FMEA finalists discuss what it takes to be a good leader

We take a sneak peek at the interview process for some of the people awards at this year’s FMEAs to find out what the nominees think makes as good boss and culture in a food and drink manufacturing business.

Bumble Hole Foods Andrew Hewston spoke about the importance of evolving and adapting on your journey towards being a respected business leader, while Heather Nicholson Mondelez explained reinvesting in staff creates a workforce more willing to put in the effort.

People first thinking

Paul Saunders Proper Cornish said: “First and foremost, financial success is based upon the people who work for you. If you don’t have the people coming to work, there’s limited chances and opportunities to reach and achieve the targets you’ve set yourself as a business.​

“Retaining people is just as important as attracting ​[new staff] and also develop a reputation in the local community. That reputation can then be developed by your current portfolio of staff.”​

Meanwhile, don’t forget to secure your tickets for this year’s awards,​​ to be held at the London Hilton Bankside on Thursday 8 February.

Industry awards

The FMEAs are the undisputed, original and best accolades annually recognising corporate and individual excellence in food processing at all levels. Widely regarded in the industry as the gold standard and the ones to win, the awards have continuously evolved to represent the sector’s needs better, and this year is no different.

The awards night is always filled to the brim with excitement and is an unrivalled opportunity to get yourself in the room to network with the finest food and drink manufacturers in the country. The evening provides a totally unique chance to network and talk tactics over a drink with fellow food & drink industry peers.

Last year saw Finnebrogue Artisan named Food Manufacture Company of the Year and Plant-Based Manufacturing Company of the Year, while Wyke Farm’s Richard Clothier took home the title of Business Leader of the Year.