About this episode
In this episode, Anna, Stuart, and guest Gareth Evans discuss how to effectively transition into a new leadership role in health and safety, emphasizing the importance of connection and listening over immediate action.
In this episode, Anna, Stuart, and guest Gareth Evans tackle a challenge that will resonate with anyone stepping into a big new role, especially those leading change: “Dear Aunty Treacle, I’ve recently accepted a Health and Safety Director role in a new company, and I’m a mix of excited and terrified. The mission is to move health and safety from compliance to care. Any advice on what I should be focusing on to make a real difference?” Gareth shares lessons from his own experience leading in global, fast-moving organisations, offering insight into what really matters in those first few months. Spoiler: it’s less about action and more about connection, curiosity, and courage. Together, they explore how to lead with intention, manage the pressure to perform, and move from compliance to care in a way that’s meaningful and sustainable. Key Topics Covered: Why your first priority isn’t action, it’s listening “Connect before you direct”- how relationships build results The bathtub analogy - building stock with your allies before making withdrawals Mapping your stakeholders: power, influence, and the unexpected allies The myth of the perfect plan - why failure is part of learning Adding…
People in this episode
Hosts: Anna, Stuart
Guest: Gareth Evans
Topics covered
- health and safety
- leadership
- change management
- stakeholder engagement
- strategic leadership
Keywords
- compliance
- care
- connection
- curiosity
- courage
- stakeholders
- trust
- adaptation
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