Mark Harvey, managing director of Fielden Whisky of England
Regenerative farming, luxury goods and the spirit of change
ProGRESS · Sandra Fraser
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Show Notes
Mark Harvey is the managing director of Fielden Whisky of England. Fielden puts emphasis on the heart of its whisky, ancient grains grown on chemical-free land, planted with an under-storey of white clover. Everything starts from this point of regenerative farming and the grain is grown across England, from Cornwall to Norfolk. But as Mark says in the podcast, if the whisky didn't taste good the methods would only be interesting and Mark assures listeners it's delicious!
Mark's career story started out in luxury brands, including Cartier and LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) allowing him to grow his experience and knowledge in different countries.
But after a number of years Mark could see that his job would start to become repetitive and before long found himself meeting the board of English wine producer Chapel Down and being appointed its managing director.
Leaving corporate life and working for a smaller organisation came with its own challenges, but Mark highlights the impact a smaller company can have on the environment. Following a seven year stint at Chapel Down, during which the wines won acclaim and the brand thrived, Mark joined Fielden Whisky, at the time still known under its Oxford Artisan Distillery label.
It's not hard to see how sustainable a product like Fielden is, but Mark retains an interest in luxury goods as a board member of Walpole, the membership body for over 200 UK luxury brands. Mark also talks about how those companies are developing sustainable practices and mentions one in particular that offers a repair service*.
Listen in for more tips about finding a green career and Mark's thoughts on working for a small producer versus a job for a corporate organisation. Mark also shares the best piece of career advice he's ever received.
Mentioned in this podcast
Fielden Whisky of England
Fielden Whisky on Instagram
*The business Mark highlights that repairs and revitalises luxury goods is no longer operational but its founders have started Circulo making tech repair accessible and universal.
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Expect revelations, lightbulb moments and an informative listen on ProGRESS, with plenty of insights as guests explain how and why got into their Green, Ethical, Sustainable and Socially Responsible career or course (the GRESS of ProGRESS) with plenty of tips if you want to do the same.
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