote-controlled passenger stairs. Offering insights into global scaling, competition with legacy ground support manufacturers, and the balance between innovation and safety, this discussion reveals how autonomous technology is reshaping airside operations and redefining the future of aviation logistics.

David's Book choices where:
The Warren Buffett Way by Robert G. Hagstrom
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter

David's music choice was:
Mr Blue Sky by ELO

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Peter York

Peter York is an author, broadcaster, journalist, management consultant and cultural commentator. He was Style Editor of Harper’s & Queen for ten years and co-authored The Official Sloane Ranger Handbook in 1982. He co-founded the consultancy SRU Ltd, later chaired a UK government Foresight committee on the future of leisure, and has written for The Independent on Sunday, GQ and Management Today.

Peter’s most recent books are The War Against the BBC: How an Unprecedented Combination of Hostile Forces Is Destroying Britain's Greatest Cultural Institution... And Why You Should Care and A Dead Cat on Your Table — which argues that Britain’s culture wars are waged by a shameless minority with no shortage of money or media access, battling society’s most vulnerable not for principle, but for money and political power.

Peter and Nick discuss Peter's inspiring mentors and working with major brands, media outlets, and designers while building his consultancy career. They also discusses the creation and cultural impact of the Sloane Ranger Handbook, its ties to 1980s London, and the social shifts of that era. Peter contrasts the old financial and advertising worlds with today’s technology-driven landscape, expressing concern about the decline of human connection, the rise of disinformation, and the role of AI in shaping public opinion. They also cover some of the themes of his book A Dead Cat on Your Table, which explores how culture wars and “othering” distract from real societal issues.

Peter's book choice was
The Three Musketeers Hardcover – by Alexandre Dumas

Peter's music choices where
Avalon by Roxy Music
Once in a Lifetime by Talking Heads

Subscribe to Peter's Podcast - Peter York's Culture Wars House Party

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Mike England

Mike holds a Master's Degree in Engineering and brings over 25 years of commercial and operational leadership experience in industrial product distribution and services. He spent eight years with FTSE100 RS Group plc, where he held key leadership roles including Group Chief Operating Officer, overseeing P&L across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Prior to that, he served as President of EMEA and, earlier, as Managing Director, successfully leading the turnaround of operations in the UK and Northern Europe. Before RS Group, Mike spent nine years at FTSE250 Brammer plc (now Rubix), where he was Key Account and Sales Director, following nine years at Rexel in a variety of commercial and operational leadership roles.

Nick and Mike discuss how Flowtech has been through a major transformation, bringing 17 brands together under one name and shifting the business from service issues to a more stable, profitable footing. Mike points to the relaunch of the company’s well-known fluid power catalogue and the launch of a new website that makes it easier for customers to buy online while showcasing the full range of products and services. They touch on the steady MRO market, the quick turnaround of recent acquisitions, and the fresh leadership team now in place. Looking ahead, Mike shares his optimism that with stronger foundations and a scalable model, Flowtech is well placed to grow as markets recover, both through its own improvements and selective acquisitions.

Mike's book choice was:
Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Mike's music choice was:
Don't You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.