Podcast

​MorePeople Podcast: Creative Courage and Garden Sector Growth with Phil WrightWelcome back to The MorePeople Podcast, your go-to source for the latest insights and conversations in the world of recruitment, careers, and industry innovation. In this episode, Andrew Fitzmaurice sits down with Phil Wright, Managing Director of WrightObara, a creative marketing agency specialising in the home and garden sector.From architecture student to band member to marketing expert, Phil’s journey is anything but conventional, and that creative DNA runs right through the work he does today. From Video Editing to Garden MarketingPhil’s route into marketing began behind the scenes as a video editor, before expanding into directing, writing, and ultimately launching a full-service creative agency. WrightObara now works with some of the biggest and boldest names in the garden industry. Think Evergreen Garden Care (Miracle-Gro) and Pyrex, as well as supporting exciting, fast-growing startups.“We realised we loved working with companies in the garden sector,” Phil says. “So two years ago, we made the decision to specialise.” Creative Thinking for Every Client SizeWhether it’s big brands with huge marketing teams or ambitious independents needing guidance, Phil and his team approach each project with the same passion: creative storytelling.Clients often come to Writer Bar with challenges - maybe a product isn’t selling well or a message isn’t landing. The solution? Step back and diagnose the root issue, whether that’s branding, positioning, or audience mismatch.“We’ll often present three creative routes: safe, bold, and brave. Sometimes the boldest option is the one they’ve been too afraid to consider - until now.” The Power of PodcastingPhil is also the host of The Underground, a podcast shining a light on the business side of the garden industry. While it started as a way to promote the agency, it quickly became a community-driven platform.“It’s less about how many people listen and more about who’s on the show,” he explains. “The conversations, the networking, the insights - it’s invaluable.” Future Trends in Garden RetailLooking ahead, Phil sees sustainability as a defining theme over the next five years. From compost innovations to eco-friendly product lines, the industry is evolving fast. But there’s also a shift in audience: younger, urban buyers are turning to houseplants and balcony gardening.Stores like Not Another Jungle are leading the way in this new landscape, catering to customers who want greenery in small, stylish spaces. No garden required.“There’s a big opportunity for brands to meet this audience where they are, especially in city centres,” says Phil. What's Next for Writer Bar?While Phil can’t reveal the brands just yet, he teased two exciting new campaigns:A full range repositioning for 2026 to better align with customer expectations.A bold new messaging strategy to highlight a product’s unique value.Expect surprising, memorable work with that signature WrightObara creativity baked in. Final ThoughtsFrom championing courageous creativity to helping redefine the future of the garden sector, Phil Wright and WrightObara are proving just how powerful the right story can be.​​

​Podcast Spotlight: Growing with Purpose – A Conversation with Amy Stubbs of British Garden CentresIn our latest TheMorePeople Podcast episode, Richard Hanwell sits down with Amy Stubbs, Project and Development Manager at British Garden Centres – the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre group. From grassroots involvement as a teenager to playing a central role in the company’s nationwide growth, Amy shares her journey, industry insights, and the challenges and opportunities of managing a rapidly expanding, community-focused retail business. From Family Roots to National ImpactFor Amy, horticulture is in the blood. Growing up in the family business meant early exposure to garden centres, weekends spent shadowing her father laid the foundation for a career that’s blossomed in step with the business itself.“I was brought up around it. Even when I was 13 or 14, I was tagging along at weekends. I loved the environment.”Now 26, Amy’s been formally involved in the business since age 19, starting in the nursery growing side. From there, her passion and curiosity for the industry have led her to take on a dynamic cross-functional role at the heart of the company’s evolution. Pandemic-Driven MomentumBritish Garden Centres has seen phenomenal growth in recent years – from just 10 centres pre-pandemic to over 70 today. Amy reflects on the unexpected boost COVID-19 provided to the sector:“During COVID, when garden centres were one of the few places open, it really shined a light on what we offer. People reconnected with nature, with outdoor spaces and that translated into real growth.”With that growth came a shift in the customer experience. Restaurants, once secondary attractions, are now a central footfall driver. Amy highlights how flexible chef hours and quality dining experiences are helping the business attract both talent and loyal customers. Staying Local at ScaleScaling a national brand while maintaining a local, community-first ethos is no small feat. For Amy and her team, this balance is essential:“You walk into any of our centres and there’s consistency in pricing and branding, but each one still has its own personality. We empower local teams to take ownership – it keeps the customer experience authentic.”British Garden Centres is proud to be more than a shopping destination. It’s a space for connection. Whether its families enjoying a day out or individuals finding a sense of community, the centres are designed to bring people together. Shaping the Future of HorticultureAs the business looks ahead, its goals are clear: grow existing sites, explore new acquisitions, and continue becoming a household name. But expansion isn’t just about footprint – it’s about building an industry for the future.“We want to shout more about the opportunities in horticulture. It's not just about plants, there are roles in HR, marketing, finance, operations. People don’t realise the scale.”Amy is particularly passionate about attracting young talent. She credits organisations like the YPHA for showcasing success stories and building community among younger professionals. Lessons Learned from Rapid GrowthWhen asked what she’d do differently, Amy is candid:“We’ve grown so fast, I think if we could have brought more structured planning and slicker training in earlier, it would have eased some of the transition. But now we’re implementing systems that match our scale.”That humility and forward-thinking attitude are emblematic of British Garden Centres’ leadership approach - rooted in family values, but ambitious in vision.​​

​Inside Legal Life & M&A in the Food Sector – A Conversation with Mike MatthewsIn this episode of TheMorePeople Podcast, our host Andrew Fitzmaurice sits down with Mike Matthews, Partner at Roythornes Solicitors and Head of their Food Team. With 15 years under his belt at the firm, Mike brings a wealth of insight into the legal side of mergers and acquisitions, food sector dynamics, and how the profession is adapting to the changing demands of talent and technology. M&A Activity in the Food Sector – Still Going StrongMike leads Roythornes’ M&A division, with a particular focus on owner-managed businesses. He shares that while there was a temporary dip in deal activity after the Autumn 2024 budget, things have since picked up again. Deals that were rushed forward in anticipation of capital gains tax changes often still went ahead, even once fears were allayed.While changes to Business Asset Disposal Relief (formerly Entrepreneurs’ Relief) have impacted smaller business owners more significantly, larger deals, often in the £10–30 million range are still getting done with regularity. Mike notes that the legal team typically steps in once a deal is already in motion, providing due diligence support, negotiating share purchase agreements, and uncovering any hidden risks or surprises.“We see all sorts,” Mike admits, from castles run through company accounts to high-value paintings shuffled around just before sale. The legal team’s role, he says, is to spot these risks early and resolve them without derailing the transaction. The Human Side of Legal Work – Building Trust, Not Just Paper TrailsWhile M&A may sound like paperwork and numbers, Mike emphasises that the people side of the job is still paramount. Particularly for family-owned businesses, selling can be an emotional process. That’s why trust, transparency, and strong communication between clients and their legal team are key.Mike also underlines how senior lawyers like himself spend increasing amounts of time with clients, not just behind screens, guiding them through sensitive decisions and ensuring deals get over the line smoothly. The Next Generation of Legal TalentMike’s own career story is a rare one in today’s legal world – a Spalding local who returned after university, joined Roythornes, and rose through the ranks. He’s proud of the firm’s culture and approach to recruitment and retention.Roythornes has had success attracting and keeping young legal talent - partly due to its down-to-earth culture and partly thanks to clear career pathways. But like many employers post-COVID, they’ve had to rethink how to balance flexible working with the undeniable benefits of in-person mentorship.“We don’t want to force four days in the office,” Mike says. “But we do want people to see the value of being around others; learning, developing, picking things up that you just don’t get through a screen.” Tech and AI – Tools, Not ReplacementsMike also touches on the evolving role of AI in the legal world. While tools like Microsoft Copilot and backend automation are beginning to streamline admin tasks, the heart of legal practice, judgement, trust, negotiation remains very human.“AI will help with the routine work,” he explains, “but I don’t see it replacing that trusted advisor role any time soon.” Looking Ahead – Independent and GrowingAs Roythornes celebrates its own milestones, Mike is clear-eyed about the future. In an industry increasingly dominated by big consolidations and outside investment, the firm is committed to maintaining its independent roots, resisting the temptation of big buyouts, and continuing to grow on its own terms. Final ThoughtsThis episode offers a rare glimpse into the legal engine room behind the scenes of many high-profile food sector deals. Whether you’re a founder preparing to sell, a young lawyer eyeing the next step, or a business owner navigating compliance, Mike’s perspective is a powerful reminder that the best legal partnerships are built on clarity, communication, and care.Catch the full episode of The MorePeople Podcast to hear even more from Mike about his journey, legal war stories, and what makes the food sector such a dynamic space for both business and legal professionals.​​

From Grocery Watchdog to Industry Advocate: Christine Tacon on Developing Talent, Driving Change & Building TrustIn a recent episode of TheMorePeople Podcast, our host Andrew Fitzmaurice sat down with one of the most influential figures in UK food and farming: Christine Tacon CBE. Known widely as the first Groceries Code Adjudicator and now a leading voice across the agri-food sector, Christine brings a wealth of experience, insight and no shortage of honesty to the table.Their conversation spans career growth, the future of leadership in the food industry, and the need for deeper collaboration across the supply chain. A Career of Impact, Built on ChangeChristine’s CV is as diverse as it is impressive. From leading the Co-op as a board-elected director to chairing MDS (Management Development Services), she has spent decades shaping the landscape of British food and farming.“I went back to the Co-op and thought - wow, so much has already changed,” she reflected. “It gave me imposter syndrome at first, but I realised the food chain experience I bring is still vital.”That humility underlines a key message in the episode: change in the sector is happening, but it needs both continuity and challenge. MDS: The Future of Industry LeadershipOne of the most powerful parts of the conversation focused on MDS, the industry-led graduate scheme Christine has chaired for nearly a decade.MDS provides structured, hands-on training to young professionals entering the food, farming, and supply chain world. With four six-month placements and a Level 5 apprenticeship, the programme develops leadership skills and real-world experience.“We don’t care what your degree is in: music, archaeology, geography - what matters is potential,” Christine explained. “Our trainees come out resilient, skilled, and committed to staying in the food industry.”Today, MDS has over 100 trainees across more than 60 member companies, delivering a much-needed talent pipeline for an industry that often struggles with awareness and retention. From Farm to Fork: Building Bridges Across the Supply ChainWith one foot in early-stage career development (via MDS) and the other at board level (via the Co-op), Christine brings a unique view of the entire supply chain.“There’s still a gap in understanding between retailers and producers,” she said. “Part of my job now is making sure issues like food security, contract length and fair pricing are heard at board level.”She also highlights the differences between the UK and other markets, particularly around pricing models and co-operative working. “In Europe, prices flex. Growers are rewarded for risk and innovation. Here, contracts are too rigid, and producers can end up squeezed.”Her advice? More collaboration, more co-ops, and more courage to say no when deals aren’t sustainable. Empowering Women in the SectorChristine also opened up about her role in founding Women in Food & Farming, a community built to connect, support and inspire the next generation of women in the industry.“I never used to go to women’s leadership events. I didn’t want to be defined by my gender,” she admitted. “But I realised we need to support the quieter voices too, the people who might not put themselves forward but have so much to offer.”Today, the network runs regular events, offers mentoring, and creates spaces for young women to find role models, ask questions, and build their careers in a more inclusive industry. Takeaways for the IndustryHere are a few standout themes from the episode:Talent is out there - if we broaden the net. MDS is proof that students from any background can thrive in food and farming with the right structure and support.Retailers and suppliers must work together better. Real trust and collaboration will be essential to navigate cost pressures, labour shortages, and changing consumer behaviour.Support networks make a difference. Whether it's through co-ops or communities like Women in Food & Farming, building connection is key to resilience. Final ThoughtsChristine Tacon’s story is a powerful reminder of what leadership in the food and farming industry can , and should look like. Her commitment to nurturing talent, improving collaboration, and championing fair practices has left a deep imprint on the sector. As we continue to face challenges around recruitment, food security, and sustainability, voices like Christine’s help shape a more inclusive, resilient, and forward-thinking industry. Whether you're a graduate entering the food sector or a business looking to make meaningful change, there’s inspiration and a clear call to action in her words.​​

​Celebrating 50 Episodes of the MorePeople Podcast: Stories, Insights & Real ConversationsWhen we first launched The MorePeople Podcast, we had a simple goal - to bring something extra to our clients, candidates, and the industry at large. Now, 50 episodes later, we’re proud to say it’s grown into something even more meaningful: a platform that gives voice to the incredible people and stories behind the food, horticulture, and agriculture sectors.In our milestone 50th episode, our Managing Director Richard Hanwell sat down with CEO Andrew Fitzmaurice to reflect on what the podcast has become and where it’s going. Why We Started This JourneyAt its core, the MorePeople Podcast was always about adding value. Sure, we do recruitment, and we like to think we do it well, but we also saw a real need to go beyond transactional relationships. This podcast gives us a way to open up deeper, more personal conversations with the people shaping our sectors. From industry pioneers to rising stars, from client stories to our own team’s journeys, the podcast helps to showcase the real stories behind the CVs and job titles.As Andrew shared:“If we can find other reasons to talk to candidates and clients beyond the typical recruitment needs, then we’re doing our job better.” What We've Learned Along the WayDoing something 50 times teaches you a lot. From the awkward early episodes to now feeling a bit more at home behind the mic, we’ve grown and so has our appreciation for the wide variety of talent and stories in our network.Richard put it well:“The amount of careers you can have in this industry is epic. Everyone has a story. Some fall into the sector. Some chase it. But all of them are worth telling.”We’ve also learned how important it is to step out of our comfort zones, something we ask of our team regularly, so it only felt right to do the same ourselves. As Andrew said,“You get better at what you practise. And that includes pushing yourself to do new things.” Highlights from the First 50There have been so many standout moments, but here are just a few of the episodes that really struck a chord:Boyd Douglas-Davies talking about the Greenfingers charity - a powerful and emotional conversation.Aggie Mutuma, whose work around leadership and inclusion brought a fresh perspective.Shane Tyler, shining a light on modern slavery and ethical employment - a sobering and essential discussion.Dan Cross at Dyson Farming and Suneel Appan from Future Biogas showcasing innovation in regenerative agriculture and green energy.Internal episodes with our own team - revealing the journeys, motivations, and personalities behind the people at MorePeople.Every guest has offered something unique, and we’re incredibly grateful for their time, honesty, and willingness to share. What’s Next for the Podcast?We’re just getting started.With a packed guest list ahead and a wish list even longer, we’re excited to continue building a podcast that informs, connects, and inspires. We’ll keep using it as a platform to:Raise the profile of overlooked but vital sectors.Highlight career paths and opportunities.Introduce fresh talent and fresh thinking to the market.Give our team a chance to learn, grow, and share their own stories.And who knows maybe we’ll even take it on the road (Tropical-themed podcast, anyone?). Thank You for ListeningTo everyone who’s tuned in, subscribed, shared, or simply dropped us a message to say you enjoyed an episode - thank you. Your support is what keeps us going.Here’s to the next 50 episodes and many more.​​

​25 Years of MorePeople: A Conversation Between Co-Founders Guy Morton and Peter HuntAs we celebrate 25 years of MorePeople, we couldn’t think of a better way to mark the occasion than with a special edition of The MorePeople Podcast - featuring not just one, but both of our co-founders: Guy Morton and Peter Hunt.In this heartfelt and reflective episode, Guy and Peter revisit the early days of MorePeople, share the lessons they’ve learned, and reveal what it really takes to build a sustainable, specialist recruitment business from the ground up. If you're a client, candidate, recruiter, or entrepreneur, this is an inspiring story of vision, partnership, and resilience. The Early Days: A Chicken, a Chance Meeting, and an IdeaPeter's journey began in accountancy within the food industry, eventually leading him to sunny Lincolnshire, "because of a chicken," as he puts it. There, he met Guy while working at Redbridge, where their complementary skills quickly became apparent: Guy on the commercial side and Peter on the numbers. A strong professional bond formed - one based on trust, respect, and a shared desire to step away from the corporate world.Before founding MorePeople, they explored several consultancy avenues, but one client request changed everything: "Can you help me find someone for this role?" That one question sparked an idea that evolved into MorePeople, a recruitment business built by people from the industry, for the industry. From Startup to SpecialistRecruitment businesses were plentiful at the time, but few offered what Peter and Guy could: deep-rooted sector experience and genuine understanding of their clients’ needs. Unlike the generalist agencies or recruiters with no hands-on industry knowledge, Guy and Peter brought real credibility to the table.As Guy puts it, “The challenge was to prove that we weren’t just people who could talk about the sector, we could actually deliver results.”Within a year, they decided to focus solely on recruitment, moving into a small office in Stamford and eventually hiring their first employee. But like most startups, the real confidence didn’t come overnight.“You only really know if you’ve got something special after four or five years,” says Peter. “That’s when the clients start coming in that you didn’t know before. That’s when it feels like a real business.” Building a Business - Not Just a JobOne thing that always set MorePeople apart was Peter and Guy’s long-term vision. From day one, they planned not just to create jobs for themselves, but to build a business with the structure and resilience to outlast them.They didn’t rely on promises from friends or old contacts, instead, they built a business model based on quality delivery, industry insight, and the ability to sell. As Peter explains, “You can’t survive as a small business if you can’t sell. Full stop.”And survive they did - even through turbulent times like the 2008 financial crisis and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. The core values of trust, resilience, and adaptability have remained at the heart of MorePeople throughout. The Power of PartnershipThe episode also sheds light on something often overlooked in business success: the power of a great partnership.Peter speaks openly about what it was like working with Guy for over two decades, “entertaining” was one of the words he used, but more importantly, he emphasised the deep mutual respect and trust they built over the years. “You don’t have to like everyone you work with, but you do have to respect them. And we always did.” Succession and the Next GenerationCrucially, Peter and Guy always had one eye on the future. Succession planning wasn’t an afterthought, it was baked into the business model from early on.This long-term thinking led to one of their most pivotal decisions: hiring Andrew Fitzmaurice, now CEO of MorePeople. Initially, he didn’t fit the traditional mold - a recruiter without direct industry experience but Peter persuaded Guy to meet him. The result? What Guy calls “the best business decision I ever made, apart from starting MorePeople with Pete.” Looking Back, Looking AheadAs Peter reflects on his time with MorePeople, his pride is evident. “What am I most proud of? The foundations we laid. The culture. The resilience. The people we’ve brought in. The fact that the business is still growing and in safe hands.”For Guy, the sentiment is mutual: “Pete, it’s been an absolute pleasure. You’re a mate, and you’ll always be a mate. Thank you for everything.” Final ThoughtsThis episode isn't just a celebration of 25 years. It's a masterclass in business-building, leadership, and staying true to your values. MorePeople has grown from a two-man consultancy into a market-leading specialist recruiter, helping thousands of people and businesses find the perfect fit.Whether you're a jobseeker, a client, or an aspiring entrepreneur, there’s something in this story for you.​​