Getting to know

Spending time chatting with Susy Atkins felt a bit like looking through a window into a world where wine, travel and storytelling all naturally come together.

With a career spanning more than three decades across some of the UK’s most recognisable retail and hospitality brands, Jonathan Lawson, CEO of the Butcombe Group, brings both depth of experience and a genuine passion for people to everything he does.

There’s something instantly engaging about Christophe Lacroix — warm, direct and full of stories shaped by a lifetime in the kitchen.

With more than three decades in the food and drink sector, James Simpson has built a career that spans everything from the nuts and bolts of the supply chain through to championing South West producers on a wider stage.

From becoming a head brewer at just 21 to building the thriving and ever-evolving Firebrand Brewing Co. in Cornwall, and somehow finding time to train for 100+ mile races, Joe’s story is equal parts instinct, resilience and a knack for making the most of opportunity when it appears.

There’s something quietly compelling about Angus Lugsdin.

Philippa Davis is a celebrated British chef, food writer and television presenter, whose culinary journey began on a smallholding in Dorset where she was raised among the rhythms of growing fruit and vegetables, rearing livestock, baking and home-fermenting.

From growing up in his family’s kitchens to leading one of the UK’s largest hospitality procurement networks, Alex Demetriou’s career is a story of passion, innovation, and purpose.

As Chief Operating Officer at St Austell Brewery, Andy Turner plays a central role in steering one of the South West’s most respected, family-owned breweries through both its heritage and its next chapter of growth.

Jude Kereama is a celebrated chef and restaurateur originally from New Zealand and now based in Cornwall – Find out some more about what motivates and makes him happy here!

Mark Godfrey is one of three co-founders and directors of South West 660, a scenic road trip route designed to showcase the beauty and highlights of the South West.

I was delighted to be joined by Carol Myott, the visionary co-founder of Flapjackery, a brand that has transformed the humble flapjack into an award-winning, luxury treat, to get to know a little bit more about her.