On this episode of ‘You’re On Mute’ Lord Michael Hastings is joined by Tom Athron, CEO at Fortnum & Mason. Tom shares his memories of growing up in a military family, and life at a military boarding school which provided a lot of structure in his life when he most needed it.   Tom attends Newcastle University, where he develops a strong sense of social justice, after which his business management studies lead him into the world of work as he travels to South Africa during Nelson Mandela's early reign. He witnesses the birth of a new rainbow nation, but one looking to balance poverty and inequality with the development of a growing middle class.   Listeners are privy to his seminal career experiences – including his time at the John Lewis Partnership – these formed Tom’s approach to ‘industrial democracy’, but also shaped his views on diversity and inclusion and sustainability. Fortnum & Mason continues to be one of the world’s most coveted luxury retailers, a byword for excellence, worthy of its multiple Royal Warrants. This podcast is produced by 4DC - The Podcast Strategists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.