#22 | Businesses Promote People Who Get Things Done & the Leadership Lessons From an MD Who Proved It.

In this conversation, Declan Allen (MD, Horiba Mira) shares his journey from engineer to managing director, discussing the importance of focusing on the present, building strong relationships, and the value of diversity in teams. He reflects on his early career experiences, the transition to leadership, and the lessons learned from mistakes. Declan emphasises the need for adaptability in the ever-changing automotive industry and expresses optimism about the future of innovation and societal impact.TAKEAWAYSFocus on doing your best in the present moment.Building relationships is crucial for career success.Diversity in teams leads to better problem-solving.Managing upwards requires clear communication of successes.Don't assume others understand your contributions.Adaptability is key in a changing industry.Mistakes often stem from staying too long in the wrong place.Improving lives should be the core mission of any business.SOUND BITES“You don’t get noticed for saying you want to lead; you get noticed for getting things done.”“The best leaders never forget what it’s like on the shop floor.”“Don’t wait for someone to tell your story. Tell it yourself, and tell it through your impact.”“Titles don’t make leaders. The way you show up, help others, and solve problems does.”“When you stop chasing the next role and start focusing on doing this one brilliantly, that’s when opportunity finds you.”“Different perspectives aren’t awkward, they’re how progress happens.”“No one ever built credibility by talking about potential. They built it by delivering, again and again.”RESOURCESYour Bold Moves BriefThe Big Conversation Guide for teamsConnect with Caroline hereNew episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.