Episode Guest

Paula MacKenzie is the CEO of Pizza Express, with a career spanning leadership roles across the food, drink, and hospitality sectors. Known for her drive and authenticity, Paula brings a bold, values-led approach to business and team culture.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:24 Paula’s First Job – Paper Rounds and Earning Freedom

2:23 Young Paula Saves for a Stereo – The Power of Incentives

3:38 What Drives Paula’s Determination?

5:03 What Paula Would Tell Her Younger Self

6:00 Paula on Staying True to Who You Are

7:47 Paula on Boundaries, Values & Handling ‘Darling’ Moments

10:33 From Paper Round to Career Steps – Paula’s Journey Begins

12:04 Why Paula Left Accountancy for Industry

14:46 Paula on Feeling Like an Outsider in Finance

16:05 Lessons from Innocent – How Paula Learned to Break the Rules

18:24 The Show Must Go On – Paula on Doing It Anyway

19:25 Becoming CEO – Paula’s Cross-Functional Climb

22:57 Paula on Imposter Syndrome & Reframing Thoughts

24:56 What Paula’s First Day as CEO Really Felt Like

27:08 Paula’s 4 A’s Framework for Leading From Day One

30:00 The One Life Lesson Paula Swears By

31:41 Quickfire with Paula – Pizza Orders, McFly & Collabs

34:43 Strong Roots and Giving Back – Paula’s Perspective

36:00 Paula’s Duvet Flip – Doing What She Loves Every Day

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

CEO at Pizza Express: From Paper Rounds to the Boardroom

My Duvet Flip by Jack Parsons