Speciality Sessions

In this episode, Marcus Jordan, CEO of IMCD, shares insights on the importance of distribution careers, the transition from technical to commercial roles, and the value of diverse experiences in building a successful career. He emphasizes the need for enthusiasm in leadership, the role of AI in transforming distribution, and the significance of work-life balance. Marcus encourages young talent to consider distribution as a dynamic and exciting career path, highlighting the industry's agility and the opportunities it presents for future-proofing careers.
Takeaways
People are the biggest asset in any organization.
Distribution offers diverse career opportunities.
Transitioning from technical to commercial roles can be rewarding.
Diverse experiences enhance leadership capabilities.
Managing enthusiasm in teams is crucial for success.
Communication with management is key for career growth.
AI can streamline processes in distribution.
Agility in distribution allows for adaptation to market changes.
Work-life balance is essential for effective leadership.
Encouraging young talent is vital for the industry's future.

Chapters
00:00 Inspiring the Next Generation
04:20 The Value of Distribution Careers
10:37 Transitioning from Technical to Commercial Roles
13:01 The Importance of Diverse Experiences
20:15 Managing Enthusiasm in Leadership
21:21 Navigating Career Changes
22:57 The Role of AI in Distribution
27:13 Future-Proofing Careers in Distribution
28:57 Agility and Team Dynamics
30:20 Work-Life Balance as a Leader
33:12 Encouraging Young Talent in Distribution

In this conversation, Andrew Warmington discusses the contrasting marketing strategies of large corporations and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). He highlights the challenges SMEs face in gaining media coverage compared to bigger players with substantial marketing budgets. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of unique contributions from lesser-known companies in attracting media attention.
Takeaways
- Big players have larger marketing budgets and dedicated teams.
- Editors are interested in featuring unique companies.
- SMEs don't need to struggle to get media coverage.
- Networking at industry shows is crucial to build trade media relationships.
- Unique contributions can attract media interest.
- Editors appreciate new and interesting stories.
- Marketing strategies vary significantly between large and small companies.
- Engagement with media can lead to better coverage for SMEs.

In this episode, Natasha Klymczuk interviews Julia Schlenz, President of Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India at Dow. Julia shares her unique career journey from public relations to the chemical industry, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and psychological safety in leadership. She discusses the challenges and opportunities within the chemical sector, particularly in relation to innovation and regulatory constraints. Julia also highlights the distinctive culture at Dow that fosters integrity and performance, and offers valuable advice for early career talent and her younger self.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Julia Schlenz and Dow
01:56 Career Journey: From Public Relations to Chemicals
05:58 Building Credibility in a Technical Environment
09:58 Evolution of Leadership: From Proving to Supporting
14:01 Creating Psychological Safety in Teams
17:54 Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
21:58 Supporting Early Career Talent
26:02 The Distinctive Culture at Dow
29:57 Opportunities and Challenges in the Chemical Sector
34:03 Innovation and the Future of Chemicals
35:58 Advice to Younger Self

In this conversation, James Clews, Managing Director of Technikraft, discusses the various career paths available, emphasising that there is no singular right choice.
He highlights the advantages of working in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly the flexibility and quick decision-making that come with smaller teams and structures.

In this inaugural episode of Speciality Sessions, host Natasha Klymczuk interviews David Jukes, CEO of Univar Solutions.
David shares his unique journey into the chemical industry, emphasising the importance of education and the need for better communication about career opportunities in chemistry.
He discusses the noble nature of the profession, the challenges faced by the industry, and the role of innovation and resilience in overcoming these obstacles.
David also reflects on his leadership experiences, the impact of AI on the future of work, and the essential value of chemistry to society. He concludes with advice for the younger generation, encouraging them to trust their instincts and be authentically themselves.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Speciality Sessions
00:58 David's Journey into the Chemical Industry
06:26 The Importance of Education in Chemistry
11:30 Chemistry: A Good and Noble Profession
16:35 Leadership Lessons from David's Career
25:02 Navigating Challenges in the Chemical Industry
34:11 Innovation and Resilience in Chemistry
39:04 The Role of AI in the Future of Leadership
47:22 The Value of Chemistry to Society
52:11 Final Thoughts and Advice for the Younger Generation