We’ve officially reached the 100th episode of Beyond the Water Cooler! It’s a perfect moment to pause and reflect on not just how far we’ve come, but where we’re headed when it comes to the future of work.
To celebrate this milestone, I’ve brought together three brilliant guests, each an industry leader from a different sector: Sarah Foster from law (Freeths Oxford), Jamie Purcell from hospitality (Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons), and Crissie Gizzi from construction (Morgan Sindall). Together, we open the lid on how leadership and work culture are evolving across fields that may appear worlds apart but share strikingly similar challenges and opportunities.
A common thread emerges throughout our discussion: uncertainty is both a reality and a catalyst for change. Skills shortages, technology integration, evolving employee expectations, and the unknowns ahead make it more important than ever for leaders to foster cultures built on curiosity, empathy, and adaptability. Our guests share practical insights: from running meaningful check-ins and supporting wellbeing, to investing in learning, embracing hybrid working, and designing innovative ways to retain and develop people.
We talk candidly about what keeps us up at night—wellbeing, resilience, and how to prepare for the skills and confidence gaps of tomorrow. Yet there’s real excitement too, especially around diversity, inclusion, and learning from other industries. Whether it’s making workplaces accessible by investing in new transport routes, or shaping firm strategies that are truly influenced by staff voice, the future of work will belong to those who listen, adapt, and lead with openness.
If you want a glimpse into the challenges and joys of steering your team through uncertainty, and inspiration to build a thriving, high-performing culture—whatever your sector—this episode is for you. Here’s to being curious, empathetic, and, above all, human… even as the future keeps us on our toes.
Sarah manages Freeths Oxford office, is Joint National Head of the Freeths Private Client Services team and sits on their management board. She has 30 years' post-qualification experience of dealing with contentious trust and probate disputes and professional negligence claims. She is well known for her firm but fair approach to the resolution of disputes.
Sarah is a member of the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS) and the Professional Negligence Lawyers Association (PNLA). She is also an affiliate member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).
She is listed as an Eminent Practitioner in Chambers and Partners (2025 edition) for both professional negligence and private wealth disputes. She is also a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 (2025 edition) being recognised as a Leading Partner for Private Client – Contentious Trusts and Probate.
Having grown up in the Cotswolds and beginning his career in country house hotels, Jamie moved to London for 12 years to take up sales roles in hotels such as Rocco Forte Hotels, The Langham London and Corinthia London. He has recently returned to his country roots, assuming the role of Director of Sales at Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons, a
