C&W in Business by Benham Publishing Limited

Issue 50 November / December 2015

Signing off after a terrific two years - page 42 20

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

CONTENTS Nov/Dec 2015

Looking to continue support into 2016

Chamber Conference

4-5

Service of the Month

News

Events

8-10

Dear Member,

May I take this opportunity to wish all the Members of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce a good Christmas 2015. Can I say that we, your Chamber of Commerce Team, value your custom and appreciate your alliance to your local Chamber. I hope you have benefited from your Membership throughout 2015 and have enjoyed the highlights of our Trade Expo’s, Trade Missions (for exporters), Masterclasses for Growth Companies, Economic Conference and much more. Our 2015 Trade Expo’s alone attracted a footfall of over six hundred Business Leaders per event - your potential contacts, suppliers and customers of the future. Our Economic Conference, on 6th November, was attended by over three hundred Business Leaders, Members of Parliament, Local Councillors and the most senior officers of our Local Authorities. A huge thank you to the support of Conference sponsors, the Coventry & Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and CityFibre. We are always keen to hear your feedback and I can be personally contacted on louiseb@cw-chamber.co.uk or 02476 654321. As one of our clients

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

stated recently “the Chamber is an extension to our business” has set the standard to which we aspire, to be an extension to your business, to understand your business and to assist in the success and potential growth of your business. As we close 2015, I want to pay a personal tribute to Peter Burns MBE, Chamber President, 2013-2015. His dedication to the role and energy for every commitment, be it a Chamber event; undertaking a TV or Radio interview; working with Local Leaders to the prosperity of the area; or Chairing the Board of Directors has been immense. As we look forward to 2016, let me promise you that we will continue to support your business and act in the best interests of the Coventry & Warwickshire business community. To all our Chamber Members, Partner Organisations and key stakeholders, I wish you a great and prosperous 2016. Kind regards Louise

Mrs L Bennett-Bayliss OBE, DL Chief Executive

Chamber Training

International Trade

News

13-14

Business Support

Legal &Finance

16-17

Property

Profile

20-21

Policy

Skills

Around the Region

24-31

Business Direct

News

38-41

President's Farewell

42-43

People

44-45

New Members

Chamber Conference

CONTACTS At the Chamber

News desk

Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm – new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocations – for publication in C&W in business. Whilst every effort will be made to publish submitted articles, we cannot guarantee inclusion. Send them to: news@cw-chamber.co.uk Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Chamber House Innovation Village Cheetah Road Coventry CV1 2TL T: 024 76 65 4371 F: 024 76 45 0242

New technology key to business success’, conference hears

At the publishers

Publisher

Ian Fletcher

Benham Publishing Limited 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY 0151 236 4141

Advertising Contact Karen Hall karen@benhampublishing.com 07801 788880 Production Manager Mark Etherington Accounts Director Joanne Casey Media Number 1433 © Benham Publishing 2015

Left to right: Andrew Starnes, Kevin Johns, Michael Stokes, Mark Pawsey, Louise Bennett, Marcus Jones, Peter Burns, Sharon Redrobe, Sarah Windrum, Kevin Maton, Tanya Beckett, David Cockcroft, Adam Marshall

C&W in Business is produced on behalf of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce by Benham Publishing Limited and is distributed to members free of charge. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in C&W in Business, neither Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it contains. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.

national and world economy in the final event held in the Rugby Fanzone He said: “I have always said that whoever wins in technology tends to win in business so it was great to speak to an audience interested in growing business through technology. “Business has always been fascinated by sport but I believe sport has a lot to learn from business too so it was great to hear from all the other speakers and industry leaders on the day too.”

C&W in Business is printed and distributed by Headley Brothers Limited The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce 4

Woodward was joined by BBC’s Tanya Beckett and MPs Marcus Jones and Mark Pawsey as well as 350 local business people. Two panel debates – one on devolution and one on business in the digital age – included contributions from Coventry City Councillor Kevin Maton, Rugby Borough Council leader Michael Stokes, Prime Accountants Group’s Kevin Johns, LEP representative David Cockcroft, CityFibre’s Andrew Starnes,

The man who guided England to Rugby World Cup victory told Coventry and Warwickshire companies that success in business hinges on the adoption of new technology. Former England Rugby coach Sir Clive Woodward delivered a keynote speech at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce annual conference. Woodward, who worked in industry before becoming a full time coach, ended a day which was dominated by devolution, new technology and the outlook for the regional, www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Policy Chamber Conference

Twycross Zoo’s Sharon Redrobe, PETXi’s Fleur Sexton and Emerald Group’s Sarah Windrum. The event was facilitated Dr Adam Marshall, executive director policy and external affairs for the British Chambers of Commerce. He also discussed the economic recovery as well as asking the 350 business people in the region to indicate their thoughts on a range of topics with a show of red and green cards. On devolution, most firms suggested that more information was needed for companies to have an informed opinion on the topic.

solutions to their own issues. Nothing is being imposed on local areas – decisions should be from the bottom up not the top down.” Jones followed Tanya Beckett, who told the audience that her message on the economy was one of optimism and said that the world was only at the beginning of the digital age. She said it was a ‘new industrial revolution’ that hasn’t yet affected productivity but that it will be the next step change.

The event was sponsored by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership and CityFibre, the company behind the Coventry CORE gigabit internet speeds in Coventry. Andrew Starnes, of CityFibre, said: “There are still companies out there who don’t have fast enough internet speeds and that is where we can make a difference. The fact that the Chamber dedicated its conference to growth through technology shows just how important an issue this is.” Chamber chief executive Louise Bennett said: “It was a great chance to look at the opportunities and challenges facing the region’s

businesses and looking, particularly, at how technology can benefit all sectors. “It was also a chance to highlight how the Chamber can play a key role in supporting businesses’ future growth. We are here to serve the best interests of our members and the local business community.” The conference was closed by Chamber president Peter Burns, who is stepping down from the role this month. He said: “This marks the near-end of my two year term office as the president of the Coventry and

Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and I am certainly going out on a high in light of this brilliant event.”

Marcus Jones told the conference: “For too long, there has been a gap between the north and the south. The economy has been imbalanced – London has dominated to the detriment of other regions. “We knew that had to change. We have supported LEPs, Growth Deals and have given local areas the chance to drive growth. “Now, through decentralisation, areas are able to find creative

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Service of the Month

Your key to expanding your business horizons In an evermore competitive home marketplace exporting could be the key to achieving growth and ensuring the long-term health of your business. It’s a sure-fire way to broaden your customer base, mitigate risk and increase overall profitability if you get the basics right. One critical element when it comes to getting the basics right is ensuring that you can easily access a range of essential export documents. Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has been accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce to provide the full range of Export Documentation for more than half a century – so we know what we’re doing.

We offer a fast, friendly and efficient service – effectively a one-stop-shop for all your export documentation needs - and can provide the full range of documents in both electronic and hard copy formats. Any business can use the service, but Chamber Members are entitled to a 50% discount on the Chamber price of all documents. So, if you need access to Letters of Credit, EC, Arab or Egyptian export documents, information concerning documentation fees or just need advice on what documentation you need and how to access it, then get in touch with the Export Documentation Team to find out how they can help you expand your business horizons. Call: 0247654321 Email: ecertacert@cw-chamber.co.uk

Keeping Hospira’s exporting activities in rude health Hospira Ltd, (formerly Mayne Pharma) is a US-based global pharmaceutical and medical device company with its UK Headquarters located in Maidenhead. With more than 15,000 employees worldwide it’s a global concern, but has maintained its connections and membership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber, primarily because of the superb service it receives from the Export Documentation team. An efficient documentation service is absolutely critical to Hospira Ltd’s business activities. It sends on average 35 Health Certificates every month, mainly to the

Middle East, for its range of cancer treatment drugs. Each one has to be Certified, Legalised and Apostilled by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The documents basically list the active ingredients, the amount of active ingredient per dosage and the product characteristics alongside an explanatory note highlighting how it can be used. This month has seen exceptional activity, with more than 108 documents processed, and once again the Chamber Export Documentation has risen to the challenge and helped Hospira Ltd do what it does best – exporting its products to the places where they’re needed the most.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Success for Martin and Ros Martin Prue and Ros Johnson are celebrating their first year of business. After a combined 35 years working in the charitable sector, they have used their experience and skills to launch Reboot and Release and they offer a Free Taster Session to enable people to try before they buy. They offer a personal and organisational development programme that can be adapted for staff and business development, community development and positive mental health and wellbeing development. The programmes help individuals and businesses to achieve their potential and goals with increased confidence, motivation and creativity, together with improved vision and leadership development skills. When Reboot and Release is implemented, businesses can expect greater productivity and a reduction in sickness absence, especially those which are related to depression and stress. The programmes utilise principles of positive psychology and both Martin and Ros are skilled and experienced facilitators of this type of programme, having worked with groups in the public, private and third sectors for many years.

In the first year of Reboot and Release, they have worked with a wide range of clients from business and health professionals to Probation Service staff and clients and have seen very positive results and feedback from clients. Martin and Ros are very happy to come and talk to your business to explore where their expertise might be useful and they

offer a free taster session so that the benefits of the programme can be demonstrated. As new members of the Chamber, they are both looking forward to meeting other members at the networking events and discover where complementary partnerships can be developed.

Virtual PA launches new on-site service By Jo Phillips, Managed Business Support & PA Service In March 2015, I set up and launched Managed Virtual Assistant and PA Service. It quickly became apparent that small businesses and sole traders needed the flexibility and versatility of an administrative service that could cover a wide range of tasks. I started part-time, with one client, and I now run the business on a full-time basis with. In August 2015, Managed took the exciting decision to offer, not only virtual services but on-site services too. Not everyone is comfortable in the surroundings of day-to-day technology

and relinquishing the trust that comes with a virtual service and letting go of control, I saw the opportunity and went full steam ahead. Managed understands your demanding schedule is not going to change. I provide services that will alleviate your hectic schedule, so you can concentrate on the core responsibilities that make your business shine in the marketplace above the competition. Managed knows time is a valuable asset that cannot be wasted on costly mistakes. If your business is struggling with the ins and outs of every day, time-consuming

task management, why not speak to me and see how I can facilitate your vision by helping you concentrate on the more important tasks of running your business. With any business model, communication is a key component of my philosophy. I have the professional skills to complete your project, but I also need to know the special details that you require. Every administrative project I complete is a reflection of my skills, and an investment in our professional relationship with your business and now the service is even better.

Trust targets £1m lending figure for Christmas Start-ups and existing businesses that need a cash boost and business support are being urged to approach responsible finance provider CWRT, as it has set a target to lend £1 million by Christmas. The funding will be made available to start-up businesses locally and nationally, and existing businesses in the Coventry and Warwickshire area. CWRT works closely with the Coventry & Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Coventry and Warwickshire councils, and the Start-Up Loans Company, an organisation which is chaired by former Dragon’s Den dragon James Caan. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

The organisation lends both start-ups and existing businesses between £1,000 and £75,000, and provides mentoring support pre and post loan application to help entrepreneurs start their own business and to encourage employment across the region. Mike Musson, Chief Executive of CWRT, said: “We are already supporting some exciting companies both in the region and beyond, and we’re confident that we can reach our Christmas target. “With the new government firmly in place, we are witnessing real confidence among regional businesses, and our team is gearing up for our peak autumn lending period.”

sponsored column

Fashion business enjoys strong opening sales

Time to warm up your cold clients

A new independent boutique in Rugby is proving to be business as well as fashion-savvy after enjoying strong sales since opening. Louise Golding launched SASS Style, based in Regent Street, just four months ago and already both the footfall and sales figures have exceeded initial projections by 200 per cent. Business is booming for the women’s fashion store by so much that Louise has now recruited two new style advisors to the team, with plans in place to continue recruiting in future. Louise, who was assisted with the setting up of the business by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, says she has been overwhelmed by the response SASS has received from customers so far. “SASS has by far exceeded any expectations I had previously - I can’t believe how popular it has been,” she said. “After working for various retailers for more than 11 years, the time felt right to finally branch out on my own. “Having a son also gave me food for thought and prompted me to ask myself what I really wanted to get out of my career. “I have always adored retail, styling and working in a customer-facing role, so opening my own store seemed the most practical yet exciting thing to do. “Managing my own business has given me much more freedom, both in terms of exercising my creative flair as well as allowing me to work flexibly, which is great now that I have a young son.” Louise added that the business guidance she has received has been a great benefit, including being able to bounce ideas off her adviser. “The Chamber has provided a real support network, with information on how to manage finances such as undertaking cash flow forecasts, as well as discussing apprenticeship opportunities

Want to drive up fee income or increase sales?

and marketing potential. “Setting up my own business was initially quite a daunting prospect, so it really comforted me knowing that the Chamber’s advisers were always on the end of the telephone - the advice offered is invaluable to anyone considering it. “Looking forward, we are currently working to create a transactional website for SASS and if business continues to be as busy as it has been I am even hoping to add a menswear section.” Wendy Brown, enterprise coach team leader at the Chamber of Commerce, said: “SASS Style has made a fantastic

start and we are delighted to have helped Louise turn her idea into a business. “The Chamber offers a range of start-ups and SMEs in the region support in terms of strategic planning and business guidance. “To encourage other local would-be entrepreneurs, we are also running free start-up workshops at Rugby Town Hall on the 7th October, 11th November & 9th December, and urge all those considering setting up their own business to pay us a visit and see how we can help.” For more information, contact the

Focusing on business growth Orton Marketing Ltd, based in Nuneaton, has gained two new customers in the three months since becoming a Chamber member. Kerry Orton, the driving force behind the Design and Artwork services business, originally targeted new businesses when she launched the firm at the beginning of 2011. “I realised that firms starting out really didn’t have the finances to employ a marketing professional full-time,” she said. “So I spotted a gap in the market that helped me get the business off the ground.” The firm has now moved on to bigger clients, helped in many ways by Kerry’s background in the automotive sector, and her current client list includes Internationally-recognised brands. However, Kerry is keen not to rest on her laurels and saw Chamber membership as www.cw-chamber.co.uk

the ideal way to source new business and keep the company on the right track. “I felt that joining the Chamber would be a really effective way to widen my customer base and increase my business profitability. It’s helped me to target an entirely new customer base and has opened my eyes to a host of opportunities to grow the business and expand into new and exciting areas. I’ve re-focused my vision for the business since joining up, thanks to the mentoring and help from my business advisor, and the networking events have made a huge difference. At my first event I met a prospect that I’ve since converted into a customer, so it paid off almost immediately,” said Kerry. And it’s not just networking events that have helped Kerry improve how she does business –the simple fact that she has the support of Chamber Advisors and can

access a range of business services, such as the 24 hr Legal Helpline and Company Credit Search facilities, has helped boost her confidence and given her the reassurance that support is always available on the end of the phone. Kerry is also looking forward to working with fellow Chamber members in the near future - so much so that Orton Marketing is happy to offer discounted rates to any businesses that need help with their marketing activities. “I’m happy to help Chamber members and would certainly recommend membership to other businesses,” said Kerry. “With high-profile events like the Business and Trade Expo, which is a superb event for visitors and exhibitors, regular networking opportunities that really pay off and support services that bring real peace of mind it represents a fantastic opportunity to take your business to the next level.”

Yes? Then you’ve probably opened up your contact book as the first step. Almost certainly there’ll be the names of people you’ve just worked with on a first project. Convert them into a second and before you know it you’ll have regular work. Just as certainly there’ll be people you haven’t spoken to for a while, or even years. You did that first project then they just slipped off your agenda. Failing to warm up a cold client is a big mistake. But letting them get cold after that first project is an even bigger one! Keep them warm and you’re on the way to developing a great relationship. Warm them up and they’ll probably be more emotionally committed to you and your business than ever. But how? As with everything in communication, put the person you’re talking with at the heart of the conversation.. Listen to them … actively. Get your head around the issues they care about. Find out what they are trying to achieve. Who do they want to influence? Who do they want to connect with? Then re-frame your messages so they grab their attention. But don’t lose your authenticity. Relationships are built on trust and you’ll lose it if you’re not authentic. Finally, connect with them. But do it in a way they get to achieve their goals. Lorraine Francis and I can help. I devise and deliver communication and PR programmes and Lorraine forges strategic connections. We have a simple three-step programme to help you warm up cold clients. Get in touch if you want to warm up your cold clients.

Contact Cathy Connan of Communication Strategy on 07976 669089 or email cathy@cathyconnan.com.

Legal & Finance

Law firm comes out on top

Brethertons rated one of the providers Leading legal services provider, Brethertons, is celebrating after being named as one of the top law firms in the central region by leading industry publication, The Legal 500 Clients Guide to the UK Legal Profession. Brethertons is, once again, ranked as a top tier firm for Family law in the West Midlands, with Partner Linda Jones being listed as a ‘recommended lawyer’ for her expertise in “complex financial disputes involving various types of assets.” The firm’s Employment team has moved up one tier in the West Midlands and head of practice, David Hodge, is “highly recommended by clients [for his] specialisms [which] include tribunal representation, management exits, TUPE compliance and disciplinary actions.” Partner Simon Craddock has been listed in the Elite Leading Lawyers list for the 7th time - The Legal 500 guide to outstanding lawyers nationwide – for his work in the highly specialist field of international child abduction. In total, 19 of the firm’s legal advisors have been recommended, including solicitors Colin Witherall and Sally Clark who have all been ranked for the first time by the Guide. Brethertons’ CEO Shaun Jardine, himself recommended as a specialist in Litigation, said: “It’s really helpful for clients to see how we are benchmarked against competitors and take an informed decision on which solicitor to use.”

A respected independent legal survey has commended Band Hatton Button as the leading law firm in Coventry. Band Hatton Button, in Warwick Road, has retained its reputation as one of the most reliable and diverse firms in the West Midlands after it was listed in eight categories by The Legal 500. The Legal 500, published annually, is widely acknowledged as the leading legal referral guide and lists the top law firms and lawyers across the UK. In this year’s listings, Band Hatton Button, which employs 76

staff, featured in more categories than any other law firm in Coventry underlining its reputation for delivering excellent standards of service. The firm was recommended for its work in corporate and commercial, commercial litigation, commercial property, debt recovery, charities and notfor-profit, family law, personal tax, trusts and probate and education. Partners Jonathan Wilby, Malcolm Thomas and John French were recognised for their work in commercial litigation after opposing a High Court injunction order requiring disclosure on the grounds of competition law and

data protection. Band Hatton Button was also the highest ranked law firm in the city for family law with partner Tracy Cross commended for her mediation skills during complex children issues in divorces. Haydn Jones, partner corporate and commercial, was also singled out for praise for his work in education and Nick Button, partner commercial property, was noted for strong activity around acquisitions and disposals. Philip Costigan, senior partner, said he was extremely pleased with this year’s results, which have

once again highlighted the firm’s strength in the region. He said: “This is the third year we have been recognised in eight categories which is a fantastic achievement. “We are very pleased to see that Band Hatton Button was the only law firm in Coventry to be named in the corporate and commercial, commercial litigation, charities, education and commercial property sectors. “Not only do these results underline our commitment to delivering the highest quality of service to our clients, the broad range of categories we have

Lodders lawyers’ stepup to the handle-bar for rural charity

Lawyers from the Stratford upon Avon office of law firm Lodders took to the saddle to cycle 70-miles in support of rural charity Countryside Learning. The firm’s Michael Wakeling, Alastair Frew and James Spreckley joined Rob Honan of Warwickshire’s Alscot Estate to cycle a gruelling route that was just one leg of a five-day fundraising initiative by Savills aiming to raise £100,000 for the charity.

Reaching an average speed of 15mph, the pedalling foursome completed the 70-mile route in just over 4 ½ hours. Partner in Lodders’ dispute resolution team Michael Wakeling was crowned the day’s ‘King of the Mountains’, real estate partner Alastair Frew was awarded the green jersey for his sprinting prowess, whilst partner in the firm’s agricultural team James Spreckley barely broke sweat all day. Rob Honan from Savills kept having to slow down, so he took the day’s yellow jersey! The fundraising event and group’s ride on Tuesday 15th September was organised by property agents Savills UK. The cycle challenge aimed to cover 5,000 miles in and around different UK geographical locations during the course of the working week via non-motorised means. The event culminated with a team from each of the regions cycling into London to meet at Savills’ headquarters in Margaret Street.

Law firm celebrates 50th anniversary Kundert Solicitors LLP are celebrating 50 years of providing legal services in Coventry and Warwickshire. Formed in 1965 by Michael Kundert, the firm has always prided itself in excellent client service to businesses and individuals alike. Henry Whitney, who joined the firm in 1977 as a trainee solicitor and is now one of four Partners, said “Coventry and Kundert Solicitors LLP have been good to me. I believe the firm still has some of the attributes of its founder who died so sadly earlier this year.

“He was a good and kind and generous man who believed in taking people at face value, valuing everyone as individuals, and giving everyone a chance as he was given a chance when he came to this country in the late 1930s with his brother and parents as a refugee from Nazi Germany.” Until recently, Kundert Solicitors LLP operated out of Copthall House until that was demolished to make way for the Greyfriars Development. The firm’s head office is now at The Quadrant in the City Centre but they also have an office in Bell Green.

Landmark ruling could lead to more cases

Justin Creed, partner in the Family Team at Wright Hassall

A landmark divorce ruling could open the door for other cases where parties discover they have deliberately been given false information, according to a Midlands solicitor. Justin Creed, partner in the Family Team at Leamington-based law firm Wright Hassall, said the outcome of the case brought to the Supreme Court by Alison Sharland and Varsha Gohil emphasises the duty to be honest in producing financial information when negotiating settlements on divorce. Alison Sharland, who accepted £10 million in her divorce settlement, and Gohil, who was given £270,000, argued they were misled by their ex-husbands and

should get more money in their divorce settlements. The women have both been successful and the cases have been remitted back to the High Court for a final decision on distribution for further settlements. Justin Creed said: “In divorce cases involving the division of assets, both parties are under a duty to act with integrity and make honest, full and frank disclosure of their financial circumstances before reaching an agreement. “In these two cases, the husbands were dishonest in that they did not comply with the duty to be full and frank and misled the court and their wives as to their true financial positions.

The wives therefore settled their cases on false facts which amounted to fraud in the Sharland case. “Both wives sought to have their original settlements set aside because of their husband’s fraud or non-disclosure. “The High Court and Court of Appeal declined to set aside the orders on the basis that the agreement or order would not have been substantially different had the true financial position been known. “The Supreme Court has made it clear the High Court and Court of Appeal was wrong and the ruling now paves the way for further cases where there has been fraud in the sense of deliberate

misrepresentation of financial positions at the time an agreement to be overturned at a later date - irrespective of when the order was made. “The same applies where there has been non-disclosure of material information which would otherwise have influenced a settlement. “The case emphasises that dishonesty will not be tolerated, and the duty to be honest in producing financial information when negotiating settlements on divorce. “The outcome could certainly now open the door for further cases where parties have subsequently discovered that information given by a spouse at the time of settlement

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Legal & Finance

Residential property team is strengthened A Coventry law firm has bolstered its residential property team with the appointment of two conveyancing executives. Niki Young and Paul Hewerdine have joined Band Hatton Button, in Warwick Road, to specialise in the legal transfer of residential property. Niki, who lives in Rugby, has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry and has worked in the conveyancing department at various solicitors across the West Midlands. She said: “Band Hatton Button has a great reputation in the city and I was very pleased to be approached by the firm and to join its residential property team. “I have worked in Coventry for a long time so I know the area well and will hopefully be able to bring good working relationships with me. This is definitely a benefit as a huge percentage of our work will be locally based. “When you have strong local knowledge and know where people are buying and selling it gives people confidence in your abilities and you can also build up more of a personal rapport with them.” Paul, who lives in Coventry, has moved to Band Hatton Button from Ward & Rider, in Coventry, where he has spent the last eight years gaining a wealth of experience in sales, purchases, equity transfers and re-mortgaging.

He said: “I am really looking forward to being part of the team at Band Hatton Button. Having worked at my previous firm for almost a decade, the chance of taking on new challenges and furthering my career with Band Hatton Button is a great opportunity. I was honoured to have been approached by the company. “As a professional working outside of Band Hatton Button until now, I have always viewed the firm as being one of the very best in the city and to now be a part the team feels great. “The staff, at every level, works to the highest standard and they clearly enjoy providing the best service they can. The dedication and care that is applied to every task undertaken is inspiring.” The appointment of Niki and Paul boosts the residential property team to seven staff. Sarah Avern, associate head of residential property, added: “We are delighted to welcome both Niki and Paul to the team who have extensive experience in residential property conveyancing. “Moving house need not be stressful, however, it invariably can be, and so it is important we have the right team in place to help alleviate the stresses and worries of property transactions and make the process as smooth as possible.

“I am confident Paul and Niki will help to strengthen the work we do within the residential property team and look forward to working with them in the future.”

From left to right Helen Checketts, Rani Bola, Paul Hewerdine, Sarah Avern, Niki Young and Karen Ross.

Continued success for broker Morrison Insurance Solutions were successful at keeping the title of ‘Chartered Broker of the Year’ at the UK Broker Awards 2015 for the second year running. The event was held in London, at the historic ‘The Brewery’ which occupied the buildings of Whitbread’s 18th Century beer-making empire. The beautiful settings and the opportunity to win one of the prestigious awards draws Brokers from all over the UK to the glamourous event to compete for the titles that were on offer. Winning the ‘Chartered Broker of the Year’ Award even once is not an easy task as there is so much tough

competition, so to win it twice the Directors and the Team are delighted. Mark Horgan ACII, Director of Morrison Insurance Solutions, said, “Winning the Chartered Broker of the Year award 2 years in succession is a remarkable achievement and is something we could only dream of. To be the best of the best is an accolade we are immensely proud of and something we will treasure forever. “Our aim is to provide the highest standard of service in the best interest of our clients with an emphasis on fairness, professionalism and ethical behaviour - emerging from the crowd through excellence.”

Firm witnesses strong growth A Midlands-based accountancy firm has witnessed strong growth in its corporate finance division after advising on transactions worth in excess of £54 million. Accountants and business advisors Harrison Beale & Owen (HB&O), which has offices in Coventry and Leamington, launched its corporate finance division in January 2014. Harrison Beale & Owen Corporate Finance has since been involved in over 40 projects with its team of experts advising on deals ranging from £10,000 to £20 million. Greg Philp, associate director of Harrison Beale & Owen Corporate Finance, said: “There is no doubt that the strength of the market has returned significantly over the last 18 months. “We have seen notable increases in M&A activity across various sectors in Coventry and Warwickshire as well as strong growth in the number of companies securing new finance or investment. “We have advised on a significant number of disposals with many business owners who were in their late 50s when the market crashed in 2008, feeling more confident to progress with their exit strategy, whether this is in the form of a management buyout or sale to an external buyer. “The market is also being driven much more by speculative approaches where buyers are identifying and approaching potential business targets.” HB&O’s corporate finance specialists have extensive experience advising owner-managed businesses and medium-sized enterprises on business sales and acquisitions. Greg added: “We established HB&O Corporate Finance as a separate strand in 2014 to make our clients and contacts more aware of the services we are able to provide. “We have since seen a resurgence in the market and have advised not only on many sizable transactions but also those where the figures involved are much smaller. “Many people often think that corporate finance advisors predominately advise on large transactions and we are keen to change that perception.” HB&O is one of the largest firms of chartered accountants and financial advisors in Coventry and Warwickshire with over 85 staff including 10 directors.

Rising costs fail to dampen West Midlands SME growth plans The impact of rising costs is doing little to dampen the growth aspirations of small and medium-sized businesses in the West Midlands, according to new research by Yorkshire Bank. The new survey by the bank, conducted among 750 SME decision makers, reveals that while small and medium-sized businesses are experiencing rising costs, the majority are rolling out expansion plans as faith in the UK economy grows. More than half (59%) of West Midlands SMEs said their costs had risen in the last 12 months, with raw materials, staff salaries and utility and energy costs creating the most concern. The perception of rising costs is most notable in the manufacturing, food and drink, hospitality and legal sectors. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

This perception could be more acutely felt following the Chancellor’s Budget in July when he announced the introduction of a living wage – an increase in the national minimum wage for workers over 25. This increase, from £6.80 an hour to £7.20 an hour, will come in to force in April next year. By 2020 this will rise to £9 an hour. However, despite the challenges faced by smaller businesses as a result of increased costs, 72% are expecting to invest in their business in the coming year, with new equipment, premises and staff being top of the priority list. Nearly half (47%) believe their business’ turnover will grow by an average of nine per cent in the year ahead. The same amount (46%) believe it will stay the same while 3% feel sales will dip.

This investment is being driven by confidence in the UK as a good place to do business. More than half (56%) businesses feel the economy is in a better position today than before the recession, a belief which is potentially acting as a buffer to the rising costs. Brian Colquhoun, Regional Director for Business and Private Banking at Yorkshire Bank in the West Midlands, said many businesses had used the experience of the recession to reduce the impact of rising costs. He said: “Despite rising costs, the West Midland’s small and medium-sized businesses are demonstrating they have the financial flexibility to weather leaner periods and now have the appetite to grow. “We’ve spoken to hundreds of small businesses up and down the country and found

many are working hard to protect themselves from these rising costs, but also extremely confident about the current state and future direction of our economy. “Through our bespoke lending initiatives we’re providing the flexibility they’re looking for to enable them to invest and expand where they see opportunities, whether that’s to create more jobs, purchase premises or enter new markets. “As a result, we are seeing small businesses innovating, creating new jobs and laying down foundations for the future.” Earlier this year Yorkshire Bank became the first to partner with the British Business Bank on its ENABLE Guarantee programme. Up to £125m of new lending by Yorkshire Bank, will help more small businesses achieve their growth ambitions.

Property

Jewson celebrates opening of Binley customer experience Centre Jewson has celebrated the opening of its new Customer Experience Centre in Binley. The centre was officially opened by MP for Coventry North East, Colleen Fletcher, Chief Executive, Saint-Gobain Building Distribution UK & Ireland, Mark Rayfield and representatives from the local Chamber of Commerce. The Experience Centre has employed a Customer Experience Team made up of 25 people from the Coventry area. The team are a diverse group varying in age and experience with flexible working patterns and shifts to suit their needs. Working with the charity Business in the Community, the centre has been able to provide work experience placements for two local unemployed individuals. The centre will be home to the Customer Experience Team, who will support the Jewson Operations Team in working to improve the customer experience and customer service levels. Magda Dexter, Customer Experience Director at Jewson, said: “Jewson is heavily involved in supporting the community and, as part of the SaintGobain group, already employs more than 450 people in Binley. It’s been great to work with Business in the Community to find more local talent who can give an extra level of service to customers outside of our branches.” Letting agent Martyn Howard said: “Saint-Gobain have clearly, adopted forward thinking to the comfort of employees and positive outcomes created by the environment, equipment and furnishings.”

Splash of colour adds to development An artist has added a splash of colour to a new housing development in Leamington. Lesley Whelan, who has a studio at the Canal Basin in Coventry, was commissioned to produce five pieces for the Queensway Court independent living with care scheme, which was built by Deeley Construction on behalf of Orbit Heart of England in the Queensway area of the town. Lesley – a self-employed artist for 15 years – researched the area before creating the work to ensure it was relevant to the 178apartment development. She said: “I was approached by Deeley because they knew some of my other work in public places such as hospitals and businesses. “It was a really interesting project to work on. One of the pieces is based on the River Leam, from which Leamington takes its name. Another was based around a wellknown Oak Tree which sits on the corner of Lillington Road and Lillington Avenue. “I really wanted to bring out some of the wonderful colours from the parks and gardens too because I wanted to capture the local area and make it relevant to the town. “I’ve created a technique of my own where I burn into the work’s surface and then use acrylic paints so it gives the piece a real textured feel. “That’s the technique I used here and I was really pleased with the results. I met a few of the residents too and had very positive feedback from them, which was great to hear.”

Front - Martin Gallagher (Deeley) & artist Lesley Whelan Back (left to right) - Lorraine Mansfield, Barbara Lording, Emma Williams, Jan Allan, Christine Lester.

Martin Gallagher, managing director of Deeley Construction, said: “Lesley’s work is a great addition to the Queensway Court independent living with care scheme and is proving to be popular with residents there. “The overall project has been a huge success and we have maintained our commitment to using local companies and individuals during the work. Around 85 per cent of the contractors and suppliers we used were from within a 30-mile radius of the scheme, which has a further positive knock-on effect for the local economy.”

Lorraine Mansfield, Extra Care Development Manager at Orbit Independent Living, says; “Although it’s still quite new, Queensway Court has a strong sense of community and people living there spend a great deal of time in the shared areas. “The new artwork that Lesley created has helped make Queensway feel more homely and customers are loving the new addition to their lounge. We are grateful that Deeley has provided this artwork and thank them for helping make this great housing scheme that much better!”

Commercial property agent lands business park contract

ehB director Simon Hain (left) with John Patton, manager of Holly Farm Business Park.

Leamington property consultants ehB Commercial have been appointed agents for Holly Farm Business Park, a 10-acre business centre in Honiley, near Kenilworth. ehB director Simon Hain said the fully managed business park – which has superfast broadband - has more than 120,000 sq ft of units, ranging in size from 200 sq ft to 15,000 sq ft, available for sale or letting. “There is an acute shortage of commercial property in this area so we are expecting a substantial amount of interest,” said Mr Hain.

Warwick Business Park in great demand Properties on Warwick’s newest business park have all but gone as eager buyers and investors snap them up. The £3 million St George’s Business Park in Lower Cape, has proved extremely attractive to both owner occupiers and investors alike, said Simon Hain, a director of Leamington-based property consultants ehB Commercial. He said: “The success of the business park shows that the local economy is very much back on track. There 11 units on the 4.4 acre site - ranging in size from 1,750 sq. ft. to 7,500 sq. ft. – and all but one of them have gone and, with the amount of interest being shown, we fully expect that to be sold very soon,” The properties on the new enterprise zone for small to medium sized companies are

considered ideal for companies involved in design, manufacturing, engineering or warehousing. Simon said: “Most of them were bought off plan and there has been serious interest ever since construction work began in July last year. This is good news for the area, not only for new jobs but a sure sign that the local economy has recovered.” Companies that have moved in include Newbury Commercial Glazing, Walter Ewag, Pearl Motor Yachts and TDR Racing (Subaru specialists). The business park lies on the site of the former Benford dumper truck factory and has been owned by the property development division of family-owned Kigass since the former Benford/Terex plant was relocated to Coventry over

ten years ago. The site had been redundant and vacant ever since. Managing director Joanne Smith, who is the great grand-daughter of the firm’s founder Charlie Wardman, said: “Benfords was a traditional engineering company that employed a lot of people. The plan has always been to regenerate the site and create new business and job creation opportunities. I am delighted to see how well the scheme has been received and how much better the area looks. “I am excited to now be completing the nine house residential development, High Bank, next door. These houses will soon be released for sale and will offer affordable houses in this rejuvenated area.”

Simon Hain (right) of ehB with Joanne Smith of Kigass and Oliver Dunsford, project manager from D2 Project Management at, the site of St George’s Business Park.

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Making business work

Andy Gibb is living proof that it pays to stay on good terms with the people you work with through your career. The managing director of the Ricoh Arena began his working life in the world of conferences and exhibitions while playing as a scrum half for Wasps in the early 1990s - and almost

a year ago he got a call to see if he was interested in returning in a different capacity. Wasps were in a different place literally and metaphorically but it did not take long for Gibb to make his decision and start a second career with the club – a career which has more to do with turnover than turnovers.

And he has made an immediate impact to that turnover with conference and exhibition business up 23 per cent in the first year since he took the helm at the Ricoh Arena. “I had been in the industry for 23 years and I got a call from a recruiter who said that you will not believe what is about to happen,” he said. “The deal

for Wasps to move here and buy the Ricoh was in progress. “He said ‘the club you played for is buying a stadium that you can see from your office window and it has an exhibition centre and they want someone with events experience’. “It was and is unbelievable. I was working next door, what were the chances of that happening? “I had done plenty of work here and knew the management. I had worked on lots of shows that were here and put together a couple of deals, so I knew the Ricoh from the outside.” The figures have undoubtedly improved but it is clear that Gibb believes that it has been as much to do with evolution as revolution. He said: “The venue had been through a difficult time when the football club went to Northampton. It was not a good time for anyone. “We have set clear goals, put round pegs in round holes, provided good training, promoted from within and done some good recruiting. “We want to become the centre for elite sport in this region. We have had England under-21s football, we have high profile rugby matches coming here and we are looking at other sports as well. “ We want to drive the conference and exhibition part of the business forward and we are making inroads into that. It has been about giving people focus and direction.

Working Day Gibb’s new role has brought one definite domestic advantage. “I used to travel regularly but now I am home most evenings and we eat together as a family, which is great.” Gibb is usually at his desk by 8am, and while there is structure, there is not a typical day. “We have a senior management meeting every Tuesday morning, one-to-ones on a fortnightly basis with those who directly report into me, and then set meetings for all departments.”

Gibb has two sports-mad boys aged 14 and 10, and that takes up much of his down time. “They are both into all kinds of sport but particularly football, rugby and floorball which is basically indoor hockey. “I coached the juniors at Shipston Rugby Club for seven years, I do a seven or eight mile run at the weekends, and also have some gym equipment in my garage, so that’s how I keep fit these days.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Andy Gibb

on the big stage “On the music front, we have announced our ‘Evening With ...’ series, our ‘Offload’ gigs which interface with home rugby matches, and we are in serious talks with people about stadium bowl concerts.” Wasps’ move to and for the Ricoh Arena was one of the business coups of 2014 and took the sporting and business world by surprise. “You can take each bit as they sit separately, or what we think makes sense is to use all of our assets collectively,” Gibb said. “There is a hurdle to be jumped to get people here because while the venue has been successful, it still has a massive market to aim at. “Once we get people here to see the venue and what it has to offer, then they are often convinced – and we will use rugby to help do that. “On Wasps’ first home game of the season we entertained some potential clients. We got them here two hours before the game, showed them round, gave them lunch and they watched the game with their families. “That works very well in that they see a game, see the Ricoh operating on different levels and have a really good time. That is something no other venue can offer.” It is clear that Gibb, who chats in the new DoubleTree by Hilton at the Ricoh Arena – Coventry, which opened just days before, is thriving along with the Ricoh. He said: “Some of my old events industry colleagues have been here and said this must be my perfect job. Exhibitions and sport, and in particular rugby – it’s what I enjoy. “What does success look like? The Jaguar Hall full all week, there is a confirmed music programme for the next 12 months, Wasps are at the top of the Aviva Premiership and are involved in the latter stages of Europe and Coventry City have been promoted and are top of the Championship and drawing crowds of 20,000. “We are well down that road and we are delighted that Coventry City are doing so well and that the crowds are good.”

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It is not hard to guess that Gibb was a scrum half in his playing days, no doubt enthusiastically directing affairs from the fringes of the pack. He modestly plays down his oval ball career but he was playing in and amongst some of the game’s biggest names. His family moved to Leicester when he was a youngster and he went to a football-playing school. Fortunately for him, a generous spirited sports teacher – Mr Ferrari – could see he was not destined for great things in football, but recommended he took up rugby and took him to South Leicester. Tigers spotted him as a 16-year-old and suddenly he was mixing it with the likes of Clive Woodward, Dusty Hare, Les Cusworth and Peter Wheeler. In 1986 he joined the Sports Council as sports development manager for what was then the Sports Association for the Disabled, and that meant a move to Wasps. He started in the sixth team but by 1991, he had played a handful of first team games and was a regular in the second team before an ankle injury effectively ended his playing career. In those days Wasps helped you find a job and work was a means to an end - to allow you to play rugby. “In 1991 I went to work at Blenheim Exhibitions, for David Pegler who was captain of Wasps and that is how it started. Ironic really.” His career has since taken in spells in Monaco, Dubai and Cairo, and the NEC in Birmingham working on all sides of the industry. His move to GES as managing director in 2011 brought him to just a few hundred yards from the Ricoh. Among his work was attracting nomadic medical conferences - one of which brought 35,000 cardiologists from across the globe to London, along with £70 million of economic impact. And then came that call – and the circle was completed.

“Andy Gibb is living proof that it pays to stay on good terms with the people you work with through your career. The managing director of the Ricoh Arena began his working life in the world of conferences and exhibitions while playing as a scrum half for Wasps in the early 1990s – and almost a year ago he got a call to see if he was interested in returning in a different capacity.”

Biography: Andy Gibb Date of birth: Birthplace: Married: Children: Hobbies: Favourite book: Favourite film: Last holiday: Car: Favourite gadget:

04.10.63 Hyde, Manchester Claire for 15 years Joshi 14 and Ollie 10 Running, Windsurfing and Argentinian Malbec Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela The Blues Brothers Eurocamping in the Ardeche Audi A4 GPS watch

Policy

Global economy ‘holds no fears’ Jobless figures fall again Unemployment has tumbled again across Coventry and Warwickshire – and business leaders believe the trend can continue.

In Coventry, the figure fell from 4,484 to 4,308 and in Warwickshire it came down from 2,959 to 2,810 between August and September. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is further good news on the jobs front across Coventry and Warwickshire. “Our latest survey with companies across the region suggested that there are still many firms out there who are looking to grow and want to take on new people. “That means that unemployment could continue to come down over the coming weeks and months – especially with Christmas seasonal employment set to kick-in very soon. “An issue that many companies do raise with us is being unable to access the skills they need and, also, the fact that many school-leavers aren’t equipped for the world of work. “We are working with the British Chambers of Commerce, local schools, colleges and businesses on the issue around school-leavers and we believe that can have a positive impact. “It does need to be addressed as an issue before it acts as a harmful barrier to the region’s and country’s economic growth.”

Firms in Coventry and Warwickshire are confident they can see off issues in the global economy and continue to grow. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey shows that most companies are still expecting turnover to increase over the next 12 months despite falls in global growth forecasts and a stock market dip over recent months. And businesses in the area believe they are in a good place to grow – with more than 60 per cent of companies surveyed saying Coventry and Warwickshire is good or excellent as a place to do business. The survey showed that 65.5 per cent of manufacturers in the area think turnover is going to increase in the next year, while 79.3 per cent of those businesses in the service sector believe turnover will go up. When it comes to employment, 43.6 per cent of manufacturers are expecting to increase their workforce in the next three months while 32.9 per cent

of service-based businesses are expecting to take on new staff. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “There are certainly pressures coming from all over the world. We cannot ignore them because we are all affected by what happens across the globe. “But it’s great to see that firms from across the city and county are still confident that they will grow over the next year and that so many feel that this is the ideal place from which to expand their business.” A major plus point from the latest QES, is companies’ plans to invest to achieve growth. In the second quarter of the year, many said that they were revising down their plans to invest in new equipment, machinery and technology but in this survey, 49.1 per cent of manufacturers say they will investing more while just 11.3 per cent said they would be scaling back. In the service sector, 33.1 per cent of companies plan to increase investment in

technology and equipment and only 7.3 per cent have revised their plans downwards. In both the manufacturing and service sectors, around 30 per cent of businesses were planning to invest more in training too, with only 7.5 per cent of manufacturers scaling back and 5.8 per cent of servicebased businesses cutting down on their training budget. Louise added: “The conclusion I would draw from the survey and from the general feeling among business when I meet them is that there are issues in the economy that concern them but they are still confident that they can continue to grow. However, I think it’s very important not to become complacent about that and it’s vital to continue to push on issues that are crucial for future growth. “It’s important that we tackle the skills shortage and it’s also vital that we continue to highlight the work of our International Trade Hub at the Chamber – we need to get more companies exporting and we need to diversify the markets of those who already trade overseas.”

Growth comes with a warning Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire have welcomed further growth in the UK economy – but say warning signs must not be ignored. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the 0.5 per cent increase in GDP between July and September was just below forecast but still welcome. But, she added, the fact that the quarterly economic growth was reliant on the service sector, as manufacturing output dipped, needs to be addressed. Louise said: “Economic growth is clearly welcome – especially with the recession still very clear in the memory.

“The service sector is growing strongly but in manufacturing the news isn’t quite so positive and that cannot be ignored. “While there has been much talk of rebalancing the economy from over reliance on services to more of a manufacturing base over recent years, there is still clearly some way to go on that front. “Also, as well as having medium to longterm plans, the government must react to issues as and when they arise and I believe it’s right that they explore every avenue of support for our steel industry because of its huge national importance.” Louise added: “Here in Coventry and Warwickshire we are hearing from manufacturers who want to expand

but can’t find the right kind of property – that’s something that has to be addressed in a meaningful way. “Also, it’s of absolute vital importance that companies – both in manufacturing and service sector – make the most of the export support that is available to them

through our International Trade Hub. “Overseas trade remains a very important route for growth for many of our businesses and beginning or expanding export operations is a way of helping to maintain our economic growth.”

“As well as having medium to long-term plans, the government must react to issues as and when they arise and I believe it’s right that they explore every avenue of support for our steel industry because of its huge national importance.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Skills

Jobs fair a huge success “Sixty-five exhibitors were split into different zones in the Ricoh Arena including engineering, construction, health and social care, catering, apprenticeships and higher and further education.Thirty schools from throughout Coventry and Warwickshire went along including one school who brought their entire Year 10 and 11 students which totalled 450 pupils.”

Back, from the left, Richard Hutchins, Marion Plant and Jonathan Browning (all from the CWLEP) and Nick Eastwood (Wasps). Middle, from the left: Cllr June Tandy (CWLEP), Ray Goy (Henley College Coventry), Sally Lucas (CWT Chamber Training), Fleur Sexton (PET-Xi) and Beth Gardner (Fair Train). Front: John JD Dalziel (Free Radio Coventry)

More than 2,500 students, parents and carers attended the largest Jobs, Apprenticeships and Careers Fair in Coventry and Warwickshire. The Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) organised the event for students in years 10-13 for the second successive year which also led to 600 apprentices being signed up by employers across the area. Sixty-five exhibitors were split into different zones in the Ricoh Arena including engineering, construction, health and social care, catering, apprenticeships and higher and further education. Thirty schools from throughout Coventry and Warwickshire went along including one school who brought their entire Year 10 and 11 students which totalled 450 pupils.

CWLEP chairman Jonathan Browning attended the Jobs, Apprenticeships and Careers Fair along with and the CWLEP’s Jobs & Skills Business Group board lead Richard Hutchins and chair Marion Plant and CWLEP board members Cllr June Tandy and Cllr Kevin Maton. PET-Xi joint managing director Fleur Sexton and Ray Goy, principal of Henley College Coventry, were presented with trophies by Fair Train chief executive Beth Gardner after achieving the Work Experience Quality Standard accreditation which has been developed by national charity Fair Train with support from Ofsted, the Department for Education, the TUC and a wide range of employers and providers. Jonathan praised the high numbers of students and employers who attended the event which coincided with national Work Experience Week.

He said: “The employers, training providers and colleges of further education and universities who attended made a difference to young peoples’ lives by providing vital information and advice about their future careers. “To see their energy and enthusiasm was fantastic and this kind of event is definitely a focus for the CWLEP in terms of building skills and helping the economy in this area.” Marion, who is also chief executive and principal of North Warwickshire and Hinckley College and South Leicestershire College, said: “This is such an important event for Coventry and Warwickshire because it is all about inspiring, guiding and supporting our local young people into jobs and careers that will make them the best they can possibly be.

“It is important to never underestimate the talent that students bring and the privilege we have is growing them even further.” Rachael Stewart, skills executive at the CWLEP, said this was the second successive year the event had been held and, once again, it had been an outstanding success. Free Radio Coventry breakfast presenter John JD Dalziel, who was sponsored by Coventry-based training and education provider PET-Xi, handed out prizes while students from City College Coventry, North Warwickshire and Hinckley College and Henley College acted as ambassadors. The Jobs, Apprenticeships and Careers Fair was sponsored by Wasps, the Skills Funding Agency, the National Careers Service, Apprenticeships, Young Chamber, Your Future, Fair Train and PET-Xi.

Work experience should be a priority Businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire want to see work experience for under-16s become a priority for Government. Mandatory work experience was scrapped by the Government in 2012 but a major survey with companies, schools and colleges conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) suggests it has added a further barrier to employment for schoolleavers. The Business and Education survey is a major strand of the BCC’s education and skills campaign that is aiming to bridge the gap between education and business and received more than 3,246 responses.

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In Coventry and Warwickshire, 62 per cent of companies said workplace experiences should be a priority in any reforms of careers guidance in schools and colleges while a massive 82 per cent said that work experience was vital in equipping young people with the skills they need to prepare for the world of work. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber is launching a new Young Chamber network to help bridge the gap between schools, colleges and business across the city and the county and say the survey highlights what work needs to be done. Peter Burns, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said it

was vital that young people were prepared for the world of work during their school-life. Peter said: “Of course, no business expects the finished article at 16, 18 or even 21 but for young people to get themselves into employment, they need to understand some of the basics of what it means to go out to work. “I am not surprised, therefore, that so many firms across the city and county have put such emphasis on the need for work experience for under-16s.” Communication skills were put forward by 94 per cent of companies in Coventry and Warwickshire as a vital skill for young people to have when entering the jobs market, with

literacy (79 per cent) and numeracy (75 per cent) also seen as crucial by the majority of firms. Three-quarters of businesses stated that young people needed to be equipped with knowledge of how to conduct themselves in interview before leaving school to help them access the jobs market. John Longworth, Director General of the BCC, said: “It was careless of Government to end compulsory work experience in 2012 but it is not too late to correct the mistake – and work with companies and schools to ensure that every school pupil has the chance to feel the energy, dynamism, buzz and challenge of the workplace for themselves.”

Area Focus: Coventry

Questions still need answering DSA Win Regional Business Award DSA won the esteemed Communications Award at this year’s 21st annual Coventry Telegraph Business Awards. Held at the Ricoh Arena, the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards celebrate and reward the region’s most esteemed enterprises. This year more than 400 professionals gathered at the stadium to see the winners announced in a ceremony hosted by writer and television comedian, Dominic Holland. Judged by leading business members within the regional community, DSA were rewarded for strong financial performance, creative event concepts and our investment in innovation. The Communications category identifies commitment from DSA to customer service and their subsequent recognition from industry professionals. Managing Director of DSA, Emma Lawrence said, “We are thrilled to receive this award. The accolade recognises every member of the DSA team who strive to work collaboratively in achieving the communication objectives of our international clients. Operating closely with global partners to deliver bespoke event and visitor engagement services, DSA have an established reputation for excellence. We are passionate about our on-going relationships with clients, working to deliver memorable experiences for them and their own customers. We are delighted that our hard work has been acknowledged and rewarded in this way.” While celebrating 20 years in business, our ambition at DSA is to continue developing our passion, knowledge and expertise in the live events arena, maintaining our position as an integral and influential supplier to the exhibition industry. We aim to be wellrespected and recognised as an outstanding agency who strives to achieve the best return on investment for their dedicated clients.

Business leaders in Coventry have compiled a list of questions for the city’s MPs. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Coventry branch held a meeting to set out a list of issues the businesses would like to see raised on a local and national level. The committee is now looking to arrange a meeting with Geoffrey Robinson, Colleen Fletcher and Jim Cunningham to put the points raised by members. Branch chair Sandra Garlick said: “We used this particular meeting to gauge views and opinions from businesses across the city and they were many and varied. “With the election of Jeremy Corbyn as leader of the Labour Party, there were several angles to the discussion. “Firstly – and away from all of the media hype – what will the Labour Party relationship be with business over the next few years and how will they use their time in opposition to support economic growth? “Also, business is very keen to know where the Labour Party and its Shadow Cabinet – along with our local MPs – will stand on the issue of Europe when we get to the muchtalked-about in/out referendum. “Then, from a local point of view, businesses want to gauge the views of our MPs on Combined Authorities

and how they see this playing out as we move forward. “On top of that, there were several other business issues from apprenticeships and business rates that companies would welcome the chance to raise with their MPs. “The Chamber has an excellent relationship with all our MPs across the

region and we will look to get a date in the diary to discuss many of the topics raised and would welcome further comment from local businesses on any matters they would like us to raise.” If companies would like the Chamber to raise an issue with a local MP, email Blake Timms at blaket@cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry Uni scores hat-trick of ‘Modern University of the Year’ titles Coventry University has been named ‘Modern University of the Year’ for an unprecedented third time in a row in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2016. The University also continues to be a hit amongst students, ranking top in the UK in the guide’s student satisfaction classification which rates higher education institutions by the quality of their teaching and student experience.

The league table sees Coventry placed higher than any other UK modern university (those granted university status since 1992) and once again retain the ‘Modern University of the Year’ title which it has held since 2013. For the second year running, Coventry ranks in the country’s top two for the quality of its teaching – a measure which combines with its student experience score to place Coventry as the best amongst all British universities for student satisfaction overall.

The guide’s judges commend Coventry’s innovative approach to higher education, highlighting Coventry University College and its recently-launched Scarborough Campus as unique and particularly forward-looking developments in the sector. Vice-chancellor Professor John Latham said: “All of our staff and students can be immensely proud of this achievement.”

Praise for successful engineering firm

Fom left to right, Paul Sullivan, Jevon Thorpe (both Penso) and Peter Burns

A leading business figure has returned to a Coventry engineering firm, which has almost tripled its workforce since his last visit. Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce president Peter Burns MBE was given a tour of Penso Consulting, based in

Middlemarch Business Park, almost two years ago when he first assumed the role. He was shown the firm’s high-tech facilities as well as progress on the company’s new 80,000 sq ft production space. Since then, Penso, which offers a range

of engineering solutions to clients in a range of sectors, from automotive to renewable energy, has grown from a workforce of 100 to 280 and construction of the firm’s new machine and press shop has also been completed. Both the machine and press shop are now fully operational, producing sophisticated industry-leading tools and some the world’s first production panels in carbon fibre. And with the firm growing at such a pace at the time of the president’s previous visit, Penso recognised a need for additional factory space on top. Penso purchased land adjacent to its current site on Woodhams Road which now hosts a new state-of-the-art 49,000 sq ft factory that is the production assembly area the company needed to continue its growth. The sustained growth has also led to Penso securing a string of award wins, including ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ at the Midlands Business Awards 2015. Peter said: “The developments Penso Consulting have made in the short time since my visit in early 2014 is remarkable. “The firm is a real champion for

businesses in the region, the West Midlands and the UK, and is strong evidence of Coventry and Warwickshire’s thriving engineering and manufacturing industry. “The company was already building a reputation for itself as a market leader when I last visited, and the new factory space has now firmly established Penso as a worldleader in its field. “Penso has invested in the next generation of engineers to create a skilled workforce of which the city can be proud and I was thrilled to be given a second behind-thescenes look at some of the exciting work they produce every day.” Jevon Thorpe, director at Penso Consulting, said: “It was great to show Peter around the site and reflect on just what has been achieved since his last visit. “We haven’t stopped further expansions and plans are in place to ensure we continue to grow Penso Consulting even further. “The Chamber does a great job of highlighting and supporting the region’s businesses and we are delighted to have been recognised as a world-leading engineering and manufacturing firm www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

Minister praises company

A Coventry aerospace company has been hailed by a Government minister for its ‘world class’ expertise. CFS Aeroproducts, based close to Coventry Airport, has been in business for a quarter of a century and, until recently, largely refurbished and overhauled engines and propellers on a range of aircraft, predominantly on behalf of flying enthusiasts. But, following advice and support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub and around £1 million in AMSCI (Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative) funding, the company has added new products and services to diversify and grow its market. That has led to being appointed as an accredited repair centre with Honeywell

Aerospace supporting major clients such as Cityjet and Falko Regional Aircraft. Business Minister Anna Soubry, who went along to CFS Aeroproducts as part of a wider visit to the region, said: “Coventry has a long-established history for aerospace excellence, and it’s encouraging to see that spirit is very much alive in CFS Aeroproducts who are using their expertise to develop world-class products for the next generation of aircraft. “We have a long-term plan for this region to become an Engine for Growth and companies like this will help the Midlands to lead the way.” David Newhouse, chief executive of CFS Aeroproducts, said that the firm welcomed the visit to explain the company’s plans and how it had received support.

He said: “It was great to be able to share our success story with the minister and also to be able to highlight the help we’ve been given. “Without the Growth Hub and the support it has given us, such as introducing us to other regional contacts, helping us to bring through apprentices, accessing funding and general advice, we wouldn’t be where we are now.” The Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, which provides support and advice for businesses, was formed by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership as part of its City Deal bid to Government. Partners involved include the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, UKTI, Local Authorities across the subregion, Coventry University, the University of Warwick and MAS (Manufacturing Advisory Service now part of the Business Growth Service). Craig Humphrey, managing director of the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, said: “We are delighted to see CFS Aeroproducts making such great progress and that our support has made such a real difference to the company. “Our team doesn’t just signpost businesses towards grants and funding, we are here to give advice and to help introduce companies to the many different organisations across the region who can help them to grow.”

Midlands engineering firm expands to double production capacity A Midlands engineering design business has had new premises officially opened by Ian Callum, Head of Design at Jaguar Land Rover, after doubling its production capacity to more than 2,500 square feet. MarchantCain has expanded its design and manufacturing facilities in Allesley, Coventry, and reconfigured some of the existing layout in order to maximise active working space. As a result, the business now has a larger boardroom at the front of the premises, and has doubled its active space in order to respond to increased demand from its customers. In line with the expansion of the premises, MarchantCain has also diversified its internal infrastructure to set up new divisions for the three core areas of the business; automotive engineering, technologies, and consortium projects. The business, which works with such automotive OEMs as Porsche, Bentley and JLR, is poised for even further growth as it looks to support its automotive work with engineering design projects in a number of new markets. Ian Callum was seen as the obvious choice to unveil the new premises after meeting with MarchantCain’s Managing Director Rob Marchant, as the two designers became among the first in the UK to be recognised with Chartered Technological Product Designer (CTPD) status by the Institution of Engineering Designers. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

MarchantCain’s Director, Pamela Cain, commented: “We were really delighted to be joined by Ian Callum to officially unveil our new premises. We were really starting to outgrow our workspace, but with some well-designed reconfiguration, we have been able to successfully maximise our existing capacity, which will enable us to significantly increase the number of projects we work on at any one time.” The company’s split into three different divisions is a direct consequence of consecutive year-on-year growth that

the business has enjoyed since 2010. The business’ unique approach to finding innovative solutions for engineering design challenges has led to demand from multiple markets, and enabled MarchantCain to work on a number of high profile projects. Just recently, the company released an active aerodynamic system and a new diffuser system to the international automotive market, both of which are improving the performance of new vehicles and their fuel efficiencies.

New Boat Business in Canal Basin The Coventry Canal Basin, in its heyday, would have been a bustling place, handling hundreds of boat movements each week. Following a period of decline in the early 1900s, the inland waterways have seen a huge resurgence in popularity in the Past 50 years. Investment in the canal infrastructure has enabled restoration of derelict sections of navigation. Canals use has largely changed from commercial carrying to leisure boating. Now, Coventry Canal Basin is home to family owned narrowboat holiday hire company, Excellence Afloat at Valley Cruises, new members of C & W Chamber of Commerce. Established in the 1970s with just one restored working boat, the company has been operating a fleet of purpose made luxury holiday hire narrowboats since 1986. Owner David Moore decided to move into Coventry City centre two years ago. The location is an enchanting piece of Coventry’s history. David saw this as an exciting and vibrant place to start out from on a canal journey. Valley Cruises also has a second hire base in Stratford upon Avon. Here, having cultural amenities on the doorstep is seen by many guests as a very positive benefit – hence the decision last season to move from a rural location at Hartshill in Nuneaton, into the Coventry Canal Basin. David said: “Starting a boating holiday from Coventry City centre allows my guests to avail themselves of the local amenities, shops and restaurants. Here, the final evening on board after a wonderfully relaxing holiday can culminate in a night at the theatre or a romantic meal”. Coventry City Council and Canal & River Trust have been very supportive throughout the move into Coventry’s historic canal basin. Excellence Afloat at Valley Cruises is located in well equipped modern offices in the canal basin (next door to the Coventry Telegraph). They make use of the historic original toll office as a maintenance workshop.

Area Focus: Coventry

Charitable trust is set up to preserve historic buildings Coventry University receives Queen’s Award from Vice Lord-Lieutenant

More than 200 staff and students gathered with local and overseas VIPs for a celebration and the official presentation of Coventry University’s Queen’s Award for Enterprise, with both the Vice Lord-Lieutenant and High Sheriff of the West Midlands in attendance. Colonel George Marsh TD of Her Majesty’s West Midlands Lieutenancy was joined by High Sheriff Jonnie Turpie MBE for the ceremony, and spoke of the transformation he has seen in the University and in particular the impact that internationalisation has had on the campus and on the city. As part of their visit to Coventry’s campus, Colonel Marsh and Mr Turpie met with students from the University’s School of Arts and Humanities, and were taken on a special tour of an exhibition of the students’ design projects. Coventry University was awarded the accolade earlier this year in recognition of its international growth and success over the past six years, making it one of only a few higher education institutions in the history of the awards to be honoured. The award saw Coventry University commended in the international trade category for its ‘continuous achievement’ since 2009 in growing and supporting its overseas student population in the UK and abroad. Dr Pilsbury, who met HM the Queen at Buckingham Palace in July as part of the build-up to the official presentation ceremony, said: “The Queen’s Award is an honour that Coventry University can be extremely proud of for many years to come. Having been invited to Buckingham Palace in July, we were delighted to have the opportunity to receive Her Majesty’s representatives as our guests and to show Colonel Marsh and the High Sheriff how the Queen’s Award defines what makes us different.”

The launch of a new charitable trust to restore Coventry’s historic buildings and return them to productive use has received acclaim from national heritage bodies. Historic Coventry Trust has been formed to take over ownership of a number of historically significant buildings in the city centre which are underused or in need of repair. The community based charity will raise funds for much-needed restoration and improvement, and create new uses to add to the city’s visitor appeal and image change. The new organisation has been formed by the expansion of the charity behind the restoration of The Charterhouse as the centrepiece of a new 70-acre Heritage Park which recently secured Heritage Lottery backing of £6.7 million. The Bishop of Coventry the Right Rev Dr Christopher Cocksworth, has agreed to be the patron of the new charity and hosted its launch to around 50 people at his home. The Trust’s voluntary chairman, Ian Harrabin, has already restored a number of the city’s historic buildings over the past 25 years and is currently behind the

regeneration of Far Gosford Street through his company, CDP. Ian Harrabin said: “This is a major step for the city and reflects an upsurge in interest in its heritage that will continue to grow as the bid for City of Culture approaches. The Trust is working closely with the council on plans for assets in council ownership and is also seeking to acquire buildings from private owners, where they are at risk. “By the very nature of heritage properties, the number of them increases with time. Several buildings created in the 20th century in Coventry are now Listed Buildings and form an important part of our recent history and an asset for tourism. “The Trust is not just about medieval buildings but will work with partners to ensure better use of all of our heritage. The aim of Historic Coventry is become a little ‘National Trust’ for the city, ensuring that our most important buildings never again fall into disrepair and disuse. “The aim is to bring an increasing number of buildings under the Trust’s guardianship over time and to restore the buildings

accessing grants from bodies such as Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic England as well as donations from charities, companies and individuals. “All will be put to sympathetic use boosting the visitor economy and providing income for their maintenance and management. The creation of a core income is key to the long term sustainability of the buildings and the Trust’s abilities to take on more projects in future.” The proposals are seen as a key part of the bid for the City of Culture title in 2021 and to offer huge potential in making the city more attractive to new investors and tourists. Veryan Heal, Regional Director of Historic England, said the community ownership and development model could be rolled out across the country. “This is great news for Coventry. Historic England is fully behind the transfer of historic buildings to community-led charities where appropriate. “We are proud to be supporting the Trust’s work on the Charterhouse and are looking at other areas where we can help. This is a great time to launch a body to safeguard Coventry’s rich heritage - we will be working closely with the Trust over the coming months and believe that the Historic Coventry has the potential to be a model with lessons that we can share elsewhere.” Ann Lucas, Leader of Coventry City Council, said: “This is great news for the city and, we believe, an innovative way of preserving and improving some of our historical assets for the good of Coventry and to protect them for future generations to enjoy.” Buildings under consideration include Priory Row, The Burges, London Road Cemetery chapels, Whitefriars and Gate, Bayley Lane.

Changing Futures Together Coventry launches its first Supported Internship Representatives from across Coventry gathered at University Hospital to launch the city’s first Supported Internship programme. Supported Internships help young people aged 16 to 24 with learning disabilities to gain first-hand experience of the workplace. This allows them to develop their employment skills and gain a nationally-accredited qualification. The programme has been developed through a partnership between University

Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust, and its partners ISS and Vinci, with Hereward College and The Employment Support Service (TESS), which is part of Coventry City Council’s Employment Team. The main aim is to help young people into sustainable paid employment. The year-long programme will see interns based at the University Hospital and undertake up to three separate work-based placements. The interns will experience work across different departments and will be supported by UHCW, TESS and Hereward College staff. Andy Hardy, Chief Executive Officer at UHCW NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with TESS and Hereward College and it’s a great pleasure to welcome our first Supported Interns to University Hospital. I’m really looking forward to seeing our interns gain experience in a variety of roles over the next 12 months, whether it’s directly supporting patient care on our wards, or in administration, or facilities. “As one of the largest employers in Coventry we consider it our duty to represent the community we serve. This initiative strengthens the social responsibility we are proud to maintain.”

Councilor Richard Brown, Deputy Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Employment at Coventry City Council said: “The Leader of the Council has made it clear that The Employment Support Service must continue - it’s vital in supporting disabled people to develop their skills and crucially to move into sustainable paid employment.” “This new partnership aims to nurture the talent and innovation of young disabled people to unlock their potential, and to support the employer. It is a great privilege to work with the hospital and Hereward College as we launch this exciting new initiative and I am sure it will be successful – a template for others to follow”. Sheila Fleming, Principal and Chief Executive at Hereward College said: “As a college for young people with disabilities and additional needs, ensuring the best possible opportunities for our learners is at the heart of what we do. We are delighted to be working in partnership with UHCW and TESS to expand our supported internships offered in Coventry. Statistics show that young people with learning disabilities only have a 7% likelihood of finding paid employment and the Supported Internship programme is a significant step towards changing that.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

Business celebrates 50th anniversary Funding can

Ken Whiteley and Stan Brooks became business partners in 1965 and Whiteley Brooks Engineering Ltd opened for business on April 2nd in a small unit in the village of Wolston on the outskirts of Coventry. Now, it is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary. The men had both been employees of Coventry Gauge as centre lathe turners when they took the decision to ‘go it alone’; they purchased two lathes and set up shop. For the first few years, both of them worked as machinists as well as doing all of the day-to-day administration of the business. Both Ken and Stan wanted to work in a clean environment and right from the start introduced an ethic of cleanliness and tidiness that remains to this day. In 1972, Whiteley Brooks Engineering moved to the current site on the then new Industrial Estate in Binley, Coventry. In the spring of that year the current Managing Director, Gear Purewal, started work with the

company as a Trainee Machinist. Gear was at that time studying at Henley Technical College and was chosen by Ken and Stan from a number of hopefuls because he had taken the trouble to wear a suit and tie. The business continued to grow throughout the 1970s, in machinery and manpower. In the early 1980s, the work started to become increasingly difficult to produce on manual lathes and milling machines and they decided to invest in a small CNC Milling Machine. In July of 1984, Joe Reynolds joined the company as a CNC programmer and Production Engineer and Gear Purewal was asked to take on the duties of Shop Foreman. Whiteley Brooks Engineering had for some years been modifying cast iron brake discs for the fledgling AP Racing department and they started to offer more work, so after a difficult winter, the company started to get back on its feet producing clutch and brake parts for the motorsport industry. It was around this period that Whiteley Brooks purchased its first CNC Lathe and CMM machine. In 1987, Gear Purewal was promoted to become a director and In 1988 Stan Brooks retired due to failing health and Eirinn Turner started as an apprentice. The company was now progressing rapidly with the acquisition of a new CNC machine tool every year. In 1991, Stan Brooks sadly passed away but the company he co-founded continued to grow replacing conventional machinery with new CNC machines; 1996 saw Gear buy the remaining shares to the company and 2016 will mark their 20 year anniversary of owning the business.

In 1997, Joe Reynolds became a director and Eirinn Turner became Shop Manager. In 2002, Ken Whiteley retired but continued in a consultancy role. In the same year Jat Purewal joined the company, the factory unit to the right came up for sale and Whiteley Brooks purchased the freehold with a view to future expansion. Building work was soon complete and the company wasted no time and bought in new machinery. The company was enjoying considerable success when the 2008 recession hit. Cutbacks were required and unfortunately the company had to lay off five members of staff. The remaining staff took cuts and Whiteley Brooks Engineering realised that to get through the recession it would need a larger and more diverse customer base. A campaign to win new customers was started and the company started to market itself. In 2008, Jat Purewal and Eirinn Turner were added to the board and as the recession lifted several new customers were on the books. By 2012 the new factory area was filling up and Whiteley Brooks Engineering had the opportunity to purchase the unit on the left side of the original building. This was one of the best decisions the company had made, allowing it to win longstanding contracts with the added capacity it had acquired. In 2013, Ken Whiteley sadly passed away. Whiteley Brooks Engineering is continuing to grow as a business, it now has a much broader customer base and although the majority of its work is still in motor sport, new customers and new technologies are

Fiery determination sees businesses ‘Hot-Foot’ it for charity Nerves of steel and fiery determination saw more than 50 businesses leaders take part in a sponsored charity firewalk in aid of two charities. Barefoot business owners from across Coventry and Warwickshire tackled the 600 degree red hot embers to raise more than £9,000 for Coventry based charity, the Myton Hospice, with The Philippine Community Fund, also benefitting from the event. The charity event, which was held at Mallory Court Hotel, was organised by Pentlands Accountants to celebrate Managing Director, Elinor Perry’s tenth year at the company. Elinor Perry said so far the event had raised well over £7000 with a large number of donations still to come, which will go towards ensuring both charities can continue the great work they do both in Coventry, and overseas in the Philippines.

Commenting on the success of the event, Elinor Perry said “At Pentlands we are committed to helping both charities, but seeing so many other businesses from across the region also share this goal, with great determination, was a fantastic achievement. “Taking part in a firewalk is no easy feat and really requires true grit and determination, everyone who took part really pushed themselves out of their comfort zones, and in doing so has helped raised a fantastic amount for two great causes” The charity event saw fundraisers tackle both the coals as well as a number of interactive personal development sessions prior to the event. The sessions focused on a number of leadership elements, providing a number of practical techniques to allow participants to acknowledge their fears and conquer them, ensuring all participants crossed the pit safely.

Elinor Perry continued: “For many of those who took part, this event proved a real challenge, so it was vital that everyone was both mentally and physically prepared, it’s not just a case of stepping straight out on red hot embers - there is a great deal of science and theory behind it. The business coaches who spoke throughout the afternoon really motivated everyone and ensured energy levels were high; and it

worked, everyone who signed up to take part in the event was able to make their way across the coals” The team at Pentlands are no strangers to hot-footing it for charity, having organised a number of sponsored firewalk events over recent years, however this year’s event was bigger than any before , with so many local businesses signing up to take part.

help improve connectivity

CityFibre, the company bringing gigabit speed internet networks to cities across the UK, is urging businesses in Coventry not to miss out on funding available to transform their internet connectivity. Time is running out for local businesses to apply for up to £3,000 in funding available through the Government’s Broadband Connection Voucher scheme, there has been a huge surge in demand and businesses are encouraged to apply now before the funding runs out. Up to £40 million in funding has been made available through the Government’s connection voucher scheme to help businesses upgrade their internet connectivity and compete in an increasingly digital economy. The scheme, which is being delivered by the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport in 50 cities including Coventry, enables small and medium-sized businesses to upgrade to high-speed internet services. The vouchers can be used to cover connection costs to the ultra-fast Coventry CORE pure fibre network, owned and operated by CityFibre. The Coventry CORE enables businesses in the city to access a gigabit speed internet network that is up to 100 times faster than the UK average. Brett Marshall, of Coventry CORE, said it is important that businesses do not miss out on the opportunity to transform their digital capabilities. He said: “By connecting to the ultra-fast Coventry CORE network businesses are able to significantly improve efficiency and performance with ultra-fast upload and download speeds, improved access to cloud computing and remote data storage, seamless video conferencing and much more. Why use the voucher to increase speeds by a few meg when you could completely transform your internet connectivity? “There is no better time to upgrade your internet connectivity. With evidence suggesting that enhanced digital capabilities are key to driving economic investment, catalysing business start-up and enabling success not just on the national but also on the international stage.” Cllr Kevin Maton, of Coventry City Council, added: “Over £1 million has already been awarded to businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire and we would urge other businesses thinking about enhancing their digital infrastructure to take advantage of the support available before it is too late.”

Appoint Us Services (Midlands) CIC Appoint Us Services is a relatively new organisation set up by three Directors all passionate about promoting the independence of people in need. We hope to make their lives easier with the range of services we provide. We also give back to the local community. Money that we make benefits groups of people that

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

we may work with. So far we have worked with Coventry and Warwickshire Foodbanks by regularly donating, UCHW Charity raising funds and are currently setting up a Dementia Café for people in Coventry. We have a Social Care Department that provide any Independent Social Care Services such as Reviews, Welfare Reports, Mental Capacity Assessments, Certificate providing for Lasting powers of Attorney, Access to independent Occupational Therapy Assessments, Continuing Healthcare Checklisting and DST meeting attendance. The Department also offers Specialist Advocacy We have a Therapeutic Department that offers Therapeutic Arts including Art, Craft,

Drama, Dance and Music and also Pet Therapy/ Petting Services with a range of different dogs and a miniature horse. All of the animals are temperament tested and covered by insurance. Services can be for individuals or groups at home or in residential settings. Our Support Services offer a sitting service to give carers a break, companionship, meal preparation and support around eating, shopping, accompanying to appointments and trips out, helping with changes of accommodation – support around marketing properties, packing, unpacking, finding suitable alternative accommodation etc. We also support people in transition from a residential environment to their own home.

In fact if there is something we can help with we will do it. We do not however offer personal care. All of these services can be as a one off or regularly. We are Corporate Appointees appointed by the Department of Work and Pensions which means we can manage the benefit income of those unable to do so for themselves. We can also help with budgeting. Other services include Appropriate Adult (representing vulnerable people that find themselves in the Justice system) Funeral Planning, Access to legal services We also offer help to people who live abroad who may have family in the UK that may need some support.

Area Focus: North Warwickshire

Accountants’ quiz night helps hospice Left to right: Paul Carvell, Marcus Jones and Peter Burns

Meeting with MP addresses business issues Companies in Nuneaton and Bedworth have met MP Marcus Jones to discuss a range of business issues. The north Warwickshire branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce discussed everything from the local plan to a review of business rates with Marcus.

Warwickshire-based accountancy firm, Burgis & Bullock held its 11th annual quiz night to help raise vital funding for a local charity. Burgis & Bullock, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, who have offices in Leamington Spa, Nuneaton, Rugby, Leicester and London, recently hosted another one of its hugely successful annual charity quiz nights at The Ricoh Arena in Coventry. The charity event, which raised £1,000 for Mary Ann Evans Hospice based in Nuneaton, attracted more than 200 guests again this year, including a large number of the firm’s clients, local banking and solicitor contacts and prospective clients. Jacqueline Leake, Senior Fundraiser, said: “The “Hospice Hero’s Team” had a great evening at the Burgis

& Bullock Quiz on 1st October, along with the other 32 teams our brains were challenged on all sorts of topics. What a great way to support the Hospice, fundraising is very rewarding; especially knowing it is helping so many local people. “Our two main funding expenses are nursing costs and upkeep, with the occasional need to buy specialist equipment. Donations such as this ensure that their costs are covered so that our patients can receive the most appropriate care possible. So thank you very much to all who helped raise £1,000 on the night.” Andrew Chadaway, Partner at Burgis & Bullock, said: “Mary Ann Evans Hospice provides such a vital role in the community and we were delighted to offer our support by hosting another

From left to right: Partner at Burgis & Bullock, Sean Farnell, Danielle Cartwright, Susan Ryrie and Craig Element

Hospice showcases its work

He said: “I always welcome the opportunity to speak to the Chamber in the area. I find it extremely useful to hear the issues being faced and the opinions of business people so that I can feed back to colleagues in Government.” Paul Carvell, the chair of the Chamber’s north Warwickshire branch committee, said businesses appreciated the dialogue. He said: “It was a very worthwhile meeting and we are delighted that the Chamber provides a vehicle for firms across this area to have simple access to our MP – who is committed to supporting businesses here. “It was great that companies around the table got to ask questions and, also, some had sent in questions to be asked on their behalf as they were unable to attend. “I think everyone appreciated Marcus’s transparency and his very frank views. Nobody in business expects Government to solve all of their problems but we can ask for the best possible conditions to help foster growth. “Marcus is certainly a champion for growing the economy in the region and we look forward to working with him over the next four to five years in delivering that growth.”

Hospices nationally celebrated Hospice Care Week in a variety of ways and at the Mary Ann Evans Hospice they ran a social media campaign and had information boards in Sainsbury’s Nuneaton, raising awareness of the services provided. The Lymphoedema Healthy Steps group gave a demonstration of their fitness class

on the Thursday afternoon in Sainsbury’s, and the staff opened the Nuneaton hospice’s doors to showcase the services provided, with staff from various departments on hand to talk about their work. Christian Weikert-Picker, Head of Fundraising and Marketing, said: “Hospice Care week helps showcase the

fantastic work being carried out and the need for support. “Hospices across the UK provide high quality, personalised care for adults and children living with life-limiting illness, supporting them to live life as fully as possible. “At Mary Ann Evans Hospice we support dying patients, their families and their carers, so that they are able to spend their final moments in dignity and peace. “We are a community Hospice, our care brings together a diverse range of professionals and volunteers to work side-by-side to support dying people and their families when they need it most. We are not alone in providing our care, we work in collaboration with other organisations including the George Eliot hospital to improve end of life care.” On the Saturday evening, the Hospice choir, the Mary Ann Evans Singers, in conjunction with the Nuneaton Singers, rounded off Hospice Care Week with a concert at the United Reformed Church in Nuneaton, raising £2,342.00. After members of staff from the hospice presented assemblies in local schools, St. Michael’s C of E Academy Bedworth & Michael Drayton Hartshill held nonuniform days for the hospice during Hospice Care Week.

Warwickshire dealmakers celebrate triple award success Corporate finance specialists at Midlands accountancy firm Burgis & Bullock have been recognised in a series of accolades for their skills in deal-making. The firm was named “Best for Management Buy-Outs and Best Corporate Finance Team – UK” at the Finance Awards run by Acquisition International.

Earlier this year, Burgis & Bullock Corporate Finance was voted “Management Buy-Outs Advisory Firm of the Year” at the Corporate Livewire’s 2015 M&A Awards. Most recently, the firm was a finalist at the prestigious Midlands Dealmaker Awards 2015 held in Birmingham in the category “SME Deal of the Year” for its role as lead adviser on the secondary

management buy-out of Southam-based The Engineering Technology Group. Simon Chapman, corporate finance partner, said: “These accolades from other professionals and financiers are a recognition of the impartial, creative, and long-term advice that we provide to ownermanaged businesses in the area.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Mid Warwickshire

No more running on empty

A worldwide company that specialises in accurate fuel level measurement equipment can now confidently increase its international sales pressure, thanks to a new high- speed Internet connection from WarwickNet. Warwick-based Fozmula suffered years of unreliable connectivity, which often resulted in the business being without full access to the Internet for days on end,

before deciding to switch to a different supplier to provide a dedicated leased line alternative. John Petersen, communications manager for Fozmula, based on Tachbrook Park, Warwick, said: “It was terrible because as an innovative manufacturing business, most of our communications tools are broadband and cloud based so to function effectively, we had to take drastic action. This involved getting the WarwickNet service up and running alongside BT Broadband, with whom we still had a 12-month contract which we couldn’t get out of.” Fozmula, a British success story founded in a garden shed in 1977, specialises in the design, development and manufacture of sensors and gauges for liquid, temperature and pressure measurement. Internationally known for its increasingly wide range of products - half of which are exported to countries such as North America - its client base includes global names such as Caterpillar, JCB and Perkins Engines. Three years ago it moved to its new international headquarters in Hermes Drive, Tachbrook Park where it employs more than 50 people and incorporates manufacturing, product testing and development laboratories alongside a large prototyping workshop.

John said: “We rely on high speed connectivity to service our global customer base. Everything from our VOIP (voice over internet protocol) phones to research and development and video-conferencing depends upon a reliable Internet connection and we now have that. WarwickNet has not let us down, whereas before our Internet access would not work in the rain and BT even blamed a local hot dog van for interfering with our connection. We are in a different place now.” Mark Hitchcock, senior business development manager for WarwickNet at Tachbrook Park, said: “Fozmula is an alltoo-typical story of business parks that we all assume would have excellent connectivity but are in fact being woefully served. The reality is that they usually had intermittent connection that was reminiscent of the dial up days. Their new dedicated leased line enables them to perform the tasks demanded of businesses competing in the 21st century.” WarwickNet, a national company specialising in high speed connectivity to business and science parks, has provided services across numerous sites in the West Midlands and Warwickshire. To find out if your park is covered, visit www.warwicknet.com/business-parkbroadband.

Risk Evolves successfully gains Cyber Essential & IASME Certification

Helen Barge (MD Risk Evolves) pictured receiving the Cyber Essentials and IASME certifications from Dr Emma Philpott (CEO IASME) at IASME Headquarters in Malvern.

A Warwick-based management consultancy company has become one of a growing number of organisations to achieve Cyber Essentials and IASME (Information Assurance for SME’s) certification. Helen Barge, MD of Risk Evolves, said ‘Risk Evolves is a management consultancy company which specialises in helping companies identify risks which, if left unchallenged, may prevent future business growth. “Cyber-related risk is one of the fastest growing risks to business, with breaches costing (according to UK Government) in the region of £75,000 to £310,000 to resolve. We believe that it is important for us to lead by example and demonstrate

that we are serious about how we manage and protect both our Client and Employee information from cyber attack.” Cyber Essentials is a UK-based, government and industry-developed scheme that aims to help organisations implement five basic levels of protection against cyber attack. The IASME standard has been drawn up specifically for small businesses. It is based on international best practice and is increasingly recognised as showing compliance to ISO27001, the international standard for information security. Helen said: “We would strongly encourage companies to adopt the Cyber Essentials standard to reduce the cyber threat to their organisation.’

Relationship high on the agenda The future of the relationship between Coventry and Warwickshire was high on the agenda when local MP Chris White met a group of business people. The MP for Warwick and Leamington met the delegation as part of a series of meetings organised Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber with all the area's MPs. The prospect of a combined authority, poor take up of Research and Development Tax Credits, housing and the insolvency industry were all debated in a 90 minute session chaired by Chamber president Peter Burns. He said: "Chris was extremely open in his discussions with us on a wide range of topics and his take on current issues. He said he has

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written to ministers to ask about the viability of a combined authority for Coventry and Warwickshire and discussed the pros and cons of a statutory authority for Warwickshire. "With Warwickshire voting not to join Coventry in a West Midlands Combined Authority but the prospect of several district council's voting in favour, there is clearly a lot of uncertainty in the air and business does not like uncertainty. "He promised to look into more business related matters such as how the Government can encourage more take up of R&D tax credits. "The Chamber is very much the voice of business, and we always welcome the opportunity to put the views of members to our local MPs."

Peter Burns (president of the Chamber) with Chris White MP

Left to right: Angela Tellyn, Jeremy Wright, David Myskow and Peter Burns

Businesses receive political overview MP Jeremy Wright has met with business leaders from across MidWarwickshire to provide an update on how activity in Whitehall is likely to have an impact locally. The MP for Kenilworth and Southam met delegates from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Mid-Warwickshire branch at the latest in a series of meet the MP events. Mr Wright presented an update on measures being taken by Government to ensure high speed broadband reaches 98 per cent of Warwickshire by 2020, activity to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities, along with legislation being brought in to address the culture of late payments to small businesses. The implications of how a combined authority would affect local businesses was also debated in the session held at the Holiday Inn in Kenilworth. Peter Burns, president of the Chamber, said: “We are appreciated Jeremy accepting our invitation to meet our members based in Kenilworth and the surrounding area. “The uncertainty around the prospect of how a West Midlands Combined Authority would affect businesses continues to rumble on, especially given the decisions taken by Warwick District Council and Warwickshire County Council to choose not to be involved. “Jeremy provided a useful overview of his views on the likely implications for businesses should the combined authority bid be accepted or rejected by Government and the need for a plan B. “It was positive to hear how serious the issue of late payment to small businesses is being taken by Government, and that more pressure is being applied to address broadband speeds in rural areas as this issue is key in helping to attract companies to choose our area to do business. “It was a very informative discussion which was well received by Mr Wright and all the businesses who joined us for the event.”

Area Focus: South Warwickshire

Company takes on apprentices

Welcombe Spa raises £150 for Macmillan at coffee morning The team at the Welcombe Spa on the edge of Stratford-upon-Avon spent Friday 25 September baking and fund-raising for Macmillan Cancer Support. Just over £150 was raised at the event, which was part of the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning held annually by the charity. Guests using the Spa facilities enjoyed a range of home-made cakes whilst raising money for a very worthwhile cause. Phil Sanders, Manager at the Hallmark Welcombe Hotel Spa, said “We were delighted to have raised £150 at our coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The cakes tasted delicious, many of which were baked by the staff at the Spa and Hotel”.

Pictured at Rev Marketing, from left to right, are Emily Boylin, Rosie Evans, Alice Thornett and Liz Burkinshaw.

A company has taken on two apprentices within six months of moving into a Warwickshire business hub to provide a platform for further expansion. Rev Marketing based at the Rural Innovation Centre at Stoneleigh Park has given Emily Boylin and Alice Thornett their first step on the career ladder with an apprenticeship in social media and digital marketing. Emily, aged 19, who lives in Stoneleigh, had completed the first year of an undergraduate degree in fashion marketing and branding when she started working as an admin temp at Rev Marketing during the summer. She said: “Although I enjoyed my degree, I decided I wanted more. Working here over the summer opened my eyes to the practical skills that I could gain through on-the-job training.

“When I was offered an apprenticeship, it was a big decision to make as it involved leaving university but I felt it would give me a much more practical route towards a degree and a career. “I’m really enjoying it and definitely see a future here.” The one-year apprenticeship initially leads to a Level 3 Diploma in social media for business with the possibility to progress onto Level 4 and a top-up to a full honours degree. Eighteen-year-old Alice, who lives in Coventry, chose an apprenticeship over university. She said: “I had a place at university to study photography but came to the conclusion that I didn’t want a qualification in a subject that I felt would be a hobby and not a full-time career for me.

“I had covered some aspects of marketing as part of a photography course I did at college and really enjoyed it. At first I looked for a full-time job in marketing but wasn’t qualified so decided an apprenticeship would be the best route. “I came here for a work trial and was then offered the apprenticeship. I’ve definitely made the right decision as I can pursue a career in marketing whilst ultimately studying for a degree.” Rosie Evans, director of Rev Marketing, said she was delighted to have recruited her first apprentices as part of the planned growth of the business since moving to the Rural Innovation Centre earlier this year. She said: “I wasn’t actively looking to recruit apprentices but as soon as Emily started temping for us and then Alice came on a work trial, I could see so much potential. “They both have the right attributes and the willingness to learn which will allow them to learn on the job and us to mould them to the requirements of our business.” The Rural Innovation Centre is part of the Warwickshire Rural Growth Network, funded by DEFRA and led by Warwickshire County Council on behalf of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership. The building was refurbished by LaSalle Investment Management as part of its ongoing transformation of Stoneleigh Park. Liz Burkinshaw, manager of the Rural Innovation Centre, said: “It is fantastic to see Rev Marketing expanding so soon after moving here and to be giving two local teenagers a great route to a career by learning on the job.”

Consilium Group unveils new division to support hi-tech SMEs and start-ups A Warwickshire-based recruitment firm has launched a new division dedicated to helping the county’s fledgling hi-tech engineering sector to recruit sought-after expertise. Manufacturing and engineering recruiters Consilium Group has unveiled the specialist team after witnessing a surge in investment within the industry which has been fuelled by a renewed confidence in British manufacturing and Whitehall-led funding. Experts at the recruitment firm are, however, concerned that the shortage of engineering talent is proving to be an obstacle to growth for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in the region’s technology sector – a problem they hope the new division will help address. Steve Doyle, director of Consilium Group, said: “There are a huge number of small yet highly innovative businesses in the county’s engineering industries who are developing a range of breakthrough products and technology. But with a widening skills gap many are finding it tough to compete in fierce recruitment

battles with larger companies, let alone secure the skill-sets that are required to develop the technologies of tomorrow. “Our new division is all about helping these high-growth SMEs communicate their opportunities and attract highlyskilled engineers. There are many companies across Warwickshire who are innovative and dynamic, but without the right technical skills they can’t fuel their growth. We want to help change that.” One of the division’s latest clients is Kenilworth-based based high-tech engineering SME, Aeristech Ltd. Consilium, who are also the official recruitment partner to the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), has placed engineering professionals into the company. Bryn Richards, chief executive of Aeristech, added: “When we grow we are only interested in the best people who have the right skills. Steve and the team at Consilium appreciate the challenges faced by companies like us and have already helped attract some sought-after engineering talent into our business.”

Consilium Group was formed in 2001 by a team of former manufacturing and engineering professionals. They have gone on to place industry talent into a variety of leading UK and mainland European businesses with clients including Jaguar Land Rover, McLaren and Bosch. Aside from their base in Stratford-upon-

Avon they also have offices in Stourport-onSevern. In 2014, the 40-employee firm was voted the UK’s best Recruitment Company to Work for by the Institute of Recruitment Professionals, and also recognised nationally as a top 10 company by the prestigious Great Places to Work institute.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Rugby

MP strikes an optimistic note

The town of Rugby must benefit from a long-term legacy of the world cup staged in England, businesses have been told. MP Mark Pawsey met the Rugby branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to discuss a range of matters from devolution to small business rates.

But he also touched upon the Rugby World Cup and said that the town was already feeling the uplift from the tournament but needed to ensure it had a positive knock-on effect in the long-term. He said: “It’s too early for any statistical analysis but certainly anecdotally and from what I have seen in the town, there has been an uplift in trade and in visitors to the town. “It was nice to hear in the meeting with the Chamber that businesses – such as hotels and pubs – are also reporting an uplift in trade. “I think we all agree that this has to be the catalyst for a longer legacy for the town and its connections to the game.” The MP said a substantial review of business rates was being undertaken but added that it would have to be fiscally neutral. He also told the Chamber branch that he would continue to push to reduce energy costs for business and that the Government remained committed to

cutting back on red tape. On the topic of the West Midlands Combined Authority, Pawsey said that the picture was unclear on which direction Rugby would take but urged caution over signing up to the ‘wrong deal’. Glenn Bourne, who recently became the chair of the Chamber’s Rugby branch, said: “I think all of the businesses in the room appreciated Mark’s openness on a range of topics. “He also received some very strong feedback around issues such as apprenticeships and how businesses would like to see them working. “The businesses in attendance were delighted to have the opportunity to put their views to Mark and, as I said at the meeting, I am here to put across the point of view of business in the area. “So if anyone has an issue that they wish to raise, I’d urge them to get in touch with me.”

Automotive supplier doubles staff as part of company expansion An automotive component manufacturer in Rugby has announced that it has doubled the number of staff since moving into new premises last year as part of a £6 million expansion programme. Automotive Insulations (AI) has taken on about 80 staff over the past 12 months, both on the shop floor and in administrative positions to help meet growing demand from vehicle manufacturers and other industries. The company develop and manufacture lightweight thermal and acoustic parts for the automotive industry, including the expanding commercial vehicle market. AI tripled production space when they moved with 87 staff to new premises just outside Rugby in 2014. A year on the company employs over 160 staff, including temporary workers. As part of the expansion programme, AI has also invested in new technology and state of the art machinery which allows the company to carry out a wide range of testing and development processes in house. “Our larger purpose built premises not only enabled us to invest in new equipment; it also allowed us to increase production and accommodate more staff,” said Jim Griffin, CEO of the Autins Group. “Having the extra space has created more flexibility so we can take on staff as and

when needed, meaning we can respond to fluctuations in the market more effectively.” After the summer holiday period, AI are looking to recruit up to 30 additional production staff for their shop floor to meet demand from customers such as JLR, VW and Bentley. Positions include a material planning and logistics manager, a purchasing manager and machine operatives. In addition, AI has recently put forward two apprentices for an apprenticeship programme for maintenance engineers run by Toyota. One of these apprentices comes from the WMG Academy for Young Engineers in Coventry making AI the first partner organisation to employ a student from the academy. Other training initiatives include putting five staff through a course to qualify them to teach, both in-house and externally in addition to training four members of staff as NVQ assessors. The aim is to enhance the company’s training capacity and to ensure that personnel are trained to the high standard AI require.

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Helena Molyneux Chair of the Board of Trustees, said that the post had attracted a strong field and that after a rigorous selection process, Paul was the outstanding candidate: “When we looked at the necessary requirements for our Chief Executive, we recognised that the new appointee would be leading Practical Action through significant changes in the international development landscape, and that this would require dynamic organisational leadership, vision and drive. “ Paul demonstrates these attributes, and also shows deep commitment to the ethos of Practical Action and the special role we have in creating access to people-centred sustainable technology. The Board and staff have wholeheartedly endorsed Paul’s appointment and it is a real pleasure to me when a home grown candidate for a Chief Executive role emerges from the field as the unanimous choice. He will take over

Businessman Peter Blay has finished his QEH500 challenge to run 500km the equivalent of Rugby to Land’s End Peter, Director of the Rugby basedconsultancy business QEH Systems Limited, started his challenge in January, breaking it down to spread across the year. Aiming to run an average of 10km per week, he finished the challenge nine weeks ahead of schedule. Peter’s final 5km run took place at the Coventry Park run, joining more than 500 other runners The challenge has raised £980 so far for Warwickshire Young Carers so Peter passes on a huge thank you to all his customers, friends and family members who have donated. The challenge is raising funds through the QEH500 page at www.everyclick.com/QEH500. All the money raised will be allocated to Rugbybased activities. •••

Expansion plans at Europark approved The company is also rolling out a project of intensive training predominantly for warehouse and despatch staff and some production operatives including areas such as LEAN, team leader training, management training and business improvement techniques. Jim said: We have invested over £2 million in new equipment but are also committed as a company to investing in our people as they are the most important resource that we have. “We aim to be both a supplier and an employer of choice in the manufacturing industry and are proud of the extensive training programme that we have in place. The industry needs skilled workers now more than ever.”

Practical Action announces new Chief Executive Rugby-based international development charity, Practical Action, has announced that Paul Smith Lomas will become its next Chief Executive. Paul is currently the International Director at Practical Action, with responsibility for the overall operation of global programmes and policy work. He originally trained as a mechanical engineer and after several senior roles across the commercial and not for profit sectors, joined Practical Action five years ago from Oxfam, where he held the post of Regional Director in East and Central Africa.

Mission accomplished for Peter

an organisation that under Simon Trace’s leadership has gone from strength to strength and is well-positioned to drive forward our vision of a sustainable world free from poverty where technology is used for the benefit of all.” Paul said: “Technology is a huge force in our world today but the truth is that technological development is focused on meeting the wants of rich consumers. Scant attention is paid to the vital needs of people in the developing world. As the pace of technological change accelerates, and we recognise how vital technologies are for a reasonable quality of life, then Practical Action’s role in championing technology that challenges poverty will be increasingly centre stage. I’m proud of Practical Action’s 50 year heritage and hugely excited to be taking over the leadership at such a vital time”.

Europark is set for expansion following approval of planning permission. Outline planning permission was granted at the end of May for two industrial units with ancillary offices and storage of 27,000 sq. ft. and 36,000 sq. ft. on land fronting the A5, just to the north east of Clifton upon Dunsmore. The units will complement the existing property offer on the estate and will be adjacent to the proposed gin distillery to be built by Alcohols Ltd. Richard Utley Ltd, the landlords of the Europark Industrial Estate believe that there is a shortage of employment land to cater for small and medium sized businesses in Rugby looking to occupy buildings in the 20,000–50,000 sq ft size bracket. Christopher Utley, of Europark, said: “Rugby and the surrounding locality is well catered for in terms of large scale distribution units with the Rugby Gateway scheme at junction 1 M6, Magna Park at Lutterworth and the DIRFT scheme at junction 18 of the M1. “However, there are no new schemes catering for small to medium sized businesses in the Rugby area which is something we wish to address. We will be offering the units on either Design and Build freehold basis to cater for occupiers who want to buy their own building or alternatively a pre-let leasehold basis”. Assisted by their joint letting agents Andrew Cosnett of BNP Paribas Real Estate UK and Jake Heaton of George & Company; Richard Utley Ltd has in 2015 also completed lettings to Elecomm Ltd, Fortron International Ltd, Utility Valves SG Ltd and Nolan Transport. The landlords are also looking into an additional 50,000 sq ft unit on the main Europark estate.

News

Turning farm excess produce into revenue

Company scoops award

About £1bn of waste is landfilled every year in the UK food manufacturing & distribution industry, not even including retail and domestic food waste. Although the main part of it is perfectly good for consumption, the difficulties in predicting the amount of produce and matching the actual market demand result in the stock/produce ending up in the wrong place and time. According to TristramStuart report 2009, between 20-40% of all arable production is wasted in the UK, and is then either turned into animal feed or drilled back into the soil as a lost crop. There are a number of options open to farmers with excess stock including bulk wholesale and direct-to-consumer farm shops. However, reaching the catering and hospitality industry requires a lot of effort for a farmer, and many prefer to sell in bulk to a wholesaler. Takestock is a digital market place for the food industry, like a specialised eBay, giving farmers a way of selling direct to the trade. This company has designed a web platform to act as an exchange hub for dealing with trading small amounts efficiently. It is the first of its kind and is committed to enabling an efficient food chain for surplus produce. Potential buyers can make an offer on the goods they want and once the deal has been struck, payment is made through the platform using a number of payment options. Takestock charges a small commission once the transaction has been completed, meaning there is no risk to the seller and no cost to give it a try. Founded in November 2014, Takestock has recently announced a successful seed investment round lead by Ascension Ventures, a venture capital firm specialising in early stage digital and tech companies.

Leading local accountancy firm, Harrison Beale & Owen (HB&O) won the Professional Services 2015 Award at this year’s prestigious Leamington Business Awards. The firm, which has offices in Coventry and Leamington, received the award during a glittering ceremony held at The Royal Pump Rooms on The Parade. Eleven award titles were up for grabs at the event, which celebrates Leamington’s thriving industrial and commercial

industries, including young entrepreneur, outstanding achievement, new business and hospitality. The Professional Services Award recognises private professional sector companies that provide quality service and maintain positive relationships with their clients. The judges were impressed not only with the positive feedback from HB&O’s clients as part of the voting process, but also with

the firm’s track record in supporting apprenticeships and trainees, as well as the local community. Rob Kendall, managing director of HB&O, said: “We are extremely pleased to have received the Professional Services Award, which underlines the hard work and dedication of all our staff. “Providing an excellent service to all our clients is our number one priority. We have a strong reputation for supporting businesses, large and small, by offering the best accountancy, tax, business planning and independent financial advice, and it is great to have our approach independently recognised through these awards.” The award comes at an exciting time for HB&O as the firm has seen strong growth in recent months and has ambitious plans for 2016. Rob added: “Despite the continued pressures facing industry, we are seeing a strong appetite for growth among many of our clients both in Leamington and across Warwickshire. We are working closely with partners to develop more services which help local businesses take full advantage of new business opportunities.”

Talent development key for the region’s professionals Coventry & Warwickshire First has placed the development of talent at the heart of its activities for the next year. Andrew Smith, speaking at an event to mark his appointment as Chair of Coventry & Warwickshire First for 2015/16, said: ”One of the real challenges facing professional services firms in Coventry and Warwickshire is attracting, retaining and developing great talent. “I intend to work with our Young Professionals to build on the success of our mentoring programme and develop our young talent further.” Andrew, a partner in law firm Shakespeare Martineau, is taking over from Martin Gibbs, Managing Partner of Dafferns Chartered Accountants. He joined Shakespeare Martineau, which employs 120 people in its Stratford on Avon office, in 2009 and has been a board member of Coventry & Warwickshire First, the leading networking group for business services professionals in Coventry & Warwickshire, since 2011. During his year in post Martin Gibbs kicked off a consultation process designed to develop a detailed understanding of the issues facing

members and their clients: Driving Economic Growth in Coventry & Warwickshire. A key issue highlighted by the consultation is the challenge of attracting and retaining talent in a bouyant recruitment market.

The mentoring programme, also launched under Martin Gibbs’ stewardship, has already proved successful in addressing this skills challenge. Paired with a senior professional the region’s talented young individuals are able to accelerate their development.

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Business Direct is sponsored by TQ Training

Local Leader wins regional apprenticeship Champion of the Year

Dr Michael Motley, Managing Director at TQ Training , presented with the award of Regional Apprenticeship Champion of the Year

Dr Michael Motley, Managing Director at TQ Training in Braunston, Daventry, was presented with the award of Regional Apprenticeship Champion of the Year at the East Midlands ceremony as part of the National Apprenticeship Awards in Hinckley on Thursday 29th October 2015.

The awards coincided with the Leicestershire Business Week and celebrated, through awards, apprentices, apprentice ambassadors, employers of apprentices and the Apprenticeship Champion for the region. Michael left school at 16 to join the steel works in Scunthorpe as an apprentice metallurgical technician. He excelled at his apprenticeship and British Steel sponsored

him to go to university where he gained a BSc with Honours and then a PhD. After his time in industry (British Steel, British Leyland and the Atomic Energy Research Establishment), he became a teacher of mathematics and physics and then moved into lecturing in engineering materials with the Ministry of Defence (Army). He then moved into education and training management with the Army and developed and implemented the first Apprenticeships for the armed services which is now the largest Apprenticeship scheme in the Public Sector. During his 17 years devoted to Apprenticeship training in the British Army he lobbied hard with government to enable Gurkha soldiers to become eligible for Apprenticeship training. He was successful and the Chief Gurkha awarded him the “chilli” tie, which he wears with pride. He also became a qualified mountaineering and climbing instructor and took apprentices mountaineering all over the world. Some of those apprentices from that period, late 80s early 90s, still keep in contact with Michael and he has followed their careers with pride. He became the Head of Profession for the MoD for his work in education and training. He broadened into General Further Education and Independent training provision after his time with the Army, again developing, promoting, leading and managing Apprenticeship programmes. He gained National Beacon and Ofsted “Outstanding” status for two of the FE colleges where he served on their executive team (Newcastle and New College Nottingham) for work with apprentices. He has since served as a Vice Principal in North Warwickshire and Hinckley College, again with leadership responsibilities for Apprenticeships. Over the years, Michael has gained a Fellowship with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (FCIPD) and Membership of the Institute of Directors

(MIOD) which he uses to good effect when trying to persuade leaders of business to engage with the Apprenticeship agenda. In his spare time, Mike works with schools (over 10 years a Chair of Governors) and is able to use his influence to persuade schools to offer Apprenticeships as an alternative route into work for young people. He also works with business groups and has been the Vice Chair of the Skills Board of a Local Enterprise Partnership, the Chair of a Business Association, on the Executive Board of an Enterprise Zone and representing a city on their bid for a City Deal. In all of these roles, he has been able to influence business and industry to engage with the Apprenticeship agenda, creating muchwanted vacancies for apprentices. Michael says “Winning this award means a great deal to me. Apprenticeships are close to my heart and have been throughout my working career. Being on a programme with the steel industry prepared me well for the world of work. My subsequent higher qualifications breaks the myth that you cannot advance far if you go down the Apprenticeship route. I have enjoyed and take great pride in putting back into Apprenticeships a great deal over the years and this accolade will enable me to step up a gear in my advocacy of Apprenticeships. I will be able to influence further at local, regional and national level both with employers and the government and will play my part in helping the government meet its aspirational target of 3,000,000 apprentices by 2020 and in creating outstanding opportunities for people, young and old, in terms of career initiation and advancement”

Michael will now go through to be considered for the National Apprenticeship Champion award at the national finals held in London in January 2016.

“Winning this award means a great deal to me. Apprenticeships are close to my heart and have been throughout my working career. Being on a programme with the steel industry prepared me well for the world of work. My subsequent higher qualifications breaks the myth that you cannot advance far if you go down the Apprenticeship route. I have enjoyed and take great pride in putting back into Apprenticeships a great deal over the years and this accolade will enable me to step up a gear in my advocacy of Apprenticeships.” Dr Michael Motley Managing Director at TQ Training

Dr Mike Motley, East Midlands Apprenticeship Champion, works for TQ Training, a national provider of Apprenticeships and other training solutions for business. Other services include: • Organisational needs analysis • Training needs analysis • Bespoke training • Literacy and numeracy qualifications For information, contact TQ on 01788 292050 or email info@tqtraining.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Business Direct: Business Services

What do SMEs need to make key business decisions? I guess you are reading this as you want to find out what more you could be doing, specifically, to understand what numbers are important.

By monitoring these daily you check that you are hitting your targets. As many of these cannot be taken straight from your accounting records a simple automated system should be set up.

As your business is unique you need a tailored solution. Don’t wait for your accountant to highlight the bad news months later. By putting simple processes in place to review your numbers you stay in control. Both financial and non-financial data is involved. It is not just the pounds and pennies that you need know about. If you can measure it you can monitor, compare and act on it!

2 Dashboard Summaries These numbers are produced by your (preferably cloud based) accounting system and should be reviewed weekly. These traditional money numbers include sales, profit, overheads, cash, creditors etc. They summarise your daily figures and give you a (slightly) bigger picture but lack the detail and timeliness you need for making key decisions.

1 Key Performance Indicators

3 Annual Financials

A KPI is useless in helping you manage your business unless reviewed at least weekly. These specific numbers motivate action. They identify what good looks like for you and pinpoint what needs improving.

These are prepared months after your Yearend with all your historic data. They are perfect for ensuring that you meet your legal requirements. However, they have little or nothing to contribute for quick decision making.

The first two groups are crucial for planning your business’s success. These need to be reviewed regularly and acted upon when they

Julia Leask is a Chartered Management Accountant and trainer with over 25 years’ experience. Leask Accountancy Solutions’ clients have said that along with her financial expertise and coaching skills she has an enthusiasm that comes with treating a business as if it were her own, always going the extra mile. Please contact Julia to discuss how your business could be supported in realising its true potential.

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stray from your ideal. Knowing YOUR important numbers is key so that you can make the right decision at the right time.

Email: julia@leaskas.co.uk Tel: 01926 298829 www.leaskas.co.uk

Business Direct: Business Services

Company renews partnership A Nuneaton business is cleaning up at the Ricoh Arena after renewing its longterm partnership. Hygiene Solutions is a large Midlands washroom service provider in the UK, operating from its base on the Pool Road Industrial Estate. Their professional service team has supplied specialist washroom services throughout the Ricoh Arena’s ten-year history which involves installing products and refilling dispensers, emptying waste and maintaining products.

Managing director Tracey Jackson has signed a further five-year deal to continue to provide all the Ricoh Arena’s washroom facilities throughout its restaurants, bars and conference exhibition suites as well as the stadium bowl. She said: “We are one of the few original suppliers to the Ricoh Arena and are very proud to be associated with such a landmark venue in the Midlands. “The Ricoh Arena is a fantastic facility and a fantastic place to work and it is great to see it being embraced by so many visitors for different reasons.

“Our business development manager Trudi Colledge previously worked at the venue and we’re both passionate about the Ricoh Arena. “It is a really great partnership because we take our customers from all over the UK to enjoy our hospitality at the Wasps matches. “I had never been to a rugby match before but now I am addicted. The atmosphere is electric and it is lovely to see so many women and children enjoying the games.” Justine Hewitt, head of operations at the Ricoh Arena said Hygiene Solutions

continue to provide an excellent service. “Tracey and her team of technicians have always provided a personal and professional service and we are pleased to have signed another contract with Hygiene Solutions,” she said. “Getting the behind-the-scenes facilities right is extremely important because we are open seven days a week, 365 days of the year. “We have visitors coming to the Ricoh Arena for business, entertainment and sport and we always want to create a favourable impression.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Alternative finance - grow and prosper with CWRT Business support and mentoring Businesses also value our business support provision. As part of our team, we have experienced mentors and are also working with Coventry University Business School, where post-graduates are helping our clients. Lauren from Kokoso Baby explains: “CWRT listened, got excited by the potential in our business plan, and offered advice and support – and that’s worth a lot to a new business. We had support throughout the whole loan application process, from advice on writing a business plan to creating financial forecasts.” To boost our support service, we are also actively recruiting new volunteers, including mentors and credit committee members.

Lauren and Mark from Warwick's Kokoso Baby The Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) has been providing alternative finance since 2005, helping start-ups, SMEs and individuals to access finance. We have loaned approximately £6.5 million to businesses in our region, and £2 million to individuals. Initially, we were funded by the Department of Work and Pensions to provide personal loans in response to the rise of Pay Day Lenders, and since 2006, we have also received funding from DEFRA, ERDF and the Start Up Loans Company. CWRT has had a positive impact in our local region by providing flexible, affordable finance solutions for individuals and businesses that have been unable to raise sufficient, if any, funding from mainstream lenders. Our success over the last 10 years includes: • £8.7 million in commercial, start up and personal loans • 135 new businesses created, 272 jobs created and 481 jobs saved

Commercial loans help local businesses thrive Our commercial loans team has financed businesses such as Coventry’s Brightly Dry Cleaning with a £25,000 loan for new equipment. Stratford electronics manufacturer AES received £50,000 in 2010 and has since grown to 24 employees. Currently expanding its premises with a £165,000 investment in new factory building and automated, manufacturing technology to service its growing client base, the firm is celebrating its order book with a year-on-year increase in revenue of 103%. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Nigel Maris, Owner and Managing Director of AES, was recommended by his financial advisor to contact CWRT. “I had an exciting business idea and had put together a business plan. CWRT really believed in me and my commitment to make my business succeed. I am grateful for their service, funding and early advice, after all my business is still here and thriving even after the financial crisis.” Existing businesses can apply for loans from £1,000 to £75,000 – from six months to five years.

£3 million package of business loans We have teamed up with Warwickshire County Council to access a new package of funding worth £500,000. The funding is being provided through the council’s Growth Fund and is the first tranche of a £3 million package of support for the county’s SMEs. The loans are designed to help businesses access capital investment that will help them diversify or modernise their operations, leading to economic growth and job creation.

Affordable personal loans With the recent publicity around high interest lenders, there is now increased awareness about these firms. However, many individuals are still finding it difficult to access money through mainstream lenders. These factors highlight the need to provide a viable, local and affordable lender like CWRT. We have granted 4,500 personal loans ranging between £100 and £700 over a maximum 12 month period. We don’t charge extortionate interest rates, there are no hidden charges or confusing small print.

A bright future for our clients To support our growth, we recently appointed two new directors who add strength and experience to CWRT's Board: Graham Simpson, formerly of Coventry City Council’s business investment team and Alan Shepherd, recently retired from RBS. We have some exciting times ahead, with projects such as the launch of our Innovation Fund, which focuses on manufacturing and engineering firms. We are also looking to support Leamington Spa’s digital cluster, more North Warwickshire businesses and provide mentoring and finance to female entrepreneurs.

Start up finance Small and Medium sized businesses are vital to the growth and health of the economy, yet gaining access to finance for many start ups can be difficult. Our Start Up Loans Programme exists to address this problem. It delivers affordable lending, mentoring and business support to applicants unable to borrow through mainstream lenders. We have granted 100 Start Up Loans, with over £1 million loaned since launching our Start Up Loans Programme. Our average loan size is £12,000 compared to £7,000 nationally. Kokoso Baby is just one of our start up successes. After launching Kokoso Baby with her husband, Lauren Taylor secured an order to stock their products in 200 Boots stores nationwide. To help the company grow quickly and fulfil the Boots order, Lauren applied to CWRT for a £10,000 government-backed Start Up Loan and mentoring support. Lauren comments: “The loan from CWRT has enabled us to bridge the gap and drive the business forward.” Start ups can access loans from £1,000 to £25,000 via the Start Up Loans Company although this can be topped up with a CWRT commercial loan.

The CWRT team

With the economy on the up, we are here to support you. For more information about our loans and rates, check out our website www.cwrt.uk.com or call 02476 551 777. 37

News

First Christmas for team Game on for Bit10 It’s all in the GAME for award-winning Coventry agency BIT 10 who have designed a reward App for the UK’s leading games retailer to give customers an easy, mobile way to shop, swap, experience, collect and purchase GAME Rewards. The App available on iOS and android enables users to collect and redeem reward points, complete exclusive accolades to earn bonus points and view the progress against each one, get trade in prices for old games with the integrated Trade-in-price checker, view GAME charts and link directly to products on the web to buy or pre-order. In addition, users can locate the nearest store with the built in store locator, receive offers and promotions relevant to customer Reward members and add gamer tags to a customers account to gain rewards for gaming achievement. Recent additions to the app include an Augmented Reality feature called Scan it! allowing customers an interactive experience by bringing GAME products to life. Users can experience the latest trailers by scanning the front cover of products in the GAME stores and view their very own personal price calculator to deliver an improved customer experience. The additional functionality follows the GAME Wallet upgrade, and combines a customer’s reward points with gift cards to generate a QR code that can then be scanned at the checkout – with the customer’s funds being debited automatically from their account. Scan It! takes the GAME Wallet a step further by tailoring the scanned product’s price based on a customer’s account balance and trade in information stored on the phone and is set to revolutionise the GAME shopping experience. Mark McKeever, Commercial Director Digital at bit10, said: “We are delighted to be working with GAME and “Scan It! is an exciting project to be part of and has taken the GAME App in a new and fresh direction. “The unique experiences, delivered through augmented reality have already connected with GAME’s customers and we are looking forward to our continued relationship and enhancing the GAME customer experience.” Andy Grainger, GAME, Chief Technology Officer, added: “The app is integral to our customer proposition today and offers customers a personalised experience. As a gaming retailer, we are focused on building the most valuable community of gamers. The app is the ultimate engagement tool for GAME and we are continuing to build GAME in your pocket with new functionality planned all the time! Our gaming community have a lot of great ideas and there are some very exciting things in the pipeline.”

This is the first Christmas for the team at Warwick’s 18th Century listed inn The Globe since it became part of the Oakman Collection in February. Previously known as The Lazy Cow, Oakman Inns & Restaurants immediately set about a refurbishment programme of the building which has finished in time for the Christmas season. The large bar area, 90-seater restaurant with its open kitchen, the private function room and 16 comfortable bedrooms have all been updated and redecorated and outside they have put the final touches to a brand new al fresco terrace. Oakman Inns was founded by entrepreneur and CEO Peter Borg-Neal in 2007 when he opened the The Akeman in Tring, which quickly won an award for outstanding design and conservation work with which the pub group has become synonymous. The Oakman Collection has continued to grow and now has 13 locally run independent pubs, rooms and restaurants. They have gained a reputation for creating Mediterranean-style menus using the best fresh seasonal ingredients under the watchful eye of their award-winning Chef Director, Ross Pike. The Globe’s General Manager, Darren McClure, said: “Everyone working at The Globe has just two aims, and that is to provide the best and to be the best that we can. From the moment we open at 7:00am for breakfast and coffees on the way to work,

to the moment we close at midnight, we are striving to exceed the expectations of our guests not just from Warwick, but from visitors around The Globe.” Peter Borg-Neal said: “When we bought The Globe in February, we knew we would have to invest some money to turn it into the sort of place that people increasingly expect from us. As well as building a good rapport with our loyal community, with the very high number of visitors staying in Warwick to see the many attractions nearby, we also wanted to provide a level

of sophistication and service which is expected by many national and international visitors, and we are confident we have met those levels of expectation.” Oakman’s achievements would appear to be largely as a result of a motivated and enthusiastic team which may well explain why Oakman Inns is listed in 28th position of The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For 2015 and has won many industry awards for its employee and community engagement.

Expert Investigations Ltd celebrates 15 years in business covert vehicle tracking, and debugging for the commercial, public, legal, and housing sectors.

West Midlands leading commercial detective agency Expert Investigations Ltd is celebrating 15 years in business. From instant success to surviving the recession, the company recently reported a tenfold increase in profits and continues to go from strength to strength, gearing up for further triumph in years to come. The nationwide agency carries out investigations for small, medium and large companies across all sectors. From investigations such as Trojan Horse – an organised campaign to target schools by Islamists, to Shakespeare Classic Line – narrow boat fraudulent timeshare and the Julie Nickerson fraud – where an employee stole over £2m from the company, Expert Investigations Ltd has demonstrated its strong skills and expertise over the years. The company was established in 2000 by former Warwickshire police intelligence officer David Kearns, who felt there was a need for a quality investigation company. Employing a team of two others, the firm was the first of its kind to offer a full range of services including computer data forensics, undercover investigations,

The company became an instant success and within weeks were appointed to carry out work for a solicitor’s firm who, 15 years later they still work closely with.

Following great results over the years, Expert Investigations Ltd was quickly appointed to work on multiple high profile covert operations and the business enjoyed strong growth, therefore by 2003, the team grew to ten people. Despite its continued success, cutbacks in the manufacturing and commercial sector led to lean times for the firm, but between 2012-2014 Expert Investigations soon reported a tenfold increase in net profit, once again taking them to the forefront of detective investigations. With a head office based in Warwickshire, Expert Investigations Ltd specialise in providing confidential investigations into issues such as fraud, theft and employment issues, including breach of contracts and restricted covenants. Over the years, the firm has expanded outside of Coventry and now boasts further offices in Birmingham, London and Leeds. The team of 38 investigators, includes an extensive group of former Police Detectives from the National Crime Squad, Special Branch and Economic Crime Teams and former Military Officers from the Special Air Service and Royal Marines.

In the future, Expert Investigations is looking to expand its UK footprint with the opening of an additional office in Bristol next year, to develop closer links with the South West region of the country.

Eileen Schofield, Principal Solicitor of Schofield & Associates and former President of the Birmingham Law Society, said: “Schofield & Associates was one of the first to call upon the services of Expert Investigations Ltd and over the years, we have continued to work together. “The nature of the investigations undertaken by Expert Investigations Ltd is highly confidential and sensitive and the company always applies the highest integrity in their work. I have always found the team to be consummate professionals; they simply get the job done with the least amount of fuss.” David Kearns, Managing Director of Expert Investigations Ltd, said: “I am immensely proud of what my team has achieved through dedication and hard work. We’ve been through tough times but we have managed to come out the other side in a very strong position and we’re looking forward to the next 15 years with just as much enthusiasm.” Expert Investigations Ltd prides itself on its customer focussed, professional approach. The company’s extensive

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Gym operator invests £1.5 million

A new, low-cost gym operator – connected to one of the UK’s biggest sports retailers – is investing £1.5 million in Coventry to open its largest gym. JD Gyms, part of the JD Sports fashion group, will create 20 jobs when it opens a 25,000 sq ft gym on the first floor at Belgrade Plaza.

The Coventry site will become JD Gyms fourth in the country following on from successful openings in Hull, Liverpool and Preston where each outlet has been referred to as a game-changer in their respective city. Coventry-based Deeley Construction has already started internal works at Belgrade

Parkwood Consultancy Services new Managing Director

Announce ment

PCS is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Witney as the Managing Director of the new group of Parkwood Consultancy Services companies. Simon will be based at the PCS Head Office in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. Simon joins us from Arup where he worked on the HS2 Project. Prior to this, Simon worked for Mouchel as the Director of Environment and Development.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Simon has previously held positions at Executive, Director and senior management levels with major multidisciplinary global consultancies. He brings with him 15 years’ strategic, resource and management experience in the UK, Australia and internationally. Simon has over 30 years of planning, environmental, development, sustainability and communications expertise. He is a Chartered planner, environmental and EIA professional and development specialist with a wide range of public and private sector management experience. Parkwood Consultancy Services comprises: • PCS - Planning, Landscape, Environment, Energy Consultancy • Parkwood Project Management (PPM) - Project Management, Asset Management, Building Management • Building Property Services (BPS) Property Maintenance, Facilities Management • BSW Consulting (BSW) - Civil, Structural, Highways and Water Engineering, CDM Principal Designer • Treelands - Forestry Management, Commercial Forestry Woodland Management For further information please contact: Simon Hewitt

Plaza to prepare for JD Gyms to fit-out in its unique style before the end of this year. The gym chain’s arrival marks a significant landmark at the development, which is already home to Pizza Express, Bella Italia and Café Rouge as well as a Premier Inn hotel. A new, ground floor entrance to the venue is being created in Upper Well Street and once JD Gyms is in operation it will leave just under 4,000 sq ft of space available on the ground floor. Alun Peacock, managing director of JD Gyms, said: “This will be our biggest gym yet and we are looking forward to bringing our unique offer to Coventry. “This gym will be unlike any other in the city, centred around our vision of offering inspiring workout spaces with equipment sourced from the best manufacturers across the globe, including products and concepts not available anywhere else locally. “We refuse to follow the crowd when it comes to budget gyms and our existing properties are already leading the way in style and facilities at an unbelievable price. “The designers have created a cool, high-end feel through motivating music, bespoke lighting and cool décor which is only to be expected with a gym associated with the JD name.” Peter Deeley, of the Deeley Group – which has been involved in Belgrade Plaza from its inception – said it was positive

CCTV Surveys

news for the city and the development. He said: “I am personally so pleased to see a letting of this significance at Belgrade Plaza and there is real momentum behind it now which is great to see. “There has been a real team effort between ourselves, as developers, and the city council to bring about this deal and I am delighted that we will be bringing a quality operator to the city. “I am confident that this latest deal will be the catalyst for Belgrade Plaza to reach its full potential.” Cllr Kevin Maton, Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Employment for Coventry City Council, said: “This is excellent news and I’m delighted we have been able to work closely with the Deeley Group to help make it happen. “It is a testament to our ambitions for the City Centre that JD Gyms chose to bring their biggest gym yet to Coventry.” JD Gyms will offer a fully air conditioned gym with over 200 pieces of the latest fitness equipment and a large range of exercise classes in the main studio (specialising in Les Mills). There will also be a dedicated spinning studio; functional training area; bootcamp zone; the city’s biggest free-weights area; luxurious changing rooms, large relaxing saunas and free parking.

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Leamington Spa, Warwickshire

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Management & Leadership for 2016 with Midlands Training & Development 2016: the year for change? What are your goals and ambitions? In a world of increasing demand for multiskilling and high performance, the New Year could herald the perfect time to futureproof your career as a manager with expert Management & Leadership training. Lots of managers admit they don’t receive the guidance they need to tackle their challenging roles: only 34% of all UK employers provide management training. With this in mind, forward-thinking Midlands Training & Development (MidlandsTD) provide a range of flexible accredited and non-accredited Management & Leadership programmes, tailored to suit the needs of you and your organisation and delivered by trainers with authentic, up-to-date commercial and cross sector experience. New topic areas for 2016 include Talent Management & Succession Planning.

MidlandsTD offers courses accredited by Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualifications. CMI are globally recognised, and as they are the only Awarding Organisation offering Chartered status, you can feel confident that the standards are high and that you will be gaining an internationally recognised qualification. In a recent Chartered Management Institute survey, 83% of those interviewed feel they are better managers after achieving chartered status, and 90% reported greater self-confidence. As an Approved Centre, MidlandsTD are proud to offer a range of CMI training from Team Leading to Executive of Senior Manager level, so whether you are a newly-appointed manager or a CEO, they have courses to suit every need. Perhaps you’re not looking to gain a qualification, but would like to enhance your skillset with short courses designed to meet

the specific needs of your business. The MidlandsTD non-accredited courses provide valuable knowledge and skills on key areas including Lean Awareness, Introduction to Management, Handling Disciplinaries and Grievances, and Finance for Managers. Whatever your level, MidlandsTD are dedicated to supporting your development. Offering flexible delivery methods, from in-

house to open programme, from distance learning to blended, you can select the right approach for you. Make 2016 your year with Midlands Training & Development. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them! For more information please contact the team on 024 7679 6422 or email info@midlandstd.co.uk. Alternatively,

“As an Approved Centre, MidlandsTD are proud to offer a range of CMI training from Team Leading to Executive of Senior Manager level, so whether you are a newly-appointed manager or a CEO, they have courses to suit every need.”

Celebrate your Employee achievements with a prestigious Award Applaud the success of your staff and company and toast another fantastic year of great work, achievement and dedication at the second Warwickshire Employee of the Year Awards 2016. Bought to you by Plus One Personnel and supported by Touch FM, Leamington Courier and Chris White MP, the Warwickshire Employee of the Year Awards give employers the opportunity to publicly recognise and reward individual members of staff and teams within their company who go the extra mile and have excelled over the past year. The Awards also represent a high-profile opportunity for you as a company to stand out as an employer of choice in the Warwickshire area. Stuart Moore, Managing Director of Plus One Personnel commented, “The Warwickshire Employee of the Year Awards are a fantastic way for local businesses to publicly thank their

employees for their hard work, and with five categories to enter, they are a great way to recognise and reward those individuals, teams or organisations that have shown outstanding achievement over the past 12 months. The 2015 Event attracted a huge number of entrants and we’re thrilled that the Awards Ceremony was completely sold out. It just shows the importance employers place on recognising and rewarding their hard working staff who have gone that extra mile. We are looking forward to receiving the 2016 nominations and to another sell-out ceremony at Warwick Castle. ”

The categories for 2016 are: • Apprentice of the Year • Team of the Year • Charity Fundraiser of the Year • Employer of the Year • Employee of the Year

First utility - outstanding commitment to employment award

The awards are free to enter and open to all companies within Warwickshire regardless of size or industry sector. It does not matter in what capacity the person or people are employed within a company as the award is open to all, only that you are able to demonstrate to the judging panel how the nominee has made a significant contribution to the organisation. Nominations open on Monday 2nd November at 9am and close at 5pm on Friday 18th December 2015. The Awards take place in the Great Hall at Warwick Castle on the evening of Thursday 4th February 2016 where the winners will be announced. To nominate the shining stars within your company who have really gone the extra mile, simply visit www.plusonepersonnel.co.uk and follow the Award Links.

Ben-Shuttleworth-Apprentice Of The Year

“ The 2015 Event attracted a huge number of entrants and we’re thrilled that the Awards Ceremony was completely sold out. It just shows the importance employers place on recognising and rewarding their hard working staff who have gone that extra mile.”

Kenilworth rehoming centre - team of the year

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Women entrepreneurs ‘should overcome obstacles’ “Women are still expected to take prime responsibility for domestic tasks and there is a feeling that women must ‘ act like men’ if they want to be a success in the workplace. “Look at our Parliament – if we carry on the rate at which we are going it will be 400 years before we have parity between men and women. “So we must continue to speak out and work towards a society where men and women share responsibility and the only reason you get a job is because you are the best person for it. “I want competence and ability to be recognised – not whether you are a man or woman – and we have to be careful about the language we use in everyday life that suggests men are more inclined to be a success in business. Businessmen and chairman, for example, what’s wrong with business person or chair? A leading entrepreneurship academic has urged women to remove every obstacle in their way to become a success in business. Professor Susan Marlow, a professor of entrepreneurship at Nottingham University Business School, was the guest speaker at a Business is Good for Women lunch held at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s recent business and trade expo. Susan gave a brief overview of her career that saw her leave school at 16 – choosing to go out to work in order to buy a pony rather than take her A Levels! By the age of 24, she had done 28 jobs ranging from being a riding teacher in Austria to a barmaid in Coventry but opted for something more conventional to provide a good life for her and her son. “I realised that if there is something you want in life, you have to remove all of the obstacles yourself,” she said. “If you really want it, then you have to work for it. I had fantastic support from my parents who stepped in to help look after my son while I concentrated on my education and I was also working at weekends, horse training, to help pay the bills.

“I rose to become a professor but, like business, academia is still blighted by sexism. “Some of it is just about language and presumption. Think of a professor and most people think ‘beard and tweed’ so automatically are thinking of a man. “But it gets much worse than that – there have been times when people have assumed I must have had an affair with senior colleagues to get promotion, not because of my ability. “So while the world likes to think that we are a society of equals, it is still difficult for women to achieve because there are assumptions about what we are capable of.

“Ultimately, I want women – and men for that matter – to know that even if you make a ridiculous decision at the age of 16 or 17 about a pony, it’s not too late to change path but you have to be willing to break down the barriers yourself.” Peter Burns, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Professor Marlow’s presentation was absolutely fascinating, entertaining and truly inspirational. We thank her for coming to speak to our Business is Good for Women group and the issues she highlighted show why groups such as this remain necessary.”

“Women are still expected to take prime responsibility for domestic tasks and there is a feeling that women must ‘act like men’ if they want to be a success in the workplace. Look at our Parliament – if we carry on the rate at which we are going it will be 400 years before we have parity between men and women.”

Innovationers - the warmth of the SME with the might of the corporate system There’s nothing that can beat the level of personal service that comes when dealing with an SME. They know their clients, their suppliers and the good ones know how to value their people. Not many people would chose to deal with a corporate call centre if they could simply deal with the same point of contact or even the decision-maker directly. Small business champions Innovationers couldn’t agree more. They understand the key to business growth is looking after the contacts that you already have while seeking new opportunities for growth. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Innovationers also knows that there is wisdom to the call centre model – documented communication where any operative can access a contact’s full history. That’s why Innovationers have included that specific functionality into their suite of business tools, allowing SMEs to continue to offer the personal touch, whilst ensuring their operations are slick. The Innovationers Team has applied technology to the typical problems that can sap small businesses energy. The result is the UK’s first truly comprehensive and full business management suite, offering the core business management functions in a

modular format. There are six areas to choose from which can be bought individually or combined: • Finance • Helpdesk and Tickets • HR • Sales and Marketing • Stock Control • Event Management Dita Sen-Gupta, Commercial Director, said: “Our Cloud-based business support kit means that you can take every opportunity that comes your way and use your back office business time more effectively.”

Accountancy Firm scales new heights Staff at a Midlands-based accountancy firm have swapped the view from their desk jobs for the great outdoors to raise vital funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Prime Accountants, which has offices in Coventry and Solihull, has collected over £16,700 – cash that will play a key role in supporting the children’s hospital over the coming months. Taking inspiration from the Three Peaks Challenge, the accountancy firm devised a back-breaking task that combined climbing with cycling and rowing challenges. Known as the Pedals, Paddles, Peaks – or ‘3 Ps’ – challenge, it saw staff, clients, friends and family members mix and match their choice of activity, with fundraisers coming together for three weekend events over the summer. A core team of 12 kicked off each weekend by cycling from their offices in Solihull and Coventry to the highest peaks in Great Britain – Snowden, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis – before being joined by an additional lucky 13 to row across a local lake – Lake Bala, Lake Windermere and Loch Ness respectively. Finally, the team would be buoyed by the arrival of an additional contingent of 25 before setting out to scale each of the mountains. In conquering the challenge across three weekends, the team has racked up a total of over 1000 miles of cycling, 45.5 miles of rowing, and three days of climbing. The challenge is the latest major fundraising campaign from Prime, which previously raised a five figure sum by cycling over 3,600 miles to reach 63 of the gold post boxes painted to mark the London 2012 Olympic Games. Director at Prime Accountants and team leader, Kevin Johns, said: “The 3 Ps is one of the toughest fundraising endeavours we’ve ever undertaken, and has been no small feat for our intrepid, dedicated team. I’m extremely proud of how they have risen to the challenge. “Birmingham Children’s Hospital changes lives on a daily basis, but they need support to help them do that. We are delighted to have surpassed our fundraising target of £15,000 which we know will go to one of the best possible local causes.”

President’s Farewell

Signing off after a terrific two years Trade Team and UKTI offer - enabling the company to grow exports to countries such as France, USA, and China. Trading overseas is of vital importance to the economy of Coventry and Warwickshire and it’s crucial that more businesses tap into the wonderful support available at the Chamber’s International Trade Hub. 16th September, I was part of the celebration of Coventry University receiving the Queen’s Award for EnterpriseInternational Trade. This was presented by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands, Colonel George Marsh TD. Later, the same day, I attended a Civic Dinner to welcome a delegation of ICT company owners from India hosted by the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Michael Hammond. On 21st September, I attended a luncheon at The Saint-Gobain Building Distribution Customer Experience Centre which is a new venture with some very innovative ways of working including the environment where the staff work.

Dear Member, Sadly, this will be the last President’s Column from me, your President of two years 2013-2015. I would like to say what a privilege it has been to represent such a great Chamber of Commerce and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff at the Chamber who have helped and supported me; who have made sure I am at the right place at the right time, with the right information; and when doing an interview for radio or television that I am fully briefed. A particular thank goes to Adam Dent and Lee Corden, of Advent Communications, for the press & pr support they give the Chamber. Also, to Richard Nelmes, Photographer, who I have nicknamed “Just one more”. We are all Members of one of the best Chambers of Commerce in the UK; something I say whenever I can, even to the British Chambers President, Nora Senior, or the British Chambers Director General, John Longworth. If you asked what I think my legacy would be, I would say supporting the Chamber in putting its head above the parapet and standing firm on difficult issues, for example housing growth. I believe our Chamber credibility continues to grow and that there is rarely a meeting or committee that the Chamber is not invited to attend. I worked to establish a dialogue with both the Labour and the Conservative Groups, here in Coventry & Warwickshire, by representing the issues that matter most to business. During my two years I have visited several companies and met lots of amazing people. On behalf of the Chamber Membership, I have been proud to represent your best interests at 8 x Civic dinners; 4 x Chamber President assemblies; 2 x British

Chambers of Commerce AGMs; 4 x Chamber Trade Expos; 5 x Chamber Women in Business Lunches; and I have been involved in the judging of the Regional Awards for the British Chambers and took part in the judging of the “first ever” Tourism & Culture Awards for our sub-region. I have hosted 3 x spotlight lunches and been present at, and presented at, near-all “Meet Your Chamber” networking events. I attended all but one of our pre-election hustings events and have since met 5 of the newly elected MPs. I have always viewed the Chamber Branch Committees and Networks as hugely important to our work and have attended all Branches, some more than once. I have hosted 4 x Presidents Luncheons in order to move forward key topics such as business & education links and the launch of our new Young Chamber offer; and I have attended workshops on the Queen’s Awards nominations system.

On behalf of our Chamber membership, I have also attended a Chamber Chief Executive’s & Presidents Dinner in London as well as 2 x British Chamber Awards Dinners. Indeed, there are too many important events, networks, dinners and partnership meetings to list, but where I have been needed, to best represent the Member’s interests, I have been there. September to November 2015 has been an exceptionally busy time for your Chamber of Commerce and I hope that I have, as always, played my part in supporting our work. On 2nd September, I attended the VIP Launch of Las Iguanas Restaurant in Cathedral Lanes where my guest and I sampled Latin American food in stunning surroundings. Well worth a visit! 3rd September, I visited Induction Technology Group (ITG) - manufacturers of air filters. The company has received great support from the Chamber’s International

22nd of September, I chaired the Mid Warwickshire Chamber Branch Committee at the Ardencote Manor Hotel where we met Chris White MP. A great debate and Q&A session on issues such as Combined Authorities, housing, Europe and more. A lively debate and a vote of thanks needs to go to Chris. 24th September, Pauline (my guest) and I attended the first ever “Tourism and Culture Business Awards” dinner at the Ricoh. A truly fantastic event showcasing all that is good in our city and county and I had the privilege after an introductory speech to present the Best Restaurant Award to The Cross at Kenilworth, congratulation to all the other winners and all those shortlisted. 25th September, I was flattered to be part of the prestigious Admission Ceremony of Mr Ratan Tata GBE and Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya KB CBE as Honorary Freemen of the City of Coventry held in the Cathedral which was followed by a Civic Luncheon at The Guildhall of St Mary Bayley Lane. A splendid occasion where I had the opportunity to talk with Mr Tata after dinner. 28th September I was at the Nuneaton Branch meeting at Stewart Fletcher and Barrett offices, to meet Marcus Jones MP, there was a great turn-out with plenty of discussion covering a number of issues such as empty shops in the high street, housing, combined authorities etc. Later that day, I visited, one again, Penso - to see how the company had grown over the last two years not only in terms of order books but also in doubling their floor space and increasing the workforce up to 250. Penso really are a success story and I know always grateful for the huge support that they have received from the Chamber of Commerce. 2nd of October, I opened our Chamber Business & Trade Expo at the Warwickshire Exhibition Centre. A fantastic event with 160 Exhibitors and a foot fall in the region of some 600 people, we had a variety of seminars during the day starting with a “Corporate Member Breakfast” with Louise Bennett OBE, DL, CEO of the Chamber. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

President’s Farewell to get on board. 9th October, I met Jeremy Wright MP at the Holiday Inn Kenilworth along with other members of the Mid Warwickshire Branch of the Chamber, after hearing from him for ten minutes we had plenty of time for questions. Topics raised were combined authorities, business rates, housing, student accommodation in Talisman Square, Gateway now that all the large development sites are full and the NUCKL rail link. 20th October, Louise Bennett and I went to Westminster, House of Commons, to hear about the West Midlands Combined Authority. The event was hosted by Ian Austin MP and we heard from various speakers on the benefits, the event lasted two hours and there was a good opportunity to network and discuss issues. Seminars included one on the UKTI service; a GetSocial seminar led by Tracy Benbow and James Pennington; and a Women in Business Luncheon with guest speaker Susan Marlow, Professor of Entrepreneurship, University of Nottingham, who gave an inspirational and humorous talk. As my time as President of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber comes to an end there’s much to look back on with pride. One of the most satisfying aspects of my time has been the opportunities presented to work with charities and young people, work that has been both worthwhile and hugely enjoyable. On the 6th of October I attended the Coventry Sea Cadets Unit inspection. The Inspecting Officer was Cdr Nigel Morton RN, by passing this inspection allows them to continue training and operating as a unit. So a little bit about Training Ship Coventry, a local independent youth charity affiliated to the Marine Society and Sea Cadets (MSSC). Its training and values are broadly based on the Royal Navy and has been based in Coventry since 1942. It has recently experienced a significant growth in cadet numbers, going from around 50 cadets to today’s all time high of 97. Cadets are aged between 10 and 18 years old and come from a range of backgrounds and areas across the City. They’re encouraged to broaden their life experience by participating in a full programme of skillsbased training and personal development activities they don’t get at school. They work in a range of disciplines, including, Engineering, Communications,

IT, catering navigation and seamanship while taking part in courses at Royal Navy bases. They are also encouraged to work towards nationally-recognised water-based qualifications in sailing, power boating, windsurfing, rowing and canoeing, as well as mountain leadership and rock climbing qualifications. Cadets also attend training camps at Royal Navy bases and undertake personal challenges such as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and if chosen, escorting the City’s Lord Mayor in his civic duties as the Lord Mayor’s cadet.

22nd October, the Chamber held an “invitation only” Presidents Luncheon at Coombe Abbey, many thanks to Peter Deeley and the Deeley Group for sponsoring the lunch and Coombe for the wine. This was a great event with the topic being, links between “Business and

“Meet the MPs” meetings at the Arden Hotel, Stratford upon Avon. Led by South Warwickshire Branch Chair, Larry Coltman, we met Nadhim Zahawi MP and debated issues such as business rates, combined authorities and apprenticeships. 2nd November saw me, once again, in London at the Chamber Presidents Assembly. The meeting was opened by Nora Senior, the British Chamber President, after which we heard from our guest speaker Dr Gerard Lyons Chief Economic Advisor to Boris Johnson, Mayor of London. We also used the time to hear from our British Chambers in Singapore and in Chilli. During the evening, there was a Welcome Dinner for representatives of our Chamber’s Global Business Network. …….and so to the near-end of my Presidential term with the Chamber Annual Economic Conference on the 6th November at the Fan Zone Rugby. The very last event to be held in this fabulous venue before it was dismantled. A great turn out, as always, with over 350 delegates and a great line up of speakers. I have to say our Chamber Conference goes from strength

Over the last 4 years local cadets have represented the city on the international stage through exchange visits to locations as diverse as Australia, Hong Kong, Russia, Canada and Bermuda. Training Ship Coventry is run by a team of highlyqualified volunteers who give their time freely. As with any other charity, it operates on a hand-to-mouth basis without direct grants from the military or government organisations. It relies on the goodwill and hard work of local people and businesses to continue with the sterling work it delivers and current projects include raising funds for essential building maintenance, a replacement mini bus, a new safety boat and a new sailing boat to name but a few. If you’d like to become part of our success story contact the Commanding Officer Lieutenant (SCC) Steve Warwick RNR, 07710 35901 : email co@coventryseacadet.org.uk or the Chairman of the Trust: Mr Martin Webb, 07881 954440 : email chairperson@coventryseacadets.org.uk

Education.’’ We heard from Louise Bennett on the Chamber national campaign “Business and Education’’ which was followed by Councillor David Kershaw, Cabinet Member for Education at Coventry City Council; also from our key Glenn Robinson on Warwickshire County Council “Employers Charter.’’ There was useful debate with great inputs from around the table. There were 30 attendees covering a wide range of organisations: schools, banks, manufacturing, local authorities, accountancy etc. Just before we finished we had a final short presentation from Gary Drake of Pet-xi. This event was also the Launch of “Young Chamber’’ Bridging the Gap between Business and Education. If you want to know more please contact the Chamber on 02476 654321. 28th October, I was honoured to be invited to lunch with the Mayor of Rugby and Council officials to meet Mr Kazufumi Onishi the Mayor of The City of Kumamoto Japan along with other distinguished delegates from Japan. The lunch was held at The Merchants Inn (winner of the best pub at the Culture & Tourism Awards). Japan are hosting the next Rugby World Cup so this was a visit by the next host Nation and also to visit the home of Rugby.

to strength each year thanks to our sponsors and the chamber team. At Conference, we held some amazing panel sessions on issues such as devolution and ‘using technology to grow your business’, with a good opportunity for the audience to ask questions. Our guest speakers were Tanya Beckett, BBC World, Marcus Jones MP Minister Department Central and Local Government, Dr Adam Marshall Executive Director Policy and External Affairs British Chambers of Commerce and our Keynote speaker Sir Clive Woodward OBE, Chief Executive Captured and former England Rugby coach. Sir Clive gave a truly inspirational talk on how he used IT technology in the field of sport and if you have not heard him speak then I recommend you do. The Conference was opened by our Chief Executive, Louise Bennett, and closed by myself - my last event as President. As I hand over to Paul Carvell as your next President I would just like to say thank you for all your support over the last two years, to wish Paul well in his term of office, and to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a happy New Year.

30th October, I attended one of our

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People

Onus is on O’Brien Contractors take on charitable Wolf Run to raise money for donations the Alzheimer's Society

A leading grant-giving organisation for Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull says the future of community and voluntary groups is more reliant than ever on charitable donations.

The Heart of England Community Foundation held its annual Foundation Live event at the Peugeot headquarters in Coventry where it showcases some of the groups it has supported over the course of the year and also thanks donors, patrons and supporters. Tina Costello, director of the Heart of England Community Foundation – which celebrated its 20th anniversary in February, said that in 2001 the foundation distributed almost £1 million in central Government funds to groups in the region. She said that the foundation had supported 816 groups and projects in the past 12 months but that the money had come via donations from businesses or from trust funds rather than from Government - and that trend looked set to continue. Tina said: “Our community and voluntary sector is increasingly reliant on donations and from the support we get from businesses and individuals across the region. “Over the years, we have awarded more than £11million into the voluntary sector in Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull and in the past year that has seen us fund 816 groups and projects - compared to just four awards in our first year in 1995! “And through that funding in the past year, we’ve impacted on 68,000 people across the region which could be anything from a child taking part in a sport to an elderly person not being isolated in winter. “We’ve had great support from so many businesses and individuals over the years but I must make special mention of Peugeot which has been our corporate patron from day one and has saved us, in property costs alone, more than a quarter of a million pounds.” Paul Belfield, Chair of Trustees, said: “The political will towards the charitable and voluntary sector has all but disappeared as successive governments reduce their expenditure in these areas and local philanthropy will have to become the norm. “When you look at the types of groups and projects we fund, we are the ‘Big Society’ in action.” The audience of more than 100 people saw a performance from Ansley Morris and then heard two songs played by The Notables – a music and performing arts group for people with learning disabilities. Both groups – along with nine other projects who had display stands at the event – have been funded by the Heart of England Community Foundation. The audience also heard that the foundation is expanding into Birmingham and the Black Country but was told that all money raised in Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull was spent in the same area.

A 14-strong team from leading groundworks and civil engineering specialist, O’Brien Contractors, has taken up the challenge by running wild across Warwickshire in aid of The Alzheimer's Society. The pack, made up of quantity surveyors, project managers, engineers, managers, apprentices, groundworkers and administrators, have set a target of raising at least £5,000 for the charity who, through their tireless efforts, improve the quality of life of people and their families affected by dementia. The 10k Wolf Run near Leamington Spa on September 5th saw the brave fundraisers tackle a unique combination of three kinds of off-road running: mud runs, trail runs and obstacle runs across raw natural terrain, including open ground, woodland, lakes & thick mud.

The team has also organised a number of fundraising initiatives, including raffling four tickets to the Wasps vs Exeter Chiefs encounter, kindly donated by Premiership Rugby team, Wasps and a cake sale. One of the runners, Operations Manager, Tony Mitchell, has been taken aback by the generosity of members of staff, be it taking part in the run or helping to raise money. Tony said: “We have been fortunate to have great success over the years and are keen to ensure we give back to the community whenever possible.” “We organise annual events to raise money for local charities and I am always amazed at the number of staff who are willing to give up their free time to get involved in our fundraising events.” ‘We decided to enter the Wolf Run to raise money for The Alzheimer’s Society because they do a fantastic job supporting vulnerable people struck down by such a terrible disease. Entering a team is a great way,

not only to show support, but to motivate ourselves to improve our fitness. It’s good to know that every step will help support people with dementia and their carers today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow.” Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are delighted that O’Brien Contractors are giving their time to support Alzheimer’s Society.” If you would like to donate to the team’s JustGiving webpage, visit www.justgiving.com/OBrienContractors Or text OBCL50 followed by the amount you wish to donate, to 70070, e.g. OBCL50 £5 for a £5 donation.

New appointments for Kenilworth digital marketing agency Kenilworth based digital marketing agency, Miromedia, are pleased to announce two new appointments to their team. The first of these appointments sees Andrew Male become the company’s Technical Director, having been with Miromedia since 2007. Andrew will join Mike Quinn and Ian Hancock as company directors. Previously the company’s Head of Technical, Andrew will be strengthening the technical side of the business as Miromedia increase their work in the web development field. Upon taking up directorship, Andrew had to say, “Our technical team delivers high quality work for new and existing clients and it’s an exciting opportunity to push that side of the business forward. Online moves at the speed of light and the constant stream of new and exciting technology means we can stay ahead of the game and give our clients really progressive solutions.” The second new appointment for Miromedia sees Ashley Mason joining the team as the company’s Head of Online Marketing. With almost a decade of experience providing online marketing solutions to SMEs, Ashley will be focusing on sustaining and developing the company’s online marketing service.

Upon joining the Miromedia team, Ashley said, “I’m really excited to join Miromedia and help develop the online marketing solutions we provide. Online marketing as a whole has evolved into a core aspect of the marketing mix and businesses of all sizes need to ensure they understand and take advantage of it.” Established in 2002 and operating from Kenilworth since its inception, Miromedia is a digital marketing agency specialising in search marketing, pay per click marketing, email marketing and web design.

Commenting on the company’s new appointments, Elliott Clarkson, Head of Client Services said, “Andrew’s appointment to lead the Technical team and Ashley joining us to head up our Online Marketing means we have galvanized the high quality service we provide to our clients. Their combined experience is invaluable and their leadership will continue to inspire our team to deliver brilliant work. Our strength is our people and these appointments mean we’re stronger than ever.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

People

Appointments strengthen sports offer Neighbourhood Centre, as part of Coventry Sports Foundation providing a management consultancy service to Coventry Sports Trust. Chris Panter, who lives in Nuneaton, will be responsible for managing all aspects of the Foundation’s ‘Lifestyles Health Clubs’. He returns to the organisation, where he previously worked as a centre manager, after working in Dubai and From left to right) Richard Marrs and Chris Panter (Coventry Sports Foundation) Qatar for the last nine years as a club manager Coventry’s largest sports and leisure for a string of luxury five star hotels and provider has strengthened its role in the private leisure clubs. community by making two senior Chris moved back to the UK in April and is appointments. now looking forward to returning to Coventry Sports Foundation, where he will use the Coventry Sports Foundation has appointed experience he gained abroad to improve Chris Panter as its new health and fitness the centre’s facilities. manager and Richard Marrs as its new customer service manager. “Having worked in the private sector, I am looking to use that experience to drive Both will work across the three sports and up leisure centre standards, which will include leisure centres managed by Coventry Sports looking at ways we can increase sales and Foundation including Centre AT7 in Bell Green Road, The Alan Higgs Centre in Allard Way and retention levels as well as offer a broader range of services,” he said. Xcel Leisure Centre in Mitchell Avenue. “In contrast to private sector companies, They will also work at Coventry Sports and the market for Coventry Sports Foundation Leisure Centre and Moat House Leisure and

is very broad and aims to attract a whole spectrum of the community. “My new role as health and fitness manager will therefore be an exciting challenge to encourage more sport participation across the city. “Coventry Sports Foundation is an innovative organisation which consistently looks for ways to progress, so it is great to be involved with such a proactive team again.” Richard, who lives in Walsgrave, Coventry, has been appointed as customer services manager – a newly created position to meet the demand of the fast-growing number of members and visitors to the Foundation’s three leisure centres. He previously worked as centre manager at the Coventry Sports Trust-managed Moat House Leisure and Neighbourhood Centre, in Winston Avenue, and was responsible for the opening of the centre back in 2009. His role saw him facilitate and co-ordinate a variety of programmes and services over the last six years, and he said he is now looking forward to a fresh challenge. “Leisure in the city has reached a very exciting era and I joined Coventry Sports Foundation because it is very much involved with future development of sport and leisure in Coventry,” he said. “I hope to enhance the services provided by ensuring that our customer service remains excellent, and that we are meeting the needs and requirements of users visiting our centres.”

New challenge for Julie

D-Drill managing director Julie White is part of a new board that will help to drive forward all aspects of the construction industry. Build UK has been established after a merger between UKCG and NSCC and brings together

27 of the industry’s largest main contractors and 40 leading trade associations representing 11,500 specialist contractors. It would provide a single voice for the whole of the contracting supply chain and will address key issues and, in turn, improve the delivery of projects and drive growth. Julie, who is also chair of the training board, is part of the main Build UK board that has equal representation from main and specialist contractors including joint chairmen James Wates (Wates Group) and Kevin Louch (Stanford – ACIFC), as well as Paul Abson (Bouygues UK), Mark Castle (Mace Group), Greg Craig (Skanska), Matt Nicholson (Lakesmere NRFC)

and Steve Bratt (ECA). Julie said: “I am delighted to be part of the Build UK board and I am very much looking forward to working with partners across the construction industry to drive and deliver positive change. This is an exciting step and one I am very pleased to be part of.” Build UK, which is being led by chief executive Suzannah Nichol MBE, will initially focus on: • The image of construction • The industry’s skills needs • Effective pre-qualification • Health and safety performance • Fair payment practices

Businesswoman scoops prestigious award An internationally-renowned zoologist has won a prestigious award in front of a sell-out audience at the only national awards ceremony for businesswomen held outside London. Dr Sharon Redrobe, chief executive of Twycross Zoo in Atherstone, Warwickshire, was presented with the Businesswoman of the Year award by Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge in front of around 550 guests at the 2015 Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel. Sharon was awarded the title of Businesswoman of the Year after impressing the judges along with the five other role models in the finals from publishing, communications, design, engineering and printing to become the 33rd winner of the competition which attracted entries from across the UK. Under her leadership, Twycross Zoo has unveiled a £55 million investment programme that will transform its 34-acre site over the next 20 years which involves creating a landmark attraction that will double visitors from its current 500,000 a year to one million. She started her career by developing an exotic pet vet service before she joined Bristol

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Zoo Gardens as Head of Veterinary Services in 1999 where she worked on the Zoo’s development plan and became recognised as an influential international speaker and ambassador for the zoo community. By 2010, she was Clinical Associate Professor at Nottingham University as well as Director of Life Sciences at Twycross Zoo, where she has become a key member of the Board, working across many departments. She was appointed chief executive of Twycross Zoo two years ago and the conservation charity is now renowned as a World Primate Centre. She lectures internationally and has written many papers and book chapters on aspects of conservation and veterinary medicine. Awards chair Judy Groves said the Businesswoman of the Year Awards were launched to highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in business and society as well as provide role models and inspire women to reach their full potential. She said: “The standard of entries from throughout the UK was extremely high and it is fantastic that there are so many outstanding role models in a variety of sectors for other businesswomen to follow.

“Sharon will be a tremendous role model for women. She has made a tremendous impact at Twycross Zoo in the two years she has been chief executive and with the ambitious plans they have announced to create one of the UK’s leading visitor attractions, there are exciting times ahead.” The other finalists were: Sharon Walpole, chief executive of Walpole Media Group; Beverley Nielsen, director of corporate affairs at Birmingham City University; Jo Stroud, owner of designer jewellery retailer Fabulous; Laura Claxton, managing director of Claxton Engineering; and Terrye Teverson, managing director from KCS Print. The awards raise funds for leading employment charity Tomorrow’s People and national disability charity Revitalise.

Bill brings wealth of experience to role A leading planning figure will be bringing a career of national experience to help companies expand in Coventry and Warwickshire. Bill Blincoe has been appointed as the independent planning advisor for the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, the one-stop-shop for support and advice for businesses. He joins the Growth Hub to help expanding companies with any planning issues or problems and to work with local authorities to help ensure firms get the best experience possible when looking to grow. He has spent his career in planning and development and has worked for major construction and housing companies including Crest Nicholson, Gallagher Estates Bloor Homes and Fairview Homes. “It is very exciting to be in an organisation that is so driven to help improve the economy of the area. The Growth Hub is there purely to help companies realise their potential and often planning is key to that,” he said. “I will be working with small companies right through to some of the leading players in our area, all with the aim of helping them achieve their aims and thereby keeping the local economy moving forward. “While I have worked across the country, I have been based in Warwickshire for 17 years and know the area very well. There is no question that there are very positive signs in the business community and certainly confidence is high, but there are pressing issues such as land availability.” The Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, which provides support and advice for businesses, was formed by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) as part of its City Deal bid to Government. Partners involved include the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, UKTI, Local Authorities across the sub-region, Coventry University, the University of Warwick and MAS (Manufacturing Advisory Service now part of the Business Growth Service). Growth Hub chief executive Craig Humphrey said: “Bill brings a great deal of planning and development experience from different areas of the industry and that insight will be invaluable. “As well as working directly with companies across the area, he will also sit on the LEP Planning and Housing Business Group which has done some very good work around ensuring a clear and consistent approach to the planning process.”

New Members

Welcome to new members Deeley Group Ltd

Health Matters (UK) Ltd

Radio Station Rugby

Helen Hancock 125 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 3SD helen.hancock@bdo.co.uk www.bdo.co.uk 0121 3526200

Edward Hudson George House, Herald Avenue Coventry Business Park Coventry CV5 6UB edward.hudson@deeley.co.uk www.deeley.co.uk 02476 718718

Simon Hurley-Smith 4 The Cobalt Centre, Siskin Parkway East Coventry CV3 4PE simon@health-matters.co.uk www.health-matters.co.uk 02476 516083

Johanne Thomas C Building, BT Radio Station Rugby CV23 0AS johanne.thomas@urbanandcivic.com www.urbanandcivic.com 020 75095555

Coventry Chemicals Ltd

Harrison Beale and Owen Limited

Corporate Members BDO LLP

Sarah Wilson Highdown House, 11 Highdown Road Leamington Spa CV31 1XT sarah.wilson@hboltd.co.uk www.hboltd.co.uk 0870 7304060

Mike Button Woodhams Road, Siskin Drive Coventry CV3 4FX Mikeb@coventrychemicals.com www.coventrychemicals.com 02476 639739

HBT Communications

Covpress Assembly Carol Henderson Renown Ave, Coventry Business Park Coventry CV5 6UF carol_henderson@covpressassembly.com www.uyt.ltd.uk 02476 671400 2 Hot Marketing Ltd Reetu Dougall Venture Centre University of Warwick Science Park Sir William Lyons Road Coventry CV4 7EZ www.2hotmarketing.co.uk reetu@2hotmarketing.co.uk Amazing Electricians Ltd Darren Chester 20 Ambleside Road, Bedworth CV12 8RS www.amazingelectricians.org 02477 674749 darren@amazingelectricians.org Aunty Agathas Limited Catherine Colby-Johnson 14 Tausman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB www.auntyagathas.co.uk 01926 858753 info@auntyagathas.co.uk Blue Fox Copywriting Sarah Norris 102 Whoberley Avenue Coventry CV5 8EQ www.bluefoxcopywriting.co.uk 07469 776279 sarah@bluefoxcopywriting.co.uk Catching Waves Lin Armstrong 15 Labernum Avenue Kenilworth CV8 2DR www.catchingwaves.co.uk 07510 060171 lin@catchingwaves.co.uk Certanovo Coaching & Development Marie Haycocks 25 Randall Road Kenilworth CV8 1JX www.certanovo.com 07554 883026 mjhaycocks@gmail.com Cj Property Consultancy Caroline Mohindra 9 Kenelm Court, 555 London Road Coventry CV3 4HB 07874 018533 carolinenew@hotmail.co.uk

Rene Wheeler HB House, Foleshill Enterprise Park Courtaulds Way Coventry CV6 5NX r.wheeler@hbtcommunications.com www.hbtcommunications.co.uk 02476 867400

CPM People (ContraNet Project Management Ltd) Tim Hammond XP house, Tournament Court Edghill Drive Warwick CV34 6LG www.cpmpeople.com 0870 9919000 t.hammond@cpmpeople.com Crisis Charlotte Aldridge James Brindley House, City Centre Coventry CV1 4LY www.crisis.org.uk charlotte.aldridge@crisis.uk Dr Felix Hovsepian Felix Hovsepian 4 Maxstone Close Meriden CV7 7NB 01676 248367 felix@bluemanifold.com Dynamick Drainage Solutions Ltd Mick Brown 213 Robin Hood Road Coventry CV3 3AN www.dynamickdrainagesolutionsltd.uk 07939843265 dynamickdrainagesolutionsltd @gmail.com EVJ & Associates Eugene Van Jaarsveldt 5 Bancroft Place Stratford Upon Avon CV37 6YZ www.evjandassociates.com 07713453492 info@evjandassociates.com EVP Ltd Paul Garner 15 All Saints Road Warwick CV34 5NL www.evpltd.eu 01926419441 pgarner@evaeurope.com Global Single Source Ltd Peter Evans Driveline House, Tachbrook Road Leamington Spa CV31 3ER www.globalsinglesource.co.uk 01926 316444 pete@globalsinglesource.co.uk

HSBC Bank Plc - Corporation Street branch Debbie Harper 55 Corporation Street Coventry CV1 1QJ debbie.harper@hsbc.com www.hsbc.co.uk 08455 845015

Net Visibility Neil Curtis Jubilee House, Smalley Place Kenilworth CV8 1QG neil.curtis@netvisibility.co.uk www.netvisibility.co.uk 01926 732044

Guy Salmon Land Rover Coventry Shannon O'Brien Birmingham Road, Allesley Coventry CV5 9GY www.sytner.co.uk 02476 839500 shannonobrien@sytner.co.uk Lifestyle Investments David Hawes 19 Ash Way, Woodford Halse Daventry NN11 3SS www.lifestyleinvestment.co.uk 07890 686848 david.hawes@lifestyleinvestments.co.uk Lister Toyota & Lexus Coventry Adam Hartland Siskin Drive Coventry CV3 4FJ 02476 518121 adam.hartland@listers.co.uk Logical Computers Ltd Pancho Gordhan 25 Henley Street Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QW www.logical-computers.co.uk pancho@logical-computers.co.uk MCL Create Limited Simon Jelley Unit 500, Catesby Park, Eckersall Road Birmingham B38 8SE www.mclcreate.com 0121 433 8899 simon.jelley@mclcreate.com Oakman Inns DarrenMcClure c/o Urban & Country Leisure (Warwick) LLP, 8-10 Theatre Street Warwick CV34 4DP 01926 479100 darrenmcclure@oakmaninns.co.uk Opus V.L Mickey Clarke Drury House, Drury Lane Rugby CV21 3DE www.opusvl.com 01788 298454 mc@opusvl.com PBC Business Recovery & Insolvency Ltd Gavin Bates 1st Floor, 4 Leofric Court, Progress Way Coventry CV3 2NT www.pbcbusinessrecovery.co.uk 02476 457849 gavinbates@pbcbusinessrecovery.co.uk

The Vital Agency Jeremy Eaton 14A Clarendon Avenue Leamington Spa CV32 5PZ jeremy@thevitalagency.co.uk www.thevitalagency.co.uk 01926 338811

Warwick Castle Lucy Lawson Warwick CV34 4QU lucy.lawson@warwick-castle.com www.warwick-castle.com 01926 406617

Planet Forward Recruitment Nick Baxter Birmingham Science Park Faraday Wharf, Holt Street Birmingham B7 4BB www.theplanetforward.com 0121 6630498 nbaxter@theplanetforward.com Positive Youth Foundation Rashid Bhayat 35 Vine Street Coventry CV1 5NH 02476 224304 info@positiveyouthfoundation.org Prospects Services Susan Timms Grosvenor House, 97 Broad Street Birmingham B15 1AU www.prospects.co.uk susan.timms@prospects.co.uk Quadrant 1 International Pat Hutchinson Beech House, Old Post Office Lane Badsey, Nr Evesham CV11 7XF www.quadrant1.com 07768922244 pat@quadrant1.com Ravon Creative Media Andy Moseley 31 Finmere, Avon Park Rugby CV21 1RT 01788568078 andy.moseley@me.com

Sarah Nunn Sarah Nunn 15 Little Park Street Coventry CV1 2RN 02476 553321 sarah.nunn@rbs.co.uk Southam College Andy Hughes Welsh Road West Southam CV47 0JW 01926 812560 hughes.a1@welearn365.com Space-2 Limited JoanneFord Unit 6, The Old Mill Mill Lane, Warwickshire CV35 0LA www.space-2.com 01926 642570 mark@space-2.com Sundance Imaging Ltd t/a Print Works Coventry Gordon Richardson 3-4 Central Buildings, Warwick Road Coventry CV3 6AJ www.printworkscoventry.com 02476 223344 sales@printworkscoventry.com Sure-Track Will Hirons 17 The Square Kenilworth CV8 1EF www.sure-track.co.uk 01926 863630 will.hirons@sure-track.co.uk

Re-Envisage IT Ltd Paul Richards Carwood Park, Selby Road Leeds LS15 4LG www.re-envisage.it 07770 541145 paul.richards@re-envisage.it

The Albany Theatre Catherine Groom 53 Butts Coventry CV1 3BH www.albanytheatre.co.uk 02476 016222 catherine.groom@albanytheatre.co.uk

Sagegreen HR Tarnya Brink 138 Brookside, Burbage LE10 2TN www.sagegreenhr.com 07986 544694 tbrink@sagegreen.com

The Public Relations Shop Caroline Boots Millar Court, 43 Station Road Kenilworth CV8 1JD tbrink@sagegreen.com 02476 695976 caroline@thepublicrelationsshop.com

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Events CWT Training Dates 2015/2016

Chamber Non-Member Member + VAT + VAT

Duration

November

December

January

Finance for Non Financial Managers

£215

£240

Full Day

Internal Quality Auditing ISO9001:2008

£215

£240

Full Day

Understanding Budgets

£95

£120

Half Day (am)

Problem Solving Skills

£95

£120

Half Day (pm)

Microsoft PowerPoint

£110

£140

Full Day

Investment Appraisal / Financial decision making

£215

£240

Full Day

Social Media Strategy - Facebook, Twitter and Blogs

£215

£240

Full Day

Letters of Credit for Exporters - A Practical Guide

£260

£295

Full Day

Presentation Skills

£215

£240

Full Day

Communicating Assertively

£95

£120

Half Day (am)

Complaint Handling

£95

£120

Half day (pm)

Negotiation and Persuasion Skills

£215

£240

Full Day

Practical Social Media

£110

£120

Half Day (am)

Principles of Manual Handling (CIEH Accredited Level 2 Award)

£90

£100

Half Day (am)

Microsoft Project (An Introduction)

£110

£140

Full Day

Time Management and Delegation

£215

£240

Full Day

Import Procedures

£260

£295

Full Day

Microsoft Excel - Basic to Intermediate

£110

£140

Full Day

Customer Service Essentials

£95

£120

Half Day (am)

Account Management

£95

£120

Half Day (pm)

Managing Change in the Workplace

£215

£240

Full Day

Branding for Business

£120

£140

Half Day (am)

Professional Telephone Techniques

£95

£120

Half Day (am)

Business Email Writing

£95

£120

Half Day (pm)

Making Business Decisions

£240

£280

Full Day

Course dates for the quarter are shown above, please contact CWT Chamber Training on 024 7623 1122 or visit www.cwtcov.co.uk for other course dates and further information

Events International Trade Hub, Meet the Experts 17 November 9:30 am -3:00 pm Cheylesmore House, 5 Quinton Road, Coventry CV1 2WT Meet a host of Experts at our International Trade Hub event and have the opportunity to network with Government advisers, university experts, and trade body representatives, benefit from 30 minute 1:1 meetings with individual experts offering advice on international trade and get answers to your questions on international trade and take the first steps to exporting. Register for free or pre-book your 1:1 now through events@cw-chamber.co.uk ••••••

Chamber Networking 18 November 4:30 pm -6:00 pm The Rugby Hotel, Sheep Street, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 3BX Do you want to showcase your business to local companies, create new professional contacts and spread the word about your business? Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity! ••••••

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Speed Networking 24 November 10:00 am -12:00 pm The Old Black Bank, 4 Black Bank, Exhall, Coventry, CV7 9NY

Meet your Chamber Networking Lunch

This popular event is ideal for generating new leads and creating long-lasting business relationships.

3 December 12:00 pm -2:00 pm Nettle Hill, BrinklowRoad, Ansty, Coventry, CV7 9JL This event will give new and existing Chamber members the opportunity to understand how we can support your business and how to make the most of your membership. It offers members a fantastic chance to network with local companies and expand your business network.

••••••

Speed networking is a fun and fast-paced way to grow your professional network.

Business Culture in Turkey Masterclass 25 November Cheylesmore House, Quinton Road, Coventry CV1 2WT Trade between UK and Turkey is growing rapidly.Turkey continues to enjoy strong economic growth and is forecast to be in the world’s top 10 economies by 2023. To help British exporters to successfully enter into the market and to be part of this growth, we are holding a language and culture masterclass. Delivered by a quality assured trainer, this practical and interactive seminar for beginners will introduce you to basic Turkish phrases and give you an insight into the cultural attitudes and behaviours and business protocols. For further information contact Gerti.Willis@mobile.ukti.gov.uk or speak with your local ITA ••••••

Chamber Networking 10 December 9:00 am -11:00 am Guide Dogs National Breeding Centre, Banbury Road, Bishops Tachbrook, Warwickshire, CV33 9QJ Do you want to showcase your business to local companies, create new professional contacts and spread the word about your business? Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity! ••••••

As a Chamber member you can exhibit at any of our events for just £50 + VAT. Stand out from the crowd and book your stand today. Find out more information or to book a place please see the events pages at www.cw-chamber.co.uk or contact events@cw-chamber.co.uk 47