We have dedicated, expert teams covering the following business functions
Fresh Produce Recruitment Experts You Can Rely On Over 25 years supporting the Fresh Produce industry. At MorePeople, we’ve spent more than 25 years working alongside some of the UK’s most innovative and respected fresh produce businesses. From growers and suppliers to retailers and distributors, our in-depth sector knowledge makes us true experts in fresh produce, not just recruitment.We understand the fast-paced, seasonal, and ever-evolving nature of the fresh produce world. That’s why companies across the UK and beyond trust us to deliver tailored fresh produce recruitment solutions that keep their businesses growing. Dedicated Recruitment Across the Whole Supply ChainOur team is structured to reflect the full spectrum of roles found in fresh produce businesses. Whether you're looking to hire or searching for your next career move, we’ve got the expertise to help. We recruit for roles in: Operations & Supply Chain – from packhouse supervisors to supply chain directors Engineering & Maintenance – skilled engineers with fresh produce experience Growing & Agronomy – from junior growers to experienced agronomists Commercial & Sales – account managers, commercial directors, and everything in between Technical & Quality – food safety, technical managers, and QA professionals HR & Business Support - HR assistants to People Directors, and admin assistants to PA's.Finance - Finance Directors, Accountants, Financial Controllers and everything else!Whether you're filling one role or building an entire team, we’re ready to support you. Looking for Jobs in Fresh Produce? If you’re looking for your next opportunity in fresh produce, you're in the right place. We work with a wide range of businesses across the UK, from family-run growers to global brands. Our consultants take the time to understand your background, aspirations, and career goals—because we know that finding the right fit is about more than just a job title. Browse our latest jobs in fresh produce or speak to one of our expert consultants today. Why Choose MorePeople? 25+ years of fresh produce recruitment experience Specialist consultants with real industry knowledge National and international client base A proven track record of successful placements We’re not generalists. We’re fresh produce recruitment specialists—trusted by the industry and backed by decades of results. Ready to Grow Your Team? Whether you need short-term support or long-term hires, our dedicated consultants are here to help. Get in touch today and discover how MorePeople can deliver recruitment that really works for your business.
Food Manufacturing Recruitment Experts Over 25 years of proven success in Food Manufacturing recruitment.At MorePeople, we’ve been connecting top talent with the UK’s leading food manufacturing businesses for over 25 years. Whether you're a global food brand, a fast-growing SME, or a specialist producer, we understand the pressures and pace of this ever-evolving industry. We’re not generalists. We’re food manufacturing recruitment experts. That means we speak your language — from factory floor to boardroom. Covering Every Function in Your BusinessOur dedicated consultants work in specialist teams to ensure every part of your business is supported by recruiters who truly understand your needs. We cover roles across: Operations & Production – Site Managers, Production Planners, Factory Managers Engineering – Maintenance Engineers, Project Managers, Engineering Leads Commercial – Account Managers, Commercial Directors, Category Managers Technical & Quality – Technical Managers, QA, Food Safety HR & People – HR Business Partners, L&D Managers, People Directors Finance – Management Accountants, FDs, Financial Controllers From permanent placements to executive search, we deliver the right people to keep your operation running smoothly and successfully. Why Work With MorePeople? 25+ years' experience in food recruitment Deep knowledge of the food manufacturing sector A wide network of industry professionals actively looking for jobs in food manufacturing Tailored, consultative approach with a focus on long-term partnerships Whether you're hiring for today or planning for tomorrow, let us help you find the people who will drive your business forward. Looking for the best people in food manufacturing? Speak to the experts. Contact us today.
Experts in Commercial Recruitment Across the Food, Fresh Produce, Agriculture & Horticulture Sectors At MorePeople, our Commercial team specialises in connecting top commercial talent with leading businesses across the Food Manufacturing, Fresh Produce, Agriculture, Horticulture, and Garden Retail industries. From dynamic start-ups to global brands, we work with businesses of all shapes and sizes to recruit for a wide variety of commercial roles – helping them grow and thrive in competitive markets. What We CoverOur expertise spans the full commercial spectrum, including: Buying & Procurement Sales & Business Development National & Key Account Management Category Management & Insights Marketing & Brand Product Management Commercial Leadership & Strategy Whether you're looking for your next role or hiring for a critical position, our team understands the nuances of commercial functions within fast-moving, supply-chain-driven industries. Jobs in the Food Industry & Beyond We don’t just fill jobs – we build careers and long-term partnerships. Our commercial recruiters have deep industry knowledge, and many come from commercial roles themselves. That means we speak your language and know what ‘good’ looks like – whether you're in fresh produce procurement, managing a garden centre’s buying strategy, or leading sales for a food manufacturer. From junior commercial executives to commercial directors, we match talented people with the right opportunities at every level. Why Choose MorePeople?25+ years of recruitment expertise Specialists in commercial recruitment across niche, high-growth sectors Separate teams that specialise in Food Manufacturing, Fresh Produce, Horticulture, Agriculture and Garden Retail. Deep networks in the food industry, fresh produce, agri-business and beyond Honest, consultative approach – we care about getting it right, not just making a placement Looking for Your Next Commercial Job?Explore our latest jobs in the food industry, agri-food, horticulture and more – or get in touch with our commercial team to discuss your next move.
Expert Technical Recruitment for Food & Fresh Produce At MorePeople, we have a team that specialises in technical recruitment, connecting the best talent with leading businesses across Food Manufacturing, Fresh Produce, and the wider Agri-Food supply chain. Whether you’re a business looking for experienced technical professionals or a candidate searching for your next technical job, we have the expertise, network, and industry insight to help you succeed. Recruiting Across All Technical RolesOur specialist Technical Recruitment team covers a wide range of roles, including: Technical Directors & Technical Managers – Leading food safety, compliance, and quality strategies. Quality Controllers & Quality Auditors – Ensuring products meet strict industry and retailer standards. Food Technologists & Process Technologists – Driving innovation, efficiency, and compliance. Hygiene & Compliance Managers – Maintaining the highest food safety and regulatory standards. Auditors & Compliance Officers – Conducting assessments to uphold best practices across supply chains. We work with start-ups, SMEs, and global brands, ensuring they have access to the best technical talent in the industry. Why Choose MorePeople?Industry Specialists – Over 20 years of expertise in food and fresh produce recruitment. Extensive Network – A strong talent pool of technical professionals ready for their next move. Tailored Approach – We take the time to understand your specific recruitment needs. Looking for Top Technical Talent or Your Next Role? Get in Touch!
Finance Recruitment Experts for the Food, Fresh Produce, Agriculture & Horticulture Sectors At MorePeople, we understand the critical role finance professionals play in driving business performance — especially in fast-paced, product-driven sectors like fresh produce, food manufacturing, horticulture, and agriculture. Whether you're a business looking for exceptional talent or a candidate seeking your next role, our dedicated Finance recruitment team is here to help. Specialised Finance Recruitment For Your Sector We don’t just understand finance — we understand your industry. Our consultants work exclusively across the food and agri supply chain, which means we know what makes a great Finance Manager in a food factory, or the type of Finance Business Partner that can really add value in a growing produce business. We recruit across all levels of seniority, including: Assistant / Junior Accountant Management Accountant Finance Business Partner Finance Manager Financial Controller Head of Finance Finance Director From SMEs to large-scale operations, our tailored approach ensures we match the right finance professionals to the right opportunities — every time. Why Work With MorePeople? With over 20 years of experience in finance recruitment, we’re proud to offer: A specialist team with in-depth sector knowledge A strong network of finance professionals across the UK A personalised, consultative service for both clients and candidates A proven track record of filling finance jobs in the food industry and beyond Whether you're hiring a Finance Director to lead strategic growth or looking to make your first step into the industry as a Junior Accountant, we’ll support you every step of the way. Looking for Finance Jobs in the Food Industry? Check out our latest finance vacancies in the food, fresh produce, horticulture, and agriculture sectors — or speak to our team today to find the perfect fit for your business. MorePeople — Recruitment Experts for Finance in the Food & Agri Supply Chain
Engineering Careers Across Food, Agriculture & HorticultureAt MorePeople, we take pride in having an expert engineering recruitment team with a deep understanding of the food manufacturing, fresh produce, agriculture and horticulture industries. We understand that Engineering is the backbone of the Food, Horticulture and Agriculture industry. From cutting-edge food production facilities to advanced agricultural machinery, skilled engineers keep these industries moving forward. That’s why our dedicated Engineering recruitment team specialises in connecting the right talent with businesses across the sector. Specialists in Food & Agriculture Engineering Unlike generalist recruiters, our Engineering team focuses exclusively on roles within Food, Fresh Produce, Horticulture, Agriculture, and related supply chains. We know the industry inside out—its challenges, innovations, and the technical expertise required to drive success. Whether you’re looking for maintenance engineers in food factories, automation specialists in packaging, or agricultural machinery experts in the field, we have the network and insight to match top talent with the right opportunities. Roles We Recruit ForWe work with businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to multinational corporations, filling a wide range of engineering roles, including: Maintenance & Reliability Engineers Automation & Controls Engineers Project Engineers & Managers Process & Continuous Improvement Engineers Technical & Design Engineers Agricultural & Horticultural Machinery Specialists Why MorePeople?Industry Expertise – Our team understands the unique challenges of food and agricultural engineering. Extensive Network – We connect businesses with skilled professionals across the UK and beyond. Tailored Approach – We take the time to understand your needs and find the right fit, not just the first available candidate. If you’re looking for engineering talent or your next opportunity in the Food, Agriculture or Horticulture industries, explore the possibilities with MorePeople's engineering recruitment services.
MorePeople Operations Recruitment – Keeping the Industry MovingAt MorePeople, our Operations recruitment team plays a crucial role in connecting top talent with leading businesses across the Food Manufacturing, Fresh Produce, Agriculture, and Horticulture sectors. We understand that operational efficiency is the backbone of any successful business, and we’re here to help you build teams that keep everything running smoothly.Covering Every Corner of OperationsOur specialist recruiters have deep industry knowledge and a proven track record in placing skilled professionals across a wide range of operational roles, including:Production & Manufacturing – From Production Managers to Factory Operatives, we find the right people to keep your lines running efficiently.Warehousing & Logistics – Skilled candidates who ensure seamless storage, handling, and distribution of goods.Planning & Supply Chain – Experts in demand planning, inventory management, and procurement to optimise efficiency.Transport & Distribution – From Fleet Managers to Transport Planners, we help businesses move products with precision.Health & Safety – Compliance and workplace safety specialists who protect people and processes.Why Choose MorePeople?✔ Industry Specialists – We live and breathe these sectors, giving us unique insight into the challenges and opportunities you face.✔ Extensive Network – Our deep-rooted connections mean we can source the best talent, fast.✔ Tailored Approach – Every business is different, and we take the time to understand your specific needs before matching you with top candidates.Whether you're looking to hire or take the next step in your career, MorePeople’s Operations recruitment team is here to help. Get in touch today and let’s build something great together.Talk to Our Experts
Your Trusted Partner in Horticulture Recruitment At MorePeople, we understand that horticulture is more than just growing. It's science, strategy, and innovation. That's why our horticulture recruitment team is made up of specialists who truly get the complexity and variety this fascinating sector brings.Partner with the recruitment specialists who live and breathe horticulture. Whether you're a skilled grower ready for your next role, a vineyard manager seeking a new vintage or a researcher at the forefront of plant science, we will help you take the next step in your career. If you're looking to add the best people to your business, we're here to help you grow.Specialists in Every Corner of the Industry From propagation to post-harvest, our team works across the full horticultural and fresh produce supply chain. We recruit for all jobs in horticulture, supporting businesses of all sizes, from family-run nurseries to large-scale growing operations. We cover a wide range of roles, from graduates to directors, including:Ornamental GrowingAgronomy and Technical SalesVines, Soft Fruit, Top Fruit and Vegetable ProductionCrop and Farm ManagersPropagationTrialsResearch and DevelopmentForestryGarden and Grounds MaintenanceLandscaping, Contracting and EstimatingAmenity... and many more! If you’re involved in horticulture, we’ve got you covered. Why Choose MorePeople? With over 25 years of experience in horticulture recruitment, we’ve built strong relationships with candidates and employers across the UK and beyond. Our consultants come from the industry, so they speak your language and understand the challenges and opportunities you face. Deep sector knowledge: The whole team works hard to stay up to date, and ahead of, industry news. We're at trade shows, events and conferences every month to ensure we are truly specialists in what we do.A proven track record: We've got over 25 years of successful placements across the horticulture and fresh produce industry, being a key part of business expansion and career journeys.Tailored support for both clients and candidates: We're working with small, family-run businesses of less than 10 people, through to global brands, and know that one size does not fit all. We offer unique, tailored support for clients through every step of the process. A genuine passion for the industry: Our founder, Guy Moreton, comes from a horticulture background and this passion shines through to our team. They truly love what they do. Sarah sits on the Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) and the British Ornamentals Association (BOA) committees, whilst Kieran is actively involved in NextGen food group.Looking for Jobs in Horticulture? Whether you're a skilled grower ready for your next role, a vineyard manager seeking a new vintage, or a researcher at the forefront of plant science, we’ll help you take the next step in your career. Partner with the recruitment specialists who live and breathe horticulture. Contact our team today.
Garden Centre Recruitment Experts : Helping You Grow Careers in Garden Retail At MorePeople, we understand the unique rhythm of the garden retail world. Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next move or a business searching for top talent, our dedicated Garden Centre recruitment team is here to help. With years of industry insight and deep sector connections, we work across the full spectrum of jobs in garden centres – from shop floor to boardroom. We Cover Every Corner of Garden Retail Garden centres are diverse businesses, and so are the roles within them. That’s why we recruit for a wide variety of positions across all departments, including: General Managers – leading teams, driving strategy, and ensuring commercial success Department Managers & Team Leaders – from garden sundries to furniture to food halls Planteria Managers & Horticulture Specialists – hands-on roles requiring technical knowledge and a passion for plants Visual Merchandisers – crafting engaging spaces that drive footfall and sales Restaurant & Café Managers – delivering exceptional service and operational excellence in hospitality Commercial, HR & Finance Professionals – keeping garden centre businesses running behind the scenes Whether it’s a large multi-site group or an independent garden centre, we partner with businesses of all shapes and sizes across the UK. Looking for Your Next Role? We work with talented individuals who love the garden retail environment. If you’re looking for your next challenge – whether you’re an experienced Planteria Manager or a retail leader looking to specialise – we’d love to help. Hiring for Your Garden Centre? From seasonal staffing to senior leadership, we know what makes a great hire in garden retail. We don’t just send CVs – we consult, advise and match the right people with the right businesses.
ESG & Sustainability Recruitment SpecialistsAt MorePeople, we are specialist ESG and sustainability recruitment consultants, connecting high-calibre professionals with leading organisations across the UK.Our team works across the full spectrum of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability roles, supporting businesses ranging from independent consultancies to large-scale operations. Our sustainability division works closely with these businesses to navigate environmental, ethical and regulatory changes across the full supply chain.Whether you’re hiring talent or searching for your next role in sustainability, we provide tailored recruitment solutions built on deep sector knowledge and an extensive professional network. What We CoverSustainability ManagersESG ManagersResponsible Sourcing ManagersEcologistsRenewable Energy Project ManagersEnvironmental ConsultantsCSR ManagersDirector-Level AppointmentsWhether you need niche expertise or high-impact leadership, we know where to find the right people.For Employers: We deliver targeted ESG talent acquisition strategies, helping you build teams that can meet regulatory requirements and deliver long-term sustainability goals.For Candidates: We support professionals looking for ESG jobs, sustainability careers, and environmental roles across the UK, connecting you with top employers in the sector.Why Choose MorePeople?MorePeople has been committed to offering recruitment solutions for over 25 years, and our team are truly passionate about the sector. We don’t just recruit for the ESG & Sustainability sectors, we’re deeply rooted in them! Our consultants regularly attend key sustainability and environmental events, contribute to industry insights such as salary surveys and succession planning, and remain at the forefront of ESG trends and developments. Our passion for sustainability, combined with our established network, ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for both clients and candidates.
Specialist Recruitment for Rural Professionals: Experts in Rural Surveyor Recruitment, Estate Management, and Farm Consultancy Jobs At MorePeople, we understand the rural sector inside and out. With over 25 years of experience in specialist recruitment, our dedicated Rural Professionals team works closely with businesses and candidates across the UK countryside — from large estates to niche consultancies, national firms, and everything in between. A Diverse Sector. A Specialist Team. Whether you're a client looking to grow your team or a candidate searching for your next move, we cover a broad range of roles in the rural and land-based sector, including: Rural SurveyingEstate ManagementLand ManagementFarm ConsultancyEnvironmental StewardshipRenewable Energy ProjectsUtility SurveyorsRural Business Advisory…and many more. We recruit at all levels — from graduates looking for their first job in farm consultancy to experienced professionals ready to step into leadership roles in estate management or rural surveying. Why Choose MorePeople for Rural Sector Recruitment? Deep industry knowledge from recruiters who specialise in rural careers A strong network of employers across private estates, land agents, agri-businesses, and environmental bodies Support with permanent, interim, and executive roles Career guidance tailored to rural professionals For Clients Looking for the right talent? Whether you need a rural surveyor, a farm business consultant, or someone with niche expertise in utilities or renewables, our team can help you find the right people — fast. For Candidates We’re here to connect you with the best jobs for rural professionals — from land agent roles and RICS-accredited surveying positions to consultancy jobs in sustainability, biodiversity net gain, and more. Let's Talk Rural! Looking for trusted partners in rural surveyor recruitment or estate management recruitment? Ready to explore exciting jobs in farm consultancy or land management?
Farming & Agriculture Recruitment ExpertsConnecting Top Talent with Leading Agricultural Businesses At MorePeople, we are trusted experts in farming and agriculture recruitment. With a dedicated team of four consultants, we bring industry experience, market insight, and an unrivalled network to help both candidates and employers thrive in this ever-evolving sector. Whether you’re a graduate looking for your first job in farming, a skilled professional aiming for a leadership role, or a business seeking the right talent, our team understands the unique demands of the farming industry. Industry Experts: Our team has deep-rooted experience in farming, agribusiness, and food production, allowing us to be advocates for the industry and match top talent with the right opportunities. All Career Levels: From entry-level roles to senior director positions, we recruit across all levels and many locations, ensuring a strong talent pipeline for businesses. Innovative Approach: Agriculture is evolving, with cutting-edge farming innovations shaping the sector. We stay ahead of trends to connect you with forward-thinking employers and candidates. Proven Track Record: Trusted by leading agricultural businesses, we have successfully placed candidates in roles across arable, livestock and rural enterprises. Looking for Jobs in Farming?We work with some of the biggest names in UK agriculture, offering opportunities in farm management, precision farming, renewables and beyond. Whether you're looking for your next challenge or your first step in the industry, we can help. We fill a wide range of agriculture roles, including: Trials Officer Crop Manager Farm Manager - Farms Director Estate Manager Farm Business Consultants Seed Specialists Hiring the Best Agricultural Talent? Finding the right people is crucial to success in farming and agribusiness. Our agriculture recruitment experts understand the sector’s challenges and opportunities, ensuring we match businesses with skilled professionals who drive growth and innovation.
HR & Business Support Recruitment Experts in Food, Fresh Produce, Horticulture & Agriculture At MorePeople, we specialise in HR and Business Support recruitment across the food industry, fresh produce, horticulture, and agriculture sectors. Whether you're looking to hire a strategic People Director or an experienced PA, we connect businesses with top-tier professionals who understand the unique demands of these fast-paced, dynamic environments. Recruitment Areas We Cover: We recruit for a wide range of HR and support roles, including: HR: People Directors, HR Business Partners, HR Managers, HR Advisors, HR Assistants IT & Data: Heads of IT, IT Support Technicians, Business Analysts, Data Analysts Business Support: Executive Assistants, Personal Assistants, Office Managers, Administrative Assistants Finance & Commercial Support: Finance Assistants, Payroll Administrators, Junior Analysts, and more Our dedicated team works closely with clients to understand not just the job brief, but the culture, pace, and values of your business, ensuring every placement is a strong and lasting fit. Why Work With MorePeople? With over 25 years of experience recruiting into our specialist industries, we know what good looks like. As HR recruitment specialists, we understand how critical people, systems, and support functions are to operational success — especially in sectors where seasonal peaks, regulatory pressures, and talent shortages are common. We don’t just fill vacancies. We partner with clients to provide insight-driven, strategic support that adds real value, from salary benchmarking and succession planning to employer branding advice. For Candidates Looking for your next move in HR or business support? We work with businesses of all sizes — from family-run farms to national food groups — and offer a wide range of opportunities across the UK. Whether you're searching for: HR jobs in the food industry Finance jobs in the food industry Or specialist roles in admin, IT or data support …our team is here to help you find a role that aligns with your skills and ambitions. Ready to talk?Whether you're hiring or job-hunting, our team is here to help. Get in touch today to speak with one of our specialist HR & Business Support consultants.
Home & Garden Recruitment SpecialistsAt MorePeople, we connect talented commercial professionals with ambitious businesses across the Home and Garden industries.From garden sundries and outdoor living products to tools, DIY and housewares, we understand the pace, seasonality and innovation that define this diverse sector. Whether you’re growing your team or exploring your next career move, our specialist consultants bring deep networks, sector expertise and a long track record of supporting suppliers, brands and retailers across the UK.What We CoverGarden & Outdoor LivingWe partner with manufacturers, distributors and suppliers across the core garden and outdoor categories. This includes everything from pots, compost and fertilisers to outdoor furniture, fire pits, barbecues, gazebos, sheds, fencing and wider leisure products.Tool, Machinery & DIYOur expertise covers hand tools, power tools, garden machinery, ride‑on mowers, lawncare and the full spectrum of DIY and home improvement ranges. Home, Housewares & GiftingFrom kitchenware and home accessories to seasonal gifting and lifestyle products, we partner with brands bringing innovation and inspiration into homes across the UK.The Roles We RecruitWe recruit across all functions and levels, including:Area Sales Managers, Business Development Managers & National Account Managers Buyers, Category Managers & Procurement Specialists Marketing Managers, Digital Experts & Brand Managers Operations, Supply Chain & Logistics HR, Finance & Business Support Product, Quality & Technical Specialists Service Engineers, Field Technicians & After‑Sales Support Leadership & Director‑Level AppointmentsWhether you need niche expertise or high-impact leadership, we know where to find the right people.Why Choose MorePeople?We don’t just recruit for the Home and Garden industries, we’re deeply rooted in them!MorePeople was founded by horticulturalist Guy Moreton, whose decades of hands-on industry experience set the foundations for our specialist approach.Today, our expertise is reinforced through long-standing partnerships with leading industry bodies including GIMA, GCA, HTA, LOFA and others. You’ll regularly see us at industry events, including Glee, Spring Fair, Four Oaks and Solex. This keeps us connected to the businesses, trends and people shaping the market and gives our clients and candidates a genuine, competitive advantage. Whether you’re expanding your team, searching for specialist skills, or planning your next move, MorePeople brings unrivalled sector insight, credibility and results across the Home and Garden industries.
Landscaping Recruitment SpecialistsAt MorePeople, we've been connecting businesses with great people across the horticulture, garden and related sectors for over 25 years. As the landscaping industry continues to evolve, we're proud to support landscaping businesses and talented professionals all over the UK with specialist recruitment solutions built on deep sector knowledge, extensive networks and a genuine understanding of the market.Whether you're looking to hire skilled landscaping professionals or search for landscaping jobs, our team can help. We work with landscaping businesses of all sizes, from family-run contractors to national operators delivering large-scale commercial projects.What We CoverOur expertise extends across the entire business, from boots-on-the-ground operational roles through to senior leadership appointments. While our core focus is recruiting landscaping, grounds maintenance and horticultural professionals, we also support the wider functions that keep businesses moving, including operations, logistics, HR, finance, sales and commercial teams.We recruit across all levels of seniority, from graduate and entry-level positions through to management, director and executive hires.Typical roles we recruit for include, but are not limited to:Grounds Maintenance Jobs - Supervisors, Foremen, Operatives and ManagersLandscaping Jobs - Soft Landscapers, Hard Landscapers and Team LeadersInterior Landscaping Jobs - Technicians, Supervisors and ManagersArboriculture Jobs- From Advisory positions through to Senior SpecialistsLandscape Design & Build - Project Managers, Contracts Managers, Regional Managers & DirectorsBusiness Support Functions - Operations, Logistics, HR, Finance, Sales, Commercial and Marketing ProfessionalsWhy Choose MorePeople?By staying closely connected to the sectors we serve through industry events, trade associations and market networking opportunities, we provide clients with up-to-date hiring insights and candidates with access to exciting career opportunities across the landscaping sector. Our consultants take the time to understand what good looks like, whether that's finding a candidate's next career move or helping a business secure a critical hire.Because we're specialists, not generalists, we offer more than recruitment. We provide market insight, salary guidance, talent mapping and access to a network built over decades within the industries we serve.Proud Members Of...Looking for a Landscaping Job?We work with leading businesses across the UK, so if you're looking for your next grounds maintenance role, senior leadership position, or something in between, our team can help you make that next step.Looking to Hire Landscaping Talent?Finding skilled professionals can be challenging in an increasingly competitive market. Access our talent pool built on years of industry presence to secure the top talent needed to deliver projects and grow your team.
MorePeople is a market leader for professional recruitment across the UK and internationally
Hear from our Clients & Candidates
“Having worked with Luan for a number of years, I have trust in her understanding of the Flamingo business and our culture. This knowledge enables her to provide an honest view of only those candidates that she believes will thrive in our extremely fast paced environment. As a consequence, MorePeople have been integral in assisting Flamingo to build our team with excellent colleagues who have gone on to grow and develop and become great assets to the business.”
Head of HR, Flamingo Flowers
I have a long association with Morepeople and have used them to source and recruit for multiple businesses over the years. Recently, I have worked closely with Kieran to help me recruit for new positions at our recently acquired nurseries. We are delighted with the candidate we placed at our Yorkshire site, who has given us a great start to our production. Kieran sourced us several strong applicants and was great to deal with throughout the recruitment. Hopefully, he scouts us a few more like her.
Scott Morahan
We have been really impressed with Brian and the service from MorePeople. He took the time to fully understand our business, the horticultural market we operate in, and the type of person who would fit well within our team. Communication was excellent throughout, and he worked with impressive speed to deliver exactly what we needed. It is clear that Brian genuinely cares about building long-term partnerships, is a great person to work with and someone we would highly recommend.
Richard Barker
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Working with Emily Wood from MorePeople was a highly professional and value-adding experience throughout the recruitment process. Emily demonstrated strong organisation and communication at every stage, from coordinating interviews and managing timelines through to sharing detailed candidate materials and ensuring we had the right information to make informed decisions. She maintained consistent engagement with both us and the candidates, helping keep momentum and clarity throughout what can often be a complex process. Emily is obviously an experienced recruitment consultant and is very proactive.
Most importantly, Emily successfully supported the recruitment of a Senior Commercial Agronomist, who has proven to be an excellent fit for our team. Her ability to understand our technical and cultural requirements and align these with the right candidate was clear throughout.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Emily to any business looking for a recruiter who is professional, responsive, and genuinely invested in achieving the right outcome.
Mike Panteli
Adam has been a fantastic supplier, providing top-quality candidates and excellent service. His attention to detail, responsiveness and understanding of our needs have made recruitment a seamless process. If you're looking for a reliable and professional recruiter. I highly recommend Adam!
Michelle Miller
“At Hall Hunter people are our greatest asset and we need passionate people who share our values. MorePeople first placed a candidate with us in 2014 and, since then, have gone on to fill many more vacancies. I know that I can rely on the team to find the right people for our business.”
Viliana Ignateva
“It was really timely that I caught up with MorePeople at the careers fair as they immediately thought of a candidate who would be a great fit for our business. From here the process was very straightforward as the interview went well and we were very happy to offer her the role.”
HR Assistant, Berry Gardens
We've been working with Morepeople for a number of years and they've been a key partner in helping us establish and build our UK team. The business has grown at significant pace over the last 18 months, and Lucy has supported us brilliantly ensuring that we have high quality candidates who represent the right 'fit' to join the team across a variety of different functions. Lucy understands our business, our culture and is a pleasure to deal with.
Liz Totty
"MorePeople were excellent in the way they managed the potentially challenging recruitment of our first CEO. They took a high-level brief and turned around a clear role description which we could all recognise. Their communications were timely and focussed making our part of the process as easy as possible.
As per the brief the very strong list of candidates was really interesting from a wide and varied range of backgrounds and experience. The interview process and appointment was made very straightforward. I've known the MorePeople team for many years and they never fail to just get it and deliver."
Paul Willgoss
After MorePeople placed me in my role, we continued our relationship on the client side of things. It has been so easy working with the Finance & Professional Services Team . Not only do they know and understand the needs of the industry, but they also get to know you as a person which makes the process relaxed, effortless and fun. Thanks again for all your support.
Olivia Dove
Really wonderful working with Tom and the wider team at MorePeople. They were friendly, easy to talk to, ambitious and delivered fantastic results for us. If you need a role filled in the AgriTech space, they're great people to work with!
Chelsea Dow
It was great working with The Technical team, they make it so much easier as they totally understand our world. This way we get to see some great candidates- who absolutely know what they are applying for. The team are knowledgeable, humble and polite. This way of working is a winning combination - thank you.
Kristine Hampton
"I just wanted to say how impressed I have been with your team throughout this process! We were on a tight timescale but they managed the process from both ends with a perfect balance of pressure, emotional intelligence, and highly effective communication. All parties knew where we were and what was required of us at every stage of the process, with no time wasting and delivered in a professional and concise way, which is exactly how we like to do business. We are delighted with the result and have an excellent future member of the senior management team, the service was exactly as you said it would be!
Nick Shorter
I felt more than ever I received quality candidates who were properly screened with experience, the attention to detail from Sandra was on point, with great information and quick responses. Everything was handled for me, all I had to do was interview! We are very pleased and would love to work with Sandra in the future.
Chris Le Friec
For me and the team at Biobest UK, we really appreciate the down-to-earth approach. Whether that’s general communication or confirming job specifications. We are the specialists in Bugs and IPM, MorePeople are the specialists in People and Jobs! They know their sphere and Sarah has, taken to the time to understand our business, our needs, our ethos, and the candidate’s selection reflects this. This means we can as a business concentrate on what we do best. That’s why we work with Sarah and the team at MorePeople.
Tim Crittenden
I started working with MorePeople around a year ago as we were finding recruitment hard, especially for those more skilled roles where we needed horticultural knowledge, the team worked really hard and promptly started sending through candidates that matched the skill set we required, I really appreciated the visit to our site so they could see the size of our plant area and centre. This meant the team could really start to understand the sort of candidate we were looking for; we will continue to work with MorePeople on our future Garden Centre roles due to always receiving a great service
Jess Batterbee
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Kieran was brilliant to work with, he quickly understood what we were looking for and found candidates that were genuinely looking for the role available. The right candidate for our business was secured within no time. He communicated well throughout the whole process, and I’d highly recommend Kieran for any recruitment needs.
Helen Busby
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We’ve partnered with Rae at MorePeople twice now to recruit Regional Sales Representatives for Kings Seeds, once in 2023 and again in June 2025. On both occasions, Rae quickly understood our business needs and delivered high-quality candidates within a short timeframe. I knew MorePeople would be reliable as they placed me at Kings Seeds back in 2018.
What stands out most is the reliability and efficiency throughout the process; every step was handled professionally, with clear communication and a genuine commitment to finding the right fit. Both placements have been excellent additions to our team, and it’s clear Rae not only has a strong network but also the expertise to match the right person to the role. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rae and MorePeople to any horticulture business looking for a recruiter who is proactive, dependable, and able to deliver great results quickly.
Chris Paul
Great service from MorePeople - they understood the brief well, put a cracking advert out and I interviewed some good people. They gave a good overview of all the candidates and kept me in the loop as the process evolved. We used video conferencing to speed up the process and got someone on board from start to finish in 25 days. I would thoroughly recommend the MorePeople team.
Paul Garrod
I worked with Sarah for the first time on what was a tricky enough brief. It has been a long time since I collaborated with a recruiter that really understood the brief, quickly created a shortlist of high calibre candidates that were all on spec, and led to an offer being made in less than six weeks start to finish. A truly outstanding result from an exceptional recruitment professional.
Phil Taylor
"Luan Harrison was extremely helpful throughout the whole process, giving me frequent and useful updates without me having to chase for information. She helped me with practising using Teams as I was not 100% with sharing my screen and connecting using my personal account as a guest. Luan checked in to see how my first day went, which was really lovely."
Shannon Hasbury
After explaining what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career, Luan quickly found a role that suited me. The recruitment process moved without delay; I went from a phone call with Luan to a job offer in a week and a half, and she continued to maintain contact with myself as I settled into the role. MorePeople have the benefit of genuine first-hand connections to the food industry and maintaining consistent supportive contact, making the job-finding process as low-stress as possible. Would I recommend MorePeople to others? I already have!
Joshua
I really appreciated all the work and client care that Max at MorePeople did to secure the perfect Senior Surveyor role for me. Excellent service, second to none!
Alistair Sutton
Ben worked with me to attain a new position and was absolutely professional from start to finish. He was committed to getting me a position with sincere determination, and this has completely changed my perspective on recruiters, which I am very thankful for. I had been kept in the loop during every stage of the recruitment process and in between. Ben went above and beyond to ensure I was fully prepared before each stage and this also included keeping in contact on his days off! We would discuss everything in detail, and any concerns I had, he would address them immediately, whether it was direct or through the hiring managers. It was refreshing to see someone incredibly dedicated to delivering a very good service as he did.
Marzuq Khan
Max helped guide me to a position which suits my current circumstances, yet leaves my options open. He negotiated on my behalf to secure a tailor-made role, giving me a chance to rescue a hard-fought-for career. Thank you, Max, for your emotional support, and encouragement, and for obtaining a salary that reflects my worth.
Helen W
"Guy made me feel totally at ease with the process, which gave me great confidence."
Paul Sneyd
"Tom Edmondson-Mathews went above and beyond in my job search. Checked in with me regularly and kept me in mind when opportunities came up several months apart."
Ryan Lewis
"Delighted with the service received from More People. They found me rather than the other way around! I now have a job I can really enjoy!"
Dawn Jenkins
"Miranda Webster was very professional and proactive throughout my recruitment process and it would not have been achievable without her assistance."
Matt Davey
Working with Hannah was a very straightforward and smooth process. Communication was always thorough, met and managed with professionalism and friendliness. Every step of the way was assisted closely, making it a pleasant and stress-free approach to finding a new job. Additionally, working with MorePeople allows the candidate to establish a relationship within the industry, which I would certainly recommend for those stepping into their careers within the agricultural industry, with the company’s strong emphasis on maintaining a close relationship with the candidate during the process and hosting networking events.
Olivia Cox
"My consultant was very helpful and guided me all along the interview process. I am very happy and I would recommend MorePeople services."
Dalila Burnstone
I would like to say thank you to Jack from the MorePeople team for the professional help in my journey of finding a new job. The service was very friendly and professional from the start. Jack took all details regarding my present job and my expectations for a new job on the initial phone call. I was contacted back within the next week to be offered the possibility of an interview. I received all important information regarding the company, which was recruiting, regarding the role and initial information about salary and working shifts, so I could make an informed decision if I would like to apply for the position. I received helpful advice for my interview, and I could contact Jack anytime with any questions. I felt professional support throughout the whole process. I would definitely recommend Jack at MorePeople , whether you are an employee who is searching for a new opportunity and a change in your career, or you are a company that needs the right person in your team.
Natalia Jagatab
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"I was fortunate to work with Rae as a candidate being recruited into a senior role. Whilst the recruitment process itself was complex, working with MorePeople was a painless experience. Rae provided regular updates, keeping to agreed deadlines where possible and ensuring I was informed as we progressed through the process. She was always personable, trying to find the right balance to deliver for the customer whilst ensuring the candidate was supported and represented throughout. She worked with the company to understand exactly what they were looking for, before working with me to understand what was in my CV, but perhaps more importantly learn about me, what drives me and what I would bring to the role. Having been through similar processes with other recruitment consultants, I would recommend More People and in particular Rae, who was great throughout".
Matt Beardmore
Sandra is an incredibly personable, experienced and knowledgeable recruitment specialist who I quickly felt I knew on both a professional and personal level. From the very beginning of the process, she was supportive, approachable and genuinely invested in helping me navigate my recruitment journey. What stood out most about Sandra was her honesty. She was always willing to give clear, constructive and productive advice, even when it might not necessarily have been what I wanted to hear. That level of integrity is rare and it made me trust her judgement completely. Every conversation felt thoughtful, balanced and genuinely focused on what would be best for me in the long term. Sandra clearly cares deeply about the people she works with and takes the time to truly understand their goals, motivations and concerns. Her professionalism, warmth and insight made the whole process feel far less daunting and much more collaborative.I would highly recommend Sandra to anyone looking for a recruitment specialist who is not only highly capable and well-connected, but also genuinely has the best interests of the person in front of her at heart. She is an absolute credit to her profession.
Alex
I am truly grateful to MorePeople for their sincere and proactive approach when it came to finding me my position. Rae was fantastic at finding me a role that really suited me and was nothing but professional, attentive and genuinely supportive along the way. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Natasha Cutler
"The team were extremely helpful from day one. They supported me and persuaded me to apply for roles I previously thought I would be too junior for. They helped me find my dream job within a month!"
Claire Adcroft
"Luan Harrison deserves a pay rise! She has gone far and beyond to make me feel confident about getting the role and helped me prepare every stage of the application."
Sara Gil Bishop
I had the pleasure of working with Alex from MorePeople, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. Alex was incredibly informative and professional throughout the entire process of helping me secure a new job. From the very beginning, Alex asked the right questions to truly understand my skills, experience, and career goals. His attention to detail and ability to match me with the right opportunity made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Whenever I had a query, Alex was always quick to respond and kept me updated every step of the way. His proactive communication and genuine commitment to my success were evident from start to finish. Thank you for your support.
Florina
I am incredibly grateful to Stanley for his outstanding help in securing a job for me in record time. He was not only respectful and considerate of my situation, but he also went above and beyond to find the quickest and best route to get me employed. I was truly impressed by his speed and his excellent communication with the employer, which ensured I got the position as fast as possible. I highly recommend him!
Benji
Kieran was very helpful throughout the recruitment process for my new grower role. He sent me a lot of information about the company that I was applying for, ahead of my interviews and gave me some heads up on what interview questions to expect.
This made me much more confident going into these interviews. He did a fantastic job liaising with my new employer regarding my pay and conditions, and I am in a better place now, thanks to Morepeople and Kieran.
Liam
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The MorePeople podcast
Horticulture Has a Voice. Are We Using It?
The horticulture industry is facing no shortage of challenges. Labour shortages, regulation, access to crop protection products, an ageing workforce and the decline in the number of commercial nurseries are all putting pressure on businesses across the sector.But alongside those challenges sits an important question: how does the industry make sure its voice is heard?In the latest episode of The MorePeople PodcastSarah Want, the Divisional Director of the Horticulture and Fresh Produce team at MorePeople is joined by Derek Jarman, Chairman of the British Ornamental Association (BOA), to explore his career in horticulture, the role of the BOA and why collaboration, representation and bringing new people into the industry are more important than ever. A career shaped by changeDerek's route into horticulture wasn't entirely straightforward. Growing up as a farmer's son in South Cambridgeshire, he initially began his career in agriculture, working with ICI Fertilisers before moving into agricultural finance. He eventually joined Pro Culture, a tissue culture business producing roses and houseplants. It was here that he experienced some of the most challenging moments of his career.Starting a business in the late 1980s, when interest rates were exceptionally high, brought enormous financial pressure. The company nearly went under within its first year, leaving Derek and one remaining partner to turn the business around. They ultimately survived for two decades, supplying young and mature plants to supermarkets, garden centres and growers.Later, Derek joined Hayloft Plants, the business his wife had started from their kitchen table, where an opportunity with QVC helped develop the company further. After decades in the industry, the business was sold in 2024. Rather than stepping away from horticulture entirely, Derek moved into his role as Chairman of the BOA – continuing to use his experience to support the wider industry. Giving ornamental horticulture a voiceThe British Ornamental Association represents commercial ornamental growers and allied businesses, providing a collective voice for the sector and representing its interests to government.That representation can have a very real impact.One example Derek highlights is the introduction of seasonal worker visas. When the government initially introduced seasonal workers for edible horticulture but excluded ornamental growers, the BOA helped make the case for the sector. The result?Ornamental growers gained access to the scheme.It's a good example of why industry representation matters. Individual businesses can find it difficult to influence policy, but when an industry speaks collectively, its concerns are much harder to overlook. You don't have to solve the problem aloneOne of the most valuable roles industry organisations can play is creating opportunities for people to realise that the problems they're facing aren't unique to them.For many growers and nursery businesses, working environments can be isolated. Technical, financial and operational challenges can feel like they sit entirely on the shoulders of the individual business owner. The BOA's conferences provide an opportunity to step outside that bubble.Its technical conference brings people from across the industry together to discuss everything from emerging technologies and AI to technical challenges facing nurseries. There is also the annual Poinsettia Conference, alongside other initiatives and events designed to bring the industry together.As Derek puts it, you only need to "pick up one idea or meet one person" to make attending worthwhile. Sometimes, the benefit isn't even finding a completely new solution. Sometimes it's simply having someone confirm that what you're doing is right. The importance of sharing knowledgeThat sense of collaboration is particularly important in an industry where businesses can operate relatively independently.Getting people together allows growers to share experiences, compare approaches and learn from one another. And there is something powerful about realising that someone else is facing the same challenge. Whether it's a technical problem, labour issue, regulatory change or simply the pressures of running a business, knowing that you're not alone can change the way you approach it.Industry events therefore aren't just about presentations and technical updates. They're about creating the conversations that happen around them. The person you meet over dinner could have the answer to a problem you've been wrestling with for months. Protecting the future of ornamental horticultureOne of the biggest concerns discussed in the podcast is the changing structure of the industry.According to figures Derek references from the RHS Plant Finder, the number of commercial automated nurseries fell significantly between 2000 and 2020. At the same time, the industry continues to face an ageing workforce and challenges in attracting younger people.Derek is candid about the scale of the issue.Even after building a successful horticultural business employing around 70 people, neither of his own children chose to follow him into the industry. It's a challenge that many businesses across horticulture will recognise.The sector needs to demonstrate the opportunities available – not just the traditional perceptions of horticulture. That means showcasing technology, innovation, business, leadership and the variety of careers available within the industry. More than just membershipFor businesses considering joining the BOA, membership provides access to conferences, networking, industry representation and technical insight. But Derek also highlights another important role the organisation can play: funding solutions to problems facing growers.The BOA currently has funding available that can be used to address technical challenges, support grower events and develop markets. And Derek's message to the industry is clear:Use it.The money exists to support the sector. What the organisation needs now is for growers to come forward with ideas and identify the problems that need solving. That could mean technical research, open days, collaborative projects or market development. There is also potential to access wider government funding by working collectively as a group of growers. The opportunity is there – but the industry needs people willing to put forward ideas. The next generation needs to step forwardPerhaps one of the biggest priorities for the BOA now is bringing new people into the organisation.Derek openly acknowledges that many of the association's existing committee members are approaching retirement, creating a need for a new generation to become involved. That isn't simply about replacing people. It's about bringing new perspectives, new ideas and new energy into the organisation.The horticulture industry is changing rapidly, and the people representing it need to reflect that change. For younger professionals, getting involved with organisations such as the BOA can provide exposure to people and conversations far beyond their own businesses. It can also provide an opportunity to influence the future direction of the industry they're building their careers in. The industry has challenges – but it also has opportunityDerek's message throughout the conversation isn't one of ignoring the difficulties facing horticulture. It's about recognising that many of those challenges can be tackled more effectively when businesses work together.Whether that's lobbying government, sharing technical knowledge, supporting the next generation, accessing funding or simply creating opportunities for people to connect, collaboration gives the industry a stronger voice.And perhaps the biggest takeaway is that the solutions don't necessarily need to come from somewhere else. The BOA has funding available. There are opportunities to access further government support. There are experienced people willing to share their knowledge.What is needed now is people with ideas willing to step forward.As Derek puts it, the money is there to solve industry problems."It's your money. It needs using."For an industry facing significant change, that feels like a pretty good place to start.
The Mental Health Crisis Nobody Talks About in Farming
For many people, the boundaries between work and life have become increasingly blurred. Hybrid working, long hours and the expectation to always be connected can make it difficult to properly switch off.For those working in farming, however, that blurred boundary is nothing new.The kitchen table can be the business table. Home can be the workplace. And when your livelihood, family life and personal identity are all tied to the same place, finding space to step away from the pressures of work can be incredibly difficult.In the latest episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Andrew Fitzmaurice sits down with Tom York, farm business consultant, endurance athlete, content creator and mental health advocate, to explore resilience, discipline, mental health and the importance of being authentically yourself. From personal challenge to purposeTom's journey into mental health advocacy wasn't necessarily planned.Growing up overweight and struggling with undiagnosed ADHD, he describes a childhood where fitting in wasn't always easy. A significant weight-loss journey later became the starting point for something much bigger, eventually leading to endurance challenges, including 100-mile events.What Tom discovered along the way was that fitness wasn't simply about physical health. It became a tool for managing his mental health and building resilience."I think just proving that element to myself that I could get through the sort of tough times built the resilience that I then have used as layers to build on ever since."That experience has shaped much of what Tom does today. Rather than focusing solely on his own achievements, he uses his experiences to encourage others to recognise what they are capable of.And that distinction is important.Tom isn't asking people to replicate his challenges. He's encouraging people to identify their own resources, their own strengths and their own challenges and work out what they can do with them. Motivation gets you started. Discipline keeps you going.One of the most interesting themes from the conversation is the difference between motivation and discipline. Motivation is often treated as the key to achieving something. We wait until we feel inspired, energised or ready to make a change. But motivation isn't particularly reliable. Tom describes it simply:"Motivation is like putting the key in the ignition and starting the car. Discipline is the tank of fuel that will keep you going."It's a useful analogy because discipline isn't necessarily about doing something extreme or difficult. It's about consistency. Going for the run when you don't particularly feel like it. Taking a step back after a difficult day. Continuing to have conversations that might feel uncomfortable. Making time to look after yourself even when work is demanding. Over time, those small, consistent actions become habits.And that principle applies just as much to our working lives as it does to fitness. The importance of creating boundariesFor Tom, one of the biggest challenges facing people working in agriculture is the lack of separation between work and home.A farmer might have an important business conversation around the kitchen table in the morning, before returning to that same table for dinner with their family that evening. There isn't necessarily a commute to provide a mental transition between the two. But increasingly, that experience is becoming familiar to people outside agriculture too.Working from home has brought enormous benefits, but it has also created a world where the physical and psychological boundaries between work and personal life can disappear.Tom's advice is simple: find something that helps you detach.That might be going for a walk, exercising, getting outside or simply creating a routine that marks the end of the working day. The important thing is making a conscious decision to step away. Because recognising that you've had a difficult day isn't weakness. It's awareness - and knowing what you need to do next is a form of discipline in itself. Farming's resilience can offer hopeMental health conversations within farming have changed considerably, but the industry still faces significant challenges. Rural isolation, fewer local meeting places and the nature of farming as a lifestyle rather than simply a job can make it particularly difficult for people to find opportunities to talk.Yet Tom believes there is another side to the story.Farmers are incredibly resilient. They have faced difficult circumstances for generations and continue to adapt, evolve and keep going. Rather than simply highlighting the challenges facing agriculture, Tom believes the industry should also share its successes and its resilience."Bad media travels far quicker than good media, which is a shame because that often clouds the great stuff that goes on within the industry."It's a message that extends well beyond farming.There is enormous value in sharing positive stories, particularly when someone else might be going through a difficult period and need to see that there is a way forward. Resilience doesn't mean that something hasn't been difficult. Quite the opposite. It means finding a way through it. Your personal brand starts with being yourselfTom's work on social media has given him another platform to share these messages, but his approach to content creation is refreshingly straightforward: don't try to be somebody else.Social media can make it tempting to copy what works for other people. We see someone achieve success and try to replicate their content, their tone or their approach. But Tom believes the reason people connect with others online is because of what makes them different. His own experiences are unique to him. His endurance challenges, career and journey with mental health aren't things he expects others to replicate.Instead, he hopes people take something from his story and apply it to their own lives. That is perhaps a useful way of thinking about personal brand in the workplace too. Your personal brand isn't about becoming the most visible person in the room or creating the perfect LinkedIn presence. It's about establishing trust and being recognisably yourself. Authenticity matters more than everThat becomes particularly relevant as AI continues to transform how we communicate.AI can help us structure an idea, refine a message or make our writing clearer. But Tom makes an important distinction: it can't replace the person behind the story."No one can tell your story better than you can. No one can be you better than you can."For professionals, authenticity is becoming increasingly valuable. People want to know who they're dealing with. They want to trust the person behind the CV, the LinkedIn profile, the presentation or the business proposal. And ultimately, trust is built through consistency.It's why a perfectly polished piece of content can sometimes feel less compelling than something slightly rougher but genuinely human. The bigger lesson: use what you've gotPerhaps the most powerful message from Tom's story is that resilience doesn't look the same for everyone. His journey has involved endurance challenges, fitness, farming and advocacy. Someone else's might look completely different.The important thing isn't to replicate someone else's definition of success. It's to understand your own strengths and resources, and then work out how you can use them.Whether that's building healthier habits, creating boundaries around work, asking for help, pursuing a personal challenge or simply having a difficult conversation you've been avoiding – progress often starts with small, consistent actions.And sometimes, the most important step is simply recognising that you don't have to do things exactly like everyone else.You just have to find what works for you – and have the discipline to keep going.
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When Things Go Wrong: What Failure, Conflict and Coaching Can Teach Us About Leadership
The hardest moments in a career often become the most valuable. From navigating business crises to having uncomfortable conversations, great leaders learn to face problems rather than avoid them.In the latest episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Andrew Fitzmaurice is joined by Mark Kitson, an experienced business leader and consultant who spent much of his career in the food and hospitality sector, including senior roles at Whitbread and Costa Coffee.Today, Mark works with leadership teams across sectors, helping organisations navigate change, conflict, strategy and some of the difficult conversations that come with them.And one theme runs through much of his experience: Sometimes the biggest lessons come from the moments when things don't go according to plan. You don't have to have all the answersMark's career has taken him through periods of significant growth, change and, inevitably, challenges.One particularly formative experience came during his time leading Costa Coffee's business in Russia. A model that had initially worked well began to struggle as the business expanded. Mark found himself in the difficult position of being the person who had to tell his Managing Director that the strategy wasn't working and that the business was going to lose significant amounts of money.That's not an easy conversation for anyone.But it also became one of the most valuable experiences of his career.He wasn't just responsible for delivering the bad news. He then had to help work through the options, make difficult decisions and ultimately lead the business through a turnaround before selling it back to its Russian partner. Those experiences now shape how Mark works with clients facing their own challenges. Because when you're sitting across the table from a leadership team that feels like everything is falling apart, experience matters.Knowing that you've been through something difficult before and come out the other side, can change the way you approach the next crisis. The isolation of leadership isn't talked about enoughSuccess tends to be very visible.The promotion. The board position. The big presentation. The growth figures. The announcement that everyone celebrates.What isn't quite so visible is what happens when things aren't going well.Mark describes some of those moments as bringing feelings of fear and isolation. When you're succeeding, people want to be around you. When things start to go wrong, people can become more distant. And suddenly, the conversations that you most need to have become the conversations everyone is trying to avoid.That's where leadership really gets tested. Because difficult conversations rarely become easier by waiting. The uncomfortable conversation might be the most important oneA major part of Mark's work now involves helping leadership teams have better conversations. That might mean addressing conflict, discussing poor performance, challenging an existing strategy or acknowledging that something simply isn't working.Our natural instinct is often to avoid these conversations.We look for an easier solution. We delay the meeting. We soften the message. We hope the problem resolves itself. Usually, it doesn't. Instead, Mark advocates getting the problems out on the table and reframing them. Rather than making the conversation:"What have you done wrong?"it becomes:"What has happened, what has changed and how do we solve this together?"That distinction can be powerful.When people feel personally responsible for a problem, they can become defensive. But when you can separate the individual from the circumstances surrounding the problem, you create more space to actually solve it. The question stops being "Who is to blame?" and becomes "What do we do next?" Change doesn't happen at the same speed for everyoneAnother challenge for leadership teams is that people respond to change differently. Some people embrace it immediately. Others need time to process what it means before they are ready to engage. Neither response is necessarily right or wrong.Understanding those differences can help leaders communicate more effectively and avoid expecting everyone to move through change at exactly the same pace. Mark uses personality profiling and one-to-one coaching as tools to help teams understand these differences. Sometimes the most effective intervention isn't to push harder.It's simply to pause.Give someone the space to process. Allow them to ask questions. Let them work through their concerns away from the pressure of the wider group. Because processing something privately can often be much easier than trying to do it in front of everyone else. Coaching isn't always about giving adviceOne of the most interesting parts of the conversation is Mark's perspective on coaching. He recalls a manager earlier in his career who was willing to give him the unvarnished truth - both about what he was doing well and where he needed to improve. That experience had a significant impact on his career.Today, Mark is a strong advocate for coaching, but his approach isn't necessarily about having all the answers. In fact, increasingly, he sees coaching as creating the space for someone else to find their own answers. That might mean asking the right question. It might mean challenging an assumption. Or it might simply mean listening.Sometimes people don't need someone to tell them what to do. They need an opportunity to step away from the noise, articulate what they're thinking and make sense of it for themselves. The power of actually listeningIt sounds simple, but genuinely listening is harder than it looks.We're often listening while simultaneously preparing our response. We're thinking about what we're going to say next, what advice we're going to give or what question we're going to ask. Mark's advice is to resist that instinct.Be present.Don't be afraid of silence. A pause doesn't necessarily mean the conversation has stalled. Sometimes it gives someone the space they need to say what they actually mean. And perhaps most importantly, don't listen simply to respond. Listen to understand. That principle is particularly important in leadership, where the person in the room with the most authority isn't necessarily the person with the best answer. Find someone a few steps ahead of youCoaching doesn't necessarily have to mean hiring an executive coach. For people earlier in their careers, Mark suggests finding someone who is simply a few steps ahead. That could be a colleague, a former manager, someone within your wider network or even a friend of a friend. They don't need to have all the answers.They just need to be willing to give you an hour every month to talk, challenge your thinking and help you look at things from a different perspective. And there's a benefit for the person doing the coaching too. As Mark explains, when you coach someone else, you're learning at the same time. The questions you ask other people can often make you reflect on your own career and decisions.Development isn't one-way traffic. What separates high performers?Towards the end of the conversation, Andrew asks Mark what distinguishes the people who go on to become high performers. His answer is surprisingly straightforward:Focus and an ecosystem of support.High performers tend to know what they're trying to achieve and have a clear sense of the steps needed to get there. But they also invest heavily outside of work. That might mean family, relationships, fitness, hobbies or other interests. The specifics vary, but the principle remains the same: high performance doesn't necessarily mean making work your entire life.In fact, being able to switch off and invest in other areas can help people return to work with more energy and clarity. It's about finding the balance that works for you and being able to switch between different areas of life with the same level of commitment. Failure isn't the opposite of successPerhaps the biggest takeaway from Mark's career is that difficult experiences aren't necessarily setbacks. The moments where things went wrong; the failed strategies, the uncomfortable conversations, the crises and the uncertaintybecame some of the most valuable experiences he could take forward.Leadership isn't about avoiding problems. It's about developing the confidence and resilience to face them. And sometimes, the most important thing a leader can do is simply acknowledge:"This isn't working. Let's work out what we're going to do about it."Because the difficult conversation you're avoiding today might just be the one that unlocks tomorrow's solution.Listen to the full episode for more insights from Mark's career and his experience working with leadership teams navigating change and challenging situations.
Beyond the Boardroom: Why Great Leaders Struggle to Be Heard
Great leadership isn't just about having the right answers. It's about being able to communicate, challenge, influence and bring people with you - particularly when the stakes are high.In the latest episode of The MorePeople Podcast, Andrew Fitzmaurice is joined by Sean Sankey, who leads MorePeople’s Executive Development work with senior teams across the agriculture, food and horticulture sectors.Over the past 12 months, Sean has worked with leadership teams on everything from conflict resolution and performance management to developing talent and helping senior professionals communicate more effectively.And despite the very different organisations involved, he has noticed one striking common thread - highly capable people can still struggle to make their message land.Whether you're presenting to a CEO, navigating disagreement around a boardroom table, defending your team's performance or trying to get colleagues behind a new idea, technical expertise alone isn't enough. When the stakes are high, confidence mattersOne of the biggest themes Sean sees in his work is what happens when people find themselves in a "high-stakes moment". That might mean presenting to the CEO, speaking at a conference or walking into a meeting knowing that everyone around the table is likely to disagree.In these moments, two things matter: confidence and skill.Confidence isn't necessarily about feeling completely comfortable. It's about being able to regulate yourself, remain intentional and communicate effectively despite the pressure. The skill comes from knowing how to structure a message, understand your audience and communicate in a way that actually lands - the two go hand in hand.You can have the best idea in the room, but if you can't communicate it effectively, it may never get the traction it deserves. Great boards don't always agreeIt can be tempting to think that a successful leadership team is one where everyone gets along and reaches agreement quickly.In reality, healthy disagreement can be one of the most valuable things a leadership team has. Different perspectives expose blind spots. Challenge forces people to examine assumptions. And disagreement can ultimately lead to better decisions.The important distinction is how people disagree.The goal isn't to have the loudest voice win. It's to create an environment where people can challenge one another, explore different perspectives and ultimately leave the room aligned on the way forward. That requires confidence, trust and, perhaps most importantly, good communication. Don't wait until communication breaks downA recurring question in executive development is whether organisations are investing early enough. Sean sees roughly a 50/50 split between organisations seeking support proactively and those calling when things have already gone wrong. Both situations can benefit from intervention, but the lesson is clear: prevention is usually better than repair.Preparing someone to present confidently before their first major presentation goes badly is preferable to rebuilding their confidence afterwards.Helping a leadership team develop the skills to navigate conflict is better than waiting until relationships have completely broken down.And equipping people to communicate effectively before they reach senior positions means they are better prepared when the stakes inevitably rise.As Sean puts it, it's about "killing the monster whilst it's a baby." The workplace has changed - and so has how we learnOne reason communication development has become increasingly important is the changing nature of work. Before the pandemic, many of the softer skills people developed happened almost by accident. You watched how experienced colleagues handled difficult conversations. You sat in meetings and observed how people presented. You saw how disagreement was managed. You learned through simply being around other people. That "learning by osmosis" is harder to replicate in a hybrid working environment.At the same time, technical skills are becoming easier to develop. There are more training programmes, more resources and increasingly sophisticated technology and AI tools available. But the human skills, particularly those required when there isn't a straightforward right answer, remain much harder to develop.How do you disagree well? How do you challenge someone more senior than you? How do you bring people around to an idea without forcing it upon them?Those skills take practice. Stop trying to persuade peopleOne of the most interesting points from the conversation is the idea that effective communication isn't necessarily about persuasion. When people become too attached to their solution, it can create friction. Instead, Sean suggests framing ideas around the audience.Rather than:"Here's my solution and why you should agree with me."It's about creating enough relevance and understanding that people can engage with the idea themselves. That doesn't mean abandoning your position. It means being open enough to invite other perspectives. And often, that produces something even better than the original idea.The best communicators aren't necessarily the people who can convince everyone to agree with them. They're the people who create enough space for better ideas to emerge. Performance frameworks are only useful if they lead somewhereThe conversation also turns to the growing use of performance frameworks, including the nine-box model. These tools can be controversial. There is understandable concern about reducing people to a box or attaching a label to someone's career. But Sean's view is that the tool itself isn't necessarily the problem.It's how you use it.A nine-box assessment should be a snapshot, not a permanent label. The real value comes from what happens afterwards. If someone is identified as needing development, what happens next?What projects will they work on? What support will they receive? What skills do they need to develop? Who will mentor them? Where could they be in six or twelve months?If everyone is still talking about which box someone was placed in months later, the process has probably missed the point. If they're talking about their progression plan, that's where the real value lies. Healthy organisations create movementThat idea of progression leads to another important point: talent needs movement. Progression doesn't necessarily mean a promotion. It could mean moving into another part of the business, taking responsibility for a new project, developing a new skill or gaining exposure to a different team. What matters is that people can see themselves moving forward.When employees can see opportunities to develop and can see their colleagues progressing too, it creates a sense of momentum. When there is no movement, businesses can quickly become stagnant. For organisations operating in sectors where retaining talented people is increasingly important, creating that sense of movement isn't just a nice-to-have. It's a strategic priority. The best leaders aren't necessarily the loudestUltimately, the conversation comes back to communication. Leadership isn't simply about having the most senior job title or the strongest technical knowledge. It's about being able to bring people with you. That means being able to challenge constructively, listen properly, communicate clearly and create an environment where other people feel confident enough to contribute.And sometimes, great leadership means knowing when not to have the answer.The strongest leaders create the conditions for other people to contribute their expertise, challenge assumptions and come up with better solutions. Because leadership isn't just about what you say.It's about what people hear, what they do with it, and what happens as a result. Listen to the full episode to hear the conversation in more detail.
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