March 2024 Business Bulletin - Finance

All eyes turn to the Spring Budget

How quickly will we bounce back from the RINO recession?

Page 10

Fury at Labour Party’s North Sea tax raid

Analysts warn proposals could cost up to 100,000 jobs.

Page 22

MSPs grilled on energy strategy at Chamber dinner

Industry leaders gather to scrutinise net zero plans.

Page 36

Exclusive: Haviland seeks budget boost for business

Sponsored by:

What the Chamber is looking for in the upcoming budget

The March edition of Business Bulletin has a finance theme and, of course, on the 6th of this month we’ll find out from the CFO of UK plc…otherwise known as the Chancellor of the Exchequer, how he plans to tackle the strategic growth drift the nation has been suffering from for the past ten years and more.

Of course, Jeremy Hunt will point to a range of quite extraordinary external forces and factors since 2020 as mitigation. But even before this, GDP growth from 2015-19 averaged out at just below 2% per annum. In 2023 it was around 0.1% and according to official figures we now know the UK economy actually fell into recession during the final three months of last year.

Not good enough for what should be one of the world’s powerhouse nations and performance below that of our peer group even accounting for the ‘threats’ on our national SWOT analysis. [Most of these are shared by other G7 nations. Some, however, are of our own making].

If these were the figures of even a modestly ambitious SME, the board and stakeholders are more than likely to have been asking serious questions of the management team and demanding structural change some time ago.

If you can’t grow your top line, the next stop is to look at costs and we are seeing public spending slashed at all levels of government to try and balance the books. At the same time, to counter the fact that the low growth figures over the last decade mean organic tax take is stagnant, corporation and personal taxation rates are on the increase. Meaning there is less available cash for people and firms to spend and invest.

Increasing regulation of business is stifling investment and entrepreneurship. Add this to higher borrowing and other costs of doing business and we appear to be stagnating, trapped in a downward spiral.

The mindset has become ‘there’s no money’ and the focus remains myopically on costs rather than creating the conditions to enable the private sector to do what it does best. Creating value, opportunity and actually growing the economy, which in turn will provide the funding we desperately need for our crumbling public services.

And it’s worth pointing out - as we enter another round of painful cuts to local services - that Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Councils remain among the lowest funded local authorities in Scotland, despite this region punching well above its weight in economic contribution.

All of this takes me back to my time working for a major newspaper and media group with big national and regional brands. Still hugely profitable, cash generative businesses, the early noughties saw us faced by a fastchanging environment, new entrants and technologies, which were putting pressure on our core income streams.

There were two choices. Embrace the challenge and invest in changing the business model to develop new revenue streams and retain our market-leading information provider status.

Or to double down, stick heads in the sand and reassure shareholders that they could continue to expect big annual dividends on the back of our historical 40% margin levels. Guess which route they chose?

The erosion of revenues gathered pace almost month on month. So, with the promises of consistent financial return

having been blindly made to investors, the only option was to cut costs. First to the bone, then into the marrow. Killing the DNA of the business and meaning there was simply no ability or capacity to focus on innovation and ways of growing turnover. To my huge sadness, the sector today bears the permanent scars.

So, what goodies will be in the famous red case?

Will the announcements the Chancellor makes be the right ones economically and create the conditions for meaningful growth?

Or simply a big bag of sweeties aimed at convincing the electorate that the Tories are a (marginally) safer pair of hands on the fiscal tiller than the opposition as we enter the crucial preelection period?

We wrote to Jeremy Hunt last month outlining what we expected to hear when he steps up the dispatch box including:

• An end to EPL to protect tens of thousands of NE jobs and provide the confidence and capital to invest in becoming a global renewable energy hub;

• More pragmatic interpretation of immigration policy to ensure that sectors and regions have the access to the people and skills they need to grow. This cannot be a one size fits all issue;

• Consumers need more cash in their pockets to allow them to start putting this into the tills of our struggling retailers and hospitality businesses. To benefit people in Scotland, this will need to be through further NI cuts. (As we have seen, cuts in general taxation levels will not necessarily be passed on by Holyrood, further increasing the disparity)

• Targeted VAT cuts to support high street and hospitality businesses; and

• Further incentives and a big red tape bonfire to encourage investment and entrepreneurship

Reflecting what we are hearing from our 1,200+ members, the Chamber continues to play the role of The Voice of Business. Our General Election manifesto ‘Energising the UK’s economy’ is currently being written so all political parties and candidates are crystal clear on what the business community of the North-east of Scotland needs to see from our next government.

Our premier partners

The Chamber sits at the heart of the North-east business community, and one of our core aims is to help create the economic conditions and business environment which will allow this region to flourish.

Our premier partners see the value of a strong regional Chamber and choose to engage with us at this level to reinforce their ongoing commitment to the region and its economy.

Without their support we would not be able to undertake much of the work that we do. Their engagement is hugely valued and appreciated.

If you are interested in joining them, we’d love to talk to you!

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Welcome to the Chamber

Sonomatic Ltd

Sonomatic specialises in NDT inspection, design, development and application combined with integrity engineering capabilities. Sonomatic brings innovation and bespoke inspection solutions to the market through in-house development of equipment, software and robotics, to reside as a global market leader for ROVdeployed subsea inspection and non-intrusive inspection technologies.

T 01925 414000

W www.sonomatic.com

E info@sonomatic.com

Joe Boyle Ltd

A consultancy practice supporting developers and landowners in project management, strategic development and sustainability. Joe Boyle provide expert project management advice, by bringing specialised knowledge and skills to empower businesses to make informed decisions throughout the lifecycle of a project, and to add value and achieve their project and business goals.

T 07815 893785

W www.joeboyle.co.uk

E joe@joeboyle.co.uk

C Charles Loader, General Manager – Europe & Africa

Farsight

Farsight work across the full scope of digital media, guiding brands from conception to the future through the creative force of its team’s vision, expertise and dedication. Farsight shape the narrative of your brand, ensuring it not only keeps pace with but also forges ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of digital excellence.

T 0333 034 1020

W www.wearefarsight.com

E ms@wearefarsight.com

C Michael Silva, Founder

Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland

Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland is Scotland’s largest health charity working to help people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions live life to the full. For many of the 1 in 5 Scots affected by these conditions, their illness can be life-changing and the impact overwhelming.

T 07388 990336

W www.chss.org.uk

E Anne.magarin@chss.org.uk

C Anne Magarin

Archer Resourcing

Archer Resourcing is a leading recruitment agency, with the ambition to provide exceptional staffing solutions to the criminal justice, nursing, social care and psychological therapy industries.

T 01473 939670

W www.archerresourcing.co.uk

E jgregory@archerresourcing.co.uk

C Jamie Gregory, Associate Director

Cardinal Global Logistics

Cardinal Global provide award winning support from the world’s largest employee-owned logistics company. The company offers logistics services, global freight forwarding, 3PL fulfilment, supply chain management, customs support and project solutions.

T 01224 011192

W www.cardinalgl.com

E opsabz@cardinalgl.com

C Keith Fenton, Director

C Joe Boyle

Haarsin Consulting Ltd

Haarsin Consulting Ltd is a professional information services company. Its core business is providing clients with support in the areas of business analysis and improvement as well as research and information management. The company’s mission is to help regions, business and industry deliver on their value and growth propositions.

T 07930 097188

W www.haarsinconsulting.com

E information@haarsinconsulting.com

C Dhugald Shepherd, Director

Weirwood Consulting

Weirwood Consulting are intrinsically rooted in doing the right thing. In the current economic climate, businesses are struggling to afford the high-cost, traditional management consulting services offered currently. This leaves a void in the market for a more affordable, resultsoriented, and customer-centric consultancy approach.

T 07854 280122

W www.linktr.ee/weirwoodconsulting

E hello@weirwoodconsulting.co

C Sarah Leigh, CEO

Empirisys

Empirisys work with high-hazard organisation across diverse sectors employing innovative data science solutions to unlock the power hidden within your organisation’s data.

T 02922 701010

W www.empirisys.io

E info@empirisys.io

C MaryAnn Rae, Relationship Manager

KLT Networking

Aberdeen-based KLT Networking helps companies and individuals win more business via networking training, coaching and mentoring. All company solutions are fully-tailored, following a full networking audit. Individual services include a 6-month Networking Success Programme and a Networking Review & Boost.

T 01224 900789

W www.kltnetworking.com

E info@kltnetworking.com

C Andrew Smith, Director

William Wilson Wealth Management Ltd

William Wilson Wealth Management Ltd provide our clients with a specialised, professional service in all areas of wealth management, including investment, retirement, protection and inheritance tax planning. The aim is to provide long lasting, effective wealth building and retention solutions to all clients.

T 01224 013370

W www.wilsonwealthmanagement.co.uk

E nadira.campbell@sjpp.co.uk

C Nadira Campbell

Garioch Sports Centre

Garioch Sports Centre provide community sports and leisure facilities that are accessible and affordable for all ages and abilities.

T 01467 626141

W www.gariochsports.co.uk

E info@gariochsports.co.uk

C Kevin Bonarius, Co-general Manager

Velohub (UK) Ltd

Velohub is a bike store based at Aberdeen City beach that caters for all things cycling – from Ride, Rent and Repairs on all types of bikes, specialising in the retail, hire and subscriptions of electric bikes.

T 07876 306547

W www.velohub.co.uk

E dale@velohub.co.uk

C Dale Robertson, Director

Belmont Community Cinema Ltd

The charity was established to refurbish and reopen The Belmont as an accessible, sustainable, truly independent cinema. The organisation’s vision for the cinema is built on the pillars of film, education and filmmaking, community and customer experience, which will make it THE destination for film in Aberdeen.

T 07591 366612

W www.belmontcinema.co.uk

E sarah.dingwall@belmontcinema.co.uk

C Sarah Dingwall

Malcolm Allan Housebuilders

Malcolm Allan Housebuilders has been constructing high-specification, traditionally-built homes across the North-east of Scotland for over 50 years. During that time Malcolm Allan Housebuilders has earned an enviable reputation for our build quality, offering spacious homes and unrivalled customer satisfaction.

T 01467 633505

W www.mahousebuilders.com

E info@mahousebuilders.com

How quickly will the UK bounce back from the RINO recession?

The UK slipped into recession at the end of 2023, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s plan to make the economy the key battleground in the forthcoming General Election.

The economy shrank by a larger than expected 0.3% between October and December, after it had already contracted between July and September.

The UK is in recession if it fails to grow for two successive quarters. But it all feels a little different to the last time.

The CV19 recession was the deepest since 1709 and triggered an inflationary shock and cost of living crisis which still ripples through the business environment today.

And the one before that – the Great Recession of 2008/09 – saw unemployment rise to 8.3%.

However, this time around, there is growing economic consensus that it may just be a blip.

One economist even went as far as to brand it the RINO recession –Recession In Name Only.

Recessions are normally associated with rising unemployment but, according to the latest official figures, the unemployment rate instead fell during last year, dropping from 4.2% in the spring to a very low 3.8% in the final three months of the year.

The other bit of good news was a much better-than-expected outturn for retail sales last month.

Retail sales have grown significantly - far exceeding expectationsas consumer spending bounced back in January.

The 3.4% increase in retail sales is more than double the 1.5% rise forecast by analysts - and suggests the economy is recovering.

Analysis

Ruth Gregory, deputy chief UK economist at Capital Economics, said “this recession is as mild as they come”, adding that the data “is more politically significant than it is economically”.

Tom Pugh, an economist at RSM UK, said: “The UK is finally in the long awaited “recession”, but there are three things worth remembering.

“First, it was a recession only in the strictest technical definition of two consecutive quarters of contracting GDP and even this was barely met. Most other measures of economic health such as employment and real incomes were rising. This was a RINO (recession in name only).

“Second, it is probably already over. Output in December was dragged down by weather and strikes and most of the early unofficial data points to a return to growth at the start of this year. It will also be one of, if not the, smallest recession on record.

“In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised if future revisions to the data, which tend to be positive, mean the recession gets wiped away.

“Third, talk about what happened in the second half of last year feels very outdated now. The economy has moved on and the future looks brighter. By the summer inflation should be back at around 2%, interest rates will likely be falling and consumers may well be enjoying some significant tax cuts.

“If anything, a recession will give more room for the BoE to pivot to interest rate cuts in the Spring. This will kick start a consumer-spending led recovery that should see the economy finally return to growth.”

All eyes on Hunt Attention will now turn to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, although the messaging from the Treasury ahead of the March 6 budget has changed.

He has received his second assessment from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The guidance since has been that the chancellor has little room for manoeuvre in the budget, and will no longer be able to repeat his two-point reduction in employee national insurance (NI) announced in his November autumn statement, or cut income tax by a similar amount.

These things can change again, and often do, but there are reasons why the OBR might have changed its estimates, the chancellor’s headroom being conditioned on public sector debt as a percentage of GDP edging lower in the fifth year of the forecast.

Business breakfast

We are expecting a blockbuster Spring Budget in March as Hunt and Sunak have one last roll of the economic dice before the General Election.

But what will it mean for you and your business? Join the Chamber for an exclusive Budget de-brief with EY in Aberdeen City Centre.

Held the morning after the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, EY’s tax experts will break down the implications of his big announcements, as well as the ones that he hopes will go unnoticed.

Will the North Sea finally get some relief from the windfall tax? Will there be some help for hard-pressed businesses in retail and hospitality, and how can the government break the current doom cycle of low growth? All these questions, and many, more, will be explored by our panel.

We will also be joined by polling guru Dr Emily Gray – managing director of Ipsos in Scotland – who will examine where all the major parties sit as the starting gun is fired on the 2024 General Election.

Book your tickets at agcc.co.uk/events

Most other measures of economic health such as employment and real incomes were rising. This was a RINO (recession in name only).

Business lessons I’ve learned

Jo McIntosh, Sales and Marketing Director, JBS Group

What does your company do that others don’t?

From our HQ in Peterhead, JBS operates in over 80 countries and across a diverse range of industries from subsea and energy to space. Our foundations are in fabrication but our innovative products such as our patented Sea Axe (Controlled Flow Excavation) technology and our bespoke blast containment solutions are in high demand worldwide.

We are also the leading supplier of screw conveyors globally with a loyal and expansive client base. Sea Axe was used on the world’s longest interconnector project, subsea and on land – a £600million project to connect Denmark and the UK.

What are the most pressing challenges that your industry sector faces today, and why?

The challenge is to remain relevant for our clients. We must ensure we are giving them what they need, whether it’s subsea related or part of our blast containment offering. These services help to reduce costs and improve efficiency, while keeping safety in mind at all times. This can be relentless but enjoyable at the same time.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in your career to date?

As my career has developed, I’ve understood the value to great leadership. Who you work for and how they operate can play a huge part in how you behave, perform and deliver. I’m trusted and valued at JBS and, through good communication, understand its business services, values and aims. I feel part of the journey and I’m very committed to seeing JBS doing well and succeeding.

What is the most valuable piece of business advice you have ever received?

Stay true to yourself. If you keep to your own moral compass, work hard and don’t compromise on your values, you will find your fit and purpose. I am very fortunate as I love my job and work with like-minded colleagues. I feel supported, fulfilled and very much part of a team.

What was your first job?

A customer service advisor for the Royal Bank of Scotland.

When would you like to retire?

Thoughts of retirement are a long way off. There’s much to achieve at JBS.

What did you have for breakfast?

Oats and a strong cup of coffee. I’m a creature of habit and have the same breakfast every day unless I’m travelling.

Who, or what, inspires you?

People. I love meeting new people, hearing their stories and journeys through life and especially the unsung heroes who go out of their way to help others.

What’s been your proudest career achievement to date, and why?

My recent appointment as a Director at JBS. We are in a very exciting period of growth across all service divisions and I am delighted to be on this journey. As cliché as it sounds, JBS offers everything I hoped I would find in my career: ambitious, entrepreneurial, while also feeling like a family. In addition, I was also thrilled for everyone at JBS when we won the Going Global category at the 2023 Northern Star Business Awards.

If you could make one thing happen tomorrow that would benefit the North-east Scotland, what would that be?

I’d like there to be more positivity about the North-east. It’s great place to live with so many things to see and do. It’s a resilient area when it comes to business. There have been a few serious bumps in the road, obviously, but it always seems to find a way to bounce back.

New bike hub offers gear change in city accessibility

Beating bus gates and breezing through the city’s low emission zones are just two of the benefits of using an e-bike around Aberdeen according to Dale Robertson, the owner of a new cycle business at the Granite city’s beachfront.

Velohub combines bicycle sales, rental opportunities and bike repairs and servicing. The business is focused primarily on electric bicycles, but with a range of adventure, gravel, dirt jump and BMX bikes also available. The company can also lease fleets of e-cargo bicycles to businesses wishing to ditch the car or van and take a bike between sites, shops or clients.

Commenting on Velohub’s launch, Dale said: “At the heart of this new business is our love of all things bike related and bringing our knowledge and expertise together to help seasoned cyclists and those getting in the saddle for the first time, have the best experience.

“Attitudes to e-bikes are shifting. Hardcore cyclists who previously saw them as “cheating” are increasingly recognising that the assistance offered by an electric bike enables more people of all ages and levels of fitness to take up the sport, with all the benefits it brings. And as an alternative to the motor car or delivery van in our city centres, they can also benefit the environment.”

neospace welcomes new members amid upturn in flexible office market

neospace, the premier provider of flexible office solutions, is thrilled to announce the growth of its community in Aberdeen. The Riverside Drive-based company has welcomed a wave of new members through its Neo House doors amid a notable upturn in the flexible office market.

In response to the evolving needs of businesses seeking flexibility and collaboration, neospace has positioned itself as a hub for innovation and professional growth. The surge in demand for flexible workspace solutions aligns with the changing dynamics of the modern workforce, where adaptability and collaboration are paramount.

neospace Managing Director, Scott Paton, commented “Businesses are seeking flexible and dynamic solutions which foster collaboration and a healthy work-life balance. We are proud to be at the forefront of this market in Aberdeen. Our increasing occupancy is testament to the thriving business community we have in the North-east.”

Recycl8 embarks on first large-scale commercial project

Sustainable technology firm, Recycl8, has just completed its first large-scale commercial project, following the successful first industry pour of its sustainable, lower carbon, R8 Mix concrete last year on a housing foundation.

The Aberdeenshire-based company has partnered once again with construction materials specialists, Breedon Group, to supply Recycl8’s patented solution of sustainable R8 Mix concrete, for the installation of an industrial floor slab on behalf of international energy transition firm, Aurora Energy Services.

“We are excited to be working with Aurora Energy Services” said Mark Gillespie, CEO of Recycl8. “It is particularly gratifying for us to be carrying out our first large-scale commercial project with an organisation which is committed to supporting the energy sector transition to net zero, with a particular focus on the renewables sector. With our commitment to fostering a sustainable, circular economy future for the construction industry by playing our part in lowering carbon emissions from concrete manufacture, we share the same values and synergies. In fact, our ‘green’ credentials were the deciding factor in Recycl8 being selected for this project.

“Working closely with our partners in the waste to energy and construction industries, we have developed R8 Mix, a pioneering, sustainable concrete, which not only has a lower embodied carbon than traditional mixes, but also gives new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded. We believe that this is the future of sustainable construction, and we are proud to partner with Aurora Energy Services to put our ambitions into action.”

RMD Ltd are excited to announce that they now have an Office in Aberdeen.

RMD are an independent specialist in UPS, Cooling and Monitoring Solutions. From small server rooms to cutting edge data centres, RMD are one of the few UK companies that can specify, supply, install and maintain Single and 3 phase UPS, Cooling and Monitoring systems.

RMD have grown significantly over the years through our exemplary customer service, our wide ranging and vast skill-sets within our industry, and we see the Aberdeen Office as a natural progression in our growth.

RMD Managing Director, Ross Barclay says “We are very excited about this latest chapter in the RMD story and to bring our 30 years’ plus experience to the Northeast. The Aberdeen Office will allow us to be closer to our existing client base in the Region, develop future business and we will be better placed to offer a more hands on and personal customer service.

RMD’s Northeast office is within the centrally located and excellent Office premises at Neo House on Aberdeen’s Riverside Drive.

RMD see Neo House as the perfect fit for our business requirements.

RMD’s Northeast Office will be supported by Business Development and Account Manager Scot Docherty. Scot has over 20 years experience in the UPS Industry with RMD, and is looking forward to the new chapter ahead.

Head Office: +44(0)1259219362

Aberdeen Office: +44(0)1224013376

Mobile: +44(0)7496279472

aberdeenenquiries@rmduk.com

www.rmduk.com

Ross Barclay Managing Director, RMD Limited

Experience culinary excellence with Amuse’s new A La Carte menu

Amuse, renowned for its commitment to seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary creations, is delighted to announce the launch of its new A La Carte menu. With a focus on showcasing the best of each season, the new menu promises an exceptional dining experience for guests.

Highlighting the essence of seasonal dining, the menu features a range of exquisite dishes crafted with the finest ingredients.

“We’re thrilled to introduce our new A La Carte menu, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients and culinary craftsmanship,” said Kevin Dalgleish, Chef Patron.

“At Amuse, we’re passionate about offering our guests a memorable dining experience that celebrates the flavours of each season.”

C-SAM and HycAero are in it for the long haul

In a significant move underlining their commitment to innovation and sustained growth, C-SAM and HycAero have announced the renewal of their partnership for an additional five years.

The partnership between C-SAM, a leading asset and rental software solutions provider, and HycAero, a prominent player in the aviation sector, has been characterised by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a drive for continuous improvement. With a focus on bolstering operational efficiency and streamlining various facets of their business, both companies have experienced a remarkable trajectory of progress.

The foundation of their partnership has been laid on the integration of modules encompassing asset management, stock control, quotation, production, sales inquiries, and finance. This comprehensive suite of tools has not only facilitated seamless operations but has also empowered both entities to delve into insightful reporting and strategic capacity planning, projecting their ambitions as far as two decades into the future.

ATPI Energy Travel partners with OGV Group

ATPI Energy Travel has partnered with OGV Group, the number one engagement platform for the energy sector, bolstering its position as the leading travel provider in the global energy space.

The ATPI Group is a global leader in travel management for the energy, marine, corporate and sports sectors. As the exclusive travel partner of OGV Group, ATPI Energy Travel will attend worldwide events with the energy sector heavyweight and benefit from editorial and digital media opportunities that will allow the team to connect with industry leaders, influencers and decision makers on a whole new level.

By utilising ATPI’s thought leaders, the team will be able to provide valuable travel insights to the OGV Group and their audience, whilst keeping ahead of industry trends.

David Whitehouse announced as SPE Offshore Europe 2025 Conference Chair

Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) CEO, David Whitehouse will chair the conference and executive committee for SPE Offshore Europe 2025 (OE25) being held at P&J Live, Aberdeen from September 2-5, 2025.

OEUK Chief Executive David Whitehouse said: “SPE Offshore Europe remains a key fixture for our collaborative, innovative industry and I’m pleased to take on the role of chair. The conference shines a spotlight on the UK sector and its excellent people to a global audience. As we consider the national and global challenges facing us, we must make sure everyone understands the enormous potential benefits of a transition led by integrated homegrown energies – oil, gas, hydrogen and wind and more.”

Erin Flett, Head of Business Development, Aberdeen Science Centre

When was your business established?

Aberdeen Science Centre recently celebrated its 35th birthday, having been established in 1988, making it the oldest science and discovery centre in Scotland. After undergoing a £6million redevelopment in 2020, which included the introduction of almost 65

Fraser Morrison, Director/ HSE and CDM Consultant , M2 Safety Consultants Ltd

When was your business established?

Our business was established in October 2019. Ron Murray has run various H&S consultancies in Aberdeen for the past 30 years and joined forces with Fraser, who was a H&S Advisor at a local civil engineering company, to form M2 Safety.

new exhibits and our designated event spaces, we look fresh for our age!

What does your business do?

We are a charity with a mission of inspiring a lifelong interest in science. We engage with audiences including children, young people and adults through our schools, community and public programmes. We welcome more than 50,000 annual visitors, and host a number of corporate events throughout the year.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

ASC engages with a range of industry partners who are interested in supporting our charity. That may mean developing a workshop for schools, sponsoring an exhibit or programme, hosting your AGM at ASC or anything else. We work with a variety of sectors and would love to hear from you.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

The ongoing cost of living crisis. We are working with more community groups than ever before; we need to ensure we can keep the doors open for them and our other visitors. We can tackle this by developing our industry partnerships and increasing the number of corporate events we host.

And the biggest opportunity?

Renewable energy has a multitude of opportunities for us, from new partners to develop workshops with or sponsors for a free entry family day, to becoming a corporate member or choosing ASC as your next event venue. As a STEM charity, we tie in well with renewable and CSR opportunities.

What does your business do?

Our business provides competent health, safety and environmental advice, assistance and support to companies through site inspection, inhouse training and assistance with their safe systems of work paperwork. We also advise and assist companies during the entirety of construction projects from design to build phases.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

We mainly deal with construction related companies and have clients who are based north of Inverness down to Ayr, basically we cover the whole of Scotland. Recently we have been assisting oil and gas companies with onshore construction projects by providing them with support and assistance at all stages of their projects.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Fluctuations in the economy impacts our clients and the construction industry greatly. Rising costs of materials forces the cost of projects up and developers cancel projects leaving our clients out of work. Another challenge is getting future generations into the construction industry as statistics show key trades will be dwindling in skilled people in the next 10 years.

And the biggest opportunity?

Supporting oil and gas and renewable energy companies with onshore projects. We can support companies from initial conception, through the design phase and during the construction phase by ensuring they meet their duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regs 2015.

When was your business established?

1992.

What does your business do?

I specialise in 360-degree executive coaching and all levels of leadership

When was your business established?

Music 4 U was founded in 2003 and became a registered charity in 2005.

What does your charity do?

We provide fully integrated music and theatre workshops for children

and organisational development including employee engagement, motivation and retention.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

With selected expert associates. I have worked all over the world, primarily but not exclusively within the oil and gas sector. Other sectors include construction, finance and the public sector.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Budgetary restraints often lead to non-operational services such as ‘soft skills’ training being cut. However, there has arguably never been a more important time for leaders to engage their workforces and gain their positive support through the exponential and accelerating changes that are facing virtually all industry sectors.

And the biggest opportunity?

Gallup’s 2022 global employee poll of two million people found that 73% of employees in Europe are ‘quiet quitters’. That is, present but not engaged and ripe for other opportunities. This group represents the biggest opportunity for leaders to engage, inspire and develop their employees for maximum retention and productivity.

What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?

Results! I helped one medium sized oil and gas client reduce attrition from 12% to under 1% and achieve position #11 in the ‘Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For’. I work very closely with clients to fully understand their objectives, culture and values to create bespoke coaching support.

and young people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire from the age of two up to 25. Our participants are those who experience loneliness, exclusion, isolation, physical and learning disabilities, poor mental health, and social and financial deprivation. Our workshops encourage inclusivity and integration, enabling children and young people with and without additional support to understand, learn, help, and support each other through song, dance, and theatre.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

We are always looking for new companies, large and small, to spread the word about the charity. There are lots of ways that companies can get involved.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Corporate and community engagement. Despite being established for 18 years, we would love to get our name out there. We want to shout from

the rooftops about what we do here at M4U.

And the biggest opportunity?

To engage with corporates who would be willing to support in any way. This doesn’t always have to be monetary support, it can be through volunteering, attending our events or donating raffle and auction prizes for our events.

What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?

The youngsters. They come to us with many challenges, and to see them engage in music, shine, and gain confidence through singing and musical interaction is fantastic. This is a lifeline for so many of them. And they make you smile every time they perform. They are pretty amazing.

Margaret Brown, Director, Margaret Brown Consulting Ltd

Donna Deans, Corporate Fundraising Officer, Music 4 U

Aberdeen training firm provides realistic scenarios with safety as its focus

Craig Ross, Operations Manager, The Fire Training Group

With its industries spanning energy, maritime, and agriculture, the North-east of Scotland knows all too well the dangers associated with high-risk operations. It is the reason Aberdeen-based training company Fire Training Group (FTG) was launchedto provide workers with the critical skills they needed to stay safe while at work.

Today, from its purpose-built facility at Aberdeen International Airport in Dyce, the firm offers a large portfolio of courses including confined spaces, emergency response, and firefighting for the energy, maritime, and aviation industries.

The company’s commitment to safely creating scenarios that are as realistic as possible to prepare people for the risks they may face in their work environment has earned it a reputation as the UK’s leading emergency response training provider.

Attaining safety-critical competencies

Central to FTG’s success is an approach that quickly puts course participants at ease and builds confidence – even during challenging practical exercises. With guidance from experienced coaches and trainers, participants

can attain the standard of competency required by the awarding bodies including the Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO), City and Guilds, Joint Oil Industry Fire Forum (JOIFF), Skills for Justice and the Maritime Certification Agency (MCA).

Craig Ross, Operations Manager at FTG, said: “We often train people who due to their job role, are going to be in their emergency team. These are people who have never done anything like this before and they are naturally apprehensive. Our trainers are on hand to make sure we take time to make sure they are comfortable with what they will face before they take part in any live exercises.”

Simulated scenarios meet practical exercises

FTG courses combine digital simulations, practical exercises, and deep industry knowledge to ensure participants develop the skills required to meet legislative requirements in differing industries. It is the only training provider to use live fire, for example.

Craig adds: “While digital simulation of scenarios can be an excellent part of a training course, we believe that combining this with firsthand training using a realistic, controlled environment with

current techniques gives a rounded experience. We find simulations help build confidence and familiarise participants with the steps they need to take but then they need to put that into practice with realworld exercises.”

Compliant training courses developed with the client in mind

FTG has delivered training to thousands of workers within the energy, maritime, aviation, chemical processing, and other industrial sectors since it first launched in 1999.

It collaborates with clients to understand the environment they operate in and the risks they manage, to enable tailored scenarios to be developed while ensuring all course content complies with the standards they are training to. It also takes a 360-degree approach to all training activities ensuring health, safety, security, and the environment are a focus.

FTG will be hosting an open day for individuals and companies who are interested in learning more about its confined spaces training on Friday, March 8. To find out more email enquiries@ thefiretraininggroup.com

Belmont team appoints local architect in bid to reinvent city cinema

The team behind plans to reopen the Belmont Cinema have appointed Aberdeen-based architecture and interiors firm, TINTO as the architects to help breathe new life into the city’s iconic, independent picturehouse.

Belmont Community Cinema Ltd were selected by Aberdeen City Council as the preferred operators for the Belmont in September 2023. The charity worked with TINTO on initial concept designs as part of their successful proposal, and the team are delighted to continue that partnership by officially awarding the contract to re-design the cinema for a new audience.

Jacob Campbell, Trustee of Belmont Community Cinema Ltd. said: “We have been very impressed with the TINTO team over the past few months we have worked together: they have demonstrated a similar passion for the project, shown a deep-rooted understanding of the significance of the Belmont, its place within Aberdeen, and the steps required to preserve its future, whilst honouring its past.”

Richard Tinto, Founder and CEO of TINTO Architecture said that the award of this particular contract is gratifying on several levels: “The Belmont Cinema has a hugely important role to play in nurturing and sustaining the cultural heartbeat of Aberdeen, as part of a campaign to regenerate the city centre while retaining its heritage. As a proud Aberdonian, I’m thrilled that TINTO has been appointed as a key player in preserving the Belmont as a classic cinematic experience for filmgoers, but also cementing its position as a community and educational hub for many years to come.

“Being awarded such a specialist project is testament to the skills, expertise and track record of the entire TINTO team in delivering unique, highly specialist cultural projects such as this.”

He added: “We passionately believe that our job as architects and designers is to create places and spaces which enhance the lives of the people who use and inhabit them, and respond sensitively to their cultural, social and environmental settings. The Belmont Cinema project is an opportunity for us to showcase these values in the process of reviving a much-loved, high-profile venue.”

Using viscous waterflooding could be the answer to the North Sea energy transition

With current uncertainty surrounding the future of the North Sea oil and gas industry, especially with a General Election on the horizon and party leaders starting to set out their manifestos, there has never been a greater need for good news stories for the regions workforce. With investment levels predicted to drop amid continued plans for windfall taxation from both of the main political parties, it’s little wonder that the longevity of the sector looks increasing bleak. New field license approvals maintain some buoyancy but the economic outlook for some of the older and less profitable fields may spell the start of early decommissioning for some operators.

With all the influx of modern technologies including smart wells, directional drilling and better seismic data for infill drilling campaigns to name but a few, the overall oil recovery factor (ratio of oil recovered vs. oil in the reservoir) has not changed by more than 1% in the last 20 years or so. Waterflooding is the most common secondary recovery method utilised in the offshore environment (over gas injection, for example) but the disparity between the low viscosity of the injected water and more

viscous oil leads to massive amounts of oil left stranded in the reservoir. In fact, average recovery factor in the North Sea is ~43% meaning that the majority of the oil is never recovered. So much for advanced technologies!

There is, however, a relatively low cost, environmentally friendly chemical option that can increase recovery factors whilst simultaneously reducing carbon emissions associated with oil production. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well not for at least one operator in the basin who have observed massive upsides to using the technology. By increasing the viscosity of the injected water, the oil bypassing described above is vastly reduced leading to an additional 5-10% oil recovery. The reduction in water channelling also leads to much lower volumes of water being produced alongside the oil which in turn requires less energy to separate, treat and pump. Less water usage requires less energy and so the carbon emissions are vastly reduced, by an average of ~70% looking at the worldwide picture.

But this is by no means a new technology. Onshore, viscous waterflooding has been deployed since the 1980s in over 350 projects across the globe, although it has been adopted at a much lower rate offshore due to the more complicated operating environment.

Ithaca Energy and the previous owners of the Captain field in the North Sea, Chevron, have been using the technology since 2012 with excellent results, providing an additional 10 million barrels (as of February 2023) and reducing the water usage by ~85% over waterflooding alone. In some cases, wells that were cited for shut in due to reaching their economic limit are now the most valuable in the field due to viscous waterflood implementation, a trend that could easily be replicated across the basin.

SNF have been at the forefront of technology development in the viscous waterflooding market since its inception, providing products for over 250 projects currently in operation today. With advances in chemical technology and a better understanding of the recovery mechanisms involved, we believe that there is no better time to start field evaluation of this enhanced recovery technique. In the current political environment it could be the silver bullet required to keep the North Sea oil and gas industry operating far beyond its current forecasted lifetime. Finally, a good news story to offset the doom and gloom!

Robin Shields, Eastern Hemisphere Sales Manager, SNF

Drilltools Ltd celebrates decade in business

Local drilling valve rental firm Drilltools Ltd is celebrating 10 years in business with the announcement of a major new contract.

Drilltools Ltd has faced a number of challenges however, in recent times the business has gone from strength to strength and has just secured a 12-month contract to supply 10 drilling flapper safety valves to a large offshore drilling operation in Miri, Malaysia.

The offshore drilling project, set to commence in Q1 2024, represents a substantial opportunity for Drilltools Ltd to showcase its expertise and contribute to the success of a vital component of the energy sector. The company’s stateof-the-art flapper valves are designed to meet the rigorous demands of offshore drilling, ensuring operational efficiency and safety in challenging environments.

Drilltools Director Jeff Knight expressed his gratitude for the support and trust of clients, partners, and the dedicated team that has been instrumental in the company’s success. “Reaching our 10-year anniversary is a significant milestone for Drilltools Ltd. We are proud of what we have achieved and excited about the future. This new contract is a testament to the quality of our products and the trust our clients place in us”, he said.

Northwood team celebrates 15 years of business

Estate and lettings agency Northwood, with offices across the North-east of Scotland, is celebrating its 15th year in business with a calendar of philanthropic endeavours which will benefit 15 local charities.

The Northwood team will ‘give-back’ to its local community by providing support each month to different organisations throughout the region, offering practical hands-on help including painting jobs, and sorting and clearing up, to mock interviews for those looking to get back into employment.

North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards to support growth of ambitious businesses

Judges from key customers for North-east Scotland’s food and drink sector are part of the revamped industry awards set to support the growth of ambitious businesses across the region.

The North East Scotland Food & Drink Awards, delivered by Opportunity North East (ONE) in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, has been a springboard for market development for over 30 years.

The new-look awards offer practical benefits to entrants and winners, to support the next generation of food and drink manufacturers and producers with a range of market development opportunities.

Industry-leading judges from across the UK – including from Waitrose & Partners, Naked Wines and SPAR – will provide feedback on entries. New category prizes will provide practical growth support, including use of the new product development kitchen at ONE SeedPod. Shortlisted and winning entries will benefit from enhanced profiles with industry buyers, influencers, and consumers, and products entered will also feature at the gala awards dinner in May –the region’s premier industry event.

Stanley Morrice MBE chairs the food, drink, and agriculture board at ONE. He said: “North-east Scotland’s world-class food and drink sector is enterprising and innovative, and its products are in demand across the UK and internationally. ONE is working with entrepreneurs and business leaders to enable them to achieve more and fulfil their growth ambitions.

“The revamped 2024 awards provide the industry platform and practical support to boost market development and celebrate excellence and investment in people, products and processes across this diverse and dynamic sector. We want to see success stories of consumer-led product development and hear from the businesses putting people, innovation and sustainability at the heart of their growth plans and to see finalists and winners benefit from their participation.”

Fury at Labour’s plans for a ‘proper’ windfall tax on North Sea

Heading to the north of Scotland to betray people in the pursuit of money and power has become very fashionable in 2024, thanks to ‘The Traitors’.

However, the back-stabbing stars of the hit television series have nothing on Labour, who just months after heading north to promise ‘no cliff-edge end’ to the North Sea oil and gas sector have delivered one of the biggest betrayals in Britain’s industrial history.

The party’s “proper” windfall tax – which will result in energy firms being levied at 78% for another five years – will wipe out 100,000 jobs, according to analysts, and cost the Treasury £20billion in lost revenue.

To put the devastating job toll in context, it was the axing of 20,000 jobs which sparked the miners’ strikes in 1984-85. This one policy will potentially wipe out five times as many.

Even for a party known to indulge in a bit of pre-election selfflagellation, this really takes the shortbread biscuit.

Labour – the party of workers and unions – happy to cast tens of thousands of hard-working men and women on the scrapheap and place a world class Scottish industry on death row.

It does not matter what your political persuasion is, a policy which costs 100,000 jobs is a bad one.

The fact that opposition parties cannot make political capital out of such a ruinous strategy highlights

just how shambolic energy policy has become on these isles.

The SNP of old would be standing up for the tens of thousands of Scots now facing an uncertain future. The prospect of a Westminster government shutting down Scotland’s biggest industry would be election manna from heaven.

However, hamstrung by their illconceived presumption against oil and gas, and politically neutered by the Greens, Humza Yousaf has no moral high ground to occupy on this issue.

Neither do the Conservatives, who implemented the windfall tax in the first place and have since ignored multiple pleas to remove it, despite energy prices normalising over a year ago.

Based on the above, you can understand why the forthcoming General Election has paralysed investment in the North Sea. But that paused investment will become lost investment if Labour wins on this policy platform.

When we welcomed Sir Keir Starmer and Ed Miliband to Aberdeen in November, they looked us in the eye and told us they wanted to work with the energy industry to deliver a transition that leaves nobody behind.

They say they want to work in partnership with industry. But just like last summer, when they sprung plans for an exploration ban, this windfall tax extension has been done with zero engagement.

Right now, their energy policy is an absolute disaster, and they need to sit down with industry and re-write it from scratch if we are to retain any hope of remaining a global energy hub. As things stand, the UK is set to lose out on £40billion worth of investment between now and 2030.

Going forward, their policies must also reflect three key points; we need oil and gas, we need the people who produce it, and we need the companies who finance it.

Oil and gas will still be 20% of our energy mix in 2050 and a net zero scenario. And we need new fields to offset decline, otherwise we will lose 75% of our production inside a decade, leaving us reliant on more energy imports from abroad as well as potential energy shortages.

This is also about people – if you wind down the North Sea too quickly, before jobs and opportunities are available at scale in the renewables sector, then you lose the world class workforce and supply chain.

That will make what is already an enormous challenge even harder, perhaps impossible. We cannot allow that to happen.

And finally, you need energy companies to have faith to invest in the long-term future of the UK. That means working in lockstep with many of the companies currently producing oil and gas, because they are the ones who will invest the huge sums required to commercialise new technologies.

If Labour wants to win power, the party needs to prove to industry – and the public – that it can be trusted with our energy transition. The early signs are not good, and if we get this wrong the economic and social damage will be enormous.

Ahead of the 1992 General Election, there was a famous front-page headline which urged the last person to leave Britain to “turn out the lights” if Labour won the election.

This time around, the lights may go out themselves.

It does not matter what your political persuasion is, a policy which costs 100,000 jobs is a bad one.

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce

Business lessons I’ve learned

Gemma Neal, Head of Marketing & Communications, ICR

What does your company do that others don’t?

At ICR we’re an engineering partner working across a broad range of sectors including renewables, oil and gas, telecommunications and nuclear.

I’m proud to work for a company where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a commitment that’s driving industries towards greener, more environmentally responsible practices. I believe ICR, which provides integrity, maintenance and repair solutions, genuinely stands out for its unwavering dedication to sustainability through innovation.

Two of our big innovations, Technowrap and Quickflange, are great examples of sustainability in action at ICR. The Technowrap solution, a standout performer, offers a long-term alternative to traditional steel replacement methods. Remarkably, it reduces emissions by 66% compared to conventional replacement approaches. That not only contributes to a significant drop in carbon emissions but also prolongs the life of critical infrastructure.

Quickflange, another trailblazing product from ICR, eliminates the need for welding, realising 80% time savings and a 57% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional

welding methods. Beyond the immediate benefits, Quickflange reduces waste and minimises the loss of embodied carbon, extending the life of offshore infrastructure repairs.

What are the most pressing challenges that your industry sector faces today, and why?

There are so many – aging infrastructure, to cite just one example, demands continuous oversight to make sure deteriorating structures remain safe and reliable. We also need to stay on top of technological advances and adapt to evolving regulations and environmental concerns, all of which pose complex challenges. More than that, we’re contending with a workforce skills gap as we look to grow ICR both in the UK and internationally. How do we successfully tackle these multifaceted issues? First and foremost, by sustaining a collaborative approach across our organisation, our partners and our supply chain.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in your career to date?

Balancing strategic aims with patience entails mastering the art of prioritisation – knowing how to differentiate between the urgent, the non-urgent and tasks that can wait. It’s crucial to channel your energy toward

What was your first job?

Waitressing at Bruce Miller’s coffee shop.

When would you like to retire?

Ideally at 55. … but not thinking too much about it at the moment.

What did you have for breakfast?

Fruit, yoghurt and coffee.

Who, or what, inspires you? My parents.

What’s the last book your read/ film you saw?

Book - Wrong Place Wrong Time, Gillian McAllister Film- Fast and Furious X

key responsibilities that contribute to the company’s goals. There are moments when you must dive in, sleeves rolled up, and get to grips with tasks. At other times, you need to step back and take a more strategic approach. In short, don’t try to do everything at once.

What is the most valuable piece of business advice you have ever received?

It’s essential to appreciate the value of learning from your team members – their unique perspectives and expertise offer credible insights. Additionally, making sure you have all the necessary information to hand is crucial for project success. Take your time to collaborate and acquire knowledge from your colleagues and you can be confident you’re contributing effectively.

What’s been your proudest career achievement to date, and why?

I’m glad to say there have been a few. Accomplishing a distinction for my part-time MBA while maintaining a full-time job, for example, or effectively repositioning a private school as a coeducational institution both locally and on the global stage. I also orchestrated the successful launch of a new brand, all while managing a team and suppliers to ensure timely execution.

Aberdein Considine announces move to new flagship office

One of Scotland’s leading law firms has announced that it has moved its main legal and wealth office in Aberdeen to new premises in the Granite City.

Aberdein Considine, which has a team of 464 and 21 offices – 19 in Scotland and two in England - has relocated its main legal and wealth teams to Blenheim House in the city’s West End.

The firm’s head office has been located on Bon Accord Crescent since 1986. This will continue to house the business support, conveyancing, leasing and lender service teams.

As part of its ambitious growth strategy, Aberdein Considine has also been focusing on the expansion and strengthening of its legal teams and specialisms. The past year has seen several key senior hires including Robert Holland as Partner and Head of Employment Law, Chris Richardson, Partner and Head of Commercial Real Estate (England and Wales), and Rod Hutchison, Partner in the Corporate and Commercial team.

Jacqueline Law, Managing Partner at Aberdein Considine, said: “The move to Blenheim House represents a pivotal aspect of our broader investment in people and services. The previous year was a successful one for us as a firm and we are poised to move forward with the next phase of our strategy in the coming year.

“Our offices in Bon Accord Crescent have served us well over the years, but with the development of the firm, as well as the extensive range of services we provide, space was at a premium and it was increasingly clear we required additional premises that reflected the firm we are today.

“In collaboration with our suppliers and developers, we’ve designed a space that is not only modern and functional but also allows for future growth.

“Retaining a strong presence in Aberdeen’s heart is essential. It’s a remarkable city – one with many opportunities in 2024 and beyond.”

Expro agrees $210million deal to acquire Coretrax

Energy services provider Expro has agreed a deal to buy Aberdeenshire drilling tech firm Coretrax.

The $210million (£166.24million) deal includes at least $75million (£59.37million) of cash and up to $6.75million (£5.34million) in Expro common shares.

Michael Jardon, Expro CEO, said: “We are thrilled to announce our proposed acquisition of Coretrax, and look forward to welcoming John Fraser and his teammates to the Expro family.

“Coretrax has a complementary offering to Expro with little overlap and will bolster the portfolio of technology-enabled services and solutions offered through our Well Construction and Well Intervention & Integrity product lines, adding significant value to our clients from innovative technologies that reduce risk and cost, optimise drilling efficiency, extend the life of existing well stock, and optimize production.

“The integration of Coretrax’s leading technologies will strengthen our foothold in ESSA and MENA where both companies have strong, established positions, and is expected to open new avenues for growth in NLA and Asia-Pacific.”

The acquisition is designed to enable Expro to expand its portfolio of cost-effective, technology-enabled Well Construction and Well Intervention & Integrity solutions across the North and Latin America, Europe and SubSaharan Africa and Middle East and North Africa.

John Fraser, CEO at Coretrax, added: “I’m excited about the opportunities the acquisition brings for Coretrax and our team.

“The synergies between our respective technology portfolios will enable us to grow our market share while significantly increasing our capabilities to tackle the most complex well challenges.

“We are proud of the innovation-led approach, strong customer base and performance history that we developed over the last 15 years, and we look forward to joining forces with Expro to create greater value for our customers globally.”

Loganair bids a fond farewell to the Saab 340

Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline, has retired its venerable Saab 340 fleet after more than 24 years of service, with a VIP send-off of the last Saab flight conducted by the airline.

Loganair’s last Saab 340 flight was flown by Captain Eddie Watt, who celebrated his 65th birthday and retired from the business the following day. A Shetlander, Eddie was Loganair’s longest serving pilot, after joining the airline on October 1, 1996. He is renowned among crews and customers for his commentaries from the cockpit and was joined by his wife Rosemary who was among the passengers on board.

Jonathan Hinkles, CEO, Loganair, said: “As someone whose aviation journey was prompted by a strong passion for flying, I am personally very sad to see these aircraft go, but we look forward to introducing our new ATR fleet to our customers who will love the space and comfort they offer.”

Captain Eddie Watt added: “It is fitting for me that I retire with the aircraft that has been the staple of my career. Piloting the Saab340, I have watched all of Scotland pass underneath me and it’s been an incredible 34 years flying with this beloved aircraft.”

Miller Parks open third residential park due to rapid growth

Miller Parks, a family run property business offering luxury retirement park homes have just expanded, opening a third location in Kinloss, Findhorn.

Having previously sold out their first park in Elgin, they continued expansion back in 2020 opening a second retirement park, Nia Roo, in Newmachar. Within the next three years, despite the pandemic they seen increased demand, selling 19 homes of Phase 1 out of a possible 20, leaving just one left to go.

Owner, William Miller commented: “We pride ourselves on tailoring the homes to any requirements our customer may have. We’re aware this could be their home for the rest of their life, so are focused on going that extra mile to fulfil requests that aren’t necessarily standard, and I think this has been a key factor to our continued success and growth.”

Nuart Aberdeen announces summer return

Nuart Aberdeen – the Granite City’s world-acclaimed street art festival – will make a spectacular and colourful return this summer.

Work is well underway to secure some of the most acclaimed and upcoming street artists who will descend on Aberdeen from June 6 to 9 from around the globe to transform walls and spaces with stunning works from jawdropping large-scale murals to smaller and more intimate pieces.

The hugely popular event, staged by Aberdeen Inspired, will draw thousands of visitors to the city centre while leaving a legacy that will live on long after the weekend festival is over.

Adrian Watson, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “We are delighted to announce that Nuart Aberdeen is returning this summer, and we can’t wait to see what the world-renowned talented artists will bring to the city in what is a truly transformational event.

“Nuart Aberdeen is now recognised as one of the best street art festivals in the world, one which has put our city firmly on the map while attracting thousands of visitors, many of them from around the world. They not only enjoy these eye-catching works but also linger in the city, boosting local businesses, restaurants, bars and hotels.

“The atmosphere on the weekend of the festival is second to none, creating such a brilliant, vibrant buzz enjoyed by everyone who comes along.”

R&D Tax Relief Procedures: HMRC’s Latest Notification Requirement

Derek Gemmell, Head of Innovations, Tax AAB

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, where staying ahead often means innovating and adapting to change, research and development (R&D) tax credits have emerged as a key tool for businesses, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As an R&D tax credit specialist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that these incentives can have on businesses.

The key to unlocking the full potential of R&D tax credits lies in maximising the claim. This involves identifying all eligible R&D activities and expenses and leveraging the available incentives to their fullest extent. By doing so, businesses not only benefit financially but also gain a competitive edge in the market.

R&D tax credits are a government incentive designed to reward UK companies for investing in innovation. They are a valuable source of cash for businesses to invest in accelerating their R&D, hiring new staff and ultimately growing. They serve as a means for businesses to recoup a portion of the costs associated with developing new products and services.

Recently, HMRC has implemented new legislation aimed at ensuring the integrity of R&D tax relief claims. This legislation addresses concerns about the validity of last-minute claims and requires companies to notify HMRC of their intention to claim R&D tax relief for eligible expenditures. This notification must be submitted electronically through an Advance Notification Form within a specific timeframe.

The notification period begins at the start of the accounting period in which the R&D expenditure was incurred and end six months after the end of the relevant accounting period. It’s important to note that not all companies are obligated to notify HMRC, but those who fail to do so risk losing out on valuable tax relief.

At AAB we understand the complexities of R&D tax relief and can provide tailored assistance to ensure that your company maximises its claim while complying with HMRC regulations. We offer strategic advice and measures to help you maximise the value of your R&D tax relief claim, ensuring that you receive the full benefits available to your business.

We can also help determine whether your company qualifies for R&D tax relief by assessing various factors such as the nature of your R&D activities and your financial standing. Our team can work closely with you to prepare a robust claim in accordance with the latest legislation, ensuring that all eligible expenses are properly documented and accounted for.

The significance of R&D tax credits cannot be overstated. Beyond mere financial relief, they offer competitiveness, growth, and long-term sustainability. By providing businesses with the necessary financial support, R&D tax credits enable them to embark on ambitious R&D projects that might otherwise be financially prohibitive. This, in turn, facilitates innovation, economical growth and technological advancement and by working with us at AAB, you can be confident that the claim is accurate, comprehensive and maximises the available incentives.

Disneyland, Smirnoff, and Theresa May

Shevaun Haviland’s rise to Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce

“It has been the most interesting journey”. Quite the understatement from the woman now at the forefront of Britain’s business community.

Shevaun Haviland’s path to Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce is extraordinary.

“I started my career in consultancy in London and New York. I then came back to London to work for the Walt Disney Company – a good sprinkling of magic there working for the mouse.

“That was in London and then I moved to Disneyland Paris to reopen

Variety and change continued to shape Shevaun’s career after starting a consumer experience agency, that quickly became a digital agency.

“We built Smirnoff’s first Facebook page,” she said, with a proud grinning from ear-to-ear.

It was April 2016 by the time Shevaun was working in government, a year after a general election and, unbeknown to anyone at that point, the eve of one of the most turbulent times in British political history.

“I joined the government two months before the EU Referendum. A good time to join, they said.

“I did exactly five years in government, three prime ministers, two general elections, we left the EU and I worked a year into the pandemic.”

A good time to join, they said…

“I did spend two years of that in No 10, running the business relations team for Theresa May, which was fascinating, but as you can imagine it was an incredibly challenging time because businesses were worried.

“As it turns out, experiencing big business, small business, running your own and working in government is a good combination for running the British Chambers of Commerce.”

Despite the turbulence of Downing Street in the last decade, learning how things work from the inside is an invaluable tool in Shevaun’s evergrowing armory.

“It was very challenging. But what it does mean is that it’s easy to understand, from the outside, how government works and the different sort of challenges that government faces versus business and the risk profile when it comes to dealing with citizens and having to develop policy that works for everybody. It’s a different animal.

“We’ve been with a number of members in Aberdeen saying themselves that it’s important government understands business and vice-verca.

“I think having businesspeople go into government - and the other way round - is really important so that you understand the people that you’re trying to work both.

“What we need is a growing, thriving economy. Government and business work the same, and we need a partnership between government and business to make that thriving economy happen.”

The need for an improved relationship between government and business then led to the launch of the British Chamber of Commerce’s Business Council.

I joined the government two months before the EU Referendum. A good time to join, they said.

“The Chamber said to us ‘can you think about what that might look like?’ So we talked to a few of our large corporate members, they said they wanted to do three things. They wanted to do national policy development, they wanted to engage with Westminster and Whitehall and they’d like to known networks out with their sector.”

Launched in June, the council is chaired by Baroness Martha Lane Fox.

Its first sitting was in September 2023 with Michael Gove, before there was a policy discussion and finally a discussion with Rachel Reeves.

“We want to keep it as a small-ish group, around about 25 to 30, so we can have a good conversation and the room definitely enjoys hearing from both sides of the house,” added Shevaun.

“At the last one we had Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride, and Shadow Minister Liz Kendrall.

“It is exciting but this year is going to be intense. We all need to make sure we can cut through the noise and we’re focusing on what we do best.

“The Business Council was formed because a number of our large corporates who are members of their local Chamber, were saying to their Chambers, that they would like to do a bit more on a national level.

“Our collective mission is to make the UK the best place to start, grow and invest in a business.”

The Chamber and the Business Council play a vital role in shaping policy. The Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) is the UK’s biggest private sector survey, or “the voice of British business”, in Shevaun’s words.

She added: “It’s the evidence base for our engagement with government and we have the best part of the job, travelling around the country, meeting members. There are stories, case studies that we use when we engage with government.”

This year, perhaps more than ever, the role of the British Chambers of Commerce will be crucial to shaping policy of not only the current government, but the next.

Jeremy Hunt’s budget on March 6 is another chance for the government to show they are listening, but importantly, to show they are acting.

“The number one issue that businesses tell me they are facing every year is people. It’s getting people the right skills,” added Shevaun.

“On people and work we will be pushing for a review of the apprenticeship levy, so that a certain percentage can be used for

Sometimes I wonder if our politicians think businesses aren’t voters, when of course they are.

“We also want to see support for exports. Selling in the UK is fantastic but it’s one market. We’ve got about 190 around the world.

“10% of UK businesses export, but 60% of Chamber members export –it’s a great stat. And that is because Chamber’s are brilliant at the difficult bit.

“We have 79 British Chambers around the world, finding partners, getting the right documentation, taking away the risk. That is export led growth. When it comes to growing our economy, that’s where it’s got to be.

“That brings taxes back into our coffers, and that’s what we use to pay for our teachers and nurses and that’s the important story that we need to keep telling.”

But are these questions being asked more in hope than expectation?

“I suspect that given there’s an election on the horizon, there may be more for consumers than businesses.

“On growth, bringing back tax-free shopping will be a big one.

“We want the government to do an entire reform of business rates.

“They are incredibly challenging.

“Sometimes I wonder if our politicians think businesses aren’t voters, when of course they are, and economic growth is crucial for everybody.

“The cost of doing business and the cost of living are two sides of the same coin. Thriving businesses

International growth boosts turnover and profits at Craig Group

Global procurement specialists to the energy industry, Craig International, has reported over 60% growth in turnover and almost doubled its profits for the year ending April 2023.

The accounts lodged by Craig Group Limited, the holding company for Craig International and its international subsidiaries, reveal that turnover has grown from £116million to £188million in 2022 – 2023. Operating profits have risen from just over £1million to £2.7million in the period.

Almost 80% of turnover is attributable to international operations with significant growth coming from existing and new customers in North America and the Middle East.

Craig International supports the energy industry’s drive towards net zero through a suite of sustainable and technology-driven platforms which demonstrate the role procurement can play in reducing carbon emissions. Their customer base now includes producers of cleaner, greener energy as well as upstream and downstream oil and gas.

During the year ending April 2023, Craig International invested in new headquarters in Aberdeen. The 10,000 square feet of modern, energy efficient space in the Granite City has doubled the size of their former offices.

Chairman of Craig Group, Douglas Craig, said: “These results underline the success of our investment in expanding our business into regions where there is the strongest growth potential. We have been investing in and committing to on-the-ground resources to provide the most cost-efficient, sustainable and quality end-to-end procurement solutions to existing and new customers.

“Our approach, combining over 25 years procurement experience with innovative digital platforms, not only delivers efficiencies for our customers but has also resulted in stronger margins for the group which has enabled us to increase operating profits despite negative exchange rate movements and increases in interest rates and costs.”

Setting up youth for sweet success

Mackie’s are pleased to establish a new partnership with local secondary school, Meldrum Academy, as part of its Young Person’s Guarantee pledge with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) initiative.

DYW connects employers and schools, fostering partnerships firmly based on shared visions, values, and aims for youth development, putting the needs of learners at the core of partnership working.

Mackie’s have previously partnered with Alford Academy and are excited to be partnering with Meldrum Academy –the closest local school to the farm. Mackie’s hope this will help us further strengthen its ties with the local community, while showcasing career opportunities and providing insights and advice on the world of work to pupils considering their next steps.

The partnership will see active involvement from DYW North East in the planning process, allowing Mackie’s to support projects and provide opportunities for collaboration with pupils and its business. Mackie’s People & Development Manager, Jordan Noble, takes the lead on this partnership, sharing professional expertise and learnings with the school.

Oilenco awarded contract to support multi-well P&A campaign

Oilenco Ltd, a market leader in creative well intervention and plug and abandonment (P&A) solutions, has been awarded a contract for the provision of engineering and manufacturing services for a major North Sea operator.

The contract will see Oilenco provide well intervention and downhole equipment throughout a 52 well subsea plug and abandonment campaign, as well as their range of inhouse services including engineering, CNC machining, test, assembly, maintenance, and offshore engineering services.

Oilenco will also oversee inventory management, spares, and storage services at their head office facility in Westhill, Aberdeen for the duration of the contract.

We are expecting a blockbuster Spring Budget in March as Jeremy Hunt and Rishi Sunak have one last roll of the economic dice before the General Election.

But what will it mean for you and your business? Join us for an exclusive Budget de-brief with EY at this Business Breakfast in Aberdeen City Centre.

Held the morning after the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, EY’s tax experts will break down the implications of his big announcements, as well as the ones that he hopes will go unnoticed.

Will the North Sea finally get some relief from the windfall tax? Will there be some help for hard-pressed businesses in retail and hospitality, and how can the government break the current doom cycle of low growth? All these questions, and many more, will be explored by our panel.

We will also be joined by polling guru Dr Emily Gray – Managing Director of Ipsos in Scotland – who will examine where all the major parties sit as the starting gun is fired on the 2024 General Election.

Sandman Signature Hotel

March 07, 2024 07:30 - 09:30

Spring Budget

March 7, 07.30-09.30

We are expecting a blockbuster Spring Budget in March as Jeremy Hunt and Rishi Sunak have one last roll of the economic dice before the General Election. But what will it mean for you and your business?

Energy Transition 39

May 30, 07.30-09.30

Mark the launch of the Energy Transition 39 report, the Chamber’s biannual barometer of sector business confidence, activity and future plans. In this election year, it is more important than ever that we have a reasoned debate about our energy future.

Inside AFC

June 27, 07.30-09.30

We see what happens on the pitch, but what does it take to run a professional sports business off the pitch? Join us for an exclusive look behind the scenes at Aberdeen Football Club.

Branding and Sales

August 21, 07.30-09.30

Your brand is one of your company’s most important assets. But how do you use it to drive sales and grow the performance of your organisation? Join us for a deep dive into branding and sales at this special Business Breakfast with Lorenzo Moretti.

Energy Transition 40

November 7, 07.30-09.30

Mark the launch of the 40th Energy Transition report which has been tracking trends in the UK energy sector for two decades and allows the industry to outline exactly what it needs to see from our policy makers.

Future of Union Street

December 10, 07.30-09.30

Two years on from the emergency summit held to halt the decline of Union Street, we’re gathering to examine the progress being made on our famous high street and how it can find its feet again and return to being the thriving heartbeat of our city.

National Subsea Centre launches Centre for Doctoral Training in Net Zero Technologies

In collaboration with Robert Gordon University, the University of Strathclyde and the Net Zero Technology Centre, the National Subsea Centre has established the Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Net Zero Technologies, designed for those who wish to undertake research to aid in the global transition to net zero whilst continuing a career in industry.

The CDT will teach and mentor a cohort of students, allowing them the opportunity to spend approximately 75% of their time developing invaluable skills working directly

with a company and the remaining time carrying out PhDlevel research projects with taught modules. Students will be based full-time within their respective companies for the duration of the programme, with occasional off-site workshops and training sessions.

Upon successful completion of the four-year programme, students will achieve an Engineering Doctorate (EngD), equivalent in academic standing to a conventional PhD, but achieved through research and innovation that is much more industrially focused.

The CDT, which has been formed as part of a five-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between UoS and RGU to collaborate in research and technology development, is open to students with expertise across a range of disciplines, including engineering, computing and it, science and technology, physics and mathematics.

Professor John McCall, NSC Director, said: “Launching the CDT is a brilliant advancement for our academic community and will play a crucial role in fostering research, innovation and expertise in advanced technologies that will support the global transition to a sustainable blue economy.

“Having a strong consortium in place enables the CDT to build on the research strengths at RGU and UoS while supporting the NSC’s four strategic research programmes. Propelled by the challenges identified by industry and steered by an industry partners’ group, we’re excited to forge the next generation of technology innovators.”

Supporting business with growth

By Jamie Smith, Business Development Executive SBP

2024 will see many businesses focusing on their long-term growth plans - especially following a period of turbulence following the pandemic – so it’s important to have the right support from your accountant.

Setting goals, forecasting growth, building strategies around challenges and opportunities are all important focuses for businesses as they plan to grow, increase sales, recruit and diversify. Growth may also mean expansion overseas or nationally and we see more of our clients looking to the next twelve months and beyond for their business strategy.

To focus on growth, it is essential a clear view of cash flow forecasts, P&L and balance sheets are produced. Accessible financial information is important for monitoring your business progress and in the case of attracting investment or achieving an exit, a transparent picture of how the business is performing is essential.

Ensuring our clients’ regular accountancy requirements (tax returns/payroll/account deadlines) are cared for is an important aspect of allowing business owners the freedom to focus on growth. We aim to handle all the day-to-day accountancy and ensure this is an effortless process allowing your business to thrive.

SBP goes beyond traditional accounting services, positioning itself as a dedicated strategic partner, and empowering businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of their industries. As your trusted partner, we are dedicated to providing the financial expertise needed to propel your business forward in 2024 and beyond.

sbp.accountants.co.uk

Double accreditation accolade for i-Protech

North-east green energy specialist i-Protech has bolstered its technical competence credentials after receiving accreditation from two leading industry bodies.

The Kintore-based company, which also provides and installs electrical, security and fire systems, has been awarded TrustMark status - a Government-endorsed quality scheme - as well as SafeContractor accreditation.

i-Protech Electrical Manager Michael Cruickshank said attaining both TrustMark and SafeContractor status demonstrated the company’s commitment to its customers by ensuring best quality practices.

“Being TrustMark and SafeContractor accredited is important both for us as a company and for our customers, who are guaranteed an extra level of assurance when dealing with us,” explained Michael.

“This past year has seen a surge in the number of companies claiming to be experts in solar energy and the installation of panels and battery systems when in fact they are not. As a result, we have been asked on several occasions to sort out issues left behind by these rogue operators.

“It’s important that consumers check the credentials of companies before employing them because if they don’t it can result in a very costly mistake. With i-Protech, our customers know they are fully protected and are working with a competent team and a trusted provider.”

Gilson Gray expands in Dundee and Angus

Full-service legal firm Gilson Gray is bolstering its footprint in Dundee and Angus, following the takeover of Bowmans Solicitors.

The firm will also now double its space at 2 West Marketgait in the city centre, taking on another floor of the flagship building, as well as gaining an additional office in Forfar. A team of 11, including principal Elizabeth McGillivray, will join Gilson Gray.

Bowmans Solicitors has a long history with roots dating back 150 years in the Tayside area. Elizabeth joined the firm in the 1980s and brings over 40 years of experience into the Gilson Gray fold.

The move builds on the firm’s full-service offering, bringing in additional specialists in private client, estate agency, conveyancing, and family law.

CRC Evans strengthens commitment to offshore wind with OWGP grant

CRC Evans, a leading provider of welding and coating services, has been awarded funding through The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership’s (OWGP) Development Grant scheme.

As one of 11 companies selected by the programme following its announcement in May 2023, CRC Evans will receive a share of £2.4million to invest in the enhancement of mechanised welding solutions for floating offshore wind developments.

The organisation’s welding and coating expertise has potential to support wind projects in the final assembly stage, and the award strengthens its commitment to the sector.

Diversification efforts from CRC Evans have seen an increase in activity across nuclear, wind, hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCUS).

Stephane Allain, CRC Evans’ Director of Renewables, said: “It’s an honour to be selected as recipients of funding by The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership. This transformative initiative enables the accelerated development of wind technologies across the UK and ensures that the supply chain is prepared and capable of delivering at scale.

“CRC Evans has a long history in the provision of specialist services in welding and coating, and a renewables offering is simply an extension of this. With a proven track record, supported by an extensive fleet of mechanised welding equipment, we are well placed to support the fabrication and assembly of offshore wind structures.”

Energy leaders grill MSPs on future North Sea strategy

A packed Chester Hotel of more than 300 people joined Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce and Holyrood Sources podcast for a live energy debate.

Joining Calum MacDonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver on stage were the SNP’s Minister for Energy, Gillian Martin, Scottish Conservatives Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero, Energy and Transport, Douglas Lumsden, and Scottish Labour’s Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, Sarah Boyack.

A series of issues were debatedsome more hotly than others - as a room full of North-east energy experts listened closely to see which party is on the right path to net zero.

We’ve picked out some of the key points of the night.

The SNP’s presumption against oil and gas

Following opening statements made by the trio of politicians, host Calum quizzed the SNP minister on her party’s presumption against oil and gas.

“That’s the wording that’s in the draft energy strategy. I think we’ve become very hung-up on those two words at the expense of actually having a nuanced conversation about what that mean,” she said.

“Every licence application is a presumption against. You have to have conditions met in order to get a licence.

“A ‘presumption against’, I don’t like using it so much and I don’t like

hearing it all the time. Not because it’s politically uncomfortable for me, but I feel we’ve almost hung our hat on it too much.”

Pushed by Calum, Ms Martin continued: “It’s not a presumption against oil and gas, it’s a presumption against further exploration of oil and gas.

“It’s not a carte blanche situation as we’ve heard from others, that there won’t be any exploration, it will be dependent on the situation at the time, energy security-needs, in particular.”

What is GB Energy?

Labour’s Sarah Boyack was next to be put under the spotlight as Geoff Aberdein promised her “headlines” and “national news” if she promised the state-owned energy company, GB Energy, would be headquartered in the Granite City.

“I’m going to have to disappoint you Geoff, I cannot make that commitment.

“We’re getting lobbied all the time, and that’s a good thing. The commitment is to have it headquartered here in Scotland, other places are also lobbying us, sometimes, on a strictly regular basis.”

Later on in the recording, Ms Martin questioned Ms Boyack on what GB Energy was going to be. “What is it? What is it going to do?”, asked the SNP politician.

“It’s about bringing down people’s bills,” responded Ms Boyack.

Questioned further by Ms Martin on whether it’ll impact people’s bills, Ms

Boyack answered: “It’s going to be bringing the industry together and actually taking a lead.

“It’s not going to nationalise the whole electricity (sector), but look at some of the experiences in Europe. The European companies that come here to Scotland, make good profits and send it home.

“It’s about not having all of our energy split up into different packages, it’s about joining it up and making sure you’ve got clear leadership and focussing on bringing people’s bills down.

“Getting those supply chains sorted and having an approach that brings governments together, and we’re not just talking UK and Scottish Government - local government is critical here as well, in terms of delivery on the ground and making things happen, getting sights available.”

Responding, Ms Martin said: “I’m an energy minister and even I find that confusing,” while Mr Lumsden added: “Sounds like a return to the 70s to me.”

Who would you trust to get rid of EPL quicker?

“I’m not going to stand-up for the UK Government here, I’m completely against the EPL (energy profits levy),” said Mr Lumsden, a Scottish Conservative MSP.

“I can understand why it was taken in at the time. Energy bills were going through the roof and there was money required to offset some of those huge increases.

“I was listening to another podcast yesterday, Douglas Ross was on the

Chamber podcast (ChamberTalk), and he was asked about this.

“I know he’s making representations to the treasury to try and have this lifted and we’d obviously like to see this go as soon as possible.

“But who would you trust to actually get rid of the EPL quicker?” questioned Mr Lumsden.

Host Calum swiftly reminded the Tory shadow minister that it was his party who brought it in, much to the amusement of the room.

“But what was Labour’s stance on it? They wanted to keep it going harder and for longer,” Mr Lumsden replied.

Ms Boyack responded: “We supported the principal of why it was brought in and because of the crisis the country faced and it’s not been resolved yet, has it?

“Even this year there are people’s bills that are just going to be unpayable.”

Rosebank and Calum MacDonald’s ‘puppy dog eyes’

The final topic to be discussed – and perhaps the most heated debate of the evening – was the future of the North Sea’s Rosebank oil field.

“In terms of the £8billion investment into Rosebank, do you support that?” asked Mr Lumsden to Ms Martin.

After a short, slightly awkward, silence, she replied: “I’ve not made that decision.”

“You are talking about a reserved policy. You are asking a minister in a devolved government about reserved policy.”

Pushed further by the Tory MSP on whether she “welcomes” the announcement, she said: “I didn’t have any part in that decision”.

“For clarity, you could still welcome it?” questioned Calum, to the amusement of the audience.

“You can look at me with those puppy dog eyes for as long as you want Calum,” responded the government minister.

“You’ve asked me two questions of which you know it’s impossible for me to give an answer.”

Did we get any more clarity about our path to net zero?

“Of course, everything is a bit political, but what if there was something of

a cross-party consensus that might emerge?”

That was the question asked at the start of the evening.

“It’s exciting that we might get clarity on a path forward”, added Calum. And it genuinely was an exciting opportunity.

An opportunity for influential politicians from the country’s three most prominent parties to tell a room full of cross-generation energy experts how they will incentivise the 215,000-strong workforce across the country, encourage investment into our area today, tomorrow, and for years to come, and how they will clear the path for a prosperous future in the North-east.

The Chamber’s most recent Energy Transition survey revealed 51% of businesses don’t think any party has the right policy to support a successful energy transition.

You get the feeling, after hearing from the parties set to govern the country through the transition, that number might just rise.

All three politicians had ample chances to ease the fears facing the sector.

Instead - in search of clarity - we were left with more questions than answers.

Gillian Martin revealed she doesn’t like “using” or “hearing” the phrase ‘presumption against’. But that won’t restore confidence in an increasingly worried sector unless the ‘presumption’ is removed from the Scottish Government’s Energy Strategy this summer. And that would just be a start.

Douglas Lumsden might have tried to claim his party will be the one to finally rid the sector of the Energy Profits Levy. “We’d obviously like to see this go”, he said. But actions speak louder than words. He argued Labour wanted to go “harder and for longer” – given the 1,000+ job losses already, 2028 is more than long enough.

And Sarah Boyack told us GB Energy would bring people’s bills down, without offering any clarity as to how. Suggestions that Labour have no plans to remove the Energy Profits Levy won’t ease fears and the possibility of having a state-owned energy company out with the Northeast remains a concern.

In search of clarity, we were left with more questions than answers

But how will we get there?

Not by declining our domestic production of oil and gas, nor taxing the sector through the roof, nor headquartering state-owned energy companies in the central belt.

We’ll get there by working hand-inhand with the sector, supporting our supply chain through the transition, making the North Sea an attractive place to invest.

We need reasoned debates like this one to set the tone, and our politicians need to listen to the people who will take us to net zero.

But what this event did do was get the ball rolling.

Rolling on a long-overdue discussion on our transition from the oil and gas capital of Europe to the net zero capital of Europe.

The prize is magnificent. Thousands of jobs, billions of pounds and a prosperous future for our area.

All parties, all politicians want to get there. The cross-party consensus on that can’t be questioned.

Finlay Jack, Multimedia journalist, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce

MARCH 13

THE MUSIC HALL

APRIl 25

THE MUSIC HALL

OCTOBER 09

THE MUSIC HALL

Bruce Melvin, Managing Director, READ Cased Hole

When was your business established?

READ Cased Hole was originally part of READ AS and became a standalone cased hole logging specialist in 2011.

What does your business do?

We are a global independent cased hole logging partner, and we offer an independent product line with the objective of maximising efficiency and agility in what we deliver, where and to whom. We’re widely regarded as a safe pair of hands and that comes partly from our long corporate heritage and partly from our ability to remain at the forefront of the sector when it comes to innovation.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

Our customers are oil and gas operators and service companies, and they are currently spread throughout the Middle East, Caspian, North Sea, Europe and North America. We tend to be selective on where we operate so as not to overstretch the operation, preferring to ensure high levels of quality and service. We work to the mantra that we’d rather have tools in the ground than tools in the air because they’re working when they’re in the ground!

When was your business established?

Ryden has been operating in Aberdeen since 1980.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

My clients depend on which side of a property transaction I’m negotiating.

With my landlord hat on, I act on behalf of local and national property companies, pension funds, property REITs and private individuals. With my tenant hat on, my work varies significantly, from the motor trade, to IT, to oil and gas and to exciting companies at the forefront of the green energy revolution.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Aberdeen is experiencing a perfect storm of 3 key issues in my view.

1) Economy - high inflation and interest rates, leading to increased debt costs, lower lending and investment volume.

2) Oil and gas sentiment - opposition to oil and gas is stifling investor confidence and creating uncertainty.

3) Development - a significant shortage of new build or good quality stock.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Without doubt the biggest frustration is lead times in the manufacturing process which has a knock-on effect on our ability to be market ready. Delays in sourcing maintenance parts results in tools being out of service for longer than we would like.

And the biggest opportunity?

There is much to be done in filling the capacity gaps caused by the lack of Capex spending during the pandemic. Companies weren’t spending so we have realigned our business to help them fill those gaps which are evident across the board. We are positively building on circumstances that were forced upon us during the pandemic –we had to find other ways of working during lockdown, but now many of these have become opportunities which have been adopted and harnessed for long-term benefit.

And the biggest opportunity?

From a micro level, the Green Energy revolution. Repositioning the region as a global player in the energy transition is critical for long-term economic security. At a macro level, technology. The ever-evolving artificial intelligence landscape will continue to make inroads in the commercial real estate sectors.

What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?

It’s simple - providing sound advice that helps achieve a client’s business goals. From both a business and personal front, forming relationships with clients and colleagues, built on trust and professionalism is a big part of what drives me. Having some fun along the way keeps me motivated!

Daniel Stalker, Agency & Investment Associate, Ryden

Jai Aenugu, Founder, Techforce Cyber

When was your business established?

The business was established in 2016 in Aberdeen.

What does your business do?

We deliver cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. We are committed to

Graeme

Managing Director, Nexus24 Ltd

When was your business established?

February 2007.

What does your business do?

Advertising, branding, copywriting, design, events, photography, video and web.

empowering businesses and individuals with robust defenses against evolving cyber threats. Through innovation, expertise, and unwavering dedication, we strive to build a secure digital landscape where organisations can thrive without fear of compromise.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

We work with a range of sectors and we have the advantage to serve all with our cyber security services from oil and gas to technology; healthcare; finance; and education both locally and internationally.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Economic conditions can be still be unpredictable, affecting potential spending and overall market stability. We hope that 2024 will be a more stable economic environment for everyone.

And the biggest opportunity?

Cyber security is an evergreen requirement for any company and with more and more phishing attacks in 2023 we can capitalise on this and reach out to potential clients and provide the best service portfolio to suit their needs.

What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?

The goal was always to help businesses be secure in the realm of cyber security and with each client we work with we can advance and strive to help more and more organisations with our continuous growth and industry reputation.

What sort of companies do you do business with?

All sorts. From start-ups to wellestablished national and international companies.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business at the moment?

Keeping our retail clients ahead of the competition. The past three years have been the most turbulent for the majority with economic changes, not to mention disruptors. We have to ensure our media strategy and the tech we use keeps them ahead of the next curveball. And the biggest opportunity?

Being able to confidently deliver. We have over 15 years experience producing all kinds of work for all kinds of clients. Large or small we have done it all - from branding one of Scotland’s biggest family businesses and national TV for a charity to weekly email marketing for one of the UK’s largest retailers.

What are you most passionate and proud of when it comes to your business?

Our client retention rate. The majority come to us with a new project, as a referral or a tender win and have continued to work with us ever since.

What has been most valuable to you as members of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce?

The networking opportunities and the knowledge base available. I’m a big fan of the morning bulletin emails too. It’s become part of my morning routine.

Hogge,

April 15

*£330 +VAT

ISO 9001 Quality Management System Implementation

Are you looking to improve the overall capabilities of your business and gain recognition in the market? Implementing an ISO management system could be the perfect step.

April 23-24

*£620 +VAT

Advanced management skills

This course has been designed to build the rounded skillset and emotional intelligence required to help the managers in your business reach their full potential.

We can tailor any of our courses to suit you and your business. Contact us to discuss bespoke training options.

April 17

Essential HR skills

*£330 +VAT

This course will help delegates understand their responsibilities with regards to HR issues, the potential penalties for getting it wrong and techniques for performing their duties.

April 24

*£330 +VAT

Train the trainer (advanced)

This training programme is designed to enhance the one day ‘train the trainer’ course and will enable trainers to excel in the delivery of their training.

April 18

Personal effectiveness

*£330 +VAT

Discover ways to advance your personal and professional potential by making positive changes to allow you to develop and better self-manage yourself.

April 24

Letters of credit – methods of payment

*£330 +VAT

This course provides an overview of all methods of payment when trading internationally including the risks and benefits involved.

April 18

*£330 +VAT

Essential supervisory skills

For those stepping up to a supervisory role for the first time, it can be a big leap. However, we have designed a course to equip them with the core skills that they need to succeed.

April 26

*£330 +VAT

The basics of project management

This outcome-focussed course will equip you and your project managers with all the essential skills they need to deliver on time, every time, to the highest standard.

Area of expertise?

Gathering information from several reports and producing summaries that can be easily understood and explained. Everyone knows looking at accounts can be overwhelming, it’s so important to use language everyone can engage with.

What should people know?

Not all accounts people are boring, most of us have a sense of humour and a hidden superpower. Just ask!

What’s the biggest mistakes companies make?

Staying the same when everything around is moving forward. You must try to future proof your company. Forecast, adapt and embrace change. And, finally, keep a close eye on your cashflow.

What’s your top tip?

Hire team players. Maturity brings experience and youth brings new ideas and enthusiasm - it’s great to have that perfect blend on our Goldstar team. Be brave and don’t judge a book by its cover.

Area of expertise?

At Skipton Building Society in Aberdeen we are a small team with many years’ experience of helping customers to make the most of their money and plan for the future. We offer a range of savings options and have an expert Financial Adviser on hand to talk about longer-term investments and pensions.

What should people know?

When it comes to personal finances it pays to plan ahead but it’s equally important to check that your plans are still on track. The cost-of-living crisis is having a profound impact on people’s spending power now and on the income they will need in retirement. This is where Skipton’s expertise can help - whether that’s an informal chat about your savings with a colleague in branch, or a more indepth review with our Financial Adviser.

What’s the biggest mistakes companies make?

I think it’s more useful to talk about what businesses can do better and focusing on their colleagues’ wellbeing can often be given higher priority. At Skipton, we believe in a healthy work-life balance and encourage colleagues to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing, which could be cycling to work or going for a walk at lunchtime, taking all their annual leave, or using volunteer days to make a difference in our communities. Healthy, motivated colleagues are well-placed to give our customers an excellent service.

What’s your top tip?

Think about your objectives and discuss them with your family to share each other’s expectationsfrom early retirement to financial stability or leaving a legacy for loved ones, big plans need a bit of forward thinking!

Mhairi Thomson, Accounts Manager, Goldstar Cleaning Services

Lee Thomson, Branch Manager, Skipton Building Society

Yerasimos Angelis, Managing Director, G A R&D Ltd

Area of expertise?

Developing new technologies, with novel intellectual property on a global scale. These technologies have applications on the following industries, with main focus on de-carbonisation and energy transition. O&G well intervention, geothermal power generation & fast hydrogen production.

What should people know?

Developing a world class product requires significant focus on marketing and efficient networking. Getting your message out to the target audience is critical and calls for a culturally sensitive and coordinated approach with local partners.

What’s the biggest mistakes companies make?

Underestimating the time required to effectively enter an overseas market. Rarely is it easy, or quick, to enter and then trade effectively in a foreign market from a standing start, an often repeated mistake is underestimating the time to realise a return on investment, typically double the original time estimate and you will be somewhere close, patience is key!

What’s your top tip?

Three words: effective due diligence. It is all-tooeasy to rush into a new business relationship or market without doing the hard miles. Use your network and tap into other resource such as AGCC or SDI to test-the-water before committing, can save significant time, cost and heartache. Fail to prepare, prepare to . . .

Area of expertise?

Retirement planning and business exit planning

What should people know?

Don’t bank everything on using Business Asset Disposal Relief (Entrepreneurs Relief) when you finally walk away from the business. Tax rules and allowances can change and if you get the balance between cash and trading assets wrong you may lose it all together. Resulting in a hefty tax bill.

What’s the biggest mistakes companies make?

Not starting their exit/extraction strategy soon enough. The longer exit planning is left the more limited tax planning choices can become. For example, investments like pensions, Venture Capital Trusts an Enterprise Investment Schemes have funding limits each tax year potentially exposing you to unnecessary taxes. Adding to this, cash in the business is being eroded by inflation all the time!

What’s your top tip?

Start small, start early and take advice. Pensions are second-to-none in terms of efficiently taking money out of a business, not only can you save on corporation tax and avoid unnecessary cash buildup in the business but your funds are also working harder for you.

Jonathan Hollick, Financial Adviser, Gary Walker Wealth Management

Business lessons I’ve learned

Fraser Taylor, Operations Director, CHAP Group

What does your company do that others don’t?

We hold quarterly meetings where everyone comes together. We call them PTM’s, which is short for project team meetings. These meetings help us talk about and review important topics, both from our industry as a whole and within our business. These are great because they help to encourage discussion rather than just issuing bulletins or memos, we all get together round a big table and chat. This makes it easier for everyone to share their ideas. It’s like a team huddle and it really helps us all work together better, delivering the important messages and receiving live feedback.

What are the most pressing challenges that your industry sector faces today, and why?

Currently there is a severe lack of quality labour within the Northeast. Specific areas of concern are Bricklayers, Scaffolders and Joiners. The lack of a quality workforce in this area continues to cause issues with follow on trades on site. In the last year alone, we have had 40 bricklayers travelling up from the central belt to help deliver on our

larger projects. This is however an expensive and unsustainability fix to the problem.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in your career to date?

Quality control in the construction industry has come a long way in the past two decades. We’ve shifted from simple Quality Assurance (QA) sheets to embracing technology like iPads and Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) to support our site teams. However, the real challenge lies in ensuring that our site managers, often juggling multiple roles, have the necessary expertise to spot and address quality issues. While they may hold construction management degrees or site manager certifications, it’s essential to acknowledge that these don’t guarantee a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of construction. To improve, we must invest in robust training programs that equip our teams with the knowledge they need to excel.

What is the most valuable piece of business advice you have ever received?

Most valuable piece of advice I was

What was your first job?

Joiner. I started working on the tools in 1984!

When would you like to retire?

62

What did you have for breakfast?

I’m very naughty and always skip breakfast!

Who, or what, inspires you?

I’m constantly inspired by the developments in construction and buildability.

What was the Last book you read / film you saw? Braveheart… Epic!!

given was when I handed my notice in many years ago and the Ops Director said, “we simply can’t lose you, you are one of the best guys we have”, he then proceeded to say, “Why is it we never pay people what they are worth before they hand their notice in?” I have personally always remembered that and it’s better to reward those early who show real ambition and make a difference.

What’s been your proudest career achievement to date, and why?

I started as a Joiner and worked my way up to becoming a Project Manager. My company encouraged me to take the MCIOB exams, even though I had no academic background. I passed the exams with flying colors and attended a ceremony in Glasgow with around 300 people from across Scotland. Not only did I receive the MCIOB award, but I also scored the highest in the commercial section, earning another award. To top it off, I achieved the highest marks in all of Scotland at 92%. It’s proof that I truly understand construction.

Playing by new rules: Are you ready for CBAM?

January 31 was an important day for many UK companies trading in key economic sectors with customers in the EU.

It was the day by which they will need to report for the first time on embedded carbon emissions in six categories of affected products they trade with the EU – iron and steel, aluminium, cement, electricity, hydrogen and fertilisers.

This is under the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) Regulation which is being phased in between 2023 and 2026 and requires the importer of record in the EU to supply attestations on embedded carbon emissions in affected products. In due course these requirements will apply to more than half the products in scope of the EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme. It works in two ways – the first stage is to get non-EU businesses to quantify the scale of carbon emissions embedded within their goods, whereas the second (from early 2026) involves a fiscal element whereby the difference between the carbon price of goods sourced outside the EU and the EU carbon price is reflected in a charge paid to the European Commission.

This will be facilitated by requiring reporting firms to purchase and then surrender carbon certificates – an approach which it seems the UK CBAM will not follow.

Why?

Through these twin policy mechanisms the EU hopes to prevent EU manufacturers being undercut by manufacturers producing goods to lesser regulatory standards in terms of climate change carbon emissions, such as from coal.

The EU has been first out of the gate in adopting this approach, and countries such as the UK and Turkey

are now considering how to orientate their own policies on carbon leakage.

In November last year, the UK government released its consultation responses on the topic, pledging to introduce a UK CBAM by 2027, but with some differences to the EU’s – ie. ceramics and glass products will be in scope in the UK version, but electricity generation will likely be excluded. The BCC’s position is that the UK and EU should seek linkage of their Emissions Trading Schemes (ETSs) to promote a stable investment position across the European neighbourhood, and to prevent UK exports losing competitiveness in their largest export market – the EU.

Linkage is conceived of within the Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA). Alignment with key EU regulations may be required if such a proposal is sought by the UK and offered by the EU. It took Switzerland 7 years to negotiate a linkage deal.

CBAM reflects a regulatory and fiscal policy choice made by the EU to address potential outsourcing of complying with carbon emissions targets to production locations with weaker environmental regulations than in the European neighbourhood.

CBAM is the first in a series of EU rules affecting its market and supply chains which has effects beyond the Single Market to non-EU states like the UK, also including the Deforestation Regulation, prospective Corporate Responsibility on Due Diligence Directive, Packaging rules, and by the end of the decade reforms to the EU VAT and customs rulebooks.

Key measures

Last year the UK and EU carbon prices diverged substantially across many commodities, with the UK price falling to £40/tn – in some areas around half the EU carbon price – prior to market intervention measures being taken by

Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, which have reversed a portion of the carbon price divergence. Another complication is that a decision has yet to be taken on whether the EU CBAM will apply in Northern Ireland, which could create further GB to NI trade frictions.

Key measures which affected GB exporting firms should be taking now include:

• Be aware of carbon emissions which may become embedded in the manufacture or production of your goods.

• Maintain strong dialogue with their importing customers in the EU to ensure they have all the information required from the UK supplier to make their quarterly declarations on embedded emissions to the European Commission.

• Get used to the latest Implementing regulation and guidance from the European Commission to third country economic operators to assist with filling in the requisite paperwork and spreadsheets.

• Appoint someone as the responsible CBAM compliance officer within the firm – this may be someone from their customs team.

• If in doubt or unsure about how to fill in the compliance paperwork approach your local Chamber for assistance, who will work with the BCC team to help with your issues.

• Keep tabs on what products may enter scope of the CBAM reporting requirements over the next two years and when this occurs.

• If you would like support with any of the issues covered in this article, our international trade team can help.

Contact:

documentation@agcc.co.uk

New partnership provides ‘peace of mind’ for R&D tax compliance

A five-fold increase in the number of compliance reviews carried out by HMRC has left north-east accountancy firms rethinking their approach to R&D tax claim services.

ZLX Business Solutions has responded to the tightening of regulations around R&D tax credits by launching its ‘gold partner’ initiative to help Aberdeen-based firms understand these changes and ensure compliance.

The company, which has a Granite City office, is offering specialist support to accountants and other boutique R&D providers by providing a team of legal, financial and technical experts – without the need for expensive overheads.

This centralised resource processes all claims and defends against any potential compliance reviews. Meanwhile, each gold partner has a dedicated account manager plus an app and dashboard which tracks their client’s claim throughout the process.

Stephen McCallion, founder and CEO of ZLX Business Solutions, explained: “Historically, only a small percentage of claims for R&D tax credits have been assessed by HMRC. We are now operating in a completely different landscape given the increased focus on compliance reviews, with some businesses commenting that up to 30% of their R&D claims are now being audited by HMRC.

“We believe the only way to thrive in this marketplace is to partner with other R&D specialist suppliers. Fortunately, our infrastructure allows ZLX to offer other accountants and R&D boutiques the benefits of working with a team of compliance officers, while freeing them up to focus on core operations.

“This new initiative allows our gold partners to take full advantage of the large infrastructure possessed by ZLX, enabling peace of mind in the most challenging of circumstances within the R&D tax relief market sector.

Stephen McCallion CEO & Founder, ZLX Business Solutions

“Initial feedback also suggests that our gold partners are winning more work and making more profit – without the need to employ more staff – due to the additional time they have available.”

In addition to becoming a gold partner with ZLX, the company provides a complimentary audit of the R&D claim before submission to HMRC.

Each project is analysed to ensure the technical narrative is aligned with HMRC guidelines, and that all relevant financial information meets the eligibility criteria. ZLX also provides a robust claim defence service in the event that a partner’s R&D claim is rejected.

ZLX recently supported award-winning tax specialist RIFT by providing comprehensive legal and compliance support, particularly around the complex landscape of R&D tax credits which are subject to frequent changes.

This partnership represents a strategic alignment to support businesses efficiently manage their R&D tax credit compliance requirements, ensuring adherence to regulations and maximising benefits without the added strain on resources.

Alison Soltani-Davies, CFO at RIFT, commented: “We recently entered a strategic partnership with ZLX and the whole process from start to finish has been seamless and enjoyable. The speed and ease of engagement as well as the professionalism demonstrated by the ZLX team is to be applauded. We very much look forward to working together going forward and being able to offer our clients the benefit of their technical and legal expertise.”

Chris Marshall and Billy Laws

Following the successful launch of its IT support service arm, Evolve iMS welcomes Chris Marshall and Billy Laws to its team. Chris joins as Senior IT Infrastructure Analyst (Aberdeen) and Billy as IT Infrastructure Analyst (Aberdeen). The two new starts bring the organisational headcount to 18 across the UK.

Sophy Scott and Dara Isles

Aberdeen-based digital marketing agency, Mission10, has welcomed Sophy Scott as Junior Account Manager and Dara Isles as Marketing Executive, marking a significant stride in the company’s ambitious growth journey. Sophy, who has more than four years of experience in the marketing sector, joined the team in from Space Solutions, where she was most recently Marketing Team Lead. Dara brings valuable experience from the oil and gas sector, having previously worked as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator within the EUAF team for Fugro.

Brian Owen, Gary Woods and Gary Sinclair

TESS Aberdeen has expanded its hose management team with the recruitment of three new employees. The expansion of TESS Aberdeen’s Hose Management team further strengthens its position as a total solution provider, aiming to enhance its service offerings in the market and effectively meet the growing demands of its clients.

Keith Heslop

Award-winning charity, Sport Aberdeen, has announced Keith Heslop at its new Chief Executive Officer. Keith initially joined the charity in October 2022 after more than 25 years of senior roles in the energy sector based in the UK, West Africa and the Falkland Islands.

Richard Lind

Ashtead Technology’s Richard Lind has joined the Decom Mission Board of Directors. Richard is General Manager of Ashtead Technology’s mechanical solutions facility in Aberdeenshire. He has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in subsea infrastructure removal and well decommissioning.

Eilidh Robertson and Candice Thompson

HR consultancy Hunter Adams has announced two changes to its senior team. Eilidh Robertson has moved into the role of Head of Executive Search, where she will work closely with the firm’s clients on senior hires across all disciplines. Candice Thompson has been promoted to Senior Recruitment Manager, overseeing all permanent and interim recruitment and taking on line management of the recruitment team.

Diana Gormley

RGU welcomes awardwinning businesswoman and former mechanical and manufacturing engineer, Diana Gormley, as its latest Entrepreneur in Residence. Diana will work closely with RGU’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Group, who are responsible for advancing the University’s vision of being an innovative and impactful institution through the delivery of programmes, events, and initiatives.

Akil Mahbub

Hydro Group has welcomed Akil Mahbub as Engineering Manager. As a Chartered Engineer, Akil’s unique combination of technical prowess and leadership skills will not only elevate the performance of the engineering team but also contribute significantly to overall strategic objectives.

Kirk Stratman

Kirk Stratman has been promoted to Assistant Operations Manager at MRS Training & Rescue Aberdeen. Kirk joined MRS Training and Rescue’s Bridge of Don centre in March 2023 as an Associate and then in September became a full time Trainer and Rescue Operative.

Edel Harris OBE

Aberdeen Performing Arts has appointed Edel Harris OBE as its new Chair. Edel served as the CEO of Mencap from 2019 to 2023. Prior to this, she spent eleven years as the CEO of Cornerstone Community Care, based in Aberdeen. Edel has also previously served as the Chair of The Life Changes Trust and the Scottish Government’s Social Investment Fund.

David Carr and Ian Coates

OEG Energy Group Limited strengthens its senior team by appointing David Carr as its new Chief Commercial Officer and Ian Coates as Topside Director at OEG Renewables. David joins OEG having been Senior VP International at Helix Energy Solutions and has a wealth of international experience in leading the development of innovative products and services in the offshore energy industry. Ian Coates has been the Managing Director at Specialist Marine Consultants Limited (SMC) since he founded the business in 2006. Under his leadership, he grew SMC to become a globally recognised provider of specialist topside services to the offshore energy and civil marine sectors. SMC was acquired by OEGR in 2022.

Jim Lockhart

Top UK accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael has strengthened its rapidly growing Business Advisory team with the appointment of Jim Lockhart as Partner in its growing Glasgow office.

Chris Gemmell

Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline, has announced the appointment of Chris Gemmell as its new Chief Financial Officer. He will take up his post at the airline’s Glasgow headquarters, leading the Finance, HR and IT functions across the airline.

Amplus Energy Services Ltd

Amplus has welcomed Steve Gardyne as Managing Director, with his responsibilities including overseeing new venture Carbon Circle UK. Elsewhere in the business, George Geddes has been named HSEQ Manager, while Susan Shanks recently took up the post of Financial Controller. Meanwhile, former Managing Director Ian Herd, who originally founded the company, has stepped down from his role to become an Executive Director.

Clan Cancer Support

Laura Birnie, Mike Killeen, Bobby Lamberton, George Ramsay and Claire Stevenson have been appointed to Clan’s Board as the charity continues to address post-pandemic challenges and position the organisation for future growth. Laura, currently Finance Manager at Peterhead Port Authority, is a Chartered Accountant with 20 years of finance and business management experience. Mike has more than 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and is currently Chief Operating Officer at Serica Energy. Bobby is a retired medical GP with 33 years of experience. He currently works as a part-time locum GP delivering work in medical practices across the City and Shire. George is an honorary Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the Health Services Research Unit at University of Aberdeen. Claire is a well-known events host and presenter with more than 14 years of broadcasting experience in the North-east.

Mike Duncan

Fugro, the world’s leading Geo-data specialist, has appointed Mike Duncan as Regional Director Operational Excellence and Project Management, Europe and Africa. Mike will improve the quality of Fugro services throughout the operational and project process with the goal of improving customer satisfaction.

Professor Paul de Leeuw

Professor Paul de Leeuw from Robert Gordon University (RGU) has been appointed to the Board of the UK’s Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) for a period of four years. Professor de Leeuw is a senior industry leader and executive with over 35 years’ experience in the global energy sector.

Charlotte Hope

Online Electronics have appointed Charlotte Hope as Vice-President. Charlotte joined Online Electronics at the start of 2022 as Director of Sales. As Vice-President, she will take on a broader and more strategic role, focusing on driving growth and ensuring Online remain at the forefront of technological advancements.

Mackinnons Solicitors

Mackinnons Solicitors are delighted to announce a number of promotions across the firm. Rachael Bain becomes an Associate within their Dispute Resolution department, Iona Garland is elevated to the role of Senior Solicitor within their Commercial and Marine departments and Fiona McCrorie has been appointed as Leasing Manager in their Residential Leasing department.

Graeme Morgan

Houston-based Graeme Morgan, who has more than 35 years’ experience in the engineering and energy sectors, joins JBS as Vicepresident Sales, Americas. Graeme will lead the firm’s ambitious plans for its offering of screw conveyors, US-manufactured blast containment products and its patented Sea Axe, a lightweight and flexible excavation innovation for the subsea industry.

John Clark

IT Hotdesk, a leading IT services company, is pleased to announce the appointment of John Clark as the new Operations Manager. With an extensive background in the IT industry, John Clark brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, positioning IT Hotdesk for continued success and growth.

Gordon Charlton

Aberdeenshire-based marketing and PR firm, Instinct, is pleased to announce the strategic appointment of Gordon Charlton as Business Development Executive. This move is a pivotal step in Instinct’s ambitious growth plans for 2024 and beyond, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to providing unparalleled services to an expanding client base.

Kim Stephen

The Energy Industries Council (EIC), the awardwinning energy trade association, announces the appointment of Kim Stephen as UK Regional Director. She joins EIC from P&J Live, where she led the conference sales team for nearly six years.

Kirk Dailly

Kirk Dailly has been appointed as Head of the Business Services Group at Blackadders LLP. As a partner at the firm and the existing Head of Blackadders’ Corporate and Commercial team, Kirk has extensive experience in the sector.

Laura Jarvie

Cerulean Winds has appointed experienced commercial leader Laura Jarvie to a new Head of Scotland role, where she will work closely with stakeholders on the development of the North Sea Renewables Grid. Laura has over 20 years’ experience in the energy sector, spanning oil and gas, energy transition and renewables.

Jay Kelly

Jay Kelly joins Zenith Energy’s management tea mas he take on the role as Wells Manager. With over 22 years’ experience in the drilling and wells space, Jay has an extensive managerial and engineering history working in the energy sector.

Fifth Ring

Fifth Ring has made a string of appointments across its three offices following several significant contract wins. Among the appointments in Aberdeen are Account Executive Nicole Quirie, Account Manager Sarah Gray, who has joined from Sport Aberdeen, and Developer Ryan Anderson has moved to the company after seven years at Azzurro-Blu. On the creative side, the company has invested in emerging talent with the appointments of David McIvor as Junior Copywriter and Heather Clark as Junior Art Director. Meanwhile, Jen Hutchinson has joined from Proserv to become Marketing Manager and Natalia Janicka, formerly of the Net Zero Technology Centre, has been appointed Campaign Manager.

Darren Donaldson and Callum O’Mally

Sureclean strengthen its team with Darren Donaldson, transitioning from offshore RPS to Project Engineer, leveraging his extensive RPS experience to oversee onsite NORM decontamination operations. Demonstrating a commitment to fostering young new talent into the energy industry, Sureclean also welcome Callum O’Mally, an Apprentice Pump Engineer, to its dynamic and vibrant team.

Kelly Smith

ASCO has appointed Kelly Smith as its Head of Environmental Services and Decommissioning. During the past decade, Kelly has held several roles in ASCO’s environmental services line; these include Environmental Business Advisor and, most recently, UK Technical Manager for the department.