Ep10: Rebuilding, Reskilling, and Reinventing: Azher Rubbani’s Journey from Food Supply to Digital Transformation

Summary: In this episode, Cassie welcomes Azher Rubbani, a seasoned entrepreneur whose journey spans from the world of hospitality supply to digital marketing and reskilling. Azher shares his story of building a £50 million food supply business from scratch, running a dark kitchen, and navigating the devastation of a cyber attack that led to the loss of his business. He also discusses his passion for training others, the pivotal changes he made in his career, and how he now helps individuals and businesses reskill for the digital age. Key Topics Covered: Introduction to Azher Rubbani: A former hospitality supplier and current digital marketer, Azher discusses his background and how he transitioned from traditional business to digital ventures. Founding Penta Foods: The challenges and rewards of building a food supply business from the ground up, starting in his mother's garage and eventually supplying top chefs and restaurants across the UK. The Dark Kitchen Experiment: Azher’s experiences with running a dark kitchen, including the highs, the lessons learned, and why he ultimately decided to step away from it. The Impact of a Cyber Attack: How a bank holiday weekend cyber attack in 2018 led to the collapse of his business, and the toll it took both professionally and personally. Rebuilding After Loss: Navigating through bankruptcy, losing his family home, and facing estrangement from his children; how these experiences shaped his approach to life and work. Finding Relief Amidst Crisis: Reflecting on the relief and newfound opportunities that arose after letting go of his previous business and embracing change. From Burnout to Digital Marketing: Azher’s journey into digital marketing and reskilling, sparked by a burnout in 2023 and a subsequent passion for teaching others. The Importance of Reskilling for the Digital Age: How Azher helps individuals and businesses adapt to the changing digital landscape, emphasizing the value of acquiring marketing and automation skills. The ReMovement Group: Azher's current project, which focuses on helping people transform their careers or businesses through digital skills and online entrepreneurship. Resources and Links: ReMovement Group: removementgroup.com – Learn more about Azher’s current work in digital transformation and reskilling. Connect with Azher: Visit the ReMovement Group website for contact details and more about his journey. Key Quotes: “It’s not what you do, it’s why you do it.” – Azher on the importance of understanding your purpose. “You have to be very conscious that you’re putting so much effort in, but what is the impact on your personal life?” – Azher reflecting on the demands of the hospitality industry. “Crisis forces you to do a lot of things that you didn’t want to do out of fear.” – On how difficult times can catalyze growth and change. Tune in Now: Join Cassie and Azher as they discuss the ups and downs of the hospitality industry, the resilience required to rebuild after loss, and the power of digital skills to reinvent your career. https://www.linkedin.com/in/azherrubbani/