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In this episode, David Yodaiken shares the lessons learned on his path from working at the ground level in his father's electronics company to becoming CEO of Cyclops Electronics. David talks about the value of gaining outside experience before joining the family business, how trust and over-communication have shaped his leadership, and the importance of breaking unhelpful habits to improve organisational culture. He also explores how Cyclops is focusing on delivering more value to existing customers while expanding into new markets.

Key takeaways:

▪️Experience outside the family business shaped David’s leadership and perspective.

▪️Trust and clear communication are essential to building strong teams.

▪️Breaking poor habits is crucial for improving internal culture and processes.

▪️Cyclops Electronics is focused on adding value and exploring new growth opportunities.

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Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK.
Please call us on 0191 5111 298

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

Send us a text

In this episode, Matthew Stephenson, Managing Director of Sweet Dreams, shares his inspiring 18-year journey — from launching a quirky confectionery brand to selling it successfully to Sugar Rich. He opens up about the highs, lows, and key leadership lessons along the way.

🔹 Leadership means making tough decisions that impact people you care about
🔹 Building a “mental box” helped him compartmentalise challenges and stay focused
🔹 ChocNibbles evolved into a standout brand with a bold, disruptive personality
🔹 Managing the sale himself brought authenticity — but also real pressure
🔹 A small, trusted team of honest advisors was vital to the deal’s success

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💬 Passionate about finding your dream role or building a brilliant team? Let’s connect.

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298

Send us a text

Celebrating the 100th episode of the Manufacturing Leaders Podcast with Paul Butler, CEO of the North East Automotive Alliance, who shares insights on the strength and future of the region’s automotive sector.

Key Highlights:

• £10.3bn turnover, 27,000 direct jobs, and 12 vehicles produced per employee (UK avg: 3.9)
• North East leads the UK in automation with 500+ robots per 10,000 workers
• Nissan Sunderland builds 36% of all UK passenger vehicles
• 25% of February’s vehicle sales were fully electric
• Sector needs 20,000 new recruits in five years, with digital tech and skills at the forefront

Like, Share and leave a Review - this really means the world to us!

Please subscribe to the channel for more content! Theo James are a Manufacturing & Engineering Recruiter based in the North East, helping Manufacturing and Engineering firms grow across the UK. Please call us on 0191 5111 298