Then and now... Mike Manders

In the latest instalment of Bdaily's Then and now series, Mike Manders, co-founder and chief executive of Yarm-based bathroom and homewares brand Haddon, reflects on his career, from his first role to the present day, highlighting the lessons he has learned from his personal and professional evolution.

You’re the co-founder and chief executive at Haddon. What does your role entail?  

I run the company by setting the vision and making sure we’re moving in the right direction. 

A big part of my role is supporting the senior team, keeping operations on track and making the key decisions that drive the growth of the business. 

I’m also the one who represents Haddon publicly, whether that’s with partners, clients or the broader market. 

For me, it’s really about building the right culture, navigating challenges and creating opportunities, so both the business and our people can thrive.

Did you always want to work in the luxury homeware space? Or did you have other ambitions when you were growing up?

I’ve always had a strong passion for property renovation and interior design. 

From a young age, my entrepreneurial spirit led me to purchase and renovate properties as a personal interest. 

Building on my early career in the construction industry, and later progressing into large-scale project management, I gained extensive experience overseeing complex projects, co-ordinating multiple disciplines and managing all aspects of delivery. 

This is what led me to establish Haddon. 

What was your first job – and did you enjoy it? 

My first job was an apprentice metalwork machinist – I hated it and lasted three months.

Were there any mentors or individuals who helped shape your career? And are you still applying lessons you learned then to your workforce of today? 

I’ve had the privilege of working with many great individuals throughout my career, each of whom has contributed in meaningful ways to my growth. 

But the greatest influence has been my dad. 

He instilled in me the values of discipline, tenacity and commitment – qualities that form the bedrock not only of a successful career but a fulfilling life too.

His example taught me that success isn’t about shortcuts or luck; it’s about showing up consistently, pushing through challenges and staying true to your word.

What attracted you to the luxury homeware sector? 

My passion for interiors, architecture and all things property related.

How do you feel you’ve changed as a person over the years? Have career roles brought new dimensions to your personality? 

Early in my career, I was fortunate to take on management and senior roles. 

These experiences exposed me to diverse challenges and taught me how to navigate them. 

Not every decision was the right one, but each provided lessons that helped me understand how different choices shape outcomes.

You’ve seen many changes to the employment world across your career – how do you see the workplace evolving in years to come? 

I have seen the most significant changes since COVID-19, having managed a large team remotely during that challenging period. 

The workplace environment has evolved considerably, with many people now expecting to work from home as the norm. 

While remote work can suit certain roles, I prefer my employees to collaborate in person, working cross-functionally to build the brand and foster stronger team dynamics.

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