Scotland’s Leading Business Podcast: Scottish Entrepreneurs Sir Tom Hunter & Lord Willie Haughey Discuss Business and Chat to Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas

Episode Summary:Hunter and Haughey discuss various economic and business topics, including the impact of currency fluctuations, the influence of major business leaders, and the future of work-from-home policies.

They also delve into the latest developments in the UK economy, the role of technology in business growth, and the importance of strategic investments.

Special guest Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas, shares insights on scaling a family business, breaking into new markets, and the challenges of raising investment.

The episode concludes with a discussion on recruitment strategies with David Sutherland Director at Cruinn Consulting.

 

Notes and Timestamps

[00:01:02] 

Discussion on recent political events and their business implications. Mention of tariffs and executive orders.

 

[00:02:00] 

Insights on pre-emptive pardons and political dynamics. Joe Biden and Donald Trump's actions.

 

[00:03:07] 

Discussion on major business leaders and their influence.

Mention of Mark Zuckerberg, Bernard Arnault, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, Warren Buffett, and Jensen Huang.

 

[00:04:16] 

The role of money in politics and business. Influence of wealthy individuals on political decisions.

 

[00:05:15] 

Discussion on the UK economy and investment opportunities. Davos conference and global economic outlook.

 

[00:06:49] 

Predictions on interest rate cuts and unemployment rates. Economic forecasts and their implications.

 

[00:08:24] 

Debate on work-from-home policies. Pros and cons of remote work and its impact on productivity.

 

[00:10:07] 

Discussion on procurement and waste management in public services. Issues with local authorities and care homes.

 

[00:12:00] 

Highlighting successful tech companies in Scotland. Mention of Utopi, Skyrora, and Safer Group.

 

[00:13:26] 

Strategies for supporting tech companies and fostering innovation. Role of Scottish Enterprise and Strathclyde University.

 

[00:14:28] 

Discussion on housing regulations and their impact on growth. Need for sensible government policies.

 

[00:17:29] 

Concerns about regulatory pressures on businesses. Impact of lifting regulations on growth and stability.

 

[00:18:44] 

Introduction of new leadership at the Hydro. Appointment of Dom McKay and future plans for the venue.

 

[00:20:15] 

Special guest:

Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas.

Journey of scaling a family business and breaking into new markets.

 

[00:32:10] 

Challenges of raising investment and scaling up. Insights on the investment process and strategic growth.

 

[00:40:04] 

Board You Can’t Afford Guest:

David Sutherland at Cruinn Consulting.

David discusses recruitment strategies and the importance of finding the right talent for business growth and has a question for Hunter and Haughey.