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In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with James Bagley, Managing Partner at PKF Smith Cooper, and Dr Mel Bull, Director of Executive Education and MBA Programmes at Nottingham Business School, to explore why developing future talent has become one of the biggest challenges facing employers today. From workforce shortages to leadership development, they discuss what businesses need to do now to attract, retain and nurture the people who will drive future success.

Timings

[00:00:00] Guest introductions

[00:01:19] Why businesses need to focus on talent pipelines now

[00:03:20] Developing leaders beyond technical expertise

[00:04:17] What young people are looking for from employers today

[00:06:26] The value trainees bring to an organisation

[00:07:28] Encouraging fresh thinking and innovation in the workplace

[00:11:21] Building future leaders through development programmes

[00:13:41] James Bagley's career journey and lessons in progression

[00:15:46] Cross-department collaboration and employee retention

[00:20:33] Does investing in training encourage employees to leave?

[00:25:05] The role of universities and employers in developing talent

[00:29:45] Rapid recommendations – supporting the next generation of talent

[00:31:23] Closing reflections and key takeaways

This episode explores why talent development has become such a critical issue for employers. James and Mel discuss the workforce challenges facing businesses, the importance of developing future leaders and how organisations can build stronger talent pipelines. They also share practical insight into attracting and retaining employees, creating opportunities for growth and empowering people to challenge established ways of working. Throughout the discussion, they highlight why investing in people is no longer optional for businesses looking to thrive in the future.

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AI may dominate the headlines, but successful technology investment isn't about chasing the latest trend. It's about choosing the right tools, implementing them effectively and ensuring your people, processes and governance keep pace.

In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with Paul Howard, Managing Director of PKF Infuse, and Blake Fine, Managing Director of Servtron Group, to explore how technology is shaping business performance, from the challenges of implementation to the opportunities created by emerging technologies and AI.

Timings

[00:00:00] Introductions and background

[00:02:13] The moment businesses realise they need better technology

[00:05:24] Choosing the right technology

[00:07:23] Beyond the AI hype

[00:10:58] Why technology projects fail

[00:14:54] Getting teams to embrace change

[00:17:41] Measuring return on investment and AI in business

[00:21:09] The future of technology and AI in business

[00:25:23] Closing reflections and key takeaways

Paul and Blake discuss the challenges that often come with implementing new systems, including securing employee buy-in, managing costs and maintaining strong governance, while cutting through some of the hype surrounding AI. Throughout, they offer practical insights on choosing the right solutions, avoiding common pitfalls and creating a technology strategy that delivers real value. Whether you're considering a new software investment or looking to make better use of the tools you already have, this conversation offers valuable advice for business leaders looking to grow with confidence.

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In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with two leading voices from the Midlands business community, Gavin West, VAT & Indirect Taxes Partner at PKF Smith Cooper, and Rick Blackmore, Director of Policy and Insight at East Midlands Chamber, for a candid conversation about the realities, challenges and opportunities of doing business in the region today.

Timings:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and overview of the Midlands
• [00:00:24] Guest introductions and how they support Midlands businesses
• [00:02:35] What makes the Midlands unique as a business region
• [00:05:43] Key strengths and competitive advantages of Midlands businesses
• [00:08:39] Biggest challenges facing organisations in the current economy
• [00:11:25] Impact of rising costs, employment trends and AI adoption
• [00:13:18] Government policy, taxation and barriers to growth
• [00:14:14] Trade challenges, Brexit impact and export complexity
• [00:18:15] Global opportunities and international market access
• [00:20:07] Infrastructure, Freeport developments and regional investment
• [00:24:33] Inward investment and global perception of the Midlands
• [00:29:22] Emerging growth sectors and future opportunities
• [00:33:02] Mindset, strategy and barriers to business growth
• [00:39:16] Rapid recommendations – advice for business leaders
• [00:40:40] Closing reflections and key takeaways

This episode explores what it really takes to do business and drive growth in the Midlands today. Gavin and Rick share a grounded view of the region’s strengths, from its entrepreneurial mindset and deep talent pool to its global supply chains and infrastructure. They also unpack the real challenges businesses are facing, including rising costs, policy pressures and the complexities of international trade. Throughout the conversation, they highlight where the biggest opportunities lie right now, from emerging sectors to global markets, and offer practical insight on how business leaders can think more strategically, invest with confidence and make the most of what the Midlands has to offer.