Summed Up
Stagione 1
How Technology and AI Can Drive Better Business Performance
Why the Midlands is Built for Business
di PKF Smith Cooper
AI may dominate the headlines, but successful technology investment isn't about chasing the latest trend. It's about choosing the right tools, implementing them effectively and ensuring your people, processes and governance keep pace. In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with Paul Howard, Managing Director of PKF Infuse, and Blake Fine, Managing Director of Servtron Group, to explore how technology is shaping business performance, from the challenges of implementation to the opportunities created by emerging technologies and AI. Timings [00:00:00] Introductions and background [00:02:13] The moment businesses realise they need better technology [00:05:24] Choosing the right technology [00:07:23] Beyond the AI hype [00:10:58] Why technology projects fail [00:14:54] Getting teams to embrace change [00:17:41] Measuring return on investment and AI in business [00:21:09] The future of technology and AI in business [00:25:23] Closing reflections and key takeaways Paul and Blake discuss the challenges that often come with implementing new systems, including securing employee buy-in, managing costs and maintaining strong governance, while cutting through some of the hype surrounding AI. Throughout, they offer practical insights on choosing the right solutions, avoiding common pitfalls and creating a technology strategy that delivers real value. Whether you're considering a new software investment or looking to make better use of the tools you already have, this conversation offers valuable advice for business leaders looking to grow with confidence.
In this episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with two leading voices from the Midlands business community, Gavin West, VAT & Indirect Taxes Partner at PKF Smith Cooper, and Rick Blackmore, Director of Policy and Insight at East Midlands Chamber, for a candid conversation about the realities, challenges and opportunities of doing business in the region today. Timings: [00:00:00] Introduction and overview of the Midlands [00:00:24] Guest introductions and how they support Midlands businesses [00:02:35] What makes the Midlands unique as a business region [00:05:43] Key strengths and competitive advantages of Midlands businesses [00:08:39] Biggest challenges facing organisations in the current economy [00:11:25] Impact of rising costs, employment trends and AI adoption [00:13:18] Government policy, taxation and barriers to growth [00:14:14] Trade challenges, Brexit impact and export complexity [00:18:15] Global opportunities and international market access [00:20:07] Infrastructure, Freeport developments and regional investment [00:24:33] Inward investment and global perception of the Midlands [00:29:22] Emerging growth sectors and future opportunities [00:33:02] Mindset, strategy and barriers to business growth [00:39:16] Rapid recommendations – advice for business leaders [00:40:40] Closing reflections and key takeaways This episode explores what it really takes to do business and drive growth in the Midlands today. Gavin and Rick share a grounded view of the region’s strengths, from its entrepreneurial mindset and deep talent pool to its global supply chains and infrastructure. They also unpack the real challenges businesses are facing, including rising costs, policy pressures and the complexities of international trade. Throughout the conversation, they highlight where the biggest opportunities lie right now, from emerging sectors to global markets, and offer practical insight on how business leaders can think more strategically, invest with confidence and make the most of what the Midlands has to offer.
In our debut episode of Summed Up podcast, we sat down with two accomplished leaders, Claire Spencer, Corporate Finance Partner here at PKF Smith Cooper, and Alice Rees, Partner at Nelsons, for a candid conversation about leadership, culture and gender representation. Timings [00:0:45] Guest introductions [00:04:37] How the industry is moving forward on gender representation [00:11:47] Pivotal mentors or organisations that shaped their leadership style [00:24:48] Advice for someone who’s looking to take a key role in changing organisational culture [00:27:48] Current culture themes and hot topics in professional services [00:31:50] Factors that separate good businesses from great [00:34:53] Effective ways to build influence in a room where decisions happen [00:38:19] Skills or behaviours that have helped you gain influence at a strategic level [00:42:05] Rapid recommendation – A recommended resource or habit for women early in their careers who want to grow into senior roles This episode gives listeners practical, honest insight into building a confident and resilient career in typically male dominated fields. Claire and Alice share how they navigated their own paths, what’s genuinely improving around gender representation, and the lessons they’ve learned about imposter syndrome, returning from maternity leave, and leading with empathy and authenticity. Throughout, they offer grounded advice on how to influence strategy, handle senior rooms and carve out a career that truly feels like your own.