May 2025 - Foreword

In a landscape marked by geopolitical disruption and economic turbulence, genuine leadership perspectives are increasingly valuable. At Savant, we do not merely reflect mainstream narratives, we look for insights rooted in real-world decision-making. The Expert Insights Series is dedicated to presenting considered, practical strategies from those guiding British industry through complexity.

In this edition, we feature Richard Scully, a senior executive with experience in the recycling and steel sectors, who provides a frank assessment of the marketplace.

Understanding the Current Landscape: Industry Outlook

When asked what is currently most affecting his sector, Richard is clear and direct:

“Steel tariffs and lack of economic growth are causing global uncertainty and reduced demand. High energy costs are making the UK industry uncompetitive.”

These pressures are immediate and tangible — not abstract. In addition, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to elevate energy prices, placing further strain on growth prospects.

Long-Term Perspective: Strategic Alignment

Despite near-term headwinds, Richard sees encouraging signs of policy and industrial alignment. “Being a recycling business, we should benefit in the long run from continued focus on increased recycling targets and rising investment in green steel. The UK Government is now starting to recognise the importance of commodity security and local production.” This alignment between sustainability priorities, domestic resilience, and manufacturing strategy has potential to pave the way for future opportunity.

Future Priorities: Innovation and Infrastructure

Richard identifies three central focus areas over the next 12 to 24 months:

• Investment in UK-based steel production
• Government incentives to accelerate recycling and circular economy initiatives
• The integration of AI technology in recycling automation

In particular, Richard emphasises the practical application of artificial intelligence: “AI cameras for high-speed sorting can reduce manual intervention and improve consistency. The value lies in technology that sharpens production accuracy, reduces cost, and increases output — not technology for its own sake.”

Leadership Lessons: Agility and Precision

Richard describes a leadership approach grounded in responsiveness and data visibility:

“Focus the business on agility — so it can respond quickly to market movements. Cash, as always, is king, and maintaining cash flexibility is vital.”

“Data, data, data — AI can enable the business to access detailed insights on margins by customer, product, machine, and location. This level of transparency is essential for controlling costs and seizing opportunities.”

Advice to Industry Peers

Richard shares pragmatic and actionable advice for business leaders and emerging professionals:

• Ensure alignment between investors and leadership and pursue strategic goals with focus and persistence.
• Build internal capacity and capability across financing, training, production, and sales functions.
• Prioritise the development of clear performance data to inform key decisions.
• Look after your people: invest in training, health and safety, and team engagement.
• And finally: “Innovate to make a difference.”

Final Reflections

Richard represents a kind of leadership grounded in clarity, realism, and long-term commitment. His approach to building infrastructure, applying technology purposefully, and investing in people offers a compelling blueprint for industrial resilience in the UK.

At Savant, we are proud to feature voices like Richard’s — individuals not only responding to change but actively driving it forward.