The Future of AI & Clean Energy: A Must-Listen Episode! In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu dives deep with Dr. Enass Abo-Hamed —a visionary entrepreneur bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI and climate tech, to uncover the untold challenges of turning groundbreaking research into market-ready technology. They discuss how AI is reshaping the future of climate solutions, why investment in energy tech still lags behind AI, and the pivotal role of the Royal Academy of Engineering in fostering innovation.

Key takeaways:

• The hidden barriers to commercialising academic breakthroughs
• Why AI is a game-changer for climate tech, but funding remains an issue
• How diverse leadership drives smarter, more impactful decision-making

From battling the roadblocks of academic commercialisation to shaking up boardroom dynamics, Enass shares unfiltered insights on what it really takes to bring deep-tech innovations to market. If you're an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast passionate about the future of AI and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen!

#AI #ClimateTech #Innovation #Podcast #CleanEnergy #TechForGood

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🚀 Feeling stuck in your career? Want to transition but not sure how?

In this episode, David Singleton shares the secrets behind navigating career reinvention, international leadership, and entrepreneurship. From his corporate beginnings in the UK to launching a successful coaching business in Dubai, David unpacks the mindset shifts, networking tactics, and cultural insights that helped him build a thriving career.

🎙️ "My network is now my currency." – David Singleton

Key Takeaways:

• Why networking is the #1 tool for international career success
• The differences between leadership in the UK vs. the Middle East
• How ‘glocalisation’ helps brands expand across cultures
• The reality of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship
• Why defining your purpose leads to long-term clarity

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In this episode of Notes from a NED, award-winning journalist, author, and social commentator Yasmin Alibhai-Brown shares her powerful journey from Uganda to Britain, offering deep insights into race, identity, and the evolving political landscape. Yasmin reflects on the challenges she faced in academia and journalism, her commitment to education and equality, and the importance of big personalities in leadership.

Throughout the conversation, she discusses:

• The impact of race and privilege on her early life and career
• How teaching and journalism became tools for social change
• The ongoing struggles of British Muslims in modern society
• Her unfiltered take on the current political landscape
• Why ‘big personalities’ matter in leadership and influence

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in social justice, British politics, media representation, and the power of storytelling.

#YasminAlibhaiBrown #RaceAndIdentity #BritishMuslims #Journalism #SocialChange #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #Politics #MediaRepresentation #Podcast

"This fight is never over." – Yasmin Alibhai-Brown

This episode is for anyone interested in social change, media influence, and the power of speaking truth to power.

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Episode Highlights: Governance, Leadership, and Lessons from Kids Company

In this episode, we dive into the powerful case study of Kids Company, exploring how its dramatic downfall reshaped the conversation around charity governance, leadership dynamics, and organisational sustainability. Host Samuel Kasumu is joined once again by Rob Macmillan, a leading researcher on the third sector and community development, with over two decades of experience studying the challenges and opportunities facing charities today.

Rob shares candid insights on:

• The leadership pressures that charity heads face today
• Governance failures that contributed to Kids Company’s collapse
• The sector-wide need for impact measurement and accountability
• Why burnout among charity leaders demands immediate attention
• The importance of diversity and inclusion in driving the sector forward

Whether you’re navigating the complexities of charity governance, leading an organisation, or passionate about social impact, this episode is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking ideas. Tune in now to learn how we can collectively build a more sustainable and resilient voluntary sector!

Keywords: charity governance, leadership challenges, voluntary sector trends, Kids Company case study, nonprofit sustainability, impact measurement, voluntary sector, charity governance, leadership, Kids Company, impact measurement, sector challenges, organizational change, fundraising, social enterprise, burnout

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Leadership, Mentoring, and Global Insights with Vince Pizzoni

In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu interviews Vince Pizzoni, a globally accomplished leader and mentor with a portfolio career spanning academia, executive search, and board roles. With over 30 years of experience, Vince has held executive positions at global giants including ExxonMobil and Nalco, earning accolades like the Chairman’s Global Award for his exceptional leadership as General Manager.

Having worked in 64 countries, Vince shares fascinating stories of navigating diverse cultures, leading high-performing teams, and delivering solutions to blue-chip companies in complex industries such as energy, chemicals, FMCG, and environmental services. He also dives into his passion for mentoring, coaching, and inspiring the next generation of leaders through roles in academia and organizations like POWERful Women and the Energy Institute.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to embrace career transitions, champion sustainability, and unlock the power of diversity in leadership. Don't miss this insightful conversation!

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In this episode of Notes from a NED, host Samuel Kasumu speaks with Helena Rivers, Net Zero Lead at engineering consulting firm AECOM, about her inspiring journey in engineering and the pressing need for decarbonisation. Together, they explore the challenges Local Authorities face in achieving net zero, the balance between infrastructure investment and behavioural change, and the critical role of education in driving sustainability. Helena highlights the importance of collaboration, standardisation in carbon measurement, and embedding sustainability into corporate culture. This episode is packed with insights on engineering a sustainable future.

This episode stands out due to its comprehensive approach to tackling net zero. Helena’s unique blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and practical insights makes it a must-listen for anyone committed to sustainability. By addressing both systemic challenges (like financial constraints for local authorities) and individual actions (such as education and behavioural change), the conversation offers a holistic perspective. Helena’s engaging storytelling and actionable advice ensure this episode resonates with professionals across engineering, policy, and corporate sectors.

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Building Resilient Communities: Insights for the New Year

In this episode of Notes From A NED, Samuel Kasumu speaks with Rob Macmillan, a leading researcher on the third sector and community development with over two decades of experience studying the third sector. Together, they explore how charities can drive economic and community development in today’s turbulent times, reflecting on the complexities of civil society, the need for robust infrastructure, and the strained relationship between the sector and government.

Rob offers a fresh perspective on critical topics like:

• Creating an inclusive economy by addressing inequalities at their root.
• The role of anchor institutions like hospitals and universities in local economies.
• Balancing scale and effectiveness in community organisations.
• Rebuilding trust between civil society and government.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and bold ideas for shaping the future of the charity sector. Whether you're a leader, policymaker, or engaged community member, this conversation is the perfect inspiration to kickstart 2025.

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In this episode, Samuel Kasumu and Kristy Merson dive into the nuanced art of navigating career transitions, with a particular focus on entering the tech industry. Kristy shares her fascinating career journey, offering a candid look at the role curiosity, resilience, and networking played in her success. From her diverse experiences across startups to Salesforce, she reveals actionable strategies for leveraging your unique strengths to stand out in competitive spaces.

They discuss Salesforce’s dynamic culture, which Kristy describes as "a giant startup" that fosters creativity while championing diversity. A key highlight is the creation of the Women’s Network at Salesforce, which has successfully influenced policies to support and empower women in the workplace. The conversation also addresses practical strategies for business optimisation, emphasising the importance of prioritisation and not overextending resources. This applies to both organisational success and personal career growth.

Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable insights and inspiration that will resonate with anyone navigating career transitions or seeking growth in the tech industry.

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