Reflections on Leadership, Innovation and Growth in Food Manufacturing
As the Managing Director of G&T Chickens, I’ve learned that sustainable growth in food manufacturing isn’t about chasing volume — it’s about honouring your values at scale.
Our business began with a simple promise: process every portion with integrity. That commitment has allowed us to expand into a national operation while staying grounded in what matters — clean ingredients, hand-cut quality, and ethical business practices. We’ve navigated industry shifts, labour challenges, and supply chain pressure, but our north star has always been consistency and accountability.
Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
1. Leadership Starts With Accountability
From product quality to workplace culture, the tone starts at the top. I believe in being present on the factory floor, asking questions, and holding myself to the same standard I expect from my team. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about owning outcomes.
2. Innovation Is Rooted in Precision
Value-added poultry isn’t just about volume — it’s about consistency. We’ve invested in portion control systems, freezing tech, and battering lines that allow us to deliver uniform, made-to-order schnitzels that meet strict commercial specs. Technology supports quality, but never replaces skilled labour.
3. Scale Without Losing Soul
Whether we’re servicing 10 venues or 1000, the product has to taste like it was made in a butcher’s shop, not a machine. Our blend of hand-cutting and automation ensures exactly that. We treat every production run with care, regardless of the scale.
4. Long-Term Thinking Pays Off
Our customers, many of whom are national foodservice chains, trust us because we take the long view — investing in safety, sustainability, and relationships over shortcuts. We don’t chase headlines — we build partnerships that last years.
5. Integrity Is a Commercial Asset
It’s not just about doing the right thing — it’s also smart business. When people trust your product, your process, and your word, you build a brand that can weather almost anything. That’s what we’ve worked hard to create at G&T Chickens.
If you’re building a business in food, my message is simple: integrity scales. And in this industry, that’s your strongest competitive advantage.
I’m always happy to connect with others passionate about clean food manufacturing.