Ian Adams MBE’s career has taken him from the BBC to the NHS, local government and the charity sector, working on everything from the digital TV switchover to major changes in public services. Alongside his day job, he spent 20 years as a Westminster councillor, served as Lord Mayor of Westminster and has dedicated much of his time to charities supporting young people and people experiencing homelessness.
In this episode, Ian joins Dan Taylor to look back at the opportunities and unexpected turns that shaped his career. They talk about what it really takes to make change happen, why listening to the people affected by it matters, and the importance of giving back. Ian also shares his thoughts on social mobility, building a career with purpose and why your next move doesn’t always have to be a step up – sometimes moving sideways can take you somewhere you never expected.
Dan Taylor
Managing Director at Morgan Hunt
I am the Managing Director of Morgan Hunt and Pentagon Talent and have held this position since January 2017. Over that period, I have overseen a full-scale change programme that has led to a more defined offering to the businesses long standing clients, a full change of brand, a new CRM and several adoptions of new and innovative tech and the opening of a new business in Scotland. All this has contributed to returning this long-standing business to profit.
In 2023, Morgan Hunt was awarded the NORA award for best large recruitment business for Morgan Hunt’s online presence, The Financial Times listed Morgan Hunt as one of the top 30 British Recruitment Companies and The Recruiter Magazine will feature Morgan Hunt in their Fast 100 for 2023.
I have worked within staffing and recruitment for 28 years. I am a major supporter of APSCo, attending many events throughout the year. I am a firm advocate for greater professionalism within the recruitment industry.
Married with two daughters, outside work interests include playing the drums and supporting the Sussex Cricket Foundation by creating greater access to the sport of cricket within the City of Brighton and Hove.
Ian Adams MBE
CEO of The Bedford College Group
I am the Director of Corporate Services at Community Health Partnerships, leading our business assurance, people and culture, and communications functions. My work centres on creating the systems, culture, and strategic clarity that enable CHP’s teams to deliver exceptional impact for the communities we serve.
Across my career in corporate affairs, governance leadership, and public‑sector transformation, I’ve focused on turning organisational ambition into operational excellence. I’m committed to designing environments where people thrive, partnerships deepen, and innovation becomes part of everyday practice.
Alongside my executive role, I serve as Chair of YMCA St Paul’s Group, guiding one of London’s largest youth and community organisations through a period of strategic evolution and partnership development. I also chair Public Voice CIC, championing resident‑led insight and inclusive decision‑making across public services.
I believe that strong governance, empowered people, and purposeful culture are the foundations of any organisation that wants to make a meaningful difference — and I’m proud to bring that ethos to CHP, YMCA St Paul’s Group, and Public Voice CIC at pivotal moments in their development.
