Leading with Emotional Intelligence (EQ): BOSS Leaders of the Future April 2025 - Recap

BOSS Leaders of the Future is a community group with a committee of individuals from wholesalers, manufacturers, and dealers across the business supplies sector. Their April event marked a strong start to the year, with an energising programme and active engagement from delegates throughout the day.
 

Turning Relationships into Results

The day opened with a high-energy keynote from Nick Saunders, titled “Connection, Collaboration, Conflict Resolution: Turning Relationships into Results.” In his dynamic and interactive session, Saunders emphasised the power of self-awareness, strategic listening, and authenticity in leadership. Attendees left equipped with practical tools they could implement immediately—both professionally and personally.
 

Career Journeys Without a Script

In the afternoon, Linsey Adams, Head of Trade Marketing and Customer Activation at Reckitt Pro Solutions, delivered an honest and empowering talk about her own career path. Adams encouraged attendees to ditch conventional timelines, embrace growth and define success on their own terms.
 

Workshops That Built Core Leadership Skills

Delegates then split into one of three expert-led workshops, each offering targeted insight into essential leadership capabilities:

• Leanne Gregg, People Director at evo Group, facilitated a session on using emotional intelligence to mediate workplace conflict.
• Jonathan Smith, Consultant at Avery, presented on how to win negotiations through stronger customer connections.

• Darryl Brunt, UK & Ireland Sales & Marketing Director at Fellowes, explored the challenges of developing EQ as a leader, and strategies to overcome them.
   

A Panel of Perspectives

To wrap up the day, all four industry speakers came together for a candid panel discussion hosted by Shaun Tidman, Head of Sales at Avery UK and LOTF Committee member. Topics ranged from mentorship to the increasing importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. A standout quote from Leanne Gregg summed up the mood perfectly: “IQ gets you through the door, but EQ helps you succeed.”

Looking Ahead

Looking to the future, the LOTF committee have announced two exciting initiatives launching soon:

• The NextGen Mentoring Programme

• The Core Skills Programme

Both are supported by the evo Foundation, with more details to follow in the coming weeks.

Delegates were also invited to join the LOTF Community Hub – a space to stay connected, access event recordings, and keep up with the latest news and opportunities within the LOTF network.
 

The next in-person LOTF conference is scheduled for 27 November 2025 in Manchester. We look forward to seeing even more future leaders there!