Careers Unwrapped

Ever wondered how art history could launch a dynamic career spanning academia, broadcasting, and creative leadership? Join host Mark Fawcett as he sits down with renowned art historian Dr. James Fox to explore the surprising versatility of an arts education. From teaching at Cambridge to directing documentaries and leading creative foundations, Dr. Fox reveals how studying art develops crucial skills in analysis, communication, and innovative thinking. Perfect for anyone considering a creative career path or looking to understand how arts education can open unexpected professional doors, this episode challenges common misconceptions about art's role in business and society. • Key highlights include navigating academic career paths, transitioning into broadcasting, and why creative industries are vital to the UK economy • Learn why art isn't just for galleries - it's a fundamental part of human society with practical applications across industries • Discover the exciting range of careers available in creative sectors, from traditional roles to emerging opportunities in film and digital media

Ever wondered if accountancy could be more than just numbers? Join host Mark Fawcett as he sits down with Karl Edge, Chief People Officer at KPMG UK, to shatter myths about the accounting profession. Karl shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to leadership, revealing how accountancy can be a gateway to diverse career opportunities worldwide. Whether you're a recent graduate considering your options or someone curious about professional services, discover why you don't need an accounting degree to succeed, how to leverage your authentic self in a corporate environment, and what leadership really looks like in modern accountancy. Listen in for practical insights on building a fulfilling career in one of the world's leading professional services firms. • Perfect for early career starters looking to understand the real world of accounting • Valuable for those interested in leadership development and career progression • Essential listening for anyone questioning whether they'd "fit in" to corporate culture

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Will Lankston, Managing Director of Timpson Direct. They explore Will's 15-year journey from management trainee to senior leader, the unique culture that's kept him at Timpson, and how embracing opportunities and taking risks have shaped his career growth in the retail service industry.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Rebecca Ajulu-Bushell, CEO of Ten Thousand Interns Foundation. Together, they explore her remarkable journey from becoming the first black woman to swim for Great Britain to now leading a transformative charity creating opportunities for black talent in the workplace.

In this special roundtable episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Victoria Geary and James Rimmer, Senior Strategists at We Are Futures, to explore the realities of career transitions. Drawing from their experiences in education, recruitment, and youth engagement, they discuss how careers often develop in unexpected ways. The conversation covers the value of staying curious, making deliberate career changes, and the importance of building professional relationships. Whether you're early in your career or considering a change, their practical insights show how different experiences can shape a meaningful professional journey.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Laura Harnett, Founder of Seep, to explore her journey from corporate executive to eco-entrepreneur. Whether you're a seasoned professional considering a career pivot or an aspiring founder, this conversation unpacks valuable insights about securing investment, choosing the right business partners, and building a purpose-driven company. Laura shares candid lessons about transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, including her recent Dragons' Den experience and her passionate advocacy for female founders. Tune in to discover how corporate experience can be leveraged for entrepreneurial success, and why sometimes life's biggest challenges can lead to our greatest opportunities.

In this episode of Careers Unwrap, host Mark Fawcett sits down with Guy Hanson, Vice President of Customer Engagement at Validity, to explore the evolving world of digital marketing and data management. They discuss the AI revolution's impact on marketing, the critical importance of data literacy in modern careers, and how to build successful customer engagement strategies. Guy shares valuable insights from his 35-year journey in tech and marketing, offering essential advice for those starting their careers in this rapidly changing field.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Nick Turner, Group Chief Executive Officer at NFU Mutual, to discuss his journey from stacking shelves to leading one of the UK's major insurers, his philosophy of kind and commercial leadership, and why insurance is far more exciting than people think.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Kelly Johnstone, Chief Operations Officer of Springboard, to discuss the vibrant world of hospitality and tourism. Kelly shares her journey through various leadership roles, the current state of the industry, and valuable insights for young professionals looking to make their mark. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the opportunities, challenges, and the exciting future of this dynamic sector!

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Danny Harmer, Chief People Officer at Aviva. Together, they explore the evolution of HR from personnel to strategic business function, debunk common misconceptions about careers in HR, and discuss how the pandemic has transformed workplace practices.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Nicola Semple, Career and Confidence Coach, to discuss how to navigate career changes, the importance of self-reflection in career development, and why it's essential to embrace curiosity throughout your professional journey.

In this special episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett looks back at the most inspiring moments and valuable career lessons from 2024, featuring conversations with archaeologist Phil Harding, BBC Controller Fiona Campbell, AI specialist Jocelyn Burnham, antiquarian bookseller Tom Ayling, and political commentator James Matthewson.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Brett Wigdortz, Founder of Teach First and tiny.co. Together, they explore Brett's journey from management consultant to education pioneer, discussing why being young is an advantage in entrepreneurship, and how to spot life-changing opportunities.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by James Matthewson, Political Commentator & Writer. Together, they explore James's unconventional journey into politics, the realities of working in Westminster, and how the political landscape has evolved for those seeking to enter the field.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Tom Ayling (@tomwayling on TikTok), Founder of Tom W. Ayling Rare Books & Manuscripts and a TikTok sensation with over 359,943 followers. Together, they explore Tom's journey from bookseller to rare book expert and social media star, diving into the fascinating world of literary treasures, and how platforms like TikTok transformed the antiquarian book trade.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Jessica Hill, a seasoned senior investigative journalist and features reporter. They discuss Jessica's diverse career journey, from regional coverage to international reporting, and delve into the nuances of investigative journalism in education.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped Masterclass, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Thomas Powner, Chief Executive of CareerThinker, to discuss career marketing. They explore why you should approach your job search as a marketing campaign, how you can showcase your value over function, and how to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Jocelyn Burnham, an independent speaker, consultant, and trainer in AI. Together, they explore how AI is transforming the cultural sector, its impact on careers, and how individuals can harness its potential for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by John Mouratis, Founder of Story Flow Entertainment. Together they discuss the intricacies of video production, how to build high-performing creative teams, and the importance of embracing technology in the creative industry.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Alexis Maule, Advisory Board Member of NOLD. They discuss sustainable fashion, diversity in the industry, and Alexis's journey from the White House to fashion tech, sharing valuable insights for career development across global industries.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Emma Keller, Head of Sustainability at Nestlé. They discuss the evolution of corporate sustainability, Emma's journey from academia to industry, and the challenges of driving sustainable change in global organisations.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Fiona Campbell, Controller of Youth Audience at BBC iPlayer and BBC3. Together, they explore Fiona's diverse career journey from investigative journalism to digital media, discussing the challenges of capturing young audiences and the evolving landscape of content creation.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Andrew "Barn" Barnabas, a distinguished composer whose work spans gaming, TV, and film. They discuss Barn's journey from early computer music to award-winning scores, the evolution of game music, and key advice for aspiring composers.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped Masterclass, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Sara Sabin, a Leadership Coach and Consultant at Sara C Sabin International Coaching, to discuss why you should forget these three leadership myths, how you can develop critical leadership skills, and how to become an adaptable leader.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by the legendary Phil Harding, a Fieldwork Archaeologist well-known for his appearances on Channel 4's Time Team. Together they discuss excavating significant sites, the changing landscape of archaeology, and stories from his fifty-year career.

In this special Greatest Hits episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett revisits some of the greatest hits from previous episodes. Hear from Camilla Holden-Ayala on her journey into the PR industry, Kaelon Parkes on his experiences with racism as a police officer, Nicola Bird on being a woman in construction, James Tanner on what sets a great chef apart, and Bhushan Sethi on discovering and utilizing your superpowers in the workplace.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Nicola Marfleet, Governor of HMP Woodhill. Together they explore Nicola's unexpected journey into the prison service and the realities she has encountered throughout her career. Nicola also debunks misconceptions about prison officers and highlights the rewarding aspects of her role, including witnessing prisoners transform their lives. She offers insights into personal and professional development opportunities, and strategies for creating a positive culture as a leader.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by the one and only Deborah Meaden, Dragon's Den star and Investor at Fox Brothers and Co Ltd. Together, they explore her dynamic career journey, managing 21 businesses with varied needs. Deborah emphasizes the importance of continuous learning from diverse influences and the value of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success. She advocates for clear leadership over micromanagement, urging entrepreneurs to maintain focus on their vision while adapting to market changes.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett brings you another Masterclass. This week: Peter Hopwood, Global Tedx Storytelling and Speaker Coach, on storytelling!

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Verity Park, Founder of tbh talent. Together, they explore the world of content creation from a talent management lens, digging into the key to becoming successful, the effects of social media on young people, and the up-and-coming inspiring talent Verity is seeing.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Nicola Bird, Founder and Managing Director at Accxel. Together, they explore her career journey from dropping out of her A-levels to study beauty therapy to now being a business owner and CEO, touching on the lessons she learned along the way.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Marion Miranda, Health Copywriter at Leith, and Joe Sayer, Art Director at Leith. Together, they explore their creative partnership, the evolving landscape of advertising, and their recent success at the Cannes Young Lions Competition.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett brings you a new type of episode: a masterclass! Each masterclass will feature a bite-sized conversation with an expert who will discuss their tips and tricks for one of the skills needed to excel in your career. This week: James Evans, Director and Lead Public Speaking Coach at Vensa Coaching, on selling yourself!

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Antonio Cinelli, Head of Production at Belstaff. Together, they discuss the ins and outs of the fashion industry's production process, how Antonio went from a degree in Economics to fashion, and why constant learning and listening is paramount throughout your career.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by David Grant, a primary school teacher in Glasgow with a large platform on TikTok under the name @organisededucator. Join them as they discuss the challenges and rewards of being a teacher, using artificial intelligence in the classroom, and using TikTok to educate. David also touches on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on teaching and the importance of building relationships in the profession.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Clare Yelland-Friel, construction and marketing expert. Together, they discuss Clare's journey to being an influential woman in construction, from creating an empowered work environment to bringing collaboration to every part of the sector.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Rich Waller, the brains behind the Career Acceleration Project. Together, they explore how Rich approached changing his career path from genetic science to career coaching, the three skills needed to become a “premium product”, and how to secure a pay rise.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Kaelon Parkes, an officer in the London Metropolitan Police. Together, they explore Kaelon's experiences on the beat, discussing issues such as hostility towards police, racial profiling, and the need for diversity. Kaelon also shares his fascinating journey from nursery practitioner to police officer, outlining the highs and lows of such a significant career move.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by James Tanner, Chef and TV Personality. Together, they unwrap James' career, from his entry into the chef trade to becoming a TV personality, and his advice for anyone looking to take the first step into becoming a chef professionally.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Anna Anderson, Founder and CEO at Kindred. Together, they delve into Anna's journey from social worker to CEO, discussing the highs and lows of social work, its impact on her outlook, and the inspirational leaders she has met along the way.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Gavin Strange, Director and Designer at Aardman Animations. Together, they delve into Gavin's journey from a graphic design student to one of the faces behind Wallace and Gromit, digging into approaching rejection and accepting mistakes for what they are.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Sarah Black-Smith, General Manager of Motion Control at Siemens Digital Industries. Together they discuss her journey into engineering, how to foster a culture of innovation, and how we can work to get more young people interested in STEM careers.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Phil Edgar-Jones, Director of Sky Arts and Entertainment. Together they discuss his journey through television and media; how the television industry has changed with the influx of new channels and platforms to tune in; and the struggles he and others have faced to get their start in the industry.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Tessa Clarke, Co-Founder and CEO of OLIO, a sharing app for local communities. Together they discuss her journey from a farmer's daughter, through the corporate world, to actively fighting waste globally.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Marvin Rees, the mayor of Bristol, to discuss his journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a political leader. He delves into his motivations for getting involved in politics and the impact of his experiences with poverty and racism. Marvin highlights the realities of working in politics, the challenges he has faced, and the skills he has developed along the way.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Staff Sergeant Daniel Moughton, PR Manager for the Army Sports Car Racing team and the creator behind the YouTube channel, Beyond the Pedal. Together, they journey through Daniel's army career, making stops to discuss why no plan survives first contact, the military approach to problem-solving, Daniel's first leadership role, and how motorsports and the military go together.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Sara Walker, Director for the Newcastle University Centre of Research Excellence in Energy. Together, they discuss Sara's journey into the energy sector, what it's like to be a woman in STEM, and why you shouldn't pigeon-hole your skills.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Nick Telson, entrepreneur, angel investor, podcaster, startup mentor, and public speaker. Together they discuss Nick's experience starting and selling DesignMyNight, his first startup. Exploring Nick's transition from corporate to co-founder, what the experience of selling a startup is like, and what mistakes he made that have shaped his newer ventures, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurial pursuits.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Joe Seddon, Founder and CEO of Zero Gravity. Together, they discuss Joe's journey as an entrepreneur, having founded his business straight out of University. He shares the highs and lows, his experience of networking, and exactly what it means to be a Founder. Prepare to be inspired by his mission to level the playing field and create positive social change.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Rahul Moodgal, Director and Partner at Parvus Asset Management, to discuss his diverse career journey, from academia to finance, and his experience in taking the path less trodden. They delve into the importance of communication skills and relationship building; the value of being knowledge-hungry, adaptable, and taking pride in your work; and the significance of experiencing tough times and making mistakes across your career journey.

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped Podcast, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Tope ‘ICIE' Chiedozie, Founder of The Sitdown UK, to discuss Tope's career highs and lows, his views on engaging with young people, and his inspiration for The Sitdown. Tope also discusses his challenges as an independent artist and his shift towards creating a platform for career journeys.