Global mobility opens doors to new opportunities but often comes with challenges. Whether it’s relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, the process can be overwhelming without the right guidance. Individuals who have done the relocating process know it can take a toll on your peace of mind. Hiring a professional company to do the job is much easier and hassle-free. People can experience several benefits when they go for the professional movers option. A trailblazer in this field is Simon Hood, owner of John Mason International Movers, who is the epitome of seamless operations in the mobility sphere.

Zeal for Entrepreneurship

Simon is a big hitter in the global logistics sphere. His unmatched skills and effortless decision-making abilities make him the most sought-after individual in his industry. He is a transformative business leader who has reshaped the international moving industry with his innovative strategies and impactful leadership. Beginning his career in marketing, Simon showcased creativity and determination, earning him accolades like North Hampshire’s Business Person of the Year in 2013. Over the next decade, his focus on innovation and customer-centric strategies propelled him to national prominence, culminating in prestigious awards such as the King’s Award for Enterprise and Great British Entrepreneur of the Year in 2024.

People-first Principle

Simon is humbled to have gotten the opportunity to lead John Mason International, an organization with a 140-year-old legacy of trust and excellence in international removals. Since 1884, the company has been the pioneer in extending a hand of help to families and businesses to move continents with destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and North America being the spotlights.

The company stands out for its people-first philosophy. With operations in Liverpool and London, it serves a diverse clientele, from individuals embarking on new journeys to businesses expanding globally. Rooted in a rich history yet driven by innovation and adaptability, the firm has earned its reputation as the UK’s most trusted international removals company by consistently delivering high standards in a dynamic industry.

Celebrating its 140th anniversary in 2024, the company was honored with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, a testament to its success in global trade and its commitment to resilience, trust, and innovation. The invitation to Windsor Castle to meet King Charles III marked a proud milestone, reflecting the dedication and excellence of the entire team.

Global Pioneer

In 2021, Simon completed a sole management buyout of John Mason International, a leading name in UK international removals. Under his leadership, the company’s turnover surged from £6.6 million in 2020 to £13.5 million by 2022, driven by a focus on innovation, agility, and a specialization in deep-sea international removals. By prioritizing this niche, Simon has solidified the company’s reputation as an expert in complex global relocations.

Beyond his company, Simon plays an active role in the industry. As a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR) Overseas Council and the International Association of Movers (IAM) Leadership Alliance Council, he has contributed to shaping the sector. In 2023, he became the inaugural recipient of the IAM Excellence in Leadership Award, recognizing his efforts in driving growth, innovation, and collaboration.

A respected thought leader, Simon is a sought-after keynote speaker, having addressed major industry conferences in Edinburgh and Toronto. His talks on attracting young talent and fostering inclusive workplaces highlight his commitment to advancing the global removals industry.

Primary Setbacks

When Simon led the company through a management buyout in 2021, he was aware of the journey not being a cakewalk. Brexit and COVID-19 were two major disruptors that brought in unprecedented uncertainty and volatility. Supply chains were in disarray, ports were congested, and operational costs were skyrocketing. Imposter syndrome would often kick in as he would drown in self-doubt about his capability of handling a company with such an immense reputation and legacy. Fear of failure was immense and alarming.

Simon emphasized that small, consistent actions were crucial in overcoming doubts. By prioritizing open communication, they ensured that both the team and clients felt informed and engaged, making transparency a cornerstone of their approach and fostering trust even in uncertain times. Recognizing the significance of mental health, they created a supportive environment for themselves and their team, effectively mitigating the unavoidable stress of the pandemic.

Focused Growth Leadership

Simon’s philosophy centers on leveraging core strengths. By focusing exclusively on deep-sea removals to destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, and North America, he has preserved the company’s competitive advantage and honed its expertise. This strategic clarity has been pivotal to John Mason International’s growth and its ability to adapt to evolving customer demands.

Committed to the power of people, Simon has cultivated a culture of inclusivity and emotional intelligence within the company. Influenced by strong female role models in his life, he has championed diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring all employees feel valued. Initiatives such as a profit-share scheme and investments in training underscore his dedication to nurturing talent. From acquiring land for new facilities to adopting advanced technologies for operational efficiency, he has positioned John Mason International for sustained long-term success.

Adaptation Invites Growth

The adoption of video survey technology marked a transformative step for the company. Initially, the concept of remote assessments faced resistance, but its potential to enhance efficiency and customer experience was clear. This foresight proved critical when COVID-19 made in-person surveys nearly impossible. Thanks to early investment in video technology, the company pivoted seamlessly, maintaining operations without disruption.

A small, agile management team and hands-on leadership enabled swift decision-making and rapid implementation. While competitors struggled to adapt, the company leveraged video surveys to ensure continuity, increase capacity, reduce costs, and provide greater flexibility. These innovations were key to doubling turnover from £6.6 million in 2020 to £13.5 million by 2022.

Resilient Innovation

Innovation extends beyond merely adopting the latest technology; it embodies a mindset. Effective leaders set the tone by embracing new ideas and leading through example. For instance, championing initiatives such as video surveys or steering teams through the challenges of the pandemic demonstrates that change should be perceived as an opportunity rather than a threat.

Winning the Great British Entrepreneur Award was a pivotal achievement, not only as a personal milestone but also as a significant recognition for the organization. This accolade represents more than just business success—it underscores the culture of innovation and resilience fostered within the company.

Empathy is the Key

Effective leadership is about connection, not control. The approach is grounded in emotional intelligence—empathizing with and understanding those within the organization. Whether interacting with the newest team member or the most senior executive, it is important to recognize that every individual contributes value. The person loading containers with care holds equal importance in the company’s success as the CEO. Each role is interconnected, and it is this unity that drives organizational success.

Leadership is practiced with authenticity and transparency, fostering an environment where the team feels comfortable approaching leadership with challenges, ideas, or concerns. By building trust, a culture is created where individuals are empowered to innovate and take ownership of their roles.

Leadership Solutions 

1. Building a Strong People Pipeline

Attracting talent is not just about filling immediate needs but identifying future potential. The leader stays connected with both internal and external contacts, recognizing promise in unexpected places, whether it’s a warehouse worker with leadership potential or an aligned external collaborator. Succession planning is key, preparing team members for future roles to ensure continuity and foster growth opportunities.

2. Recognizing and Valuing Every Role

Fostering loyalty and engagement requires ensuring every role is valued. Recognition should extend beyond senior management to include all team members, celebrating achievements and acknowledging behind-the-scenes contributions to inspire and motivate.

3. Creating a Culture of Communication and Feedback

Effective leadership fosters open communication through regular check-ins and feedback sessions. When employees feel heard, they are more likely to take ownership of their roles and contribute meaningfully.

4. Fostering Innovation Through Empowerment

Innovation thrives on trust, not micromanagement. By empowering team members with the freedom to experiment and offering support in failure, the leader nurtures creativity, confidence, and resilience that benefit both individuals and the organization.

5. Developing Emotional Resilience

Leadership involves navigating pressures like imposter syndrome and fear of failure. The leader emphasizes emotional resilience, using challenges as fuel to stay focused and modeling this for the team to inspire confidence in overcoming obstacles.

6. Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Leaders must evolve in a rapidly changing world. Staying informed, seeking mentors, and investing in personal development are essential. Embracing new technologies provides opportunities to learn and grow alongside the team, creating an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to meaningful success.

Sustainable Competitive Advantage

Staying innovative and competitive in the international removals industry requires focus, adaptability, and a long-term vision. John Mason International has built its reputation by specializing in deep-sea international removals, focusing on complex logistics to destinations like Australia, New Zealand, and North America. This clear focus allows the company to deliver exceptional service.

A key strategy is reinvesting profits into the business, prioritizing long-term growth over short-term gains. Recent investments in video survey technology have improved efficiency and customer experience while acquiring land for a bespoke warehouse position the company for sustainable growth. Retaining profits ensures the business remains adaptable and competitive.

In pricing, John Mason International avoids undercutting competitors in favor of transparent, value-driven pricing that reflects the quality and reliability of its services. This approach protects margins and allows reinvestment in areas like training, infrastructure, and technology.

Innovation is central to the company’s competitiveness. The introduction of video survey technology streamlined operations and provided customers with a more convenient and accurate way to plan moves, especially during the pandemic. The agility of the small management team, along with hands-on leadership, enabled quick decision-making that kept the company ahead of competitors.

Customer feedback drives continuous improvement in communication, shipping options, and packing methods. Employees are encouraged to share ideas and implement solutions, making innovation an integral part of the company culture.

By focusing on core strengths, retaining profits for growth, and maintaining fair pricing with exceptional value, John Mason International remains resilient and proactive in shaping the future of international removals.

Inclusive Leadership Culture

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values at John Mason International. Inspired by strong female role models, including the Simon’s mother, the company has always valued female leadership. Mary Mason’s founding of the company in 1884 reflects this commitment, despite naming the business after her husband as a strategic choice.

Women hold leadership roles throughout the organization, and initiatives like the profit-share scheme and membership in the Real Living Wage program promote fairness and shared success. Talent development is prioritized, with opportunities for growth at all levels, creating a culture where every voice is heard and valued. In 2024, the company was named one of the top UK’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing, Production and Transportation.

For John Mason International, DEI is about creating a workplace based on respect, empowerment, and opportunity, building a more inclusive future for the company.

Pearls of Wisdom

Standing in Windsor Castle and meeting King Charles III, Simon reflected on the company’s journey and the road ahead. John Mason International is more than just a company; it is a community, a family. The company’s legacy is built on trust, innovation, and adaptability in the face of challenges. With these core values, the leadership is confident the company will continue to shape the future of international removals for years to come.