Summed Up is a podcast providing advice, insights and practical perspectives for leaders and decision‑makers.
Each episode explores real‑world challenges and opportunities facing mid‑market businesses – from leadership and culture to strategy and decision‑making. Lived experiences and honest conversations are told by PKF Smith Cooper experts, joined by clients, contacts and industry voices. Whether you’re looking to spark new ideas, learn from those who have done it or understand what’s coming next in the business landscape, this is the place to start. If you’d like to speak to one of our experts about a topic covered in one of our episodes, or more generally about your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple PodcastsLatest episode: Why the Midlands is Built for Business
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.
About our guest speakers
Gavin West, VAT & Indirect Taxes Partner at PKF Smith Cooper – With more than 20 years’ experience in indirect taxation, Gavin has worked across the profession, industry and HMRC, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges businesses face. Before joining PKF Smith Cooper, Gavin spent 14 years with a Big Four firm, progressing to director level, and has also led the indirect tax function for a FTSE 100 equivalent business. Based in Derby and working across the region, he advises businesses on complex VAT and indirect tax matters, helping them navigate risk, compliance and growth opportunities.
Rick Blackmore, Director of Policy & Insight at the East Midlands Chamber – A versatile and highly capable senior business leader with an extensive track record in policy development, stakeholder engagement and business development, Rick has a proven ability to develop strategic commercial partnerships, enhance membership services, and drive impactful policy initiatives. As the Director of Policy & Insight at the East Midlands Chamber, Rick collaborates with the Chief Executive to represent business interests and amplify the voice of business across the region.
Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple PodcastsCatch up on previous episodes
Listen back to conversations with business leaders, industry experts and our specialists.
Episode 1: Women Leading the Way – Building Influence, Culture and Career Growth
In the first episode of the Summed Up podcast, Claire Spencer and Alice Rees share their experiences of building successful careers in traditionally male-dominated professions. From imposter syndrome to leadership and career progression, they offer practical insights, honest reflections and advice for professionals looking to grow their confidence and make an impact.
Listen to the full conversation on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.