Shows
The Purposeful StrategistPorts as the Backbone of a Resilient EconomyIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Geraint Evans, Chief Executive Officer of UK Major Ports Group—the organisation representing the UK’s nine largest port-owning groups, responsible for around three-quarters of the nation’s maritime trade. Sitting at the intersection of infrastructure, trade, and national resilience, UK Major Ports plays a critical role in shaping decisions that will influence the UK economy for generations. Since taking on the role in 2023, Geraint has brought a distinctive perspective shaped by senior experience in government and strategic consulting.Geraint shares how the ports sector is naviga...
2026-02-0531 min
The Purposeful StrategistBecoming The Most Human Law FirmIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Helen Drayton, CEO of Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP, a full-service UK and international law firm with more than 300 years of history. With offices across the UK, Europe, and Asia and FY25 revenue of £120 million, the firm is focused on purposeful growth, guided by its ambition to become ‘the most human law firm.’Helen shares how she is leading the firm through evolving client expectations, all while keeping people, values, and sustainability at the core of the firm’s decision-making. Helen also shines light on how the firm is...
2026-01-2900 minThe Purposeful StrategistBecoming The Most Human Law FirmIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Helen Drayton, CEO of Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP, a full-service UK and international law firm with more than 300 years of history. With offices across the UK, Europe, and Asia and FY25 revenue of £120 million, the firm is focused on purposeful growth, guided by its ambition to become ‘the most human law firm.’Helen shares how she is leading the firm through evolving client expectations, all while keeping people, values, and sustainability at the core of the firm’s decision-making. Helen also shines light on how the firm is...
2026-01-2929 min
The Purposeful StrategistCreating Beautiful PlacesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Douglas McCormick, Chief Executive Officer of Pegasus Group — one of the UK’s leading independent multidisciplinary development consultancies, bringing together planning, design, environment, infrastructure, and heritage. Since stepping into the role in 2024, Douglas has guided Pegasus through a period of strategic growth, building scale and capability while preserving what makes the firm distinctive: its boutique feel, deep expertise, and exceptional people.Douglas shares how Pegasus is expanding its services, strengthening its influence across the built environment, and growing client relationships that endure beyond any single individual. He r...
2026-01-2231 minThe Purposeful StrategistCreating Beautiful PlacesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Douglas McCormick, Chief Executive Officer of Pegasus Group — one of the UK’s leading independent multidisciplinary development consultancies, bringing together planning, design, environment, infrastructure, and heritage. Since stepping into the role in 2024, Douglas has guided Pegasus through a period of strategic growth, building scale and capability while preserving what makes the firm distinctive: its boutique feel, deep expertise, and exceptional people.Douglas shares how Pegasus is expanding its services, strengthening its influence across the built environment, and growing client relationships that endure beyond any single individual. He r...
2026-01-2200 min
The Purposeful StrategistTitleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks withJim Islam, Chief Executive Officer of OneFamily, one of the UK’s leading financial mutuals. With a 50-year history and 1.5 million customers, OneFamily exists to inspire better futures—helping individuals and families build long-term financial resilience through inclusive savings, investment, and protection products.Jim shares how OneFamily has reinvented itself while staying true to its founding purpose—diversifying its offerings, investing in technology, and redesigning customer experiences to make long-term financial products more accessible for new generations. He reflects on the challenge of leading transformation in a sector...
2026-01-1534 minThe Purposeful StrategistTitleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks withJim Islam, Chief Executive Officer of OneFamily, one of the UK’s leading financial mutuals. With a 50-year history and 1.5 million customers, OneFamily exists to inspire better futures—helping individuals and families build long-term financial resilience through inclusive savings, investment, and protection products.Jim shares how OneFamily has reinvented itself while staying true to its founding purpose—diversifying its offerings, investing in technology, and redesigning customer experiences to make long-term financial products more accessible for new generations. He reflects on the challenge of leading transformation in a sector...
2026-01-1500 min
The Purposeful StrategistScaling Mobility Without CharityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Joe Seddon, Founder and CEO of Zero Gravity — a mission-driven technology company helping talented students from low-income backgrounds reach elite universities and careers. What began with the last £200 of Joe’s student loan has become a fast-scaling organisation of 25 colleagues, more than 40 enterprise partners, and over 15,000 students supported into higher education.Joe explains how Zero Gravity has reimagined a sector traditionally dominated by charities by building a new commercial model. Through a mobile-first platform that turns university preparation into a habit, the company partners with institutions to id...
2026-01-0840 minThe Purposeful StrategistScaling Mobility Without CharityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Joe Seddon, Founder and CEO of Zero Gravity — a mission-driven technology company helping talented students from low-income backgrounds reach elite universities and careers. What began with the last £200 of Joe’s student loan has become a fast-scaling organisation of 25 colleagues, more than 40 enterprise partners, and over 15,000 students supported into higher education.Joe explains how Zero Gravity has reimagined a sector traditionally dominated by charities by building a new commercial model. Through a mobile-first platform that turns university preparation into a habit, the company partners with institutions to id...
2026-01-0800 min
The Purposeful StrategistTransforming Accessibility in TravelIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Jay Shen, Founder and CEO of Transreport, the purpose-driven technology company reshaping accessibility in travel. What began as a single conversation about inequality has grown into the Passenger Assistance app—now used across the UK rail network, recognised as one of the most accessible apps on iOS, and forming the foundation of Transreport’s rapid international expansion.Jay shares how Transreport’s mission—to remove barriers and make travel work for everyone—drives both the company’s product design and its culture. He reflects on the importance o...
2025-12-1834 minThe Purposeful StrategistTransforming Accessibility in TravelIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Jay Shen, Founder and CEO of Transreport, the purpose-driven technology company reshaping accessibility in travel. What began as a single conversation about inequality has grown into the Passenger Assistance app—now used across the UK rail network, recognised as one of the most accessible apps on iOS, and forming the foundation of Transreport’s rapid international expansion.Jay shares how Transreport’s mission—to remove barriers and make travel work for everyone—drives both the company’s product design and its culture. He reflects on the importance o...
2025-12-1800 min
The Purposeful StrategistReimagining the Legal Function at ScaleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Daniel Hayter, Managing Director and Vice President for Europe at Axiom Law, the global pioneer of flexible, on-demand legal talent. With more than 3,500 legal departments supported worldwide—and over 1,500+ legal professionals in Europe alone—Axiom is reshaping how in-house teams resource, scale, and adopt new technologies.Daniel shares how he’s helping steer Axiom through a rapidly evolving legal landscape shaped by economic pressures, technological disruption, and changing expectations from legal talent. He discusses Axiom’s four-pillar model, their ability to pilot and deploy AI tools at pace...
2025-12-1136 minThe Purposeful StrategistReimagining the Legal Function at ScaleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Daniel Hayter, Managing Director and Vice President for Europe at Axiom Law, the global pioneer of flexible, on-demand legal talent. With more than 3,500 legal departments supported worldwide—and over 1,500+ legal professionals in Europe alone—Axiom is reshaping how in-house teams resource, scale, and adopt new technologies.Daniel shares how he’s helping steer Axiom through a rapidly evolving legal landscape shaped by economic pressures, technological disruption, and changing expectations from legal talent. He discusses Axiom’s four-pillar model, their ability to pilot and deploy AI tools at pace...
2025-12-1100 min
The Purposeful StrategistPursuing an Original Purpose Through ChangeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Jeremy Butler, Chief Executive Officer of King Edward VII’s Hospital—one of London’s most prestigious independent hospitals, known for its exceptional care and longstanding charitable mission supporting veterans. Since taking on the role in early 2025, Jeremy has led the hospital through a period of strategic renewal, balancing clinical excellence with sustainability and purpose as it enters a new phase under Bupa ownership.Jeremy shares how the hospital is modernising its model while protecting what makes it distinctive: its ethos of compassion, equity, and service. He ref...
2025-12-0434 minThe Purposeful StrategistPursuing an Original Purpose Through ChangeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Jeremy Butler, Chief Executive Officer of King Edward VII’s Hospital—one of London’s most prestigious independent hospitals, known for its exceptional care and longstanding charitable mission supporting veterans. Since taking on the role in early 2025, Jeremy has led the hospital through a period of strategic renewal, balancing clinical excellence with sustainability and purpose as it enters a new phase under Bupa ownership.Jeremy shares how the hospital is modernising its model while protecting what makes it distinctive: its ethos of compassion, equity, and service. He ref...
2025-12-0400 minThe Purposeful StrategistFinancing Change: Building a Sustainable Future at BboxxIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Anthony Osijo, CEO of Bboxx, a data-driven super platform that transforms access to essential services across Africa. From clean energy and cooking to e-mobility and smartphones, Bboxx connects millions of people to the infrastructure that powers opportunity and improves quality of life.Since joining in 2022 to lead the company through a strategic reset, Anthony has guided Bboxx into a new phase of sustainable growth—expanding across multiple African markets, strengthening partnerships with governments and investors, and embedding advanced technology and AI into its operations. Drawing on ov...
2025-11-2700 min
The Purposeful StrategistFinancing Change: Building a Sustainable Future at BboxxIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Anthony Osijo, CEO of Bboxx, a data-driven super platform that transforms access to essential services across Africa. From clean energy and cooking to e-mobility and smartphones, Bboxx connects millions of people to the infrastructure that powers opportunity and improves quality of life.Since joining in 2022 to lead the company through a strategic reset, Anthony has guided Bboxx into a new phase of sustainable growth—expanding across multiple African markets, strengthening partnerships with governments and investors, and embedding advanced technology and AI into its operations. Drawing on ov...
2025-11-2735 minThe Purposeful StrategistScaling Taste and PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Simon Mitchell, CEO of KERB, a business redefining what it means to grow with purpose in the hospitality industry.Simon shares how KERB has evolved from a London street food collective into a dynamic ecosystem of food halls, incubators, and partnerships across the UK, US, and Europe. KERB has opened new locations this year in Canada Water, Berlin, and Spitalfields, while strengthening its social impact—donating over £1 million to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds start their own food businesses.This conversation explores:• How K...
2025-11-2000 min
The Purposeful StrategistScaling Taste and PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Simon Mitchell, CEO of KERB, a business redefining what it means to grow with purpose in the hospitality industry.Simon shares how KERB has evolved from a London street food collective into a dynamic ecosystem of food halls, incubators, and partnerships across the UK, US, and Europe. KERB has opened new locations this year in Canada Water, Berlin, and Spitalfields, while strengthening its social impact—donating over £1 million to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds start their own food businesses.This conversation explores:• How K...
2025-11-2034 minThe Purposeful StrategistSeeing the Possibility at WeightmansIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sarah Walton, Managing Partner of Weightmans LLP, one of the UK’s leading national law firms. With 1,700 colleagues across ten offices, Weightmans is on a journey from a UK Top 50 to a Top 30 firm—driven by its purpose to “see the possibility—for our clients and our colleagues.”Sarah shares how she’s leading the firm through growth, innovation, and cultural change while keeping people and purpose at the heart of every decision. For example, they cover the launch of CyExcel, an innovative US-based cyber services business, an...
2025-11-1300 min
The Purposeful StrategistSeeing the Possibility at WeightmansIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sarah Walton, Managing Partner of Weightmans LLP, one of the UK’s leading national law firms. With 1,700 colleagues across ten offices, Weightmans is on a journey from a UK Top 50 to a Top 30 firm—driven by its purpose to “see the possibility—for our clients and our colleagues.”Sarah shares how she’s leading the firm through growth, innovation, and cultural change while keeping people and purpose at the heart of every decision. For example, they cover the launch of CyExcel, an innovative US-based cyber services business, an...
2025-11-1336 min
The Purposeful StrategistLeading Through ChangeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Richard Corderoy, CEO of The Oakland Group, a consultancy helping organisations achieve more with their data.Since Richard’s last appearance in 2022, Oakland has achieved B Corp certification, joined the UK Government’s G-Cloud 13 framework, been named “Best Consultancy in the UK,” and been acquired by Softcat plc. Richard reflects on how the firm has navigated this transformation while keeping purpose and culture at the core.This conversation explores:• Why cultural alignment made the Softcat acquisition a natural fit.• Why Oakland decided to m...
2025-11-0634 minThe Purposeful StrategistLeading Through ChangeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Richard Corderoy, CEO of The Oakland Group, a consultancy helping organisations achieve more with their data.Since Richard’s last appearance in 2022, Oakland has achieved B Corp certification, joined the UK Government’s G-Cloud 13 framework, been named “Best Consultancy in the UK,” and been acquired by Softcat plc. Richard reflects on how the firm has navigated this transformation while keeping purpose and culture at the core.This conversation explores:• Why cultural alignment made the Softcat acquisition a natural fit.• Why Oakland decided to m...
2025-11-0600 min
The Purposeful StrategistRethinking Value: Patients, Properties, and PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Simon Betty, Head of Europe at Northwest Healthcare REIT, and Paul Lambert, Founding Director of Living Work Consulting and author of Alive: Cultivating Living Organizations for Success in a Digital Age.Together, they explore how healthcare real estate can move beyond bricks and mortar to become living systems that deliver better outcomes for patients, clinicians, and communities—while still meeting financial and stakeholder standards.In their conversation, they discuss:• How Northwest is shifting healthcare delivery from hospitals to community-based facilities that improve pathways and...
2025-10-3038 minThe Purposeful StrategistRethinking Value: Patients, Properties, and PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Simon Betty, Head of Europe at Northwest Healthcare REIT, and Paul Lambert, Founding Director of Living Work Consulting and author of Alive: Cultivating Living Organizations for Success in a Digital Age.Together, they explore how healthcare real estate can move beyond bricks and mortar to become living systems that deliver better outcomes for patients, clinicians, and communities—while still meeting financial and stakeholder standards.In their conversation, they discuss:• How Northwest is shifting healthcare delivery from hospitals to community-based facilities that improve pathways and...
2025-10-3000 min
The Purposeful StrategistRedefining Growth and Inclusion at HaysMacIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Natasha Frangos, Managing Partner at HaysMac, one of London’s top 10 audit firms. Since becoming the first woman to lead the firm in its 100+ year history, Natasha has overseen more than 80% growth, opened a new office in Cape Town, and guided a bold rebrand that reflects the firm’s innovative and collaborative spirit.Natasha shares how her journey from trainee to Managing Partner has shaped her leadership philosophy, and why nurturing talent, embedding inclusion, and setting a clear vision are central to HaysMac’s long-term success. From s...
2025-10-2335 minThe Purposeful StrategistRedefining Growth and Inclusion at HaysMacIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Natasha Frangos, Managing Partner at HaysMac, one of London’s top 10 audit firms. Since becoming the first woman to lead the firm in its 100+ year history, Natasha has overseen more than 80% growth, opened a new office in Cape Town, and guided a bold rebrand that reflects the firm’s innovative and collaborative spirit.Natasha shares how her journey from trainee to Managing Partner has shaped her leadership philosophy, and why nurturing talent, embedding inclusion, and setting a clear vision are central to HaysMac’s long-term success. From s...
2025-10-2300 min
The Purposeful StrategistFunding the Future: Investing in Female FoundersIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Sarah Turner, co-founder and CEO of Angel Academe, the UK’s most active network of female angel investors. Sarah has long been focused on getting more women investing and channeling capital into female-founded tech startups. Now, she’s taken a bold next step—launching the UK’s first EIS fund for female founders.Reflecting on the realities of today’s economic climate and the barriers to inclusive investment, Sarah shares how Angel Academe is helping women overcome red tape, build confidence, and invest collectively in breakthrou...
2025-10-1635 minThe Purposeful StrategistFunding the Future: Investing in Female FoundersIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Sarah Turner, co-founder and CEO of Angel Academe, the UK’s most active network of female angel investors. Sarah has long been focused on getting more women investing and channeling capital into female-founded tech startups. Now, she’s taken a bold next step—launching the UK’s first EIS fund for female founders.Reflecting on the realities of today’s economic climate and the barriers to inclusive investment, Sarah shares how Angel Academe is helping women overcome red tape, build confidence, and invest collectively in breakthrou...
2025-10-1600 minThe Purposeful StrategistLeading the Net Zero TransitionIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Mark Horsley, Chief Executive Officer of Northern Gas Networks, which serves 6.8 million people across Northern England and has become a leader in the UK’s net-zero transition. Since his last appearance in 2021, Mark has been driving bold change—investing £25 million in partnership with JCB, and leading major collaborations such as East Coast Hydrogen, a collaboration between National Gas, NGN, and Cadent to connect hydrogen production and storage with industrial users in the region.Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector, Mark shares how N...
2025-10-0900 min
The Purposeful StrategistLeading the Net Zero TransitionIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Mark Horsley, Chief Executive Officer of Northern Gas Networks, which serves 6.8 million people across Northern England and has become a leader in the UK’s net-zero transition. Since his last appearance in 2021, Mark has been driving bold change—investing £25 million in partnership with JCB, and leading major collaborations such as East Coast Hydrogen, a collaboration between National Gas, NGN, and Cadent to connect hydrogen production and storage with industrial users in the region.Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector, Mark shares how N...
2025-10-0937 minThe Purposeful StrategistRedefining Mobility for a Sustainable FutureIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sue Percy, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), a professional body at the heart of shaping the UK’s transport networks. From setting national standards to advocating for equitable, sustainable infrastructure, CIHT plays a crucial role in how people and goods move—safely, efficiently, and inclusively.Sue shares how her leadership blends long-term strategic vision with day-to-day pragmatism, ensuring that CIHT not only delivers on its purpose but also lives its values. She reflects on the sector’s progress since her last a...
2025-10-0200 min
The Purposeful StrategistRedefining Mobility for a Sustainable FutureIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sue Percy, Chief Executive of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT), a professional body at the heart of shaping the UK’s transport networks. From setting national standards to advocating for equitable, sustainable infrastructure, CIHT plays a crucial role in how people and goods move—safely, efficiently, and inclusively.Sue shares how her leadership blends long-term strategic vision with day-to-day pragmatism, ensuring that CIHT not only delivers on its purpose but also lives its values. She reflects on the sector’s progress since her last a...
2025-10-0237 minThe Purposeful StrategistRethinking AI in LawIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Rosie Djurovic, Head of AI at Brabners, a leading UK law firm. He met Rosie as part of our research on the ways law firms are deciding how to use AI. Since joining in 2024, Rosie has been shaping an ambitious AI strategy built on three core pillars: brand-led, client-centred, and AI-enabled.Brabners is taking a measured, people-focused approach to AI — starting from first principles to identify the real problems lawyers and clients face, then finding solutions that align with the firm’s broader goals. Sometimes those solu...
2025-09-2500 min
The Purposeful StrategistRethinking AI in LawIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Rosie Djurovic, Head of AI at Brabners, a leading UK law firm. He met Rosie as part of our research on the ways law firms are deciding how to use AI. Since joining in 2024, Rosie has been shaping an ambitious AI strategy built on three core pillars: brand-led, client-centred, and AI-enabled.Brabners is taking a measured, people-focused approach to AI — starting from first principles to identify the real problems lawyers and clients face, then finding solutions that align with the firm’s broader goals. Sometimes those solu...
2025-09-2537 minThe Purposeful StrategistRethinking ProcurementIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Ben Farrell MBE, Global Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), the world’s largest professional body for procurement and supply professionals, with over 70,000 members in 160 countries and 97 branches worldwide.CIPS plays a pivotal role in shaping resilient, ethical, and sustainable global supply chains — a profession now at the forefront due to shifting trade relationships and the weaponisation of supply chains. Ben shares how CIPS is helping countries thrive, raising standards, and closing global skills gaps while inspiring the next generation of procurement lead...
2025-09-1800 min
The Purposeful StrategistRethinking ProcurementIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Ben Farrell MBE, Global Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), the world’s largest professional body for procurement and supply professionals, with over 70,000 members in 160 countries and 97 branches worldwide.CIPS plays a pivotal role in shaping resilient, ethical, and sustainable global supply chains — a profession now at the forefront due to shifting trade relationships and the weaponisation of supply chains. Ben shares how CIPS is helping countries thrive, raising standards, and closing global skills gaps while inspiring the next generation of procurement lead...
2025-09-1833 minThe Purposeful StrategistEmpowering Exchange at Britain’s Busiest PortIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Doug Bannister, CEO of the Port of Dover, Europe’s busiest ferry port and a critical gateway for trade, travel, and tourism. Handling one-third of EU-UK commerce and facilitating £144 billion of trade annually, Dover is known for its unparalleled efficiency with inbound dwell times averaging just five minutes.Doug shares how his role as CEO blends operational excellence with long-term strategic vision, balancing the demands of national infrastructure, local communities, and global supply chains. From defining a clear purpose— ‘Empower Exchange’—to setting ambitious sustainability goals, he offers a...
2025-09-1100 min
The Purposeful StrategistEmpowering Exchange at Britain’s Busiest PortIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Doug Bannister, CEO of the Port of Dover, Europe’s busiest ferry port and a critical gateway for trade, travel, and tourism. Handling one-third of EU-UK commerce and facilitating £144 billion of trade annually, Dover is known for its unparalleled efficiency with inbound dwell times averaging just five minutes.Doug shares how his role as CEO blends operational excellence with long-term strategic vision, balancing the demands of national infrastructure, local communities, and global supply chains. From defining a clear purpose— ‘Empower Exchange’—to setting ambitious sustainability goals, he offers a...
2025-09-1132 minThe Purposeful StrategistSwimming Upstream: Redefining How Leaders Are FoundIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Kate Grussing CBE, Founder and Managing Director of Sapphire Partners, a pioneering executive search firm reshaping how organisations find and support exceptional leaders. Since launching in 2005, Kate has been challenging the “usual candidate” mindset — broadening searches to uncover hard-to-find individuals who inspire others, act as role models, and create long-term value.In their conversation, they discuss:How identifying the traits of high-performing teams led Kate to see gaps in the executive search market.Broadening strategy beyond the firm’s original focus on flexible...
2025-09-0400 min
The Purposeful StrategistSwimming Upstream: Redefining How Leaders Are FoundIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Kate Grussing CBE, Founder and Managing Director of Sapphire Partners, a pioneering executive search firm reshaping how organisations find and support exceptional leaders. Since launching in 2005, Kate has been challenging the “usual candidate” mindset — broadening searches to uncover hard-to-find individuals who inspire others, act as role models, and create long-term value.In their conversation, they discuss:How identifying the traits of high-performing teams led Kate to see gaps in the executive search market.Broadening strategy beyond the firm’s original focus on flexible...
2025-09-0435 minThe Purposeful StrategistDesigning for a Sector in CrisisIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Eric Ressler, Founder and Creative Director of Cosmic, a U.S.-based creative studio helping mission-driven organisations design strategy, messaging, and digital experiences that spark meaningful change. Eric offers a sharp perspective on how social impact design is evolving—and what might come next.Reflecting on the challenges nonprofits face amid shrinking federal funding and digital saturation, Eric shares how Cosmic is helping organisations clarify their purpose, communicate with intention, and build coalitions that reduce duplication and deepen impact.This conversation covers:
2025-08-1400 min
The Purposeful StrategistDesigning for a Sector in CrisisIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Eric Ressler, Founder and Creative Director of Cosmic, a U.S.-based creative studio helping mission-driven organisations design strategy, messaging, and digital experiences that spark meaningful change. Eric offers a sharp perspective on how social impact design is evolving—and what might come next.Reflecting on the challenges nonprofits face amid shrinking federal funding and digital saturation, Eric shares how Cosmic is helping organisations clarify their purpose, communicate with intention, and build coalitions that reduce duplication and deepen impact.This conversation covers:
2025-08-1439 min
2025-08-0742 min
The Purposeful StrategistEcosystems of ImpactIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Andrew Wordsworth, co-founder and CEO of Sustainable Ventures, a firm dedicated to building the UK’s most impactful climate tech ecosystem.Andrew shares how Sustainable Ventures has grown to support over 1,000 startups—expanding beyond London into Manchester, with plans for Glasgow—and how the firm continues to align deep purpose with commercial success.This conversation explores:· Why Sustainable Venture took external investment, and how they’ve stayed mission-aligned.· The opportunity in regional climate tech ecosystems and how to support founders where they...
2025-07-3135 minThe Purposeful StrategistEcosystems of ImpactIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Andrew Wordsworth, co-founder and CEO of Sustainable Ventures, a firm dedicated to building the UK’s most impactful climate tech ecosystem.Andrew shares how Sustainable Ventures has grown to support over 1,000 startups—expanding beyond London into Manchester, with plans for Glasgow—and how the firm continues to align deep purpose with commercial success.This conversation explores:· Why Sustainable Venture took external investment, and how they’ve stayed mission-aligned.· The opportunity in regional climate tech ecosystems and how to support founders where they...
2025-07-3100 minThe Purposeful StrategistRelentlessly Getting Stuff DoneIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Matt Hotson, Group Chief Operating Officer at Mishcon de Reya, one of the UK’s most distinctive law firms. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, top-tier disputes work, and sustained double-digit growth, Mishcon has built a reputation for marrying legal excellence with bold strategic thinking.Matt shares how his role as COO touches every part of the firm that isn’t directly about practising law and is essential to helping lawyers do their best work with clients. From codifying values and vision to structuring operations and measuring succ...
2025-07-2400 min
The Purposeful StrategistRelentlessly Getting Stuff DoneIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Matt Hotson, Group Chief Operating Officer at Mishcon de Reya, one of the UK’s most distinctive law firms. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, top-tier disputes work, and sustained double-digit growth, Mishcon has built a reputation for marrying legal excellence with bold strategic thinking.Matt shares how his role as COO touches every part of the firm that isn’t directly about practising law and is essential to helping lawyers do their best work with clients. From codifying values and vision to structuring operations and measuring succ...
2025-07-2427 minThe Purposeful StrategistWorld-leading Non-drug Treatment for DementiaIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Devika Wood, CEO of Brain +, a certified health tech provider pioneering Ayla, a digital Cognitive Simulation Therapy (CST), the world-leading non-drug treatment for dementia. Together, they explore what it takes to scale a mission-led innovation in a high-regulation, emotionally charged sector – and how strategy, purpose, and commercial realities intersect.In their conversation, they discuss:· Why CST’s inclusion in NICE guidelines opened the door to wide-scale adoption – and what challenges remain.· How Devika and the Brain+ team are deploying CST through care homes...
2025-07-1000 min
The Purposeful StrategistWorld-leading Non-drug Treatment for DementiaIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Devika Wood, CEO of Brain +, a certified health tech provider pioneering Ayla, a digital Cognitive Simulation Therapy (CST), the world-leading non-drug treatment for dementia. Together, they explore what it takes to scale a mission-led innovation in a high-regulation, emotionally charged sector – and how strategy, purpose, and commercial realities intersect.In their conversation, they discuss:· Why CST’s inclusion in NICE guidelines opened the door to wide-scale adoption – and what challenges remain.· How Devika and the Brain+ team are deploying CST through care homes...
2025-07-1031 minThe Purposeful StrategistConnection and CommunityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Asad Dhunna, founder and CEO of The Unmistakables, a consultancy on a mission to make organisations more inclusive from the inside out. Asad brings a clear-eyed view of how business, identity, and society are evolving.Drawing on insights from The Grow Up report, a recent UK-wide survey of over 2,000 people, Asad explores what inclusion really means today and how businesses can stay relevant as they grow. This conversation covers:- Why diversity is too often reduced to race—and why that limits real progress...
2025-07-0300 min
The Purposeful StrategistConnection and CommunityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus is joined by Asad Dhunna, founder and CEO of The Unmistakables, a consultancy on a mission to make organisations more inclusive from the inside out. Asad brings a clear-eyed view of how business, identity, and society are evolving.Drawing on insights from The Grow Up report, a recent UK-wide survey of over 2,000 people, Asad explores what inclusion really means today and how businesses can stay relevant as they grow. This conversation covers:- Why diversity is too often reduced to race—and why that limits real progress...
2025-07-0338 minThe Purposeful StrategistScaling with IntegrityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus sits down with Dean Proctor, CEO of 7IM – a UK-based investment management firm with nearly £30 billion in assets and a team of around 850 colleagues. Under Dean’s leadership, 7IM has grown significantly over the past six years through a blend of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Throughout its growth, the firm had remained grounded in its founding values and a deep commitment to client success.Dean shares how 7IM is working to scale with integrity—keeping purpose, people, and performance aligned as the firm evolves:· How 7IM’s B2B2C and...
2025-06-1200 min
The Purposeful StrategistScaling with IntegrityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus sits down with Dean Proctor, CEO of 7IM – a UK-based investment management firm with nearly £30 billion in assets and a team of around 850 colleagues. Under Dean’s leadership, 7IM has grown significantly over the past six years through a blend of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Throughout its growth, the firm had remained grounded in its founding values and a deep commitment to client success.Dean shares how 7IM is working to scale with integrity—keeping purpose, people, and performance aligned as the firm evolves:· How 7IM’s B2B2C and...
2025-06-1225 minThe Purposeful StrategistHow to Learn and Grow With PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Fiona Dunsire, the Government Actuary and the first woman to head the Government Actuary’s Department since its establishment in 1917. Together, they discuss how leaders can learn and grow together in teams, all while ensuring an organisation maintains its core purpose. With her team at GAD, Fiona unlocks value in her behind-the-scenes work advising the current government on big and long-term financial risk decisions.In their conversation, they discuss:- Adjusting to the public sector and gaining the trust of colleagues, as well as the core...
2025-05-2900 min
The Purposeful StrategistHow to Learn and Grow With PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Fiona Dunsire, the Government Actuary and the first woman to head the Government Actuary’s Department since its establishment in 1917. Together, they discuss how leaders can learn and grow together in teams, all while ensuring an organisation maintains its core purpose. With her team at GAD, Fiona unlocks value in her behind-the-scenes work advising the current government on big and long-term financial risk decisions.In their conversation, they discuss:- Adjusting to the public sector and gaining the trust of colleagues, as well as the core...
2025-05-2938 minThe Purposeful StrategistKeeping Strategy SimpleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Gavin Slark, CEO of SIG – a leading European supplier of specialist insulation and sustainable building products. With operations across six countries, connecting over 75,000 customers with expert solutions, SIG is on a mission to become the best provider of specialist construction and insulation products in Europe. Gavin joined SIG in 2023, bringing decades of industry leadership experience and a clear ambition to guide SIG through its next phase of growth. Gavin shares his approach to strategy over a multinational business – guided by a philosophy to keep it simple. The discussion expl...
2025-05-2800 min
The Purposeful StrategistKeeping Strategy SimpleIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Gavin Slark, CEO of SIG – a leading European supplier of specialist insulation and sustainable building products. With operations across six countries, connecting over 75,000 customers with expert solutions, SIG is on a mission to become the best provider of specialist construction and insulation products in Europe. Gavin joined SIG in 2023, bringing decades of industry leadership experience and a clear ambition to guide SIG through its next phase of growth. Gavin shares his approach to strategy over a multinational business – guided by a philosophy to keep it simple. The discussion expl...
2025-05-2830 minThe Purposeful StrategistFlexible Work and High PerformanceIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus sits down with Florence Brocklesby, founder of Bellevue Law – a boutique firm specialising in employment law, dispute resolution, and private client services. Founded in 2014, Bellevue has grown into a 30-person team. It is B Corp certified, Good Business Charter accredited, and recognised as a Legal 500 Leading Firm. Florence launched the firm to create a flexible and values-driven workplace – one that could deliver exceptional results for clients while supporting a better quality of life for its lawyers.Florence shares how Bellevue’s people-first model has translated into long-term success for bo...
2025-05-2200 min
The Purposeful StrategistFlexible Work and High PerformanceIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus sits down with Florence Brocklesby, founder of Bellevue Law – a boutique firm specialising in employment law, dispute resolution, and private client services. Founded in 2014, Bellevue has grown into a 30-person team. It is B Corp certified, Good Business Charter accredited, and recognised as a Legal 500 Leading Firm. Florence launched the firm to create a flexible and values-driven workplace – one that could deliver exceptional results for clients while supporting a better quality of life for its lawyers.Florence shares how Bellevue’s people-first model has translated into long-term success for bo...
2025-05-2233 minThe Purposeful StrategistGrowing Sustainably Without Sacrificing CultureIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Karl Jansen, Managing Partner of Freeths. Freeths is a full-service law firm which operates across 13 offices and is the largest law firm with B-Corp status in the UK. Karl has been with the firm almost 35 years and has been central to the firm’s development – not just in financial performance, but in culture and reputation. In this episode, Karl shares how culture, purpose, and the philosophy of ‘doing things with people, not to them’ has shaped Freeth’s successful strategic decisions. The discussion explores:· Freeths’ approach to sustainable gro...
2025-05-0800 min
The Purposeful StrategistGrowing Sustainably Without Sacrificing CultureIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Karl Jansen, Managing Partner of Freeths. Freeths is a full-service law firm which operates across 13 offices and is the largest law firm with B-Corp status in the UK. Karl has been with the firm almost 35 years and has been central to the firm’s development – not just in financial performance, but in culture and reputation. In this episode, Karl shares how culture, purpose, and the philosophy of ‘doing things with people, not to them’ has shaped Freeth’s successful strategic decisions. The discussion explores:· Freeths’ approach to sustainable gro...
2025-05-0834 minThe Purposeful StrategistIn Healthcare, It's All About TrustIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks again with Dr Mohammad Al-Ubaydli, CEO of Patients Know Best (PKB). Mohammad returns to the podcast to discuss the incredible progress PKB has made since his first appearance in 2024. With over 5 million registered patients and international growth, PKB continues to transform healthcare by giving patients control of their own health data. Mohammad shares the importance of trust, collaboration, and transparency in scaling a purpose-driven company, and why doing good for patients must always come first.The discussion explores:· How PKB scaled from 3.8 million to 5 million regist...
2025-05-0100 min
The Purposeful StrategistIn Healthcare, It's All About TrustIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks again with Dr Mohammad Al-Ubaydli, CEO of Patients Know Best (PKB). Mohammad returns to the podcast to discuss the incredible progress PKB has made since his first appearance in 2024. With over 5 million registered patients and international growth, PKB continues to transform healthcare by giving patients control of their own health data. Mohammad shares the importance of trust, collaboration, and transparency in scaling a purpose-driven company, and why doing good for patients must always come first.The discussion explores:· How PKB scaled from 3.8 million to 5 million regist...
2025-05-0130 min
The Purposeful StrategistBridging the Chasm of Northern Ambition and ProsperityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Robert White, CEO of Brabners and founder of True North. Robert discusses how True North is connecting purpose-led businesses across the North of England and catalysing positive change through collaboration and community-building.· How True North is uniting over 400 purpose-led businesses to bridge the gap between productivity and prosperity in the North· The role of the business community in driving economic transformation and how True North supports them through collaboration and providing a platform for growth· How initiatives like Northern Stars are challenging stereotypes and spo...
2025-04-1035 minThe Purposeful StrategistBridging the Chasm of Northern Ambition and ProsperityIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Robert White, CEO of Brabners and founder of True North. Robert discusses how True North is connecting purpose-led businesses across the North of England and catalysing positive change through collaboration and community-building.· How True North is uniting over 400 purpose-led businesses to bridge the gap between productivity and prosperity in the North· The role of the business community in driving economic transformation and how True North supports them through collaboration and providing a platform for growth· How initiatives like Northern Stars are challenging stereotypes and spo...
2025-04-1000 min
The Purposeful StrategistFuelling Growth with Purpose: The Cycle of SuccessIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks again with Mike Scott, Senior Partner at Cripps, last on the podcast in 2022. This time, he is joined by James Beatton, Managing Partner at Cripps, to discuss how the firm has leveraged its purpose to drive both business growth and cultural transformation. Together, they reflect on the progress of their five-year strategy and share insights into Cripps’ continued success, including being named Independent Law Firm of the Year 2024. Mike and James discuss:• How Cripps has aligned its purpose with its business strategy to fuel growth and cultural tran...
2025-04-0335 minThe Purposeful StrategistFuelling Growth with Purpose: The Cycle of SuccessIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks again with Mike Scott, Senior Partner at Cripps, last on the podcast in 2022. This time, he is joined by James Beatton, Managing Partner at Cripps, to discuss how the firm has leveraged its purpose to drive both business growth and cultural transformation. Together, they reflect on the progress of their five-year strategy and share insights into Cripps’ continued success, including being named Independent Law Firm of the Year 2024. Mike and James discuss:• How Cripps has aligned its purpose with its business strategy to fuel growth and cultural tran...
2025-04-0300 minThe Purposeful StrategistBalancing Long-Term Purpose with Short-Term Business NeedsIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sara Bailey, Senior Partner at Trowers & Hamlins. Sara brings over 30 years of experience in the legal profession and reflects on the progress of the firm’s ambitious transformation since her first appearance on the podcast in 2023. She shares insights on balancing long-term, purpose-driven strategies with the short-term demands of running a business. Sara reflects on how real growth isn't about cutting costs but giving people the headroom to think, innovate, and create. She discusses how embedding purpose into a firm’s vision and fostering a people-driven culture are essen...
2025-03-2700 min
The Purposeful StrategistBalancing Long-Term Purpose with Short-Term Business NeedsIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Sara Bailey, Senior Partner at Trowers & Hamlins. Sara brings over 30 years of experience in the legal profession and reflects on the progress of the firm’s ambitious transformation since her first appearance on the podcast in 2023. She shares insights on balancing long-term, purpose-driven strategies with the short-term demands of running a business. Sara reflects on how real growth isn't about cutting costs but giving people the headroom to think, innovate, and create. She discusses how embedding purpose into a firm’s vision and fostering a people-driven culture are essen...
2025-03-2733 minThe Purposeful StrategistLaw Firm Finds Its True NorthIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus interviews Nik White, managing partner at Brabners, a purpose-led independent law firm in the UK. They discuss the firm's commitment to community engagement, the importance of defining culture and values, and strategies for sustainable growth. Nik shares insights on managing partnership dynamics, maintaining culture while growing, and the significance of B Corp certification. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity in purpose and strategy, and the power of linking career progression and rewards to the firm’s values. Nik also stresses the value of deriving satisfaction from work beyond financial ga...
2025-03-2000 min
The Purposeful StrategistLaw Firm Finds Its True NorthIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus interviews Nik White, managing partner at Brabners, a purpose-led independent law firm in the UK. They discuss the firm's commitment to community engagement, the importance of defining culture and values, and strategies for sustainable growth. Nik shares insights on managing partnership dynamics, maintaining culture while growing, and the significance of B Corp certification. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity in purpose and strategy, and the power of linking career progression and rewards to the firm’s values. Nik also stresses the value of deriving satisfaction from work beyond financial ga...
2025-03-2029 minThe Purposeful StrategistBuilding Trust in Health ResearchIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Matt Westmore, Chief Executive of the UK's Health Research Authority, about the significant advances in health research during the COVID-19 pandemic, the complexities of research approvals, and the importance of trust and inclusion in research. They discuss HRA’s success in significantly shortening the research timeline, the role of volunteers, the strategic focus of the HRA, and the future of health research in the UK, emphasising the need for a streamlined process that benefits both researchers and patients.
2025-03-1300 min
The Purposeful StrategistBuilding Trust in Health ResearchIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Matt Westmore, Chief Executive of the UK's Health Research Authority, about the significant advances in health research during the COVID-19 pandemic, the complexities of research approvals, and the importance of trust and inclusion in research. They discuss HRA’s success in significantly shortening the research timeline, the role of volunteers, the strategic focus of the HRA, and the future of health research in the UK, emphasising the need for a streamlined process that benefits both researchers and patients.
2025-03-1335 minThe Purposeful StrategistHealthy Organisations Grow People, Economies and SocietiesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus speaks with Olly Purnell, co-founder of Q5, a management consulting firm focused on organisational health. They discuss the evolution of Q5 from its inception in a basement to its current status as a global player in consulting. The conversation delves into the founding principles of Q5, emphasising the importance of purpose and values in driving organisational success. Purnell shares insights on the firm's growth strategy, innovative tools for enhancing organisational health, and the significance of purpose in modern business. The episode concludes with advice for new entrants in the...
2025-03-0600 min
The Purposeful StrategistHealthy Organisations Grow People, Economies and SocietiesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus speaks with Olly Purnell, co-founder of Q5, a management consulting firm focused on organisational health. They discuss the evolution of Q5 from its inception in a basement to its current status as a global player in consulting. The conversation delves into the founding principles of Q5, emphasising the importance of purpose and values in driving organisational success. Purnell shares insights on the firm's growth strategy, innovative tools for enhancing organisational health, and the significance of purpose in modern business. The episode concludes with advice for new entrants in the...
2025-03-0632 min
The Purposeful StrategistEngagement Clarifies PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus interviews Graham North, CEO of Anstey Horn & Co, the UK's leading specialist surveying practice. Founded in 1795 in London, the privately held company now employs about 120 people and operates across the UK. The firm is particularly well known for its expertise in Rights of Light, Party Wall and Fire Consultancy. The discussion covers the firm's evolution, purpose, and strategic objectives. Graham shares insights on the importance of team engagement, client focus, and navigating competition in the consultancy space. He emphasizes the value of understanding the business from the perspective of both...
2025-02-2734 minThe Purposeful StrategistEngagement Clarifies PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus interviews Graham North, CEO of Anstey Horn & Co, the UK's leading specialist surveying practice. Founded in 1795 in London, the privately held company now employs about 120 people and operates across the UK. The firm is particularly well known for its expertise in Rights of Light, Party Wall and Fire Consultancy. The discussion covers the firm's evolution, purpose, and strategic objectives. Graham shares insights on the importance of team engagement, client focus, and navigating competition in the consultancy space. He emphasizes the value of understanding the business from the perspective of both...
2025-02-2700 min
The Purposeful StrategistDrones Deliver This Company’s PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Simon Thompson, Group CEO of Windracers, discusses the transformative potential of autonomous aviation in logistics and humanitarian aid. He highlights the innovative ULTRA drone, which is designed for cost-effective delivery over long distances, and the importance of navigating regulatory challenges. Simon emphasizes the balance between commercial viability and humanitarian goals, sharing insights on operational strategies and the future of drone technology in connecting communities.
2025-02-2032 min
The Purposeful StrategistShared Strategy Encourages Employee AutonomyIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus interviews Mark Cuddigan, CEO of the UK plant-based food company THIS. They discuss the transition of leadership from founders to new CEOs, the importance of defining a company's purpose, and the role of team involvement in strategy development. Mark shares insights on empowering employees, the challenges of achieving profitability, and the significance of B Corp certification. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration within the industry and the impact of purpose-driven leadership on attracting talent.
2025-02-1329 minThe Purposeful StrategistShared Strategy Encourages Employee AutonomyIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus interviews Mark Cuddigan, CEO of the UK plant-based food company THIS. They discuss the transition of leadership from founders to new CEOs, the importance of defining a company's purpose, and the role of team involvement in strategy development. Mark shares insights on empowering employees, the challenges of achieving profitability, and the significance of B Corp certification. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration within the industry and the impact of purpose-driven leadership on attracting talent.
2025-02-1300 min
The Purposeful StrategistCreating Connection with Personalised Bus TravelIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus speaks with Martin Dean, managing director of the UK regional bus division at Go Ahead Group. They discuss the company's clear purpose statement, the importance of connecting communities, fostering innovation in public transport, and the strategic growth plans of the bus division. Martin emphasizes the significance of people in the industry and the need for a balance between strategic and tactical approaches as the bus industry prepares for the Better Buses Act and other changes and challenges ahead.
2025-02-0624 minThe Purposeful StrategistCreating Connection with Personalised Bus TravelIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus speaks with Martin Dean, managing director of the UK regional bus division at Go Ahead Group. They discuss the company's clear purpose statement, the importance of connecting communities, fostering innovation in public transport, and the strategic growth plans of the bus division. Martin emphasizes the significance of people in the industry and the need for a balance between strategic and tactical approaches as the bus industry prepares for the Better Buses Act and other changes and challenges ahead.
2025-02-0600 min
The Purposeful StrategistTechnology Serves Tradition at Redwood BankBritain’s first bank to be launched in the cloud does not use automated credit scores, does not have an automated answering service or an online chatbot, and doesn’t keep customers waiting on hold when they call the bank.Redwood Bank, which serves small to medium-sized businesses, balances traditional banking values with advanced technology. Its mission is “to be the UK’s best, go-to, specialist business bank.”In 2021, four years after it obtained its banking licence, Redwood became one of the fastest challenger banks to achieve profitability, while building a strong internal culture and winning hi...
2025-01-3028 minThe Purposeful StrategistAre the Capital Markets Thwarting Small Companies’ Growth?In this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with James Ashton, CEO of the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA). They discuss the importance of transparency and governance in the business world, the role of small and medium-sized companies in the UK economy, and the challenges these companies face in public markets. Ashton emphasises the need for a supportive environment for growth, the significance of retail investors in the market, and the need for equities to be as attractive and accessible as crypto The conversation also touches on the QCA's growth strategy, the impact of regulatory changes, and the...
2025-01-2300 min
The Purposeful StrategistAre the Capital Markets Thwarting Small Companies’ Growth?In this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with James Ashton, CEO of the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA). They discuss the importance of transparency and governance in the business world, the role of small and medium-sized companies in the UK economy, and the challenges these companies face in public markets. Ashton emphasises the need for a supportive environment for growth, the significance of retail investors in the market, and the need for equities to be as attractive and accessible as crypto The conversation also touches on the QCA's growth strategy, the impact of regulatory changes, and the...
2025-01-2329 min
The Purposeful StrategistBanking On PurposeIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, we dive into the success story of Unity Trust Bank, a Birmingham-based financial institution committed to purpose-driven banking. CEO Colin Fyfe shares how the bank has aligned its mission with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and surpassed £1 billion in lending for the first time in its 40-year history. Discover how Unity Trust's clear purpose fosters alignment among stakeholders—shareholders, board members, executives, and staff—and enables the bank to support businesses addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Colin discusses the balance of measuring social impact alongside financial performance, the challenges of leading...
2025-01-1630 min
The Purposeful StrategistBeer Maker Uses Purpose to Change Pay, Products and MarketsIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Paulo Lanzarotti, CEO of beer-maker Asahi Europe & International, discusses the importance of balancing purpose and pragmatism in organisations. He shares insights from the five-year journey that uncovered the company’s purpose of “creating meaningful connections”. The conversation explores how purpose can influence business decisions, engage employees, shape sustainable practices and drive product development, ultimately linking purpose to overall business strategy. Paolo also offers advice for CEOs embarking on their own purpose-driven journeys.
2025-01-0930 min
The Purposeful StrategistPurpose-Driven Growth with Emma Gaudern of EMG SolicitorsIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus sits down with Emma Gaudern, co-founder and Managing Director of EMG Solicitors. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, EMG has grown from four employees to 180 across five offices, earning accolades like the Times 100 Best Places to Work and B Corp certification. Emma shares her journey of creating a purpose-driven law firm, balancing growth with values, and fostering a culture of kindness and flexibility.Key topics include:Building a firm where flexibility and joy drive success.The transformative impact of becoming a B Corp....
2024-12-1229 minThe Purposeful StrategistPurpose-Driven Growth with Emma Gaudern of EMG SolicitorsIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, host Belden Menkus sits down with Emma Gaudern, co-founder and Managing Director of EMG Solicitors. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, EMG has grown from four employees to 180 across five offices, earning accolades like the Times 100 Best Places to Work and B Corp certification. Emma shares her journey of creating a purpose-driven law firm, balancing growth with values, and fostering a culture of kindness and flexibility.Key topics include:Building a firm where flexibility and joy drive success.The transformative impact of becoming a B Corp....
2024-12-1200 minThe Purposeful StrategistPurpose Drives an Ambitious Vision for the Tidal ThamesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Robin Mortimer, CEO of the Port of London Authority (PLA), about the challenges and opportunities facing the port sector in the wake of COVID-19. They discuss the PLA's purpose, the ambitious Thames Vision 2050 plan aimed at achieving net zero emissions along with economic, environmental and recreational goals, and the importance of balancing stakeholder interests. Robin shares insights on innovative land use solutions, the evolving role of the PLA, and the need for greater public awareness. The conversation also touches on the hydrogen economy's potential in decarbonisation and the...
2024-12-0500 min
The Purposeful StrategistPurpose Drives an Ambitious Vision for the Tidal ThamesIn this episode of The Purposeful Strategist, Belden Menkus speaks with Robin Mortimer, CEO of the Port of London Authority (PLA), about the challenges and opportunities facing the port sector in the wake of COVID-19. They discuss the PLA's purpose, the ambitious Thames Vision 2050 plan aimed at achieving net zero emissions along with economic, environmental and recreational goals, and the importance of balancing stakeholder interests. Robin shares insights on innovative land use solutions, the evolving role of the PLA, and the need for greater public awareness. The conversation also touches on the hydrogen economy's potential in decarbonisation and the...
2024-12-0529 min
The Purposeful StrategistIgniting entrepreneurial growthIgnition Law describes itself as “the law firm for start-ups, scale-ups, SMEs and the entrepreneurially spirited”. It also prides itself on being “a force for good” in its community. Since its founding in 2015, Ignition has grown to 70 people, expanded its range of services, won several awards, and qualified as a Certified B-Corporation.Founder and partner Alex McPherson explains how they did it, on this episode of The Purposeful Strategist.
2024-11-2830 min
The Purposeful StrategistPurpose: Transform Domestic Electricity UsePowervault, the London-based manufacturer of renewable energy storage systems, exists to help solve climate change by transforming the way people use energy. It’s a big purpose, but achieving it requires people to change their behaviour in a way that many instinctively resist, because they perceive it as limiting their lifestyle. Powervault developed its technology make the change not only easy, but financially rewarding.Robin Stopford, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer explains the company’s approach in this episode of The Purposeful Strategist.
2024-11-2129 min
The Purposeful StrategistHow Culture and Purpose Propelled a TurnaroundCulture and purpose are powerful tools when you are challenged to turn around a business that isn't reaching its full potential. CEO Kevin Davidson used both to successfully turn around Norman Broadbent plc, the London-based executive search and recruitment firm.This year the firm announced its best financial results in over a decade, with a 41 per cent increase in revenues.Kevin Davidson discusses how he did it, on this episode of The Purposeful Strategist.
2024-11-1529 min
The Purposeful StrategistRe-balancing the Organisation’s Purpose Unlocks PotentialSometimes commercial success can cause an organisation’s original purpose to dim over time. . That was the challenge facing Mike Astell, CEO of FCDO Services, an executive agency and trading fund owned by Britain’s Foreign Office, with customers in both the public and private sectors around the world. Re-grounding the organisation in its original purpose unlocked a surprising amount of enthusiasm and revealed unexpected potential. The initiative also led to a new business strategy and a more effective way of communicating with the executive and the board.Listen to Mike Astell tell Belden Menkus how...
2024-02-2934 minThe Purposeful StrategistRe-balancing the Organisation’s Purpose Unlocks PotentialSometimes commercial success can cause an organisation’s original purpose to dim over time. . That was the challenge facing Mike Astell, CEO of FCDO Services, an executive agency and trading fund owned by Britain’s Foreign Office, with customers in both the public and private sectors around the world. Re-grounding the organisation in its original purpose unlocked a surprising amount of enthusiasm and revealed unexpected potential. The initiative also led to a new business strategy and a more effective way of communicating with the executive and the board.Listen to Mike Astell tell Belden Menkus how...
2024-02-2900 min
Business Leader's VoiceHave Businesses Forgotten How to Manage? With Belden Menkus, Menkus & AssociatesBelden Menkus, Founder and MD of Menkus & Associates, and Fiona Czerniawska, CEO of Source, join Emma Carroll, Source's Head of Content, for the latest episode of our Business Leader's Voice podcast. The management skills that we all take for granted are disappearing from our businesses—leaving us with an execution gap and poorly trained people. In this podcast, we talk to Belden and Fiona about how the prioritisation of leadership has squeezed crucial management capability out of organisations. They share their insight into the following issues and more: The loss of managem...
2024-02-2024 min
Unleashed - How to Thrive as an Independent Professional430: Belden Menkus on Purpose and StrategyBelden Menkus was a senior engagement manager at McKinsey for six years and is the managing director at Menkus and Associates where they specialise in high-impact senior-level interventions that create new strategic value and growth opportunities using proven new approaches that engage head, heart and hands. In today's episode, we talk about how he approaches developing and deploying a strategy with purpose and positive outcomes. Belden Menkus can be reached through his website at menkus.com. Key points include: 05:11: Working with the Port of London Authority 07:46: Working with organisations to reach c...
2021-09-0323 min
Unleashed - How to Thrive as an Independent Professional429. Belden Menkus on the Purposeful StrategistBelden Menkus is the managing director at Menkus and Associates. He is also the host of the podcast the Purposeful Strategist, a podcast that shifts the conversation from what organisations should do to what they are doing to embrace their broader purpose and translate it into tangible action. On today's episode, we listen to one of Belden's podcasts where he interviews Robin Mortimer, the chief executive of organization in the London Port of Authority Key points include: 06:52: What the Port Authority is and what they do 09:32: How the vision of the Thames and...
2021-09-0331 min