Innovation Unleashed: Heidi Mottram's Journey and the Impact of Northumbrian Water's Festival

Innovation Unleashed: Heidi Mottram's Journey and the Impact of Northumbrian Water's FestivalIn this episode of the Exec Exchange podcast, host Piers Clark interviews Heidi Mottram, Chief Executive of Northumbrian Water, exploring her unique transition from the railway industry to the water sector. They delve into the inception and growth of the Innovation Festival, established by Northumbrian Water in 2017, which has become a global collaborative platform involving around 3,000 participants from 33 countries. The festival combines the vibrancy of British summer festivals with activities like sprints, hackathons, and STEM engagements to drive innovation across various sectors including water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications. Success stories, such as the creation of an underground utilities map impacting the UK economy, are highlighted. Heidi also shares insights from her career, emphasizing the importance of hard work, inspiring leadership, and collaborative efforts in achieving significant advancements.00:00 Introduction to the Exec Exchange Podcast00:29 Heidi Mottram's Background and Journey01:46 Overview of Northumbrian Water03:00 The Innovation Festival: Origins and Concept06:31 Success Stories from the Innovation Festival08:03 Mapping the Future: From Local to National Impact08:26 The Power of Collaboration and Innovation08:53 Unexpected Challenges and Uncontrolled Elements10:26 Global Influence and Expansion11:04 Sustaining the Innovation Festival11:58 Open Innovation and Sector-Wide Participation12:52 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Advice14:49 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts