Coventry and Warwickshire in Business September 2016 by Benham Publishing Limited

Issue 55

September/October 2016

Sarah Perry Leading the legal profession the Wright way - page 20 34

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

CONTENTS September - October 2016

Getting back to normal after the Referendum

Go for Growth

4-5

Business Support

6-7

Chamber Events

8-10

International Trade

News

Corporate Members

Chamber Training

News

Dear Member, I hope business is good and post-EU Referendum, with the BREXIT decision confirmed, you are able (in the main) to just get on with business as usual. This has certainly been our approach where clients contact our Chamber BREXIT Helpline on 02476 654321. Crucial to any business now, in my view, is to have a strong understanding of our UK economic outlook, both locally and globally. Your Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is able to provide you with this economic outlook by simply urging you to come-along to our annual Economic "Go for Growth" Conference on Friday 14th October at the Ricoh Arena. At Conference, you will hear from a leading Economic Advisor, Mark Berrisford-Smith, Head of Economics, HSBC UK Commercial Banking & Public Speaker. Conference will also explore local 'go for growth' aspirations with an opportunity to hear from Jonathan Browning, Chairman, CW Local Enterprise Partnership. Also speaking at Conference will be Michael Portillo, Member of Parliament for some 20 years and BBC Presenter, and Kevin Byrne, Founder & CEO, checkatrade.com. It will an amazing and informative event with a real opportunity to network with like-minded business people, so book your place by contacting Bethany De Thierry on bethanydt @cwchamber.co.uk Alongside BREXIT, many businesses will also be affected by the Department for Education's published proposals on a new funding model for apprenticeships (apprenticeship levy).

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

From April 2017, the Levy will be applied to businesses with a payroll of more than ÂŁ3m per year. The idea is that by making the levy payments available to payers as 'digital apprenticeship vouchers', the Government can ringfence resources within businesses for investment in training on a use-it-orlose-it basis. I do worry about the impact of this levy on the volumes of apprenticeships across the UK, but the job of your CW Chamber of Commerce is to provide you with quality advice and a solution to the new apprenticeship levy regime and we can do this by simply urging you to call us on 02476 654321 or visit our Chamber Training Website on www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk We will get a CW Chamber Training Advisor to support you and your business. CW Chamber Training is the largest deliverer of apprenticeships in Coventry and Warwickshire, is businessled and business-focused and is best placed to offer you support and advice on the new apprenticeship levy.

Legal & Finance

16-17

Property

18-19

Profile

20-21

Policy

Skills

I look forward to seeing you all at our Economic Conference on Friday 14th October.

Kind regards Louise

Mrs L Bennett-Bayliss OBE, DL Chief Executive

Around the region

24 -32

Education & Training

34 -39

Festive

40-41

News President & People

43 44-45

New Members

Training & Events

Go For Growth ‘16 Campaign

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.

Ambition for expansion

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

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 1442 © Benham Publishing 2016 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. 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

Helena Bassett with Tom Mongan

A laser cutting company in Warwickshire has now started exporting to India after investing over £2 million in the very latest technology. Subcon Laser Cutting, in Nuneaton, is exporting parts to support the yellow goods industry after a major company within the sector opened two new factories in the country at the end of last year. The firm produces a part which is used within a heater grille assembly and already exports into Europe. It is a long standing member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and regularly contacts the Chamber for assistance and advice on a wide range of topics including exporting. Subcon Laser Cutting General Manager Tom Mongan said: “We have exported in the past to companies in France and Ireland and we can now add India to that portfolio. “So far our customer in India has placed four orders each for 5,000 parts at a time, so they are quite large-scale orders.

“The company is looking to place more orders going forward and we are also looking at new products for them. “It’s a really exciting time for us at the moment. We have invested heavily over the last couple of years, spending over £2 million on the latest technology, and our new 8kw Trumpf Fiber laser system is the first of its kind in the UK. “We have seen a huge amount of growth recently. We’ve also been visited by George Osborne, were invited to a garden party at 10 Downing Street and Nuneaton MP Marcus Jones came to our 25th anniversary celebrations last year. “We are now looking at new processes which would be unique within our industry and the automotive industry would be very keen for us to develop them due to the potential cost savings.” Subcon Laser Cutting was established in 1989, employs 30 people and has a turnover of £4 million. However the company is a victim of its

own success and is on the verge of outgrowing its current premises. It is also struggling to find staff due to a skills gap in the industry. Tom added: “The surrounding area used to be wasteland, however over the years it has all been developed and houses have grown up around us. “As we plan for the future we have to keep all options open and as there is limited potential to expand our current facility, re-locating maybe an option. “A lot of the staff are local people so the aim would undoubtedly be to remain in Nuneaton. The company started out on the Trident Business Park in the town and has over the years won numerous awards and is very proud of its association with Nuneaton and Warwickshire. “We’re also facing issues as the skills we need from new employees are not readily available, so we find it difficult when recruiting new members of staff.” These were two issues highlighted by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce when it launched its Go For Growth campaign earlier this year. Helena Bassett, from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, has been advising the company. She said: “I’ve worked with Tom and Subcon for some time, advising on grants available and other schemes that can help the business. We will continue to work with the company to help it overcome the latest barriers in its ambitions for expansion.” The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is delivering assistance to businesses across the region as part of Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

For more information on the support available, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321 or email supportyourbusiness@cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry must stay on track for growth The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber has backed calls to ensure Coventry maintains its rail service between London and the city. The Chamber’s Go For Growth campaign has highlighted infrastructure as a key ingredient to help companies expand in the region. And Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, responded to talk that the service to Coventry may be reduced. She said: “Cutting the service to and from London to the city is simply not an option. “The city is in the midst of an exciting programme of development which many of us have been calling for over the course of many years. It can’t now be derailed.

“We understand that the new Government is only just starting to be formed after the tumultuous few weeks following Brexit but as that begins to settle we, as a city, must make the case forcefully that Coventry needs the train service to London enhanced, not decreased. “Infrastructure will play a vital part in growing our economy in the coming years and that means the strongest possible connections with the capital.

“The business community is ready to stand strong with the local authority in order to ensure the best possible outcome for the city.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Policy Go For Growth ‘16 Campaign

Recognition for innovation and creativity

(Left to right): Shreyan Virdee, Holly Jefferies-Readman, Richard Elliott, design and technology teacher at Finham Park, Jay Chury, James Cayzer and Sally Lucas, executive director at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s training division CWT.

A men’s jewellery box, a two-legged robot and a workbench were among some of the winning inventions by pupils who entered a regional awards celebrating talent in design and technology. Pupils from Years 11, 12 and 13 at Finham Park School, in Green Lane, took part in the Coventry Rotary Design and Technology Awards, with three pupils presented with awards and cash prizes in recognition of their innovation and creativity. Among them was AS-level student Jay Chury whose flat pack workbench won the overall Best A-level Product Design Product Award – which was sponsored by Jaguar Land Rover. Jay also came fourth place for the Design and Innovation Award - out of 180 entries - due to its impressive accessibility, functionality and design, and is hoping to study Product Design at university.

James Cayzer’s gentleman’s jewellery box – which included storage for cufflinks and watches – also won the Alevel Quality Award for its sustainability. A further 17 secondary schools and one special needs school in the city entered the awards, which have been running for over 20 years, with all entries assessed on their quality, innovation and resourcefulness. Richard Elliott, design and technology teacher at Finham Park, said that the awards were a great opportunity for the school to stimulate interest in the subject and encourage pupils to think creatively. “For several years now subjects such as product design have been diminishing in schools, but at Finham Park there is a real sense of positivity about the subject, both among teachers and pupils,” he said. “Students were very much in charge and responsible for their concepts and

managed their projects from start to finish. In giving them free reign they were encouraged to think outside the box which resulted in some really original designs.” Coventry 2020 – a new initiative designed to encourage key stage three pupils to consider design and technology as a GCSE subject – also attracted a number of award-winning entries from Finham Park pupils. Shreyan Virdee, in Year Eight, designed a biped robot, whilst Year Nine student Holly JefferiesReadman designed a prototype for a hard hat which featured a cooling fan built in, with both winning the Coventry 2020 prize. Sally Lucas, executive director at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s training division CWT, congratulated Finham Park School pupils on their achievements. She said: “As skills shortage concerns grow within the labour market - particularly across industries such as design and engineering - it is fantastic to hear that Finham Park is not only encouraging children to consider opportunities within these fields, but also equipping them with important skills such as thinking creatively and using initiative, which will be vital as they embark on careers. “Pupils such as Jay and Shreyan are shining examples of the talent that can be uncovered and initiatives such as the Rotary Design and Technology Awards are a great platform for schools to showcase it. “The school is bucking the national trend by growing engagement with design, technology and engineering and it is very pleasing to hear that pupils are taking their interest further by studying the fields at higher levels - which is promising not just for the market but also for the region, given Coventry’s status as a powerhouse for design and manufacturing.”

Investing for success

One of the region’s most positive growth stories was underlined to businesses leaders at a key event held at MIRA Technology Park. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce invited strategic partners and corporate members to HORIBA MIRA, which is located on the Warwickshire/Leicestershire border along the A5, for a ‘Go For Growth’ business lunch in order to hear about the HORIBA MIRA growth story, and learn more about investing for success and developing a strong growth strategy. During the event, Dr George Gillespie OBE, CEO at HORIBA MIRA, outlined the company’s 60 per cent growth in the last six years and how the Technology Park is now home to more than 600 staff. HORIBA MIRA is a world-leader in advanced engineering, research and product testing, utilising an installed base of more than £250million worth of test facilities. The MIRA Technology Park hosts a range of tenants, including Haldex, www.cw-chamber.co.uk

GKN Driveline and DriveRight, and is now one of Europe’s premier transport research and development destinations. Louise Wall, Group Commercial Director at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the presentation was an inspiration to those in attendance. She said: “Our Go For Growth campaign is highlighting some of the barriers to business expansion but is also looking at positive stories of how companies have grown in our region. “HORIBA MIRA is a massive success for Coventry and Warwickshire and our guests were absolutely fascinated and inspired by how it has grown – particularly in the last six years. “We are delighted to work with HORIBA MIRA as a strategic partner as it success continues and will be there to support them long into the future.” Dr George Gillespie OBE, CEO of HORIBA MIRA, said: “It was a pleasure

to host the partners and members of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce at the Go For Growth business lunch. “The campaign is a great way to raise the profile of successful businesses in the region, as well as providing a platform for businesses to learn from those that have implemented successful growth strategies.” HORIBA MIRA became part of the HORIBA Group on July 14, 2015. The investment saw HORIBA expand its existing portfolio, with a move into vehicle engineering and testing. Collectively, the two companies have more than 140 years of experience in their respective fields, with both celebrating 70 years of operation in 2015/16.

Infrastructure is key to region’s growth Coventry and Warwickshire is finally making the most of its unrivalled location by investing heavily in infrastructure – according to a senior business figure in the region. Louise Bennett, the chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the area was the envy of many because of its central location and, by harnessing that, it would bring huge benefits to the economy. In recent weeks, work has started on a new railway station in Kenilworth, improvements to Junction 12 on the M40 have been unveiled and work is scheduled to start soon on the A444 Coton Arches Junction in Nuneaton. That’s on top of the work being undertaken to enhance the Tollbar interchange, an enhancement of the rail service from Nuneaton through to Leamington, a proposed new station for Rugby and improvements at the Whitley Junction of the A46. In the pipeline are further works on the A46 corridor at Stanks Island and along the A5 corridor, which is a key route in the north of the county. Louise said: “With the improvements to both road and rail, it gives Coventry and Warwickshire the opportunity to really make the most of its enviable location. “There has been a real joined-up approach through the CWLEP, government agencies and the local authorities to bring projects forward and that will bring benefits to the region. “When we first lobbied government for Coventry and Warwickshire to allow the city and county to be one of the first LEPs in the country it was to allow the region to take control of its own economic destiny. “The Chamber plays a strong role within the CWLEP – we have a member on the board – and that has allowed us to feed in on which projects we feel will bring most benefit to the area. “Our Go For Growth campaign this year has focussed on the factors that we feel will allow Coventry and Warwickshire to grow but also on where we see hurdles to overcome. “There is a great deal to be excited about when it comes to infrastructure but that doesn’t mean we can take our foot off the acceleration pedal.” Digital infrastructure is also key to the region’s growth and Coventry CORE’s ultrafast internet service across Coventry coupled with the CSW Broadband project are helping to improve the region’s capacity. Louise said: “Coventry becoming one of the fastest internet cities in the country is fantastic for business and, across Warwickshire, we are seeing improvements too. “We are, however, very keen to hear from companies who can’t access fast internet speeds because it can put the brakes on growth.” The Go For Growth campaign will be a topic at this year’s Chamber annual economic conference at the Ricoh Arena on Friday, October 14.

Business Support sponsored column

Launch is icing on the cake for business A new cake decorating business, creating real-life looking buttercream blooms, is hoping to find the recipe for success after being supported with its launch. Neetha Syam, from Coventry, came up with the business idea after her career change from accountancy to writing left a void in her social life.

How getting passionate about your people will improve your bottom-line

Let me tell you a story, my story - of how I went from being a super geek, to a High Performance Business Coach. My career journey took me in twenty years from Hardware Engineer to Software Engineer and finally Project Manager. I learnt a lot and made lots of money, but I came to hate my professional life. It wasn’t the work, it wasn’t the people, it wasn’t even the heavy workload. It was the culture and work environment that sucked the life out of me and I suspect out of many others too. Many of the businesses I worked in were losing money hand over fist. Their dismal productivity, lack of engagement, and endemic dysfunction were costing these businesses dearly on many fronts. It was depressing to see, and even more depressing to be a part of. Finally something snapped in me. Rather than moan about it, I decided to do something about it! As I examined business practices, I saw a lack of real attention to the greatest asset organisations have - their people. Usually fantastic people with the potential to replace organisational failure by success. I am now passionate about creating solutions where the wellbeing of the staff is married with that of those directly tasked with the success of the business. The key for me is engaging the staff, creating a positive work environment and motivating self-organising teams. Genuine staff engagement leads to increased productivity, reduced waste and ‘more eyes on the ball’. Businesses such as Google are evidence of this. This is what I do… I work with business owners and senior managers to create a 'win-win organisation' - a win for them, and a win for their staff. This ultimately improves the bottom line and makes your life much easier too. If you are an owner-manager of an established 6 or 7 figure turnover business I'd be happy to discuss, at no cost, how we might work together. Let's explore what we can do to improve your fortunes and create the business you really want.

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The launch of Buttercream Petals came about through Neetha Syam’s passion for learning new techniques of cake decorating and the desire to share the art with like-minded cake enthusiasts. The company is offering small-scale cake businesses, café chefs and hobby bakers the opportunity to tap into the artform either through oneto-one classes or group courses. But Neetha Syam needed advice on the hard-nosed side of business to help get the company off the ground and received support from business adviser Margaret Bull at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. “I was aware that my biggest weakness was selling and when I contacted the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of commerce, I was still sceptical of my capability to run a business efficiently.” she said.

“But, my mentor, Margaret, helped me realise that with the right techniques, it is possible to tackle marketing and selling quite effectively. “I cannot thank Margaret and the Chamber enough and I would urge anyone who is thinking of starting a business to get in touch with them.” Margaret said: “It’s been a pleasure to help and advise Neetha Syam. We very often find that people have great passion and skills, which offers the potential for a business idea but they need help in actually getting it off the ground and working out how to make the idea a reality. “Neetha Syam has listened and taken on board the advice and there is no reason why the company cannot be a great success.” More information is available at www.facebook.com/buttercreampetals or from buttercreampetals@gmail.com For more information on starting a business, help is available from the Chamber through the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321 or email startyourbusiness@cw-chamber.co.uk.

Blooming marvellous news for company A seasonal wellbeing and lifestyle brand has come into bloom after receiving start-up support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. Coventry-based Rhianydd Jones has launched online retailer Seasonal Soul, inspired by her personal journey to live more seasonally, which aims to encourage customers to embrace a more balanced lifestyle. Seasonal Soul opened an online shop consisting of a collection of home furnishings, accessories and gifts, with prints and fabrics all designed by Rhianydd and printed and manufactured in the UK. Now, with support from the Chamber, entrepreneur Rhianydd is working with the UK Trade and Investment Team to look at wholesale opportunities to spring the business into action on an international scale. Rhianydd, who previously worked in business development at leading retailer George, said setting up her own business was not only a professional journey but also a personal one. “I think everyone at some stage in life experiences a turning point where a life-changing decision needs to be made,” she said. “Despite having a good job, I was craving more creativity and a better work-life balance so the time was right to take back the reigns and do what I really wanted to do – own my own business.” The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber supported Rhianydd by providing guidance with business planning, forecasting and suggesting

business leads – including one of its previous start-up clients, Andy Mosely of Ravon Creative Media, who assisted with professional photography for the brand’s website. Rhianydd said: “Concise yet informal meetings with the Chamber, discussing planning tools and opportunities, has been a major contributor to Seasonal Soul’s success to date. Joining as a member also helped me raise the brand’s profile through networking. “Growth of the online collection is in progress, as we’re now working with the UK Trade and Investment team at the Chamber to look at wholesale opportunities and expand into international markets.” “Building any brand takes time and the credentials of its look and feel are priority, but thanks to the Chamber and them putting me in touch with other local businesses, I firmly believe the foundations for Seasonal Soul are well established. Wendy Brown, business adviser at the Chamber, said: “As we lead busy lives increasingly dependent upon technology, more and more people are looking to return to a simpler life more in tune with nature, so Rhianydd’s venture came at a very opportune time.

“At the helm of the local business community, the Chamber is perfectly placed to provide guidance to entrepreneurs and start-ups such as Seasonal Soul. “Rhianydd showed vision and passion for the brand and this approach, coupled with our start-up support, has established a solid foundation for Seasonal Soul from which it will grow long-term.” The Chamber provides free guidance to start-ups through workshops and one-toone mentoring as part of Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). For more information, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321 or email startyourbusiness@cw-chamber.co.uk.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Business Support

Sharing expertise will support growth

A new citywide project has been launched which aims to get hundreds of people learning and skill-sharing across Coventry. WeLearnLocal is leading a major skill-sharing initiative supported by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Coventry University Social Enterprise, Coventry Libraries Service and City College Coventry. The Coventry start-up has launched welearnlocal.co.uk – an online hub for learning opportunities for adults in the city. Learning opportunities will range from business, professional insight, digital skills and health, through to hobby skills, arts and crafts, wellbeing, language, culture, and music. The hub has been hosting a city-wide summer of skill-sharing, whereby people living in the region will be able to use the

website to search for lessons being taught in a range of venues across the city - including libraries, Coventry University campus and City College Coventry. WeLearnLocal supports instructors and skill-sharers by providing them with access to instruction space and taking care of promotion and advertising for their lessons. Nick Maxwell, founder of WeLearnLocal, said: “Coventry is a diverse and vibrant city and residents have a huge variety of skills, knowledge and talent to share. “The WeLearnLocal website makes it easy to find great learning opportunities and makes it convenient for instructors to set up new classes. “The initiative is all about being a champion for instructors, a gateway for learners and celebrating lifelong learning. “We aim to connect people within communities through fun group lessons and empowering instructors to do what they do best – teach.” Support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s start-up programme, helped Nick make his business idea a reality. Nick added: “The Chamber was a great support in helping me get my project off

the ground – from helping with marketing strategy, providing contacts that opened doors to promote my venture to assisting in sourcing trainers for the initiative. Most importantly, they introduced the Chamber’s training arm CWT to WeLearnLocal.” The Chamber provides free guidance to start-ups through workshops and one-to-one mentoring part of Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Margaret Bull, business advisor at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber who worked closely with Nick, said: “WeLearnLocal is a unique business concept which has, in part thanks to our support, got off to the best start. “Already working closely with the city’s educational institutions and raising the profile of smaller community groups, the initiative shows not only great promise as a business but also in evolving the landscape of educational opportunities in Coventry. “We’re delighted to have helped Nick and are confident the Chamber’s training division will be a great addition to the WeLearnLocal network of skill-sharers.” For more information, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321 or email startyourbusiness@cw-chamber.co.uk. For more information about WeLearnLocal, visit www.welearnlocal.co.uk.

Centre offers the promise of peace A Coventry business that provides physical and energy therapies has found peace of its own through opening a new holistic therapy centre. Chris Ramsbottom, who has worked as a holistic therapist for several years, has opened up her own centre situated on Walsgrave Road, with help from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. The Amethyst Centre, which promotes wellbeing and holistic health, has established several branches to the business, including blogging, an online shop, readings and several types of therapies. As well as the current services, Chris, along with three other practitioners, offer therapist training courses for all levels of therapy – including day courses and longer training courses. Chris said: “I have a wealth of experience in what works and what doesn’t work in a mixed centre and with this knowledge feel I am able to create a one stop shop for the people of Coventry who are looking for a comprehensive programme of holistic support. “I have worked as a holistic therapist for many years but the dream was always to open up my own practice, so I’m really excited to see how we can grow.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

In addition to dealing with the business needs, Chris also took on the role of project managing the considerable building work needed on the property as well as raising the finances required. Now the centre provides three wellequipped treatment rooms available for hire as well as a one large room which is the whole of the second floor, suitable for meetings and training purposes. Chris said: “I found the support the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce provided was invaluable, particular my mentor Wendy Brown. To have someone with more experience than me in setting up businesses and provide mentorship during that time including the highs and the lows kept me focussed on what was a huge undertaking for me.” The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is currently delivering the start-up assistance as part of Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Wendy Brown said: “Chris faced many challenges particularly during the building works as well as raising finances but careful planning and having an open mind to overcoming problems enabled her to fulfil her goals.”

Start-ups are able to access workshops and free one-to-one mentoring from experienced advisers as part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme who can guide them through everything from writing a business plan to raising finance. The next free Start-up workshop – Tuesday 11th October - Thinking of starting a business and Wednesday 26th October Business Planning & Finance. For more information on the support available and to get booked onto the free courses, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321 or email startyourbusiness@cw-chamber.co.uk.

sponsored column

NO GUTS, NO GAIN

There are T-shirts, bumper stickers and plaques plastered with the quote: “The older I am the faster I was.” Unfortunately, this skewed mind-set is not limited to aging athletes. Many employees are consumed by the memory of an ingenious idea they implemented five years ago or the big deal they closed two years back. Why? They aren’t mentally strong. According to a recent Forbes article, Mentally Strong People: The 13 Things They Avoid: “A mentally strong person is able to avoid miring their mental energy in past disappointments or in fantasies of the ‘glory days’ gone by. They invest the majority of their energy in creating an optimal present and future.” Forbes magazine A mentally strong person is not afraid to fail. They may, in fact, see failure as an integral part of success. They realise that adversity will defeat them or define them—and the choice is absolutely theirs. They know that the real enemy is not failure, it is mediocrity. They are not proud about maintaining the status quo. In business endeavours, a mentally strong person: 1. Has uncompromising integrity on the path to success 2. Boldly makes the tough decisions 3. Embraces challenge, growth and change 4. Has a low Need for Approval 5. Takes responsibility for lack of performance and works to improve it We are approaching the last quarter of the year so take the time now to focus on mental strength with your team and do it with a sense of urgency. Review the list above and determine if you are mentally strong and building a strong team. Lee Lacocca was spot on when he said, “The speed of the boss is the speed of the team.” You don’t need to be the chairman of BP to be mentally strong, or as young as you were to be fast. Evaluate what is limiting the success of your team and lead them to the glory days ahead. •••

How to Turn Mediocre Sales Teams into Winners Oct 18th 2016. Coombe Abbey Email or call for details ••• Written by Neil Liddell of Sandler Training. Providers of Sales and Management Training E: nliddell@sandler.com T: 0845 0573563 M: 07547 227442 www.central.sandler.com •••

News

Are Britain’s small firms ready for next-gen tech?

The UK leads the way in research and development of next-gen tech from 3D printing, and smart homes, to robotics and driverless cars. New research from AXA suggests, however, that the nation’s small firms are sceptical about the prospects of these technologies reaching their workplaces. While more than 40 per cent of small businesses don’t yet have a website, the study found that most of them do plan to move online in the next twelve months. If these plans are fulfilled, only seven per cent of UK businesses will remain offline by this time next year. Few are ready to plunge deeper into the digital revolution, however. Just one in five plan to migrate to the Cloud in the coming

years and only six per cent of business owners say they expect to adopt smart technologies. Driverless cars, which are set to hit UK roads as early as 2020, have an equally low resonance, as just eight per cent of business owners expect they will drive one. Businesses were also highly sceptical when it comes to 3D printing. While the first 3D printed house was unveiled in China recently, just two per cent of UK tradesmen expect to see it used here during their lifetimes. Eighty three per cent of business owners said that robots would never be able to work in their companies, even in decades to come.

AXA called in Professor Martin Smith, a leading academic in the field of robotics, to review responses from the most sceptical occupations – hairdressers and builders. The building trade was the least enthusiastic. The most common objections were that robots can’t drive, operate machinery safely, work in adverse weather or scale ladders. Professor Smith said: “Robots certainly won’t be replacing tradesmen any time soon. That’s because a building project, say an extension, requires a complex level of multi-tasking that no robot can currently achieve. They could make excellent assistants to tradesmen, however.” Hairdressers, meanwhile, overwhelmingly rejected the idea of robots, saying that they lack aesthetic judgement and couldn’t use sharp objects or chemicals safely on people. Prof Smith said: “Again, a robot could fulfil some tasks in a salon to a super-human level, but they would struggle to cope with the social side and unpredictable humans.” Darrell Sansom, Managing Director at AXA Business Insurance, said: “Our research shows that there is still some scepticism among business owners about these technologies reaching their salon, building firm or shop floor. “We’re convinced that they will: smart homes, artificial intelligence and driverless cars are developing rapidly, and are set to radically change British society.”

New advanced vehicle tracker gives fleets the edge Zenith Hygiene announce completion

A new “game-changing”, real-time telematics and vehicle tracking alert system has been launched by Viezu Technologies to help its fleet customers and vehicle owners gain even greater control and information about the use of their vehicles. ”

Adopting an equally unique and innovative approach, the low cost solution is available to fleets, vehicle owners and retail customers without any contractual obligations, on a pay-as- you-go basis. Available as either a wired or wireless system, Amber Connect provides fleet managers, vehicle owners, and for the first time, vehicle drivers with a host of data and alerts which can help modify driving behaviour, reduce running and administration costs and improve vehicle security. Paul Busby, CEO, Viezu Technologies, said: “Through the work we’ve carried out remapping thousands of fleet vehicles over the last eight years, it’s been clear that fleet managers and vehicle owners are looking for even greater control and information about how their vehicles are being used. “Amber Connect is a revolutionary system which meets these needs, allowing fleet managers, business owners and the driver themselves to have a smart connection with their vehicles, detect their whereabouts and protect against or eliminate unauthorised use, abuse and poor driving.”

of acquisition of CCL Pentasol Zenith Hygiene Group, the UK’s largest integrated, independent manufacturer, supplier and distributor of cleaning and hygiene chemicals and products, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of CCL Pentasol (CCLP), a UKbased supplier of chemicals for the food, dairy, brewing, beverage and pharmaceutical industries for an undisclosed sum. CCL Pentasol, and its 51 employees will join the growing portfolio of brands within the Zenith Hygiene Group. The acquisition further strengthens Zenith Hygiene’s position with the Group now having in excess of 450 employees. The first part of the integration process will see CCL Pentasol’s Water Treatment division rebranded as Zenith Water Engineering. Water treatment, a new market for Zenith Hygiene, is expected to grow in importance for businesses in the future both in terms of overall hygiene and the delivery of safe, clean water to customers as water becomes even more of a precious commodity. Ringo Francis, Zenith Hygiene Group CEO, said: “This deal has allowed us to move into new sectors and we are very excitedto confirm the rebranding of

CCLP’s Water Treatment division to Zenith Water Engineering. “As a business, we thrive on innovation and efficiency; our customers are at the heart of our business model and I am confident they will welcome the delivery of a combined, wider array of services and products to meet our goal of providing them with a fully integrated offer.” Alex MacDonald, CCL Pentasol Managing Director, added: “I am looking forward to joining the Board of Zenith and working closely with Ringo and his team at driving a bigger, stronger, and better

positioned Group to provide innovative hygiene solutions.” The acquisition was funded through the company’s balance sheet following the new £13.9m funding package from Santander Corporate & Commercial secured in April. Martyn Dawson, Director, Santander Corporate & Commercial, said: “We were delighted to be able to work with Zenith and its ambitious management team to continue to support the firm’s strategic growth.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Corporate Members

IT company enjoys global appeal

A Warwickshire company which aims to make IT simple has attracted a wide range of customers which operate from the UK, Europe and across the globe. Simplify IT Solutions, based in Alcester, provides a variety of IT support services and solutions to suit the needs of each individual customer. Over the last few years a number of major companies were too slow to adapt to change in light of the many data breaches highlighted in the media. Secure, agile IT Infrastructure is at the forefront of many customers’ minds, with Ransomware being a hot topic, which could affect businesses of all sizes.

To survive in today’s digital economy, they need agile IT, which allows them to adapt to business change quicker when new services and products can be brought to the market in hours rather than months. Simplify IT have been able to reduce IT costs by 50% by providing backup and restore solutions that can be measured in minutes rather than hours. The company, which also has an office in Camberley, Surrey, was founded by talented IT engineers Mike Brooker and Lee Rogers who worked as colleagues at NetApp Data Storage Solutions, in Coventry, for seven years. During this time, having established a firm friendship from collaborative work

projects and a joint passion for motorbikes, they took a trip around Europe on which they decided to combine their talents and create Simplify IT Solutions. The directors made a conscious decision to only employ people who have the same attitude to customers as they do – providing a service based on honesty, integrity and ethics – and now have a team of highly qualified consultants, sales, marketing and support staff. The company specialises in NetApp data storage solutions, cisco compute and converged architectures, consultancy, services and training. Mike said: “We formulated Simplify IT with the simple aim of being the best data storage reseller in the UK, we want to do what is best for our customers by being the best at what we do, simplifying IT.” Lee added: “The experiences we have gained in the IT industry as well as our exceptionally credible ‘best in the industry’ team has enabled our company to be a highly focused and successful IT Solutions partner. “Our professional services are designed to ensure our customers are provided with the best secure, agile IT solution that will help them to reduce costs, reduce complexity, whilst improving IT operations and service levels.” The company also believes in corporate responsibility and supporting the local community and backs a number of charities and good causes. It was the main sponsor of Stratford Cancer and Eye Hospital’s masquerade ball in 2015 after hearing about an appeal

to raise £1 million towards building the new Stratford Hospital. The firm is also currently supporting Molly Olly’s Wishes and Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice. Simplify IT is a corporate member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce which gives the company an opportunity to network with businesses in the area. It is also sponsoring the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Economic Conference on October 14 and the Coventry and Warwickshire Business and Trade Expo on November 4. Mike said: “The Chamber provides many business networking events across the county. We see the value and relevance to local businesses and therefore, Simplify IT Solutions have made the important strategic decision to commit to upporting the Chamber activities by sponsoring two forthcoming business showcase events and we would encourage all businesses to attend. “We will have a stand at both events and warmly welcome attendees to visit us and meet with our team of experts. “Let us together discover how Simplify IT Solutions can help you to improve your IT service levels enabling you to focus on building your businesses.” Further information about Simplify IT is available by visiting www.simplifyit.co.uk

Transparency pays off A Warwickshire online marketing and web design agency which prides itself on being honest and transparent is continuing to see its client base expand. Miromedia, which has recently relocated to a bigger, more modern office in Southam, provides tailored digital marketing and website design services to fit the needs of each individual client. The firm, which was established in 2002, has a team of 14 diverse marketing experts specialising in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Pay Per Click (PPC), email marketing and web design. The team is results focused and is always at the forefront of changes in the online marketing sector as technology evolves and develops. Elliott Clarkson, Head of Client Services at Miromedia, said: “The business began in 2002 so is very well-established. We have built a very strong client base which continues to expand and have a solid core team of marketing experts.

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“We don’t offer packages, all of our services are tailored to each client and we work towards objectives that are devised with them. “The majority of our clients are ones we have retained and work with on a regular basis which is something we are very proud of. It’s all about understanding their objectives and working towards the goals which have been set. “Openness and honesty are some of our core values and we are always very transparent about the work that we do. We can provide no obligation reviews and give appraisals of marketing methods already in place and will be honest about what works and are happy to work with clients on anything that doesn’t.” Miromedia is a corporate member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce which gives the company an opportunity to build relationships with other businesses across the area. Elliott added: “The Chamber is an excellent way to network with local businesses and enables you to meet people from a variety of different sectors.

“The Chamber hosts a wide range of events which means our director will go to events aimed at those of a senior level and I will attend those which focus on other areas of business, such as events which may have a client services or marketing aspect.

“This enables us to meet and network with different people from different parts of businesses in the area.” Further information about Miromedia is available by visiting www.miromedia.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training

Go One Degree Better Chirag Flying High after Star Awards Nomination Warwickshire County Council Project Management Apprentice Chirag Chavda has scooped a nomination for a Warwickshire Star Award just 10 months after starting his Apprenticeship. Chirag joined the Warwickshire County Council SICM (Resources Transformation Team) in October 2015 as a Higher Apprentice in Project Management, delivered by Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, and impresses everyone that he comes into contact with. The work of the Transformation Team is high profile, fast paced and constantly changing. This has not fazed Chirag in the slightest. He has integrated himself into the team and has picked things up very quickly. He is highly professional at all times and has developed a very good understanding of project management and the office environment. Chirag’s Manager said, “He has made a great contribution to the team and business unit during his time with us. He has lead on his own projects and I am often asked if Chirag can work on other projects as SICM Managers have been so impressed with his work. For example, Chirag project managed and supported WES business support with the planning, implementation and reporting of the maintained schools mid-year service review.” James Long, WES Business Development Officer added, “Without his hard work, organisation and reporting creativity we would not have been able to complete the project in the timescales required or to the reporting standard delivered.” His enthusiasm is demonstrated by him competing in the Young Local Authority of the Year Competition in February. This took a lot of dedication and confidence as he had to present an argument on two different topics to a large audience and be questioned on his argument. Rob McDonald his tutor commented, “Chirag is a hard working student, always keen to produce his best work, and he engages enthusiastically in his learning.” There has never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship. Young people can ‘get in and go far’ with an apprenticeship at some of Britain’s biggest and brightest companies. They can gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, in some cases up to degree level, while working and earning. For more information about Apprenticeships visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk or call 024 7623 1122 today.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training has been delivering the Leadership and Management Foundation Degree in partnership with Staffordshire University since 2008, resulting in great personal success for their graduates. Highlights include graduates gaining promotion to directorship level, moving into senior jobs at leading global organisations and putting their new skills and knowledge into good use by expanding their own businesses. Past Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training Graduates have said: "My skill set and knowledge base in management and leadership was fast tracked. As I was learning I was also becoming a much more rounded manager and progressed in areas of my own personal development, some of which included formal writing approaches and developing both service delivery and staff." Carol Benson FdA, Counselling Coordinator, Valley House Counselling Service

"I chose CWCCT because it was more flexible for a start, I wanted evening study, plus a couple of my colleagues had already studied there and spoke highly of their experience so I went down that route. Since studying for the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management I feel personally that I am talking to senior management and board members on more equal footing and am genuinely taken more seriously, contributing to meetings and conversations more." Fred Butler, Premier Group "I've had many light bulb moments during my studies for the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management! I now have a lot more commercial understanding and feel comfortable with finance. The teaching sessions and tutorials were brilliant. The experience I came to the course with has been built on." Emma Lawrence FdA, Managing Director, DSA Design Ltd. The benefits of undertaking the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management are clear, particularly with qualified leaders and managers being in such high demand in the UK. Research carried out by the

Department for Business Innovation and Skills, alongside a host of leading business organisations, has revealed many concerning trends within leadership and management in the UK - ineffective management is estimated to be costing UK businesses over £19billion per year in lost working hours and 43% of UK managers rate their own line manager as ineffective – with only one in five being qualified. The Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management is an excellent way of stretching and challenging management thinking, developing new skills and strategies to practically improve performance in the workplace. ENROLLING NOW… For more information about leadership and management higher education qualifications such as the Foundation Degree in Leadership and Management, call Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training on 024 7623 1122 or email events@cwtcov.co.uk today.

The Benefits of an Apprenticeship – Hazel’s Story Since joining Carers Trust Heart of England in September 2015, Hazel has become an integral member of the organisation and the administration team. Hazel’s Manager said, “Due to an expansion of the charity we needed a new member of staff within our Administration Department at Queen Victoria Road and looked at offering a placement to an apprentice because it would be cost effective.” “We also considered that by recruiting an apprentice we could “home grow” a young person and mould them according to our organisation’s way of working, with a view to the apprentice becoming a long-term employee.” Carers Trust Heart of England exists to improve the lives of family carers and the people they care for. Their aim is to ensure that family carers are identified and given information advice and support, including

practical support, to help them in their caring role. Carers Trust Heart of England pride themselves on the quality of their staff, the compassion they have for the people they care for and the pride they hold in their work. With coaching and mentoring from her Manager and her Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training Advisor, the Trust has indeed been able to mould their new staff member into an excellent administrator. Hazel has taken a fresh approach to her administration role and become very versatile throughout the organisation. She is a very motivated, skilled and conscientious member of the team. At the heart of every successful business is effective administration; so if you know a young person seeking employment or currently working in an administrative role, then Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training can provide you with comprehensive training to develop their skills and qualifications whilst they gain experience and earn a salary.

Business Administration provides a diverse range of opportunities, operating in all types of businesses; many of which can develop into managerial positions. Constant progress and change within the work place will mean that you will always learn something new and have the opportunity to work as part of a team. For more information about Apprenticeships visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk or call 024 7623 1122 today.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

School team scoops award GEFCO UK to work with Jaguar Land Rover

GEFCO UK has been awarded business with Jaguar Land Rover. GEFCO UK will have the role of moving Jaguar Land Rover products from the Halewood production site to dealers in the Central and South East of the UK, having previously been involved in plant clearances from plants in Solihull and Castle Bromwich. This new business agreement ensures a synergy in existing operations, with GEFCO UK’s relationship with Jaguar Land Rover beginning in 2012, as well as a recent contract agreement in 2014 which

saw GEFCO invest in a fleet of new transporters specifically tailored for the company’s needs. Jaguar Land Rover will now be able to benefit from the newly introduced GEFCO MAX, a delivery app which will allow customers to track deliveries in real time. John Stocker, Finished Vehicles Logistics Director at GEFCO UK, said: “We are delighted to work with Jaguar Land Rover. This is in recognition of the high levels of customer service we provide.”

A team of four boys from Lutterworth College, Lutterworth won the Best Engineered Car Award in the Bloodhound SSC Class at the 2016 UK National Finals of the Jaguar Primary Schools Challenge, one of the UK’s largest design and engineering school challenges. The team named Cheetah Racing, with team members Joe Sideaway, Chris Turnbull, Lawrence Hantom and Harrison Barnett, took on the challenge to design, build and race a miniature Bloodhound car, linking with the upcoming British attempt on the World Land Speed Record, the Bloodhound SSC project. Teams spend up to six months developing and testing their racing cars, often with the support of local engineering companies. They then compete in regional finals held across the country to secure places in the national final. At the event held at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, Cheetah Racing stood out from the other teams for the quality of their car design and engineering, to win them the Best Engineered Car Award. Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Jaguar Land Rover wants to inspire more

young people to become engineers through our school education programme to join our growing business and develop the next generation of sustainable vehicles and technologies. “Jaguar Primary School Challenge demonstrates the importance and relevance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects to the workplace and also gives young people the chance to learn about real-life design and engineering processes.” The Jaguar Primary School Challenge takes place with lead sponsor, Jaguar Land Rover supported by The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Young Engineers, Denford and LUKE 1977.

£3,900 raised by Coventry and Warwickshire’s professionals

Coventry and Warwickshire’s professionals raised £2,900 for the Cystitis and Overactive Bladder Foundation (COBF). The region’s professional services experts donated £1,450 at Coventry and Warwickshire First FirstPro Awards, a sum match funded by Barclays Bank plc. “We’re very grateful for this incredibly generous donation,” said Alison Irving, Trustee and Company Secretary at COBF. The region’s professionals raised a further £1,000 for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). JDRF funds research into type 1 diabetes with the goal of finding a cure, treating and preventing type 1 diabetes.

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An award for individuals, FirstPro recognises exceptional professionals and showcases the depth and breadth of talent within the region. Jenny Simpson, a client manager at Stewart Fletcher Barrett who carried the Olympic Torch in 2012 in recognition of her contribution to the local community, was named the FirstPro 2016. Run by its members for its members Coventry & Warwickshire First is the only forum exclusively for professional and financial services firms in the region. Its members advise and support businesses from entrepreneurial start-ups to family firms and global organisations.

Legal

Law firm posts increased profits

Lloyds Bank and ACUTEC take on cybercrime

Midlands law firm Wright Hassall, which is celebrating its 170 year anniversary this year, has announced a rise in revenue and profits. The firm’s annual accounts reveal revenue generated in the year to 31 December 2015 has risen to £17.6m, up from £15.9m a year earlier. Pre-tax profit also rose to £3.6 from £3.2m in 2014. Wright Hassall, based on Olympus Avenue in Leamington, employs 270 staff, including 145 lawyers and 43 partners. Sarah Perry, Managing Partner at Wright Hassall, said: “The firm has achieved significant year-on-year growth over the last six years and we’re pleased our latest results show we have continued this strong performance. “In 2015, we invested in the recruitment of legal experts across the practice to support our clients’ requirements, including 12 solicitors in real estate and private client and the appointment of a non-legal Operations Director. “We have continued this recruitment drive into 2016 with the appointment of experts in housing, immigration, employment, wealth management, property litigation and agriculture, and also made further investments in our operational effectiveness, including the introduction of enhanced workflow technology. “Trading in 2016 has been strong across all our teams, although the uncertainty of the EU Referendum is having an impact on some clients’ appetite to move forward on corporate and real estate investments. “During 2016 we will continue to target continued growth in a number of priority sectors including advanced manufacturing and engineering (AME), agricultural and housing, health and social care, gaming and development.“

Cyber security is making news headlines almost daily. Businesses are at constant risk of their systems being attacked and losing their data, finances and reputation. On 4th July, IT Company and Security Specialists ACUTEC were invited by Lloyds Bank to speak to their business clients and inform them of the risks in

two workshops. They were joined by Weightmans Solicitors and Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance. Urfaan Azhar, Infrastructure Manager at ACUTEC, spoke about the possible attacks that businesses face and how to overcome them as well as simulating a live hack. During the hack, the audience watched

with horror as an Outlook account was sent a phishing email with a malicious file. The file downloaded key logging software on to the PC and every keystroke could then be viewed from the hacker’s computer. Chris Roche, Managing Director of ACUTEC, said: “We are seeing this every single day and businesses need to understand the risks they are taking by not adopting the appropriate precautions. I hope that by ACUTEC being involved in events like this we can educate people and help protect their businesses.’ The Information Commissioner’s Office is now able to fine organisations that suffer a data breach up to ¤20 million or 4% of annual global turnover, potentially strangling thousands of businesses.

Organisations are now obliged to report breaches within 72 hours to the ICO and must inform any individual whose data has been lost. On top of the fine, businesses would have to pay for contacting those involved, legal advice, emergency PR and forensics as well as actually getting systems back up and running and any loss of finances caused through the actual crime. At the event Urfaan faced many questions from businesses concerned that the precautions they had in place were no longer adequate and for advice on what to do next. Any businesses who are concerned about their cyber security should take immediate action to ensure that all precautions are in place to protect their futures.

Commercial enterprises must comply with modern slavery laws A corporate and commercial legal specialist has issued a reminder to businesses operating internationally of a new law now in force that is designed to stop exploitation, slavery and human trafficking. Kim Klahn, an employment specialist and partner at Lodders Solicitors, said: “Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires commercial organisations

supplying goods or services with a global turnover of £36 million or more, to publish an annual slavery and human trafficking statement, for each financial year ending on or after 31st March 2016. “Smaller businesses with a turnover of less than £36 million may be under the illusion that they will not be caught by the legislation. However, it will affect them if

they are part of the supply chain of larger businesses who have to comply with the provisions. “In order for the large businesses to publish their annual statement they will be asking their suppliers to give their assurances on their position regarding modern slavery. “For all affected organisations, the requirements apply whether

part or all of the business is carried out in the UK and it does not matter where the organisation was incorporated or formed. The purposes of the commercial activities are irrelevant, with charitable, educational and public services all covered by the Act.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Finance

Duo celebrate graduation Joshua Cound and Sam Leverton from Morrison Insurance Solutions, based in Alcester, celebrated passing the CII Accredited Brokerbility Academy Apprenticeship in a graduation ceremony held at the Great Hall of the Chartered Insurance Institute in London. Joshua and Sam were two of 17 young apprentices to receive their qualification as part of the first Brokerbility Academy Programme. They received their professional qualification from Brokerbility Chairman and former CII President, Ashwin Mistry. The Brokerbility Academy, which was launched in September 2014, is committed to growing the number of apprentices through its Academy.

Joshua said: “I’m really pleased to have chosen the Brokerbility Academy apprenticeship route. The experience has exceeded my expectations providing me with the foundations to build a career in the insurance industry.” Sam said: “ I would certainly recommend others to think about pursuing a similar path as the insurance industry offers so many varied and interesting career opportunities.“ Ian Millard, Managing Director of Morrison Insurance Solutions, said: “Both Joshua and Sam have been an integral part of our business over the past 18 months. Clearly the Brokerbility Academy apprenticeships programme has provided on the job learning which will be invaluable as their careers will undoubtedly go from strength to strength.”

Accountants move into new offices

Pictured left to right, Jodie Hall, Saleem Ahmed (director) Muhammed Shabbir (director), Kiley Ball, Paul Farmer (Director), Sarah Van Ristel, Amy Lloyd, Jennifer Eaton and Armstrongs client Paul Simpson of UVS Signs, responsible for vehicle and building signag

The Coventry and Warwickshire based, two-office accountancy practice of Armstrongs Accountancy Limited has relocated its Nuneaton office to the heart of Nuneaton’s town centre. The move is to actively strengthen the firm’s foothold and presence across the town. Armstrongs’ new North Warwickshire office officially opened for business on 1 July.

The award-winning accountancy practice relocated its Nuneaton office from Hollybush House to new, larger

premises opposite Nuneaton’s town Hall, Coton Road. Its head office continues to operate from its Westwood Business Park location. The firm set up their second office in Hinckley in 2010 ago moving to Nuneaton last year. New premises are needed as Armstrongs is consistently growing, the move being a result of the firm’s and its clients successes. Paul Farmer, a partner at Armstrongs, said: “We pride ourselves on being a modern, growing and dynamic accountancy practice. We have made strides in growing the business by investing in staff, their development and innovative office systems and practices. Everyone at Armstrongs shares the ambition to continually develop and improve on what is done and how it’s done.” The new Nuneaton office can be found at: Anker House, Coton Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire

“We have made strides in growing the business by investing in staff, their development and innovative office systems and practices. Everyone at Armstrongs shares the ambition to continually develop and improve on what is done and how it’s done.”

Awards recognition for Stratford-upon Avon company Stratford-upon-Avon based Quotidian Investments has won, for the third year running, a series of awards in the Annual ACQ Hedge/Funds Awards 2016. They included: • Europe - Wealth Manager of the Year • Europe - Balanced Fund of the Year (The Quotidian Fund), • Europe - Multi-Asset Portfolio of the Year • UK - Equity Hedge Emerging Manager of the Year • UK - Diversified Fohf of the Year (Under 500m) www.cw-chamber.co.uk

• UK - Globally Mandated Hedge Fund of the Year • UK - Global Macro Emerging Manager of the Year • UK - Multi-Asset Portfolio of the Year • UK - Multi Strategy Hedge Fund of the Year • UK - Macro Hedge Fund of the Year The total number of nominations received stood at 37,196. Robert Vaudry, a Partner at Quotidian Investments, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised by so many awards

again this year from ACQ Magazine. “In 2015 our investment performance made us world leaders. That this followed on from an excellent 2014 and 2013 demonstrates that we have been able to consistently generate outstanding returns for our investors”. Quotidian Investments LLP is a Fund and Portfolio Manager which has secured double digit net returns each year for the past three years (a cumulative return of 46.36%) compared to the FTSE100 up approximately 5.84% over the same period.

Award winner Steve Parker thanks team for success Steve Parker, CEO of Coventrybased Quantum Imaging Ltd, has been recognised in this year’s CEO of the year awards by Finance Monthly magazine but says success is thanks to the hard-work and innovation of his whole team. The award celebrates Steve and his team’s dedication to bringing groundbreaking technology to market that will help emergency room staff rule out heart attacks and other serious heart problems. Every year Finance Monthly celebrates the success, innovation and strategic vision of CEOs across a wide variety of sectors and industries globally. With Steve at the helm, Quantum Imaging has moved forward rapidly since its formation in 2014, achieving several key milestones. He was the driving force behind securing two successful rounds of investment which have been essential in bringing this innovative technology to life. Earlier this year, the company received an ISO13485 certification from the British Standards Institute (BSI) in recognition of its quality management systems, ensuring it operates with consistent, high-quality internal practices and customer support. The company, which moved to Coventry earlier this year has substantial growth plans in 2016/17 and further accreditations are expected. Steve said: “This award belongs to everyone at Quantum Imaging. I am surrounded by the best in the industry and that makes my job that much easier. Winning this award cements the company’s achievements to date and is well deserved for all the hard work, creative thinking and leadership demonstrated by the entire team.”

Property

Deeley Group marks 80th anniversary Stepnell nails major scheme for joinery teaching block at Leicester College Construction specialist Stepnell has begun work on a £1.6 million scheme to extend and refurbish the carpentry and joinery teaching block at Leicester College creating an advanced learning facility for students. The scheme, designed by Leicesterbased Moss Architecture . Interiors Ltd, will transform the existing joinery workshop at the Freemen’s Park campus in Aylestone Road, creating a 900 sq m modern and flexible, open-plan zoned joinery and bench joinery teaching space. The project is going ahead with the help of funding from the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership. Paul Hirscher, director of Construction at Leicester College, said: “The update to the carpentry and joinery teaching block will provide a practical work space that will enhance the learning experience. We are excited that we can work together with Stepnell again to be able to help the next generation of construction workers.” Stepnell operations and commercial manager Thomas Sewell said: “We’re extremely pleased to be continuing our strong working partnership with Leicester College, one of the UK’s largest further education colleges, to deliver these impressive teaching facilities for carpentry and joinery students.” As part of its ongoing partnership with the College to help students gain real-life industry experience, Stepnell will provide a number of work placements enabling construction students at the College to broaden their skills on the joinery teaching block scheme, under the supervision of the Stepnell team. Stepnell recently supported the College’s Employability Week event, organising visits by Leicester College students to a construction site and giving presentations on construction careers. The joinery teaching block scheme has been awarded to Stepnell following the company’s successful completion last year of a brand-new £1.7 million motor vehicle workshop at the College’s Abbey Park campus.

One of the region’s most respected property, construction and development companies is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. The Deeley Group, which was founded by George Deeley in 1936, laid the foundations for success through working partnership with a range of other organisations, from local councils and communities to fellow developers and the Chamber, of which the firm is a corporate member.

The company’s work is evident across the UK but especially in Coventry and Warwickshire – Deeley’s home turf – in which the firm has made a significant contribution to the local built environment as well as to the community. A snapshot of what is currently being created gives a clear idea of what the company can contribute. Deeley Construction is working on a major extension to the Holland & Barrett

headquarters at Bermuda in Nuneaton – a site developed by the Deeley Group over a four-decade period. Work at both universities in Coventry and with Warwickshire College Group, have made a significant positive impact while, in Stratford-upon-Avon, the company recently started work on new key-worker, privaterented accommodation on behalf of Orbit Homes in the town centre – close to its development of a new Premier Inn Hotel in recent years. Deeley have also helped the current need for housing by delivering the 178-bed independent living scheme for Orbit homes, alongside 72 affordable houses for Waterloo Homes on Queensway in Leamington Spa Peter Deeley, son of founder George, still leads the business from its HQ at the Coventry Business Park and said: “Developing partnerships is something that has always been important to us as a company and I believe it’s critical in today’s market. “It’s not simply about being a contractor or developer – it’s about being a part of the team that is going deliver a project. We like to be involved with the Chamber, too, because that is a good way of forging links.” Over the course of the year, the Deeley Group is holding a number of events to mark its 80th anniversary. Peter said: “We are proud of the work we have carried out over the years, the people we’ve employed and the communities we’ve helped. That’s what we are celebrating this year.”

Kineton continues to attract business occupiers Brook Business Park in Kineton is a great example of a village location which can compete with the best that Coventry & Warwickshire conurbation estates can offer. It has the obvious advantages of course, of proximity to Junction 12 of the M40 and Jaguar Land Rover. Equally though, the quality of the buildings and environment is winning over many visitors. The development is a mix of a remodelled, late 1950’s print works and four high specification warehouse/workshop units constructed 10 years ago. Located on Brookhampton Lane the site forms part of the Kineton Industrial Estate and overlooks a riding school and farmland to the setting sun in the West. There is no congestion to slow vehicle movements to and from the M40 and Fosse Way and comparatively low business rating assessments add to the business case. Christy Hydraulics Limited signed a new lease in August on 3,900 sq. ft. warehouse and office premises at No.7, relocating from Central City Industrial Estate, Coventry. The letting followed closely on the heels of TonyG limited leasing a 3,680 sq. ft. two-storey workshop and office at No.1. Moving just down the road from Gaydon.

Both deals were secured by Drake Howard Property Ltd on behalf of the estate owners on premises previously occupied by Semcon Product Information Limited. A supplier to JLR, which hit the regional headlines earlier this year, in relocating to bespoke new premises at Tournament Fields in Warwick. Clearly, the Kineton location did Semcon very well indeed and No. 8 is the last available unit of the 3 which were the Company’s original, regional home.

Brook Business Park is a superbly fitted unit of 4,855 sq. ft. and is in pristine condition, ready for immediate occupation. The specification includes 5.5m eaves, 960 sq. ft. air conditioned offices, heating throughout, electric loading door and 8 parking spaces off the loading forecourt. Viewings can be arranged at any time of the day or weekends via the agents web site or e-mail www.drakehoward.co.uk or office@drakehoward.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Bromwich Hardy

It’s getting desperate! There simply is not enough employment land being brought forward. This means that plans for growth, change and investment for SME’s and major employers are being severely hampered. There is consensus opinion amongst property professionals that the West Midlands now has less than a one year supply of land for warehousing and industry. The picture in Coventry and Warwickshire is perhaps more acute and developers and occupiers are scrambling for whatever land they can find and are active for example at Pilot Business Park, Prologis Ryton and Imperial Park, Middlemarch. But it’s not the same with offices, where there is plenty of demand for space, but little development. Available space in Coventry alone has reduced from circa 1,000,000 sq ft in 2011 to 500,000 sq ft in 2015. This is due to factors such as demolition, Change of Use (such as to private rented sector or student) and gradual take up of quality space. Significant uplift in demand for offices is backed up by highly important research by your Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber

of Commerce into members’ property requirements. The results of the recent quarterly economic survey make for startling reading. • 18.9% of member companies require new or additional space. • Of these 49.3% want office space. • Of these 77.2% want to move within two years. • Only 5.2% of companies have existing surplus space. Yet, other than at Friargate at the Station in Coventry and Complex Development Project’s recently completed scheme at Far Gosford Street (where Bromwich Hardy had sold half of the new space prior to construction and the other half during it), no one is developing offices speculatively. This needs to change soon. Given the Chamber’s figures, we believe that property owners, landlords and developers should be taking action to increase supply through construction and refurbishment.

At Bromwich Hardy we advise many clients, including occupiers, landlords, developers and investors, and it is clear that there is demand across the board for better quality and more suitable employment land and properties. We have arranged many office lettings in recent months and a range of examples include the following: • We advised on the refurbishing and letting of 22,604 sq ft of newly refurbished space at Earlsdon Park, Coventry City Centre to Sitel UK Ltd, proving that the right quality space will let. • The remaining 6,250 sq ft of Grade A space at Abbey Park, Stoneleigh is now let. In fact, we had three companies keen to take it. • We recently advised on the letting of 2087 sq ft at Innovation Village at a headline rent of over £20 per sq ft, which we believe to be a record in the City. In fact, all deals achieved rents between £15 and £20 per sq ft, which demonstrates significant growth in rents, as demand outstrips supply. We believe rents will grow consistently over the next two year period.

As Chair of the Coventry branch of the Chamber, I am working with fellow Chamber members and the Local Enterprise Partnership to encourage better release of land for employment through the planning process. This is essential for our local economy to prosper. At Bromwich Hardy we would be delighted to hear from Chamber members, particularly those with spare capacity that could be brought forward. David Penn, Partner – Bromwich Hardy

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Bromwich Hardy 1 The Cobalt Centre, Siskin Parkway East, Middlemarch Business Park, Coventry CV3 4PE www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Tel : 02476 308 900 Fax : 02476 302 620 www.bromwichhardy.com 19

Leading the legal profession – the Wright way

For Sarah Perry, moving to become Managing Partner at law firm Wright Hassall was just the latest step in a career that had started with the chance reading of an article. Only when the new position hit the press did she quite realise that, for many others, it was far more than merely another promotion. Countless articles and a few speaking engagements later, it has dawned that being a female managing partner of a sizeable law firm makes you a rare beast.

While that should not be the case – if Perry, who also heads the company’s 40 strong litigation team, thinks back to when she first joined the profession she realises that times have certainly changed. “The company was very traditional and it was very male, which was typical of its time in the profession,” she remembers. “Secretaries jobs were to make the tea and I was told that once I qualified I was not to make the tea – that would be done for me. “Some partners were still called Mr, and you could not call them by their first name, which now sounds ridiculous.

The mind-set was changing but it was do as you are told, and no-one had any voice in coming up with ideas. “When I joined, women were not allowed to wear trousers, and occasionally I had clients saying they would not deal with me because I was a girl. Not very often, but it did happen. “Mind you I still occasionally get new members of staff coming up and asking who I report to, and that often happens outside of the building. People assume that I must be working under someone – and that comes from guys as young as in their 20s.”

Perry is not easily swayed from her chosen path. She chose her A levels – physics, chemistry and double maths – because her father said she wouldn’t be able to cope, and once she had decided on law that was it. “I decided to become a lawyer when I was about 14. I read an article at school about a musician who had trained to become a lawyer and remember thinking that is just what I want to do. That was it. “I had wanted to be a barrister but my family could not afford it, so I set my heart on being a solicitor.” More precisely a litigator. “In my head a lawyer needed to be in court. Drafting things and doing repetitive work does not fire me up. For me it is all about the winning, and all litigators will tell you that and if not, then they should not be litigators.” She joined Wright Hassall after graduating and at a time of change. Peter Beddoes, then Managing Partner, and Nick Abell, the firm’s now current Chairman who later became Senior Partner were driving through change. The litigation team was very small with just three lawyers but Perry, who has headed the team since 2005 has seen it grow to represent one third of the firm’s turnover. “When I joined, the decision had already been made to move from being a High Street practice to being a commercial firm. “Wright Hassall were acting for owner-manager businesses and Peter and Nick were very successful at pulling in the types of clients we wanted to be working with but were also very keen that we kept a broad base and looked after individuals, and did not forget – in fact built on – our agricultural heritage.

“I decided to become a lawyer when I was about 14. I read an article at school about a musician who had trained to become a lawyer and remember thinking that is just what I want to do. That was it.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Sarah Perry

“We are ambitious, growing and, actually, very modern considering the 170-year heritage we have. Now that I am interacting with businesses, I have been very pleasantly surprised at how forward thinking we are and how strong our reputation is.”

“That is still very much the ethos of the firm today.” And it has been a policy which has worked. The firm moved from its dated base to a state-of-the art building on Tachbrook Park in Leamington and staff numbers, turnover and profit have gown consistently. The top role was split on Beddoes’ retirement. Richard Lane became Managing Partner while Nick Abell was Senior Partner. “Peter had very strong leadership skills, very decisive rather than collegiate which was needed to really drive through what was fundamental change. Nick and Richard, I think it is fair to say, were more collegiate and that again was the approach that was right for where we were. “Richard managed the internal functions while Nick was the outward face, something he does extremely well. It worked perfectly. “We are ambitious, growing and, actually, very modern considering the 170-year heritage we have. Now that I am interacting with businesses, I have been very pleasantly surprised at how forward thinking we are and how strong our reputation is. “We have invested heavily in our IT capability and management information. For example, I have a heat-map system which maps where each of our departments gets its work geographically. “We have hot spots in London and in different areas in the UK based on clients, but the majority of our work comes from around this region. Yes, we work nationally and we need to keep pushing out, but this is very much our heartland and we ignore it at our peril. “We also give people opportunities and that cannot be under-estimated. I have had chances to leave at various times, but Wright Hassall has always given me opportunities to develop and that is not something many of the big city firms can do for their people.” Future plans include driving turnover to £30 million from its current base of £17 million, while

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offices in new locations are also an option. That sort of growth can become all-consuming when you are responsible for its delivery, but Perry does escape work. “Of course the work life balanced does get out of balance as it does with anyone in a senior role, but what is important is to recognise that is happening and to bring it back into balance and by and large I think I manage to do that. “I had two children while progressing my career – being an equity partner and working part time was definitely a challenge – but you learn how to juggle. “You only have your kids around for a short amount of a time so I want to spend time with them, but, that said, they are at the age where my husband Mark and I are starting to get some time away by ourselves. “We have just had our first trip away without them when we went to Barbados which was great.” But more frequent breaks are in a more unusual location – Tiree. “We have had a cottage for five years in the Inner Hebrides. We had been looking for a while and my husband is obsessed by the sea. I went to a dressmaker, who told me she was holidaying in the Inner Hebrides. “It struck me as a bit unusual so Googled it when I got home and we went up there. I found a place to stay and there were literally 20 or 30 seals right outside the house, we loved it. In a year we had bought a tiny Crofter’s cottage. There is no road to it, it is on a headland and surrounded by common grazing land. “We get upset in August if there is someone else on the beach! I had to go to Cornwall for work recently and went down to the sea and it was a shock how many people were there.” That said, Perry has been well accustomed to ploughing a solitary furrow in the business world when she’s needed to.

About Sarah Perry Date of birth: Birthplace: Married: Children: Hobbies: Favourite book:

3 December 1966 Cannock Yes James and Sophie Skiing, Theatre, Reading Woman in White – Wilkie Collins Favourite film: Pretty Woman Last holiday: Barbados Car: BMW X6 Favourite gadget: My iPhone Weather Pro App

Policy

Situation still unclear after vote The run-up to the EU referendum was a slight drag on business confidence in Coventry and Warwickshire – but the effect of Brexit and the political fall-out is still not clear.

Shining a spotlight on growth campaign

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce carried out its second quarterly economic survey of 2016 ahead of the referendum and the results have just emerged. While more than half of businesses in both manufacturing and services still expected turnover to rise in the coming 12 months, it was down on the previous quarter. In the service sector, 54 per cent of companies expected turnover to go up, 41.4 per cent thought it would remain the same while only 4.6 per cent felt it would decrease. In manufacturing, 50.6 per cent of firms were anticipating a rise in turnover, 39.5 per cent said it would stay the same and 10 per cent believe it will drop. The overall figure for the previous quarter saw 73 per cent of firms forecast a rise in turnover. On the employment front, 25.9 per cent of businesses in service sector were expecting to increase headcount, 72.8 per cent thought it would stay the same and 1.2 per cent said it would fall. In manufacturing, 27.5 per cent predicted taking on more people, 68.8 per cent said it would remain constant and 3.8 per cent were expecting to reduce the number of staff. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the build-up to the referendum had caused uncertainty. She said: “We heard from members in the weeks leading up to the referendum that decisions were being put on hold until the vote had taken place and I believe that can explain the fall in the number of businesses expecting turnover and headcount to rise. “Equally, there wasn’t too much alarm – with only a very small number of firms expecting to have to cut headcount. “What we don’t know, yet, is the effect Brexit has had on confidence in Coventry and Warwickshire and, actually, I think for most firms it’s still too early to say. “The political landscape is only starting to settle down and the markets are still searching for a new ‘normal’. “Anecdotally, some companies are telling us again that the uncertainty of what our future with the EU looks like is unhelpful. “We need strong leadership in those negotiations with the EU that satisfies the democratic decision to leave but also ensures we have the best possible trading relationship with such a hugely important market to ensure businesses can Go For Growth. Our next QES, therefore, will be one of the most interesting we have conducted.”

Coventry and Warwickshire’s premier economic conference will this year feature leading figures from the world of business and politics. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual economic conference at the Ricoh Arena on Friday, October 14, which will focus on its Go For Growth campaign and look at the effect of Brexit on businesses in the region. Mark Berrisford-Smith, the head of economics at HSBC will provide the economic outlook and will be followed by keynote speeches by former government minister Michael Portillo and Check-atrade founder Kevin Byrne. There will also be two expert panels including the likes of Microsoft, HSBC and Simplify IT, while David Burbidge, the chair of Coventry’s bid to be UK City of Culture in 2021, will also be speaking. The conference is being sponsored by HSBC, the Coventry and Warwickshire LEP, Coventry University Enterprises and

Simplify IT. Adam Dent, of Advent Communications, will facilitate the event, which will run from 8.15am until 1pm and will be followed by lunch. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our annual conference is the biggest economic event in the region and each year we look to make it even better. “We are thrilled with the quality of the speakers we have managed to secure and it really does cover a cross section from business and politics – locally and nationally. “It’s been a historic year, dominated by the country’s decision to leave the EU and the political fall-out that followed, and this will be an opportunity to hear from a range of experts on how that has already affected firms across the patch and what the longterm effect will be.

“At the beginning of 2016, we launched our Go For Growth campaign that was looking to help firms overcome hurdles to growth and also highlight positive stories – that has proved extremely effective but, of course, Brexit has overtaken the media agenda. “However, the vast majority of our members are saying they are operating a ‘business as usual’ policy and we want the conference to reflect that too. “It promises to be a great chance to network with businesses from across the area and also to hear from a wonderful array of speakers.” More information on the conference is available at www.cwconf.com. To book on email events@cw-chamber.co.uk or call 024 7665 4321.

“It’s been a historic year, dominated by the country’s decision to leave the EU and the political fall-out that followed, and this will be an opportunity to hear from a range of experts on how that has already affected firms across the patch and what the long-term effect will be.”

Helping young people into work Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire will ‘keep an eye’ on unemployment figures after a slight increase in the most recent claimant count. In Warwickshire, the figure dropped slightly from 3,345 to 3,335 but that was more than offset by a small increase in Coventry from 4,385 to 4,445. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of

Commerce, said: “It’s a slight increase across the region as a whole so it’s a cause for concern rather than alarm. “It’s one that we will definitely keep an eye on – especially on the back of Brexit – to see if it becomes a trend. We are just about to begin our latest Quarterly Economic Survey work with firms across the city and the county and that will give us a picture of how businesses are feeling and their plans for recruitment.

“When you talk to companies there is, undoubtedly, uncertainty because of the decision to leave the EU but the full impact is just not clear yet. “We need to ensure that there is a pathway into the jobs market for our young people as skills and employability has been highlighted as a key strand of our Go For Growth campaign.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Skills

Bedworth firm to recruit 85 ambitious job seekers Our careers site gives details of these exciting vacancies.” Chelsee Handy is approaching her fifth year of working at Domestic & General. Chelsee started as a temp and has progressed through three teams to her role as a performance coach in this time, carving out a long term career path at the firm.

Award-winning appliance care firm Domestic & General is looking to recruit up to 85 new starters to join its Bedworth team. The UK’s leading appliance care provider already employs more than 270 people at its newly refurbished Leicester Street office and is one of Bedworth’s biggest employers. Gary Wright, claims and product replacement director at Domestic & General, said: “This is a great opportunity for job seekers to join a people-focused company and help us continue to provide an excellent service to our customers. “We feel the job vacancies are not only positive news for us as a business, but also for Bedworth as a town. “The roles available are both full and part-time permanent positions, offering great long-term opportunities.

She said: “I have absolutely loved my time at Domestic & General so far. I started out on a temporary basis, but thanks to the career opportunities available here, I have now worked my way up to performance coach. I was able to complete training courses, such as the ‘Learning to Lead’ programme, which gave me new skills for other roles within the firm.” Anyone wishing to apply or find out more should contact Adecco, industry leader in the recruitment business, who will be managing applications on behalf of Domestic & General. Applicants can phone the recruitment team on 01926881102. Domestic & General provides appliance care services for UK and International clients and comprehensive product protection for more than 12 million customers. It has three further UK offices, in Brighton and Nottingham with its headquarters in Wimbledon.

ACUTEC work with school pupils on social media safety

Coventry Uni excels in national ‘teaching excellence’ analysis Coventry University has emerged as one of the UK’s top-performing higher education institutions in a detailed analysis of teaching excellence published by Times Higher Education (THE) magazine. The new analysis – which THE describes as a creating a “new hierarchy” amongst UK universities – places Coventry sixth overall, and is based on the same methodology the Government will use in its forthcoming ‘Teaching Excellence Framework’ (TEF). In what THE refers to as the ‘mock TEF’, Coventry’s sixth place is well inside the top 20 per cent of institutions, which would see it classed as ‘outstanding’ for teaching excellence according to the government’s own proposed analysis which will be piloted next year. Student satisfaction and graduate employment are amongst the key measures used for the analysis, with universities’ performances being based mainly on the National Student Survey (NSS) and a survey of how graduates have fared six months after leaving university.

The latest NSS ranked Coventry University top in the UK for personal development, which measures how students feel their confidence, communication skills and ability to tackle problems have improved during their studies. And the annual Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey showed that 94.5% of UK graduates from Coventry University who completed their first full-time degree in 2015 had secured employment or continued further study six months after graduating. Professor John Latham, vicechancellor of Coventry University, said: “This new analysis offers a fresh perspective on the strengths of higher education institutions around the UK, and we’re delighted to be ranked so highly. Students care about the quality of teaching they will be getting on their course and what their employability prospects are, so the THE’s analysis should serve as a useful guide alongside other rankings which place more of an emphasis on research activity.”

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The younger generation is always a step ahead of the game when it comes to social media, but it can also put them in danger when they don’t think about how they are using it. Local IT Support Company, ACUTEC, spent a day with Year 9 and 10 pupils from St Augustine’s Catholic High School in Redditch to provide three social media safety workshops. ACUTEC’s Simon Gee, Steve Marks and Amy Staniszewski highlighted the dangers of being tracked online, how the context of messages can be misunderstood and how easy it is for social media accounts to be spoofed

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causing people to not know who they are speaking to. The three sessions saw the pupils working together in teams to come up with answers to ACUTEC’s questions and think about how they use social media, producing some outstanding mind maps in the process. Steve said; “It was really great to see the answers the pupils came up with and how switched on they were with the topic. Social media is becoming a source of information for criminals, especially when it comes to cybercrime, to see them understand what can happen if they’re not careful is so important.

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Area Focus: Coventry

Perfect launch for Culture bid Digital skills back on the agenda for Coventry businesses

The most recent director to be appointed to the board of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) has pledged to put digital skills back on the agenda for the local business community. In a move to ensure Coventry and Warwickshire businesses are equipped with the digital skills they need for growth, Sarah Windrum, CEO of Warwickshire technology company, The Emerald Group, has been appointed as a private sector Board Director at CWLEP. This is in addition to her existing role as vice chair of the Skills Board at Tech UK, the national industry body for the technology sector, and comes following a report released earlier this year by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, which found significant value can be added to the UK economy through stronger investment in digital skills in terms of both job creation and productivity. The report also highlighted the critical role of employers, the education sector and local government in delivering solutions that address the digital skills gap in the UK. And it is this collaborative approach which saw Sarah recently visit Essex, an area renowned for its employment and skills best practice, gaining insight she is keen to bring back to businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire. Sarah said: “As part of my role with the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, I am keen to explore the ways we can work with the local business community, education, and local government, ensuring that we all put digital skills high on our agenda. “The skills gap is an ongoing challenge that affects almost all businesses in one way or another. It is crucial we work together to develop a strategy which champions digital technology and its role in developing successful businesses. I believe this collaborative approach needs to extend beyond the boundaries of our local area too, working with other LEPs, business communities, education facilities, and national bodies to develop a strong digital strategy that empowers businesses.”

Coventry’s bid to be UK City of Culture in 2021 has been given “the perfect public launch” – according to the man leading it. The team behind the bid took over the Rhythm Tent at the Coventry Godiva Festival and treated crowds to a range of music, dance, theatre and other activities such as cake-making and graffiti art. More than 10,000 people took in the #ThisisCoventry Tent while a further 2,000 watched performances outside the tent including a breath-taking show by Motionhouse. David Burbidge, chair of the Coventry City

of Culture Trust, said there had been an outpouring of public support for the city’s bid. He said: “The people of Coventry have shown that they are truly behind our bid to be City of Culture and it was great to be able to showcase such a wide variety of artists and performers from every corner of the city. It really was the perfect public launch. “We had more than 40 acts in total and the feedback from people was absolutely phenomenal – many were taken aback at the array of talent that Coventry has to offer. “The Godiva Festival itself is a great example of what Coventry can achieve and

even those who didn’t get chance to come into the #ThisisCoventry Tent will still have been exposed to the bid with well over 100,000 people through the gates over the three days. “We are grateful for all of the support we have had so far – from the public, from the media and from businesses, whose backing made an event like this possible. “But this is just the beginning. We are determined to win this title for Coventry and that means getting as much support we possibly can, including on social media because, when all said and done, this is the people’s bid and it will be the people of Coventry who get all the benefits of UK City of Culture.” A successful bid could be worth up to £80 million to the economy in the year alone as well as providing a positive social and cultural legacy for the city. Coventry City Council, The University of Warwick, and Coventry University are Principal Partners of the bid and are providing significant support. The Ricoh Arena is bid sponsor while Jaguar Land Rover, Friargate, Coventry Building Society, the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and CEF (City Electrical Factors) are all bid event sponsors.

New grants scheme is launched A new fund giving voluntary and community groups in Coventry the chance to bid for grants has been launched. The Heart of England Community Foundation has launched the Jumping Through Hoops fund, which supports young people’s groups in the city. A total of £1.9 million is available for community groups and organisations that work with challenged and disadvantaged 18 to 30-year-olds in Coventry. Grants of between £1,000 and £75,000 are on offer for projects that work with those affected by homelessness or being at risk of homeless, the transition to independent living, financial instability, unemployment, lack of skills, qualifications and opportunities, mental ill health, unhealthy lifestyles and crime and anti-social behaviour. The projects must have an impact on the lives of young people by giving them new skills, better prospects, a healthier lifestyle or improved confidence and wellbeing. The deadline for large grant applications has closed but small grants are available as

a rolling programme and organisations may apply at any time. Small grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 are available for one-year projects and can be applied for by registered charities, community interest companies, not for profit companies limited by guarantee and constituted community groups with an annual income of £250,000 or less. The grants are available through the Jumping Through Hoops fund, of which the Heart of England Community Foundation took over the running in December 2015. Tina Costello, Chief Executive of the Heart of England Community Foundation, said: “The funding has the potential to benefit a number of community groups and will have a real impact on the lives of young people in Coventry.” Rashid Bhayat, executive director of the Positive Youth Foundation, one of the people on the grant decision making panel who will assess the applications, said: “Jumping Through Hoops will change the landscape of young people’s services. There have been a lot of funding cuts in this

Pictured (left to right): Matt Docker (Valley House), Lucia Leon (Kairos WWT), Ray Reid (Watch), Tina Costello (Heart of England Community Foundation), Noreen Bukhari (Foleshill Women’s Training), Andy Duncan (Radio Plus).

sector, but the new grants programme will allow organisations to grow.” All grant applications can be submitted online at www.heartofenglandcf.co.uk where full entry criteria can also be found.

Coltman Warner Cranston LLP celebrate ten years in business

Business to business debt recovery solicitors Coltman Warner Cranston opened ten years ago in business on Coventry University Technology Park. Previously part of the in-house legal department at Courtaulds in the city, they joined Warner Cranston, which ultimately

merged with the US Global law firm Reed Smith in 2001 operating in Station Square, before moving to new premises after de-merger. The firm has heavily invested in the latest technology and personnel. Debt recovery manager Darren Davoile joined as an office junior who qualified as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives before passing his Solicitor’s finals. He now manages the team of Legal Executives and paralegals serving global and national clients across many sectors including electrical wholesalers, credit

insurers, couriers, facilities management companies and a large range of manufacturers and service companies. The firm’s use of on line payments and recording all calls has speeded up payments and reduced calls from abusive debtors who were unhappy the firm traced them to chase payment. Recognising cash flow is king, the team strive to recover client’s debts as quickly and cheaply as possible leading them to being top ranked in the Legal 500 law firms both in the West Midlands and nationally in the past five years.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

University student develops the future of Healthcare demonstrate market potential, be aimed at the mass market and have the ability to generate commercial revenue. Budding digital entrepreneur Dominika Szot, who has just finished her first year in Advertising and Marketing at Coventry University, came out on top with the concept of Dr Native, a mobile app that enables people requiring a doctor to find them based on their location and in their preferred language. Dominika, who won a grant from Coventry University to develop her app as part of the competition, faced stiff opposition through the process with more than 50 credible applications being received. After being shortlisted to face a Dragon’s Den style panel, consisting of Alan Malik, CEO, Pictured (left to right): Dr Edward Cole, IP Commercialisation Executive, BIT 10, Dr Brian More, Coventry University , Dominika Szot, Coventry University, Alan Malik, CEO, Bit10 Director,

A Coventry University student has won a competition to develop her app “Dr Native” into a commercial opportunity courtesy of web/app development agency BIT 10. The competition run through the Intellectual Property and Commercialisation Team at Coventry University, encouraged all students and staff to apply. Their ideas needed to

IP Commercialisation, Dr Tim Francis, Dr Edward Cole, and Mandy Tipple from Coventry University Intellectual Property Commercialisation team, her innovative concept and professional pitch wowed the judges. Dominika said: “I have been travelling more than half of my life, have lived in many countries and my English has not always been perfect. “From my own experience I’ve had health problems in several countries and knowing where to contact a native speaking doctor can be quite difficult.” Dr Edward Cole, IP Commercialisation Executive, Coventry University, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response to the competition with a real demonstration of innovation and creativity, a real testament to the hard work our students and staff have put in.” Alan Malik, CEO, BIT 10, said: “We are delighted for Dominika. Her pitch and idea really showed commercial potential and we are looking forward to making her concept a reality and creating an app that will have enormous benefits for its users.”

Team takes to the road The Deeley 80 is being held in aid of grant giving organisation the Heart of England Community Foundation, based in Coventry, which gives funding to groups and organisations who make a lasting difference in their area. Cyclists from Deeley’s clients and partners, will travel from the Deeley head office in Coventry, through the Warwickshire countryside and then return to the city on Sunday, September 11. All of the money raised will be matched by the Deeley Group before being donated to the Foundation. To celebrate the charity ride, the company welcomed a piece of the city’s cycling history to its headquarters - a 1936 Coventry Eagle triple ace CEO of the Heart of England Community Foundation Tina Costello, Deeley convertible tandem – Group Business Development Coordinator Edward Hudson, Managing thanks to Coventry Director of the Deeley Group Peter Deeley and Coventry Transport Museum Curator of Cycles and Transport Objects Megan Nass. Transport Museum

Cyclists will be riding through the heart of the country, straight into the hearts of the local community as part of a charity bike ride. Leading Midlands development and construction company the Deeley Group is holding an 80 mile charity cycle ride to mark the company’s 80th anniversary.

and its curator of cycles and transport objects Megan Nass. The 80-year-old bicycle, built the very same year the Deeley Group was founded, is one of only six ever made and one of just three still in existence. Peter Deeley, managing director of the Deeley Group, said: “The Heart of England Community Foundation is a highly important organisation which gives community and voluntary groups the opportunity to make an impact in their local areas and we are proud to be supporting them as part of our 80th anniversary celebrations.” Tina Costello, CEO of the Heart of England Community Foundation, said: “The Deeley Group has always been a great supporter of the Foundation and we are delighted that they will be raising funds for us as part of their 80th anniversary celebrations.” Donations can be made by visiting https://mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/deeley80

Simply the best! Guests at a historic Warwickshire hotel will now be able to relax safe in the knowledge they are staying in the best independent venue with the finest classical bedroom outside the M25.. Winners of the major trade Conference & Hospitality CHS Awards were announced at the annual awards ceremony which celebrates the nation’s best hotels and venues outside of London - and Brinklowbased Coombe Abbey was crowned the winner in two categories. The privately-owned hotel was commended for the service, experience and history it provides at the awards, which are organised by event industry specialist CHS Group, as it was presented with the ‘Best Independent Venue’ title.

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The prestigious title saw the hotel, which dates back to the 12th Century, beat off stiff competition from the likes of Ardencote Manor Hotel and Birmingham Repertory Theatre. After enjoying a record year in 2015 when the venue welcomed 65,000 guests and hosted 1,500 events, Coombe Abbey also took home the award for ‘Best Classical Bedroom’ for the Lindley Suite, a title the hotel has retained for two years after the The Lady Craven Suite won last year. As one of the hotel’s 15 grand feature bedrooms, the Lindley has previously hosted music legends Bruce Springsteen

Computer Systems Health Check alerts!

10 Basic Health Check Tips In my last column I gave you the first 5 basic health check tips to ensure you treat you keep your computer healthy and well. So, here are my final 5 tips for you to apply. Tip 6 Check your PC settings for maintenance jobs e.g. defragging, anti-virus updates Why? Generally speaking, most computer systems will have been programmed to perform regular checks and updates automatically. However, there is always the possibility that the updates could have taken place but, without checking you cannot be sure they are actually in operation. Equally, depending on your computer use, you may need to change the frequency of defragging or deletion of discarded materials. If your machine is running slow check out your maintenance settings, it could make all the difference. Tip 7 Review and Change your ‘sharing’ and ‘access’ settings Why? Giving access and sharing your files does make collaborative working easier. But, do you remember to change the setting after completing a piece of work? Avoid unwanted viewers by making sure you change your settings! Tip 8 Do not download unnecessary packages Why? In my experience I have noticed that some customers believe the offer to download a free application package is an offer never to be refused! The reality of the situation is, in many instances there is a reason the application is being offered as a freebie. There is every possibility that there is hidden ‘spyware’ or you are then forced into a situation that can cost you dearly later, not to mention, the use of space on your system that will ultimately slow the performance of your computer! Tip 9 Ensure you always close down old email accounts Why? Old email accounts can give access to your system without your knowledge. If you have an old email address account why would you not close it down? It can be done in no time and could save you many hours of sorting out a huge mess later. Tip 10 Never use the option to save passwords Why? This should be an obvious ‘no, no’, but many of our customers leave their accounts, including bank accounts, open to abuse. Never auto save your passwords!

and David Bowie and has views overlooking the moat, surrounding parkland and sweeping drive. Ron Terry, general manager of Coombe Abbey, said the awards were the latest in a series of high profile accolades the hotel has received recently.

If you really want to keep your ‘IT body’ in tiptop shape, give me a call and I’ll be happy to give your ‘IT body’ the same TLC as I give my own. I’m off for my morning run….. Phil Hynes Director of HeadTech Solutions 024 7771 2040 Or Email phil.hynes@headtechsolutions.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry

Wasps launch new kit Coventry campus gets green award Coventry University’s central campus has won the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2016 from leading environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. The award, now celebrating its 20th year, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country. A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities. Coventry University bagged the award for the green space in its city centre grounds, which includes its edible campus containing nectar rich plants as well as recognisable and less common vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers, and the churchyard garden which can trace its history back over 1000 years. Stephen Beasley, the University’s Grounds and Distribution Manager, said: “It’s nice to get official recognition for the efforts we put into the upkeep of our green space and while we’re happy to have won the award we’re equally chuffed that students, staff and visitors are enjoying the results of our endeavours.”

Wasps have unveiled their new Under Armour kit as they look to cement their status as a top four club in the Aviva Premiership. The kit, with a cutting-edge modern design, features Wasps’ traditional black and gold colours. It stays true to the club’s heritage, featuring hoops down the side of both home and away shirts. Global sports brand and technical partner Under Armour began its official

support of Wasps in July 2015. The club became the first Aviva Premiership rugby club to wear technical apparel designed by Under Armour. The features include: ArmourGrid™Fabric: Lightweight, breathable Cordura™ shirt and shorts with ‘no grab’ technology, adding to the competitive advantage Armour Stretch™: Ventilated paneling with four-way stretch to allow full range of mobility and maximum breathability ArmourGrip™Technology: A strategically placed grippy area on the body of the shirt aids in catching and securing the ball. The club will celebrate their 150-year anniversary by including the number 150 on the gripper on the lower front part of the jersey Function Panels: Panels on the shirt in compression fabric and mesh allow the grid sections to function as individual plates, maintaining freedom of movement. In addition to the matchday kit, Under Armour will continue to provide performance training apparel to the Wasps first team and academy squads. Michael Taylor, Senior Marketing Manager, UK & Ireland, Under Armour, said: “Last year, the club showed determination with their achievements,

reaching two semi-finals and we’ve learned from this to evolve the product.” Dai Young, Wasps Director of Rugby, said: “Under Armour is respected world-wide for their attention to detail, innovation and their commitment to working alongside athletes to ensure their elite performance line is at the cutting edge of their chosen sport, helping to improve performance.” * Performance Analysis company AnalysisPro Ltd now provide the Wasps Academy with the Nacsport video analysis software and MyTPE online athlete management and file sharing solution. Wasps Academy Performance Analyst Joe Burley said: “The players now have access to game and training footage 24 hours a day. They are able to review both team and individual performances, which has strengthened the feedback sessions the players attend during Academy training. “ Josh Bryan from Analysis Pro said: “By capturing the video in live and analysing it during the game, statistics and registered video clips can then be reviewed live on other mobile devices, meaning that Joe can also have a bigger impact on performances within a game.”

Reason to smile for dental healthcare company A world leader in the design and manufacture of dental healthcare equipment has opened its UK headquarters in Coventry. Planmeca, which is based in Finland and employs nearly 2,700 staff worldwide, has moved its main UK office and showroom to the Ricoh Arena. It was assisted in its move by commercial property agents D&P Holt, which is based in the city. The firm’s product range covers dental chairs, imaging and CAD/CAM systems that are aimed at dental practices, hospitals and clinics as well as universities. It has maintained a satellite office in Stevenage but Coventry will now be its flagship UK HQ. The location of the Ricoh Arena and the facilities available made it the perfect

choice for the company, according to Luke Broadhurst, Planmeca UK’s marketing director. He said: “The location and the transport links make it easy for customers to reach and the facilities – such as the hotel and restaurant on-site – are great for when we are hosting our distributor training sessions and dental courses as everything is close by to our offices and showroom. “The conferencing facilities at the Ricoh Arena will also enable us to host bigger events for our customers outside of our showroom as well.” Rupert Gillitt, of D&P Holt, acted on behalf of the Ricoh Arena in the deal on the 4,200 sq ft office. He said: “It’s great to welcome Planmeca to Coventry and to the Ricoh Arena.

He said: “They are a major international company in the field of dental healthcare and it is testament to the city and to the venue that they have chosen this as their UK base.”

Coventry college honoured for anti-bullying work A team of students from Hereward College in Coventry were presented with a Diana Award in recognition of their contribution towards tackling bullying. The college were one of only three schools and colleges across the country to be selected to showcase their anti-bullying initiatives at a celebratory event held at the UK’s Facebook headquarters. Marking the launch of the Diana Award’s #StandUpToBullying campaign, the event demonstrated the way young people across the UK, trained and supported by The Diana Award, are standing up to bullying within their schools and communities. The high profile event was attended by 200 guests including the showcase schools and colleges, MPs, anti-bullying campaigners as well as celebrity supporters.

Hereward were supported by Union J’s JJ Hamblett who took part in a film highlighting the college’s anti-bullying work. Tessy Ojo CEO of the Diana Award said: “The Diana Award is proud to recognise incredible young people, like the students at Hereward College who have the confidence and courage to stand up for what they believe. “ Sheila Fleming, Principal at Hereward College, said: “We are extremely proud of our Anti-bullying Ambassadors at Hereward and the work they do across the college. The Diana Award will encourage them to continue their fantastic work and hopefully inspire others to make a difference in the community.” www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Connectivity

Revolutionising the way companies do business Launched by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce at the start of this year, the ‘Go for Growth’ campaign is looking at improving the infrastructure of the region, tackling obstacles that may prevent business expansion and subsequently boosting economic growth. With companies now relying on internet connectivity more than ever before, the importance of being connected to an ultrafast, reliable network is becoming increasingly apparent in aiding business growth. CityFibre’s pure-fibre network is revolutionising the way companies do business, ensuring data connectivity and communication needs are met for years to come. The network is a key component in improving the overall infrastructure of Coventry and boosting economic growth. With gigabit speeds up to 100x faster than the UK average, staff working in a range of ways, be that office based, in the field, or operating remotely, can simultaneously access a gigabit network at peak times with no drop in speeds. This means that it’s possible for everyone to do whatever they need online at the same time with no waiting around for pages to load or content to buffer.

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This means upload and download speeds of up to 1000 megabits per second, now making it possible to download multiple files, or send high resolution design work in an instant, not to mention better quality video conferencing. The ultra-fast internet speeds will allow your customers to feel like they are in the room with you, even if they’re on the opposite side of the world. In addition to increasing office productivity and efficiency, CityFibre’s infrastructure opens up an array of opportunities for remote data storage. Huge files can be saved online using cloud based services, such as Dropbox, avoiding data and access limitations associated with storing large files on an office network. Also helping to improve data storage security, files are automatically backed up, and are therefore unable to be misplaced or damaged, hugely reducing the potential for data loss. In the unlikely event of a fault, cloud data recovery is around four times faster than the same process in traditional computing and the failure can easily be traced back to the source. Realising the importance of an ultrafast, reliable network to help improve Coventry’s business growth, Martin King-Turner of the National B2B Centre, said: “This is becoming a fundamental pre-requisite to doing business efficiently and for Coventry

to be at the forefront of this has to be a huge benefit to the city and its businesses.” This state-of-the-art infrastructure allows business-critical services to run smoothly, offering a truly diverse connectivity solution, completely independent from incumbent infrastructures. CityFibre’s business class

SLAs mean that if you do happen to encounter any issues, they will be resolved quickly and efficiently. So what are you waiting for? Find out how you can improve your business with a gigabit connection at: www.cityfibre.com/coventry

Area Focus: Mid Warwickshire

Success for mother and daughter at awards O'Brien Contractors wins a coveted RoSPA Gold hat-trick O'Brien Contractors Limited, a leading civil engineering and groundworks specialist, has scooped its third RoSPA Occupational Health and Safety Gold award. The RoSPA Awards is celebrating 60 years of presenting highly-regarded and sought-after accolades to businesses and organisations which have shown commitment to accident and ill-health prevention. The prestigious title is awarded for demonstrating overarching occupational health and safety management, including: strategic vision, risk assessment, workforce involvement and training. Julia Small, RoSPA’s head of awards and events, said: “To win an award at such a highly-regarded event as the RoSPA Awards is a great achievement for O’Brien Contractors. It recognises their commitment to maintaining an excellent health and safety record and raises the bar for other organisations to aspire to. We offer them our congratulations.” The company, based in Leamington Spa, achieved gold in recognition of the commitment to continuous improvement in protecting its staff, subcontractors and the local public, resulting in: • Staff receiving an average of 3.78 training days – mainly for health and safety • v100% of site operatives completing a CSCS safety course and holding a CSCS card • 80% of site operatives qualified to NVQ 2+ standard However, the greatest success came from across the eight high profile schemes secured last year, including: New Assay Office, Longbridge Town Centre Phase II, Number One City Locks, New Cross Hospital and Aston Student Villages, Burton Hockey Club, i54 Manufacturing Facility and Lyons Park, ll achieving zero accidents spanning 211,786 man hours. Peter O’Brien, Managing Director, O’Brien Contractors, said: “Winning three straight Gold awards is a real achievement and recognised the commitment and effort applied by our team to ensure high standards are maintained across all of our sites.”

The success of local mother and daughter family business ‘Absolute Works’ based in Kenilworth has seen them win ‘Small Business of the Year award at the Warwick Pride Awards 2016. Joy May started the company in 2012 in her office of her Kenilworth home with her daughter Amy Martin, formally an employment law solicitor, joining her in 2013. Since this time they have been delighted with the growth of their business, supporting, local, national and international businesses with HR outsourcing. Due to the demands of their clients their services now cover, HR, Recruitment, Health & Safety, Training & Development, Consultancy and Business Support that includes a unique HR portal and payroll

services. They now employ a team of 10 experienced and highly motivated HR, Recruitment and Health and Safety professionals. “Business owners often wonder where to start when it comes to dealing with HR in their business,” said Joy May, CEO of The Absolute Works.

“As an experienced coach for small businesses, I hear time and time again that company owners and directors find that they are spending too much time dealing with their HR issues along with the administration and that it becomes a drain on their essential resources. Knowing how you are going to deal with HR and what is required is a must for any business, especially small businesses where people work as part of a tight knit team and are in close daily contact. HR needs to be part of a business plan as effective HR management is integral to the success of any business. “By outsourcing your HR requirements, at a fraction of the cost of employing your own HR team, you can have access to the knowledge, skill and expertise of HR administration and HR specialists. “Effectively managing people in any business will help to improve the workplace environment and free up precious time for the business owner to actually run the business and increase the profits. “We are absolutely delighted to have won this award. The whole team have worked so hard over the past 12 months supporting all our small businesses with their HR, Recruitment, Health & Safety and Training requirements.”

“Knowing how you are going to deal with HR and what is required is a must for any business, especially small businesses where people work as part of a tight knit team and are in close daily contact.”

Stay the ‘Knight’ in Warwick Castle’s new Village Warwick Castle’s Knight’s Village officially opened on Friday 1st July. Nestled in a woodland grove on the River Bank, Knight’s Village is the perfect accommodation option following an event in the awe-inspiring surroundings of Warwick Castle. Knight’s Village comprises of 28 mediaeval themed Lodges and in the summer months; 41 Glamping Tents providing a totally unique sleepover. Combine this with one of the venue’s public themed dining experiences and you have an evening of mediaeval revelry like no other. Choose either a ‘Kingmaker’s Mediaeval Banquet’ or ‘Dungeons After Dark’ to experience first-hand a thousand years of drama, deceit and intrigue during one of Warwick Castle’s legendary feasts and banquets. Sleepovers in Knight’s Village start from £40pppn based on five sharing a Woodland Lodge including breakfast, Castle entry and car parking. Mediaeval banquets start from £60pp www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: North Warwickshire

Construction tutor wins college tutor of the year award

Bruntwood Europe Ltd marks tenth anniversary

L-R Marion Plant OBE, Chris Platts, Sarah O’Neil, Sam Girvan and Paul Barr

A construction lecturer who has been teaching at North Warwickshire & Hinckley College for just over a year has received the ultimate recognition from the student body – the Tutor of the Year award. Sam Girvan, who is based at the college’s Harrowbrook Training Centre in Hinckley, has been teaching at the college since March 2015. He received the most votes from the student body for his ‘approachability, helpfulness, listening qualities, clarity in teaching and enthusiasm for the subject’. Ian Kemp, Student Voice Coordinator at the college, said: “This is the 19th year of running the competition and we have seen

some fantastic nominations for this annual award. “Students are perfectly placed to reflect and recognise the excellent work of our teaching staff. They love to take part and get passionate about nominating their tutors." Sam said: “I am surprised that the students took the time to nominate me, and after reading their comments, it is lovely to find out that they appreciate what I am trying to teach and my teaching style. “I have been a lecturer at the college for just over a year and the support the students get from lecturers, teaching assistants, progress coaches and student

experience staff is very encouraging and has a positive effect on their learning journey.” Three runners-up were also recognised for their excellence in learning, teaching and assessment. These were Sarah O’Neill from Foundation Learning, Chris Platts from Art & Design, and Paul Barr from Engineering. Marion Plant OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Sam and a testament to the hard work and dedication he puts into his role at the College. Many congratulations to Sam and to the runners-up; Sarah, Chris and Paul, for being nominated.”

New Bar and Lounge officially opens for business at Sketchley Grange! Anyone looking for a trendy new place to wine, dine and socialise will be excited to learn about the fabulous bar and lounge which is now open at Sketchley Grange Hotel & Spa in Hinckley, Leicestershire. The well-established hotel has just opened the doors to a stylish open-plan bar and lounge area. Paul Noble, General Manager at Sketchley Grange Hotel & Spa, said: “We wanted to design a space that would offer something to suit everyone – and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved with our new bar and lounge. “We’ve combined comfort with the very latest interior trends to create a contemporary yet welcoming space for people of all ages to enjoy.”

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The new area forms part of a £1.5 million refurbishment programme which is currently under way at Sketchley Grange Hotel & Spa, which has also seen the hotel

extend its accommodation to open its 100th guest bedroom. A number of bedrooms have been refurbished as part of the current programme of work.

Bruntwood Europe Ltd, based in Hinckley and who supply the UK as a manufacturer and supplier of Workwear, Leisurewear and Corporate Wear, have celebrated their tenth anniversary. Bruntwood’s clothing range has been designed to encompass the basic requirements of any business wanting to promote their corporate image as smart and professional. By focusing on the technical properties of the garments, they have been able to improve quality and longevity whilst providing value for money. Their capsule collection provides businesses with the opportunity to benefit from a tried and tested range of garments. With additional services such as Embellishment, Sourcing Name Brand Garments and a Bespoke Garment Service, Bruntwood continues to be a One Stop Shop for garments.

Recognition for glassware company Warwickshire-based online business Solavia Fine Glassware has received a business boost from Retail Entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Solavia Fine Glassware tweeted Theo about their business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ (#SBS) and was one of six weekly winners to be recognised by Theo. The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has 1700 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. Solavia Fine Glassware is an independent family business specialising in handmade glassware. The company provides items not only to individuals but also to businesses such as one of Gordon Ramsay's London restaurants, Estee Lauder and Harrods.

Area Focus: South Warwickshire

Fresh new look for hotel The Billesley Manor, which dates back to the 16th Century, is a gorgeous manor house where William Shakespeare is said to have penned “As You Like It”. Now, The Hotel Collection has written its own chapter for The Billesley Manor Hotel, a very special property in the heart of the English Midlands. Thanks to an extensive interior refurbishment, this sumptuous country manor, just three miles from Stratfordupon-Avon, offers visitors a taste of old England and combines it with modern, contemporary styling and deluxe interiors that befit its status. They have refreshed the reception area and the public areas with new carpets and stylish furniture that complement the rich fabric of the historic building, yet are modern, warm and inviting. A number of the 72 bedrooms have also been updated. Events and conferences - Want to inspire your team or impress clients in fabulous surroundings? The Billesley Manor Hotel is the ideal place for hosting meetings or conferences. They have: · 12 event rooms, the biggest of which seats 100 people, theatre style · 150 free car parking spaces · Free Wi-Fi · Flexible dining options · AA Rosette awarded restaurant · Health and leisure spa Team-building - The Billesley Manor Hotel offers the perfect backdrop for your teambuilding event. Set in 11 acres of landscaped gardens, there is plenty of space in which to enjoy a range of activities, from laser clay shooting and archery to motorised activities.

Warwick Conferences celebrates 30th anniversary ahead of major refurbishment

Radcliffe, one of Warwick Conference’s award winning training and conference centres, will celebrate its 30th anniversary in November as it announces plans for a major refurbishment in 2017. Situated on the University of Warwick campus on the Coventry / Warwickshire border, Radcliffe was officially opened by the Rt. Hon Lord Scarman in 1986.

The training and conference venue has hosted a range of diverse events in the past 30 years, including the Labour Party Conference and FA Coaching Courses and has welcomed well-known faces such as Germaine Greer, Gordon Brown, Jason Manford, Paul Gascoigne and Sven Goran Erikson.

Rachael Bartlett, Head of Sales at Warwick Conferences, says: “It is fantastic to be celebrating Radcliffe’s 30th anniversary this year. Radcliffe has been the venue of choice for many companies over the years hosting a range of meetings, training sessions and events.

The upcoming refurbishment at Radcliffe, which is set to commence in 2017, is part of Warwick Conferences ongoing commitment to enhancing its facilities and improving the events solutions on offer for clients.

“We’re dedicated to continuously improving the event facilities and solutions we offer our clients and the investment in Radcliffe plays an important role in our ongoing commitment to enhance our facilities. The next few years are set to be very busy and exciting as we look ahead to this extensive refurbishment at Radcliffe, as well as the opening of our new £5.3m blank canvas venue in autumn this year.”

Plans are currently being finalised, but work will include a full electrical rewire, a new heating system, refurbishment of the bedroom bathrooms, public bathrooms and meeting and syndicate rooms, new external windows and a lounge refurbishment.

Lodders sponsors Stratford 10k for 7th year Local law firm Lodders has confirmed it is headline sponsor of the Stratford’s Big 10k race once again this year. 2016 is the seventh consecutive year the firm has supported the town’s annual running fundraiser, which takes place on Sunday 11th September. Organisers are expecting that about 1,500 runners will take part this year, and Lodders has been putting together its Big 10k team, headed by partner Steven Baker.

Charity partner of the Stratford 10k is again Shipston Home Nursing, which was founded in 1997. It is run by a team of qualified nurses specialising in palliative care who look after terminally ill people in their homes across rural South Warwickshire. Steven, partner in the firm’s real estate team, said: “The Big 10k is an important feature of Stratford’s annual events calendar, and Lodders is delighted to take a lead role once again in 2016 as a main sponsor of the event.”

(Left to right) James Mottram, Kate Higginson, Steven Baker, Maria Fitzgerald, Harry Edgington-Furlong, Nicola Eaton and Scott Parmenter.

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the music world

similar attitude to music and the industry, that they are going to continue performing together. The alternative rock band has just completed a UK tour – the College decided that they needed to support this up-andcoming band and gave them the opportunity to take advantage of this amazing experience – during which they supported the bands InMe and Press to Meco.

A band formed by music students at Stratford-upon-Avon College as part of their course is already making its mark in the music industry. Level 3 Music students at the College were assigned a practical project to form their own band, create their own music and schedule a tour. Quickly getting to work, four class mates joined forces with close friend Anil Kumar, naming their band Orcas-UK. The band members are: Tom Findlay, 19, Warwick – Drums and vocals Conor Bailie, 17 Rugby – Bass and vocals Ben Lindsay, 19 Coventry – Guitar and vocals Tom Beck, 20 Redditch – Guitar and vocals Anil Kumar – Keyboard and vocals The students bonded so well on their course, and discovered they share such a

The band has recently performed their single ‘Pulse’ (produced by Connor Ball, bassist for ‘The Vamps’ which is available now on iTunes. Now working as professional musicians, the band members have come a long way since starting their course. Tom said: “There’s no way we would be in this position if not for the College course. It’s really tested us and made us work really hard but the experience of getting to know each other and playing to so many live audiences has been amazing.” Claire Morley, Assistant Head of Department – Performing Arts and Music, commented: “I’m delighted, but not surprised, by their success. They are all passionate about their music, always worked hard and were perceptive to advice and suggestions. Individually they are all talented musicians, but together they became magic! I’m certain that this is just the beginning for Orcas-UK.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Burgis & Bullock

Multi award winning practice

Warwickshire based Chartered Accountants, Burgis & Bullock are a multi-award winning practice that have been looking after the needs of individuals, local companies and national businesses for nearly 130 years and are recognised as one of the leading regional firms of Chartered Accountants across the County. As part of the firm’s ongoing strategy for growth, they are currently updating their website with a fresh new look and a more user-friendly lay out and have recently opened an additional office in the beautiful town of Stratford Upon Avon. This new opening along with the existing offices

will strengthen the business and expand their expertise across the region. Wende Hubbard Managing Partner says, “the decision to open an office in Stratford was something we have wanted to do for a while as we look to enhance the services we provide across Coventry and Warwickshire. When we found the office in Elm Court on Arden Street, its central location was perfect and we are already generating work since we launched.” Their continued success stems from their approach to embrace change within the ever evolving business and finance industries whilst ensuring the core values

and ethos of the firm remains the same. The message is simple, to be approachable, enthusiastic and effective with clarity and transparency, so that clients knows their accountant is committed to their best interests. Wende continues “we pride ourselves on the service we provide to our clients and regularly encourage them to keep in touch with us. We like to think the clients see us as part of their team and not just the provider of a service. This is represented by our ongoing feedback which shows 95 percent of our client’s rate us as very good or excellent.” Burgis & Bullock have a wealth of specialities and expertise across the departments and with continuous training and development you can be certain to get the most up to date advice possible. Whether you wish to discuss setting up a business, selling a property, raising finance, inheritance tax or need specialist VAT assistance you can be sure to receive the best advice from the right person. One of the ways accountancy has developed recently is the introduction of Cloud accounting which enables businesses to have 24/7 visibility over their finances as well as enabling invoices

u o y p l e h e Can w r e t h g i r b a find ? e r u t fu

and payments to be created at any time on any device. There are many other benefits to moving onto cloud based platforms and anyone wanting to understand more are welcome to join Burgis & Bullock at one of their free cloud accounting seminars taking place at their offices from September. For more information regarding Burgis & Bullock services or events please refer to the website www.burgisbullock.com or contact one of our offices on 0845 177 5500.

“Their continued success stems from their approach to embrace change within the ever evolving business and finance industries whilst ensuring the core values and ethos of the firm remains the same.”

Sound Advice in an uncertain World When there is uncertainty you need someone you can trust – whatever the challenge – as multi-award winning Accountants you’ll be in safe hands with us. Burgis & Bullock are Chartered Accountants who offer more than basic accounting services. If you’d like to deal with a local firm who are not simply interested in your history, but are more focused on your future – your business growth, your ambitions, planning your retirement and making sure your assets are adequately protected, you need to talk to us. With over 125 years of helping Warwickshire businesses, our team of specialists are committed to your success and as members of TAG Alliances, one of the top three service associations in the world, we have access to international support when you need it most. So for help on securing your financial future, tax planning, raising finance, cloud accounting or simply keeping on the right side of HM Revenue and Customs, talk to us. Contact us today or visit our website for more information.

Tel: 0845 177 5500

@BurgisBullock

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

www.burgisbullock.com Offices in Leamington Spa, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Nuneaton, Leicester, London and Rugby.

Area Focus: Rugby Rugby’s newest neighbourhood gets underway The development of Houlton is picking up pace with homes beginning and the completion of a year-long infrastructure programme to create new roads and junctions, realignment of A428, landscaping and planting and the refurbishment of Dollman Farm. Marketing for the new homes will begin in Autumn as well as the opening of a Visitor Centre, café and community centre set in the courtyard of the old farm. The work is part of the opening phase of the RadioStation Rugby urban extension, a joint venture led by property development company Urban&Civic and their partners Aviva Investors. The 1,200 acre brownfield site, known locally as the old mast site, will be transformed over the next 15-20 years to create 6,200 new homes, three primary schools; a secondary school; an 8 GP health centre and a host of other community amenities, shops, businesses and open space. Early infrastructure is already underway to serve the new community at Houlton including; the first primary school which opens in September 2017 as a joint venture between the Diocese of Coventry and Urban&Civic, and the new link road connecting Houlton to the town starts in Spring next year, to be completed by the end of 2018. Johanne Thomas, Communities and Partnerships for Urban&Civic said; “It’s a really exciting time with so much happening and we would encourage people to come and visit us over the Autumn at Dollman Farm, enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat in our new café and have a look around our Visitor Centre. Whether you’re tempted by one of our first homes or just want to find out what’s going on then you’re more than welcome.” Davidsons Homes are building the first homes at Houlton and are registering interest now! Visit www.houltonrugby.co.uk to find out more.

Construction students’ success at SkillBuild competition

Rugby College construction students and apprentices excelled at the regional heats of a national construction skills competition. The four students, representing the college’s carpentry and joinery department,

visited South and City College in Birmingham College to take part in the Skillbuild competition, pitting their talents against the best students from across the West Midlands. Javed Mohammed won first place in the Level 3 Bench Joinery competition, Vijay Canesh was awarded third place in the Level 3 Carpentry competition while Paul Edmonds was awarded first place in the Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery section. Ben Tompkins, a Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery student was also chosen to take part due to his excellent results on his course. The students now have to wait to see if their scores are among the best in the country – and if they are they will be invited to the national finals which will take place at The Skills Show at the NEC in November. Javed, 40, is an engineering apprentice at Jaguar Land Rover in Gaydon. He said, “It was the first time I’ve done anything like this so I was a bit stressed to begin with. The competition took six hours and I thought I had done OK but when I heard I had won I was shocked, but really pleased at the same time.” Javed was also awarded the Construction Trades Student of the Year award at the recent Rugby College Student Awards.

Paul, 22 from Rugby said, “This was my first competition and when the time was up I felt I had done my best and completed the most work out of all the competitors, so I thought I had a good chance. When they read my name out I was really happy to have won.” John Billings, lecturer in construction at Rugby College said, “We are really proud of all the students who took part in the competition - they did a fantastic job in what can be a very stressful environment and were a credit to the college.”

“We are really proudof all the students who took part in thecompetition - they did a fantastic job inwhat can be a very stressful environmentand were a credit to the college.”

Rugby mayor opens new safety training centre Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber member First Class Safety launched its new training and conference centre in Rugby with an official opening by the Mayor of Rugby, Cllr Sally Bragg FCS Centre is situated five minutes from Junction 1 of the M6. First Class Safety provides accredited courses for a full range of safety requirements such as forklift, manual handling, first aid and fire training. Managing director Ian Cook, who established the business six years ago, said: “We have opened the FCS Centre because off-site training is really powerful for businesses.

"People can relax and concentrate more when they are away from their normal place of work. It makes the training more effective and long lasting in its impact, and therefore even better value”. The opening of the new facility coincides with the launch of the company's new corporate identity and website, all of which has been designed and delivered by Rugbybased marketing agency CC Ltd. Director Mickey Clarke also helped with the launch event and she said: “It's a really exciting time for Ian and his team. FCS are able to offer so much, and we've aimed to bring across all their core

HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING THE WAY IT SHOULD BE

services on a website that is distinctive and stylish while remaining clear and functional.” Mayor Sally Bragg declared the FCS Centre open at a business breakfast launch event, which saw talks from two guest speakers. Paul Miles Rogers of PBC Bottomley & Co talked about how to identify trigger events that could lead to business issues. Rich Warren then gave delegates an insight into the help on offer to businsses from the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership Growth Hub. “It’s wonderful to see a business like FCS doing well”, said Cllr Bragg.

Are YOU following the law and approved codes of practice in your business? Our new versatile and comfortable training and conference centre is now available for hire in Rugby.

FCS is a fully integrated occupational health and safety consultancy and training provider based in Rugby, Warwickshire. • Mechanical Handling Training • First Aid Training • Conference Facility • Health & Safety (IOSH/NEBOSH) • Fire Safety Training • Coming soon HR Training

First Class Safety, Unit 6C Midland Trading Estate, Consul Road, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 1PB 01788 569774 info@fcsafety.co.uk www.fcsafety.co.uk

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Education

Your success is our goal At Coventry University College (CUC), your success is our goal; which is why we offer flexible learning opportunities such as Saturday University, helping you to complete your degree, by studying one day a week, in just three years. With a variety of subjects available, including Management and Leadership, Law, Sales and Marketing and Accounting and start dates available in October, January, April and June, you’re sure to find a course to suit you. Plus, student finance is available to help cover the cost of your tuition fees. Not looking for a full degree? Our professional courses are available to further your current career or start your progression onto another. Offering courses ranging from Level 2 to Level 6, with some courses lasting as little as 10 weeks, whatever your circumstances, there is a starting point for everyone. With formal qualifications not always required for entry, and student finance available for some courses, our professional qualifications can help you to build on new and existing skills. Join us at our upcoming Open Events on Saturday 15th October and Tuesday 1st November, where you can meet our staff, see our facilities and find out more about our available courses.

Thinking of taking on an apprentice we're here to help Warwickshire College Group is central to the economic success of our area, making a positive impact and providing the skilled workers that industry needs. Apprenticeships offer businesses an effective route to harness fresh, new talent and can help organisations to increase productivity, improve competitive advantage and ensure they have a committed and competent workforce to meet future challenges. Our apprenticeship programme is the key to delivering this ambition. Did you know... • We work with over 900 employers, national and local, large and small • Over 2,000 apprentices train with us every year • Our apprenticeship success rate is well above the national average • 83% are in technical subjects such as engineering, construction, veterinary nursing, farriery, furniture crafts, agricultural engineering and IT • 10% of our apprenticeships are at degree level We are really proud of our apprenticeship programmes, but we want to do more. If you are thinking about hiring an apprentice then contact us today. We offer a bespoke solution that makes it easy to take on apprentices, handling all administration and training arrangements as well as mentoring each apprentice. Email info@warwickshire.ac.uk or call 0300 456 0046

The importance of education Never has the need for developing the skills of new and established staff been more apparent for businesses as the economy works to tackle challenges including the skills gap. Many business and economic support agencies have identified training and Continuous Professional Development as playing a key role in helping companies to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them. They argue that well-trained staff are able to better support their employer as well as identify opportunities and bring forward fresh ideas because they have been exposed to different ways of thinking.

It’s a joined up process and it begins with schools, colleges and universities who aim to motivate and support young people to raise their levels of achievement and aspiration, gain relevant workrelated skills and develop an understanding of the world of work. Education, training and business sectors have always been important partners as they seek to produce the next generation of young people and support older workers working to develop their skills. To that end, they have formed mutually beneficial partnerships to ensure that not only provides leavers of the education sector with the right skills, but that employers are also being given

access to young people who better fit into their business. Education does not stop when you leave college or university, it is a lifelong process. Training providers have the vital skills to maintain this culture throughout the working lives of employees. All provide a fresh approach to working with business, focusing on building positive, long-term partnerships. Training falls into two categories, the re-training of people for new roles and the training of those already in jobs who wish to develop their skills further. A key part of the training is teaching practical skills, everything from understanding changes in legislation to keeping on top of effective customer service, but

training companies also help employees recognise opportunities when they see them. That could be anything from tapping into new markets to coming up with ways of making sure that their employer makes inroads into foreign markets. Sometimes, the opportunity to step aside from the day job and spend time in a training session or on a course can have dramatic outcomes. Coventry & Warwickshire is rich in nationally recognised providers and we are highlighting a selection for you in this special Education & Training Feature. We would highly recommend engaging with the following to the benefit of your company.

Preparing young learners for the future Hereward is a college for young people with disabilities and additional needs based in Coventry. Since 1971 we have been offering inclusive provision and specialist facilities for both day and residential learners with complex disabilities and learning difficulties. Our vision is to prepare our learners for the next stage of their lives, providing them with

outstanding employability skills and greater control over their future. We have a focus on creating independent individuals who can make more of their own decisions about work, education, health and living. We have extensive partnerships with employers and an expanding supported internship study programme. The internships build upon all the skills that the young people have developed in college

and extend them even further in real work situations. Since 2013, Hereward College has taken part in National Grid’s EmployAbility programme which has resulted in high levels of learner and employer satisfaction and excellent employment outcomes. Significant work undertaken by The Employment Support Service (part of Coventry City Council’s

Employment Team) and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) led to the 2015 launch of ‘Changing Futures Together’ a new supported internship programme at UHCW. Hereward are now collaborating with Airwave Solutions, Severn Trent Water and Whitefriars Housing Group, who all launched their placement schemes at the beginning of September 2016.

WMG’s SME Leadership Programme Open for Business WMG, at the University of Warwick, has developed a cutting edge Innovation Business Leadership (IBL) programme for SMEs, that equips leaders with management knowhow to sustain long term growth. Now in its third year, WMG is welcoming applications from business leaders and managers to join the programme which will start again in October. Dr Barry Winter, course leader said: “In such challenging political and economic times, now

more than ever, business leaders need to build their knowledge to allow them to innovate and compete. Our programme unveils a range of theories and models that have the potential to transform the productivity and performance of small businesses. We also provide a platform for leaders to network and link with WMG’s research and technology expertise” John Rowley of Warwickshire based contract electronics firm SMT Developments was appointed as Managing Director, a month

after finishing the programme in 2015. He attributes his success to the leadership skills he developed. “The Innovation Business Leadership programme opened my eyes to a range of new technologies and innovative tools that we can use to create new products and services at SMT. It helped me realise the great potential the business has. I also met some fantastic people from other sectors that have been extremely inspirational.”

Improve performance Management and and profitability with Leadership for you bespoke training courses

Stratford-upon-Avon College offers businesses a wide range of cost-effective opportunities to improve performance and profitability. We work with over 500 employers through apprenticeship programmes and delivery of employee training. Providing a tailor-made combination of employers’ onthe-job training and collegebased leaning, apprenticeships enable employers to maintain a skilled, qualified workforce and to improve efficiency and productivity. You benefit from employing hard-working, highly motivated apprentices who can bring new ideas and innovation to your business and are eager to learn your company’s ethos and specific working practices, and from the guidance provided by our experienced advisors who

will ensure your specific business needs are fully met. The College also offers an extensive range of cost-effective training solutions for upskilling staff and management training all delivered by industry experts, from Open Course programmes to work-place training at your own premises, and bespoke training courses developed through close collaboration with your company, all with the support of a dedicated team who will ensure you get the training package that best meets your needs. “Delivered by supportive professionals who understand the sector, the College’s courses are informative and provide essential knowledge to learners.” Way-a-Head Support Services, April 2016

• All our trainers have been Midlands Training & Development (MidlandsTD) rigorously assessed and trained specialise in providing expert to the highest standards Health + Care and businessfocused training solutions for the • We are uniquely placed to deliver accredited in-house and region, working in partnership to effectively support you and your non-accredited management organisational needs. programmes MidlandsTD stand out because... • We provide the tools, guidance • We work in partnership with and knowledge your managers the Chartered Management need to excel Institute (CMI), the only We also have an open chartered body dedicated to raising the standards of programme ideally suited for management and leadership organisations who have smaller • We are one of a select number numbers of staff who require of organisations chosen by the management training. CMI to offer the Exemption route for Chartered Manager If you’re an individual interested status and formal recognition of in management development we CPD also have a range of supported • We have the infrastructure and distance learning programmes for experience to deliver tailored First Line, Middle and Strategic programmes to meet your training objectives levels. Please contact us on 024 7679 6422 or email us at info@midlandstd.co.uk for more information about management and leadership programmes for your business.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Education

A national provider of vocational and work based training With more than 20 years in the training industry, TQ Training have earned a reputation for helping businesses and their employees gain the qualifications they need to succeed. Vocational & Work Based Training is our specialty From the first phone call or consultation, you’ll see that TQ are about more than training. We are focussed about helping you to succeed and providing training specifically tailored to your requirements and needs. We will give you all the time you need, answer all of your questions and work with you to develop an understanding of your situation so we can develop the perfect training plan for you. We will advise you of any government funding available to you to help maximise your training budget. Don’t just take our word for it, our client’s feel the same and our recent survey results show that: • 80% of our customers were highly likely to recommend TQ • 74% of our customers said we provided high quality training • 78% of our customers said we were extremely professional when delivering their training

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We can offer the following training opportunities: Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships are a time honoured tradition of combining nationally recognised qualifications in line with real jobs. Our offer is available to new recruits or existing staff in the following subject areas: • Customer Service, Business Administration, Team Leading, Management, Health and Social Care. Online Distance Learning Courses: Our new online distance learning courses are a popular and flexible way for your staff to gain nationally recognised qualifications over a short period of time without having to incur the cost of releasing staff for training. Our offer is available in the following subject areas: • Customer Service, Business Administration, Team Leading, Equality & Diversity and Information, Advice or Guidance. For further information about our training courses and how we can help your business please contact our Business Development Team on: Tel: 01788 892058 Email: employers@tqtraining.co.uk www.tqtraining.co.uk

Education

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Education

ONLINE TRAINING FOR YOUR STAFF

We are pleased to announce our brand new range of online short courses, available to enhance the skills and knowledge of your staff in a variety of different subjects. Time is precious and that releasing staff for training and development can sometimes prove challenging. We are offering your staff the chance to gain a qualification online through our new distance learning, short courses. This popular method of gaining a qualification offers ease of use and flexibility. Employees can improve their knowledge of a subject area without you incurring the additional costs of releasing staff for training.

Benefits • • • • •

Funding is currently available* meaning no charge to you or your staff Avoid incurring costs of releasing staff for training Boost your employees confidence and motivation Nationally recognised and approved Level 2 courses Can lead to further qualifications such as Apprenticeships and NVQ’s

How does it work?

Location

Certification

These courses are available online using any internet enabled device. Achieve a nationally recognised qualification at Level 2 with NCFE.

Further Information:

Duration

Costs

Our courses are achieved over a period of 12 weeks. Funding may be available subject to eligibility criteria and availability.

We are now enrolling. Contact the Business Development Team on: Tel: 01788 892058 | Email: employers@tqtraining.co.uk | Web: www.tqtraining.co.uk

Develop your current and future leaders and managers with Midlands Training and Development, where professional development and business success are our twin passions. Contact us so that we can tailor your programme to meet your needs and the priorities of your organisation: we combine high quality, expert training with flexible delivery methods to ensure you are successful and stay ahead in a tough economic environment. We also have the following open courses: • 6S Productivity Suite • IOSH Managing Safely Certificate • Ensuring Good Governance • NEW - CMI Level 4 Introduction to Management Styles

024 7679 6422 info@midlandstd.co.uk www.midlandstd.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Mary Ann Evans Hospice Chief Exec Liz Hancock receiving her CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership from MidlandsTD Commercial Director Clare McKenzie

Education and Development

A milestone career move – how the Aston MBA has improved my confidence in the boardroom Helen’s MBA studies have given her the edge to succeed in a new role. When Helen Milanes Tidmarsh earned her promotion to Operations Director at Birmingham consultancy firm Magic Milestones the role brought her fresh challenges. She went in search of something to develop her business skills and found the Aston MBA. What did you want to get from an MBA? With a new role as Operations Director, I had reached a point in my career where I wanted to widen my business knowledge. I was looking for something that would help my career by giving me a good solid knowledge across all areas of business management.

How did you decide which MBA was right for you? I wanted to pick a school that offered flexible study options. It was important for me that I would be able to fit my studies around work and family commitments, so the online path was best for me.

“I was looking for something that would help my career by giving me a good solid knowledge across all areas of business management.”

Aston Business School has an excellent reputation and the company I work for has a great relationship with Aston University through Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses programme.

What has your experience studying at Aston been like? All the modules I have studied have been really interesting and well taught. The week-long residential was the highlight of my experience though. It was a chance meet everyone in person and the activities arranged were excellent.

What’s next for you? I’ve been able to bring new business skills and a deeper knowledge to work with me. I can now take part in financial reviews in our board meetings because I understand the figures and have the confidence to discuss them. It’s been an amazing opportunity and I am using what I have learnt on a daily basis. I know that studying the MBA at Aston is opening up a whole new world of possibilities for my future career as well.

Find out more The Aston MBA is delivered across Full-Time, Online and Executive Part-Time study routes, all designed to give you the edge to succeed. To find out more, contact our MBA recruitment manager at mba@aston.ac.uk or call 0121 204 3100.

“The week-long residential was the highlight of my experience though. It was a chance meet everyone in person and the activities arranged were excellent.”

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Festive

Making the right decisions for that big festive event

Summer may only just be coming to an end but it’s the time of year when people are already thinking about booking that all-important Christmas Party. A good Christmas Party can do wonders for staff morale, which is crucial in these uncertain times, and the chance of finding the best venue for your needs is very high indeed as long as you take care in preparing the groundwork. The area is blessed with excellent restaurants, hotels and other venues that can stage the best parties possible, taxi companies that can get you home or hotels and guest houses should you decide to spend the night. So how do you know how to select the best venue? Well, it’s all down to first impressions - do you like the décor,

does it look like it can generate a good atmosphere, are the staff friendly? It is crucial to selecting venues that make everyone feel welcome. Older staff members might not appreciate a busy pub, younger ones might not want a restaurant whose clientele are normally on the older side. It’s worth putting a bit of thought into making a choice that strikes the right balance. Choosing the right menu is important as well. People like choice so even though most guests will go for the traditional Christmas meal, it’s a good idea to make sure there is an alternative - and definitely a vegetarian option. Also, people like to be appreciated. Maybe your staff and suppliers have gone over and beyond what was expected of them to help the business.

A good boss knows to acknowledge that at the Christmas party. Maybe a tribute in a short speech or a thank you note on place settings would be a good idea. And, yes times, have been tough for some, yes, budgets have been tight, but a cheap party looks cheap so if you are a boss who is determined to hold one, loosen the purse-strings a little - err on the side of generous and your staff will appreciate the gesture. However, for some people a straightforward party is not enough and there is a growing trend for something a bit more ambitious to celebrate the festive period. Themed parties can work really well so consider what will generate the most goodwill and what kind of event will appeal to most people. That could mean bringing in specialist companies to dress up venues to mimic everything from Thirties America to spaceage celebrations. Anything is possible. Whatever you fancy venues or specialist events companies can oblige, providing the right décor and costumes and guaranteeing the right ambience. Such events could happen everywhere from hotels and restaurants to marquees in gardens – it does not really matter where because venues and events companies are adept at making magic happen. All you need to bring is that initial spark of imagination and they can make the rest happen. Featured here are some distinctive venues to host your festive events.

Celebrate this festive season at Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel Macdonald Ansty Hall is a grade II listed Georgian house set in 8 acres of grounds and one of the finest 4-star hotels in Warwickshire. Set in the heart of Shakespeare Country, the hotel offers fantastic views of the rolling countryside, delicious food, fine wine and the warmest of welcomes. Christmas here is truly magical. Why not join us for one of our Christmas party nights throughout November and December? Enjoy a festive 3 course feast with friends, family and colleagues before putting on your dancing shoes and sparkling on the dance floor. Hold your own exclusive party in our Orangery Suite or Rose Room or alternatively join one of our mixed party nights. Prices start from £29.95 per adult with all bookings confirmed by the end of September receiving a further 10% off the price. Fancy making a night of it? Discounted accommodation is available to all our party guests and includes the full Macdonald Hotels breakfast. Call one of our Christmas Coordinators on 02476 612 222 or email sales.anstyhall@macdonald-hotels.co.uk.

Sherbourne Park Classic elegance for festive entertaining Sherbourne Park is the ideal location for corporate entertaining over the Christmas party season.

You can have exclusive use of the house itself or our self-contained meeting / dining suite with in-house chef. Hire the house to entertain overseas visitors in style or to come back to and relax. We have open fires in the downstairs rooms and a real country house atmosphere. Easy access to local transport links saves valuable travelling time. We offer a flexible timetable to suit your requirements and over 1000 acres including woodland and the River Avon for recreation. For further information call our events team on 01926 624 215 e-mail: sherbournelcsa@aol.com or visit www.sherbournepark.com

... a little bit of something different …

Me e t • D in e • R e la x • In flu e n c e Parties for Christmas ‘winter wonderland’ in December • Exclusive Hire • Private Functions • 10 distinctive meeting and syndicate rooms • Free parking • Bar facilities

• Free Wifi • Stunning Warwickshire countryside view • Excellent customer service • Convenient location close to M6, M1, M69 & A45

Get in touch:- 02476 621 899

Nettle Hill Brinklow Road Ansty Coventry CV7 9JL

www.nettlehill.co.uk

Not just a room The Welcome Centre is delighted to introduce its latest addition to its meeting room portfolio… “Cre 8” new meeting room… is not just a room but a space to generate ideas and stimulate minds. “Cre 8” comes with magnetic section walls, so there is no need for white tack on walls, unlimited teas, coffees, herbal teas, and a selection of soft drinks, plus candy bar and health bar, comfy lounge sofas, coffee table furniture, LCD projector and screen, games selection all making your meetings more relaxed and informal whilst stimulating and productive.

Cre 8 extensive and flexible facilities make it the perfect venue for all occasions. Please contact us on 024 7622 6064 for more information about Cre 8 and how to book or email info@thewelomecentre.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Celebrate this festive season at Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel Join us for one of our Christmas party nights throughout November and December. Enjoy a festive 3 course feast with friends, family and colleagues before putting on your dancing shoes and sparkling on the dance floor. Hold your own exclusive party in our Orangery Suite or Rose Room or alternatively join one of our mixed party nights. Prices start from £29.95 per adult with all bookings confirmed by the end of September receiving a further 10% off the price. Fancy making a night of it? Discounted accommodation is available to all our party guests and includes the full Macdonald Hotels breakfast. Call one of our Christmas Coordinators on 02476 612 222 or email sales.anstyhall@macdonald-hotels.co.uk.

Christmas here is truly magical. Ansty, nr Coventry CV7 9HZ

SHERBOURNE PARK Impressive Grade II listed Georgian house The perfect venue for corporate events

Facilities include: • Exclusive accommodation in the house itself • Private self-contained meeting / dining suite / in-house chef • Three croquet lawns ideal for corporate team-building • Heated swimming pool June-August • Tennis Court • Choice of Marquee sites • Parking for up to 250 cars • Easy access to the M40, NEC, airport and rail network Within 20 minutes of Birmingham Airport and NEC Sherbourne Park is a perfect centre for entertaining visitors to exhibitions and from overseas. _________________________________________________________________________ Sherbourne Park, Warwick, CV35 8AP 01926 624 215 e-mail: sherbournelcsa@aol.com website www.sherbournepark.com

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Celebrating 21 years of support for local community projects Since 1995, The Heart of England Community Foundation has awarded more than £10.5 million in grants to 3,383 projects based in Coventry & Warwickshire. In the past financial year, the area received grants to the value of £210,317, supporting projects that touched the lives of more than 46,000 local people. The Foundation works closely with the business community helping to deliver their CSR activity; Band Hatton Button organised their second charity ball for them this year at Coombe Abbey. From the funds raised at their last ball their

staff chose a number of projects to support, one being a dance club for children with disabilities. The team at Arthur J Gallagher have also raised funds that have gone on to help develop a café at a local foodbank. Funds raised by local business have helped homeless projects, sports clubs, toddler groups and lunch clubs to name but a few. They are also the chosen charity of Deeley Group, who organised 80 years of business by organising an 80 mile charity cycle ride, one team being from PR agency Advent.

Manufacturer uses Augmented Reality to protect IP A Midlands design engineering business has introduced a new way for manufacturers to protect their intellectual property (IP), by harnessing augmented reality. MarchantCain has developed its own application, which makes it possible to share Computer Aided Design (CAD) models in real size, and in 3-D, but without giving away valuable IP. The company’s innovative new method utilises augmented reality to bounce a design file off a target, in order to generate a real life visualisation of a product, which is relative to the size of the part.

The design can then be manipulated and viewed in detail. And to keep the file secure, the target can be locked down to an individual computer IP address to trigger it to shut down when accessed by a different device. The company’s Managing Director, Rob Marchant, said: “The problem with sharing a CAD file is that, although they can deliver detail and allow designs to be manipulated, they are also very easy to copy, and can leak IP. Our method converts the CAD model into a visualisation that can be connected to an individual computer IP address. It can still be spun around, enlarged and

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A Warwickshire business leader who walked for more than 22 hours straight, shedding all ten toenails in the process, has raised more than £1,000 for canine charity, Dogs for Good. Rebecca Fahy, Managing Director at Jigsaw CCS, took part in the London to Brighton walk, which saw just 1,256 people complete the gruelling challenge out of the more than 3,000 who started.

manipulated like a CAD file, but because it is generated by augmented reality, it does not carry any of the IP that would come across in a normal CAD file.”

Content Marketing agency celebrates contract extension The Lead Ingredient, a content marketing and lead regeneration agency based in Stratford upon Avon, is celebrating a contract extension with one of its clients. Westside Drinks, part of Fuller’s, are a premium and craft beer and cider importer and distributor and have been working with The Lead Ingredient to generate sales leads through content marketing and improving their digital presence. Chris Proud, Managing Director of the lead Ingredient, said: “After an enormously successful campaign, which saw a number of new account openings across the UK, we are delighted to continue our relationship with Westside Drinks.

Businesswoman endures blood, sweat and blisters for charity

“We will now be working with them to ramp up their content marketing activity and introduce their great brands to more pubs, restaurants and hotels across the country.” George MacNichol, Marketing Manager at Westside Drinks, said: “Our work with The Lead Ingredient has produced real results and allowed us to open new accounts across the UK. We are now doubling our content efforts and investing in new channels which we believe will increase our inbound enquiries.” The Lead Ingredient specialise in developing content marketing programmes for businesses wishing to improve their digital footprint and generate inbound enquiry.

Rebecca said: “As a keen walker, this is undoubtedly the hardest challenge I have ever undertaken. Not only was it physically tiring, walking for nearly 24 hours, but during that time you really need to draw upon mental focus, which was really tough.” The endurance walk saw Rebecca complete the challenging 100km walk in 22 hours and 37 minutes, ranking 428th out of 1,256. Jigsaw CCS is showing no signs of stopping there, with the London to Brighton walk being only the first charity challenge the company will be undertaking this year, as it celebrates its tenth anniversary. Dogs for Good works to bring increased independence and companionship to many people through their highly trained assistance dogs for physically disabled children, adults and for families that have a child with autism. Those wishing to donate can do so by visiting Rebecca’s Virgin Money page: www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RebeccaFahy

President & People

Reasons to be optimistic in uncertain times Over the summer months, we have witnessed a slowdown of activity. Some have said this is a post Brexit reaction, but I believe it’s just the seasonal variation that we usually experience at this time of year.

great if more of our local businesses won these tenders? I strongly urge you to visit the Chamber website to find out more! So, where are we at after Brexit? We effectively have a new UK Government, when you consider the number of new appointments to many of the senior roles. It will be interesting to see what this year’s Autumn Statement brings. In particular, I am curious to hear the views on personal taxation. As individuals, we are being taxed from all sources. You only need to consider the hidden tax we pay when we go on holiday – it’s incredible.

It’s fascinating - now we know Brexit is our future, our nation’s people are just getting on with it. Many business people that I have spoken to since the referendum result are positive and upbeat about the opportunities that will follow. Like our Olympic team, Britain is a nation of winners and will overcome any challenges we face. One opportunity for businesses across our area is HS2. There is a clear desire for local businesses to benefit from the various contracts that will be up for tender. The team at the Chamber can help members to identify and access these opportunities.

Dear member, Doesn’t time fly! Hope you enjoyed the holiday season and are looking forward to what the rest of 2016 will bring!

Adam Brown is appointed Executive Chef at Mallory Court The Eden Hotel Collection has announced that Adam Brown has been appointed Executive Chef at Mallory Court Hotel in Leamington Spa. Adam joins the hotel from Brockencote Hall Hotel in Worcestershire – also part of the Eden Hotel Collection – where he has been Head Chef for five years. Adam’s appointment at Mallory Court Hotel comes at an exciting time. Aside from heading up the hotel’s flagship restaurant, The Dining Room, which has 3 AA Rosettes, Adam will also oversee The Brasserie, the hotel’s casual dining option. The hotel is also opening a new luxury Elan Spa in the spring of 2017 which will include an all-day dining option serving fresh, seasonal menus. Completing the picture is the flourishing conference and wedding business at the hotel, which will also be overseen by Adam. Adam brings a wealth of experience with him to Mallory Court, having trained in prestigious - and Michelin-starred - kitchens across the country, from Restaurant Gordon Ramsay to Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham. Having previously worked as Sous Chef at Mallory Court Hotel, Adam was then appointed Head Chef of The Arden Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, before becoming Head Chef at Brockencote Hall Hotel in Worcestershire in 2011. Adam said: “Returning to Mallory Court at such a key time in the hotel’s development is a real opportunity.” Mark Chambers, Managing Director, Eden Hotel Collection, said: “This new appointment is due recognition of the exceptional culinary flair and passion that Adam demonstrates on a daily basis in the kitchen.”

As you are aware, the Chamber is the voice for business and lobbies on behalf of its members. So, if there is anything you would like to raise in advance of the Autumn Statement, we can make sure that our local MP’s are aware and can take these issues to Parliament.

The Chamber can also help you to identify public sector contract opportunities. The public sector spends in excess of £1 billion in Coventry and Warwickshire. This includes Local Authorities, Health, Police, Highways Agency and a host of other organisations. Wouldn’t it be

I would like use this column as an opportunity to remind members of a couple of key events coming up. To prepare for our forthcoming Business & Trade Expo (taking place on Friday 4th November at the NAEC

in Stoneleigh), we have our expo launch event on Friday 30th September at Wroxall Abbey. Come along at 11.30am to hear from a panel of marketing experts who will share their need-to-know tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. You’ll find out how to promote, prepare and present your business at the Expo! With over 200 exhibitors and 600 visitors expected, our expo is not to be missed. Visit www.cwexpo.co.uk for more details. Also, if you haven’t yet booked your place at our Annual Conference, please email events@cwchamber.co.uk. The conference is taking place on Friday 14th October at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. We have some fantastic keynote speakers - Michael Portillo and Checkatrade founder Kevin Byrne. I hope to see you all at the Annual Conference. In the meantime, if you have any business related issues, please contact me directly on president@cwchamber.co.uk so that we can get your message across to the right people! Paul Carvell

BDO Midlands promotes Tim Foster to partner Accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP has announced the promotion of nine new partners across the UK, including Tim Foster, who heads up the firm’s Risk and Advisory Services (RAS) team in the Midlands. Warwickshire-based Tim joined BDO in 2013 from KPMG. He has considerable experience of providing internal audit, corporate governance and risk management solutions to a portfolio of leading organisations throughout the UK and the world across a number of sectors, including manufacturing, retail, TMT, construction and housing.

Tim has more than 17 years’ experience in leading on assignments across multiple countries and regions and has a track record of successfully helping clients to manage their risks and to streamline controls and processes to focus on their priorities. Richard Rose, lead partner for the Midlands said: “Tim’s internal promotion to partner shows how our local growth story creates opportunities for talented people. We hope to be making more local senior promotions in the near future as the BDO Midlands team goes from strength to strength in all areas of our business.”

Law firm recruits business immigration specialist A vastly experienced and top ranked immigration lawyer has returned to his roots to become head of business immigration at law firm Wright Hassall. Matthew Davies has amassed more than 20 years of experience in the field of business immigration and succeeds Marian Dixon, who is retiring as a partner from Wright Hassall following eight years at the Leamington-based firm. Davies, who is originally from Coventry, has been appointed at Wright Hassall after more than two decades working in London. He joins from Fox Williams in the City where for the past nine years he has been head of business immigration. The Oxford University graduate is recognised as a leading expert in business immigration by Chambers and Partners Guide to the Legal Profession, Legal 500 and The International Who’s Who of Business Lawyers.

Matthew said: “I’m excited to have joined Wright Hassall to lead the firm’s business immigration team and be part of its strategic growth plan.” Ian Besant, head of the firm’s People Services group, added: “Matthew is a great addition to our top ranked business immigration team which will continue to flourish and grow under his leadership, and we are looking forward to welcoming him to Wright Hassall at an exciting time in the firm’s development. “Marian has built a strong immigration team during her time with the firm and, as she moves into

retirement, she should be extremely proud of the practice which she has developed. “

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

President & People

Honour for David

A leading business figure has been awarded an MBE for services to Coventry and Warwickshire.

David Shortland, who runs several property firms in the city, spearheaded the £17 million redevelopment of the Belgrade Theatre where he served as a director and chairman for ten years and remains an honour ambassador. David, who was born and educated in the city, has also been a member of the Coventry University Business School Advisory Board, a board member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Champions and chairman of the Associate Directors at Coventry City – who he has supported since childhood.

He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Coventry University in 2006 in recognition of his services to the regeneration of the city and two years ago was presented with a Good Citizen Award by Coventry City Council. He said: “I have, through my work, been able to help contribute to the development of the city and hope that my other interests have had a positive impact in some way on the city. “I have been fortunate enough to be involved in some really interesting projects outside work which have hopefully brought benefits to the city and Coventry

people but I have become involved because I think they can bring improvements.” David, who was educated at King Henry VIII School, joined surveyors Robinson, Osborne and Moules, rising to become a main board director of owners Hambro Countrywide Plc. He founded estate agents Shortland Horne in 1995 followed by commercial property agents Shortland Penn + Moore, and land development firm Bluemark. He is married to Paula and has three daughters, three granddaughters and one grandson.

Accolade for culture bid leader The man who is leading Coventry’s bid for UK City of Culture in 2021 has been recognised in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list. David Burbidge has been awarded a CBE for services to cultural philanthropy in the West Midlands - especially in Coventry and Warwickshire. David is the chairman of Burbidge and Son Ltd, a 148year-old family-owned company which manufactures quality kitchen furniture at two factories in Coventry. He is a champion of the arts and is the chairman of the executive group for the bid for Coventry to become the 2021 UK City of Culture.

David, who is Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, was chairman of Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre until 2008 and led the venue through a major management change and a successful £14m capital project. Until recently he was also main board member of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and was the chairman of the Central Campaign for the £112m transformation of the RSC theatres at Stratford upon Avon. More recently he has been the champion for the £4.5m campaign for restoration of the Swan Wing at the theatre. David was also the founding Chairman of the Coventry Cathedral Development Trust, which raised more than £5m

for the Cathedral ministry and for endowment. He was recently given the Coventry Award of Merit for ‘outstanding service to the economic and cultural life of the city’. David said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive a CBE for my services to cultural philanthropy in the West Midlands. I have always had a strong interest in arts and culture and look forward to continuing to being involved with this sector.” Catherine Mallyon, Executive Director of the RSC said: "David has been an enormously active and effective supporter of the RSC and arts and culture in our region for many years.”

Ian Flavell, a partner at Midlands law firm Lodders, has been elected as the new Chairman for the Warwickshire branch of the Country Landowners Association (CLA), which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses. Based at Lodders’ Stratford upon Avon office, Ian is a partner in the firm’s top ranking Agriculture and Landed Estates teams and also a member of its specialist Equine Law team.

WASPS Netball unveil new Director of Netball & Superleague plans

(left to right) David Armstrong, chief executive officer of Wasps rugby club, new Wasps Director of Netball Tamsin Greenway and Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Director of Sport & Active Communities at University of Warwick.

Wasps have officially launched a new netball operation and unveiled one of the top figures in the sport as their new Director of Netball. Tamsin Greenway, currently the coach of the England under-21 team, has signed up for Wasps Netball which will compete in Vitality Netball Superleague, from February 2017. Greenway, who played for Surrey Storm and then last year coached them to the Superleague title, has competed

in three World Cups and one Commonwealth Games and won back-to-back national elite Superleague titles with Storm. The creation of Wasps Netball, which will play its home games in the Ricoh Arena’s Jaguar Exhibition Hall, comes after Wasps were named as one of three new teams to compete in the Superleague. The new venture is not only designed to be a force in the national game, but also to increase Wasps community

Lodders’ partner is new chairman for CLA Warwickshire

programme which engaged with more than 50,000 youngsters across the region last year. David Armstrong, chief executive officer of Wasps rugby club, said: “This is really exciting news for the region, the city of Coventry and netball as a sport.” Tasmin Greenway “I am thrilled and excited about joining Wasps Netball. It's a real honour to be part of such a fantastic organisation and I look forward to the huge challenge of developing a brand new Superleague team.”

He has spent most of his professional life providing succession and tax advice to landed estates and farmers, and specialises in estate and tax planning, trusts and wills for owners and trustees of landed estates and farmers, and advises on heritage property. Previously a member of the CLA's taxation committee, Ian is also a member of the Agricultural Law Association, the Society of Trust and Estates Practitioners (STEP) and the Solicitors for the Elderly. He is named as a specialist in the field of Agriculture & Rural Affairs by Chambers and Partners. Ian said: “Services that are taken for granted by those that live in our cities and towns are not always available to those who live and work in the countryside, and this is not acceptable in the modern day.”

Student entrepreneur wins award for dog delights Hereward College student Bethany Braithwaite has been awarded the top prize by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), winning £150 for her unique business idea of offering dog owners a gift pack of treats and helpful tips. The FSB in Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull launched the award to celebrate and recognise local students who show a flair for enterprise. Open to students aged 16-19, or those under 25 who have special educational needs, and are studying at one of the participating colleges in the local area, were asked to demonstrate how enterprising they are, by showcasing either a current business that they run and is making a profit, www.cw-chamber.co.uk

or a concept that could be turned into a successful venture. Beth’s business ‘Doggy Delights’ offers pet owners, for less than £5, a pick ‘n’ mix treat bag that includes a toy, a health product, a booklet with recipes, veterinary & training practice, along with a useful product for the owners, such as a paw cleaning cloth for the lucky pooch. Starting from creating a small business idea as part of their business course, which included creating a mock website, the project evolved into three Hereward students submitting their concepts to the FSB, with Bethany emerging as the winner. Beth said: “It is a real shock to receive this award, but I’m very proud of my

achievement. It has given me a lot of confidence that it could actually work outside of a college project and to take the innovation forward.” Ian O’Donnell, FSB Warwickshire & Coventry Chairman, said: “We know just how creative students can be, and we want to encourage students from all areas of education to look at self-employment and enterprise as a real career opportunity, whether that be in professional services, catering, building or the arts…we want this award to help them to be work ready and to understand what it takes to make a successful business, from the concept and ideas phase right through to marketing and winning customers.”

(Back) Bethany Braithwaite (Front) Becki Coombe and Biscuit the dog

New Members

Welcome to new members Strategic Partners Coventry University

Warwickshire County Council - Communities

Corporate Partnership Unit, Alan Berry Building, Priory Street, COVENTRY CV1 5FB pnoon@cad.coventry.ac.uk 02476 236000 www.coventry.ac.uk

Communities, PO Box 43 Shire Hall, Warwick CV34 4SX davidaytonhill@warwickshire.gov.uk 01926 412739 www.warwickshire.gov.uk/business

Corporate Members Coombe Abbey Hotel Brinklow Road, Binley, COVENTRY CV3 2AB june.picken@coombeabbey.com 02476 450450 www.coombeabbey.com

Coventry City Football Club Ltd Skyblue Lodge, Leamington Road, Ryton On Dunsmore CV8 3FL Tynan.Scope@ccfc.co.uk 02476 991987 www.ccfc.co.uk

Formation Media Ltd

Glued Limited

Syscomm Ltd

The Barn (adjacent to Lamplighter Cottage), Kings Lane, Snitterfield, Stratford-Upon-Avon CV37 0QB davidwilson@gluedlimited.co.uk 01789 731524 www.gluedlimited.co.uk

Boiler House, Electric Wharf, COVENTRY CV1 4JU Roger.tyler@syscomm.co.uk 02477 712000 www.syscomm.co.uk

Sandler Training

W Cawthorne & Son Ltd

Avon House, 435 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull B90 4AA nliddell@sandler.com 07547 227442 www.central.sandler.com

Stratford upon Avon College The Willows North, Alcester Road, STRATFORD UPON AVON CV37 9QR nicolamannock@stratford.ac.uk 01789 266245 www.stratford.ac.uk

7 Smith Street, Warwick CV34 4JA martin@formationmedia.co.uk 01926 298777 www.formationdesigners.co.uk

Corporation Street, NUNEATON CV11 5AG matthew@cawthornes.co.uk 02476 641212 www.cawthornes.co.uk

Warwicknet Ltd The Venture Centre, Sir William Lyons Road, COVENTRY CV4 7EZ marketing@warwicknet.com 02476 997222 www.warwicknet.com

Ablesim

Cre8tive Brand Ideas Ltd

Go Connect Consultancy

Neatcom Communications Ltd

3 Easedale Close, Coventry CV3 6LH andrew@ablesim.com 07792 703605 www.ablesim.com

Centre Court, 1301 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmigham B28 9HH steve@cre8tivebrandideas.co.uk 08451 308730 www.cre8tivebrandideas.co.uk

8 Mercia Business Village, Coventry CV4 8HX yangmei.uk@gmail.com 07445 225654

21 Bedlam Lane, Longford, COVENTRY CV6 6AR info@neatcom.co.uk 02476 726618 www.neatcom.co.uk

Anne Rogers Virtual PA 13 Malvern Avenue, Rugby CV22 5JN anneinrugby@btinternet.com 07779 616950 www.annerogersvirtualpa.co.uk

AS Miles Consulting Ltd 17 Spinney Drive, Barlestone, Nuneaton CV13 0JQ andy@asmilesconsulting.com 01455 389053 www.asmilesconsulting.com

Bayley Lane Kitchen & Cocktails

Dan Skelton Racing Limited Lodge Hill, Shelfield Green, Alcester B49 6JR grace@danskeltonracing.com 01789 336339 www.danskeltonracing.com

DMP Limited Unit 4, Hatton Rock Business Park, Hatton Rock, Stratford Upon Avon CV37 0NU info@dmp.uk.com 01789 294442 www.dmp.uk.com

Graydon Sports Ltd 34-35 Jordan Well, Coventry CV1 5RW usman@graydonsports.co.uk 07432 242555

Hanson Lawrie Limited 137 Newhall Street, Birmingham B3 1SF sam@hansonlawrie.co.uk 07805 528286 www.hansonlawrie.co.uk

IPSS Ltd Unit 10 Cavans Way, Binley Industrial Estate, Coventry CV3 2SF andrew@ipssltd.co.uk 02476 446960 www.ipssltd.co.uk

Bayley Lane, Coventry CV1 5RN harvy.gill@shakespearestreet.co.uk 02476 559376 www.bayleylane.co.uk

Economic Development Ltd

Blackrock Property Fund (Coventry)

Extracare Charitable Trust

Jenny Harrison Consulting

7 Harry Weston Road, Binley, Coventry CV3 2SN richard.tower@extracare.org.uk 07720 553658 www.extracare.org.uk

Leamington Therapy Centre

BNPPSSTCJ & Blackrock (CI) Ltd trustees of the BRSHUT, c/o Victoria Hall Management (UK) Ltd, 1 Alma Street, Coventry CV1 5QA coventry@victoriahall.com 077722 234400 www.coventry.victoriahall.com

Cascade Cash Management University of Warwick Science Park, Warwick Technology Park, Gallows Hill, Warwick CV34 6UW surish.pal@cascade.co.uk 01926 350044 www.cascade.co.uk

82 Baginton Road, Coventry CV3 6FQ sarabjeet.soar@btinternet.com 02476 414218

Formation Live Pure Offices, Tournament Fields, Warwick CV34 6RG alison.howard@formationlive.com 03301 132113 www.formationlive.com

Global Search Marketing Ltd 2 Snow Hill, Birmingham B4 6GA richard@g-s-m.net 01212 313310 www.globalsearchmarketing.co.uk

4 Snaffle Way, Evesham WR11 2AY jenny@jennyharrisonconsulting.com 01386 424619 www.jennyharrisonconsulting.com 7 Clarendon Place, Leamington Spa CV32 5QL info@leamingtontherapycentre.co.uk 01926 833003 www.leamingtontherapycentre.co.uk

Mama Bargains 43 Acorn Street, Coventry CV3 1DP enquiries@mamabargains.co.uk 02477 670890 www.mamabargains.co.uk

Peacock Insurance Services Ltd Oak House, Eastwood Business Village, Harry Western Road, Coventry CV3 2UB kwilliams@peacockinsurance.co.uk 02476 437643 www.peacockinsurance.co.uk

Psychometric Testing Solutions Ransom Hall East Wing - 1st Floor, Ransom Wood Business Park, Southwell Road West, Nottinghamshire NG21 0HJ sue.yates@ptsinsight.co.uk 01623 664519 www.ptsinsight.co.uk

The Jarrah Consultancy Meadow Barn, Newnham, Near Henley-in-Arden B95 6DU kyla@jarrah.uk.com 03334 440864 www.jarrah.uk.com

Tyler Packaging Ltd Fosse Way, Chesterton, Leamington Spa CV33 9JY howard@tylerpackaging.co.uk 01926 651451 www.tylerpackaging.co.uk

Web Chat Live Ltd The Innovation Centre, 49 Oxford Street, Leicester LE1 5XY inzar@webchatlive.co.uk 01162 577368 www.webchatlive.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Training & Events Chamber Member Price +VAT

Non-Member Price +VAT

Effective Communication

£95

Conducting Team Briefing / Buzz Meetings

£95

Export Documentation - Getting it Right

CWT Training Dates

Duration

Oct

Nov

Dec

£120

Half Day am

£120

Half Day pm

£260

£295

Full Day

Risk Assessment - Principles & Practice (CIEH Accredited Level 2 Award)

£175

£195

Full Day

Building the Team

£95

£120

Half Day am

Motivating the Team

£95

£120

Half Day pm

Online Marketing

£215

£240

Full Day

Setting Goals & Targets

£95

£120

Half Day am

Training & Coaching the Team

£95

£120

Half Day pm

Succcessful Sales Techniques

£215

£240

Full Day

Appraising People & Performance

£215

£240

Full Day

Managing Difficult People

£95

£120

Half Day am

Understanding Discipline in the Workplace

£95

£120

Half Day pm

Finance for Non Financial Managers

£215

£240

Full Day

Working with a Budget

£95

£120

Half Day am

Problem Solving Skills

£95

£120

Half Day pm

Developing Effective Presentation Skills

£215

£240

Full Day

Communicating Assertively

£95

£120

Half Day am

Complaint Handling

£95

£120

Half Day pm

Letters of Credit for Exporters - A Practical Guide

£260

£295

Full Day

Microsoft Excel - Intermediate to Advanced

£110

£140

Full Day

Social Media Strategy - Facebook, Twitter and Blogs

£215

£240

Full Day

Negotiating to Win

£215

£240

Full Day

Import Procedures

£260

£295

Full Day

Microsoft Project (An Introduction)

£110

£140

Full Day

Principles of Manual Handling (CIEH Accredited Level 2 Award)

£90

£100

Half Day am

Time Management - Get more of the right things done

£215

£240

Full Day

Practical Social Media

£110

£120

Half Day am

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 SEPTEMBER Chamber Networking Wednesday 14th September 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Oaktree Mitsubishi, A46 Eastern Bypass, Coventry, CV3 2RR | Free of charge Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity!

Rugby Branch Meeting Thursday 15th September 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm The Rugby Hotel Rugby Council will be presenting an update on the local plan by Mark Pawsey MP. Places are limited! Please email events@cw-chamber.co.uk if you wish to attend.

Mid Warwickshire Branch Meeting Friday 16th September 8:00 am - 9:30 am The Holiday Inn Kenilworth Presentation by Warwickshire County Council on skills productivity and business support and an opportunity to meet and raise questions with Jeremy Wright MP. For further information or to reserve a place please email events@cw-chamber.co.uk

Chamber Networking Lunch Wednesday 21st September 11:30 am - 2:00 pm Catthorpe Manor, Lilbourne Lane, Catthorpe, Lutterworth, Leicestershire , LE17 6DF Free to attend A fantastic chance for members to network with local companies and expand their business networks over lunch.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Don't ignore the workplace pension Thursday 22nd September 5:30 pm - 7:15 pm Coombe Abbey Hotel, Brinklow Road, Coventry, CV3 2AB Many employers don't fully understand what the implications from the workplace pension will be once they have reached their staging date. In partnership with Prime Chartered Accountants we are hosting a FREE seminar to explain the changes.

Chamber Networking Tuesday 27th September 8.30 am - 10.30 am Study Inn Group, 175 Corporation Street, Coventry, CV1 1GU Free to attend Join us at this free networking event where you will have the opportunity to generate new business leads and connections. Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity!

The C&W Business and Trade Expo Launch Event Friday 30th September 11.30 am 2.00 pm Wroxall Abbey Hotel & Estate, Birmingham Road, Wroxall, Warwick, CV35 7NB £20 + VAT member rate Non member rate £25 + VAT £50 + VAT to exhibit Prepare your business for the biggest Business and Trade Expo in Coventry and Warwickshire this November at Stoneleigh Park. Hear from a panel of marketing experts who will share their need-to-know tips to ensure you make the most of your visit. You’ll find out how to promote, prepare and present your business at one of the biggest business exhibitions in Coventry and

Warwickshire. Network with local businesses, enjoy a buffet lunch and pick up some exciting and innovative tips!

OCTOBER Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Economic Conference Friday 14th October 8.15 am - 1.00 pm Ricoh Arena, Coventry Member rate £37 + VAT Non member rate £45 + VAT Light Lunch included Key speakers: • Michael Portillo • Checkatrade founder Kevin Byrne • Mark Berrisford-Smith Head of Economics for HSBC UK Commercial Banking The conference will focus on the future economic prospects, locally, nationally and globally as well as identifying ways we can achieve economic growth throughout our great

city and town centres.This years’ event will bring together key business and civic leaders to consider the economic health across Coventry & Warwickshire against the background of national and international trends.

Breakfast Networking Thursday 20th October 9:00 am - 11:00 am Catthorpe Manor, Lilbourne Lane, Catthorpe, Lutterworth, Leicestershire , LE17 6DF Free to attend Chamber Networking is the perfect way to generate new business leads. Don’t miss out on this fantastic networking opportunity! A business support adviser will be at this event if you would like to have a chat about assistance available for a new business startup or existing businesses.

Breakfast Networking Thursday 27th October 8.00 am – 10.00 am Holiday Inn Stratford upon Avon, Bridgefoot, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 6YR Join us at this free networking event where you will have the opportunity to generate new business leads and connections.

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