C&W in Business, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce March 2020 by Benham Publishing Limited

Issue 76

March - April 2020

Alan Hazell

IT is a great business to be in and the Midlands presents real opportunity for growth Page 20

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

Resilience is the key factor for 2020 Dear Chamber of Commerce Member, I recall at the Chamber of Commerce Annual Economic Conference, in November 2019, I spoke about living and working in unprecedented times of uncertainty and I would love to state that we have moved on, but this is simply not the case!

by Louise Bennett OBE DL Chief Executive Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

Political, economic and, now, social uncertainty will dominate 2020 as we face-up to a post-Brexit Transition Period; the impact of flooding on some businesses; and the effect of COVID-19 on our day-to-day lives. For businesses here in a strong and dynamic Coventry and Warwickshire economy, the early start to 2020 was very positive, with improved business confidence and a stronger in-flow of sales enquiries and, indeed, orders being placed. I believe we must use these strong foundations to be as resilient as we can against the economic shocks of 2020. As your voice of business, I can assure you that we are calling-up on the Government to fundamentally support businesses to boost growth and productivity, particularly at these challenging times, including a review of the business rates system in England. Our focus, on your behalf, is to lobby & seek the right kind of Trade Deals that allow for fair global competition, whilst growing the UK business base. We are asking the Government to increase the flexibility of the Apprenticeship Levy and reinstate the £1.5 billion of Government funding that was withdrawn from the Apprenticeship Budget when the levy was first introduced. Alongside our focus on trade and skills, we also want to see further investment in infrastructure whilst having a clear and sensible commitment to a UK Net Zero Strategy.

I am always interested in your insight and views and would like to thank those Members who attended our ‘Chancellor’s Budget Luncheon’ on 11th March 2020 hosted with Prime Accountants Group, our Quarterly Economic Survey partner and with all of you already getting in touch with me regarding the potential (and actual) impact of the coronavirus on your business, please do not hesitate to get in touch on louiseb@cw-chamber.co.uk. I am pleased to be invited to work with Andy Street, Elected Mayor, and the West Midlands Combined Authority on a newly established COVID-19 Impact Group, gathering intelligence on the coronavirus impact and identifying ways in which we and partners can, and should, help. We do have a Coronavirus Toolkit available to Members on our Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce website, www.cwchamber.co.uk, which we will update regularly with information and advice. Like you, our efforts will be “business as usual” and, in that vein, I am delighted that our first-ever Big Business Luncheon and Trade Expo - on 26th March 2020 - is sold out. Fabulous! Over 300 Leaders will join me in hearing from Lord Coe, very timely in light of the work underway to prepare for City of Culture 2021 and Commonwealth Games in 2022. I am sure the luncheon will be inspirational. We are here to support you, our Members, and will continue to focus on the issues that matter most to you, so get in touch on 02476 654321. Kind regards, Louise, Mrs L Bennett-Bayliss OBE, DL Chief Executive

Contents March – April 2020 Economy

News

5-7

Events

8-9

Corporate Profiles

10-11

News

12-13

Chamber Training

Chamber Talent

News

16-18

Profile

20-21

News

22-23

News

27 -28

Around the region

30-39

Education & Training

News

42-43

President & People

44-45

New Members

Training & Events

Earlsdon Park 53-55 Butts Road Coventry CV1 3BH www.bandhattonbutton.com info@bandhattonbutton.com 024 7663 2121

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Economy The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce ••••

Businesses prepare for post Brexit

CONTACTS

At the Chamber News desk

Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm - new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocations for publication in C&W in business. Whilst every effort will be made to publish submitted articles, we cannot guarantee inclusion. Send them to: news@cw-chamber.co.uk Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Chamber House Innovation Village Cheetah Road Coventry CV1 2TL T: 024 76 654321 F: 024 76 450242

At the publishers Publisher

Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ T: 0151 236 4141 Advertising Contact Karen Hall karen@benhampublishing.com T: 07801 788880 Production Manager Mark Etherington Accounts Director Joanne Casey Media Number 1692 © Benham Publishing 2020 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 Advertising Features for 2020 May-June 2020 Conference & Venues Our annual feature looking at the venues for hire for work events and conferences in our region. Manufacturing Many of the UK’s hopes post Brexit for a vibrant and growing manufacturing sector will rest on activity taking place in the Midlands. Copy deadline 24th April 2020 For further information on the forthcoming features please contact: Terry Brannigan Chamber Sales DD 07841 115444 Terry@benhampublishing.com

••••

An international trade expert urged businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire not to ‘panic’ on Brexit day – but to use the next few months to prepare for the UK’s full withdrawal from the EU. The UK officially left the European Union on January 31 but that kickstarted a transition period up to the end of 2020 that will mean no technical changes will come into force until next year. James Ahearne, International Trade Hub manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said firms across the region should use the transition period to get themselves ready for life outside of the EU. He said: “The Chamber has been supporting businesses on Brexit since the early days after the vote was taken and we’ve been running events, workshops and training programmes to help companies get ready.

“That has led to many companies taking practical steps to prepare for our exit from the EU so that, almost whatever the outcome, they will have some degree of readiness for the changes that Brexit will bring. “It’s important to note that January 31 is not going to see any changes that affect businesses straightaway – so there is certainly no need to panic. However, I’d really urge companies to get in touch with us and see how we can help them prepare. “Some might think that they cannot prepare for Brexit until they know the details of the final UK-EU trade deal but we can say, with a high degree of certainty, that there are some elements to trading with the EU that companies will need to be up to speed with no matter what. “For example, firms that trade with the EU will need to be ready to make

customs declarations, they will need to prepare for Import VAT and they will need to have an understanding of rules of origin. “The Chamber can support businesses with training and advice to get up to speed with all of those elements and can also advise around other aspects of international trade too. “We’ve recently highlighted the case of a manufacturer in Warwickshire which has achieved Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status that will not only help with trade with the EU after Brexit but should help to open up other global markets too. “Having that accreditation and knowledge has put them on a sound footing for future trade and we’d urge other companies to use this short period of time to prepare in a similar way.” David Burton, who chairs the Chamber’s Brexit Club, which launched just hours after the referendum vote, added: “Over the coming weeks and months, there will be lots of messaging in the media from all sides and it’s important that businesses focus on what they can do now to prepare. “The Chamber has been proactive from day one in bringing as much clarity and information to businesses as possible and that will remain the case over the next 11 months and beyond.”

We want a Budget for growth say businesses Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say firms across the region want a Budget that will help kick-start strong economic growth. The call came after the Chancellor, Sajid Javid, announced that this year’s Budget will take place on Wednesday, March 11, and would open a new chapter for the UK economy and prepare it for the decade ahead. Mr Javid has since been replaced by Rishi Sunak MP, who confirmed that he would be sticking to that original date. Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Businesses want to have certainty as we begin a new year and a new decade.

“We are now calling for the Chancellor and the Government to listen to businesses across our patch – and right across the country – to deliver a Budget that can give us the confidence to invest and grow after several years of uncertainty. “The Budget in March is the perfect platform to set out an agenda that really delivers on some of those promises to provide businesses with the best possible conditions to grow.” British Chambers of Commerce Co-Executive Director Claire Walker said: “Businesses will be looking to the Budget to boost confidence and stimulate growth at a time of significant uncertainty for the UK economy.

“Firms of all sizes need to see a package of fiscal measures to alleviate the burden of high up-front costs and boost investment. “The Chancellor must outline how he will make good on election promises of a fundamental reform of Business Rates and we also need to see a moratorium on all new up-front costs for businesses for the duration of this Parliament. “This is the first opportunity for the new government to demonstrate that it listens to business and is serious about tackling the day-to-day challenges holding firms back.”

Business confidence on the rise Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire are coming into 2020 with renewed confidence – despite an overall dip in the economic outlook for the region. That’s the standout highlight of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s final Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) of 2019, which shows that firms in the service and manufacturing sectors were more positive about the future than in the previous three months. This was against a backdrop of slight decreases in domestic and overseas orders as well as a fall in employment prospects, leading to a slight downgrade in the overall economic picture. However, the survey – which is partnered by Prime Accountants and analysed by Warwickshire County Council, providing a barometer for the regional economy – showed that Coventry and Warwickshire are still considerably above the national

average when it comes to economic performance. Warwickshire County Council’s analysis uses a similar score to the national Markits Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), where 50 is the balance, anything above means the majority feel positive and anything below means the reverse.Using this format, confidence in the service sector rose from 72.2 to 74.7 and in manufacturing it was up from 61.8 to 65.4 compared to the previous quarter. Domestic orders in manufacturing went down from 56.5 to 55.2 and overseas orders fell from 56.1 to 52.4. In the service sector, domestic orders dipped from 62.4 to 61.1 and overseas orders dropped from 53.9 to 50.9. All of this data led to an overall economic outlook score of 60.8 for Coventry and Warwickshire – still way above the balance figure of 50 and the national average – but slightly down on the score of 61 which was recorded in the third quarter of 2019.

Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said firms were cautiously optimistic at the start of the new decade but the new government must prioritise economic growth and create greater certainty for business. She said: “The latest Quarterly Economic Survey results reflect what has been a period of uncertainty for companies across Coventry and Warwickshire, making it difficult to plan for the future. “The end of 2019 brought a new government and, with it, a degree of certainty about the future direction of the country. This must now be backed up by policy that delivers real incentives to firms to invest and grow and remove some of those up-front costs from doing business. “We need investment in infrastructure and a strategy for overseas trade – both with the EU and beyond.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Cloud tech brings business clarity had was not either over-specified or insufficient for its needs. Stuart Chappell, managing director of Newtons 4th said: “Since meeting with Netmetix, I’ve become a bit of a cloud convert. The team was able to address all our concerns about moving to a cloud-based system and convince us that there is real business value in A test equipment specialist is reaching adopting cloud technology.” Stuart said the company has seen for the skies after reaping the benefits a range of benefits since moving to of investing in cloud technology. the cloud. Newtons 4th, which supplies “Our system and services can grow sophisticated test equipment for the with our requirements, spending only power electronics industry, wanted on what we require, rather than overto upgrade its IT infrastructure but specifying a fixed system on a best was unsure how future growth would estimate of our future needs. impact the level of investment required. “Using Office 365 across the business The company approached cloud ensures all users have no issues network specialist Netmetix to with incompatible file formats from investigate whether a cloud solution differing versions of Office programs would be a more suitable approach and it removes the cost and hassle of upgrading software every few years. to ensure that whatever hardware it

“Knowing backups are setup, monitored and secure gives me reassurance that our business could survive any disaster. “From day one of operating in the cloud, users of our SQL database commented on it being considerably quicker, saving time and reducing the frustration of waiting for a response. “While relative reliability between our previous on-premise system and azure is not easy to compare in a meaningful way, the cloud environment always wins since support is off-site and we no longer need to wait for a support engineer to visit.” Paul Blore, MD of Netmetix added: “Cloud systems are the future for so many businesses; the advantages they give over the traditional on-premise solution are huge. All organisations should investigate the feasibility of cloud solutions the next time they look at replacing onsite hardware.”

Children’s charity celebrates tenth anniversary The IXL Events Centre is delighted to welcome back Molly Olly’s Wishes to commemorate its tenth anniversary at its annual ball. The Warwickshire-based charity, which supports children with terminal or life-threatening illnesses and their families, will be hosting the Molly Olly Ball at the centre on November 21, 2020. Atul Lakhani, CEO of The IXL Events Centre, said: “Molly Olly’s Wishes is a charity which is very dear to our hearts and we are honoured to once again hold their annual ball at our venue. The sheer commitment of the Molly Olly team is not only commendable but also acts as a major inspiration for all of us at The IXL Events Centre.

We are very committed to supporting worthwhile causes as part of our corporate social responsibility.” The IXL Events Centre is a multiaward-winning events venue set in a stunning 600-acre estate in beautiful Warwickshire countryside within the grounds of Dallas Burston Polo Club. It is Warwickshire’s premier events destination venue and until recently, the region’s best kept secret. This Christmas, the IXL Events Centre will once again be donating all of the money raised from its Oriental Nights charity event to Molly Olly’s Wishes. Guests can experience awardwinning catering from Polo Prestige with a sumptuous three-course meal,

Local pupils from Pearl Hyde Primary School in Coventry received a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when they joined their local rugby heroes on Wasps RFC’s pitch at the Ricoh Arena. The children were invited to take part in official match day proceedings by insurance broker and risk

electrifying production by Londonbased Kudos AV and mesmerising entertainment. If you would like to support Molly Olly’s Wishes at this year’s Oriental Nights Christmas Party, more information can be found by contacting info@ixleventscentre.com or by visiting www.ixleventscentre.com

The special event, known as a Gallagher Game Day, is one of many events hosted by Gallagher in collaboration with premiership clubs across the country, aiming to introduce the sport to a wider audience and unite the rugby community. Richard Jardim, PE co-ordinator at Pearl Hyde Primary School, said: “It was so wonderful to watch our pupils take to the pitch – you could see the delight in each of their faces. We’d like to say a huge thank you to Gallagher for this opportunity.” Kathryn Moon, managing director at Gallagher’s Coventry branch, added: “We hope that this event has inspired local children to get involved in rugby and experience the values of trust, teamwork and respect that come with it.”

For further information on Gallagher or Gallagher Premiership Rugby, visit www.ajg.com/uk and https://www.ajg.com/lp/gallagher-premiership-rugby/

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Stunning aerial scenes of the Warwickshire countryside can be seen as tours take to the skies at a historic hotel.

Coombe Abbey Hotel is giving people the chance to go up, up and away with helicopter tours, which are brand new for 2020. The venue is working with Turweston Helicopters to offer the exhilarating flight experience that will give passengers a bird’s eye view of the stunning surroundings. The new tours come in a year of celebration for the Brinklow-based hotel, as it is commemorating 25 years since it first opened its doors as a venue in February, 1995.

Schoolchildren team up with rugby heroes management specialist Gallagher, title partner of Premiership Rugby. It is just one way in which the broker is delivering its commitment to supporting grassroots rugby, helping to grow the game and champion its key values of teamwork, sportsmanship and respect. As Wasps RFC prepared to take on the Northampton Saints, 20 pupils from Pearl Hyde Primary School took on the role of proud flagbearers, showing support to their local team. The exciting game culminated in the Wasps being narrowly defeated, with a final score of 35-31. In total, 131 guests were invited by Gallagher to watch the match and were also treated to a Q&A session with star players, giving them the opportunity to find out more about the life of a professional rugby player.

Helicopter tours launched at Coombe Abbey Hotel

Ron Terry, general manager at Coombe Abbey Hotel, said they could be the perfect gift for a loved one or special occasion. He said: “This is a fantastic new addition to the events that Coombe Abbey hosts and we cannot wait until they get started. “There is some absolutely beautiful scenery around the hotel and there couldn’t be a better way to see it all than by taking a trip in a helicopter. “The tours could be a great way for people to celebrate special occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, anyone planning a romantic proposal this year or those just looking to do something a little different. “When people visit Coombe Abbey, we want to make sure that they leave filled with lasting memories and these tours will certainly accomplish that.” Turweston Helicopters is one of the UK’s most respected helicopter organisations, operating from its office at Turweston Aerodrome in Northamptonshire. The tours are set to take place once a month from March through to September, but weather conditions must be suitable for them to go ahead. People can book onto either a 10-minute tour or a 20-minute tour and flights require all four seats to be taken for them to take place. T&C’s apply. Visit www.coombeabbey.com/product/ scenic-helicopter-tours for more information or to book.

TURKISH AIRLINES

Booming Birmingham:

International Business Travel Soars Birmingham Airport has confirmed it is pushing ahead with expansion plans, and with an increasing number of companies in Birmingham doing business globally, Turkish Airlines Birmingham General Manager, Omer Faruk Alier, expects demand for international flights to continue growing in 2020. Here he shares his predictions on the top five regional business travel trends that are shaping the Turkish Airlines offering out of Birmingham in 2020.

Consistent service, multiple destinations

FlyingFlying to more countries and international destinations than any other airline, Turkish Airlines operates more than 300 destinations through 127 countries worldwide, offering seamless connections for travellers to access the world’s largest flight network from Birmingham Airport giving you the opportunity to widen your world through a centrally-located hub at the crossroads of Europe, Far East, Middle East, Central Asia, India, Africa and Russia.

Key international business hubs serviced out of Birmingham Airport include Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Dubai, Johannesburg, Abu Dhabi, Tokyo, Beijing, Hong Kong, Bahrain and Singapore, amongst others.

2. Efficiency and flexibility The Turkish Airlines Corporate Club is an exclusive scheme for business travellers and companies providing a wide variety of cost effective and time saving benefits including exclusive fare discounts, ticket flexibility when business travel plans need to change, dedicated account management and after sales support, all with no membership fees. The scheme has been designed to support business executives and firms seeking to extend their international business connections – ideal for building connections between Birmingham and beyond.

3. Perks and rewards To meet high expectations for great benefits, business travellers enjoy extra baggage allowance, Business Class check-in and lounge access, plus miles earned through the

‘Miles & Smiles’ rewards programme, redeemable with Turkish Airlines or any Star Alliance partner airline. Air miles can be used for award tickets, cabin upgrades and shopping at shopandmiles.com which features a wide range of products from kitchenware and home appliances to apparel, jewellery and kids’ toys, plus much more. Joining is free of charge.

4. Guaranteed comfort The Turkish Airlines Business Class experience is second to none, offering an award-winning service drawing on Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Lounge Istanbul provides 5-star facilities including a special passport control service, suite rooms, luxury showers, in-house massage therapists, freshly prepared Turkish and International dishes, a library, cinema, pool, mini golf and mini car racing games.

5. Blending leisure with business A unique benefit for travellers flying with Turkish Airlines is a free sightseeing tour of Istanbul, which can be enjoyed between two international TK flights with connection times between six to 24 hours – ideal for

business travellers seeking to add some culture into their agenda and enjoy the world-renowned Turkish hospitality on the ground as well as in the air! Connections in Istanbul exceeding 9 hours in Business Class and 12 hours in Economy Class are also eligible for complimentary hotel accommodation, and Business Class passengers from the UK travelling to destinations in Asia, the Middle East and Africa with a voluntary stopover exceeding 20 hours can now apply for complimentary hotel accommodation in Istanbul, subject to availability#.

Birmingham Airport is the UK’s third largest airport outside London, and the UK’s seventh largest overall. It handles around 13 million passengers every year and, as the Midlands’ largest airport, serves more than 150 direct scheduled and charter routes and offers an additional 340 possible connections worldwide.

For more information on international flights from Birmingham visit www.turkishairlines.com #

Terms and conditions apply.

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News

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Charities share £6,000 donation from Lodders’ foundation

Sponsored Column

Could You Handle More Time For You? So often business owners tell me they feel like they’re stuck on the “hamster wheel” The funny thing is, from my hamster owning days, I seem to remember that the hamster seemed to enjoy being on his wheel! Business owners don’t see it that way – it can be relentless and stressful. So how do you get off the wheel? You need to remember why you started the business in the first place – the business is supposed to serve the life you want, not the other way around. To have a business that serves YOU, the trick is to create a commercial profitable business that can work without you being involved in the day to day stuff. Do that and you can get off the hamster wheel and choose to do more of the stuff you’ve always wanted to – maybe spend more time with the family or perhaps dedicate more time on the growth of the business. The way I see it, when you have choice, you have freedom. An example of how I have helped another member of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to do this can be seen on P41. If you’d like to know how I could help you do the same, then contact me and, we’ll set up a fact-finding call; and then you can decide if you’d like to take the conversation further. David Lee ActionCOACH 07970566390 davidlee@actioncoach.com www.linkedin.com/in/davidleeac/ www.actioncoach.co.uk/davidlee

Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training

Apprenticeship success for Solihull Council

Available members of the team at Chamber Training who are now accredited in awareness of mental health problems.

Chamber Training Boosts Mental Health Support Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training has invested in accredited mental health training for its staff, enabling them to support any learners who may be experiencing mental health issues or requiring enhanced support.

According to the Health & Safety Executive, stress, depression and anxiety disorders accounted for the majority of days lost due to work related ill health in 2017/18. On average, each person suffering took around 1.65 days off work, so there has been a growing concern as many businesses do not have the skills needed to support people. Many businesses make a commitment to provide mental health training but their intentions do not always engage at all levels within the organisation.

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) is celebrating another Apprenticeship success with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training. Rhys Cartwright, who originally worked as chef, decided to go travelling around Australia, New Zealand and Singapore before embarking on the Apprenticeship programme within the company two years ago. When Rhys returned from travelling he started applying for office based jobs, but without any success. He decided to follow the Apprenticeship route into Business Administration with SMBC where he was introduced to Chamber Training and he has never looked back. He successfully achieved his level 2 qualification in Business Administration and progressed to level 3. His communication and organisational skills have improved dramatically and his future aim is to study at level 4. Commenting on Rhys’ success, Rachel Swain, Development Officer at SMBC said: “Our HR Employment Services Team approached Chamber Training to discuss Apprenticeships within SMBC as an option to shape our workforce of the future. SMBC are now able to offer Apprenticeships for both new and existing employees. Rhys was our first Apprentice with Chamber Training and our team was extremely supportive throughout his qualification and ensured he had the support and time he needed to complete his portfolio effectively. “In addition, the advice and guidance received from Chamber Training was invaluable including

The three day Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health is an accredited qualification which consists of three learning days at Chamber Training along and a workbook for individuals to complete to demonstrate their new knowledge. The course also attracts up to 50% ESF Skills 4 Growth Funding, subject to organisation eligibility through Coventry & Warwickshire’s Skills 4 Growth Programme.

the off-the-job training programmes which provided him with the ongoing support mechanism required. “The Apprenticeship route has given Rhys the opportunity to progress within a role that he is really enjoying away from the kitchen environment as working as a chef was not the career path he wished to pursue. By taking this route into business administration, it has provided him with a new set of skills and enthusiasm. The tailored and dedicated training in-house and with Chamber Training has helped him to develop the skills he needed to grow and succeed in future.” Lucy Howl, Account Manager at Chamber Training remarked: “Rhys has demonstrated that that there can be

tremendous opportunities available for Apprentices with the right attitude and a willingness to learn. With over 30 years’ experience, our statistics show that 96% of employers would recommend Chamber Training as we can offer highly flexible programmes to match employers’ needs. Apprenticeships can be a real motivator and provide cost effective personal development, so we would urge businesses and individuals to talk to one of our advisers to find out more.” Contact Chamber Training’s Business Development Team to find out more about the Apprenticeship route on 02476 231 122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

Maximising skills across the workforce

Commenting on the company’s mental health training programme, Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Chamber Training said: “As an award winning training provider we are fully committed to supporting good mental health training practices and wellbeing polices for our staff and our students. “By providing our team with the knowledge and tools, they have a greater understanding of mental health problems including the ability to identify those individuals who may be struggling. The training is also a useful learning curve for all employers as it can potentially help to reduce lost working hours due to mental health issues and stress which will ultimately increase productivity.”

Rachel Swain and Rhys Cartwright from Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Andy Eales, Gary Crutchley, Julie Brown, Ian Brown, Chris Starkey and Kevin Atkins from MGS.

A leading UK and European manufacturer and supplier of specialist quality products for areas such as ground investigation is working in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training to help maximise efficiency, productivity and skills across its workforce.

Since its inception over 30 years ago, Marton Geotechnical Services (MGS) has developed strategic partnerships with some of the UK and Europe’s leading manufacturers. With a £200k investment in new systems and training over the past 18 months across the company’s four depots, the Coventry depot has become the Centre of Excellence. Commenting on the positive working relationship with Chamber Training, Ian Brown, Production Manager at MGS said: “We approached Chamber Training towards the end of 2019 to enlist their expertise, support and guidance in identifying effective training opportunities. Our aim was to embrace a 360 degrees change across the board and introduce a more structured process to promote ideas, suggestions and physical improvements to help improve the way in which we operate. “We enrolled several members of our management team on to the ILM2 and ILM3 qualifications and we are now reaping the benefits. It is refreshing to witness our team approaching issues in a more constructive manner and

providing us with more solution-based comments. Our Coventry depot is now at 93% productivity which puts it 13% above the company target and £645,000 more goods have been sent out over the last 12 months. As an added bonus we were also able to access ESF funding through the Coventry & Warwickshire’s Skills 4 Growth Programme which has enabled us to further invest in additional plans for training and upskilling our team.” Tracy Sawrey, an ILM Management Trainer remarked: “The ILM courses offer a great way of moving your career forward. At Chamber Training we can help you to choose the right qualification to enhance your skills and knowledge of management theory and ultimately help you to apply that training in practice.” To find out more about the ILM qualifications and if your company is eligible for ESF Skills 4 Growth funding, please contact C&W Chamber Training’s Business Development Team on 02476 231 122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

To find out more, contact our Business Development Team on 02476 231 122 or email enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Chamber Talent

When our new Membership level, Chamber Talent, was launched before Christmas, we had identified that there was a real need for this kind of development programme for young professionals in the region. We have been blown away by the interest and response we’ve had from businesses of all sizes and sectors who have wanted to engage their ‘talent’ with the programme. In order to ensure that the programme is representative of the diverse mix of young professionals – and their business sectors -

our latest development was to pull together a Chamber Talent Board. The board, which is made up of ten Chamber Talent members from various sectors – ranging from construction to culture - had its first meeting at the start of the year and discussed everything from future social events through to work/life balance and the green agenda. Just as when the Chamber was first established in 1903, the content of Chamber Talent membership can be shaped to deliver against the needs of the members and is an opportunity for the board,

on behalf of members, to decide what pressing opportunities and challenges are most important to them and how to address them. More than 70 young professionals are already signed up and are reaping the benefits of our development workshops, delivered in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training, and are building new networks and connections across the region. This is truly an opportunity to engage with the future generation, our future business leaders, across Coventry and Warwickshire and we are excited by the very positive impact Chamber Talent is already having.

Apprentice Strengthens Emerald Team with his Initiative & Talent

Within just a few months of starting his apprenticeship at The Emerald Group, 19-year-old George Saxton has supported the business to move to the next level of cyber security support for their customer base of small to medium sized companies.

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Sales & Marketing Apprentice George successfully completed the new Sophos Managed Service Provider Sales Certification which enabled The Emerald Group to become fully qualified as a Gold Partner under the new MSP program. “We completed all the technical qualifications for the new Sophos program back in June, but we needed someone to take initiative and complete the sales training,” says Emerald CEO Sarah Windrum. “George started with us and immediately wanted to see where he could add value. I showed him the MSP training and explained what we needed completing so George took the initiative. He sat on the webinars, read through the online content and visuals, before he sat and passed the exam.

We’re proud of him and grateful for his support in taking us to the next level.” George joined the Emerald team in late July, offering his skills from three years at Warwickshire College. Since joining, he has been working hard to learn and adapt to a fast-paced professional work environment. With this attitude, he took ownership of the Sophos MSP training program and achieved 100% on his final exam. This has allowed The Emerald Group to offer a wider range of ordering and payment options for cyber security services to its customers. George has also enrolled on Chamber Talent with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. Emerald have seen this membership as a real opportunity for George

to learn new skills around sales presentation, Linked In, and peer to peer networking. “I am hoping to continue to learn many new skills as well as grow existing ones through Chamber Talent,” George explains. “Emerald investing in my membership has motivated me to reach new heights for myself so I can climb the ranks and prove I have what it takes.” “It’s great to see a young person show such initiative and entrepreneurial thinking,” says Sean Rose Chamber Talent lead, “that is what Chamber Talent is designed to support and nurture. I know George will have a bright future with Emerald as a company that value his positive attitude and are prepared to invest in his development.”

News

Theme and dates set for the RISING global peace forum

Simon Chapman, Burgis & Bullock

The organisers of the annual event that underpins Coventry’s unique status as the UK’s City of Peace and Reconciliation have announced key details about the event this year. The event will be held on November 11-13 and will be based around the theme of ‘The Culture of Peace’. RISING is a three-way partnership between the city council, Coventry University and Coventry Cathedral and, since the forum started in 2015, it has attracted hundreds of visitors to the city each year to discuss how to build and sustain peaceful communities. As well as attracting many prominent academics,

policymakers and leaders of international and national community organisations, the event has also seen several keynote speeches from high-profile figures such as former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Nobel Peace Prize winner President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf from Liberia and former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Richard Dickson, RISING development manager, said: “The theme of this year’s RISING Global Peace Forum, coming just before the start of Coventry’s UK City of Culture year, recognises that building peaceful communities requires a range of activities to create the right atmosphere for communities and businesses to thrive.

“We’ve already secured the commitment of more than 20 speakers and will be announcing details of the keynote presenters very shortly. We couldn’t put this event on without the support of local employers, so any business wishing to get involved should email me at Richard.Dickson@coventry.ac.uk.”

With the increasing instances of dementia and Alzheimer’s as the underlying cause of death and the numbers of people living with dementia in the UK expected to rise to one million by 2021, it’s time to ensure you have the correct planning in place.

That’s the view of Countrywide Tax and Trust Corporation (CTTC), which warns that loss of mental capacity can affect the contents of a will. The company said: “People are prepared to contest someone’s will when they feel unhappy with what they have, or more importantly, have not received, and the number of wills being challenged on the grounds of lack of capacity is increasing. “No one would want their loved ones to be on the receiving end of a contentious probate case. Going through an inheritance dispute can be a very stressful, emotionally upsetting and confusing affair for many people. “Everyone has the right to leave their estate to whomever they choose in their

will. Rightly so, but it’s this that is the cause of so many disputes from those who didn’t benefit as they expected. It is critical when writing your will that not only what you want to happen is accurately recorded but the reasons behind your decisions are too. In response, CTTC has developed a system called the will clarity package, which is unique to the legal sector. This ensures that no question is left unasked and it creates and retains a comprehensive record of all crucial facts through every stage of the will-writing process. The will clarity statement is also read and signed by the client to mitigate the risk of a will challenge and provide you with a voice even after you are gone. For more information visit https://www.countrywidegroup.co.uk

Accountancy firm recognised for commitment Dementia is the biggest health crisis to employee development An accountancy firm has been recognised for its commitment to developing its employees by a global industry body. Burgis & Bullock has been awarded platinum level approved employer status by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). The firm, which has offices in Leamington Spa, Nuneaton, Rugby and Stratford upon Avon, had previously been a gold approved employer but received the upgrade following a recent training inspection. Platinum status recognises the company as providing the highest level of support and assistance for the ACCA members and students it employs. Burgis & Bullock employs 19 trainees, with nine studying for the ACCA qualification. It also employs trainees studying for qualifications from the Association of Accounting Technicians, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, and Chartered Institute of Taxation. To qualify for the platinum level, firms are required to demonstrate a provision of varied and high-quality work experience and support in professional and ethical development. The new status also recognises the financial support provided for trainees who are studying for, and sitting, the ACCA exams and achieving membership with the global professional accounting body. Simon Chapman, partner at Burgis & Bullock, said the new status is testament to the firm’s commitment to supporting the next generation of accountants. “To have received the new platinum level approved employer status is a fantastic achievement for the firm,” he said. “We have held gold status for many years, but this upgrade is recognition of the dedicated work the team at Burgis & Bullock has put in to develop our offering for the trainees we support. “Burgis & Bullock supports trainees for a range of qualifications and is always looking to help progress new talent in the profession. We are delighted to have received this new employer status from the ACCA.”

Rugby foundation gives disadvantaged people a sporting chance The Coventry Rugby Foundation – the charitable arm of Coventry Rugby Ltd – has launched an exciting new programme aiming to reach out to Coventry’s vulnerable children. The city of Coventry is home to more than 16,000 children defined as being below the poverty line, with one in eight not receiving a regular hot meal during holiday periods. In a city of only around 360,000 people, these statistics are profound. ‘Project 500’ sees the Coventry Rugby Foundation work with Coventry Rugby and their network of local schools to identify children who would be classed as disadvantaged. From there they bring them into the club’s ground, the Butts Park Arena, for a week and give them two meals per day, fun activities and, at the end

of the week, a Coventry Rugby shirt and a season pass for themselves and an adult to accompany them for home fixtures for the remainder of the season. The pilot camp for the programme took place during half-term last October, with more than 50 local children welcomed to the home of Coventry Rugby. Not only did they receive all the elements of the advertised package, they got a surprise visit on the final day from the entire Coventry Rugby first-team squad, who handed out their shirts and signed them from top to bottom. Project 500 provides an opportunity for vulnerable youths in Coventry and their parents to engage in activities that will improve their physical and mental wellbeing, with the core rugby values

being demonstrated through the strong male role models that the Coventry Rugby players are. Coventry Rugby Foundation is seeking sponsors for the future Project 500 children. While the October camp was a success, 50 children would only scratch the surface of the vast numbers noted earlier.

MTI celebrates modern skills to mark first anniversary Twenty-first century solutions for the automotive industry will take their place in history alongside the invention of radar in the twentieth century and the launch of Stephenson’s ‘Rocket’ in the nineteenth. Speaking on the first anniversary of the launch of the MIRA Technology Institute, Professor Joe McGeough, president of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers

(IMechE) said STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) skills had been responsible for helping to solve problems ever since the industrial revolution began more than 200 years ago. Unveiling a commemorative plaque, Professor McGeough spoke about the importance of industry and education working together and how historical collaborations had harnessed the power of steam in transportation for the first time and brought the detection of night bombing raids during the Second World War. Professor McGeough said: “The UK has grown and developed as a result of highlydeveloped skills in science, technology, engineering and maths. I am convinced that the same disciplines will, when nurtured by organisations like the MIRA Technology Institute, overcome the challenges now facing the automotive industry with the development of autonomous, connected,

electric and shared vehicle technology, and the challenges brought by electrification, cybersecurity and emissions.” The MTI is the result of a unique collaboration led by North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College and its partners, HORIBA MIRA, Coventry University, the University of Leicester and Loughborough University. Built with a £9.5m investment from the UK Government’s Growth Fund via the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), the MTI is a specialist facility designed specifically to train the next generation of engineers in the latest automotive technology. The MTI is helping to create specialist skills in some of the new disruptive technology areas including electrification and driverless cars.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News Prime Accountants saddles up to launch ‘Le Tour in 24’

From left, Kevin Johns, managing director at Prime Accountants, with Le Tour in 24 fundraising team members Gabriella Nordin, Jonathan Stobart and Leigh Dudley Prime Accountants’ Gabriella Nordin and Jonathan Stobart in training for the company’s mammoth Tour de France-inspired fundraising cycle for the Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity

More than 50 volunteers from Prime Accountants jumped on their bikes for an epic charity challenge that saw them ride the distance of the Tour de France in just 24 hours. The intrepid team from Prime, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham and Coventry, took to their exercise bikes in Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre on February 29, with the aim of raising

£10,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity. ‘Le Tour in 24’ saw 51 volunteers from Prime cycle continuously at 22kph on exercise bikes for 24 hours to reach the 3,365.8km target. The challenge marks Prime’s latest fundraising effort for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, its nominated charity. Kevin Johns, managing director at Prime Accountants, said: “We’re really fortunate to have a fantastic team at Prime who all really embrace this kind of challenge, as well as a supportive client base who donate generously to the good causes we support. “We hope this event will capture people’s attention and help to raise £10,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity and highlight the fantastic work they do.”

Helen Rawnsley, corporate partnerships officer at the charity, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with the team at Prime Accountants again on the Le Tour in 24 challenge. “Their support helps enormously and the money raised will go towards helping us deliver expert care to the 90,000 children and young people from across the country who need us every year.” Prime Accountants Group is one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the West Midlands and has been involved in several fundraising and charity projects over recent years, including the 3PS challenge – a grueling combination of pedals, paddles and peaks – which raised an incredible £25,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.

For more information visit https://primeaccountants.co.uk/charity-and-community/le-tour-in-24 and www.primeaccountants.co.uk

Insurance practitioner retires after 40 years at The Wigley Group An impressive 40-year association with a Coventry and Warwickshire company has come to an end. Maurice Adams, a well-known chartered insurance practitioner, has retired after being part of The Wigley Group since 1979 – the year the company moved into commercial property with its first acquisition of the former Alfred Herbert works at Edgwick Park in Coventry. He was The Wigley Group’s broker for 30 years and has been its senior consultant for the last decade, managing insurance of the company’s expanding property portfolio across the Midlands and advising on related matters. He was also involved in building business relations, and his expertise on insurance, legal and operational affairs has been outsourced to numerous tenants and clients over the years.

Maurice, from Birmingham, said: “The Wigley Group has been a huge part of my working life over the last four decades and I have seen it evolve from agricultural plant hire into property, development and construction. “It is somewhat fitting that my retirement is in the same year that The Wigley Group’s association with Edgwick Park comes to an end with the regeneration of that area complete.” Maurice’s role in building relations with clients and suppliers is now led by Peter Burnell, who joined the company in 2015. Having worked in every area of the business, he was promoted to business relationship manager a year ago. Peter said: “It’s exciting to be taking over the relationships that Maurice has forged over 40 years and developing new connections as we look for more opportunities for growth.”

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further funding from Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council. The range of training available is extensive and supports individuals to gain accredited full qualifications at level two and below and units of qualifications at level three and above. Target sectors include advanced manufacturing, engineering and health and social care.

Small and medium sized enterprises in Coventry and Warwickshire, are urged to take advantage of a £4.5m skills training fund to upskill their workforce. The training is delivered as part of the Skills Support for the Workforce (SSW) programme, which Serco is managing across the region. Serco works in partnership with the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) to provide bespoke skills development that focuses on upskilling employees in key priority sectors. HOW CAN YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT? Through SSW, eligible businesses can benefit from funded training, tailored to their specific needs.

Maurice Adams is pictured far left at The Wigley Group with, from left to right, Robert Wigley (chairman of The Wigley Group), James Davies (managing director of The Wigley Group) and Peter Burnell (business relationship manager at The Wigley Group)

Maurice’s long-standing service was celebrated by colleagues and clients of The Wigley Group, which is based at Stockton, Southam. Robert Wigley, chairman of The Wigley Group, added: “Maurice has always been there for us in looking after our business interests and has been a very good friend to the company. We wish him all the very best in his retirement.”

Skills project develops local workforce

A unique initiative is helping companies to invest in training to plug skills gaps and boost business growth. Coventry & Warwickshire Skills 4 Growth (CWS4G) delivers skills support to SMEs in the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) postcode areas. It is part-funded by the European Social Fund and receives

Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire continue to benefit from £4.5m skills training fund

An organisational training needs analysis is conducted with eligible SMEs to identify skills gaps in the workplace which may be creating a barrier to growth. A training package is then developed to meet those needs. The programme is managed by Coventry City Council in partnership with the Coventry & Warwickshire LEP, Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub, Warwickshire County Council and other major stakeholders. A 50% contribution of funding for eligible training costs is made by the project and the delivery partner for the scheme is PET-Xi Training. Education for Health, a charity that aims to transform the lives of people living with long-term health conditions,

is one of the organisations to benefit from the project. The charity approached PET-Xi to deliver a two-day Excel course in partnership with CWS4G to upskill members of staff who use the spreadsheet application in their day-to-day roles. All five female employees achieved their qualification and were presented with their certificates. Education for Health said the course was interactive, fun, informative and the trainers created a safe environment to learn. All learners rated the course as ‘excellent’ and would recommend a PET-Xi course to a friend, with their knowledge of Excel improving.

Training is flexible and businesses can select full qualifications or mix and match individual units that are directly relevant to their work. Previous SSW programme participants have benefited from increased employee confidence, motivation and productivity rates, as well as, increased employee retention. Businesses will benefit from a bespoke Training Needs Analysis that identifies requirements for upskilling or skills gaps in their workforce. Training for participant businesses could cover subjects such as; IT and digital skills, customer services, hospitality, leadership and management and more vocationally relevant courses. GET INVOLVED – FIND OUT MORE The SSW programme is co-financed by the European Social Fund and the Education and Skills Funding Agency and Serco has partnered with expert training organisations, who know the local business landscape. www.serco-ssw.com | skillssupport@serco.com

News

New chapter for Coventry industrial estate

James Davies, managing director of The Wigley Group, is pictured far right with left, Louis Smith, head of estates at The Wigley Group, and Tom Bromwich, partner at Bromwich Hardy, in a unit at Albion Industrial Estate.

GB hockey team pledges support for Australian bushfire appeal

New life is being breathed into an industrial estate in a prime location in Coventry to open up business and employment opportunities in the north of the city. The Wigley Group has acquired six vacant units totalling around 65,000 sq ft which were formally occupied by Capitol Tiles

Global humanitarian organisation, Penny Appeal Australia welcomed Great Britain’s national women’s hockey team to its Belmore office to congratulate them on their effort to raise awareness of the ongoing bushfires in Australia.

Saddened by the news and images of the devastation caused by the ongoing bushfires in the country, the international athletes wanted to directly help affected communities by raising more than £4,300 ($8,600 AUD) in less than one week since the launch of their online fundraise to support Penny Appeal Australia’s efforts to assist bushfire victims. Rio Olympic gold medal winner and Great Britain goalkeeper, Maddie Hinch, described the extent of the devastation as “haunting”. “For us, it really hit home because as soon as it was confirmed that we will be travelling to Australia, we wanted to help in any way and make a difference while we’re there,” she said. “We all agreed that we would feel better if contributing in some way and making a difference in the lives of those affected.” Penny Appeal Australia assists communities affected by the fires by providing items including water, medical supplies and non-perishable food. Jasmin Ghandour, the charity’s head of fundraising, said: “It was a very big and delightful surprise to us all to have Olympic champions reach out to us to extend their support to the Australian community. “To us, the opportunity to host the team in our own space and show them exactly how their efforts will improve the lives of so many people is humbling.

on Albion Industrial Estate in Foleshill. The Warwickshire-based property, development and construction company now owns around 40 per cent of the industrial estate and is initially carrying out extensive works on two of the units ahead of being let to new occupiers. The adjoining two-storey units, both around 10,000 sq ft, front Endemere Road, off Lockhurst Lane, and are being refurbished by The Wigley Group to provide two trade counter units, with offices, storage and parking. James Davies, managing director of The Wigley Group, said: “Albion Industrial Estate is a well-established and popular industrial estate in the north of Coventry with good access to the main road and motorway networks. “There is great potential with the range of units that we have acquired and we are expecting strong interest within the trade

counter market for the two which we are refurbishing to a high standard. “We continue to seek out new investment and development opportunities throughout the Midlands and are delighted to have added this collection of units to our portfolio which we hope will benefit the industrial estate and local economy.” The two units under refurbishment are now being marketed on behalf of The Wigley Group by Bromwich Hardy and Avison Young. Tom Bromwich, partner at Bromwich Hardy, said: “This acquisition offers The Wigley Group a great opportunity to add value to the buildings through refurbishment and reletting, and when there continues to be a chronic shortage of commercial property and land in Coventry and the surrounds as has been demonstrated many times.”

Law firm strengthens team with new appointments and promotions A Midlands law firm has recruited a raft of new team members and made several senior promotions as part of its growth strategy. Leamington-based Wright Hassall has appointed two partners, made five promotions to associate level, and three to senior associate roles. Katie Alsop, who started at Wright Hassall 16 years ago as a paralegal, has been promoted to partner alongside Caroline Benfield who joined as a senior associate in 2016. Other senior appointments have seen Laura Abbott, who specialises in contentious probates, real estate lawyer Gemma Rogers, and Tariva Thomas in the commercial litigation team being promoted to senior associates. At associate level, five new appointments have been made including Rebecca

Mushing, a specialist planning lawyer who started as a paralegal at the firm in 2006, commercial real estate solicitor Bhavika Mistry and Kalpesh Patel, legal manager of the debt recovery team. Myles Bennett, a solicitor in the banking and project finance team, and Rachael Flanagan, who specialises in personal injury and medical negligence claims and has been at the company for over nine years, have also been promoted to associates. Alongside the internal promotions, several new senior appointments have been made, with Jody Evans taking on a new role at the company as director of risk and compliance. She will start a new chapter for the firm with her role managing the compliancy team, while also spearheading a consultancy service available to other external clients and law firms.

Caroline Benfield, Rebecca Mushing, Bhavika Mistry, Gemma Rogers, (back) Katie Alsop, Myles Bennett, Elizabeth Taylor, Sarah Perry, Kalpesh Patel and Rachael Flanagan.

She is starting her role alongside Emma Adams, who joined the development team as partner last autumn, Elizabeth Taylor, who has been appointed as an insolvency consultant and Lindsay Barnett, HR director for the company. Sarah Perry, managing partner at Wright Hassall said: “We have made a significant number of internal promotions and new appointments to the Wright Hassall team to ensure a strong start to the year.”

World-renowned equestrian trade show moves to NAEC Stoneleigh The great and good of the equestrian world will be heading to Warwickshire next January for the country’s most prestigious equestrian trade show. Exhibition and conference centre NAEC Stoneleigh, in Kenilworth, will be hosting the world-renowned BETA International Show from January 2021.

“Both the effort and support of these ladies and their followers is incredible; we cannot thank them enough.”

The annual three-day event, which attracts 3,500 visitors from across the UK and overseas, has a global reputation for showcasing the latest products from across the equestrian, pet and country sectors and, in a major coup for Stoneleigh, is making the move to launch a “new era” for the show.

Pledge your support for Penny Appeal Australia’s Bushfire Campaign by donating to GB Women’s Hockey fundraiser. Visit www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/gbwhockey

Claire Thomas, commercial manager of Equestrian Management Consultants – a wholly-owned subsidiary of the British Equestrian Trade Association and organiser of BETA International – said the NAEC’s 250-acre site, unique indoor and outdoor

facilities and “can-do attitude” make it the ideal venue for the popular event. She said: “Moving to our new home at NAEC Stoneleigh will be the beginning of a new era for BETA International – a fresh start which, in a number of ways, will signal a different approach for us to maintain our position as industry leaders. “The equestrian world is changing, so we are changing with it. We’re delighted to be teaming up with such a high-quality venue and talented team at NAEC.” The BETA International Show will be making the switch to NAEC Stoneleigh, which hosts more than 275 events every year, after 26 years at the NEC in Birmingham. NAEC managing director Chris Hartley said: “It speaks volumes for the overall offering here at the NAEC that such a show has left somewhere after 26 years in order to make NAEC Stoneleigh its new home.

BETA International, the world-renowned equestrian trade show, will be moving to NAEC Stoneleigh from January 2021

“It really is an unmissable event for anyone in the equestrian industry, in the UK or overseas.” BETA International 2021 will be staged at NAEC Stoneleigh from January 24 to 26. For more information, visit www.naecstoneleigh.co.uk and www.beta-int.com

Ramada Hotel & Suites Coventry welcome a new General Manager Faycal Bennani, known as Ben, joined the team in February and brings more than 10 years’ experience as a General Manager and over 20 years’ experience in the hospitality sector, most recently developing the Ibis Styles located by the NEC and Birmingham Airport. Speaking about his challenges and goals for the new role; hotels current challenges

include innovation, keeping up with new technology and trends, personalising guests’ experiences, increasing the loyalty base whilst staying competitive in the market Ben said “We aim to address these challenges to be ahead of the competition, our hotel focusses on individual businesses and leisure travel, we emphasise on high quality standards in our rooms and food and beverage,

and recognise that this cannot be done without well trained, motivated and enthusiastic employees” Asked about the impact of the City of Culture in 2021 Ben said “A lot of energy, investment and focus has gone into 2021 and what it will bring to the City. What’s crucial is the legacy it leaves for the future. Investing in the people of the city is key, financial

and environmental sustainability will continue to flourish and will support hotels and the community” Outside of work Ben enjoys travelling, volunteer work when he can, and some sporting activities. The Ramada Hotel & Suites Coventry offers all Chamber members a 15% discount on food and beverage, so feel free to pop over and meet the Ramada’s new General Manager.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

HMRC are back on top

A seemingly innocuous change proposed in the Budget 2018 will see HMRC re-gain preferential treatment over non-preferential and floating charge holders from April. That’s not so bad, is it? Up until 2003 Revenue claims were predominantly preferential. The Enterprise Act changed all of that. The 2018 Budget seeks to change it back.

The argument from HMRC is that they want to make sure taxes paid by employees and customers fund vital public services, rather than being diverted to businesses’ other creditors. HMRC, with all of their enforcement powers and their access to real time information about companies and individuals, have sought to put themselves higher up the pecking order over suppliers who are now even less likely to receive anything in the event of an insolvency. Because their newly won preferential status means the Crown will be paid the preferential element of their debt before funds can be paid to floating charge creditors, lenders will now be even more wary of lending. They will need to enquire, regularly, as to what tax liabilities are due as these will now prejudice their ability to recover debt in the event of problems.

Directors, seeking some protection behind Limited company status, will most likely be required to offer more in the way of personal guarantees. Another area of risk for directors comes in the form of the draft finance bill 2019/20 whereby the government

was looking to introduce Joint Liability Notices to pursue individuals who had two or more insolvencies in the previous five years in which HMRC’s debt was 50% or more of the creditor balance. The governments’ direction of travel is clear.

“HMRC, with all of their enforcement powers and their access to real time information about companies and individuals, have sought to put themselves higher up the pecking order over suppliers who are now even less likely to receive anything in the event of an insolvency.” If you wish to discuss this topic or anything else related please contact John Rimmer or any member of the BRI Business Recovery and Insolvency management team on 02476 226839 or email jrimmer@briuk.co.uk

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Profile: Alan Hazell “That journey began three years ago and Nimbus, as it is today, is the result of all that hard work which has taken us from being me plus one other, to today where we are just shy of 50 employees with a further 60 or 70 associates who work with us on project work.

As you like IT As Alan Hazell left Yorkshire in the mid-1980s to pursue a career in the theatre, it seems only logical now that he would end up living and working near Stratford and the home of Shakespeare. But just as the audience of one of the Bard’s plays might face some twists and turns before they reach a satisfactory conclusion, the same can easily be said of Alan – who now runs Nimbus, a Coventry-based business that specialises in digital and technology services. He first set out for the bright lights of London and studied Stage Management and Theatre Production at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama but, like any good plot, his career – and life – path soon took a new direction. “I qualified as a Stage Manager,” Alan said. “I did some stints in that role on a couple of West End shows and a couple of provincial shows but when I got married and had children, I realised that actually that wasn’t going to pay the bills and so I sought other employment. “It was while I was working as an Operations Manager for Welsh Water that I discovered my passion for IT. It was at the time when many public services began to be privatised, and Welsh Water had just won the contract to deliver street cleaning for Stratfordupon-Avon that I was overseeing. “The company gave me a PC and I didn’t know anything about computing,

I hadn’t got a clue what it was or what I needed to do with it! “My father-in-law came to visit us and he gave me a quick lesson, teaching me a few DOS programming commands and a couple of things I could do with Lotus 123 and the rest is history. “I immediately fell in love with IT and went back to Coventry University and obtained a degree in Software Engineering and took on this massive change, at the same time as bringing up a young family. But I’d found my passion.” For several years, he worked as a consultant to public and private sector organisations on tech contracts that would see him build and manage teams to deliver a range of projects and services. But changing rules around the use of contractors and freelance staff three years ago presented both a new challenge and opportunity for Alan which saw the advent of the company he runs today, employing close to 50 staff directly and a similar amount on project-by-project basis assignments. “I had been working in client-side consultancy for many years when the Government changed the legislation around IR35 and the rules around how businesses can use contractors and the way they are taxed,” he said. “I saw the chance to become a Managed Services Provider rather than essentially being a ‘one-man-band’.

“We provide a range of IT services across the public and private sectors. The balance today is still in favour of our public sector clients but we are working hard to balance that out which is why we are rapidly growing our private sector client-base. “As a company, we deliver frontline services in the sense that every organisation needs IT to function. “It is evolving and changing all the time as newer ways of doing things are being introduced by various different vendors at a massive pace. “The next ten years are going to be the technology decade when some of the buzzwords we hear in the media such as AI start to play a part in changing how we interact with services. “So as technology comes more and more to the fore, the way we engage with public and private sector services will also change. IT is a great business to be in and as long as we remain current and stay ahead of trends, it presents a real opportunity for us to grow a strong IT capability up here in the Midlands, which we think is a great place to do business.” It’s clear that Alan knows his stuff when it comes to technology and the direction of travel for the industry as he cites examples of automated telephone systems through to fridges that will place supermarket orders when you have run out of certain items. But it’s actually the value that he places on people and partnerships – on top of the technological nous – that he sees as setting Nimbus apart from some of the competition in the field. “We look to bring added value as a business rather than just being a set of services that you buy-in from us,” he said. “We help the clients understand the problems that they are trying to solve, find the right capabilities and then work with them in an innovative way to find the solution, but all very much in partnership. “Our mantra is about building partnerships with customers rather than just being customer suppliers and I see that as a real differentiator for us.” The focus on people isn’t just directed towards customer relationships, Alan places great stall in being a good employer and offering an environment which is enjoyable to work in. He describes it as the Nimbus family – which is true both factually and metaphorically. His son, Jack, is the

company’s Operations Director and other members of his family work in the business while at the same time valuing the work-life balance for the staff in general. “We want to build a community and family-ethos,” Alan said. “I want people to want to come and work for us and that we are known in the local area as a good employer. And that’s not just about how we remunerate staff, it’s about a mutual respect right throughout the office, about sustainability within the business and also a range of benefits. “In selecting our healthcare package for our staff, we were very keen for it to include a counselling service which is free for them to use if they have any problems in their personal or professional lives. “We also invest a huge amount in our social events to bring people together including those who work in the business but also their partners and their families. “We are very proud to have been nominated by the Federation for Small Business for the Midlands for the Midlands Family Business of the year 2020, and are looking forward to the awards ceremony later in the year.” And while the early dreams of working in theatre have been overtaken by his success in IT, there is no doubting that art and culture are still a big part of Alan’s make-up (he’s seen every Shakespeare play and regularly visits the theatre) and that’s why he was keen to support Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture in 2021. “We had to be part of it purely because of my passion for the arts,” he said. “City of Culture is a chance to see how technology can bring fun and vibrancy to a city such as Coventry and there are some really exciting opportunities around that which can be explored in 2021. “It’s part of an exciting period for the city and the region. It used to be the case that nobody liked to be sent to Coventry but that is certainly changing and Nimbus are proud to be part of that transformation.”

“As technology comes more and more to the fore, the way we engage with public and private sector services will also change. IT is a great business to be in and as long as we remain current and stay ahead of trends, it presents a real opportunity for us to grow a strong IT capability up here in the Midlands, which we think is a great place to do business.” 20

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Alan Hazell

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We provide a range of IT services across the public and private sectors. The balance today is still in favour of our public sector clients but we are working hard to balance that out which is why we are rapidly growing our private sector client-base.â&#x20AC;?

Alan Hazell Born: Live: Married: Children: Hobbies: Favourite Book: Favourite Film: Last Holiday: Gadget:

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Castleford, West Yorkshire Stratford-upon-Avon Yes Three, two girls and a boy Golf and astronomy Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom Sardinia iWatch

21 21

News

Kind-hearted Warwick business raises money for The Myton Hospices Chris Willmott from The Myton Hospices (front, left) receives a cheque for £1,000 from Alistair Clark of AC Lloyd Homes (front, right) watched by staff at its headquarters in Warwick

Hugh Fenn, Executive Director of UK Care Service at Leonard Cheshire

Kind-hearted staff at a Warwick property development and investment company have donated a four-figure sum to a local charity. AC Lloyd, based at Tachbrook Park, handed over a cheque for £1,000 to The Myton Hospices after a series of fundraising events last year. These included their Christmas jumper day and the sale of furniture from its show homes at developments across Warwickshire to staff during a silent auction. Chris Willmott, corporate fundraiser at The Myton Hospices – which has a hospice

in Myton Lane, Warwick – visited staff at AC Lloyd to thank them for their efforts. He said: “We rely on donations to continue to provide all our services free of charge for patients across Coventry and Warwickshire. “The generous donation from AC Lloyd will form part of our ongoing support to patients and their families. “We are really grateful to AC Lloyd for their generous donation of £1,000 and it highlights the wonderful support we receive from the business community throughout the area.” Alistair Clark, managing director at AC Lloyd Homes, said being involved in the local community has been the ethos of the business since it was established in 1948.

“We have been creating communities and commercial developments for over 70 years in Warwickshire and throughout the Midlands and supporting the local community is at the core of every aspect of our work,” he said. “We chose The Myton Hospices to benefit from our fundraising because they are a fantastic locally based charity who care for patients and their families at a time when they need it most. “A total of £4,494.80 has now been raised for The Myton Hospices over the years by AC Lloyd and I would like to thank all my colleagues for their generous support. It was great to meet Chris and hear about all the great work they do.”

Law firm assists UK charity in a major national Dozens of security jobs saved by NAEC Stoneleigh property deal A Midlands law firm has helped a UK charity in a major national property deal that will mean it can reach more disabled people with vital services. Wright Hassall has acted for charity Leonard Cheshire in the sale of 17 care homes to the care provider Valorum Care Group, which will now run them. The deal will allow Leonard Cheshire, which provides services and support for people living with disabilities, to expand its services in the community and support more individuals with disabilities. Leonard Cheshire has around 130 services across the UK, 5,000 staff and 8,500 volunteers. Founded in 1948, it reached more than 46,000 people last year through its work in the UK and internationally. In the UK, Leonard Cheshire initially focused on residential care, but now increasingly supports disabled people in communities offering a wide range of projects that include work, training, skills and volunteering opportunities. Internationally it has supported more than 40,000 disabled children into education. Wright Hassall, which is highly experienced in the care home sector, acted for Leonard Cheshire on the sale of the real estate while Linklaters LLP of London advised Leonard Cheshire on the business sale. Gill Worthington, partner at Wright Hassall said: “This sale is a really important development for Leonard Cheshire enabling them to grow their services, extend their reach and continue to provide quality care for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions. Hugh Fenn, Leonard Cheshire’s executive director of UK care service, added: “Through this sale, we ensured the long-term future of the services and continuity of care for residents from staff they know. This was always our priority.”

NAEC Stoneleigh’s security manager, Shirley Dolphin and head of venue operations, Rob Patterson mark the news that the venue has stepped in to save around 60 security jobs

Events and conference centre NAEC Stoneleigh has moved to save around 60 jobs which were threatened by the closure of a West Midlands security firm.

Solihull-based Securex provided security and stewarding staff to help manage the tens of thousands of visitors who attend more than 275 events every year at the NAEC, which is based at Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth. Securex is now closing down and NAEC Stoneleigh has stepped in to create Grandstand Security and Stewarding – a move which has saved the jobs of dozens of workers who have been trusted faces at the renowned conference site for many years. Rob Patterson, head of venue operations at

NAEC Stoneleigh, said: “As soon as we heard the business was closing, we moved to ensure that the high-quality service provided to all visitors and exhibitors at the NAEC would continue. “To this end, we have decided to take all of our security and stewarding needs in-house under the banner of Grandstand Security and Stewarding and, at the same time, protect the jobs of up to 60 dedicated staff who have worked with us for so long – many of whom live locally to Stoneleigh. Roger Evans, operations manager at Securex for

20 years, is delighted to be able to continue working at NAEC. He said: “NAEC Stoneleigh immediately wanted to secure the future of the Securex staff, as well as retaining all their knowledge and experience of working at Stoneleigh. “That was a perfect solution for me. We’re one big happy team and we pride ourselves on delivering the very best security and service to exhibitors and visitors.” For more information visit www.naecstoneleigh.co.uk

Innovative scheme to help local firms An innovative new scheme has been helping businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire find the investment they need to grow their business. The Duplex Investment Fund, which is a combined grant and loan, is an initiative between the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP), Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council and Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT). The project is being funded by £3.9 million of grants from the Government’s Local Growth Fund and the CWLEP. Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council are each investing a further £2 million in the scheme, which will be managed by CWRT. The fund is aimed at businesses that are unable to generate sufficient cash

to progress with an otherwise viable investment project. It is a new way to help finance capital investments by local businesses. Loans between £30,000 to £100,000 are available and up to 40 per cent of the expenditure could be available as a grant, allowing businesses to manage their cash flow flexibly. To qualify, businesses will need to have traded for two years, backed up by accounts, have a business plan and be able to demonstrate that they need the grant. Applicants who can prove that new jobs will be created will be given priority. Cllr Jim O’Boyle, cabinet member for jobs and regeneration at Coventry City Council and CWLEP board director, said: “Small and medium-sized business are the

economic backbone of our city. Together they employ more people than the big companies combined but they can struggle to access funding to support their ambitions for growth. “That’s why Duplex is so important. It will provide funding where it’s needed to support ambition and growth.” Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council leader, said: “The Duplex Fund, which is part of a £5 million investment by the county council in access to finance programmes, is an exciting new dimension to the support available to those businesses.” Graham Simpson, of CWRT, said: “Duplex is a game-changer that is going to make a real difference to local businesses looking to invest and grow.”

Be cyber smart A cloud network specialist has urged businesses to look after their cyber security. Back in October 2019 Netmetix shared tips and information as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month – but has warned that cyber security is a neverending, ongoing challenge. The company said: “The single biggest message we can convey is that cyber security is everyone’s responsibility! The days of it falling entirely on the shoulders of managed IT service providers like Netmetix are over. We put hardware and software measures in place to help stop the threat but with 25% of UK residents having been a victim to some type of cybercrime we must all become increasingly vigilant.”

Netmetix has outlined several measures that businesses can adopt to protect themselves: • Use secure passwords! A staggering 23 million people still use 123465 as their password! Choose a three-word passphrase, or a combination of letters, numbers and characters and vary them from site to site so if one site gets breached, you don’t have the risk of all of your logins being breached • Unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks can easily be compromised, so avoid banking or anything sensitive while connected to one of these networks – or better still, avoid this entirely unless you have no other option • Avoid clicking links in emails - phishing emails try to get users to click on and

enter details into fraudulent websites and are one of the leading methods of stealing your data • Keep software and apps updated. Hackers always look to exploit vulnerabilities in software and keeping yours up to date gives you the best chance of protection • Review your privacy on social media and don’t overshare. Social engineering is growing in popularity and criminals scour social media to get information on you that they can leverage • Use a good security solution. Just having “anti-virus” is not enough anymore; these applications must protect you against malware, trojans, ransomware and more

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

HR system boosts efficiency at law firm

Front l/r, Zoe Sweeney (CW Chamber of Commerce), Julie McGarrigle (Alsters Kelly). Back l/r, Paul Lawrie (HansonLawrie), Dale Ball (Alsters Kelly)

A regional law firm has hailed a new system for tracking staff holidays and absence as a ‘major boost’ to efficiency within the business.

Alsters Kelley, which has nearly 100 staff across four offices in Coventry, Nuneaton, Leamington and Southam, recently subscribed to the Breathe HR system through Warwick-based HR and recruitment company HansonLawrie. The two companies, both corporate members of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, have worked together over several years after initially meeting through the Chamber. HansonLawrie has supported Alsters Kelley on the recruitment side and has, more recently, advised and implemented the new Breathe HR system across the business. It means all holiday is now booked and tracked through the cloud-based system, which also monitors staff absence and can spot trends and produce easy-tounderstand reports. The system has already led to efficiency savings and a reduction in paper use at Alsters Kelley.

Staff have their own online profile which allows them to keep tabs on their holiday allowance. They can even book time off outside of work hours. Dale Ball, senior HR business partner at Alsters Kelley, said: “Breathe HR has helped us to streamline everything and has been a major boost to the efficiency of the whole process, which has cut right down on the number of hours in a week we would spend managing these aspects of HR.” Paul Lawrie, director of HansonLawrie, said: “The beauty of Breathe HR is that it is really simple to use and has everything a business needs both in terms of increased efficiency and, also, in the reports and data it can create which is really easy to follow and understand.” Zoe Sweeney, corporate manager at the Chamber, said: “It’s great to see two corporate members working together in this way. Building these kinds of business relationships between local companies is exactly what the Chamber is all about.”

Deeley duo land award named in honour of former colleague Two key members of the Deeley Group team shared the honours for a company award that was created as a legacy to one of the firm’s finest. The Gary Neville Award was created in 2012 in tribute to the former Deeley Group contracts manager who passed away in 2011 and is voted for by employees of the company. The award honours those who have gone ‘above and beyond’ in their commitment to the company, its clients and fellow members of the Deeley Group team. This year it was shared between contracts manager Matt Ellis and facilities manager Philip Surrey. Matt, who has spent nearly a decade with the

firm, worked with Gary on construction projects at MIRA on the Warwickshire/ Leicestershire border. He said: “I was probably the most surprised person in the room when they said I had won the Gary Neville Award. “It’s a great team here at Deeley and we all try to do that bit extra, which is exactly the legacy that Gary left here. If anyone needs a hand with anything, I’ll always try to help them whenever possible. Philip has worked for the group for 15 years and knew Gary well. He said: “Gary was a lovely guy and we all hold this award in very high esteem because of who it is named after and because of what it says about the company.”

Philip Surrey, Peter Deeley, Julie Neville, Matt Ellis

Peter Deeley, managing director of the Deeley Group, added: “Each year, the team here decides who should win the Gary Neville Award and it is genuinely well regarded by everyone here because of what Gary was like as a person and what he stood for. “Congratulations to Philip and Matt for being put forward by their colleagues, which is the very highest praise indeed.”

The Leadership Coaches Launch On hand to help individuals, teams, and organisations reach their full potential, The Leadership Coaches was launched earlier this year by Zoe Lewis. The company’s passionate team of coaches are on hand to help individuals, teams and organisations reach their full potential. From Education to Hospitality and Manufacturing to Healthcare, The Leadership Coaches have worked across a wealth of industries and can tailor their coaching as a result. Hand-picked by Director of Coaching Zoe Lewis, The Leadership Coaches first intake of coaches were ready for the launch on the 1st January 2020. The second intake of coaches are now being selected to ensure that they can cater to and meet the needs

of medium to large organisations. Since launching, The Leadership Coaches has seen an extremely positive response on social media and through verbal feedback surrounding the organisations unique services that include credibility checked leadership coaches that can make an immediate difference to individuals and businesses across the country. Just two months after launching, The Leadership Coaches have announced their charity of the year, are in discussions with previous clients and other prospects. Speaking of the launch of The Leadership Coaches, Zoe Lewis says “I am delighted with the success of the launch of The Leadership Coaches.

Not only have we got new enquiries at such an early stage, but we have a team of hardworking and dedicated coaches that can cater to the needs of small, medium and large organisations up and down the country. I am passionate about our link to Coventry. I had the pleasure of volunteering on Christmas Day for Open Coventry helping in the homeless shelter. This was the driver behind our chosen Charity of the Year: Addaction. As a valuesled organisation supporting charities is extremely important to us.” If you would like to find out more about The Leadership Coaches, visit their LinkedIn page (The Leadership Coaches LTD) or their website www.theleadershipcoaches.co.uk

New appointment at Lanemark

Lanemark Combustion Engineering is enhancing its sales and customer liaison capability with the appointment of Richard Brice as technical sales administrator. The move is set to bolster the in-house support service offered by the company. It will focus on key links between the external and internal sales teams at Lanemark, which specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of process gas burner systems for industry. Richard, 29, brings with him some 12 years’ experience in the food industry where his focus has been on customer liaison – reflecting his new role now at Nuneaton-based Lanemark. He said: “I am delighted to be joining Lanemark and, in particular, being able to build on the company’s activities in this key area of sales and customer support.” Adrian Cadman, sales manager, process burners at Lanemark, said: “We are very happy to welcome Richard to the organisation and believe his background and commitment to delivering excellent customer liaison services will enhance our own sales activities. “The appointment reflects not only our belief in creating a seamless link between the sales and installation functions but also our success and growth both in our home market and overseas.” For more information visit www.lanemark.com

Squash star plays in US Open thanks to Bromwich Hardy

Richard Hardy with Lucy Mayers

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A young squash star ranked among the top ten in the country got the chance to play in the US Junior Open thanks to help from commercial property experts Bromwich Hardy. Ten-year-old Lucy Mayers, from Stratford-upon-Avon, was one of eight girls in her age group across the country selected by England Squash for the prestigious tournament in Boston, Massachusetts. She was able to make the dream trip last month after a big fundraising campaign by fellow members of Stratford Squash Club and generous sponsorship from Coventrybased Bromwich Hardy. Lucy, who has been playing for five years and is

currently ranked ninth in England for under 11s, finished in the top half of the US competition – exceeding her ranking at the tournament. She said: “I was so proud to be offered the chance to compete at the US Junior Open, to participate in such a prestigious tournament and to play girls from other countries. I love squash and to play at Harvard University was so exciting. I am really grateful to Bromwich Hardy for sponsoring my trip; I had the time of my life.” Bromwich Hardy founding partner Richard Hardy said the agency was delighted to help make Lucy’s dreams come true.

“We heard about Lucy’s selection through friends and wanted to do anything we could to help her make this trip-of-a-lifetime. I’m delighted she performed so superbly and had such a wonderful time. I am sure it is the start of even bigger things to come.” Mum Helen Mayers said: “Lucy found the whole trip really inspirational, not only in terms of playing but also by having the opportunity to watch, and learn from, other competitors.” Lucy is coached by former semiprofessional player Ahmed Eissa, is part of the West Midlands Regional Academy and represents Warwickshire U11 girls’ team.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Member Profile

2020 Marks 55 Years for Whiteley Brooks Engineering Chamber member Whiteley Brooks Engineering has been trading for 55 years supplying high quality machined components to discerning customers. One Stop Shop While the core business of Whiteley Brooks Engineering is in CNC Milling, CNC Turning and Grinding they are considered as a ‘One Stop Shop’ for the majority of engineering requirements. Whiteley Brooks also has an extensive Supplier Base on which they can rely on to provide the services that they are unable to offer ‘In House’.

Established in 1965 by Ken Whiteley and Stan Brooks, Whiteley Brooks Engineering has always maintained a commitment to producing high quality machined components. Since its formation the Company has kept at the forefront of technological development enabling it to take advantage of modern machining methods and practices. Drawing on their many years of experience at Whiteley Brooks Engineering, they are justifiably proud of their ability to satisfy both the delivery and quality demands required by their customers in the 21st century. Drawing on this experience the Coventry business is in a position to work with customers in the development of their products and can offer advice and help in ‘Design For Manufacturing’.

Their services include Two Axis CNC Turning, Three, Four and Five Axis CNC Milling, Surface, Universal and Cylindrical Grinding. They are extremely proud of the ability to supply products that meet or exceed the quality demanded by all of their customers.

Investment Whiteley Brooks Engineering have recently completed a major investment program where over 500k has been invested into plant and machinery. They annually have an investment program that is planned out, however this has been a major injection. A new compressor has been purchased to service the whole premises, allowing for a backup compressor system. Two Doosan DNM5700H Milling machines have been brought in to increase Milling capacity, both with 5 axis capability. A Doosan Puma GT2600 has also been invested in to ramp up capacity on the turning section. Laser Scanning Technology has also

been introduced into the inspection department, they have recently purchased a Quantum M Faro Arm.

Sectors Customers of Whiteley Brooks come from many sectors of business including automotive, aerospace, motor sports and machine tool industries. They are linked by the need for high quality precision engineering delivered when required. The company is particularly proud of their work in supplying parts for Formula 1 motor racing.

The Future Looks Bright Whiteley Brooks has recently secured a long term contract for manufacturing high precision parts which means the company is not only celebrating 55 years in business but is also continuing to be at the forefront of developments.

The new long term contract has enabled the creation of a permanent night shift which has increased capacity, and enhances job security. Whiteley Brooks are also expanding into new emerging markets such as the electrification of motorsport, keeping the business ahead of the game. To see the sort of work undertaken at Whiteley Brooks and the machinery available, check out the sectors on their website at www.whiteleybrooks.co.uk. Alternatively get in contact on 02476 455938 or email sales@whiteleybrooks.co.uk to discuss your requirements. Whiteley Brooks Engineering are supporters of Coventry UK City of Culture – 2021

Keeping ahead of the game

Whiteley Brooks Engineering Co. Ltd. Herald Way, Brandon Road, Binley, Coventry CV3 2NY

Tel: 024 7645 5938 | Email: sales@whiteleybrooks.co.uk | www.whiteleybrooks.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News Coach operator sees benefits of compliance software

Coatham Coaches, the long-established family-run public service vehicle (PSV) operator, is reaping the benefits of using software that has improved compliance control and driver awareness. Formed in 1980, the company installed CPT Tacho Analysis powered by TruTac’s compliance control software more than two years ago. The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) selected

TruTac as commercial partners four years ago and now has various joint products which all provide significant discounts to CPT members. As each new vehicle is added to the fleet, analogue equipment has given over to digital. However, the company says that even though the latest technology has reduced administration and improved analysis, driver professionalism still lies at the heart of the business. Managing director Mark Hodgson said: “The main reason we moved to TruTac software was the excellent CPT Tacho Analysis product. As far as we could see, this was the best way to improve all-round driver monitoring and two-way consultation regarding all aspects of driver duties and standards. Moreover, the system is fully approved and compatible with DVLA’s Earned Recognition scheme – a direction in which the business is heading.”

Mark and his team have also made full use of TruTac’s integrated TruDriver module, to educate and inform drivers on tachograph records, infringements, compliance and working time so that each driver fully understands the general rules and can help to police his/her own performance. Coatham Coaches has also benefited from the flexibility which the cloud-based CPT Tacho Analysis brings, through real-time access to clear and concise compliance data, including manager and driver dashboards with KPI (key performance indicator) reporting, from any PC or internet-connected device. Mark said: “This makes life easy when it comes to accessing data, either for DVSA or routine operational requirements; it really does enable true compliance control. Plus, with this system we get unlimited vehicle and driver downloads with no hidden charges.”

National event for volunteers announced Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland has announced a new event for people looking to get involved in volunteering. Volunteer Expo is the new national event to celebrate volunteering and inspire more people to give up their time to do good. Free tickets are available now for the event, which will be held at the NEC, Birmingham from May 1 to May 3. Visitors will get the opportunity to meet more than 100 local, national and global charities and organisations, and enjoy inspiring speaker sessions with celebrity campaigners, volunteer heroes and charity sector leaders. They can also immerse themselves in interactive learning workshops on a range of topics, and

hands-on activities to discover how easy it is to make a difference to people’s lives. The opening day of the event is being billed as a Young Changemakers day, with students coming to discover the positive impact of volunteering. Volunteer Expo also has lots to offer businesses, with a range of competitively priced exhibition opportunities for charities, not-for-profit organisations and community interest groups both big and small, as well as event partnership opportunities providing a platform to interact with the event’s 6,000 visitors. Amanda Watkin, general secretary of Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland – which is hosting Volunteer Expo – said:

“We’re thrilled to be bringing Volunteer Expo to life. We know that volunteering plays a huge part in our society and transforms the lives of millions of people around the country every single year. “Rotary has been in the heart of communities for more than 100 years championing good causes and we’re excited to welcome visitors, charities and businesses from across the region to the event.” For more information about the event programme, exhibitor opportunities and to book your free tickets, head to www.volunteerexpo.co.uk

Autins’ automotive expert addresses textiles conference Key players from the global automotive industry gathered recently in Birmingham to attend the first-ever ‘Textile Opportunities in a Changing Automotive Industry’ conference. Held on February 5-6 at the Jaguar Experience Centre, the event was organised to explore how changes in the automotive industry offer opportunities to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers in a decade where the sector is facing the most disruptive transformation in its history. The advent of autonomous driving, electric vehicles, restrictions on car use in urban areas, environmental regulations, the call for reductions in emissions and noise, as well as the sustainable use and re-use of materials, and associated changes in legislation are all driving revolutionary changes. One of the expert speakers to address the conference was Dr Kathy Beresford, group research

and development manager from Rugbybased Autins Group, an industry-leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of acoustic and thermal insulation solutions for the automotive industry and other sectors. Dr Beresford, who heads up the group’s technical centre based near Nuneaton, discussed the advantages of using software-based acoustic modelling to tailor product solutions for its customers. This technique is used by Autins during the development of new acoustic components, including those for electric vehicles such as the LEVC TX5 plug-in hybrid taxi launched in 2018. With the growing appetite for electric and alternative fuel vehicles, Dr Beresford told the conference that Autins expects to see an increase in the demand for acoustic and thermal insulation as the removal of the traditional internal combustion engine has led to other noise sources becoming

Dr Kathy Beresford conducting materials testing at the Autins Technical Centre

more apparent. She said: “Noises both inside and outside the vehicles that were previously hidden by the engine noise quickly become noticeable and irritating to the vehicle passenger.” As a result, Autins believes that there will be more need for acoustic insulation particularly where lightweight solutions with superior acoustic performance are required.

The Alan Higgs Centre gym opens

The renovated fitness suite at The Alan Higgs Centre is now open. The newly renovated and expanded fitness suite boasts new state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, more than 100 fitness stations, functional training area, a fully immersive indoor group cycling room and fantastic classes including those from the world-renowned Les Mills. The updated facility will also be showcasing its new seamless digital experience.

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Chris Panter, senior manager for lifestyles, health and fitness at CV Life, said: “The technology in the new gym is fantastic. We want nothing but the highest standard for our members at CV Life centres. “With over 100 fitness stations, a functional training area, classes and more, there is something to probe everyone’s interest in fitness. “Whilst we are providing for the whole of the city, we also want to ensure that we engage with those who have differing wellness needs and abilities. With the variety of equipment and classes available, our new gym definitely does this.” The centre has received significant investment from Coventry City Council and Sport England. A total of £13.5 million has been spent on updating

the gym and fitness suite along with the health suite, re-locating the 3G indoor pitch and creating an Olympic-sized 50m swimming pool. Paul Breed, chief executive of CV Life, said: “The Alan Higgs Centre is one of many great sporting facilities that CV Life operates in Coventry. The fitness suite looks great and is a perfect reflection of how the rest of the building will look when work is complete. “We really are creating fantastic opportunities city-wide for people to change their lifestyle and become more active.” The new indoor 3G facility opened last year and kick-started the developments at the centre. The 50m pool and health suite are also progressing nicely.

Full fibre can fulfil Coventry’s digital ambitions

By Leigh Hunt, city manager at CityFibre

The future success of Coventry’s economy relies on modern digital infrastructure. Like traditional infrastructure, investment in digital – and in particular, in full fibre – drives the competitiveness, productivity and efficiency of those who use it. Residents, businesses and organisations across the country have long been demanding highspeed connectivity, and new policy and legislative initiatives from central government are likely to lead to full fibre roll-outs gathering pace. Coventry has already secured its place at the forefront of this new digital revolution thanks to CityFibre. It is one of the first 12 Gigabit Cities where CityFibre is investing in full fibre connectivity for nearly every home and business. Wherever full fibre has become a reality it has driven accelerated job creation, better skills development, business expansion and increased start-up growth – the tech sector alone has grown by more than 40% in the last five years. A modern city-wide digital network, with full fibre at its core, presents opportunities to drive economic growth and investment in key industries and sectors. It will also transform delivery of services in the public sector with smart city technologies. To help realise this vision, CityFibre is delivering a state-of-the-art full fibre system that has already connected many city areas and numerous businesses and public sector organisations. Full fibre is key to introducing a new generation of services that acts as a catalyst for innovation and creativity and drives economic and social development. The network not only provides a futureproofed platform to deliver innovative and more efficient services, but streetby-street fibre advances Coventry’s own smart city initiatives. Intelligent transportation systems, high-definition CCTV and connected infrastructure services are all possible using the full fibre network. The new opportunities available through full fibre will become integral to those living and working in Coventry to lead easier, more sustainable and innovative lives. Eventually, the CityFibre network will span from the city centre to the outskirts. Not only does the full fibre expansion signal to the global investment community that Coventry is a truly modern and connected place to do business, it will also accelerate the success of our home-grown talent, skills and businesses. As a main sponsor of the C&W Chamber’s Big Business Lunch in March, I look forward to connecting with all of the guests and sharing our plans for the Gigabit City Coventry project in the coming years.

News

Marketing agency achieves quality standard

ActionCOACH Warwick in the Top 100 Business Coaches list

ActionCOACH Warwick has achieved a new record of being the fastest business coaching franchise to break into the ‘Top 100 ActionCOACH Partners’ list. This list ranks the highest performing ActionCOACH business coaches across the world, of which there are nearly 1,000 operating in more than 70 countries since 2001. The Leamington Spa-based franchise ranked number 48th at the end of 2019 after only six months of operating. Business growth specialist, Kevin Riley has been working with business owners in Leamington Spa, Stratford upon Avon, Kenilworth, Banbury and surrounding areas to help them achieve their business goals. As an experienced and accomplished business leader, developing and leading SMEs over the last 20 years across two continents, Kevin has real-world experience of the challenges that business owners face. Kevin coaches in three key aspects of business: establishing high-performing teams, being more efficient with time and, ultimately, becoming more profitable. His goal is to create 150 millionaires over the next 15 years and he has committed to supporting at least one charity each year. Kevin offers a variety of business coaching options including free seminars, BusinessCLUB for solopreneurs, ActionCLUB for SMEs, GrowthCLUB for businesses of all sizes and one-to-one business coaching, also for businesses of all sizes. Visit warwick.actioncoach.co.uk for full details.

An industrial marketing agency has become the first in the UK to obtain an international standard for quality management. Formation Media has gained the ISO 9001:2015 accreditation, which is widely recognised as a stamp of quality and accountability within businesses. At Formation, the team has found that a process-driven approach has drastically improved their workflow and quality, with the ISO 9001 implementation acting as a powerful formalisation of an existing approach. The product of months of audits and process consideration, the accreditation was spearheaded by Formation’s HR and quality director and business co-founder, David Dunlop, in conjunction with managing director, Martin Gordon, and the collective Formation team. Despite a breadth of both B2C and B2B marketing experience, Formation Media specialises in creative marketing and business solutions for the industrial sector, with a proven record of delivering business growth for industry leaders. Under an ISO 9001 quality management system, Formation will be able to

to our clients. This will allow them to engage the web design and software development skills of a fellow ISOaccredited organisation – a real rarity within the field.” Founded in 2006, Formation Media is the agency behind the development of the Engineering Technology Group, Quaker Houghton (formerly Houghton International) and a roster of other well-known names. Visit https://formationmedia.co.uk/ to learn more.

Amtico apprentice success

James with Steve Palmer, David Bridgens and Lee Beesley of MGTS, (right) James with Jim Morris – continuous improvement manager, Amtico

Engineering apprentice James Todd has been named as a finalist out of 3,500 applicants in the City of Coventry Freemen’s Guild Apprentice of the Year Award 2019. James is currently in his third year of the apprenticeship at Amtico and is working towards his Higher National Certificate. During his first and second year, he

Why people don’t have to live with pain A company that provides counselling and psychotherapy services has urged people not to accept living with pain. In 1982 Elissa Vale from Your Safe Harbour was told that by the time she was 50 she would be in a wheelchair due to an arthritic spine. By this time, she had been in daily pain for five years and was only 18 years old. In 2017, after an accident, Elissa was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and her health was in rapid decline. Walking with sticks and heading for a wheelchair, she could see no possibility of turning her health around. However, a life-changing event occurred in 2018 – one that meant Elissa could continue her career as a psychotherapist and enjoy a better quality of life. She said: “My life was to be restored after attending a networking meeting where I met a man who told me about his “magic mat.” I resisted the offer to try something that should help me as I had heard this too many times

guarantee its clients a consistently unrivalled standard of work. In addition, it will allow the company to continually improve its processes, adapting and learning from mistakes as it always has done. Martin Gordon, managing director of Formation, said: “Our new ISO 9001 accreditation brings Formation to par with our prestigious clients in the manufacturing sector, providing them with a new level of peace of mind and formally demonstrating to others our commitment

before and was as sceptical as it was possible to be.” Eventually Elissa caved in and lay on the Bemer mat – and her pain levels were reduced dramatically. The mat enables the correct functioning of a person’s microcirculation, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the cells and removing waste products, which helps reduce inflammation and increase energy levels. Elissa said: “All I had to do was push a couple of buttons twice a day and, within three months of buying the machine, I was able to put away my sticks and live my life again.” She has urged others who have been told to live with pain to get in touch to discuss how the Bemer mat could help them. Your Safe Harbour provides a safe and confidential space for people to receive psychotherapy and counselling to get through difficult times. The use of a Bemer mat is also provided to help improve clients’ wellbeing. For more information visit www.yoursafeharbour.co.uk

completed a Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) Diploma Level 3 in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, achieving distinctions in every subject. During his first year, James was off-site and full time at MGTS, learning new skills that would help him in his quest to become a manufacturing engineer. He developed knowledge and experience of milling, technical drawing, finishing techniques, pneumatics, electrical wiring, welding and computer aided design. Lee Beesley, MGTS training and development adviser, said: “James clearly has a passion for his chosen career which is evident from the level of detail in his written work and how he always completes any work required before the deadline set. He has also demonstrated that he is willing to assist other apprentices where possible by offering his support, for example with maths tuition.

Ian Lloyd, head of manufacturing at Amtico, said: “James joined Amtico on the operational apprenticeship scheme in 2017. This was the first time we had run a scheme across the entire manufacturing function, and we knew it would be a challenge with such a wealth of knowledge to absorb, from specific manufacturing processes to health and safety and quality management. “James has proved himself to be a real team player and has approached every challenge with a thoroughly positive and professional attitude. His commitment and determination to understand and improve processes has generated visible results, specifically in the health and safety department where his efforts in championing incident reporting have helped to reduce lost time due to injury figures well below our stated target.”

New training consultancy champions mental health in the workplace Warwickshire businesses are being urged to treat mental wellbeing in the same way as physical health and to ensure they have a trained mental health first aider in the workplace. Susanna and Mark Wisniewski own Workful – a new mental health first aid training consultancy based in Leamington. After supporting several close friends and family with mental health issues, Susanna trained with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England and set up the new service, with Mark assisting behind the scenes. They brought in the help of accountancy firm Burgis & Bullock which has offices in Leamington, Nuneaton, Rugby and Stratford-upon-Avon, to advise on the development of

the business and enable them to reach as many workplaces with their workshops as possible. Susanna said: “The ultimate goal is for 10 per cent of all adults nationally to be trained in mental health first aid, with lobbying currently taking place to make it mandatory to have one in the workplace. “It’s all about breaking down the stigma around mental health, getting people talking, and that is what we are emphasising to businesses we are working with in Leamington and across the region. “We initially approached Burgis & Bullock around our corporate tax returns, but they have taken the time to understand our plans and how we want to develop our offering across the region, reaching as many individuals as we can with our message.”

Susanna Wisniewski (Workful), Dale Southworth (Burgis & Bullock), Mark Wisniewski (Workful) and Cameron Ross (Burgis & Bullock).

Dale Southworth from Burgis & Bullock said: “Susanna and Mark are providing an important service for businesses, which is only going to become more prevalent. “We have supported Workful with their accounts and compliance, but also making sure they understand the numbers and what they mean going forwards for the development of the business. To find out more visit www.workful.co.uk

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Area Focus: Coventry

Coventry City of Culture 2021 announces city’s new changemakers Kim Snow Vice President of Revenue Strategy, Interim Group Director of Revenue, Jade Jones Sales Manager Ibis Coventry Centre and Nicholas Northern President International Interstate Hotels and Resorts

Ibis Coventry celebrates award win

Ibis Coventry Centre has scooped its first award from management company Interstate Hotels & Resorts UK at this year’s International Commercial Forum, held at Crown Plaza Newcastle. The hotel won the award for achieving the highest revenue management metrics score out of the group – a testament to the hard work of general manager Faris Thowfeek and his team. Revenue management metrics score measures average room rate and revenue per available room, a key challenge for any hotel. Ibis Coventry Centre has recently undergone extensive refurbishment of its 90 bedrooms, restaurant, bar, lounge and public areas and is located on Mile Lane, Coventry. Jade Jones, sales manager at the hotel who recently joined the team, said: “We are really proud of the hard work and commitment the team has put in this year to achieve this prestigious award. Room rate is always a challenge and to have come out on top of the group is a fantastic result.”

Music from Kenya, art from South Africa and traditional dance from Jamaica are some of the subjects that will be explored through 20 projects led by Coventry artists that aim to make international connections and bring a wide range of cultures to the city. Ahead of 2021, Coventry City of Culture Trust has announced the successful applicants for the new International Changemakers Bursary scheme. Funded by the British Council, Coventry UK City of Culture’s international partner, the programme will strengthen and evolve Coventry’s longstanding role as city of collaboration and friendship. The artists will develop understanding of contemporary art in these international places as well as some amazing new international creative collaborations, and the visits will support their professional development. The 20 successful changemaker projects will receive funding, allowing Coventry’s creatives to travel to countries around the world to discover connections, develop ideas and create lasting cultural exchanges. The project has been inspired by the city’s pioneering activism in the twin city movement after World War Two, encouraging internationalism

City of Culture’s changemakers

and celebrating Coventry’s role as an international city. Two successful applicants, Colin Bell and Cherelle Harding, will be visiting one of Coventry’s twin cities – Kingston in Jamaica – in the hope of connecting the cultures and people by re-establishing a Caribbean carnival in Coventry in 2021. Another project will see Sherrie Edgar travel to Ukraine to establish a connection with a country affected by war further exploring Coventry’s role as a City of Peace and Reconciliation.

The work will spread as far as Cape Town with Coventry artist Colin Yates creating a series of new work alongside South African artists to be showcased ahead of 2021. Jon Davis, senior producer at Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “Each project will see an International changemaker taking the city’s voice to all corners of the world, showcasing the culture and heritage of the city on a global scale and returning with the spirit of what con nects us as people.”

Exciting times ahead for Coventry Coventry City Council continues to invest in the future economic growth of the city – despite having no longterm certainty over its budget set by Government, business leaders have been told. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held its latest Coventry branch meeting at Friargate One and heard from Barry Hastie, Coventry City Council’s director of finance and corporate services. He outlined some of the plans that are either coming to fruition or that are on the horizon in Coventry – including a new hotel and office building as part of the wider Friargate development. Hastie also told the business audience about the capital investment that had

been sparked by Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture in 2021 as well as exciting new developments such as the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre. He said, however, that the City Council would only know its longer-term budgets once the Government has carried out the Comprehensive Spending Review and the other proposed reforms to Local Government Finance. He said: “For next financial year, we will essentially have a roll over budget from the Government because it hadn’t conducted its spending review. “And, with everything that has happened around Brexit and the General Election, we don’t anticipate that the Comprehensive Spending Review will be completed until at least the autumn.

“That said, we have continued to invest in the economic growth of the city and we can now see some of those plans coming to fruition. “It’s great to be able to meet the Chamber as we always consult with the business community on our future budgeting plans.” Tim Squires, the vice-chair of the Chamber’s Coventry branch, said: “We welcome the opportunity to meet Coventry City Council as the voice for business in the area. “There are exciting times ahead for Coventry and the wider region and it’s vital that we continue to grow the regional economy so that we can all continue to invest and recruit in the area.”

Coventry security business raises £10,000 for ten different charities

A Coventry security firm which aimed to raise money for ten different charities during its tenth anniversary in 2019 has achieved its ambitious fundraising target. Stadium’s staff have raised more than £10,000 for the charities after

taking part in more than 30 fundraising events throughout the year. The firm’s appeal was launched in February 2019 with its male staff braving a charity spray tan. Further events during the year included staff conquering the Three

Peaks Challenge, abseiling down the side of Coventry Cathedral, a fivekilometre ‘Pretty Muddy’ obstacle course and flying across the Ricoh Arena on a zipwire. The money will be shared between Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, Coventry & Warwickshire Mind, Emmaus, Macmillan Cancer Support, Myton Hospices, The Forest Hermitage, YoungMinds and Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice. Maria Holmes-Keeling, marketing manager at Stadium who organised the appeal, said: “Our staff have worked so hard to contribute to this fundraising appeal, so we’re really pleased to have met our fundraising pledge. “The charities we’ve raised money for all had personal connections to our staff, which meant everyone had

strong incentives to raise as much as they possibly could for the appeal. Stadium’s tenth anniversary was notable for other reasons besides raising more than £10,000 for its charities. The firm scooped a Midlands Business Award for ‘Innovation of the Year’, expanded its international connections and has trained 1,300 senior safety officials in Qatar ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It also rebranded from its old name of ‘StadiumTM’ to ‘Stadium’, and launched a new website reflecting the name change in the summer. David McAtamney, founder and managing director of Stadium, said: “This has been a fantastic year for Stadium. We have provided training to clients around the world, grown our team and raised a wonderful amount of money for charities that mean so much to our staff.”

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Coventry

Coventry business makes major investment

From the left, Steve Charlton and Paul Harrison (both SAC & Co Engineering Design Ltd), Justine Chadwick (CWLEP Growth Hub), Parmy Singh (Coventry City Council) and Michelle Connor (Manufacturing Growth Programme)

An ambitious design, engineering, tooling and manufacturing business in Coventry has expanded its workforce after investing more than £450,000 in new premises and machinery. SAC & Co Engineering Design, which supplies engineering design and manufacturing technologies to the automotive, defence and aerospace sectors, spent the money refurbishing and upgrading its new home at Cavans Way at the Binley Industrial Estate.

Its 25-strong team – which has been boosted by ten following the move – are benefiting from two purpose-built studios, a mezzanine office over two floors for computer-aided engineers and support staff, sheet metal fabrication bays, trim build and assembly, and a product assembly suite. LED lighting has also been installed throughout the buildings thanks to a grant after the business was assisted by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) Growth Hub. Nearly £75,000 was secured from the Coventry and Warwickshire Green Business Programme and the Coventry & Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The new-look facility also includes a paint shop which has been leased by SAC & Co Engineering Design to

Andy Hawtin, who has launched his own business, Total Paint Solutions. The business secured a grant of £8,200 for the new paint shop from the Manufacturing Growth Programme, which is funded by the ERDF and delivered by Economic Growth Solutions, part of Oxford Innovation Services. Steve Charlton, managing director at SAC & Co Engineering Design, said: “We work with global names such as Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin and we needed premises which reflect that. The extensive refurbishment has been well received by our team and our customers. Justine Chadwick, account manager at the CWLEP Growth Hub, said: “The Growth Hub is here to help businesses whatever their size or sector and SAC & Co Engineering Design is definitely standing out from the crowd with the wide range of services they provide.”

Keeping talent on its toes IPP is helping former ballet enthusiast Caitlyn Willis become one of Coventry’s youngest apprentices. Caitlyn has been hired by IPP, a European pooler of sustainable wooden pallets to the retail supply chain, as a commercial apprentice. The 17-year-old recently joined the Meriden-based head office of IPP’s UK and Ireland operation as part of her 18-month business induction, where she will hone her commercial skills through on-the-job coaching, as well as undertaking a level three business administration apprenticeship at Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training (CWCCT). She is IPP’s first ever apprentice as the business looks to develop a talent pool of experts in the supply chain and the circular economy.

Caitlyn, who lives in nearby Coleshill, Warwickshire, made an impression on the IPP team during her interview, showing experience and maturity beyond her years. Shelley Harris, commercial director for IPP, said: “Caitlyn is our first apprentice under this scheme and she really shone during her interview, which is a great start for us as we look to a new future that relies upon greater collaboration to help drive sustainability in the supply chain. Caitlyn, a former pupil at Coleshill School where she achieved a strong raft of GCSE grades, said: “I previously worked in an estate agency in the marketing function. I am a fast learner and I was looking for a foot in the door in an expanding company where I could learn commercial skills

Lucy Howl of CWT, Caitlin Willis and Shelley Harris, IPP’s commercial director

and be stretched – IPP provided that opportunity. “I did think about going on to do my A levels, but I thought an apprenticeship was a better way to learn quickly by working with people. I am already learning different roles, problemsolving and how the business works – it’s really exciting and challenging.” For more information visit www.ipp-pooling.com

IT firm celebrates 15 years in business in Coventry

Back - Amar Iqbal, Mark Allison, Daniel Wale, George Hooper; Front – Richard Hooper, Kerry Hooper

A Coventry IT firm that began life in a shared council office for start-up businesses is celebrating its 15th anniversary on the back of a record year. PS4B was established by Richard Hooper in Coventry City Council’s

Steeple House in 2005 after he’d built up two decades of experience with regional IT companies. He used some of his own savings and a loan from NatWest to get started and the company has gone from strength to strength ever since. It now employs six staff and supports well in excess of 100 clients, largely across Coventry and Warwickshire as well as the wider Midlands. PS4B landed a string of new customers in 2019 – including a portfolio of clients from a Black Country IT company that was winding up operations. Richard, who employed the company’s first apprentice last year, is looking forward to building on that success. He said: “When you start a business, you never know just how successful it

might be and whether there will be any longevity. “I knew I had a good business plan but needed working capital on top of some of my own money I was investing. I saw several banks and, at the time, they weren’t interested – apart from NatWest who could see the vision I had for the company. “They gave me a small business loan, I took a desk in Steeple House and the rest, as they say, is history. “We’ve grown steadily over the past decade and a half, adding to the team and bringing in new clients. Although we are a technology business, we pride ourselves on great service and there is no doubt that people still buy from people.”

New head of marketing at Ricoh Arena Ricoh Arena has appointed Heather Morgan as new head of marketing. Heather joins the company from Parkwood Leisure where she worked as regional marketing manager. In her new role she will be working alongside the sales and events teams at Ricoh Arena. She said: “I’m delighted to be joining such a vibrant and exciting facility in

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the heart of Coventry. Within weeks of starting here, I’ve been involved with exciting projects such as the Prosthetics Event, the Greatest Christmas Party and the National Sales Event to name but a few. I’m keen to add value to our clients by providing a complimentary marketing support service that enables them to reach a wider audience.” For more information visit www.ricoharena.com

Student buzzing after landing key matchday role at Wasps A sports-mad Coventry University student is buzzing after landing a key matchday role at Wasps. Third-year sports marketing student Beth Mustard has been appointed to a paid role to manage Wasps’ match day ambassadors at Ricoh Arena, which is part of Wasps’ student ambassador scheme with Coventry University. It provides the university’s sports marketing, sport management and event management students with the chance of gaining relevant matchday experience. Beth, 20, has become a familiar face to club staff on matchdays over the past two years. This includes assisting with signing media into the ground and accommodating die-hard supporters such as the Wasps Drummers, through to accompanying club mascot Sting around the pitch, facilitating the pre-match guard of honour with community groups and helping to set up various fan villages. In her new role Beth will be responsible for recruiting fellow students to Wasps’ student ambassador scheme, where she will be overseeing a team to follow in her matchday footsteps. Beth said: “I’ve loved sport ever since watching London 2012, but because I have cerebral palsy down one side of my body I can’t participate in much physical activity, so being in a sporting environment at a club such as Wasps is the next best thing! “My dream job is to work in the marketing department for a sports club, and this latest promotion from volunteer to a paid member of staff is a massive step for me. I feel like I have made great progress towards my ultimate goal.” Verity Brown, marketing manager at Wasps, said: “Beth has been a breath of fresh air and brings such an abundance of reliability and enthusiasm to the matchday team that we wanted to reward her for her efforts. “She is a great role model for other students, and we are looking at how we can integrate her into the wider marketing team moving forward once she has graduated.”

Welcome Centre Coventry

The perfect place for your next event

The Welcome Centre is a purpose built conference and events centre in the heart of the Midlands. Catering from groups of 5 up to 650, we are situated in the city of Coventry. With excellent transport links, state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional customer service, the Welcome Centre is the perfect place for your next event! The Grace Auditorium is an impressive, purpose-built room designed to accommodate up to 650 delegates theatre, and 300 cabaret. Flexible seating layouts, a large raised stage and no pillars, provides a blank canvas suitable for showcasing

any exhibition, corporate event or celebration. Located on the ground floor, the auditorium offers easy access for guests and loading. The Inspire Room can accommodate up to 150 theatre or 100 cabaret style. The room offers sweeping views of Coventry city centre with natural light in abundance. Inspire can be divided into two soundproof interconnecting rooms each having their own installed projector and screen. In split configuration Inspire 1 seats 90 and Inspire 2 up to 20 in theatre style.

CRE 8 is the perfect setting for executive meetings, with an emphasis on innovation and productivity, above formality. Suitable for up to 8 delegates, CRE 8 has a variety of special features included in the room package such as magnetic walls, comfortable sofa seating, unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks, and snack bars - both healthy and sugary! Serenity seats 50 in theatre style benefiting from an installed data projector and electric screen. The room has its own lounge and refreshment area (Serenity Lounge)

and has conveniently located restroom facilities on the same floor. Elegance seats up to 25 theatre style or 15 cabaret style. Large windows provide plenty of natural light. Elegance is equipped with a data projector and electric screen. The Amy room is ideal for smaller gatherings, seating up to 20 in theatre style. It has a small self contained kitchen area, lending itself to more practical meetings. Telephone : 024 7622 6064 Email: info@thewelcomecentre.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Mid Warwickshire

Warwick mapping tech firm plots path to hyper-growth businesses. Managed by the business support team at the University of Warwick Science Park, it worked closely with Nimbus Maps to refine the group’s business strategy. Simon Davis said: “For us the challenge has been trying to translate all the value of our products to a very diverse industry.

From left – Simon Davis, Andrew Green, Dirk Schaefer and Paul Davis

A burgeoning data and software company, whose technology provides the property industry with unprecedented information on properties across the UK, is charting a course for hyper-growth after receiving vital business support. Nimbus Maps, which is based at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Warwick Innovation Centre, was set up by brothers Simon and Paul Davis with the aim of providing up-to-the-minute access to information on potential investment and development opportunities, accessible to everyone investing in or developing properties. The company developed a product which includes current information on commercial and residential sites – from ownership to planning permissions – and that information is layered onto Google

Maps and Ordnance Survey maps via a mobile-ready platform. Nimbus Maps has experienced a meteoric rise in demand for its services. During the last 18 months the number of users has risen from 3,000 to 40,000 – and this growth needed careful management by the firm to avoid the risks involved with over-expansion. The company sought advice from Business Ready, a programme that delivers support to expanding

“Business Ready has helped us develop the infrastructure to grow in a way that corresponds to our vision. They have provided us with marketing support and guidance on tailoring our business to the types of clients we want to attract.”

The Myton Hospices announces 2020 events

Dirk Schaefer, business growth adviser at University of Warwick Science Park, said: “Nimbus Maps has enjoyed tremendous growth in what is an exciting time in PropTech.

Spring has sprung and it’s time to turn your back on the winter hibernation and get active and busy. That’s the view of The Myton Hospices, which has unveiled a full diary of events and activities for 2020.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer support on marketing, recruitment and funding, and look forward to their continued success.”

These activities include challenge events taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks and cycle routes around the beautiful Warwickshire countryside, an It’s a Knockout-style corporate team-building event, a golf day and summer fetes.

For more information on Business Ready visit www.business-ready.co.uk

“The company sought advice from Business Ready, a programme that delivers support to expanding businesses. Managed by the business support team at the University of Warwick Science Park, it worked closely with Nimbus Maps to refine the group’s business strategy.”

First electric bus trials in Warwickshire Warwickshire County Council, had the opportunity to travel on the vehicle and find out about the many advantages that electric buses have over conventional diesel-powered models. The response was very positive.

Local coach and bus operator, Johnsons of Henley-in-Arden, received the demonstrator full electric bus from the UK distributor for the Chinese manufacturer Yutong and put the vehicle through its paces with some of its potential customers.

John Johnson, commercial director of Johnsons, said: “Passengers and drivers alike immediately recognised the benefits that an electric vehicle offers. A much quieter and smoother ride, improved driver experience and zero gas and particulate emissions to the local environment – even the heating and air conditioning is powered from the bus battery! Based on the trial, it appears that the cost of electricity to operate the bus is less than a quarter of the equivalent diesel cost.”

Over three days potential contractors for the buses, such as National Grid, NFU Mutual and

Richard Crump, managing director of Pelican Bus & Coach – the UK agent for Yutong – said:

A state-of-the-art electric bus took to roads around Warwickshire and was greeted with thumbs up by users.

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Fun and foam anyone? Myton’s It’s a Knockout is back for 2020 – with six all-new games.

“There are now more than 100,000 similar buses in operation in China and around the world and have been for over ten years. These buses are zero emission – future proof.” The rise in sustainable travel has increased in recent years with passengers looking for ways to become more environmentally friendly. Environmental sustainability is of great importance to many potential contractors including National Grid, which is passionate about running its business in an environmentally responsible way. Sara Habib, head of workplace services for National Grid, said: “Our colleagues at National Grid were very positive about the electric bus and their journey. The trial reflects our commitment to encouraging and supporting colleagues to reduce their impact on the environment.”

The season of fun begins with Glow for Myton – Around the World in 5km. Taking place at Princethorpe College on March 28, Glow will see some of the world’s biggest celebrations brought together for a supercolourful event. Hot on the heels of Glow comes the annual Walk for Myton – an annual family-friendly event featuring walks of varying distance around the beautiful Warwickshire countryside. June sees the return of hugely popular corporate event, It’s a Knockout (IAK), which will be held at Leamington Rugby Club on the afternoon of Friday, June 26. A sellout success last year, IAK sees 36 teams of the hospices’ corporate supporters going head-to-head in the fun and foam-filled event made famous by the ‘80s BBC show. July is Summer Fete season at The Myton Hospices, with its Coventry and Warwick hospices throwing their doors open for a day of family-friendly traditional fun on July 4 and 18 respectively. Myton’s Cycle Challenge takes place in August and then it’s time to step into Christmas with the Santa Dash, which will see hundreds of people dressed in Santa suits walking, jogging or running the 5k route around Leamington’s Victoria Park. Throughout the year there are also countless other opportunities to put the fun into fundraising. For more details, visit www.mytonhospice.org/our-events

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: North Warwickshire

College awards celebrate student stars and honour graduates In addition, around 60 graduates were presented with certificates for completing their higher education programmes, representing around 240 who successfully achieved a range of degree-level qualifications this year.

North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College has recognised the achievements of its higher education graduates, star students and apprentices at a special celebration event. The event, which was hosted at the Jury’s Inn hotel in Hinckley, included a stand-out performance by performing arts students and an inspirational keynote address from Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, the college’s principal and chief executive. Also congratulating the students and graduates was the chair of the college’s governing body, Professor Ray Linforth, OBE. Star students included Monika Wyka who was

named Apprentice of the Year for exemplary progress and enthusiasm throughout her apprenticeship with a busy solicitor’s practice. Zoe Wakefield was named as Engineering Apprentice of the Year for her commitment to her apprenticeship in forklift truck maintenance and repair. Joe Cross picked up the award for Construction Apprentice of the Year, while Kelsey Mitchell was named Service Industries Apprentice of the Year after making exceptional progress as one of the first students to progress from Level 2 to Level 3 in her hairdressing apprenticeship.

The event provided a fitting celebration for students who saw success in the national finals of the WorldSkills UK LIVE competition in 2019, putting the college in first place in England after winning five gold medals, six silver and three bronze medals overall. The college was also proud to recognise students and alumni Chloe Lloyd-Hughes, Ellie Ruff and Saskia Godley who have been offered the chance to represent the UK on the world stage following their selection for Squad UK as part of the international WorldSkills competition in Shanghai in 2021. Marion Plant said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the significant achievement of our talented students and it has been wonderful to see so many people coming together to celebrate with us.” For more information visit www.nwslc.ac.uk

Young people learn about career opportunities Young people from Nuneaton recently saw how Warwickshire County Council’s new careers strategy could help them enter the world of work. At an event designed to demonstrate how the council’s careers strategy works in action, young people not currently in education, employment or training (NEET) found out how the ‘Let’s Make’ space at Nuneaton Library can help them find the right jobs and training opportunities. Also attending the event was Cllr Colin Hayfield, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for education and learning, and Ian Budd, the council’s assistant director of education and learning. The young people who attended the PET-Xi Skills Hub in Nuneaton were

shown around the Let’s Make range of inspiring activities which include: robotics, coding and programming, 3D design and printing, animation and film making, sewing, embroidery and crafting, together with music creation and soundscapes. They tried their hands at virtual and augmented reality and created fabulous photos using green screen technology.

Cllr Colin Hayfield said: “It’s been wonderful to meet some of our young people and see how the Let’s Make space at Nuneaton Library can have such a positive impact. All libraries can offer vital support and can signpost people looking for job opportunities.

“But the Let’s Make services and resources based in three Warwickshire libraries add an The careers strategy reflects the extra dimension. They offer council’s commitment to ensuring access to the latest digital that all residents, whatever their technologies and equipment, age or abilities, are supported in allowing people to develop fulfilling their potential. Libraries their knowledge and expertise can play a key role in this, helping and make things in different ways, people find the right support, offering new digital learning training and opportunities in their search for employment. opportunities.” For more information visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/careerssupport and www.warwickshire.gov.uk/letsmake

Hotel welcomes new general manager Holiday Inn KenilworthWarwick has strengthened its position in the hospitality industry with the appointment of Mark Hills as general manager.

Four Seasons and QHotels in the UK and abroad, Mark specialises in food and beverage focusing on brand conceptualisation and delivery.

With more than 22 years’ experience working in four and five-star hotels with brands such as Hand Picked, Macdonalds Hotels,

He has been an active member of the Coventry and Warwickshire business community over the last eight years and is looking

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to continue building and nurturing those business relationships in the local area. The team at Holiday Inn Kenilworth-Warwick has warmly welcomed Mark and is looking forward to exciting new projects that are coming in the foreseeable future.

HR consultancy launches HR franchise An award-winning HR consultancy has hit a new milestone in its expansion with the launch of a new franchise. Following a period of consistent growth, Absolute Works’ CEO Joy May has made the decision to utilise the company’s established brand identity and offer HR experts the opportunity to launch their own franchised business. The company was founded in 2011 with the aim of providing HR and employment law support and advice to SMEs. It has now grown its offering to provide the full spectrum of of the HR admin function; it has its own HR software, training including e-learning, payroll, H&S services and more recently has become an approved apprenticeship provider. Joy May said: “It is fantastic to see the company taking this next step and opening up great opportunities for HR and employment law experts to help us start to take our brand to the next level.” Joy May is a respected member of the business community and the Absolute Works team has been awarded a range of accolades, including finalist for Employer of the Year and Special Highly Commended for Service Excellence in the Family Business Awards 2019, Small Business of the Year in The Pride of Warwick Business Awards and finalist in The West Midlands Awards 2017. Absolute Works prides itself on excellent customer service and helping SMEs maximise their profits, letting business owners get on with running their business rather than being bogged down with people issues and paperwork. Learn more at: https://absoluteworks.co.uk/ For further information on the franchise opportunities: https://hrfranchises.co.uk/

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: South Warwickshire Sheldon Bosley Knight acquires Bishops Estate Agents

Stratford-based land and property company, Sheldon Bosley Knight, has acquired Bishops Estate Agents in Kineton. Bishops Estate Agents was established by Debbie Burrows in 1998. The branch

is situated in Kineton village and covers residential sales in the South Warwickshire and North Oxfordshire areas. The acquisition opportunity came at the perfect time for both parties at the end of 2019. As Debbie was planning to retire, Sheldon Bosley Knight was seeking a new commercial base to cover the area between its established Shipston-upon-Stour and Leamington branches. Having worked in the industry for 40 years, as the first businesswoman in Birmingham to establish her own residential estate agents, Debbie is a well-known and popular member of the local community. On the acquisition, she said: “I’ve been proud to have served the local community for so many years during which time I’ve made many great friends. I look forward

to supporting Mike and the Sheldon Bosley Knight team; however, as a retired estate agent! Thank you for your business over the last 25 years.” Although Debbie will be missed by the many loyal customers of Bishops, Sheldon Bosley Knight will continue to serve the village, taking inspiration from the successful businesswoman. Mike Cleary, director of residential sales, said: “Sheldon Bosley Knight are delighted to be taking on such an established, wellrun business in Kineton and look forward to bringing our full range of our services to the village.” The Kineton branch is Sheldon Bosley Knight’s seventh location, after the recent move into a new headquarters at Stratford Business and Technology Park.

Major software firm invests in Warwick A historic building in Warwick is set for a cutting-edge future after being bought by an international software firm from the town. Apteco, which develops and sells software to marketing professionals across the world, has bought The Athenaeum, a Grade II* listed building in the centre of the town. The company, which is has its headquarters less than 500 metres away, is planning to locate a team of designers and developers in the building from the summer after an extensive restoration and refurbishment programme. The building, on Church Street, was built in the 1780s on the site of two houses constructed after the great fire of Warwick in 1694. It was used as a reading room until the 1960s and has been used as offices since the 1980s. Commercial property agents Wareing & Company marketed

the property on behalf of the owners, Education for Health, which has moved to Wellesbourne. It is the fourth office Apteco has occupied in a 500-metre radius since being founded in 1987. Apteco employs 60 staff primarily in Warwick with offices in Frankfurt, Sydney and Rotterdam. Founder and managing director James Alty said plans would include the restoration of key features in the building. He said: “We have commissioned a historic building appraisal which will identify the historic merits of the building and its features but the main historic asset is the grand stone frontage which was added in 1780. “Our team of developers will be based here and seeking a town centre location was a priority for a number of reasons. For example, we incentivise colleagues to

James Alty and Jonathan Blood

cycle to work and we provide bike storage and showers to make that practical.” The company will keep its current headquarters at Tink-A-Tank House – also a listed building – in neighbouring Jury Street. Jonathan Blood, of Wareing & Company, said: “James and his team really want to make the best of Athenaeum and their plans to sympathetically restore the building really appealed to the vendors.”

Warwickshire company expands to new premises

The need for trees has never been higher on the agenda – and one Warwickshire business is aiming to sow the seeds of change with the seeds of its growth. Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultants has expanded its team and its premises in a move to a bespoke rural base in Kings Coughton. Previously based at Minerva Mill in Alcester, Wharton will be celebrating its

twelfth year in business in 2020, having grown to become one of the leading tree and ecology consultancies in the UK. Founded and headed by Peter Wharton, the company manages natural infrastructure projects and developments, providing a full service in land, tree, ecology and landscape architecture advice. Wharton works with architects, planning consultants, property and private estate owners, councils, schools, and hotel and leisure facilities. At a time when the need to plant trees and protect nature has never been higher on the agenda, the team’s aim is not only to help clients meet their environmental objectives, but to encourage them to see natural landscaping as a fundamental part of their schemes.

Peter Wharton said: “It’s about creating spaces that people want to be in and recognising that the natural environment, when well-planned and managed, adds value. “We work towards a future where our ever-growing world is in balance with nature. “By looking at a development site now, as well as 10 or 20 years down the line, we help planners and developers to visualise the natural spaces that can be created, connecting people – especially in our towns and cities – to nature.” Wharton’s expanded team encompasses ecologists, arboricultural consultants and landscape designers who provide a complete service for clients across the UK. For more information visit www.wnic.co.uk

Agricultural industry must help tackle climate change Warwickshire’s agricultural industry can help in the global fight against climate change, according to a national expert. That was the message heard by the region’s farming leaders at the annual Wright Hassall Agricultural Conference. More than 80 attendees were advised by top agricultural experts in Warwickshire on what they can do to combat climate change at the 16th annual conference, held at the Wellesbourne Campus for the University of Warwick. Keynote speakers included Tom Hind, chief strategy officer of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board; Al Brooks, estate director of Faccombe Estate in Wiltshire and David Canty, estate manager at Longford Estates. Dr Dave Chandler, associate professor in the school for life sciences at the University of Warwick, opened proceedings by outlining the extent of the climate crisis,

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and the work that Warwickshire’s farms can do to help minimise the impact. He said: “We need to be aware of Warwickshire’s context in the wider agenda to fight climate change and take drastic action. “Globally, we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly by 2030 and currently, these rates are increasing rather than decreasing. “Warwickshire is a microcosm of what is going on in the wider world of agriculture so we have no other option than to be passionate about creating new solutions to the problem, and coming together to tackle this as a collective.” The event was the final one for Wright Hassall’s senior partner and head of agriculture, Paul Rice, after 15 years at the firm. Paul Rice said: “The agriculture industry is worth more than £138 million to the

regional economy with more than 6,000 workers contributing to the sector, and Warwickshire is home to one of the world’s leading agri-science research facilities, so we’re in pole position to play a key role in the wider context of farming developments to fight climate change in the UK.”

PR agency to sponsor prestigious automotive journalism award A specialist PR and communications agency from Leamington Spa is spearheading its ambitious growth plans for 2020 by sponsoring a prestigious automotive industry journalism award for the first time ever. The Rising PR Star of the Year award sponsored by Red Marlin will be presented at the fifth annual Newspress Awards for Automotive Journalism and Public Relations ceremony on April 23. The event is one of the most significant of the year for the PR and marketing departments of the automotive industry and is attended by hundreds of senior figures from vehicle manufacturers, motorsport teams, technology developers, photographers, social media influencers and journalists. Danny Rughoobeer, managing director of Red Marlin, said: “The automotive industry is currently going through one of its most transformational periods ever, so we’re delighted to be sponsoring an award which recognises the efforts of individuals who are likely to play a pivotal role in shaping our industry in the future. “As an agency, we’ve always been incredibly keen to support those looking to establish a career in automotive PR or journalism and this award will further strengthen our credentials in this area.” Based in the heart of the UK’s automotive industry, Red Marlin was established more than ten years ago as a dedicated boutique PR agency for automotive-related companies. The company offers a range of specialist services including traditional media relations, social media and online content production and its clients include global brands from the likes of Yokohama tyres through to high-tech firms such as the Advanced Propulsion Centre, which is investing more than £1billion in the development of low-carbon propulsion technology. Nominations for the award are now being invited and anyone wishing to be considered for the Rising PR Star of the Year Award can register their details by visiting www.newspress.co.uk/awards

David Canty (Longford Estates), Alex Robinson (Wright Hassall), Al Brooks (Temple Estate), Paul Rice (Wright Hassall), Tom Hind (AHDB) and Dr Dave Chandler (University of Warwick)

For more information on Red Marlin visit www.redmarlin.co.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Area Focus: Rugby

Growth in Rugby is bucking the national trend Rugby Mayor’s Rugby’s economy is growing much faster than the national average, a key business meeting has been told. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Rugby branch met at the Draycote Hotel and as well as being an opportunity for local companies to raise concerns, it also heard from Mark Pawsey MP and Sunny Parekh, senior economist at Warwickshire County Council. Sunny told the meeting that Rugby was the third largest economy in Warwickshire and that it contributed 16 per cent of economic activity to the county as a whole. Businesses heard how the borough’s economy had grown by 30 per cent since 2009 which was faster than the national average and how its performance across measures such as business start-ups and employment were ‘bucking the trend’. Sunny said: “Across a number of key indicators, it is a very positive, bright picture for Rugby and the surrounding borough.

“In many areas, Rugby’s growth is bucking the national trend. On a countywide basis, it makes up 44 per cent of the total of Warwickshire’s transport and logistics sector but it is also seeing strong growth in other sectors too, such as manufacturing and engineering.” Mark Pawsey MP said the statistics on Rugby’s economy were very positive. He said: “It is great to hear that the Borough is performing so strongly on a range of measures, but it comes as no surprise to me when you consider what a great place this is to do business. “As well as the positives, it was good to hear from businesses and from the Chamber around some of the areas where companies believe the Government can do more to unlock growth potential. “I will be feeding some of that back and, also, look forward to the Chancellor’s first Budget in March.” Peter Burns, a past president of the Chamber, chaired the meeting and said there are exciting times ahead for Rugby.

charity to receive funds raised in West Midlands Challenge 2020 New Directions (Rugby) has been chosen by Rugby Mayor Cllr Bill Lewis as one of his mayoral charities.

Mark Pawsey MP (left) with Peter Burns

He said: “There is a very positive outlook for Rugby and that was reflected at the branch meeting. “The Chamber will always speak up on behalf of companies across the area and it’s great to be able to have our voice heard by our MPs and the local authorities.”

Rugby care home raises funds for local hospital

A Rugby care home has raised more than £1,000 for the elderly care wards at the University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

Anya Court Care Home, on Dunchurch Road, raised the funds by running multiple events including an exciting Christmas fair. The festive

extravaganza included a visit from Santa, a raffle, a tombola and a visit from a Shetland pony. Throughout the past year, the home has also been running a tuck shop, where visitors can purchase their favourite snack, with all proceeds going towards the hospital. Claire Stokes, ward manager from ward 21 at the hospital, said: “The money will be used by the activities coordinator for daily activities for the patients. This currently receives no funding at all and really benefits the patients on the ward.”

Karen Handley, customer relationship manager at Hallmark Care Homes, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to help with the service for patients at our local hospital. “We know from experience how invaluable it is to take part in meaningful and stimulating activities, aiding with loneliness and social isolation. We are delighted to be able to improve the stay for patients at hospital, and activities are so beneficial to their recovery.”

Engineering firm upgrades its lighting and heating to go green A Rugby-based engineering business has benefited from a grant to make its premises more eco-friendly and save money on bills. Technoset specialises in the machining of high precision components and assemblies for the aerospace defence, medical telecommunications, sensors, motorsport and lasers quality commercial components sectors. The company received a £47,000 grant from the Coventry and Warwickshire Green Business Programme – which is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and delivered by Coventry City Council – towards making energy efficiency savings. The manufacturing company of ultra-high precision turned and milled components has been based in the building since the 1980s and areas of it were in need of updating. Kevan Kane, managing director of Technoset,

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decided to invest £117,000 in energy efficient measures and was successful in obtaining the grant to achieve this. The measures have included installing LED energy-efficient lighting throughout the factory and offices, extension of the heat ducting from Factory 2 into Factory 1, installing a shut-off switch on the roller shutter door and installing a new solvent-based component cleaning machine. With the improvements, Technoset expects to see its energy bills drop by 33% and the organisation has reduced its CO2 emissions by 62 tonnes per year. Kevan said: “We are very grateful for the assistance and financial support that we have received from the Green Business Programme at Coventry City Council. This level of support is invaluable for an SME like Technoset. The process was very straightforward and well supported by members of the Green Business Programme team.”

Dr James Bridges, sustainability consultant at Coventry City Council, said: “Taking a sustainable approach to energy consumption is a change many companies will have to make sooner or later due to increasing energy costs and legislation – and often they need a bit of support to help them. That’s where the Green Business team comes in.” Further information can be found at www.coventry.gov.uk/greenbusiness

The organisation is a charity that provides a valuable service to vulnerable adults, including those with a learning or physical disability. It is committed to helping people achieve their potential and live independently. As one of the mayoral charities, New Directions has become the focus of a fundraising challenge set for aspiring or new managers within the public sector. Rugby Borough Council won the West Midlands Challenge in 2018 and picked New Directions as its charity of choice for 2020. The West Midlands Challenge is an all-day, non-stop, high-intensity simulation exercise giving local authority managers the opportunity to gain practical insight into issues outside of their normal working life, with a taster of what it is like within senior management. The challenge includes fundraising by each local authority taking part, with this year’s proceeds being donated to New Directions. It’s an opportunity for managers to improve joint working, develop innovative strategies and raise the profile of New Directions in the West Midlands. The main event will be held on April 30, 2020. Managers from New Directions visited the Rugby Mayor’s office and reciprocated by welcoming Cllr. Bill Lewis to Gateway Court, one of the supported living services promoting independent living, where St. Marie’s School choir entertained him with Christmas carols. The mayor will also attend the official opening of Richmond Court, another supported living complex, in March 2020 as he continues to raise awareness of the valuable work undertaken by New Directions. For more information visit www.newdirectionsrugby.org.uk

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Education & Training

New skills centres offer free training for businesses

Ryan Smith and Hayley Lineker

A college group is helping businesses to future-proof their workforces and bridge the skills gap by launching two skills centres in the region. WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group) is offering free training for employees through its new Centre for Culture & Tourism Skills and Centre for Digital & Cyber Skills. The centres, which are part funded by the European Social

Fund, will provide the service for employers of any size in Coventry and Warwickshire. To benefit from the Centre for Digital & Cyber Skills, employees do not specifically have to be working in the digital or cyber sector, but in roles with digital skills needs. The centre will provide skills training in digital, IT, robotics, programming, 3D design, and leadership and management. Employees must already work

in the culture and tourism sector to access the Centre for Culture & Tourism Skills, although the training can be in any discipline relevant to their role. There will be training available in hospitality, IT, finance, customer service, marketing, business administration and leadership and management. The training at both of the virtual centres will be delivered in a range of ways, either at one of the WCG college sites in the region, online or at external offices. Ryan Smith, who is leading the Centre for Culture & Tourism Skills for WCG, said: “It’s an exciting time for culture and tourism in the region, but there is still a significant skills gap in the sector and we hope this training provision can help to bridge that. “The training provided will be tailored to employers and specifically targeted at businesses in the two sectors.” Hayley Lineker who is leading the Centre for Digital & Cyber Skills, said: “It’s crucial that businesses are future-proofing workforces in the new digital age, helping to manage further change more effectively.” To find out more, visit www.wcg.ac.uk/centreforskills

New partnership set to boost digital skills Technology industry association CompTIA and a local further education provider have joined forces to provide digital skills across the West Midlands. After securing a grant from the Digital Skills Funding pot available from West Midlands Combined Authority, North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College has launched the IT & Digital Skills Training Academy. The academy aims to deliver vital digital skills training to people in the West Midlands who will be able to benefit from free courses that enable them to either forge a career in the tech industry or upskill so they can progress in their field. The first courses on offer are a series of blended courses built on CompTIA’s IT Fundamentals,

A+ and Security+ certifications. Each certification provides students with the fundamental skills they need to start a career in technology. Run over 12 weeks, the courses are accessible online and enable students to gain qualifications in everything from technology concepts to managing devices. Students can then progress onto apprenticeships or higher-level courses. Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Investment in digital skills will help us future-proof our region’s workforce and continue to help establish the West Midlands as the UK’s leading tech hub.” Graham Hunter, VP skills certification at CompTIA, said:

“Giving people the skills to thrive in an IT role is at the heart of CompTIA’s certifications and this partnership gives us the opportunity to maximise the impact we have across the UK. The West Midlands area has a lot to gain and a lot to contribute to the IT industry and this course will allow individuals and businesses alike to reach their full digital potential.” Sally Denning, director of adult learning at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, said: “Funding the delivery of CompTIA qualifications will help to meet our vision of upskilling individuals who are looking for a career in IT or who wish to progress in the IT industry.”

For more information visit www.nwslc.ac.uk/it-digital-training-academy

Chamber Members achieve growth Mark Brazier CEO and Danny Wheldon MD of PAB Coventry engaged Business Coach David Lee over 3 years ago. “David helped us to transition into the way we had always hoped to work our roles, we tackled the guilt many business owners feel when stepping away to spend less time IN the business and more time ON the business.” The results Most people would imagine an increase in turnover from £4.9million to £8million in the first 18 months enough of a success story, but the growth continued after that. Others may consider an increase in employment from 60 to 90 staff would be the cherry on the cake. But Mark and Danny wanted more than that. “We get just as much done with half the effort now the team are all pulling in one direction,” says Mark. “I’ve reduced my days in the office to just three a week and have started working on new projects outside the current business.” 3 years later Mark and Danny are still using David’s business coaching services “When we looked at the cost of David’s coaching, it seemed significant but now, when we take into consideration cost efficiencies and the time we save, it stacks up to five or six times the money we’ve invested,” adds Danny. If you would like to find out how David can help your business contact him on Mobile: 07970566390 Website: www.davidleeactioncoach.co.uk Email: davidlee@actioncoach.com

5-star success Five successful candidates at Leicester City Council, based at York House, all achieved Distinction grades for their end point assessment with Heart of England Training (HOET). This cohort of learners are the first port of call to the public within Leicestershire and are based at the Customer Service Centre, answering queries on anything from property maintenance to civil British citizenship ceremonies. Heart of England Training education team said “All five of the learners were very enthusiastic and most had

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been with the company for a few years with one having over 30 years’ service for Leicester City Council. “Leicester Council’s supervisors were supportive to both myself and the learners and would ensure that they took an interest in the learners and pushed them to their full potential. It is a big department with multiple team leaders who cover the role in shifts. “All five learners were a pleasure to work with and they all achieved Distinctions across their portfolio, discussion and their observation.”

Heart of England Training would like to say very well done to the following: Anees Latif, Bhavna Chauhan, Lauren Smith, Mala Dhurve and Nivesh Kumar!

If you are interested in any of our courses such as customer service or any from our page opposite, call us on 0800 0281 576 or visit www.hoet.co.uk

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Connectivity between Chamber members a huge success Coventry University partners with local health organisations to aid recruitment of males into the healthcare sector Healthcare organisations and providers traditionally struggle to recruit males in to the field of nursing and allied health professions. To combat this, Coventry University has secured funding from the Office for Students as part of its Strategic Intervention in Health Education Disciplines (SIHED), for an innovative project known as HealthPro - Careers in Healthcare. The team are using a range of novel approaches to drive engagement with a demographic that is notoriously underrepresented in the field. These approaches include the development of simulated resources, such as creating a gamified learning environment in which participants can actively experience the tasks that would typically be required of them in their new roles. The success of HealthPro has highlighted the untapped potential of talent which is hidden across the West Midlands. Since its launch in September 2019, the initiative has resulted in impressive success stories from participants charting their personal development and transition in to a new career. In addition to local partners in the healthcare sector, the HealthPro team have also been working alongside the military. In April 2020, they will be hosting an event to showcase the support which is available to both serving and former military personnel who may be considering a move into health related careers. Dr Martin Bollard, Associate Professor at Coventry University’s Faculty of Health and Life Sciences and Project Manager for HealthPro, said: “HealthPro aims to help overcome the gendered stereotypes associated with entering nursing and allied health professional careers. The Office for Students has commissioned this project as a key strategic priority to provide future resource by assisting men in making successful career choices into rewarding professions. We welcome the opportunity to support the local economy and our health community by working alongside Health Education England (HEE) and other stakeholders across the Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership.” For more information about HealthPro - Careers in Healthcare, please email Martin Bollard at martin.bollard@coventry.ac.uk or visit www.coventry.ac.uk/healthpro

Through their growing relationship, Two Warwickshire companies have the two companies have also completed one of the biggest staff collaborated on other national projects surveys in the UK as part of an ongoing Amy Bassi, Hazel Pilling (Chamber), Helen Roberts, Samantha Beard including research into student business relationship after meeting at accommodation in London and for the a Chamber of Commerce event. by working together we could win more National Museums Liverpool. projects and so have become suppliers Rugby-based Webropol and Amy said by working together the to one another. It has meant that, Leamington Spa company XV Insight two businesses are more capable of between us, we are able to deliver some carried out the employee engagement delivering bigger, national projects than significant pieces of work for clients programme survey for NHS Scotland they would be if they worked alone. around the UK which is great news for which saw around 112,000 of its overall She said: “By combining our services, us as businesses and for the regional staff of 180,000 respond. it means we are in a position to pitch economy.” Webropol managing director Amy for and win major contracts and it’s Samantha Beard, membership great that our combined expertise is Bassi met Helen Roberts, who runs account manager at the Coventry and complementing each other in this way. market research company XV Insight, Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, at a Chamber Trade Expo in 2017 and “The work with NHS Scotland is our said: “The Chamber is all about the two businesses have been working biggest project together to date and it providing connectivity between our is a testament to this region that two together on projects ever since. members and the work between SMEs can work in partnership in this In 2015, Webropol, which has XV Insight and Webropol is the way on a very large and important developed its own survey software, perfect example of that. national contract.” began working for NHS Scotland and “They have become suppliers to Helen Roberts, of XV Insight, added: has been undertaking its employee one another and also collaborate “I went along to the Chamber Trade surveys ever since. on projects, which is a really strong Expo a couple of years ago as I was message for other businesses on the Webropol’s system was used to looking for a software supplier to work value of face-to-face networking. carry out the survey and provide with. I’d just started my business and wanted to work with a local business. up-to-the-minute results while XV “The fact is that, despite all of the Insight provided analysis and the full benefits of modern technology and “I met Amy and over the first coffee it Scottish Government published report communications, people still buy soon became apparent that we offered on the findings. complementary services to clients and from people.” The full NHS Scotland survey report is available at: https://www.gov.scot/binaries/content/documents/govscot/publications/corporate-report/2020/02/health-social-carestaff-experience-report-2019/documents/health-social-care-staff-experience-report-2019/health-social-care-staffexperience-report-2019/govscot%3Adocument/health-social-care-staff-experience-report-2019.pdf

Chamber support local company taking proactive steps to prepare for Britain’s departure from the EU

James Ahearne, David Hooper, Tim Barnsdale, Sharon Veitch

A Warwickshire manufacturer that exports more than 90 million items to almost every continent in the world is set to grow even further after securing Government accreditation. Stratford-upon-Avon-based Tappex, which makes threaded inserts for a variety of industries around the world – from marine to mobile phone networks, is one of only a handful of Midlands companies to secure Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. The approval, issued by HMRC, is a quality mark that is recognised around the world to confirm adherence to a range of supply chain standards and evidence of compliance to customs procedures. The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s International Trade Hub is advising firms to investigate the AEO scheme in light of the UK’s exit from the European Union as it could help ease the movement of goods onto the continent.

And, in Tappex’s case, the company is looking to broaden its international market even further after receiving the accreditation. Sharon Veitch, Group Customs Compliance Manager for Tappex, said: “We make 120 million pieces a year and 76 per cent of those go abroad. That includes Europe, North and South America, Asia, Africa and Australasia. “We knew that leaving the EU could disrupt our European exports and attended the Chamber’s events on Brexit to see if we could mitigate that. “We attended training courses with the Chamber and that also led to oneto-one support with David Hooper, of Hooper and Co International Trade Ltd. “It became clear that securing AEO status was going to be a very important process for us as this could be crucial when it comes to exporting to Europe post Brexit. Not only that, it’s an internationally recognised accreditation that originates from the USA so we are confident it will open new doors for us too. “Our threaded inserts are used in millions of products worldwide – including by almost every Formula One racing team – so they meet the very highest standards and this accreditation means we have all the international trade processes to match.” Tappex Managing Director Tim Barnsdale said: “We pride ourselves on offering customers a solution before they even know there is a problem, and this is a further example of how we look to overcome an issue before there is one.”

The company is now looking to take on new apprentices to meet current and anticipated demand. James Ahearne, International Trade Hub Manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is fantastic news for Tappex and we’re pleased to be supporting a local company that is taking proactive steps to prepare for Britain’s departure from the EU. “Brexit has brought AEO status into sharp focus as a way of proving that all of a business’s processes around customs and security of supply chain meet the highest standards, and that is something that overseas customers are keen to have in place. “So, while the exit from the EU has spurred businesses on to achieve the status, it is pertinent to all international trade and this will stand Tappex in very good stead in the months and years to come.” David Hooper, of Hooper and Co International Trade Ltd, added: “Tappex is one of very few firms in the region to have achieved AEO status. “Companies might be operating a ‘wait and see’ policy when it comes to Brexit and the January 31 deadline but we would urge businesses to act now and move forward with getting AEO, because it is a process that brings wider benefits than just the status itself as it ensures robust practices and processes are being followed.” For more information on AEO and international trade, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Warwickshire polyclinic scoops national healthcare awards Core Clinics has received two prestigious awards from the Royal College of Chiropractors. Based near Warwick, the multidisciplinary clinic was one of only nine clinics in the whole of the UK to receive both awards, for excellence in patient care (the Patient Partnership Quality Mark) and for excellence in clinical management (the Clinical Management Quality Mark). Clinical director Dr Stefaan Vossen (DC) and company secretary Angela Vossen received the awards from the RCC’s president Dr Mark Gurden (FRCC) at a glittering awards ceremony in London.

Core Clinics, which celebrated its tenth anniversary last year, specialises in treating chronic back pain and musculoskeletal conditions, as well as other chronic health conditions. Dr Stefaan Vossen said: “These awards belong to all the people who have helped us to get to where we are today. Our fantastic team has worked incredibly hard to deliver and continually improve upon our vision for a multi-disciplinary, results-focused clinic delivering exceptional patient care. We are of course indebted to our wonderful patients who have chosen to put their trust in us and their health in our hands.’

Core Clinic’s first clinic opened in 2009 in the formerly-derelict Old Victorian Post Office in Warwick. The team went on to complete a second major restoration of the current clinic building at Hatton Technology Park. Since establishing the business with a single clinician in 2009, Core Clinics has gone from strength to strength. By their ten-year anniversary in 2019 the now 30 strong-team had treated almost 10,000 patients. The business won the ‘Business of the Year’ award at the Pride of Warwick District awards in 2016.

Charity fashion show is a hit for Zoe’s Place A charity fashion show hosted by Knowle-based The Closet has raised more than £3,000 in aid of Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice – equating to 100 hours of care. Zoe’s Place is the only dedicated hospice in the Midlands for babies and young children up to the age of five with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses. Every penny raised funds the provision of baseline nursing and ancillary staff who work around the clock, 365 days a year. Held at Nuthurst Grange Country House Hotel in Solihull, the fashion show was a tremendous success and attended by more than 150 fashionistas keen to get a glimpse of The Closet’s exciting new collection whilst at the same time supporting a worthy cause.

Organiser Karen Jones opened the evening with a brief presentation about the fantastic work which Zoe’s Place does, following which guests dug deep into their handbags when it came to the raffle. It is the second event held by The Closet’s proprietor Rachel Gray in aid of the charity. Between them, the events have raised nearly £5,000 of much-needed funds for Zoe’s Place, which needs £1.3 million a year to keep its doors open. Rachel Gray said: “The event was a huge success and I am absolutely thrilled at the result. However, I couldn’t have done it without the help of my team including Amanda Jeffs, Karen Jones and the team at Nicola Smyth who did the hair on the night.

“The work Zoe’s Place does is just incredible and clearly captured the hearts of the guests as it has mine.” Pete Jarvis, national patron of Zoe’s Place, said: “On behalf of Zoe’s Place, I would like to say a massive thank you to Rachel and everyone who supported this event and worked so hard to achieve such an incredible result.”

Careers and skills specialist recognised for high quality Coventry & Warwickshire-based Career Seekers Direct is celebrating its recent achievement of obtaining the matrix standard. This national accreditation recognises the high quality and professionalism of the team and the services they deliver. Managing director Eva Harrison said: “Over the past two years we have developed, and have been delivering, our professional career and skills services in schools across Coventry and Warwickshire. “Achieving the matrix standard demonstrates our commitment to ensuring we deliver a high-quality service to all our clients.” During 2020 the company is supporting Warwickshire County Council’s “My World of Work 2020” programme which will give Year 10 students across Warwickshire opportunities to learn about apprenticeships, meet local employers and develop their career management skills. Eva Harrison said: “In addition to supporting the My World of Work Programme 2020, we have developed a suite of career and skills services which meet best practice and will support schools and colleges in meeting the government’s career strategy and Ofsted’s requirements. We would like to hear from any secondary school or college in the region who may be interested in knowing more about our services.” Visit www.careerseekersdirect.co.uk for further information.

Savile Row tailor launches new brand

A Savile Row tailor has launched his new brand at Dallas Burston Polo Club. Richard George Gunton is a bespoke tailor with a showroom based at Dallas Burston Polo Estate.

The 28-year-old held his launch event in November at the polo club’s exclusive Clubhouse, attended by friends, and invited associates of his brand, Richard George. Richard began working in a tailor’s workshop in Birmingham at the age of 17, shadowing the trouser maker. Here Richard absorbed all of the intricacies of producing fine bespoke attire, which led him neatly on to the ‘golden mile’ of tailoring – Savile Row. Working under a master tailor, Richard gained invaluable knowledge and experience of traditional British techniques in luxury tailoring.

Say hello to Hello Hospitality There’s nothing like pressing the business refresh button to reinvigorate and rejuvenate – and the result is a new sales, marketing and representation consultancy. Kathryn Clarke, a Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce non-executive board member, hit the refresh button and launched the new business, Hello Hospitality, in January. Based in Warwickshire, the company specialises in the meeting, incentive,

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

conference and exhibition market, offering a variety of services to hoteliers and venue managers. It offers cost-effective, flexible solutions including venue sales, marketing and representation services, venue website listing, hosted venue showcase events and sales training. Founder Kathryn Clarke said: “We offer a friendly, approachable sales and marketing business support service joining the dots between

Richard George is a new and inspiring brand in the tailoring market and is truly one of a kind in Warwickshire. Since launching his brand, Richard has developed a large portfolio of loyal clients who view having a bespoke suit created by Richard George as a real experience. Major Richard Carney, a client of Richard George, said: “Since purchasing my first suit from Richard I have returned time and time again for all my tailoring requirements. He is so skilled in his trade and makes purchasing a suit a unique and exclusive experience each time. sales and marketing processes and a network of connections to provide consistent, methodical, organised proactive sales and marketing activity for practical ‘hands on’ help to raise awareness and generate new business. “The name reflects our friendly, welcoming, helpful, ready to do business, can-do attitude, and the essence of making introductions and all of the networking meet and greeting that we do in the hospitality world.” Vice chair of the Coventry Destination Partnership Economy and Skills Group, Kathryn Clarke champions the region’s rich and diverse array of venues

He gets to know me personally so understands what I require and designs each one to the highest spec and personalised down to the finest detail.” As well as being a platform to launch the Richard George brand, the event also showcased the works of CALLUM design in the form of its 1 of 25 Aston Martin Vanquish. The car was displayed alongside luxurious fabric from Loro Piana, Cerutti, Holland and Sherry as well as the exquisitely designed wears of Richard George. For further information visit www.richardgeorge.uk available to the business traveller and event sector. She said: “Coventry and Warwickshire have a wealth of event venues from Castle and Cathedral to academic venue of excellence, country houses and luxury hotels. There really is something for everyone and our connectivity to the world ensures ease of accessibility and affordability. It’s an exciting time for the region with the City of Culture and Commonwealth Games to prepare for.” For more information visit www.hello-hospitality.co.uk

President & People

Exam success at HB&O Six members of the HB&O team who have all been studying as part of their employment at HB&O have had unparalleled success in the latest exam season.

Alphabet Soup Just when we had finally seen off the B-word, now we have the C-word (what was the A-word? Answers on a postcard...). So more uncertainty, stock markets tumbling, travel bans and events cancelled (including your Chamber no longer attending MIPIM), woe and more woe... Now, regular readers will recognise that I like a bit of positive spin. And I’m not going to change my spots now. I was lucky enough to listen to Andy Street, our West Midlands Mayor, a few days ago, and I enjoyed hearing him extolling the following: • Coventry is the fourth most entrepreneurial city in the UK. • The region’s employment is rising. • The largest regional tech cluster in the UK is in the West Midlands, lots of it in Warwickshire. • We have 5G roll out. • Very light rail system. • An industrial strategy and aspiration for a Giga-factory here. I think it is safe to say that Andy Street has taken a keen interest in the needs of business during his time as Mayor and has taken on board the view of Chambers – and our members - across the region. So we wish him and the other candidates well in the forthcoming mayoral election and, whoever the public returns as the next mayor, it will be vital that they continue to engage with business across the patch. There is plenty more to add to the positive list, particularly in new planning applications being announced, which would otherwise have been formally launched at MIPIM. These include: • A new hotel at the Ricoh. Hotel occupancy in the area is at an all-time high of 75% which includes weekends. • Another major manufacturing facility at Prospero Ansty. • Complex Development Projects are applying to breach the Coventry Ring Road to open up the city centre via a 1km long green pedestrian and cycle link. • A new headquarters facility in Warwick for a global security company. Add to these the fact that a few hours before penning this piece, I’ve just watched the Sky Blues (“at home” in Birmingham!) continue their winning run to go top of League One. I do not wish to be frivolous about the C-word and I sincerely hope that by the time of my next column we do not have a pandemic. However, my better half is a State Registered Nurse who points out that there are many current deadly forms of flu out there, over three million current cases of Aids worldwide and Malaria is likely to carry on being a bigger killer by far. So some pleasant facts and some sobering ones.

Andrew White, Alex Clarke, Brandon Tatlow, Fred Gorvin and Jessica Sabin, who all received their results for the ACA advanced level exams in December, have become ACA-qualified chartered accountants.

Andrew White, who has worked at the firm since 2016, said: “Working towards my chartered accountant status hasn’t been easy, as juggling full-time work and study can be extremely demanding. However, passing my final exams has made it all worth it. The support from HB&O throughout my period of study has been second to none as the company actively promotes flexible working and allows us time off to study.”

In addition to the ACA successes, Chris Sudbury has passed his final Association of Accounting Technicians (ATT) exam to become ATT-qualified.

Mark Ashfield, managing director at HB&O, added: “The unprecedented success that we have seen in these latest results are testament to all of the hard

work and commitment the students have put in over the past three years. We pride ourselves, at HB&O, on being a forward-thinking, modern accountancy firm and having a number of young chartered accountants with fresh ideas in our growing team is only going to fuel this.”

New appointments at Warwickshire tourism board internationally, has taken on Ruth Webb as a digital marketing executive and Kate Varvedo will be working on the company’s digital presence through its website. Ruth has a long history in digital marketing in the tourism and heritage sector, having worked at the National Trust for more than 12 years, a role she will continue alongside her work with Shakespeare’s England. Kate Varvedo, Helen Peters and Ruth Webb of Shakespeare’s England

The team tasked with promoting tourism in South Warwickshire has recruited two new members to grow its wealth of expertise in the industry. Shakespeare’s England, the destination management organisation for South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas, has added two people to the Stratford-based team for marketing and communications. The DMO, which works to promote the area domestically and

She also brings historical knowledge to the team, having received an MA in museum studies at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and working as a tour guide at Shakespeare’s New Place in the town, giving her in-depth knowledge of Stratford’s renowned history.

having previously worked as the marketing and communications manager, brings with her more than 20 years’ experience in marketing communications and business development, having gained experience in the events and tourism sectors and working with businesses across the region. She has since set up a freelance marketing consultancy for tourism, events businesses and service providers and will be helping to create the DMO’s new website, which will be launched this year.

Ruth leads the DMO’s social media presence, promoting members and highlighting the key events taking place across Warwickshire.

Helen Peters, CEO of Shakespeare’s England, said: “Ruth and Kate bring with them a vast amount of experience in the travel and tourism industry, which will allow us to further spread the word about the region and help to continue promoting our members.

Kate Varvedo, who is re-joining the Shakespeare’s England team after

For more information visit www.shakespeares-england.co.uk

Coventry solicitor in line for second award in six months A Coventry-based solicitor is in contention to pick up another prestigious award later this year, which would be his second in just six months. Matthew Riding, a solicitor in the commercial property department at Mander Hadley Solicitors, has been named as a finalist in the Young Professional Category at the Coventry and Warwickshire FirstPro Awards.

transactions successfully on behalf of clients.

me achieve my professional goals and in completing the Three Peaks Challenge.”

He was also central to the firm’s efforts to raise more than £5,000 for the Air Ambulance Service last year.

Jonathan Hall, managing director at Mander Hadley Solicitors, added: “Matthew deserves all the recognition he gets. His performance in acting for our commercial property clients has been excellent and he is constantly seeking new ways to challenge himself.”

This saw him complete the Three Peaks Challenge alongside two colleagues, ascending the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales in a little more than 24 hours in May 2019.

The rigorous judging process has already seen Mander Hadley Solicitors make a detailed written submission to the judges, which led to Matthew being interviewed by the judging panel in January. Matthew was nominated for the award in recognition of his professional achievements over the last year, which have included handling several significant commercial property

The recognition comes just two months after Matthew was named Young Lawyer of the Year at the Warwickshire Law Society Awards, where Mander Hadley Solicitors was also named as Warwickshire Law Firm of the Year (1-5 Partners) for the third year running. Matthew said: “I am very pleased to have been recognised once again. I would like to thank my colleagues and the directors for their support in helping

For further information visit www.manderhadley.co.uk

MTC Events celebrates new appointment MTC Events has welcomed a new member to its team. Shakeela Cumberbatch joins the company as business development manager and will be responsible for looking after the agency side of the business.

Sarah Riley, marketing manager at MTC Events, said: “We’re really pleased to have Shakeela on board and to give our busy agency side of the business a dedicated point of contact within our team. She brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise, making 2020 a really exciting prospect for us.”

Best regards David Penn

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

President & People

New senior talent for Lodders Real Estate practice property, planning, construction and highways legal experts, including nine partners.

Head of Lodders’ real estate practice Mark Miller, with new senior associates Donna Bates and Theresa Spalding

Regional law firm Lodders has boosted its real estate team with two senior appointments. Theresa Spalding and Donna Bates both join as senior associates in the firm’s real estate practice, which is one of the largest in the West Midlands with 32 specialist real estate, commercial

Joining Lodders from Gowling WLG, where she was principal associate in real estate for eight years, Theresa Spalding specialises in acting for major national housebuilders and regional developers, advising on all aspects of securing and promoting sites through the planning process for residential development, and on acquisition, development, and disposal. She has also worked with landowners on land disposal for development, including navigating the planning process to secure permission and maximise financial return. Donna Bates has more than 15 years’ commercial property experience and will advise clients on her specialist area of landlord and tenant matters. She will utilise her background acting for national and global retail brands and a restaurant chain dealing with

acquisitions, disposals and portfolio management. She joins Lodders after four years as a senior associate at Oxfordshire real estate firm Brook Street des Roches LLP (now Knights plc). Previously, she also specialised in commercial property law at Brethertons in Banbury and at Needham & James (now Shakespeares) in Stratford. Mark Miller, partner in and head of Lodders’ real estate team, said: “In step with the sustained growth in demand for our property legal advice from developers and landowners alike, Theresa’s and Donna’s appointments demonstrate our continued commitment to deliver the very best legal advice and expertise. They both possess high levels of experience, technical skill and expertise plus a real desire to understand and realise clients’ ambitions.” For more information: www.lodders.co.uk

New appointment leads the way Stonewall Security has strengthened its team with the appointment of a sales and marketing specialist. Mark Silvester joins the security business from the international food and beverage sector and has 20 years’ experience in sales & marketing running large blue-chip accounts. The appointment by directors Martin and Clare Randall represents an important milestone in the planned transformation at Stonewall. Mark said: “We will have an even stronger position in delivering quality

security services to our clients and we will continue growing the business together with the team. “I am delighted to join this wellestablished business and plan to transfer my industry skills to the changing world of security.” Stonewall is transforming its security services with a wider range of traditional protective services, including on-site, mobile and remote guarding, electronic security, hardware, cyber, fire, safety risk management and loss prevention models.

The company also offers domestic customers the same commercial services tailored to suit their specific needs. “This step has really resonated with our customers, plus the offering of a free security audit has done wonders with our client base, creating trust and cementing our position locally as the fourth emergency service,” said Mark. For more information, visit www.stonewallsecuirty.co.uk

CALGAVIN stars in podcast with Sir Geoff Hurst Martin Gough from CALGAVIN has appeared in a Leaders Council podcast alongside Sir Geoff Hurst. The Leaders Council of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is currently in the process of talking to leadership figures from across the nation in an attempt to understand this universal trait and what it means in Britain and Northern Ireland today.Martin Gough from CALGAVIN was invited onto an episode of the podcast,

which also included an interview with Geoff Hurst. Host Jonathan White asked both guests a series of questions about leadership and the role it has played in their careers to date. Jonathan White commented: “Hosting a show like this, where you speak to genuine leaders who have been there and done it, either on a national stage or within a crucial industry sector, is an absolute honour.” Lord Blunkett, chairman of The Leaders Council of Great Britain and Northern Ireland said: “ I think the most informative element

of each episode is the first part, where Jonathan White is able to sit down with someone who really gets how their industry work and knows how to make their organisation tick. Someone who’s there day in day out working hard and inspiring others. That’s what leadership is all about.” Listen to the podcast in full here: https://youtu.be/p5FzCLs6saE Discover more about both Martin Gough and Geoff Hurst here: http://www.leaderscouncil.co.uk/ members/martin-gough

New director at Warwick Conferences Warwick Conferences, the University of Warwick’s conference, meeting and events organisation, has appointed a new director. Paul Bartlett has stepped into the senior role after six years with the award-winning organisation, which last year hosted more than 17,000 events. All of the surplus generated by Warwick Conferences, which has more than 100 meeting spaces and 458 on-site bedrooms, is reinvested into teaching, learning and research at the University of Warwick. The university is ranked in the top ten nationally and at number one in the West Midlands. Paul became head of sales for Warwick Conferences in June 2018 and takes over the senior role at a vital time for the region’s visitor economy. He said: “These are very exciting times for

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Warwick Conferences and for Coventry, Warwickshire, the West Midlands and our wider region. Coventry being UK City of Culture in 2021 and the region playing host to the Commonwealth Games means the international focus will be on our part of the world like never before and it is vital that we maximise that spotlight. “Our service has always been at the top of industry standards and recent investments in our facilities, including the creation of The Slate centre and refurbishment of our Radcliffe complex alongside work to remodel our public areas at Scarman, mean we are operating to the very highest standards in the sector. “We have also added outdoor meeting spaces and other initiatives – such as links with our new sports and wellness hub – which other venues just cannot

offer and therefore give us unique selling points. “Going forward we are looking to strengthen partnerships with other organisations so we can add something extra, which will allow us to build our weekend custom as well as add to the range of attractions for mid-week business.”

Paul Bartlett, director of Warwick Conferences

The force is strong with Luke A key member of the Holt Commercial property management team has qualified as a chartered surveyor. Luke Whittaker joined the company in 2012 and began a BSc in estate management at University College of Estate Management (UCEM) via distance learning alongside full-time employment with Holt. During that time, he started the APC (assessment of professional competence) process which began two years of structured training to be a fully-qualified surveyor. Luke completed his degree with first class honours in April 2018 and then, in the past few weeks, passed the APC to become a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). He said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have qualified and to become a member of RICS. Many years of hard work have paid off and I would like to thank Holt for the opportunity and support they have given me. “I have learnt so much from the team here during a very exciting period for the business.” Nick Holt, director of Holt Commercial, said: “Huge congratulations to Luke. He’s an important member of the team here and we are all very proud of his achievements. “We manage a range of sites across the Midlands region – from industrial estates through to office developments – and it is an area of the business that we feel we can grow based on the excellent service we deliver. Luke is very much part of that.”

New Members

Welcome to New Members Strategic Partners

Essential Members

IXL Events Centre Limited

Alliance UK Solutions Ltd

Conference Centres 01926 695383 info@ixleventscentre.com www.ixleventscentre.com

Health & Safety Consultants 02476 695550 carl@allianceuksolutions.co.uk www.allianceuksolutions.co.uk

Serco Social Service & Welfare Organisations 07718 186442 Laura.Johnson3@serco.com www.serco.com

Corporate Members Catthorpe Manor Hotel & Estate Hotels 01788 860599 enquiries@catthorpemanor.co.uk www.catthorpemanor.co.uk

Futura Design Ltd Manufacturing 03335 557000 info@futura-designltd.co.uk www.futura-designltd.co.uk

Hilton Warwick/ Stratford-Upon-Avon Hotels 01926 499555 events@hiltonwarwick.com www.hiltonwarwick.com

St. Modwen Developments Logistics Management 01216 471000 keverett@stmodwen.co.uk www.stmodwenlogistics.co.uk

International Trade Members Fire Protection Coatings Limited

Atrium Health Ltd Health Care 02476 234570 info@atrium-health.co.uk www.atrium-health.co.uk

Caspin Journeys Ltd Tour Operators Activites 02476 016158 inquiries@caspin.com www.caspin.com

Charlie Brodie Executive, Management & Business Coaching 07540 256847 charlie@charliebrodie.co.uk www.charliebrodie.co.uk

Coventry BID Ltd Business & Management Services 02477 103305 trish@coventrybid.co.uk www.coventrycitycentre.co.uk

Cube Accounting Accountancy Services 01788 815017 anne@cubeaccounting.co.uk www.cubeaccounting.co.uk

DOTS Technical Solutions Ltd Engineering, Design & Manufacture 02038 273424 enquiries@dots-technical.co.uk www.dots-technical.co.uk

Experts Conferences

LEO3 Systems Limited Information Technology 02475 098640 info@leo3.net www.leo3.net

Letia Ltd Engineering, Design & Manufacture 01926 492193 info@letia.co.uk www.letia.uk

MB Asset Protection Ltd Legal & Financial 01926 459607 info@mbassetprotection.co.uk www.mbassetprotection.co.uk

Merchandise Branding Limited Branded Merchandise & Promotional Products 03301 139774 sales@merchandisebranding.co.uk www.merchandisebranding.co.uk

Natalie Reed Communications Marketing Consultants 07843 681385 nr@nataliereedcommunications.com www.nataliereedcommunications.com

Sales Growth Consulting Limited Business Consultants 07764 199352 victor@sgc-ltd.com www.sgc-ltd.com

Talentwise Solutions Ltd Recruitment Advisers 02477 981223 tracey@talentwisesolutions.co.uk www.talentwisesolutions.co.uk

The Leader Marketing Partnership Limited Marketing Services 01789 739240 teresa.gillam@leader.co.uk www.leader.co.uk

The Leadership Coaches

Fire Retardant Materials & Products 02476 422200 fpclsolutions@aol.com www.fireprotectioncoatings.com

Event Management 07534 194243 info@expertsconferences.com www.expertsconferences.com

International Fasteners

Heartflood Ltd

Woman Who Limited

Management & Business Consultants 07854 027080 chris@heartflood.co.uk www.heartflood.co.uk

Event Management 07989 555938 contact@womanwho.co.uk www.womanwho.co.uk

Automotive Engineers 01926 614626 sales@internationalfasteners.co.uk www.internationalfasteners.co.uk

Executive, Management & Business Coaching 0800 345 7727 zoe@theleadershipcoaches.co.uk

When contacting members listed above, The Chamber request that, in line with the Marketing and Advertising Law, you provide a clear â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;unsubscribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; option. Further details can be found via www.gov.uk/marketing-advertising-law/direct-marketing 46

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Training & Events Chamber Member Price + VAT

NonMember Price + VAT

Duration

Mar-20

Appraising People & Performance

£220

£245

Full Day

3rd Mar

* Incoterms 2020 - Additional Date (International Trade Members £125)

£135

£155

Half Day - AM

4th Mar

C&W Chamber Training Seminars

Emergency First Aid in the Workplace (HSE Recommended)

£115

£140

Full Day

6th Mar

* Customs Declaration Workshop (Price set by the BCC)

£280

£350

Full Day

19th Mar

Apr-20

Communicating Assertively

£110

£135

Half Day - AM

24th Mar

Complaint Handling

£110

£135

Half Day - PM

24th Mar

* International Documentation & Customs Procedures (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

24th Mar

Microsoft Excel - Advanced Plus

£130

£160

Full Day

25th Mar

* Duty Relief on International Trade - New (International Trade Members £125)

£135

£155

Half Day - AM

26th Mar

* Understanding Commodity Codes - New (International Trade Members £125)

£135

£155

Half Day - AM

31st Mar

Microsoft Excel -Basic to Intermediate

£130

£160

Full Day

1st Apr 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th Apr

Level 3 Award in Education

£495

£550

6 Days + induction

* Brexit for Importers and Exporters (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

2nd Apr

Understanding Sales Level 2 Accredited

£300

Full Day

7th Apr

* Understanding International Trade and Getting Goods to Market (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

8th Apr

Online Marketing

£110

£135

Full Day

15th Apr

Finance for Non-Financial Managers

£220

£245

Full Day

16th Apr

* Introduction to Export Sales (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

22nd Apr

* Rules of Origin and Preferential Trade Agreements

£135

£155

Half Day - AM

23rd Apr

Microsoft Excel Intermediate to Advanced

£130

£160

Full Day

28th Apr

* Letters of Credit & Methods of Payment (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

29th Apr

May-20

13th & 27th May

*Customs Declaration Workshop (International Trade Members £245)

£280

£350

Full Day

5th May

Professional Telephone Techniques

£110

£135

Half Day - AM

12th May

Professional Email Writing

£110

£135

Half Day - PM

12th May

* Import Essentials

£135

£155

Half Day - AM

12th May

Grow Your Own Business through Social Media

£220

£245

Full Day

13th May

* UK Export Controls & Licensing (International Trade Members £245)

£265

£295

Full Day

13th May

* AEO Customs & Compliance (International Trade Members £245)

£110

£295

Full Day

27th May

Prices subject to VAT. *Note re: International Trade Courses: The HMRC Training Grant for Importers and Exporters has been extended until January 2021 and is open for applications. For eligible businesses, the scheme covers 100% of training costs. For more information email internationaltrade@cw-chamber.co.uk

Course dates for the quarter are shown above, please contact C&W Chamber Training on 024 7623 1122 or visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk for other course dates and further information

Your Chamber Events West Midlands Metro Mayor Elections: Economy Hustings Tuesday 17th March 5:30pm - 7:30pm Meeting room 101, Library of Birmingham, B1 2ND FREE

Coventry & Warwickshire’s BIG Business Lunch Thursday 26th March 10:00am - 3:00pm Ricoh Arena, Coventry, CV6 6GE Members: £35 + VAT | Non-Members: £55 + VAT

Joint Networking with Northamptonshire & Milton Keynes Chambers

Chamber Networking: Coventry

Thursday 02nd April 11:30am - 2:00pm Draycote Hotel, Rugby, Cv23 9LF Members: £17 + VAT

Thursday 7th May 4:30pm - 6:30pm Best Western Plus Windmill Village Hotel, Meriden, CV7 7NH FREE

Chamber Networking: Stratford

Speed Networking

Tuesday 28th April 4:30pm - 6:30pm Venture House Business Centre, Stratford upon Avon, CV37 0HR FREE

Thursday 21st May 8:30am - 10:30am Quality Hotel, Coventry, CV5 9BA FREE

Check out & book all of our forthcoming events at www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events www.cw-chamber.co.uk Call 024 7665 4321 Email events@cw-chamber.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT TECHNIQUES WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING BUSINESS? FIND OUT THE TRUTH FROM THE EXPERTS!

BUSINESS BREAKFAST BRIEFING Continuous improvement is important to any business in the current market place. Come along to our Engineering Business Breakfast Briefing, and we’ll discuss how to measure your potential savings and their impact to help make your business more efficient.

WARWICK TRIDENT COLLEGE Trident Park, Poseidon Way, Warwickshire, CV34 6SW Wednesday 22 April 2020 8am – 9.30am RUGBY COLLEGE Technology Drive, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV21 1AR Thursday 23 April 2020 8am – 9.30am

Visit wcg.ac.uk/apprenticeships for more information.

BOOK YOUR FREE PLACE NOW: info@wcg.ac.uk wcg.ac.uk/bbb