B4 41 Gardner Leader Issue

B4 MAGAZINE I S S U E

4 1

J U N E

2 0 1 6

GARDNER LEADER Roundtable debate about the redevelopment of Maidenhead town centre

BUSINESS IN OXFORD 2016

W W W . B 4 - B U S I N E S S . C O M

THE ADVENTURE JUNKIE

WELLERS ROUNDTABLE

B U I L D I N G B R I D G E S B E T W E E N B U S I N E S S E S

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www.b4-business.com Contacts If you want to contact B4 Magazine Telephone: 01865 742 211 info@b4-business.com Publisher B4 Magazine is published by Designs On Ltd, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford, OX3 0BT Chairman Colin Rosser colin@b4-business.com Editor Richard Rosser editorial@b4-business.com Art Editor Keith Simpson artwork@b4-business.com Sub Editor Lorna Dodson assistanteditor@b4-business.com Features Editor Matt Wright matt@b4-business.com Proofreader Sue Rosser B4 Events events@b4-business.com Editorial contributors Olivia Lane-Nott Rachel Warren Jo Sensecall Claire Thompson B4 Photography Rob Scotcher Studio Photography Studio8 Telephone: 01865 842525

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welcome to B4 41 In the first of our two lead articles in B4, we speak to Freeths Managing Partner, Sarah Foster and non practicising consultant, Tony Henman about the thinking behind the firm’s name change and also hear from Leon Arnold, Head of the Corporate Team at Freeths, who reports on a record year of growth.

Our second lead article covers the Gardner Leader Roundtable held at Fredricks Hotel in Maidenhead where the topic of conversation was….Maidenhead, which is undergoing something of a transformation with significant commercial and residential development. Progress goes hand in hand with growing pains and the key topic of conversation focused on the parking problems which will result with the redevelopment of Maidenhead.

Our finance feature includes contributions from Brewin Dolphin, Focus, Grant Thornton and Wellers who cover topics ranging from the new dividend tax to innovation in R&D and financial pressures in the hospitality sector.

With Business in Oxford 2016 behind us, we look back on the 18 PODs and highlight the presenters, the topics and the key messages in our 40 page supplement – don’t forget you can see all 72 presentations and the opening session on the www.businessinoxford.com website now.

We wish Kempton Carr Croft a Happy 30th Birthday with a look at how the independent property consultancy firm has developed over the past 30 years, Kate Allen of Allen Associates explains why it’s so important to get Executive Recruitment right and find out more about World-first Medical Technology at Witney BIC.

Oxford Science Park have appointed a new MD and we meet him in this issue of B4 and it’s well done to Wallers of Oxford, crowned ‘Best Oxfordshire Estate Agent’. It’s also congratulations to Macdonald Randolph Hotel who have something to celebrate after a trying year with the opening of the excellent Acanthus Restaurant which welcomed over 200 guests to a wonderful opening at the end of April.

Howbery Business Park help us to crack the work-life balance and we follow The Adventure Junkie, Tom Alden, on his latest challenge. Cosmo, the ultimate dining destination, has opened in Oxford and we take a look at the fantastic food on offer. Sarah Wiseman, of Sarah Wiseman Gallery, looks at art for love or as an investment and Dan Channer enjoys a meal at the superb Cherwell Boathouse.

There are also features on Helen & Douglas House, The Beetle & Wedge, Danesfield House and Spa, The Archive Centre, Rossini at Leatherne Bottle and the NEW Jurys Inn Oxford.

If you’re not a member of B4, take a look at who’s joined us recently….our membership portfolio is growing and we are attracting some stunning names from across the Thames Valley – see page 152 to find out why they value B4. Why not join them and connect with other members through our great new site?

Enjoy B4!

16. Freeths Written by Richard Rosser

141. Hedges Written by Nicola Poole

82. Carter Jonas Written by Olivia Lane-Nott

About

Meet The Writers

B4

Richard Rosser Editor

Magazine

B4 Magazine was established to provide Thames Valley businesses with a clear voice to raise their profile and to help businesses connect. Direct mailed to nine thousand business decision makers in once every two months, B4 is regarded a leading free distribution business publication in the region. B4 stands for Building Bridges Between Business and that is what B4 helps businesses to do, aided by our first class website at www.b4-business.com, monthly B4 Classic and Masterclass Events.

117. TLA

B4 is funded by paid for display advertising and editorial. Underpinning B4 is a membership of over 600 of the Thames Valley’s leading businesses.

Written by Tom Alden

WHY NOT FOLLOW B4 MAGAZINE ON

finance

lead 16

25 Dividend Tax: Brewin Dolphin discuss

the new dividend tax and what it could mean

for you and your business.

Henmans Freeth Become Freeths: Get the inside scoop on this leading law firm's name change as we interview Managing Partner, Sarah Foster and non-practising consultant, Tony Henman.

20 The Annual Gardner Leader Roundtable: B4 sat in on this annual

discussion, focusing on the arrival of Crossrail,

new residential developments, parking issues

and much more.

26 Working Together for the Greater Good: FOCUS Independent Financial

Advisers discuss the new dividend tax levy

and how pensions could be the key.

113 DCResponse Powers Up Through Recent Acquisition: Jack Ogden,

Commercial Director at DCResponse, talks

to B4 about their recent acquisition of UPS Systems.

114 Cracking The Work-Life Balance:

Introducing Howbery Park's dedicated team,

passionately committed to delivering the

perfect work environment.

28 Innovation in a Vibrant Economy:

Grant Thornton has created an Innovation Tax

hub specialising in the Government tax reliefs.

30 The Hospitality Trade: Wellers discuss

the Living Wage, apprenticeships, Brexit and

marketing of the tourism and hospitality sector.

134 Helen & Douglas House: B4 meets

the dream team: CEO Clare Periton, New

Business Manager Annie Perry, and Corporate

Accounts Manager Suzi Attree.

legal news

97 Modern Slavery Act: BrookStreet des

Roches discuss the new requirement to

publish ‘Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement’.

advice

11 B4 Members' News 15 New Appointments 105 Wallers of Oxford News 109 Venturefest News

85 Are Private Messages Really Private?: Blake Morgan discuss the recent

decision regarding the monitoring of

employees' personal emails.

143 Top Tips From An Expert: Hedges’

Property Solicitor Charlotte Ridgway shares

her tips for a stress free move.

spotlight 90 Oxford Science Park Gets News MD: We find out more about science and

business park specialist Piers Scrimshaw-Wright and his new role.

101 Finding The New Mary Somerville: What did Mary Somerville do

to deserve the accolade of becoming the new

face of the Scottish £10 note?

marketing 33 Get Seen With B4 Magazine: Check

out all we have on offer to find the best

exposure for your business

hr 81 Executive Recruitment - Getting It Right: Allen Associates discuss why

it is so important to get your senior leadership

recruitment right.

B4 contents technology

services 89 Food Matters!: Oxford-based Lamb

Catering tells B4 how the food and drink

at your event can help you build a great

brand identity.

86 World-First Medical Technology:

Oxtex Ltd is celebrating its 5th yearand its 3rd

move within the Oxford Innovation Centre

group with a new office at Witney BIC.

102 Passion for Food: Whether you are

after a sumptuous three course dinner menu,

hosting a canapĂŠ party or a corporate lunch

Passion For Food is there to help.

93 Cyber Security: Protect Your Data: Brethertons discuss why it has never

been more crucial to ensure your business'

data is secure.

110 Choosing The Right Office Furniture: Aston & James explain how

the right office environment can increase

productivity by up to 16%.

133 The Archive Centre: B4 catches up with

David Coulton to chat about his growing

portfolio of customers.

property 78

30 Years of Property Solutions: Independent property consultancy firm, Kempton Carr Croft celebrated 30 years of business in May 2016.

82 Diversify as Land Values Drop: Carter Jonas advises land owners to diversify

to achieve the greatest performance.

98 VSL & Partners: Check out the latest commercial properties from VSL & Partners

here.

events 37

health 117 The Adventure Junkie: Tom Alden,

Oxfordshire entrepreneur, explorer,

motivational speaker and adventure junkie,

tells B4 about his latest challenge.

121 Tara Tripp Hearing Care: Read all

about this leading, reputable, family run independent hearing practice and the

complete care they offer.

125 World Record at Reading Half Marathon: A Guiness World Record was

set at this year's Reading Half Marathon. Read

on for details!

145 Thanks for London Marathon Sponsors: A big thank you to everyone

who sponsored B4's Editor, Richard Rosser, in

this year's London Marathon.

Business In Oxford 2016 Recap: Check out our reports from this year's Business In Oxford - Photos, presentation summaries and more.

94 Coming Up At Oxford Castle:

The castle never fails to disappoint with their

fantastic array of open air events, and this

year promises to be yet another exciting summer.

146 Priviledged Access to the Oxford Union for B4 Members: B4 Members

were recently granted exclusive access to the

world famous Oxford Union for pre-debate

drinks with Union President, Robert Harris

and access to a live debate.

122 Data Protection Regulation: Read

about the great talk CIS gave at this year's

Business In Oxford event regarding Data

Protection Regulation.

r&r 106 Sanctuary at Macdonald Randolph Hotel: B4 gives you the inside

scoop on the Macdonald Randolph Hotel's

luxury spa and brand new restaurant.

118 Cosmo Oxford: A brand new, ultimate

dining experience comes to Oxford with

dishes from all across the globe.

126 Art for Love or Investment?:

Wiseman Gallery in Oxford gives a few key

pointers to starting an art collection, whether

personal or corporate.

129 The Cherwell Boathouse: Join us

as we explore one of Oxford's most famous

fine dining retreats.

130 Danesfield House Hotel & Spa:

Read all about this luxurious country retreat

created twenty five years ago from a

magnificent family home.

137 The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse:

If you are looking for tranquillity, relaxation

and superb hospitality, then look no further.

B4 delves into this haven.

138 Rossini at The Leatherne Bottel:

Simply superb dining... Richard Rosser has

the arduous task of reviewing Rossini for B4.

142 The Brand New Jurys Inn Oxford:

Take a look at the recent ÂŁ10.8 million

refurbishment programme for this great

Oxford hotel & spa.

B4 Members Club 147 Contacts 155

Forthcoming B4 Event 

B4 Classic Event at Rhodes House DATE: THURSDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER TIME: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM VENUE: RHODES HOUSE, SOUTH PARKS RD, OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE OX1 3RG

A hidden delight situated in the heart of Oxford, Rhodes House is a beautiful venue steeped in history – ideal for dinners, business meetings, product launches and weddings.

For nearly a century Rhodes House has been the gathering place for Rhodes scholars and distinguished guests. Now, the House is available so that others can enjoy the peace, quiet and unique atmosphere of this private, exclusive venue. It is ideal for both corporate and private events, for large and small functions.

For more information see: www.b4-business.com 10

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B4

news

New Witney Retirement Village nears completion With the first residents at the new Richmond Witney retirement village now settled, the company have announced that the main Village Centre Building is due to be ready for occupation in early autumn.

As well as all the main core facilities such as the restaurant and bar, café, Wellness Spa including pool, gym, treatment rooms and hair salon, the main Village Centre building also includes the Village Suites. These one and two bedroom suites are designed for those people who are finding it a struggle living in their current homes but don’t

require the 24-hour care which a care home provides. The advantage of a Village Suite is that people still own their own property but all their day to day chores such as cooking, cleaning and washing is taken care of by Richmond Villages.

There is also the reassurance that Richmond Villages have a dedicated care and support team on-site 24-hours a day.

To find out more about this fantastic new facility for older people in Oxfordshire, contact the Village Advisers on 01993 768557 or visit www. richmond-villages.com/witney

Your meeting, your way @ The Academy, Holiday Inn Oxford The Academy at Holiday Inn boasts of 11 flexible meeting rooms that can accommodate from 2 to 160 delegates, all with natural daylight, with many options for layout, equipment and presentation. Coupled with our great location, a familiar name, great transport connections and 154 bedrooms, Holiday Inn Oxford is the perfect choice for your next successful event.

Accreditation Dining At the Holiday Inn Oxford we are proud to be a

‘Food for Thought’ accredited venue which means that our refreshment breaks and lunch offering is a healthy and balanced menu with a few treats too!

It is designed to keep your delegates motivated and stimulated throughout the day.

Get in touch with our events team on: +44 (0)1865 888 400 or email us on meetings@ hioxford.co.uk to find out more on the latest offers and book your site visit.

Free book for every B4 reader For those business owner/managers who want to grow their business but whose growth has stalled, David Croydon has written a short pocket book of the various strategies available to you, to reinvigorate your enterprise.

The main section is on organic growth, which is how the majority of companies achieve their objectives, but there are also sections on growth by franchising/licensing and growth by acquisition, for the more ambitious among you.

Having taken his own marketing services business from start-up to sell-out in 15 years, he has personally encountered and overcome many of the challenges that confront SMEs. This book is his executive summary of the ways to solve the various problems you are likely to face.

Available electronically or on paper, to claim your FREE COPY of the LITTLE GREEN BUSINESS GROWTH BOOK, send your e-mail or address details to dave@hilltopconsultancy.co.uk.

Super Sun-Day for Blenheim 7k Run Day tackled the beautiful but challenging hills of Blenheim Palace. Particularly tough for Team Awesome from the Spinal Injuries Association who struggled over 4 miles in wheelchairs to raise over £3,000.

Sponsored by Henmans Freeth – now Freeths (same lawyers, different name) – the Blenheim 7k was blessed by scorching sun as runners

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105 runners raised money for Sobell House in its 40th year. Kevin Game, fundraiser, said: “The Blenheim 7k is a fantastic community event and

we’ve been proud to have teams representing Sobell over the last few years.”

The 7k was won by Matthew Sims (27.25) and Joanna Roe (32.19). 4 miles by Anthony Stephenson in his wheelchair (57:06) and Sam Cruikshank with a buggy (28.30). Alesha Pitts and Thomas Kent won the under 15 categories. www.blenheim7k.co.uk

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Forthcoming B4 Event ď ł

Behind the scenes at Bombay Sapphire DATE: TIME: VENUE:

THURSDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM BOMBAY SAPPHIRE DISTILLERY, LAVERSTOKE MILL, LONDON ROAD, WHITCHURCH, BERKSHIRE RG28 7NR

Based at Laverstoke Mill in rural Hampshire, just 15 miles from Winchester and 60 miles from London, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is in a Conservation Area with over 1000 years of history. The distillery showcases the care, skill and artistry behind every drop of Bombay Sapphire, and allows you to discover the flavours of the botanicals which make Bombay Sapphire gin so unique.

This event is limited to 45 places and registration will open later this year.

For more information see: www.b4-business.com 12

www.b4-business.com

B4

news

Culham Conference Centre Nestling in the countryside, Culham purpose built, fully venue situated in the Abingdon.

beautiful Oxfordshire Conference Centre a equipped, conference Culham Science Centre,

We have been helping businesses host successful meetings and events for almost decade. Driven by our dedication to keeping our customers at the heart of what we do, our objective is to provide customers with a memorable experience, tailored to suit their individual Conference requirements, in our superb, newly refurbished facilities.

We offer all businesses, large or small, a warm welcome, a focussed professional service in a relaxed environment. We boast a choice of seven flexible conference rooms, each boasting the very latest HD ready projection, serviced by our friendly dedicated staff.

The impressive John Adams Lecture Theatre seats up to 234 delegates in a tiered auditorium, with fully integrated audio and visual equipment, providing superb acoustics and cinema projection - ideal for prestigious large scale conferences, events and presentations.

Culham Conference Centre is managed by Elior UK, one of the UK’s leading catering, hospitality and facilities management organisations with a reputation for delivering excellence as has come to be expected at Culham Conference Centre. www.culhamconferencecentre.co.uk

The 95th Annual Major Stanley’s Match Corporate Luncheon The Major Stanley’s Match is the oldest and best supported University sports fixture held in Oxford. The match is more than just a unique sporting occasion; it is an event, a vital part of the social calendar well attended

by Oxfordshire Businesses, University Alumni, Locals, Students and Schoolchildren.

Included in the package is a three course dinner, half a bottle of wine per person, a reserved

seat in the best location (West Stand), a Match Programme, Prize Draws, Heads & Tails and entertainment from Guest Speakers.

Date: Wednesday 16th November, 2016.

Venue: Iffley Road Rugby Ground, Jackdaw

Lane, Oxford.

Time: from 12 noon.

Tickets: For Table of Ten £996 inc. VAT.

Available from Oxford University RFC, Jackdaw Lane, OX4 1SR. Or please contact Tim Stevens on (01865) 432000 or tim.stevens@sport.ox.ac. uk www.ourfc.org

Seymour Taylor practising in High Wycombe for nearly 100 years In 2017 Seymour Taylor will have been practising in High Wycombe for 100 years. As one of the longest established firms of Accountants in the area we provide excellent client service to both individuals and businesses. We believe in the importance of investing in staff which has allowed us to develop a highly experienced team who seek to establish and maintain long term relationships with our clients enabling us to work more efficiently.

As a firm we are very keen to support our local community and charities, both locally and nationally. We are active in supporting a number of local organisations, such as Scannappeal, Heart of Bucks and the Marlow Dragon Boat Festival.

rugby tour with Chinnor Rugby Club. www.stca.co.uk

Seymour Taylor also sponsor various sports clubs, and are particularly keen to encourage young people. Our Managing Director, Simon Turner, has recently returned from coaching the Under 7’s

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra at Westminster Palace The Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, will be celebrating their work with young talented musicians at a Gala Event in the Palace of Westminster on Friday 8th July with a concert in the House of Commons hosted by Nicola Blackwood MP and dinner in the House of

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Lords hosted by Baroness Deech.

If you are interested in attending this special blacktie occasion, please contact Sophie Burgis on 01865 987 222 or sophie@oxfordphil.com

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B4 announcements The latest B4 Member recruitment news from across the B4 Network finance team whose expertise includes new money lending to investment grade borrowers and the restructuring of distressed businesses and insolvency procedures. www.penningtons.co.uk

Six new promotions in Penningtons Manches’ Thames Valley offices Following the annual round of promotions at law firm, Penningtons Manches, there are three new partners, James Went, Gavin Stenton and Gemma Woodhouse, and three new senior associates, Sabrina Furneaux-Gotch, Bill Smith and John Chater, in the firm’s Oxford, Basingstoke and Reading offices.

In the Oxford office, James Went is a highly experienced corporate lawyer specialising in M&A and venture capital work, with a particular focus on technology, life sciences and publishing.

Gavin Stenton is a dual-qualified trade marks specialist providing strategic brand protection advice to international brand owners. His practice incorporates trade mark portfolio management, advice to brand owners on the registerability and availability of their brands, and conflict resolution.

Sabrina Furneaux-Gotch is an experienced litigator specialising in real estate disputes. Recognised as an ‘associate to watch’ in both the 2015 and 2016 issues of Chambers UK , she has recently been appointed as the Chair of the Thames Valley branch of Women in Property.

A member of the Oxford employment team, Bill Smith has in-house and private practice experience of a full range of employment matters. He specialises in advising clients in the technology (particularly life sciences), education and retail sectors.

Based in the Basingstoke office, Gemma Woodhouse specialises in both contentious and non-contentious employment law in the education, technology, publishing and media sectors. She is a member of the Employment Lawyers’ Association and the CIPD. John Chater is a member of the Reading banking and

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Knights, the leading regional professional services firm with offices in Oxford and Cheltenham, is recruiting an average of seven new employees a week.

More than 40 of the new staff are based in Oxford and a further seven are based in Cheltenham, but all staff work across the firm’s seven regional offices.

Six promoted at Carter Jonas’ oxford office National property consultancy Carter Jonas has made a record 45 promotions across its 36 strong UK office network, as part of its growth strategy, Vision 2020, of which six were in its Oxford office.

A recent report published by The Law Society identified that each £1 of extra turnover in the sector stimulates £1.39 in the rest of the economy and every 100 jobs in legal services help to support a further 67 jobs.

As increasing numbers of legal firms are forced into mergers or acquisitions to survive in a growing competitive market, Knights continues to buck the trend and attracts specialists in franchising, equine, education, renewables and private client to add to its growing team.

David Beech, CEO for Knights said that growth in the legal sector was imperative to help support a thriving economy.

“Oxford has been a major area of growth for Knights and we’re recruiting across all levels from partners to paralegals strengthening our asset management, conveyancing, commercial and non-legal teams,” said David.

Claire Johnson, who advises and assists a broad range of independent developers and house builders in their proposed new home build development schemes, has been promoted to head of new homes southern region; Edmund Smith in its 10-strong rural team, who advises private & institutional landowners on their farms and estates strategy, has been promoted to partner; Emma Jewson in the 11-strong planning & development team who specialises in development strategy for private and public sector clients, also has been promoted to partner; Tanya Hall who advises private and institutional landlords on residential lettings and management, has become an associate partner; Christopher Rhodes, a rural surveyor, who advises on estate management and asset valuations for private clients, finance providers and institutions, has been promoted to associate partner; and Tom Forman, a commercial surveyor who advises landlords on leasehold & freehold disposals and provides strategic advice to occupiers, with particular experience in offices & industrial, has been promoted to associate. www.carterjonas.co.uk

“We have been working with UK-wide companies for years to help them with their business needs. With a growing team of 375 and more than half of our staff working within real estate and many more in commercial, asset management, employment, tax and private client we’re growing all the time to meet the demand for our services.

“Because the need for legal services is entrenched in every business, law firms do make a significant contribution to the economy and now we’re making steps to diversify and offer more non-legal services to our clients.

“We’ve always had a long-term plan to invest in our staff and we have structured the business to ensure that we can consistently maintain an ongoing recruitment programme across our seven regional offices,” he said. www.knights1759.co.uk

120 new staff for then south west firm since start of 2016 After making a pledge to recruit 100 more professionals during 2016, one firm with two offices in the South West has smashed its annual target in the first quarter after growing its workforce by 120 staff since January.

B4 Members Please contact 01865 742211 and let us know about your latest recuitment news

15

Tony Henman, Consultant

Sarah Foster, Managing Partner

Welcome to Freeths Henmans Freeth is Oxford’s leading law firm and has a national reputation for handling commercial and personal matters for a wide range of individuals, businesses, institutions and third sector organsiations. As of 1st June, the firm will be known as Freeths whom Henmans merged with in February 2013. B4 met with Managing Partner, Sarah Foster and non-practising consultant Tony Henman to find out more about the name change and the benefits for the firm.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ROB SCOTCHER

Richard Rosser With 1st June fast approaching was it ultimately part of the post merger plan to change the name of the firm to Freeths?

Sarah Foster No there was no plan as such. We recognised from the outset that because of the huge amount of goodwill in the Henmans name it made sense for us to trade as Henmans Freeth. There was never

16

any decision for us to eventually trade as Freeths.

But, with 10 offices trading as Freeths and one as Henmans Freeth the Oxford partners sat down and discussed whether the time was right to commence trading as Freeths. We spoke to a lot of our clients to confirm they were happy for us to do so and we made the decision that it would make business sense for us to do so. There was no pressure from the wider partnership, it was very much a local decision.

There was a precedent with the Milton Keynes

office who started as Kimbles, then Kimbles Freeth and eventually Freeths all in a similar timescale to ourselves. So they had proven that it could be a success and we are sure that we will also be a success trading as Freeths from the Oxford office.

Richard Rosser I don’t think any of us accept change that easily, especially after such a long period of time. What was your initial reaction to the planned name change?

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B4

Tony Henman Well my initial reaction was that I was surprised that it hadn’t happened before. I wasn’t, of course, privy to what the partners were discussing. But it was always on my agenda that the name would change for the reasons that Sarah has explained.

You just cannot have eleven offices on a national basis with one office with a different name. For client communication, for branding purposes, marketing and the practice as a whole it is absolutely essential to have the one name which we are going to have and that’s absolutely right.

Richard Rosser I presume your clients were consulted about the name change?

Tony Henman The clients have certainly consulted me about it as quite a few of them have heard the rumour and I have told them that I am 100% sure that is the right thing to do and that they will get used to it.

Some of the older generation clients will, I am sure, struggle with the name change and they will still call

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it Henmans, but they’ve got to move on just as the firm is moving on.

Richard Rosser The point of a merger is that there are benefits for both parties and I am sure you have already experienced lots of positive changes since the merger, but now with the name change what ultimate benefits do you see moving forward.

Sarah Foster You’re exactly right that the big change for us was three years ago when we merged with Freeths and over the passage of time since then there have been a huge number of benefits. As an office over the past couple of years our turnover has increased by 13% and we have just completed our most successful year ever. But moving forwards we very much recognise that it made sense for us to be part of Freeths in name. For clients it can be very confusing to be dealing with a number lawyers from across the group and some are from Freeths and some from Henmans Freeth. Also it makes little sense when we market our services as a firm that there are name discrepancies. I am sure we will get further benefits

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with the name change and we are all very excited about the next stage of the firm’s development and being fully part of the Freeths group.

Richard Rosser So new name but business as usual?

Tony Henman As Sarah said cross referrals are very important between offices – it didn’t happen when we were a regional practice but it is happening now and that’s the way forward.

With special thanks to Ashmolean Museum for access to shoot the front cover and other images.

Article photograph was taken in the Gallery of European Ceramics. Freeths are proud members of the Ashmolean Corporate Circle.

CONTACT DETAILS

 welcome@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 000  www.freethsoxford.co.uk

17

B4

A Record Year of Growth

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Leon Arnold, Head of the Corporate Team at Freeths is pleased to report a record year of growth.

WRITTEN BY: FREETHS

The team was consistently busy all year with some fantastic transactions. Particularly pleasing was the local element to a number of them and the number of referrals coming from the local business community. We have a very talented and hard working team who all are driven to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Examples of some of the transactions the team worked on include: • the sale of the shares in P C Cox to Sulzer (UK) Holdings Limited • the sale of Two Circles to WPP • the acquisition of Brother Max for Solution EU Limited • the sale of the shares of Oxford Technologies • the MBO of Signet International Holdings Limited • the sale of Sleek Makeup to Boots Walgreen • acting for Adestra Limited on the investment by the British Growth Fund • acting for Crystallon, the parent company of Oxford Cryosystems Limited, on the exit of Catapult Growth Fund • the sale of Orchid Field Marketing Limited to Ceuta Healthcare • the sale of Jack Brunsdon & Son Limited • acting for NSF on its acquisition of Knight International

Wide Practice Areas Most people would expect a corporate team to work on transactions like those above (though perhaps not the number of them) but it is important to appreciate what else the team offers.

As well as mainstream banking work (for both banks and borrowers) the team regularly advises on: • • • • • • •

Farming partnerships Tax driven reorganisations SPV property acquisitions Structuring Charities Joint ventures Shareholders agreements and company documentation • Private equity investments • Share options

www.b4-business.com

Expert and Energetic Advice

Local Businesses

Key to the increased number of referrals is the team’s reputation for driving projects to completion, bringing energy to bear so that time and costs are managed as efficiently as possible.

Referring to the increased number of local companies the team is now advising, Leon commented “There are some very exciting businesses based in and around Oxfordshire with some very driven and talented owners and directors - we enjoy interacting with these companies and being considered part of the “home team”. Meeting new businesses, understanding them and then adding value is what makes my job enjoyable”.

Clients appreciate getting to completion as soon as they can and recognise that we try wherever possible to have a collaborative approach with the other party-after all both parties should want the deal to happen.

Preparation A number of our clients subscribe to our belief that detailed preparation is key - wherever possible frontloading work to maximise the chances of completing projects on time (which usually means on budget).

Quite often clients come to us and say that they are looking to do something in the next six months to a year - if we start looking at what will be required ahead of when it is actually needed we will not only present the company in the best possible light but anticipate issues that can be addressed ahead of time.

Trends The team has worked on a number of transactions where one or more parties are based overseas e.g. acting for South African listed Santova on its purchase of a UK logistics company or acting for the Czech purchaser of Oxford Biosystems Limited, based in Oxfordshire.

Strong Pipeline Possibly because of the high standards the team sets itself it already looks like the next financial year will be a strong one – as yet no slowdown has been felt whether through fear of Brexit or other external pressures.

Recruitment Leon explained that he is actively looking to recruit the right people to add to the team - attitude and approach being some of the key attributes required.

“If any of the readers know talented, proactive corporate lawyers please let me know!”

If you would like some guidance or information pertaining to the sale or purchase of a business, please contact Leon Arnold below.

Often on disposals the purchasers have been based overseas and the accumulated knowledge of custom, practice and approach that companies from different jurisdictions have is helpful.

Specialism As well as sector based specialisms within the team (Food, Software and Manufacturing), the team can draw on the rest of the Freeths network - with over 400 lawyers there is a wealth of very specific knowledge.

Having expert tax, IP and pensions teams is a real bonus and being able to deliver advice in these areas seamlessly gives the team a competitive advantage.

Leon Arnold, Head of the Corporate Team

CONTACT DETAILS

 leon.arnold@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 202  www.freethsoxford.co.uk

19

Gardner Leader Roundtable The annual Gardner Leader Roundtable took place in April at Fredrick’s Hotel in Maidenhead. Following the acquisition of Heath Buckeridge in 2014, Gardner Leader arrived excited about future growth and has not been disappointed.

Offering clients trust, value and peace of mind, the firm has seen positive growth since the merger. The firm has recruited at every level, almost doubling the size of its team, including new Commercial Partner, Diane Yarrow, Senior Associate Hilary Messer (Commercial Litigation), Associate Niamh Minihane (Inheritance Protection) and newly qualified solicitor, Claire Andrews who has joined the Family Law team after completing her training with the firm.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ROB SCOTCHER

Greg Humphreys (Partner and Commercial Team Leader) joined Diane Yarrow (Commercial Partner), Michelle Di Gioia (Dispute Resolution Partner) and a familiar face amongst the Maidenhead professional community, Commercial Partner Richard Buckeridge, to discuss all matters Maidenhead.

Chair, Greg Humphreys is not surprised that there has been such successful growth of the firm, saying “Maidenhead has long been on the cusp of great things, hence our merger in 2014. We are all starting to see the fruits of investment in Maidenhead’s future, by way of new developments and new businesses coming to the town. The Maidenhead Town Centre Area Action Plan has been critical in giving direction to this enthusiasm, and gave us a framework for this roundtable discussion”. In light of the impending arrival of Crossrail and the announcement of projects like the £250 million regeneration of a very large site in Maidenhead town centre in addition to the other redevelopments which are taking place, discussions centred around improved retail offering, the need for more restaurants and bars to service the anticipated influx of new residents, the likely impact of Crossrail and the new developments, and how to address the pressure of increased traffic flow and demand for parking.

Upgraded Retail So what did the roundtable group think of how retail in Maidenhead could be improved? Whilst not known for its retail offering at present the considered opinion is that this has to change to make Maidenhead a successful place to live, invest and work. The general consensus is that Maidenhead currently misses out on prospective shoppers as it is perceived as not worth visiting for its shops and Bob Dulson Executive Chairman of Maidenhead Civic Society and PROM (Partnership for the Rejuvenation of Maidenhead) felt there was a need to “marry up the success of the business offering in Maidenhead with the retail offering,” with Peter McArdle Managing Director, Pike, Smith and Kemp adding “it is amazing we don’t have a better retail offering in a town which is surrounded by such wealth. The problem is, people go elsewhere to shop and solving parking will help, but we won’t get decent retailers coming to Maidenhead unless we change the environment. The majority of units are less than 2,000 square feet. You only have to look at Marlow to see how retailing is changing. Shops there open on Sundays because it is so busy and there is so much demand. We have to look to address the environment, meaning landscaping, trees, fountains etc… and I don’t think this has been addressed.

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It’s not a huge investment but makes a difference.”

Jon Reekie, Trustee and Company Secretary of Maidenhead Waterways Restoration Group, wants to bring the waterway back into the heart of Maidenhead and emulate what other local towns have done by making water the attraction for retail development. “Ours is an organisation of volunteers which is working in a commercial environment as we are developing the waterways link which went into disrepair through lack of care and attention and investment over a period of time. What has motivated my colleagues and I has been the desire to bring the town together with a more lively environment, so we share a lot of common interests with all of you. Our vision is to bring the river to Maidenhead town centre as we are envious of Henley and Marlow: their town centre is at the river and we feel this helps these towns develop. In Reading as well, the canal runs through the centre which we feel helps attract investment.”

Mark Allaway commented that “Shanly Homes is building on this vision by developing the historic Chapel Arches area as part of the regeneration of Maidenhead. This mixed residential, retail and commercial development will further advance the Maidenhead Waterways group’s plans to restore and improve the waterways channels and bring more life into this quarter.

The scheme will also include a public amphitheatre with views across the regenerated town centre waterways.”

Gardner Leader partner Greg Humphreys adds that investment in retail and associated service industries is on the up elsewhere, with the firm advising, amongst others the Big Easy restaurant chain on a new restaurant site in Canary Wharf Crossrail Station.

Homes for workers Greg Rowlinson, Senior Relationship Manager, NatWest, Slough raised another concern. Drawing on the examples of other areas where house prices are sky high, he commented “I’m interested to see what is happening in Oxford and wonder whether this is happening here in Maidenhead. Are staff going to be priced out of living in Maidenhead?”

Councillor Philip Love further emphasised the possible issues Maidenhead will face in the future in this vein. “Oxford is a very expensive place to live in and

www.b4-business.com

B4

the BBC recently interviewed Phil Southall, MD of Oxford Bus Company (and also B4 members) and he said he is having to consider building a block of flats to attract staff instead of paying more to be able to afford to live in Oxford. That’s the problem with regenerating Maidenhead – where will the service staff who will be working in the bars and the restaurants live?”

Even those in higher income brackets face difficulties already with Maidenhead house prices. Peter McArdle illustrated the issue with an example of a professional couple moving from abroad “I know someone selling a £640,000 house abroad and buying a £1.25 million house of a similar size in Maidenhead.”

Having been part of the Maidenhead community for some time, Gardner Leader’s Richard Buckeridge comments on the impact he is seeing in terms of conveyancing instructions, “as well as my own experience of commercial property, we also have a thriving residential property team who are assisting ever increasing numbers of people settle into new homes in the area. It’s fair to say that Maidenhead has long been an expensive place to be, but homes have tended to be large and further out of town.

Now we are seeing increasing numbers of flats in the centre of town. It’s certainly exciting in terms of what it means for Maidenhead’s growth.”

Maidenhead was attracting excellent interest and tenants with the likes of Maersk committing, but he tempered this good news with the opening concern about parking. He used 3M, who employ 1,300 staff in the centre of Maidenhead, as an example. 3M was asked by Councillor Philip Love how many of their staff drove to work and the conclusion was that a great percentage did, emphasising the importance of parking for any business considering Maidenhead.

“Another large company are about to move into

Parking is a key issue. “ Local politicians think we

need something like 2,000 new homes in the town centre which means up to 10,000 more cars in the town in the next 10 to 15 years

”

Bob Dulson, Executive Chairman of Maidenhead Civic Society

Parking Pressure

The Pearce building but we are having to allocate parking for them to ensure they come here, which is difficult, but we have to do it to get them to come to Maidenhead. We have very few spaces left.”

The lack of parking spaces in Maidenhead and the cost of creating spaces was identified as a key issue in making Maidenhead’s regeneration work in the long run. Councillor Philip Love brought some good news to the table that The Point office block in

Bill Higgins’ company, London & Aberdeen have worked on another scheme in the region, Green Park in Reading, totalling over 3 million square feet and Bill drew comparisons between it and Maidenhead, where a stadium was moved. “For Green Park we

www.b4-business.com

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moved the [Madejski] stadium to its current location, put the A33 relief road in and put in a waste recycling centre, amongst other things. A vision was required at Green Park and a vision is required here. We are developing 260,000 square feet of office space, which is almost 400% bigger than any other office building in Maidenhead, because research tells us that business rates in London combined with Crossrail coming to Maidenhead will attract major employers from London. Maidenhead is very popular amongst the top 1,000 companies in London, so we are taking the view that they will come and we will attract some major companies, such as Maersk.

But that’s what our decisions are based on, there is no masterplan to provide a safety net of sorts and part of that masterplan should be the issue of parking. We are having discussions with two major companies about taking the full amount of space but they are concerned about the lack of parking spaces. We are in business to make things happen and we should be programming back from Q4 2019 (when Crossrail opens) to now.”

Gardner Leader Corporate and Commercial Partner, Diane Yarrow, was positive about the idea of more businesses coming to Maidenhead, “it’s already a thriving business community. I’ve only been here since January and I can see that business is booming and the professional community is really behind the regeneration of Maidenhead. Making changes that enable businesses to choose Maidenhead will be a further boost to its economy and community.”

Peter McArdle Pike Smith and Kemp commented on the cost of building parking spaces with new developments “buildings with integrated parking

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aren’t viable because of the cost of parking spaces - it costs something like £25,000 per car parking space. The problem with all of the development, both commercial and residential, is that parking is such a fundamental problem and we need to address it.”

There was support for a Park and Ride facility to help alleviate parking issues with London & Aberdeen’s Bill Higgins commenting “this is a very real problem and there is no real alternative other than Park and Ride. Ask any traffic engineer and they will tell you the numbers don’t work and Park and Ride is the only solution.”

Bob Dulson, Executive Chairman of Maidenhead Civic Society, shared his concerns, “parking is a key issue” and it was noted, that as well as the arrival of new businesses to Maidenhead, it is expected that there will be ongoing development of new homes.

Bob went on to say, “Local politicians think we need something like 2,000 new homes in the town centre which could mean up to 10,000 more cars in the town in the next 10 to 15 years…if you factor in new business, more commuters and two cars per new home. This is a huge extra pressure on the town centre. It is a vital issue. The policies with regards to access and parking were drawn up in 2004 and until recently there had been no plans to update them by the council. But thankfully this is now being urgently addressed.”

Peter McArdle, Managing Director of Pike, Smith and Kemp voiced his opposition to Park and Ride.

“I don’t think the town is big enough for Park and Ride. At one time we were talking about 800 houses per year until 2026 which has now gone up because Central Government has said there isn’t the available land in central London and so the outer boroughs will have to take the excess.

That is another 300 homes per year we will have to take making it around 1,100 new homes per year until 2026. This has never happened before and it is an enormous project, not just for our borough but all the other boroughs around.”

But whilst parking limitations were identified as a key issue, it was recognised that developments that hit the mark in all other ways will still be snapped up.

Bill Higgins cited a London scheme “we developed a scheme in London where we weren’t allowed parking at all and we got a pre-let on the whole development because it was 200 metres from 22

London Bridge Station and nobody really cared about having a car.”

Gardner Leader Dispute Resolution Partner Michelle Di Gioia works with a number of business people with a wide variety of portfolios. She adds that in her experience, the need for investors to see good returns is essential to successful regeneration, “people here in Maidenhead want it to be a great place to live and work, and they also need to see good outcomes.”

Councillor Philip Love explained that Maidenhead has 84% of greenbelt, far more than the surrounding areas, so accommodating this extra housing stock will be even harder and added “the actual figure will be around 2,500 apartments in the town centre.

The 2,500 apartments will bring people in but prices are rising, £460,000 for a two bedroom flat. Once you have 2,500 people moving in they will want good restaurants and shops and this will change the environment and the culture of the town. This is great for the image of Maidenhead but the associated problems this brings are there for all to see.”

Maidenhead: an attractive place to be But it appears that, despite the problems and concerns raised, there will be an influx of residents to Maidenhead. The plus points are already filtering out to London businesses and there is very real evidence that Maidenhead is becoming more attractive as a place to live. Peter McArdle commented. “We analyse our applicants thoroughly. At the end of January to end of February we had 196 people registered who wanted to move in to this area who were looking for properties in the £1m to £1.25m bracket. 34% of all of our applicants are from West London and want to move here. West of London there is a population of 600,000 French people and some of these want to move out of London – they have grown from 350,000 in a very short period of time. We also have very good education here and this is a big attraction.”

Olu Odeniyi, President, Maidenhead & District Chamber of Commerce, concluded by underlining the need to inform more groups about the regeneration and what is coming. “The Chamber’s view of the regeneration is very positive but there are concerns that going through the period of regeneration there

will be uncertainty and disruption. There is a large contingent of visitors to Maidenhead who don’t know what is happening and we are trying to educate them about what is coming.”

Hopefully the Gardner Leader roundtable and this article are a good starting point.

Chair, Greg Humphreys Partner and Head of the Commercial Team, Gardner Leader asked attendees what they hoped to get out of the Roundtable event? “We are really excited to be in Maidenhead, having merged with Heath Buckeridge in 2014. We are delighted to be part of the community and part of its growth and pleased to work with so many interesting clients in the area.

Today we look forward to hearing what you think about Maidenhead’s future development. What do you hope to get out of our roundtable event today?”

Mark Allaway, Commercial Director, Sorbon Estates “I have lived in Maidenhead for 25 years and I would like to come away with a clearer picture of where we might be in 2020 / 2021.”

Richard Buckeridge, Partner, Gardner Leader, formerly Senior Partner at Heath Buckeridge “I have been in Maidenhead since 1981 and I am really interested in learning more about how the plan to redevelop Maidenhead is taking shape and will be facilitated.”

Michelle Di Gioia, Partner, Dispute Resolution, Gardner Leader “There are some great things happening here in Maidenhead. I would like to get a better understanding of how we can all work together to make this a great place to live and work...”

Bob Dulson, Executive Chairman of Maidenhead Civic Society and PROM (Partnership for the Rejuvenation of Maidenhead) “PROM led on devising the Area Action Plan in 2011 and since then PROM has overseen the delivery phase of the plan. Today should help with the collaborative effort moving forward. It is clear that Maidenhead is a successful town. Its USP is its location. In Maidenhead there has been growth and investment with every transport era since – Crossrail is another exciting phase in this development.”

Bill Higgins, Chairman, London & Aberdeen Group “I have lived locally for 36 years, a family owned company which set up when I was 27. I would www.b4-business.com

B4 like to see a sense of urgency about developing the town centre and understand anything we can do to accelerate this development.”

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Roundtable attendees

Councillor Philip Love “To work together. We have to make sure that everyone works with everyone else. The next four or five years are going to be difficult with the development but Maidenhead now has an Economic Development Strategy for us to work to.”

Peter McArdle, Managing Director, Pike, Smith and Kemp “To learn about what’s happening in Maidenhead. Our company was set up in 1947: I bought it in 1987 and it has grown since. I specialise in the identification of land. We currently have over 400 homes in development in Bucks, Berks and Oxon. We have blocks of flats and one site has 180 homes. It’s a broad practice including letting property and a rural department. We sell and manage farms and deal with rural planning and also act for the number 1 and 2 polo teams in the world.”

Greg Humphreys, Partner and Head of the Commercial Team, Gardner Leader

Olu Odeniyi, President, Maidenhead & District Chamber of Commerce

Richard Buckeridge, Partner Commercial Property, Gardner Leader

Bob Dulson, Executive Chairman of Maidenhead Civic Society and PROM (Partnership for the Rejuvination of Maidenhead)

Michelle Di Gioia, Partner, Dispute Resolution, Gardner Leader

Bill Higgins, Chairman, London & Aberdeen Group

Philip Love, Councillor

Mark Allaway, Commercial Director, Sorbon Estates

Diane Yarrow, Partner, Corporate and Commercial, Gardner Leader

Jon Reekie, Trustee and Company Secretary of Maidenhead Waterways Group

Peter McArdle, Managing Director, Pike, Smith and Kemp

Greg Rowlinson, Senior Relationship Manager, Nat West, Slough

Olu Odeniyi, President, Maidenhead & District Chamber of Commerce “I am interested in the business in the community and issues like housing and the impact that has on the town and also the non-retail areas. I am also keen to attract inward investment in to the area. We have Crossrail which is great but we mustn’t be complacent so we need to consider inward investment.”

Greg Rowlinson, Senior Relationship Manager, Nat West, Slough “To come away with a better understanding of what is likely to happen to the housing market in Maidenhead and how this will effect NHS and employment.”

Jon Reekie, Trustee and Company Secretary of Maidenhead Waterways Group “To learn about what’s happening in Maidenhead and share how waterways can add to regeneration projects”.

Diane Yarrow, Partner, Corporate and Commercial, Gardner Leader “I work in the Maidenhead office with Richard working with business owners to help them manage risk and grow. I only joined in January and so excited to be a part of the team. It feels that the town is really becoming a much more attractive place. I want to find out how Gardner Leader can really embed itself in the local community and what the future holds for all of us.”

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@.gardner-leader.co.uk  01635 508 080  www.gardner-leader.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

23

B4 finance

feature

Welcome to the B4 Finance Feature, where you will find great insights and advice following the recent budget announcements from key businesses such as FOCUS LLP, Grant Thornton, Wellers and more.

Contents 25. Brewin Dolphin 26. FOCUS 28. Grant Thornton 30. Wellers

B4

finance

What the new dividend tax means for you Investors with significant income, basic-rate taxpayers receiving over £5,000 in non-ISA dividend income per annum and business owners could lose out following an increase in tax rates on dividends, although it is not too late to help minimise the blow.

WRITTEN BY: HANS PRICE

The new tax year has arrived bringing with it a number of important tax changes. One of the most significant is a major revision of dividend taxation.

What has changed?

Basic-rate taxpayer

What has changed?

Under the old system, dividends were paid with a notional 10% tax credit.

Basic-rate taxpayers paid no further tax on their dividend income, while higherrate taxpayers paid an extra 25% and additional-rate taxpayers paid 30.6%.

On 6 April 2016 the dividend tax credit was abolished. Now the first £5,000 of dividend income in each tax year is tax free. On sums above that, basic-rate taxpayers are taxed at 7.5%, higher-rate taxpayers at 32.5% and additional-rate taxpayers at 38.1%.

1 2 3

In fact, higher-rate taxpayers with non-ISA dividend income of less than £21,667 and additional-rate payers with non-ISA dividend income of less than £25,400 will be better or no worse off.

Take a higher-rate taxpayer with non-ISA dividend income of £15,000, all of which was liable to tax at 25% under the old regime. That is a tax bill of £3,750.

Under the new system he or she is liable for tax at 32.5% on only £10,000 of that income, because of the £5,000 allowance. That is a tax bill of £3,250, a £500 saving.

That is the good news. However, the change is expected to generate £2.7bn of extra tax this financial year.3 So where is that money going to come from?

Difference

£10,000

£0

£375

+ £375

£20,000

£0

£1,125

+ £1,125

Dividend*

2015/2016 tax 2016/2017 tax

Difference

£10,000

£3,060

£1,905

- £1,155

£20,000

£6,120

£5,715

- £405

£50,000

£15,300

£17,145

+ £1,845

Higher-rate taxpayer

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, believes that 85% of those who are receiving dividends will see no change or be better off under the new rules.2 The winners will include higher or additional rate tax payers with £5,000 or less in non-ISA dividend income. They will not have to pay any tax on dividends under the new system thanks to the £5,000 allowance.

2015/2016 tax 2016/2017 tax

Additional-rate taxpayer

This will simplify the tax rules, while also discouraging business owners from forming a company and paying themselves through dividends rather than wages, reducing their tax liabilities and National Insurance contributions.1

Will you be better or worse off?

Dividend*

Dividend*

2015/2016 tax 2016/2017 tax

Difference

£10,000

£2,500

£1,625

- £875

£20,000

£5,000

£4,875

- £125

£50,000

£12,500

£14,625

+ £2,125

HM Treasury: Chancellor George Osborne’s Summer Budget 2015 speech, 8 July 2015 HM Treasury: Summer Budget 2015 policy costings. July 2015 HM Treasury: Summer Budget 2015 policy costings. July 2015

How can Brewin Dolphin help you?

To find out how best to structure your investments following dividend tax changes, please call Hans Price below.

CONTACT DETAILS

 hans.price@brewin.co.uk  01865 255 750  www.brewin.co.uk

The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

No investment is suitable in all cases and if you have any doubts as to an investment’s suitability then you should contact us.

Please note that this document was prepared as a general guide only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. While we believe it to be correct at the time of writing, Brewin Dolphin is not a tax adviser and tax law is subject to frequent change. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances; therefore you should not rely on this information without seeking professional advice from a qualified tax adviser. The information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

The figures in this letter are based on tax rates and thresholds prevailing as at 6 April, 2016 and will be subject to future change. * Non-ISA dividend income

www.b4-business.com

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B4

finance

Working together for the greater good One of the key benefits offered to Company Directors of small businesses is the ability to draw dividends and most Directors take advantage of this tax efficient way of drawing money out of the business. Sadly, George Osbourne decided last year that he wasn’t very happy about this and from April 6th 2016, all Dividends in excess of £5000 are subject to a new tax levy.

WRITTEN BY: PHIL CASEY, PARTNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JACQUELINE CROSS PHOTOGRAPHY

Nobody is ever happy about a tax increase.

However, FOCUS decided that this shouldn’t be the end of it and decided to work more closely with the Accountants of our key clients to highlight a different way to arrange their finances, ensuring they not only pay less tax, but also increase their net wealth.

And rather surprisingly, its involves pensions.

The pension freedom legislation that arrived in April 2015 has changed the way people should view pensions. Historically, pensions were perceived as a rather complicated and restrictive investment process that generates income in retirement. Money was always ‘locked in’ and there were restrictions as to how much you could take out. And then if you chose a guaranteed income at retirement, when you die, the income would die with you. All in all, they simply felt like they were poor value.

But pension freedom has changed all that. The legislative changes now mean that pensions should form a key part of your tax planning, helping you to manage not only your Income Tax and IHT in later life, but also your Dividend Tax situation now.

So, how can pensions help with Dividend Tax? Well, let’s take an example. Meet Mr. Jones, the Managing Director of Widgets & Co. Mr. Jones is 52, owns his own business and pays himself a taxable salary of £8,000 and draws further

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dividends of £50,000. He has been doing quite nicely and is also able to save £500 per month into his ISA. He prefers to save in his ISA as it doesn’t have all those complicated restrictions that pensions have and all the money can be taken out tax free whenever he wants it.

actually REDUCE the level of dividends he is taking from the business. The reduction should be equal to the exact amount that he is saving into his ISA and he should stop funding his ISA. He should then simply take this amount and pay it as a company contribution into a pension plan.

Mr. Jones has just had his end of trading year meeting with his Accountant and has been informed that a new tax is arriving from April 6th 2016, called Dividend Tax. Broadly, it means that he will now have to pay extra tax on his drawings.

Initially Mr. Jones was not very happy about this.

He liked the flexibility of his ISA and was wary of pensions. FOCUS then outlined the new changes, explaining that this was advantageous to him as he was able to pay substantially more into a pension than he could draw as a dividend payment, as he will save both Dividend Tax AND Corporation Tax, both of which will apply to his dividend drawings.

This Dividend Tax is rather disappointing though and he has been informed that he has two choices 1.

2.

Keep the same dividend payments and pay this new tax, thereby reducing his benefit.

Increase his dividends to maintain the same net income after Dividend Tax has been deducted.

Neither seems very palatable, and Mr. Jones was not happy. Therefore, the Accountant suggested a third option, which was to meet up with FOCUS, a financial advisory firm that he works closely with.

The Accountant understood that FOCUS had some clever ideas around how he could re-arrange his financial affairs to mitigate some of these problems.

Mr. Jones agreed and, at the meeting, the following solution was suggested.

Rather unusually, FOCUS suggested that he should

But then it got even better. Mr. Jones now recognised just how good the new pension benefits were. For example, he could now draw ALL of his money out of his pension from age 55, should he wish to do so (although in our experience, once people realise they can have the money, they generally don’t take it!).

Due to the enhanced premiums that have been paid into the pension AND the fact that 25% of the fund can be paid tax free, with the rest taxed at his marginal rate, it was highly likely that the pension fund will be higher than the equivalent money that he would have got from paying into the ISA. And we hadn’t even started on the generic benefits of a pension over an ISA including the fact that it’s free of IHT or the fact that you can pass it down the

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“This solution provided by

FOCUS enabled him to reduce the Corporation Tax he had to pay, reduce the Dividend Tax he had to pay AND increase his net wealth Phil Casey, Partner

”

generations, so that they can continue to benefit from the new pension freedom rules.

This solution provided by FOCUS enabled him to reduce the Corporation Tax he had to pay, reduce the Dividend Tax he had to pay AND increase his net wealth.

This example shows what can happen when financial professionals work together to plan for a client.

If you would like to discuss how you can reduce your Dividend Tax charge by planning your overall long term finances differently, or you are a professional connection such as an Accountant or Solicitor and want to discuss how we can work more closely to benefit your clients, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

A pension is a long term investment. The fund value may fluctuate and can go down. Your eventual income may depend on the size of the fund at retirement, future interest rates and tax legislation.

CONTACT DETAILS

 phil.casey@focusllp.co.uk  01865 813 315  www.focusllp.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

27

Innovation in a Vibrant Economy The Thames Valley region is a hub for vibrant, innovative businesses, supported as it is by a talented and diverse workforce, good infrastructure links, and great universities. Last year technology companies in the South region alone spent a combined £1.1 billion pounds on research and development (R&D). Dubbed The Silicon Valley of the UK the Thames Valley is home to 11 of the world’s top 15 knowledge based companies, and 10 of the top 50 global organisations in the world.* WRITTEN BY: KATY J RABINDRAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ALEXANDER CAMINADA

In other words, the Thames Valley is a great place to be if you want to be part of a dynamic, innovative community.

To support these businesses, Katy Rabindran of Grant Thornton has created an Innovation Tax hub specialising in the Government tax reliefs available to them. She says: “Innovation is crucial to the creation of a more vibrant economy and the support provided by R&D tax relief and Patent Box can significantly contribute to the long-term growth of UK companies eligible to claim.

I see a great opportunity over the next few years to increase our offering and share in this competitive market as the support offered by the Government continues to improve.”

“I love working with innovative companies, it’s fascinating to see how differently businesses tackle challenges and opportunities and I always learn something along the way too. I’m currently learning how to use agile development techniques in a non-IT context.

“By their nature, innovative businesses have distinct cultures and ways of doing business. In my experience, I would say the most successful companies I’ve seen have some of the same characteristics: • • • •

they react quickly to change they share ideas and are curious they have a relatively flat organisational structure, and they identify, and work hard to retain their key people.”

“One of the trends we’ve seen more recently is discussion, about and participation in, collaborative R&D; bringing together expertise to solve problems and create opportunities. This isn’t without challenge,

28

particularly where companies are all seeking to gain competitive advantage, and ownership of intellectual property (IP) is important but suggests a future where working in isolation may be less common.”

the relief itself as the UK faced challenge from the EU when it was introduced. Following a series of changes, there is now much more certainty about the benefits to business.

Credits for Innovation cash

Managing and protecting IP

The UK Government provides financial support for innovation through a programme of grants and through the tax system by way of R&D tax relief and patent box relief.

Patent box also brings to front of mind the wider issue of how companies seek to protect the valuable IP they create. Katy explains:

R&D tax relief has been in operation for 14 years now and in 2013/2014 there were 18,160 companies claiming £1.7 billion of cash reductions and repayments. The South East makes the most R&D claims of any UK region (including London), bringing £350 million of funding to the region.

For many growing innovative companies, R&D tax credits can be the most important part of their overall corporation tax position so it is vital to ensure claims are robust and maximised. Also the tax man can be on your side because HMRC are specifically tasked with administering the relief, meaning in many cases an open dialogue can help to quickly agree your R&D tax relief claims. In this context, R&D is much broader than just work done in research labs, we’ve made claims for architects, dating websites, drinks manufacturers and telecoms companies.

The introduction of patent box has seen a similar open approach from HMRC, who have actively engaged with claimants and potential claimants in shaping the most recent changes to the tax legislation in this area. However, take up has been limited.

Initially the Government expected the regime to cost £500 million in the year of introduction (2013/14), instead to date a total of £335 million has been paid out. With only 639 claimant companies, this relief has yet to claim the same impact and reach as R&D tax relief. Partly this is due to uncertainty about

*Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce - http://www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk/inward-investment/

“For many of the businesses we’ve spoken to the first step is a wider discussion about IP, in some cases that is identifying the IP which is of key value to the business, and in others it’s thinking about how best to protect it. I would encourage all businesses to think about the value of their IP early and to explore and create a strategy for IP management. Patent box is a key part of this evaluation, not least because the tax savings (which can be accrued while a patent is pending) can help to meet the costs of application.

With the new patent box regime effective from 30 June 2016, now is the time to look at IP and I would encourage any innovative business, whether or not it currently owns any patents, to explore this in more detail.”

Our Innovation Tax team at Grant Thornton in the Thames Valley have the expertise to advise you with any of these matters. For more information please contact Katy Rabindran on 01865 799846.

CONTACT DETAILS

 katy.j.rabindran@uk.gt.com  01865 799 846  www.grantthornton.co.uk

  

@GrantThorntonUK @KJRabindran uk.linkedin.com/in/katy-rabindran-8615978

www.b4-business.com

B4

finance

One of the trends we’ve seen “ more recently is discussion about and participation in, collaborative R&D; bringing together expertise to solve problems and create opportunities.

”

Katy J. Rabindran, Grant Thornton

Patent Box • Up to 50% reduction in corporation tax.

• Companies must own either a UK or EU patent, or certain similar IP rights.

• Relief is phased in from 1 April 2013, but with more restrictive rules for new entrants after 30 June 2016.

• Only 639 companies have so far made patent box claims.

R&D tax relief • SMEs can claim extra tax deductions on qualifying R&D. For every £100 spent on qualifying R&D, a £230 tax deduction is available.

• Loss making SME companies can claim cash credits from HMRC equivalent to £33.35 per £100 spent on qualifying R&D. • Large businesses (generally those with more than 500 employees), can claim cash credits worth £8.80 for every £100.

• Last year 18,160 companies claimed R&D tax relief.

www.b4-business.com

29

Why the hospitality trade will need to focus on skills Bob Cotton, former head of the British Hospitality Association, chaired the 6th annual Wellers hospitality roundtable, returning to Pembroke College and hosting guests representing local restaurants, bars and colleges. The topics of conversation included the Living Wage, apprenticeships, Brexit and marketing of the tourism and hospitality sector.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ROB SCOTCHER

Introduction Bob Cotton commenced proceedings by reviewing the history of the hospitality industry and it's attitudes towards staff and training.

“Most of you are operators in the food and drink sector and I know from my own involvement that we are experiencing very tricky times because any measure of business is how can we grow the top line. The real trick of success is consistent growth.

The UK economy is slowing down, the terrorist threat is diluting the numbers visiting big cities and, of course, there is Brexit.

“However, the introduction of the Living Wage is a major issue which I feel has been underplayed – the wage bill has been affected by 3 - 3.5%.

There is a 7% wage increase coming year on year for the next four years. I suspect most of you are running at 30% to 35% labour cost as a proportion of turnover. This is going to creep towards 40%. If you have rent at 10%, then it doesn’t leave much for your bottom line.

“We also have to examine the impact of the living wage on productivity in our sector which is pretty awful. When I was in business we commissioned a £1 million piece of work which examined 30

productivity. The UK’s performance was poor in comparison with Germany and the rest of Europe.

We spend approximately 1% of turnover on training our staff. In Germany it’s 4%, that‘s what we’re up against. We don’t invest enough in multi-skilling our staff to make them more productive and this impacts on everything. We need to improve this.

“Finally, as an industry we are also quite poor with innovation. I don’t mean front of house with the food,

“ In over 30 years

we never had one application from Oxford Brookes for Le Manoir. They didn't want to work at the weekend.

”

Alain Desenclos, Chairman of The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards

I mean behind the scenes, using outside companies to take on payroll, accountancy etc…. I work with a cloud-based purchasing company and we are slow

to innovate this sort of thing in our sector. If you’re in hospitality, you make most investment in your front of house, and rightly so, but this makes us slow to innovate behind the scenes."

Attracting talent Kawsar Rojob Shah of The Standard in Jericho, Oxford explained that despite a great location, attracting skilled Indian staff has been a major problem for him.

Bob said that in his Indian restaurant chain, Chutney Mary, increasing salaries has helped attract better staff and they are also innovative, helping to sell more, thus covering the wage increases. He added that in a hotel he has in Devon they embraced the Living Wage before they had to. “This meant we attracted better people at the lower level to get a productivity gain. We still don’t know if this will work but that is the hope.

“We have a hotel employing 87 people and 70 are from overseas. Seven years ago, the majority were Polish, then Estonian and Lithuanian and now Spanish, Italians and French. Who we employ reflects how well the economies are doing and the Spanish, Italians and French are the best staff. We can’t get local British people to wait at tables or clean the rooms.”

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B4 Simon Smith of Wellers commented that our youngsters almost feel they are above working in housekeeping or waiting at tables because more are going into tertiary education. Bob lay the blame at college lecturers and teachers “I was in Westminster a few weeks ago and the students were expecting to go into managing straight from college.

“They genuinely believed they would go into a management role after college. They don’t want to do the rounds. I honestly believe that students are told in the colleges that they don’t have to do the menial tasks and that’s a major problem as they don’t understand the basics.”

Imran Hashmi of Dynamix believes the problem is that students leave college with circa £30,000 of debt and they feel they have to hit the ground

running and clear that debt ASAP. James Addy of Hand Made Mysteries goes to Oxford Brookes to recruit and explained how he faces stiff competition with opportunities available to students across the globe. Those that do stay with him do so because of factors not associated with money – they work for him because they want to be there.

Bob explained that in London he deals with several universities and they recruit language students. “We offer the students a certain number of hours and give them the training they need, namely to improve their ability to communicate. We don’t work with catering colleges because the students we employ have different needs….they want to improve their language skills.

Management Bob then took discussions on to the topic of management, “The real problem is recruiting managers with practical experience. I need a manager who will have the ability to go into a kitchen and get it up to speed if the need arises and they aren’t performing.”

Imran Hashmi added. “We have a 22 year old lady who is as good as any pub manager in the city. She won’t have had the all round training a manager www.b4-business.com

finance

would be expected to have but she knows her industry, knows how to welcome guests and is very valuable to us. Some of our students are passing through but the majority are very good for us and are appropriate for our business.”

Restaurant Awards which I project manage and it’s an excellent experience for the students. We arrive at the venue and it’s a blank canvass at 9am which is quite scary for a 16 year old. To then serve 250 people is superb experience for them.

Alain Desenclos disclosed that Le Manoir’s wage bill is very high because they need large numbers of staff and have to invest heavily in training. Bob agreed that this is the only model to maintain the high standards of Le Manoir and hope that guests will continue to pay the money. "In my early career I worked at British Leyland and for two years, the main man, Michael Edwards cracked the whip…. it was successful to start with but didn’t work in the third year.

“We have to get the curriculum right to make sure the students get the right experience. The format of the Restaurant Awards this year will change in that previous winners will be working with industry chefs. The chefs will come to us and the students will go to the restaurants also. That is invaluable experience for them.”

"This happens in industry – youngsters don’t listen

to balling and shouting forever. The team dynamic is crucial and that’s the skill of the manager, so we shouldn’t be afraid to pay a premium for good quality staff.

“If you have two identical restaurants, the difference will be the quality of the manager. You want the manager out in the restaurant between 12pm and 2pm and 6pm and 10pm. I go mad if I see a restaurant manager in the office at these times. I see a lot of managers terrified of their customers and that’s maybe a reflection on us for not training them properly.”

Alain Desenclos fully agreed that managers aren’t trained properly. “You have a lot of managers in London who don’t know the basics and if there is a problem they just offer a discount.”

Work placements Helen Brind of Activate Learning provided opinion from the educational perspective. “It’s interesting that schools, colleges and universities are sending out students to engage with external organisations. We have lecturers who might not have worked in the sector for a long time so it’s vital that the students get the experience out in the field whilst they are with us.

“We are heavily involved with the Oxfordshire

Frazer Sutherland of Peach Pubs believes that employing 16 year olds is great for his business and it helps them to understand if hospitality is the sector they want to work in.

Helen’s comments about Further Education students stimulated more debate about the merits of FE over university. Bob Cotton openly admitted that he would choose FE students over university students every time. Chris Thompson of Wellers asked Bob if the FE route was a more attractive for students moving forwards given that FE arguably provides a more relevant experience than non job specific university courses.

Bob agreed for two reasons. “Firstly, the government thrust is on improving apprenticeships and, secondly, leaving a three year university course with £45,000 debt isn’t what a lot of students will look forward to - it makes them less inclined to come to us than FE students and I think it will help the industry with more people taking the FE route. I believe a degree helps you with your first job but thereafter, does it matter? Work experience is fantastic.”

Bob extolled the virtues of work placements based on his own experiences. “When you talk about placements, if students enjoy their time with you, they invariably come back after they have finished their course. We used to take interns on for a twelve week contract to cover Henley, Ascot, Wimbledon and The Open. High pressure experience at the top end but we all benefited enromously.” continued overleaf...

31

B4

spotlight

Brexit Simon Smith of Wellers asked. “With a huge number of employees working in hospitality, what are the implications of Brexit for the hospitality industry?”

Imran Hashmi replied. “Terrible! We have three bars and clubs in the city and our background is bars and we know little about kitchens so we were putting a lot of trust in our chefs to help us. We went through about nine chefs in ten months.

“We haven’t sourced locally but we have done very well with staff from overseas. If we didn’t have the opportunity to bring chefs in from Spain then we would be in real trouble so I believe if we were out of Europe then we would have to jump through too many hoops to get these chefs in. If Britain leaves then we are closing the door aren’t we? They wouldn’t have an automatic right to enter.”

Simon: “When people come in from other continents and places like Australia and New Zealand, the amount of paperwork is huge – it’s a very difficult process.”

Yvonne Oppen of Oxford Leisure: “Employment law won’t change in a short space of time – there will be massive challenges.”

Bob: “The vote is too finely poised – it could go either way. It could well come down to the weather.

If we do vote to leave there will be a massive renegotiation as the major nations don’t want us to leave. I don’t believe them when they say there won’t be further negotiation. If there are job vacancies in Britain the workers will still come irrespective of whether we are in or out.”

Chris Mulhall of 1855: “Can you imagine if we decided to shut the doors on Europe? It can’t happen. The status quo is known and the situation if we leave is unknown …….”

32

Bob: “Because of the way the economy is, we probably need 200 to 300,000 skilled workers coming in….it’s important they are skilled. It’s all about controlling the right numbers and skills. The idea that if we vote for Brexit on 23rd that on the 24th the barriers go up for free labour is ludicrous.

There is a misunderstanding as to how government works. There is no system sorted out – government doesn’t plan.”

Casey Smith: “I used to work in government for twelve years and you are quite right, there is no plan. They will feel their way along. It’s important to think about the signals that leaving Europe will send out – if it’s harder for workers to get into the UK then they might consider going somewhere else which might not be as hard to get into.”

Bob: “Living in Brighton I work with Brighton University and they have a 3 year hospitality course.

They run it in conjunction with universities in France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Every student in those universities must spend two of their three years in two of the other countries. That’s a great model for doing a three year course in hospitality. The downside is that if we vote for Brexit that initiatives like that might fall away.

“But we shouldn’t beat ourselves up. The standards in the UK hospitality industry are significantly better than thirty years ago. The size of the sector and the carer opportunities are much better. In many ways we are moaning about the same things now as we were thirty years ago. Whilst we have issues, we are doing very well.

I remember talking to Guy Hands who was running Nomura and he was responsible for investment – he invested £16 billion in one year. I asked him over dinner how he chose where to place his investments.

He said what he tried to do was think 10 or 15 years ahead and whether that sector would still be around. He said he came up with three core sectors – hospitality, waste management and housing. That’s why I am always optimistic about our industry”

In Attendance Alain Desenclos

The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards

Helen Brind

Activate Learning

Chris Mulhal

1855 Oxford

Simon Smith

Wellers

Casey Small

The Cocktail Service

Neil Edwards

Activate Learning

Chris Thompson

Wellers

Richard Rosser

B4 and The Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards

Imran Hashmi

Dynamix

James Addy

Hand Made Mysteries

Frazer Sutherland Peach Pubs Stuart Crook

Wellers

Yvonne Oppon

Oxford Leisure

Christina Nawrocki Wellers Kawsar Rojob The Standard, Jericho, Oxford Bob Cotton

Former head of British Hospitality Association

CONTACT DETAILS

 oxford@wellersaccountants.co.uk  01865 723 131  www.wellersaccountants.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

B4 GET A WIDER PROFILE FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Join B4 Today A First Class Publication in which to expand your Business network

We are delighted to welcome Kelly Gavaghan to B4 as our new Sales Manager. Kelly joined us in May from Ridgeway Jaguar and below introduces a wide range of new B4 features.

B4 has been providing leading businesses in the Thames Valley with excellent coverage in one of the country's leading business to business magazines for 10 years.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our publication, not just the excellent content, but the look, the feel and the wide range of editorial articles.

But, in this our 10th year, we are making some changes.

Following my recent appointment, we are introducing some great new features to the magazine. So if you want to profile the team, have a fantastic new website to shout about, want to promote your fundraising initiatives or profile the the new CEO, you can do so in one of our wide range of new features.

There are the usual sector features covering finance, marketing, IT & Comms and more or why not secure one of our cover packages along with a video interview for B4 TV? Â Â And don't forget, if you're a B4 Member you can benefit from great rates.

Call me now to discuss your next feature - I look forward to hearing from you and helping to profile your business in B4.

Best wishes.

Kelly Gavaghan Sales Manager, B4

See overleaf for our features sector guide... www.b4-business.com

33

B4 Features Sectors Our various features sections explained.

Regular Business Features Website of the month Have you just launched a new website, had an overhaul or perhaps you are proud of a site you have designed for a client and want to show it off to the B4 network.

Industry Achievers Have you recently won an Award, received industry accreditation or are you promoting an Awards ceremony?

Tell the B4 network about your success or plans.

CFR (Charities, Fundraising & Responsibility) Who is your nominated charity and why? This is your chance to tell us about fundraising through your business and how you hope to help your chosen charity.

Who's Who We are now incoporating the pages from our annual Who’s Who guide into B4 so if you have a new member of the team or someone who has been promoted to a new role, promote them to the B4 network through our Who’s Who pages.

Corporate Experience Days & Team Building

Do you run an apprenticeship programme through your business and has it benefited you and the apprentices? If so, we would like to meet you and your apprentice.

B4 Angels Do you have a new business or product and are you looking for funding or, perhaps, you are an angel investor looking for new opportunities and can offer insight into what makes a successful investor.

B4 Business Start-Ups Tell us who you are, who or what inspired you and what are your ambitions for the future?

B4 Video You will be interviewed by our B4 presenter with the filmed interview appearing on B4 TV and a recap of the interview in B4 Magazine (extra charges apply).

Regular Sector Features Expert advice and news from the property sector including construction, commercial property, residential and lettings experts, architects and the rest.

Legal

Meet the CEO Have you appointed a new CEO or recently been promoted to CEO? We will photograph and interview you for B4 for a first class profile to match the role.

B4 features a wide range of legal experts from across the region ranging from corporate to personal law, criminal to litigation and more.

Finance

Meet the Team Often forgotten but you couldn’t be a success without them. A great opportunity to get your key team members

34

The Apprentice

Property

Have you had a team building day and was it a success and why? Or do you organise corporate days or incentives for teams and what do they set out to achieve for your clients?

Increased productivity, more focus and better results?

Company Cars : Ridgeway Jaguar : B4 Issue 38

in the spotlight and great for staff morale and getting their faces known to the B4 network.

Corporate Entertaining : Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons : B4 Issue 36

R&R : Tylney Hall Hotel : B4 Issue 38

Featuring advice from banks, financial advisers, insurance experts, accountants and comment on the latest Budget, pensions, tax and more.

Corporate Entertaining : Newbury Racecourse : B4 Issue 35

Luxury Items : Devialet : B4 Issue 36

www.b4-business.com

B4 Marketing

colleagues fit for business by learning from the experts.

Marketing your business.... where do you start? B4 has experts in wide-ranging fields including branding, design, promotion, presenting, print.....the list is endless!

R&R

HR Payroll, contracts, staff discipline and recruitment.

Get away with some fabulous hotel stay ideas, home and abroad, or maybe just a spa or a superb restaurant. Get your R&R with B4..

Dress to Impress

IT & Comms Where would we be without a PC and a mobile phone?

Stuck, that’s for sure! IT and comms experts give you the latest news to help you run your business smoothly.

Looking good makes you feel good. Colour co-ordinate, tailor your suit, choose the right make up to suit you.....make the right impression by making yourself look fantastic, helping you to get that vital “yes”.

Services

Business Lunch

Features covering office stationery to furniture, shredding to interior design, waste to office temps, we have it covered.

Need to impress a client or just thank a member of the team for a job well done? B4 unearths some of the region’s best establishments for that extra special business lunch.

Science & Tech

Corporate Entertaining

A look into the future with inventions, breakthroughs and technological innovation.

Events & Venues Venues and events in the spotlight - a look back on a special event or a feature on a spectacular venue.

Advice Consultants and professionals advising on everything from presenting to growing your business.

Whether it’s a day at the rugby or the races, a relaxing spa, a cultured visit to the opera or a game of golf, B4 suggests some tried and trusted and some more unusual ways to entertain your team and clients.

Company Cars Test drives by B4 members of the latest releases. Plus advice about the finance side that, to be honest, not many of us understand...or is that just us at B4?

Education & Training Higher education, training, team development and more.

Corporate Lifestyle Features Fit for Business A healthy and fit team is a productive team. Long gone are the days of boozy business lunches. Get yourself and your

Travel : Chiltern Railways : B4 Issue 37

www.b4-business.com

R&R : Bespoke Hotels : B4 Issue 38

Events & Venues : Bombay Sapphire : B4 Issue 40

For more information or to feature in B4 Magazine, please contact Kelly on 01865 742211 or visit the full rate card at: https://issuu.com/b4-business/docs/b4_ media_rate_card_issuu

Events & Venues : The Oxford Union : B4 Issue 40

Education : The Oxford Trust : B4 Issue 37

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Conference @OxfordSaïd

Your future is our business The combination of stunning spaces, impressive technology, award winning food and unbeatable locations makes Saïd Business School, the centre for Oxford’s conferencing

• • • • •

Professional and friendly custom service and dedicated AV support Accessible central England location with world class attractions of Oxford Excellent transport links Variety of meeting and seminar rooms Ideal for teambuilding and Summer events

Park End Street

Egrove Park

• State-of-the-art facilities • City centre location

• Rural, parkland setting • All year round residential availability

To find out more about our facilities across these two sites: www.sbs.oxford.edu/conference Email conference@sbs.ox.ac.uk Telephone 01865 288846

POST EVENT REVIEW E N G A G E

 0 1 8 6 5 7 4 2 2 1 1  B U S I N E S S I N OX F O R D. C O M

I N F O R M

I N S P I R E

Welcome Contents

What’s inside

BUSINESS

MISSED OUT ON B U S I N E S S I N OX F O R D 2 0 1 6 ? BOOK YOUR PRESENTATION SLOT FOR 2017 NOW Benefit from a fantastic value added package including in print, on line, at event and video exposure. Sponsorship packages also available.

Contact us on  01865 742 211  editorial@b4-business.com

W W W . B U S I N E S S I N O X F O R D . C O M

38

3

Opening Address Oxfordshire LEP Nigel Tipple, Chief Executive

4 - 13

BANK 1 (POD’s 1 - 5 ) Smart City, Science & Technology, Responsible Business, Green / Low Carbon / The Living Lab, Business Growth - Going from Good to Great

14 - 23

BANK 2 (POD’s 6 - 10) How to Retain Key Staff in Oxford’s Exclusive Property Market, Elevate Your Company’s Performance, Business in Oxford 2025, IT & Communications, The Economic Benefits to Oxford of Partnerships

24 - 33

BANK 3 (POD’s 11 - 15 ) The Cloud and Your Business, Preventing Against Disasters in Your Business, Apprenticeships, Property, Tourism & Culture

34 - 39

BANK 4 (POD’s 16 - 18 ) The Key Principle of a Successful Business, Access Oxfordshire, Economic Outlook & Business Trends

40

John Kennedy BSc FIDM Business in Oxford 2016

Introduction

Welcome to the Business in Oxford 2016 Post Event Review Business in Oxford 2016 welcomed over 350 guests at an all day event at Saïd Business School on 21st April.

Oxfordshire LEP started the day following registration in the main reception where Chief Executive Nigel Tipple addressed a packed Nelson Mandela Lecture Theatre.

Following lunch, the PODs began in earnest with 72 x 12 minute presentations delivered by a wide range of Oxfordshire based and national companies providing the delegates with a wealth of information and advice.

If you didn’t make it to BIO 2016 and would like to be involved in 2017, why not present or sponsor? It’s a superb opportunity to profile your business and connect with some of the county’s leading organisations.

B U SI N E SS I N OXFO R D 201 6 REVIEW

Opening Address Oxfordshire LEP

Overview The Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership delivers a variety of activities across the priorities of people, place, enterprise and connectivity that together work towards the continued growth of the Oxfordshire economy.

Pictured above (left to right): John Kennedy (Wildbore & Gibbons), Nigel Tipple (OxLEP), Bob Price (Oxford County Coucil), Richard Rosser (B4), Sebastian Johnson (OSP) and Richard Venables (VSL).

Pictured below: Nigel Tipple (OxLEP)

Nigel Tipple, OxLEP Chief Executive, introduced the experts with presentations on each of the platforms through which OxLEP strives to achieve its strategic priorities for the county.

Introducing the Network Navigators – an OxLEP initiative that provides specialist advice through sector specific experts to support and encourage start-ups, growth and innovation.

Delegates learnt about the workshops and events from Oxfordshire Business Support that can help your business thrive.

Understand Oxfordshire Inward investment - OxLEP’s inward investment service, Invest in Oxfordshire, provides a comprehensive package of support to place and grow businesses in Oxfordshire. Delegates heard about the business benefits across Oxfordshire’s five internationally competitive industry sectors.

Discover Oxfordshire Business Education Links – OxLEP’s initiatives across the skills agenda work to upskill the population. Delegates learnt about the ways OxLEP is shaping Oxfordshire’s future workforce with the facilitation of business education interactions and support for schools, colleges and employers to find valuable work experience and apprenticeship opportunities across the county.

W W W. B U S I N E S S I N OX F O R D . C O M

Main Sponsor The Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP) is responsible for championing and developing the Oxfordshire economy. Working with businesses, academia and the public sector OxLEP is driving economic growth across the county.

By 2030, OxLEP will have strengthened Oxfordshire’s position as a vibrant, sustainable, inclusive, world leading economy, driven by innovation, enterprise and research excellence.

For more information about OxLEP visit their website oxfordshirelep.org.uk or contact them on 01865 261433 or email info@oxfordshirelep.com.

39

POD 1 Smart City

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Vito Lucchesi (Socrata), Rob Buckingham (RACE), Elizabeth Bohun (Oxford City Council), Ben Ward (Flood Network), Sebastian Johnson (Oxford Strategic Partnership) Oxford and Oxfordshire have incredible breadth in companies and research who are active in ‘smart’ technologies. We also have critical challenges around housing, transport and the environment to be addressed to enable and support new jobs that are and will be created over the coming decades. SMART Oxford coordinates exciting projects in this field, a few of which headlined POD 1. More information about Smart Oxford can be found at www.oxfordsmartcity.uk

Main Sponsor The Oxford Strategic Partnership is Oxford City’s Local Strategic Partnership. Oxford is a key player in the nation’s cultural, economic, and environmental life. The Partnership helps to provide direction for the city’s future, respond to local priorities, and engage more effectively with local concerns. This partnership for the city promotes an open and progressive environment and enables us to access funding and share resources more easily. Currently, the Partnership contains several key organisations and individuals, all with a specific interest or experience in improving quality of life across the city.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Socrata

The Oxford Flood Network

The Benefits of Open Data

A Local Smart Project that’s Gone National

Vito Lucchesi is an Open Government Consultant at Socrata. Vito and his colleagues are working with the Smart Oxford partners to develop an open data platform for Oxford. In his presentation Vito talked about the value of open data and how businesses, enterprises and entrepreneurs, can use open data to create new projects and processes and help run areas more efficiently and effectively. The presentation outlined the potential benefits of businesses across the city putting data into an open hub as well as using data that’s in the open data hub. Vito shared examples of innovations and new ways of working that open data has enabled in cities in the UK and the US from Camden and Bristol to Chicago and New York.

Oxford Flood Network is a citizen sensing project which monitors water levels around the city, in streams, rivers and even under floorboards, sending water levels back to the Internet using low- powered wireless.

The Oxford Flood Network project`s wireless sensors gather data in real-time more cheaply and with higher resolution than existing methods. Bringing together flood action groups, hydrologists and technology specialists, the data is shared across communities using the ‘Internet of Things`, a new suite of wireless and cloud technologies.

Ben describes how a community sensor network improved the picture of flooding around Oxford and how this model and the Flood Network has gone national. The network explores the possibilities of a smart city that is created by its citizens, rather than a more typical top-down deployment. Ben also advocates his mantra that it’s sometimes easier to apologise than to ask permission.

 +44 (0)7943 805995  vito.lucchesi@socrata.com  www.socrata.com

 +44 (0)7771 537574  Ben@Flood.Network  Flood.Network

UKAEA RACE

Oxford City Council

Doing What Humans Find Easy in an Environment in Which People Cannot Go

A New Approach to Electronic Vehicle Charging in Oxford

RACE is the new Centre of Excellence for Remote Applications in Challenging Environments and is based at Culham Science Centre in Oxfordshire. Rob Buckingham, Head of RACE, talks about the exciting and challenging cutting edge research taking place at Culham and how the new purpose-built facility that opened in February 2016 for RACE will offer access to SMEs, multi-nationals, research laboratories and academia to state-of-the-art facilities, remote handling equipment and expertise to design, implement, train and operate complete remote application solutions. We learn about an Oxfordshire facility that leads the way in smart technology and opportunities for businesses to be engaged and involved.

A new dawn for electric vehicles in Oxford - technologies for on-street charging. Elizabeth Bohun from Oxford City Council talked about the successful bid to Government by public and private partners for research and development and testing of innovative on-street charging points for electric vehicles in Oxford. Access to home charging on street will make ultra low emission vehicle use viable for upwards of 16,000 additional households. We learn about how this can happen and how you can support this project and be part of the City and County Council’s ambitions towards carbon reduction and cleaner air in Oxford.

 +44 (0)1235 466794  rob.buckingham@ukaea.uk  www.race.ukaea.uk

 +44 (0)1865 252380  EBOHUN@oxford.gov.uk  www.oxford.gov.uk

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POD 2 Science & Technology

Overview Pictured above (Presenting): Will Axtell (Penningtons Manches). Other Presenters: Dr Caroline Livingstone, Dr Chandra Ramanujan, and Matt Smart (University of Oxford), Ian Macpherson (Oxford Science Park), Wendy Twist (The Oxford Trust) The presentations in this POD detail just some of the financial and technological benefits that can be felt by a business through working with local initiatives and schemes. The presentations highlight the innovation and entrepreneurship driven by the creation of the Oxford Science Park and other local services and highlight the benefits of using these.

Main Sponsor Penningtons Manches LLP is a leading UK law firm which provides high quality legal advice tailored to both businesses and individuals. We address the specific objectives of each client through our flair and technical expertise and offer a personal service founded on a strong team ethic. Our Oxford office is home to a team of over 90 people. Since its opening in 1982, it has consistently been recognised as one of the leading providers of legal services to both businesses and individuals in the Thames Valley. Close links with universities and related commercial spin-offs have also helped establish its reputation as a key adviser to the technology sector.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Penningtons Manches

The Oxford Trust

The Funding Escalator

Driving Science & Innovation: Enterprise Education Engagement

Will Axtell is a partner in our Oxford corporate team with particular expertise in the technology and life sciences sectors. He specialises in fundraisings, AIM capital markets and mergers and acquisitions, advising clients ranging from start-ups and spin-outs to larger listed companies and successful entrepreneurs. Successful companies in the science and technology sector are often high growth and need access to different types of equity finance as they develop. In his presentation, Will discussed the main ways that a company can raise equity finance as it progresses through its growth cycle. He covered the various steps on the ‘funding escalator’ from raising money from friends and family to flotation on the London Stock Exchange.

Each rung on the funding escalator has its own unique benefits and challenges, and Will explained how best to navigate through these different stages.

The Oxford Trust was founded by Sir Martin and Audrey, Lady Wood, in 1985 with a mission to enable the study, application and communication of science, technology, engineering and maths. Our highly successful non-profit business model runs complementary programmes across three key objectives - Enterprise, Education, Engagement. Enterprise: Our Oxford Centre for Innovation offers affordable office space for early stage science and innovation companies and hosts ‘Oxford Hackspace’ – a diverse, creative and talented maker community.

Education: We deliver inspiring science education activities for schools and connect schools with science/tech companies to build the pipeline of talent for local businesses. Engagement: We engage the wider community in science through our Science Oxford-branded workshops, theatre shows, films, talks and family hands-on activities.

Check us out at www.scienceoxford.com

 +44 (0)1865 722 106  will.axtell@penningtons.co.uk  www.penningtons.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 810019 / 07732 951938  wendy.twist@scienceoxford.com  www.theoxfordtrust.co.uk

University of Oxford

Oxford Science Park

Translate Cutting-Edge Research Into Commercial Opportunities

Expanding Global Technology Companies

Dr Caroline Livingstone of Begbroke Science Park presented on University-Business interaction successes and opportunities with Begbroke Science Park. Caroline outlined just some of the examples of companies joining the Park, spinouts staring there, Begbroke’s worldclass technical facilities, how the Park’s interactive culture benefits business, and the ongoing growth of the Begbroke Science Park business community. Dr Chandra Ramanujan of Isis Innovation, the research and technology commercialisation company of the University of Oxford, described aspects of how such growth is achieved through technology transfer, business support and advice, investment and funding opportunities, and spinouts. Matt Smart, of the University’s Research Services Knowledge Exchange and Impact Team, outlined ways to work with the University, and the various financial routes to do so, from staff exchanges up to multi-million collaborative R&D projects.

It was 25 years ago that Magdalen College Oxford created The Oxford Science Park. In that time, the College has seen two and half decades of incredible discovery, and has been proud to be at the centre of this resurgence of innovation and entrepreneurship in Oxford.

With the College recently acquiring 100% ownership of the Park, it is demonstrating its commitment to the Park’s future development, helping Oxford’s growing community of science, technology and business services companies establish themselves, innovate, and thrive. With 43% of its occupiers being in the Life Sciences’ sector, 31% are in IT, and 26% are in Business Services. 54% are local to Oxford, 20% are University related, and 20% have overseas’ HQs.

 +44 (0)1865 270158  matthew.smart@admin.ox.ac.uk  www.ox.ac.uk/research/innovation-and-partnership

 +44 (0)1865 784 000  ian.macpherson@oxfordsp.com  www.oxfordsp.com

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POD 3 Responsible Business

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Frank Nigriello (Unipart), Sally Culmer (Oxfordshire County Council), Grant Hayward (Collaborent), Kate Parrinder & Richard Venables (Reciprocate), Deborah Astles (Unipart), David Williams (BITC) Social responsibility is moving to the top of the agenda for many businesses in Oxfordshire. The notion that a business can ‘do well by doing good’ continues to engage many companies that invest in developing their people, their supply chains and their community relationships. These sessions demonstrated how companies of every size can develop strategies to address this important agenda.

Main Sponsor Unipart Group is a global manufacturing, logistics and consultancy group and one of Oxfordshire’s largest employers. To the best of our knowledge, Unipart was the first British company to publish a mission statement challenging us to inspire all of our stakeholders to want to stay with us for life, moving away from a single short term focus on shareholders. For nearly 30 years, we have been members of Business in the Community and, as such have been strong advocates of responsible business. We were pleased to be amongst the founding members of Reciprocate and we are enthusiastic about encouraging other Oxfordshire companies to participate.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Unipart

Reciprocate

Investing in Employees of the Future

hosted by Oxfordshire Community Foundation

For many years, businesses have identified the gap between their requirements for engaged, well-educated young employees and the ability to recruit ‘next generation’ talent from local schools. Oxfordshire has one of the most successful Business Class programmes in the UK. Unipart was enthusiastic about helping to establish and lead the programme, as Frank Nigriello explained: “Unipart has a long track record of engaging with local schools in all of our locations around the UK. Our relationships have been particularly strong in Oxfordshire with a particular focus on school in Oxford,” he said. “We’ve recognised that young people are becoming increasingly polarised into those who achieve success at school and beyond and those who struggle to attain even the most basic skills and qualifications. Business Class is a tried and tested method of addressing that situation.”

Our new business group, Reciprocate, aims to help companies realise their good intentions, but with minimum hassle and at manageable cost. Reciprocate will give members the opportunity to learn from others through shared experience; an up-to-date source of information and reference to assist CSR decision making; collaborative projects; pooled resources and ideas; and the ability to pass charitable requests to others – enabling them to say a ‘positive no’ to requests they just can’t deal with alone. Reciprocate already has a strong base of Founder Members, including Allen Associates, Withy King, Unipart, Bicester Village and Finders Keepers, as well as a Steering Group of local business leaders. To join, please get in touch.

 +44 (0)1865 778966  frank.nigriello@unipart.com  www.unipart.com

 +44 (0)1865 798666  marketing@oxfordshire.org  www.oxfordshire.org

OxLEP, OBS & OSEP

Unipart

Developing Business

by Adding Social Value

Achieving Productivity Improvement

by Employee Wellbeing

Pioneering businesses across the UK are creating innovative methods to win new clients and reinforce relationship with existing ones, by developing opportunities to add social value through their operations. This informative session set out the background and context to these opportunities, using examples of national and local companies like Oxford Computer Consultants, which is launching a new Social Enterprise to address a pressing and growing social issue that complements its core business. Of particular interest to any organisation that has public sector bodies within their supply chains is The Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012. Grant Hayward, “Network Navigator” for Social Enterprise under OxLEP’s Oxfordshire Business Support programme, explored the opportunities and benefits to businesses of all sizes that this and other examples provide.

It is widely recognised that employees who are engaged, happy and healthy are more creative and productive and lead to higher levels of business performance. It seems like common sense, therefore, that businesses should invest in the health and wellbeing of their employees. However, as we have discovered at Unipart, this is not always as straightforward as it seems. There is a bewildering plethora of information on wellbeing out there and it can be difficult to know where to start. At Business Oxford we shared how we have navigated our way through this to launch Unipart Workwell, our employee Wellbeing strategy and how, through the launch of the Oxfordshire workplace wellbeing network we hope to support other business in doing the same.

 +44 (0)7768 603312  grant@collaborent.co.uk  www.oxfordshirebusinesssupport.co.uk/ content/social-enterprise

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Community Engagement

 +44 (0)1865 778966  deborah.astles@unipart.com  www.unipart.com

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POD 4 Green / Low Carbon / The Living Lab

Overview

Main Sponsors

Pictured above (left to right): Mairi Brookes (Oxford City Council), Dr Gavin Killip (University of Oxford), Ian Shaylor (British Gas), Dr Rebecca Ford (University of Oxford), Barbara Hammond (Low Carbon Hub)

At Oxford University, we’re passionate about the creation and impact of our research and how, in partnership, we can apply this to real challenges. Isis Enterprise (IE) provides consulting expertise and advice in technology transfer and innovation management to clients across the public and private sectors around the world. Our business development teams can work with industrial partners to identify areas of strategic alignment and work in partnership to develop the best framework for the alliance. Our Careers Service runs the Internship Office which works with employers and alumni to set up and promote structured placements and internships for students.

The dawn of the twenty first century has seen an increased emphasis on creating a greener and more economical society and Oxford is no different to this. Oxford City Council and Low Carbon Hub discuss their initiatives designed to reduce carbon emissions, whilst Oxford University and British Gas detail some of the ways that a business can reduce their carbon footprint.

As one of the UK’s leading energy and services providers British Gas Business understands the importance of putting the customer at the heart of everything we do. We have gone back to basics and want to make sure everything we do is a simple as possible. From implementing a new billing system to ending auto-renewal contracts and improving our online service - we want to make it easy for our customers to manage their energy. We’re dedicated to the needs of our business customers, from small and medium enterprises, to large industrial and commercial organisations. We help thousands of businesses across Britain manage their energy consumption, become more energy efficient, generate their own energy and save money.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Britsh Gas

University of Oxford

Smart Energy

Oxfordshire’s Environmental Futures

The UK government has mandated that all homes and businesses will have Smart energy meters by 2020. This new generation of digital meters will bring a range of benefits to customers and the UK energy industry and will enable businesses to manage their energy as they would other costs and ultimately play their part in driving down UK carbon emissions and improving energy security. While Smart metering technology delivers practical benefits now (such as an end to estimated billing) it is also an early building block for the “connected” business. British Gas has taken a leading role in developing smart meters, installing more than any other energy supplier. The presentation explained smart metering and set out the benefits that businesses can enjoy now and can expect to see in the future.

For companies in Oxfordshire, collaborative projects with the University offer innovation and growth potential. University-produced toolkits help manage businesses’ environmental responsibilities, and low carbon is a growth opportunity for technology development and investment. Dr Rebecca Ford, of the University of Oxford’s Environmental Sustainability Team, described initiatives underway to reduce carbon emissions by 33% by 2020, through Estates Services’ innovative projects. For example, installing greenhouses with low-energy lights at wavelengths needed for photosynthesis; our ever-improving solar photovoltaic technologies; the involvement of staff and students through Green Impact accreditation. Dr Gavin Killip, co-author of ‘Oxfordshire’s Low Carbon Economy’, described Oxfordshire’s unusual opportunity to combine carbon reduction and sustainability with real economic growth.

 +44 (0)800 107 3457  ian.shaylor@britishgas.co.uk  www.britishgas.co.uk/business

 +44 (0)1865 270158  matthew.smart@admin.ox.ac.uk  www.ox.ac.uk/research/innovation-and-partnership

Low Carbon Hub

Oxford City Council

Working together for a Low Carbon Oxfordshire

Low Carbon Oxford

Low Carbon Hub is an award-winning social enterprise, working for a massive change in the UK’s energy system. We think we need to get much more local about our energy system, and much more renewable, so that the benefits of renewable energy generation strengthen local communities. We develop community-owned renewable energy in Oxfordshire and re-invest 100% of our own surplus in our mission to create an energy system we can all feel good about. Barbara Hammond, talks about the importance of renewable energy, Low Carbon Hub’s current and future projects and how you can invest in community-owned renewable energy for Oxfordshire and earn a bank-beating return. Every investment counts. Your investment in these community energy projects will help shape the energy future of Oxfordshire!

In 2011 Oxford City Council set a goal to reduce the city’s emissions by 40% by 2020, on a 2005 baseline. The Council has worked towards this goal with partners, such as Low Carbon Oxford pathfinder members. Since its inception in 2010, the Low Carbon Oxford partnership has focused on recruiting a critical mass of members from in and around the city, representing over 50% of the city’s emissions and each committed to reducing their emissions by 3% per year. Our programme focuses on events, communications and projects that showcase the city’s action on carbon and energy; share intelligence between partners; and, seek opportunities to work together to realise benefits each could not achieve on their own.

 +44 (0)1865 246099  barbara.hammond@lowcarbonhub.org  www.lowcarbonhub.org

 +44 (0)1865 252212  MBROOKES@oxford.gov.uk  www.lowcarbonoxford.org

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POD 5 Business Growth - Going from Good to Great

Overview Pictured above (left to right): John Corlett (Oxford Brookes University), Daniel Geoghegan (Bicester Heritage), Miranda Markham (Bicester Village), Adrian Shooter (Bicester Vision), Shaun Jardine (Brethertons) Sustainable and healthy growth is a key aspiration for many business owners and the presentations within this POD provide a key insight into how this can be achieved. Bicester Vision and Value Retail share their stories on how a business can generate sustainable growth, whilst Oxford Brookes University explain the popularity and success behind the funding programme KTP. Bicester Heritage explains how they have made advantage of Oxfordshire’s historic sites.

Main Sponsor Bicester Vision was created in 2007 as an independent public/private partnership, committed to bringing together all stakeholders in the town to ensure that the most is made of the exciting future ahead. It creates a forum for all three tiers of local government and key business representatives to communicate. The main aim was and still is to engage with the people and businesses of Bicester and to ensure that it continues to be a great place in which to live & work. The value of Bicester Vision is that it brings together businesses and local authorities in a way that does not happen otherwise.

It was initiated by the private sector, who are keen to find solutions to growth barriers, thus enabling companies to prosper and employ more people.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Bicester Vision

Oxford Brookes University

The Funding Escalator

Five Reasons to Love KTP

Bicester Vision is in its 8th year and continues to grow from strength to strength. It is a partnership organisation attracting patronage from private sector organisations, the MOD, Bicester Chamber, and all three tiers of local government. Our presentation explained the three pillars upon which we believe sustainable business growth should be founded. We reflected on real life examples from business leaders in the area. We saw and heard ‘what good looks like’ in terms of growth strategies, corporate sustainable modes of customer engagement and the importance of responding to local government policies. Our strength is in our membership, and we were well represented by a number of partner speakers both in the presentation, throughout the Business Growth pod and also on our stand in the main meeting area.

Late last year a funding programme for business growth reached its 40th birthday – an unprecedented record of durability – and a new campaign was born: ‘I Love KTP’. Odd, you might think, for an anonymous set of initials to inspire such devotion. But its practitioners and those companies who benefit from it know that it’s something special, and that it deserves a wider audience. In KTP, or Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, we work with every kind of business, from multinationals with household-name brands, to local high-tech engineers, to our own spin-outs; we’ve even worked with architects, a law firm and a bus company. They all have different, and multiple, reasons to engage with us in KTP, but I talked about the top five: to increase profit; to attract new talent; to spread the risk of innovation; to find partners; to get noticed.

 +44 (0)7794 194130  graeme.laws@ngagesolutions.co.uk  www.bicestervision.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 484204  business.services@brookes.ac.uk  www.brookes.ac.uk

Bicester Heritage

Bicester Village

Profit from Heritage

Value Retail

Bicester Heritage is the UK’s centre for historic motoring and aviation excellence. The unique ecosystem of businesses based at the 348 acre Bicester Heritage acts as ‘marina-like’ cluster, promoting skills and expertise, employment, customer footfall, networking, business incubation and collective growth. In the process of creating this hub, Bicester Heritage has saved the best-preserved WW2 RAF Bomber Training Station in the UK from inappropriate development and maintains the active airfield. The once derelict former RAF site is now held as a national exemplar of constructive conservation, comprising of nineteen listed buildings and eleven areas of scheduled ancient monuments. Future plans include a new technology park and servicing the visitor economy through hotel, conference and leisure attractions, providing Oxfordshire with another strong, international brand, business acceleration and new high-skilled job opportunities.

Established in 1992, Value Retail is the only company in Europe specialising exclusively in the development, management and operation of luxury outlet shopping Villages. We looked at how the Value Retail Villages have become important tourist attractions, and key stakeholders in the communities in which they operate. Central to Value Retail’s philosophy and success are the active management of the merchandise mix and the creation of relationships with retail, marketing, tourism and community partners. For Value Retail, the model is also about operating its business to produce a positive impact on the communities in which the Villages are located, and to support, where it can, charities and projects established to help those in need in other areas of the world. Nearly 3,000 people are employed at Bicester Village with more opportunities coming in 2017 with the Bicester Village expansion.

 +44 (0)1865 327928  hq@bicesterheritage.co.uk  www.bicesterheritage.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 366324  MMarkham@valueretail.com  www.bicestervillage.com

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POD 6

How to Retain Key Staff in Oxford’s Exclusive Property Market

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Chris Thompson & Christina Nawrocki (Wellers), Mark Charter (Carter Jonas), Patsy Dell (Oxford City Council) The high price of property within Oxfordshire has long been seen as a major barrier to many businesses’ ability to maintain a successful and stable workforce. The presentations within this POD explain the effects the housing market can have on a business and also detail ways in which a company can help retain key staff members.

Main Sponsor Wellers is a firm of accountants who work with entrepreneurs and private individuals to help them fulfil their aspirations.

Passionate about people, we can draw upon 70 years of experience to assist you in growing your businesses and protecting your wealth. Our approach is to understand you and your circumstances. We then become integral to your operations, delivering professional advice that saves you money while helping develop your organisation. This unique approach to service delivery is something we term ‘Business Oxygen’ - integrated professional solutions and management tools bonded with the chemistry of a trusted relationship.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Wellers

Wellers

Is Oxford’s Exclusive Property Market a Danger to Your Business?

How to Retain Key Staff Priced out by Oxford’s Exclusive Property Market

Economically successful cities across the globe are witnessing a worrying trend, an influx of rich people are purchasing property in these locations. Oxford is typical of this with the city rated as the most expensive place to live in the UK in 2015. That has made home ownership a pipe dream for many workers. It’s a big concern for business owners because as the quote goes, “employees are a company’s greatest asset.” Property prices in Oxford are now 16 times the average earnings of employees. The result is the rise of the commuter and all the associated travel issues that come with this. How long will your staff tolerate rising journey times, the ever increasing cost and hassle of commuting as well as Oxford’s general travel chaos? Wellers explore this worrying issue in more detail, highlighting the significance to Oxfordshire’s economy and providing insight as to how this trend is impacting on your business.

Like many other economically successful cities in the country, Oxford needs to provide the transportation network, pay and housing its key workers require, or risk hindering future growth. High property prices and the rise of the commuter mean employers are at risk of losing key staff. Keeping and developing your best employees is essential to your success. That’s because most of the work your business performs and the all important relationships you hold with clients/customers are likely to be very reliant on them. They’re work is critical to driving sales in your organisation. Ask yourself, could your company survive without them? High city property prices and greater commuting distances need not spell the end for your business. In this presentation, Wellers highlight the various initiatives you can implement to help keep your best staff.

 +44 (0)1865 723131  oxford@wellersaccountants.co.uk  www.wellersaccountants.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 723131  oxford@wellersaccountants.co.uk  www.wellersaccountants.co.uk

Carter Jonas

Oxford City Council

How to Retain Key Staff in Oxford’s Exclusive Property Market

Affordability and Availability: The Housing Challenge

As Oxford’s largest independent property consultancy, retaining and attracting its 90+ people in the City’s exclusive property market is always going to a big task. But having a brand that is renowned for the quality of its service and expertise of its people, means that the management team’s biggest focus is its staff. With client demands constantly changing, it’s about adapting to those needs, hiring the best possible talent, and keeping the continuity. With 17 people from the Oxford office recently having been given their Long Service Awards, it’s testament to the business. But since April 2011, Oxford staff numbers have increased by 50% as the business has grown.

The firm has invested in meeting any challenges through its national diversity programme, adapting to the changing modern workplace, and speculatively recruiting.

Oxford is an international city, which is successful, vibrant, and a national economic asset - the focus of a world-class knowledge economy with one of the most important concentrations of highvalue businesses in Europe. However, the city’s continuing housing crisis through the lack of housing availability, choice and affordability, is significantly undermining its future. Patsy Dell, Head of Planning and Regulatory Services at Oxford City Council talked about the housing challenges the city faces, the scale of the city’s ambition and successes to date alongside the key opportunities and threats.

 +44 (0)1865 511444  mark.charter@carterjonas.co.uk  www.carterjonas.co.uk/oxford

 +44 (0)1865 252356  PDell@oxford.gov.uk  www.oxford.gov.uk

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POD 7 Elevate Your Company’s Performance

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Claire Bowen & Andrew Bowen (Cafe Success), Anneli Thomson (Sandler Training), Diana Hayes & Lydiah Igweh (WEIE Digital), Alison Haill (Oxford Professional Consulting) No matter how successful, there is always room for improvement within any business. Whether this is an increased focus on the use of social media, the implementation of well conceived planning strategies, or even just an improvement in presentation skills, this POD focuses on some of the tools and techniques that can be utilised by business owners in order to elevate performance.

Main Sponsor Sandler is the world’s largest consulting and training organisation. Sandler specialise in small and medium sized businesses who have a good client base but realise they still face some challenges. Typically, they are: Frustrated by inconsistent sales teams; Worried about what else they need to do to continue their business growth; Unsure why their sales forecast bears very little resemblance to actual sales invoiced each month.

Sandler work from the top down providing real life tactical examples that can be used straight away.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Sandler Training

Oxford Professional Consulting

Strategies to Elevate Your Performance

Calling All Presenters

Sales is the lifeblood of any business and as leaders of our companies we often look around each month or each quarter and think, “my sales team are doing OK, but I know they can do better.” Improvement always starts at the top and ripples out to our people, Anneli Thomson talks us through the changes the business owners or directors need to take to ensure success when it comes to sales growth. The fast paced session gives us areas to focus on so you can elevate your game to the next level. Remember success does not happen by accident, as business leaders we choose to make it happen.

Alison Haill is a communication skills specialist who has been coaching presenters for over 30 years in the UK and abroad. From high-flying leaders to first time presenters, the majority of clients have an Achilles heel – a lack of confidence or of charisma, an inability to keep to time, a monotonous voice, to name but a few of the most common weaknesses. Alison helps you deal with all of these and is an expert in developing your confidence, sharing a range of practical tips and valuable techniques to help you increase your impact and influence every time you present to others. In this short taster session she focuses on some of the major DOs and DON’Ts of presenting, such as how to: Manage nerves and boost confidence; Speak with authority; Grab and keep the audience’s attention; Give them value; Be memorable and Manage your timing.

 +44 (0)1608 611211  anneli@sandler.com  www.oxford.sandler.com

 +44 (0)1865 436791  alisonhaill@opcoxford.com  www.opcoxford.com

WEIE Digital

Cafe Success

The Necessity of Building an Integrated Online Marketing Plan

Facebook is an A£sset, Likes are not Enough

Lydiah Igweh is a Digital Strategist, trainer, speaker and partner of WEIE DIGTAL, an Oxfordshire based online marketing consultancy and training provider. Learning a new social media and how to integrate it into the business is not an easy task, much less when you compare all the other jobs that have to be done. Search engine optimisation, pay per click, e-mail, display ads, analytics. You’ve already had to deal with Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, how much more can you take? In this presentation Lydiah Igweh introduces you to an integrated online marketing four step plan so that you’ll make time to actually have time to get around to accomplishing tasks rather than letting them pile up, and you feel guilty about it. By the end of this session we had a renewed sense of purpose and direction for our marketing, and no longer feel intimidated by social media.

Facebook is a powerful tool for every business but is being neglected by most. It gives businesses the ability to connect with their customers in an informal way, to build up awareness and trust so that when the time comes to buy the company is at the front of mind. The delegates enjoyed our presentation as it demonstrated how even small businesses can use Facebook effectively and shared the secrets to maximising its value. In the 21st Century, social media must be fully integrated into every business marketing strategy. It works for any company in any sector. Contact us for social media marketing strategy reviews, workshops or one to one training.

 +44 (0)808 252 9305  info@weieagency.co.uk  www.weieagency.co.uk

 +44 (0)1235 507100  andrew@cafesuccesshub.com  www.cafesuccesshub.com/social

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POD 8 Business in Oxford 2025

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Wendy Tindsley & Richard Cooper (Oxford Innovation), Dr Peter Long & Dr Gavin Killip (University of Oxford), David Prescott (Blackwell’s), Dr Adrian Stokes (University of Oxford) Despite the heavy links with the past, Oxford is a city that is very much looking forwards to the future in terms of business innovation. There are also strong links between academia and business, with many examples countywide where the two have combined. The presentations in this POD explore ways in which businesses in Oxfordshire are working towards the future and driving innovation.

Main Sponsor Oxford Innovation’s mission is to ensure companies achieve ambitious growth plans and overcome barriers to growth. We do this by providing inspiring, low risk environments, coupled with coaching services to facilitate faster, stronger growth and funding services to open up further growth opportunities.

We were founded in 1987 and originally based in a couple of portakabins, but we now manage a growing network of innovation centres across Oxfordshire and the rest of the UK. In Oxfordshire, we run seven innovation centres located in Oxford, Witney, Bicester, Upper Heyford, Culham and Harwell.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Oxford Innovation

Innovation in Oxfordshire Oxfordshire is a hotbed for science, innovation and enterprise, with some of the most exciting high tech companies making Oxfordshire their home. This presentation explores some of the components that businesses need to grow, and why Oxfordshire is such a good place for businesses to do that, looking specifically at what makes Oxfordshire unique compared to other centres of innovation, such as Cambridge and London. There are some challenges though, particularly with changes in the funding and support landscape, so we showcase some of the support and facilities on offer, concluding the session with a debate about what more can be done to ensure Oxfordshire can continue to support the growth of its resident businesses.

 +44 (0)1865 261489  e.mckechnie@oxin.co.uk  www.oxin-centres.co.uk

University of Oxford

2025 with the University of Oxford Academia and business work together at Oxford, through research, teaching, technology incubators, intellectual property, and policy that shapes the future. Natalie Berge showed how the Saïd Business School’s Entrepreneurship Centre and Launchpad hosts the networking of innovative ideas into successful business. Dr Adrian Stokes described trends in professional development as a responsibility of the individual and the organisation, with benefits to businesses’ recruitment pools. The University provides professional training in technologies, and in the flexible management skills needed in everexpanding markets. Setting up business in Oxfordshire? University-developed products help business owners navigate complex land use and sustainability responsibilities. Dr Peter Long showcased the Local Ecological Footprinting Tool (LEFT), providing business-tested land mapping reports which inform development decisions. Dr Gavin Killip described a winning strategic approach for Oxfordshire’s Low Carbon economy.  +44 (0)1865 270158  matthew.smart@admin.ox.ac.uk  www.ox.ac.uk/research/innovation-and-partnership

Blackwell’s

The Aspects of Running an Independent Chain of Bookshops David Prescott, CEO of Blackwell UK Limited, talks about the local, national and international aspects of running an independent chain of bookshops.

The portfolio of Blackwell’s includes a range of different types of physical bookshop - Flagship, High Street, Campus and Specialist - as well as an Online Bookshop. Blackwell’s also provides Business Services to Corporate and Professional sectors and has contracts with a large amount of organisations including the NHS, the Ministry of Defence and University Consortia across the UK. David answers questions such as; What are the challenges facing bookselling in the twenty-first century? What is the balance between a centralised and a localised strategy for a unique business such as Blackwell’s? How is Blackwell’s putting customers at the heart of everything it does? How does tradition and a proud bookselling heritage marry up with technology and innovation? How is the flagship bookshop, located at 48-53 Broad Street, leading the way for the rest of the company?  +44 (0)1865 792792  oxford@blackwell.co.uk  www.blackwell.co.uk

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POD 9 IT & Communications

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Barrie Gardiner (SSE Telecoms), Mark Elliott (iHub), Priya O’Shea (Microsoft), Claire Jacques (BSDR), Mark Salisbury (Oxford Knowledge Company), Ross Wilson (CIS) This POD explores the challenges facing businesses in an increasingly computerised age, whether this is changes in E.U data regulations, upgrades in office based software or the increased use of cloud storage systems. The presentations explain how businesses can adapt to these changes whilst ensuring their client’s data is protected.

Main Sponsor We believe partnership is the key to mutual and sustainable growth. We are committed to making your business work more efficiently through innovation, support and expertise. CIS was established in 1993 specialising in IT solutions, services and consultancy. Our core focus of providing enterprise IT solutions to businesses locally, nationally and internationally has continued whilst our offering has grown to include our own Private Cloud. We offer a wide range of services, and take a flexible approach to our client relationships. CIS would like the opportunity to be your chosen partner. Our goal is to proactively improve your IT so that you can confidently manage your business and so we can ensure your IT works smarter.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations CIS

Brookstreet des Roches

Eu Data Protection Regulation: Is Your Business Prepared?

Cloud Computing

Ross Wilson, a speaker for CIS, presented around Cyber Security and the forthcoming EU Data Protection Regulations that will be enforced in the near future. Presentation Highlights: An overview of the proposed EU Data Protection Regulations; Compliance with the EU Data Protection Regulations; Layered security and Data Breach Prevention. The overall message of the presentation was to help businesses take the right approach to securing their company data in use, at rest and in transit. To learn more about complying with the upcoming Data Protection Regulation, how to protect your data and to ask questions in a more personal and one-to-one environment then contact CIS or visit the website to find out when next roundtable event is. For further info please see page XX in B4 Magazine Issue 41.

Claire Jacques, Senior Associate at BSDR LLP, presented on Cloud Computing and the risk of cyber-attacks. Businesses are having to deal with a significant increase in the quantity and value of data.

There is a huge competitive advantage in harnessing this data explosion. However, with such opportunities come a range of legal and commercial risks associated with storing and exploiting such vast quantities of data. Cyber-attacks are increasing at an unprecedented rate and these cost money, damage to infrastructure and reputation.

Another consequence is the increased use of cloud providers to store, analyse and back up important or sensitive business data. Claire discussed best practice tips on how to manage the risk of a cyberattack, and gave guidance on how to decode the jargon of cloud services and ensure contracts with cloud providers reflect customer’s requirements, and protect their, and their customer’s, data.

 01367 700555  solutions@cisltd.com  www.cisltd.com

 +44 (0)1235 836643  claire.jacques@bsdr.com  www.bsdr.com

The Oxford Knowledge Company & Microsoft

The Oxford Knowledge Company

Do I move to Office 365?

Struggling with Poor Connectivity: What are your Options?

Mark Salisbury, MD of Oxford Knowledge Company, discussed what businesses should consider when moving to Office 365. Office 365 is not a single offering but several subscriptions providing different combinations of Office software and online services such as hosted Exchange (email); it’s important that you subscribe to the right combination for your specific business needs. After explaining some of these options, Mark introduced Priya O’Shea from Microsoft to answer specific questions. Priya also explained that whereas Office 365 requires little support once it’s running smoothly, Microsoft are finding that the IT service providers are invaluable: to help choose the right Office365 package; to provide support during the initial set up with, for example, email migration; and to provide initial user training. If you are interested in learning more, you can request a free consultation by calling 01865 322100.

The Oxford Knowledge Company were the largest independent supplier locally of the government’s broadband voucher scheme.

Mark Salisbury, MD, presented an overview of connectivity since the scheme ended and demonstrated that retail connectivity options are still patchy. For example, he showed Woodins Way in Oxford city where connectivity options vary over metres in the same street!

After providing an independent view of five different connectivity technologies with pricing and availability, Mark then introduced a new Ethernet supplier team to Oxfordshire. SSE Telecoms’ Barrie Gardiner and Mark Elliott of iHub specialise in providing business-grade Ethernet connectivity to hard-to-reach locations. SSE Telecoms are a little known option who are investing heavily in the area, and iHub, based in Milton Park, offer customer-focussed, supporting services such as VOIP telephony.

 +44 (0)1865 322100  enquires@oxford-knowledge.com  www.oxford-knowledge.com

 +44 (0)1865 322100  enquires@oxford-knowledge.com  www.oxford-knowledge.com

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POD 10 The Economic Benefits to Oxford of Partnerships

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Phil Southall (Oxford Bus Company), John Disley (Oxfordshire County Council), Louise Chantal (Oxford Playhouse), Alex Robinson (Grosvenor) Partnerships and working together with other companies or groups are crucial to many businesses in generating growth.

This POD explores some of the many partnerships that exist within Oxford. The presentations talk about the multiple partnerships the Oxford Bus Company has formed with local authorities, the joint ventures between Oxford City Council and property investment company Grosvenor and the way in which The Oxford Playhouse uses partnerships to generate funding.

Main Sponsor Oxford Bus Company operates a comprehensive network of services in the city, as well as express coach services to London and Heathrow/Gatwick airports. All of our city and park&ride buses are easy access low floor models so that pushchair, pram and wheelchair users are welcome aboard. All our buses have free 4G wi-fi for use by passengers, and an increasing number now have audio-visual next stop information to make services accessible to those new to our city or with sight or hearing impairments. The average age of our fleet is around five years – a lot less then government guidelines suggest, and over half our city bus fleet uses hybrid propulsion to reduce harmful emissions and improve air quality.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Oxford Bus Company

Grosvenor

Unlocking Our City’s Potential

Barton Park: The Economic Benefits of Partnership

People are often surprised to hear that of all the people in Oxford’s city centre at a given moment, between 55 and 65% of them arrived there by bus. This figure is many times the national average and in a city with an economy like Oxford’s, it is an absolute necessity. Combine Oxford’s world-renowned research and technology facilities with its medieval streets and concentrated population, and you have a unique challenge in getting its residents from A to B. To tackle this, Oxford Bus Company has worked closely with over 100 local businesses to provide travel solutions for its staff. This partnership-oriented approach has also allowed productive relationships to build through forums such as the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, Oxford’s Town Team, Low Carbon Oxford, and numerous local authorities to name a few.

Alex Robinson talks about the joint venture between Oxford City Council and Grosvenor. The project is a sustainable urban extension to the north east of the city led by Barton Oxford LLP, a development partnership between Oxford City Council and property investment and development company Grosvenor Britain & Ireland (Grosvenor).

Hill was appointed by the partnership to develop the first phase of homes in January 2015. Barton Park is the first significant residential development in Oxford for many years, bringing 885 much needed new homes to the area. The first new homes will include a selection of apartments through to a number of large family homes. Designed by architects Pollard Thomas Edwards and Alison Brooks Architects, the individual and characterful new homes have been partly inspired by central Oxford’s 19th century residential neighbourhoods, and will include a striking crescent of three storey townhouses.

 +44 (0)1865 785405  phil.southall@oxfordbus.co.uk  www.oxfordbus.co.uk

 +44 (0)20 7312 6326  alex.robinson@grosvenor.com  www.grosvenor.com

Oxfordshire County Council

Oxford Playhouse

Partnership Working and the Oxford Transport Strategy

The Financial Structure of Oxford Playhouse

Oxfordshire County Council is responsible for 80% of the local government services in the county. This includes children’s services, some education services, fire and rescue, libraries and museums, roads, social care, trading standards and waste disposal. During this presentation Oxfordshire County Council cover the following: A brief history – how the transport strategy has been developed in partnership and the benefits this has brought; ‘What happens next’ – the short term, covering the next 3 years – new development (Westgate), new Highway schemes, new partnering opportunities; Our Local Transport Plan and how we take that forward together – looking at a new approach to managing a fast-growing County through Rapid Transit, Park & Ride, and technology/innovation.

The Oxford Playhouse is an independent Charitable Trust and the largest National Portfolio Organisation of the Arts Council of England (ACE) in Oxfordshire. Funding from the ACE, the University of Oxford and Oxford City Council amounts to less than 13% of our turnover, with 80% generated from ticket-sales and other entrepreuniral activity.

Oxford Playhouse has presented the best of British and international drama in Oxford since 1938. We play to over 150,000 people a year, while our participation team works with over 15,000 young people.

Louise Chantal, Director and Chief Executive of the Playhouse since 2014, gave an overview of the financial structure of the theatre, it’s financial model and programming deals; and the way it balances popular box office hits with challenging and innovative new work, a massive outreach and Education programme and free events for the community.

 +44 (0)7767 006742  John.Disley@Oxfordshire.gov.uk  www.oxfordshire.gov.uk

 +44 (0)1865 305300  Louise.Chantal@oxfordplayhouse.com  www.oxfordplayhouse.com

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POD 11 The Cloud and Your Business

Overview Pictured above (left to right): James White (InTouch CRM), Ed Porter, Hayley Simmons & Sarah Gardener (Shaw Gibbs), John Hones (8-Digital), Richard Till (Google) The future of online business is changing. More companies than ever are using cloud based systems and multichannel marketing campaigns to interact with and attract new clients.

This POD explores the changes in technology and how these can be utilised to help a business grow.

Main Sponsor Shaw Gibbs is a leading firm of independent accountants and business advisors based in Oxfordshire. From our modern North Oxford offices we adopt a ‘fresh approach’ to the delivery of the full range of accountancy and related financial services to both corporate and personal clients. We are a vibrant organisation with a passion for business and finance.

Investing in the latest technology and being up-to-date with current legislation and best practice enables us to meet our clients’ needs in the best possible way. Our team are proud to work to our values – fun, fair, commercial, professional & dynamic. We communicate in ‘plain English’ and deliver in a pro-active way!

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Shaw Gibbs

InTouch CRM

The Changing Cloud Environment

9 Technology Trends Driving the Future of Business

There has been a significant increase in the take up of cloud computing. In Oxfordshire, almost two-thirds of business owners are said to believe cloud based platforms would improve the services provided by professional advisers. The benefits of cloud computing include the ability to access information in one place, low capital expenditure and the convenience of being able to log-on anywhere any time. Shaw Gibbs presented at Business in Oxford on their partnership with Xero and the new online fixed fee accounting service: SGConnex. The cloud-based platform is a perfect solution for small businesses which gives the opportunity to sign up to a basic package or add-on extra services like payroll, VAT, and personal tax return. The basic package of annual accounts and corporation tax starts at £69 at www.sgconnex.com.

The Future and it’s impact on our businesses! - Technology is all around us. It is now becoming an integral part of how we interact with each other, communicate with customers and conduct business. It is also changing the way we operate in our daily lives and it’s likely to continue to change and evolve in the coming years! Technology shapes our future, and in his presentation James White talked about the biggest technological shifts that are about the come in the next 3-4 years, the key business people driving those shifts and the potential impact on all of our businesses! James also outlined how you can prepare for what the future is going to bring and take advantage of it!

 +44 (0)1865 292200  support@sgconnex.com  www.sgconnex.com

 +44 (0)333 200 7273  j.white@intouchcrm.com  www.intouchcrm.com

8-Digital

8 Digital & Google

Multichannel Marketing, Campaigns and Search

Multichannel Marketing, Campaigns and Search

Multichannel marketing has grown considerably in the last few years and companies are distributing marketing content through an ever increasing number of channels. Why? Because audiences are more likely to respond to marketing messages if they see the same message across multiple channels. Each marketing channel has something unique to offer and consumers interact with different channels in different ways. By exploiting their various strengths, you will create a far-reaching campaign that consumers can truly engage with. A wellexecuted campaign is the difference between successfully enabling your brand to stand out and be seen, or risk being lost in the noise of today’s competitive markets. When consumers learn about an interesting new product or service, one of the first places they go for research is a search engine. In this session 8-digital discussed the best methods to achieve a successful multichannel marketing campaign.

Google has made big steps in providing additional information on demographics and the ability to target audiences, specifically through the Google Display Network. When bidding on search engines, most demographic information is not great. However, there is now a way to bridge the gap between demographics and search keyword strategies. Retargeting is another pivotal factor of multichannel marketing. Retargeting or Remarketing ads will offer a different dimension to your strategy. Therefore, it’s important to focus on how your ad retargeting campaigns are setup. This year at the Business in Oxford event 8-digital and Google discussed the winning formulas for a search campaign. Along with the latest search trends leading the way in 2016 they also discussed the framework and best practices for successful ad display and retargeting campaigns.

 +44 (0)1295 817638  john@8-digital.com  www.8-digital.com

 +44 (0)1295 817638  john@8-digital.com  www.8-digital.com

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POD 12 Preventing Against Disasters in Your Business

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Emma Delap (Lewis Silkin), Jack Ogden (DC Response), James Pitt & Sue Staunton (James Cowper Kreston), Helen Money (Helen Money Nutrition), James Storke (Lewis Silkin) All businesses face risks that could potentially affect revenue, whether this is the threat of fraud, power shortages or under performing staff. The presentations in this POD are all about preventing these and ensuring businesses can perform to their maximum.

Main Sponsor With strategically placed offices in the South of England, membership of Kreston International and a global network of independent accountants and business advisers, James Cowper Kreston is ideally placed to provide informed local, national and international advice. An integrated approach lies at the very heart of our business ethos. We consider all the angles when it comes to providing the widest levels of help, service and support for our clients, and apply the same approach to our people. We believe that a constructive work environment ultimately benefits everyone involved, including you. Whatever your accounting or business advisory needs, our specialist teams work together on your behalf.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations James Cowper Kreston

DC Response

Detecting and Preventing Internal Fraud

Downtime is not an Option!

Almost everyday the press is full of stories about fraud being perpetrated against companies and individuals, including such stories as the breach of data security at Talk Talk and the recent Volkswagen issues, but fraud is increasingly affecting smaller businesses too and being aware of the issues relating to fraud is essential in order to best protect your company. In our presentation we considered: The nature of fraudulent activity being perpetrated at the moment, including internal fraud and fraudulent attacks from outside; Ways to spot indications of potential fraud; How to protect yourself and your company against fraud.

Businesses take huge risks by not implementing adequate protection against the abnormalities of the power supply. Recent research by communications provider Avaya revealed that network outages cost companies an average of £54,750 per year! Outages or power interruptions have a catastrophic impact in loss of sales, loss of data and downtime. With power cuts on the increase, why take the risk? Jack Ogden, Commercial Director at DCResponse shares his knowledge on the Uninterruptible Power Supply industry, and delves deeper into how best to protect your business through a UPS solution.

Some of the topics Jack covered included the impact a power outage can have on your business; How to adequately protect your business; Is your UPS solution working effectively and efficiently?

 +44 (0)1865 861166  jpitt@jamescowper.co.uk  www.jamescowperkreston.co.uk

 +44 (0)1993 708855  jack.ogden@dcresponse.co.uk  www.dcresponse.co.uk

Lewis Silkin

Helen Money Nutrition

Cautionary Tales for Employers

Preserving Human Capital

Employment and HR law is complex and ever changing. Without the benefit of expert guidance, you may miss something crucial and run into costly disputes with employees or unfortunate run-ins with Government agencies. Did you know, for example, that the law about holiday pay changed recently and some employees may be able to claim for up to two years’ back pay for holidays? Lewis Silkin’s presentation highlighted some “Cautionary Tales” with acknowledgement and thanks of course to Hilaire Belloc and Basil T Blackwood – which are “Designed for the Admonition of Employers”.

Some of the Cautionary Tales are new and some are existing quirks in UK employment law which you may not know about. All are relevant to you as an employer no matter how many (or few) people you employ.

Human capital in most sectors distinguishes a leading company from it’s competitors. What would it mean to your business if employees were not performing to the best of their ability? What would it mean to your business if you or key employees were on sick leave? Eating the right foods at the right time can lower the risk of this happening.

What we eat impacts wellbeing and also energy levels, brain function and response to stress; in a nutshell the things that increase the value of human capital. There is strong evidence that children who eat breakfast perform better at school demonstrating improved attention span and application of knowledge. The physiological reasons behind this are no different in adults. If breakfast is a game changer, is lunch?

Or could what we eat before a meeting help clinch that deal? During this presentation Helen Money addresses these questions and recommends foods to eat for peak performance.

 +44 (0)20 7074 8489  emma.delap@lewissilkin.com  www.lewissilkinemployment.com

 +44 (0)7961 394201  helen@helenmoneynutrition.com  www.helenmoneynutrition.com

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Helen Money Nutrition

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POD 13 Apprenticeships

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Mike Thompson (Barclays), Caroline Robbins (Oxford United Community Trust), Trevor French (Barclays), Paddy Patterson (Maverish), Pablo Lloyd (Activate Enterprise) Running Apprenticeship programmes could be a key way of attracting and training the next generation of business talent, however, it is something that is sometimes misunderstood and as a result overlooked by many business owners. This POD and the presentations within explain how a business can make the most out of apprenticeships and the vast swathe of benefits in taking on apprentices.

Main Sponsor With 325 years of history and expertise in banking, Barclays operates in over 50 countries and employs over 130,000 people worldwide. Barclays is an international financial services provider, we move, lend, invest and protect money for customers and clients worldwide. We are engaged in personal, corporate and investment banking, credit cards, investment banking and wealth management, with an extensive presence in Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia. The last few years have seen unprecedented challenges for businesses across the UK. Small or large companies, start-ups and multinational corporations, operating in the UK and abroad – and we are focussed to deliver for our clients, ensuring they are at the heart of everything we do and that Barclays’ help people to achieve their ambitions – in the right way.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Barclays

Activate Enterprise

Ambitions for the Future: Everyone has them

Return on Investment on Apprenticeships

Recruitment and retention of staff is a key challenge for businesses in Oxfordshire and we believe that Apprenticeships are an important way to be able to meet that challenge. Barclays was proud to sponsor the Apprenticeship pod as Apprenticeships form a key part of the Barclays Employability initiative. We want to create opportunities for people, who have the aptitude, attitude and ambition to achieve beyond the opportunities they have been given. In addition to providing apprenticeship opportunities within Barclays, some of the other ways in which we do that are: Our colleagues are engaged in skills-based volunteering including mentoring opportunities, we work with our clients to share best practice on employability including apprenticeships and we help provide businesses with support to employ young people.

Activate Enterprise is the region’s largest apprenticeship & training provider, supporting over 1,000 businesses every year. We are part of Activate Learning which includes the Colleges at City of Oxford, Banbury & Bicester and Reading. Our larger clients, like BMW, are very focused on the benefits of training, and apprenticeships in particular can generate an excellent return on investment. The main benefits are: Competitive Advantage by catching talent at an early age; Cost Effectiveness by not having to pay graduate wages; Development for Other Staff as managers of new apprentices. The key to securing a good return is to: Plan & Evaluate your apprenticeship programme; allow 6 months for Recruitment: Train the apprentices’ managers; Get Expert Help from Activate Enterprise, or other experts, to navigate the levy and other regulations.

 +44 (0)7917 426547  trevor.french@barclays.com  www.barclays.com

 +44 (0)1865 551015  Pablo.Lloyd@Activate-Enterprise.co.uk  www.activate-enterprise.co.uk

Maverish

Oxford United Community Trust

Norms and Reforms: Making Sense of Apprenticeships

Our Charitable Purpose

If you’re confused about Apprenticeships, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Barely a day passes without some headline or another praising Apprenticeships, telling us things like how many £ per week each Apprentice adds to their employer’s turnover. The trouble is there is another set of regular headlines damning Apprenticeships as lightweight training, piled high and sold cheap. To add to the confusion, an additional collection of messages are telling us that the whole Apprenticeship system is changing but that employer’s needn’t worry, they should just start employing Apprentices if they don’t already, or keep recruiting more Apprentices if they already do….and it’ll all be okay in the end. What’s an employer to do? What does it all mean? Our presentation described and advised on the Apprenticeship system in its current form and looked at the changes we can expect over the next four years.

Caroline Robbins, Director of the Oxford United Community Trust, discussed the importance of apprenticeships and how to make them worthwhile. The Oxford United Community Trust is a registered Charity with the responsibility of delivering football and associated activities at all levels. The Trust provides the children, parents, young people, local authorities and schools in the Oxfordshire area with many different services including coaching courses, after school clubs, soccer courses and match day experiences. It is our aim to provide the people of Oxfordshire with a clear development pathway at all levels and ages with exit routes suited to all. Oxford United have produced a strategic plan for the continuation of the nurturing of young talent and the development of future players for Oxford United Football club with the aim of them representing the club within the higher League`s in the future.

 +44 (0)7455 007 293  Paddy@maverish.co.uk  linkedin.com/company/maverish-ltd

 +44 (0)1865 783236  crobbins@oufc.co.uk  www.oufc.co.uk

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POD 14 Property

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Jon Peart (Savvy Group), David Gilson (College & County), Vicky Hernandez (Hedges Law), Steve Dunne (Savvy Group). Other Presenters: Martin Emery (Ridge & Partners) This POD is all about the advantages that can be had by investing in infrastructure and property. Hedges Law explain the updates in legal processes, whilst The Savvy Group demystify the issues behind starting a building project. Ridge and Partners explain the services they offer to businesses thinking about moving into property management and College and County highlight the benefits of investing in the private rental sector.

Main Sponsor Hedges have been delivering legal solutions to our clients for over 200 years. Our highly skilled team of lawyers has the knowledge and expertise to resolve even the most complex legal issues that you bring to us. At Hedges, however, we recognise you aren’t just looking for history, an impressive CV and an ability to recite the law. That’s why, over and above our technical excellence, our pledge is to deliver: The highest level of client care; everything you need; teamwork; imagination and the right result. We’re not a supersized firm but we like that: it ensures that we can build strong loyal relationships with our clients, provide expert and bespoke legal solutions and take the very best care of you.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Hedges Law

College & County

Keeping it Legal

Investing in Oxford Residential Market

The legal property world can often move at quite a fast and furious pace. Ensuring you’re up to speed with the latest rules and regulations could not be more critical: get it wrong and you and your company could end up in very hot water. The ideal of course is to be one step ahead and know about changes in the law that are coming up on the horizon too. By way of example: changes in the energy efficiency regulations mean that by 2018 it will be unlawful to let properties that fail to achieve a prescribed minimum energy performance standard.

The improvements required may be so financially onerous as to mean the property becomes unsellable too! Our property team always have their finger on the legal pulse, and Vicky Hernandez, our Head of Property, shares with you the bits you really need to know. What’s changing, when, what it all means (in plain english!) and what you should be doing next.

This presentation exposed ‘Business Owners’ and ‘Board Member’s of Ltd Companies’ to some of the advantages of having an investment strategy that includes property in the PRS. We learnt; Different mechanisms for business owners to invest in the Private Rented Sector in Oxford; Returns and tax advantages, as well as looking at some examples. David Gilson also described how the current political climate and noise from DCLG makes business investment a more attractive option. There was also an opportunity to register for College & County’s regular bulletins which identify strong investment opportunities in Oxford.

 +44 (0)1865 594265  vicky.hernandez@hedgeslaw.co.uk  www.hedgeslaw.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 722722  David@collegeandcounty.co.uk  www.collegeandcounty.biz

Ridge & Partners

Savvy Group

Ridge Celebrates 70 Years in Oxford: 1946 to 2016

Demstifying the Building Process

Health and safety management is one of the many services offered

by Ridge and Partners and this session focused on some of the things that can go wrong for ordinary business if the proper controls are not in place. For most businesses a simple risk based approach works well, and providing that the business has a properly audited trail and justifiable reasons for the selection of their risk mitigation techniques, supplemented by appropriate advice, even in the event of an adverse incident most employers will be ‘in the clear’. With a huge increase in the level of fines for H&S offences now in force, now is the time to ensure that your business is fully compliant with all relevant legislation.

Contact Ridge and Partners for further advice and assistance.

It is essential for any economic growth to facilitate development, invest in employment, enable stronger transport links and provide infrastructure that allows businesses and communities to expand.

When it comes to taking on a building project, in whatever form, there are many pitfalls and no end of red tape to get through, which can be very daunting. Savvy Group - have a wealth of knowledge in this area, and employ some of the most experienced and skilled professionals in the construction industry. In this session at BIO 2016, Savvy demystifies some of the issues that surround a building project, by laying out some of the core areas that need to be considered and to hopefully take away some of the fears that can surround such projects. This presentation equipped companies with the confidence and tools they need to not be intimidated by a building project and, as a consequence, aid development growth in Oxfordshire.

 +44 (0)1993 815 000  enquiries@ridge.co.uk  www.ridge.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 920040  steve@savvyconstruction.co.uk  www.group-savvy.co.uk

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POD 15 Tourism & Culture

Overview Pictured above (left to right): David Westerby (Richmond Villages), Caroline Sinclair (Ronald McDonald House Charities), Martin walker (Experience Oxfordshire), Brendan Hattam (Westgate) The pull of Oxford as a cultural and tourist attraction has long been known and this POD explores the efforts that are being done to ensure it remains one of the UK’s top destinations. The Westgate Shopping Centre detail their plans for development, whilst Experience Oxford explain their role in attracting future visitors. Ronald Mcdonald House highlight the importance of supporting charities and Richmond Villages demonstrate their concept of Community Living.

Main Sponsor The Westgate Oxford Alliance is a joint venture between Land Securities and The Crown Estate, created to deliver together the most unique opportunity in the UK, a new destination in Oxford City Centre. The Westgate Oxford Alliance has a great record in delivering sustainable, retail destinations often in historic settings. The partners in the Alliance are: Land Securities, the UK’s largest Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) and a member of the FTSE 100. The company owns and manages more than 26 million sq ft of office, retail and residential space The Crown Estate, the largest landowner in the UK, with assets ranging from farm land, regional retail and prime West End.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Westgate

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Westgate 2017 & Beyond: An Update on the Westgate Development Project

Supporting Charities in Oxford

Westgate Oxford will be a superb shopping environment that will hold over 100 new retailers, 25 restaurants and cafes, a luxury cinema and rooftop terrace dining, all which will help to transform the west end of the city, enhance the city’s infrastructure and create significant economic benefits for the local economy. The design of Westgate Oxford is a collaboration between five architectural practises and reflects a modern, innovative retail and leisure space, set in the midst of this world-famous heritage city. As such the centre has been designed to complement and integrate seamlessly with its historic setting. The scheme started construction in early 2015 and looks forward to welcoming visitors in October 2017. The presentation gave an update on progress to date on Oxford’s largest most exciting retail and dining opportunity.

Ronald McDonald House Oxford is a free 17 bedroom ‘home from home’ for families with seriously ill children being treated in the John Radcliffe Children’s Hospital. Families can stay with us, free of charge, for as long as their child is being treated, whether that is for a couple of days or for years. Like all specialist children’s hospitals, Oxford Children’s Hospital provides services across a wide region. Children and their families travel from all over the UK, including Northern Ireland, to receive vital care. We are working in partnership with Oxford University Hospitals to develop a new Ronald McDonald House within the grounds of the John Radcliffe Hospital and to extend our services to include Newborn Intensive Care. The presentation included our 5 top tips on how your business can best support charities across Oxford – including Ronald McDonald House.

 +44 (0)1865 725455  brendan.hattam@landsecurities.com  www.westgateoxford.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 234274  Caroline.Sinclair@uk.mcd.com  www.rmhc.org.uk

Richmond Villages

Experience Oxfordshire

The Village Concept of Community Living for the Over 55’s

The Oxfordshire Visitor Economy

With the UK’s changing demographics, people are looking for a much wider choice of housing with care and support in their later years which is not met by traditional care home provision. Richmond Villages, who are part of Bupa, is devoted to helping people maximise their whole quality of life whilst maintaining independence for as long as possible via their retirement villages. Richmond Witney, which has recently opened, provides the very best in retirement living. David Westerby, the Village Manager at Richmond Witney, talked not only about the different forms of accommodation and support the retirement village will provide but also about the social life and community a Richmond Village provides. David explained how the unrivalled facilities such as the Wellness Spa, restaurant and café bar all help to create a socially active and friendly community, not only for our residents but also for the wider Witney area.

Experience Oxfordshire is the Destination Management Organisation for the county. We are the lead organisation for promoting and developing leisure, business and cultural tourism in Oxfordshire.

Operating to not-for-profit principles, Experience Oxfordshire is a partnership organisation, actively engaged on a local, national and international level to grow the visitor economy. The presentation looks in more detail at the people who visit Oxfordshire; where they come from, what they do when they get here, and how much they spend on average. The insight we can glean from the data helps us focus on the key international markets, and the presentation talks through the data we have on US and French visitors and how we can look to encourage more of them to visit Oxfordshire.

 +44 (0)8000 987077  david.westerby@richmond-villages.com  www.richmond-villages.com

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 +44 (0)1865 686433  martin.walker@experienceoxfordshire.org  www.experienceoxfordshire.org

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POD 16 The Key Principles of a Successful Business

Overview Pictured above (left to right): John Kennedy (Wildbore & Gibbons), Tom Bacon (McDonalds), Bjoern Asmussen (Oxford Brookes University), David Dunne, Jon Peart & Steve Dunne (Savvy Group) What is the secret to a successful business? Oxford is known for its innovative success and there are numerous examples of small start-ups becoming thriving businesses within the space of few years. The Savvy Group share their story whilst McDonalds highlight the value of listening to customer needs.

Wildbore & Gibbons explain the secret behind building brand experience and Oxford Brookes University explain exactly what is meant by branded content.

Main Sponsor Savvy Group pride themselves on providing a full-spectrum, quality construction and maintenance service. They strive for perfect delivery on time and to budget for projects of various size and complexity. They have a passion, capability and determination to deliver beyond the expectations of a principal contractor, and this is reflected in both their client retention and volume of repeat business. Their clients approach them with the requirement for a turn-key solution to their design, development, construction and maintenance needs. Savvy’s reputation is built on quality and a collaborative working ethos which is reflected in their numerous client testimonials. They successfully work for colleges, educational, medical, healthcare and research institutions, local authorities, domestic clients and private and commercial developers.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Savvy Group

Oxford Brookes University

Building Business Success

Towards the Future of Branded Content Marketing

Oxford is a very exciting place to live, being home to a very diverse, strong and fast growing local economy. It is also said to be recognised as one of the most innovative places in the UK and so it’s no surprise that it is home to some fantastic entrepreneurial talent and new business start-up success stories. Savvy Group founded by Steve Dunne five years ago can proudly put itself in this bracket. Steve set up Savvy Group from scratch with a clear vision as to where he wanted to take the company and what he wanted to achieve. So what does it take to be a successful entrepreneur and run a thriving business? How do those that succeed make the leap from that initial vision in their minds eye and turn it into reality? Beyond that, how do they grow their vision and sustain growth over the lifecycle of the business? In Savvy’s presentation they uncovered some of these questions and shared some of the key insights that have enabled them to be so successful.

Branded content is one of the hottest topics in the marketing industry today. However, there is a lot of confusion about what it is and what it isn’t. Our presentation clarifies what branded content is from a managerial perspective, based on the interviews that we conducted with 30 leading marketing industry experts in the UK. Based on these expert interviews, we also showed some of the future trends that can help your organisation to apply (branded) content marketing successfully. This research is part of a long-term project which aims to provide clarity on what makes branded content such a powerful marketing communications concept. Applied correctly, branded content can help organisations to cut successfully through marketing clutter and engage with their audiences. It can also optimise your marketing communications strategy and add value to your brand.

 +44 (0)1865 920040  steve@savvyconstruction.co.uk  www.group-savvy.co.uk

 +44 (0)1865 485858  bjoern.asmussen@brookes.ac.uk  www.brookes.ac.uk

Wildbore & Gibbons

McDonalds

Brand Experience

Staying Close to Your Customers: Our Story of Change

We are all exposed to a 24/7 multi-media culture of news, entertainment and advertising. In a world where each company or brand is fighting for space and market share - to gain our attention, promise us an outstanding product or service and encourage us to consume, the need for differentiation becomes increasingly crucial.

In this presentation we learn: How do we interpret these competing messages? How can we choose the best product or service for our needs? How do we as companies and indeed consumers build our brand understanding? To build both our business processes and our understanding as brand consumers we must interpret and analyse the underlying structure of business and brands. The brand experience is a journey into brands and brands as business.

Tom Bacon, Franchising Consultant for McDonald’s in the Oxford area, presented the journey that the company has been on over the last ten years. He outlined how listening to the voice of its customers has been central to the changes that McDonald’s has made. The biggest changes have been in enhancing the experience for its customers through a vast programme of investment and refurbishment in its restaurants, and through its expansion and reformulation of its menu to increase choice and transparency. For its staff, McDonald’s has invested in providing access to qualifications such as Apprenticeships and Foundation degrees. Also McDonald’s restaurants are committed to their local communities through the company’s support for hundreds of grassroots football teams and by organising thousands of environmental improvement events through the ‘Love Where You Live’ programme.

 +44 (0)20 300 500 10  John.kennedy@wildbore.eu  www.wildbore.eu

 +44 (0)7715 771545  Tom.Bacon@uk.mcd.com  www.mcdonaldsservingtheuk.co.uk

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POD 17 Access Oxfordshire

Overview Pictured above (left to right): James Dillon-Godfray (London Oxford Airport), Graham Cross (Chiltern Railways), Phil Southall (Oxford Bus Company) Whether by train, plane or bus, Oxford has a plethora of transport options and is an increasingly connected city.

Chiltern Railways and the Oxford Bus Company explain how they are working to forge greater links between Oxford and London, as well as the plans to create vibrant transport hubs and ensure transport is more economic. London Oxford Airport share their views on how Britain can efficiently utilise the vast airport infrastructure.

Main Sponsor Chiltern Railways is a franchised passenger train operating company. We run trains from London’s Marylebone station to Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands. We have identified Oxfordshire as an area in need of improved rail transport, and it is one of our main focus areas for investment and improvement. New and refurbished stations, extra train services, journey time reductions, and larger station car parks have all been delivered in Oxfordshire over the course of our long investment led franchise, and we have plans to deliver more benefits. Our customers can expect to receive a safe, reliable, welcoming and value for money service, tailored to meet customer needs. All our Mainline trains offer tables, plus sockets and free Wi-Fi.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Chiltern Railways

A New Way to Travel to London Graham Cross informs us what Chiltern Railways has planned for Oxfordshire travel. Oxford has an urgent need for improved public transport, to enable it to grow and prosper, without causing congestion and pollution. At Chiltern Railways we are taking a three stepped approach to improving rail services in the area: On 26 October 2015 we opened Oxford Parkway station, the first new railway station in Oxfordshire for over 70 years. From 12 December 2016, the number of trains between Oxford and London will double. The rail journey time from Oxford to Bicester Village – home to the designer outlet, and England’s fastest growing town – will be just 15 minutes, giving a stress free alternative to the A34, and meeting the growing need of people who work in Oxford and live in Bicester. We are also in the early stages of planning to extend train services over the Cowley Branch line, with the prospect of new rail stations at Oxford Science Park and Oxford Business Park – each of which would have direct Chiltern Railways trains to Bicester and London Marylebone.

 graham.cross@chilternrailways.co.uk  www.chilternrailways.co.uk

Oxford Bus Company

Working Together Travelling around Oxfordshire and accessing it from outside the county relies on a great number of factors. Transport operators must be able to work in partnership with other operators, local authorities, central government, and of course their customers. Oxford Bus Company has been delivering transport solutions to the people of Oxfordshire since 1881 and today has a network that is the envy of cities across the UK. By closely balancing the needs of regular users and the leisure market, services are tailored and developed in a customer-responsive manner. Constant investment in new vehicles and value-adding features such as power sockets, WiFi and mobile apps help to keep the company competitive, attractive to customers and commercially viable.

 +44 (0)1865 785405  phil.southall@oxfordbus.co.uk  www.oxfordbus.co.uk

London Oxford Airport

Making the Best use of the UK’s Airport Infrastructure Our presentation explored what could be possible for regional connectivity on our doorstep, were there the will and a way to move forward, with rational and viable commercial development. Additionally we highlighted the role the airport plays already within the regional market with over 5,500 private business flights a year carrying over 8,000 passengers, very often leaders of industry, maximising productivity where the UK ranks particularly poorly on overall productivity benchmarks. We also highlighted a new dawn in lower cost private air charter as for the first time in Europe, single-engined aircraft will be available for commercial operations bringing the costs per seat-mile down to levels that compete with the UK’s very high cost train services.

 +44 (0)1865 290710  jdg@londonoxfordairport.com  www.oxfordairport.co.uk

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POD 18 Economic Outlook & Business Trends

Overview Pictured above (left to right): Ian Thomas, Beenu Rudki, Peter Arnold & Harriet Walker (Ernst & Young) Understanding the changes in economic policy and the affects this could have on a company’s workforce is crucial to any developing business. Ernst and Young highlight some of the key reforms to employment taxes and to working visas; they also highlight the importance of adapting to changing economic forecasts.

Main Sponsor EY is a global leader in professional services with over 212,000 people based in 150 countries. We go to market through four service lines: Assurance, Tax, Advisory and Transaction Advisory Services (TAS). Our multi-disciplinary business model means we team seamlessly across service lines, as well as across sectors and geographies. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities. At EY in the Thames Valley, we serve a wide range of clients from fast-growing entrepreneurial start-ups through to large privately-owned, FTSE 350 companies and some of the world’s leading multinational companies.

See the video presentations on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html See the powerpoints on-line at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html

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Presentations Ernst & Young

Ernst & Young

Employment Taxes

UK Economic Outlook

The employment tax landscape is ever changing, with the introduction of The Office for Tax Simplification, an increase in HMRC compliance activity and the global workforce arena we work in which seems at odds with archaic legislation. The presentation guides us through the changes which seem to be impacting employers the most, the effect of such changes and practical information to assist in dealing with these changes in your businesses. Ian Thomas also provides latest updates on areas that are currently still in the consultation stages, but may have significant impacts on your businesses future employment actions. In addition, Ian explores a couple of areas which may have a direct employment effect on your business, but which steps outside the normal banner of “employment taxes”.

EY have been sole sponsors of the ITEM Club for 25 years. It is the only non-governmental forecasting group to use HM Treasury’s model of the UK economy. Our reports provide a detailed economic analysis and forecast of economic activity for the period ahead. They are independent of any political, economic or business bias. EY ITEM Club is part of Economics for Business, which provides knowledge, analysis and insight to help businesses understand the economic environments in which they operate, both in the UK and within the Global economy. In Peter’s presentation he presented a summary of the latest EY ITEM Club UK spring forecast including the implications for business. Peter also considered recent and expected investment trends for the UK- by drawing on insights from the EY UK attractiveness survey, which examines the attractiveness of a particular region of country as an investment destination.

 +44 (0)7919 071682  ithomas2@uk.ey.com  www.ey.com

 +44 (0)7980 589964  parnold@uk.ey.com  www.ey.com

Ernst & Young

Ernst & Young

Reforms to Employer Sponsored Visas in the UK

Rebalancing: UK Region Ecomonic Forecast

Immigration remains a hot topic in the UK, and the need for employers to attract and retain top global talent is as high as ever.

The UK Government has recently announced significant changes to the sponsored visa route, Tier 2, which attempt to achieve the government’s political objective of lowering immigration whilst continuing to attract the ‘brightest and best’. Beenu Rudki considered the changes that will be implemented over the next twelve months and how they will affect start-ups, UK graduates and various industries.

In particular, the introduction of an Immigration Skills Charge aims to incentivise employers to train the resident workforce and reduce their reliance on non-EEA workers. We learn what effects will these changes have on the UK economy, employers and non-EEA nationals.

EY’s region and city reports provide the latest UK economic forecast an examine the current economic trends and outlook for the next three years in 12 regions and 19 cities across the UK. Our new report, Rebalancing: UK region and city economic forecast predicts that London’s economy will expand by 3.4% in Gross Value Added (GVA) terms in 2015, compared with 2.3% for the wider UK. In this sesson Harriet Walker presented the key findings from this analysis with a focus on Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley region. In particular Harriet presented the economic outlook for the region in terms of GVA growth and employment, the sectoral composition of the region and its relative strengths and challenges. Harriet also considered recent investment trends.

 +44 (0)7557 319014  brudki@uk.ey.com  www.ey.com

 +44 (0)7825 100653  hwalker@uk.ey.com  www.ey.com

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John Kennedy BSc FIDM Business in Oxford 2016

Overview

Wildbore & Gibbons

John Kennedy is a Fellow of the Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (F IDM) and a regular speaker on Intellectual Property, Brands, and Brand Protection with the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (ITMA) Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) Legus Network and many UK, US and international business groups. John has chair and spoken at the Business in Oxford conference in 2014, 2015 and 2016.

John has a particular interest in how brands are developed, expanded, protected and managed.

Wildbore & Gibbons LLP we have a team of expert Trade Mark Attorneys and highly experienced administrative staff who are dedicated to offering clients tailored trade mark and brand protection advice.

 +44 (0)2030 050 010  John.kennedy@wildbore.eu  www.wildbore.eu

How can Wildbore advise you?

Corporate Clients: We advise on and support the work of in house Corporate Counsel and In house IP teams. Many of our clients have global Trade Mark portfolios and we can take the role of an integrated “in house” team or support in house personnel in their trade mark work. We take a very collaborative approach and tailor our services to the specific needs of our clients.

SME clients: We offer smaller and medium sized enterprises a complete advice package as often they do not have a dedicated resource to look after their trade marks. We are very much focused on controlling expenditure and working with clients to understand their brand strategy and business challenges. Very often protecting their brand can be one of the most valuable areas to focus on.

Start Ups and “Growth Businesses”: We are particularly keen to work with exciting new businesses which are developing their brands. We have a great track record in controlling costs, developing filing strategies and working with growing companies – who recognize that their hard work on growing a new brand needs to include protecting their brand and its growing value for the future of their business.

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SEE ALL 72 PRESENTATIONS AND POWERPOINTS ON-LINE Not able to make it to this year’s Business in Oxford? Would you like to recap on the presentations you found interesting? Visit our website at www.businessinoxford.com/presentations16.html to see the videos and powerpoints of every presentation shown at BIO 2016.

Are you interested in presenting at BIO2017? To find out more about presenting & sponsorship, call 01865 742211 or email info@businessinoxford.com.

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30 years of

property solutions Independent property consultancy firm, Kempton Carr Croft celebrates 30 years of business in May 2016.

WRITTEN BY: KATIE FINCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DAN TSANTILIS

Established by Malcolm Kempton and Michael Carr in 1986, the multi-disciplined firm has grown to over 40 staff and seven local offices that support its head office in Maidenhead to provide property solutions across London and the Thames Valley.

30 years has seen Kempton Carr Croft become an award winning, trusted and recognisable regional firm for property consultancy services.

Key milestones to date include the acquisition of three smaller firms, growth from two to over forty staff, four head office relocations, nurturing seven graduates through completion of their Assessment of professional qualification (APC) to gain Chartered status, and implementing business changing CRM technology and restructuring plans in 2016.

Business owners Michael Carr and Malcolm Kempton reflect on their time working together and look ahead at what’s to come for Kempton Carr Croft.

How did you meet?

MC: We were Scouts together as teenagers then met up again by a chance encounter via volunteering as Scout Leaders after university. Unbeknown to each other, we’d both pursued property careers independently and after putting the world to rights in a pub catch up we felt it was the right time to give our own practice a go. Kempton Carr was formed eight months later in May 1986 and the rest as they say is history!

The early years MC: We began in a serviced office on King Street in Maidenhead. It was absolutely tiny with just enough room for a desk, phone and filing cabinet!

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As you’d expect the first few years were tough but a big breakthrough came when we invited local professionals in Maidenhead to a reception event which resulted in our first valuation panel appointment with Barclays bank. Prior to this, the majority of our work consisted of private valuations with some landlord and tenant cases. Now we had regular commercial instructions, business picked up and we made our first professional hire in 1988 with Dave Jones, who is still working alongside us today.

Steady growth & acquisitions MK: We were fortunate to experience steady business growth over the next two decades despite some precarious moments when the 90’s recession hit. Our first acquisition was sole trader, Geoffrey Carr (no relation) in 1990, and further acquisitions of Croft and Co and Mead Briggs followed much later in 2007 and 2009 respectively. Each acquisition diversified the services we could offer our clients and played a big part in becoming the multi-disciplined firm we are known as today.

During the first 20 years we split our staff between our Gerrards Cross and Maidenhead office before regrouping in 2005. This is when we reworked our business plan, incorporated the firm in 2006 and hired several new surveyors to pave the way for the next chapter of KCC. MC: We’ve always worked with graduates at the firm and at any one time we have surveyors with over forty years of experience working alongside the next generation of surveying talent at the start of their careers. It’s a nice mix to have in a firm our size and to see them progress through the firm is very rewarding.

We firmly believe that employing graduates, nurturing, training and guiding them through their Assessment of Professional Qualification (APC) to gain Chartered status yields excellent home grown talent that only enhances our team.

To date we have brought seven graduates through this cycle, one of the first to complete this cycle is now operations manager for the business and two others have become Heads of Service for their respective departments.

Rapid Expansion MC: By 2010, we were up to 17 staff and had outgrown our office space again. We moved our head office to Chatsworth House on Broadway in Maidenhead where we remain today. This move became synonymous with presenting a new image for KCC. Rather than contract through the 2008 recession, we expanded from Maidenhead and repositioned ourselves as London and Thames Valley consultants. Rapid growth ensued and between 2013 and 2015 we went from 17 – to 40 staff to keep up with the demand for our services.

MK: Doubling our headcount in the last three years made us realise we needed to update our organisational structure so we have a scalable business platform to continue to build upon. In 2016 we defined operations and service delivery areas of the business with six heads of service responsible for progressing their respective teams and service area.

We’re now in a place where we have a solid operations team in place with experienced accountants, marketers and administrators who are capable of supporting a much larger firm. This allows us to focus on growing the business by finding the correct surveyors to join our delivery teams.

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Kempton Carr Croft has never been in such an exciting place as where it is now and we hope the next generation is going take the firm onto bigger and better things. When anyone asks “what’s been your best year?” We always say “We haven’t had it yet!”

What’s important to you as business owners?

MC: Perception. Our business is built on strong, shared moral values of honesty, hard work, professionalism, integrity and fair game. It’s important to us that these values are also perceived as characteristics of the firm by people who work with us. Building solid relationships with clients that come back to us time and time again because they trust us to do a good job is much more important to us than making a quick buck. In property, you need people you can trust and that can be hard to come by. Thirty years on and we’re still working with some of our very first clients - so we must be doing something right!

MK: People. Running a business becomes such a huge part of who you are. You live it, breathe it and never stop thinking about it, so having a happy and stable team around you with clear objectives and a shared ethos is a recipe for success. Getting the right team in place is very important to us. We don’t hire just anyone and I believe the only limit to our future growth is finding the right people to join us.

What’s your greatest achievement to date?

MC: Survival! Bringing a small business through several recessions and maintaining both a successful business relationship and friendship between us for so many years is something we’re proud of. Our

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property

working styles complement each other well and our shared moral standings mean we always know where the other sits on an issue. Malcolm is the ideas man, I take care of the regulations and then together we put things into practice. We like to think our ethos and friendly but professional approach to business has created a team that is well nurtured and works well together in a happy environment.

staff dinner and dance in April and will be inviting clients and key contacts to join us in a celebration later on in the year. Our marketing team are pulling together some great stories from the last 30 years and will be sharing them across our social media platforms throughout the year.

MK: Kempton Carr Croft is an evolving journey so it’s very hard to pick out a single milestone. One memory that does stand out to me though is a month in 1990 where we invoiced £10,000. Our average at the time was five or six thousand a month, so this felt like a big success and the four of us working at the time all went out for a big celebration!

Going from £22,000 annual turnover to invoicing over £300,000 a month shows how far we’ve come.

Kempton Carr Croft is an independent, multidisciplined firm of surveyors. Services include, building surveying, valuation, property management, commercial disposals, LPA receivership, development viability, Landlord & Tenant matters, commercial disposals, dispute resolution and expert witness work.

What does the future look like for KCC?

Kempton Carr Croft

Follow @KemptonCarr on twitter for more memories from our 30 years over the next 12 months.

MK: Defining heads of service areas this year and bringing in new CRM technology to manage our business processes and professional report creation is a big milestone for us.

Both of these changes means we can continue to nurture our staff properly, re-enforce our commitment to delivering excellent customer service and professional expertise, whilst paving the way for the next phase of business growth and development.

KEMPTON CARR CROFT P R O P E R T Y C O N S U LTA N T S

How will you be marking the milestone?

CONTACT DETAILS

We look forward to celebrating the anniversary throughout the year with the clients and staff that have made this milestone possible. We hosted a

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 enquiries@kemptoncarr.co.uk  01628 771 221  www.kemptoncarr.co.uk @KemptonCarr

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Allen Associates Executive Division

Recruiting Excellence

Allen Associates Executive Division

Building on our solid foundation in the executive market in Oxfordshire, Allen Associates now has a dedicated Executive Division.

Whether you’re a client seeking a top level executive, or high achiever looking for your next challenge, you can depend on the knowledge and experience that our Managing Consultant, Jake Shuckburgh, has gained in 11 years of recruiting in the Oxfordshire market. For a confidential discussion, please contact Jake on 01865 335611 or email jake@allen-associates.co.uk

01865 335600 allen-associates.co.uk Find us on:

@oxrecruiting

B4

hr

Executive Recruitment Getting It Right Senior positions are notoriously difficult to recruit for, but getting it right is imperative, not only because of the financial outlay but because of the impact senior leadership has on the wider business.

WRITTEN BY: KATE ALLEN

This dedicated service has been born out of Allen Associates’ 18 year track record in recruiting for roles at all levels, including helping clients to fill their most senior HR, Marketing and Finance vacancies.

Jake Shuckburgh has been appointed to head Allen Associates’ Executive Division, having run his own business and specialised in the field of executive recruitment for the last 11 years.

Kate Allen, Managing Director at Allen Associates, said: “We are extremely pleased to be able to bring a dedicated executive recruitment service to the Oxfordshire market, giving executives and businesses a credible and cost-effective alternative to the London-based offerings.

Kate Allen, Managing Director, Allen Associates

The old adage that ‘people leave managers, not companies’ rings true for a reason. A recent CIPD survey found that over half of employees left their jobs because of bad management. The same survey discovered that nearly three-quarters of people said getting along with their boss helped boost their motivation and one-third said a good relationship with their boss was even more important than job satisfaction.

One of Oxfordshire’s best known recruitment consultancies, Allen Associates, has launched an Executive Division and appointed Managing Consultant Jake Shuckburgh to lead it.

“Our confidential and bespoke service gives executives access to a range of exciting permanent and interim roles while clients can get the help they need in filling their most senior vacancies, building on their tried and tested relationships with us and knowing that we have a solid understanding of their culture as well as the resourcing needs of their business.

“We are delighted to welcome Jake to our senior management team. He has considerable executive recruitment experience and takes an intelligent and tenacious approach to his role.”

Commenting on his plans for the Executive Division, Jake Shuckburgh said: “I look forward to building on Allen Associates’ excellent reputation for quality, senior level hires, while extending the range of executive roles we offer.

“Our executive candidates are often looking for that all-important next step – or simply, to achieve something different, whether that’s a fresh challenge, a new direction, more time with the family or a shorter commute!

“Similarly, we take the time to develop a thorough understanding of every client’s brief, visiting their premises and meeting the team. Culture and team fit play a key role in our search. We look for an honest appraisal which sets out the challenges as well as the opportunities afforded by the employer, as well as the role.

“The market is buoyant and I’m looking forward to playing my part in supporting leadership and growth in Oxfordshire.”

Allen Associates’ Executive Division recruits for a wide range of senior roles, including company directors, non-executive directors, interim managers and directors, senior consultants and head of functions including Finance, HR, Marketing, Operations, Commercial and IT. If you are currently working at board level or hold a senior management position and are considering your next move, or are a potential client looking to make a senior appointment, please contact Jake in the strictest confidence. Details below.

CONTACT DETAILS

 jake@allen-associates.co.uk  01865 335 611  www.allen-associates.co.uk

Tips for recruiting the best senior executive talent?

• The board of directors, partnership or senior management team needs to be clear on the role, the type of person they need, the package they’re offering and the compromises they are willing to make to secure the right person • The application, interview, on-boarding and induction processes need to be completely seamless at all points – you need to be impressive • First and foremost, the emphasis should be on the candidate’s needs

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• Be clear about your relocation package if you are looking to recruit people outside of your immediate area • Make sure you’ve benchmarked your remuneration package so that your offer is as competitive as it can be within Oxfordshire, as well as your industry • Take advantage of the recruitment expertise available, including psychometric testing, to ensure the best possible ‘fit’

Jake Shuckburgh, Managing Consultant in Allen Associates’ new Executive Division

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Landowners advised to diversify as agricultural land values cool As agricultural land values continue to cool, owners seeking the best return on their property investment are advised to diversify to achieve the greatest performance, according to the latest research from Carter Jonas, the UK property consultancy.

WRITTEN BY: OLIVIA LANE-NOTT

“ Classic cars, once

again produced the highest one year total return in 2015, of 16.6%.

Despite regaining the pole position, this was notably lower than the 2014 level of 31.2%.

�

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B4 Carter Jonas’ Model Estate report highlights the annual performance of a notional agricultural estate, against seven other asset classes, including the residential sector, the commercial sector, classic cars, fine wine, equities, antiques, and gold. The Model Estate was valued at £38.5 million as of January 2016, a 4.7% increase from January 2015. In this year’s report, the estate’s rank slipped to fourth place of the eight asset classes.

Set within the geographical triangle of the M4, M40, and M5 motorways the Estate totals 3,168 acres, comprising of a Grade II-listed manor house, farmhouse, six let farms with I,549 acres of arable; in-hand farms with 1,073 acres of arable; three further farmhouses, four cottages, 14 commercial properties, and “other” components which include a telecoms mast, syndicate shoot, and fishing rights.

property

capital growth in London propelled by rental value growth as yields have reached an all-time low.

Catherine Penman, head of rural research at Carter Jonas, concluded: “One of the key attributes of agricultural land is its counter-cyclical nature. And whilst it is easy to focus upon the short-term performance of any asset class the Model Estate’s three year annualised return produced an impressive 8.1% per annum. This rose to 9.5% when the manor house was excluded and 10.4% when the commercial element was removed. This placed the Model Estate in second position, to classic cars.

“Since its inception in 2010, the Model Estate - excluding the commercial element - has maintained a strong position in comparison with the alternative asset classes, ranking third of eight within both the five and seven year annualised rankings.”

The let farms element of the Model Estate produced a total return of just 4.2% in 2015 in comparison with 24.3% in the previous year. Growth in 2015 was driven by capital growth, which slowed over the course of the year, in line with the overall land market. In contrast, 2014 growth was partly due to a conversion of an AHA (Agriculture Holdings Act) tenancy to a FBT (Farm Business Tenancy).

Richard Drew, head of rural in Carter Jonas’ Oxford office said: “Net incomes, profitability, and the serviceability of debt continue to be squeezed, and farmers are increasingly cautious about paying premium rental prices. Whilst demand remains for tenanted large blocks of land, we have seen market rents plateau over the last 12 months, in part due to falling commodity prices. These combined factors have caused the decrease in 2015 total returns for the let farms element of the Estate, when compared with the previous year.”

The “other” component class of the Estate achieved the best results in 2015, producing a total return of 72.5%. The increase in the value of sporting rights, from £45,000 in 2014 to £130,240 in 2015, is as a result of the decision to lease the reserved sporting rights on the let farms, whilst also reviewing the sporting rights on the in-hand land.

Mr Drew continued: “This year’s report highlights, once again, the need for strategic asset management, particularly of multiuse estates. The “other” element of the Estate does not often gain attention, however the decisions to lease sporting rights and the subsequent increase in the value of these rights is a great, and necessary, achievement. Particularly as other components, such as the commercial element, recorded a 0.0% return, as values and rental levels remained flat.”

The Model Estate’s residential portfolio recorded a 20.7% increase in value in 2015 (up from 19.7% in 2014), and was the primary driver of the Estate’s total return. This increase can in part be attributed to the decision, last year, to convert a commercial property to a residential dwelling under permitted development rights.

Of the eight asset classes the Model Estate is analysed against, classic cars, once again produced the highest one year total return in 2015, of 16.6%. Despite regaining the pole position, this was notably lower than the 2014 level of 31.2%. This was followed by the UK’s residential sector which produced a total return of 9.5%, driven by homes in the lower priced affordable outer London boroughs. The UK’s commercial sector ranked third, recording a 7.2% return. This was driven from continuing

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Richard Drew, head of rural in Carter Jonas’ Oxford

For further information or a copy of the research report, please contact:

CONTACT DETAILS

 richard.drew@carterjonas.co.uk  01865 511 444  www.carterjonas.co.uk/rural

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ThE BEAR & RAggEd STAFF CUMNOR

Wining, Dining and Superb Accommodation 4 Miles from the Mayhem of Oxford

Not only does the Bear and Ragged Staff serve fantastic food throughout the day, its conversion to a Country Inn means it is now in a position to offer a full suite of services to the discerning traveler whether on business or just looking for a home away from home for a few days.

Our food ethos can be summed up very simply, local where possible, absolutely fresh, prepared in our own kitchen. e Bear's food offering can best be described as eclectic, mainly British food, prepared with loving care and attention in well equipped kitchens, beautifully presented and served by well trained floor staff. And all this with a wine list carefully selected for quality and value.

TO BOOK A TABLE OR ROOM CALL 01865 862329 Food served all day: Mon-urs 12:00 - 21:30. Fri-Sat12:00 - 22:00 & Sun 12:00 - 21:00

28 Appleton Road, Cumnor, Oxfordshire, OX2 9QH 01865 862329 enquiries@bearandraggedstaff.com www.bearandraggedstaff.com

B4

advice

Are employers now allowed to read employees’ private messages?

A recent European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) decision regarding the monitoring of employees’ personal emails has caused quite a stir amongst employers and employees. However, has it really told us anything we did not already know?

WRITTEN BY: WILLIAM DOWNING PHOTOGRAPHY BY: CHARLIE BEST

Mr Barbulescu, a Romanian national, lodged his case with the ECHR after being dismissed by his employer for sending personal messages to his fiancée and brother during working hours. He claimed that his employer had infringed Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights by snooping on his personal emails and messages and using these as a reason to dismiss him.

Article 8 provides for a right to respect for private and family life, the home and correspondence.

Article 8 is a qualified right however which means that, if there is justification, there can be interference with that right.

In a decision that will be welcomed by employers, and appears to have sent shockwaves through some groups of employees, the ECHR ruled in favour of his employer stating that, although Article 8 had been engaged, on balance it had not been infringed. The ECHR believed it was reasonable for the employer to check whether its employees were completing their professional tasks during working hours and also considered it important that the employer initially viewed the employee’s account to search for clientrelated communications.

This decision has obvious implications for Oxfordshire businesses – but be on guard that it does not give employers blanket permission to ‘snoop’ on employees’ personal accounts and messages.

There are some important points to note from the judgment. Firstly, despite it being a Yahoo account, Mr Barbulescu was using an email account set up at his employer’s request for work purposes; it was not his personal email account.

Secondly, the employer only used the transcripts of the communications to the extent required to prove Mr Barbulescu’s breach of company policy.

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Current UK law does allow for employees’ communications using the employer’s systems to be monitored in certain circumstances. However, employers should remember that if they do undertake monitoring, they are likely to be processing personal data and their obligations under the Data Protection Act will, therefore, be engaged.

but be on guard “ that it does not give

employers blanket permission to ‘snoop’ on employees’ personal accounts and messages

”

Employers can only intercept correspondence in particular situations but will be pleased to note that this includes for the purpose of investigating or detecting the unauthorised use of a telecommunication system e.g. checking that employees are not breaching company policies on the use of email in the workplace. The Employment Practices Data Protection Code (the ‘Code’) does state that workers have a legitimate expectation that they are able to keep their personal lives private and are entitled to a degree of privacy in the workplace.

Any monitoring should, therefore, be justified by the benefits it delivers and the Code recommends that employers undertake impact assessments before commencing any monitoring. These impact assessments should identify clear purposes for the monitoring and any benefits it delivers, take into account the obligations that arise from monitoring and finally judge whether monitoring is justified.

As employers do have to be able to justify any intrusion into an employee’s personal life they should also consider less intrusive alternatives to, and ways of, monitoring correspondence on the employer’s systems. As an example, automated monitoring which blocks emails containing obscene language, but does not forward those emails to a human, is less intrusive than a line manager who can see every email sent by their employees.

If monitoring of employees’ personal communications on business accounts is the only option available then an employer who wishes to do so should take steps to remove the employees’ expectation of privacy. This includes having robust policies regarding computer usage and social media to inform employees of the extent to which they are allowed to send personal communications on the employer’s systems, whether outside or during work time, and policies regarding monitoring to notify employees of when their communications will be monitored, how often, and why it is necessary. The policies should make it clear that failing to comply could result in disciplinary proceedings being taken against the employee, up to and, including dismissal.

These policies should be clearly communicated to employees such as on the employer’s intranet, in its Employee Handbook and discussed during inductions for new staff so there can be no doubt as to either parties’ expectations.

William Downing is a Partner in the Employment law team at Blake Morgan LLP.

CONTACT DETAILS

 william.downing@blakemorgan.co.uk  01865 254 265  www.blakemorgan.co.uk

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B4

technology

World-first Medical Technology at Witney BIC Oxtex Ltd, formed in 2011, is celebrating its fifth year in business and it’s third move within the Oxford Innovation Centre group with a new office and clean room at Witney Business and Innovation Centre (Witney BIC).

WRITTEN BY: CLARE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY: RIC MELLIS

An early-stage medical technology company, Oxtex is developing a range of novel devices for soft tissue. The world-first device has applications in a range of reconstructive surgical procedures including scar revision, tumour removal, correction of birth defects and restorative dentistry. The company’s first product using the technology, Expaniderm, has already been launched successfully into the veterinary market.

David Jackson, CEO, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the growth of Oxtex. In 2011 I started the company in a xx sq. ft. office at the Oxford Centre for Innovation with just a desk, a telephone and my trusty laptop. Five years on we now have a team of eight full-time employees, xx sq. ft. of custom designed office space, a state of the art clean room and orders flowing in.”

“The clean room is essential to our business and enables us to manufacture products right here at Witney BIC. We create implantable medical devices in the clean room so it’s essential that the air quality is highly filtered and microbiologically very clean. It really is a far cry from people’s perception of what a serviced office offering might be!”

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The result of a collaboration between plastic surgeons at the John Radcliffe Hospital and researchers at the University of Oxford, initially it was essential that Oxtex was based within the city. However, as a startup, investors were unhappy to commit to lengthy five-year office leases or take on unnecessary staff which is where Oxford Innovation came in. David said:

“

Throughout our evolution we have been able to rely on the Innovation Centre model which creates the perfect conditions for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike to focus on business growth

”

“Throughout our evolution we have been able to rely on the Innovation Centre model which creates the perfect conditions for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike to focus on business growth. From those early days through to our recent move we have

never been distracted from our task at hand, have benefitted from flexible terms and been confident leaving the fundamentals of office admin to the capable and professional Innovation Centre team.”

Now safely ensconced in a large open plan office at Witney Innovation Centre and able to manufacture products on-site in the clean room, Oxtex are focussed on the future. Orders are already flowing in from the veterinary market, human clinical trials are commencing this summer and the team is busy working on a project with the University of Malaysia to use Oxtex’s patented soft tissue expander to treat oral cross-bite.

“As we continue to grow we are confident that Witney BIC will provide the perfect backdrop to our continued expansion. Not only do we have all the necessary office space, and room to grow again, but we are also well placed to recruit the right people.”

“Oxfordshire has a wealth of talented individuals within the scientific and medical sector always looking for that next career move. With all other elements in the business now heading the right direction, we are starting to look for those new

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L-R: Charlie Cooper, Assistant Centre Manager, Witney BIC, David Jackson MD of Oxtex Limited and Alli Anderson, Centre Manager, Witney BIC

recruits who can be a part of our expansion plans here at Witney BIC.”

About Witney Business & Innovation Centre

Alli Anderson, centre manager, Witney BIC, concludes: “Oxtex is a truly innovative company that has drawn on the outstanding pool of resources and expertise within Oxfordshire to grow and succeed.

We are delighted to be the latest Innovation Centre stop on the company’s expansion journey and we look forward to supporting David and the team for many years to come at Witney BIC.”

Witney Business & Innovation Centre is owned by Blenheim Palace and run by Oxford Innovation.

It provides flexible office space, virtual offices and meeting rooms in a professional serviced environment, allowing you to focus on running your business.

Witney BIC, owned by Blenheim Palace and managed by Oxford Innovation, provides office space from 100 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft. and has recently launched The Studio, a newly created space where up and coming businesses can have access to a permanent desk in a shared office along with the benefits of serviced offices usually enjoyed by larger businesses.

To find out more information about The Studio and Witney BIC’s services, visit: witney-bic.co.uk or call Alli on 01993 848 200

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The centre is in a refurbished building on the outskirts of Witney, at the entrance to the Windrush Industrial Park. Offices vary from 100 sq. ft. to 3,000 sq. ft., which can accommodate between one and 30 people. Multiple offices can also be taken if more space is required. www.witney-bic.co.uk

About Oxford Innovation Oxford Innovation is a leading operator of business and innovation centres that provide office and laboratory space to companies throughout the UK. Witney Business & Innovation Centre is one of seven local centres managed by Oxford Innovation in Oxfordshire.

The company also provides

innovation services to entrepreneurs, including business-planning advice, fund raising, coaching and mentoring. For more information: www.oxincentres.co.uk

About Blenheim Palace Blenheim Palace is widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest palaces and is home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, the birthplace of Winston Churchill and a World Heritage site.

Located at Woodstock, Oxfordshire, the Palace is surrounded by over 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland incorporating the great lake, designed by Capability Brown, together with formal gardens. It has become a world-renowned visitor attraction with around half a million people visiting every year. For more information: www.blenheimpalace.com

CONTACT DETAILS

 witney@oxin.co.uk  01993 848 200  www.witney-bic.co.uk

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B4

services

FOOD MATTERS! Conferences and corporate events take a lot of organising and there are many things to think about.

Emma Duckett of Oxford-based Lamb Catering tells B4 how the food and drink at your event can help you build a great brand identity.

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY BY: EMMA DUCKETT

Make a dazzling first impression The team at Lamb Catering have extensive experience in catering for conferences and events and believe that fantastic catering is at the heart of a successful corporate event. They view catering as much more than just keeping delegates fed and watered. Whether greeting delegates with freshly brewed coffee, bacon brioche rolls and shots of Greek yogurt with fruit compote on arrival at a conference, or welcoming guests with prosecco and stunning canapés at a product launch, the focus is always on ensuring that the catering element makes a dazzling first impression.

Inject a splash of brand personality Food and drink are great ways to inject a splash of your brand personality. Lamb Catering works with companies to design and develop menus, presentation concepts and service styles that fit their brand. ‘We always like to get a feel for a company’s brand identity so we can propose food and drink options with a service style that will enhance the corporate image’ says Emma. ‘Some companies have a formal, traditional brand, where for an evening reception we often suggest canapés and Champagne; others may want to portray an easy-going, friendly image and we might suggest cocktails and food stalls.’

It isn’t just through the food and drink that Lamb

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Catering demonstrates brands - ‘We love bringing a company’s branding into the event through colour, logos and imagery. We can provide linen and coloured glasses to match colour schemes and even incorporate company logos or product photos into canapé platters.’

The venue speaks volumes The venue is important too - where you hold your event speaks volumes. ‘While a modern, slick warehouse venue might suit a new, upcoming company it probably wouldn’t be the best choice for a long-standing business steeped in tradition’ says Emma.

Oxfordshire provides a wide range of venues, there’s something out there to suit every taste. As approved suppliers to a number of Oxford’s best venues including The Bodleian Library, Oxford University’s Museum of Natural History and Oxford Town Hall, Lamb Catering has a great understanding of the venues available in the area. ‘It’s so important to choose somewhere that’s right for your event’ explains Emma, ‘We have the local knowledge to help our clients make the right venue selection.’

Communicate brand values With a focus on high standards and a pride in every event for which they cater, Lamb Catering

is dedicated to communicating the clients’ values.

Lamb Catering’s event managers, along with their team of friendly, highly trained and well-presented staff become ambassadors for the client’s brand.

‘Companies have different brand focusses which are not conveyed in the same way. That’s why it’s so important for us to get to know our clients and then brief our events staff well’ explains Emma.

Keep it consistent While some of Lamb Catering’s events (such as weddings) are one-offs, corporate clients tend to stick. Emma says ‘Once we’ve catered for a business’s event we know what they’re all about we know who their clients are, what they like, and what works for the brand.’

When planning your next event, whether it’s a product launch for 1000, an awards dinner for 250, or a networking reception for 30, remember that fantastic food, sensational service and a great venue will go a long way to making your brand stand out from the crowd. ‘Don’t forget – when it comes to corporate events, your audience will attribute everything to your brand identity – food matters.’

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@lambcatering.co.uk  01865 772446  www.lambcatering.co.uk

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Discover more oxfordsp.com

B4

spotlight

to fostering “ I alookrichforward commercial eco-system and to developing Magdalen College’s ambitious plans to provide additional office and laboratory accommodation

”

Piers Scrimshaw-Wright - MD of The Oxford Science Park

Piers Scrimshaw-Wright new MD of The Oxford Science Park

Magdalen College appoints new MD for The Oxford Science Park With Magdalen College having appointed science and business park specialist Piers Scrimshaw-Wright to the new role of managing director at The Oxford Science Park, responsible for asset management and the ambitious development plans for an additional 300,000+ sq ft of office and laboratory space, we find out more about Piers and the role.

WRITTEN BY: OLIVIA LANE-NOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY: AURELIEN LANGLAIS

A qualified chartered surveyor, Piers has over 20 years’ experience with a strong background in development and asset management, and nine years as a principal at Arlington Securities and Goodman Group.

At Arlington, Piers successfully developed Uxbridge Business Park, which included significant lettings to two ‘blue chip’ pharmaceutical companies. He led major acquisitions in Edinburgh and Birmingham, and in 2004 he was integral to the acquisition and management of Colworth Science Park. He was appointed Arlington’s Science Park development director in 2006 and led the acquisition of Harwell Oxford in 2007. Piers was then promoted to development director of Goodman European Business Parks, responsible for an ambitious development programme in France and Spain. Since leaving Goodman in 2009, Piers has been involved in two start-up companies with one focused on several renowned UK Science Parks. Most recently he was a development consultant at Oxford City

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Council. Piers began his career at GVA in London and left as an associate in 2000 to join Arlington.

Piers has joined following Magdalen College’s recent acquisition of the remaining 50% of the Park from M&G Real Estate to own 100% of the Park for £18.1 million.

Rory Maw, bursar, director, The Oxford Science Park Ltd said: “We warmly welcome Piers to The Oxford Science Park. Following our recent acquisition to own 100% of the Park, we continue to invest hugely into the Park’s offices and laboratory offering, and the amenities. We identified the role of managing director to lead our on-site team who look after all our occupiers’ needs, and to deliver our ambitious development plans. With the well-being of employees now a major factor in business decisionmaking, Piers will be responsible for ensuring that the Park continues to provide an environment that inspires creativity and entrepreneurship. His understanding of both the property and science and

technology sectors will be of huge benefit to all.”

Piers Scrimshaw-Wright, managing director, The Oxford Science Park said: “I have always admired The Oxford Science Park and its exceptional environment and amenity offering. I look forward to fostering a rich commercial eco-system and to developing Magdalen College’s ambitious plans to provide additional office and laboratory accommodation that will allow businesses to prosper and grow in a unique entrepreneurial context.”

See the Park’s new corporate video: http://oxfordsp.com/article-3.php

CONTACT DETAILS

 pscrimshaw-wright@oxfordsp.com  01865 784 000  www.oxfordsp.com

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For all your construction, maintenance & renovations needs If you want to apply for a job in construction we are looking for new staff, please contact Steve, email steve@savvyconstruction.co.uk

Tel 01865 920040 Fax 01865 892320 info@savvyconstruction.co.uk www.group-savvy.co.uk Dunne House, 253 London Road, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9EH

B4

Cyber Security: protect your data Hardly a day goes by without some data breach hitting the media, together with dire warnings about the increasing sophistication of hackers. It has never been more crucial to ensure your data is secure.

WRITTEN BY: CLAIRE HALLE-SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY: TUDOR PHOTOGRAPHY

technology

What is cyber security?

Cyber security is the protection of electronic data and the preventative measures taken to guard against unlawful or unauthorised use, change, theft or destruction of electronic data. This includes any tools used to enable access and use of the internet as well as the collection, use, storage and archiving of electronic information.

Why is cyber security important?

The importance of information and data collected by a business may be both commercially sensitive as well as a valuable business asset. Loss or destruction of this asset can be extremely damaging to a business, possibly resulting in investigations by regulatory bodies, and financially damaging as legal and other costs may be incurred. Sometimes, and often more significantly, a cyber attack will lead to loss of reputation.

Cyber attacks usually take the form of hacking. The BIS 2014 Information Security Breaches Survey reported that 81% of large organisations had experienced a security breach which resulted in average costs to the business falling between £600,000 and £1.5 million. GCHQ has also confirmed that the scale and rate of these attacks shows little sign of abating.

Smaller organisations should also consider the risks at stake. Remote working is a prime area of concern together with employees using their own devices, both of which offer potential hackers a wider scope within which to attack a business.

What should you do to protect your business?

Any measures taken need to be implemented across a business and will require buy-in from all departments, particularly IT and risk management. There also needs to be strong endorsement from senior management to ensure that a culture of risk awareness is promoted throughout the organisation.

The Cyber Essentials Scheme, introduced by the government in 2014, is intended to provide ‘a clear statement of the basic controls all organisations should implement to mitigate the risk from common internet based threats’. It is an accredited scheme providing straightforward and cost effective measures which can be implemented by organisations of all sizes and provides the initial steps in protecting an organisation against cyber threats. It is intended to be implemented alongside the original 10 Steps to Cybersecurity published in 2012 which is still recommended as central to an organisation’s overall cyber security strategy, briefly outlined as follows: 1. Risk management regime – defined and communicated to all staff 2. Network security – monitor and test security controls 3. Malware protection – establish anti-malware defences 4. Monitoring – monitor and analyse all ICT systems and networks for unusual activity 5. Incident management – develop and test incident response management plans 6. Managing user privileges – limit user privileges and monitor user activity 7. Removable media controls – implement policy to control access to removable data 8. Secure configuration – ensure secure configuration of all ICT systems are maintained 9. Home/mobile working – produce remote working policy and train staff accordingly 10. User education and awareness – produce security policies and train staff to raise awareness.

Bicester Lunch Club – Are You Under Cyber Attack?

Brethertons will be exploring this topic in more detail at their Bicester Lunch Club on Tuesday 28th June, 12-2pm. The lunch, chaired by Claire Halle-Smith, Company Commercial Solicitor and Data Protection expert at Brethertons, will be joined by Detective Sergeant Chris Greatorex of the Serious Crimes Unit.

To book onto this lunch visit the Events page at www.brethertons.co.uk

CONTACT DETAILS

 clairehalle-smith@brethertons.co.uk  01295 661 438  www.brethertons.co.uk

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Coming Up At Oxford Castle Oxford Castle Quarter is the place to be this summer. The castle never fails to disappoint with their fantastic array of open air events, and this year promises to be yet another exciting summer. Read on to find out what’s coming up.

WRITTEN BY: MICHAEL SPEIGHT AND PHIL COTTLE

Shakespeare Oxford Shakespeare Festival is now entering it’s second year at Oxford Castle and has become a significant part of the cities theatre calendar. It has thrived in the beautiful surroundings of the Quarter and has learned quickly how to create a unique experience for our audiences from the moment you arrive in the city. Why not come down early and picnic on the lawns, absorbing the history that is imbued within the walls as you relax, before sitting back to enjoy an evening of tantalising and dramatic theatre.

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We take pride in the shows we produce, not least because of the our core aims of developing and nurturing local talent. Whether that be the actors, directors or the back stage teams plying and learning their craft while producing the shows each year. And it is with great pleasure that we can again bring the city 5 different shows from 4 very talented Oxford theatre companies in 2016.

The productions themselves will be dynamic and enthralling, and because of the diversity of the production teams, can be stripped back and intimate or grand and all encompassing. But whatever choices are made about the delivery of the work, each will be accessible and created in a way that allows everyone to

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B4

events

pride in the shows “Wewetake produce, not least because of the our core aims of developing and nurturing local talent

”

get something from the experience.

Performed outside in the Castle Court Yard, the history of the space adds an additional character to each show. Then as the sun goes down, the evening is transformed once again, as the moon draws out the shadows and allows for the darker sides of each show to come to life.

Then once the shows come down, the Castle Quarter offers the perfect collection of restaurants and bars to unwind and talk through your experience.

Outdoor cinema

Cult Screens will return to Oxfords Castle Quarter this summer as part of their season in the city, with outdoor screenings of classic and contemporary films.

The cinema opens on Thursday 26th May with Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and will be showcasing an exciting range of films from retro favourites Grease, Top Gun and The Lost Boys, to Oscar winners such as Casablanca and The Revenant. There’s even the opportunity to watch Frank Darabonts’ 1994 masterpiece The Shawshank

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Redemption in the atmospheric setting of the Old Prison Exercise Yard at The Castle.

There are various seating types on offer and guests can choose between cuddling up at the front with a blanket and a bean bag, lounging comfortably in a deckchair, or even a director’s chair for those who truly wish to embrace the cinematic theme. With high definition projection, giant screens and superb audio, Cult Screens offer a cinematic experience that is cutting edge, but also cosy and intimate.

“With high definition projection, giant screens

and superb audio, Cult Screens offer a cinematic experience that is cutting edge, but also cosy and intimate

soft drinks, tea, fresh coffee and hot chocolate for when the nights turn chilly. This season 10% of all bar profits will be donated this year’s charity partner Parkinsons UK, providing guests with guilt free enjoyment of that extra cocktail or bag of chocolate, it is also possible to donate when purchasing tickets.

New for 2016, Cult Screens will have the best of local street food popping up at their events, with stalls to satisfy those mid-movie cravings provided

by Oxford street food specialists Bitten.

Cult Screens opens at Oxford Castle on 26th of May for three nights and will be returning in September. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.cultscreens.co.uk or through Cult Screens Facebook page.

”

As always, a fully stocked bar will be serving pitchers of various cocktails including Pimms, Long Island Ice Tea, Mojito, and some film themed specialities.

Fantastic craft beers and ciders from independent breweries will be on offer, as well as superb wines,

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@oxfordcastlequarter.com  01865 201 657  www.oxfordcastlequarter.com

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eFeathers is an inviting country retreat that combines historic charm with a fun personality.

Named Oxfordshire’s Restaurant of the Year 2012, it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of gin (167 varieties). “e Gin Experience” menu is £75 per person for seven courses.

MARKET STREET, WOODSTOCK, OXFORDSHIRE, OX20 1SX. TELEPHONE: 01993 812 291. WWW.FEATHERS.CO.UK

B4

legal

A survey carried out “ by an organisation called

CORE found that of the 83 slavery and human trafficking statements they looked at only 22 had complied with the legal requirements under the Modern Slavery Act.

”

Ben Hegedus, BrookStreet des Roches

Modern Slavery Act - Requirement to publish ‘Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement’ All commercial organisations that supply goods and/or services in the UK with a group annual turnover of £36m or more have to complete and display on their website a slavery and human trafficking statement for each financial year, starting with the financial year ending on or after 31 March 2016.

WRITTEN BY: BEN HEGEDUS

The Modern Slavery Act 2015 consolidates offences relating to trafficking and slavery (both in the UK and overseas). It includes a provision for large businesses to publicly state each year the actions they are taking to ensure their supply chains are slavery-free in the form of a slavery and human trafficking statement.

The ‘slavery and human trafficking statement’ must include either an account of the steps being taken by the organisation during the financial year to ensure that slavery and human trafficking is not taking place in any part of its business or its supply chains, for example • Information about the organisation's structure, business and its supply chains.

• Its policies in relation to slavery and human trafficking.

• Its due diligence processes in relation to slavery and human trafficking in its business and supply chains.

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• The parts of its business and supply chains where there is a risk of slavery and human trafficking taking place, and the steps it has taken to assess and manage that risk.

• Its effectiveness in ensuring that slavery and human trafficking is not taking place in its business or supply chains, measured against such performance indicators as it considers appropriate.

• The training about slavery and human trafficking available to its staff.

proceedings being taken by the Secretary of State by way of civil proceedings in the High Court.

A survey carried out by an organisation called CORE found that of the 83 slavery and human trafficking statements they looked at only 22 had complied with the legal requirements under the Modern Slavery Act. We would, therefore, recommend that organisations have their slavery and human trafficking statement reviewed by a qualified solicitor before its publication to ensure compliance with the requirements set out in the Act.

OR That the organisation is not taking any such steps (although this is permitted under the Act, it is likely to have public relations repercussions).

The statement must be formally approved by the organisation, for example, through its board of directors and must be published on its website with a link to the statement in a prominent place on the homepage. Failure to do so may lead to enforcement

For assistance with your statutory statement please feel free to contact Ben Hegedus below.

CONTACT DETAILS

 ben.hegedus@bsdr.com  01235 836 609  www.bsdr.com

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OXFORD TECHNOLOGY PARK Langford Lane, Kidlington TO LET 10,000 sq ft – 400,000 sq ft A unique opportunity for office, research & development and high technology businesses.

BUILDING 4220 NASH COURT Oxford Business Park TO LET 4,885 sq ft Two storey self-contained office building on established business park. Oxford Ring Road location.

UNITS A & C, PARK 34 Didcot TO LET 19,441 sq ft & 14,435 sq ft Two warehouse/production/distribution units with a clear eaves height of 7.5m, fully fitted separate offices and full height steel sectional shutter doors.

UNITS 5A-E TRIDENT PARK Didcot TO LET Units from 2,130 sq ft – 14,000 sq ft New build terrace of 5 units in an established trade location. Eaves height of 6m, 3 phase power, loading door height of 4.97m.

unrivalled local and regional expertise Richard Venables rvenables@vslandp.com Tom Barton tbarton@vslandp.com Duncan May dmay@vslandp.com

news Link 9, Bicester: Plans Announced for Major Bicester Manufacturing, Distribution & R&D Development Major development plans for the first large-scale industrial and warehouse scheme in Bicester for over 15 years have been unveiled today by developer Albion Land. The development is to be called Link 9 and is located on the A4421 perimeter road on the north east side of the town.

As part of the Cherwell Local Plan, which seeks to deliver jobs-led growth, the development is the first in Bicester to achieve planning consent for large distribution and manufacturing buildings in addition to offices and R&D. Total investment in the new development is estimated to be in the region of £50 million and property developers Albion Land confirm the 36 acre site will accommodate up 520,000 sq ft of buildings. These will provide much needed employment opportunities for the expanding Bicester population and will satisfy strong occupier demand for the town.

Planning for the project was approved by Cherwell District Council on the 17th March. The permission covers a wide range of planning uses including distribution, manufacturing, R&D and offices. Albion Land envisage buildings ranging from 80,000 sq ft – 250,000 sq ft provided on a freehold or leasehold basis in response to individual occupier requirements. The site provides the only opportunity in Bicester that has outline planning consent and can be brought forward for development immediately.

VSL & Partners has been appointed, jointly with Colliers International and White Commercial, to market the site to occupiers.

Simon Parsons, director of Albion Land says: “With its Garden Town status and the new rail service from Bicester Town Station, this project will be implemented at a time when Bicester is enjoying a most exciting period in its evolution. The town is growing rapidly and the mix of an expanding population, excellent road communications and the buoyant Oxfordshire economy is resulting in a high level of demand from companies wanting new premises in Bicester. When

fully occupied Link 9 will provide some 1,000 high quality jobs and will be a significant contributor to Bicester’s growing economy.”

Tom Barton, director at VSL & Partners added: “We are really excited to be involved in such a major instruction. This will be the largest industrial and warehouse scheme in the area for over 15 years and the first to come forward following the Cherwell Local Plan. Link 9 is well placed to capture the strong demand from both local and national businesses.”

Bicester is an historic market town with major ambitions for growth, which include a £70m town centre redevelopment; an extension to Bicester Village; and a new town centre rail connection to both London Marylebone and Birmingham.

The new ‘Garden City’ status will also provide at least 13,000 additional homes and it is projected to double the town’s current 30,000 population.

It is anticipated that a completed building could be handed over by spring 2017. For further information please contact Tom Barton on 01865 848488 or visit www.vslandp.com

Deals Done...

Land at Book End, Witney 1.09 acres sold to House & Carriage

6 Station Park , Witney 3,263 sq ft Let to John Nicholls Trading Ltd

St George’s Mansions, George St, Oxford 9,463 sq ft Let to Cherwell College Oxford

9 Isis Business Centre Sq ft Investment Sale to Rufton Property Services Ltd

2-4 High Street, Kidlington 943 sq ft let to Strategic Vision Wealth Management Ltd

Unit A Windrush Court, Abingdon Sq ft Let to Gigaclear Ltd

www.b4-business.com

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Bombay Sapphire invites you behind the doors of our beautiful distillery, to uncover the secrets of our world famous gin.

Based at Laverstoke Mill in rural Hampshire, the distillery showcases the care, skill and artistry behind every drop of Bombay Sapphire.

Book your experience online at:

distillery.bombaysapphire.com

A SPECIAL 20% OFF your experience with code ‘B4Events123’.

Expires 31 Dec 2016.

B4

spotlight

Finding the new Mary Somerville As pioneering women go, Mary Somerville was a pretty good role model and the inspiration for the foundation of Oxford’s Somerville College for women. Somervillians everywhere celebrated the news in February this year that she had won the contest to become the new face on the Scottish £10 bank notes, to be issued in 2017. So what did she do to deserve such an accolade?

WRITTEN BY: JUDY DAVIS

Mary Somerville was a leading scientist in days when half of the population were excluded from higher education because they were women.

She was pretty much self-taught, reading books through the night under the bedcovers and pestering her brother’s tutors for information.

And when her first paper was published in 1826 by the Royal Society it was under her husband’s name as, in those days, women could not be members of the Royal Society and a woman writer simply would not have been acknowledged. He was actually made a Fellow of the Royal Society. If he had not published it in his name, Mary’s paper simply wouldn’t have been published.

Mary Somerville had the determination to pursue her passion for astronomy and maths, producing a number of influential scientific works as well as four children and tutoring the young Ada Lovelace, who is recognised as an early pioneer in computing science.

Today we recognise that identifiable role models can have a serious impact on the choices we make.

But where are the inspiring women role models for science and technology careers? Research has shown that women are still under-represented in the tech industry while, in non-tech sectors, women account for almost half of all entry level employees

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compared with just 36.8% in tech. Likewise, in other industries, only 22.8% of women surveyed thought their gender was a career disadvantage compared with 37.1% of women in tech.

Oxford prides itself as part of the UK’s ‘golden triangle’ for technology enterprise, along with Cambridge and London. It is one of nine major cities named as finalists for the European Capital of Innovation Award 2016. The University spins out dynamic high-tech research-based businesses on a regular basis but how well do Oxford’s women fare in this male-dominated arena?

This is a question that a group of enterprising Oxford women, all of whom have already forged successful careers in or around technology, are addressing.

They feel strongly that businesses should represent the world in which they operate and recognise that there is a huge pool of potential which, if harnessed, could prove to be truly disruptive on a global scale - in the same way that Mary Somerville changed perceptions a century ago. Maybe we are entering into a new epoch where women finally come to the fore in all spectrums of technology?

As Nicola McConville, partner at law firm Penningtons Manches says: “When I look back at the hundreds of technology companies I have advised over the

years, less than 1% have female founders. It’s quite a striking statistic.

“We have put together a steering group including entrepreneurs, professional advisors and academics to look at how we can change that dynamic to embrace the very obvious talent here in the Thames Valley. How do we help would-be entrepreneurs make that first step into the commercial world, and how do we then equip those already on the journey to maximise their potential and impact?”

Nicola and the team plan to set up a group designed especially for women entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs working in the tech sector. It will be launched at Venturefest on 29 June 2016. Surely Mary Somerville would approve!

CONTACT DETAILS

 nicola.mcconville@penningtons.co.uk  0118 982 2654  www.penningtons.co.uk

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Passion for Food Whether you are looking for a sumptuous three course dinner menu, having a BBQ, hosting a canapé party, corporate lunch, or you fancy something different like a street food inspired wedding reception, why not get in touch with Passion for Food? You will not be disappointed.

WRITTEN BY: JACQUI QUAINOO PHOTOGRAPHY BY: BARKER EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY & JOHN CAIRNS PHOTOGRAPHY

Passion for Food provide fantastic event catering for wedding receptions, corporate gatherings, intimate dinners, Christmas parties and more. Passion for Food’s tight-knit team is totally committed to making all occasions a complete success, with a strong attention to detail complimented by excellent co-ordination and event management.

Covering Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and London, Passion for Food offers a simple, uncomplicated approach where everything revolves around their client. Creating bespoke seasonal menus, your taste buds will definitely

be tantalised! The Passion for Food team are experts in providing high-quality food and excellent service from start to finish.

Passion for Food’s Managing Director Philip Baker is an award winning chef with over three decades of culinary experience under his belt. As a young boy he was fortunate to be taken to many of the top restaurants such as The Canteen, The Greenhouse, The Waterside at Bray, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and met some of the chefs who ran these establishments. Philip was inspired by tasting the top quality food they served and admired their impeccably high standards.

an outside caterer coming from a restaurant background, I am passionate about bringing “firstAs class restaurant style food to event catering and exceeding the expectations of our clients. It’s a great feeling and a privilege to be involved in our clients’ special occasions and to heighten the element of enjoyment through our food and service Philip Baker, Managing Director, Passion for Food

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”

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services

“ Passion for Food

will give you London standards at Oxford prices, with creative food design for all your wedding and corporate needs

”

Philip Baker, Managing Director, Passion for Food

With no doubt in which direction he wanted to take, Philip embarked on his career in the catering industry at an early age. He developed a real passion for fantastic flavours, ingredients and new cooking methods. He earned his qualifications at colleges in Oxford and went on to open the doors of his first establishment, Bakers Restaurant, in Eynsham at the age of 23. Critics agreed that Bakers set a benchmark for restaurant fine dining in Oxfordshire.

This lead to a natural progression to start Passion for Food in 2003 where Philip set himself the challenge of bringing food of excellence to diners at events.

Needless to say, expectations were surpassed and the business soared to success.

Passion for Food are delighted to be able to cater at some of the most stunning and historic venues in the Home Counties and is an accredited caterer at Rhodes House, Kirtlington Park, Tofte Manor, Nether Winchendon House, The Dairy at Waddesdon Manor, Poundon House, Stowe School, The Gateway and English Heritage venue Wrest Park.

Passion for Food is privileged to be one of the accredited caterers at the Bodleian Libraries venues, The Bodleian Library and The Weston Library, in the heart of Oxford and takes great pride in working in beautiful surroundings, with the Bodleian events team. Passion for Food will give you London standards at Oxford prices, with creative food design for all your wedding and corporate needs at these

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two wonderful venues.

The Bodleian Library can be found within an amazing group of buildings which form the historic heart of the University. The venue can be used as a stunning setting for a wedding, corporate gathering or a family celebration and incorporates six spaces accommodating up to 450 guests. When the Library is closed to readers, the quadrangle offers a secluded outdoor space surrounded by some of the ancient and iconic buildings in Oxford.

The Divinity School boasts late gothic architecture and a stone carved ceiling and has a capacity for 120 guests seated, or 200 guests for a drinks reception.

Adjoining the Divinity School is Convocation House, which has wooden seating along all four sides and offers fantastic natural acoustics, it can cater for ceremonies of up to 100 guests. Chancellors Court is situated next to Convocation House and is the University’s former courtroom.

The Weston Library has recently undergone a £80m refurbishment and re-opened in March 2015.

Blackwell Hall is the new entrance atrium which features a colonnade overlooking Broad Street in the Centre of Oxford. Blackwell Hall is one of the largest venues in Oxford and can seat 250 guests for dinner, or 450 guests for a drinks reception.

The Roof Terrace on the 5th floor provides a great

venue for a drinks reception for up to 100 guests with great views over Oxford’s historic rooftops and hills. There is also a new lecture theatre on the ground floor which can accommodate 117 guests in tiered seats.

If you would like further information on venue hire at the Bodleian Libraries, please call 01865 277 224 or email events@bodleian.ox.ac.uk Passion for Food can provide you with a delicious menu be it at the Bodleian Libraries, at home, your place of work, or at one of the beautiful venues listed on our website.

If you are looking for an event caterer that offers fabulous food and a first class professional service, then look no further than Passion for Food.

CONTACT DETAILS

 hello@passion-for-food.co.uk  01296 651 755  www.passion-for-food.co.uk



@passionffood

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Growing your business has never been easier Effective web based sales and marketing software for small business Imagine a sales and marketing system that actually made your life easier. All of your customer details in one place, an easy way to communicate to your whole customer base.

Build strong relationships with all of your customers, find out what they like, keep them coming back for more, time and time again.

Take a 14 day free trial of InTouch today, visit:

www.intouchcrm.com

news Wallers of Oxford crowned ‘Best Oxfordshire Estate Agent’ Wallers of Oxford has been recognised for its outstanding customer service to its clients by winning 2 major awards at the ESTAS: Estate Agent of the Year Awards 2016. Wallers have been named as the Best Oxfordshire Estate Agent, as well as winning the prestigious Highly Commended People Award in the national category for its founder and managing director, Rowan Waller.

Wallers are the local and independent Oxford Estate Agent that strives to go the extra mile to deliver a personal and professional service to their clients.

Moving home can be a stressful enough process without having to worry about your Estate Agent and at Wallers of Oxford they understand that it’s all about listening to the customer and looking after their needs first.

It is this dedication to their customers that has earned Wallers of Oxford the title of “Best Oxfordshire Estate Agent” at the ESTAS, an incredible feat considering that they only burst onto the scene in 2014.

Furthermore, Rowan Waller’s capture of the Highly Commended People Award names him as one of the top 6 Estate Agent Professionals in the whole of the UK!

One of the many ‘SOLD IT!” signs appearing all over Oxfordshire

The ESTAS determines the best estate & letting agents in the UK through research carried out amongst customers who are asked a series of questions about the service they have received from their agent. This year’s competition was the toughest yet. Just over 30,000 customers completed an online questionnaire which is now one of the biggest surveys in the UK property industry.

Phil Spencer, TV Property Expert who hosted this year’s awards at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, said “I think it says a great deal about a company who is prepared to stand up and announce to customers and competitors that they believe in providing the best possible service and they’re happy to prove it.”

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Rowan Waller receiving his ESTAS Award onstage at the Grosvenor House Hotel Ceremony

“Winning at the ESTAS sets agents apart from their competitors. It sends a clear message that they are passionate about customer service, prepared to go that extra mile for their clients and keen to listen to feedback”.

All this tells the story of why Wallers of Oxford has been recognised by the awards. They have modelled themselves on being a progressive, local Estate Agency and offer their clients every tool available to the modern business in their industry. For a sole agency fee of just 0.75% No Sale, No Fee, they provide the high quality marketing that you should expect from a top performing Estate Agents, including a guaranteed Rightmove Premium listing, professional photography, expertly executed social media property profiles, detailed floor plans, local press advertising and glossy brochures - and do it all with the personal touch that really makes them stand above the rest.

You’ve probably seen the “SOLD IT!” signs appearing all around Oxfordshire, and is it any wonder? The numbers back up the story and prove that Wallers are going about everything the right way. They have an incredible Sales Agreed record in all Oxfordshire postcodes, have achieved an average of 98% of asking prices and their properties spend far shorter on the market than the industry norm – again, hard to believe for the no sale, no fee 0.75% sole agency fee.

Commenting on the double win, Rowan Waller, Owner and Director of Wallers of Oxford Estate Agents, said “I’m absolutely thrilled to be recognised

at this year’s ESTAS. It means so much to me as I know it’s our customers who have judged our performance. At Wallers of Oxford we take our levels of customer service very seriously because we know it’s important to our clients. We have always been very proud of the personal service and this proves we are delivering what we promise.”

To find out more about Wallers of Oxford and to discover why their service is so highly commended, or to view current properties for sale, call or email the details below to make an appointment.

Rowan Waller with his ESTAS Award, presented by Phil Spencer.

Also Jenny Waller and ‘To be Announced” Waller

CONTACT DETAILS

 move@wallersofoxford.co.uk  01865 435 175  www.wallersofoxford.co.uk

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Sanctuary at Macdonald Randolph Hotel The best bit about doing The London Marathon was the fact that we had a day of indulgence at Oxford’s only five star hotel to look forward, thanks to GM Michael Grange. It’s not every day I have a facial, I think that’s obvious for anyone who has seen me lately, but this was a real treat. Richard Rosser, body battered, bruised and beaten, hauled himself to the Macdonald Randolph for some much needed rest and relaxation.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: KATIE BRUCE

Monday’s are normally busy days in the office, but I afforded myself a rare day off in view of my rather exhausting day the day before running my second London Marathon. I wasn’t going to turn down the kind offer of a post Marathon massage in the Randolph’s impressive spa, so at 2pm, Tina and I arrived for our first of two treatments, a deep and soothing massage and a chilled glass of champagne. But first, massive embarrassment!

I’m not a frequenter of spas, I think we’ve established 106

that, but I thought I had made myself perfectly clear when asking at reception what I should wear.

“Everything you need is in the locker Mr Rosser.”

OK, I thought, how did my underwear get into the locker? I exited the reception and made my way to the men’s changing rooms. Locker number 7 didn’t, as I suspected, contain any of my personal belongings, most importantly some garments to save me from possible embarrassment. But I did as I was told. I put the robe on and wore the slippers and, with towel in hand, made my way back to the reception to meet Tina in the quiet room adjacent

to the reception area.

In hushed tones, I asked her if she was wearing anything other than the robe. She laughed. “You’re not wearing any pants are you?!” Before I knew it, she had made her way to the reception where seemingly every spa employee in Oxfordshire had congregated, well, at least four of them. “My husband wants to know if he should be wearing anything under his robe.” Great! It would have been less embarrassing walking in there naked. Giggling voices ringing in my head, I made my way to the treatment room www.b4-business.com

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Starters:

Main:

r&r

“John Ross Jnr” smoked salmon - pink grapefruit, shaved fennel, pickled cucumber and dill Deep-fried crisp cod cheek: Samphire and sauce ravigote Pan seared halibut: Fondant potato, spinach, pickled shitake mushroom and port wine sauce Lemon sole: Brown shrimps, cucumber and samphire, served off or on the bone

Dessert:

Mini chocolate pot Fig tart

for my massage, via the locker room to grab the necessary underwear!

The spa at Macdonald Randolph Hotel is dimly lit throughout, smells wonderful and is, embarrassments aside, intoxicatingly relaxing. My massage was perfect with ailing limbs soothed and memories of marathons and a stressful week preparing for a large event ebbing away in equal measure. Bob Geldof wouldn’t have written anything disparaging about Mondays had he experienced my Monday at the Randolph and we hadn’t even got going.

Following the massage and facial (I was told I looked hours younger!), and Tina’s “Exotic Lime and Ginger Salt Glow” treatment, we made our way to our luxurious room overlooking Beaumont Street and all that effort expended in the spa had given us both an appetite for some tea and cake and our second glass of champagne! How very English and how perfectly relaxing. Tea at the Randolph couldn’t have been more appropriate and set us up wonderfully for dinner in the recently opened Acanthus Restaurant.

Following extensive renovation, Acanthus and the new Cartoon Bar have added a superb extra dimension to Oxford’s leading hotel. With direct access to the restaurant and bar from the road (and no need to go through the hotel reception), the dynamics of what was considered a hotel restaurant www.b4-business.com

only have now changed for the better. The Cartoon Bar is a great destination for a light lunch and a glass of fizz or a chilled glass of wine after work. Decorated to the highest spec, the bar is a massively positive addition to the Randolph and Oxford.

“

Bob Geldof wouldn’t have written anything disparaging about Mondays had he experienced my Monday at the Randolph

”

Richard Rosser, B4 Editor

But we were there for dinner and a quick nose around the new restaurant layout. Retaining many features of the original restaurant, Acanthus builds on these with excellent new aspects such as the chef’s table with a window into the stunning new kitchen and a cozy dining area adjacent to the chef’s table.

The food was in keeping with the excellence we had experience so far. The new menu is diverse yet

containing many favourites to satisfy all tastes. Not only that but it’s incredible value for money. The service was also impeccable and we managed to enjoy a few more glasses of champagne and chilled white wine to accompany our meals.

I couldn’t do this every day….how the rich and famous cope, I don’t know. Replete, we floated back to our room and set the alarm clock for…what?????

7am???? This isn’t in keeping with our new found jet set lifestyle! But, sadly, breakfast in the room was our last hurrah! Salmon and scrambled eggs were the perfect start to a busy day back at work.

I returned later in the week to enjoy the opening of Acanthus with B4 well represented amongst the 200 plus guests.

Michael Grange welcomed everyone, including Operations Director Robert Cook and ex Arsenal and England international, Martin Keown. With Head Chef Sean Ducie excelling, it was a night to remember for everyone.

CONTACT DETAILS

 randolph@macdonaldhotels.co.uk  0344 879 9132  www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/Randolph

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CLIENT SUPPORT AUDIT ACCOUNTANCY CHARITIES COMPANY SECRETARIAL CONSULTANCY FINANCIAL PLANNING FORENSIC ACCOUNTING MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS PAYROLL TAXATION TRUSTS

OXFORD 30 St. Giles, Oxford OX1 3LE Tel . 01865 559900 email . information@wenntownsend.co.uk CIRENCESTER 5 Gosditch Street, Cirencester GL7 2AG Tel . 01285 659778 email . partners@wenntownsend.net ABINGDON 10 Broad Street, Abingdon OX14 3LH Tel . 01235 548700 email . abingdon@wenntownsend.co.uk www.wenntownsend .co .uk

news Venturefest celebrates 18 years! innovation as articulated through the 2015 Autumn Statement and 2016 Budget • Lunch time panel discussion on the future of innovation • Keynotes by Bianca Miller, The Apprentice runner-up and entrepreneur and Lisa Thomas, Global Head of Brand & Managing Director Virgin Enterprises Limited • Closing panel discussion chaired by former government Science Minister Lord Willetts on innovation and entrepreneurship in Europe - post the referendum result!

When and Where!

Who can believe that we are 18 years old!

Venturefest Oxford began life as an annual networking event in 1999. Since 2014, we have expanded our mission to become a year-round gateway for networking and business support for high-tech entrepreneurs. Now, in addition to our flagship event, we are committed to offering more opportunities to support business growth in Oxfordshire. Our fourth Pitchfest will be held in November where innovators and entrepreneurs have the chance to pitch to a group of high profile investors for funding.

The first event took place at the University of Oxford’s St Catherine’s College. Sir Martin Wood gave the first opening keynote address. “I have two jobs to do here today…first to explain why Oxfordshire has become such a fertile area for the development of new high technology companies. Secondly, as an entrepreneur myself, I’d like to transmit some of the excitement and satisfaction that I’ve felt over the years as a result of being part of the rise in the profile of the high-technology sector”.

Nothing’s changed then! Knowing the realities and challenges faced by new start-ups, Venturefest has provided platforms for entrepreneurs to source funding, get advice, meet like-minded people and get support to help their business grow. Most recently, delegates have had access to free, tailored advice from the meet-the-expert sessions and an opportunity to meet leading business supporters at exhibition stands.

Our event has always provided a range of opportunities to learn, share and network with all the right people to help business growth. For the 2016 event, we have developed a dedicated networking system, ‘Get Connected’ , which will allow delegates to book 1 to 1 meetings with experts, investors, speakers, exhibitors and each other. Register now for the early bird rate of £25, but Get Connected from 1st June.

Highlights of our 2016 Venturefest event: • 30 workshops/sessions on topics ranging from Cyber Security, The Internet of Things, Networking Skills, Sales, Marketing & Communications, IP, the role of The Board, how to recruit the right team and how to negotiate • All day ‘funding’ sessions where entrepreneurs can ‘pitch for success’, investors give advice and successful businesses pass on their experiences • Exciting breakfast session looks at the impact of Government strategy on technology and

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We are moving to larger premises to ensure the event this year is bigger and better than ever before.

Join our 18th anniversary celebrations and register now for Venturefest Oxford on Wednesday 29th June at The King’s Centre, Osney Mead, Oxford.

Registration fee includes free access to all the workshops, keynotes, panel discussions, innovation showcase and exhibition. It also includes free refreshments and lunch, wine and nibbles at the closing party and, courtesy of The Oxford Bus Company, a free shuttle bus from the railway station and Seacourt park & ride.

See you there!

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@venturefestoxford.com  01865 772446  www.venturefestoxford.com

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Choosing the right furniture for your office environment A workplace is about more than just desks, chairs and computers. Lighting, layout, ventilation, colour, space, as well as the overall look and feel of an office impacts more on productivity than often realised.

WRITTEN BY: GEMMA MALLON

Aston & James’ comprehensive range of furniture combines the very latest innovation with design to bring you practical solutions to suit all budgets.

Whether it’s delivering a new desk, chair or supplying you with a complete office refit, they will work with you to ensure your furniture is built to last and looks exceptional.

With a professional team of planners, designers and installers Aston & James have the knowledge and expertise to complete your brief in line with your objectives and create a great place to work.

By working with leading office furniture suppliers; Aston & James bring together the very best quality and style with service that really is second to none.

The local project manager will oversee the entire process from conception to completion, designing your perfect office layout. They are specialists in

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planning design; combing great ideas and fresh thinking with a cost focused approach to create your ideal office environment.

Our furniture not “only looks good, it

is highly practical, providing space saving solutions which gives your office a clean, professional look

”

Aston & James can deliver a huge range of products off the shelf for delivery tomorrow, but if you are looking for something spectacular to create the ultimate ‘WOW’ factor for both your staff and visitors,

they can work with you to create a fully customised and unique workspace. They even offer their own range of Operator Chairs, backed by a five year guarantee.

The furniture service includes a comprehensive range of ergonomic desk and workspace solutions to help you create a more comfortable, organised and productive office environment. Prevent back tension, avoid wrist pressure, relieve neck strain and get organised with their ergonomic workstation solutions.

They even offer a ‘try before you buy’ service, so you can rest assured that you will make the right decisions for both your workplace and employees.

Aston & James have the solution no matter what you are looking for:

www.b4-business.com

We’ve witnessed the “transformation new office furniture can give to a business. Over the years, the average office will build up so much rubbish, and getting new furniture in provides the perfect excuse for a major spring clean and a good clear out

”

“We supply a diverse

range of furniture from simple seating, storage and desking, to call centre furniture. Our specialist brochures and extensive knowledge will help you select the ideal range to create the environment you require

”

Research shows “ that the right office

environment can increase productivity by 6-16%

”

Call Centre, Board Room, Reception Area, Meeting Room, Executive Suite, Rest Area, Training Room, Cafeteria, High Technology Conference Rooms, Shared Areas, General Office. They even have specialist Education furniture for classroom and outdoor environments.

Thinking of redoing your Home Office; Aston & James offer an extensive range to suit any home workers needs and budgets.

www.b4-business.com

Services include: • Project management • Site Survey and Space Planning Service • Office Design • CAD Drawing • Quality Furniture • UK Stock Holding • UK Manufacture • Nationwide Delivery • Nationwide Installation Service • Ergonomic Solutions • Health & Safety Compliancy • Technology Recommendations • After Service Care • Environmental Policy • Recycle Solutions Whether your project is big or small, the team will work conscientiously to your brief, your budget and

your time scales; providing a total solution in-line with your requirements.

If you are thinking about improving your workspace, Aston & James would love the opportunity to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, why not come along to their showroom in Witney and have a look at some of their products first hand?

For more information on how Aston & James can help you build your ideal office environment contact them today.

CONTACT DETAILS

 sales@aston-james.co.uk  01993 706 900  www.aston-james.co.uk

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Oxford Brookes Centre for Sport

JOIN THE GYM BROOKES SPORT FACILITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO ALL STUDENTS, STAFF AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY ACROSS ALL THREE UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES. JOIN TODAY TO MAKE THE MOST OF THESE GREAT FEATURES AND MORE:

• Gym • Health Suite • Free weights conditioning room • Climbing wall • Swimming Pool • Steam room and Sauna • Physiotherapy clinic • Racquet Sports • Café and Sports Bar It couldn’t be simpler to join the gym – Sign up online at www.brookes.ac.uk/brookes-sport or call 01865 484373 Plans start from £12.99 a month.

B4

spotlight

DCResponse Powers Up Through Recent Acquisition DCResponse is one of the UK’s leading providers of power protection solutions across the UK. Last month Data Centre Response (DCResponse) acquired UPS Systems, and today Jack Ogden, Commercial Director at DCResponse, talks to B4 about the purchase.

WRITTEN BY: RACHEL WARREN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: DCRESPONSE

Jack Ogden, Commercial Director

Recent research by the “communications provider

Avaya revealed that network outages cost companies an average of £54,750 per year Jack Ogden, Commercial Director

”

DCResponse are UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply), generator and maintenance experts.

They have an impressive track record of helping organisations protect their critical data against the abnormalities of the power supply. DCResponse holds an enviable client list including some of the largest retailers, universities & local authorities in the UK. Since it formed in 2012 DCResponse has had an excellent track record of growth in all areas including turnover, profit, staffing levels, clients, accreditations and investment. In 2015 the Directors started to look outside of the business for growth opportunities, and last month DCResponse acquired UPS Systems plc, an independent supplier of standby power solutions offering the UK’s widest range of UPS products from over 30 manufacturers.

Jack explains why this is exciting for both businesses and how it will benefit the clients going forward.

“Growth opportunities have been top of the management teams agenda, and negotiations started with UPS Systems in the middle of 2015.

We were delighted when the purchase went through in April 2016 and we were able to share the exciting news with our clients and suppliers.

This strategic acquisition brings together two strong businesses, each providing areas of expertise within the sales and service functions that complement each other. Both businesses have customers throughout the UK with support engineers and offices positioned to assist customers’ power protections & response needs. www.b4-business.com

Within days of acquiring UPS Systems both businesses were enjoying the benefits of working together through identifying opportunities that were previously sub contracted out to other suppliers, as well as sharing their combined knowledge, expertise and client base.

We are working hard to ensure the transition period is as smooth as possible and we will ensure that focus will continue to remain on the key priorities within the businesses. Our clients and suppliers have been thrilled with the news as it brings added benefits to them”

Why is this important Looking at the bigger picture, Jack shares why the acquisition is important to all their clients because of the future increase in power outages…

“The UK has seen a reduction in spare generating capacity in recent years and risks a power deficit as it closes down all coal plants by 2025 and retires aging nuclear plants. This will most likely result in increased blackouts or power interruptions, which can have a catastrophic impact on a business which can include downtime, loss of data and loss of sales.

Recent research by the communications provider Avaya revealed that network outages cost companies an average of £54,750 per year.

Alongside revenue loss, the impact of an outage included loss of productivity, disruption to IT projects and supply chain disruption.

There is an enormous price tag attached to a business being unprotected against power outages.

By investing in power backup solutions to protect critical systems, you can significantly reduce the risks and consequences.

What’s great about this acquisition is that it means we have two strong, complementary companies that can offer our clients more products, services and support throughout the UK. We aim to drive significant growth going forward, through offering the best in class when it comes to power protection solutions.”

DCResponse acquired 100% of the share capital in UPS Systems Plc. The deal was brokered by John Peers, Joint MD of DCResponse. Joint MD Paul Anderson & Commercial Sales Director Jack Ogden assisted in the process.

BBS Law and RPG Crouch Chapman LLP (Wilson Street, London) helped secure the deal for DCResponse and venture capital trusts managed

by Downing LLP, being joint investors with both Managing Directors.

CONTACT DETAILS

 sales@dcresponse.co.uk  01993 708 855  www.dcresponse.co.uk

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Howbery Business Park

Cracking the Work-Life Balance

The team of three - Donna Bowles, Estates Manager; Paul Middleton, Technical Services Manager and Mark Baxter, Operations Manager – all share a common goal; to make Howbery Business Park as near perfect as possible.

From the smaller enterprises to the larger corporate tenants everyone is cherished and looked after, ensuring that the needs of the employees are catered for as much as the businesses. Set in beautifully landscaped grounds near Wallingford, Howbery Business Park’s offices offer unrivalled views and Donna is the first to recognise the unique benefits of the Park, and the thriving community that has been developed. She comments; “Like many business parks, we provide office space for a wide range of businesses, offering short-term lets and larger, long-term leases in bespoke office builds, but that’s where the similarities stop. From our Grade 2 listed Manor House and Stables, through to the on-site nursery, complimentary bikes, gym and treatment rooms, we do things differently.

“Community is important and tenants respond really

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well to the numerous activities we hold, whether the seasonal workshops - Christmas wreath-making or Halloween pumpkin carving – or joining us for bee-keeping sessions, rowing on the Thames and themed meals in the restaurant. All these little things, and the beautifully landscaped grounds, help to make our business park sometimes feel more like a luxury hotel!”

But as with any business park, home to more than 50 successful organisation’s, Howbery Business Park must still deliver on the fundamentals and keeping the ship afloat is Paul Middleton, Technical Services Manager. Paul comments; “My team and I have a duty of care to the site and it’s tenants. Every day we are committed to ensuring everything runs smoothly, whether it’s the less than glamorous waste management or gutter clearance through to maintaining the grounds, electrical and mechanical building services, and the structure of our listed buildings.

“Aside from the maintenance, we are fortunate that Howbery Business Park’s owner, HR Wallingford, has

a progressive approach to sustainability. Howbery was the UK’s first solar-powered business park and all our new builds, such as the award winning Kestrel House, meet stringent environmental criteria.

More recently we have moved some of the existing lighting over to a more efficient LED system and looking ahead, with previous input from The Carbon Trust and following on from ESOS, we are exploring alternatives to the district heating steam boiler that currently heats some of our buildings.”

Howbery was the UK’s first “solar-powered business park

and all our new builds, such as the award winning Kestrel House, meet stringent environmental criteria.

”

With the structure of Howbery Business Park in the very capable hands of Paul and Donna championing the community, the final member of the team is Operations Manager, Mark Baxter. Along with cleaning and security, Mark has the catering remit

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B4

spotlight

Experts agree that a good working environment leads to happier staff and a more productive business but achieving it can place a significant burden on the business itself. Fortunately, tenants at Howbery Business Park can confidently handover responsibility for this to a dedicated team of three who are passionately committed to delivering the perfect work environment to all those who earn their daily crust at the 70-acre site on the banks of the River Thames.

WRITTEN BY: KELLY LEA PHOTOGRAPHY BY: HOWBERY BUSINESS PARK

under his charge, helping to keep everyone fed and watered.

choice of culinary fair on offer has been so well received he has plans for the future. Mark said;

Park and capitalising on the extensive grounds, Donna has plans, commenting;

Mark’s background in hotel management explains his flair for seeing and predicting the needs of tenants whether ensuring the best quality, locally sourced food in the canteen or providing perfect hospitality or meeting packages within the Manor House’s four distinguished conference rooms or adjacent Conference Centre. Mark said;

“We have been delighted to see members of the public visiting the site. In the future we hope to develop the restaurant and coffee lounge further, so we can continue to meet the needs of all our tenants and guests, and give them a few pleasant surprises too.”

“We delight in seeing businesses grow and thrive, and have become adept at finding a growing company the next space to suit their expansion. In order to help more start-ups we are exploring the possibility of creating a pod-village amongst the trees.

Sustainably built and eco-friendly pods, these would enable one or two person businesses to establish and benefit from the service, and networking, we can provide at Howbery Business Park without moving into a traditional office environment.”

“As a team, and as a company, we strongly believe in making Howbery Business Park a perfect backdrop for optimal work-life balance. Predicting the needs of our tenants is no different to keeping hotel guests happy and if we can ease their working day through a delightful environment, well-serviced office and with good quality food on offer we all rest happy at the end of the day!”

But it’s not just those based at Howbery Business Park benefiting from some of the perks of the site.

Under Mark’s expert guidance the Manor House’s coffee lounge and restaurant recently extended a warm welcome to members of the public and the

www.b4-business.com

“

Predicting the needs of our tenants is no different to keeping hotel guests happy and if we can ease their working day through a delightful environment, well-serviced office and with good quality food on offer we all rest happy at the end of the day!

”

Mark is not the only one with an eye to the future.

Reflecting the community feel of Howbery Business

For further information on development and tenancy opportunities at Howbery Business Park, visit howberypark.com

CONTACT DETAILS

 D.Bowles@hrwallingford.com  01491 822 411  www.howberypark.com

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grow your business At Alberon we’re all about helping you do what you do even better. We work with you to design and deliver a website or bespoke software that makes your organisation more effective. Our technology is designed to work for you, and we’ll be on hand to ensure you continue to get the best results.

For more than 10 years, we’ve been making businesses, schools and charities in Oxfordshire more efficient and profitable. We can do the same for you.

Call 01865 794009 or email grow@alberon.co.uk

the software and web solution specialists

www.alberon.co.uk

health & fitness

photograph by: Jon Lewis (Oxford Mail)

B4

The Adventure Junkie Tom Alden, Oxfordshire entrepreneur, explorer, motivational speaker and adventure junkie, tells B4 about his latest challenge!

WRITTEN BY: TOM ALDEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JON LEWIS (OXFORD MAIL) & MDS TEAM

After completing The World’s Toughest Rowing Race, 3,000NM across the Atlantic Ocean and having always been a firm believer in practising what he preaches, local Personal Trainer and Founder of TLA Fitness, Tom Alden, has just completed The World’s Toughest Footrace - The Marathon Des Sables. It is a gruelling multi-day ultra marathon, run in six days over a course of 257km through a formidable landscape in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates, the Sahara Desert. The rules require you to be selfsufficient and carry with you everything you need to survive, except water which is resupplied at various checkpoints.

challenges. Tom feels it is important as a Personal Trainer to also be a role model to clients. Training, goal setting and achieving those goals is a state of mind which requires commitment, dedication and the right amount of training. Above all, anything can be achieved when you put your mind to it.

The goal may seem hard to achieve as a whole, so that is why it is important to maintain a good balance in life and split your training into smaller, achievable bitesize chunks. The importance of eating well, sleeping well, maintaining your lifestyle and socialising are all key elements towards success.

“ You only fail when

Which by the way is the equivalent of:

Running the MdS in 2016, Tom has managed to raise over £5,000 for two of Oxfordshire’s children’s charities who need a significant amount of funding towards their work. ROSY - Respite nursing for Oxfordshire’s Sick Youngsters - and KEEN - who provide social, sporting and recreational activities for children and adults with special needs.

Committing to a goal is often easier said than done, however, there are ways that can be followed in order to make reaching that goal more achievable.

Remember reward - you have to make training enjoyable. It may be running a 5km or an ultra marathon, taking part in a triathlon or an ironman, perhaps even running the MdS but you must remind yourself why. Enjoy the experience of training, learn about your body, enjoy meeting and training with others. Get your friends and families involved with your training. Make each training session different so it does not become monotonous. Do it for a cause, ideally something close to you or your family that will add that extra motivation to your efforts.

• Running from London to Dover...

• Deciding not to go to France after all...

• and running back again...

• in 50 degree heat...

• with a backpack on...

• and voices in your head talking about cold beer.

Having taken part in endurance events over the past 15 years, Tom thrives on physical and mental

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you stop trying.

Enjoy the journey...

”

CONTACT DETAILS

 tom@tlafitness.com  07554 400 401  www.tlafitness.com

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COSMO OXFORD

the ultimate dining destination The ancient Chinese philosopher Confucious once said ‘Eating is the utmost thing in life,’ and for utmost (and most unique) eating experience, you can’t do much better than COSMO Oxford where diners will be invited to go on a gastronomic journey around the world. COSMO prides itself on offering excellent choice and value in luxurious surroundings.

WRITTEN BY: NINA SAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PAPERHAT CREATIVE AGENCY

COSMO, one of the UK’s most up-and-coming restaurant groups, is opening its latest branch this May in Oxford. The Oxford Restaurant is based in Magdalen Street (situated between Tesco & Sainbury’s).

COSMO is a critically acclaimed Restaurant Group that rivals high end banquet restaurants. The concept of COSMO came about through the vision of its CEO, Tom Chan, who opened its first branch in Eastbourne in 2003. He wanted to create a brand that offered a ‘multi-tasting’ experience in a ‘banquet’ style rather than ‘pile-your-plate-high’. Now, with 18 restaurants as far afield as Aberdeen, Glasgow, Belfast, Derby, Norwich, York, COSMO is considered a major brand in its sector.

At COSMO, you will find delicious international food to excite all the senses. Diners are invited to take a gastronomic journey through different countries and cultures, so that they can discover the most authentic flavours of the world. As with Eastern philosophy, everything at COSMO is interlinked. Guests are at the centre of COSMO; everything the Group does is designed to surpass expectations and maintain loyalty.

It’s this focus along with its ability to revolutionise the casual dining sector that have enabled COSMO to achieve a prominent place in this market - being regularly voted in the top 3 of the CGA Peach Report survey for customer satisfaction and value for money.

The secret of its sustained success over the past 13 years is threefold: provide an incredible range of delicious & freshly prepared food, wow customers with stunning surroundings and set prices that offer real value for money.

At COSMO Oxford, chefs prepare over 150 authentic dishes from around the world every day and each dish is expertly created in small amounts to ensure that they are always fresh. Its Live Cooking Stations provide the entertainment, sounds, aromas but above all, dishes cooked in front of customers.

COSMO provides a casual dining experience like no other, offering a balanced choice of delicious food, exceptional value for money giving guests

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added value at one set price: lunch from £8.50 and dinner from £14.99.

Customers can enjoy a wide range of dishes: Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Italian, Thai, Continental and Mexican are just some of the international styles of the different dishes on offer.

Here is a small selection from various food stations to whet your appetite.

World of Asia: chicken and sweet corn soup, prawn toast, Beijing ribs, crispy aromatic duck, sweet and sour chicken, beef with green peppers in black bean sauce, Pad Thai, Mongolian stir-fried lamp, stir fried chicken with cashew nuts, noodles...

House of Spice: Chicken Korma, vegetable curry, chicken Jalfrezi, Chicken Tikka Masala, Pilau Rice, lamb Rogan Josh, onion bhajis, vegetable samosas...

Italian: Mushroom and chicken pizza, vegetarian pizza, macaroni cheese pasta, seafood risotto, ravioli, vegetarian lasagne...

Teppanyaki & Sushi: there is a choice of Japanese sushi dishes with accompanying sauces for customer to enjoy. At the Teppanyaki area, food can be made to order.

The evening menu includes a traditional carvery with all the trimmings: Yorkshire puddings, buttered potatoes, roast beef, roast lamb with garlic and rosemary, roast turkey, roasted carrots with parsley and thyme, roasted mixed vegetables, roasted potatoes & sweet Potatoes.

profiteroles, éclairs, tiramisu, cheesecakes, chocolate fudge, brownies, cakes, apple pies, swiss rolls, ice cream, fruit, fruit cocktail and a chocolate fountain to complete the indulgence.

At COSMO Oxford, even the fussiest eater is likely to find something they like. Therefore, the restaurant has a very broad appeal. It is a perfect venue for business people, students and tourists looking for a quick lunch, but also for family groups with children and retired couples taking a more leisurely approach to sampling the diversity of world foods on offer.

The Restaurant has been designed with great care, with inspiration coming from all over the world to create a stunning look and feel. Its decor is luxurious and slick with a welcoming array of colourful produce on display. The branch, which costs approximately £2.5m to fit out, can seat several hundred diners.

If you have not been to COSMO before, go and discover for yourself why thousands of loyal customers dine there every week.

CONTACT DETAILS

   

oxford@cosmo-restaurants.co.uk 01865 297 575 www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk /CosmoOxford

Cook Fresh, Eat Fresh

Cook fresh, Eat Fresh is an integral part of COSMO’s ethos. You can watch the highly skilled chefs prepare dishes from the freshest ingredients at various live cooking stations: Dim Sum, Teppanyaki & Sushi, Tempura, Fresh Pasta, Homemade Pizza, Rotisserie, Robata and Tandoor.

No dining experience would be complete without the desserts. There are Eton Mess, mousses,

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B4

r&r

Customers can enjoy a wide “ range of dishes: Japanese, Indian, Chinese, Italian, Thai, Continental and Mexican are just some of the international styles of the different dishes on offer.

�

www.b4-business.com

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Think Rhodes for Business...

For full information on exclusive use, meetings, seminars, team building and conferences please call 01865 282599 or email events@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk

Rhodes House, Oxford, OX1 3RG

Telephone 01865 282 599 events@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk www.rhodeshouseoxford.com

B4

health & fitness

Tara Tripp Hearing Care Tara Tripp Hearing Care is a leading family run independent hearing practice. The practice has built an excellent reputation in Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas for providing a complete hearing healthcare service. From the provision of the latest digital hearing aids to effective microsuction wax removal, Tara Tripp Hearing ensures each client receives the care, attention and expertise to solve or manage their hearing impairment.

WRITTEN BY: VINCENT TRIPP PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JJ HUNT PHOTOGRAPHY

Diagnosing hearing loss Hearing tests at Tara Tripp Hearing Care utilises state of the art equipment and result in a comprehensive and detailed report on the clients hearing and a full analysis of options. Tara Tripp Hearing Care do not only check what pitch of beeps you can hear, but give a full diagnostic assessment. Hearing assessments include; • Ear examinations using a fibre optic camera meaning the client sees exactly what is happening in their canal. The health of the ears is checked and any wax or debris is removed using microsuction.

• Measuring whether the mechanical function of the ear drum and middle ear cavity are working normally.

• Assessing the acoustic reflex of the middle ear.

• Determining the amount of air flowing through the Eustachian tube into the middle ear.

• Assessing the softest sounds that can be heard.

• Measuring how effectively each individual can understand speech in noisy and quiet environments.

As an independent practice Tara Tripp Hearing Care are able to supply hearing aids from all manufacturers as they are not tied into any agreements from laboratories. Any recommendations made are based on each individuals hearing requirements.

If hearing aids are required, Tara Tripp Hearing Care

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provide a free 45 day trial on every hearing system recommended. This time enables the wearer to determine benefit in their everyday environment nor is there any commitment to purchase.

What is ear wax?

We are often asked why we have ear wax. It is not as a result of poor hygiene as many people think, but a clever mix of ingredients which have an important role in protecting and cleaning our ears.

In addition to trapping dirt and any creepy crawlies, ear wax lubricates the skin, provides antiinflammatory and antibacterial properties - ensuring the ear is kept healthy.

Ear wax naturally moves out of our ears. In fact, every time we talk, chew or yawn we are encouraging this process. Whilst many people remain unaffected by ear wax problems, ear wax can be a real issue for some and needs removing. At Tara Tripp Hearing Care there is no ‘syringing’ but microsuction.

Microsuction is a method of ear wax removal. Ear wax is removed using a gentle suction and a clinical microscope or endoscope to view the ear canal and drum. It is the preferred method used by Ear Nose and Throat consultants. Microsuction is safe, gentle and very effective. It does not require lengthy softening and, in most cases, relief is instant.

Training nurses In addition to providing hearing systems and

removing ear wax among other hearing related solutions, Tara Tripp Hearing Care pioneered the ear wax management course for primary care nurses in the Oxfordshire area. Three Oxford Aural Care Study Days are held each year at the practice, providing training for Practice and District Nurses, Health Care Assistants and GP’s.

Recognising excellence Tara Tripp Hearing Care is an AIHHP (Association of Independent Hearing Healthcare Professionals) Centre of Excellence. AIHHP Centres of Excellence must meet strict criteria in terms of equipment and service levels. These criteria are under constant review to each centre represents the highest standards of “best practice” in the Profession.

More recently, Tara Tripp Hearing Care was awarded ‘Oxfordshire’s Favourite for Health and Beauty’ in the 2016 Living in Oxford awards.

To find out more on how Tara Tripp Hearing Care can help your hearing needs, get in contact today.

CONTACT DETAILS

 enquiries@tripphearing.co.uk  01865 910 202  www.tripphearing.co.uk

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The lowdown on Business in Oxford through the eyes and ears of CIS On April 21st 2016, B4 hosted their third Business in Oxford (BIO) event at Said Business School.

It was CIS’s first time presenting, sponsoring and attending the event.

WRITTEN BY: LUKE BROADHURST PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ROB SCOTCHER

Business in Oxford was created by B4 and the event has been designed to provide a detailed programme of informative presentations combined with networking opportunities to help the business community within Oxfordshire grow through brand awareness and relationship building.

B4 run events throughout the Thames Valley and have done so for five years.

They were asked in 2013 by the Oxford Economic Growth Strategy Steering Group to recommend ways in which Oxfordshire could raise its profile as an excellent place for business and at the same time facilitate contact between Oxfordshire’s leading businesses.

CIS sponsored the IT & Communications pod in the Nelson Mandela Lecture hall. Ross Wilson, a speaker for CIS, presented around Cyber Security and the forthcoming EU Data Protection Regulations that will be enforced in the near future.

Presentation Highlights • An overview of the proposed EU Data Protection Regulations • Compliance with the EU Data Protection Regulations • Layered security and Data Breach Prevention The overall message of the presentation was to help businesses take the right approach to securing their company data in use, at rest and in transit..

Following the CIS presentation was fascinating exposition from Claire Jacques from BrookSteet Des Roches who presented around the legal side of Cloud Computing. This gave businesses a good insight into how decisions should be made on options for hosting data remotely and how to ensure that the ideal hosting partner is selected.

Also there was Shaw Gibbs, a leading accountancy firm in Oxfordshire who sponsored one of the pods, discussing the changing cloud environment and how it’s affecting businesses and professional services.

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www.b4-business.com

B4

technology

Richard Marsh, CEO, CIS

Pod Speakers L-R: Barrie Gardiner - SSE Telecoms, Mark Elliot - iHub, Priya O'Shea - Microsoft, Claire Jacques - Brookstreet des Roche, Mark Salisbury - Oxford Knowledge Company and Ross Wilson - CIS.

Richard Marsh CEO, CIS commented - “As this was our first Business in Oxford event I was keen to see the impact we would have on the many businesses that attended on the day. The event was an educational experience for us and also gave us the opportunity to catch up with our existing clients and establish new ones in the process” 2016 has been a great year so far for CIS with the CEO, Richard Marsh coming runner up in Business Person of the year for Wiltshire Business Awards, taking on 5 new staff within 4 weeks, winning local business in Oxfordshire, implementing great benefits for the CIS team and starting the process of further expanding its offices in Faringdon. This reinforces the great work CIS are doing for its local town of Faringdon and the surrounding county, offering more opportunities for the local community year on year.

Learn more with CIS

“ As this was our first Business in

Oxford event I was keen to see the impact we would have on the many businesses that attended on the day.

Richard Marsh, CEO, CIS

”

The presentation by CIS at Business in Oxford was an abridged version of the full presentation. To learn more about complying with the upcoming Data Protection Regulation, how to protect your data and to ask questions in a more personal and one-to-one environment then contact CIS or visit the website to find out when next roundtable event is.

CONTACT DETAILS

 solutions@cisltd.com  01367 700 555  wwwcisltd.com

www.b4-business.com

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“I haven’t come across a firm that I’d prefer to do business with” Ashton Ward Eton Bridge Partners

Award winning accounting, tax and corporate finance advice for some of the Thames Valley’s most ambitious businesses Call us today and see how we can help you.

01628 770 770 wilson-partners.co.uk

B4

health & fitness

World Record set at iconic Reading Half Marathon Sunday’s 33rd Reading Half Marathon saw more than 12,000 runners take on the prestigious race, with many surpassing their personal best race times as well as raising thousands of pounds for charitable causes and for the first time in the race’s history, a Guinness World Record was set.

There was an incredible atmosphere at the start line in Green Park, alive with energy and an abundance of colour as Olympic 400m sprinter Iwan Thomas MBE, Sir John Madejski and Reading Mayor Sarah Jane Hacker set runners on their way. This continued across the town with roaring spectators lining the pavements for the runners throughout the 13.1 mile route.

Thousands more filled the race village and the Madejski Stadium to join in the celebrations that erupted around the finish line.

race crossing the line in 1 hour, 3 minutes and 57 seconds. In the women’s race, Jenny Nesbitt took the top spot competing in her first ever half marathon and completing the course in 1 hour, 12 minutes and 54 seconds. She said: “I honestly can’t believe I’ve won my first ever half marathon. We’ve had beautiful weather and the course is amazing, I can’t wait to come back next year and run it even faster!”

Scott Forbes, a BA Pilot from Wokingham, ran the whole race in a blue three piece suit in a time of 1.18.13 breaking the Guinness World Record for the 'Fastest Half Marathon in a Suit'. Scott commented: “I’m absolutely ecstatic that I’ve managed to beat the world record, it was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I was so hot and it felt like I was running through mud - I’m just glad it’s over and it was all worth it!”

a blue three piece suit in a time of 1.18.13 breaking the Guinness World Record for the 'Fastest Half Marathon in a Suit'

Iwan Thomas, MBE comments: “A massive well done to all who took part today! The atmosphere was truly incredible – the sun was out, support from the crowd was immense, and the varied entertainment helped keep everyone on form throughout the course. I also beat my Reading half course best by five minutes so it was an all-round great day. I would highly recommend getting involved in next year’s race so you can experience this superb event first hand.”

In the men’s race, Robert Mbithi dominated the www.b4-business.com

Scott Forbes, a BA Pilot from “ Wokingham, ran the whole race in

”

Adam Gentry, 37, from Banbury ran the race as ‘Zoom the Raccoon’ the mascot of one of this year’s official race charities, Blue Skye Thinking. Sally Hall, founder of the charity, comments: “Once again, the Reading Half Marathon has been a fantastically successful event. It was humbling and indeed an enormous privilege to have so many runners choose to run for Blue Skye Thinking again this year, and all of them experienced the warmth and enthusiasm from the throng of well-wishers en route. The support on the road was tremendous!”

The popular 3km Green Park Challenge ahead of the main race provided the option to run together

with more than 1,500 children and families taking to the course. Mayor Sarah Jane Hacker started the race with Sir John Madejski and commented: “This is a fantastic introduction in to running and is so accessible for so many people. We hope to see those runners involved in the Reading Half in a few years to come!”

Judith Manson, Race Director, describes the event as a huge success: “A big congratulations to all the participants that took part in the race on this beautifully sunny Sunday. Reading has once again played host to a fantastic event with so many dedicated runners crossing the finish line as first timers, charity fundraisers or seasoned elites – and even a world record holder! The success of the day would not be possible without the fantastic efforts from our team of events staff, marshals and volunteers so I’d like to say a huge thank you to them as well as to our partners, sponsors and charities for their continued support.”

For further details on this year’s event see below.

CONTACT DETAILS

 events@sweatshop.co.uk  0845 164 1775  www.readinghalfmarathon.com

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Simon Harris - International Favourite Filter

Art for love or investment?

Sarah Wiseman Gallery, Oxford’s largest independent gallery space, gives a few key pointers to starting an art collection, whether for personal enjoyment or as a corporate statement.

WRITTEN BY: SARAH WISEMAN

Now in its eighteenth year, Sarah Wiseman Gallery prides itself on exhibitions of contemporary art by established and emerging creative talent from all over the UK. Our clients are experienced art collectors who are confident in feeding their passion for contemporary art. Some buy with their heart and others with an eye to investment.

However, we are always meeting people at the gallery who are new to collecting. They are often very keen to get involved but are nervous of taking the first step, perhaps hesitant whether to trust their instinct and buy a work they love or buy a work by a well-known name as it seems to be a sure investment.

Why are so many of us attracted to the idea of owning art? The most experienced collectors say that art opens up new ways of looking at the world, allowing them to engage with and support new ideas. Owning art is for them a form of selfexpression, a way of sharing their values. The same

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is true of a corporate art collection. It is a confident statement about the positioning of the company and the culture within that it promotes; for example one that is supportive, enlightened and forward thinking.

Buying art with profit in mind can be risky and needs a long term view. All artists’ careers develop at different paces; prices can rise fast for some artists or build slowly over time.

The first step is to start to look at what is out there by visiting galleries and museums. The internet is a great place for browsing but art is a physical thing; it has been made to be seen and experienced. Talking to gallerists is one of the most important things you can do as they can give you so much firsthand information. Here at Sarah Wiseman Gallery, we know all our artists personally which gives us wonderful insights to share with you, giving you a deeper understanding of the art and its’ potential value.

When considering an artist’s work in terms of investment, it is important to study their biography.

Are they emerging or established? If emerging they are usually a riskier bet. If established they are working with a gallery and exhibiting with their peers.

Both are indicators of a serious practice; an artist focused on making art and leaving the promotional side to a trusted gallerist.

Think about why you might be buying. If it is for love then the only question you have to ask yourself is whether or not you can afford it? If you also hope it turns into a savvy investment then be more cautious!

There are simple practical considerations such as budget and size to remember. Consider carefully how much you can afford and where you plan to place an art work. Also, keep a record of your purchase, along with any documentation or exhibition cards, as this adds to the history and the provenance of an art work.

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Henrietta Dubrey - Touch and Go

Mark Beattie - Neon Orb

Steven MacIver - Brodgar in Gold & Indian Red

In our forthcoming exhibition ‘Line & Surface’, we present three excellent established artists alongside an exciting emerging talent, all interesting for collectors.

of celluloid film. At this point in his career, after many years of intense study, we are introducing his work carefully to a wider audience.

exhibition marks an important introduction to our clients as an original voice in a difficult medium.

Oxfordshire-based Steven MacIver exhibits with a prominent gallery in New York but is keen to remain connected with his immediate art scene and has successfully exhibited his work at Sarah Wiseman Gallery for a few years. He will show two new, large works focusing on the power of line in painting and the space it creates within the two-dimensional plane.

Henrietta Dubrey is new to the gallery but not to us as art enthusiasts. We have been admiring her work from afar for some time. She is a strong abstract painter and her use of line, colour and bold shapes forms the connecting link in the exhibition.

Her works are autobiographical deconstructions and reconstructions of her life and have an immediate clarity and maturity to their free spirited composition.

Simon J Harris recently completed a PhD in Fine Art Practice and his large-scale paintings have an awe-inspiring cinematic presence. He has an exceptionally refined approach to his work, working with intense layers of oil on fine linen and ‘trapping’ the image in between the layers of the paint and so creating a sumptuous, high-gloss finish, like a piece

Mark Beattie, the sculptor in the exhibition, is working with an intriguing concept of copper and neon, twisting the material into elegant forms that are very captivating. Now at the emerging phase of his career, Mark is successfully showing in London at art fairs and in gallery exhibitions. Mark won the 2015 Xerxes Sculpture Prize and his work in our

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Galleries are an excellent place to confidently start collecting art. At Sarah Wiseman Gallery, we work very much with the mind set of having two groups of clients: our artists and our collectors. This means that we pursue and support exceptional artists through our exhibition programme, all of whom are professional but at different stages in their careers, giving our collectors confidence in adding to their art collections through us. Buying for love or for investment, an art collection adds positive value both personally and professionally.

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@wisegal.com  01865 515 123  www.wisegal.com

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Best of both...

1

Benefit from fine quality print along with competitive print rates.

Oxuniprint is a wholly owned subsidiary of Oxford University Press and delivers a professional commercial print service.

Unit 10 Oxonian Park, Langford Locks, Kidlington, Oxfordshire OX5 1FP Telephone: 01865 514691 www.oxuniprint.co.uk

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The Cherwell Boathouse Time stands still in the twilight of an April evening as we snake through North Oxford, heading towards the Cherwell Boathouse. The streets are deserted with the fee paying school community being en vacances and very probably entre la neige and le ciel. Tucked into the armpit of the Dragon School is a tiny little lane leading to arguably the city’s best restaurant, or certainly one of the most famous and definitely one of only a very few establishments competing in the arena of ‘fine dining’.

WRITTEN BY: DAN CHANNER

The Cherwell Boathouse was founded in 1904 by a man called Thomas Tims. He built a punt hire business, a large house and he had a boat building yard at Long Isis. Today the Boathouse is thriving with the main restaurant, several event spaces, plenty of punts to hire, and a seasonal Teahut bar open from mid-April to midSeptember offering a lower price point and more immediate and accessible fayre for those who have come to punt and not necessarily to dine.

We park on Chadlington Road and the silence of the neighbourhood shatters upon opening the restaurant door, as if we have stumbled upon a secret club.

On an ignominious Wednesday evening the place is buzzing with full tables and urgent laughter and a sense that we are late to the party. The atmosphere works and creates the mood - nobody wants a silent restaurant.

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Without thinking very hard we find ourselves ordering from the Spring Menu which offers 2 courses for £22 and 3 courses for £27.75. We were the last table to order and my starter of red pepper and plum tomato mousse disappears in seconds. My friend enjoyed the cornish crab and chive risotto, using adjectives like ‘delicate’ and ‘fragrant’ with a sincerity that I had to admire.

The shiitake mushroom “ and Madeira jus add a sweet

glaze to the proceedings - the portions are generous and this is a winner.

”

We order the beef and the cod as main courses. The beef is locally reared and that is compelling when

ordering, geographic provenance being a modern trend. The shiitake mushroom and Madeira jus add a sweet glaze to the proceedings - the portions are generous and this is a winner. The pan fried fillet of cod is cooked to perfection.

Puddings are essential and the bitter chocolate tart complements the evening as a round of ‘Happy Birthday to you’ comes from across the room. Gilded North Oxford sleeps serene as we leave, oblivious to the passing of yet another successful, lovely evening at the Cherwell Boathouse.

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@cherwellboathouse.co.uk  01865 552 746  www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk

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Danesfield House Hotel & Spa Situated between the towns of Marlow and Henley in a glorious secluded setting amidst 65 acres of manicured formal and informal gardens with exceptional views of the River Thames and the Chiltern hills beyond, stands the spectacular Danesfield House Hotel and Spa. A luxurious country retreat created twenty five years ago from a magnificent family home to become one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

WRITTEN BY: CHERYL MARNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MARK SEYMOUR

The main house completed in 1901 is a unique, dazzling, bright white building featuring striking Italian Renaissance style architecture with castle style turrets, tall chimney pots and an impressive 30 metre high clock tower.

Internally the house boasts an airy lavish feel to include a vaulted panelled Grand Hall complete with Minstrel’s Gallery and a large reception room with original hand painted murals replicating a dining room in the Palace of Versailles seating up to one hundred guests comfortably for a stunning banquet or wedding celebration. A beautiful south facing terrace at the rear of the hotel overlooks the established topiary, gardens and river beyond.

The gardens open to visitors and highly commended by the National Garden Scheme are home to rare and exotic trees and plantings all of which are a feature of many publications. The gardens are also renowned for their collection of Pulham Stone, the only other collections larger can be found in gardens of Buckingham Palace and Sandringham House.

The site upon which Danesfield House sits today is steeped in history, the first property being built in 1664. Danesfield House on completion in 1901 was a private family home until 1941 when it was requisitioned as a base to develop the intelligence section of the Royal Air Force, known as RAF Medmenham and remained in the hands of the RAF until 1977.

Danesfield House Hotel opened on the 1st July 1991 and as this independently owned hotel embarks on its 25th year, it is celebrating the completion of the first phase of a major redevelopment programme. Phase One sees an investment of £2m and the complete regeneration of twenty four bedrooms to become sixteen luxurious rooms to include duplex suites all situated in a private courtyard setting. This complex redevelopment of the Grade 2 listed stable courtyard started with the planning process. Local tradesmen to include Henley based Jex Construction as lead contractor have encountered numerous hurdles to complete the transformation, including the removal of internal chimneys each weighing a total of 32 tons. Removing these allowed the design team led by renowned Hampshire based interior designer Elizabeth Warden to reconfigure the layout of the rooms. The original chimney pots were then repositioned on the outside ensuring the roof line in the courtyard remained in keeping with the main house and as was built in 1901.

Once the new layout had been created a team of skilled local tradesmen started the 2 year and a half year task of renovation. The new stable courtyard wing brings state of the art technology, design led bathrooms and exquisite soft furnishings together. Each new room takes on an individual identity with variations in layout and size, although all benefit from underfloor heating, air conditioning and remotely controlled showers and the latest Phillip’s smart tv solution. To round it all off, 24 hour butler service to each of the new suites is also provided.

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“A sanctuary of elegance

and calm awaits, offering guests an escape from the busy lifestyles and hectic schedules of modern life

”

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This quintessentially British hotel offers seventy eight luxury bedrooms in total, beautiful private dining rooms and relaxing reception areas and lounges, the hotel also has the added benefit of a luxury Spa for residents and hotel guests.

Spa Illuminata Danesfield House is housed in its own wing with a separate entrance, and emanates timeless luxury in keeping with the rest of the magnificent, country house hotel.

A sanctuary of elegance and calm awaits, offering guests an escape from the busy lifestyles and hectic schedules of modern life. Spa Illuminata Danesfield House uses luxury La Vallee, Darphin and Aromatherapy Associates products in a wide range of indulgent treatments. These range from holistic massages and Reiki to anti-aging facials and skin polishes, an array of luxury beauty treatments are also available. The serial award-winning Spa facilities encompass a beautiful 20-meter swimming pool, with breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside, a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, a fully equipped Matrix gymnasium, Zen Fitness Studio with a varied fitness class offering, a Pommery POP Nail bar, and eight tranquil treatment rooms including a VIP Suite to accommodate VIP packages and couples treatments and thriving membership scene.

For guests visiting the City of London hotel’s sister spa, the ultra-exclusive Spa Illuminata Mayfair offers an array of world class, cutting edge treatments and an oasis of calm in Central London at one of the capitals most prestigious addresses on South Audley Street. As the UK’s Flagship day spa for cult Parisian skincare brand Darphin and the Swiss super luxury product house Bellefontaine. A beautiful boutique including perfumery, men’s fragrance and unique accessories complete the story at London’s Luxury day spa.

Perfectly placed for M40, M4, M3 and 22 miles from London Heathrow International Airport, Danesfield House offers the perfect opportunity to mix business with pleasure. Affordable corporate luxury starts with a total of eight meeting rooms offering the perfect environment to host conferences from two to one hundred delegates, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout, bespoke meeting packages and flexibility of meeting rooms and public spaces offer the opportunity for creativity within a working environment. Delegates can enjoy outdoor activities provided by specialised team building companies to include country pursuits and river activities. Meetings and events are managed by a dedicated Operations Team ensuring a smooth, efficient, attentive and super discreet service complete with high tech equipment and mouth-watering food and beverage offerings.

For a more private experience the hotel can be hired on an exclusive basis for corporate events, weddings and family occasions, allowing guests the hotel accommodation, public areas and grounds for a minimum period of 24 hours.

Michelin Stared Executive Chef Billy Reid and his brigade combine the very best produce to create a smart and approachable modern British dining experience in The Restaurant at Danesfield House. An extensive A’La Carte menu offering traditional and modern cuisine along with a daily market menu provide a guests the opportunity to relax, enjoy and remember. The Restaurant at Danesfield House is a double AA Rosette winner with a new and exciting concept allowing guests to decide on dining from the same menu choices in the beautiful Oak Room, the sunny Orangery or al fresco dining and afternoon tea on the glorious private Terrace soaking up summer sunshine or embrace the secluded beauty of the grounds with a picnic hamper.

Our most striking Cocktail Bar, walls adorned with tapestry is the most perfect setting to enjoy an aperitif, maybe one of the sixty cocktails on offer or the chance to choose from the extensive Condé Nast Johansens award winning wine list of over three hundred wines along with 30 exceptional wines by the glass.

Danesfield House Hotel and Spa is quite simply a luxury country house hotel with a charm and character that cannot be compared.

CONTACT DETAILS

 enquiries@danesfieldhouse.co.uk  01628 891 010  danesfieldhouse.co.uk

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JAGUAR XE PRESTIGE FROM £289 A MONTH +VAT*

INGENIUM ENGINES INGENIOUS EFFICIENCY The Jaguar XE is our most advanced, refined and efficient sports saloon with a brand new range of high tech engines.

These Ingenium diesel engines deliver breathtaking figures, from 99 g/km CO2 and up to 75mpg combined.

Business Contract Hire. Initial rental in advance of £1,737 +VAT. 36 month term. 10,000 miles per annum. VAT payable at 20%. Model pictured (including optional metallic paint and 18" Matrix wheels) from £323 a month +VAT, plus initial rental in advance of £1,944 +VAT.

From 99g/km CO2 Up to 75.0mpg Combined From Group 22E Insurance rating

Ridgeway Jaguar Cumnor Hill, Cumnor, Oxford, OX2 9PL 01865 565421 www.ridgeway.oxford.jaguar.co.uk

Official fuel economy figures for the Jaguar XE 163PS Prestige in mpg (l/100km): Urban 64.2 (4.4); Extra Urban 83.1 (3.4); Combined 75.0 (3.8). CO2 Emissions 99 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. *Important Information - Business users only. Based on an XE Saloon 2.0D 163PS Prestige 4dr standard specification, non-maintained. Excess mileage charges (at 9.1p per mile). Must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Contract Hire subject to status. This promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotions and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 30th June 2016. Contract Hire is provided by Jaguar Contract Hire, a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Model shown is an XE Saloon 2.0D 180PS Prestige 4dr with optional Italian Racing Red metallic paint and 18" Matrix wheels.

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services

The Archive Centre After over three decades in corporate finance, David Coulton turned his attention to storing documents rather than creating them. But in a sector that you might think is contracting, David explains that Medical and IT companies rank amongst his growing portfolio of customers.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER

Having purchased the company seven years ago, David set about changing his business in three key areas.

“We increased capacity by opening a new warehouse near Bicester in September 2013 which had a capacity of 20,000 archive boxes.

This was in addition to our Aylesbury warehouse which was at capacity. The Bicester warehouse enabled us to create space in Aylesbury so we had capacity at both.

“We then created a ‘Secure Destruction Service’, basically the shredding and disposal of documents especially focussed for non-archiving clients, which is now considered best practice for any organisation. We issue a Certificate of Destruction which provides peace of mind as well as ticking the box for ISO audits.

“Our final move was to increase our service ability….we now have four vans and a secure box trailer which we can leave behind for larger collections.”

TAC is a family business having grown to employ five members of staff in addition to David’s wife, Ruth, and his two sons. “Demand has increased phenomenally ever since we took over the business and we have experienced year on year growth of box storage of 10% plus.

The Secure Destruction Service for archiving and non archiving clients has also seen considerable growth.”

As alluded to in the intro, the uninitiated would be forgiven for thinking that the storage of documents would be a contracting sector, but given the everyday problems we all encounter with our IT, the alternative storage medium (electronic) doesn’t necessarily fill you with 100% confidence, as David points out. “Not only is the electronic alternative not exactly bullet-proof, it’s also very expensive. How does a document get stored electronically? It doesn’t just jump in your computer, someone’s got to scan it and archive it. That’s time and that’s money. Think about the time it takes to pop

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2,500 sheets of paper in a box and give it to us to store against scanning those 2,500 (sometimes double sided) sheets of paper? It really is a no-brainer.”

Add to the equation that David’s warehouses are 24 hour security monitored and meet full ISO 9001 standards and that’s all the confidence you need.

With a client base including medical, legal, financial, care and education sector clients, plus the aforementioned Medical and IT and a 100% satisfied customer portfolio confirming that TAC are giving an excellent or good service, year on year, it’s no wonder that the perennially likeable David and his team are experiencing such growth.

Your Regional Specialists in • Warehouses located at the centre of the area we serve — Head Office in Aylesbury and a second unit near Bicester • Paper and Document archiving — The full service and management of paper based files • Storage — All archived material is stored in our heated warehouses which have 24hour security monitoring • Insolvency Storage • Secure Certificated Destruction Services for files and confidential office waste • Fire resistant cupboard storage for more valuable documents, data discs etc • Storage available for small products, stationery, brochures, literature, forms etc If it fits on our shelves, we can look to store it!

CONTACT DETAILS

 enquiries@thearchivecentre.com  01296 425744  www.thearchivecentre.com

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spotlight

Helen & Douglas House WRITTEN BY: CLARE PERITON Clare Periton, CEO, Helen & Douglas House

B4 meets Clare Periton, CEO of Helen & Douglas House.

“It is my honour and privilege to have been given responsibility to lead this fantastic local charity. I took over the role as Chief Executive in September 2015, after working within the Care Team for over a decade. First as a nurse within Helen House and then as Director of Clinical Services for both Helen House and Douglas House.”

Helen House was the first children’s hospice in the world – providing specialist respite and end-of-life care to terminally ill children. Douglas House provides care and support for those between the ages of 18 and 35 with terminal conditions. Both hospices are situated in East Oxford, just off the vibrant and diverse Cowley Road.

“Our service has developed substantially over the years and we have always been a pioneer within this particular sector. We support well over 300 families each year, not only in both houses, but through our Family Support & Bereavement Team and our Community Outreach Nursing Team working across the region.”

Children, teenagers, young adults and their families have come to rely upon the services of this very special Oxford-based charity. What began with one building and a handful of families has become a substantial operation that costs over £5 million each year to operate. What is perhaps most remarkable is that almost all of this money is raised from the local community - each and every year.

“We are very grateful to a number of statutory bodies who are able to grant us about 12p in every £1 that we spend, but that means we have to raise 88p in every £1 we need. My priority is to achieve financial sustainability for the charity, whilst continuing to deliver high quality care to more young people.”

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This is quite a task in times of public spending austerity, reduced localised budgets and with charity fundraising becoming increasingly challenging.

“As a business does, we have to look at developing income streams. Over the years we have invested in both our retail and fundraising teams. Our 38 shops across the region return (in round figures) a net £1 million for the charity. This is fantastic news as it is repeatable, planned income, which is fundamental when you are funding a service which, for many families, will extend well into the future. We need to fundraise at least £3 million each year from the local community – from event participation, individual giving, schools and community fundraising – but also particularly from the local business community.”

“My priority is to achieve financial sustainability for the charity, whilst continuing to deliver high quality care to more young people

”

“In April I was able to deliver this message to over 150 local decisionmakers and influencers from the local community, at a Helen & Douglas House networking event, and I will reiterate it now. Helen & Douglas House needs your support. It does incredible work – but it cannot continue to do this without your fundraising support. Many of you will have chosen charities now – which I respect and wish you the very best for – but when your decision time comes for the next one, please get in touch with us.

Our service provision is pretty much entirely funded by people like you.”

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Annie Perry, New Business Manager, Helen & Douglas House

Suzi Attree, Corporate Account Manager, Helen & Douglas House

Holiday Inn Oxford, supporting Helen & Douglas House We have been working with the team at Helen & Douglas House for over two years now.

“Working with Joost and the team

at Holiday Inn is really good fun.

Being clear about expectations from both parties at the start of the partnership has led to some really successful fundraising

”

What started off as an expectation that all they wanted from us was purely money has moved a long way in that time. We have worked closely with their Corporate Account Manager, Suzi, who has supported us not only in our fundraising but more importantly in our understanding of the charity. This has also led to a number of my teams’ members visiting Helen & Douglas House to actually see what they do and to think about where we can help.

The number one way in which we can help remains fundraising, and we have done staff days, events varying from 24-hour cycles to staff auctions, involved Holiday Inn customers and supported their events such as the Rainbow and Santa Runs. But we have also been able to get involved by sharing expertise. For example, my catering and even housekeeping teams have worked alongside theirs to share ideas. Operating a collection point supported by our many leisure club members and donating furniture pieces in support of the charity shops has also been a huge success.

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The best thing above all is that my team at the Holiday Inn know the difference that they are making because they are familiar with the charity without being intrusive in any way. One of the most memorable events was when we held a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party in Helen House which was great fun for us and them.

Suzi Attree, Corporate Account Manager at Helen & Douglas House, says, “Working with Joost and the team at Holiday Inn is really good fun. Being clear about expectations from both parties at the start of the partnership has led to some really successful fundraising but also a really meaningful involvement. I am already looking forward to their next event!”

The Corporate team at Helen & Douglas House will support you with whatever event or activity you want to get involved in. This will include communication at all times with your own Account Manager, and an open invitation to come in and see us at the hospice for tea, coffee or lunch.

CONTACT DETAILS - HELEN & DOUGLAS HOUSE

 cperiton@helenanddouglas.org.uk (Clare Periton) acvperry@helenanddouglas.org.uk (Annie Perry) sattree@helenanddouglas.org.uk (Suzi Attree)  01865 794749 / 01865 799150  www.helenanddouglas.org.uk CONTACT DETAILS - HOLIDAY INN

 info@hioxfordhotel.co.uk  0871 942 9086  www.hioxfordhotel.co.uk

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Congratulations to OUFC on their Promotion to League One from everyone in the B4 network

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The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse If you are looking for tranquillity, relaxation and superb hospitality, then look no further. Yes than hour from Oxford and within striking distance of Reading, The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse offers the perfect sanctuary away from the pressures of the ‘real’ world, the irony being that there is nothing more real than the setting for this wonderful haven.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER

Set on the banks of the River Thames and immortalised in “The Wind in the Willows” and “Three Men in a Boat”, The Beetle & Wedge Restaurant is also known for its fine food, wine and service. We weren’t dining with our hosts on this occasion, although we did enjoy a fabulous breakfast on the Sunday morning. Our reason for staying was to enable us to get to Reading the next day for the Half Marathon before a dash up the M25 to Wembley to see Oxford Utd. We arrived on the Saturday evening as the sun was setting. We made our way down a winding road to the hotel car park and although the ‘kids’ are 19 and 15, they were immediately seduced by the riverside setting and made their way to the banks of the river to take in the fresh air and giggle…..we had, in the meantime, checked in to our room and with the window open could hear them enjoying themselves like they were 7 and 4 once again. This for me summed up the natural charm and beauty of The Beetle & Wedge.

“

We awoke to birds singing and rowers ploughing through the Thames just outside our window. There are worse awakenings!

”

The kids were downstairs and we were on the first floor (there are three rooms in total). Our room was spacious with a huge bed and an immaculate bathroom with a wonderful roll-top bath. We had everything we needed and relaxed for half an hour before rallying the troops for a drink in the bar, located adjacent to the restaurant.

Although we had a treat lined up for dinner, we couldn’t help feeling a little disappointed that we couldn’t make the short walk from the bar to the restaurant, especially once the enticing aromas started making their way down to the bar! You could tell the disappointment on the kids’ faces when we www.b4-business.com

told them we weren’t eating there! That will be for another day.

We awoke to birds singing and rowers ploughing through the Thames just outside our window. There are worse awakenings! Tina and I walked over to a sun drenched restaurant for a breakfast of fresh fruit, poached eggs and salmon, with plenty of water to keep me hydrated for the Half Marathon. It was beautifully sunny, although I didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have as it meant the run would be that much harder! For an even closer to nature experience, enjoy breakfast on the jetty.

Breakfast over, we jump-started the kids who were still enjoying their slumber and before we knew it we were on our way. Thank you Beetle & Wedge for a much needed rest….next time we will stay to enjoy the full experience.

Rooms:

✔ Children's 'put-up' bed available, £15.00 inclusive of breakfast ✔ Travel Cots also available at no charge ✔ Champagne/drinks can be arranged on request ✔ Flowers can be arranged on request ✔ Chocolates can be arranged on request

Restaurant:

Families are important to The Beetle & Wedge Boathouse and children are always welcome. Menus can be adapted to suit most tastes and highchairs are also provided where necessary.

Tuesday nights are steak nights.

CONTACT DETAILS

 boathouse@beetleandwedge.co.uk  01491 651381  www.beetleandwedge.co.uk

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MENU Antipasti Composta di Insalata di Mare con cozze, vongole e gamberetti Mix of octopus, calamari, prawns and other seafood. Steam cooked and dressed with olive oil, lemon and parsley Patè Rossini Home made chicken liver pâté Avocado tricolore Avocado with buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes Parmigiana di melenzane classica alla Napoletana Baked slices of aubergine with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese and basil

Primi Paccheri alla “Rossini” Pasta in a tower shape filled with a mix of fish in a pink sauce Spaghetti alla Carbonara Pasta tossed with pancetta, egg yolk, and Parmesan cheese Tonno in crosta di Sesamo Grilled tuna on sesame seeds, cooked with soya sauce with wasabi on the side Filetti di Branzino in crosta di Pistacchi Fillet of sea bass cooked with anchovies, olives, sundried tomatoes, pistachio and lemon zest

Welcome to Rossini at The Leatherne Bottel When your 15 year old daughter turns to you on a wet and windy night in the heart of the Home Counties and says the restaurant we are in reminds her of a night on holiday, then that tells you all you need to know about how relaxed Antonio, Maurizio and the team at Rossini make you feel. The pièce de résistance is the food…simply superb. Richard Rosser has the arduous task of reviewing Rossini for B4.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER

Inspired by the great Italian composer, Gioacchino Rossini (1792 - 1868), who is known for his innate love of food and wine, a great connoisseur of classical Italian food, a visit to Rossini at The Leatherne Bottel would serve any up and coming restaurateur with an invaluable lesson in hospitality, customer service and a great experience. After all, we don’t just go to a decent restaurant for the food, do we? We expect good food, but we don’t

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always get a smile, we don’t always get the experience, we don’t always get the food knowledge and we definitely don’t always get the service.

At Rossini, you get it all…and more.

The fact that it was such a hostile night as we descended down the slope to the restaurant’s car park on the banks of the River Thames in Goring-on-

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B4

Thames gave us more reason to want to revisit Rossini. It must be absolutely wonderful on a hot summer’s day, sat out on the terrace with the cool breeze drifting towards the shore. The restaurant’s website claims ‘We wish to create a very welcoming atmosphere by providing you with a corner of Italy set in a quintessentially British location on the River Thames.’

Well 10 out of 10, you do that with absolutely no fuss. Some restaurants can’t be faulted for their effort but can be faulted for their output…some don’t even bother with the effort part! Rossini’s effort isn’t in question, nor is their output, it’s just all so natural that the whole restaurant operates like clockwork….effortless!

Our hosts were attentive throughout and their interaction with the table during the meal ensured lots of laughs and hungry ‘kids’ (Abi 15 and Ed 19) devouring the delicious food. Abi surprised us all by choosing the “Composta di Insalata di Mare”, a colourful mixture of octopus, calamari and prawns.

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Sunk without trace! Ed couldn’t wait to get stuck in to his Carbonara which resulted in another clean plate.

Tina and I both agreed that our starters and main courses were amongst the best Italian food we had ever had. My grilled tuna was first class as was Tina’s sea bass…..the only criticism being that the large portions meant we couldn’t even consider dessert, as much as Maurizio tried to woo us into doing so!

So if you’re looking for a superb Italian experience in a wonderful setting, don’t look further than Rossini.

Buon appetito!

CONTACT DETAILS

 info@leathernebottel.co.uk  01491 872 667  www.leathernebottel.co.uk

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Top Tips From An Expert

advice

whilst I’m getting on with the legal side “ of things, my clients often want to know what they should do to prepare for the big day. This guide will take you through that oh-so hectic week leading up to your move Charlotte Ridgway, Hedges Law

”

Hedges’ Property Solicitor Charlotte Ridgway shares her tips for a stress free move…

WRITTEN BY: CHARLOTTE RIDGWAY

At Hedges we’ve been helping people move for over 200 years so we’re confident that whatever issues may arise we’ll have seen them and solved them before.

But whilst I’m getting on with the legal side of things, my clients often want to know what they should do to prepare for the big day. This guide will take you through that oh-so hectic week leading up to your move.

The week before Moving Day • Reconfirm arrangements with your removal company.

• Start to dismantle non-essential furniture and pack up your belongings.

• Ensure you keep all essential paperwork for your move (and the days afterwards) in a safe place.

• Plan the journey to your new property (for all family members and pets).

• Prepare a note for the new owners of your property with useful information about alarms, heating, location of meters etc.

Moving Day • Finish any last minute packing. Don’t forget your pets!

• Defrost the fridge/freezer, close all windows and leave the house secure.

• Read all the utility meters at your old and new houses ready to inform the suppliers.

• Familiarise yourself with your new home. Don’t forget to check out the boiler, hot water/heating, alarms etc.

• Supervise the delivery of your furniture and belongings into the correct rooms by the removal company.

• Put the kettle on. Breathe. Relax! You have plenty of time to get everything sorted out in a week or two, for now take some time out just to enjoy your new surroundings…oh, and to remember where you put the corkscrew

CONTACT DETAILS

 charlotte.ridgway@hedgeslaw.co.uk  01491 839 839  www.hedgeslaw.co.uk

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New Bedroom

Introducing the NEW Jurys Inn Oxford!

Last year Jurys Inn Hotel Group expanded its UK portfolio by rebranding the four star Oxford Hotel, Godstow Rd, Oxford, to Jurys Inn. Since then the 168 bedroom hotel, located just four miles from Oxford city centre, has been undergoing a £10.8million refurbishment programme to enhance its facilities, including the transformation of all its bedrooms and public areas.

All 168 spacious bedrooms have been fully refurbished, incorporating a bright, contemporary décor, chic furnishings and stunning artwork, featuring the Jurys Inn bespoke ‘DREAM Beds’ with upgraded mattresses, pillows, bed linen.

By the end of the summer, all public areas including the lobby, bar, Juvenate Leisure Club, and 20 meetings rooms will be transformed - the concept of which draws on inspiration from Oxford’s motor manufacturing heritage, with a nod to the era’s beautiful vintage style and classic cars such as the Morris Minor and the Mini.

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The summer months will also see the hotel open its very own Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, with dining experiences using timeless dishes with British heart and French soul, enhancing the hotel’s

The summer months “ will also see the hotel open its very own Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, with dining experiences using timeless dishes with British heart and French soul

”

position as a culinary destination for local food lovers.

But that’s not all, by the end of this year, Jurys Inn Oxford will also unveil a newly built extension adding an additional 72 bedrooms to the hotel.

The Jurys Inn rebrand has brought a number of additional benefits including, an all-day Costa Coffee Bar, stylish en-suite bedrooms with Freeview and renowned Jurys Inn customer service, delivered

by Oxford Hotel’s existing team and under the management of their newly appointed General Manager Chris Broderick.

Chris is a passionate hotelier with over 15 years’ experience in the industry which began in Bristol back in 2000. As an ambitious and highly motivated individual who focuses on strong leadership, coaching and team development, B4 Magazine caught up with him to find out more about what the rebrand and refurbishment means for staff and guests of the hotel; “With £10.8million injected into the hotel to include the transformation of all our bedrooms, public areas, a 72 bedroom extension and opening of a Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill, we’re delighted to be able to invest significantly into a

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B4 Jurys Inn Oxford Exterior

New Bar

• £10.8 million refurbishment programme

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New ensuite Bathroom

New Lobby and Coffee Bar

• Transformation of 168 bedrooms and public areas • Additional 72 bedroom extension • New Marco Pierre White Restaurant

There’s a new name on the block as the four star Oxford Hotel has been rebranded as Jurys Inn. B4 Magazine goes behind the scenes to find out what changes have been made to one of Oxford’s premier hotels.

WRITTEN BY: CHRIS BRODERICK PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JURYS INN

hotel which has been in operation in Oxford for 38 years now.

“Although we’ve had several name changes in the last 10 years, the rebrand to Jurys Inn has been somewhat different. Not only has the hotel received significant investment to enhance its physical surroundings but the personal investment the group has given our individual members of staff has been second to none. As an employer Jurys Inn puts a big emphasis on career development, with an excellent Learning & Development programme including the award winning GROW e-learning platform.

“We have been a popular choice for both tourists and business travellers alike, given our location and facilities such as a Leisure club and 20 meeting rooms. During the week we attract business travellers visiting the local business district, a large conference in-house, the University of Oxford or one of the many colleges nearby. At the weekends, this changes to couples, families and groups visiting the ‘City

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of dreaming spires’ offering fantastic shopping, restaurants and old pubs steeped in history, Blenheim palace, the Cotswold wildlife park or the shoppers’ paradise at Bicester village.

Situated on Godstow Road, the four star Jurys Inn Oxford is only 3.3 miles from Oxford railway station, with 250 complimentary car parking spaces available on site.

Jurys Inn “putAs aanbigemployer emphasis on

Jurys Inn Oxford was one of nine hotels to receive a Jurys Inn rebrand, totalling 37 hotels across the Jurys Inn UK portfolio.

career development, with an excellent Learning & Development programme including the award winning GROW e-learning platform

For more information about Jurys Inn, please contact us below.

”

“The staff and I are only too delighted to continue to deliver a high-quality service for our guests, and we hope our new and existing corporate and leisure guests enjoy the new facilities and services on offer.”

CONTACT DETAILS  jurysinnoxford@jurysinns.com  01865 489 988  www.jurysinns.com/hotels/oxford  @JurysInnOxford

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Event production & hire audio, video & lighting Respected suppliers of high quality audio, lighting and AV hire equipment for events.

Based in Oxfordshire but covering the entire south east and midlands, we can help with anything from weddings and birthday parties through to club or band nights, charity events, fashion shows, festivals and events.

We pride ourselves on having the best customer service and equipment for all your lighting, video and sound system needs in Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas, and at extremely competitive prices.

01865 875 519 www.acdisco.com

Marathon Achievement Thank you to everyone who sponsored me for the 2016 London Marathon.

You can still make a donation at Virgin Money Giving – just put my name into the search and make your donation. Thank you.

B4

health & fitness

JOB DONE! TOTAL RAISED - £1,800 TIME: 4 hours 48 minutes RICH tion

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Pierre ire Victo

RICH Shirt Sponsors: Cherwell Boathouse Finders Keepers Freeths Frilford Heath Golf Club Indulgence Catering Mr Digital Oxford Duplication Centre Oxford Fine Dining Pierre Victoire Macdonald Randolph Hotel Savvy Construction Security Exchange Wenn Townsend

David er Ross

Philip y Munda

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Online sponsorship: Martin Gubb, Highfield Business Associates Limited: Well done Richard, another great effort for a very worthy cause.

Matt Peachey, Oxford City Council: Good work. Well Done!

Jamie and Sacha xx Well done!

Darren Aston, Aston & James: Two years running, well done Richard.

Super effort Grant Shergold, City & County Graphics: Well done mate on completing the London Marathon, great effort.

Claudia At brandnative: Well done Richard!! Eres UN CAMPEON Tim Rosser, Turning Circle: All the best for tomorrow Richard.

David Harris: Great cause, Richard. Don't forget your skis if the forecast is anything to go by...

Lynn Shepherd, Venturefest: Have a great run, you're a star Richard Alice Ogilvie, Bodleian Libraries: Good luck on Sunday.

JFK, Wildbore & Gibbons: Good Luck Rich. £1 a KM - even you need to catch up with the metric system...... Love from all the Kennedys Lydiah Igweh, WEIE Digital: Good luck Richard. Keep up the good work : ) Sue Gee, Chiltern Railways: Good Luck Richard - hope it goes well.

Jim Heppell, Nat West: Good luck Richard.

Carrie Rudge, Hedges Law: Good luck Richard!

Jane Reeve, Knights Professional Services: Best of luck Richard from us all at Knights Professional Services David Rosser, Microsoft: Good Luck Rich - Great effort Philip Munday, Exeter College: Good luck Richard Rather you than me !! All the best Philip www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving www.primeenergy.org www.sportsmassageoxford.com www.clicsargent.org.uk www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com www.b4-business.com

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B4

events

Privileged Access to the Oxford Union for B4 Members B4 Members were recently granted exclusive access to the world famous Oxford Union for pre-debate drinks with Union President, Robert Harris and access to a live debate in the debating chamber which has witnessed the likes of Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, Yoko Ono, Sir Steve Redgrave, Albert Einstein, Professor Stephen Hawking, Morgan Freeman, Salman Rushdie, Mother Teresa and Senator Robert Kennedy.

WRITTEN BY: RICHARD ROSSER PHOTOGRAPHY BY: EMMA DAVIS

B4 members were treated to several exclusives during their visit. President Robert Harris engaged members with anecdotes of his term as President.

Robert could have been the only Oxford Union President to see a sitting US President grace the Oxford Union as he recalled how close he came to securing President Obama. Robert also explained how he became elected, his favourite speaker and more about what duties he has had to fulfil during his term as President.

Our host, Nikki Wood, showed B4 members through the halls of this fascinating venue which are adorned with pictures of past guests and into the pre-Raphaelite murals in the Old Library which were painted between 1857 and 1859 by a team of young artists including Dante Gabriel Rossetti, William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones. The paintings depict scenes from the Arthurian legends.

Then on to the debate:

"This House Believes The Manipulation of Human DNA is an Ethical Necessity" Speakers in Proposition: • Prof Sir Ian Wilmut OBE - Lead scientist of the research team which cloned Dolly the Sheep, he was knighted for his services to science in 2008.

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He is Chair of the Scottish Centre for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh • Prof Julian Savulescu - Director of the Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, and one of the world's most outspoken philosophers on 'procreative beneficence'. He is Editor of the Journal of Medical Ethics Speakers in Opposition: • Prof Barbara Evans - Professor of Law, George Butler Research Professor, and Director of the Centre for Biotechnology at the University of Houston. She specialises in the relationship between biotechnology, genetics and the law • Prof Norman Fost - Paediatrician and leading bioethicist, he was part of President Clinton's Health Care Reform Task Force. He is Director of the Medical Ethics Programme at the University of Wisconsin

What the B4 members said: “A really interesting and memorable evening what a special evening, a thoroughly enjoyable and to attend one of the world famous Oxford Union debates was a privilege.” Michael Grange, General Manager, Macdonald Randolph Hotel "Thank you B4 once again for putting on yet another superb event. It was a true privilege to have 'behind

the scenes' access at such a historic institution as the Oxford Union, and to have the chance to see its members in action and to see the quality of the students that we have here at our great University of Oxford really felt like a once in a lifetime experience.

It is something that most people will never get to witness, and I wouldn't have had the opportunity to see it if it were not for my membership of B4.

So, thank you." Rowan Waller, Owner, Wallers Estate Agents

“What a wonderful evening at the Oxford Union that was. Great venue for drinks and then the debate was fantastic. It was so interesting to hear world renowned experts debating DNA ethics with a spellbound student audience but also to see all the trappings and protocol of formal debate, the evening dress and tail coats for the President of the Oxford Union and his fellow officials, evening gowns for women speakers.” Alison Haill, Oxford Professional Consulting

CONTACT DETAILS

 enquiries@oxford-union.org  01865 241 353  www.oxford-union.org

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The B4 Members Club Welcome to the B4 Member’s Club. In this section you’ll find some exclusive content for B4 Members.

Contents: 148. Meet The B4 Members 149. B4 Testimonials 150. B4 Events 151. B4 Members’ Events 152. Exclusive B4 Buying Group

Meet the B4 Members B4 is proud to welcome the following new members to the network.

Blandy & Blandy BUSINESS SECTOR : ADVICE Blandy & Blandy is a leading firm of solicitors, based in Reading and London.

The Thames Valley has been our home since 1733 and we have the heritage and reputation that comes with this longevity.

Tel: 0118 951 6800 www.blandy.co.uk

Ernst & Young BUSINESS SECTOR : ADVICE

New Theatre

Ernst & Young (EY) is a multinational professional services firm.

At EY, we are committed to building a better working world — with increased trust and confidence in business, sustainable growth, development of talent in all its forms, and greater collaboration.

We want to build a better working world through our own actions and by engaging with like-minded organizations and individuals. This is our purpose — and why we exist as an organization.

Tel: 01189 281100 www.ey.com/UK/en/home

BUSINESS SECTOR : R&R The New Theatre, Oxford is the main commercial theatre in Oxford, and has a capacity of 1,800 people. It is located on George Street, in the centre of the city, and puts on a wide variety of shows, ranging through musical theatre, plays, stand-up comedy, concerts, ballet, opera and even hosting international conferences.

Tel: 0844 871 3020 www.atgtickets.com/oxford

Abingdon & Witney College

Savills

Oxford Science Park

BUSINESS SECTOR : EDUCATION

BUSINESS SECTOR : PROPERTY

BUSINESS SECTOR : BUSINESS PARKS

We are in the top 10% of colleges nationally and are officially Oxfordshire’s most successful college? We have been graded “good” with “outstanding” leadership and management by Ofsted, and the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) has commended our courses.

Savills plc. is a global real estate services provider listed on the London Stock Exchange. We have an international network of more than 700 offices and associates throughout the Americas, the UK, continental Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East.

Innovation and creativity is at the heart of everything we do. Our focus is on excellence: in service, in design and in delivery. This is what makes us different.

Tel: 01235 216394 www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

Tel: 01865 339705 www.savills.com

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Collaboration, partnership and community promote a world-leading environment.

The Oxford Science Park – Discover more.

Tel: 01865 784 000 oxfordsp.com

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B4 Testimonials What our members have to say about the B4 Network

"B4 offers unrivalled opportunities to discuss business with representatives you might not otherwise discover in relaxed surroundings."

Phil Southall | Managing Director | Oxford Bus Company

"B4 is one of the best business networks that I have come across, providing great networking opportunities and an outlet for us to share our news, and what’s more, they really understanding the region in which they operate."

Ian White | Business Development Manager | BDO

"Venturefest Oxford is all about connecting entrepreneurs with the right people to help grow their business. B4 takes that one step further and offers a platform for all businesses in Oxfordshire to connect and does it really successfully."

"We have hugely benefitted from our partnership with B4, they have managed to raise our profile in the local area and are a pleasure to work with."

Amy Dobson | Sales & Marketing Manager | Bombay Sapphire Distillery

"B4 has helped Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons connect with our local business community very effectively as well as build some excellent new relationships along the way."

"Since working with B4 our presence in Oxfordshire has seen a marked increase. This has helped us to expand our target audience, raising our profile with local businesses in and around Oxfordshire."

Peter Osborne | Marketing | Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Richard Marsh | CEO | CIS

"Quite simply, without B4 we wouldn’t have met, worked and partnered with some of the people we now act for."

"B4 has provided us with an excellent platform to promote the responsible business agenda to Oxfordshire companies."

Tony Haines | Partner | Wenn Townsend

Frank Nigriello | Director of Corporate Affairs | Unipart Group

"B4 has helped us build relationships with new businesses around Oxfordshire and made businesses aware of us."

"In a very diverse and fast-moving business community, B4 is one of the most important communication channels for sharing the information that builds relationships and drives success for local businesses. I am delighted that my firm is associated with B4."

Lynn Shepherd | Executive Chair | Venturefest

"B4 have clearly taken the time to understand what we are trying to do as a business and have given us great support in getting our message across."

Derek Rodgers | Managing Partner | Gardner Leader

"The team at B4 seem to know everyone in Oxfordshire! They never fail to put you in contact with someone useful. Their events are interesting and engaging, and the publication is packed full of relevant stories. But it is the individual service that really makes the difference to building our local network. Richard even facilitated the introduction to my rescue cat, Poppy!"

Nikki A Wood | Events Manager | the Oxford Union

David Birch | People Advisory Services | Partner Ernst & Young LLP

Elaine McKechnie | Head of Marketing | Oxford Innovation

WILSON PARTNERS ACCOUNTING. TAX. ADVISORY

"B4’s Business in Oxford is the only annual event that combines lead players in all sectors of our region’s business."

Matthew Smart | Project Officer | University of Oxford

"Partnering with B4 enables us to connect with other businesses in the local area and share our news and updates with a wider online audience."

Katie Finch | Kempton Carr Croft

"Doing great business is about connecting with really good people and B4 has helped us do just that!"

Ross Wilson | CA FIoD | Wilson Partners Limited

"As one of the leading independent schools in Oxford with a strong interest in our role in the community, B4 has provided an important link for us with the business leaders in the area."

Peter Talbot | Bursar | d’Overbroeck’s

www.b4-business.com

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B4 Members Events  Upcoming events from our B4 Members.

WHEN

WHERE

WHAT

Thursday 7th – Friday 8th June 2016

Trade City, Sandy Lane West, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX4 6JU

www.leanworkshopgroup. com/events

What is lean manufacturing and how can you learn more about it?

Deddington, Oxfordshire

www.actionforat.org/ big-60-sportive-oxfordshire

The Big 60 Sportive

On-line Webinar

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3452186510380397314

Cyber security and financial fraud webinar

Saturday 25th June 2016

Wednesday 29th June 2016

Come to one of the Lean Workshop Group Training Days at Trade City Oxford (OX4 6JU) on 7th and 8th June 2016 and learn about Lean manufacturing.

Lean is essentially about maximising customer value while minimising waste.

To accomplish this, Lean thinking changes the focus of a company from optimising the different assets, technologies and departments to optimising the flow of products and services through the entire value streams that flow through to your customers.

On the same day as the grand depart of the Tour de France, The Big 60 team will be staging their own sportive in aid of Action for A-T.

Starting and finishing in the village of Deddington, this 65mile Sportive (on road) will follow quiet country roads over gently undulating terrain.

Individual places cost £35, for reservations contact: challenge@actionforAT.org

Clark Howes have teamed up with Barclays and BrookStreet des Roches Solicitors to identify the fraud risks that could affect your business.

Last year, 69% of large organisations were attacked by an unauthorised outside. With the average cost of one of these attacks being £193,000, the price of ignoring this issue can become costly.

B4 Members, do you have events coming up that you would like shown here, please call us on: 01865 742211 150

www.b4-business.com

B4 Events  Upcoming B4 Classic Events and Masterclasses.

WHEN

WHERE

WHAT

Thursday 30th June 2016

Frilford Heath Golf Club Oxford Road , Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 5NW

B4 Golf Cup

www.b4-business.com

Thursday 8th September 2016

Rhodes House, South Parks Road , Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3RG www.b4-business.com

Thursday 15th September 2016

Bombay Sapphire Distillery Laverstoke Mill, London Road , Whitchurch, Berkshire RG28 7NR www.b4-business.com

Thursday 27th October 2016

Malmaison, Oxford Castle, 3 New Rd, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1AY www.malmaison.com

www.b4-business.com

Our 2015 event featured 40 teams of 2 fighting it out for the coveted B4 Golf Cup trophy. InTouch CRM were victorious on a gorgeous July day on Oxfordshire’s premier golf course, Frilford Heath.

We return in June next year. Make sure your business is on the tee! Call the events team on 01865 742211 to find out more. Please note there is a charge for this event.

B4 Classic Event

Join other B4 Ambassadors, Members and their guests at this stunning venue, home of the Rhodes Scholars. We are delighted to welcome you back to Rhodes House following the successful events held in the previous 5 years.

Behind The Scenes at Bombay Sapphire Distillery

In renovating Laverstoke Mill, Bombay Sapphire has taken the utmost care to preserve the natural ecology and heritage of the site. To build a longterm legacy at Laverstoke Mill, Bombay Sapphire has also committed to building a sustainable future.

The award-winning sustainability measures in design and construction are at the heart of this state-of-the art distillery.

What’s included in this event:

- Host to guide you through the distillery - Complimentary drink in the Mill Bar - Networking with other B4 members

B4’s 10th Birthday

Join us to celebrate our 10th Birthday where it all began – The Visitors Room at Malmaison.

All B4 Members are welcome to attend for drinks and canapes.

More info coming soon! See the B4 website for details.

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B4

services

The B4 Buying Group Powered by Aston & James Another B4 Membership benefit brought to you by one of our most trusted partners We have teamed up with the excellent Aston & James to bring B4 members demonstrable savings on your workplace supplies, alongside excellent service from a trusted B4 partner.

B4’s Chief Executive, Richard Rosser explains why Aston & James are the perfect partner for this new offering. “The B4 Buying Group provides us with another opportunity to add value to the B4 Membership package. With more events, a great new website and increasing profile on our social media platforms, we need to keep improving the B4 Membership offering and this is an excellent complement to the already extensive list of B4 Membership benefits. We are delighted to be providing this new service alongside Aston & James.

“We have always been very vocal in our support for Aston & James, as in all of our dealings with them we have never experienced anything other than professionalism, great service, courtesy and unbeatable prices. That’s a hard combination to maintain at the best of times but the team have never failed to deliver once throughout our five year relationship and that’s why we are more than comfortable partnering with Darren and his team in this exciting new venture.”

Managing Director, Darren Aston, explains more.

“We believe in building relationships to get to know you and understand your business. This allows us to develop and implement relevant and suitable solutions, along with a great selection of products, delivered in a way that’s best for you. When our customers choose to partner with Aston and James, they get all the benefits of ‘buying local’ with absolutely no compromise. We are partnered with powerful global buyers, enabling us to successfully compete against our largest national competitors.

Partnering with B4 we can bring these benefits, and more, to the growing number of members and it’s something we are very excited about.

Benefits of the B4 Buying Group include: • Free survey on everything for your workplace. One of Aston & James’ Account Managers will prepare

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• • • • • • • • •

a tailor-made report detailing areas where they could save your business money Competitive pricing available on an extensive range of products Exclusive monthly promotional programme Product sourcing service Exclusive B4 Buying Group landing page Free next day delivery Dedicated in-house support (Account Manager, Sales Support and Driver) Free artwork set-up on PPE & Workwear Free workplace design service Long term benefits: Even more savings as B4 Members grow and command even more competitive prices

How it Works All B4 members are automatically eligible to be part of the B4 Buying Group. All you need to do is complete a workplace survey and undertake a review meeting with an Aston and James Account Manager. The first ten members who complete the survey and undertake the review will receive a complimentary voucher for The R&R Collection (see www.therandrcollection.com) worth at least £150.

Interested?

Contact Aston & James on 01993 706900 or at sales@aston-james.co.uk and quote B4 Buying Group. One of the team will be happy to take you through the next steps. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain!

Taylor Cox, B4 Members, say "Over the years I have used many office suppliers from large corporates to small independents. But none have given the professional, expert or personal service that every member of the team offer at Aston James. From the moment we met with Darren Aston at the initial meeting to discuss the possibility of him supplying our office furniture for our new West Oxfordshire branch of Taylor Cox, we were made to feel comfortable and at ease. At no point during

the process did we feel like we were being sold to.

Darren listened to how we want the business to be portrayed, how we wanted to be different from all the other agencies on the High Street.

"He got it and immediately came up with a few very good ideas and even assisted in design options for the office as well as the best way to maximise the space we had to work with.

"Once the three partners had made their mind up on the options we wanted, Darren processed the order and delivered the items in a time frame that suited us, even though we cut it very fine with the dates.

"On delivery, we were welcomed by the installation team who were prepped with the installation plan and set up the furniture and unpacked the equipment ordered and placed it just where Darren had suggested. Amazing!

"Once we realised Darren and the team at Aston James offered the complete workplace solution, it was never in any doubt that we would take our future business anywhere else. With our own personal account manager, Christine ,on hand to help us with our needs, we know we are being offered the best possible price and looked after at all times, always kept up to date with all the latest offers and special promotions.

"Once our order is processed, we usually have our delivery within 24 hours brought to us by our friendly driver, Lawrence.

"A personal service delivered by a family business who care!"

Dale Cox MARLA, Managing Director Taylor Cox – Sales, Lettings & Financial Services CONTACT DETAILS sales@aston-james.co.uk 01993 706 900 www.aston-james.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

The B4 Membership is growing every day...

As we grow we can give all of our members even more benefits...

The B4 Buying Group gives our members the opportunity to benefit from great deals. Our first partnership is powered by Aston & James, specialists in stationery, facilities management, furniture, gifts & workwear and more.

To find out more about the benefits, contact Aston & James on 01993 706900 or e-mail sales@aston-james.co.uk and quote “B4 Buying Group”. One of the team will be happy to take you through the next steps.

You have nothing to lose and so much to gain!

Interested in supplying your products and services through the B4 Buying Group? Contact Richard at B4 on 01865 742211 or e-mail editorial@b4-business.com

We look forward to hearing from you

BUYING GROUP

POWERED BY ASTON & JAMES

Are you getting the best of

Digital Marketing?

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Whether you need a website, need help getting noticed on Google or you need a cost effective way of finding new customers...

Web-Clubs can help!

www.Web-Clubs.co.uk We are based in the Chilterns!

01494 240 150

Need To Freshen Up Your Image?

SALES LETTINGS MORTGAGES AND FINANCIAL ADVICE Taylor Cox is an independent, sales and letting agent with proven financial and mortgage expertise.

With our experience and contacts we are Oxfordshire’s property professional whether buying, selling or investing.

Being independent and owner managed you will receive director level service from Dale Cox for sales and lettings, Mark Taylor for financial advice and Chris Bishop for Mortgages.

For all your Graphic Design, Photography & Print needs

01865 959099

Call us on 01865 742211

The Old Forge Main Street Merton OX25 2NJ

www.hothdesign.co.uk

HOTH CAN AD.indd 1

07/10/2015 13:11

01993 835588

www.taycox.com

39 Corn Street Witney Oxfordshire OX28 6BT

B4 contacts contacts directory ADVICE..........................................................................................................155 BUSINESS SERVICES..............................................................................157 CONFERENCE, EVENTS & VENUES...............................................157 EDUCATION...............................................................................................159 FINANCE......................................................................................................159 HEALTH & LEISURE..................................................................................159

ADVICE ACCOUNTING Wenn Townsend P Tony Haines Partner 01865 559 900 www.wenntownsend.co.uk Grant Thornton UK LLP P Wendy Hart Managing Partner 01865 799 899 www.grant-thornton.co.uk Grant Thornton UK LLP P Jim Rogers Assurance Partner 01189 559 114 www.grant-thornton.co.uk The MGroup P Richard Clayton Partner 01865 552 925 www.themgroup.co.uk Wellers P Stuart Crook Partner 01865 723 131 www.wellersaccountants.co.uk James Cowper Kreston G Andy Cowie Marketing & Business Development Director 01189 590 261 www.jamescowperkreston.co.uk Whitley Stimpson Ltd G Jonathan Walton Director 01494 448 122 www.whitleystimpson.co.uk Whitley Stimpson Ltd G Stuart Haigh Director 01869 252 151 www.whitleystimpson.co.uk Shaw Gibbs G Peter O’Connell Partner 01865 292 200 www.shawgibbs.com Wilson Partners A Allan Ian Wilson Managing Director 01628 770 770 www.wilson-partners.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

BDO LLP A Simon Brooker Lead Partner 0118 925 4488 www.bdo.uk.com Gracechurch Wealth Management LLP A Richard Lawrance Independent Financial Adviser 01908 209 220 www.gracechurchwm.com Auditel A Chris Bourke Cost Management Specialist 01865 774 387 www.auditel.co.uk Seymour Taylor A Simon Turner Managing Director 01494 552 125 www.stca.co.uk Richardsons Accountants 01844 261 155 www.richardsons-group.co.uk Rees Russell 01993 702 418 www.reesrussell.co.uk Russell Whitlock Accountancy 01865 481 625 www.rw-accountancy.co.uk Clark Howes 0808 271 3099 www.clarkhowes.com Harmonea 01844 274 808 www.harmonea.co.uk Tamesis Partnership www.tamesispartnership.co.uk MHA MacIntyre Hudson 01908 662 255 www.macintyrehudson.co.uk Xero www.xero.com/uk

BUSINESS ADVICE SR Consulting A Jonathan Lane Director 07503 891 331 www.splash-rc.co.uk

P

PLATINUM

G

GOLD

A

AMBASSADOR

HR..................................................................................................................161 IT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS.........................................................161 MANUFACTURING.................................................................................161 MARKETING & DESIGN...........................................................................161 PROPERTY & BUILDING.........................................................................162 R&R............................................................................................................163

Ernst & Young 01189 281100 www.ey.com/UK/en/home Explosive Learning Solutions 01235 861 805 www.explosivelearningsolutions.com Hilltop Consultancy 01844 237450 www.hilltopconsultancy.co.uk Wakefield Group 07817 821 190 www.wakefield-group.com Oxford Professional Consulting 01865 436 791 www.oxfordprofessionalconsulting.com Quantuma Restructuring 01628 478 100 www.quantuma.com RTS Breakthrough Solutions 07789 405 079 www.rts-breakthroughsolutions.co.uk Sandler Training 01608 611 211 www.oxford.sandler.com Active Education and Training Ltd 01865 594 325 www.oxfordactive.co.uk Endeavour Consulting 07711 825 005 www.endeavour-consulting.co.uk VCA Consulting 01993 883751 www.vcaconsultinguk.com The Entrepreneurs Mentor 01865 593933

LEGAL Knights P David Beech Chief Executive Officer 01865 811 700 www.knights1759.co.uk Hedges Law P Nicola Poole Managing Director 01491 839 839 www.hedgeslaw.co.uk

Freeths G Malcolm Sadler Senior Partner 01865 781 000 www.freeths.co.uk Gardner Leader LLP G Derek Rogers Managing Partner 01635 508 080 www.gardner-leader.co.uk BrookStreet Des Roches LLP Paddy Gregan G Partner 01235 836 655 www.bsdr.com Blake Morgan LLP A Michael Stace Partner 01865 248 607 www.blakemorgan.co.uk Brethertons A Suzie Upson PR and Communications Executive 01295 661 425 www.brethertons.co.uk Turpin & Miller LLP A Emily Boardman Partner 01865 770 111 www.turpinmiller.co.uk Penningtons Manches LLP Richard Smith A Partner 01865 722 106 www.penningtons.co.uk Lewis Silkin 0207 0748 494 www.lewissilkin.com David Parry Employment Law 01993 848 247 www.parryemploymentlaw.com

ARCHIVE & STORAGE The Oxford Duplication Centre Cheryl-Lee Foulsham A Managing Director 01865 457 000 www.theduplicationcentre.co.uk The Archive Centre A David Coulton Owner 01296 425 744 www.thearchivecentre.com

155

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We are an Accredited Training Organisation for APMG, APMP, C&G and the ILM delivering courses which are current, engaging and meet your immediate career development or progression needs.

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B4 contacts BUSINESS SERVICES BUSINESS CONSULTANTS Quest TGO Ltd 0203 394 0123 www.quest-thegreatoutdoors.co.uk

BUSINESS SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT Aston & James Office Supplies Ltd P Darren Aston Director 01993 706 900 www.aston-james.co.uk

CHARITIES The Oxford Trust G Jude Eades Head of Communications 01865 810013 www.theoxfordtrust.co.uk Helen & Douglas House A Hugh Thompson Head of High Value Partnerships 01865 799 150 www.helenanddouglas.org.uk Oxfordshire Community Foundation A Jayne Woodley Chief Executive 01865 798 666 www.oxfordshire.org Big 60 07912 733723 www.big60.org The Ley Community 01865 373 108 www.leycommunity.co.uk Bloodwise 020 7504 2231 www.bloodwise.org.uk British Red Cross, Thames Valley 01235 552 680 www.redcross.org.uk

CLEANING SERVICES

GAS & ELECTRIC British Gas Business Services P 0845 485 3528 www.britishgas.co.uk/business

HEALTH & SAFETY Shawcity Ltd 01367 899423 www.shawcity.co.uk

LOCAL GOVERNMENT OxfordshireLEP P 01865 261 433 www.oxfordshirelep.com West Oxfordshire District Council A William Barton Business Development Officer 01993 861 000 www.westoxon.gov.uk/business

MOTOR Ridgeway Jaguar 01865 590777 www.ridgeway.co.uk Ridgeway Maserati 01865 590777 www.ridgeway.co.uk

NETWORKING GROUPS B4 Magazine P Richard Rosser Editor 01865 742 211 www.b4-business.com MD2MD 01865 600 800 www.md2md.co.uk

SECURITY Executive Alarms Ltd A John Keown Director 01865 435 435 www.executive-systems.co.uk Security Exchange 01491 683 710 www.securityexchange24.com

Excel Dry Cleaners G 01865 511 773 www.exceldrycleanersofoxford.co.uk

TRANSPORT

WH Mobile Valeting 07979 480886 www.whvaleting.com

Chiltern Railways P 020 7333 3113 www.chilternrailways.co.uk

DOMESTIC SERVICES Busy Offices 01494 672 233 www.busyoffices.net

www.b4-business.com

Combined Carriers G Susan Baxter 01844 275525 www.combinedcarriers.co.uk Findlay Chauffeurs A Claire Hickson Managing Director 0845 644 7099 www.findlaycs.com

London Oxford Airport 01865 290710 www.londonoxfordairport.com

TRAVEL City Sightseeing P Jane Marshall Transport Manager 01865 790 522 www.citysightseeingoxford.com

CONFERENCE, EVENTS & VENUES CATERING SERVICES Passion for Food P Philip Baker Managing Director 08452 969 226 www.passion-for-food.co.uk Aldens Specialist Catering Butchers G Matthew Alden Managing Director 01865 728227 www.aldenoxford.co.uk Complete Catering G Jon Kay Managing Director 01235 820840 www.completecatering.co.uk Lamb Catering A Emma Tasker Events and Marketing Director 01865 772 446 www.lambcatering.co.uk Oxford Fine Dining 01865 728 240 www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk Elegant Cuisine 01865 391 888 www.elegantcuisine.com Philip Dennis Foodservice 01993 700 030 www.philipdennis.co.uk

CATERING SERVICES SmartPA 07392 332 606 www.smartpasupport.com

CONFERENCES Lady Margaret Hall P Anna Killough Head of Conference Services 01865 611 079 www.lmh.ox.ac.uk Oakley Court Hotel P Richard Smith Sales Manager 01753 609 988 www.principal-hayley.com /theoakleycourt

Williams Conference Centre P 01235 777 735 www.williamsconferencecentre.com The Feathers P Dominic Bishop General Manager 01993 812 291 www.feathers.co.uk Oxford Brookes University Conference Services G Beatriz Perez-Lopez Conference Sales and Marketing Manager 01865 484612 www.brookes.ac.uk Pembroke College G Huw Edmunds Head of Conferences and Events 01865 276 484 www.pmb.ox.ac.uk/Conferences Stoke Park A Nick Downie Head of Communications 01753 717171 www.stokepark.com The Examination Schools Kay Hogg A Events Manager 01865 276 905 www.examschools.ox.ac.uk Howbery Business Park A Donna Bowles Estate Manager 01491 822 305 www.howberypark.com Egrove Park A Martin Garside Conference Manager 01865 422 757 www.sbs.oxford.edu/conferencing Macdonald Windsor Hotel Beverley Molmans A General Manager 0844 879 9101 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Conference Oxford 01865 287378 www.conference-oxford.com The Oxford Union 01865 241 353 www.oxford-union.org Exeter College 01865 279 600 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/conferences Malmaison 01865 268 400 www.malmaison-oxford.com Oxford Town Hall 01865 252 195 www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk The King’s Centre 01865 297 400 www.kingscentre.co.uk

157

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B4 contacts EQUIPMENT HIRE Oxford Event Hire A Kieran Lynch Owner 01865 760 158 www.oxfordeventhire.co.uk

Hartwell House Hotel A Jonathan Thompson General Manager 01296 747 444 www.hartwell-house.com

BHK Rentals 01993 703327 www.bhkrentals.co.uk

Venue Services, Bodleian Library A Alice Ogilvie Head of Venue Services 01865 277 224 www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk

ACDiSCO 01865 875 519 www.acdisco.com

Blenheim Palace Hospitality 01993 813 874 www.blenheimpalace.com/hospitality

EVENT MANAGEMENT Jazz Donkey A Muffy Dawson Managing Director 01993 898400 www.jazzdonkey.com

EVENTS Business in Oxford 2017 P 01865 742 211 www.businessinoxford.com Oxfordshire Restaurant Awards P 01865 742 211 www.oxfordshirerestaurantawards.co.uk Oxfordshire Registration Services A Jacquie Bugeja Head of Registration and Coroner’s Services 0845 129 5900 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk Venturefest 01865 810 025 www.venturefestoxford.com Oxfordshire Business Awards www.oxfordshirebusinessawards.co.uk Oxfordshire In Bloom 2016 01865 252016 www.oxford.gov.uk/oxfordinbloom West Oxfordshire Business Awards 01993 220690 www.woba.org.uk

VENUES Oxford Castle Quarter P Sam Pace Operations Manager 01865 201 657 www.oxfordcastle.com Rhodes House P Isabelle Barber Business Development Manager 01865 282 599 www.rhodeshouseoxford.com Danesfield House Hotel A Anthony Cox General Manager 01628 891 010 www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

EDUCATION Corpus Christi College 01865 276 708 www.ccc.ox.ac.uk Oxford Chelt Wine School 01865 238 042 www.oxfordcheltwineschool.com d’Overbroeck’s 01865 310 000 www.doverbroecks.com Oxford Saïd Entrepreneurship Centre 01865 288 845 www.sbs.ox.ac.uk/faculty-research/ entrepreneurship Abingdon & Witney College 01235 216 394 www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

FINANCE ADVICE Focus P Phil Casey Partner 01865 813 315 www.focusllp.co.uk Ergowealth A Brian Page Managing Director 01494 616 522 www.ergowealth.com Brewin Dolphin 01865 255 750 www.brewin.co.uk Hunter, Thomas & Company Ltd 01865 245 511 www.hunter-thomas.co.uk Mathews Comfort 01865 208 000 www.mathewscomfort.co.uk NGI Finance 01993 706 403 www.ngifinance.co.uk

BANKING RBS Corporate Banking A Donald MacDonald UK Head of Deposits & Director, Professionals 07768 427379 www.rbs.co.uk/corporate.ashx HSBC 0845 850 174 www.hsbc.com Metro Bank 0345 08 08 500 www.metrobankonline.co.uk NatWest 01865 305 175 www.natwest.com Barclays 0800 015 4242 www.barclayscorporate.com Clydesdale Bank 0844 736 2616 www.cbonline.co.uk

INSURANCE Focus P Nick Jones Partner 01865 813 307 www.focusllp.co.uk

MORTGAGE ADVICE Focus P Nick Walker Partner 01865 295 295 www.focusllp.co.uk

HEALTH & LEISURE FITNESS Prime Energy Fitness Ltd G Barry Grinham Owner 01869 352 000 www.primeenergy.org TLA Fitness A Tom Alden Founder 07554 400 401 www.tlafitness.com

Kirtlington Golf Club A Gary Quainton Golf and Pro Shop Manager 01869 351133 www.kirtlingtongolfclub.com The Oxfordshire Golf Club 01844 278300 www.theoxfordshire.com

HEALTH CARE Clinic95 P Maria Hardman Business Manager 01865 241 661 www.clinic95.com Richmond Village Witney G David Reaves Head of Marketing 01865 484612 www.richmond-villages.com Tara Tripp Hearing Care A Vincent Tripp Practice Manager 01865 910 202 www.tripphearing.co.uk Diamond House Dental Practice 01865 559 521 www.diamondhouse.co.uk Clinic on the Green 01869 351 345 www.cliniconthegreen.com Linda Flanigan Hypnotherapy 07866 360 359 www.lfhypnotherapy-oxfordshire.co.uk

SPORT Reading Football Club Limited P Sir John Madejski Chairman 0118 968 1100 www.readingfc.co.uk Oxford University Rugby Football Club Tim Stevens Club Administrator 01865 432 000 www.ourfc.org Oxford United Football Club 01865 337 500 www.oufc.co.uk

Cherwell Boathouse Punting 01865 552 746 www.cherwellboathouse.co.uk

North Oxford Lawn Tennis Club 01865 513 560 (Clubhouse) www.northoxfordltc.org.uk

GOLF

Oxfordshire Cricket 07790 102130 www.oxoncb.com

Frilford Heath Golf Club P Alistair Booth Director 01865 390 864 www.frilfordheath.co.uk

Oxford City Football Club 07817 885 396 www.oxfordcityfc.co.uk

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B4 contacts WELLBEING

EMAIL MARKETING

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

Helen Money Nutrition A Helen Money Owner 01865 339 672 www.helenmoneynutrition.com

Web-Clubs G Anthony O’Sullivan Managing Director 01494 240 150 www.web-clubs.co.uk

Torpedo Group Limited A Iain Lewis Director 01865 733 710 www.torpedogroup.com

ClientMailer 01865 339 406 www.clientmailer.com

Alberon A Tim Ault Managing Director 01865 263220 www.alberon.co.uk

HR HR CONSULTANTS You HR 07703 719 464 www.youhrconsultancy.co.uk MB HR Support Ltd 01993 882 744 www.mbhrsupport.co.uk Right Hand HR 0844 880 4582 www.rhhr.com

RECRUITMENT Gold Star Recruitment G 01993 225 075 www.goldstarrecruit.co.uk Thompson & Terry Recruitment 01235 797 177 www.thompsonandterry.co.uk Benchmark Hospitality Staffing Solutions 01865 421051 www.benchmarkstaffing.co.uk Allen Associates 01865 335 600 www.allen-associates.co.uk Crossland Employment Services 01235 841 506 www.crosslandsolicitors.com

IT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS TELECOMMUNICATIONS STL Communications Ltd A Philip Donigan Sales Director 01993 777113 www.stlcomms.com Orange Stripe Telecommunications A Nigel Pursall Managing Director 0845 241 7772 www.orangestripe.co.uk

DATABASE MANAGEMENT InTouch CRM P James White Managing Director 0845 310 9973 www.intouchcrm.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

IT SERVICES Computing Information Systems (CIS) Ltd P Richard Marsh Director 01367 700 555 www.cisltd.com Nominet G Sally Ockwell Brand & Marketing Manager 01865 332211 www.nominet.org.uk DCResponse G Paul Anderson Managing Director 01993 708 855 www.dcresponse.co.uk Simeio A Ollie McGovern Founder 07795 235995 www.simeio.co.uk Flex Information Technology Paul Horseman A Director 0333 101 7300 www.flex.co.uk The Cabling Company A David Jackson Sales Director 07796 140 348 www.thecablingcompany.com QPQ Software Ltd 01235 522 516 www.qpqsoftware.com Security Exchange Ltd. 01491 683 710 www.securityexchange24.com AgilityWorks 08445 610 930 www.agilityworks.co.uk The Oxford Knowledge Company 01865 322 100 www.oxford-knowledge.com iHub 0203 019 0000 www.ihub.co.uk

Strangebrew P Phil Strachan Director 07770 753 975 www.thinkbrandnotbland.co.uk Bicester Vision 01869 324 244 www.bicestervision.co.uk BrandAsylum 01235 828 508 www.brandasylum.co.uk

White October 01865 706 017 www.whiteoctober.co.uk

DESIGN

White Chilli Creative Studio 07980 143 475 www.white-chilli.co.uk

House on the Hill P Keith Simpson Senior Designer 01865 742 211 www.hothdesign.co.uk

MANUFACTURING Unipart G Frank Nigriello Director of Corporate Affairs 01865 383339 www.unipart.com Owen Mumford G Jarl Severn Director 01993 812 021 www.owenmumford.com WILA G Claire Styles Director 01235 773500 www.wila.co.uk

MARKETING & DESIGN

One Hat Design A Steve Legge Owner 01993 702 075 www.onehatdesign.com

SIGNAGE City & County Graphics G Grant Shergold Director of Sales & Marketing 01865 823161 www.cityandcountygraphics.co.uk

FRAMING Isis Creative Framing 01865 203 420 www.isiscreative.co.uk

ADVERTISING

FREELANCE COPY WRITING & EDITING

B4 Magazine P Richard Rosser Managing Director 01865 742 211 www.b4-business.com

Noble Word A Matt Wright Owner 07500 531 485

Living In Oxford Magazine Colin Rosser P Chairman 01865 742 211 www.inoxford.com

MARKETING

City & County Graphics G Grant Shergold Director of Sales & Marketing 01865 823161 www.cityandcountygraphics.co.uk Focal Point Advertising Solutions 01256 767837 www.focal.co.uk

CORPORATE IDENTITY Recognition Express P Andy Olejnik Managing Director 01295 257 611 www.re-oxfordshire.co.uk

Experience Oxfordshire P Hayley Beer-Gamage Chief Executive 01865 252409 www.experienceoxfordshire.org Marketing Sense A Jo Sensecall Director 01865 883 579 www.marketing-sense.co.uk Heart of Business A Jackie Jarvis Director 07801 293022 Oxford Digital Marketing 01865 575 955 www.oxforddigitalmarketing.co.uk

161

MEDIA CustomEyes Media 01442 876038 www.customeyesmedia.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Studio8 P Clark Wiseman Managing Director 01865 842 525 www.studio-8.co.uk Vic Casambros 07727 127591 www.vcasambros.com

PRINTING OxUniPrint A Ian Wilton Managing Director 01865 844 918 www.oxuniprint.co.uk Leach Print 01235 858 271 www.leachprint.co.uk

PUBLIC RELATIONS Papa Romeo PR A Claire Thompson Managing Director 07811 339 577 www.paparomeopr.com Spriggs David A Karen David Partner 01865 512662 www.spriggsdavid.co.uk

PROPERTY & BUILDING ARCHITECTS John Hallam Associates A John Hallam Director 01608 646 969 www.johnhallamassociates.co.uk Adrian James Architects 01865 203 267 www.adrianjames.com

BUSINESS PARKS Oxford Innovation Ltd P Jo Willett Marketing and Business Development Director 01865 261 400 www.oxin-centres.co.uk The Oxford Science Park G Ian MacPherson Business Development Manager 01865 784 000 www.oxfordsp.com Begbroke Science Park A Caroline Livingstone Managing Director 01865 283 700 www.begbroke.ox.ac.uk

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS

Bracknell Enterprise & Innovation Hub A Shelley Furey Centre Manager 01344 388 000 www.bracknell-hub.co.uk

College and County A Mark Crampton-Smith Owner 01865 722 722 www.collegeandcounty.biz

ESTATE AGENTS

Premier Letting A Charles Bartlett Partner 01865 792 299 www.premier.uk.com

Breckon & Breckon A Keith Stacey Managing Director 01865 244 735 www.breckon.co.uk scottfraser A David Blythman Managing Director Sales 01865 759 500 www.scottfraser.co.uk Strutt & Parker A Miles Collison Partner, Development Land & New Homes 01865 366 660 www.struttandparker.com Savills A Ronnie van der Ploeg Director 01865 339705 www.savills.com Hamptons International 01865 578500 www.hamptons-international.com Wallers of Oxford 01865 435 175 www.wallersofoxford.co.uk

VSL and Partners P Richard Venables Director 01865 848 488 www.vslandp.com

LETTING AGENTS

Esplin PR A Louise Esplin PR Consultant 07775 678 237 www.esplinpr.co.uk

Carter Jonas P Scott Harkness Partner 01865 511 444 www.carterjonas.co.uk

Breckon & Breckon P Greg Barnes Director 01865 201 111 www.breckon.co.uk

Spacecraft Consulting 01295 811 781 www.oconsultancy.com

Lambert Smith Hampton (Oxford) A Kevin Wood Director 01865 200 244 www.lsh.co.uk

North Oxford Property Services P Robin Swailes Director 01865 311 745 www.nops.co.uk

Promote PR 01628 630 363 www.promotepr.com HeadOn PR 07920 792 183 www.headonpr.co.uk

Marriotts A Neil Evans Partner 01865 316 311 www.marriottsoxford.co.uk

Bridgett Solutions Ltd 01784 205 025 www.bridgettsolutions.co.uk

Lambert Smith Hampton (Reading) 01189 606909 www.lsh.co.uk

Escapade 01189 207675 http://escapadepr.com

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SERVICES Oxford Innovation Ltd P Jo Willett Marketing and Business Development Director 01865 261 400 www.oxin-centres.co.uk

162

Righton Group Limited Emma Righton P Managing Director 01865 311 696 www.rightonstay.co.uk Finders Keepers A Frank Webster Director 01865 302 308 www.finders.co.uk Lucy Properties A Ian Ashcroft Managing Director 01865 559 973 www.lucyproperties.co.uk

Short Let Space Ltd. 01993 811 711 www.weeklyhome.com Taylor Cox 01993 835588 www.taycox.com

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS Ridge and Partners LLP G David Walker Partner 01993 815101 www.ridge.co.uk Kemp & Kemp A Steven Sensecall Partner 01865 2400 01 www.kempandkemp.co.uk Solid Structures 01608 690 858 www.solid-structures.com Forge Engineering Design Solutions Ltd 01865 362 780 www.f-eds.co.uk Ian Bridge Consultancy Ltd 07917 881465 www.ianbridge.com SIAD Ltd 01865 712627 www.siadltd.com Mulholland Landscape Consultants 07734 253 579 www.mulhollandconsultants.co.uk

PROPERTY SERVICES Savvy Maintenance & Renovations P Stephen Dunne Director 01865 920 020 www.savvy-group.co.uk Kempton Carr Croft G Katie Finch Marketing Manager 01628 771 221 www.kemptoncarr.co.uk EIFLA A Nigel J Blanchard Founder & CEO 0844 7767 187 www.eifla-3d.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

B4 contacts Ashmolean Museum 01865 288 364 www.ashmus.ox.ac.uk

The Rooflight Company 01993 833 155 www.therooflightcompany.co.uk

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra 01865 987 222 www.oxfordphil.com

A1 Plumbing & Heating 01865 327 732 www.a1ltd.co.uk

COFFEE SHOPS

R&R ACCOMMODATION Macdonald Randolph Hotel Michael Grange P General Manager 0844 879 9132 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Jurys Inn Oxford P 01865 489 988 www.jurysinns.com/hotels/oxford The Manor at Weston on the Green G Adam Treloar Front of House Manager 01869 350621 www.themanorweston.com Aviator G Vickita Reddy Marketing & PR Manager 01252 555 890 www.aviatorbytag.com The Bear & Ragged Staff A Mark Greenwood Landlord 01865 862 329 www.bearandraggedstaff.com Bespoke Hotels Limited 07867 987 679 www.bespokehotels.co Eynsham Hall 01993 885 238 www.eynshamhall.com Conifers Guest House 01865 763 055 www.conifersguesthouse.co.uk Spirit Health Club 0207 973 7540 www.langhamhotels.com Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa 01869 241 204 www.bicesterhotelgolfandspa.com

Java & Co 07736 950 673 www.javaandco.co.uk

CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT Sam Strange Magic A Sam Strange Owner 01865 742 211 www.samstrangemagic.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT Oxford Playhouse 01865 305 305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com New Theatre Oxford 01865 320 756 www.atgtickets.com/oxford

FOOD & DRINK SUPPLIES Laurent Perrier UK P David Green Regional Account Manager 01628 475 404 www.laurent-perrier.co.uk Bombay Sapphire Distillery G Amy Dobson Sales and Marketing Manager 01256 890 090 distillery.bombaysapphire.com The Oxford Wine Company Ted Sandbach A Managing Director 01865 301 144 www.oxfordwine.co.uk

GALLERIES Aidan Meller Galleries G Aiden Meller Proprietor 01865 727996 www.aidanmeller.com

Holiday Inn Oxford 0871 942 9086 www.hioxfordhotel.co.uk

Wiseman Gallery A Sarah Wiseman Owner 01865 515 123 www.wisegal.com

ARTISTIC & CULTURAL

RENTAL ACCOMMODATION

Orchestra of St John’s A John Lubbock Artistic Director 07765 252489 www.osj.org.uk

Lower Mill Estate A Red Paxton Marketing and Sales Director 01285 869 489 www.lowermillestate.com

RESTAURANTS Deliveroo G Xavier Collins Community Manager South East 07494 178083 www.deliveroo.co.uk The Snooty Mehmaan A Asad Ahmed Director 01367 242 260 www.thesnootymehmaan.co.uk Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons 01844 278 881 www.manoir.com

Join B4 Now

Pierre Victoire 01865 316 616 www.pierrevictoire.co.uk Café Aloha 01865 792 696 www.cafealoha.co.uk Al-Andalus 01865 516 688 www.tapasoxford.co.uk Marco’s at Mercure Eastgate Hotel 01865 248332 www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk/restaurants /marcos-oxford Mezzeto 01865 559 668 www.mezzeto.com

Join B4 today to see your business listed here in the Contacts Directory.

Thaikhun 01865 591 960 www.thaikhun.co.uk 1855 01865 247 217 www.1855oxford.com Cosmo 01865 297 575 www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk

SHOPPING Daisies Flower Shop 01865 554882 www.daisies-flower-shop.co.uk Bicester Village 01869 323 200 www.bicestervillage.com

Memberships start from just £250+VAT a year and entitle you to magazine, website & social media exposure, and free attendance at all B4 networking events.

Call us today on 01865 742211 for more information or see website.

Stella and Dot 07763 743783 www.stelladot.co.uk

ON THE

Darke & Taylor Ltd 01865 290 000 www.darkeandtaylor.co.uk

HILL

B4

B4 is designed by House on the Hill t: 01865 742211

www.b4-business.com

163

DISCOVERY SPORT TD4 SE FROM £345 A MONTH +VAT*

ADVERT

INACCESSIBLE JUST BECAME ACCESSIBLE With standard equipment and competitive running costs, Discovery Sport gives you all the capability and space you need for both business trips and weekend adventures.

Business Contract Hire. Initial rental in advance of £2,070 +VAT. 36 month term. 10,000 miles per annum. VAT payable at 20%. Model pictured (including optional metallic) from £353 a month +VAT, plus initial rental in advance of £2,118 +VAT.

DISCOVERY SPORT From 129 g/km CO2 Up to 57.7mpg From Group 24E Insurance rating

Ridgeway Land Rover Faringdon Road (A420), Cumnor, Oxford, OX2 9QY 01865 565949 www.ridgeway.landrover.co.uk

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Discovery Sport TD4 150HP Manual 5 Door in mpg (l/100km): Urban 50.4 (5.6), Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5), Combined 57.7 (4.9). CO2 emissions 129 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only.

Real world figures may differ. *Important Information - Business users only. Based on a Discovery Sport 2.0L TD4 150HP Manual 4WD SE with standard specification, non-maintained. Excess mileage charges (at 9.3p per mile). Must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Contract Hire subject to status. This promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotions and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 30th June 2016. Contract Hire is provided by Land Rover Contract Hire, a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Model shown is a Discovery Sport TD4 Manual 4WD SE 5DR with optional metallic paint.