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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Operating nationwide from the heart of London’s bustling cityscape, Mike Charalambous, owner of TF Gas &amp; Heating and TF Energy, has carved out a niche for himself in the competitive world of energy services. But his journey to the top was anything but conventional.“I started out in the banking sector, but I wanted a change,” Charalambous recalls, reflecting on his decision to leave a career in finance. His quest for change led him to British Gas, where he embarked on a modern apprenticeship. “It was a qualification programme” he explains. In less than a year, he was fully trained as a gas engineer—a stark contrast to the traditional three-year apprenticeship.Charalambous’s passion for the trade was immediate: “I loved it straight away.” His tenure with British Gas was a whirlwind of learning and growth, but it wasn’t long before he felt the pull of independence. “I had the urge to work for myself from the start,” he says. Starting as a contractor, he quickly built a reputation for quality work, which led to his first clients in 2008. This led to work with Kinleigh Folkard &amp; Hayward (KFH), the largest independent estate agents in London. Charalambous’s commitment to excellence saw his services expand across KFH’s 40 branches, particularly in North and West London.As demand for his services grew, so did his team, marking the beginning of TradeForce Gas &amp; Heating’s expansion. With his accreditation in hand, Charalambous was not content to rest on his laurels. He foresaw the potential in renewable energy and retrained in heat pumps, leading to the creation of TF Energy, “it’s a carbon-neutral way of doing central heating and hot water,” Mike says. His commitment to green technology extends beyond heating solutions, as TF Gas &amp; Heating now provides a full spectrum of energy-efficient measures, including windows and solar panels.Today, Charalambous manages both companies under one umbrella, ensuring that his commitment to sustainability and customer service remains unwavering. “It’s taken me three years,” he says with a hint of pride. The TradeForce ApproachFor Mike Charalambous, what are some of the biggest challenges of being a leader? “Managing people,” he admits, highlighting the complexities of staff management—a skill that comes through experience. His approach to overcoming this hurdle? Building emotional intelligence. “I’ve done a lot of self therapy and self education on emotional intelligence,” Charalambous shares, citing Stephen Peters’ The Chimp Paradox as a transformative read.His commitment to personal development is mirrored in his management style. Charalambous believes in nurturing his staff to become managers themselves, rather than hiring externally. “I want to put this culture into the DNA of the company,” he explains. This philosophy extends to maintaining a personal touch with clients, a trait he ensures will stay. “We’re a nationwide operation, We’ve got operations in Bristol and Bradford in the north, and what’s important to me is keeping the personal touch. I have no problem getting involved in the work,” he asserts. “That’s what sets us apart from the rest, and I want to instil that to my staff,” he says. This ethos has not only fostered loyalty among his clients but also facilitated the company’s expansion through word-of-mouth recommendations. Tradeforce’s reputation and Mike’s leadership style have led to exciting projects, like the installation of 600 solar panels in an Army hangar in Yeovil Town.Leadership Insights and Legacy: The Charalambous PerspectiveWhen it comes to advice for fellow leaders, Mike doesn’t shy away. “A leader has got to be open-minded,” he states emphatically. He believes that adaptability and forward-thinking are crucial, especially when it comes to environmental sustainability. “We are trying for a green and carbon-neutral world, and at some point it’s got to happen,” he asserts.Charalambous also emphasises the importance of swift and effective problem-solving, particularly in the plumbing and heating industry where issues require immediate attention. “The best example of a leader is one who can deal with problems quickly and effectively,” he says, highlighting the urgency of providing essential services like heating and hot water, especially for the vulnerable.Looking to the future, Charalambous envisions a legacy that reflects the positive impact of his company. He aspires to leave behind a company that people associate with comfort and positivity. “I want it to be a company where our clients feel comfortable and the name of the company comes with a sense of trust and quality service, that’s my goal,” he reflects. Moreover, he values the growth and familial environment he has fostered among his staff, considering it a crucial aspect of his legacy. “It’s really important,” he concludes, “how I’m affecting my staff, and how they’ve seen growth and have become a family.”</div>

Mike Charalambous saw himself transition from the finance sector to the gas and heating industry. His swift transition to a gas engineer and his dedication to quality service have established his companies as leaders in energy services across the UK. Charalambous's leadership is defined by emotional intelligence and a commitment to sustainability, ensuring a legacy of trust, quality service, and a close-knit team culture.

Mike Charalambous: From Banking to Boilers

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Monica Bradley’s ascent in the financial world is a tale of ambition, expertise, and unwavering commitment to service. As the Owner and Managing Director of <a href="https://www.mbassociates.net/">MB Associates</a>, her story is not just about financial acumen but also about the personal touch she brings to her business.Reflecting on her beginnings, Monica shares, “I started out in the world of finance in 1989.” Her career trajectory is unique; after a year of traditional employment, she embraced the path of self-employment. “Back then, I was a wealth investment and pensions advisor,” she recounts. This foundational period set the stage for her future endeavours.In 2002, a significant shift occurred when Monica moved her operations to larger premises. This move coincided with a period where compliance became paramount, prompting a company transition. It was during this time that Monica’s business began to flourish in the mortgage sector. The growth was remarkable, evolving into a robust team of 12 advisors and 28 staff members.Monica’s approach to her company is deeply rooted in her early experiences. She understands the importance of specialisation in an ever-changing financial landscape. “You can’t specialise in every single area, that’s a thing of the past,” she asserts. This insight has led her to cultivate a team of specialist advisors, each an expert in their respective fields, from equity release to portfolio management for landlords. Through this expertise, the MB Associates team are able to deliver quality insights to their clientele, ensuring they are up-to-date and aware of the most relevant information.The success of MB Associates is built on more than just financial services; it’s built on relationships that span decades. Monica takes pride in the fact that some clients have been with her for 30 years. “We really do help generations of families,” she says. This loyalty is a testament to the trust and reliability that Bradley and her team have established.Looking ahead, the Managing Director is focused on growth and business innovation. With the launch of a specialist and commercial side in June, MB Associates is set to expand its offerings to meet the diverse needs of professional landlords and the property market. Moreover, Monica is passionate about bringing fresh talent into the industry, mentoring them to become the next generation of advisors.The Broker’s EdgeWhen it comes to industry challenges, Monica is acutely aware of the complexities. She believes that the role of a broker is crucial, especially when navigating the financial market. She goes on to explain the concept of ‘mortgage management,’ a proactive approach ensuring clients secure the best possible rate up to the point of exchange. “When lenders pull rates, we move fast,” she reveals, underscoring the urgency with which her team must act to secure favourable rates for their clients.“Rate changes and market volatility are just some examples of the aspects we have to keep an eye on,” she says, referring to the unpredictable nature of the market and the sudden withdrawal of rates by banks without notice. In light of this, Monica stresses the importance of educating clients about the market intricacies. “It isn’t just about the bank base rate,” Monica clarifies. The broader economic climate, including inflation rates and global events, can significantly impact swap rates and, consequently, the mortgage rates. What’s happening all over the world has a true impact,” she says.But despite the continuous hurdles, Monica remains optimistic about the value brokers provide. “A broker really will help,” she asserts, echoing the sentiments of consumer champions like Martin Lewis. Brokers, the Managing Director believes, offer a comprehensive view of the market. They present clients with the best options, help them understand the available choices, and guide clients through the ever-changing tides of the mortgage market.Forging a Legacy of Client CareAs the conversation draws to a close, the Managing Director elaborates on what makes the ideal leader in the industry and her own approach. Leadership, according to Monica, is about setting a standard and ensuring it permeates every level of the company. “Leading from the front and building the culture down from the top,” is how she describes her form. Monica’s ethos is clear: every client deserves equal treatment, regardless of the size of their mortgage. “No client gets treated any differently,” she states firmly.When it comes to the legacy of MB Associates, Monica envisions the company as a paragon of integrity and resilience in the mortgage brokerage industry. “I would like it to be a very well-known and respectable high integrity broker,” she asserts, emphasising the firm’s commitment to helping clients secure and maintain their homes under any life circumstances.But Monica’s vision extends beyond mere transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships and ensuring clients have a reliable point of contact. “We are always at the other end of the phone and the other end of an email for the clients,” she says, highlighting the importance of accessibility and doing right by the client.With over 30 years of loyalty and expertise, Monica’s leadership has fostered a culture of client servicing that resonates throughout the company. The future looks bright for MB Associates, with expansions on the horizon and a focus on specialist lending—a testament to Monica’s forward-thinking and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.</div>

Monica Bradley's journey from a wealth investment advisor to the Managing Director of MB Associates is a narrative of dedication in delivering quality service. Her firm's success is not just in financial expertise but in nurturing long-term client relationships and adapting to the dynamic financial landscape.

Monica Bradley: Brokerage Services With a Personal Touch

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In the heart of Kent, a county known for its selective education system, stands Sandwich Technology School, a secondary modern institution led by the formidable Headteacher Tracey Savage. Born into a world where academic success was measured by the pass or fail of the 11 Plus, Savage’s early life was marked by the label of ‘failure’ when she did not secure a place at a grammar school. “I am dyslexic,” Savage reveals, “and I was always destined to be a poor comparison to my clever older brother who did go to the grammar school.”Despite the low aspirations set for her, Savage quietly carved her own path, surprising everyone by pursuing further education and eventually earning a maths degree. Her teaching career began in Doncaster, where she quickly ascended to Assistant Head within her first year. The call of home brought her back to Dover, where she continued to climb the educational ladder, culminating in her current role as Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School, a role she has held since January 2015.Tracey’s personal struggles with dyslexia have shaped her educational philosophy, and she staunchly opposes the notion that dyslexia limits academic capabilities. “If Professor Dumbledore could run into the office right now and say, ‘Tracey, I could wave a magic wand and take your dyslexia away. Would you like me to?’ The answer would be no,” she asserts. The Headteacher credits her dyslexia for her ability to see the big picture and solve problems, skills that are invaluable in her leadership role.Under Savage’s guidance, Sandwich Technology School has become a beacon of high expectations and academic ambition. “We quite regularly have students interviewing for Oxbridge,” she states with pride. What’s more, her commitment to collaboration and community is evident in her efforts to work closely with other schools in the district, including grammar schools. This cooperative approach ensures a unified educational experience for students across the region, regardless of the school they attend.Navigating the Tides of ChangeAs a seasoned educator and headteacher, Tracey confronts the challenges of modern education with a blend of determination and insight. She notes that one recent example is that of COVID, and the changes the pandemic brought in the attitudes of students and parents. The Sandwich Headteacher is also acutely aware of the difficulties faced by secondary modern schools compared to grammar schools, especially amidst a national recruitment crisis. “Five years ago, if I had a teacher who was long term absent, I would be able to find a supply teacher to cover them. But that’s no longer possible,” she laments.Despite these hurdles, Savage’s resolve remains unshaken. “To be honest, these challenges make me all the more determined,” she declares. Her leadership is pivotal in maintaining the morale of both students and staff, ensuring that they do not crumble under the weight of these circumstances. “It’s my job to deal with the turbulence and the changes,” she states, committed to keeping everyone focused on what’s important and ensuring they have the capacity, freedom, and spirit to thrive.When it comes to addressing these challenges, Tracey’s advice to policymakers is clear: “Listen to the professionals in the industry.” She urges recognition of the diverse range of education systems across the country and calls for a framework that acknowledges the unique challenges of secondary moderns.The headteacher’s plea for understanding extends to the complexities added by the variety of school categories. Tracey believes that policymakers need to be more involved and informed about the current educational system to avoid basing decisions on outdated or irrelevant experiences.Cultivating a Legacy: Tracey Savage’s Vision for Educational LeadershipAs Tracey Savage reflects on her nearly decade-long tenure as Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School, her vision for educational leadership is clear. “I am a relatively intuitive person,” she states. Savage’s leadership style defies categorisation; she is an amalgam of reason, empathy, and decisiveness. When asked what her idea of an exemplary leader is, she says one who “leads with intuition, fairness, and a collaborative spirit, who sets high standards for students and staff alike, and who leaves a lasting, positive impact on the school community.” Her legacy is not just in the policies she’s implemented or the hurdles she’s overcome, but in the ethos she has instilled within the school. Tracey’s commitment to high expectations and a broad educational experience for all students is unwavering. “They’re entitled to a full and broad curriculum and that’s what they get here,” she asserts, challenging any notion of limiting students’ potential based on their background.Looking to the future, Savage’s approach to leadership is one of stewardship and collective effort. “I see myself as the caretaker of the schooI, and I want to leave it in a better state than it was when I arrived,” she explains. This mindset extends to her team-building philosophy, where she values unity and morale: “We’re facing tough situations, but we face it together and we’re generally pulling in the same direction.”</div>

Tracey Savage, Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School in Kent, defies the odds of dyslexia and leads with a philosophy that champions high academic standards and collaborative community efforts. She exemplifies the ability to overcome adversity and driving educational excellence in a modern secondary school setting.

Tracey Savage: The Resolute Headteacher Shaping Education in Kent


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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In the heart of Kirklees, West Yorkshire, Carlton J&amp;I School Headteacher <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rizwana-mahmood-ahmed-mbe-6bb963a0/?originalSubdomain=uk">Rizwana Mahmood-Ahmed MBE</a>&nbsp;is transforming education. “I want to be a voice for the voiceless,” is her message.Born to South Asian parents in the late '70s, Mahmood’s early life laid the foundation for her remarkable journey. “My own schooling experience is quite central to who I am today,” Mahmood reflects. As part of a school programme designed to integrate immigrant children into the outskirts of urban areas, she credits this initiative with shaping her into the individual and leader she is now.Mahmood’s narrative is one of cultural synthesis and rebellion against the expected norms. “I remember singing hymns in the Church of England school,” she says, allowing her to celebrate similarities and respect differences without losing her Muslim identity. This early exposure to diversity became a cornerstone of her pedagogy and approach to leadership.Despite the pressure to pursue ‘noble professions’ like medicine or teaching, Mahmood carved her own path, initially stepping into the fashion industry and modelling. However, life’s realities soon steered her towards education. “I got my initial honours degree in Education and I thought “I quite like this”,” she admits, marking the beginning of her teaching career amidst the challenges of high social deprivation in Manningham.Mahmood’s ascent in education was rapid, fuelled by her charisma and enthusiasm. “You are leadership material,” her mentor had declared, propelling her into junior leadership roles and eventually headhunting her for an assistant headship. Her drive to make a difference on a larger scale saw her navigating through various leadership positions, each marked by a blend of turbulence and triumph.The passion Rizwana holds for improving not only educational standards of the most deprived, but for their livelihoods as a whole, shines through. Her school stands as a beacon of excellence with standards comparable to private institutions, having been recognised for its remarkable progress in English and mathematics. “I want this school to become a centre of excellence,” she had envisioned, and under her stewardship, it has become a strategic partner for the Calderdale and Kirklees teaching school hub.Rizwana’s Vision for the FutureMahmood’s commitment to education extends far beyond her role as a headteacher. As a school improvement advisor, she collaborates closely with Kirklees, bringing her expertise to numerous schools across the region.Mahmood’s perspective on Kirklees is refreshingly optimistic. “There’s a lot of amazing, excellent people in this authority,” she says, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that often goes unnoticed. Her travels to various schools have revealed a wealth of young talent, future leaders who she believes will shape tomorrow’s educational landscape.The narrative surrounding Kirklees, Mahmood argues, needs a shift. “By only spotlighting the council’s shortcomings, we risk alienating the very talent we seek to nurture,” she cautions. Mahmood’s approach is to celebrate achievements as well as learn from failures, striving for a more balanced view that recognises the strengths within Kirklees.When her school received a prestigious ranking, Mahmood saw it as an opportunity to showcase the collective effort of many. “This is for Kirklees… a lot of people have contributed to this,” she insists, pushing for public recognition of the collaborative success. Her efforts were supported by MP Kim Leadbeater, who commended Mahmood for putting Kirklees on the map. “It genuinely is a collective effort,” she states.Influencing PolicyMahmood’s story is not just about leading a school but about shaping the very fabric of education policy. “Policies need to be made with people in mind,” she asserts, her eyes set on the broader horizon of national influence. Her mission is clear: to empower the voiceless and transform education policy. “I don’t want to be a run-of-the-mill,” Mahmood states. “I want to do something different. I really want to be a voice for the voiceless.”Mahmood’s approach to education is not just about teaching; it’s about nurturing potential and providing opportunities. Her school is a testament to this philosophy, offering experiences typically reserved for the elite—horse riding, international visits, skiing, and golf. “We’re trying to normalise these for deprived communities so that they feel worthy of taking things up,” she explains.One of the most inspirational moments at Mahmood’s school was the visit of Malala Yousafzai, the young Nobel laureate who stood up for girls’ education in the face of adversity. The visit was not just a chance encounter but a carefully orchestrated event that left an indelible mark on the students. After seeing a student reading Malala’s book with her signature inside it, she discovered that the pupil’s mum was the headteacher of Malala at the time of the incident. Having found this out, Rizwana couldn’t miss out on a chance to bring Malala in to the school. “It was a jaw-dropping experience,” Mahmood recalls. “Malala played the video of her being rushed to the hospital after being shot, but she wanted to pursue her education regardless.”Mahmood’s dedication extends beyond her school walls. She has collaborated with the University of Oxford to create ‘Oxbridge Minds’, an accreditation program for schools, ensuring that her students and others nationwide receive exposure to higher education’s possibilities.Her advice to policymakers is unequivocal: “Give headteachers autonomy. Consult more authentically with teachers. Bring it all together nationally.” Mahmood’s voice is not just a call for change; it’s a rallying cry for a future where every child, regardless of background, has access to an outstanding education. A Legacy of LeadershipWhen asked how she envisions her legacy, being “a leader of people” is Rizwana’s response, a reflection of her authentic self and her dedication to nurturing young minds. “You’re a human being responsible for nurturing a lot of little human beings,” she asserts, emphasising the duty of care inherent in teaching.Mahmood’s leadership philosophy is grounded in mutual respect and character building, which has led to remarkable outcomes: “We’ve never had an exclusion in this school since I’ve taken over,” she proudly shares. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenging backgrounds of many students.Her approach has yielded a school environment where behavioural issues are non-existent, and the focus is on developing soft skills alongside academic knowledge. Mahmood’s legacy is not just in the statistics but in the ethos she instils in her school—a place where every child is valued and respected, and where education is a journey of mutual growth and understanding. It’s evident that Rizwana Mahmood’s legacy will reflect Carlton School’s motto, “dream, aspire, achieve”—where every child is given the respect and opportunity to grow, learn, and become a contributing member of society.&nbsp; </div>

Headteacher Rizwana Mahmood-Ahmed MBE at Carlton J&I School in Kirklees champions inclusive education, excellency, and empowerment. Her journey from immigrant integration to educational leadership exemplifies and informs her vision of excellence and innovation for all students.

Linda Elliott

Career Overview

Popular Features

Mike Charalambous: From Banking to Boilers

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Tracey Savage: The Resolute Headteacher Shaping Education in Kent

Rizwana Mahmood: The Educational Reformer and Leader of People

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