Don't Do That, Do This

With financial pressures and market uncertainty impacting businesses across the region, we recently sat down with Paul Leggett, Partner, and Jennifer Frenis, Director, Turnaround and Restructuring at Deloitte Middle East, for a conversation on how businesses can navigate financial distress. From understanding the early pressure signs to managing stakeholders and complex legal frameworks, this episode outlines the proactive steps to protect their operations and avoid crisis situations. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience each, Paul and Jennifer from Deloitte’s Middle East Turnaround and Restructuring team share practical insights on the key drivers of business distress, the importance of early intervention, and why insolvency should be viewed as a strategic tool rather than a last resort. Key themes: • Understanding insolvency and early warning signs • The main drivers behind business distress • Scaling challenges and financial risk • Stakeholder management in times of uncertainty • Legal frameworks and restructuring considerations • Practical advice for directors and decision-makers A practical and insightful discussion for business leaders, directors, and organisations looking to strengthen resilience, plan effectively, and navigate financial uncertainty with confidence. (This episode was recorded in February 2026) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With cyber threats on the rise in the region over the past year, we sat down with William Wright, CEO of Closed Door Security, a leading cyber security consultancy operating across Scotland, UAE and the US. From the realities of today’s threat landscape to the consequences of underinvestment, the discussion sets out what businesses need to understand to protect operations and navigate cyber risk across the UAE and wider GCC. Drawing on more than 15 years of international experience, William offers practical guidance on emerging threats, straightforward steps to strengthen defences and why cyber security is best treated as a strategic priority rather than a discretionary cost. Key themes: • The growing scale and sophistication of cyber threats in the UAE and GCC • The risks associated with cutting budgets • Practical measures SMEs can take to improve resilience • The implications of AI for cyber risk and defence • Considerations for businesses expanding into the region A direct, practical discussion for SMEs, business leaders, IT professionals and organisations looking to better understand and navigate cyber risks in today’s digital environment. (This episode was recorded prior to the start of the conflict in the Middle East) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode focuses on the evolving role of the modern CFO, from fractional recruitment to why financial leadership is critical for business growth. BCCD CEO Katy Keenan speaks with Adnan Haroon, Founding Regional Director at The CFO Centre, a proven leader with over 24 years of experience driving financial performance across multiple geographies. Adnan breaks down what it takes to succeed as a CFO today and how the role continues to expand beyond the numbers. What you'll learn in this episode: • What fractional recruitment is and how it’s changing CFO roles • The experience required to become a fractional CFO and the value of regional and entrepreneurial expertise • How CFOs are evolving into strategic leaders and even CEOs • The impact of client experience, stakeholder engagement, and end-goal thinking on business success • How mentoring, training, and AI are reshaping the CFO’s responsibilities • Key pain points for SMEs, including why cash flow remains a top challenge If you are a business leader, startup founder, or finance professional, this episode is for you - tune in to learn more about how CFOs can drive growth, strategy and long-term success. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Don’t Do That, Do This!, Katy speaks with Nathan Farrugia, CEO of Vistage UAE, author, and world record-breaking adventurer, to explore what leadership really looks like when your job is coaching CEOs. From boardrooms to endurance sports, Nathan shares hard-won lessons on resilience, decision-making, inclusivity and leading under pressure, including how setting a world record for running 27 marathons in 27 days across 27 countries reshaped his approach to business and life. Tune in to hear insights on: • How to avoid “lonely at the top” and tackle CEO isolation • Why peer support and accountability matter more than ever • Applying endurance thinking to growth, failure and long-term success • Building mental and physical resilience that carries into business • Inclusive leadership and where AI still falls short 🎧 A must-listen for CEOs, founders and leaders who want to perform at their peak without burning out. Thank you to StudioRED and Sherbert Lemon for the production and design support. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode could transform the way you think about your health. It’s essential listening for anyone who wants to live longer, feel better and prevent illness. We interviewed one of Dubai’s leading health experts, Dr Hasan AlOgaily from King’s College Hospital London, to reveal the simple, practical changes that can make a huge difference to your wellbeing. With over 20 years of experience in family medicine across the UK and UAE, Dr Hasan is passionate about delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. His focus on longevity science and lifestyle medicine equips busy individuals and families in Dubai to live healthier, longer lives. Dr Hasan cuts through the noise to give you the real science-backed approach to preventative health. In this episode, you’ll discover: • What preventative health really means - and why it matters to you right now • The key pillars of a healthy lifestyle and how to implement them as a Dubai resident • The top vitamins and supplements that truly make a difference in this part of the world • Why nothing beats exercise when it comes to disease prevention • How the UAE Government is supporting the country’s longevity journey This conversation is full of practical advice and hope. As Dr Hasan says “Small, consistent changes can have a massive impact on your long-term health.” Whether you want to prevent disease, boost your energy or just feel better every day, this episode gives you the real plan to stay on top of your wellbeing. 🌐 Learn how King’s College Hospital London in Dubai can help you take charge of your health: https://kingscollegehospitaldubai.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we speak with Neil Orvay, Founder of Evolution U. A Harvard Law-trained negotiation expert, Neil brings over 30 years of international business experience across Dubai, Hong Kong, Sydney, and London. With a background in investment banking and as a certified Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) trainer, he has coached more than 5,000 executives across sectors, helping them build key skills in business psychology. A must-listen for leaders and managers looking to strengthen their skills in: - Negotiation - Sales psychology - Perception management - Persuasion - Influence Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we have Madeleine Mendy, Partner at Bin Sevan Advocates, and the powerhouse behind one of Dubai’s top family law practices. With over two decades of legal experience in England and the UAE, Madeleine is a go-to expert for high-net-worth divorces, child custody battles, and complex cross-border cases. In this episode, she shares what it’s really like navigating divorce law in the Gulf, how Sharia-based personal status law impacts expats, and why international recognition of divorce matters. Whether you are a legal professional, expat or just curious about family law in Dubai, this episode will open your eyes to several important considerations. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How does health insurance work in the UAE - and what should you know before moving? In this episode, Leah Cotterill, CEO of Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa, joins Katy Holmes to discuss key aspects of the healthcare landscape in Dubai and the wider UAE. Topics include: * Health insurance in the Middle East * The role of employers and employee responsibility * Current trends and challenges in the healthcare system * How the UAE compares to the UK and US * The importance of health literacy and awareness This episode will help employers understand their healthcare responsibilities and is especially useful for anyone planning a move to the UAE. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode, we are joined by Richard Fitzgerald, CEO and Founder of Augustus Media, an award-winning modern media company operating in the UAE and KSA. Augustus Media is the force behind popular platforms like Lovin Dubai, Lovin Saudi, and Smashi. With a career in media and advertising that began in 2006, Richard brings insights from his experience at agencies across Ireland, the UK, and the GCC. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode we’re speaking with Ramy Jallad who is the Group CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). Ramy has over 30+ years in business development, FDI attraction and digital transformation and is a key figure in the UAE’s business landscape. Under Ramy’s leadership, RAKEZ is growing into one of the largest economic zones in the region, supporting thousands of companies from around the world. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Katy sits down with Pete Henderson, the founder and CEO of E2G FOOD, a UK-headquartered social enterprise on a mission to feed communities in need across the globe. Tune in to hear everything about: - Their innovative, sustainable food solution, kind to both people and the planet - Why they chose the UAE as their MENA base - Their business model - How to support or get involved with E2G FOOD Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For this episode, we spoke to Dustyn and Luke who founded HEMO Data in 2022 to help organisations leverage and transform their data into a strategic asset for growth. Over the past few years Hemo Data has grown to a team of 20 and a customer base of over 50 customers. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we spoke to 3x Olympian, founder of ROAR Fitness and BCCD Member Sarah Lindsay. ROAR Fitness is the only London and Dubai based personal training gym that offers clients an Olympic-style training experience. Their highly experienced team of nutritionists, strength coaches and world-class personal trainers provide the most comprehensive, results-oriented training experience imaginable. Catch her full conversation with Katy and Neil to hear all of this and more! • Sarah’s story and how she went from winning the Olympics to starting her own business • Why she decided to expand to Dubai • Her experience of setting up a new business in Dubai VS London • How Sarah applies her Olympic planning and thinking to her business Catch her full conversation with Katy and Neil to hear all of this and more! To find out more about ROAR Fitness, click here: https://www.roar-fitness.com/ Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we're joined by reputation expert Michael Farrant. Michael is the Founder and CEO of Farrant Group, a global strategic communications firm specialising in managing the reputation of leading companies, political organisations and private individuals. With expertise in navigating some of the world's most complex communications challenges, Michael brings invaluable insights to this episode. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we are joined by Jill Davidson, Vice Consul of the Consular Team at the British Embassy in Dubai. Jill shares vital information and guidance for UAE residents in Dubai and their visitors, including the essential “dos and don'ts” for British expats in the UAE. This episode is a must-listen. Join us for the full conversation with Katy Holmes and Neil Sheth. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us as we explore the innovative world of fractional recruitment, where flexibility meets opportunity with Amy Brill from The Brill Collective and Sarah Jones from Rayne Consulting. In this episode, we delve into how this emerging model is transforming hiring across various sectors, benefiting both companies and candidates. Discover how businesses can tap into specialised talent on-demand, while job seekers enjoy diverse opportunities that fit their lifestyles. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode we spoke with Nick Smallman, the Founder and CEO of Working Voices, which is a global professional skills consultancy specialising in communication and leadership. He advises global blue-chip clients on engagement, productivity and retention and counsels leaders on increasing revenue through simple internal adjustments. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we are joined by Ummair Butt, founder of Direct Debit System and responsible for bringing direct debit to the UAE – a big idea and big conversation coming up! Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode, we have Chris Miller and Kate Markham. Chris is the Founder of In-Cre-Mental, a Dubai-based wellness company helping individuals and businesses to identify the incremental steps to achieve incredible results. Kate is the founder of ThinkSmart Software, an online class management and booking system for children’s activity providers with offices. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events This episode focuses on SME startups. At the time of recording, Chris had set up his business four months ago and Kate had just set up her business in Dubai 3 days ago, which makes them the perfect guests to talk about setting up a business in Dubai. We know there’s a lot of interest in registering their business in Dubai so this episode is a great eye-opener for anyone looking to set up or expand their business in the UAE. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re talking to Fazeela Gopalani who is the Head of Eurasia and Middle East at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Fazeela is responsible for leading the operations in 22 countries and representing members across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events She has contributed her expertise to several of the country’s key government agendas and she is behind several ground-breaking industry initiatives, including Women in Finance. Her recent accolades include being named one of the 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen 2024 by Forbes Middle East and being featured in Arabian Business’ 50 Inspiring Women Leaders 2024. We’ve got more great growth stories coming up so make sure you subscribe and follow us on social media. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode, we hosted Erika Doyle. Erika is a true champion of the zero-alcohol revolution. The Founder of Drink Dry, the GCC’s first and only premium non-alcoholic drinks marketplace, Erika is a well-known and revered figure in the beverage industry. What started as an e-store, Drink Dry is now a firm mainstay in the retail and hospitality sector across the UAE, with their product offering now available in many prominent bars and restaurants across the city. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events This podcast is full of specific business growth tactics that other F&B and hospitality brands can leverage to move their business forward. You’re going to love it! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, we’re talking to John Martin St. Valery OBE about starting, growing and thriving in the region. John is a veteran Dubai expat who has lived in the country for more than 20 years and now advises a small group of fast growth businesses. John shares his experience of expanding a business to Dubai and the importance of building relationships and connections in the region. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode, we have Marisa Peer, a world renowned speaker, Rapid Transformational Therapist and bestselling author. Marisa has spent over three decades treating a client list that includes international superstars, CEOs, Royalty, and Olympic athletes. We’re talking about building a successful community and building a resilient and positive mindset. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events You’re going to love this interview! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, we're discussing the topic of taking risks and launching and growing a business in Dubai with Chris and Amanda Redmond. They are the founders of RedHolt, a global recruitment agency that provides expert search and advisory services.Originally, Chris and Amanda decided to relocate to Dubai in order to provide a better lifestyle for their family of four. After a few months, they recognised the opportunities that the UAE had to offer and began expanding RedHolt, along with a few other businesses in the region.During our conversation, we explore the challenges and rewards of working with your spouse in business, the experience of moving to Dubai, making strategic growth decisions, and their future ambitions. Discover the BCCD and connect with 1100+ members in our community. Join us at an upcoming event: https://britishchamberdubai.com/events Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.