Shows
Sales Leader SecretsEp 12: Baked-in Brilliance with Aisling TuckWhat does it take to scale a bakery into Ireland’s largest vegan cookie supplier starting from your mum’s kitchen at 21? In this inspiring episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats to Aisling Tuck founder and CEO of Naked Bakes, who shares her journey from passionate home baker to entrepreneur and emerging sales leader.From experimenting with vegan recipes to overcoming a steep learning curve in leadership and finance, Aisling opens up about the realities of running a fast-growing business. She discusses building a team from scratch, the impact of lockdown, and learning to set the...
2025-12-0226 minSales Leader SecretsS2, Ep 11: Leading Through Language with Anne UnsworthWhat does it mean to lead with trust and transform an organisation for the future? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats to Anne Unsworth, Head of Retail Operations at Dee Set: Complete Retail Solutions, master practitioner of NLP, and a passionate champion of people in commercial teams.Anne’s journey is a lesson in resilience and curiosity. From building her career at Master Foods (Mars), through two decades at Tactical Solutions supporting iconic brands in retail, to leading ESG strategy and championing diversity, her approach is founded on integrity, transparency, and the belief th...
2025-11-0428 min
The Human Revolutionaries Show - HR, Leadership, Well-Being and Culture stories in the newsHow sport and leadership overlap...and how they don't! With Mark FrancisWelcome back to the show. In this season of the Human Revolutionaries Show, I'm specifically diving into the importance of health and wellbeing as an integral part of leadership.Today's guest is Mark Francis, from Uspire Group.New Grandad Mark dedicates his spare time to working with leaders to help them step-change their businesses. He's a mental coach in individual and team sports and splits his time between Switzerland, California and the English South Coast. I particularly wanted to talk to him because of the links between sport and leadership...and also to u...
2025-10-311h 08Sales Leader SecretsS2, Ep 10: Leading The Disability Activism AgendaWhat’s it like to build a career around changing the way we think about disability? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs talks with Esi Hardy, founder of Celebrating Disability and a leading voice on inclusion.Esi’s path has been far from typical. From training as an actress and working in performing arts in LA, to moving into health and social care, she’s now running her own business helping organisations and individuals create spaces where disabled people can thrive.If you’re interested in leadership with purpose and building workplaces where ev...
2025-09-0234 minSales Leader SecretsS2, Ep 09: Ella Cookson on Leading Freedom for 2,500 WomenWhat does it take to lead a team of over 2,500 people and still keep things grounded? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats with Ella Cookson, a standout leader at Tropic Skincare. Ella’s story is one of resilience. After a tough few years, she rebuilt her confidence and has gone on to support thousands of ambassadors across the UK.Ella talks honestly about the ups and downs of leadership, how she’s grown her team, and what’s helped her stay true to herself along the way. You’ll hear how Tropic has shaped a...
2025-08-0530 min
Coach ClassAmanda Downs: On Ikigai, Leadership, and Why Sales Isn’t a Dirty WordIn this episode of Coach Class, I was joined by Amanda Downs — commercial leader turned coach, facilitator, and soon-to-be author of Stepping Up to Sales Leader.Using the Japanese concept of Ikigai — your reason for being — as a guiding theme, Amanda reflects on what lights her up, how she helps others grow, and why leading a commercial team is a bit like tending a garden.Expect rich conversation on:How purpose, values, and integrity guide Amanda’s workThe link between psychological safety and leadership successWhy sales is about value, story, a...
2025-07-1629 minSales Leader SecretsS2, Ep 08: A Glamping Good Leader!Ever thought a farm field could turn into a five-star getaway? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs chats with Joanne Collinge, a former teacher who traded the classroom for a life on the family farm in Lancashire. What started as a challenge to bring in extra income has grown into Little Oakhurst Boutique Glamping, a rural retreat with serious charm.Joanne shares how she built the business from scratch, using creativity, second-hand materials, and sheer determination. With no background in sales or marketing, she learned as she went, often with her daughter by her...
2025-07-0129 minSales Leader SecretsS2, Ep 07: Lee Personius on Leading Growth, One Pizza At A TimeHave you ever wondered how a small food startup with just four people became one of the UK’s leading names in the food-to-go industry? In this episode of Sales Leaders’ Secrets, Amanda Downs sits down with Lee Personius, founder and CEO of Tugo.From humble beginnings in a rundown trading estate, Lee has grown Tugo into a £22 million business and he’s aiming to double that in the next decade. He shares how he secured early investment, won over big customers, and maintained a close-knit team culture along the way.Tune in to l...
2025-06-0329 minSales Leader SecretsS02, Ep 06: Leading Potential through Direct Sales with Babette OgdenHave you ever wondered what it truly takes to unlock the leadership potential in others and transform lives through a career in direct sales? In this episode of Sales Leaders' Secrets, host Amanda Downs sits down with Babette Ogden, a seasoned direct selling leader whose journey spans from her early days at Avon in South Africa to her current role as Regional Sales Manager for The 1:1 Diet (formerly Cambridge Weight Plan). Together, they dive into Babette’s inspiring story, unpack the unique challenges and life-changing impact of direct selling, and explore why building relationships and fostering confidence are...
2025-05-0630 minSales Leader SecretsS02, Ep 05: The Authentic Leader Lens with Katey ColemanAre you ready to redefine your sales leadership approach? Join your host, Amanda Downs, as she sits down with Katey Coleman, Associate Director at Carl Zeiss. With over seventeen years of experience, Katey shares her journey from being a young sales manager at only 20, to leading cross-functional teams today. Discover her secrets to maintaining team engagement, fostering emotional intelligence, and navigating the challenges of stakeholder management. Whether you're on the cusp of your leadership journey or looking to refine your skills, this episode is full of insights that will elevate your sales leadership. Tune in and unlock new strategies...
2025-04-2226 minSales Leader SecretsS02 Ep 04: Leading Customer Connections with Pete GillettWhat drives successful sales leaders to embrace change and thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace? In this episode of Sales Leader Secrets, Amanda Downs talks to Pete Gillett, a pioneer in CRM systems and lead management, to uncover the secrets behind leading customer connections and fostering team motivation. Discover how Pete's journey to becoming a dynamic sales leader offers invaluable insights into nurturing a productive workplace culture and leveraging the power of personalised marketing in the digital age. Get ready to be inspired by a leader who not only champions innovation but also values the importance of a supportive and...
2025-03-2536 minSales Leader SecretsS02, Ep 03: Championing Health & Nutrition with Holly Thallon SteensonCurious about the secrets behind a thriving family business in the world of vitamins and supplements? Amanda Downs sits down with Holly Thallon Steenson, the Managing Director at Viridian Nutrition, the UK’s leading brand in pure vitamins and supplements. Holly shares her unique journey from event management to stepping into her family's business, emphasising the importance of values, curiosity, and championing causes that matter. This episode offers invaluable sales insights and motivational advice. Join us and learn how to cultivate purpose, passion, and success in your business journey!Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction...
2025-03-1131 minSales Leader SecretsS02, Ep 02: Leadership Growth Through AcquisitionReady to unlock the secrets of exceptional sales leadership? Amanda Downs sits down with Bethan Mellor, the head of account management at FE Fundinfo, a leading financial data company. From navigating the complexities of integrating multiple companies to fostering a culture of integrity and collaboration, Beth shares insights from her impressive journey in the financial sector. Whether you're an experienced sales leader or aspiring to be one, this episode is packed with wisdom that'll help you and your team scale new heights. Tune in and transform the way you approach sales leadership today!Here are the Highlights:
2025-02-2625 minSales Leader SecretsS02 Ep 01: The Organic Leadership Journey of Os QuirosUnlock the secrets of sales leadership with Os Quiros, a sales visionary who transformed his career from selling shoes in his school holidays to becoming the CEO of National Organic Products. In this episode your host Amanda Downs sits down with Os to talk about his remarkable journey, exploring the wisdom and strategies he gathered along the way. From his early steps in sales at Colgate-Palmolive to reshaping team dynamics at Kerry Foods, Os's experiences offer insights to any sales leader aspiring to inspire and drive success. Join us for a conversation filled with lessons on leadership, culture transformation...
2025-02-1136 minSales Leader SecretsEp 12: The most famous shop in the world with Anna Moir - Deputy Retail Director for HarrodsWhat are the secrets behind running one of the world’s most iconic department stores? Amanda sits down with Anna Moir, the Deputy Retail Director at Harrods, who shares her extensive knowledge gleaned from three decades in the industry. From core leadership qualities to harnessing talent during peak times, and the importance of authentic leadership, Anna provides invaluable advice for aspiring retail leaders. Tune in to uncover the intricacies of retail management, especially during peak times and learn what it takes to thrive in such a dynamic environment. Join us for an episode rich in wisdom, practical tips, and in...
2025-01-2134 minSales Leader SecretsEp 11: Unfreezing Potential with Shaun Smith - General Manager UK & Ireland at Birds Eye FoodsUnlock the secrets to becoming an extraordinary sales leader with insights from Shaun Smith, General Manager at Birds Eye UK and Ireland. Hosted by Amanda Downs, we're getting into the essence of mastering sales and leadership basics, the necessity of relentless improvement, and the unrivalled value of passion and authenticity in your professional journey. Shaun shares his 20+ years of expertise, stories of significant career milestones, and his heartfelt advice on leadership, customer relations, and creating a lasting positive legacy. Here are the Highlights:05:53 Understanding business end-to-end on tight margins.11:57 Competitors a...
2025-01-0730 minSales Leader SecretsEp 10: Community Connection with Charly AndrewsHow can a leadership philosophy centred around kindness, integrity, and genuine care make you a pioneer? Amanda Downs sits down with Charly Andrews, a revolutionary leader who turned a stadium into a hub of community resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. From transforming locations to orchestrating unforgettable events and concerts, Charly shares her unique insights on building meaningful relationships, leading with kindness, and thriving through challenges. Tune in to discover how mastering the art of empathy and authenticity can skyrocket your success in sales and leadership.Here are the Highlights:06:26 How Charly managed sales during the...
2024-12-1732 minSales Leader SecretsEp 09: Harvesting New Heights with Jon CummingsJoin us as we explore the business of vertical farming. Amanda sits down with Jon Cummings - a seasoned leader who has seamlessly navigated between retail buying and supply chain management. He brings a wealth of experience to the ever-evolving world of vertical farming. Sharing stories from his time in the meat industry, his strategic moves across major players like Kerry Foods and Morrisons, and his latest venture as the Commercial Director of Fisher Farms. Tune in to discover the secrets behind his success, as he reveals the art of cross-functional collaboration, the nuances of leading diverse teams, and...
2024-12-0331 minSales Leader SecretsEp 08: Leading the Brand Story with Sue McVieUncover the secrets behind successful commercial strategies and powerful storytelling to boost your sales. Amanda chats to Sue McVie about her extensive career - from her initial field sales role at McVitie's to becoming a visionary trade marketing director at Walkers and beyond. Tune in to learn how Sue blends extroverted energy with introverted reflection, combats imposter syndrome with data, and emphasises the transformative power of storytelling in sales.Here are the Highlights:04:07 Transitioning to leadership: understanding diverse leadership styles.09:37 Learning leadership on the job through authenticity.13:19 Coping with self-doubt through...
2024-11-1937 minSales Leader SecretsEp 07: Navigating the Sales Leadership Journey with James GuyWe are exploring the highs and lows of sales leadership in this episode of Sales Leader Secrets. Amanda Downs welcomes James Guy, the Group Commercial Director for New England Seafood, who shares his remarkable transition from archaeology to leading some of the UK's most prominent brands. James shares his unique insights, hard-earned lessons, and transformative strategies that have propelled him to the forefront of the sales industry. Whether you're steering a sales team or aspiring to new heights in your career, listen to gain insight from James’s sales leadership journey.Here are the Highlights:01:15 Fr...
2024-11-0528 minSales Leader SecretsEp 06: Building Brilliant Sales Teams with Clare BockingUnlock the secrets of sales success with powerhouse Clare Bocking. From her early days selling household names like Uncle Ben’s, Dolmio, Pepsi, and Robinsons, to leading a commercial team of over 80 people, Clare has navigated the intricate world of sales with expertise and charisma. In this episode, Amanda sits down with Clare to learn about her journey, insights, and the transformative power of authentic leadership and building a great sales team.Here are the Highlights:00:45 Performing arts laid the foundation for sales success.05:26 Managing stock and influencing depot managers was essential....
2024-10-2228 minSales Leader SecretsEp 05: Leading Sales Teams through Uncertain Times with Ian GarrettFrom working the supply chain to becoming a formidable leader in sales - Ian Garrett, Category Commercial Director at Samworth Brothers, joins our host Amanda Downs to share his journey. They explore the shifting dynamics of the retail industry, and particularly how Brexit, COVID, and the cost of living crisis are reshaping the landscape. Ian sheds light on the frequent price movements and the necessity to adapt to ever-changing shopper habits. Join them as they discuss how to manage teams amidst cost increases, emphasising the importance of building resilience, maintaining morale, and adapting to the shift toward remote work...
2024-10-0833 minSales Leader SecretsEp 04: "Coming Clean in the Sales Kitchen", with Cara Williams, Sales Director for Hobart UK.What are the mechanics of successful sales leadership? Amanda sits with Cara Williams, Sales Director for Hobart UK, to explore the residual impacts of COVID on the sales industry, the art of managing customer expectations, and the pivotal role of clear communication in building high-performing teams. Cara brings a wealth of experience from her broad career with major brands, offering invaluable advice for aspiring sales leaders and sharing her journey of authenticity, empathy, and strategic leadership. Tune in as we uncover the secrets of thriving in the competitive world of sales with insights that are as practical as they...
2024-09-2430 minSales Leader SecretsEp 03: Brewing Success: Matthew Huffer's Recipe for Market DominationAmanda Downs sits down with Matthew Huffer, UK Market Director at Taylors of Harrogate, to talk about the dynamic world of sales leadership. Their conversation covers the challenges new sales leaders face, such as transitioning from manager to leader, and the importance of empowering team members to achieve results in their own unique ways. Matthew reflects on his 13-year journey at Taylors of Harrogate, where he has played a pivotal role in expanding the Yorkshire Tea brand to a commanding 40% of the UK market. As the newly appointed UK Market Director, he's spearheading efforts to integrate sales and marketing...
2024-09-0336 minSales Leader SecretsEp 02: Caffeinated Growth: Matt Spencer's Caffè Nero JourneyAmanda Downs talks to special guest Matt Spencer, the Commercial Director at Caffè Nero and a pivotal figure in the organisation's remarkable growth from 300 to over 1000 stores. Matt takes us through his fascinating journey – from buying coffee at Sainsbury's to managing key supplier relationships and navigating leadership challenges at Caffe Nero. He shares invaluable insights on maintaining integrity, building trust, and the importance of alignment in achieving business objectives. Matt also discusses the complexities of the current retail landscape, discussing the impact of COVID and Brexit on the labour market and supply chain. Join us as Amanda and Matt rev...
2024-09-0339 minSales Leader SecretsEp 01: Communication is the Key to Sales Success with Tom RedmanBig Bus, Big Dreams! Insights from the Managing Director of Big Bus Tours. In this first episode of Sales Leader Secrets your host, Amanda Downs, and very special guest, Tom Redman, share expertise on leadership, team building, and the powerful role of communication in sales management. Tom's journey is nothing short of inspiring - from working as a blue coat at Pontins to becoming the managing director of one of the most iconic hop-on, hop-off bus tour companies in the world. Tom shares his incredible career trajectory, diving into the invaluable lessons he learned along the way, from effective...
2024-09-0331 minSales Leader SecretsComing Soon - Sales Leader SecretsIt’s time to explore the world of sales leadership with Sales Leader Secrets!Leading sales can feel like a daunting and sometimes lonely journey. As the lifeblood of every business, you’re on the front lines, juggling customer relationships while inspiring and motivating your sales team. But how do you know if you’re truly on the right path?That’s where Sales Leader Secrets comes in. Join our host, Amanda Downs, Director of Commercial Leadership at The Uspire Partnership, as she interviews some of the most successful directors in the industry.Want to...
2024-08-0901 min
Green Business With ImpactIncrease sales with Amanda DownsIs sustainability just something that salespeople shy away from? Or is it more something that can be an asset in sales? Yes to the final question, according to my guest today. Sustainability presented and packaged correctly is a major potential sales superpower – if they can communicate it correctly to the customer.
My guest today is Amanda Downs, who has more than 35 years of experience in sales. She works with commercial leaders and their teams on strategy and one of her key points is: Sell to the customers “why”. For a sales department, this does not necessarily come easy a...
2024-06-0643 min
Every L PodcastEp 31 | From Isolation to Inspiration & Overcoming Lockdown Anxiety feat. Verral Paul-WalcottIn this episode of Every L Podcast, I sit down with guest, Verral, to discuss his struggles and how he overcame them. Verral delves into his experience with anxiety, and how it has given him a unique perspective on life. He discusses the pressure of social media and encourages listeners to embrace their unique qualities rather than trying to fit in with societal expectations. Verral also shares his work in helping the homeless and families in need, offering guidance on how organizations can get involved.
A bit more about Verral and C86erz:
C86erz i...
2023-03-271h 00
The Coach's Journey - build a coaching business with integrityEpisode #23: Daphna Horowitz - The Thrill-Seeking, Adventure-Loving CEO CoachDaphna Horowitz gets bored easily. And it is boredom – or rather, the rejection of it – that has taken her to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, helped her build a global business, and turned her into an eminent coach of CEOs and future leaders.Inspired by her former career as an actuary and her thrill-seeking instincts, Daphna blends an analytical approach to coaching with a desire to connect authentically and help her clients find their ‘why’.The unique way in which she provides help to high achievers – who often struggle to ask for it – shines through as she talks...
2021-03-041h 54
#GetSocial - The Connected Leader PodcastGet Social - The Connected Leader Podcast - Amanda Downs, Director of Commercial Leadership, UspireIn this episode of the Get Social Connected Leader podcast I'm delighted to interview Amanda Downs. Amanda is director of Commercial Leadership at Uspire where she challenges and supports leaders in organizations of all sizes to energize their people, making sure that their impact and what they intend to achieve literally bursts out at the end of the pipeline for customers. In these unprecedented times, this time of lockdown and social distancing, Amanda brings her thoughts on how to stay close to your team and customers so they are still with you when we're all through this, focusing on...
2020-03-3139 min
The Reluctant Leader PodcastSeries 2 Episode 2 Amanda DownsMark talks to Amanda Downs about the importance of Genuineness and Positive Regard to get better results Find out more about Amanda and Uspire at www.uspire.co.uk Connect with Mark on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/markterrellreluctantleader/ More info about the Reluctant Leader Academy here https://www.thereluctantleader.academy/
2019-03-1532 min