In our first live recording of the REWIRE podcast, we sit down with Aimen Dean, a distinguished security and counter-terrorism advisor and former MI6 spy. Aimen played a pivotal role in the global campaign against terrorism for the British Secret Intelligence Service, gathering critical intelligence on al-Qaeda and other extremist groups. Post-MI6, he has consulted for HSBC and numerous other major private and public entities, offering expert guidance on international security and counter-terrorism.

Aimen's profound insights provide a deep understanding of geopolitical risks and their implications for international business. In this compelling conversation, we delve into the unique security challenges businesses face in the Middle East and how to navigate them. We explore the evolving landscape of terrorism, anti-money laundering, and counter-terrorism finance, as well as the broader geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East, including significant reforms in Saudi Arabia over the past decade.

Drawing from his extensive experience in intelligence and security, Aimen offers a unique vantage point for navigating complex regulatory environments, developing robust risk management frameworks, and understanding the impact of global security trends on business operations. He emphasises the importance of logical, dispassionate conflict resolution and its far-reaching implications for global security and business resilience.

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In this episode of REWIRE, we sit down with James Barge, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at Asda, and delve in to the multifaceted role he plays at Asda. From managing a diverse range of issues - be that staff relations and community engagement to government interactions and media relations - James offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to steer a major retail giant through both everyday challenges and transformative changes.

James shares his insights on Asda's ongoing transformation journey, which includes doubling their store estate, integrating new IT systems, and expanding into new retail formats. He also discusses the importance of balancing proactive strategies with reactive crisis management, especially in a business as dynamic and complex as Asda.

We explore the evolving role of corporate communications, the impact of political changes, and the increasing importance of ESG initiatives. James also reflects on his varied career path, which spans politics, agency work, and in-house roles, and offers valuable advice for those looking to enter the field of communications.

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In this compelling episode, we welcome Paul Osgood, former Global Head of Internal Communications, for an insightful conversation with our Corporate Director, Sinead Bell. With a career spanning from the 1980's to recent roles at global giants like Philips and Clifford Chance, Paul brings a treasure trove of experience and insights to the table.

Gain an insider's perspective on Paul's pivotal involvement in BG Group's integration into Shell, and the innovative strategies he employed to manage this monumental change. His understanding of leadership buy-in and values-driven leadership during times of change helped to ensure employees felt guided and supported throughout the process.

Paul also shares his unique "Have I Got a Job" curve and other groundbreaking approaches to managing change, including creative ways to help employees find closure during transitions.

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