Helena Field joins us this week to explore the realities of a demanding career in food operations. Starting her day with self-care at the gym, Helena emphasises how setting aside personal time has improved her management capabilities and mental health. She recounts her experience rotating through various Cranswick departments, from the abattoir to new product development, and the valuable lessons she learned. Despite her young age and being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Helena identifies her grit and her employer's support as pivotal to her success.

We discuss the dynamic between operations and NPD teams, the essence of empathy in high-stress environments, and the art of concise meetings. Dissecting the emotional challenges of launching a new factory, managing diverse emotions across departments, and the importance of clear communication and motivation among large teams.

If you would like to be involved in the next recording session with us, you can reserve your place HERE – it’s a lovely session to network, ask questions and talk about the food industry!

Timestamps:

- [00:02:30] Introduction to Helena Field and self-care practices

- [00:10:15] Insights into Helena’s career journey with Cranswick

- [00:18:00] The pivotal meeting strategies in operations

- [00:27:10] Work-life balance and managing stress as a leader

- [00:35:20] Challenges of new factory setup and evolving in leadership

- [00:44:05] Communication and motivation in the food industry

- [00:52:30] Closing thoughts and ways to connect with the host and guest

Links and Resources:

Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/

FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/

You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/

For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

For further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy, find her on Instagram or LinkedIn.

See you next time!