Leadership Breakfast: Dyson, Brompton & English Cricket

Sir Andrew Strauss

Andrew Strauss is one of only three England cricket captains to lead his side to Ashes victory both home and away. He devised a plan to top the world Test rankings within five years; working closely with Andy Flower, the objective was met in half the time – and Strauss earned a reputation for gritty and intelligent leadership. He left the pitch and became England’s first Director of Cricket helping to restructure the set-up and steer the side through more difficulties. He talks about how to create and share a vision, build trust and encourage change. He might also reveal what happened in the latest Ashes series.

William Butler-Adams

Brimful of passion for engineering, Will is helping to revive UK manufacturing prowess. Brompton design, produce and distribute 50,000+ folding bicycles each year from their London factory – with half the 1200 parts made onsite. Exports account for 80% of sales. With cycle hire stations, Brompton Junction stores and retailers in 44 world markets, they continue to explore new markets and innovations from the addition of electric motors to the connected bike. Riding onto the stage, Will explains his belief in ‘built-out’ obsolescence.

Martin McCourt

As Chief Executive of Dyson, Martin transformed it from a niche manufacturer to a £1bn global brand, moving production to Asia. Even after the onset of recession, he doubled turnover and trebled profits - increasing sales in 70 markets. Now in private equity Martin argues we must use our inventiveness rather than try to compete with China on their terms. But with 40,000 unfilled skilled jobs, UK industry needs to work much more closely with educators.