CV Magazine August 2017

August 2017

The Advancement of Project Cost Management ARES Project Management LLC, a subsidiary of ARES Holding Company, is a world-class global provider of integrated project cost management software solutions.

The firm was delighted to receive the exclusive Most Innovative Tech Firm – Asia Pacific award, as part of the 2017 Tech of the Year Awards. We interviewed the firm’s Senior Vice President for Asia, Australia, South America and Africa, Scott Hyman to discover more. iBreathe is a leading UK-based manufacturer of electronic cigarettes and refill liquids. We interviewed the firm’s Director & MD, Bilal Rahman.

Also inside this month...

LHR Global Logistics Limited / Adams Remco / Rifle Shot Perfomance Holdings (Pty) Ltd / Arnecke Sibeth / Tripp Scott / FleetEurope / iBreathe Limited / Passport Career, LLC / Vestirarte, SLU / Peak 10 / Redback

Flying High We interviewed the man at the helm of Quantum 9, Michael Mayes, to learn more about the wider cannabis industry today.

Editor’s Note

, Welcome to this bumper August edition of Corporate Vision Magazine, providing you with the latest news and features on the corporate issues of the day.

In this issue, we interview Bilal Rahman, Director & MD of iBreathe – a leading UK-based manufacturer of electronic cigarettes (eCigarettes) and refill liquids (eLiquids). Bilal provides us with a flavour of their highly sought-after products.

On 27th July, Vertiv, formerly known as Emerson Network Power announced plans to sell its ASCO® business as it continues to sharpen its focus on the digital critical infrastructure space.

Elsewhere in this edition, owner of 3D-SQUARED, Andrew Allshorn discusses with us how the company provides a strategic consulting and support service for organisations involved with 3D printing and addictive manufacturing (AM) technologies.

I hope you enjoy reading this truly insightful issue.

Jessica Daykin, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 725 6842 Email: jessica.daykin@ai-globalmedia.com Website: www.corp-vis.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them.

The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions.

Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.

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Contents

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6. News 10. The Advancement of Project Cost Management 14. Flying High* 16. Decades of Logistics Experience 18. Whatever It Takes 22. Right on Target 24. Award Winning Law Firm Who Specializes in Swiss Business Law 26. Industry Know-How and Legal Expertise 28. Small Cap CEO Awards & US Small Cap CEO of the Year 32. Knowledge and Insight into 3D Printing 34. Finest in Freight 36. Leading Businesses in the US 40. The Story of a Family Business 44. Simple, Powerful and Cost-Effective 46. Dressed to Kill 48. The Warmth of Traditional Arabic Hospitality 50. Best Luxury Health & Beauty Product Manufacturer – UK 52. New Opportunities for Growth 53. Mind, Body and Spirit 54. 2017 Partner of Q1 55. The Peak of Success 56. Passport to Success 57. Winner’s Directory

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NEWS

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Workforce Challenges - Top Concern for Manufacturers Manufacturers are optimistic about their industry and the U.S. economy, but concern about the ongoing struggle to find qualified workers remains, according to the 2017 Manufacturing Report from Sikich LLP.

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NEWS

, In the firm’s third annual report on the manufacturing industry, nearly 80% of respondents said they are more optimistic about the U.S. economy compared to last year while 66% said the same about the manufacturing industry. And 69% expect headcount to increase.

Even so, respondents identified addressing workforce challenges as a top priority for their companies and nearly 60% pointed to a lack of qualified workers as a barrier to business growth.

“The use of advanced technologies across manufacturing operations requires workers with a higher level of training and skills,” said Jerry Murphy, partner-incharge of Sikich’s manufacturing and distribution practice. “Our report found that while manufacturers recognise the gaps in workforce development, many simply are not doing enough to train and equip workers to thrive in today’s increasingly complex manufacturing operations.”

More than half of respondents said their companies have no involvement with high schools, community colleges or universities to develop skilled workers.

And more than 80% said they provide 40 hours or less of annual training per employee.

“Manufacturers must prioritize workforce training and development within their organisations and collaborate with schools and professional associations to train and recruit talent,” said Joy Duce, partner-in-charge of Sikich’s human resource consulting services practice. “The companies that embrace workforce development as a key initiative will be in a better position to ensure long-term viability and competitiveness.”

Manufacturers remain vulnerable to cybersecurity threats As technology continues to change how manufacturers develop products and interact with customers, information technology security risks have increased. Sikich’s 2017 report found that many manufacturers fail to take the necessary steps to protect their data.

For example, 44% of respondents said they do not perform annual intrusion testing, in which security

professionals attempt to infiltrate a company’s IT systems or applications to identify weaknesses.

Additionally, while training employees on cybersecurity best practices is necessary to ensure company-wide vigilance, nearly 70% of respondents said they do not conduct annual staff training.

“Manufacturers cannot afford to deprioritise cybersecurity preparedness today,” said Brad Lutgen, partner in Sikich’s security and compliance practice. “As the number of connected products in manufacturing operations increases, external and internal vulnerabilities abound in the industry. Manufacturers need to take preventative steps to secure valuable intellectual property and protect their investments in new high-tech manufacturing equipment, which can be exploited if not configured properly.”

Report identifies manufacturers’ growth strategies Manufacturers view organic growth in existing domestic markets and new product or service development as the top opportunities for growth over the next 12-18 months. Despite the emphasis on new products, however, 78% of respondents said they invest 5% of sales or less in research and development. Further, nearly half do not take advantage of research and experimentation tax credits.

“The optimism manufacturers feel in today’s economy is warranted, but our report showcases several areas of vulnerability,” Murphy said. “From workforce development to technology to financial planning, manufacturers cannot afford to grow complacent in an increasingly competitive marketplace. The companies that stay ahead of industry trends and seek constant improvement will be the ones well-positioned to innovate and grow.”

For the 2017 Manufacturing Report, Sikich surveyed more than 250 respondents from companies across industrial sectors, including metal fabrication, industrial equipment, food and beverage, chemical and petroleum, automotive, plastics and distribution. www.sikich.com

Acapture and Boatsters Launch the First, End-toEnd VR Webshop Acapture, a global, data-driven omnichannel PSP, together with Boatsters, a world leading rental platform for yachts and boats, have launched a Virtual Reality (VR) webshop pilot project.

Available as a white label application, Acapture’s VR webshop solution can be utilised and personalised by any merchant looking to add VR to their offering. The application covers the entire customer journey, from selection to payment. When consumers are ready to make a purchase, the payment is supported by Acapture’s award winning payment platform and completed entirely within the VR environment.

Webshops created with this application can be accessed by consumers via their smartphone at the lowest-priced headsets available.

Moreover, the webshop solution unifies the consumer touch points, gathering the shopping journey data from all online, offline, mobile and virtual channels and creating a complete overview of the consumer shopping patterns meant to optimise the ecommerce solutions available for merchants.

“This is an exciting moment for Boatsters,” said Nick Gelevert, Boatsters CEO, “and a ground-breaking moment for commerce. The VR channel was the missing piece from our offering. We provide not just products, but real world experiences and VR allows our buyers to test that experience in a way no other channel can. With Acapture’s application, we can see how long which consumers browse which products and segments of our catalogue, providing a new level of insight into their shopping

journey and allowing us to adjust our process, ultimately leading to higher conversions.”

“Since we launched Acapture,” said Rudolf Booker, Acapture CEO, “we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing the complete omnichannel payment solution meant to maximise revenues for merchants. With this application, we’re taking omnichannel to the next level, enabling an immersive shopping experience for buyers, while offering merchants customised ecommerce solutions optimised for their customers’ shopping needs.”

With 171 million active VR users projected by 2018, VR is very relevant to the present state of commerce, which is increasingly defined by experience. Almost 50% of worldwide shoppers see VR as the next step in the ultimate shopping experience, showing that consumers, particularly millennials and generation Z, are ready for virtual commerce. With consumers prepared for and demanding this new shopping channel, merchants are acknowledging the trend and integrating VR technology into their offering.

An in-depth analysis into virtual commerce and Acapture’s virtual reality webshop pilot can be found in Acapture’s latest whitepaper, Virtual Commerce, available here.

For more information about Acapture, please check www.acapture. com

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Benefits in Heightened Compliance Environment With corporate scandals and cyber-attacks a fixture in the news cycle, organisations with mature training see greater positive outcomes, a survey finds

Leading ethics and compliance software and services company NAVEX Global®, on 28 July announced the release of its 2017 Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Report. The survey data shows that return on investment is greater for organisations with training programmes deemed mature or advanced, helping them achieve risk mitigation and culture change.

“More than half of our respondents classified their training programmes as at least mature and said they are better able to determine and then show the linkage between programme maturity and training objectives to executives,” said Ingrid Fredeen, J.D., NAVEX Global’s vice president of online learning content and the report’s author.

“Being able to sharpen the business case for training is important for compliance programmes hoping to secure more funding at this critical time, when a scandal or cyber-attack can have swift and sweeping negative effects on an organisation and its brand.”

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NEWS

, The survey findings represent more than 900 respondents, over half of whom were senior managers or directors. 48% of respondents said their training programmes were maturing – meaning they have a basic plan for the year that covers risk and role-based topic assignments.

Effectiveness measures for these programmes are limited to completion rates and qualitative feedback.

Another 10% of respondents said their programmes were advanced – meaning they have a sophisticated multiyear training plan that covers a variety of topics assigned to specific audiences based on need and risk profile that includes live and eLearning, short-form and long-form courses and a variety of engaging formats. These programmes also have a disciplined approach to reporting and measuring training effectiveness that focuses on training outcomes. Larger organisations were more likely to have mature or advanced programmes.

“Making an investment in employee training can be a significant expenditure for organisations,” Fredeen said. “But as this year’s results show, without the investment, efforts can be wasted because the programme is not effective or supportive and employees can become disengaged.”

Echoing previous year’s results, training at the highest levels continues to be a potential problem spot. 36% of respondents said their organisations don’t provide ethics and compliance training to their boards – and another 21% said they didn’t know whether they did. Additionally, just 25% of organisations train their boards on cybersecurity.

But survey respondents are clearly concerned about complying with laws and regulations, likely influenced by recent corporate scandals and cyber-attacks.

The order of the top two training objectives identified by respondents flipped this year compared with 2017, with complying with laws and regulations edging out creating a culture of ethics and respect for the spot.

“Those two objectives are usually atop the list, but the switch in order this year is likely a result of people thinking differently about the need for training programmes,” Fredeen said. “Some organisations could be wondering what is under a rock today that could go public tomorrow.”

Many respondents (about a third to half) indicated that they were unsure what outcomes their ethics and compliance training programme has achieved, as few attempts to demonstrate a return on investment. Analysis suggests that organisations with sufficient budget (mainly ones at an advanced stage of maturity) experience lower employee turnover. However, about a quarter of organisations don’t have a dedicated budget for ethics and compliance training, like the 2016 findings.

“That’s a troubling finding, one that’s shared equally across organisations of all sizes,” Fredeen said. “The difficulty in showing return on investment and effectiveness, of course, ties back into a lack of dedicated budgets.

Dedicated budgets also ensure predictability and allows for longterm planning – especially in an environment in which compliance professionals are regularly asked to do more with less.”

Other key findings include: • Organisations define a culture of ethics and respect in various ways; the two most common definitions highlight a culture that creates a workplace that encourages people to speak openly and aligns with regulatory requirements; • Just 41% of respondents said they provide training on cybersecurity, a surprising finding given the regular appearance of cyber breaches in the news and; • Just 43% provide training on speaking up and reporting/ anti-retaliation.

Vertiv Sells ASCO® to Schneider Electric Vertiv, formerly Emerson Network Power, on July 27 announced plans to sell its ASCO® business as it continues to sharpen its focus on the digital critical infrastructure space.

The $1.25 billion sale to Schneider Electric allows Vertiv to apply additional resources toward business and technological advancements in its core data centre, telecommunications and commercial and industrial markets.

As Vertiv has repositioned itself after being sold to Platinum Equity in November 2016, it became clear that ASCO’s strengths in the automatic transfer switch arena fell outside the new organization’s more focused strategy, said Vertiv CEO Rob Johnson.

“This sale is a significant step forward in our evolution as the premier provider of digital critical infrastructure solutions,” Johnson said. “This is consistent with our strategy of focusing on our customers and aligning the strengths of our organisation - deep domain knowledge in IT and facilities applications, global scale and service coverage - to better meet their needs.”

Platinum Equity Partner Jacob Kotzubei praised Vertiv’s progress: “Thanks to strong leadership and the commitment of Vertiv employees around the world, the company is performing exceptionally well and the transformation of the business is right on track,” said Mr. Kotzubei. “The sale of ASCO will further support those efforts and help Vertiv continue focusing on its core business. Given the amount of cash proceeds expected to be generated from the sale, we will evaluate several capital structure alternatives that would be beneficial to all stakeholders.”

The sale price of $1.25 billion reflects a multiple of 11.7x adjusted EBITDA for CY2016. The sale is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close by Q4 2017.

For more information, visit www. vertivco.com

To download NAVEX Global’s Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Report, please visit: trust.navexglobal.com/2017-Training-Benchmark-Report_Download. html?utm_source=072717&utm_ medium=pr&utm_campaign=2017olt-br

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The Advancement of Project Cost Management ARES Project Management LLC, a subsidiary of ARES Holding Company, a world-class global provider of integrated project cost management software solutions. The firm was delighted to receive the exclusive Most Innovative Tech Firm – Asia Pacific award, as part of the 2017 Tech of the Year Awards. We interviewed the firm’s Senior Vice President for Asia, Australia, South America and Africa, Scott Hyman to discover more.

ARES Project Management LLC has global offices in more than 10 locations, providing solutions to organisations in over 30 countries. More than 10,000 users worldwide, rely on ARES PRISM software to manage the complete project lifecycle of capital projects that lowers cost, mitigates risk and improves project performance. ARES is a results-oriented business partner, with a drive towards 100% customer satisfaction.

The firm’s Senior Vice President, Scott Hyman is eager to reveal what sets the firm apart in the work they do, plus how their expertise ensures that their clients succeed.

“What sets ARES apart from other technology project management companies, is that we are the only complete solutions provider, solely dedicated to the advancement of project cost management. Successful projects involve comprehensive planning and mindful execution to ensure profitability. The ARES complete solution empowers customers to eliminate or reduce

the obstructions that impact efficiency and performance, through integrated project management capabilities.

“With over 20 years of experience in providing project management solutions to customers in multiple industries, ARES has the expertise needed to help any client succeed, from scheduling, to developing work processes and procedures, right through to the implementation of PRISM. ARES has the processes, the personnel and the tools required to effectively manage projects; all backed by a reputation earned by solving our clients’ toughest challenges.”

Scott shared a detailed breakdown on the firm’s service offerings, starting with made-toorder dashboards, PMO setup & management and integration services.

“ARES provides design services for custom dashboards. This service is for clients who do not want to purchase the standard PRISM dashboard, but would prefer ARES develop a custom dashboard. Whether you want to add stop light thresholds,

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storyboards or corporate identity and terminology to the dashboard, we can help you.”

“Turning to Project Management Office (PMO) setup & management, the day-to-day operation and cross-business integration of this is complex and seldom executed with positive results and a return on investment (ROI). Furthermore, the greatest complexities most organisations face is based on lack of knowledge experts, poor project execution, costly overruns and schedule creep.

“ARES offers the expert ability to integrate and resource your PMO, with both the core competencies and industry best practices that deliver results every time. ARES assists clients to manage their meetings, develop dashboards, control stakeholder communications, identify and manage risks and more. In short, ARES effectively turns customers PMO into a strategic asset.

“On integration services, PRISM INtegrator is an out-of-thebox integration platform that connects IT, ERP and financial systems without the need for

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Company: ARES Project Management, LLC Name: Scott Hyman, Senior Vice President Email: shyman@aresprism.com Web Address: www.aresprism.com Address: Level 1, 530 Lt Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000 Australia Telephone: +1 704 699 0131

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a complex code. The PRISM INtegrator product takes care of all the difficult integration and optimisation behind the scenes work, so that customers can spend more time focusing on other important aspects of their project.”

Scott then turns his thoughts towards more of the firm’s marvellous offerings, this time looking at their project controls readiness assessment, product training, programme implementation services as well as workflow and business process design.

“Project controls require the successful integration of people, processes and technology to lower costs, mitigate risk and improve performance. This is where our project controls readiness assessment comes in.

We will meet with our customer’s team to determine the current state of project controls and then provide an execution plan, with recommendations and best practices for the necessary optimisation.

“On product training, ARES aims to develop user expertise in the PRISM hands-on sessions. To increase learning and retention, ARES has designed courses to include lecture, demonstration and hands-on exercises. Looking at our programme implementation services, we provide a ‘Steps to Successful Implementation Guide’, to ensure the customer and their team are off to a great start with PRISM implementation.

“Turning to our workflow & business process design services, every organization has gaps. We believe that the key is to find the right business, technology and financial fit to eliminate those gaps and provide a platform for growth. This challenge is rooted in properly identifying performance gaps and creating the right roadmap, to steer a business in the optimum direction and to drive accelerated growth. ARES can develop the workflow and business process design: this includes an assessment of the customers’ business activities and processes

and user case descriptions, the identification of real and potential gaps, development of a priority heat-map and recommended courses of action.”

Finally, with regards to the firm’s project management services, Scott underlines that there is no substitute for the qualities of knowledge, experience and expertise.

“ARES is the global leader in providing the critical human capital, to allow organisations across all major private and public sector entities to deliver both short and long-term project success. All ARES project controls specialists are active members of AACEI in local chapters throughout the world and can assist your organisation with critical resources.”

Turning to the wider perspective, Scott highlights the key attributes that have helped to make ARES successful in the Asia Pacific Region.

“ARES success is not just limited to the Asia Pacific region; globally we provide the people, the processes and the reputation to ensure the success of our client’s projects within their country of operation, for the first and indeed every time! ARES provides quality employees, industryspecific experience, focused on high-end work and solving complex issues. Our teams are highly trained in project delivery.

Over the last 20 years, ARES has developed over 150 project controls processes, that ensure success for all our clients.

“It would seem like common sense, if for no other reason than financially, that projects are delivered on-time and on budget. I believe it’s a no brainer to implement proper project controls and procedures, if project owners, EPC and construction management companies truly understood the monumental savings involved in on-time delivery, the management of cost escalations, scope creep and delays, over and above the various complex issues involved in the execution and delivery of

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such work. Our biggest challenge has been to educate the market on how important it is to put proper project controls procedures in place and to implement tools like ARES PRISM, to ensure the success of any project.”

In closing, Scott reveals how they feel to be selected as 2017’s Most Innovative Tech Firm – Asia Pacific, as part of the 2017 Tech of the Year Awards. He also reveals the key principles the firm adheres to and their aspirations for the future.

“The award is a good indication that we are on the right track in this region. ARES and specifically the Asian Pacific team, have worked hard at upholding our global reputation, in terms of providing our customers with world-class services and solutions. Our efforts have paid off following this special recognition.

“As a global company. that operates in multiple countries across a myriad of industries, ARES lives up to the following core principles: Firstly, integrity.

We are honest, ethical and reliable. Secondly, quality.

We strive to provide superior, first-time quality products and services through our strong focus on both peer review and continuous improvement.

“Thirdly, we believe in commitment. We strive to overproduce, by meeting or exceeding all customer commitments, both internal and external and by meeting or beating all schedules or budgets. Fourthly, we believe in people. We continue to enhance the professional skills of our employees, to provide exceptional professional growth and greater benefit to our customers.

“In closing, our goal is to have ARES PRISM on every project in the ASIA Pacific Region, irrespective if they are private or public projects. We believe that the value and cost savings alone, would unlock ‘hidden’ funding for additional projects, which of course underpins the growth in any economy. “

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The PRISM product range offers out-of-the-box solutions that are easy to implement, these include: Cost: Secure, on-time, and within budget delivery. PRISM reduces the effort needed to manage a project’s cost and keeps it on schedule, saving both time and money with complete cost control of the project portfolio.

Engineering: The engineering product is an earned value progress solution, designed for budgeting and monitoring engineering tasks, deliverables and packages by work-hours.

Procurement: PRISM provides the ability to manage the complete procurement process for any size or type of project, from the first engineering requisition, through to managing the delivery of materials and equipment to the job site.

Contracts: PRISM is an essential contracts management tool, for all project stakeholders, the owner, EPC or the construction management firm.

Field: PRISM offers a mobile solution for IOS and Android platforms, enabling engineers to enter progress directly from the field.

Estimating: Innovative cost estimating, from high-level conceptual, through to detailed controls. PRISM helps companies centralise the estimating data and enables collaboration on this.

Docs: PRISM docs is a document management solution.

It is designed for finding, sharing and controlling critical technical and business documents.

Dashboard: Take business analytics to the next level.

Transform the way projects are visually managed, thus enabling faster more informed business decisions.

Integrator: Out-of-the-box integration platform that connects IT systems, ERP systems, and financial systems enabling companies to orchestrate data flow that supports business.

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Flying High Our special 2017 Cannabis CEO of the Year award went to the Chief Executive Officer of Quantum 9, Michael Mayes. The firm is an international hemp and cannabis consulting company, based in Chicago, IL. We interviewed the man at the helm to learn more about the wider cannabis industry today, as well as the work of Quantum 9 and their growing number of expert consultants.

The primary objective of Quantum 9 is to help connect patients with the necessary resources - while aiding investors, entrepreneurs, employees and potential patients into the cannabis industry.

The firm’s specialist areas include employee training, staff augmentation and permit acquisition.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer for Quantum 9, Michael Mayes begins by giving an insight into the US cannabis industry today, and how many states are using it legally and the number who are using it for recreational purposes. He also tells us who in the cannabis industry today he admires.

“There are currently 29 states that have medical marijuana programmes. There are currently eight states and Washington DC that have recreational or adult use programmes. As a firm, Quantum 9 are expecting a few more over the coming months.

“In terms of who I admire in the cannabis industry, I would say hands down Ed Rosenthal. He is a long-time friend of mine and is one of the main reasons why we have medical cannabis in the first place here in the USA. For me, he has been an amazing mentor and has helped Quantum 9 as a firm, since it began here in Chicago, IL over four and a half years ago.”

Staying on the subject of Quantum 9, Ed then reveals the next steps for Quantum 9 and how their clients perceive the firm’s work.

required to build a team, design the facilities and answer the state or federal questions in a way that puts the client in the perfect position to win.

“I think we will continue to do cannabis license acquisition work, but we aim to focus more on building the Greenwave brand. Greenwave is a dispensary that was founded in Michigan and now in Maryland.

“I would also like to say that as a firm, we are always seeking to hire good people to come and work for us. Our cannabis consultants usually go through a very in-depth interview process.

Our cultivation marijuana consultants are asked three levels of questions, that increase in difficulty for each level. Their score, along with a writing sample and references, are reviewed by Quantum 9 subject matter experts. We have 45 cannabis consultants that work for us now at the firm, so they are certainly growing in number.”

“On how our clients rate our work, I would like to say that most of Quantum 9’s leads can be attributed to our SEO expert, Kevin Mahoney. As Quantum 9’s director of operations, Kevin has worked diligently to get the firm to the number two spot for many of our key search terms. In some cases, I am proud to say that he’s got us to the number one spot.”

In closing, Ed is keen to tell us what it takes to win a cannabis license and how Quantum 9 explains their high success rate. He also reveals if the firm is currently hiring and reveals what it takes to be a Quantum 9 cannabis consultant.

“We usually only take on clients that have a good chance of winning. Our projects typically take between six and ten months.

When people call us super later in the submission window, we simply turn them down. It is very difficult to win these types of licenses, because of the time

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Company: Quantum 9 Name: Michael Mayes Chief Executive Officer Email: michael@quantum9.net Web Address: www.quantum9.net Address: Quantum 9 Headquarters 744 N. Clark St., Suite 804, Chicago, IL 60654 USA Telephone: +1 888 716 0404

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Decades of Logistics Experience As part of 2017 Transport & Logistics 100, LHR Global Logistics achieved success in winning the 2017 Best for Warehousing, Supply Chain & Logistics award. We invited the company’s Chris Black to profile their role in the transportation and supply chain industry and the success they are enjoying.

LHR Global Logistics has been providing tailored service solutions to its valued clients since 2007 and has continued to sustain double digit growth, year over year, through this period in customer, consignment and revenue growth. We attribute this successful track record to our core company values, which are: • ‘One size doesn’t fit all’ Providing a range of service choices.

• ‘Professional, timely and courteous’ - Impressions always count.

• ‘I am not a number’ - We know all our customers and they know us.

• ‘Every consignment counts’ - From time of initial booking, up until completion of the service, we monitor every shipment.

• ‘Value for money’ - Offer a fair market price for the service provided, but win through providing the value added.

and staff training plans to ensure that we always match our customer’s expectations with the end product.

In addition, our management team comes with decades of experience and personal relationships in the transportation and supply chain industry. They apply this ‘know how’ in providing the right solution path to each service we offer. This knowledge is encompassed into the company systems, procedures

Global network With years of long-term relationships with transportation providers around the world, LHR Global Logistics has managed to establish a unique network of professional organisations that carry the same core values as us, in providing a quality service to their customers in their local

Through the combined coordination of our own vehicle fleet, warehousing and stock management facility, I.T. systems, competent and experienced staff and the global network of long-established strategic partners and suppliers we can provide the broadest ranges of logistical service solutions available.

The firm’s long-term strategic business objectives remain clear.

We will continue to provide a topquality service to all our clients and grow the business through new customer acquisition and long-term customer retention.

We will continue to recruit and train staff to carry the same core values of the company and apply these back in our interactions with customers, partners and suppliers and the community at large.

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markets. On a daily basis - we are interacting with each of these partners in coordinating logistical solutions for our collective customer base - and following up on consignment transactions to ensure that we are delivering on the services sold.

Through this well-established service partner relationship, we can provide our complete range of service options in virtually all countries worldwide. Through a single point of contact and administration, our customers have the global reach to manage all their transport and logistics requirements.

Additionally, we are always seeking new partnerships that can enhance both the reach and scope of the product offering that we and our existing partners can provide to the client base, while at the same time giving them a well-established global network to grow with.

Network carriers At LHR Global Logistics, we have accounts in place with all the major carriers for the movement of goods. These include all the major national airline carriers and consolidators, sea freight vessel operators and brokers and a broad range of trucking distributors from small transit operators, to full arctic trailer loads.

Affiliate programme As part of our indirect sales activities, LHR Global Logistics also offer an affiliate programme for entrepreneurs who have the skill and knowledge in sales activities and wish to either supplement an existing income or operate independently on a full-time basis, through earning high levels of commission on sales conversion.

Joint venture & acquisition As a company focused on growth we are always interested in talking to people that have an existing and stable, small to medium size, business in the transportation and logistics industry sector and are looking to either sell the business completely, or are looking for a partner to help invest and develop their business.

Hong Kong Six days a week, our Hong Kong office receive instructions from both supplier and manufacturing facilities in Hong Kong and mainland China to arrange collection, customer notification and on-forwarding of consignments worldwide. These consignments range from sample products for review by potential buyers, to orders of bulk product purchase.

Due to its strategic geographical location, Hong Kong acts as an ideal gateway to mainland China

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and has the added advantage of a long established and efficient air and sea port, for the rapid movement of goods.

One of our most successful customer programmes involves the replenishment on a weekly, or monthly, basis of stock items manufactured in mainland China and delivered, via our Hong Kong facility, directly to the customer’s high street outlets worldwide.

We are providing a winning combination - for both speed to market of the product and minimising the risk of under or over stocking the items.

Company: LHR Global Logistics Ltd. Name: Chris Black Email: sales@lhrglobal.com Web Address: www.lhrglobal.com Address: Unit 15, Heathrow Freight Centre, Saxon Way Trading Estate, Harmondsworth, Middlesex, UB7 0LW UK Telephone: +44 (0)1753 689905

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Whatever It Takes Adams Remco offers a wide range of technologies that create a smoother operation, cut costs and improve workflow. Following their success in receiving the 2017 Most Innovative Tech Firm - United States accolade, as part of the 2017 Tech of the Year Awards, we spoke to the firm’s Jody Carlile to find out how they can meet your office needs.

What you need for your office, Adams Remco can provide.

From product sales and support to web consulting and software development, from training and e-commerce to workflow solutions - they are experts in the complex world of office operations. So, what is their bottom line? Simply this: They deliver what you need, when you need it — whatever it takes.

The firm’s Jody Carlile tells us about the firm’s office offerings, as the interview kicks off.

“An unmatched array of services. If it makes your office operations more efficient, we can provide it. We offer assessments that can show you where generating waste is and how to significantly reduce costs. We provide all the products and expertise to get it done. And, we train your staff so they know what they need to perform their jobs to the best of their abilities.

“But it doesn’t end there. We supply a range of database and web services, from reworking existing web infrastructures, to creating custom web applications from scratch. We provide software development to address any need you can’t find in a box. And, we can handle all the

intricacies involved in networking your office from one end to the other.

“If your office equipment ever requires maintenance or repair, our certified trained technicians are standing by. Plus, with our Total Print Management programme, you get the toner you need and pay nothing for service on any printer you have!

And, our financial options fit just about any requirement. You spend more time managing your business and less time managing your systems.”

The firm’s assessment service can cut up to 40% off your document printing costs. If it makes your office operations more efficient, they can provide it, Jody tells us.

“We offer assessments that can show you where generating waste is and how to significantly reduce costs. We provide all the products and expertise to get it done. And, we train your staff so they know what they need to perform their jobs to the best of their abilities.

“But it doesn’t end there. We supply a range of database and web services, from reworking existing web infrastructures, to creating custom web applications from scratch. We provide software development to address

18 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

any need you can’t find in a box. And, we can handle all the intricacies involved in networking your office from one end to the other.

“If your office equipment ever requires maintenance or repair, our certified trained technicians are standing by. Plus, with our Total Print Management programme, you get the toner you need and pay nothing for service on any printer you have!

And, our financial options fit just about any requirement. You spend more time managing your business and less time managing your systems.”

Jody then underlines the firm’s flexible financial services offering.

“There are a variety of ways to finance the products and services you need to get your operation running at peak efficiency and productivity.

At Adams Remco, we’ll work with you to help determine the financing option that best suits you. Our three main options are buy, lease or rent.

“If buying is the way to go, you can purchase your products directly from us and get the best price possible. We also have several options for leasing that we’d be glad to discuss with you.

Or you can take advantage of our convenient rental plan.

g Whatever It Takes

Company: Adams Remco Name: Jody Carlile Email: SBofficemgr@adamsremco.com Web Address: www.adamsremco.com Address: Adams Remco - South Bend Office 2612 Foundation Dr South Bend, IN 46628 Telephone: +1 574 288 2113

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 19

,

“The important thing is that you don’t need to figure out how to work with us. We will adapt to your needs. We’ve worked with hundreds of companies, helping them determine whether buying, leasing or renting is the best choice, in both the short-term and the long-term.”

The firm provides nothing but support you can count on, Jody reveals.

“Adams Remco specialises in working with each business on an individual basis. The needs of the marketing department of a recreational vehicle manufacturer are not the same as the attorney who has a solo practice or the realtor down the street.

Technically trained and certified IT professionals will work with your staff and provide you with personal care for your business needs.

“Local support staff will address all your technology needs. No transfer calls to a foreign country, no telephone menu to choose from but actual skilled individuals who answer your calls and listen to your concerns. Each customer is treated with the sense of urgency that exists in this fast pace ‘constantly changing’ industry.

“Adams Remco provides affordable, proactive managed IT services, reducing downtime and loss of productivity. Adams Remco’s managed IT services provide predictable support costs and more efficient service, allowing the client to focus on other areas of their business.”

The firm’s managed IT services include: • Network management; • Servers; • Wireless LAN (WLAN) and; • Remote access/VPN. Managed IT services Adams Remco Professional Services provides affordable, proactive managed IT services, reducing downtime and loss of productivity. Managed IT services provide predictable support costs and more efficient service,

allowing the client to focus on other areas of their business.

This aspect of the work covers the following: • Catered plans for each business or organisation; • Daily/weekly/monthly support; • Comptia healthcare it technicians; • Servers; • Workstations; • Software; • Networks; • Wireless LAN (WLAN); • Remote access/VPN; • Firewalls; • Backup and disaster recovery; • Vendor management; • Managed network and endpoint security; • Anti-virus, malware and spam management; • System integration; • Site survey and documenting; • Best practices consulting and; • Asset management.

Technically trained and certified IT professionals will work with your staff and provide you with personal care, for your business needs.

Consulting services Perhaps the single biggest factor in overall productivity is how well your people and equipment are networked. You already know that stand-alone systems are a barrier to sharing data and improving workflow and efficiency. But it’s not enough just to be networked. You need to be networked right.

• • • • • • • •

Creative consulting; Healthcare IT consulting; Application support; Workflow; Technology integration; Network design; Disaster recovery and; Network survey.

Jody then reveals the nature and array of the firm’s consulting services “At Adams Remco Professional Services, we offer an array of consulting services to help

20 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

ensure that your people and equipment are seamlessly connected. Our services include audits, design consultation, LAN/ WAN support, firewall security and IT outsourcing – whatever you need, we can provide. It’s all designed to maximise efficiency and backed by the Adams Remco Professional Services reliability that you’ve come to rely on.”

On-site repair The occasional glitch does happen, Jody reveals, but despite this Adams Remco can step in and solve the problem.

“Maybe some obscure component needs to be replaced.

Maybe it’s operator error. Maybe the machine is just tired out.

Whatever the problem, you need a service provider who knows the product inside and out. And, more importantly, understands your concerns. Like the fact that downtime could spell put downturn in business. Or that a machine not operating at peak efficiency can slow production across the entire organisation and costing you money.

“Our promise to you is to do whatever it takes. When you need us, we’re there. We have experts and technicians ready to respond to your call and the expertise to get you up and running now. Do you need a service on your office equipment? Are you tired of unfulfilled promises? Contact us today at +1 800 275 4420 or email us at servicedept@ adamsremco.com with your questions and you will see how promises are kept.

“Even better, with our Total Print Management programme, you receive supplies that are nicely discounted and reliable FREE service—no matter what kind of printer you have. The cost is only the time it takes to make a phone call. Not everyone offers such a great deal. Not everyone can.”

g Whatever It Takes

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 21

1707CV11

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Right on Target Rifle-Shot Performance Holdings is a business consulting, distributor, reseller and implementer of leading operational management software systems for large and medium businesses. The firm was recently recognised in the 2017 Tech of the Year Awards, in the CEO of the Year - South Africa category. To celebrate this success, we enjoyed an interview with the firm’s co-founder, CEO and senior partner, Ian Huntly to find out more.

The name RifleShot, while sounding controversial, is derived from the power of focus and specialisation, in contrast to the ‘shot-gun’ approach to business that is often in practice, that leads to underperformance or in some cases, total business failure.

The firm’s co-founder, CEO and senior partner, Ian Huntly starts by telling us about the business and what they set out to do, as well as the seasoned expertise they offer.

“Rifle-Shot Performance Holdings, established in 2001, is a business consulting, distributor, reseller and implementer of leading operational management software systems for large and medium businesses. But more than that, it is a software vendor with a real difference.

“We work to enable our customers to see what they confront now, on this day and what is coming and not just what they would have seen if it were last week or last month. We accomplish this by blending superior management consulting using subject matter experts with high value add niche software products and its unique and engaging project methodology. (Business Alignment & Growth), to effect exceptional operational performance in and with our customers.

“Our consulting services and supporting technologies, enables companies to consistently focus

on their core goals – those that differentiate them from their peers. We assist them to leverage their competitive advantages, resulting in rapid growth and profit improvement.”

The firm’s management team has extensive experience in large systems implementation, in mining and both process and discrete manufacturing systems, stretching back to 1974 Ian tells us.

“We have put together a team of excellent technical and business consulting people and a portfolio of products to address under serviced areas of information systems, in specific business sectors. We work with alliance partners to extend our capacity to make a difference to our customers.

“We are an ISV Microsoft Partner and members of the following institutes and societies: Institute of IT Professionals of South Africa (IITPSA); SA Quality Institute; ISA; SA Capital Equipment Exporter’s Council (SACEEC); SA Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (SANEC); Manufacturing Execution Society of SA (MESA); SA Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and Free Market Foundation (FMF).

“We are also a patron of Corporate Governance Framework Research Foundation (CGF) and for the past six years, we have been partners with the SAGDA (SA Graduate Development Agency), to

22 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

develop young graduates into the manufacturing industry.”

Rifle-shot service and enhancement programme Over the past twenty years, the global village has been experiencing business and infrastructure change at exponential rates with diverse impact on every entity and every being, with the only prospect being one of accelerating change.

From a business perspective, Ian says this means that it is no longer possible to implement a system and expect it to continue, delivering consistent value over its lifetime without enhancement.

“Change means that each system will require continuous updating over its lifetime, merely to keep up with the change in its external environment, let alone to enhance the value it delivers. While a step change in business value generation is generally expected during the implementation phase, there is seldom much thought given to future development, where-in most of the value is generated.

“Rifle-Shot’s Service and Enhancement Phase, is a process of applying incremental change over the lifetime of the system, thereby improving the system fit to your business and enhancing your competitive advantage through a process of supporting continuous improvement (CI). Systemic thinkers will recognise the parallels with the small wins’ processes and the benefits of low risk improvements to their systems.”

Business alignment and growth methodology Rifle-Shot’s tried and tested implementation philosophy is built around your people and processes, Ian explains.

“These provide the substance of your business, while the implementation of technology acts as an enabler providing life to the company strategy and enabling consistency of actions through providing and embedding the framework for measuring and evaluating outcomes.

“Business alignments and growth represents Rifle-Shot’s trademarked set of processes for creating the alignment, setting the geography for growth and then stepping the business processes through the ‘prepare, execute, embed and enhance’ levels of system maturity to achieve optimum levels of business development and growth. BAGTM is an integral part of the Rifle-Shot Project methodology, based on world leading standards of PRINCE2 and PMBOK, enhanced to ensure maximum effect.

“Management has the unenviable task of synchronising these elements, through communication and leadership to best meet the needs of your chosen marketplace and your customers and consequently derive optimum business results.”

g

Right on Target

Company: Rifle Shot Performance Holdings (Pty) Ltd Name: Ian Huntly Email: info@rifle-shot.com Web Address: rifle-shot.co.za Address: Suite 109-113, Bryanpark Offices 46 Grosvenor Rd, Bryanston, 2153, Sandton, South Africa PO Box 682, Sunnininghill, 2157 South Africa Telephone: +27 11 463 5073

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 23

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Award Winning Law Firm Who Specializes in Swiss Business Law Wilhelm Avocats Ltd is a law firm specialized in Swiss business law. Organized in the form of a company, the firm is composed of a team of eight experienced lawyers and advises clients in Switzerland and worldwide in the fields of commercial, contract, labour, financial and IP law, as well as debt collection and bankruptcies.

Wilhelm Avocats Ltd - which operates in several foreign languages – is recommended by the Chambers and Legal 500 website, as well as being recognized by the peer experts of Best Lawyers of Switzerland 2017 in the field of Corporate law. The firm was also awarded the “International Law Office Client Choice Award 2011” prize in the category of company law for Switzerland.

Founder of the firm, Christophe Wilhelm, who has now more than 25 years of legal practice, was awarded a Juris Doctor title from the University of Lausanne Law School, has an LL.M. (class of ’95) from the University of Michigan Law School, and has been a lecturer at the University of Neuchâtel in Switzerland since 2011. He is a TEP practitioner.

Wilhelm Avocats is foremost keen on helping Swiss and international companies choose the best legal options for their businesses in Switzerland.

In commercial law, the firm can typically advise clients on the choice of the appropriate form for their company. The lawyers also help companies draw regulations, increase their capital or guide them through a

merger. They are also familiar with drafting shareholder’s agreements.

When undertaking a new project, Wilhelm Avocats always aims for efficiency, professional confidentiality and balanced costs. Favouring a straightforward pragmatic approach of solving issues, while considering cost optimisation for their clients.

In order to find the most suitable legal solution, the attorneys will first draw up a strategy together with the client. Regarding court proceedings, the client will always be provided with sufficient information about the duration and cost of engaging in such legal actions, and will be duly advised on the risks and benefits of such procedures.

Wilhelm Avocats primarily aims for clients’ satisfaction, while keeping in mind all the potential consequences of a trial.

What makes the firm stand out from its competitors is its straightforward and responsive approach of the clients concerns, its wide field of competence, its considerable experience in both ordinary and arbitration proceedings, as well as its experience with transnational situations. Indeed, arbitration

24 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

is recommended in complex disputes with foreign companies, which is often the case in Switzerland.

Moreover, all eight attorneys are fluent in several languages and some of them are active in Canada and Brazil, which gives the firm an international point of view and cross-border expertise.

Swiss business law can sometimes drastically vary from the rule of law of neighbouring countries. For clients who are not familiar with its specifics, there is a risk for example of a poorly drafted contract or an inaccurate company statutes, which can later have a considerable financial impact. Having such legal documents drafted by Wilhelm Avocats will save you that trouble and ensure a favourable conduct of business.

Furthermore, since many interests converge in the management of a company (those of the shareholders, managers, employees and investors), Wilhelm Avocats knows how to advocate its client’s position. Also, labour law relies upon local practices, which means that hiring a Swiss lawyer is therefore essential to make sure that the activity of a foreign business complies with Swiss law.

As the number of lawyers is constantly increasing in Switzerland, Wilhelm Avocats focuses above all on their relationship with the client rather than multiplying its operations.

“Our important client-base allows us to adopt a more straightforward approach as we are convinced that a satisfied client is a more valuable asset than a never-ending trial”.

To stay ahead of emerging developments and in order to provide clients with the best possible service, Christophe and his staff make sure to acquire up-to-date knowledge in their specific fields, especially regarding the latest case law and doctrine, as well as by thoroughly following legal seminars.

Furthermore, the firm aspires to be more pragmatic, economically oriented and open to international issues, than most of their colleagues in the Western part of Switzerland.

Wilhelm Avocats also wishes to be an attractive and balanced place of work. The firm tends to hire people who share the same common values of quality, client service and efficiency. It also values the individual aspirations of each lawyer and encourages them to be highly specialized

g Award Winning Law Firm Who Specializes in Swiss Business Law

in their fields of work. The team is highly responsive and has correspondents all over the world to ensure the most suitable collaborations.

In the future, since more and more foreign businesses are setting up or conducting business in Switzerland, Wilhelm Avocats plans to work more closely with foreign clients, especially from the UK. In addition, the firm creating a new pool of highly qualified lawyers in public law.

In this way, Wilhelm Avocats is extending its activities to fields such as administrative law, construction and estate law, mutual administrative assistance, as well as public procurements.

Also, the team aims to maintain a responsive website, containing relevant legal information and publications in relation to cases handled by the film. It will also follow and comment on new regulations and laws.

Since new technologies are also becoming ubiquitous in the legal field, for example with the creation of legal browsers and virtual assistants, Wilhelm Avocats intends to be up to date with such technologies and to implement them in their work, if they prove to be more efficient for some specific tasks.

It is obvious that more and more websites are offering online legal advice. Even if a website can be an efficient tool to establish a contact between clients and their future lawyers, there are no predefined answers and the team wishes to always hand out accurate legal opinions based on specific cases.

A law firm must provide high quality legal services which are adapted to the client’s needs and each case’s particularities.

Therefore, the team strongly believes that human skills are irreplaceable and that they need to be valued and encouraged.

Contact: Christophe Wilhelm, attorney-at-law Email: cwilhelm@wilhelm-avocats.ch Company: Wilhelm Avocats Address: Avenue de Rumine 13, PO Box 7781 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland Phone Number: +41 21 711 71 00 Website: www.wilhelm-avocats.ch

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 25

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Industry Know-How and Legal Expertise ARNECKE SIBETH is a German corporate commercial law firm, providing legal support on all aspects of business and industry, including corporate, employment, competition and property law, litigation and arbitration, regulatory matters as well as day-to-day claims handling.

Recently, for an example, ARNECKE SIBETH advised GERCHGROUP on a complex deal in the area of real estate transactions. Following their inclusion in the 2017 German Legal Elite awards, we invited the firm’s partner Michael Siebold to learn more about this leading law firm.

At ARNECKE SIBETH, more than 120 lawyers and tax advisers work closely together in fully integrated teams, internally organised in six strong practice groups. The firm markets its services through 12 sector groups and operates in teams, with the leading partners in each recognised as experts in their field.

life cycle of real property (RE) including public law – planning, tenders, state-aid, construction, financing, project development and litigation. Our work also incorporates claims handling on a larger scale, renewable energy and corporate commercial/M&A and tax work, all from cradle to grave. Finally, our employment team covers the entire gamut of individual and collective labour law.

The two German law firms Arnecke Siebold, Frankfurt, Berlin, Dresden and Sibeth, Munich, Frankfurt, merged in 2015, to become a successful national firm with a strong international focus. The firm today is based in four locations in Germany: Frankfurt am Main, Munich, Berlin and Dresden.

As a service provider, ARNECKE SIBETH faces challenges which we view as opportunities, namely the appearance and fast growth of legaltech and AI in our industry, as well as the alternative approach millennials take towards the legal profession and life.

Legaltech and AI will not go away, so we must embrace technology as a tool assisting us in our daily work and allowing us to focus on the more complex and interesting tasks, that a machine on its own cannot resolve.

As a focused full service business firm, ARNECKE SIBETH provides added value to its clients in all relevant areas of law, as applied in the industries the clients are active in.

ARNECKE SIBETH believes that industry know-how today needs to be paired with legal expertise, so in this vein we offer several areas expertise.

The firm’s areas of expertise include transportation, aviation, logistics (TAL), sports, media, entertainment (SME), the full

So, that is where both challenges meet and become a real opportunity: Generation Z and the ones thereafter - will demand a workplace where legaltech is the norm - where we provide them with an opportunity to focus on the most interesting aspects of law, the demanding cases, both within their modern office space but also remotely.

26 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

In addition, they seek a good place to work, fair treatment, opportunities, values and leadership, all of which we embrace.

Personally, I have the great pleasure of serving as one of a group of managing partners, still active in their practices, but at the same time I am responsible in leading the firm on a day-today basis as well as strategically.

Speaking on behalf of such an excellent, diverse and highly specialised group of fine lawyers and tax advisors makes me very proud to be part of ARNECKE SIBETH. As a practicing lawyer, my focus lies on legal project management of larger infrastructure projects such as airports, ports, arenas and stadia around the world. At the same time, I enjoy assisting German and international ‘Mittelstand’ – companies and groups with their more strategic decisions and structuring same.

The firm’s staff rank amongst the best in the jurisdiction, indeed at ARNECKE SIBETH we are very proud of our people. Working in teams, with as little hierarchical structure as possible, provides a great place to work, where people enjoy being here, at all our offices. As a national firm, we operate as one, across locations

and offices and our people ensure that we deliver the same quality everywhere.

Our focus lies on the ‘Mittelstand’ – the backbone of many economies, certainly in Germany and Europe. This would include companies with a turnover between €5 and €500 million.

However, we are proud to also advise some of the largest, best known German multinational corporate entities as well as international corporates, in national and cross-border matters.

On an international level, the firm’s expertise is strengthened by our membership in elite law firm networks, such as Interlaw, Meritas and others. This offers our clients access to leading foreign lawyers, the local champions in any given foreign jurisdiction.

Clients receive seamless service at fair and transparent rates, by the best, without having to pay large overheads.

I believe that 2017 will be another great year for us, with a period of growth and changes. We have already attracted two excellent young partners for our corporate finance team in Frankfurt; they will be joined by a new IP partner in Munich, focusing on South Korean businesses as he speaks the language and knows the culture.

g Industry Know-How and Legal Expertise

Furthermore, a team of three tax advisors/lawyers will also join the firm’s Munich office - to strengthen the corporate/M&A/ Tax team - and our offering in the real estate transactional field.

We hope to expand ARNECKE SIBETH’s offering in other important German regional markets, to meet our objective to become a truly national firm, always close to where the clients need us.

Company: ARNECKE SIBETH Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater Partnerschaftsgesellschaft mbB Name: Michael Siebold Email: msiebold@arneckesibeth.com Web Address: www.arneckesibeth.com Address: Hamburger Allee 4 Frankfurt am Main, 60486 Germany Telephone: +49 69 979885-352

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 27

1707CV15

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Small Cap CEO Awards & US Small Cap CEO of the Year StrikeForce Technologies provides a suite of online products that help prevent cyber theft and data breaches by protecting customers, employees and partners in real time at every vulnerable point. We invited Mark Kay to tell us more about the company and discuss the secrets behind its success.

StrikeForce’s products prevent fraud during account creation, account access, transactions and changes, and transaction verification, saving businesses millions of dollars, offering new levels of customer protection, and strengthening their brand names. Some of our products are made specifically for mobile devices as stated below. Mark discusses market urgency and how companies protect customers’ and employees’ personal identity information while keeping while keeping sites easy to use as the problem gets into the trillions of dollars.

“This is a make-or-break-it issue for banks, e-commerce merchants, credit card companies, related health care companies and enterprises as regulations and compliance increase in requirements and data breaches costs millions.

The answer may determine the success of a business – especially as emerging attacks and public disclosures about cyber theft and data breaches accelerate globally.”

Outlining the benefits that clients receive from working with the company, Mark notes how

customers can feel safe in the knowledge that their personal information is being protected and will be shut out to any fraudsters.

“StrikeForce Technologies’ product suite protects personal information and shuts out fraudsters, validates a user’s identity and also exploits common devices and highsecurity tools, such as phones, PDAs, PCs and tokens, to create highly secure 2-factor and “Outof-Band” user authentication.”

Product Suite • ProtectID®: offers 2-factor “Out-of-Band” authentication across many methods and devices for protection.

Methods that is preferable and low cost for delivering Pins and One Time Passwords (OTP). This approach leverages a 2nd network for entering or receiving passwords, which locks out hackers – even if they have your username and password. Service is available for in-house, Cloud Service or hybrid. (Patent Nos.: 7870599, 8,484,698 & 8,713,701 and 3 pending) • GuardedID®: a keyboard encryption and anti-keylogger that functions at the keyboard level, preventing keyloggers

28 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

•

•

(viruses like Zeus, etc.) from stealing login and confidential information. This has become the #1 Consumer Threat noted by the FBI and the 2010-2013 Verizon Data Breach Reports.

(Patent Nos: 8,566,608, 8,732,483 and 8,973,107).

MobileTrust®: is an iPhone/ iPad and Android all devices password vault that includes a strong password generator. MobileTrust also includes a Mobile MultiFactor OTP authenticator and keystroke encryption between its virtual keyboard and secured browser, which is critical to all confidential online transactions and other features to be released in mid-2015 (One Patent Pending).

Patents - The “Out-of-Band” Two-Factor Authentication Patents (Nos.: 7870599 & 8,484,698 & 8,713,701) has been granted as of January 11, 2011, July, 2013 and 3rd in May 2014. StrikeForce also has three patents pending for ProtectID. We won our first Patent litigation mediation with Phone Factor (owned by Microsoft). GuardedID is now protected with our keystroke encryption Patent Nos.: 8,566,608, 8,732,483 and

8,973,107 and MobileTrust also has a patent pending for keystroke encryption and other processes on mobile devices. StrikeForce is now suing three other companies for the Out-of-Band Patents.”

Overall, the firm’s mission is to deliver outstanding global client services and part of this is how StrikeForce undertakes a new project, which helps to ensure the client receives the best possible outcome.

“What the market has done and for us to comply with the best outcome, is to design it with a test client that is interested, and have them run with it for at least 6 months, then have others try it as well.”

“Fundamentally, our mission is to deliver outstanding global client services with high quality and at the right price. In addition, we aim to provide fulfilling careers and professional satisfaction for our people, while remaining true to our pride values, and to achieve financial success and growth for the company and its shareholders. These core focuses have helped drive us to the success we have today and moving forward we will continue to strive to reach these goals.”

g Small Cap CEO Awards & US Small Cap CEO of the Year

Company: StrikeForce Technologies, Inc. Name: Mark L Kay Email: marklkay@strikeforcetech.com Web Address: www.strikeforcetech.com Address: 1090 King Georges Post Rd., Suite 603, Edison, NJ 08837 Telephone: 732-661-9641

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 29

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In order to stand out from its competitors, the company is unique in the way that it protects customers, partners and employees, both local and mobile.

“These services are also provided in real time against cyber fraud at every access point with one patented platform.

Staff are able to preserve the online experience and provide unobtrusive access to users while ensuring that the users truly are who they say they are.

The company offers choices of two-factor ‘Out-of-Band’ solutions that can be customised and scalable, based on the level of security required and preferred technology tools for desktops, laptops and now popular mobile devices.”

Mark tells us how it feels to have been selected in the Small Cap CEO Awards and goes on to mention what it means for both himself and the firm.

“Winning the award feels very special and we definitely deserve the position to be in the Small Cap CEO Award, as we have worked very hard over the past 15 years and through a tough period that we are now coming through.

“It means we finally made it and now are suing seven other companies with our Out-of-Band Authentication - ProtectID® patent lawsuits and have a sale already for our GuardedID®

and MobileTrust® products that closes by September 30, 2020.

It took a very long time for our products to become front and center.”

Providing a brief overview of the technology industry in the region, Mark states that authentication is a global issue, becoming increasingly popular, with cyber security being mentioned every single day.

“We are in the authentication space which is a global issue and in the papers, local and national and international, every single day and often mentioned multiple times. It is becoming very popular including the press and the TV commercials. We couldn’t be in a bigger industry now, where we read about cyber security every single day.”

“There are upcoming developments in every industry, and the authentication space is no different.” Mark comments on how the firm adapts to potential new advances and StrikeForce is constantly working with other companies, teaching and learning.

“We are constantly selling our products, meeting with companies being hacked and scared of being hacked and learning and helping them doing something about it, such as by purchasing our products. We are very active now and working heavily through a major channel partner.”

30 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

Regarding the internal culture at the firm, Mark gives everyone free-reign, so much so that they accomplish their goals. There is a relaxed working environment with staff free to take time off, as long as it is organized. This all contributes to the success of the firm and the excellent customer service.

“The internal culture is very free and everyone gets to decide how to accomplish their goals.

They get to take off the time they need, as long as it is organized.

We typically don’t have to visit clients, as our partners do that, so we are very relaxed with a lot of pressure in keeping our products up to date. We also maintain a small staff of employees and utilize many contractors to meet some of our specific needs.”

Regarding the future of the firm, Mark notes what upcoming developments there are for the firm, along with how the products are contributing to the company’s ongoing success.

“Moving forward, there are many exciting developments for the firm, and I look forward to taking advantage of these opportunities.

We will continue to sell our leading authentication and keystroke encryption products as they become very popular and seem to be getting more popular in time as the world almost catches up to us.”

“The industry is developing into stronger hacking and stealing critical data and other information, for which our products are meant to prevent.

New methods are added and we also work to stay ahead of them.

In terms of authentication, other new methods are used for which again, are already getting a head start and we are patenting for, such as ‘Push Authentication’, which we now have in test. We are becoming the company for preventing hackers from being successful and providing the best Authentication and Encryption capabilities including Push.

Some of our newer clients are including our products which only prove this point.”

g Small Cap CEO Awards & US Small Cap CEO of the Year

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 31

BIN17058

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Knowledge and Insight into 3D Printing AT 3D-SQUARED provides a strategic consulting and support service for organisations involved with 3D printing and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Following the company’s success in winning the Best 3D Printing Strategic Consultancy 2017 – UK award, we interviewed the owner, Andrew Allshorn, to discover more about AT 3D-SQUARED’s respected work.

AT 3D-SQUARED was established in 2007 by Andrew Allshorn and offers strategic consulting services and advice for organisations that have adopted or want to adopt 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies.

Owner, Andrew Allshorn provides a fascinating introduction to the company’s award-winning work, as the interview kicks off.

“AT 3D-SQUARED was founded based on the premise of offering real knowledge and insight into 3D printing and AM. These technologies are truly amazing and offer companies large and small new opportunities that have not been available before.

However, the key to unlocking their potential comes from understanding their limitations as well as their original capabilities.

The combined AT 3D-SQUARED workforce offers a unique breadth and depth of knowledge of the software, hardware and materials aspects that must be combined to generate best practice and results with additive manufacturing (AM) technologies.”

“Lots of organisations jump into this technology and end up purchasing the wrong machine for their requirements, simply because they do not understand the capabilities of the different 3D printing systems and just

follow the hype. We are able to analyse companies’ R&D and manufacturing processes and help them choose the correct process for their specific applications, implement them and keep the machines running at optimum levels. Educating our customers and the public about how to utilise this technology is a core part of what we do.”

Indeed, Andrew’s company scooped the ‘Clogau Gold Growth through Innovation’ award, at the Daily Post Achievement Wales 2011 Awards, which followed local success at the Flintshire Business Awards in the same year.

With unprecedented access to numerous industrial sectors, including automotive and aerospace, his experience and expertise have also seen him invited to participate in various global events and summits. In 2016, his distinguished work in the AM sector was further recognised by the prestigious Additive Manufacturer’s Users Group (AMUG), when he was awarded the exclusive Distinguished INnovator Operator (DINO) award. Then, earlier this year, Andrew was appointed as a European Ambassador for AMUG, in recognition of his tireless work in raising global awareness of AM in various roles across more than three decades.

Andrew reveals that it is a great honour to be named Best 3D

32 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

Printing Strategic Consultancy 2017 – UK award by Corporate Vision. He goes on to explain the company’s overall mission and how it integrates innovation into every aspect of the work, as well as what sets the company apart.

“I truly consider it a privilege and honour to receive this accolade on behalf of AT 3D-SQUARED. The recognition of the work we do is gratifying in many ways, not least in highlighting the progression of the advanced manufacturing sector as a whole.

Working in this sector every day is exciting and rewarding on its own, but an award like this is a great compliment.”

“I think one of the things that really drives us is that we are not tied to a specific machine manufacturer, so we can offer an impartial opinion regarding the best 3D printer for any application. This is the key to everything, and by ensuring that companies invest in the right technology for them is very important to us. In this way, companies are more likely to meet their expectations of the technology, which in turn increases adoption rates and avoids the disappointment that can result from the hype about this technology.”

Andrew then directs our thoughts to the wider industry in the UK today and how the company stays ahead of any emerging developments. He also provides

a flavour of the company’s internal culture.

“There has been a great deal of hype around 3D printing and AM in recent years — across mainstream media and social media. Once people learn that 3D printing is just another tool in the designers’/engineers’ tool box, it tends to be used correctly.

Don’t use it just for the sake of using it.”

“As an artist and product designer, I am always aware that things must change to keep up with the fast pace of today’s technologies. I have always try to think ‘outside the box’ and am most challenged when I’m told that something can’t be done.

Sometimes there is no straight forward answer and finding a solution can take many years, but it’s very rewarding when you find the right result.”

“Training both staff and customers is very important to me, so as a company we are very open about these technologies and prefer to work closely with those we serve to build up a lasting partnership.

Loyalty is also an important part of the business, so that both parties can grow and develop together.”

“I also strive to engage in educational activities, getting involved with the local high school, where I donated a 3D printer back in 2012; and

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Knowledge and Insight into 3D Printing

giving lectures to under graduate Design students at Liverpool John Moores University.”

To wrap things up, Andrew reveals the prospects for the company and the wider developments he foresees across the corporate landscape.

“The 3D printing industry is fast moving, so we must change continually.

Working together with companies such as Michelin, we can take legacy (old) 3D printing technology, regenerate it and create something that can outperform new machines on the market.

We can do this due to our three decades of experience combined with consistently listening to the end users we work with, to give them what they ask for.”

“This industry has a wonderful future, but we need to take care to educate people correctly, so that it has a sustainable future and doesn’t implode by over expectation. These machines can build virtually anything; indeed, the sky is the limit, but learn to use them correctly and not just because you can. Why use 3D printing when an object can be made both faster and cheaper, by using an existing technology.

Recycling of materials is also an important thing to consider, as is regenerating old machines, our Aurora Repair Kit for legacy SLA machines being a very fitting example here.”

“Finally, I believe that education and understanding 3D printing technologies from an early age is where our industry needs to be at. That’s why I chose to donate a printer to my old high school, which turned out to be one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.”

Company: AT 3D-SQUARED Name: Andrew Allshorn Email: info@3d-squared.com Web Address: 3d-squared.com Address: Greenfield Business Centre, Greenfield, Flintshire, North Wales, CH8 7GR Telephone: +44 (0)1352 714 572

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 33

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Finest in Freight 2017 Freight 100, exclusive 2017’s Finest in Freight Forwarding & Logistics - Saudi Arabia award went to Future Transport & Logistics (FTL). Following this success, we enjoyed an interview with the firm’s vice president, Bebart R. Soukar to find out more about the affordable range of solutions they offer and the family atmosphere he promotes among his employees.

FTL (Future Transport & Logistics) is based in Jeddah, KSA. FTL is a proactive logistics service provider offering a complete range of services that are reliable, affordable and effective solutions. The firm’s services are aimed at either import or export shipments; ranging from customs clearance and insurance to storage and distribution to the customer. All these services are offered on FCL and LCL shipments.

Vice president, Bebart R. Soukar begins by providing an overview of the firm’s work and what sets them apart in their work.

“FTL works in all major airports and main seaports along with agents, who always support us the entire process in accordance to our standards. FTL was established in early 2009, so it is eight years old and we are based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

“In terms of what sets us apart, I would say that this is our international network. With the cooperation of our thoroughly selected international partners, FTL can offer the best services in both an effective and efficient manner. All FTL’s wellacquainted partners have their own facilities - to operate in all major industrial centres - to meet all the pick-up demands from your vendor right up to delivery to your end customer.

34 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

“Whatever amount the customer wants to ship out, FTL will handle all their transport needs. It does not matter if it concerns full loads.

FTL has a custom-made solution - for large scale and as well as fine-meshed distribution. FTL’s customer’s goods will be delivered door to door, in close cooperation with our partners. We use the modality that results in the most effective solution for the customer.”

Bebart then highlights how it feels to be selected in Corporate Vision’s 2017 Freight 100, in the exclusive 2017 Finest in Freight Forwarding & Logistics Saudi Arabia category. He also underscores the nature of the firm’s client base.

“FTL are honoured to have this award. This recognition is a clear appreciation of our firm’s team work. We believe that the hard work from every employee here has paid off.”

“FTL’s client base varies from educational books to medical equipment, medical disinfectant, cosmetics, electronics, paper tissues and households. FTL are doing the freight, logistic and domestic transportation to all the above firms and more.

“FTL’s clients are very satisfied with our service, as we have a client that working with us for more than eight years now and that is a proof that FTL are in the right path in the business. Also, we have new clients and we are doing our best to gain their continued satisfaction.”

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Bebart then shares his thoughts on the pivotal role that people play in the success of the firm.

“I don’t call my employees staff, as FTL are a small family here who work as a team and as if it this is their own firm, with each member doing their best. I really do appreciate their commitment and devotion.

“In every firm, employees play a pivotal role in building an atmosphere of trust, confidence and loyalty among customers.

Every member of the team has an opportunity to contribute to creating a compelling customer experience. The reality is all employees play a role in reinforcing our firm’s commitment to the customers.”

The new economic future in Saudi Arabia, opens wide opportunities in several sectors and that will lead to an impressive and huge opportunity in the freight and transportation industry, Bebart tells us.

“Logistics executives must deal with new challenges requiring minute-by-minute tracking, in all parts of the world, developing cost efficiencies while guaranteeing timely delivery and anticipating problems as well as having back up plans.

Add today’s heightened security concerns and there is perhaps no other industry that illustrates this axiom.

“Logistics and transportation is a growing field, one that will not reach a plateau. Firms out there are always seeking faster ways to get product to market as well as on consumers’ shelves, or in their driveways. It is a sector that requires ingenuity for today and a vision for the future.”

Finest in Freight

“Along with our team, FTL are working now on two big projects for the next two years. These projects will open the market for us in Japan and Malaysia, as FTL will handle the business for clients from these countries to Saudi Arabia, from A to Z. On this path, we are increasing our offerings such as the freight network, logistics, domestic service and customs clearance.

“I would like to thank FTL team for their hard work and devotion, which have led us receiving the 2017’s Finest in Freight Forwarding & Logistics - Saudi Arabia award. I would like to thank everybody at Corporate Vision for their unwavering support.”

Bebart is keen to outline the firm’s future plans, as the interview finishes.

Company: Future Transport & Logistics (FTL) Name: Bebart R. Soukar Email: info@ftl.com.sa Web Address: www.ftl.com.sa

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 35

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Leading Businesses in the US Thermocopy is recognized as one of the premier quality companies in East Tennessee, with awards and recognition for its products, services, environmental initiatives, and community involvement. J. Mark DeNicola discusses the firm’s mission and what it does that makes it so successful.

Thermocopy’s focus is providing its clients with the infrastructure, whether hardware or software, to manage all the information flow in their business. Included in this focus is assessing the customer’s operational requirements, providing the infrastructure they need based on the assessment, assisting with the implementation and training required to fully utilize the solutions provided, and then providing outstanding service for the solutions.

This focus has evolved over the years due to evolving technology and has required strategy changes to continue to be a successful, profitable business.

The company is in its sixth decade of life. The clients range anywhere in size and type from commercial businesses - to large health care operations concerned with HIPAA/PHI compliance - to ultra-secure government labs and nuclear weapons facilities.

Mr DeNicola discusses how the firm approaches a new project and what steps the firm takes in ensuring its clients receive the best possible outcome, before detailing what steps the company plans to take to achieve its overall mission.

“A clear, concise statement of work (SOW) and its understanding by the client and our project team is the

foundation for the best possible outcome for the client. Constant communication of the project’s progress, problems, and solutions during implementation is also very important.

“The company’s overall mission is to provide innovative, creative, and proven business solutions to our clients and to maintain mutually beneficial long-term business partnerships.

“We constantly measure our mission statement achievement by the use of many performance metrics and have the processes in place to help improve the metrics if needed. For instance, one measurement of whether or not we are maintaining mutually beneficial long-term business partnerships would be the use of the client satisfaction metric, Net Promoter Score. We review overall and individual client Net Promoter Scores in departmental and company meetings on a weekly and monthly basis, and we publish the overall Net Promoter Score on our website.

Discussions continually occur on how we can make sure clients actively endorse us to their peers.”

In the technology industry, it is important for companies to mark themselves out as the best possible option for clients.

Management do not strive to be the biggest technology company in East Tennessee, however,

36 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

they want to be the best, fulfilling the dream of the founder, as Mr DeNicola notes below.

“Even before the term “Raving Fans” was coined and became part of the popular lexicon, we were creating raving fans.

Randall Sumner, the founder of the company, did not set out to be the largest technology company in East Tennessee, but he always wanted to be the best. Our management team strives to carry on that legacy.

We are committed to being the best company possible to serve our clients, employees, and community. Today there are more tools available to measure that “Raving Fans” component, including the Net Promoter Score, which for us is hovering at 96+ year-to-date. I am proud of that and the efforts the Thermocopy team have put into making that score what it is.

It is this legacy that makes us the best possible option for our clients.”

Mr DeNicola gives us a brief overview of the industry in the region currently, listing the specific challenges and outside influences that may affect the industry and the company. The firm have already identified the additional services that are required to adapt to upcoming developments, highlighting the forward-thinking nature of the firm.

“A significant percentage of our revenue is from the sales and service of office equipment.

The multi-functional device will continue to be a requirement in the office setting for the foreseeable future. However, the prints/copies made on that device will dwindle as the “Baby Boomer” generation leaves the workforce. The Millennials, and to some extent the GenXer’s are accustomed to almost no paper use. Almost all their collaboration tools are digital, and the mere fact that they collaborate in the cloud precludes paper usage, as it is not up-to-the-second information.

A large part of revenue and profits in our industry depend on the annuities provided by charging a cost per print/copy for documents produced on the multi-functional devices.

Thus, lower or no prints/copies translate into lower revenues/ profits from this segment of our business. While Thermocopy is not currently experiencing this downward trend, it is not a matter of if, but when, we will see a reduction in billable copies/ prints. We have already identified the additional products/services required to replace these revenue streams and profits, developed the business plans to take these products/services to market and are in the process of implementing the business plans.”

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Company: Thermocopy of Tennessee, Inc. Name: J. Mark DeNicola Email: jmdenicola@thermocopy.com Web Address: www.thermocopy.com Address: 3505 Sutherland Avenue, Knoxville Tennessee 37919 Telephone: 865-524-1124

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 37

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Following on from this, Mr. DeNicola predicts some of the developments within the industry as well as commenting on how the firm will adapts to these.

“We stay abreast of emerging developments in our industry by maintaining active membership in organizations like the CDA, whose membership includes 60 – 70 of the best independent companies in our industry and representing $1,000,000,000 of annual revenues. They provide industry trends via quarterly education meetings for member company C-Level executives.

Also, our management team is charged with monitoring industry trends through their professional association memberships.

“Print volumes, equipment sales, and the resulting revenue annuities will decrease. There are several ways we are going to make up for these decreases. I will speak to three of them. The first, and the least profitable will be to take a larger piece of the pie for ourselves by increasing our equipment market share. We are doing this by hiring additional sales staff and investing in the marketing to help them make the sale. The second is to make the pie larger by selling more IT solutions and options into the current market. And the third is to develop new revenue streams (for Thermocopy) to sell into the market, such as managed IT services and taking advantage of the increasingly strict regulatory environment regarding IT security and the privacy of personal information.”

Integral to running a successful business is excellent customer service. Therefore, staff must be armed with the necessary information in order to provide the best service to clients. Mr. DeNicola discusses the internal culture within the firm and how this contributes to the success of the company.

“As stated before, we have always had a culture of creating raving fans. I believe that Thermocopy embodies the spirit of what an excellent company should be. Not only do we deliver

excellent products/service, but we also make sure our company culture is one of excellence. Our mission statement/core values are instilled in our employees.

The first item a new employee is introduced to is the Thermocopy Mission Statement. The Mission Statement includes the following commitments; To Our Customers, We Commit: • To provide an experienced, tenured team of professionals • To nurture our business relationships • To outperform all competition To Our Employees, We Commit: • To provide a professional work environment, offering team-based leadership and performance-based compensation • To provide professional and personal development through continuing education • To provide a vision of growth and stability To Our Community, We Commit: • To invest money and workforce to achieve civic goals • To be an environmentally responsible business partner “We do our best to live up to each one of those commitments on a daily basis, and it just does not get any better than that.”

To ensure there is a good working environment, it is important to hire the right staff.

Mr. DeNicola mentions the firm’s approach to hiring staff and discusses how management are able to attract the very best talent to the company.

“We typically recruit utilizing our centers of influence. We are looking for candidates that exhibit the behavioral energy to do the job. Our hiring process includes an initial screening interview, followed by a behavioral energy assessment which determines the candidates “can do” and last, a long interview (2–3 hours in length) in which the hiring manager determines the candidates “will do.” We retain good people by making sure they

38 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

have the right attitude, skills, and knowledge to do the job and this provides the team member a good foundation with which to succeed in our organization.

Also, we make sure we live up to our mission statement commitments to our employees: • To provide a professional work environment, offering team-based leadership and performance-based compensation • To provide professional and personal development through continuing education • To provide a vision of growth and stability.”

Looking ahead, Mr DeNicola discusses the future of the firm, listing future plans and projects for the firm.

“We are in the process of implementing a business plan that will increase our market share in the office equipment space from 18% to 23%. The business plan required a sales department reorganization with plans to increase the sales force by 25% and implementing ways to make sales more efficiently.

Also, we will be building additional revenue streams with managed services and taking advantage of the increasingly strict regulatory environment regarding IT security and the privacy of personal information.”

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CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 39

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The Story of a Family Business iBreathe is a leading UK-based manufacturer of electronic cigarettes (eCigarettes) and refill liquids (eLiquids). The firm was honoured to win the UK’s Leading E-Cigarette Brand – 2017 accolade, as part of the 2017 Corporate Excellence Awards. To celebrate, we interviewed the firm’s Director & MD, Bilal Rahman who provides a flavour of their highly sought-after products. iBreathe is a leading UK-based manufacturer of electronic cigarettes (eCigarettes) and refill liquids (eLiquids). They were one of the first companies in the UK to provide this innovative and highly sought-after product to the public. The firm’s Director & MD, Bilal Rahman provides some background to their work and explains the tremendous success they are enjoying today, as the interview kicks off.

“The business is family-owned and was launched by my brother, back in 2009. He sold a small selection of eLiquids to local retailers and the brand quickly gained in popularity. Before we knew it, a few hundred units turned to thousands of units.

Today, iBreathe remains a wholly-owned family business, has over 50 employees, along with manufacturing facilities in the USA and China. In addition, Europe’s largest wholesale vaping hub opened in Manchester, back in 2016.

“We’ve experienced year-on-year growth and are currently looking at expanding our business further, by setting up a manufacturing facility here in the UK. iBreathe products can be found in convenience stores, service stations and local retail stores throughout the UK, currently standing at 4000 and growing

continuously. Customers can also purchase iBreathe products directly from us, at iBreathe. co.uk. Buying directly from us has advantages - such as gaining loyalty reward points, special offers and free delivery on all orders - with no minimum spend.”

At present, iBreathe offers a range of eCigarette devices from a simple and easy-to-use starter kit, to a well-rounded premium kit and advanced kits, designed for those who want lots of vapour.

They also sell the separate components to these devices, should they need replacing, Bilal tells us.

“Alongside the hardware, we offer one of the largest selection of eLiquids in the UK. We currently have two ranges of eLiquids - a high PG range designed for use with starter eCigarettes and a high VG range - designed for use with the advanced kit. These two ranges alone comprise of over 88 flavours and they are available in various nicotine strengths, including zero nicotine. We’re also working on two new and exciting ranges to add to our line-up, which will bring the total number of flavours to over 200.

All our devices come with a 30 days’ functional warranty. Should customers experience problems with their eCigarette device, we’ll either repair it or replace it for a new one, free of charge.”

40 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

Bilal is keen to tell us how it feels to win the UK’s Leading E-Cigarette Brand – 2017 accolade, as part of the 2017 Corporate Excellence Awards.

businesses took a financial hit and consequently, indeed many have raised their prices as their overheads increased, or worse, have gone into liquidation.

“This is a great achievement for iBreathe and its employees, a testament to their commitment and dedication over the years in ensuring that the brand is one that customers both love and trust. It’s a very proud moment for myself and the iBreathe Team. It proves to us, that with hard work and determination, we can achieve the goals set when the firm was launched in 2009. What’s more, this award will motivate us to push the boundaries of excellence even further.

“The entire iBreathe team worked tirelessly for months, to ensure that the business was ready for May 2017, the date on which the new laws came into effect.

Our customers, particularly the passionate vapers, were aware of the shake-up in the industry and had raised their concerns.

Would their favourite flavours remain available to purchase?

Will 10ml be less cost-effective than the larger 30ml? We ensured that these questions and many others were communicated both clearly and concisely.”

“This award also means continuing to do what we’ve been doing, since iBreathe was first launched. It tells us that customers aren’t willing to purchase the cheapest products on the market and put their health at risk. We will continue to invest in testing and R&D, ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of quality in terms of both safety and consistency. We will continue to run our business on the simple principle, of never taking any shortcuts.

“2016 had been a very difficult year for the industry, as all eCigarette suppliers implemented changes in their products to comply with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Ensuring compliance meant

When undertaking a new project, Bilal walks us through the steps iBreathe takes to ensure that clients receives the best possible outcome. He also reveals the firm’s overall mission and how this is achieved.

“Through brainstorming in focus groups and seminars, we’ll identify a gap in the marketplace.

This could be to launch a new eCigarette device with new features as requested by our customers, or simply a brand new eLiquid flavour.

“When an idea for a product is conceptualised, our engineers produce samples, after which

g The Story of a Family Business

the firm spends weeks rigorously testing them. If we’re not satisfied with a product, we’ll scrap it entirely and it will never go into production. It’s not uncommon for us to invest heavily into a new product, but then scrap the idea at the last minute. Whatever the project, we ensure that it’s one that will enhance the vaping experience, for all customers.

“Since 2008, when eCigarettes were first introduced to the UK marketplace, an opportunity had emerged for unscrupulous retailers to sell unregulated eCigarettes and eLiquids to the public. These products had soared in terms of both demand and profitability. These suppliers had often spared expense - in areas such as testing and compliance - thus putting the public’s health at risk for their own financial gain. “iBreathe identified a gap in the marketplace - to offer eCigarette products that are free of all harmful ingredients and are safe to use.

We achieved this by spending heavily on both research and development, as well as getting every batch of eLiquid tested for both safety and consistency.

“We also strive to offer industryleading customer service. We have a dedicated customer service team, who are also passionate vapers and therefore extremely experienced and well-equipped to answer any questions that the customers might have. Ultimately, the firm’s mission is to be a brand that customers both love and trust.”

Bilal then highlights what sets iBreathe apart from their competitors.

“Having launched in 2009, iBreathe became one of the first eCigarette providers in the UK. With over eight years’ experience in industry, iBreathe is perfectly placed to lead with both innovative and safe products, that set a benchmark for competitors to follow. We’ve been around longer than most others, so we know the products, customers and the industry extremely well.

Company: iBreathe Name: Bilal Rahman Email: info@i-breathe.co.uk Web Address: www.i-breathe.co.uk Address: Unit 3, Edelle Business Park, Quebec Street, Oldham, OL9 6QJ UK Telephone: +44 (0)845 388 9005

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 41

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“As part of our commitment to being the most trustworthy brand - that offers the most reliable products - the firm became a member of the Electronic Cigarette Industry Trade Association (ECITA) in 2013. In the eyes of our customers - we were seen to be a firm that refuses to take shortcuts - by spending heavily on safety, testing and continuously acquiring the most up-to-date information on regulations. “iBreathe’s eLiquids are formulated in-house and not by a third-party manufacturer. The flavours our customers purchase are unique, unlike many other companies that sell premade eLiquid and simply rebrand the packaging, with their own logo on it. “ Bilal then offers his thoughts on the wider industry challenges, as well as the specific ones faced by the firm. He also reveals the firm’s techniques used to stay ahead of any emerging industry developments.

“Whilst iBreathe was founded in the UK and remains a British firm, we have a global footprint providing eCigarette products to customers, as far away as New Zealand. The UK remains our biggest market and as of May 2017 - the industry faced its biggest challenge yet - complying with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD).

“There are some challenges we face, when selling nicotinecontaining products to our international customers. Some face restrictions on the quantity

of nicotine they can purchase in a single order and these are governed by their home authorities in customs and border control. Some countries do not permit the import of nicotinebased products altogether.

“Being part of ECITA ensures we have up-to-the-minute information on potential changes in legislation and the industry. This has allowed us to review our business processes and adapt well, in advance of our competitors.

We design everything in-house, which gives us an edge over our competitors. This means we can come up with innovative ideas that go from concept to completion - in just a matter of weeks instead of months or even years.”

Bilal then details the firm’s internal culture and how all staff are equipped to provide the best possible service to clients.

“As cliché as this might sound, iBreathe really is a family business. It was launched by my brother back in 2009 and he quickly got the rest of us on board, as the demand for iBreathe products grew more rapidly.

Over eight years later and with a continuously growing workforce, that family culture is still very much apparent in our offices.

“We adopt a very relaxed working environment. In fact, most of our employees are passionate vapers and they can often be found mixing new flavours, discussing the next ‘big’ flavour and generally bouncing ideas from one another

42 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

creatively. They get to try all the latest devices, share their views on what works and what doesn’t.

The iBreathe team members are true experts in all things vaping.

“This passion for vaping and loyalty towards iBreathe, can be clearly seen in the customer service that we offer. We don’t outsource our customer service with a third-party contact centre.

When a customer calls for help and advice, they are put through to a member of staff at our UK head office. That way, they can be sure to receive the best and most accurate advice available.”

In closing, Bilal reveals what the future holds for iBreathe, over the coming months and years.

“We are very excited and optimistic about the future, especially having received the UK’s Leading E-Cigarette Brand – 2017 award. The eCigarette industry is still relatively new and it would be naïve of myself and others in the industry to become complacent. As we’ve seen with the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), further legislation could come into effect, possibly with very little notice. It’s therefore important that iBreathe continues to look at new ways to improve the business, so that we’re prepared for anything that comes our way.

“With the TPD changes out of the way, we’re now focussing on setting up our UK manufacturing facility and for everything else, it’s business as usual.”

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Simple, Powerful and Cost-Effective Redback Conferencing (Redback) is an Australian conferencing service provider, delivering an integrated conferencing service that’s simple, powerful and offers exceptional value. CEO and co-founder, Jeff Downs was recently included in our Australian CEO Top 25 and received the Most Outstanding Telecommunications Service Provider CEO accolade. To celebrate these successes, we interviewed him to find out more about the man himself and the firm he has been at the helm of for over 10 years.

As CEO and cofounder of Redback Conferencing (Redback) since July 2007, Jeff Downs is a proud father of a girl and two boys. Having moved from Canada, he loves the fact that he can go to the snow and it doesn’t come to him! He loves ice hockey and cricket – two completely opposite sports!

to build winning teams in every organisation that I have been responsible for. I would say that leading Redback Conferencing has been my most satisfying endeavour to date.

Jeff can be summed up as an aggressive entrepreneur, who specialises in building highly successful sales organisations.

He begins this interview with an insight into his approach to leadership and what Redback delivers.

In Jeff’s view, Redback consistently redefines conferencing, because it’s about helping you communicate in more meaningful ways with colleagues, customers, associates and members. He develops this point, before revealing the firm’s approach to social responsibility.

“I am most happy taking a leadership role - within fast paced customer centric environments.

Helping these organisations both grow and develop exercises my creative side. I really enjoy making a difference – to my family, my customers and my co-workers. In addition, I have extensive conferencing and leadership experience in Australia and North America.

“I am an entrepreneur, responsible for successful businesses both in Australia and further afield. It’s my unrelenting commitment to customer satisfaction, that has allowed me

“Simply put – Redback delivers simplicity and peace of mind.

Everything that I do at Redback is designed to ensure that we exceed that promise.”

“Whether it’s daily conference calls or professionally managed online events, we’ve got you covered! Our fully supported conferencing solutions provide a leaner greener alternative to business travel, allowing you to interact with anyone, anywhere, face-to-face in real time.

“When it comes to social responsibility, giving back is part of who we are. From the very beginning, Redback has always been cognisant of the role we play in society and how we can help Australian organisations.

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Our collaboration and online event services provide a green alternative to travel and allows organisations, both large and small, to reduce their carbon footprint and cut down on their emissions. We have also made the conscious decision to provide monthly invoices and usage reports online, through our carbon friendly account management portal.

“We’re dedicated to the Australian Charity Sector and acknowledge the value and contribution that they make in everyday lives.

All registered charity customers receive a 10% discount on all Redback services. They also can create awareness and market their campaigns to the firm’s highly-engaged community, via our educational webinar series.

We also encourage employees to play their role and offer them two days off per year, where they can volunteer their time to a charity of their choice.

“The Redback Charity Spotlight is a quarterly initiative, which allows us to create exposure and awareness for four of our charity customers. Anyone who attends an online event, hosted by Redback or downloads content within this period, is automatically redirected to a page where they can vote for the charity closest to their heart.”

Looking at the firm’s work more generally - Jeff tells us that Redback make transitioning to the latest conferencing technologies easy for you to achieve - by combining teleconferencing, desktop video conferencing and web conferencing into one single platform.

“Redback Conferencing services thousands of clients from every industry sector located in all states across Australia and New Zealand. Clients commonly use Redback for: business meetings; software demonstrations; record presentations to archive; discussing graphic or web designs; taking meeting minutes; sales presentations; training, CPD and online learning; online seminars and non-profit committee meetings.

“Webinars, web conferencing, video conferencing – after a while it all starts sounding the same and we eventually give up on trying to implement collaboration solutions or engaging with digital events. So, here’s where it all changes, because we exist to deliver simplicity and peace of mind.

“In terms of what we do, we’re an Australian organisation dedicated to helping the way that you meet, present and

g Simple, Powerful and Cost-Effective

collaborate at a distance. We help deploy the latest webinar, webcasting, teleconferencing, web conferencing and cloud video conferencing technologies to thousands of Australian businesses. Added to this, we always deliver an unmatched level of support, ease of use and peace of mind.”

In closing, Jeff highlights that Redback’s objective is to build a business, where employees find it a great place to work at.

“If Redback can do that, we believe that our customers will find it a great place to do business with. Our BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), is to help 10,000,000 Aussies meet at a distance. Through exceptional customer service, innovative technologies and a clear vision, we are well on our way to achieving this goal!”

Company: Redback Conferencing Name: Jeff Downs Email: jeff.downs@rdbk.com.au Web Address: www.redbackconferencing.com.au Address: Level 21, 320 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Telephone: + 61 2 9037 0330

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 45

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Dressed to Kill Vestirarte S.L.U is part of a group of trading companies of textile products and accessories. Included as the 2017 Finest Spanish Enterprise, within the Spanish Enterprise Awards, we spoke to the firm’s Carlos Caridad to find out more about their clothing and accessory products.

•

• • •

VESTIRARTE is part of a group of trading companies of textile products and accessories: Sociedad Española de Pintores Noveles, S.L.: Production and control of brands; Artenmoda by Fashion, S.L.U.: Exclusive art work; Pintoresca by Art, S.L.U.: Avant-garde art and; Museum Collection, S.L.U.: Art in the museum.

All the brands and companies have the same goal, with Vestirarte being our spearhead and the only one with a position in the market, with over 20 items for sale in our online store and art spaces or corner multi-brand stores. Vestirarte selects daily designers of all styles, which is a must in design and fashion.

Our artists, with their work and originality, must inspire love in the woman who adorns herself with our artistic creations.

Our clothing products include: pants, coats, swimsuits, dresses, skirts, blouses and tops and kimonos. Accessories we offer include: gajos hats, draped turbans, Pamela Hats, Corazón Morado Turbans, bandas, the Shoulder Bag Células, the Shoulder Bag Simbiosis, the Shoulder Bag Seat 600, the Shoulder Bag Reflejos II and bow ties.

The purchase of these exclusive creations, can of course be done via our on-line shop, but also very soon you will be able to

acquire them in very exclusive and prestigious shops, such as in art and exhibitions spaces.

began collaboration as a both a designer and pattern maker in the Vestirarte.

The exclusive and original details in our products can be summarised as follows: • Exclusive designs of garments and accessories; • Artworks licensed by the artist; • Exclusive and original labelling, so that means no more uncomfortable and unpleasant labels without control; • Numbered garments, giving exclusivity to both the artwork and the garment; • With a stamped and signed exclusivity certificate, as well as with control and the article code and; • A unique garment, turned into personal originality.

Bego Plaza has been working since 2006 to join the fashion world as a designer; betting on the design and emerging arts and local and craftsmanship. He studied at the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Madrid and after several specialist courses, including Pattern Design Circle Textile. He has held several positions in the industry, including: a dressmakersaleswoman for Ottavio Nuccio Gala, a professor of patchwork for La Laborteca, press assistant CIA Fashion and a design assistant at Tu Hadita Florita.

Bego currently works as a fashion designer for Vestirarte; betting on the design and emerging arts and local and craftsmanship.

Designers Vanessa Sepúlveda is a young designer born in Caracas, Venezuela and settled in Madrid for ten years. Vanessa’s background includes extensive training in the field of graphic design, which was a starting point to enter the world of both fashion and styling. Following this, Vanessa decided to go to London to study fashion and that is where the road begins as a designer and pattern maker.

Sara Urmeneta is a young Spanish designer, with a degree in fashion design. She is dedicated to innovative and creative design womenswear, menswear and children with different abilities in haute couture, headgear and swimwear.

During Vanessa’s studies at the London College of Contemporary Arts, this designer was notable for being the first in class and style, with a clear focus on the Japanese design. In 2015, Vanessa returned to Madrid and

46 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

Finally, Ana Belen Bravo has been described as a self-taught designer and dressmaker. She became interested in sewing and fashion world some years ago.

So, that after forming self-taught and working for years as a dressmaker for individuals; she joined Vestirarte in 2015. She started off making prototypes for the brand and shortly afterwards, designed a collection of handbags.

g Dressed to Kill

Company: Vestirarte S.L.U. Name: Carlos Caridad Email: vestirarte@vestirarte.com Web Address: vestirarte.com Address: C/ Cronos, 24 3ยบ D1, 28037 Madrid, Spain Telephone: +34 910 809 101

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 47

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An Exceptional Shopping Experience Synonymous with luxury today, the Paris Gallery Group of Companies has a wide portfolio that includes fragrances, cosmetics, watches, eyewear, accessories, leather goods and fashion.

As winner of the Best Luxury Brand Marketing Manager - MEA award, we interviewed Group Sales and Marketing Manager Mohamad Jaber to find out more about the group’s work in the luxury retail sector.

The retail division of the Paris Gallery Group of Companies offers a premium collection of over 650 international brands and is acknowledged as the most reliable and respected name in the luxury category. Paris Gallery has over 50 stores located in prime retail addresses spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, Azerbaijan and Oman.

Group Sales and Marketing Manager Mohamad Jaber is eager to introduce the group’s work in his own words. He also shares with us the group’s overall mission and what differentiates them from their competitors.

“Satisfying the customer, keeping in touch, staying ahead of trends and understanding customer preferences are what we, as UAE retailers with a history of serving the region, do best.

Paris Gallery’s opulent shopping environments, innovative retail concepts, high service standards and signature Arabic hospitality are the result of nearly two decades of expertise in keeping customer interest at its core.

“The group’s mission is to indulge the customers with an exceptional shopping experience by offering quality products and services through both our

people and business partners.

The group does it by keeping its customers in mind, whenever it plans and make things happen.

We are progressive and partner with the international brands, to offer our customers the best.

“The group goes the extra mile to make customers feel at home, when visiting every store. Being a UAE retailer with a history of serving customers, keeping in touch with both changing trends and understanding customer preferences have come naturally to the business. By being dynamic and progressive, the group has further ensured customer understanding by participating in interactive initiatives at major events in the region. Trust is built over time, and to us it translates into nurturing the loyalty of many generations of customers. This is what differentiates us from other retailers in the region.”

Mohamad then spills the beans on how the group stays ahead of any emerging developments within the wider industry.

“To stay ahead, the group employs the expertise gained from years of retail leadership in the region. The group specialises in providing logistical, merchandising, distribution and market intelligence support for premium perfumes, watches and

48 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

cosmetics brands from across the world. With a time-tested and rapidly expanding supplychain infrastructure in place, the group ensures that every allied retail store enjoys optimum asset utilities and operational costs, thus facilitating a successful business.”

Mohamad then directs our thoughts to the group’s internal culture and how the staff are equipped to provide the best possible service to clients.

Keeping this in mind, he then reveals how the Paris Gallery Group of Companies attracts the very best talent in the industry.

“Customer expectation has been built over the years and starts from the very moment one steps into one of the Paris Gallery Group of Companies retail outlets. The new generation of customers, with technologyaided understanding of brands and offerings, require the staff to have both the knowledge and confidence to interact with them.

Through exemplary standards of traditional Arabic hospitality, informed interaction and brand engagement, the group ensures that every customer is made to feel at home in their stores.

“By investing in comprehensive staff training programmes and instilling a culture of excellence and customer-centric philosophy,

the group ensures its staff is fully equipped to take care of the needs of customers as well as their individual preferences.

They are both passionate and committed to delivering value every day.

“We have one of the best teams in the retail industry, with deep expertise across all categories, unparalleled product knowledge, as well as longstanding relationships with all top brands and clientele. The group not only attracts the very best, but is also committed to developing the multi-cultural talents of our staff and providing them with a rewarding work environment.

“Our HR professionals are grouped into high-performing teams, who partner with other departments to build both a skilled and motivated workforce.

They provide key services and handle the needs of all our employees. They ensure that we only hire the best talent available in the GCC.” Mohamad then shares his concluding remarks, telling us what plans the group has in the future.

“The group will continue to expand and increase its dominance in the UAE luxury retail market, through its retail stores and distribution arms.

g

An Exceptional Shopping Experience

Furthermore, the Paris Gallery franchise business model is being successfully implemented in countries in and beyond the region, to increase its reach.

Soon, the group will also launch its e-commerce platform.

Introducing brands that have an international appeal and employ expertise and cutting-edge technologies to produce highquality products continues to be a focus. “But as customer needs and expectations continue to evolve, we must be both flexible and agile. We must adapt. We have rethought our business and operating models and developed a comprehensive digital strategy.

The group has established a ubiquitous cross-channel connectivity, enabling continuous engagement with customers, suppliers, employees and investors. It involves innovation and differentiation through the business model.�

Company: The Paris Gallery Group of Companies Name: Mohamad Jaber Title: Group Sales and Marketing Manager Email: Jaber.Mohamad@Parisgallery.com Web: parisgallery.com Twitter: @ParisGallery - @majaber2 Instagram: @ParisGalleryMe - @majaber2

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 49

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Best Luxury Health & Beauty Product Manufacturer – UK Viaderm is a leading UK health & beauty manufacturer with over 20 years of experience, providing high quality and bespoke results for clients across the UK and internationally.

We invited Michael Eggerton to talk us through the firm and the innovative range of products it offers.

Specialising in product innovation, flexible manufacturing and packaging in the personal care market, Viaderm offers a complete services package for a wide range of products including liquids, creams, scrubs and gels. Michael outlines the firm’s commitment to creating innovative products and sets it apart in this competitive market.

“Here at Viaderm, we pride ourselves on offering beauty manufacturing services of the highest quality. Our dedicated team have many years of experience in beauty manufacturing, with skills ranging from product innovation and development to account management. We offer unique full service manufacturing to meet our clients’ needs.

“Based in Essex, Viaderm uses modern, high quality machinery and innovative methods to ensure the client brief is fulfilled.

Our team of professionals are on hand to support the client at every stage from concept through to live product. We constantly strive to upgrade our manufacturing processes to provide our clients with the best quality personal care and beauty products in the industry. As such, our onsite development chemists have in depth experience in health and beauty product development and innovation.

“As part of our full service, the development chemists are trained to support the client brief throughout the new product development process,

50 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

applying their expertise and technical knowledge to address all challenges. Our product innovations team provide solid background support to ensure client ideas are developed using best-in-class processes, in line with the technical brief and within the agreed budget.

From facial serums and skincare to foot creams and shampoo formulations, the Viaderm development team are constantly developing new techniques and formulas to bring the most innovative and cutting edge personal care and beauty products to the market.”

One of Viaderm’s top priorities is to stay ahead of trends within the fast paced, health and beauty industry. New ingredients and manufacturing processes are constantly evolving, and as such early implementation of these advanced technologies are key to long term success, as Michael explains.

“To ensure that we always meet our clients’ product needs, Viaderm provides dedicated beauty product development support and a bespoke contract manufacturing service. Our

flexible approach allows us to contract fill production runs from as low as 1000 units to large corporate runs across a range of packaging sizes from 2ml to 500ml in plastic bottles, plastic or laminated tubes, aluminium jars and pots. Viaderm has invested in a range of packaging lines that offer maximum flexibility to handle the primary and secondary packaging needs of our clients.”

With regards to the future, Michael is optimistic as he eagerly discusses the firm’s new factory and how this will allow Viaderm to build upon its current success and grow even further over the months and years ahead.

“Viaderm is growing and we have recently moved to a new purpose built factory. Viaderm continues to deliver complete development and manufacturing services to meet our clients’ needs using state of the art machinery and innovative methods. Alongside this and in the wake of Brexit, we have expanded our activities outside the UK and are currently exploring interesting opportunities overseas.”

g Best Luxury Health & Beauty Product Manufacturer – UK

“We pride ourselves in offering beauty manufacturing services of the highest quality.”

Company: Viaderm Limited Contact: Peter Scanlon Phone: +44 (0) 7841 869843 Email: enquiries@viaderm.co.uk Address: Brentwood Trade Park, 14A Tallon Road, Hutton, Brentwood, CM13 1TF Website: www.viaderm.co.uk

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 51

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New Opportunities for Growth Established in 2010, Bathan AG is a lubricant supplier that specialises in high performance ceramic lubricants. Following their success in winning the exclusive The Leading Suppliers of Lubricants – Germany award, as part of the Corporate Excellence Awards of 2017, we invited the firm to tell us about their tailored solutions.

Established in 2010, Bathan AG is a lubricant supplier that specialises in high performance ceramic lubricants. We aim to always offer our clients the very highest standard of service and we see ourselves as solution provider to a wide variety of industries.

Our clients range from small specialised biomass companies, to large cement producers, wind farm operators and construction companies. What unites this diverse range of clients, is the superb level of service they receive when they work with Bathan AG. To meet their specific needs, we work hard to tailor

Friction points, such as bearings of pellet mills or wind turbines, operate with lower temperatures and prolonged lifetimes when using our Bathan grease. The lubricant amount decreases by up to 95% and lubrication intervals are therefore extended.

our solutions to their specific requirements.

For example: With our special food grade greases, feedstuff producers, food processing and pharma companies produce with lower contamination risks.

Our products set new standards in every industry we enter, for example the FDA standard for lubrication of feed processing equipment is a case in point.

Our results are our best proof of our success and added to this, the word of mouth from satisfied customers is testimony to the excellent service we deliver.

Moving forward, Bathan AG will continue to grow and prosper, as it seeks to continue to support its clients and deliver the very best lubricants on the market.

Ultimately, despite the success we have already enjoyed, we are determined not to rest on our laurels. Every day we see new potential applications for our products, indeed it is sometimes hard to stay focussed. Looking beyond our strategic paths, opens new opportunities for growth, which we are keen to take advantage of.

Company: Bathan AG Name: Dr. Holger Streetz Email: h.streetz@bathan.ch Web Address: www.bathan.ch Address: Alte Steinhauserstr. 19, Cham, CH-6330, Switzerland Telephone: +41 (0) 41 740 45 27

52 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

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Mind, Body and Spirit Raphael Medical Centre is a unique, independent hospital, specialising in neurorehabilitation of adults. They take an integrated, mind - body - spirit approach to supporting people suffering from complex neurological disabilities. As winner of the exclusive CEO of the Year- United Kingdom accolade, we took the opportunity to interview the owner, Gerhard Florschutz to find out more about the hospital and their role within the UK’s healthcare sector.

The Raphael Hospital is a unique centre providing a approach to the acute neurological rehabilitation of adults. Whilst their primary service caters for people that have suffered traumatic/acquired brain injuries, they also provide neurobehavioral services, able to accept patients, subject to section under the Mental Health Act. We spoke to the firm’s owner, Gerhard Florschutz to find out more about what the hospital specialises in and their role within the wider UK healthcare sector.

“The hospital has been delivering and developing services for over 25 years and specialises in neurological rehabilitation as well as the management of progressive neurological conditions. We treat a range

of conditions and have a dedicated interdisciplinary team consisting of a range of healthcare professionals, both medical, nursing and therapeutic staff delivering a variety of interventions. The IDT works closely together to devise and deliver person-centred care, whilst acknowledging both the needs and goals of the individual.

“Though the healthcare sector today is competitive and volatile, particularly as our NHS counterparts continue to see austerity due to funding pressures, we actively aim to provide services that are affordable and in-line with the standard public sector tariffs.

This is something we have been doing so for some years. We work alongside NHS and social care colleagues, to support the health agenda locally.”

Gerhard then describes his responsibilities as CEO, the leadership style he employs as well as the secrets to the firm’s success.

“My primary responsibility resolves around the operational management of the business, advising and supporting the team, so that we can maximise our facilities, expertise and anthroposophical approach. We are lucky to have an exceptional and forward-thinking team, whose ideas and enthusiasm drive the business forward, while the hospital’s shared beliefs and commitment to tackling health inequalities cements what we do.

“As a CEO, it is my responsibility to oversee the work of the senior team, to lead by example and instil the hospital’s values across the business.

“Determination has been a key factor in the success of the business. This, together with a genuine commitment for the cause that you are working towards, will lead to the right attitude and a great deal of perseverance.

Having a shared vision from the outset is also fundamental, so that everybody can work towards achieving a common goal.”

Gerhard then underlines the firm’s culture and how he ensures that this is understood by all staff. He also reveals how he manages his staff and the key principles adhered to in this vein.

“We take a holistic approach to healthcare, underpinned by our anthroposophic principles and unique and therapeutic surroundings. We take pride in the work we do and have a strong emphasis on continuous improvement. Through regular

review and collaboration, we can quickly identify areas where improvements can be made and dedicate ourselves to taking methodical action. Similarly, we take time to appreciate and congratulate the areas that... “exceed standards, so that teams that go above and beyond, and are a clear representation of the values that we uphold, are recognised accordingly”.

“The hospital’s people are its greatest asset, so we encourage and support their professional development. We do this by promoting training opportunities, encouraging further and higher education and by supporting those undertaking studies. We encourage managers to be supportive, transparent and approachable.”

In closing, Gerhard reveals how it feels to be awarded the Exclusive CEO of the YearUnited Kingdom accolade.

“Whilst I am immensely humbled, I feel it reflects the exceptional team that we have.”

Company: The Raphael Medical Centre Name: Gerhard Florschutz Email: info@raphaelmedicalcentre.co.uk Web Address: raphaelmedicalcentre.co.uk Address: Hollanden Park, Coldharbour Lane, Hildenborough, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 9LE Telephone: +44 (0)1732 833 924

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 53

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2017 Partner of Q1 Tripp Scott is a law firm that has been serving Florida for over 40 years. The firm remains committed to developing innovative approaches in our practice areas and to achieving timely and creative solutions. Matthew Zifrony discusses the services that the law firm provides.

Tripp Scott is a law firm that represents small to mid-size companies with respect to all of their legal needs. The firm has been providing legal services to its clients for more than 40 years. It has offices in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Boca Raton, FL and Tallahassee.

Matthew talks us through the services that the firm specialises in, as well as discussing how it feels to have been named as 2017’s Partner of Q1.

“Tripp Scott specializes in all areas of law that affect a small to mid-size business, including but not limited to commercial real estate, creditors’ rights and bankruptcy, environmental law, estate planning and probate, finance and corporate law, commercial litigation, governmental affairs, guardianships, healthcare law, insurance law, labor and

employment law, and land use law.

“It is a great honour to be recognised as a leader in the industry. It shows that all of the hard work that we put in when representing our clients is paying off.”

Regarding his own role in the company, Matthew tells us what legal areas he specialises in.

Noting his extensive experience at the company and the industry, Matthew has represented a number of associations, but his knowledge does not stop there.

“I’m a director at Tripp Scott and have worked at Tripp Scott for more than 26 years. I specialize in corporate law and commercial real estate while serving as an outside general counsel for some of my clients. Also, I represent a large number of condominiums and homeowner associations.”

The practice has various legal areas of expertise and Matthew lists these with regard to attracting potential new clients. Practicing in such an assortment of legal areas, the levels of expertise allow the frim to provide legal services to most small to mid-size companies.

Following on from this, Matthew discusses the existing clients currently utilising the firm, as well as what the practice looks for in future clients.

“Tripp Scott’s various legal areas of expertise allows it to provide most if not all of the legal services that a small to mid-size company would need.

“As a company, our target client is a small to mid-size company – a company that is looking for excellent legal work without having to pay the legal fees that are charged by the larger law firms. The various legal areas of expertise that Tripp Scott has developed allows a company of that size to consolidate all of its legal needs into a single law firm.”

Acknowledging the work that staff at the firm do to make the firm so successful, Matthew says that the practice would not be able win an award unless it had excellent staff. Ranging from its administrative staff to its legal team, the firm relies on staff to serve as the backbone for the majority of the services that the practice provides.

“Tripp Scott would not have been able to win this type of an award unless it had an excellent staff. It relies on its staff to serve as the backbone for a lot of the legal services that Tripp Scott provides.”

Ultimately, Tripp Scott will look to expand its growing client base, capitalising on the success after winning this award. Representing small to mid-size companies, the firm provides a personal touch and comes at a much more affordable cost than most larger law firms, for the same service.

Clients show a desire for more a personalized service, accessibility and responsiveness and this is the major factor that drives clients away from larger firms and towards firms such as Tripp Scott.

Company: Tripp Scott Contact: Matthew Zifrony Email: mzz@TrippScott.com Address: 110 SE Sixth Street, Suite 1500, Fort Lauderdale, 33301, USA Phone: 001 954 525 7500 Website: www.trippscott.com

54 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

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The Peak of Success Peak 10 + ViaWest is a powerful combination that helps organisations optimise their journey of IT transformation, while simultaneously balancing cost, scalability and security. Following their selection in the 2017 Business Elite Awards, we took the opportunity to profile the company’s work following its recent acquisition of ViaWest, Inc. On August 2, Peak 10 Inc. announced that it has completed its acquisition of ViaWest, Inc. The deal positions the combined company as a leading national provider of hybrid IT solutions - including colocation, interconnection, cloud, managed solutions and professional services - to more than 4,200 customers nationally.

Chief executive officer, Chris Downie, said: “We’re thrilled by the response we’ve received from customers and partners, since announcing the acquisition just seven weeks ago. We look forward to taking the next step in the evolution of this company, as we help enterprises nationally solve their most difficult IT infrastructure challenges. The company’s mission stays the same: providing their customers with the best technology and customer experience possible and we believe we’re in a great position to do so.”

Peak 10’s vision is to be the first choice of mid-market businesses, every time, for IT infrastructure solutions. The company’s mission is to deliver an experience that sets them apart from all other IT providers and consistently fulfils their promise to demonstrate deep investment in the success of the customers – no matter what. Peak 10 will create value for customers, employees, partners and shareholders through their daily actions that embody the firm’s values and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their customers.

Peak 10 + ViaWest’s robust suite of assets spans 20 domestic and international markets. The company maintains 40 highly-

redundant data centres, 2.7 million square feet of data centre space, 13 cloud nodes and more than 10,000 cross connects.

These capabilities, coupled with over 1,000 dedicated employees, underlie the steadfast reliability of their solutions.

The company’s 4,200+ customers trust them to deliver hybrid IT infrastructure solutions, spanning colocation, interconnection, cloud, managed solutions and professional services. This diverse and comprehensive portfolio of solutions enhances customer performance, manages risk and increases competitiveness as their industries evolve.

Peak 10 + ViaWest’s robust suite of assets span 20 domestic and international markets and comprises 40 highly-redundant data centres, 13 cloud nodes and more than 10,000 cross connects. These capabilities, coupled with over 1,000 dedicated employees, underlie the steadfast reliability of their solutions and 100% uptime commitment.

As a Peak 10 + ViaWest customer you can expect: • Deeply ingrained ‘customerfirst’ culture; • True national platform with international presence; • Comprehensive and robust suite of outsourced IT solutions; • Scale to provide an industry leading service delivery platform and; • Enhanced cloud and connectivity solutions.

a strong partnership with their customers and a commitment to helping them meet their IT challenges - today, tomorrow and the future.

For most companies, adherence to any number of regulations and industry standards is a requirement for doing business in a global market. Peak 10 have a dedicated IT compliance team on staff. Plus, you can leverage their audited-ready facilities and compliant cloud infrastructure to ensure the security and availability of your applications and data — and help meet your company’s IT compliance requirements.

In terms of the clients Peak 10 serves, they range from sports entertainment to public accounting, e-payments to air travel, organisations want to work with a business partner who sees their future as they see it and can give them an edge making it happen. Peak 10’s clients know they’re on their side and at their side for the long-term, helping to create new revenue streams, exploit opportunities, secure critical IT assets or grow their businesses. Peak 10 is all about the clients’ success; they want to be all about your success, too.

Peak 10 Partner Programme As a Peak 10 Partner, you leverage their customer-focused reputation and technical expertise for your own business.

Peak 10 intensively consults with customers to design and deliver the exact best-in-breed infrastructure solution for their objectives. Thus, the company’s customer-satisfaction ratings are among the highest in the industry – loyalty to the Peak 10 name that benefits you as a partner.

Partnering with Peak 10 allows you to scale your service delivery to include their secure cloud, data centre and managed services – without substantial capital expenditures or operating costs. This strengthens your ability to provide tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of each of your customers.

With over 890,000 sq. ft. of data centre space, in 10 strategically located U.S. markets, they can quickly deploy a solution that meets your needs for today, tomorrow and the future. For more information on Peak 10, please visit www.peak10. com. For more information on ViaWest, please visit www. viawest.com

Company: Peak 10, Inc. Name: Cheryl Kleiman Email: cheryl.kleiman@peak10.com Web Address: www.peak10.com Address: 8809 Lenox Pointe Dr. Suite G, Charlotte, NC 28273 USA Telephone: +1 866 473 2510

Customer success lies at the core of everything they do. The company’s industry-leading Net Promoter Score (NPS) - reflects

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 55

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Passport to Success Passport Career, LLC. is an online, country-specific, global job search platform that was launched by Susan Musich in 2010. Following the firm’s selection within the 2017 US Business Excellence Awards, we took the chance to interview the executive director & founder, to learn more about her own career background and the important work of Passport Career.

Susan Musich is the executive director & founder of Passport Career, LLC. and has 20 years of experience as an international career counsellor. She has personally coached over 10,000 individuals from more than 180 different countries.

She has worked with organisations such as Accenture, The World Bank/IFC, the United Nations, the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Peace Corps and Save the Children. In her spare time, she speaks at international conferences and writes books on career planning.

Executive director & founder, Susan Musich, begins by telling us something of her own career background, including her role today at Passport Career.

“For more than 25 years, I have advised people seeking careers abroad. I am a global career expert and the founder

of Passport Career, an awardwinning online global career system and training programme that helps companies, organisations and universities/ colleges to support their diverse populations with international career interests.

“I enjoy the research of global job search and recruitment trends and the dynamics of applying strategic approaches to seeking jobs, internships or alternative activities. Over the years, I have coached more than 10,000 people and focused on developing pragmatic, real-world solutions that catapult their global careers across borders. When they succeed, I celebrate. I’ve done a lot of celebrating.

“I am grateful for the unique opportunity to expand my reach through Passport Career and inspire, motivate and educate people of all generations and nationalities to find meaningful careers in our increasingly globalised world.”

Passport Career is an online, country-specific, global job search platform designed for use by organisations looking to support the international career transitions of their mobile employees (as well as their spouses/partners) and by academic institutions looking to support the international career transitions of students, scholars, faculty and their spouses/ partners.

Passport Career was developed and launched by Susan Musich

56 CORPORATE VISION / August 2017

in 2010 with a cutting-edge approach and state of the art technology. Susan then moves the conversation to tell us more about the firm’s excellent work.

Passport Career also offers monthly career training events (in webinar format), a unique social network, an online help desk and much more.

“Passport Career offers unique content and unmatched resources for over 80 countries and 250 cities. Like the online data and virtual travel providers that replaced travel agents, Passport Career is a groundbreaking initiative that shifts the global career support industry from the traditional brick-andmortar businesses and single channels of information (such as career counsellors and coaches), to an interconnected e-platform that provides a complex set of services in a user-friendly, easily accessible format.

“Passport Career works with and for globally-minded clients such as corporations, businesses, academic institutions, government and non-governmental entities, as well as international mobility providers. We provide comprehensive information and support for our client’s employees, spouses/partners and families in all matters concerning living and working in an international context in countries and cultures throughout the world.

We also support families staying behind during unaccompanied assignments.”

“Passport Career’s unique global job search platform not only provides access to jobs in over 80 countries and 250 cities, but also includes extensive country profiles, helpful global careeroriented articles and effective self-marketing strategies not provided by other job search resources.

In closing, what makes Passport Career successful, is certainly due to their dynamic team of more than 100 professionals who work around the globe. The staff collect and analyse data, to ensure that their content is up-to-date, relevant and packed with useful, timely and local information.

Company: Passport Career Name: Susan Musich Email: smusich@passportcareer.com Web Address: www.passportcareer.com Address: 2020 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Suite 410, Washington, DC 20006 USA Telephone: +1 703 608 4433

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Winner’s Directory

The Award Winners are...

Australian CEO Top 25 Contact Name: John Mcintosh Company: Mackay Superclinics 48 Beach Road, Dolphin Heads, Mackay 4740, Australia Web Address: drjohnmcintosh.com Telephone: 0061 428 598 722

CORPORATE VISION / August 2017 57

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TAILORED TO SUIT YOUR BUSINESS Arrange a Free Fleet Review with one of our Consultants Today Keeping your workforce mobile is key to the success

minimise risk, reduce your impact on the environment

of your business. FleetEurope’s tailored vehicle

and improve the overall efficiency of your vehicle fleet,

management solutions help to reduce the administrative

allowing you to focus more time on managing your

and financial burden of running your company vehicles.

business. Contact us today to arrange a free fleet review.

Our fleet consultants work with you to help reduce costs,

Call: 01494 435000 Email: info@fleeteurope.co.uk Visit: www.fleeteurope.co.uk