The Food Service Matters podcast continues to spotlight transformative leaders in the food service industry. In Season Two, Episode Nine, host Patrick McDermott speaks with Angus Brydon, Joint Managing Director of BM Caterers, about his approach to building a people-centric business. With over 11 years at BM, Angus has cultivated a workplace that prioritises employee well being and values, positioning BM Caterers as a standout in the industry.
In this blog post, we delve into Angus’s journey, his ethos of “always exceeding expectations,” and how a family-first culture and innovative strategies help BM thrive. Key themes include fostering a supportive workplace, the company’s focus on mental health, the significance of their Best Companies accreditation, and how ESG evolution, people, and commerciality drive BM’s vision for the future.
Placing People at the Heart of Business
For Angus, BM’s success is deeply rooted in prioritising people. He believes that a supportive workplace extends beyond corporate jargon, genuinely embracing the team as family. An example of this is BM’s commitment to employees like Varshna, an Indian team member for whom BM held a position during her time away in India. This dedication to support and career development speaks volumes about BM’s values.
BM’s benefits include extended maternity leave and a proactive approach to mental health, ensuring employees feel valued and cared for. Angus emphasises the importance of listening and acting on staff feedback, which in turn improves the employee experience and strengthens the team dynamic. As a result, BM received a two-star accreditation from the Best Companies Award, a milestone Angus is particularly proud of, as it highlights their dedication to fostering a people-first culture.
Navigating ESG Evolution, People, and Commerciality
A forward-thinking approach to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is a priority at BM. Angus discusses how client demands shape BM’s ESG strategy, using feedback and insights to stay aligned with what matters most to customers. ESG initiatives also drive technical innovations, allowing BM to adapt and grow sustainably.
Angus identifies three primary challenges for BM and the food service industry as a whole: ESG evolution, people, and commerciality. By balancing these factors, BM is well positioned to tackle industry changes while continuing to prioritise the people that make their success possible.
Empowering Chef Autonomy
At BM, empowering team members goes beyond support; it’s about autonomy. Angus highlights the importance of chef autonomy in delivering quality service and maintaining a collaborative culture. This trust allows BM’s chefs to take ownership of their roles, showcasing their talents and delivering consistent excellence across BM’s offerings.
Angus Brydon’s leadership exemplifies what it means to create a family-first workplace that values innovation and empathy. From mental health support to staff empowerment, BM’s culture is a model for the industry.
To hear the full conversation with Angus Brydon, tune into the Food Service Matters podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts.
Patrick McDermott, DigiTally’s CEO, is a passionate advocate for simplifying food service management through technology. DigiTally’s user-friendly software helps food service businesses streamline operations, increase margins, and combat food waste. Are you ready to take your food service business to the next level? Let’s talk! Book a 30-minute call with Patrick today and set up your demo!
