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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-brown-91685b123/?originalSubdomain=uk">Hayley Brown</a>, Chief Executive of <a href="https://www.linktochange.org.uk/">Link to Change</a>, is firmly dedicated to helping youths entangled in the complexities of exploitation. Her career speaks for itself.&nbsp;“I started as a youth worker,” Hayley recalls, her journey beginning with the foundational blocks of university and a Masters in psychodynamic counselling. It was during her time as a student mentor at a Sixth Form college that the seeds of her future were sown.“I’ve worked from the bottom all the way up to the top as well,” she states, a reflection of her hands-on approach that resonates deeply with her staff. “I’m never going to ask them to do something that I haven’t already done effectively,” she asserts, highlighting a leadership style rooted in experience and understanding.The toll of dealing with trauma and tough experiences is an aspect Hayley is intimately familiar with. “It’s a tough job,” she admits, acknowledging the emotional strain that comes with the territory. Yet, she believes it’s not about developing a tougher skin but learning to “process things a little bit differently” and compartmentalise effectively.Hayley’s defining moment came with her first case. “It was working on that in particular that made me realise this is something that’s very big and serious,” she reflects. This revelation steered her towards her niche, where she resolved to make a difference. For Hayley, the connection to the victims and the long-term objectives of working with young people are what drive her. What’s more, the Link to Change Chief Executive cherishes the transformative journeys, despite their challenges in measurement. “It’s hard to evidence those journeys,” she says, recounting a story of a young girl whose goal was to overcome social anxiety and step into Primark—a monumental achievement in its own right. Hayley’s journey is one marked by small victories that create profound changes. She knows that at some point, her words will resonate with those she’s helped, long after they’ve continued on their path.Fighting Exploitation on All FrontsHayley has witnessed firsthand the evolution of social attitudes towards exploitation. “I would say we’ve come a long way,” she begins, acknowledging the strides made in raising awareness. Yet, she is quick to point out that “we’re not even halfway there yet.” The journey is far from over, and Hayley is acutely aware of the misconceptions that still permeate society’s understanding of the trauma faced by young people.The battle against exploitation is marred by oversimplified perceptions, where victims are often wrongly believed to have chosen their plight. Hayley emphasises the need for a shift in the language used to describe these young people, to foster a deeper understanding of their perspectives. With the advent of the digital age, Hayley has been a vocal advocate against online exploitation, a phenomenon that has only intensified during the pandemic. “It’s happening in front of the parent, the carer, whoever it is, or in the education setting,” she explains, showcasing the insidious nature of this new frontier of abuse. The cost of living crisis further complicates matters, with groomers exploiting the most basic needs of young people.Hayley’s frustration with the current state of affairs is palpable as she discusses the inadequacies in policy, government funding, and legal frameworks. “We see so many young people that have been prosecuted or have been seen as the groomer,” she laments, pointing out the cyclical nature of exploitation where victims can become perpetrators.The conversation turns to the responsibility of social media companies and the challenges of implementing effective policies across international borders. “It gets lost in the ether effectively,” Hayley says, highlighting the complexities of dealing with multinational entities and differing legal systems.As the interview progresses, it becomes clear that while progress has been made, the Link to Change mission is far from complete. The fight for better understanding, stronger policies, and more effective interventions continues, aspiring for a future where exploitation is not just understood but eradicated.A Legacy of TransformationHayley articulates a powerful vision for the future, one where the chasm between policymakers and the lived realities of young people is bridged. Her advice is unequivocal: “Listen to the young people and listen to their voices.” This plea for attentiveness is not just about hearing their words but truly understanding the narratives behind them, narratives that too often go unnoticed yet are essential for informed policy-making.The financial dichotomy that Link to Change faces exemplifies the broader societal disconnects Hayley seeks to mend. With a funding model reliant on grants, despite the majority of referrals coming from statutory services, she highlights the urgent need for investment in societal well-being, particularly in youth support services.Hayley’s legacy is intertwined with the tangible impacts of her work—impacts that extend beyond individual lives to the very fabric of society. She aspires to influence not only local initiatives but also the broader policy landscape. “I would like to see myself as someone that’s made a difference,” she reflects, driven by the ambition to enact systemic change and the profound knowledge that there are young lives that have been, quite literally, saved through her efforts.In a world grappling with the cost of living crisis and its ramifications on mental health and family stability, Hayley’s message is clear: real change requires a deep understanding of community struggles and a commitment to addressing them. It is this understanding and commitment that she hopes will define her legacy—a legacy of making a difference, saving lives, and shaping a society that listens, supports, and uplifts its youth.</div>

Hayley Brown, Chief Executive of the Link to Change Charity, is firmly dedicated to the distressing yet integral cause of eliminating child exploitation. Alongside this, Hayley and the charity fight tirelessly  to raise awareness of the cause and to inform of its true impact. 

From Groundwork to Leadership: Hayley Brown’s Crusade Against Youth Exploitation

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/adam-kiani">Adam Kiani</a>, Founder and Chief Executive of Academy Investment Group (AIG), has had the courage to challenge the status quo for as long as he can remember.&nbsp;“I always had an entrepreneurial background,” Kiani reflects. After obtaining a university diploma in finance journalism, he quickly realised that his passion lay not in writing but in the business world. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kiani-25687964/?locale=ru_RU">His early venture into business</a> ownership was a prelude to a pivotal role at LA Fitness, where he began as a gym manager before ascending to regional management and eventually overseeing the recruitment of personal trainers.It was during his tenure at LA Fitness and DW Sports that Kiani identified a significant gap in the market: the education of personal trainers. “And that’s when I started <a href="https://ptacademy.com/">PT Academy</a> back in 2009,” he says. Kiani observed that the traditional method of training, delivered by university lecturers, was not producing the quality of personal trainers the industry demanded. Determined to elevate the standard, he pioneered a novel approach. “Let’s change how courses are delivered,” he proposed, opting to employ successful personal trainers to impart their knowledge and expertise to new recruits.Kiani’s innovative method faced scepticism, but he remained undeterred. “I trusted my gut instinct, and it worked,” he asserts. And work it did, setting a new industry standard that is now widely adopted. “There won’t be a training provider you come across within our sector that doesn’t use active personal trainers to teach its courses,” Kiani proudly states, marking a significant shift in the industry’s landscape.The impact of Kiani’s vision extended beyond training methodologies. When faced with rejection from his employers regarding his business plan, he embraced the challenge and forged his own path. “That was the best rejection I’ve ever received,” Kiani muses, reflecting on the moment that spurred him to establish PT Academy. His resolve to succeed has not only reshaped the fitness industry but also solidified his role as a trailblazer and a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs.Innovation Amidst Crisis: PT Academy’s Strategic PivotWhen the fitness industry was brought to its knees by the COVID lockdowns, PT Academy faced a dire crossroads. “We were given guidance from one of the regulators that fitness qualifications have to stop until gyms reopen,” Kiani explains. The prospect of halting operations was daunting, but Adami’s innovative spirit spurred a groundbreaking solution. “I wrote six pathways which would allow learners to continue without the use of a gym,” he says, showcasing his proactive approach to crisis management.The inspiration for this pivot came from an unlikely source: “What triggered it for me was watching Joe Wicks on the first day of lockdown do an online PT session with a million people,” Kiani recalls. This observation led to a swift adaptation, allowing PT Academy to set a precedent for the entire industry. “Just by writing those pathways, it allowed not only us but every other fitness training provider to continue without having to use gyms,” Kiani proudly states.This strategic shift kept PT Academy’s business model afloat and simultaneously revolutionised the fitness training landscape. “Some great things came from tackling those challenges,” Kiani reflects. “Prior to COVID, very few people knew how to do online PT, whereas it almost became a prerequisite.” The company’s agility in adapting to online platforms has since fostered a robust online client base and established new norms within the industry.Kiani’s foresight and adaptability have not only navigated PT Academy through turbulent times but have also positioned it at the forefront of the industry’s evolution. As Kiani observes, ‘challenges aren’t necessarily burdens; they can be great to develop from.” This ethos has been integral to PT Academy’s continued success and expansion, both within the UK and internationally. Envisioning a Lasting ImpactAs the final curtain draws near on the conversation, Adam draws attention to the scale of his company. “It’s under £4 billion,” Kiani states, reflecting on the staggering economic contribution PT Academy has made to the UK economy. But beyond the numbers, Kiani sees a legacy that is “not just quantifiable,” but also rooted in the life-changing impact on individuals’ health and well-being.Kiani’s pride is palpable when he speaks of the hospital built in East Sudan with the money donated by his company, demonstrating a commitment to making a tangible difference in the world. “That hospital proves to be a godsend,” he says, underscoring the profound effect of his philanthropic efforts.Yet, Kiani’s legacy is not confined to the realms of fitness and philanthropy.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12365217/">His foray into the entertainment industry</a> as an actor, marked by appearances in The Gentleman Netflix series and Red Notice, along with his role as a stunt double, reveals a passion for storytelling and performance. His journey into film production, from writing and directing to showcasing a trailer in Cannes, showcases his relentless drive to create and innovate. Kiani’s work in film is more than a diversion; it is a parallel path that enriches his legacy, offering inspiration and opening doors to new opportunities.In the grand tapestry of Adam Kiani’s career, each thread – from personal training to acting, from manufacturing gym equipment to philanthropy – weaves together to form a legacy that is both diverse and unified. It is a legacy that transcends the individual, shaping industries, touching lives, and inspiring future generations.</div>

Adam Kiani, Founder of PT Academy, has revolutionised personal training education and navigated the company through the COVID crisis with innovative online training solutions. Learn about his entrepreneurial spirit, industry impact, philanthropic efforts, and acting endeavours in our in-depth feature.

Adam Kiani: The Multi-Talented Entrepreneurial Spirit Behind PT Academy

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-webster-87760a3b/?originalSubdomain=uk">Craig Webster</a>, the enterprising Managing Director of <a href="https://www.tigerestates.co.uk/">Tiger Estates</a>, has a rich heritage in property, ingrained in him from a young age.&nbsp;“I’m from a property family,” he says, recalling how his parents transitioned from owning hair and beauty salons to becoming landlords after selling their business in the 90s. This early exposure to the world of property planted the seeds for Craig’s future ambitions. Despite a brief flirtation with the idea of becoming a builder, Craig pursued higher education in human geography, providing a foundation for his property career.Post-university and with a blend of youthful audacity and professional acumen, he proposed a merger of two floundering property companies, including one owned by his father. Starting with a 25% stake, Craig’s tenacity saw him gradually increase his shareholding, steering the company towards managing a vast portfolio of properties and expanding services across the northwest, even as far as Doncaster in South Yorkshire. “It’s worked for testament,” Craig reflects on his bold decisions, which have led Tiger Estates to manage approximately 2000 properties and sell £80 to £100 million annually. Navigating the Unpredictable In the dynamic world of property management, Craig has faced a plethora of challenges that have shaped the success of both himself and the company. “It all sometimes seems nice and stable and then something out of left field rocks everything,” Craig reflects on the unpredictable nature of the business. He has weathered fallouts with senior managers and shareholders, navigated clients’ financial collapses, and grappled with the turbulence of the property market. These experiences have not only tested his resolve but have also honed his business acumen.Craig’s hands-on leadership style has seen him through the complexities of property management compliance and legislative changes in the private rental sector. “There’s always obstacles to overcome… you use your experience a lot of the time from a business perspective,” he says, emphasising the importance of learning from each hurdle.The lockdown posed yet another significant challenge, but Craig’s proactive approach and determination to “deal with them head-on” ensured that Tiger Estates not only survived but thrived, expanding its operations by acquiring other companies. “Sometimes it felt like I was chewing a massive piece of steak, but you just got to keep going,” he muses, reflecting on the relentless pace of growth and the satisfaction of overcoming each obstacle and enjoying the success. With Tiger Estates covering notable areas such as Poulton and Lytham, there’s plenty of success to be satisfied with. Advocating for ClarityWebster, with his extensive experience in the property market, calls for greater transparency and regulation within the industry. “More transparency,” he asserts, having voiced his concerns to local MPs regarding the renters reform bill and the influx of legislation affecting the private rental market. Despite discussions, Craig points out the lack of concrete action: “It’s all being talked about, but there’s never been anything actually set in stone.” He believes that while some aspects of the proposed bill are commendable, such as the introduction of standalone property courts and the elimination of no-fault evictions, others may be too severe.Webster argues for a balanced approach that protects both landlords and tenants without reverting to the overly protective tenancies of the past. “Let’s make it more professional,” he suggests, highlighting the ease with which one can start a property company without any qualifications. This, he believes, undermines the professionalism of the industry. He urges the government to clarify the implications of the renters reform bill for small-scale landlords who fear increased taxation and difficulties in managing their properties.“There needs to be improvements in communication and transparency,” Craig laments, emphasising the need for clear guidelines and standards to elevate the property market. As a qualified surveyor and active member of professional bodies, he champions the necessity of qualifications and higher standards in the industry. His advice to policymakers is unequivocal: increase transparency, communicate effectively, and regulate the market to safeguard its most significant asset—property.Elevating Standards In the words of Craig Webster, Managing Director at Tiger Estates, the legacy he envisions for his company is deeply rooted in service and integrity. “We help people,” he asserts, encapsulating the essence of his mission. Webster’s ambition goes beyond mere business expansion; he seeks to establish a trust with his clients, fostering growth and delivering excellent results. “It’s all about lifting standards,” he says, reflecting his commitment to enhancing the property market. Webster’s dedication to aiding landlords and tenants alike is evident in the establishment of a dedicated action line, a testament to his desire to assist and elevate the industry. As Tiger Estates continues to innovate with new services like auctions, the core of Webster’s aspiration remains unwavering: “But we help people—that’s what I set up to do.” It is this steadfast focus on helping others that Webster hopes will define the enduring legacy of Tiger Estates. “But talking about our legacy isn’t to say we’re going anywhere,” Webster adds. “We have big plans for the future.”&nbsp;</div>

Craig Webster, Managing Director of Tiger Estates, has established himself as an integral part of the property industry in the North West. With contracts now extending to Yorkshire, the full potential of Webster and Tiger Estates is yet to be seen.

Craig Webster’s Property Roots to Industry Leader with Tiger Estates

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktdickens/?originalSubdomain=uk">Mark Dickens</a>, the Managing Director at <a href="https://www.mobilize.com/en/explore-mobilize/mobilize-x-renault-group/">Mobilize Power Solutions</a>, has a career trajectory intertwined with the evolution of the automotive industry, “my career has seen me go from an apprentice engineer right the way through to board level directorship,” he states.&nbsp;Today, he stands at the forefront of correcting those past actions, leading the charge towards a greener future with electric vehicles (EVs).Dickens’ tenure at the Renault Group has been marked by versatility, having held roles in technical, after-sales, regional operations, and as the fleet and Remarketing Director with Renault UK. In 2021, he took the helm at Mobilize Power Solutions, a pivotal moment coinciding with the brand’s inception under the leadership of Luca De Mayo.The company, now a key player in the EV charging infrastructure market, was born out of a necessity recognised over a decade ago when the Renault-Nissan alliance pioneered electric vehicles.The decision to expand this business to the UK was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which, despite its challenges, expedited critical decision-making processes. Dickens was tasked with establishing the company and quickly legitimising its presence in the UK market.His engineering background proved a cornerstone in his approach to problem-solving and leadership. “My engineering experiences equipped me to problem solve,” he says, emphasising the importance of finding swift solutions in a rapidly evolving industry.Ascending to the board of directors was an eye-opening experience for Dickens, who had to quickly adapt to the responsibilities and obligations that come with such a position. Starting a new company within the Renault Group presented its own set of challenges, demanding meticulous planning and execution to ensure success.Leading the Future of E-MobilityThough less known among the Renault Group’s array of brands, Mobilize plays a crucial role in the transition to sustainable transportation. Dickens is acutely aware of the significance of their work in shaping the future of electric mobility.“Mobilize itself is responsible for e-mobility, energy and power, and data,” Mark explains, outlining the company’s multifaceted approach to supporting the EV ecosystem. The focus is not just on meeting today’s standards but on anticipating the needs of tomorrow’s vehicles, whilst ensuring that the infrastructure put in place today remains relevant and compliant in the years to come.The company’s mission is to provide solutions that are future-proof and user-centric. “Anyone can install an electric vehicle charger, but what you don’t want in three or four years’ time is to be told you have to pay another thousand pounds for another charger just because you picked up a new car,” says Dickens.Mobilize offers a comprehensive suite of services, including charging infrastructure, battery storage, off-grid solar solutions, and associated software for fleet and business management. This holistic approach ensures that homes and businesses are equipped with robust and reliable systems that cater to the evolving landscape of electric vehicles. The company’s latest innovation, ‘fleet at home’, allows fleet managers to oversee home chargers installed at employees’ residences, ensuring that the cost of electricity is borne by the business rather than the individual. As the market matures and more Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) enter the EV space, the need for diverse and robust charging solutions becomes ever more apparent. Navigating the Power PuzzleThe journey towards electrification is fraught with complexities, and for Mobilize, the challenge is as much about infrastructure as it is about innovation. Dickens is candid about the hurdles they face in the UK’s evolving energy landscape.“The biggest challenge in the UK at the moment is getting the right amount of power to a particular site,” the Managing Director states. With seven district network operators across the UK, the process of securing power is inconsistent and often slow, leaving businesses in a lurch when it comes to planning and development.Mark reflects on the company’s evolution, noting that what began as a service providing EV chargers has now expanded into a more holistic approach. “The majority of the business work that we’re involved in is alongside installation of solar,” he says, highlighting a shift towards integrating solar power with battery storage and EV charging as a unified solution.The cost of upgrading power can be prohibitively expensive, with quotes reaching up to £1.3 million, a sum beyond the reach of many businesses. This has prompted Mobilize to seek alternative strategies. Fortunately, being part of a larger financial ecosystem allows them to offer creative financing solutions. “We’re with a bank and are able to offer people finance alternatives, or power purchasing agreements if solar is involved,” Dickens explains. The Road AheadDickens is realistic about the industry’s pace, acknowledging that approvals, power supply, planning permissions, and even landlord consents can be significant roadblocks. Yet, he remains optimistic about the future, where he envisions a fully electrified 2030, with OEMs scaling up their EV fleets and requiring comprehensive charging solutions.Reflecting on the current state of the market, Mark notes the impact of media narratives on consumer behaviour, particularly the misconceptions surrounding EV safety and charging infrastructure. He counters the negative press with his own positive experiences, highlighting the efficiency and reliability of EVs and the advancements in charging technology that allow for quick and convenient power-ups.Looking forward, Dickens discusses the impending arrival of the new Renault 5 and the potential of vehicle-to-grid technology. He foresees significant benefits for both individual consumers and businesses, as the ability to manage power distribution between vehicles and the grid could revolutionise energy consumption patterns.However, Mark also touches on a less-discussed challenge: people. Building a reliable team from scratch, especially in a nascent industry, requires trust and a strong recruitment strategy. “You’re only as good as your team,” he remarks.The Managing Director sees a rapidly evolving industry that requires continuous learning and adaptation. With new technologies on the horizon and the need to integrate vehicles, chargers, and the grid into a cohesive system, Mobilize Power Solutions is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of e-mobility. The path may be complex, but the direction is unmistakable—towards a more sustainable and electrified future with Mobilize and Mark Dickens at the vanguard.</div>

Going from automotive engineering to the forefront of the e-mobility sector, Mark Dickens has mastered the industry. But since assuming the role of Managing Director of Mobilize Power Solutions in 2021, he has been leading the automotive electronic efforts in the UK.

John Quigley

Career Overview

Popular Features

From Groundwork to Leadership: Hayley Brown’s Crusade Against Youth Exploitation

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Craig Webster’s Property Roots to Industry Leader with Tiger Estates

Mark Dickens: Leading the UK’s E-Mobility Sector

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