Behind the SME with Tim Gray, Owner & Managing Director of Dairi-Pak.

What does it take to build a business that stands the test of time? In this episode of Behind the SME, we sit down with Tim Gray, the driving force behind Dairi-Pak, to explore how he’s shaping the future of sustainable packaging.

Tim has spent decades navigating the evolving landscape of manufacturing, steering Dairi-Pak through industry shifts and changing consumer demands. Now, his company is at the forefront of providing flexible, sustainable packaging solutions that meet the needs of businesses today.

💡 What you’ll learn:

📦 Adapting a legacy business – how Tim keeps Dairi-Pak ahead of the curve

📈 Leadership lessons – growing a business through industry change

🚪 The power of doorknocking – how early sales experience shaped Tim’s leadership

💡 Innovation vs tradition – balancing progress with core values

Whether you're in manufacturing, business leadership, or just fascinated by innovation in everyday industries, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Like what you hear? We'd love to know!

Contact us: hello@behindthesme.co.uk

Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/behind-the-sme

Find us on other platforms: https://linktr.ee/behindthesme

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you turn years of industry expertise into a thriving business? In this episode of Behind the SME, we sit down with Arabella Dupont, former Conde Nast Brides editor turned entrepreneur, to uncover the journey of launching and growing The Bridal Beauty Co.

Arabella spent over a decade in luxury magazines, curating the best in bridal beauty before taking the leap to create her own brand. Now, her business offers curated beauty boxes and bridal gifts, catering to women beyond just the wedding day.

💡 What you’ll learn:

• 📖 From editorial to entrepreneurship – how Arabella made the transition
• 🎁 Building a beauty brand – lessons in product curation and audience engagement
• 📈 Navigating change – how she adapted her business beyond live events
• 🔥 The reality of launching and scaling a niche business

Whether you’re a beauty lover, a founder, or someone looking to pivot your career, this episode is packed with real insights on brand-building, resilience and making your expertise work for you.

Like what you hear? We'd love to know!

Contact us: hello@behindthesme.co.uk

Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/behind-the-sme

Connect with us on other platforms: https://linktr.ee/behindthesme

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a senior banking leader transitions from global finance to advising SMEs? In this episode of Behind the SME, we sit down with Jonathan Beebe, a former Barclays and Merrill Lynch executive who now serves as an advisor, investor, and non-exec across multiple businesses.

Jonathan shares his unique perspective on the SME world—offering insights from both big corporations and hands-on SME leadership. He unpacks the key lessons business owners need to know when seeking investment, managing advisors, and making the shift from founder-led to a scalable company.

What you'll learn:

• 📊 Investment insights: What investors really look for in SMEs
• 💰 Funding alignment: Why the wrong investment partner can hurt your business
• ⚖️ Corporate vs. SME leadership: How decision-making, agility, and resources compare
• 🤝 The role of advisors: How to leverage non-execs and boards effectively
• 🔄 Pivoting & adapting: Why flexibility is key in business strategy

If you're a founder, business leader, or thinking about raising investment, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you navigate growth, funding and leadership.

Contact us: hello@behindthesme.co.uk

Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/behind-the-sme

Connect with us on other platforms: https://linktr.ee/behindthesme

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.