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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">From the courts of international netball to the pastoral tranquillity of a farm, <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/alice-bennett">Alice Bennett MBE</a> has journeyed through a life rich with diverse experiences.&nbsp;As the Founder and Centre Leader of <a href="https://www.worcestereyc.co.uk/about.htm">Madresfield and Worcester Early Years Learning Centres</a>, Alice’s passion for the well-being of children shines through immediately. “I worked in secondary schools and loved it,” she recalls, reflecting on her time as a specialist PE teacher. Her athletic prowess is not just limited to her role as an educator; she was an international netball player for England for eight years.Alice’s feats extend beyond the netball court, having conquered the London Marathon, scaled mountains, and embarked on extensive bike rides from Land’s End to John O’Groats. However, it was the birth of her four children and marriage to a farmer that unveiled a new chapter in her life. “Bringing up my four children on a farm with all the space, all the animals, all the freedoms,” she shares, “I realised that this was a privilege that I could share with other families.”With a vision to extend this privilege, Alice, while embracing her role as a stay-at-home mum, conceived the idea of creating an early years centre. This centre would offer children the same advantages she cherished during her children’s upbringing, and a second degree in early years education from Worcester University further solidified her resolve to make a difference in the lives of young children, especially those with special needs and disabilities.Alice’s ambition materialised as she transformed redundant farm buildings into vibrant school rooms, overcoming the challenges of being a tenant farmer’s wife. Her perseverance paid off, and the centre opened its doors to 24 children, growing year by year to accommodate 188.The Spirit of Madresfield and Worcester Early Years Learning CentresUnder her tenure, Alice has created more than just nurseries; she has established communities where children and staff alike are encouraged to “spread their wings and fly high.” The centres’ approach to education is holistic. “We’ve got nutrition, we’ve got early years education at an affordable price, but physical education is also key here,” Alice explains. The nurseries are equipped with gymnasiums where children engage in activities that foster not only their physical abilities but also their sense of self. “For autistic and deaf and disabled children, this is really important,” Alice notes.Alice’s leadership extends to her staff, a dedicated team of around 120, primarily women, who share their passions with the children. Whether it’s needlework, embroidery, or gardening, each staff member contributes their unique skills to enrich the children’s learning. As a result of their work, the centres have achieved seven successive Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ grades.Safety is paramount, and the staff are all trained in first aid to manage the increased risks associated with the centres’ farm-based activities. Alice herself drives a tractor named Trixie, taking children on educational tours around the farm and village. These experiences are not only educational but also imbued with a sense of fun and discovery.At the core of the centres’ success is the recognition of individual strengths. “Every child, every member of staff, and every parent is good at something,” Alice asserts. It’s this focus on individual talents that has led to remarkable achievements, such as the story of an autistic boy who, having attended Alice’s centre as a child, went on to earn a PhD.Madresfield and Worcester Early Years Learning Centres operate with extended hours to accommodate parents’ schedules, offering flexible booking options and ensuring continuity of care. The staff work varied shifts, but the goal remains constant: to provide a stable and loving environment where children can thrive.Alice has also begun to delegate responsibilities, encouraging her staff to develop by taking on roles such as payroll, which she managed single-handedly for decades. This transition is not just about efficiency but also about nurturing the next generation of leaders within her centres. “They are who I am. They are my legacy,” she states with pride.Despite the accolades, including an MBE for her contributions to early years education, Alice faces challenges that test her resolve. What’s more, her approach to learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Her innovative Farmer Bennett stories, based on true events, resonate with the children and are set to be published, much to the delight of her staff.However, the industry faces external pressures. Alice is critical of the government’s inability to meet the demand for nursery places and the encroachment of profit-driven entities into the sector. She questions the prioritisation of economic gains over the welfare of children and laments the rise of corporate childcare entities driven by profit. “When are we going to have that debate about what is best for our younger children?” she challenges, calling for a reevaluation of our societal values.Financial constraints pose another significant challenge. The burden of VAT on expansion plans and essential resources is a hurdle, and Alice argues for a reevaluation of the industry’s financial model to ensure fair compensation for early years professionals.A Legacy of Love and LearningAs the heart and soul behind the Early Years Learning Centres, Alice has dedicated her life to the well-being and education of children. “It’s a big risk,” Alice admits, speaking of the financial gambles she’s taken, including cashing in her pension not once, but twice, to support the centres. “But I’m still prepared to do it again,” she asserts.The vision she has extends beyond the classroom walls, and her efforts foster an environment where children learn to respect nature and their community. The legacy Alice seeks to leave is one of love, learning, and demonstrating the power of rural upbringing and the profound impact it can have on a child’s development. As she reflects on her unexpected journey from international netballer to nursery teacher, it’s clear that Alice Bennett’s life has been a remarkable adventure, one that has changed countless lives for the better.In the end, Alice’s story is not just about the challenges of rural education or the trials of running a tenant farm. It’s about the joy of making a difference, the importance of community, and the enduring belief that every child deserves a childhood filled with wonder, respect, and the freedom to explore the natural world.</div>

Alice Bennett MBE, went from international netball championship to becoming the founder of Madresfield and Worcester Early Years Learning Centres. Her dedication to child well-being and education, coupled with her innovative approach to holistic learning, has transformed lives and set a new standard in early years education. Explore how Alice's unique story of athletic achievement, rural life, and educational leadership has created a legacy of love, learning, and community values.

Alice Bennett MBE: Championing Rural Child Development

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In the construction industry, <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/chris-goodison">Chris Goodison</a>, the Managing Director at Pyrotect, carries the torch of experience brightly. With a career spanning over three decades, Goodison has been at the forefront of the industry’s evolution, particularly in the niche field of passive fire protection.“I started in the construction industry in 1987 as an 18-year-old pupil management trainee with Johnson Construction,” Goodison recalls. From his early days, he quickly ascended to significant roles, culminating in his position as a site agent for the towering hospital project in Dublin.In 2014, his journey led him to Pyrotect, where he joined as Contracts Director. “I joined Pyrotect with knowledge of main contracting, subcontracting which was new for the company, specifically drywall, and a knowledge of the interface with passive fire protection through partition systems,” he explains.Chris observed a disparity between the site and office that needed bridging. “It wasn’t a difficult task to get more personally connected with the site resource,” he says, emphasising the importance of helping staff understand their role in the bigger picture. “It made them more understanding of the important role they played,” he adds, likening the company to an engine where removing even one cog—be it himself or a site supervisor—could cause a significant impact.His approach to business is rooted in fostering strong relationships. “Being transparent with our dealings to generate loyalty with our client base that increased repeat business was the intention,” Goodison states. This philosophy has been instrumental in Pyrotect’s growth and the cultivation of a robust client base that values trust and reliability.Goodison proudly asserts that Pyrotect stands “equal or better than anybody else in the industry,” a belief supported by a substantial client base and the fact that “nearly 70% of our work is repeat business.” This loyalty, he believes, is a result of the company’s quality and the trust clients place in Pyrotect.Despite a £7 million annual turnover, Pyrotect maintains a close-knit operation with 15 staff and 60 site workers, ensuring a more personal touch. Goodison values the daily commitment, “it’s bigger than a business commitment. It’s a personal commitment to a client, to a supplier, to somebody that works for us.” When it comes to the sector, Goodison describes it as “unarguably the most scrutinised” due to the life-saving importance of compartmentalising fires within a building. “Primarily it’s for the safe access for fire services and to ensure people can leave in emergencies,” he states, with insurance considerations following closely behind.Interestingly, Goodison is not aiming for growth but rather to maintain and enhance the quality of service, focusing on increasing repeat business in a competitive market. “At the end of the day, there are sectors within main contractors that will look at the pennies and others that will look at the reassurance we deliver,” he concludes, highlighting the balance between cost and quality that defines Pyrotect’s approach to business.Building Trust Through TransparencyGoodison believes that the construction industry is fundamentally a people industry. “It still comes down to having trust in somebody doing what they say they’re going to do,” he asserts. This trust is critical to the company’s operations and is something Goodison does not take lightly. He stresses the importance of being upfront with clients, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise. “When a problem comes up, I always take the first and earliest opportunity to go back and say, “look, there’s a problem, and this is what we’re going to do about it”,” he explains.Pyrotect’s operational reach is nationwide, with Chris noting that a significant portion of their work is within a 40-mile radius of the Midlands, their heartland. However, they have resources spread across the country. This strategic placement of resources allows Pyrotect to deliver jobs efficiently and with a skilled workforce that is not overburdened by travel, ensuring they can provide a robust week of work. “We’ve got resources up in Lancaster, towards Bristol, and north of London near Milton Keynes,” Goodison explains, “and we use those resources to satisfy local jobs.” Envisioning a People-Centric LegacyPyrotect’s Managing Director is clear about his vision for the company’s legacy—“It’s all about the people and the team,” Goodison insists, explaining that the success of Pyrotect hinges on the engagement and motivation of every member, from the office to the site. He believes that while monetary compensation is a factor, it’s not the sole reason people come to work. “If we can get that right, we’ve nailed it,” he says.Goodison is committed to understanding and supporting his team, recognising that personal challenges can affect professional performance. “We’ve got to understand what makes people tick,” he states, emphasising the importance of being responsive to the needs of his 60-strong workforce. He takes pride in going “over and above” to help team members through tough times, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it helps get them back on track.The interconnectedness of the team is another aspect Chris highlights. During appraisals, he discovered that many employees did not realise how reliant they were on each other. “Nearly everybody interacts with everybody at some point,” he observed, pointing out the significance of information flow within the company. This realisation was a “light bulb moment” for many, as they began to understand the collective nature of their roles.Goodison’s approach to leadership is about ensuring every employee who dons the Pyrotect vest is motivated to perform to the best of their abilities, not just for their satisfaction but also for the benefit of the company and its clients. He envisions a legacy where Pyrotect is known for its strong relationships and repeat business, all stemming from a culture that prioritises the well-being and satisfaction of its people. “And if we can get that right, then everybody’s satisfied, including the clients,” he concludes.</div>

Chris Goodison, Pryotect's Managing Director, illuminates the construction industry with over three decades of expertise. Learn how his transparent leadership style fosters trust and reliability, driving Pyrotect's growth and maintaining a robust client base. Dive into the heart of Pyrotect's operations, where every team member plays a vital role in upholding the company's commitment to quality and service excellence. 

Chris Goodison: The Architect of Safety and Success

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/stephen-davis">Stephen Davis</a>, Chief Executive and Group Principal of United Colleges Group (UCG), personifies dedication and transformative leadership in education.&nbsp;Davis’s expertise, initially honed as a trained accountant and economist for British Aerospace at Prestwick, found a new home in the educational sector—a field he had never envisioned for himself. “I never wanted to be a teacher,” he admits, “and I ended up spending my whole career in education and loving it.”Stephen spent the majority of his career in Scotland before a policy shift in 2013 prompted a move to England. “There was a significant piece of reform that took place in Scotland around 2013, which didn’t align with my value set,” he explains. This pivotal moment led him to seek opportunities in England, eventually landing a role with City and Islington College in London under the leadership of Sir Frank McLaughlin, CBE.Davis faced the challenge of adapting to the English educational system, which starkly contrasted with the collaborative nature of its Scottish counterpart. “The English educational system is based on a philosophy of competition leads to excellence,” he states. Navigating these changes, Davis has skillfully steered UCG through the intricacies of local and national priorities, particularly during the tumultuous times of the pandemic.Despite the challenges, Davis’s passion for education remains undiminished. “I love education because I can see the difference it makes,” he shares. His approach to leadership is characterised by a deep understanding of the unique needs of the communities UCG serves, striving to align educational offerings with the demands of the job market and the aspirations of students.Building the Future: UCG’s Commitment to Education and CommunityStephen is a man with a vision for the future of education in London. Under his leadership, UCG has embarked on ambitious projects to expand and enhance its educational offerings, always with an eye on the needs of the local community. The group recently purchased a property near the iconic Wembley Stadium. The plan is to erect a seven-storey campus designed by Wilkinson Eyre, the architectural firm behind the Battersea Power Station redevelopment. This new campus will be a beacon of state-of-the-art technology and education, “directly across from Boxpark, overlooking Wembley Stadium,” Davis explains.UCG’s dedication to public value extends beyond its walls. The recent opening of the Euston Skill Centre, which focuses on green skills and precision engineering for the rail industry, demonstrates UCG’s collaborative spirit. These are all initiatives that have the support of a variety of stakeholders, including local councils and the Department of Education.The strategic moves are part of UCG’s broader vision, “our strategic plan is for London and Londoners,” Stephen explains. It’s a commitment to providing world-class facilities and addressing the local needs of a diverse student body. “We’ve had significant support from third-party stakeholders,” Davis notes, citing the Department for Education and the Greater London Authority as key partners in this endeavour.Beyond all of this, the social fabric of London, with its challenges of deprivation and exclusion, particularly among ethnically diverse communities, is not lost on Davis. He proudly points out that “72% of our younger learners all come from ethnically diverse backgrounds.” UCG’s leadership reflects this, having increased its ethnically diverse leadership and management from 19% to 48%. As UCG continues to grow and adapt, it remains focused on its core mission: to remove barriers to opportunity and ensure that education is accessible to everyone in the communities it serves. With innovative projects and a clear vision for the future, Stephen Davis and UCG are poised to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape of London.A Vision for Community and GrowthDavis sees the institution as more than just an educational provider, “fundamentally, I see us as a community partner as well as an anchor institution for the communities which we serve,” Davis says, highlighting UCG’s role in fostering local initiatives and supporting under-16 communities through various schemes.Davis’s aspirations for UCG extend beyond local impact to national influence. He convened a stakeholder dinner with the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, discussing the multifaceted role colleges can play in delivering health and justice outcomes, among others. “We can deliver across a series of metrics that are important to central and local government,” he asserts, advocating for a broader recognition of the college’s contributions to society.For Stephen, changing the narrative around further education is a personal mission. He envisions UCG as a safeguarding force within the community, providing essential services that go beyond educational qualifications. “I would like to change the narrative on what further education is about,” he states, emphasising the importance of UCG’s role in the community.Looking to the future, Davis is determined to grow UCG’s reach and capabilities. He expresses a desire for UCG to become the educator or community asset of first choice, and to expand through partnerships that create synergies and reduce duplication of efforts. “I’d like to see us take our expertise and work in a bigger partnership or arrangement with other college partners potentially, or even sub-sector partners,” he explains.It is safe to say that Davis is optimistic about UCG’s trajectory, and not without reason. “UCG is a work in progress. We’re growing into our name and we’re growing into the communities we support,” he reflects. With a clear vision and a commitment to serving London and Londoners, UCG under Davis’s leadership is poised for a future of meaningful impact and continued success.</div>

Stephen Davis, Chief Executive and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, went from being a trained economist to a central figure in higher education across London. Learn about his unwavering commitment to education, UCG's strategic plans for the future, and their dedication to serving the diverse needs of London's communities.

Stephen Davis: A Story of Growth and Adaptation in Education

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In Lagos, Nigeria, <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/news/the-power-of-clean-living-inspiring-leadership-in-health-conscious-brands">a young Ayo Disu’s</a> world was shaped by the bustling energy of enterprise and the meticulous world of tax governance.&nbsp;Ayo's mother, a director in the tax office for the revenue service, and his father, an entrepreneur, provided a backdrop of business acumen and leadership that would come to define Disu’s own entrepreneurial spirit.It was this fusion of fiscal discipline and entrepreneurial zeal that sparked Disu’s curiosity in the world of business. At the tender age of 16, a pivotal encounter with a private equity firm owner would set him on a path of discovery. “I was just very curious,” Disu shares, “one of the books that my dad gave was about Warren Buffet, and I soon got into the concept of private equity.”This curiosity earned him an internship and Disu’s journey took him from the shores of Nigeria to the prestigious Cass Business School, where he was surrounded by ambitious peers, further igniting his love for business. Despite a brief stint back in Lagos, working on digital transformation and fundraising initiatives, Disu felt the need to rescale himself, leading him to specialise in innovation at the University of London.It was there that Disu stumbled upon a concept that would shape his future: the search fund. “This concept of a search fund, which I’d never heard about in my life, was basically a combination of private equity and entrepreneurship,” he explains. The idea of buying and growing a business, as opposed to starting from scratch, resonated with him deeply.With a focus on e-commerce and FMCG, akin to his father’s business, Disu envisioned creating a conglomerate of small family-run businesses. His academic excellence, marked by awards for both his business plan and thesis, underscored his potential. Yet, it was the practical application of his ideas that truly captivated him. On November 15, 2020, Disu’s vision materialised with the establishment of <a href="https://octillioncapitalpartners.com/team.html">Octillion Capital</a>. Octillion Capital: Embracing the Underdog StatusAyo Disu’s entrepreneurial spirit demonstrates the power of self-belief in the face of scepticism. “I initially encountered sceptical reactions to my ideas, but I liked it because it meant that I was underestimated,” he says. “People didn’t see me as a threat,” Disu recalls, and this perception allowed him to operate under the radar, turning disbelief into a personal motivator. “If people don’t believe in me, I’m just going to believe in myself even more,” he asserts, a mindset that has been a cornerstone of his approach to business.Capital was another hurdle, intertwined with the need for experience. “Before we bought our first business, I know we probably looked at over 200 deals,” Disu admits, highlighting the relentless pursuit and resilience required to break through in the industry. Despite numerous rejections, Disu and his team persevered, transitioning from selling a mere concept to presenting a proven track record. This shift from concept to credibility marks a significant milestone for Octillion Capital. Disu’s unwavering belief in his vision and his ability to leverage initial challenges as opportunities for growth have been pivotal in the company’s evolution.Along with his Octillion co-founder, Kunle Campbell, Disu has set his sights on a mission that transcends mere profit-making. “Our mission is to fight this epidemic of toxic and ultra processed foods,” Disu declares, pinpointing the detrimental impact of such products on society’s well-being. Octillion’s focus is clear: to champion the cause of healthy consumption in the sectors of food and beverage and health and beauty.Disu’s approach is not just about offering alternatives; it’s about fostering a culture of informed choices and education over coercion. This philosophy extends to Octillion’s brands, like <a href="https://leancaffeine.co.uk/">Lean Caffeine</a>, which prides itself on being free from mycotoxins, pesticides, and heavy metals, embodying the company’s commitment to clean, traceable, and beneficial products.With all of this, it comes as no surprise that for Ayo leadership is about integrity. “A good leader is one that is honest and self-aware,” he states, emphasising the importance of acknowledging one’s own deficiencies while striving for a greater cause. Disu believes in the symbiotic relationship between profit and purpose, asserting that “profit is a force multiplier for good.”Octillion’s ultimate goal for their brands is to create a long-term bond with customers. “Our brand is your friend for life, and it’s a good friend,” he says, encapsulating the essence of what Octillion seeks to achieve: a relationship with customers built on trust, quality, and a shared vision for a healthier life. It’s a call to action for mindful consumption and a healthier future, championed by leaders who believe in the power of profit to propagate good.Forging Ahead: Octillion Capital’s Visionary PathWhen it comes to the future, Disu’s blueprint is not just ambitious but also altruistic. Whilst emphasising the importance of financial health across the portfolio, profitability is not the sole endgame; Disu is equally focused on the societal impact. The envisaged Octillion store, a physical embodiment of the company’s ethos, would showcase their brands alongside emerging ones, fostering a community of innovation. It’s a concept that mirrors the success of trailblazers, yet with a unique Octillion twist.Disu’s long-term vision encapsulates a dual mission: to nurture and acquire brands that align with Octillion’s values and to “leave the world in a better place than we found it.” It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with the company’s ethos of progress and philanthropy. Collaboration is a cornerstone of the company’s strategy, as Disu acknowledges the synergy between capital and policy. “We work with people that are in the policy world because that’s where a lot of the things will really take shape,” he explains. Disu’s parting words serve as an open invitation to join their mission: “If there’s anyone that’s interested in our mission. then reach out to us.” It’s a call to action for those who share their vision of a profitable yet impactful future.&nbsp;</div>

Ayo Disu, Co-Founder of Octillion Capital has a unique blend of fiscal discipline and entrepreneurial passion that shapes a mission for healthy consumption and societal impact. Discover how Disu's vision for Octillion is transforming the e-commerce and FMCG sectors with integrity and innovation.

Ayo Disu: The Entrepreneurial Journey to Octillion Capital

Education 

Ark Data Centres and its CEO, Huw Owen, have been deservedly recognised for their work toward a circular economy in the data centre industry. This comes after Data Centre Magazine featured Owen in its list of the Top 10 CEOs of the most sustainable data centre companies in the world.

Ark Data Centres CEO Owen features in Data Centre Magazine Top 10 list for sustainability

As the world gets talking about climate change with the COP26 summit ongoing in the UK, B2B services business Ark Data Centres has leading the way on driving sustainability within its industry.

Leading the way: Ark Data Centres take a stand on sustainability

Work on the Meridian Park data centre in North London has been completed, Ark Data Centres has announced.

Huw Owen

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Ark Data Centres CEO Owen features in Data Centre Magazine Top 10 list for sustainability

Leading the way: Ark Data Centres take a stand on sustainability

Work completed on new Meridian Park data centre in North London

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Alice Bennett MBE: Championing Rural Child Development

Chris Goodison: The Architect of Safety and Success

Stephen Davis: A Story of Growth and Adaptation in Education

Ayo Disu: The Entrepreneurial Journey to Octillion Capital

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