Listen "S04E01 | Rodney Rice, from Blast Furnace to Boardroom"
Episode Synopsis
Episode Summary:We’re kicking off Season 4 with a guest we've been wanting to get on the mic for a long time: Rodney Rice, Director at Langley Alloys.Rodney’s career started in a blast furnace at British Steel and took him through R&D, marketing, and operations before he landed at Langley Alloys, a business focused on niche metals for some of the toughest environments in the world.In this episode, we cover a lot of ground:How 25 years at British Steel shaped Rodney’s careerWhat happens when opportunities stop knocking and how to take the leapThe challenges and rewards of moving from a big corporate to a nimble niche businessWhy Langley Alloys doubled down on Super Duplex and Nickel AlloysThe underrated power of websites and marketing in metalsLessons in leadership, internal growth, and building high-performing teamsIf you’re in metals, manufacturing, or leading a growing team, this one is packed with real, relatable insights.Key Topics:Starting out in British SteelWhat it means to “run out of road” in a big companyTransitioning from metallurgy to marketing and general managementBuilding credibility across industries without ticking every boxLangley Alloys' focus on high-performance alloys for harsh environmentsWhy websites, marketing, and video content still move the needleCareer development, apprenticeships, and creating stretch rolesHow to stop ignoring warm leads and build better customer journeysWhy young people want more than money and what to give them insteadSponsors:SteelBuy is a digital marketplace built for the metals industry, helping buyers and sellers connect with speed, transparency, and simplicity. NERO Pipeline Connections is a trusted UK stockholder of stainless steel valves, fittings, and pipeline products, supporting industries from process to precision. Comton Group Ltd. is a specialist recruiter for the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors, helping businesses hire the right people from shop floor to senior leadership.About The Metal Guys Talk BusinessHosted by Peter Comerford and Mike Bolton, The Metal Guys Talk Business is a podcast for professionals in the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to boardroom.Connect with the Hosts and Guest(s):Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedIn Mike Bolton – Connect on LinkedInRodney Rice – Connect on LinkedIn