<div class="editor-cover-image" data-dimensions="780:300" data-pmr-editor-image="" style="background-image: url(&quot;https://leaders-council-web.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/uploads/store/cd38e3fffdf740fa87fdd6dda22a534a.jpg&quot;);"></div>

 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">From the vibrant corridors of York’s academia to the dynamic world of international events, <a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/faye-elizabeth-alexander-5929b5a6">Faye Elizabeth Alexander’s</a> career is a rich cultural tapestry that is still growing.&nbsp;With a foundational degree from York in theatre, film, and television, Alexander cut her professional teeth with some of the UK’s broadcasting giants, including the BBC and ITV.&nbsp;However, Alexander’s foresight led her to seek a “backup plan,” a pursuit that took her into the realm of education. It was a move that would not only broaden her skill set but also enrich her network. “I took a sidestep from film and television to do my teaching qualification,” she explains, referring to her PGCE in the lifelong learning sector.Her stint in academia was not just confined to teaching. Alexander became an integral part of the university team at York St. John University within the Faculty of Arts, orchestrating events that leveraged her industry contacts. “I was able to bring my contacts to those events,” she says, detailing her involvement in international summer schools, creative panels, film festivals, and the Channel 4 inspiration day.It was this blend of education and event management that paved the way for her entry into <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/kes-international/">KES International.</a> Meeting a key contact, the then-owner and CEO of KES International, marked a pivotal moment. “I started working for him,” Alexander states, a move that would eventually lead to the establishment of her own events business in 2012, <a href="https://www.reevention.co.uk/about">ReEvention</a>.Manoeuvring Through the ChallengesFaye has faced her fair share of challenges head-on. “Learning how to expand the business and keeping up with social media,” she notes, were just the tip of the iceberg. The real test came with managing a growing team and mastering the art of time management—a skill that “spans across it all.”Alexander’s business, which has grown organically since its inception in 2012, relied heavily on relationships and client return, rather than a competitive market driven by tenders. This approach, however, was put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit the events industry hard. “We were shut down and told to retrain,” Alexander recalls, highlighting the sector’s struggle to bounce back.The response from Alexander and her team was swift. They transitioned their events to virtual or hybrid platforms, creating a bespoke virtual platform during the pandemic tailored for their international conferences and event management. “We had clients who were live when the pandemic happened, so we had to quickly get them online,” she explains. This platform included meeting spaces with breakout rooms, resource libraries, and virtual exhibition spaces—all created in a virtual fashion.Moreover, the cost of living crisis and energy crisis have led to a global increase in event and hospitality prices, necessitating a rise in their own pricing structures. “Certainly when events are hybrid and they offer a virtual and a live element, you can’t charge as much for the virtual element as you can live,” Alexander points out.Brexit added another layer of complexity, with increased red tape affecting international shipping and logistics. “Flight and travel management is not as straightforward as it was before,” she states. Yet, despite these “challenging times,” Alexander remains undeterred.Looking ahead, Alexander sees the hybrid model as an integral part of the events world. Their platforms cater to events of various sizes, including a recent one in Athens with 300 people live and 200 online, representing over 50 different countries. “Hybrid has become a big part of what we do now,” she affirms.The Dual Pillars of KES International and ReEventionKES International, a membership organisation with a rich 28-year history, was acquired in 2018 by Alexander and her husband. Serving over 10,000 academics globally, KES International manages a comprehensive suite of services from paper submissions and reviews to international conference portfolios and publications.Alexander describes the essence of their conferences as opportunities for academics to “come together and network, present their findings, and disseminate their research amongst each other.”ReEvention, on the other hand, has evolved into a dynamic events management agency, expanding its offerings post-pandemic to include global venue finding, team building away days, incentive travel, and exhibition stand builds. Faye highlights the shift towards immersive experiences, such as creating an operating theatre for a MedTech client, reflecting the changing landscape of the events industry where brand activation and bringing brands to life are becoming increasingly important.The subjects at the heart of their events are high-level research-intensive topics like intelligent systems, computer science, AI, big data, and sustainability. Alexander underscores the importance of resilience and drive as key leadership traits, sharing anecdotes of overcoming challenges like severe weather at an event in Athens and adapting to cultural differences and dietary requirements during international gatherings.With a focus on preparation, flexibility, and proactive planning, Alexander and her team are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences, whether for a small meeting or a large global event. They nurture their young team members, providing them with invaluable global exposure and the skills to navigate the complexities of international event management.Envisioning a Legacy of Enduring Impact and Providing Space for Academic ExcellenceFaye has a clear sight of the legacy she aspires to leave. For KES International, Alexander aims to create a lasting platform that facilitates the continual professional development of academics. “The publication of their work, the dissemination of their research, the ability to network, the ability to publish will never end,” she asserts, showcasing the importance of these elements in the academic sphere.Over the past 28 years, KES International has been instrumental in providing global academics with opportunities through its International Conference portfolio. Alexander’s ambition is for this legacy to thrive well into the future, ensuring that the platform remains a cornerstone for academic growth and collaboration.ReEvention, Alexander’s events management agency, mirrors this commitment to longevity and evolution. Catering to a diverse clientele, from local UK businesses to global enterprises, ReEvention is dedicated to developing with the industry and adapting with the times, all whilst delivering excellency. “The hope is that many of our events will have a memorable and a long-lasting impact on the teams that were involved, the delegates that are involved, the attendees, and the managers that are involved in each one of our events,” concludes Alexander.&nbsp;</div>

Faye Elizabeth Alexander's journey has taken the Director from York's academic halls to international event management. Tracing her career from media to education, and finally to founding her own successful events business, this article delves into the challenges and triumphs of a dynamic professional life, underscored by resilience in the face of industry upheavals such as COVID-19 and Brexit. 

Faye Elizabeth Alexander: A Stage Set for Success

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Ruta Brice holds 13 years of experience within the childcare recruitment industry, but her journey began in luxury hospitality management before she discovered her true calling.&nbsp;“I found that the childcare industry is much more rewarding, and I can give so much more,” Brice reflects on her transition to childcare. Her passion led her to an agency in London, where she honed her skills before taking the bold step to establish <a href="https://superstarnannies.co.uk/">her own venture, Superstar Nannies</a>.Superstar Nannies is not just a catchy name; it’s a promise of quality and excellence. “We specialise in nannies with the highest qualifications,” Brice explains. The agency boasts a remarkable database of candidates, ensuring that only the best of the best are offered to their discerning clientele, which includes celebrities, royal families, and high-net-worth individuals across the globe—from the UK to America, Europe, and the Middle East.Brice’s leadership style is deeply personal, focusing on direct communication with individuals who require support with childcare in their homes. This approach demands a high level of emotional and cultural intelligence, skills that Brice has refined over time. “It’s very personal business,” she says, “but that’s what I love the most.” Her ability to match the right calibre of nanny to the right family, considering cultural nuances and personal kindness, is what sets Superstar Nannies apart in a league of their own.Superstar Nannies: Global Child Care ExcellenceFrom a modest startup to a global sensation, Superstar Nannies has carved out a niche in the childcare industry under the astute leadership of Ruta. “We started in the UK as a little company, but word of mouth brought us more international clients,” Brice shares with pride. Her company’s reputation for excellence has crossed borders, reaching into Europe, America, the Middle East, and even Asia.Competition, according to Brice, is a catalyst for growth. “Who doesn’t love competition? It makes you grow,” she states confidently. Superstar Nannies stands out not by the number of bookings but by the unparalleled service and quality it delivers. “We’re here for service and quality to deliver what is the best on the market at the moment,” Brice asserts, emphasising that trust and care are at the core of what clients seek.The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging for many, turned out to be a period of growth for Superstar Nannies. “COVID was one of our best times,” Brice admits, noting that while competitors closed their doors, her agency remained open, adapting to the situation with live-in bookings and stringent precautions. This resilience has seen the company thrive, improving month by month. “Childcare is very straightforward,” Brice concludes, “and premium qualified childcare is what we offer—amazingly.”Leadership and Vision: The Superstar Nannies WayAt the helm of Superstar Nannies, Brice’s leadership philosophy is clear: “You’re not going for quantity; you’re going all the time for quality.” This focus on excellence has propelled the company to international acclaim. Brice’s approach to leadership is not about being the biggest but being the best. “We are doing pretty well,” she modestly states, letting the company’s global clientele speak for itself.With plans to open more offices in Europe and America due to high demand, particularly for the esteemed Norland Nannies, Brice is steering her company towards an even brighter future. “Norland nannies are something out of this world,” she explains, highlighting the unique experience they offer to American clients.Managing a team that caters to a special clientele requires a structured approach. “I usually look for the most senior in the team, we operate on a pyramid-basis,” Brice describes her management style. The most responsible individuals handle the biggest clients, ensuring that no mistakes are made. Every candidate, from nannies to governesses, chauffeurs, and chefs, undergoes thorough verification. “The brand name means a lot,” Brice emphasises, “and we need to maintain a standard.”The learning experience is paramount at Superstar Nannies, not just for the children but also for the staff. “The most important thing is education,” Brice asserts, acknowledging the convenience it provides for incredibly busy parents who want only the best for their children. With private tutors and travel nannies, Superstar Nannies ensures that the highest standards in childcare are met, maintaining its reputation as a provider of exceptional service and care.&nbsp;</div>

Ruta Brice, the visionary behind Superstar Nannies, has a journey that took her from luxury hospitality to leading a global childcare agency renowned for its exceptional service and highly qualified nannies catering to celebrities and royalty worldwide.

Ruta Brice: The Architect of Childcare Excellence

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">From the bustling accounts of BBC in Ealing to the helm of <a href="https://www.rapidbusinessfinance.co.uk/meet-the-team">Rapid Business Management</a>, Michael Olatunde’s career encapsulates the dynamic nature of the financial services industry.&nbsp;Celebrating a quarter-century in the field, Olatunde’s journey began with an economics degree and a role at Midas, a joint venture between PwC and ES, where he cut his teeth on reconciliations and the nascent SAP system. Instead, Olatunde found his niche in mortgage brokering, a profession aligning with his engaging personality and natural flair. His ascent was rapid; within two years at Countrywide, he was among the top 10% of brokers nationwide. His success caught the eye of Linear Financial Services, where he thrived in a commission-only environment, leveraging his ability to self-generate leads. “I was able to build up my own client bank,” he reflects, a skill that propelled him to the top three brokers within the company.The financial crisis of 2008 was a turning point, as the market crash coincided with Olatunde’s venture into property investment and the establishment of his brokerage. The tumultuous period forced a reevaluation of his career and life, leading to a stint in Frankfurt with the deVere Group, advising expatriates on investment products. Yet, the pull of family and the desire for a more fulfilling life brought him back to the UK, where he founded Rapid Business Finance.As a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, Olatunde’s passion lies in helping others navigate the complexities of financial services. “We’re happy to assist everybody,” he states, emphasising his commitment to supporting businesses regardless of their circumstances. It’s this dedication and expertise that have solidified Michael Olatunde’s reputation as a guiding force in the world of finance.Mastering TurbulenceMichael’s narrative is not just about surviving the tumultuous markets but also about the empathy and compassion that fuelled his determination. “It’s hard to do it,” he admits, reflecting on the challenges he and his peers faced when the markets turned sour. The financial crises that led many to leave the industry, and the investors who couldn’t refinance their properties, some even facing repossession, are stark reminders of the volatility of the business world.Olatunde’s response to these hardships was not just to endure but to actively seek solutions. “I’ve got mouths to feed. Behind every business, there’s normally a family,” he says, highlighting the personal stakes involved. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but Olatunde saw it as an opportunity to be at the “cutting edge of servicing clients.” He speaks proudly of the role his firm played in navigating the sea of financial aid, such as the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and the Recovery Loan Scheme. Michael also had the previous experiences that helped, “when the pandemic hit, it reminded me of how I got through the financial crises.”Yet, beyond the immediate response to a crisis, Olatunde identifies a deeper issue: the gap in financial education. He laments the lack of practical financial skills taught in schools, contrasting the impracticality of trigonometry and calculus with the essential nature of understanding budgets, profit and loss, cash flow forecasts, and managing debtors and creditors. “These are fundamental life skills,” he asserts, underscoring the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge to navigate financial landscapes confidently.The Evolution of LeadershipMichael Olatunde’s leadership style has undergone a significant transformation, shaped by experiences and introspection. He emphasises the importance of responsibility in leadership, recognising that the buck stops with him when it comes to hiring decisions and their outcomes. “True leaders can honestly self-assess their good, their bad, and their ugly,” he states.A key trait Olatunde has nurtured over time is the ability to listen and empower others. He believes in giving people positions of responsibility and valuing their on-the-ground insights. This shift to an authentic listening leadership style has allowed for a more inclusive and dynamic work environment, fostering continual improvement—a concept he admires from the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen.Olatunde’s journey also includes embracing humility and the understanding that leadership is an evolving process. “I’m better now than I was yesterday, but I’m not as good as I’ll be tomorrow,” he muses, highlighting the perpetual growth mindset he maintains. This evolution has led him to appreciate the non-material aspects of life and business, such as the importance of building a team and making a profit in a way that is meaningful and enjoyable for both himself and his team.Moreover, Olatunde discusses the integration of spiritual growth with business acumen. Through therapy and self-reflection, he has gained insights into his reactions and behaviours, which have, in turn, made him a better person in business. In essence, Michael has learned to value principles over profit and to lead with a sense of self-awareness and openness to continual growth. Vision and Legacy: The Journey of Michael OlatundeIn concluding remarks, Michael goes into his vision for the future and the legacy he aspires to leave behind. His journey is not just about building a successful business; it’s about creating a positive impact that transcends borders. Olatunde explains the expansion of his team in Ghana. This venture is more than just business growth; it’s about providing opportunities in a place where “there is no welfare system,” where “amazingly talented graduates” are left without work despite their skills and eagerness to learn.Michael speaks of a deeper satisfaction that comes from focusing on others’ outcomes. “It’s far more fulfilling,” he admits, revealing a shift in perspective from acquiring material wealth to enriching lives. As he looks ahead, Michael’s legacy is shaping up to be one of empowerment and shared prosperity. “I would like my legacy to provide good employment both here and abroad,” he states, envisioning a win-win scenario where when “the clients win, I win.” In a candid moment, Michael shares his personal transformation which reflects this new perspective, from chasing status symbols to finding meaning in helping others. “I got all those things and I still found myself quite empty,” he confesses. Now, his daily affirmations focus on how many people he can help.Michael Olatunde’s story is one of growth, not just in business, but in character and purpose. His legacy, as he envisions it, will show the power of redefining success to include the well-being and advancement of others, both in the UK and abroad It’s a legacy that promises to continue long after the numbers have been tallied, in the lives of those he has touched and the communities he has helped to build.</div>

Michael Olatunde's inspiring journey from BBC's bustling accounts to a seasoned leader in finance showcases his dedication to guiding businesses through market turbulence with empathy and a forward-thinking approach, while fostering financial education and personal growth.

Michael Olatunde: A Journey Mastering Finance

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/alison-hesketh">Alison Hesketh</a>, the Founder and Managing Director at <a href="https://timefindersuk.com/">TimeFinders</a>, originally carved a niche for herself as a charity troubleshooter par excellence.&nbsp;She became the lynchpin for medium and small charities in turmoil, often stepping in as their acting CEO. “My job was to sort out whatever mess they were in,” Hesketh shares candidly about her role as a consultant. Her commitment to each charity ranged from three months to two years, during which she not only steered them out of crisis but also laid the groundwork for a stable future by aiding in the recruitment of a permanent CEO.Hesketh’s journey was fraught with challenges, notably bridging the divide between paid staff and unpaid trustees and volunteers. She recalls the prevailing mindset: “There was still very much the view that this is a charity so therefore you should be doing it out of love and not for money.” Overcoming this notion and advocating for the professionalism of the staff, while also acknowledging their financial needs, was a significant hurdle in the early days.As the charity sector evolved, Hesketh was at the forefront of embracing change. She played a pivotal role in the nascent days of the Institute of Charity Fundraising Managers, now known as the Institute of Fundraising, setting up codes of practice to guide ethical fundraising. Challenging the focus on problems rather than solutions, she pushed for promoting positive images of charities’ work, especially in developing countries, despite considerable resistance.The TimeFinders Story: Helping Life’s Transitions with CompassionBut it was Alison’s personal experience with her mother’s need to downsize in her late 70s that was the catalyst for the creation of TimeFinders. “She was still fully compulsory, just getting a little bit physically frail,” Hesketh explains. The challenge of managing this transition while juggling a full-time job and family responsibilities was significant. “I learned a lot from that,” she admits, highlighting the absence of services to assist with such a process.Following a career break due to spinal illness and the passing of her mother, Hesketh decided against returning to the voluntary sector. It was then that a friend’s frustration with managing their own mother’s affairs sparked an idea. “That was one of those light bulb moments,” Hesketh says, recognising the unmet need for a service to help with downsizing and relocation for the elderly.With her background in project management, Hesketh saw an opportunity to apply her skills to a new venture. TimeFinders began as a retirement downsizing service in 2010, carefully growing and adapting to the needs of its clients. Operating in an area with little regulatory oversight, TimeFinders established its own Code of Conduct to ensure ethical practices. Hesketh is particularly proud of their meticulous approach to gift acceptance, ensuring transparency and integrity when working with vulnerable individuals.As Time Finders’ clientele expressed diverse needs, the organisation expanded its services. This included family mediation, legal and financial advice signposting, and developing care options reports. “We’ve done a lot of family mediation and making sure that everybody’s expectations match,” Hesketh emphasises the importance of managing expectations to prevent conflicts.One of TimeFinders’ most innovative services is its advocacy for individuals ageing alone. Hesketh describes the development of a detailed program to understand clients’ needs intimately, allowing TimeFinders to act on their behalf should they lose capacity. “We’re there fighting for them,” she asserts, highlighting the service’s commitment to its clients’ welfare.Hesketh shares poignant stories of clients, such as a music teacher with dementia who regained her ability to play the piano, demonstrating the impact of proper care and support. “That is something that I get rather passionate about,” she admits.Championing Dignity in Dementia CareToward the end of the conversation, Alison delves into the heart of her mission. Hesketh, a dedicated dementia ambassador, emphasises the urgency of addressing the needs of those diagnosed with dementia. “It’s really important to act at that time because you need to get your legal paperwork in place and whilst you still have the mental capacity to do so,” she asserts.Hesketh’s advocacy extends beyond the individual to the systemic level. She highlights the care crisis and the need for government support, “Leaders of the care industry need to know that the government is on their side and will root for them.” Her disappointment is palpable when leaders fail to show solidarity, “It unfortunately sends the wrong signal by not turning up or sending a statement.”The challenges she describes are not just bureaucratic but deeply personal. Hesketh shares an anecdote about her mother, an ex-head teacher, who faced condescension while shopping for a fridge. This experience underscores the ageism that pervades society, “There are many people like that who just feel belittled and sidelined. They’ve got such talent that the country could be using.”Hesketh also touches on the taboo surrounding death, sharing the story of a 98-year-old gentleman who appreciated her frankness. “You’re the only person who mentions the ‘D word’… it’s probably the most important thing that’s going to happen to me next, and I want to make sure that it’s right.”Her holistic approach to care is evident as she discusses the importance of understanding clients’ wishes, “That level of understanding of empathy goes a long, long way.” Hesketh’s vision for TimeFinders is clear: to advocate for dignity in dementia care and to challenge the systems that fail to recognize the value of our elders.Coming toward the end, it’s evident that Alison Hesketh’s work with TimeFinders is more than a service but a crusade for compassion and change in the face of dementia. Her message is a call to action for society to recognise the humanity and potential of those living with dementia, and to support the carers who dedicate their lives to this cause. It’s a reminder that in the journey of life, dignity should never be a privilege, but a right for all.</div>

Discover Alison Hesketh’s transformative journey from charity troubleshooter to founder of Time Finders, where she champions dignity in elderly care, advocates for dementia patients, and provides innovative support for life’s transitions.

Alison Hesketh: Pioneering Dignity and Advocacy in Elderly Care Through TimeFinders

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