A former Number 10 advisor hosts this podcast that takes you behind the scenes of boardrooms across a wide range of industries. It explores the untold stories and hidden dynamics that influence key leadership decisions at the highest levels of corporate governance.
Samuel Kasumu is a former Special Advisor to Prime Minister Boris Johnson where he held the Civil Society and Communities brief. He has extensive senior leadership and board experience, and is the founder of Inclusive Boards, an executive headhunting firm specialising in non-executive board appointments across sectors. Under former Prime Minister Theresa May he was a member of the Race Disparity Audit Advisory Board.
The podcast features high profile non-executives including Mary O’Connor, the first and only woman to lead a Big 4 accounting firm. Meri Williams currently CTO at FinTech firm Pleo. She previously worked as CTO at Monzo, Moo, and M&S. Alice Maynard, former chair at disability charity Scope and current non-executive director at the Financial Conduct Authority is also a guest.
Each episode features strategic leadership insights from non-executive directors and industry leaders, offering you a rare glimpse into corporate decision-making. Whether you're an aspiring board member, an experienced professional, or simply curious about how boardroom dynamics shape organizations, Notes from a NED delivers business leadership takeaways and practical insights.
Brought to you by Inclusive Boards, pioneers in executive search and champions of boardroom diversity for over eight years. Tune in and discover the real conversations that shape corporate leadership and strategy.
Find out more about Inclusive Boards at: https://www.inclusiveboards.co.uk/
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A former Number 10 advisor hosts this podcast that takes you behind the scenes of boardrooms across a wide range of industries. It explores the untold stories and hidden dynamics that influence key leadership decisions at the highest levels of corporate governance.
Samuel Kasumu is a former Special Advisor to Prime Minister Boris Johnson where he held the Civil Society and Communities brief. He has extensive senior leadership and board experience, and is the founder of Inclusive Boards, an executive headhunting firm specialising in non-executive board appointments across sectors. Under former Prime Minister Theresa May he was a member of the Race Disparity Audit Advisory Board.
The podcast features high profile non-executives including Mary O’Connor, the first and only woman to lead a Big 4 accounting firm. Meri Williams currently CTO at FinTech firm Pleo. She previously worked as CTO at Monzo, Moo, and M&S. Alice Maynard, former chair at disability charity Scope and current non-executive director at the Financial Conduct Authority is also a guest.
Each episode features strategic leadership insights from non-executive directors and industry leaders, offering you a rare glimpse into corporate decision-making. Whether you're an aspiring board member, an experienced professional, or simply curious about how boardroom dynamics shape organizations, Notes from a NED delivers business leadership takeaways and practical insights.
Brought to you by Inclusive Boards, pioneers in executive search and champions of boardroom diversity for over eight years. Tune in and discover the real conversations that shape corporate leadership and strategy.
Find out more about Inclusive Boards at: https://www.inclusiveboards.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Eni Aluko: Breaking Barriers in Football, Law & Leadership
In this episode of Notes from a NED, Eni Aluko shares her remarkable journey from playing football as a young girl in Birmingham to becoming a professional athlete, lawyer, media personality, and boardroom leader. With over 100 caps for England and a career spanning Chelsea, Juventus, and punditry on Match of the Day, Eni has continuously broken new ground.
She dives into the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated sport, how she leveraged her law degree to navigate corporate spaces, and why upskilling is critical for career longevity. Eni also discusses the importance of resilience in the face of negativity, the role of diversity in governance, and why investing back into communities—especially in the diaspora—is essential.
Key Takeaways:
Perfect for aspiring leaders, athletes, and professionals looking to navigate career transitions, this episode is a must-listen!
#Football #Leadership #Diversity #CareerDevelopment #WomenInSports #SelfGrowth
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, we sit down with governance consultant and board member Ethel Tambudzai to discuss the evolving landscape of governance, diversity in leadership, and the fine line between tokenism and true representation.
Ethel, who has worked with The Africa Center, Practical Governance, and Planet Positive Ventures, shares insights from her journey from Zimbabwe to the UK and how her diverse experiences have shaped her governance philosophy. She dives into the role of governance in startups, charities, and high-growth organisations, emphasising the importance of mentorship, effective board dynamics, and why governance is for every organisation—not just large corporations.
Key Takeaways:
Who Should Listen?
Tune in now and be part of the conversation on how governance can drive real change!
#Governance #BoardLeadership #Diversity #Mentorship #Tokenism #Startups #Charities
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Can financial expertise be a game-changer in leadership? In this episode of Notes from a NED, finance director and leadership coach Naomi Connell returns for another insightful discussion on navigating the boardroom, managing risk, and driving inclusive leadership.
With decades of experience spanning CFO roles, audit committees, and executive coaching, Naomi shares essential strategies for financial resilience, cash flow mastery, and the critical role of diversity in board decision-making.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Perfect for:
Tune in to gain expert insights from one of the most seasoned voices in finance and leadership!
#Finance #Leadership #BoardDiversity #CashFlow #Coaching #Podcast
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This week, join us as we dive into the world of finance leadership with Naomi Connell, whose career spans executive roles in public and private sectors, including her time on London Underground's board.
Key Topics Covered:
Naomi reflects on her journey from accounting to leadership, tackling crises in public transport, and championing diversity and inclusion. Learn practical lessons on stakeholder management, public-private partnerships, and fostering inclusive boards. Naomi’s expertise in stakeholder management, diversity, and coaching offers actionable insights for leaders at all levels.
Listen now and discover why Naomi says, "It’s always about the people."
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The Future of AI & Clean Energy: A Must-Listen Episode! In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu dives deep with Dr. Enass Abo-Hamed —a visionary entrepreneur bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI and climate tech, to uncover the untold challenges of turning groundbreaking research into market-ready technology. They discuss how AI is reshaping the future of climate solutions, why investment in energy tech still lags behind AI, and the pivotal role of the Royal Academy of Engineering in fostering innovation.
Key takeaways:
From battling the roadblocks of academic commercialisation to shaking up boardroom dynamics, Enass shares unfiltered insights on what it really takes to bring deep-tech innovations to market. If you're an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast passionate about the future of AI and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen!
#AI #ClimateTech #Innovation #Podcast #CleanEnergy #TechForGood
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🚀 Feeling stuck in your career? Want to transition but not sure how?
In this episode, David Singleton shares the secrets behind navigating career reinvention, international leadership, and entrepreneurship. From his corporate beginnings in the UK to launching a successful coaching business in Dubai, David unpacks the mindset shifts, networking tactics, and cultural insights that helped him build a thriving career.
🎙️ "My network is now my currency." – David Singleton
Key Takeaways:
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, award-winning journalist, author, and social commentator Yasmin Alibhai-Brown shares her powerful journey from Uganda to Britain, offering deep insights into race, identity, and the evolving political landscape. Yasmin reflects on the challenges she faced in academia and journalism, her commitment to education and equality, and the importance of big personalities in leadership.
Throughout the conversation, she discusses:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in social justice, British politics, media representation, and the power of storytelling.
#YasminAlibhaiBrown #RaceAndIdentity #BritishMuslims #Journalism #SocialChange #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #Politics #MediaRepresentation #Podcast
"This fight is never over." – Yasmin Alibhai-Brown
This episode is for anyone interested in social change, media influence, and the power of speaking truth to power.
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Episode Highlights: Governance, Leadership, and Lessons from Kids Company
In this episode, we dive into the powerful case study of Kids Company, exploring how its dramatic downfall reshaped the conversation around charity governance, leadership dynamics, and organisational sustainability. Host Samuel Kasumu is joined once again by Rob Macmillan, a leading researcher on the third sector and community development, with over two decades of experience studying the challenges and opportunities facing charities today.
Rob shares candid insights on:
Whether you’re navigating the complexities of charity governance, leading an organisation, or passionate about social impact, this episode is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking ideas. Tune in now to learn how we can collectively build a more sustainable and resilient voluntary sector!
Keywords: charity governance, leadership challenges, voluntary sector trends, Kids Company case study, nonprofit sustainability, impact measurement, voluntary sector, charity governance, leadership, Kids Company, impact measurement, sector challenges, organizational change, fundraising, social enterprise, burnout
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Leadership, Mentoring, and Global Insights with Vince Pizzoni
In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu interviews Vince Pizzoni, a globally accomplished leader and mentor with a portfolio career spanning academia, executive search, and board roles. With over 30 years of experience, Vince has held executive positions at global giants including ExxonMobil and Nalco, earning accolades like the Chairman’s Global Award for his exceptional leadership as General Manager.
Having worked in 64 countries, Vince shares fascinating stories of navigating diverse cultures, leading high-performing teams, and delivering solutions to blue-chip companies in complex industries such as energy, chemicals, FMCG, and environmental services. He also dives into his passion for mentoring, coaching, and inspiring the next generation of leaders through roles in academia and organizations like POWERful Women and the Energy Institute.
This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to embrace career transitions, champion sustainability, and unlock the power of diversity in leadership. Don't miss this insightful conversation!
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu speaks with Helena Rivers, Net Zero Lead at engineering consulting firm AECOM, about her inspiring journey in engineering and the pressing need for decarbonisation. Together, they explore the challenges Local Authorities face in achieving net zero, the balance between infrastructure investment and behavioural change, and the critical role of education in driving sustainability. Helena highlights the importance of collaboration, standardisation in carbon measurement, and embedding sustainability into corporate culture. This episode is packed with insights on engineering a sustainable future.
This episode stands out due to its comprehensive approach to tackling net zero. Helena’s unique blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and practical insights makes it a must-listen for anyone committed to sustainability. By addressing both systemic challenges (like financial constraints for local authorities) and individual actions (such as education and behavioural change), the conversation offers a holistic perspective. Helena’s engaging storytelling and actionable advice ensure this episode resonates with professionals across engineering, policy, and corporate sectors.
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Building Resilient Communities: Insights for the New Year
In this episode of Notes From A NED, Samuel Kasumu speaks with Rob Macmillan, a leading researcher on the third sector and community development with over two decades of experience studying the third sector. Together, they explore how charities can drive economic and community development in today’s turbulent times, reflecting on the complexities of civil society, the need for robust infrastructure, and the strained relationship between the sector and government.
Rob offers a fresh perspective on critical topics like:
This episode is packed with actionable insights and bold ideas for shaping the future of the charity sector. Whether you're a leader, policymaker, or engaged community member, this conversation is the perfect inspiration to kickstart 2025.
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In this episode, Samuel Kasumu and Kristy Merson dive into the nuanced art of navigating career transitions, with a particular focus on entering the tech industry. Kristy shares her fascinating career journey, offering a candid look at the role curiosity, resilience, and networking played in her success. From her diverse experiences across startups to Salesforce, she reveals actionable strategies for leveraging your unique strengths to stand out in competitive spaces.
They discuss Salesforce’s dynamic culture, which Kristy describes as "a giant startup" that fosters creativity while championing diversity. A key highlight is the creation of the Women’s Network at Salesforce, which has successfully influenced policies to support and empower women in the workplace. The conversation also addresses practical strategies for business optimisation, emphasising the importance of prioritisation and not overextending resources. This applies to both organisational success and personal career growth.
Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable insights and inspiration that will resonate with anyone navigating career transitions or seeking growth in the tech industry.
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In this episode, Samuel Kasumu and Wendy McPherson discuss the evolving role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI) in organisations. They explore the need to adapt EDI practices to societal changes, balance diversity with cohesion, and emphasise leadership’s role in fostering inclusion. Through the case study of Dagenham Council, the episode highlights community engagement and the integration of EDI into organisational culture as essential for success. A must-listen for leaders aiming to drive belonging and social justice within their teams.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu interviews Dr. Raffaella Ocone, Vice President of the Institution of Chemical Engineers and an academic leader with a career spanning Italy, the USA, the UK, and beyond. Raffaella shares her journey into chemical engineering, the challenges she faced as one of the few women in her field, and her vision for a more diverse and ethical engineering profession. This conversation explores Raffaella’s journey from feeling like an outsider to becoming a leader in engineering, discussed the challenges she faced and how she transformed obstacles into opportunities, with a focus on gender diversity and inclusion in the engineering field.
Key Takeaways:
From her early academic days in Naples to her leadership role in global engineering, Raffaella’s story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the power of education.
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In this compelling episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu has an enlightening conversation with Alice Maynard, one of the most respected voices in governance and board leadership. Alice brings a wealth of experience from her current and past roles, including her position as a non-executive director at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), where she chairs the People Committee, and her tenure at HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Her work also extends to sitting on the board of the Government Commercial Function, where she oversees vital decisions regarding pay and benefits for key government departments. Additionally, Alice has served as the Chair of several prominent charities, where she has led critical improvements in governance, strategic planning, and operational effectiveness. These charities include Scope, the UK's leading disability charity.
In this episode, Alice reflects on her rich career journey and shares key insights into what makes governance effective and impactful. The discussion ranges from the barriers to progression that underrepresented groups face when aspiring to board membership, to the importance of transparency in governance, and the unique dynamics between board members and their chairs. Alice emphasises the need for trust and strong relationships to achieve strategic goals. She doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities of her roles, such as navigating public appointments and implementing governance reforms.
Key Takeaways:
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Join us for an eye-opening episode with global activist and leader Kumi Naidoo, former International Executive Director of Greenpeace International, Secretary General of Amnesty International, and Secretary-General of CIVICUS as he unpacks over 20 years of experience fighting for social justice and equity. Kumi takes us on a journey through the transformative power of activism, exploring the role of arts and culture in mobilising communities and challenging entrenched systems. He discusses the pressing need for international NGOs to tackle structural racism and embrace diversity and inclusion, both in governance and resource allocation.
Kumi’s insights highlight the complexities of leading civil society organisations toward genuine equity and representation, emphasising that meaningful change requires a fundamental shift in organisational culture and global priorities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to making a difference and understanding the evolving landscape of activism.
Key Topics:
Listen, reflect, and be inspired to act!
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu delves into the multifaceted career of Meri Williams, CTO at Pleo and a trailblazer in technology leadership across diverse sectors.
Meri recounts her unconventional journey, from launching South Africa’s first satellite to leading digital transformation in the UK government. Drawing from her experiences at organisations like Procter & Gamble, MOO, Monzo, and Healx, Vodafone, M&S, Meri shares strategies for managing teams of all sizes, fostering innovation, and balancing the demands of technology with board management.
Beyond her professional achievements, Meri speaks openly about the resilience required to navigate her career alongside personal health challenges, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. A dedicated advocate for STEM education and inclusivity, Meri also discusses her roles as a tech advisor for Kindred Capital, trustee at Stonewall, and co-founder of One Goes Up, a micro-charity aimed at empowering young women and non-binary people in STEM fields. Throughout, Meri offers insights into cultivating leadership and adaptability in high-stakes, dynamic environments, providing listeners with actionable takeaways for both personal and professional growth.
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In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu speaks with Nic Conner, political strategist, crisis communication expert, and co-founder of Parisi. Together, they dive into the world of strategic communication, particularly in high-stakes situations, drawing insights from both corporate and political spheres.
Conner shares his perspective on the parallels between political and corporate communication, underscoring the need for proactive reputation management and intentional messaging. The conversation covers essential strategies for crisis management, with real-world examples from the COVID-19 pandemic and cybersecurity incidents. Connor highlights the importance of transparent, empathetic, and well-rehearsed crisis plans that boards and leadership teams often overlook but critically need.
Key insights from this episode include:
This episode is essential for anyone interested in mastering communication in high-pressure environments and discovering how to simplify messages for greater impact. Nic’s depth of experience and thoughtful approach to crisis management offer listeners powerful lessons on navigating today’s fast-evolving communication challenges.
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As a seasoned engineer with over 40 years of experience, Dervilla has navigated the complexities of the built environment, overcoming obstacles and driving innovation along the way. From her work on the iconic Heathrow Terminal 5 project to her role as the deputy chairman of Arup Group, the £2billion professional services firm. Dervilla's insights into the art of collaboration, problem-solving, and fostering a nurturing work environment are invaluable.
Key insights from this episode include:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of engineering, leadership, and organisational development. Dervilla's wealth of experience and her ability to navigate complex challenges make her a true inspiration, and her insights are sure to leave a lasting impact on the listeners.
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Mary O'Connor's background is anything but traditional. She started her career as a lawyer, working as a prosecutor and then transitioning to the UK legal landscape. Her experience in the public sector and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments ultimately led her to KPMG, where she was tasked with addressing the firm's governance, controls, and cultural challenges.
Key insights from the interview include:
- The importance of building trust and psychological safety to get the best out of teams, even when you're an outsider coming into an organisation.
- Navigating the challenges of being a visible minority or non-traditional candidate in a traditionally homogeneous industry.
- The pros and cons of using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and the need for boards to be more thoughtful about when they are used.
- Advice for aspiring leaders on being brave, aiming high, and creating more opportunities for themselves.
This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, organisational transformation, inclusion, and the evolving landscape of the corporate world. Mary's insights and experiences offer a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern business and driving positive change.
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