Inspire 22 October 2017

INSPIRE.22 The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce September - October 2017

n Hertfordshire Global n Building bridges to n Trading beyond Brexit Black-Tie Event the rest of the world Turning uncertainty into

Mexico open for business

Export performing well

opportunity - page 4

- page 6

- page 15

Welcome

From the Chief Executive Welcome to Inspire 22, our member magazine that puts you in touch with Hertfordshire businesses, current issues and opportunities, the Chamber, and with other members.

A major purpose of the Chamber of Commerce is to lobby Government on business-centric issues through our parent organisation, the British Chambers of Commerce.

As we face more uncertain times ahead, the Chamber team are working more collaboratively with strategic partners to signpost you to expert support and advice.

Business and education An annual recurring issue is that of education and skills, and their applicability to businesses today.

In this issue, we review the changes to the GCSE system, and their meaning for employers (see page 10).

Also: On 3 October we have an event to follow the recent British Chambers of Commerce Education Summit at Hunton Park Hotel, 17.00 to 19.30 – to discuss • how schools can create tomorrow’s business leaders • maximising productivity through skills • how universities and business can work together to drive economic growth It would be good to have high levels of participation, and we hope to see as many members there.

Migrant labour More of an economic issue, but increasingly a political one, (note: accredited Chambers of British Chambers of Commerce are apolitical), it’s widely accepted that migrant labour

is important to our economy in Britain, particularly in agricultural areas requiring seasonal labour, and closer to home in Hertfordshire, the hospitality, tourism, leisure, care and engineering sectors.

We hope and encourage all businesses engaged in migrant labour to present their views to Government so that it creates the right policies. We examine the issues of migrant labour in this edition (see page 11).

The Migration Advisory Committee — commissioned by Government to advise on the economic and social impacts of Brexit and how the UK’s immigration system should be aligned with a modern industrial strategy — is keen to visit regions and speak to businesses.

It would be good to get a Hertfordshire representative group together. Please contact Naomi Powell, our Operations Manager, if you’re able to participate.

Infrastructure Charrette Lord Salisbury (Hatfield House) has long been a proponent of the ‘place’ of Hertfordshire, and its responsibility to its citizens and stakeholders and its place in the world at large.

This has also been Chamber’s focus over the years, so we approached Gascoyne Cecil Estates to partner with us. The Infrastructure Charrette is a joint venture special interest group that is studying future needs as they affect Hertfordshire. Particular interest is its own place at the heart of the Golden Triangle — a world-leading innovation cluster — representing the Oxford, London and Cambridge universities that consistently rate in the world’s top ten.

The Golden Triangle, with its dominance as a world-leader in life sciences and technology, is reliant on technology development and supporting infrastructure: transport, communications.

In July, we jointly ran a workshop with presentations and case studies on aspects of infrastructure, with a view to setting up specific task groups and how to optimise high profile stakeholder engagement.

Data Protection Bill (GDPR) As we move towards Brexit, UK global traders, and businesses contemplating international

opportunities, will want to be sure that their trade with suppliers and customers around Europe can continue without interruption. This means that long-term compatibility of UK and EU data protection rules must be a priority because consumers here will want to know from businesses that their personal data will not be misused.

The complexity of changes will not be easy for SMEs, many already in the process of adapting to the ruling, and they must receive government help.

It is important that those working towards adaption are not penalised for unintentional errors in the early days.

We are running an information event with networking on 7 November in Watford on Preparing your Business for GDPR.

International Trade Summit 2017 The event (Birmingham, 12 October) — for established exporters and also businesses considering global trading — is an opportunity to learn from experienced exporters, participate in breakout sessions and network with businesses and overseas Chambers.

If this interests you, please contact keithmoore@hertschamber.com.

Money-saving Members’ roadshow Herts Chamber has put together a roadshow on business money-saving member benefits on 21 September (09.30 to 13.30, Aubrey Park Hotel, Hemel Hempstead). Our partners from healthcare, utilities, money and business consulting will be there to speak to you about the opportunities for your business to save money.

Black tie dinner – Hertfordshire Global On 5 October at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club we are hosting a formal dinner. Our guest speakers are: • Dr Dishant Mahendru, Director of Honeycomb Global, How post-Brexit UK can profit from an Indian opportunity • Mr Paul Slevin, British Irish Chamber of Commerce, The impact of Brexit upon Ireland; the relationship with the UK • Anne-Marie Martin, Chief Executive, COBCOE, The challenges of Brexit; can we reconsider our exit strategy If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, or would like to reserve a table or have an international host on your table, please contact alisonwhite@hertschamber.com (see page 4-5).

Yolanda Rugg Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

Contents Hertfordshire Global Black -Tie Event 4-5 International Focus Mexico 6-7 General Data Protection Regulation 8-9 Chamber Education & Skills 10 Business Migration 11 BCC Work Survey 12 Patron Focus 13 Chamber Matters 14 Hertfordshire Global 15 Past Events 16-17 Big Interview 24-25 Chamber Events 26-28 Member Benefits 29 Tourism 30-31 Finance 32 Willow Foundation 35 Health & Wellbeing 37 New Members 38-39 Members News 40-42 Young Chamber 43 Apprenticeships 45 Development 46 Festive 49 Last Word 50 •••• Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce MacLaurin Building, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 502180 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Web: www.hertschamber.com Chief Executive: Yolanda Rugg Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published September 2017 © Benham Publishing and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1560 •••• Disclaimer Inspire is published for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

All correspondence should be addressed to Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce.

Views expressed in Inspire are not necessarily those of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. ©2017 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content.

Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

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ChamberEvent

Hertfordshire Global Black-Tie Dinner Post Brexit: Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity. the ability to go about normal life. Paul currently provides a UK based connection point for the BICC across Ireland, the UK & Northern Ireland. Working directly with businesses, affiliates and UK chambers, Paul promotes the interests of organisations in all sectors and facilitates trade between these regions.

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce invite you to join our Black-Tie Dinner at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club. Our three guest speakers will share their postBrexit vision, and help to grow confidence in new markets.

The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce recognises the uncertainties of the upcoming split from the EU. However, our guest speakers are here to show you how to turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Dr. Dishant Mahendru, Director at Honeycomb Global will be discussing the case for India How can post-Brexit UK profit from the Indian opportunity.

Dr Dishant Mahendru has led and worked on contracts involving technology innovation and manufacturing cluster development, technology – led mergers & acquisitions,

commercialisation strategy development and product design. Honeycomb Global has experience in how to set up and trade in India via its LLP in Bangalore.

Hear from Paul Slevin, UK Director, British Irish Chamber of Commerce as he discusses the impact of Brexit on Ireland.

As Ireland’s closest trading partner and friend, the UK’s exit from the EU threatens trade between them in both directions.

Complexities around what will happen with the border between Northern Ireland and the South raises concern not just on trade but on the free movement of people and

Anne-Marie Martin, Chief Executive of COBCOE will be joining us. She has worked in industry and the not for profit business sectors over many years developing chambers of commerce, delivering organisational plans and working at the strategic, commercial and operational levels of business. Her particular expertise is in brand positioning and communications through the creation of specific projects, activities and business events,

PR and marketing tools to achieve business development goals. Anne-Marie’s knowledge will help you to develop your business internationally as the threat of Brexit beckons.

In addition to our guest speakers, this event provides you with the opportunity to meet and discuss Brexit and the surrounding issues with like-minded individuals.

Take the chance to share and gain working knowledge with businesses who may be going through a similar process to your own.

Join us in our International Village with opportunities available to you, to help your business grow.

Don’t miss out on our Hertfordshire Global Black-Tie Dinner, turning uncertainty into opportunity.

“In addition to our guest speakers, this event provides you with the opportunity to meet and discuss Brexit and the surround issues with like-minded individuals. Take the chance to share and gain working knowledge with businesses who may be going through a similar process to your own.”

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InternationalFocus

Mexico: turning the opportunity into reality for your Business

By Laura Atkinson, BritChaM Commercial Section

Mexico ranks top in Latin America for ‘Ease of Doing Business’ according to the World Bank

When identifying new export markets, British companies do not immediately consider Latin America.

This may be due to historical “horror stories” of bad and undemocratic governments, poor fiscal and monetary management, safety concerns, as well as perceived cultural differences and unknowns.

Often, individuals generalise across the whole region, which can lead to misinformation about specific countries. While some of Mexico’s Latin American neighbours may

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be facing political instability, Mexico is a democratic economy with steady GDP growth (2.3% in 20161), single-digit inflation since the year 2000 and is currently opening up traditionally government-dominated sectors of energy, utilities and telecommunications.

The country is very much open to trade and, being the secondlargest population of Latin America

after Brazil, can offer huge rewards for companies serious about doing business there.

Culturally, there is more shared history than one may think. The UK was the first European great power to recognise Mexico’s sovereignty following its War of Independence in 1810. Just 15 years later, 130 Cornish miners sailed to Mexico to work the main Hidalgo mines bringing

with them the latest technology and culture – along with pasties and football. British technology is still held in high regard today and both countries enjoy an extremely amicable bilateral relationship.

Ministers from both countries have publicly stated on numerous occasions that they are committed to establishing a new FTA when Britain leaves the European Union2.

InternationalFocus Building up a relationship with your Mexican partner and creating trust is essential for doing business in Mexico.

– a 10.8% increase on the year before. These figures were complimented by a 13.1% increase in exports (1,756,390 vehicles.) The story is similar in the other manufacturing subsectors with aerospace exports anticipated to grow by 12% this year.6 The Mexican government also understands that there is a need to reduce dependency on the United States7. They are currently renewing and modernising the existing FTA with EU and there are talks of a new FTA between Mexico and China8.

The Opportunity There are opportunities available in Mexico at every level and beyond manufacturing. In the energy sector, we have seen British Chamber members win important tenders for exploration and production as well as retail in oil and gas, thanks to the 2014 Energy Reform.

The same reform, combined with the Mexican government’s commitment to source 35% of power from clean energy by 2024, has also expanded opportunities in power generation. In this sector, British Chamber members are winning some of the 5,000 MW of power granted to solar and wind power companies to supply to the grid.

There are therefore opportunities available to companies who can supply into these important sectors, as well as second- and third-tier suppliers.

Education reform is also revolutionising this sector, with a new English National Strategy to dramatically improve the standard of English spoken in the country9.

Given the time lags for these strategies to bear fruit, parents and executives also depend greatly on the private sector.

In addition, there are plenty of opportunities in construction and infrastructure as well as healthcare, given the size of the country and its strong growth ambitions.

Accessing the Opportunity The good news is that British products are well perceived in Mexico, that Mexicans are very friendly and easy to talk to, and value their relationships with

Fears of Trump Effect Subside Earlier this year, there were serious concerns over the impact of proposed protectionist policy and “dialogue” (read: tweets) from the newly elected President Trump.

Mexico’s growth has been fuelled by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that encouraged the country to establish itself as a manufacturing powerhouse, especially in the automotive, aerospace and white goods sectors.

NAFTA has since been complemented by a FTA with the EU, amongst others, and Mexico now has FTAs with 45 countries, however 82% of Mexican exports still go to the United States3. In spite of these concerns, GDP has been growing.

The Mexican government even revised their growth forecast for 2017 upwards in May4 after having given more conservative numbers at the beginning of the year due to Trump's presidency.

The manufacturing sector has been behind much of this growth.

Using the automotive sector as one of the most illustrative examples of renewed optimism in Mexico, earlier in the year Ford Motors cancelled the construction of what was to be their second plant in Mexico5.

This appeared to be a political move to appease Trump and a potential disaster for the Mexican economy if other carmakers followed suit. However, months later, these fears have not been realised and Nissan with Daimler, KIA, Toyota and Nemark are now expanding their operations in Mexico, while Volkswagen, BMW and Audi have publicly committed to maintaining their investments in the country.

Production for 2017 (up to July) reached record numbers of 2,170,732 vehicles manufactured

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Queues for the BP petrol station in Mexico City – the first international station and now thirdbest selling in the country

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BMW remain committed to its Mexican plant in San Luis Potosí

business partners. This does mean that Brits need to build a relationship with their Mexican allies if they want to do business.

A gentle approach is required and not a hard, up-front sales pitch.

Many British companies choose to manage their business in Mexico through a local distributor.

It is important that British companies are fair and appreciative of their distributor.

Finding a distributor can be difficult and there is plenty of competition from other international companies in the Mexican market.

This means that British companies need to consider carefully the price sensitivity of their products. The current offer in the Mexican market may make price competition extremely challenging.

At the beginning stages, identifying appropriate partners and establishing contact can be difficult. Emails can be ignored completely and it can be hard to reach the right person by phone, although often this is necessary to secure a meeting.

Establishing a meeting in person is often the only opportunity for real feedback and discussion of your product and so ensuring this meeting goes well is essential.

This means dressing appropriately, using the correct title of the person you are meeting with and preparing adequately.

World Bank http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/mexico/overview https://www.forbes.com.mx/mexico-reino-unido-buscan-acuerdo-pos-brexit/ Forbes https://www.forbes.com.mx/comercio-mexico-estados-unidos-nodisminuira-comce/ http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mexico-economy-idUSKBN18I1RQ https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-03/ford-cancels-1-6billion-mexico-plant-after-trump-s-criticism

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While most Mexicans make an effort to be punctual, traffic and other factors may mean this is not always possible. It is therefore important to be patient and to try not to seem annoyed if the person you are meeting with arrives up to an hour late! However, you still need to remember that not all Mexicans are unpunctual and so planning enough time and factoring in heavy traffic is key to making the right impression.

To secure business from any meetings, companies need to be persistent with follow up and patient when awaiting responses.

The British Chamber of Commerce can help you in establishing contact with potential partners and clients. Discussing your options and readiness to export to this market with Herts Chamber of Commerce is a good first step.

While Mexico ranks well in terms of ease of doing business, it is not usually advisable for first time exporters. Herts Chamber can also put you in touch with the British Chamber in Mexico (BritChaM) who can support you on the ground. BritChaM can provide advice and guidance on your sector in Mexico, help you find appropriate suppliers and make first introductions so you can get your foot in the door. Given the outstanding opportunities available in Mexico and the support available, there has never been a better time to explore what could be in store for you.

http://www.elfinanciero.com.mx/empresas/exportacion-aeroespacialsubira-12.html http://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/2017/02/23/1147967 http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/05/news/economy/mexico-china-tradedeal/index.html http://www.zocalo.com.mx/seccion/articulo/llegara-en-20-anos-ingles-aescuelas-de-mexico

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GDPR

Can your business seriously afford to ignore GDPR? GDPR or General Data Protection Regulation becomes law on 25 May 2018.

If you are not ready then you can expect fines of up to 20m Euros or 4% of your annual turnover.

The fact that Britain will leave the European Union (EU) will make no difference; many countries are tightening up on data protection laws identifying their citizens. Therefore, the transfer of data with third parties who themselves have to abide by data regulations, will become increasingly important.

Businesses will need to ensure that data relating to any EU citizen is managed within the requirements of European law and their policies. This can be anything which identifies the individual such as a date of birth, email address, telephone number, credit card detail or even an image.

Citizens will have the right to ask that their data is removed from a database unless there is a legal reason for the data to be stored.

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This means that your business will have to review and potentially change the way it collects, uses, transfers and stores personal data.

The regulation will apply to both controllers and processors of information.

Whilst a profit-making organisation or charity might control the information, an IT company might be the processor.

As an example, an off-site backup could be considered a process.

In the war against cyber threats a company’s weakest link continues to be its employee and cyber criminals are finding very sophisticated and convincing phishing methods to penetrate a company’s defences.

Businesses of any size cannot ignore the consequences of the

GDPR. The maximum time to report a data breach to a local Information Commissioner will be 72 hours from when your organisation becomes aware and in the most serious of cases this could be as little as 24 hours. A company will need to identify how and at what point in the handling of the data the breach took place.

One can always take a chance and avoid reporting the breach in the hope that no one will find out.

This is where the situation becomes very interesting, because if your Data Officer does not report the loss then a hacker might if his demands are not met! But then any individual affected by the loss of data can also report the breach, or even a disgruntled employee, in which

case a business can expect to be dealt with more severely.

The landscape for understanding the GDPR continues to evolve, data encryption is only part of the solution. Businesses need to recognise that the GDPR is not just an IT issue but more about company policy and how it adheres to the principles of the GDPR. Small to medium size businesses continue to believe that GDPR is like the ISO standard or an annual audit, this is just a popular myth. This is LAW and just like ignoring to wear a seat belt whilst driving, complacency will run the risk of heavy fines.

Christopher Bowden-Hawkins is the Regional Manager at Network Integrity Services Ltd.

GDPR

Cyber liability in the insurance industry The risks associated with cyber and data liability are still very new and ever evolving. If you consider a motor vehicle then the insurance world has over a hundred years of understanding the risks and providing solutions.

The problem with cyber liability is that the insurance industry is still learning and this curve is further hampered by the reluctance of some companies to share their experience.

There are solutions available, however they should not be considered a replacement for effective risk management, after all as with most things prevention is better than cure.

The insurance industry is being encouraged to improve and simplify wordings and restrictions so as to help customers, particularly SME’s understand the limitations of cover, as it stands cyber liability will be a general exclusion on most commercial policies and so there is a need for a stand-alone policy.

We help businesses understand the range of cover available along with the features and benefits.

Peter Smits, Managing Director, Ashbourne Insurance.

Chamber members NIS, Ashbourne Insurance and Debenhams Ottaway unite to explain new data law and latest Cyber threat To learn more about the latest thinking on how best to prepare for this regulation, how anyone can become a cybercriminal within minutes, protect your business against cybercrime and the benefits of cyber insurance, register by emailing sales@nis-it.co.uk for the NIS Insights 2017 Seminar at Hatfield House, Hatfield on Tuesday 19th September.

At this seminar, you will get the facts first hand from globally recognised IT experts, policy implementation and legal specialists in the GDPR.

GDPR at a glance – everything you need to know The GDPR is seen as a key piece of EU human legislation.

However, the Government has confirmed that it will be implemented regardless of Brexit. It applies to all businesses in the UK that hold personal data.

Personal data broadly covers any information that relates to living individuals that is held on computer or in a file. It does not have to be digital. Paper documents would be covered.

Personal data can, for example, include a photograph.

It introduces six principles to the processing of personal data.

Personal data must be: • Processed lawfully, fairly and in a transparent manner; • Collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes; • Adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary; • Accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date; • Processed in a manner that permits identification of the data subject for no longer than is necessary; and • Processed in a secure manner.

Processing broadly means the processing of personal data including obtaining, disclosing, recording, holding, using, erasing or destroying personal information.

The definition is very wide and will cover virtually any action that is carried out on computer.

It grants six rights to the data subject: • The Right of Access • The Right to Rectification • The Right to Erasure (The Right to be Forgotten) • The Right to Restrict Processing • The Right to Data Portability • The Right to Object to Profiling Data subject broadly means the identified natural person that the data is about or a natural person who can be identified, directly or indirectly, from the data.

The GDPR sets a high standard for consent and makes big changes to current consent mechanisms. It requires that consent should be: • Unambiguous and involve a clear affirmative action; • Be separate from other terms and conditions; and • Not generally be a precondition of signing up to a service; • The GDPR specifically bans pre-ticked opt-in boxes.

• It requires specific consent for distinct processing operations.

• You must keep clear records to demonstrate consent.

• The GDPR gives a specific right to withdraw consent.

You need to tell people about their right to withdraw which they can do at any time, and it must be as easy to withdraw consent as it is to give it.

• You need to review existing consents and your consent mechanisms to check they meet the GDPR standard.

If they do, there is no need to obtain fresh consent.

The Regulations impose strong sanctions: • Fines of up to €20 million or 4% of global turnover whichever is the higher; • Data subjects have the right to sue for compensation in respect to both material and non-material damage.

In the case of a breach of security leading to the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, disclosure of, or access to, personal data this must be reported to the regulator without undue delay after becoming aware of it and in any event, not later than 72 hours after becoming aware of it.

David Silver is Head of Corporate and Commercial at Debenhams Ottaway LLP

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ChamberEducation&Skills

School education GCSE changes, 2017 The GCSE system replaced the GCE O Level system in 1988, and while there have been changes and adaptations, there hasn’t been a major overhaul for some time.

More grades at the top end With more grades at the top end of the scale (six grades instead of four), students are better able to demonstrate their achievements.

Employers should also be able to match candidates’ abilities to available jobs more easily.

HR professionals and employers will be better informed on how a student has performed in all his or her subjects, which should ensure they have the most appropriate training, support and challenge in their role.

Reform to meet university and employer demands In 2013, the Government announced its intention to reform and redevelop GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) not only to match the best systems in the world but also to keep pace with university and employer demands.

GCSE syllabus content should be more challenging, but still be suitable for all abilities.

Changes GCSEs in England are changing — the most obvious change being the new grading system.

Beginning this summer with GCSE subjects English Language, English Literature and Mathematics, students will now receive a numerical grade instead of the alphabetical exams results grading that has existed for 30 years.

GCSEs will be graded 9 to 1, with 9 being the highest grade.

There are more grades in the new system than the previous one (nine compared to eight), which enables employers to

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better differentiate between student attainment in each subject.

The changes are: • The four highest grades of A* to C are being replaced by six numerical grades: from 9 to 4 • Grade 9 will be awarded to the very highest achievers — fewer students will get a Grade 9 than used to get an A* • Grades 4 and 5 are the equivalent of a C or low B. By 2020, all pupils taking GCSEs in England will receive only numbered grades. But up until then, students will receive both letters and numbers in different subjects on their GCSE Candidate Statement results notification.

When a new qualification is introduced it is always considered preferable to differentiate it from the qualification it is replacing.

The new grading scale will make it easier for employers to see those who have studied new GCSEs.

The existing AS and A level grading systems will remain as now.

Information for employers From this summer, GCSEs will be graded 9 to 1 in English Language, English Literature and Mathematics. Schools have been preparing their classes for these since Sept 2015. All other GCSEs will be graded A* to G. Over the next two years, most other subjects will adopt the numerical results grading system, and by 2020 all pupils taking GCSEs in England will receive only numerical grades. Until then, students will receive grades expressed as a mixture of letters and numbers.

Broadly the same proportions of pupils will achieve a Grade 4 and above as previously achieved Grade C and above, all things being equal. This is also the same for Grade 1 and above as previously achieved a Grade G and above, and for Grades 7 and A and above.

This is pertinent to England; Wales and Northern Ireland are not introducing the new 9 to 1 grading scale as part of the changes to GCSEs in

their jurisdictions. Scotland retains its existing systems.

Subject content The subject content of new GCSEs is more challenging than before and will be assessed mainly by examinations at the end of the course.

The amount of coursework has diminished, and reflects the balance and nature of the new subject content. In most subjects coursework has been reduced, but in some it has stayed the same.

Employer preparation HR departments, recruiters and employers will shortly be receiving CVs reflecting the new numbers grading system (regarding the three subjects referred to earlier) — therefore it is useful to know how these correspond to the previous system.

This will affect all businesses recruiting school leavers, irrespective of their size, type or sector — whether they are taking on young adults on a work experience basis, apprentices or even those wanting short-term employment.

IT systems may need to be upgraded so that recruitment forms record numbered grades as well as lettered grades.

Quick benchmark • Any candidate who is awarded a Grade 4 or above has the equivalent of a current Grade C or above.

• Candidates with 7s, 8s or 9s are the highest achievers.

BusinessMigration

How important is migrant labour to the local economy?

Migration influences the welfare of the resident population more broadly than just the impact on the labour market. They provide benefits to consumers if their presence in the labour market leads to lower prices or greater availability of some goods and services.

However, migrants also consume goods and services, possibly leading to increased prices in some cases or increased congestion in others, but this requires further study.

have to be in graduate-level occupations and must meet minimum salary thresholds. Over time, there has been a trend in UK migration policy towards targeting higher-skilled migrants

Migrants may also provide benefits if they pay more in taxes than they receive in benefits and consume in public services.

More evidence on all these issues would be very helpful to enable the government to formulate a policy that supports future business needs.

One important way in which migration may alter the state of the public finances is by offsetting to some extent the ageing of the population; incoming migrants are more likely to be of working-age than the general population, so reducing the dependency ratio.

It is sometimes argued that migrants in general, but highskilled migrants in particular, lead to greater entrepreneurial activity, trade, innovation and, ultimately, productivity growth, benefitting residents.

The current UK work-related migration system for non-EEA citizens has a clear preference for higher-skilled workers. Those admitted through the work route

Hertfordshire Chamber CEO, Yolanda Rugg says: “There is clear evidence that our local need for migrants, both highlyskilled and semi- or low-skilled workers, would add greatly to our economic health, particularly those available for part-time, short-term contracts or seasonal work.

“We have a large hospitality and leisure sector; our hotels are constantly recruiting staff.

We are also in the throes of house-building expansion, and construction workers with their technical skills are in short supply.

“With the growth of our bio and life-sciences sector, and

satellite communications’ and defence systems’ multi-national corporations, Hertfordshire readily welcomes highly qualified, experienced and capable people from afar.

“We also have a large engineering presence, although not as vast as other counties, businesses still need skilled and semi-skilled labour.

“I hope that as many of you as possible take part in this survey into migrant labour, so that the best policy for our future

A call for evidence by MAC to employers, businesses, recruiters, academics and representative bodies is framed around the focus on:

• assessment of the impact of a possible reduction in the availability of EEA migrants — contingency planning

• extent of EEA and non-EEA migration effect on skills and training of UK workers • involvement of universities and training providers in ensuring the UK workforce has the skills to fill key roles

EEA migration trends

Recruitment practices, training & skills

Economic, social, fiscal impact

• methods of recruitment to employ EEA migrants

• economic, social and fiscal costs and benefits of EEA migration to the UK economy, on the labour market, prices, public services, net fiscal impacts (eg: taxes paid by migrants, benefits they receive), productivity,

Call for Evidence – can you help?

• types of jobs migrants perform and their skills and skill levels

• extent of seasonality: part-time, • differences by skill-type, agency-workers, temporary, occupation intra-company transfers • advantages and disadvantages • change in patterns of EEA of employing EAA workers – migration over time — since post-EU Referendum changes 2000, after Brexit referendum

business prospects can be properly scoped and delivered.”

European Economic Area (EEA) Migration Recruitment In July 2017, the Government commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to advise on the economic and social impacts of the UK’s exit from the European Union — and also on how the UK’s immigration system should be aligned with a modern industrial strategy.

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investment, innovation and general competitiveness of UK industry differences from the impact of non-EEA migrants differences at national, regional, local levels variances by sector, occupation variances by skills levels (high, medium, low-skilled workers)

To participate To participate in this BCC survey (for the Migration Advisory Committee), please contact Naomi Powell, Operations Manager, naomipowell@hertschamber.com by 11 September.

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PatronFocus

Refurbishment underlines confidence at hotel These are exciting times at Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club in Hertfordshire as staff prepare for the beginning of £1.7 million’s worth of refurbishment work Two projects, to rejuvenate the hotel’s historic Garden Court and the conference and event areas in the main building will cement Hanbury Manor’s status as one of the premier venues in the area.

Located on 200 acres of landscaped grounds in the town of Ware, the stately Jacobeanstyle hotel showcases grandeur and a wealth of luxury amenities.

Standing as it does near Knebworth House, Lee Valley Park and only 25 miles from London, the hotel is very popular with guests who are delighted by its wood-panelled libraries, open fireplaces and unique furnishings.

In addition to 5-star hotel rooms and suites, the hotel has an 18-hole championship golf course, a spa, restaurant dining and a leisure club with a heated indoor pool and well-equipped fitness centre.

The refurbishments will improve the hotel’s three signature event rooms, Poles Hall which was the chapel between 1923 and 1986 when Hanbury Manor was run as a convent school, Thundridge, formerly the school Assembly Hall, and The Grade II Listed Garden Court Summer House and Conservatory which has impressive views into the original scented Walled Garden.

The main aim of the renovations is to create an events hub allowing meeting delegates to

move between rooms with ease and to include technology and flexible workspaces that inspire collaboration.

The refurbishments will start later in the year; the work on Garden Court will begin in November and the work on the main hall in January.

General Manager Russell Prior said: “This has been a major source of investment for the hotel and we are excited for our guests to see the new space once completed.

"It is part of our wider commitment to providing our guests with the very best stay in technology and facilities whilst enjoying this magnificent setting.”

A respect for history runs throughout both projects, connecting today’s hotel with its former owner Robert Hanbury.

Robert, a senior partner in Truman, Hanbury and Buxton, one of the biggest brewing firms in London at that time, inherited Hanbury Manor in 1847.

He was a keen horticulturist, and, in 1865, oversaw the creation of a conservatory, fernery and dropping well. It is also known that he built a rose garden, as part of his work at Poles Park.

Russell said: “The work on the Garden Court illustrates the responsibility that we have in running a listed building.

“The greenhouses, which have been home to fruit trees and vines, and the Summer House will be taken down and rebuilt so that their character is retained and we can return them to former glories.”

Simon Andrade, Managing Director of Lucid Interior Design, which is working on the projects, said: “With an opportunity to bring back a part of the history that is so deep within Hanbury Manor, this can allow us to create something very special."

For Russell, the refurbishment strengthens the hotel’s offer.

He said: “The fact that we are investing so much in refurbishments shows the

confidence that we have for the future.

“Many areas of the business are performing well, including room bookings, afternoon teas and golf, although conferences are a little flat. It is such a competitive field and our refurbishment should help us increase bookings.”

Not helping planning for the future is concern over Brexit, though. Russell said: “It is difficult to tell if Brexit is having an affect on the hotel but one thing that is concerning us is free movement of people.

“A lot of our workers come from abroad and they are worried that they may not be able to continue doing that.”

“The main aim of the renovations is to create an events hub allowing meeting delegates to move between rooms with ease and to include technology and flexible workspaces that inspire collaboration.”

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ChamberMatters

Hertfordshire Global, a black-tie dinner: 5 October Join us on 5 October at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club where we are hosting a formal dinner, with particular addresses on global trade opportunities.

How postBrexit UK can profit from an Indian opportunity Dr Dishant Mahendru, Director of Honeycomb Global In preparing for post-Brexit prosperity, companies should explore India’s incredible market opportunity. The Make in India project gives companies access to the Indian market with competitive fiscal incentives to develop, manufacture and distribute products to a population of 1.3 billion people.

The impact of Brexit upon Ireland; the relationship with the UK

The challenges of Brexit; can we reconsider our exit strategy

Paul Slevin, British Irish Chamber of Commerce

Anne-Marie Martin, Chief Executive, COBCOE

As Ireland’s closest trading partner and friend, the UK’s exit from the EU focuses keen attention on two-way trade opportunities and the importance of free movement across the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Anne-Marie will be discussing the challenges of Brexit and whether they can encourage us to reconsider our exit strategy, review the way we do business and truly create a change in culture, mindset and ultimately behaviour.

Sponsorship opportunities Headline: £500 (two free dinner places, exhibition stand in International Village, ad in the programme, co-branding, marketing through the Chamber website and social media

International Village: £100 (one free dinner place) marketing collateral, roller banner Table of ten: free International Village sponsorship (worth £100)

A member from the British Chambers of Commerce, Lithuania, messaged Herts Chamber: “I just came across somebody who said that Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is the best Chamber in the UK.” We can live with this endorsement!

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, or would like to reserve a table or have an international host on your table, please contact alisonwhite@hertschamber.com

Inflation, IT & Network Security Consultation Inflation Inflation was unchanged in July as falling fuel prices continue to check price growth. According to British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), inflation is likely to resume its upward trend in the short term, as the sizable increases in the cost of imported raw materials over the past year continue to pass through supply chains.

Close to peaking However, it is still likely that inflation is close to peaking, with input prices slowing for the sixth successive month; an indication that inflationary pressures further down the supply chain are starting to ease.

Also, there is little evidence that higher inflation is becoming

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entrenched in higher pay settlements; economic conditions weakening over the first half of 2017 helping to cap inflation expectations. In this context, inflation is likely to peak at about three per cent by the end of the year, before dropping back in the following years.

This should mean interest rates are held by the Bank of England over the near term, particularly given a slowing economy and some political uncertainty.

Confidence and growth measures required According to the BCC, measures to boost confidence and growth, including dealing with the escalating burden of up-front taxes and costs associated with doing business in the UK are needed.

Consultation: Security of Network and Information Systems Directive – deadline 30 September The consultation — for the Department for Digital, Culture Media & Sport — is seeking views from industry, regulators and other interested parties on the Government’s plans to transpose the Directive into UK legislation.

The legislation requires UK operators in electricity, transport, water, energy, health and digital infrastructure to be prepared to deal with the increasing numbers of cyber threats. It will include other threats affecting IT such as power failures, hardware failures and environmental hazards.

It will be proposed that organisations that fail to implement effective cyber security measures could be fined as much as £17m or four per cent of global turnover as part of plans to make Britain’s essential networks and infrastructure safe, secure and resilient against the risk of future cyber attacks.

The NIS Directive relates to loss of service rather than loss of data, which falls under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). It will compel essential service operators to make sure they are taking the necessary action to protect their IT systems.

To contribute opinion To participate in the consultation: contact naomipowell@hertschamber.com

HertfordshireGlobal

Exports Performing Well The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), collaborating with DHL, published its Quarterly International Trade Outlook on 17 August.

The Trade Confidence Index — measuring trade documentation volume for goods shipments fell by 2.25% in the quarter under review — however, it still stands at the third highest level on record.

The survey of over 3,500 exporting businesses showed export sales remained steady during 2017 Q2 — and while many exporters continue to put in a solid performance, they consider that wider economic factors are areas for concern: • sterling fluctuations — the survey finds that two-thirds of manufacturers who export consider exchange rates as a concern to their business.

• recruitment challenges — they are persistent for manufacturing exporters (67 per cent) and for service providers ( 51 per cent) — both sectors reporting difficulty in sourcing the right people Access to skilled manual or technical labour was a particular issue for manufacturers (69 per cent)

• inflation — over a third of exporters are concerned about inflation: manufacturing 36 per cent and services, 33 per cent.

The results also show that 39 per cent of exporting manufacturers anticipate product prices to increase during the next quarter; 81 per cent accredit this to raw material cost pressures.

British Chambers of Commerce comment Exporters continue to put in a solid performance but are watchful of volatile exchange rates, rising inflation and ongoing skills shortages.

Many manufacturers are capitalising on the advantages the fall in sterling has brought to overseas sellers since the EU referendum. However, exporters also tend to import raw materials and product components — and are concerned that the sustained depreciation of the pound may erode their margins.

Recruitment difficulties facing companies reaffirm the need for domestic action. Tackling skills

shortages and ensuring the UK’s future immigration system is responsive to economic requirements will help boost the growth potential of UK’s hugely important exporting businesses.

Dr Adam Marshall, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce DHL comment As we begin negotiations for our departure from the EU, the UK Government must ensure that the concerns of businesses are acknowledged and that the necessary infrastructure is put in place to ensure Britain continues to be truly global — maintaining and further developing our country’s international trading links.

Ian Wilson, CEO, DHL Express UK and Ireland Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce comment I truly believe there are positive moves ahead to realign education, higher and further education with business needs, but much more needs to be done. We need to focus career aspirations on what

is realistic and sustainable, and particularly on what is required by business today and tomorrow.

As a Chamber, we need to reinvigorate efforts to create stronger affiliations between employers, training providers, education institutions and schools, and also parents and school pupils. It is certainly Hertfordshire Chamber’s position to do whatever is possible to facilitate this. We have a number of ongoing initiatives through young chamber and IIYP. Yolanda Rugg, CEO, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Post-Brexit trading opportunities The report concludes with the reminder that it is essential to provide companies with practical exporting advice and on-theground support that will place the UK in a better position to take advantage of post-Brexit trading opportunities.

For information on accessing international markets, contact Keith Moore, 017078 39 8400, keithmoore@hertschamber.com

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Past Events

Women in Leadership - 6 July L to R • Vicky Ford, MP Chelmsford, former MEP • Yolanda Rugg, Chief Executive, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

British Chambers of Commerce Business and Education - 6 July L to R • Gemma Rydqvist, Business Development and Engagement Manager, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce • Andy Bossom, Senior Corporate Executive, Middlesex University

• Billy Amor, Business Administration Apprentice, Middlesex University • David Williams, Director for Corporate Engagement, Middlesex University • Guest

“We were delighted to welcome MP Vicky Ford who inspired our female business leaders, sharing passion on women in science technology, engineering and maths. Vicky encouraged more women and young people to get involved in politics and make a difference.”

Yolanda Rugg

Meet the Buyers Day - 14 July • Delegates meeting with attendees of the event

Hillier Hopkins Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017 After Party - 18 July • Delegates networking

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Past Events

July Chamber Lunch - 19 July • Delegates listening to Chantel Hampton, Seetec who were sponsors of the event • Guest speaker Steve Clark from Eureka Selling helped empower attendees with his top businesses tips to help you thrive

Hemel Hempstead Business Ambassadors - 27 July • Stephen Hung, Managing Director, Regency Homes Ltd presenting to Hemel Ambassadors

“Herts Chamber constantly strives to deliver high profile events with speakers who can share our journey, which add value and inspire others. If there is anything you’d like us to explore, we’d love to hear from you.”

Donating to DENS Dacorum - 4 August

Yolanda Rugg

• Gemma Rydqvist, Business Development and Engagement Manager presenting a box of donation gifts from our Herts Chamber Team

Exporting – Connecting Locally and Globally - 8 August L to R • Keith Moore, Export Administrator, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce • George Phillips, General Manager – Export, Grace Foods UK • Gemma Rydqvist, Business Development and Engagement Manager, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce • Debbie Carmichael, Export Executive, Grace Foods UK • Paul Botje, General Manager, Apsley Paper Trail at Frogmore Paper Mill

August Chamber Lunch - 16 August L to R • Mustaq Chandia, Owner, Network Integrity Services - Patron • Patrick Lewis, Assistant Director for Regeneration at Stevenage Borough Council • Neville Reyner, CBE DL, Chairman of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce • Cllr Sharon Taylor, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council • Chris Watts, Business Development Manager, DB Sharp and Sons - Patron • Kevin Snowdon, BOB FM - Patron • Emma Tarbox, Branch Manager, Tate Recruitment Hitchin - Patron • Mary Sykes, Business Alliance Partnership Director, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

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A Confusion of Leadership The Vice-Chancellor’s Lecture Wednesday 25 October, 7pm

Here at the University of Hertfordshire our vision is to be internationally renowned as the UK's leading businessfacing university.

To support this vision we hold business events throughout the year and we are delighted to invite Chamber members to attend.

These free of charge events also provide the opportunity for networking with the business community.

Join Professor Quintin McKellar, ViceChancellor for his annual public lecture.

Professor McKellar is chairman of the Board of Trustees of The Pirbright Institute, the Innovation and Growth Policy Network of Universities UK and the Universities Vocational Awards Council.

He is chairman of the Hatfield Town Regeneration project and a Board member of the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

••••••

The Chancellor’s Lecture with eminent speaker Nicholas Negroponte Thursday 2 November, 7pm

flare 2017 Thursday 28 September, 5.30pm The Weston Auditorium, de Havilland Campus, Hatfield At the University we are developing our students into commercially-aware, entrepreneurial leaders of the future.

We support our most outstanding budding entrepreneurs with their business idea or newly trading business through flare, our start-up competition, which is open to both current students and recent graduates. flare is about harnessing the spirit of entrepreneurship in a safe and supportive environment.

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Join us at this annual event and meet with our inspiring entrepreneurs, find out more about their start-up ventures, discover who impressed with the quality of their business plan and who wowed the judges at the challenging pitching session and ultimately learn who wins the cash prizes.

Drinks will be served from 5.30pm and the awards presentation begins at 6.15pm. Refreshments and a buffet supper will be served afterwards.

Nicholas Negroponte is a worldrenowned technology visionary with a focus on technology and its impact on business and society.

He is founder and Chairman Emeritus of the MIT Media Lab and is the driving force behind the non-profit project One Laptop per Child.

He was the first investor in Wired Magazine and has written a best seller ‘Being Digital’.

Both the Vice-Chancellor’s and Chancellor’s Lectures start at 7pm in The Weston Auditorium, de Havilland Campus, Hatfield.

Refreshments will be available.

More information and booking

or contact the Events Team by emailing events@herts.ac.uk or calling 01707 284121.

Please book in advance via the booking form www.go.herts.ac.uk/events-booking

A full events listing can be found online www.go.herts.ac.uk/events

INSPIRE

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Security Self Storage. International House, Britannia Road, Waltham Cross, Herts. EN8 7PF INSPIRE

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BigInterview

Getting the word out reaps dividends for building company For the best part of forty years, DB Sharp and Sons Ltd has been a successful and much-respected family building company in Hertfordshire.

The big challenge has been making sure that enough people know about the quality of its work.

Improving its marketing, coupled with some key strategic decisions, has seen the Letchworth company take the next step in its evolution, doubling turnover and bringing in many more contracts over the past two years.

Playing a key role has been Business Development Manager Chris Watts, who was appointed two years ago in the latest stage in a career which had seen him own and grow his own businesses.

He joined a company which was established in 1979 by Derek Brian Sharp, joined a few years later by sons Martin, Richard and David.

Under the supervision of the brothers, the company which was started in the garage at their mother’s house, saw impressive growth but felt there that was more to come, hence Chris’s appointment.

He said: “I joined a company that had grown to an annual turnover of £2 million, most of which was based on its reputation with the vast majority of its work coming via word of mouth.

“My remit was to help the company grow and in the first year after I arrived, turnover doubled to £5 million.

“One of the ways we achieved that was by updating our marketing. The company has

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a superb reputation for quality but had been using the same brochure for fifteen years, the website was not being updated and there were no pictures of successful jobs that we had done.

“We changed that and also started using social media.

Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are an excellent way to spread the word about what we do.

“It was important that we raised our profile. You may secure a contract with someone who plans to invest half a million pounds in a new house but once that work has been done, you are unlikely to see them for another fifteen years unless they move again.

“We do not just use social media for business news but also to show the human side of the company. For example, we have a Golden Hard Hat award for the employee of the month and we post details of that.

“The whole idea is for people to look at us and think ‘they would be nice people to work with’”.

Another strategy was to strengthen links with local architects. Chris said: “A lot of the building jobs in the area were coming through architects so we talked much more to them with the result that they are the source of a lot more of our work.”

That work ranges from Tudor houses to doctor’s surgeries and its focus on quality has worked for the company, which employs more than seventy people:

DB Sharp and Sons are winning tenders for many of Hertfordshire’s most prestigious projects. For example, the team were successful in the tender to carry out the refurbishment project at the Hermitage Ballrooms, Hitchin, now known as the Hermitage Rd Bar and Restaurant.

Underlining its commitment to quality, three DB Sharp and Sons projects were nominated in the Letchworth Garden City Heritage awards with two reaching the final and one becoming the eventual winner.

In early 2017 DB Sharp and Sons won the titles of “General Builder of the Year” and “Refurbishment Project of the Year” at the Hertfordshire Building and Construction Awards.

Another reason for its growth has been a move away from purely construction work with the creation of new divisions, creating specific brands for the electrical, plumbing and flooring and tiling operations.

The change includes Galapast, the company’s flooring and tiling specialists, with its own showroom opened in spring 2016. Galapast not only services DB Sharp, but also generates its own standalone customers.

More flooring work has been generated independently through the showroom.

The model has been so successful that the company started its own

electrical contractors North Herts Electrical, and plan to launch our own plumbing and heating Contractors later in 2017.

Chris said: “It may sound clichéd but we really have made ourselves a one stop shop for both commercial and residential customers.

“We had always done this kind of work but as part of our construction contracts whereas having separate companies allows us to become much more of a retailer and go out to the general public.”

Another strategic decision has been to limit the area in which the company works. Chris said: “We have tended to operate within a 25 mile radius from our offices and the reason for that is we do not wish to expand too far and lose our focus on quality.

“There is a lot of work in the area and, although we may review the strategy in the future, at the moment it works well for us.

“Ensuring quality has always been important to us and we like to keep control of the work that we do and working closer to home allows us to do that.

“We are a good company to work for and a lot of our people have been with us for years.

We had one team of brickies who joined us for a three week job and twelve years later are still with us!”

We are excited to see where DB Sharp continue to go on their journey.

BigInterview

“Another reason for its growth has been a move away from purely construction work with the creation of new divisions, creating specific brands for the electrical, plumbing and flooring and tiling operations.�

Chris Watts Business Development Manager INSPIRE

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ChamberEvents

Forthcoming Business Events Benefits Roadshow - Make the most of your membership Pop into our Benefits Roadshow and We will also have members of the learn how to save you and your Chamber team available to speak Venue: Aubrey Park Hotel, business thousands of pounds! to, to ensure you are utilising your We will be joined by our benefit Redbourn, St Albans, membership through our partners including AXA PPP AL3 7AF marketing and promotion Healthcare, Utilitywise, Qdos opportunities, digital platform Time: 09.30-13.30 Consulting, Experian, Westfield Health COBCOE Connects, Hertfordshire and Perkbox to share with you the Price: FREE to members Chamber Venues website and ways you can save money through £15.00 non-members free and discounted services. many, many more ways.

If you are not a member of the Chamber, come along and find out how we can help you connect, collaborate and grow.

Date:

Thursday 21 September

Property and Construction Forum Tour of BRE Innovation Park Date: Venue:

Time: Price:

Thursday 28 September BRE, Bucknalls Lane, Bricket Wood, Watford, WD25 9NH 17.00-19.00 £18.00 members £30.00 non-members

The BRE Watford Innovation Park is the flagship development of an international network of innovation parks aiming to push forward the boundaries of knowledge and practice by testing and showcasing innovations.

Launched in 2005, the Park at BRE's headquarters in Garston, Watford, continues to set the 26

standard for BRE's Innovation Parks across the world. The Park started life as a smallscale demonstration of modern-methods-ofconstruction (MMC) and quickly developed in a facility rich in innovation.

The Watford Park attracts around 20,000 visitors per year and has 12 full-scale demonstration buildings.

This visit will enable you to see emerging and innovative approaches to sustainable buildings and landscapes and low-carbon design and construction with full-scale demonstration buildings displaying

INSPIRE

All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated.

innovative design, materials and technologies and addressing development challenges.

The visit includes a technical tour led by a BRE expert guide or a selfguided audio tour of the park, plus the opportunity visit the Victorian Terrace refurbishment project.

ChamberEvents

Hertfordshire Global, a black-tie dinner: 5 October Join us on 5 October at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club where we are hosting a formal dinner, with particular addresses on global trade opportunities.

How post-Brexit UK can profit from an Indian opportunity Dr Dishant Mahendru, Director of Honeycomb Global In preparing for post-Brexit prosperity, companies should explore India’s incredible market opportunity. The Make in India project gives companies access to the Indian market with competitive fiscal incentives to develop, manufacture and distribute products to a population of 1.3 billion people.

The impact of Brexit upon Ireland; the relationship with the UK

The challenges of Brexit; can we reconsider our exit strategy

Paul Slevin, British Irish Chamber of Commerce As Ireland’s closest trading partner and friend, the UK’s exit from the EU focuses keen attention on twoway trade opportunities and the importance of free movement across the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Sponsorship opportunities Headline: £500 (two free dinner places, exhibition stand in International Village, ad in the programme, co-branding, marketing through the Chamber website and social media

Anne-Marie Martin, Chief Executive, COBCOE Anne-Marie will be discussing the challenges of Brexit and whether they can encourage us to reconsider our exit strategy, review the way we do business and truly create a change in culture, mind-set and ultimately behaviour.

International Village: £100 (one free dinner place) marketing collateral, roller banner Table of ten: free International Village sponsorship (worth £100)

A member from the British Chambers of Commerce, Lithuania, messaged Herts Chamber: “I just came across somebody who said that Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is the best Chamber in the UK.” We can live with this endorsement!

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, or would like to reserve a table or have an international host on your table, please contact alisonwhite@hertschamber.com

Women in Leadership Lunch Date: Venue:

Time: Price:

Thursday 16 November Lussmanns Fish & Grill Restaurant, Waxhouse Gate, High Street, St Albans, AL3 4EW 12.00-14.00 £25.00 members £35.00 non-members

The aim of our Women in Leadership events is to enable Hertfordshire's business women to network with peers and develop their leadership skills as well as provide mentoring, support and inspiration to the County's next generation of women business leaders.

We will be joined by Kerry Cobb, Presenter, Trainer, NLP Practitioner and VoiceOver. Kerry is a highly trained, skilled, freelance radio presenter and producer who currently presents the breakfast show "Good Morning St Albans" on Radio Verulam.

Kerry is also Co-Founder of the National Teen Trust which helps and supports parents to work with their teenagers to be able to have a happy flourishing family life despite the challenges of these demanding years.

With many years of experience in a variety of roles and a lovely personality, make sure you join us to hear Kerry inspire you in your working life.

For more information on any event: 01707 502180, bookings@hertschamber.com or www.hertschamber.com INSPIRE All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated.

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ChamberEvents

Forthcoming events programme Members Masterclasses

International Training

Our Member’s Masterclasses are provided by our award winner Patron’s Focus7 International. Focus7 are a creative business growth agency with solutions to make your business more profitable.

A Practical Guide to Documentary Letters of Credit

Date: Topic:

17 October CRM & Tools

This Marketing Tools, CRM & Systems Masterclass helps you to quickly and easily understand whether a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool could work for your business. Learn how to organise your database and dramatically increase its value; how to eliminate unnecessary processes; and how to target your audience more specifically to increase sales.

Date: Topic:

28 November Finance

Our empowering interactive Finance Masterclass provides an introduction to finance for non-financial managers and could be the help you need.

Various topics will be covered including: • Understanding your accounts • Funding options • Tax saving tips • Growing your business • Cash flow management

A step-by-step guide on how to deal with Documentary Letters of Credit – from receipt of order to successful presentation.

Specific focus on a real case history of a Letter of Credit gives delegates the opportunity to increase their awareness and skills of the requirements involved with using letters of credit.

Date: Venue:

17 October Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Time: 09.30-16.00 Member: £360.00 Non-Member: £420.00

A Practical Guide to Import Documentation & Procedure Designed to help businesses handle their imports more efficiently, and with the minimum financial expense.

Each masterclass is held at Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, MacLaurin Building, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE and run from 10.00-12.00

It covers all the relevant topics including Licensing, Preferential Duties, Documentation, Commodity Codes, Customs Clearance and Customs Regimes, rejected imports and your options available.

Monthly Lunches

Date: Venue:

Dates:

12 October 24 November Venue: Beales Hotel, Comet Way, Hatfield, AL10 9NG Time: 12.00-14.00 Member: £27.00 Non-Member: £35.00

21 November Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Time: 09.30-16.00 Member: £360.00 Non-Member: £420.00

Prepare your business for GDPR This includes considering issues such as record keeping and implementing other new systems, new roles of data protection officers, data breach reporting, higher levels of data planning, and information provision to individual. In addition, specific data problem areas such as obtaining consents for marketing and employee data, and the right to be forgotten.

Veale Wasborough Vizard will be presenting on the key changes, and leading a discussion with the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. The session will look at some of the practical steps which organisations should be taking now to prepare for the GDPR. Date: 7 November Venue: Veale Wasborough Vizard, 45 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1SZ Time: 08.80-10.00 Member: £15.00 Non-Member: £18.00

Property and Construction Forum Smart/Sustainable Products Date: Venue: Time: Member: Non-Member:

9 November TBC 17.15-19.00 £18.00 £30.00

Chamber HR Forum Family Business Date: Venue:

14 November Longmores, 24 Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1HP Time: 09.00-12.00 Member: £15.00 Non-Member: £18.00

Chamber Christmas Lunch Date: Venue:

5 December Brocket Hall, Hatfield, Welwyn, AL8 7XG Time: 12.00-14.00 Member: £35.00 Non-Member: £42.00

To find out more about sponsorship opportunities or to attend, please contact 01707 502180 or email bookings@hertschamber.com 28

INSPIRE

All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: 01707 502180, bookings@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

MembersBenefits

Four member services for your protection and peace of mind Did you know? As a member you have FREE access to FOUR essential business services

Advice Line One number giving unlimited access to experienced advisers offering practical advice on HR, employment law, health & safety, legal issues plus tax and VAT matters.

Website Access to over 750 free template documents covering HR, employment law, health and safety and legal matters.

The website also includes HR and H&S Health Checks.

You need to manage your employment affairs; there may be consequences if you don’t.

This is why you need HR support – whilst the threat of financially crippling employment tribunals has diminished there are still many pitfalls facing employers and they can have serious financial consequences.

All employers should be aware of these threats and if you need advice on how to avoid the unpalatable results please call the Advice Line and get practical advice from the HR advisers.

Why should a Sole Trader use these services?

Why should a smallto-medium business use these services?

Why should a Large Company use these services?

• Access to advice on any legal matter affecting your business including contract disputes, licence protection and more • Advice on your rights and what you can do to help get money from clients who are slow at settling your invoices • If you are having any issues with your landlord you can access all the advice you need to get the resolution you need • If you are ever considering employing or working with someone you can access the advice and documents you need • Access to advice to help you deal with any disputes with your clients

• Advice to help with a wide range of subjects including absenteeism, disputes, recruitment, annual leave, legislation plus a HR health check • Advice on any business legal matter including contracts, company law, property director or client disputes • Advice on tax or VAT matters including HMRC investigations, property, VAT registration, exemptions and more • Access to over 250 free documents covering risk assessments, policies, regulations plus a H&S gap analysis • Access to free documents you can use to create your own contracts of employment and employee handbook.

• In the complex world of employment law and HR the advice line enables you to sense check you are doing the right thing • A resource library with over 750 free templates to use and keep your own documents up to date • Keep updated with latest news and changes in legislation • If you need help with complex cases then the enhanced services can help you with things such as difficult disciplinary issues • If you are thinking of outsourcing any elements of your HR system then the team of experts are able to help you

To find out more on these 4 FREE services, join us at our Make the most of your Membership event on 21 September, more information on page 26.

INSPIRE

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Tourism

Laura Ashley – The manor Hotel, Elstree’

Are you looking to book your next venue in Hertfordshire?

Hertfordshire Chamber Venues, Hertfordshire’s top conference venues at your fingertips.

Its purpose is to bring the perfect destination for all kinds of meetings: interviews, away-from-office meetings, training, seminars, exhibitions and major conferences. Visitors can book their ideal venue quickly and easily, saving valuable time.

Free of charge, this venue promotion website enables Chamber members to find a conference facility to suit them. Each venue has its own profile page to showcase their unique facilities: conference rooms, capacity and delegate prices. This allows

Snow Centre

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members to see what every venue can offer for their next event, helping aid them in the decision-making process.

The website also contains a Chamber Venues blog. This provides users with the latest information on the tourism industry and news from the participating venues. Tourism industry guest bloggers will be invited to share their insights and experience.

This blog is once more an indicator for members of the quality of venues available. Hertfordshire Chamber Venues contains a wide variety of venues from hotels through to country and golf clubs. Whatever your need is, you can find the right venue for you.

Hertfordshire is the ideal destination for business and leisure activity; with many different and unique locations of outstanding beauty, easily accessible from London and surrounding counties, and numerous different styles of accommodation and facilities.

Hertfordshire Chamber Venues provides you with the opportunity to find the perfect venue quickly and easily.

Hunton Park Hotel

Make sure you follow us on Twitter: @HertsCVenues Other conference venues in Hertfordshire interested in the Hertfordshire Chamber Venues website please contact Nick Fox at nickfox@hertschamber.com or visit the website www.hertschambervenues.com Twitter: @VenuesHerts Facebook: www.facebook.com/HertsChamberVenues

Tourism

Hertfordshire PA Club

Hertf ordshire Hertfordshire P A Club C PA

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce understands that being a Personal, Executive or Virtual Assistant can be challenging. Hertfordshire PA Club helps support you and make your life easier!

The Hertfordshire PA Club is a free benefit for PAs, EAs and VA’s who are members of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce to engage and network with other likeminded professionals.

It is aimed to be a fun, interactive, social business benefit to help you become more efficient and proficient in your roles.

Following the success of our launch event in May 2017 we have a diary full of events until May 2018!

Date: Tuesday 21 November 2017 Venue: Hanbury Manor, Ware, SG12 0SD Our Guest Speaker for this event is Susan Heaton-Wright, Public Speaking & Communications Trainer who has coached Directors, Teams and individuals in Business, Universities and organisations all over the world.

Susan has a reputation for being an engaging, entertaining and energising public speaker who will share new skills and ideas to help you become successful speakers and communicators making an impact.

Executive Virtual Ex ecutive V irtual Personal Assistants P ersonal As sistants

Date:

Thursday 8 February 2018

Venue:

Aubrey Park Hotel, Redbourn, St Albans, AL3 7AF

Topic:

Health and Wellbeing

Guest speaker to be confirmed Date:

Thursday 10 May 2018

Venue:

Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ

Guest speaker to be confirmed All of our PA Club events are FREE OF CHARGE to members and £10.00 for non-members.

All events run from 12.00-14.00

If you would like to attend visit www.hertschamber.com/training-and-events or call 01707 502180 Follow us on Twitter: @HertsPAClub

Experience a luxury hotel and spa in an impressive historic setting Down Hall Hotel is one of England’s most established country house hotels.

Located in Hatfield Heath, near Bishop’s Stortford on the Hertfordshire and Essex border, Down Hall is 45 minutes from central London and also ideally located near Stansted Airport.

Relax the body, soothe the soul and lift the spirit during your stay at Down Hall in our new, luxury Eden Spa. Dating back to 1322, this impressive Italianate mansion is a historic setting. The hotel’s luxury interiors, ornate ceilings and abundance of natural daylight make for an experience like no other.

Take time to wander the 110 acres of surrounding woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens or sample traditional English Afternoon Tea in our historic lounge or Ibbetson’s tearoom.

Why not enjoy a leisurely dinner in The Grill Room restaurant, serving modern English cooking prepared with fresh ingredients from our own vegetable garden?

Visit www.hertschambervenues.com for more details

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FinanceforBusiness Employment Taxes – is your business compliant?

What is an Employment Taxes Healthcheck?

An Employment Taxes Healthcheck is a review of employers’ processes and reporting procedures relating to payroll, expenses and benefits, Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), employment status, share schemes and other employee rewards.

Why should you have one?

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) carries out similar reviews on employers’ records periodically.

As PAYE income accounts for the majority of the tax collected for the Treasury, there is little surprise that compliance in this area is one of its priorities. The information available to HMRC, including RTI data, enables it to identify potential reporting errors before a compliance visit is arranged.

Once HMRC has issued a letter requesting a visit, it is invariably too late to address any irregularities that may subsequently be identified. HMRC will usually insist that the error (and the arising liability) is backdated for four years - this can be up to six years, depending on how the error arose. Even small errors can result in a significant liability, excluding interest and penalties.

How can we help?

Our Employment Taxes Healthchecks are carried out by experts who specialise in this area. We tailor these reviews to suit your needs. We can provide a review in a specific area, such as travel expenses or employment status, or a full review that covers all areas of employment taxes.

We may also find opportunities to advise you on tax efficiencies and simplifying administrative processes.

What is involved?

Initially, we will visit you and ask questions about your business to get an understanding of how it operates on a day-to-day basis. We will then talk you through a specifically prepared questionnaire that covers all aspects of employment taxes. Where no errors have been identified, we will advise accordingly. We can provide our feedback of the review either verbally or in a written formal report.

What to do next?

If you would like a cost-free, no obligation discussion about any concerns you may have please contact our specialist Yvette Jacobs-Lee. Yvette Jacobs-Lee Tax Partner Kingston Smith LLP, St Albans E: yjacobs-lee@ks.co.uk

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Technology the focus for funding schemes Companies working across a number of sectors are being offered funding to develop their ideas.

In one on the initiatives, the Government has announced new funding of up to £86 million for UK firms to develop medical breakthroughs.

The package will allow small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop and test new technologies in the NHS. This could include innovations such as digital technologies to help patients manage their conditions from home instead of a hospital, or to develop new medicines.

Technologies that have previously received support are already bringing benefits to patients.

For example, MyCOPD is an online system that helps people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) better manage their condition.

It has helped more than 32,000 patients by helping them improve their breathing, manage flare-ups and track medicine use. This reduces reliance on GP and hospital appointments.

Health Minister Lord O’Shaughnessy said: “The Government’s ambition is that NHS patients get world-leading, life-changing treatments as fast as possible.

“That can’t happen unless we support medical innovation and tear down the barriers – like speed to market and access to funding – that can get in the way, especially for SMEs.” The funding is split into four packages. These include: • £39 million of funding to the Academic Health Science Networks, enabling them to assess the benefits of new technologies and support NHS uptake of those that deliver real benefits to patients according to the local need • £35 million Digital Health Technology Catalyst for innovators – this will matchfund the development of digital technologies for use by patients and the NHS • up to £6 million over the next three years to help SMEs with innovative medicines and devices get the evidence they need by testing in the real world, building on existing opportunities such as the Early Access to Medicine Scheme

• £6 million Pathway Transformation Fund, which will help NHS organisations integrate new technologies into everyday practices - this will help overcome more practical obstacles such as training staff on how to use new equipment Business Minister Lord Prior said: “The Government has an important role to play in driving innovation that will increase economic growth and support businesses across the country.

Through this funding we will quicken the pace of scientific discovery and innovation in the UK. Our Industrial Strategy will boost our status as a global hub for life sciences.”

The move was welcomed by the Association of British Healthcare Industries, whose CEO Peter Ellingworth said: “The measures could significantly enhance the UK as a destination of choice for MedTech companies, in turn, benefiting patients, the health system and the wider economy.”

Business Secretary Greg Clark has also announced the launch of a £246 million scheme to boost expertise in battery technology.

Known as the Faraday Challenge, the four-year investment is a key part of the government’s Industrial Strategy and will deliver a coordinated programme of competitions that will aim to boost both the research and development of expertise in battery technology.

The first element will be a competition led by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to bring the best minds and facilities together to create a Battery Institute.

Greg Clark said: “The work that we do through the Faraday Challenge will – quite literally – power the automotive and energy revolution where, already, the UK is leading the world.”

The Faraday Challenge’s competitions are divided into three streams • Research: To support world class research and training in battery materials, technologies and manufacturing processes, the Government has opened a £45m competition, led by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), to bring the best

minds and facilities together to create a virtual Battery Institute.

The successful consortium of universities will be responsible for undertaking research looking to address the key industrial challenges in this area.

• Innovation: The most promising research completed by the Institute will be moved closer to the market through collaborative research and development competitions, led by Innovate UK. The initial competitions will build on the best of current world-leading science already happening in the UK and helping make the technology more accessible for UK businesses.

• Scale-up: To further develop the real-world use and application of battery technology the Government has opened a competition, led by the Advanced Propulsion Centre, to identify the best proposition for a new state-ofthe-art open access National Battery Manufacturing Development facility.

Ruth McKernan, Innovate UK Chief Executive said: “By any scale, the Faraday Challenge is a game changing investment in the UK and will make people around the globe take notice of what the UK is doing in terms of battery development for the automotive sector.”

Professor Philip Nelson, Chief Executive of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), said: “Batteries will form a cornerstone of a low carbon economy, whether in cars, aircraft, consumer electronics, district or grid storage. To deliver the UK’s low carbon economy we must consolidate and grow our capabilities in novel battery technology. EPSRC’s previous research investments mean we are in a world-leading position.

“The Faraday Challenge is a new way of working. It will bring together the best minds in the field, draw on others from different disciplines, and link intimately with industry, innovators and other funders, such as InnovateUK, to ensure we maintain that our world leading position and keep the pipeline of fundamental science to innovation flowing.”

Bridging finance tips for businesses Advertisement feature

CommercialFinance

Jon Elliott, regional development director for the South East at Together, explains how businesses are increasingly using bridging finance.

Demand for bridging loans is soaring, according to the Association of Short Term Lenders (ASTL). Its latest figures showed that the value of applications for bridging loans increased by 13.9 per cent in Q1 2017, compared to the previous quarter; up 123 per cent on the same quarter in 2016.

Historically, bridging loans have mostly been used for property; often to repair broken chains or to purchase property quickly.

However, increasingly SMEs are turning to this flexible form of finance to raise capital for a much wider variety of purposes.

Here are a few tips on how businesses can make the most of short-term finance.

Commercial finance

To seize an investment opportunity

Time is of the essence when it comes to commercial deals, whether it’s to buy into a new venture, or acquire another business, bridging loans can be arranged in extremely tight timescales, sometimes a matter of days.

To facilitate a management buyout

When opportunities arise for a buyout, funds are often needed fast to avoid negotiations being drawn out longer than necessary.

The short-term finance can then be repaid and the business finance restructured once the new management team is in place.

To provide funds for relocation

A bridging loan can be ideal for businesses that are looking to relocate, securing the chosen property and also helping with the associated costs, such as removals, furniture and IT. A bridging loan may save a company from dipping into their own cash reserves to fund the move.

To release cash-flow

Bridging finance can also be a great way of creating cash-flow by releasing equity; often against a residential property.

This can be particularly popular with start-ups that may struggle

to get long-term finance until their business is fully-established.

To refinance existing debts

Refinancing can help small businesses by consolidating existing debts into one and making them easier to manage.

Often, refinancing can help businesses to pay off creditors and maintain relationships with key suppliers, which can be crucial for the company’s reputation.

For more information contact Jon on jon.elliott@togethermoney.com, call 01432 486 065 or visit www.togethermoney.com.

Bridging finance Auction finance Commercial mortgages Buy-to-Let mortgages Development funding

Long-established experts... in short term lending As a principal lender, with over 40 years’ experience, we’re dedicated to working closely with our professional sector partners. Our expert team is here to support you and your clients in a range of short-term property funding requirements.

Taking a common-sense approach, we aim to put your clients in the best possible position to complete.

Contact Jon Elliott the Regional Development Director for the South East.

Call us on - 01432 486 065 or visit togethermoney.com/southeast This advertisement is intended for professional intermediary use only and must not be distributed to potential clients.

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Business growth solutions The complete package to help your business succeed Accounting & Tax

Growth & 7YVÄ[HIPSP[`

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Tax and VAT advice to support your business and your family.

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As a leading firm of chartered accountants and business advisers we offer commercially savvy solutions to entrepreneurial and owner-managed businesses based on your needs and aspirations, supporting you through all stages of your business lifecycle.

Our experienced partners and strong team of professionals ensure that our clients receive the right advice, at the right time, to support business growth and give our clients a competitive edge.

Kingston Smith LLP, 4 Victoria Square, St Albans, AL1 3TF T: 01727 896 000 E: ks@ks.co.uk

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Contact us today to find out about how we can help you achieve your business ambitions. www.ks.co.uk/st-albans

Profile

A special time of Year for Willow This time of year is always busy for Herts-based charity Willow, and Summer 2017 was no exception, with two milestones reached and the appointment of a new Chief Executive.

Jonathan Aves, Chief Executive

Willow is the only national charity working with seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40 to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days.

In July, Jonathan Aves joined Willow from his role of Foundation Director for Hertfordshire Community Foundation; an independent grant making charity.

The Chief Executive role includes a major focus on fundraising and developing the Charity’s philanthropy offer. With experience at a local, national and international level, Jonathan brings a wealth of knowhow in growing philanthropic giving as well as overall leadership.

Jonathan says “Willow is an organisation with a passionate and committed staff team, trustees, volunteers, and donors and a very clear purpose that has a significant impact on its beneficiaries. The positive feedback of Special Days and the difference this makes to peoples lives is truly inspirational and I am excited to be a part of making this happen.”

diagnosis, treatment and recovery from serious illness can bring.

At a time in their lives that should really be all about living life fully.

“Our aim is to focus all of our energies and efforts in helping to rectify this, by creating unique and unforgettable Special Days.

Thankfully, for many young adults their Day is an opportunity to put much-needed normality back into living, to mark the end of treatment and a new beginning.

Sadly for some, it is a last chance to fulfil a dream with the people that really matter.

However, for everyone a Special Day is about important shared experiences and the creation of memories to treasure.”

In 2016 Willow was able to provide 1279 Special Days, the highest number provided in the last five years. By the end of this year, the Charity hopes to have provided 1400. With more than 388 arranged for the summer period alone (June-August), including family trips, relaxing breaks, theme park experiences and music festivals, it’s looking set to achieve the target.

Willow receives no government funding and is 100% funded from charitable donations.

Originally started in the Wilson’s

Next year will see Willow’s tenth annual Willow 10K event at Hatfield House in October. Hoping to make it the biggest and best yet the Charity is seeking partners and sponsorship opportunities.

If you would like to find out more about supporting Willow, in any way, please contact the Supporter Fundraising Team on 01707 259 777 or visit www.willowfoundation.org.uk

“Our Special Day, a break to the seaside, was a chance for us to be a family again without having our days ruled by hospital appointments. It gave us the opportunity to spend some much needed time together before my upcoming surgery; just having a few days in a different location made it easy for us to forget our troubles, even if just for a short while.”

In August, just one month after Jonathan took the lead; Willow provided its 14,000th Special Day and reached its 18th year. Former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson and his wife Megs, founded Willow in 1999 in memory of their daughter Anna, who tragically died from a rare form of cancer aged just 31.

Jonathan explains, “Inspired by our founders, we know that time is precious. Every day we see young adults who are experiencing the devastating impact that

back bedroom office in Brookmans Park 18 years ago, moving to Hatfield and now in Welwyn Garden City, the Charity is thankful for the strong Hertfordshire community support.

The four shops based in Welwyn, Barnet, Hemel and Stevenage are reliant on local volunteers and donors and the many local businesses and organisations choosing to support Willow are invaluable in ensuring that many more young people are helped.

Willow Special Day Beneficiary - Roberta

Willow arranged a Special Day for Roberta and her family when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

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For your eyes only ey Some of our treatments include: Som Cataract surgery ••Ca AMD treatment ••AM Eyelid cyst surgery ••Eye Glaucoma treatment ••Gla Refractive lens surgery ••Ref

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Health&Wellbeing

How good is your eyesight?

We can legally drive our cars at 70 mph – but are our eyes up to the challenge?

The light conditions also affect the ability to focus, so a mild degree of short sightedness in the day will become exaggerated and may well push a driver into having less than the legal minimum vision for driving at night.

By the same token, in bright light, certain types of cataract have a much greater effect on the vision and could effectively render a person blind.

Mr Jitendra Tolia, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Spire Harpenden Hospital in Hertfordshire, says that, provided we have our eyes tested regularly and wear the glasses prescribed then, on the whole, we are safe behind the wheel.

So are your eyes in good driving order? Mr Tolia answers some much-asked questions.

Do you think that the law is strict enough on ensuring people can see well enough to drive?

Generally the acceptable minimum vision is fine. There are caveats though that can make a driver unsafe in certain light conditions when on the road. The most important being the failure by drivers to use their prescribed glasses.

I think there should be random checks to see if people are

wearing suitable glasses.

Just carrying glasses in the car is not enough; they should be wearing them.

Would you like to see the law changed?

The law is fine - it is the implementation that remains a problem! Not wearing the glasses prescribed is something that could be looked at. I believe that on the continent anyone wearing glasses or contact lenses must carry a spare pair in the car so they don’t find themselves driving without the appropriate correction whether it is contact lenses or glasses.

Apart from short sightedness, what other eye conditions can affect the ability to drive safely?

Long sightedness can be equally debilitating, especially when the range of focussing ability is reduced to zero by the age of 60.

Mr Jitendra Tolia is a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Spire Harpenden with 31 years’ experience. He has performed over 20,000 cataract procedures and also treats macular degeneration, glaucoma and carries out YAG laser and eyelid surgery for cysts.

Mr Tolia firmly believes in treating the patient and not just the disease.

Can wearing tints or lens coatings improve the situation?

I personally would not recommend tinted lenses as they may be useful in good light conditions but, at night, would reduce the light going into the eye and therefore reduce the quality of vision.

What about people suffering from cataracts?

I would suggest that anyone with cataracts makes sure they have their eyes tested on a regular basis. There are three main types of cataracts which can affect vision. The effect on driving of different types of cataract are listed below: 1. Nuclear cataract- difficulty with night driving and in dim light.

2. Posterior sub-capsular cataract – difficulty when driving towards the sun.

3. Cortical cataract- usually flare, seeing a star burst type effect around lights such as street lights or car headlights.

Noel Busby, Executive Chef

Healthy Food, Healthy Mind The Cheshunt Marriott prides itself on ensuring that our employees achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

We encourage our associates to eat healthily and have the culture of promoting superfoods to help with wellbeing.

Superfoods can be used in a daily diet for a number of benefits. They have medical advantages that include reducing the risk of cancer, reducing Osteoporosis, encouraging weight loss and improving your general health.

We can also benefit from a better mental health, improved memory and making our reaction times quicker.

Superfoods come in several types and can be combined to create healthy meals.

All beans are good but especially Pinto, Lima, Chick Peas and Lentils. They are a low fat protein, containing fibre and vitamin B. Combining these with carrots, butternut squash and oily fish such as sardines, herring or trout will give you a delicious dish, also helping with omega-3 and vitamin D. Alternatively, prepare fresh Greek yoghurt served with blueberries; raspberries topped with toasted almonds to give you a great start to your day.

The secret to superfoods is to eat them in even quantities throughout your daily meals and spread your wellbeing over your week rather than in one hit every now and again.

Our newly launched Cast Iron Bar and Grill offers a great variety of healthy choices, for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, including our very popular Superfood Salad. To enjoy our new and improved Cast Iron Menu join us at the Cheshunt Marriott Hotel.

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NewMembers

Welcome to new members Action Coach

EISAI Europe Ltd

JGK Financial Management

Business growth & training specialist 25 Elm Close, Little Wymondley, Hitchin, SG4 7HP 07949 335002 www.actioncoach.com/stevesaunders

Private Healthcare European Knowledge Centre, Mosquito Way, Hatfield. Herts AL10 9SN 0845 676 1400 www.eisai.co.uk

Financial Management addressing the needs of entrepreneurs and SMEs Lime Tree Garden Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP1 1RH www.JGKfinanicalmanagement.com

AJ Nails Supply

FreshStance IT

Letchworth Garden City Eagles FC

Exclusive nail and beauty products 18 Station Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4SE

Bring a fresh approach to IT Managed Services.

We advocate cloud solutions to empower businesses and accelerate growth.

2nd Floor, Titan Court, 3 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9NR www.freshstance.co.uk

Football Club c/o Woodcrest, 47 Hollow Lane, Hitchin, Herts SG4 9SB www.letchwortheagles.org.uk

Alternative Images Photographic & Video Production 93 Hilliard Road, Northwood, HA6 1SL 07710 099267 www.alternativeimages.co.uk

Brilliant Together Marketing Consultants 9 Rectory Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 8HA 07747 014147 www.brillianttogether.co.uk

CCPHVAC Air conditioning and project installation, based in Potters Bar Unit 3, Station Close, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 1TL www.ccphvac.co.uk

Certs Assured Training Ltd Height safety and rescue training specialists Brittania House, Boulton Road, Stevenage, Herts SG1 4QX 0845 600 6066

Cribb Cyber Security Online threat detection, protection and education Biopark, Broadwater Road, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 3AX 0800 910 1101

CS Recycling Ltd

Glow Training Communication skills and professional impact training 82 Rucklers Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 8AY 07941 327702 www.glowtraining.net

Herts Careline Gives users freedom and confidence to retain independence in their own home if they become unwell 55 Harkness Court, Franklin Gardens, Hitchin, SG4 0BS 0300 999 2999 www.care-line.co.uk

Lockfast Locksmiths Locksmith 88 Deepdene, Potters Bar, EN6 3DE 07901581269 www.lockfastlocksmiths.com/ locksmithsinhertfordshire

Merchant Agencies Specialist freelance sales consultancy 25 Smeaton Court, Hertford, Herts, SG13 7AL www.merchantagencies.co.uk

Middlesex University University Global Corporate Engagement Team, The Burroughs, London NW4 4BT www.mdx.ac.uk

Herts Executive

NEMCO Ltd

Executive car service company specialising in airport transfers for business passengers 62a Bridge Road East, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1JU 01707 888000 www.hertsexec.co.uk

Electronics suppliers and manufacturers Wedgewood Way, Pin Green, Stevenage, Herts SG1 4SX 01438 346 600 www.nemco.co.uk

Holloway Partners Online Retailer 14 Maybury Avenue, Cheshunt, Herts, EN8 0HP www.homewareboutique.co.uk

Hunton Park Hotel

Relton Associates Digital Strategy and implementation specialist Wenta Business Centre, Colne Way, Watford, WD24 7ND 07713 246163 www.reltonassociates.co.uk

Provides recycling services to companies, offices, printers, schools, hospitals and local authorities Storer House, Coopers Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 4NE 01707 656261 www.csrecycling.co.uk

Ideal venue for conferences, events or weddings Essex Lane, Hunton Bridge, Kings Langley, WD4 8PN 01923 277702 www.huntonparkhotel.com

Life Coaching Service 2 Pondcroft, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 3XJ 07889 557182 www.ruthlrandallcoaching.com

Down Hall Hotel and Spa

ICE Support Ltd

Starlife UK

16th century Italianate mansion now full licensed hotel Based in Bishops Stortford 01279 731441 www.downhall.co.uk

IT consultancy specialising in travel and tourism Biopark, Broadwater Road, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL7 3AX +44 3333 4444 66 www.iceict.net

Distribution of Health and Natural Food Supplements Cadmore House, Cadmore Lane, Cheshunt, EN8 9SF 07983 985925 www.starlifeuk.com

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Ruth L Randall Coaching

NewMembers

Storm McQueen Coaching

The Snow Centre

Executive and Personal Coaching 144 Chaulden Lane, Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 2BT 07779 615724

The Snow Centre Hemel Hempstead Home of UK Snow St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP3 9NH www.thesnowcentre.com

The Automation Partnership Development, manufacture, distribution of automated system York Way, Royston, SG8 6WY 01763 227200 www.sartorius-stedim-tap.com

The Christmas Decorators The Lamp Company Limited Leading supplier of light bulbs, LED bulbs, fluorescent tubes and specialist lamps Unit 4, Ashville Trading Estate, Royston Road, Baldock, SG7 6NN 01462 490066 www.lampco.co.uk

Talent Room Engineering and Technical Recruiter Unit 5, Shire Court, West Street, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 1NX www.talentroom.co.uk

Trans Trans Ltd Trans Trans provides specialist translation services Unit P3, Water Mill End Estate, Buntingford, SG9 9JS 01763 273122 www.transtrans.co.uk

Twin Towns Foundation Voluntary Charitable Organisation 5 Manor Farm Stables, Old Knebworth, SG3 6SL 07846 045839 www.twintowns1000.bike

Business Alliance Members Middlesex University Middlesex University transforms potential into success through peerless teaching, practice and research.

We are committed to changing the world around us. www.mdx.ac.uk

University of Hertfordshire The University of Hertfordshire is the UK's leading business-facing university and an exemplar in the sector. It is innovative and enterprising and challenges individuals and organisations to excel. www.herts.ac.uk

Grace Foods UK Ltd Grace Foods are a distributor of speciality foods both recognized for their great success in both the U.K and Internationally. www.gracefoodsukgroup.com 01707 326555

Kingston Smith LLP Chartered accountants who work with and help entrepreneurial businesses understand their potential ambitions www.kingstonsmith.co.uk 01727 896000 If you would like to find out more on becoming a Business Alliance Member please contact Mary Sykes, Business Alliance Partnership, Director on 07775 562662 or marysykes@hertschamber.com

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MembersNews

Chamber welcomes Alison White Events Manager, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

The Marketer’s Challenge How can you make your brand stand out from the crowd?

The changing media landscape and the explosion of digital communication means that we no longer have a captive audience.

On a daily basis consumers are bombarded with up to 5000 messages all competing for their attention.

So how can we cut through the clutter?

A catchy jingle or a clever slogan isn’t enough. So the challenge is finding a way through. Promotional merchandise offers a powerful solution in the marketer’s toolbox and is unlike any other form of promotional/advertising activity.

Why? It’s a gift, it’s tangible and it adds enhancement to someone’s day.

Furthermore, it leaves a positive emotion and it can repeatedly give your brand exposure long after a campaign is finished.

The power of the humble mug 1.5k hot drinks are consumed per person each year. 100 mugs with your brand and message on equates to 150k hits a year. Just think what 1000 mugs could do!

The clever use of promotional merchandise will target customers effectively, give a sense of a brand’s personality and create loyalty.

It is 5 times more likely to generate a favourable impression than an online ad (BPMA Survey) and it is a powerful component of any marketing strategy/campaign.

Shout Promotional Merchandise is a specialist in the field and offers a no-obligation consultative approach to helping clients find the right promotional merchandise to amplify their brand.

For more information visit shoutpm.co.uk.

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Alison Joined the Chamber in August as Events Manager, having gained a wealth of experience in managing large scale events across public and private sectors, including education, pharma and many other industries.

Alison will work with Patrons and Business Alliance members, sponsors, member venues and speakers to ensure that a wide variety of engaging events are offered to all members.

Alison will also work with our operations team to ensure that all our events are promoted to the appropriate audience and she is happy to hear from members with any suggestions for new topics, speakers and locations for our events.

To contact Alison please call 01707 502183 or email alisonwhite@hertschamber.com

AB Hotels appoints David Petitt as Head of Marketing AB Hotels, a collection of luxury, family-run hotels located in the South East of England, has appointed David Petitt as Head of Marketing.

In his new role, David will oversee all elements of marketing for the group, from developing AB Hotels brand to managing the individual marketing requirements of both Sopwell House, a luxury country house hotel in St Albans, and The Arch London, a five-star boutique hotel in Marble Arch.

David Petitt said: “I am thrilled to join AB Hotels as Head of

Marketing. The Arch London and Sopwell House are stunning properties, and the plans to develop the brand further means it is a very exciting time for me to join the team.”

Director of AB Hotels, Rafi Bejerano proudly welcomes David to the team: “We are delighted that David has chosen to join AB Hotels. He is vastly

experienced and an excellent marketer, as well as suiting our brand with his caring nature, positive outlook and dynamic ideas.”

David joins Sopwell House from Elite Hotels where he was Group Marketing Manager for almost 14 years. www.sopwellhouse.co.uk

Creating memorable festive experiences The summer may have come to a close but Christmas plans are well under way at the Aubrey Park Hotel.

The hotel is set to host a wide variety of events to celebrate the season, from festive afternoon teas to platinum party nights in their exclusive Oak Suite venue.

Whether you’re planning to celebrate with friends, family or work colleagues, the team at Aubrey Park have thought of something for everyone.

David Timmis, Managing Director at the hotel says, “It can feel odd organising Christmas so early on in the year but it simply means we are can spend time on creating memorable, festive experiences for all guests that choose to celebrate with us over the Christmas season, we’re certainly looking forward to Christmas this year and are hoping for it to be our best one yet.”

The hotel has a selection of residential packages available

and is also putting on a New Year’s Eve Winter Ball which is set to reflect an elegant winter wonderland theme.

With live entertainment, a five-course meal and the ever so popular magic selfie mirror, it’s an event not to be missed.

Interested in celebrating at Aubrey Park Hotel this year?

You can head to their website for further details where you can also download their official 2017 Christmas & New Year’s brochure. www.aubreypark.co.uk/ celebrating/christmas

MembersNews

Get on your bike and join Mercy Ships on our London to Paris Cycling Challenge 2018 To celebrate Mercy Ships’ 40th Anniversary in 2018, you are invited to join the charity’s London to Paris (Tour de France) cycle challenge in July to support its work in Africa.

See some stunning scenery, make new friends for life and be pushed to the limit, safe in the knowledge that the money you raise will transform lives forever.

A lack of access to safe, affordable surgery kills more people in lowincome countries than HIV/Aids, tuberculosis and malaria combined. Globally, there are five billion people who have no access to safe, affordable surgery.

Mercy Ships is working hard to plug this gap.

The charity operates the largest civilian hospital ship in the world, delivering free, vital medical care to some of the world’s poorest countries.

This “floating hospital” is staffed almost entirely by volunteers, who give their expertise for free to help treat dental and eye problems,

cleft lips and palates, tumours, club feet, childbirth injuries, burns and a variety of other conditions.

Since 1978, Mercy Ships has visited more than 70 countries, providing services worth more than £1 billion that have directly helped more than 2.6 million people. Mercy Ships has also trained more than 40,000 local health professionals in order

to leave a legacy that lasts.

Sign up today to support this important work.

For more information, please contact us on events@mercyships.org.uk or 01438 727800.

To register for the challenge, visit: www.mercyships.org.uk/ london2paris

Lights, camera action for apprenticeships at Elstree Business Breakfast This October will mark six months since the Apprenticeship Levy came into effect - a fundamental shift in the way the Government funds Apprenticeships in England.

Join us at the famous Elstree Studios this September for a Free Business Breakfast and get ‘levy savvy’ in understanding what apprenticeships can do for your business.

Together Training in association with Hertsmere Borough Council and Watford Chamber of Commerce will welcome employers from a wealth of industries to network, enjoy a delicious breakfast in a fantastic venue and find out how the levy can transform your business.

Hear first-hand from current apprentices and their employers, hear their experiences to understand how they engage with young people and the return on investment it produces.

Whether you are wondering where the Levy leaves you, want to upskill an existing workforce or just want the facts, the Together Training team will be on hand to kick-start your day with the answers you need.

When: Wednesday 27th September 7:15- 9:30am Where: Elstree Studios, Shenley Road, Borehamwood Confirm your space and RSVP: www.apprenticeshipsatoaklands.eventbrite.co.uk

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MembersNews

4 Steps to success

Making the most of your Corporate Hospitality

by Steve Saunders

by Judi Oliver from OptimiseHospitality

Now that I’ve found Actioncoach I find it really rewarding helping fellow business owners to succeed and achieve their goals.

Having been in the events industry most of my working life, I know all too well that corporate hospitality is often thought to be a good excuse for a “jolly.”

The way I do that is by helping business owners get clarity around how they are going to grow their business. But firstly, I help bring awareness of what may be going on in their business; things that they maybe can’t see because they are too close to it. It may be the opportunities that they have in front of them or the challenges that are getting in the way.

The second is education, I bring strategies & solutions to help overcome those challenges and take advantage of any opportunities.

Third is implementation, working together to implement these solutions & strategies and ensure they are working to their best advantage.

And the fourth is probably the most important and that’s discipline, I bring accountability that most business owners lack, but sorely need in their business. I don’t mean discipline to work hard – if working hard was the formula we would all be millionaires!

I mean doing the things week in, week out that are going to move their business forward.

So I help my clients stay sane and focused especially when problems arise; because being in business always brings new challenges.

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Taking your clients out to experience a VIP package at a sporting or cultural event is definitely a treat, however think of all the benefits it can bring including developing your relationships with new clients and thanking existing ones for their business. When else do you have the luxury of spending a whole day with your clients?

Return on investment is not always easy to calculate but hospitality can certainly help move the relationship on quicker. One of our clients told us that the relationship he built with a new client he took to hospitality at a Premiership match at Tottenham Hotspur last year generated enough revenue to cover the cost of all the guests.

That said there is no point in just booking anything and expecting your

clients to come. A well-thought out event is more likely to encourage your clients to accept, so here are a few things to consider.

Before you book the same event every year have a think about which clients you want to invite and what you want to achieve. Try to tailor your event to your client. Where would they want to go? If you don’t know perhaps you can ask them?

It could save you a lot of money and they will be flattered to be asked.

Booking early gives you the choice of availability at all price points and some events will even offer the previous year’s rates for a limited time. If you have a tight budget take smaller numbers and make it more personal.

Make sure you have time internally to focus on making the event a success by thinking about how the day will work, from invites and travel to company branding. Also, who from your company will be attending and what will their role be?

On the day, introduce all your guests to each other and try to get your key messages across without talking business all day. Have fun and let your clients see your personality as we all know that ‘people buy from people.’

And most importantly, after your event don’t forget to evaluate the success and ROI. You can always send a quick feedback form to your clients thanking them for coming.

For further details, visit www.optimisehospitality.com.

Flood Protection - Top Tips…

Britain is apparently heading for "unprecedented" winter rainfall, after the Met Office's new super computer predicted that records will be broken by up to 30%.

Their research suggests there is a one in three chance of a new monthly rainfall record in at least one region each winter.

It comes as flash flooding recently caused significant damage in the Cornish town of Coverack and left people stranded in their homes.

Flooding can cause significant damage and disruption. Not only does it cost a lot to get back to normal, the time it takes to get things up and running after a flood can have a long-term effect on any business. This is why you should plan how to keep floodwater out of your property.

• Check your flood risk. There are many different types of flooding, so it is important to know your level of risk. You can get a flood report from ‘Know Your Flood Risk’ at www.knowyourfloodrisk.co.uk/ our-flood-report • Be alert – sign up for the free Environment Agency Floodline Warning Service at www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-floodwarnings

• Draw up a plan of how you’ll respond to a flood, to keep you and your staff safe.

• Check drains and guttering to ensure these are clear and free of obstruction • Be resilient by minimising the damage floodwater causes if it does enter your building.

No flood defence scheme can ever be 100% effective.

• Computers - flooding could destroy your computers so ensure you regularly back up your documents and data to a safe and secure storage, such as the cloud, Dropbox, etc • Relocate more vulnerable items and documents to upper floors, otherwise raise as much as possible above likely flood levels.

Consider replacing carpets with tiles when refurbishing.

• Sandbags or similar alternative products can be used for basic or emergency protection.

• Air brick covers can be fitted and then removed when flood waters recede.

• Raise electrical sockets, fuse boxes, controls and wiring to above likely flood levels.

If rewiring, bring cables down the wall to the raised socket so cabling isn’t affected.

• Familiarise yourself with how to shut off gas, electricity and water supplies at your premises.

• If you are flooded, take lots of photos of the damage afterwards and make sure you wear rubber gloves too – the water can be very contaminated.

For more advice on managing risk and business insurance, contact us at James Hallam Insurance Brokers on 01923 298410.

YoungChamber

Dedicated to developing young talent Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce are dedicated to developing a pipeline of talent for UK businesses, and equipping young people with the right skills to make the transition from education to the world of work through our Young Chamber programme.

Monks Walk, Careers Day

On Thursday 20 July we worked with Monks Walk School in Welwyn Garden City for their Careers Day with ‘speed interview sessions’.

We were delighted to be joined by many Chamber members including Solveway, Lloyds Bank, GSK, Focus7 International, 001 Limited and Young Enterprise who we are extremely grateful to, for taking time out to support the students.

Business and Education Summit

Are you interested in Young Chamber?

On Thursday 6 July the annual Business and Education Summit was held in London by British Chambers of Commerce.

Key note speakers on the day included Jeremy Corbyn MP, Leader of the Labour Party and Justine Greening, Secretary of State for Education.

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Development and Engagement Manager, Gemma Rydqvist has recently been to meet with Hertfordshire schools including Loreto College, Roundwood Park and Immanuel College to discuss how we can continue to support them and develop their students into the world of work.

It was an absolute pleasure to see representation from Sir John Lawes School in Harpenden on the panel of speakers. Julie Honour Jones, Sixth Form Manager discussed ‘How Can Schools Create The Business Leaders of Tomorrow?’

Thank you for attending and representing Hertfordshire on the day.

Herts Chamber are very much looking forward to providing this support to schools in the future.

Upcoming Event Bridging the Gap Between Business and Education Date:

Tuesday 3 October 2017

Venue:

Hunton Park Hotel, Essex Lane, Kings Langley, WD4 8PN

Time:

17.00-19.30

Cost:

£10.00 for members £15.00 for non-members

If you would like to find out more about the support and advice we offer, please contact Gemma Rydqvist on 07377 361609 or gemmarydqvist@hertschamber.com

Donation Cheque to St Alban’s Girls School On Friday 21 July we had the pleasure of presenting a donation cheque to St Alban’s Girls School.

STAGs is a Business & Enterprise College who encourage innovation and entrepreneurship through all curriculum and non-curriculum

Following on from the British Chambers of Commerce Education Summit we are supporting our local schools and businesses to bridge the gap between Education and Employment.

activities but also achieve excellent public examination results at all levels.

We were delighted to present the cheque to Margaret Chapman, Head Teacher at STAGs who continue to work closely with the Chamber and to say a huge thank you to Katya Alban, a year 10 student for playing a beautiful piece at our Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017.

The three key topics we will cover with a panel discussion are:

Through our work with schools, colleges, universities and the business community we are opening channels of communications and interaction between young people and the great companies that we have here in Hertfordshire.

• How schools can create the business leaders of tomorrow; • Maximising productivity through skills • How universities and business can work together to drive economic growth.

We hope this provides an opportunity for students and schools to connect with local businesses to grow their skills to make a smooth transition into the world of work.

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Apprenticeships

Apprenticeship Levy begins to have an effect The Government’s Apprenticeship Levy is starting to change the way that companies access the training they need to ensure that the UK has the right skills for the years ahead.

There has been growing concern at the skills shortage affecting many UK sectors with increasing number of company bosses expressing worries that many students emerge from education without the skills needed to thrive in the workplace.

Government ministers officially launched the levy in April as part of the biggest shake-up of skills for a generation, designed to address the concerns.

The levy requires all employers in the UK with an annual wage bill of more than £3 million to pay 0.5% of it towards funding apprenticeships.

The money will be invested in quality training for apprentices and double the annual investment in apprenticeships in England to £2.5 billion by 2019 to 2020, compared with 2010 to 2011 levels.

Employers in England can set up an online account to manage their funds and invest in training for apprentices working for them.

The Government will provide a further 10% top up to levy contributions each month into employers’ accounts.

The levy will encourage employers to invest in highquality apprenticeships ensuring even more people have a chance to reach their full potential.

Support will also be provided for smaller employers with an annual pay bill below £3 million and therefore not required to pay the levy.

Since its introduction, the levy has been having a growing

effect. Companies of all sizes and large organisations including councils have been taking advantage of the new system to run courses in everything from fraud prevention to the sciences, as part of initiatives to boost the numbers of young people pursuing careers in the STEM subjects.

The schemes are bringing to fruition the aims of the Government in introducing the system.

Skills Minister Robert Halfon said when the levy was launched: “There has never been a more important time for Britain to invest in the skills of our people and businesses.

To make Britain stronger and fairer, we need to make sure that everyone gets the chance to climb the ladder of opportunity to gain the education and skills they need to be successful in life.

“Our apprenticeship levy is a massive part of this. More than 90% of apprentices go into work or further training, and the quality on-the-job training on offer will make sure we have the people with the skills, knowledge and technical excellence to drive our country forward.

“Building an apprenticeship and skills nation is essential in ensuring that we have the homegrown workforce we need in post-Brexit Britain to address the skills shortages facing industry and give everyone the chance to succeed.”

“Companies of all sizes and large organisations including councils have been taking advantage of the new system to run courses in everything from fraud prevention to the sciences, as part of initiatives to boost the numbers of young people pursuing careers in the STEM subjects.”

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Development

Middlesex University London - Business Partnerships Middlesex University has a rich heritage of working together with business to provide a bespoke response to their workforce development needs.

We collaborate with both industry and the public sector to develop higher and degree level qualifications that help to fill the UK’s skills shortages and training needs.

The University can boast of having experienced and leading-edge workplace learning practitioners who can design courses to meet the specific needs of organisations.

Recent clients include Asda, Worldpay, Consalia, Halifax Bank, Mitsubishi, Royal Mail, Nationwide Insurance, Toshiba and Sony Mobile.

Middlesex University London is registered with the Skills Funding Agency as an approved apprenticeships training provider. Degree Apprenticeships are work based to provide maximum organisational impact and are designed to make effective use of the Apprenticeship Levy (a compulsory charge on all employers with an annual wage bill in excess of £3 million).

The Apprenticeship Levy offers large employers a unique opportunity to attract and retain the best talent by offering employees a route into higher education while they continue to work. The Levy can be applied to new apprenticeship programmes which can include the continuing professional development of existing staff. Apprenticeships can now be at undergraduate, degree, master’s and even doctorate level.

Middlesex University London is a market leader in organisational development and has worked in partnership with some of the largest companies in the UK. The University can deliver focussed and flexible work-based training to staff within organisations of all sizes, and works with industry representative bodies to develop sector specific programmes. The University also offers change management training and consultancy, empowering staff with the tools they need to be agents of change within their organisations.

Working in Partnership – Worldpay Middlesex University London has partnered with global payment processing company Worldpay Group plc to deliver a Master’s degree in Management in the International Payments Ecosystem – the first of its kind in the payments sector.

The flexible nature of the programme means that Worldpay employees continue to work while they study, using online tools and completing work-based assessments.

Worldpay students learn topics including payment industry fundamentals, business strategy, management perspectives and research methods.

Academics at Middlesex University’s Business School designed the course in collaboration with the Worldpay Academy, an initiative that aims to build leadership and management capabilities.

“This unique degree allows Worldpay colleagues to combine professional business learnings with academia, enabling them to identify and research new trends that are shaping international payments”, said Andy Doyle, Chief HR Officer of Worldpay.

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The programme was designed through a combination of Worldpay in-house workshops and Middlesex University bespoke modules.

The qualification was created with reference to the QAA subject benchmark standards for Master’s degrees in Business and Management.

David Williams, Director for Corporate Engagement at Middlesex University noted: “It is imperative that education and industry keep innovating together in order to provide the skilled workforce our economy needs.”

“A big part of this is offering different ways of gaining high-level professional qualifications.

We’re excited about helping talented, professional Worldpay employees get the best of both worlds; great work experience and a university master’s degree.”

The Business Challenge – ASDA In January 2012, ASDA restructured the management of its distribution function in order to drive operational efficiencies and improve productivity. The new structure gave greater management responsibility to shift managers and department managers.

This allowed general managers to focus on other areas such as change management and problem solving. The change represented a significant cultural shift for distribution depots and it was agreed that it was essential to support the introduction of the new structure with relevant management training.

ASDA wanted to develop a learning programme which would further challenge their top talent, with a view to help them work towards the general manager role. The company were looking for a degree programme to add value and rigour to management training, as well as offer something back as an incentive to high-performing staff.

Middlesex University worked in partnership with ASDA to develop a BA (Hons) in Distribution, which operates as a pathway of the BA (Hons) Retail Operations degree programme. The programme was designed to widen thinking, improve problem-solving, and drive continual improvement in the retail environment. Thirty staff from retail stores and distribution centres study together on the three year work-based award.

50% of the students have already been promoted and demand for places on the next cohort of the BA (Hons) Distribution has increased.

“Education and industry must keep innovating in order to provide the skilled workforce our economy needs and a big part of this is offering different ways of gaining high level professional qualifications,” said David Williams, Director for Corporate Engagement at Middlesex University London.

The University is totally committed to continue working in close partnership with employers to ensure the skills needs of the UK economy are fully met.

For further information please contact the Corporate Engagement Team at Middlesex University London: Telephone: 0208 411 5050 Email: corporate@mdx.ac.uk Website: www.mdx.ac.uk/business

Have a Revvy Christmas at Rye House!

Christmas is a time for giving and Rye House Kart Raceway located in Hoddesdon, provides the perfect Xmas party event with a difference.

The high speed racing experience provides is not

only exciting but fantastic festive fun for work colleagues, family and friends with all skill levels.

Once you have experienced the UK’s most famous international circuit, you will quickly learn why outdoor go kart racing is one of the most popular activities in the country!

Our high-performance Le Mans twin- engine karts 320cc are capable of speeds of over 70mph with precise handling and control.

Combine that with being just a couple of inches off the ground, and the thrill is one you will never forget!

Events at Rye House Kart Raceway can include full use of our facility, including meeting & conference rooms, any postrace catering in our hospitality suite and a licenced bar!

Additionally, we can provide tailor-made packages with all of the standard event amenities, from audio/visual equipment to a complete catering selection.

So if you need to host any event, you can be sure that you will get unparalleled service and an experience you won't soon forget!

Open daily 7 days a week from 10am – 10pm We can host a variety of corporate events such as: Christmas Parties Birthday Parties Sales Meetings Employee Incentives, Recognition & Loyalty Rewards • New Product Releases • Training Seminars • Team Building Celebrations • Stag/Hen Parties • Sport Team Celebrations and much more...

• Business Lunches • Bar Mitzvahs • Private full facility rentals are available (up to 300 guests) You may like to check out our Website www.rye-house.co.uk • • • •

ADRENALINE CHARGED CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT RYE HOUSE FESTIVE FUN FOR EVERYONE AT THE UK’S LEADING OUTDOOR GO-KART TRACK EARLY BOOKING DEALS FOR XMAS PARTIES

DEAL 1

BOOK YOUR PARTY BEFORE 31ST OCT ‘17 AND WE’LL LAY ON A FREE XMAS BUFFET FOR YOUR PARTY TO ENJOY. PLUS THE ORGANISER GETS AN £84.95 VOUCHER TO SPEND IN 2018 AT RYE HOUSE!!!

DEAL 2

BOOK YOUR PARTY BEFORE 30TH NOV‘17 AND GET A FREE XMAS BUFFET. PLUS THE ORGANISER GETS A £56.95 VOUCHER TO SPEND AT RYE HOUSE!!!

EARLY XMAS SHOPPING GIFT VOUCHER OFFER BUY YOUR GIFT VOUCHERS BEFORE 30TH NOV ‘17 FOR A 20% DISCOUNT ON JUNIOR/ADULT SESSIONS. VOUCHERS VALID FOR 12 MONTHS TO GET EITHER OF OUR GREAT DEALS, SIMPLY CALL TO PRE-BOOK WITH A DEPOSIT!

CALL & BOOK NOW! 01992 460 895 EXT 1. QUOTE REF. INSPIRE/XMAS WWW.RYE-HOUSE.CO.UK RYE ROAD, RYE HOUSE, HODDESDON, HERTS. EN11 0EH INSPIRE

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An inspiring location for your corporate events.

Contact jules@henry-moore.org to discuss your needs.

HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE

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www.henry-moore.org

Festive

Party On regardless!

Summer may have just come to an end but it’s the time of year when people are already thinking about booking that all-important Christmas Party.

Despite all the turbulence in this post-Brexit Referendum world, people still want to celebrate the festive season – perhaps even more than usual.

A good Christmas Party can do wonders for staff morale, which is crucial in these uncertain times, and the chance of finding the best venue for your needs is very high indeed as long as you take care in preparing the groundwork.

The Hertfordshire area is blessed with excellent restaurants, hotels and other alternative venues that can stage the best parties possible, taxi and executive car companies that can take you home or hotels and guest houses should you decide to spend the night.

So how do you know how to select the best venue? Well, it’s all down to first impressions - do you like the décor, does the ambience feel like it can generate a good atmosphere, are the staff friendly?

It is crucial to selecting venues that make everyone feel welcome.

Some staff members might not appreciate a busy pub, others might not want a restaurant so it’s worth putting a bit of thought into making a choice that strikes the right balance.

Choosing the right menu is important as well. People like choice so even though most guests will go for the traditional Christmas meal, it’s a good idea to make sure the venue offers an alternative and definitely a vegetarian option.

Also, people like to be appreciated.

Maybe your staff and suppliers have gone over and beyond what was expected of them to help the business.

A good boss knows to acknowledge that at the Christmas party. Maybe a tribute in a short speech or a thank you note on place settings would be a good idea.

And, yes times, have been tough for some, yes, budgets have been tight, but a cheap party looks cheap so if you are a boss who is determined to hold one, loosen the purse-strings a little - err on the side of generous and your staff will appreciate the gesture.

However, for some people a straightforward party is not enough and there is a growing trend for something a bit more ambitious to celebrate the festive period.

Themed parties can work really well so consider what will generate the most goodwill and what kind of event

will appeal to most people. That could mean bringing in specialist companies to dress up venues to mimic everything from Thirties America to space-age celebrations.

Anything is possible.

Whatever you fancy venues or specialist events companies can oblige, providing the right décor and costumes and guaranteeing the right ambience.

Such events could happen everywhere from hotels and restaurants to marquees in gardens – it does not really matter where because venues and events companies are adept at making magic happen.

All you need to bring is that initial spark of imagination and they can make the rest happen.

Hertfordshire has an excellent array of fine restaurants, hotels and other venues that can host the best parties possible.

If you're looking for the ultimate festive party that combines a sumptuous dinner and great sounds then sample

Cheshunt Marriott's ever popular Christmas and New Year's party nights. Ideal for small, medium and large groups, or for a night to remember join Beales Hotels Christmas party nights, partygoers also have the option to stay over at both venues and enjoy some festive sparkle.

If you’re planning something spectacular for the festive season, why not get in touch with Vortex Events? With unique lighting systems, top of the range sound systems and stunning hi-resolution LED screens. Vortex can provide audio-visual solutions to give that extra WOW factor.

Get in to the Christmas spirit early and pick up some distinctive gifts for your work colleagues, family and friends at the Henry Moore Studios and Gardens Christmas Shopping event on Saturday 26 November 2017 12 - 4pm

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LastWord

Connect, Collaborate & Grow Sarah Smits Finance Director Ashbourne Insurance Q What do you do?

As well as handling the company finances and HR, I get involved in the local community, networking with other businesses, fundraising for charity and supporting various marketing initiatives.

Staff at Ashbourne are treated like family and it’s my job to nurture them, to brainstorm with them about their career paths and to look after their welfare. I also bring the sausage rolls and prosecco in for the team – a very serious part of my job!

Q Who do you work for?

Ashbourne Insurance is a family-run, multiaward winning, independent broker serving the local business and residential community in Hertfordshire. Founded more than 36 years ago, we provide a one-stop service, from personal and complex commercial insurances to 24-hour claims advisory support. We provide insurance solutions at a price to suit any requirement; business, motor, home or travel insurance.

Q Why did you join the Chamber?

When my husband, brother and I took over the business in 2008, we were keen to get out to meet more people in the area and to expand our network of contacts. We didn’t know an awful lot about the Chamber but Yolanda was a great ambassador and explained about all the opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow.

Q What you do get from it?

A significant percentage of our business comes via networking within the

Patrons

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Hertfordshire and we need to keep our profile high. Actively participating at Chamber events is important for us.In addition, we have won several titles at The Inspiring Herts Business awards, including this year’s ‘East Herts Business of the Year 2017’. We have been asked to guest speak at high profile events on topics such as the benefits of entering awards and cyber-crime.

Q How has it helped your business network?

The collaborative working opportunities are what led to us deciding to become a Patron of Herts Chamber three years ago.

That position has significantly raised our visibility and profile in the County.

Q What advice would you give someone starting out?

Remember that you cannot do it all yourself so make sure you have the right pillars in place; a bank manager, accountant, PR and marketing specialist, etc. Keep building your network and continue to learn and take advice from those around you.

Most importantly, you have to want to go to work so try to make it enjoyable.

Q What do you think is the biggest challenge affecting running and growing a business?

In our industry, keeping up with regulations is vital, and it is time consuming, as is keeping on top of ever-developing technology. While we appreciate technology is very much the

modern way, we firmly believe our clients love Ashbourne because they get to speak with a friendly professional who knows them and their personal requirements.

So our biggest challenge at Ashbourne is recruiting the right staff. We are guided by what we call the Ashbourne Way, a traditional, personal service we put at the heart of everything we do and that’s why recruiting the right people is such an important part of our business.

Q What support do you want from government?

On a local level, we are keen to see more support, help and advice for independent businesses and recognition of what we are achieving. It would be great to have the opportunity to tender for local contracts and become part of the local supply chain.

Q How confident are you that your organisation/ business will grow in 2017?

Having been offering a successful, award-winning service for 36 years, we are more than confident that Ashbourne will continue to grow throughout the rest of this year and into 2018. With our continued networking commitments in the local area, raising awareness of what we do via Herts Chamber, digital marketing, a new website and so on we believe that many Herts business owners and residents want an alternative to online solutions and are seeking independent, professional advice with award-winning customer service.

Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers

“friendly expertise”

Sorting your finances shouldn’t feel an uphill struggle. Why not let us take the strain? Talk to us for advice on Inheritance Tax, Trusts & Estates and Wealth Management.

+ 44(0)330 024 3200 hillierhopkins.co.uk