Inspire March 2022 by Benham Publishing Limited

The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

March - April 2022

INSIDE p16

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Area Focus

The benefits of trading in Broxbourne and East Herts

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2022 Keeping the Heart in Hertfordshire The Hertfordshire County Show returns for 2022!

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Hertfordshire Global

Record breaking year for Herts Chamber’s International Team

Female business leaders rise to the challenge p4

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WELCOME & CONTENTS

A new chapter for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Communications and Pearldrop, working together to produce Croft’s ‘Grassroots Initiative’ video. We’re always looking for examples of how our members have been #KeepingtheHeartinHerts.

Briege Leahy

Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME to the latest edition of Inspire.

or those of you that may not have heard, Herts Chamber have moved into new premises at the perimeter of Hatfield House. Our new offices are in York House, Salisbury Square, which is a landmark building at the heart of the regeneration of Old Hatfield. The move heralds a new chapter for the Chamber, allowing room for the team to expand and reflect our ambitions to strengthen our support of the county’s growth. At the end of February, Herts Chamber held their second Women in Leadership Conference at Sopwell House. It was another fantastic event providing opportunities for Hertfordshire businesswomen to be inspired and we’re delighted to have been able to support the International Women’s Day #BreaktheBias campaign.

Panellists: Camilla Tominey, Emma Cameron (VWV) Erika Eliasson-Norris (Beyond Governance) Jenny Strathern (McMullen and Sons) Ruth Willis (GAMA Healthcare) Donna Schultz (Herts Chamber)

Contents

Women in Leadership Inspirational Leaders Area Focus Patron Focus Chamber Events Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards Chamber Charity Entrepreneur Foundation Diamond Club Keeping the Heart in Hertfordshire Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce York House, Salisbury Square, Old Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5AD

4-8 11 & 13 16-20 21 24-27 28-29 33 34-35 37 38-39

Sustainability is high on the corporate and political agendas for 2022 so we’re helping businesses develop a clear action plan to reach net zero – an achievement that will make their brand more attractive to consumers and buyers. Herts Chamber are doing their part to implement more sustainable practices and introducing ‘greener’ initiatives, having already made changes including: Replacing the glossy cover on our Inspire magazine for a more sustainable, recyclable material; only printing minimal paperwork for events to reduce waste, sending out information electronically instead; introducing remote working during lockdown and now car sharing wherever possible. This year, we are pulling out all the stops in order to make our business a more sustainable workplace, and we want to know what your business is doing or has done to ‘go green’. We’ve also expanded our services to help exporters navigate the EU transition and assist with other matters such as marketing overseas and filing the correct documentation. And we’re delighted to be working in tandem with Dacorum Borough Council to offer 20 places to Hertfordshire businesses in a new ‘Funded International Business Support’ package. Our successful Let’s Keep the Heart in Herts Campaign will continue this year, with the primary aims to continue encouraging businesses and individuals to buy local, showcasing Hertfordshire’s professional services, organising networking events, and promoting apprenticeships and other skills initiatives. Our members have provided some excellent case studies, from Heart’s Help for Hunger Appeal, to three of our Patrons; Wagada, Croft

Economy Tourism & Hospitality Chamber News Environment Members News Growth Hub/News New Members Members News Long Standing Members Membership Benefits Skills and Development Hertfordshire Global Last Word

40 41 42-43 44 46 47 48-49 50-53 54-55 56 58-59 61 62

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

We’re delighted to welcome a new cohort of entrepreneurs into our Entrepreneur Foundation for 2022-23, please see pages 34 and 35 for more, as well as three new Supporters: Croft Communications, DUA Accountancy and Strand PR, together with previous Supporters Longmores Solicitors and Redwood Bank. The Foundation is designed to nurture and grow a new network of entrepreneurs, with provision of a complimentary two-year package that includes guidance, training and support. Our February Chamber Lunch took place at Needham House Hotel on 10th February with the Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, Richard Roberts. Richard spoke on his journey to leadership at the Council and outlined various projects taking place across the county. The events calendar is filling up and we’re looking forward to our upcoming March Chamber Lunch at Ware Priory with Elliot Howard-Jones from the NHS. We’re also powering ahead with our Inspiring Herts Awards and Queens Awards this year. Both initiatives encourage Hertfordshire businesses to showcase their performance and achievements to clients, customers, suppliers and stakeholders – locally, nationally and internationally.

Briege and team with Leader of Hertfordshire County Council Richard Roberts and Patrons at the February Chamber Lunch

Cathedral on Wednesday 6th July 2022 at 7.30pm, organised by the St Albans International Organ Festival and the Hertfordshire Lieutenancy. International choirmaster and broadcaster Gareth Malone will be presenting the evening, and headlining the concert will be London’s Southbank Sinfonia, described as an ‘orchestra like no other’. Do save the date and look on our website for further details. All of these initiatives mean that Herts Chamber can continue supporting our wonderful county and the businesses within it. We’re the largest business support organisation in the county and we’ll continue to advocate for local businesses as they drive Hertfordshire’s future economic growth.

Briege Leahy

Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

And of course, this year we celebrate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. In recognition of this there is a concert taking place at St Albans

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62 Published March 2022 © Benham Publishing and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 01707 502180 Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Web: www.hertschamber.com 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. ©2022 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.

Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com

Media No. 1875

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WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Female business leaders rise to the challenge Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce hosted their second Women in Leadership Conference at Sopwell House, St Albans, on Friday 25th February Sponsored by Croft Communications

The conference offered a platform to explore ways in which female leaders from diverse backgrounds and industries have faced difficult circumstances and made tough choices.

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uite aptly, given the difficulties of the last two years, the theme for this years conference was Resilience - in particular, the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties and demonstrate toughness in challenging times. We all have challenges, whether in our working lives and careers, in our personal lives and activities, or indeed across both areas. These situations force us to draw on our strengths and use our resilience to cope with challenges as they arise.

Shevaun is a shining example of a woman who has negotiated tough challenges on the road to a glittering career, which has seen her work for large corporates, startups and scale-up firms all over the world. She started her career in consultancy in London and New York before joining the Walt Disney Company in London and then Paris, opening the second theme park at Disneyland Paris.

The conference offered a platform to explore ways in which female leaders from diverse backgrounds and industries have faced difficult circumstances and made tough choices. Resilience has been key to their success and this event provided the ideal opportunity to highlight their stories and celebrate their achievements. Keynote speakers on the day included Shevaun Haviland, Director General at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Camilla Tominey, Journalist, Broadcaster and Associate Editor at Telegraph Media Group.

w Shevaun Haviland

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Shevaun started her own company and built Independents United over a period of eight years. Under her leadership, the company leapt to the forefront of the digital revolution, building social media strategies for global businesses. This took her into the world of early edtech development for a charitable foundation and then later a venture capital (VC) - backed start up called Dot Native. Latterly she spent five years in the Cabinet Office and No.10, managing business partnerships. She also built and ran the Inclusive Economy Partnership, which builds productive alliances between businesses, civil society and government to create a more inclusive society. With this impressive CV, Shevaun is well placed to comment on what it takes to become a successful woman business leader. She says: “I’m the first woman in this role for 161 years so I must have done something right! I’ve always said yes to opportunity, rather than shy away from it, so that has helped me in my career. Being open to opportunity and change can really help to open doors for women in their careers.” “Sometimes women hide their light under a bushel, which doesn’t serve them well. If you don’t feel confident in a situation, pretend to be confident; it will make all the difference. Women have had to work that bit harder to get noticed. If they’ve worked abroad, for example, their CVs will perhaps be more likely to get noticed.” Shevaun believes that women can bring a multitude of qualities to leadership roles. “Women take a more holistic view of things,” she says. “They look at the bigger picture and bring a bit more patience and compassion. Business is all about people, so empathy is a great quality to have.” “Women are good at nurturing their networks, especially in this age of social media. Their empathetic nature also means they’re more likely to give their time generously and make a positive impact in their communities.” “Perhaps naively, I was a big believer in meritocracy when I was younger but that wasn’t the case 20-30 years ago because there were so few women in boardrooms. Looking back, when I was in government, I was the only woman in the room. There are more opportunities for women nowadays but there are still not enough of us in senior positions. Perhaps this is because many women have to balance the demands of family life with their work. In families, the woman is more often than not the lead carer and it’s difficult to do both jobs. Most of the women I see in senior roles have really supportive partners.”

Shevaun Haviland speaking at the Women in Leadership Conference 2022

During the conference, which attracted over 150 delegates, we had the opportunity to hear from Shevaun on her own experiences, challenges and opportunities in the workplace, as well as highlights from her journey. Messages taken from the day included ‘Nurture your network’ ‘Live your life in 3D’ and ‘It’s important to be open to learning new things’. During the morning, delegates heard presentations from: • Helen Gray, Foundation Director at Hertfordshire Community Foundation on three local women from different walks of life, who have all benefited from HCF’s support helping to demonstrate how together we can make Hertfordshire a better county for everyone. • Kaajal Nathwani, Partner and Head of Employment Law at Curwens LLP on her experiences, and some of the most common legal issues that women face at work including constructive dismissal, bullying in the workplace and sex and pregnancy discrimination. • Helen Patterson, Director at JHP Electrical Services on leading a business in the male-dominated construction industry, and her account of how she came to run an electrical company and the trials and tribulations she has experienced as a woman in this industry. After the morning plenary session, the delegation broke into groups to hear from Breakout Session speakers: Jo Phillips, Executive Coach and Mentor, Freshfuturescoaching.co.uk, on selfpromotion in the workplace; John Kenny, Transformational Relationship Coach,

John Kenny Coaching, on the impact of your personal life on your ability to do business; and Paul Chambers, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, PoetsIN, on wellbeing and resilience. After the session, Paul Chambers said, “It was an honour to deliver our PoetsIN Wellbeing Workshop™ at the Herts Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Conference. Such a great turn out to this taster session of our programme, covering a handful of tools for resilience and wellbeing. We focused on mindfulness, worry, stress and showed our Free-thought™ Technique. Everyone left empowered and a little lighter. Thanks to everybody!” Throughout the day a raffle took place in aid of Hertfordshire Community Foundation, which the Chamber are proud to have raised just over £1000 for the charity! After lunch a second set of Breakout Sessions took place with: Dr Anne Connolly MBE, GPwSI in Gynaecology, NHS, on the menopause, this session was sponsored by and delivered with Chamber Patron, Viatris. Gabriela Bocanete, Holistic Health and Resilience Coach, delivered an interactive session titled ‘Calm, Vitality and Resilience’; and Donna Obstfeld, Managing Director and HR Specialist, DOHR, spoke about why employee engagement and career progression are vital to the success of a business. Catherine Sidey, Therapy Area Marketing Lead (Women’s Health) at Viatris said: “It was a pleasure to introduce the Viatris sponsored session with Dr Anne Connolly MBE at the Women in Leadership Conference.

Cont. >>>

INSPIRE

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

The Women in Leadership Conference has earned its place as one of the key milestone events in the Hertfordshire business calendar. The quality and calibre of the speakers it attracts is exceptional and reflects the extremely highly regard the Chamber is held by businesses locally and nationally.

Women in Leadership Conference 2022

We had a full room of delegates who were completely engaged throughout Dr Connolly’s talk on the menopause and the impact it can have on a women’s life, with a focus on women in the workplace. We had several questions and comments at the end which demonstrated the interest in this taboo subject and the delegates left the room feeling more knowledgeable and empowered to discuss the menopause with family, friends and colleagues. Thank you to our amazing support partners, Dr Anne Connolly MBE from the Primary Care Women’s Health Forum (PCWHF) and Herts Chamber for creating this opportunity to engage both female, and male leaders and bring to life our Viatris Healthcare mission of “empowering people to live healthier at every stage in life.” Last but not least, the fantastic Camilla Tominey, Associate Editor and Broadcaster for The Telegraph, delivered a keynote presentation in the afternoon. Camilla said that when preparing for her keynote, she looked up the definition of Resilience: ‘1. The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.’ And ‘2. The ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity.’ Her immediate thought was “resilience is just another word for women! Camilla then went on to detail some of the highs and lows of her career and the importance of owning our mistakes. Camilla also took part in a panel discussion alongside an experienced panel of successful businesswomen and entrepreneurs: Emma Cameron, Partner,

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VWV; Erika Eliasson-Norris, Chief Executive, Beyond Governance; Jenny Strathern, Property Director, McMullen and Sons; and Ruth Willis, UK Marketing Director, GAMA Healthcare. Each member of the panel had an inspiring story to tell, from aspiring to be Home Secretary to the challenges of having to educate Board members that women are in fact to be considered equals in the workplace. Feedback from the conference has been phenomenal: Headline sponsor Croft Communications’ Director of Customer Success, Julia Bunting spoke during the event of her role models when growing up. “Another fantastic Women in Leadership conference from the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, which we were so proud to sponsor at Croft Communications. From the inspiring speakers to the insightful and thought-provoking breakout sessions, this year’s conference was a great opportunity to look back at the resilience we have all had to endure the last few years and celebrate being together again, empowering female leadership. The day was a chance to share knowledge and experience with women across industry and skills, learning from each to continue to develop in our own lives. We’re already looking forward to next year.”

Andy Gray, Communications and Engagement Channels Manager at Canada Life said it was “A brilliant and inspiring day” Debbie Chadwick, Station Director at Heart FM Hertfordshire said: “It was a pleasure to attend the Conference… meeting incredible women and hearing inspirational speakers.” Heart FM drivetime radio DJ John Darin even gave the Chamber a shoutout on drivetime to praise the event! Lucy Gravatt, Head of Communications, Hertfordshire LEP said: “The Women in Leadership Conference has earned its place as one of the key milestone events in the Hertfordshire business calendar. The quality and calibre of the speakers it attracts is exceptional and reflects the extremely highly regard the Chamber is held by businesses locally and nationally. Well done Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce!” Kaajal Nathwani, Partner and Head of Employment Law at Curwens LLP who was one of the presenters during the conference, shared: “What a great day… So many inspiring women across a variety of sectors who all resonated with the conference theme of resilience and the struggle of facing adversity at times in their careers, whether that’s through expectations, assumptions, genderbased stereotypes or discrimination in the workplace.

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Women in Leadership Conference 2022

We’ve come a long way but still have a long journey ahead of us. We are resilient, we will continue to strive for equality and the law will hopefully slowly change to enforce the equality that women deserve and the framework to allow progression, rather than their careers be hindered by the mere fact that they are female. What a great start to the month in which we will celebrate International Women’s Day 2022.” _________________________

Professor Julie Newlan made it into a position of seniority at the University of Hertfordshire. She is Pro ViceChancellor, responsible for innovation, international development, enterprise, business development, marketing and communications activities at the organisation – a multi-faceted role that requires great dexterity and tenacity. She says: “You have to have courage to be a good leader: courage to have a vision, share it and be prepared to have it knocked down by people. Whilst it’s good to have the courage of your convictions, it’s also a quality to admit if you’ve got something wrong. You must listen to others and revisit your own thinking.” According to Julie, integrity, transparency, honesty and creativity are essential for any high-flying business leader. She’s firm in her belief that these traits cannot be categorised by gender.

w Professor Julie Newlan We interviewed a number of successful businesswomen and entrepreneurs in the lead up to International Women’s Day 2022, on their careers to date and asked them what advice they would give to aspiring young women:

“The higher education sector is very diverse, with a good proportion of female employees, so I haven’t suffered from a glass ceiling in the way that others have. In some industries, if a man is forceful, his behaviour is described as determined and strong, but if a woman is perceived as forceful, different terminology may well be used. That’s still going on but in education we’re slightly more protected from it.” “It’s vital that more women are seen in top roles. Actually, not just women; we need more diversity across the board.”

Julie’s academic career began at the London Institute in 1993 after she achieved management success in the retail sector. This included running a chain of high street cafés for Martin the Newsagent, and subsequent strategic marketing and merchandising positions with Guinness when it acquired the business. She joined the university’s Business School in 1996 as a senior lecturer in business strategy, and held various posts before being appointed head of the Business School in 2006. Now she’s preparing to take on a new role at the university – Deputy Vice-Chancellor – on an interim basis. She says: “I do a lot of business development and international business development in my current role.” “Now I’m going to be working much more closely with the Deans to assess the impact of our strategy on students and businesses. It’s exciting; I’m really honoured to take on this role.” “The university has forged strong links with Hertfordshire’s business community, as well as the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and the Chamber. We run a business incubator and we’ve just launched an accelerator programme for businesses that have the ability to scale up. Herts Chamber is really good at facilitating networks and bringing all of these partners together.”

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WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

w Liz Wicks Women in Leadership Conference 2022

One company in the Chamber’s network is Sopher + Co, a chartered accountancy practice in Borehamwood. Established in 1975, the company is a trusted business adviser of choice for entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses, high net worth individuals, professional partnerships and expats. In the last four decades, Sopher + Co has grown its expertise to cover more than 20 industries and built a strong management team that includes Associate Director Sue Doran. With more than 26 years’ experience in the field of tax, Sue heads up the advisory arm of the tax department, managing a diverse portfolio of clients, with a focus on nondomiciled and high net worth individuals. Sue joined Sopher + Co from EY, where she worked with global and multinational employers overseeing mobility programmes with varying compliance and advisory issues, ranging from employment taxes, reward programs and assignment management.

“At the end of my time at EY, more women had started to move into senior roles and this was evident in the leadership team when I joined Sopher + Co. We currently have three female partners, and women take approximately 40% of the Associate Director positions across 150 staff at the firm’s two offices in Berkeley Square and Borehamwood.” This trend has been seen at other companies. Last year Nationwide Building Society appointed Debbie Crosbie as its first female Chief Executive Officer. Meanwhile, at food-to-go retailer Greggs – famous for its pasties and sausage rolls – Roisin Currie is set to succeed Roger Whiteside later this year. This means that the company will be run by a woman for the first time in its long, illustrious history. “These news snippets were music to my ears,” says Sue. “It’s great that more women are moving into these roles. I’m not a great fan of positive discrimination. I like to see people get into roles on their own merits. We need to have a good balance of neuro-diversity, gender and race in British boardrooms. If you have a board that’s driven by people who are all the same and have the same skillsets and values, that’s not good for business.” “At the risk of generalising, women tend to be empathetic people who can solve problems. This has real, tangible benefits for businesses. Hopefully employers can keep an open mind when it comes to employing women. They should go to recruitment fairs, offer work placements and engage with local schools, colleges and universities.”

w Sue Doran

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Keeping an open mind and showing a willingness to learn is also an approach favoured by Liz Wicks, Director at Hillier Hopkins, a firm of chartered accountants and tax advisors with an office in Watford.

“I’ve been at Hillier Hopkins for 11 years,” says Liz. “I started as a graduate student and worked my way up. I quickly realised that it’s a learning process; you can get a lot from listening to the views of others.” Liz is a key member of Hillier Hopkins education team and specialises in managing the firm’s internal audit processes for many of its larger audit clients. She joined Hillier Hopkins in 2008 after graduating from the University of Bath with a first-class degree in mathematics and quickly rose up the ranks to the position of Director. In addition to obtaining her ACA qualification with first time passes, Liz holds the ICAEW Audit Qualification and is an authorised “Responsible Individual”. Whilst she acts for many of the firms’ larger audit clients, she manages a diverse portfolio of clients including academies, charities and assurance reports, with a focus on building a rapport to ensure a smooth audit process. Last year Liz was named as one of the UK’s elite accountants by the prestigious industry newspaper Accountancy Age. She was listed in Accountancy Age magazine’s 35 under 35, having been recognised for her rapid career development, her role in advising schools and for developing a network that empowers women from all walks of business life. “As a firm we’ve grown significantly,” she says. “When I started, we had about 105 staff but we’ve almost doubled that number to more than 200.” “I’ve had to work hard to get to where I am now. There weren’t many women at the top when I started, but there are several inspiring women who’ve climbed the career ladder successfully in recent years.” And the secret to Liz’s success? “Don’t ask anyone to do something if you’re not prepared to do it yourself, she says. “In my experience, leading by example is the best way to inspire a team”.

HERTFORDSHIRE GROWTH BOARD

Hertfordshire’s commitment to sustainability

HERTFORDSHIRE GROWTH BOARD and HERTFORDSHIRE CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERSHIP are delighted to be co-sponsoring the Sustainability Conference organised by biz4Biz at Rothamsted Research on 3rd March 2022. This all-day event titled SUSTAINABILITY: THE PATH TO NET ZERO: YOUR TRANSFORMATION TO SUSTAINABLE ADVANTAGE IN BUSINESS AND SOCIETY will bring place leaders and businesses together to explore green solutions and share best sustainable practices post COP-26. Richard Roberts, Leader, Hertfordshire County Council and Chair, Hertfordshire Growth Board, will set out Hertfordshire’s commitment to sustainability and tackling climate change. Hertfordshire Growth Board was formed in 2018 and brings political, civic, health and business leaders together to take a long-term place

perspective for Hertfordshire’s growth and its economy. It is made up of the County Council, the 10 district and borough councils, the NHS Hertfordshire & West Essex Integrated Care System, Homes England and Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership. The scale of growth facing Hertfordshire is significant. With the Hertfordshire population expected to rise by up to 175,000 by 2031, at least 100,000 new homes and jobs will need to be created over the same period. The Growth Board’s role is to ensure that future development is delivered in a fully collaborative and planned way so that sustainable, welldesigned and thriving communities are created, maintained and strengthened, while our environment is respected and nurtured.

Richard Roberts

Hertfordshire Growth Board works closely with the Hertfordshire Climate Change and Sustainability Partnership to deliver climate change action and reduce the carbon footprint across the county. The Partnership is working across four key areas: 1. Water Sustainability 2. Biodiversity 3. Carbon Reduction 4. Transport This closer alignment of climate change and sustainable growth will help us to plan responsibly for a ‘decade of delivery’ in Hertfordshire and meet our carbon neutral and housing targets by 2030.

Follow our progress: Hertfordshire Climate Change and Sustainability Partnership: www.hccsp.org.uk Hertfordshire Growth Board: www.HertfordshireGrowthBoard.com Find out more about the conference: www.biz4biz.org/sustainability-conference/

Hertfordshire a sustainable future Hertfordshire Growth Board brings political, civic, health and business leadership together to manage future growth. Working to create thriving, greener and healthier communities. Overcoming today’s challenges and shaping opportunities for tomorrow. Find out how we are building a sustainable future for all of our residents and businesses: www.hertfordshiregrowthboard.com Twitter: @hertsgoodgrowth

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LEGAL MATTERS Q What is the

discrimination legislation which applies to employment? As an employer, you need to be aware of the Equality Act 2010 which consolidated a number of previous anti-discrimination laws.

Q What protection does the

Equality Act 2010 provide? During employment, employers are prevented from treating employees less favourably because of “protected characteristics” than others without those characteristics either directly or through their practices and policies.

Q What are protected characteristics?

Why employers should be aware of discrimination legislation RICHARD GVERO, Joint Senior Partner and Head of Employment, answers some basic questions about discrimination law and pandemic related issues. Please note the contents of this article are given for information only and must not be relied upon. Legal advice should always be sought in relation to specific circumstances.

There are nine protected characteristics: race, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, religion/belief and pregnancy/ maternity.

from a disability, an employer must not treat them less favourably and is also under a duty to make reasonable adjustments in their working conditions if required.

Q Would a request from a disabled

Q Is there any period of qualifying

service required for an employee to bring a claim of discrimination? Unlike most unfair dismissal claims which require two years’ service, discrimination claims can be brought from day one of employment and even before day one, as job applicants are also protected under the legislation.

Q Could somebody suffering from

Long Covid be protected under the discrimination legislation?

The answer depends on the symptoms. Long Covid, if it has a substantial, adverse effect on an employee’s ability to carry out their day-to-day activities and has lasted, or is expected to last, 12 months or more, is likely to fall within the broad definition of disability under the Equality Act. If it is considered that an employee might be suffering from Long Covid and be classified as having a disability, employers should obtain medical input from the employee’s GP, Occupational Health or a medical specialist. If an employee suffers

employee to work from home due to the risks of catching Covid amount to reasonable adjustment? Remember that the definition of disability under the Equality Act is broad and would cover chronic illness such as diabetes or asthma. If it is possible for the employee to work from home, it may amount to reasonable adjustment to allow them to do so. If it is not possible to facilitate the employee’s working from home, it is important to obtain medical advice on the steps the employer can take to ensure that the employee can return to work safely, for example working in their own room or a well-ventilated space. The employer is also under a general statutory duty to ensure safe working for staff.

Q What are the consequences for

an employer, if they discriminate in breach of the legislation? Broadly, there are two remedies for a victim of discrimination. The main one is compensation for injury to feelings and financial loss (mainly loss of earnings), which is uncapped (unlike unfair dismissal claims) and can be substantial. Employment Tribunals can also make a recommendation to the employer for remedial actions. These are not binding but it would reflect badly if not followed in relation to a future claim.

Tried and trusted since 1819 A progressive firm of specialist solicitors advising individuals, families and businesses

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INSPIRATIONAL LEADER

Nicole drives innovation and enterprise at Rothamsted Nicole Sadd is well qualified to describe what it takes to make an inspirational leader in business.

ith more than a decade’s experience in management roles – including her current role, CEO of Rothamsted Enterprises – she was named winner of the Corporate Leader of the Year category at last year’s National Business Women’s Awards. This category was open to females in business who demonstrated outstanding leadership and a track record of building sales and profitability whilst energising and inspiring the people who report to them. It was a notable accolade for Nicole, who was also a finalist in the Business Woman of the Year (Small Business – £1m-10m turnover) category. With typical modesty, she was happy to deflect some of the praise onto her hard-working team at Rothamsted but it’s undeniable that the organisation has progressed significantly since she took on her current role in 2018. She says: “I’d like to think I can engage well with customers and develop appropriate business solutions to benefit their needs. Good leaders can also outline a clear vision and communicate this clearly to staff.” “Increasingly, Owner-Managers want to make a positive difference in society, whether that’s operating sustainably or achieving some other social good. My goal as CEO is to raise the profile of the outstanding facilities that we have here at the Rothamsted campus, which brings benefits to businesses and the local community.”

Under Nicole’s stewardship, Harpendenbased Rothamsted Enterprises has strengthened its reputation as a worldleading centre for agri-tech research and innovation. Established in 2015 and formerly known as Rothamsted Centre for Research and Enterprises (RoCRE), the company aims to harness the world-renowned scientific expertise of its research capability with high-quality innovation – creating one of the most dynamic, vibrant and wellconnected agriculture R&D communities found anywhere in Europe. With a variety of office and lab spaces for rent, international conference centre, popular restaurant and VIP destination venue, Rothamsted Enterprises attracts some of the best researchers, businesses, investors and entrepreneurs who work on innovations that will improve agri-sustainability.

“Yes, sometimes we try new things that don’t work out but we give people the autonomy to do things their way. That’s important for us as we try to push the boundaries of sustainable farming.” Nicole’s infectious enthusiasm coupled with her significant leadership and management experience means she has the perfect blend of business acumen and communication skills to ensure Rothamsted meets the needs of its many stakeholders. She’ll continue to do this while maintaining a positive attitude – a mindset she instils in her team of talented staff.

“We do push our sustainability credentials,” says Nicole. “It’s not just a little paragraph that we put on our website. We help farmers to extract maximum yield from their crops in a sustainable way to minimise impact on the environment and reduce unnecessary food waste.” “I’ve also been keen to promote an innovative culture at Rothamsted. We’re part of the Herts Innovation Quarter and have forged strong relationships with local councils, the University of Herts and BRE, a forward-thinking group of researchers, scientists, engineers and technicians who share a common goal: Creating innovative and sustainable eco systems for Hertfordshire.”

We’re part of the Herts Innovation Quarter and have forged strong relationships with local councils, the University of Herts and BRE, a forward-thinking group of researchers, scientists, engineers and technicians who share a common goal: Creating innovative and sustainable eco systems for Hertfordshire. Nicole Sadd CEO of Rothamsted Enterprises

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HERTFORDSHIRE OPPORTUNITIES SUPPORTING EMPLOYERS TO DEVELOP AND GROW THEIR TALENT Hertfordshire LEP is pleased to be launching a new skills service for our employers ‘Hertfordshire Opportunities’ – providing in-depth support to those employers who are looking to upskill existing staff, need to broaden their recruitment reach to source skilled workers, or would like to engage more effectively with their local education network to build their future talent pipeline of employees. Businesses are currently recruiting in record numbers and unemployment is falling back to pre-pandemic levels, which is positive for our economy, however, it is resulting in employers experiencing great difficulties in filling these vacancies. Who’d have thought a year ago the UK would be facing a labour market crunch? To secure talent, more than ever, employers need to focus on offering training and progression opportunities for their existing staff and the casting of a wider recruitment net to reach potential candidates. Hertfordshire Opportunities is here to help. Led by a team of skills experts, employers will be able to access the expertise necessary to:

• Undertake a thorough assessment of their workforce development needs

programme supporting disadvantaged and under-represented young people.

• Implement apprenticeship and/or vocational skills programmes

Funded by the Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund, it offers incentives to employers who can help young people succeed by offering as little as 12 hours of work taster activities.

• Access a wide range of funding and skills solutions from bite-size learning programmes, high level technical skills training through to leadership development • Connect with education to engage talent within schools, further and higher education institutions.

Help us plug the Hertfordshire skills gaps. E-mail hopinto@ hertfordshirelep.co.uk to book an appointment with a skills specialist.

The project is funded by the European Social Fund and managed by Hertfordshire LEP with support from our partner, Services for Young People.

More information is available from Hertfordshire Opportunities Portal (HOP) the premier gateway for exploring careers, employment and skills programmes in the county.

Employers may also be interested in HOP Into Your Future, the exciting new

WWW.HOPINTO.CO.UK

INSPIRATIONAL LEADER

Confidence is key to business success

After more than three decades working for pharmaceutical firms, HELEN MUIRHEAD bit the bullet. She quit corporate life and launched her own consultancy, GMPharma Limited.

ith so much experience behind her, you’d think it would be an easy transition to make – but Helen was beset by doubts over whether it would work. As it turned out, she needn’t have worried. Four years later, the firm has built up partnerships with leading scientific experts and global research institutions and now has clients all over the world, including in Hong Kong and China.

If I have one piece of advice for someone who wants to start a business, it’s that you should be confident in your abilities. Trust your instincts and remember the experience and knowledge you’ve built up previously.

“We’ve been extraordinarily successful,” says Helen. “We’re committed to getting new medicines out to patients and supporting our clients in the development of drugs, particularly respiratory medicines. Essentially, we’re the technical support; we supply knowledge to clients so they can develop their products and get them to market. We have a deep understanding of regulatory compliance issues and the processes that need to be followed.” So, the worry that she felt four years ago had been misplaced? “Absolutely,” she says. “If I have one piece of advice for someone who wants to start a business, it’s that you should be confident in your abilities. Trust your instincts and remember the experience and knowledge you’ve built up previously. There will be good days and down days but if you remain resilient, you can ride out the peaks and troughs.” “Another useful tactic is to surround yourself with a strong network of people, experts who can help you. You might be really good in your field but you can learn from others who have a different set of skills and knowledge.” Helen has built up a wealth of industry experience since leaving school at 16. She landed her first job in the food industry, conducting quality control testing on ingredients in the labs, before moving to a medium-sized pharma firm.

Eventually she entered the world of big pharma, working in formulation development in the respiratory division of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). “We are looking at numerous different ways of treating diseases via medicines delivered to the lungs, not just diseases like asthma and COPD” she says, “it is a very exciting time to work with dry powder inhalers and novel devices. These dry powder inhalers have a lower impact on the environment as opposed to traditional “puffer” inhalers which contain propellants. However, excitingly the industry is looking at changes to these inhaler propellants too, as I understand by monitoring recent scientific publications”. Helen, who has a chemistry degree, worked her way up the ladder at GSK and eventually headed up the respiratory centre of excellence at the firm. Then there was a change of heart. She says: “My husband and I both worked together in big pharma; he was accountable throughout his long career for many new products launched. We wanted a better work-life balance so we decided to quit in 2017 and established our own consultancy the following year.” It was a timely move. Given the wreckage left by the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory disease prevention and control looks set to be a key growth area within the pharma industry. While Helen and Gordon will continue to support clients at home and abroad, they’re also keen to support local organisations, keeping the heart in Hertfordshire. Helen teaches budding scientists by giving lectures at local universities, as well as working with lung charities, and sponsoring an annual emerging scientist award at St Francis College in Letchworth – where she and her mother once attended. She also sits on the skills team of the Medicines Manufacturing Industry Partnership Group, which identifies skills that the pharma industry will need to continue making world-leading medicines in the UK.

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KMG

What we can learn from nature… We live in an unprecedented time in our history. The most serious challenge of our lifetime has been sadly brought about by our modern way of living, to say nothing of our related disconnect from nature.

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s individuals and businesses, we are forced to take on an active role in dealing with the biggest existential challenge. We are already seeing the impact of our actions, and frankly the delayed response to the climate crisis. We are also witnessing major collaborative approaches to deal with consequences of past decisions which will continue to influence future generations. When Inspire magazine asked us if we are interested in publishing an article featuring our business, the question that first came to mind is ‘What do we talk about?’ The environmental, climate and ecological question is now staring us in the face and there is no point pretending that it is business as usual. When KMG Partnership began operation in 1991, it was a one-man band then evolved as an engineering practice, providing structural and civil engineering consultancy for a variety of clients and development types. It was around also that time that BREEAM - Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method - was established but it took another 10 years before BREEAM became a vehicle of support for design and assessment on master plans and building projects.

KMG’s founder, who is now retired, realised the opportunity in providing our clients with a combined architectural and engineering design service offer. Over the past 25 years or so we have grown our commercial portfolio to include large industrial and pharmaceutical projects; however sustainable design and green architecture were always thought of as fanciful add-on features rather than being implemented as part of the project brief. In my role as Managing Director, I feel the responsibility of joining forces with the many who are taking actions and paving the way for a meaningful change. I am also an architect and an academic and very much involved in pushing the boundaries and advocating for sustainable solutions on our projects. Most architectural courses taught at universities now are focusing on green architecture and bio engineered buildings. A key part of modern, regenerative approaches to architecture and design is to explore what nature and natural systems can teach us and reconnecting with methods pioneered by our ancestors. This can achieve sustainable, closed loop design, which is more than the sum of its parts, achieving not just net zero but also net gain, which is essential to creating the resilient places we and the world need. The issue is that discussions around climate change can be abstract. Ocean levels rising, fire in a coal plant in a faraway place, all seem too distant for some of us who do not witness first-hand the devastation. We all live and work in buildings, therefore the connection between buildings and climate change is tangible. Buildings are what we all share, and they are contributing to almost 40 % of the greenhouse pollution – Data Source: Global ABC Global Status Report 2018, EIA. Every time we take a shower and plug in our computer, we are using energy that is creating greenhouse pollution.

KMG

We need a fundamental shift in the way we see and think of buildings. Current green categories and targets are really missing certain pieces of the puzzle. If we continue to follow it will probably slow the outcome but will not change where we are heading. It is now estimated that we have 8 years to save the planet and change the course of direction. There are a lot of net zero projects that we can learn from but what we need now is net positive. We need to think and design buildings that are fundamentally green rather than just applying elements of green technologies, and to apply whole systems, circular thinking to every aspect of the design, specification, and construction process. This holistic way of thinking, where all actions and consequences are properly considered and where designers use systems to create outcomes which contribute to the greater good, is something which is now known as regenerative design. In 2017 KMG partnership joined the RSK Group which is a fully integrated, environmental, sustainability, engineering, and technical services group consisting of over 100 businesses and employing more than 8,000 specialists across the globe. What started as an engineering practice is now a multi-disciplinary practice and part of one of the largest environmental consultancies in the UK with a diverse client base servicing key accounts for clients in water, energy, property, manufacturing, government, and transport. From our humble beginnings we believed in the collective approach to solving problems. To this day collaboration is at the heart of what we do - we team up with like-minded businesses and we partner with our clients to help them grow their portfolio. Some of our key clients are very open to engage and employ greener approaches to design and operations of their facilities, however like many others they constantly weigh the green credentials against cost and in the end opt for an affordable and sometimes short-term solution. Increasingly we need to look at whole life costs and the extra benefits that can be realised over time by investing in nature-based, regenerative approaches to design.

•

The Terrace, a proposed new biophilic mixed use development in Hemel Hempstead The architectural concept is derived from the idea of “Babylon” a terraced landscape with horizontal rectangular massing which ascend from the south to the north of the site. Interrupted by a series of rectangular open and green spaces cascading at various levels of the development and include Communal gardens for visitors and tenants. The residential block is the highest and seats perpendicular to the commercial buildings offering uninterrupted views across the landscape. Image Credit: The Terrace by KMG Partnership We are minimising damage but falling behind on all real indicators and trends. Nature and architecture are both rooted to place but sadly this is where comparison tends to end. Flowers get their energy from the sun thorough photosynthesis; a plant gets all its water needs from the amount of precipitation that it tries to capture in the root system below it. It does not pollute, when it dies it becomes food for the earth that supports it – a virtuous circle. Buildings can truly imitate nature’s life cycle from the choice and sourcing of smart materials, natural and sustainable energy sources, recycling of wate and repurposing of existing redundant buildings

and materials. Adopting a true circular economy is one way of moving towards sustainable living. What we need to do is what Buckminster Fuller once observed: “You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete”. There are worldwide initiatives, however here in the UK we are behind other countries such as Germany in applying nature-based solutions. What is needed is a taxonomy model that outweighs the current model. A living building for a living future, a building that echoes nature!

Margarita Germanos BA (Hons) Dip UCL RIBA ARB BIID KMG Partnership is a member of the RSK Group https://kmgpartnership.com/ Contributor: Andrew Tempany BA (Hons) Dip LA FRSA CMLI www.stephenson-halliday.com

A landscape led approach to the design of a large residential development for a new community in the south-east, to deliver a nature-based design which included natural play and playable landscapes, biodiverse swales and edible hedgerows. Image Credit: Sections by Stephenson Halliday - an RSK Company

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AREA FOCUS: EAST HERTS AND BROXBOURNE

t’s populated by numerous vibrant towns, picturesque rural areas and a diverse array of businesses that make a significant contribution to Hertfordshire’s economy. One of those businesses is KGK Genix, a multidisciplinary agency that provides creative, print, project management and installation solutions. The group employs more than 65 people across five sites in central London, north London, Hertfordshire and Essex. With creative design at the forefront of its operation, KGK creates graphics and display solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands.

Graham Pitts

The benefits of trading in Broxbourne and East Herts

The districts of BROXBOURNE and EAST HERTS have a combined population of 244,000 and cover approximately 500 square miles on the eastern side of the county. The area borders London to the south, North Herts district to the north, Welwyn, Hatfield and Stevenage to the west and the county of Essex to the east. 16

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Group Operations Director, Graham Pitts, says: “There are several advantages of trading in the East Herts area. It’s a great location, just outside of London, and the rest of the country is very accessible so we can work with clients all over the country and deliver a great service too. There’s a real sense of community here; that’s why we installed a COVID test centre at our Thundridge and Harlow sites to help people in the fight against the pandemic. We also have access to a talented workforce. Lots of our workforce are from the area.” “There are no obvious limitations or challenges due to doing business in this area. If we’ve learnt anything from COVID it’s that we can work with people everywhere, including clients and staff. This new digital transformation in the way of working has opened up so many doors for companies like ours.” Graham believes the future holds some exciting opportunities for KGK Genix and the rest of the Herts business community. “We hope to make investments in our business and staff,” he says. “We’re recovering well from the COVID pandemic and are looking to the future with optimism. We’re supercharged to get back to doing what we do best!”

AREA FOCUS: EAST HERTS AND BROXBOURNE

Another company that’s doing well from its base in Broxbourne is Davroc, a family-run business that’s been in the bathroom distribution and manufacturing industry since 1980. The Davroc group, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2020, has three distribution warehouses in Hoddesdon, Bristol and Leeds, two manufacturing companies in the Midlands and a furniture factory in Chichester. As well as supplying several well-known and trusted brands including Laufen, Bette, Roca, Carron, Aqualisa, Grohe, VitrA and more recently Alca and Drench, Davroc’s offering also includes a number of exclusive manufacturers. These include Lefroy Brooks, Bard and Brazier and Bard and Blackwood whose focus on specifically sourced materials, handmade craftsmanship and practical designs guarantee that customers get the best that the industry has to offer. Aside from this, Davroc has launched two further brands: Coalbrook, a design-led range of bathroom brassware essentials and Diffusion, a range of towel-rails. These brands will be key for Davroc – particularly the Coalbrook brand, which was launched at the end of 2020 and is already making an impact within the sector. Sarah Sparkes, Marketing Manager at Davroc, says: “From a transport perspective, we’re well positioned for customers and suppliers visiting from London or other parts of the country. We also have a new showroom – at The Market Building in Clerkenwell – so our location allows us to mix our time between the office and the showroom.” “Increasingly the A10 and M25 traffic causes us challenges. Also, our logistics and salaries are higher than the majority in the area, which puts us at a disadvantage to some of our competitors. This is especially relevant for office roles as it’s so quick and easy to get into London and achieve the London weighting.” “Having said that, we’re growing rapidly due to new business and revenue streams. We’re exploring each channel to identify where our future growth comes from and ensure we can manage the impact of changes in the wider economy. As we’re intrinsically linked to the housing market, we need to make sure that we’re in a good position to maximise growth whatever happens.”

There are several advantages of trading in the East Herts area. It’s a great location, just outside of London, and the rest of the country is very accessible so we can work with clients all over the country and deliver a great service too.

Mark Bramley Business telecoms expert Croft Communications is also going for growth, having recently completed two further acquisitions. The company offers innovative solutions to help big corporates, SMEs and public sector organisations save money, work flexibly and increase mobility and productivity. With five sites across the UK, Croft is a one-stop-shop for a wide range of business connectivity needs, including super-fast broadband, mobile phones, hosted telephony and productivity tools. Mark Bramley, CEO of Croft Communications, says: “I joined Croft when it was already based in Hertfordshire. Having spent 20 years working overseas, I was very much an outsider but I quickly realised how useful it is to be here. It’s a beautiful, picturesque part of the world yet we’re only a 30-minute commute from London. We support lots of businesses around the M25 so good road, air and rail links are important to us.” “One key challenge is that we struggle to entice staff to make that leap and move to Herts, particularly senior-level talent. Some people just want to be seen to be based in London because they believe it gives them more status, or they might be used to London and not be prepared to make the effort to get acquainted with a different environment. In my view, Herts offers a better quality of life. You pay more for less space in London, so why not live in Herts – a more beautiful part of the world – and travel on the Thameslink into London for business meetings?”

While East Herts offers a multitude of trading advantages for businesses, the pandemic has meant that the last two years have been a challenging time for most. Local authorities in the area have been quick to offer their support, including Broxbourne Borough Council, which has been delivering government grants to qualifying businesses, driving forward campaigns to bring shoppers back to town centres, and delivering advice on how to trade safely and negotiate COVID restrictions as they are announced and lifted. Lewis Cocking, Leader at Broxbourne Council, says: “We’re an ambitious council with lots of opportunities. Several large developments are in the pipeline – not least the 47-acre Theobalds Business Park in the south of the borough close to the M25. With an international anchor tenant bringing a globally important hyper-scale data centre, this site will provide high-quality premises for a range of users, including offices, workshops and engineering facilities. A 91-acre world-class film, television and animation complex, Sunset Waltham Cross Studios, will be located less than ¾ mile from the site. The prospect to align your business so close to these international companies will bring a wealth of trading opportunities.”

Lewis Cocking

Cont >> INSPIRE

AREA FOCUS: EAST HERTS AND BROXBOURNE

The council is investing £30m in leisure facilities including a new leisure centre and cinema-led arts centre in Bishop’s Stortford, and £20m investment planned for Hertford Theatre. We also have 20 hectares of new employment space planned in the next few years, including two new areas due to be developed in Bishop’s Stortford shortly.” “There are a few challenges facing businesses in East Herts. As an area without any large urban centres, there’s a paucity of large commercial or industrial sites. Employment spaces are either in town centres or on smaller parks, which makes the district more conducive to micro and smaller sized businesses. Ultimately, though, this is a great place to be and that’s highlighted by the diversity and innovation of the local business community.”

“In addition, the new Brookfield Riverside development will see a sustainable retail and lifestyle-led ‘new town centre’ created in Broxbourne. This location is just two miles from Theobalds Business Park and the Sunset Film Studios sites, and Broxbourne Borough Council, Herts County Council and their development partner Sovereign Peveril Brookfield are exploring opportunities for new retail and leisure. Broxbourne might be a small borough on the map, but the advantages of starting and growing a business here are clear from the opportunities that the council is creating.” “Locally there are a mix of sectors, and Broxbourne has one of the largest business parks in Hertfordshire. The Hoddesdon Business Park is home to several top 100 companies in the county. VolkerWessel’s headquarters is in Hoddesdon, as is the home of fast-growing pharmaceutical company Pharmaron. A large number of small, micro and medium-sized businesses are based in Broxbourne, and the council is making big strides to ensure they have a place to grow and expand. The creative sector is also set to boom in the borough with the opportunities associated with the Sunset Studios development, and the aim is to create the right environment to nurture a healthy space enabling real opportunities for home-grown businesses.”

in Ware. We’ve also provided a range of financial incentives and support to businesses. As well as the standard COVID support grants and reliefs, we also have the new premises grant (up to £5k for any business opening up a new office or venue in the district), which is available until March 31. In addition, we’re driving forward an EU-funded support scheme that offers 50% matched capital grants and tailored business support to local firms.” According to Jan, East Herts is a great place in which to live and work due to its mixture of historic market towns and picturesque villages, close proximity to London and Cambridge, and excellent road, rail and air connections. “We’re on the doorstep of Stansted Airport and have a well-educated, highly skilled local workforce,” she says. “There’s also a strong cultural and leisure offer here.

This is a view that’s echoed by David Norton, Founder of CommsQuest, a business management consultancy in Hertford. He says: “In my experience we have a strong Chamber with active members and a vast array of interesting entrepreneurs and enterprises to learn about – and take inspiration from. I know that’s not always the case in other districts. In fact, one of my proudest business moments was attending the Chamber’s Women in Leadership Conference at Sopwell House in 2020 with my daughter. Not only was the event perfect, but seeing hundreds of confident, high-achieving female leaders banged home the message to my 13-year-old daughter that everything is possible!” Today David spends most of his time helping presenters build confidence and improve their performance. With his unique blend of neuro-linguistic programming, Sandler Technique and media training, David has travelled the world with 130 well-known brands, future F1 talents and even London 2012 Olympians.

That last sentiment is echoed by East Hertfordshire District Council, which is helping businesses in a variety of ways. Jan Goodeve, Executive Member for Planning and Growth at the council says: “We have a co-working facility, the Launchpad, which is based in Bishop’s Stortford with a smaller satellite venue

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David and Bethany Norton with Kelly Smith MBE at the Women in Leadership Conference 2020

AREA FOCUS: EAST HERTS AND BROXBOURNE

“As a community we seem to have an inbuilt, can-do attitude,” he says. “Whether it’s fake it till you make it, or just sheer willpower, there’s a palpable sense of confidence that’s hard to beat. East Herts has some amazing creatives: whether writers, artists, designers, caterers or musicians, there are interesting people around every corner.” In addition, sports and community groups play a significant role in Herts, including Cheshunt Football Club. Hundreds of homes and a spectacular new football stadium will soon lay at the heart of a long-awaited new sports village at Cheshunt Football Club (FC) in the Hertfordshire-based town Cheshunt.

After eight years in the planning process, the green light was finally given in September 2021 for Cheshunt Sports Village when the council’s refusal was overturned in a public inquiry. The sports village will home Cheshunt FC with a newly built 2,000-capacity stadium, which has been designed to accommodate 5,000 spectators in the future to safeguard the club for the Football League. Alongside the new stadium, Cheshunt Sports Village will include 163 new homes and a range of new community, leisure, and business facilities. The plans will see a major redevelopment of the club’s current Theobalds Lane site, which will safeguard the club’s future and offer new facilities for the wider community. Giving Cheshunt FC a ‘viable future’ to succeed was the primary intention behind the much-anticipated development scheme being carried out LW Developments. Cheshunt Football Club is an awardwinning community football club competing in step three of the football league pyramid. Director of LW Developments Dean Williamson, who is responsible for the scheme, said: “The club is a vital community asset that makes an important contribution to the social well-being of the

The creative sector is also set to boom in the borough with the opportunities associated with the Sunset Studios development, and the aim is to create the right environment to nurture a healthy space enabling real opportunities for home-grown businesses. Lewis Cocking, Leader of Broxbourne Council

Dean Williamson local community, encouraging participation in sport, combating obesity in Broxbourne and developing lives of a wide range of people of all ages and backgrounds.” Dean, who is also the Chairman of Cheshunt FC, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that planning permission has been granted for Cheshunt Sports Village.” “It’s a significant milestone in the club’s long history and marks a significant step forward in bringing our vision to reality for what will be a vibrant community, leisure and business hub for the local area and the Borough of Broxbourne as a whole.”

Our advice changes lives We provide free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as money worries, employment and housing concerns. We provide advice that changes lives and helps people get back on their feet. As an independent charity, we need to raise approximately £280,000 per year to run our service. We are now looking to partner with Hertfordshire businesses willing to donate funding, services or volunteers. • £300 could pay for two phonelines providing people with access to free and confidential advice. • £500 could help set up a new volunteer with a laptop and headphones so we can help more people.

❛❛We’d love to talk to you about how we can help your business achieve its CSR and social value goals.

❜❜

• £1,500 could help pay for a new volunteer to be trained and for an existing volunteer to get top-up training. For more information: visit

citizensadviceeastherts.org.uk or contact Laura Hyde 07980 722803

hydel@citizensadviceeastherts.org.uk

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LAUNCHPAD 2 FREE TAILORED BUSINESS SUPPORT

Free Business Support or matched Capital Business Grants of £3000 - £5000 available to East Herts Businesses

Launchpad is a thriving co-working space with offices in central Bishop’s Stortford and Ware. Sponsored and run by East Herts Council, who put a stake in the ground back in 2017, the centrally located business hubs directly support local residents and help local businesses to flourish. Choose from a selection of flexible membership packages, all with super speed internet, generous desk space and kitchen facilities included. Whether you need a desk for a day, a meeting room for a week or a dedicated space forever, we’ve got it covered. We understand that your work, business, and life can be in a state of flux; hours spent in the office are not always predictable. That’s why we know how important it is for us to listen to your needs and work with you to blend valuefor-money with service to create something that really works for you. So if your hybrid working doesn’t have a pattern, don’t let it be a barrier to joining our community.

OPEN TO EAST HERTS BUSINESSES

Businesses in eligible sectors of their supply chain can apply. For full eligibility criteria please visit

www.launchpad2.enterprisesupportalliance.com/eligibility or contact us to discuss via launchpad2@enterprissupportalliance.com

Unlocking Development Potential LW Developments is a family owned development company specialising in acquisition, planning and construction. For over 40 years we have been acquiring and promoting land, working with landowners, local

Creating Communities

Working together to deliver amazing places

www.lwdevelopments.com

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authorities and local communities to obtain well-conceived planning permissions and deliver high quality residential and mixed use schemes.

PATRON FOCUS

Patron status

adds up for accountancy firm

DUA is the latest company to become a Patron of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. It was a logical step for the accountancy and business consultancy, which offers expert advice to help clients navigate through the complex, ever-changing worlds of business and finance.

arrying more than 30 years’ experience, DUA has worked with more than 1,000 clients from its base in Watford, many of whom operate in the burgeoning healthcare industry – one of Hertfordshire’s key growth sectors. According to CEO Rakesh Dua, having Chamber Patron status will allow the company to forge even more connections as it seeks to embark on the next stage of its growth. He says: “Not only will this facilitate our expansion, it will help the start-up businesses that we work with to grow and develop. We strive for a culture of collaboration on the basis that together we can achieve more, and our approach is very personal.” “We advise clients in many sectors but our main area of expertise lies in healthcare. We understand the fast-paced and extensive professional requirements of working in this important sector. Whether you’re a doctor, dentist, healthcare professional, private clinic or an NHS GP medical practice, we can help your business grow while ensuring that all of your compliance requirements are met. Our work in this field has been recognised, too; we were honoured to be named Best Healthcare Business Advisory Firm for South East England in the Private Healthcare Awards.”

“It’s good to operate in Hertfordshire’s healthcare sector. There has been a lot of investment in this industry and in pharmaceuticals, with many overseas firms setting up a base here. There’s also a diverse community of innovative, indigenous small businesses, some of whom we work with already and others who we’d like to get to know. Being a Chamber Patron will allow us to build these connections.”

Your business is doing well and it’s time to take things to the next level, but have you considered how you’re going to manage each element including your finances, strategy, talent and succession planning?

DUA offers an extensive range of advice and support to businesses. This includes up-to-date advice on property-related tax legislation, help for overseas firms looking to invest in the UK, and support for ambitious home-grown companies that want to scale up quickly. Rakesh says: “Your business is doing well and it’s time to take things to the next level, but have you considered how you’re going to manage each element including your finances, strategy, talent and succession planning? Sometimes it’s good to discuss these key issues with an independent voice outside of the business.” “From our initial discussions, the Chamber has been excellent; there’s a good synergy between our respective values and business ethos. Like us, they’re proactive and approachable and that bodes well for our relationship going forward.”

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Our purpose is to deliver brilliant buildings, transform lives, strengthen communities, and enhance the environment so our world is fit for future generations. We believe a diverse workforce that contributes across all levels of our company is essential to our future. Diverse, complementary teams deliver the best results for everyone and we want people from all backgrounds to thrive and enjoy rewarding careers with us. www.willmottdixon.co.uk

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Research from GoConstruct indicates that women make up around 14% of construction industry professionals. However, with awareness growing of the huge opportunities construction provides for a successful and lucrative career, the organisation is encouraged that 37% of new entrants into the industry that come from higher education are women. While these statistics are heartening, we believe our industry needs to accelerate faster towards gender parity. At Willmott Dixon, we aim to achieve a 50/50 gender split across the group by 2030. However, this won’t happen by itself. Concerted action is needed to meet this challenging, sector-leading aim. To help us progress, in 2019, as part of our Gender Diversity strategy, we bought together a focus group comprised of our female leaders to brainstorm what they could do to support the company to improve gender diversity. Through this, we created a programme to develop gateways for women into the construction industry and once there, support the progress of high potential women into leadership positions. The rationale is clear: by empowering future female leaders, we will advance the business with an invaluable balance of behaviours, perspectives and insights. Our drive for equality has attracted interest from across the industry sector and in 2020 we successfully applied for £54k of CITB funding to help us develop a pilot programme to create a new generation of female leaders.

The 12-month programme was launched last year and delivered to 17 high-potential female leaders from Willmott Dixon and our supply chain partners. Activities incorporated a blend of classroom style learning delivered by Cambridge University’s Judge Business School, alongside an internally led development programme, including: • Dedicated mentoring from Willmott Dixon directors and other senior figures in the business

The programme was an outstanding success, with the first cohort graduating at the end of last year. By the end of the programme, our cohort felt more supported in their professional development. Further success criteria include seeing an increase in female successors, promotions, and the ratio of female leaders at senior management levels and in board positions, as well as improving the retention of high-potential women within the construction industry.

• Opportunities to gain insight and experiences through shadowing senior management and attending strategic meetings, including those at board level

This programme will now take place annually as part of our aspiration to achieve gender neutrality across all levels of our business by 2030.

• Opportunities to participate in task teams and project groups across different business disciplines, further enhancing cross-sector skills

In 2021 Willmott Dixon was included in The Times’ prestigious Top 50 Employers for Women for the third consecutive time, in recognition of its focus on being a workplace that’s inclusive for all people.

• The building of a strong alumni of exceptional female leaders to mentor those entering the industry. Alongside Cambridge Judge Business School, throughout the programme worked closely with CITB, the construction industry’s training board, sharing learning and best practice to benefit the industry for years to come.

We know as a business that we must continue to work hard to diversify our workforce and represent the communities in which we work, along with focussing on ensuring we create a positive working environment for all our employees. We believe a diverse workforce that contributes across all levels of our company is essential to our future.

CHAMBER EVENTS

Upcoming Events

Over the past year, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce have slowly been returning to live events alongside our webinars. We will continue to do so as long as it is safe and in accordance with current government guidelines, in order to continue supporting our members and non-members, and to provide vital information that businesses may need. If the decision is made to postpone any of our events or to move them online, you will be notified as soon as possible. With our members and benefit partners, we have designed our events programme to cover a variety of topics:

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Counting the Money! (Business Finance) Date:

15/03/2022

Time:

10:00-11:30

Venue: Zoom Price:

FREE (Members Only)

Join us on Tuesday 15th March, from 10:00am-12:00pm, for a webinar on Counting the Money! (Business Finance). This event for Chamber members is designed for small businesses and start-ups looking for financial information and guidance when setting up a business. This webinar, delivered by DUA Accountancy and Business Consultancy will include: • Basic bookkeeping • P&L uncovered • Tax, Compliance for SMEs, NIC and VAT • Cash flow management and planning • Question time with the expert Accountant After the presentation there will be a Q&A when delegates are invited to ask their questions, however big or small. You can also submit a question in advance when booking your place by emailing bookings@hertschamber.com.

Date: Time: Venue: Price:

15/03/22 11:00 – 12:00 Zoom Members FREE Non-Members £15.00 +VAT

Join us with Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, on Tuesday 15th March from 11:00-12:00 and enjoy the powers of networking, providing the chance to meet with a variety of different business people in an informal atmosphere, to listen and share experiences whilst working remotely. We have joined forces with our neighbouring Chamber, to provide the chance to connect outside of Hertfordshire, and build some excellent business connections. Each participant will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves and their business. N.B. Any non-member attending this meeting who subsequently signs up for Chamber membership within one week (i.e. by 22/03/2022) will receive a full refund of the cost of attending this webinar.

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Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Meet the Neighbours: Virtual Networking Opportunity

CHAMBER EVENTS

For more information on any event:

01707 502180

bookings@hertschamber.com or www.hertschamber.com

March Chamber Lunch Date:

17/03/22

Time:

12:00 – 14:00

Venue: Ware Priory, Ware Price:

Members £33.00 +VAT Non-Members £43.00 +VAT

Our next popular Chamber Lunch event will be taking place at the picturesque Ware Priory on the 17 March 2022, sponsored by Curwens Solicitors and Steven Eagell Toyota. Use this opportunity to network and meet with new business contacts,whilst enjoying a delicious lunch. We are joined by Elliot Howard-Jones, Chief Executive, Hertfordshire Community Services NHS Trust (HCT), who will be covering ‘Your health and healthcare after the pandemic’ and discussing some of the current challenges faced by our local NHS Services.

Members! Don’t forget you can use your Event Voucher to attend this event (To check if you have any remaining contact bookings@hertschamber.com)

Elliot Howard-Jones Elliot joined HCT as Interim Chief Executive in November 2020. He was previously Director of Performance and Improvement in the NHS England East of England regional team. In this role, he was Strategic Incident Director for the East of England and led the operational response and strategic planning for the COVID-19 pandemic across the region. He has also held senior positions in acute and mental health trusts, in commissioning and at the Department of Health.

Business Breakfast with Herts Chamber Date:

22/03/2022

Time:

08:30-10:30

Venue: Knebworth Barns, Knebworth Price:

Members £15.00 + VAT Non-Members £22.00 +VAT

Join us on Tuesday 22nd March, from 8.30-10:30am, at Knebworth Barns Conference and Banqueting Centre, for a light breakfast and refreshments, followed by a networking opportunity, providing the chance to meet with a variety of different business people in an informal atmosphere, to listen and share experiences. Please note, there are limited places at this event, with a maximum of two places per company.

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Upcoming Events Hertfordshire PA Club:

Emotional Intelligence for Professional Success The Hertfordshire PA Club is a free benefit designed specifically for Personal, Virtual and Executive Assistants, to enable you to share your ideas and thoughts with other like-minded colleagues.

Date:

25/03/22

Time:

12:00 – 14:00

Venue: Aubrey Park Hotel, Redbourn Price:

We look forward to welcoming you to our first PA Club event of 2022, taking place on Friday 25th March 2022 at Aubrey Park Hotel. Joining us is Liz Redway, Managing Director, Redway HR who will be exploring Emotional Intelligence for Professional Success. We will examine what is meant by Emotional Intelligence and how it can help us succeed at work; impacting on your ability to build relationships, present information, influence others and even resolve conflicts more effectively. During this session we will take the first steps to identify the extent to which you are Emotionally Intelligent and explain how to cultivate this skill to achieve great results at work.

Members FREE Non-Members £10.00 +VAT

Liz Redway Liz Redway is an accredited executive coach, chartered member of the CIPD, trainer and the founder of Redway HR. She has over 20 years’ experience in HR and training, both internationally and across a range of sectors. She gets a real buzz from helping leaders and their teams to grow, change and thrive.

Meet the Neighbours Networking Breakfast with CAE Technology Date:

30/03/2022

Time:

08:30-10:30

Venue: CAE Technology Services, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead Price:

FREE

Join us on Wednesday 30th March, from 08.30-10:30am, at CAE Technology Services offices in Hemel Hempstead, for a light breakfast and refreshments, followed by a networking opportunity, providing the chance to see their new offices, meet with a variety of different business people in an informal atmosphere, and to listen and share experiences. This event is sponsored by Woodhouse Workspace, designers of smarter workspaces. Please note that bookings are limited to two places per company.

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CHAMBER EVENTS

For more information on any event:

01707 502180

bookings@hertschamber.com or www.hertschamber.com

April Chamber Lunch Date:

21/04/22

Time:

12:00-14:00

Venue: Aubrey Park Hotel, Redbourn Price:

Members £39.00 +VAT Non-Members £49.00 +VAT

Our April Chamber Lunch, sponsored by Ashbourne Insurance Services Ltd and Foresight Cyber Ltd, is taking place at the proudly independent Aubrey Park Hotel, Redbourn on the 21st April 2022. Use this opportunity to network and meet with new business contacts, whilst enjoying a delicious lunch. We will be joined by David Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, who will discuss some of the topical issues for the county which he is very passionate about.

David Lloyd David Lloyd has been Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire since 2012. His focus has been on delivering effective and efficient policing, supporting victims, promoting partnership working and delivering on the public’s priorities. He believes in evidence-based policing and is studying a postgraduate degree in Criminology at the University of Cambridge to develop his thoughts on this. He recognises that wellresourced neighbourhood policing teams are vital both to preserve the close and supportive relationship between the police and the communities which they serve, and also the most effective way to cut crime. During his tenure as PCC he has protected Hertfordshire’s local policing teams and is now expanding them.

Members! Don’t forget you can use your Event Voucher to attend this event (To check if you have any remaining contact bookings@hertschamber.com)

Business Breakfast with Herts Chamber Date:

26/04/2022

Time:

08:30-10:30

Venue: The Riding School, Hatfield House Price:

Members £15.00 + VAT Non-Members £22.00 +VAT

Join us on Tuesday 26th April, from 08.30-10:30am, taking place at the Riding School, Hatfield House, for a light breakfast and refreshments, followed by a networking opportunity, providing the chance to meet with a variety of different business people in an informal atmosphere, to listen and share experiences.

Please note, there are limited places at this event, with a maximum of two places per company.

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INSPIRING HERTFORDSHIRE AWARDS 2022 Matt Salzmann, Country Leader of Viatris, a new global healthcare company headquartered in Hatfield, was certainly inspired and energised when he attended the recent launch of the 2022 Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards at Hatfield House. Matt said: “I am so proud that Viatris could be a co-headline sponsor of IHA this year. Being headquartered locally in Hatfield with many of our colleagues living in the county it’s important for us to play our part in “Keeping the Heart in Hertfordshire”.

Inspiring Herts 2022 Sponsors at the launch event, Hatfield Park

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2022 The search to find the crème de la crème of county businesses got underway with a special launch event for the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2022.

ow in its eleventh year, the awards celebrate the expertise and achievements of businesses and individuals and their contribution to the continued growth of the county. The awards were launched at a glittering event at the historic Hatfield House Riding School on January 27, giving business leaders the opportunity to meet the sponsors and network with award-winning companies. The awards are made up of 19 categories, with two Special Recognition Awards chosen by the Chamber and the headline sponsors: SA Law and Viatris.

Briege Leahy, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are looking forward to celebrating the future of the county’s businesses as we enter a new year, and it was fantastic to see lots of faces – new and familiar – at our launch event. It was a great opportunity for local business leaders to meet the category sponsors and past winners and finalists.” “We’re excited to see who enters the awards – known as the Oscars of Hertfordshire – and hear more success stories from the county’s most innovative businesses.” JPA Workspaces, DLRC and Silent Sentinel receiving their Regional Winner Certificates

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Entries close on 11th March 2022 so if you haven’t got your applications in yet we advise you to do so soon!

“At the launch event, I was inspired to hear the many positive stories of value, growth and success. It provides a fantastic opportunity to recognise, showcase and celebrate business excellence in Hertfordshire. It was clear to me that all who take the time to apply improve their business as a result.” “On this basis I would encourage progressive organisations to apply and look forward to seeing you all at a magical awards night in June.” Jacqueline Button, Partner at SA Law, a full-service UK solicitors practice based in St Albans, said: “There is something truly special about the Inspiring Hertfordshire awards. From the feeling of pride at seeing your achievements written down on the entry form, to the joy on your colleagues faces when they hear their hard work has earnt the accolade of being a finalist, and the excitement of the awards ceremony! For SA Law as a sponsor, it’s so motivating to meet the award entrants and hear about their aspirations, innovations, and achievements. It’s a truly rewarding experience for everyone who gets involved.” During the launch, delegates heard from a number of past winners. One of which was Suzy Moody, Chief Executive of HomeStart Hertfordshire: “Home-Start Herts have entered the Inspiring Herts Awards several times and are very proud to be winners of three awards.” “Charities have had to change over the years, and become much more business focused in order to survive. Winning an award in this business environment is a great testament to how far we have come and receiving that recognition means a lot to us.” “With the extensive publicity before, during and after the event, it has provided a fantastic platform for us to raise our profile, and establish connections with potential funders and partners. Ultimately this helps us to support more vulnerable families and children in Herts.” “It is not just about the awards, the application process is straightforward and is valuable in itself. By reviewing and reflecting on all our achievements, successes and challenges, we realised just how much we had achieved. It was a great team building exercise.”

“We look forward to being there again next year.”

INSPIRING HERTFORDSHIRE AWARDS 2022

Sponsored Categories: New! Diversity and Inclusion Award Sponsored by Morgan Sindall Construction

Inspiring Business of the Year Sponsored by SA Law and Viatris

Outstanding Contribution to Business Sponsored by Croft Communications

Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored by Longmores Solicitors Excellence in Customer Commitment Sponsored by Kane International

New! Apprenticeship Champion Sponsored by Willmott Dixon Construction

Excellence in International Trade Sponsored by Chapman Ventilation

Business of the Year Small to Medium Sponsored by Redwood Bank

Excellence in People Development Sponsored by University of Hertfordshire Business School

Business of the Year North Herts Sponsored by Cawleys

Family Business of the Year Sponsored by Ashbourne Insurance

Business of the Year South Herts Sponsored by DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree

Green Award Sponsored by Ambition Broxbourne

Business of the Year West Herts Sponsored by Porsche Centre Hatfield

Most Promising New Business Sponsored by Cleveland Scott York

Best use of Technology Sponsored by CAE Technology

Property & Construction Project of the Year Sponsored by Oventrop UK

Community Champion Sponsored by Ocado Group

Workplace Wellbeing Award Sponsored by VolkerWessels UK

Associate Sponsors:

Aubrey Park Hotel

Hatfield Park

Heart Hertfordshire

Still available for sponsorship: • Business of the Year East Herts • Business of the Year Medium to Large

Imagination Technologies

KM4Talent

Pearldrop Video Production

If you would like more information on sponsorship, please contact awards@hertschamber.com or call 01707 502180 INSPIRE

INSPIRATIONAL LEADER

Empowering People to Live Healthier at Every Stage of Life VIATRIS is a new kind of healthcare company formed in November 2020 whose purpose is to empower people to live healthier at every stage of life, regardless of geography or circumstance. We already being recognised internationally and have been listed by Fortune magazine on their “CHANGE THE WORLD” list and were one of the top ﬁve companies to have a positive impact on the world. We were also named by Forbes magazine as one of 2021’s world’s best employers. All in our ﬁrst year! In the UK, we have four locations and a diverse and talented team of almost 500 people from commercial colleagues, regulatory and pharmacovigilance professionals to global and regional leaders and research & development scientists. Ultimately, we all work towards the same mission, which is to provide access to medicines. We have many exciting career opportunities, so visit our website www.viatris.com/en/careers for more information and to see if we have any roles that are of interest to you. We update it weekly so keep in touch!

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Digital Transformation

PETER SMITS Managing Director of Ashbourne Insurance Insurance like many industries is facing ever increasing pressure to address digitalisation in order to aid the customer experience, before, during and in some cases even after cover has expired. At Ashbourne we are seeing insurers combine the use of “big data” and digitalisation to provide better, more bespoke policies ideally suited to the customer’s specific needs. 32

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any insurers already use technology, not just to improve customer experience but also to improve product offering and to help educate the business owner on the ever changing risks that they face. They also link their systems to various databases that validate information, subject to your consent, for; claims history or financial records and whilst this may seem a little “big-brother” it is only to view already accessible data that could reduce the premium you pay.

Providing digital policy documents via email or accessible via a customer portal is nothing knew. Imagine having the hardcopy documents posted to you, only for them to get mislaid resulting in you having to pay an administration fee to get duplicates, when you can access the documents any number of times on-line. There is no longer any need for you to produce your motor insurance documents to tax or evidence cover for your vehicle as the data is reported to a central data-base to which all emergency services and the DVLA have access. Many claims processes are now digitalised and it is not uncommon for very simple straight forward losses to be resolved and paid within a matter of days following the exchange of electronic documents. All of this you would expect from such a large and “mature” industry and I am sure that you all have and use similar within your own industries, however what I think is most important is the education and advice around digital risks. Cyber and data insurance is one such example, however it doesn’t stop there. Underwriting has historically been

driven by the replacement value of a physical item and the risks associated with these tangible assets. Get your car or equipment damaged or stolen and insurers know the approximate value and have a means to repair or replace, but what about the intangible assets? Not just your ideas but your intellectual property? Two such examples would be “Uber” and “AirB&B”, both are the largest taxi firm and hoteliers in the world and yet neither own a single taxi or property, how do underwriters assess their risks? Whilst those might seem like two extreme examples, we are all touched by digitalisation in our businesses and should give the matter some thought when doing our risk assessments. That said, the key to this in my view is a combination of the new and the old, don’t let your insurance solution use digitalisation to get in the way of good old fashioned communication, but make sure they can provide access to the benefits that it can bring. Ashbourne Insurance is a family-run independent general insurance broker established over 40-years and can be contacted on 01992 471 001 or via email; Hoddesdon@ashbourneinsurance.co.uk

50 Amwell Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8UA

01992 471001

www.ashbourneinsurance.co.uk

CHAMBER CHARITY

Giving back to the local community

Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) is an independent charity which encourages philanthropy and supports local causes that matter. Recently HCF was named as Herts Chamber’s charity partner of the year, as Foundation Director Helen Gray explains…

What does Herts Community Foundation do? We’re a registered charity that provides grant support to small grassroots organisations here in Hertfordshire, helping to tackle a broad range of social needs ranging from domestic violence to child poverty. We support the sorts of groups that operate in your community but you may not know they’re there until you need to access support from them. Whether you have a teenage child with mental health problems or a parent suffering with dementia, there’ll be a local organisation that can support you during these challenging times.

These are the sorts of groups we seek to support because they provide a lifeline to so many. We do this by providing philanthropy advice to local people and businesses looking to give something back to their local communities. Some businesses wish to set up monthly donations while others set up named endowment funds. An endowment fund can be built up over a number of years and enables a company to award grants from their fund on an annual basis in perpetuity. HCF takes care of all the due diligence, enabling the business to focus on its core work.

Recovery Group HCF currently manages more than 100 endowment funds including corporate funds for Britvic, Myers Clark, Affinity Water, Cereal Partners, PwC and Harpenden Building Society.

What is the Foundation’s relationship with the Chamber? What benefits do you get from it? HCF has been a member of the Chamber for the past four years and we’ve benefited hugely. We were recently named as the Chamber’s charity partner of the year and we’re hugely grateful for this. The opportunity to meet local businesses and professional advisors is also hugely valued.

HCF has a key role to play in supporting the local business community as environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) are becoming increasingly urgent matters to address in a strategic way.

What benefits do you provide the Chamber and its members? Whether members want to implement a CSR strategy in their company, develop an approach to ESG or are looking to align their business to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, HCF has the local expertise to support them.

in a strategic way.

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ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION

Congratulations and welcome to the entrepreneurs for 2022/23!

Herts Chamber are thrilled to welcome our second cohort of entrepreneurs into the Entrepreneur Foundation.

These 18 intrepid entrepreneurs have been accepted into the initiative for 202223, alongside three new Supporters: DUA Accountancy and Business Consultancy, Croft Communications and Strand PR, whom along with the Founders and existing Supporters, Longmores Solicitors and Redwood Bank, will provide guidance, training and support to this years’ cohort. Find out more about each of the entrepreneurs:

u ACellZ

u Launch Studio

ACellZ is an early-stage biotech startup innovating in eye biotechnologies to screen chemical substances for new eye medicines and products.

Launch provides exceptional design services across all disciplines within every industry, from startups to global brands & everything inbetween. Branding, websites, campaigns, and so much more!

•••

u Art by Vanessa Art By Vanessa helps caring team leaders support their team’s mental health through art and craft experiences in a non-hierarchical and nurturing environment.

u MGP Nutrition

•••

u Baron Brewing

u Midnight Blue Marketing

Baron Brewing is a playground for beer, where no two batches are the same. Made for the love of the process. •••

u Forever Young People Forever Young People strive to be at the heart of the community and to be flexible and responsive in their approach. They aim to inspire individuals to feel valued, empowered, and confident in their abilities and to motivate individuals Educationally, Socially and Emotionally.

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•••

MGP Nutrition is an innovative range of delicious and healthy refreshments, including low sugar vitamin drinks, and high protein cookies.

Midnight Blue bridge the gap between brand and strategy, crafting your brand journey. Branding is the reflection of your vision and values for your business. •••

u MyPocketSkill MyPocketSkill is a digital technology company on a mission to financially empower GenZ. By connecting teens with households and businesses where they can earn, save and learn about money through three programmes: TeenTutors, TeenSitters and DigitalTeens.

ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION

u Origins of Beauty

u RIS Products

Origins of Beauty is an online retailer of natural, ethical and sustainable beauty, skincare and wellbeing products for the conscious consumer.

RIS Healthcare manufactures and distributes niche products for the oral care and healthcare market in the UK and abroad.

•••

u Samanthas Eco Cleans

u Performance Energy Redefining how personnel supply is delivered to the energy sector, focusing on out of the box solutions to improve competency while reducing CAPEX & OPEX expenditure. •••

u Phos Phos is an award-winning British designer and manufacturer of Architectural Lighting. Placing a lot of emphasis on the provenance of materials, which are locally procured, machined and assembled in Hatfield. Their unrivalled palette of flawless finishes allows either a luxurious additional layer of design or the ability to blend fittings organically into their natural habitat. •••

u Project Match ProjectMatch is an innovative new platform, helping businesses to partner with MSc Occupational Psychology students for their dissertation research projects. •••

u Raverk Raverk’s vision is to create exclusive and beautifully crafted pieces to complement stylish spaces with contemporary lifestyles in mind.

•••

Samantha’s Eco Cleans is a friendly and reliable cleaning service that uses only environmentally friendly products, from sponges to sprays. •••

u The Micro Brewing Syndicate The Micro Brewing Syndicate are a newly established UK company that has designed and developed an innovative commercial brewing machine. •••

u The Watered Meadow Business book ghostwriter: Planning and writing storydriven books; creating kudos, attracting readers, turning entrepreneurs and speakers into published authors. •••

u Wildly Social Media Supporting a wide range of businesses to beat the overwhelm of social media and integrate it into their wider marketing strategy.

I am absolutely delighted to welcome this new group of Hertfordshire entrepreneurs into the Foundation. We are looking forward to helping them grow their enterprises and take their businesses to the next level. These people will be this county’s job and wealth creators of tomorrow, and this initiative is the ideal forum to assist them. Jeremy Bishop, Chairman, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

To find out more about the Entrepreneur Foundation, visit our website:

https://www.hertschamber.com/entrepreneur-foundation

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Top University sets its sights on reducing Staffing Costs with Tate A university ranked among the top 100 universities in the world has awarded Tate a 4-year contract to attract, manage and retain permanent and temporary staff across IT, Admin, Marketing, and specialist roles including Business Transformation Analysts.

The University hosts around 22,000 enrolled students over seven campuses, with 5,000 members of staff at any one time.

The Challenge Until now, each faculty at this Southampton based University has worked in isolation to source staff from a wide range of recruitment agencies with recruiter fees varying from 0% to 25%.

In a review of expenses and vendors across many recruitment agencies, lone consultants and individual payments, the University has identified a minefield of variable recruitment practises across its seven campuses. To standardise recruitment governance and simplify supplier management whilst reduce overall costs for recruitment of staff, the university has selected Tate as its partner for staffing solutions.

The Solution Tate will maximise economies of scale for the university’s recruitment activity by consolidating all recruitment including cost through itself. The contract will deliver consistency on pricing including standardising recruiter fees and help streamline

staff booking, employee onboarding and invoice management processes which will save university staff considerable administrative time. By having a single point of contact, the university will have one version of Management Information in a consistent format that helps it optimise its staffing decisions and gives visibility across all localised recruitment throughout the university faculties. “We are delighted to have this opportunity to help streamline recruitment for the university, we will help them improve their spend management and governance controls.” Tate Delivery Service Director

About Tate Recruitment Locally, Tate are proud Patrons of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Part of the Impellam Group, Tate is an award-winning recruitment consultancy that provides highcalibre candidates for office support and specialist roles on a temporary and permanent basis.

Process

Contact: 01462 455181 www.Tate.co.uk

People

Do you need to improve your company’s culture, but you’re not sure where to start? Find out more and sign up: www.culturepal.com

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Our clients range from local SME, public sector, to national and global corporate organisations. We are an accredited supplier to the Universities Caterers Organisation, Crown Commercial Services, Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium and Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation.

Passion Purpose

Tate recruits for wide range of positions, including HR Managers, Marketing Specialists, Executive PA, Administrators, Customer Service Associates, Accounts and Finance.

Culture Pal enables you to you take control and create the culture you want by: �• Assessing the culture you have �• Discovering the culture you want �• Developing happy and motivated teams – whether working on-site or from home �• Creating leadership that inspires

THE DIAMOND CLUB

FOR CORPORATE BUSINESS LEADERS SPONSORED BY

Hertfordshire Chamber's Diamond Club for Corporate Business Leaders, is a fantastic forum for the county’s largest businesses, with opportunities to connect with other likeminded senior leaders. The Diamond Club is aimed at both public and private sector organisations with a vested interest in the county and beyond. “In becoming a recent Patron of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, it was a natural step for CAE to get involved more and sponsor Herts Chamber’s newest membership offering – the Diamond Club. CAE has over 300 staff with a vested interest in the county, so what better way to give something back by supporting the region’s most influential business leaders and organisations to grow their knowledge, influence and connectivity. I am really looking forward to help the Chamber enhance the county’s business environment and encourage working together as a region.” Richard Behan, Chief Corporate Development Officer, CAE Technology Services

This exclusive membership is dedicated to the needs and support of C-Suite Senior Leadership & Directors.

Attend thought-provoking, content led discussions with influential speakers, on topics such as: Understanding and addressing ESG (environmental, social and governance) and climate change Addressing workforce skills gaps Principles of running more efficient operations

The next lunch will be taking place on Thursday 10th March 2022, at Knebworth Barns.

Receive invitations to three high-profile lunches at prestigious venues throughout the year.

Diamond Club Benefits:

Paul Graham, GB Managing Director at Britvic will be speaking at this lunch on the topic of diversity and inclusion and its impact on his business. With over 25 years’ experience working with major FMCG companies, Paul leads the business in identifying the right trends and consumer insight to create a broad and relevant soft drinks portfolio that is fit for purpose today and in years to come. Paul has a BSc in Management Sciences from Manchester University and is President of the British Soft Drinks Association.

Discounted rates to attend a Chamber Golf Day in Summer 2022. Be part of wider conversations and ensure your business voice is heard.

JOIN TODAY To find out more about becoming a Member of the Diamond Club please contact: Donna Schultz Head of Business Development Email: membership@hertschamber.com Phone: 01707 502186

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KEEPING THE HEART IN HERTFORDSHIRE

The Hertfordshire County Show returns for 2022! After two years of the pandemic we all know and absolutely have not loved – two years which led to a Virtual County Show in 2020, and a County Horse Show in 2021; the team at the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society, led by Executive Director, Sarah Moreland MBE, are jubilant to be bringing home the full County Show for the Platinum Jubilee. “It has indeed been a very tough two years – tough for everyone across the world, and that has been so evident in our agriculture and events industry with so many shows and societies struggling to survive. However, the last two years have been heartening for us with the response to our Virtual Show and County Horse Show – people need something to look forward to, to bring family and friends together in a safe environment. This has energised and focused us in bringing back Hertfordshire’s biggest celebration of local farming, food, family and enterprise.” Sarah Moreland MBE, Executive Director

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So, what can visitors expect to enjoy at the show? “The show will be a real treat for the whole family with its great mix of traditional attractions such as big tractors and machinery for the kids, shopping for the parents and adults, animals, horse competition, livestock and gravity defying stunt shows that will blow your mind and get audiences standing, cheering, and applauding!” Sarah Moreland MBE, Executive Director The Herts County Show will see the return of the Bulldog Lings as the showpiece attraction on both Saturday and Sunday. The renowned stunt bike team are a firm favourite and it is fitting that they help celebrate the return of the show in 2022. Showjumping, equine classes and livestock competitions are a traditional element of the show that everyone loves whether they’re an enthusiast, competitor, or excited spectator. Hertfordshire County Show offers a range of competitions for horses, sheep and cattle over the two days which are both exciting and educational. The livestock section is a showcase for farmers to demonstrate their skills in breeding and exhibiting their sheep and cattle. Winning classes and championships at a County Show is very prestigious and can increase the value of the winning animals, particularly important for breeding stock. Many of the livestock classes are for breeds that are native to the British Isles and on the Rare Breeds Watchlist.

KEEPING THE HEART IN HERTFORDSHIRE of agricultural professionals from farmers to agronomists (crop doctors) to vets and food industry experts. Fun is at the heart of the Food and Farming area with a variety of fun activities for friends and families of all ages. Attractions include; Bees and Honey; Grains and Bread production; Milk and Ice Cream; Farm Machinery (always a massive draw!); Meat and Animals, Rothamsted Research and farming technology. “At the last show we pioneered a new pinnacle for the show – “Make your own Hertfordshire Lunch” using produce from all over Hertfordshire. At this year’s show visitors will experience a much larger food and farming area offering lots of new things to do and learn for all ages. So come and meet the farmers at this year’s show!” James Williams, Food and Farming & Trustee Beyond the Show, The Hertfordshire Agricultural Society will be bringing together schools from the county as part of its Food and Farming Day in June. Inspiration for this project has been taken from other events around the country but we are putting our own unique spin on the concept. Rather than follow the journey from field to fork, we intend to work backwards.

After the brilliant competition seen at our County Horse Show in 2021, the show will once again be hosting a wide range of competitive levels catering for all levels up to Horse of the Year and Royal International qualifying classes. “Visitors will enjoy a range of Showjumping classes where riders compete around a course of fences, the lowest classes have the jumps at one metre in height, with the highest class having a course of jumps up to 1m 40cm. These classes attract a range of riders, from local one-horse owners to professional riders who compete for Great Britain. The Scurry is a fast-paced race against the clock with ponies pulling carts in pairs around a twisty course of tight turns and obstacles. The private driving classes demonstrate the classic driving art and provide a glimpse into times gone by with the historical vehicles. This year the champion will qualify to go forward to The Horse of the Year Show to find the Harness Horse or Pony of the Year.” Annabel Bolton, Equine Secretary Showcasing shopping with independent traders and businesses has been an integral part of the show for many years. The show remains a tentpole event for local and national businesses to engage with eager shoppers and do great business. “Many of our brilliant traders have really struggled over the past two years. Last year in 2021, mid-pandemic was a scaled back affair and we’re excited to be offering traders and businesses the opportunity to show shoppers their amazing products, crafts, food and services once again.” Amber Wernham, Trade Secretary

The Made in Herts competition allows the Society to shine a spotlight on standout traders at the Herts County Show with the 2022 Society President, Lady Salisbury choosing her top three businesses to be awarded. The Made in Herts marquee will be a wonderful showcase of local Hertfordshire artisan food and craft. “This year, we’re celebrating food, family, farming and enterprise and the show will see the return of the Lord Lieutenant’s Entrepreneurs Challenge. The Challenge shines a spotlight on Hertfordshire start-ups offering a product or services in our local communities. This is a real celebration of the diversity of enterprise that we have in the County. Our shortlisted 2020 finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their entries for 2022 with a select few joining the challenge.” Sarah Moreland MBE, Executive Director The Food and Farming area at the Show epitomises everything that the Society was set up to represent and is built by a voluntary team

School pupils will explore an environment designed around the “Eatwell Plate”. Activities will take place inside a big top tent split into the sections of the plate, which correspond to the food groups within the human diet. Children will visit each section in groups of 10-15, guided by a farmer steward. For lunch, they will have the opportunity to put together their own meal. “The objective of the day is to provide a platform for students to learn more about where their food comes from and help them to make good food choices. This is especially important at this transitional stage of their education as they are likely about to become responsible for more of their dietary choices when they enter secondary school.” Emma Tremaine, Education Co-ordinator The Herts Agricultural Society and Show are delighted to be supporting the Queen’s Green Canopy. A tree and hedge planting campaign to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee – an ambitious and wonderful scheme the entire community can get behind. If you are interested in getting involved or have an area of land that you would like to make available for others to plant, please email QueensGreenCanopy@hertfordshire.gov.uk.

Over the years Herts County Show has become less a show, more a showcase; a celebration of Hertfordshire farming, food, and the countryside life, and you’re invited – come, take part, shop, eat, laugh and have fun at Hertfordshire Showground for a platinum celebration. Tickets are available here, get yours now: https://hertsshow.yourticketbooking.com

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ECONOMY

n response to the new research, BCC Director General, Shevaun Haviland, has written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak warning of the dangers facing firms. The British Chambers of Commerce has outlined a five-point plan, which if implemented, will help businesses to weather the current conditions and keep price rises under control. These measures included a temporary energy price cap for small businesses, extending the Chancellor’s energy bills rebate scheme for households to smaller businesses and delaying the planned National Insurance rise by one year.

Survey Results

When firms were asked if their business was facing pressure to raise prices from a variety of sources the results were as follows:

The British Chambers of Commerce has warned the Treasury of an impending ‘cost of doing business crisis’ A new survey of more than 1,000 businesses, showed that firms across the country are under intense pressure from a variety of costs. It found that prices were likely to rise as a result, further fuelling the costof-living crisis for households.

• 73% of firms in a new survey say they are raising prices in response to rising costs • More than three in five (62%) cite soaring energy bills as a driving factor, rising to 75% for manufacturers • 63% site increased wage bills as driving factor for price rises • British Chambers of Commerce call on the Chancellor to adopt their fivepoint plan to address these challenges. These include a temporary energy price cap for small businesses and the extension of the financial support announced for households last week to include small firms 40

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Source

Overall (n=1,078)

Manufacturers (n=349)

B2B Services (n=393)

B2C Services (n=336)

Renumeration (wages, salaries, bonuses, contractor costs)

63%

70%

60%

59%

Utilities (e.g. electricity, gas)

62%

75%

50%

62%

Raw materials (e.g. steel, cardboard, food)

52%

87%

19%

54%

Domestic taxes

34%

32%

34%

Not facing pressure to raise prices

16%

When firms were asked what they were doing in response to rising costs the responses were as follows: Response

Overall (n=985)

Manufacturers (n=347)

B2B Services (n=329)

B2C Services (n=309)

Raise prices

73%

61%

86%

71%

Seek to cut costs

50%

42%

56%

Scale down investment

18%

17%

21%

Consider ceasing trading

Five Point Plan to Tackle the Cost of Doing Business Crisis In a letter to the Chancellor, dated 3rd of February, Director General Shevaun Haviland laid out the issues facing firms in relation to energy and raw materials costs, and the impact that the incoming NI increase would have in compounding these factors. She put forward a five-point policy to respond, which is detailed below: 1. Publish the findings of the government’s Supply Chain Advisory Group and Industry Taskforce and work with businesses to deliver practical solutions to ease the supply and labour shortages that continue to drive the upward pressure on prices. 2. A moratorium, for the life of this parliament, on all policy measures that increase business costs, including no new business taxes or added regulatory burdens, but excluding only evidence-based changes to the National Living Wage. 3. A temporary energy price cap for smaller businesses to protect them from some of the price increases they would otherwise face, offering the same protection as households. 4. Additional financial support, through the expansion of the energy bills rebate scheme for households to also include small firms and energy intensive businesses and a new support fund, administered by Ofgem to support to the smallest firms with their soaring energy bills.

5. Delay the impending National Insurance rise by one year to give firms much needed financial headroom to weather this unprecedented surge in costs and allow them to power the recovery Director General Shevaun Haviland said: “Without help from the Treasury to weather this storm many businesses, especially smaller ones, will be faced with a nearly impossible situation that will leave them with little choice but to raise prices.” “Our research has shown that businesses were drowning in rising costs even before the energy crisis began to bite. This latest data reveals that companies are now also under extreme pressure from spiralling gas and electricity bills as well as increased wages.” “The majority are having to raise prices in response, though many are also being forced to scale back planned investment or cut other costs from their balance sheet.” “The Chancellor must implement our five-point plan to give firms a chance to stabilise without having to seriously increase their prices, cut jobs or the investment that is so vital to sustaining our economic recovery from Covid.” “Unabated, the surging cost pressures produced by the cost-of-doing-business crisis will continue to lead to increased prices and fuel the cost-ofliving crisis currently being faced by people across the country.”

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Ware Priory

Ware Priory was a Franciscan Friary which was founded in 1339. When the monasteries were dissolved by Henry VIII it became a privately owned residence and over that time housed many war wounded soldiers from World War I. When Lady PageCroft passed away in 1920 she left the Priory to the people of Ware and it is now held in trust and managed by Ware Town Council. Its Grade I status makes it a very special setting for weddings, celebrations and business events. There are many original features remaining including The Table of Ease, an original refectory table, views of the original wattle and daub building work, stained glass windows in the Priory Hall and flagstones in the reception area. The front lawns and driveway create a fantastic first impression. The views of the river are very special and river life of narrow boats, swans, geese and ducks is always on show.

The bandstand area is a great space on the island opposite the main building. The back lawns are well kept and are a great location for drinks receptions and team building games. Over the past year, Ware Priory has redecorated the public interior areas with neutral colours on the walls, plush carpets and softer curtains to modernise the look. And has replaced all of the ladies and gentleman’s bathrooms which has made a real difference. The main Ware Priory building has a lot of character and

Fanhams Hall

EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION

A Jacobean mansion tucked away in the picturesque Hertfordshire countryside, offers a unique location for meetings, events and conferences. Set in a stunning 27 acres this venue has something to offer for all occasions.

historical interest, whereas Fletcher’s Lea can offer a much more contemporary feel and really is a blank canvas for couples to put their own, unique stamp on their day. Offering a very personable service and the catering options are second to none. Easily located and accessible, it is a great location to host milestone birthday and anniversary parties as well as proms, meetings, conferences and awards dinners.

Meetings Ten unique meeting rooms each individually designed to help inspire and encourage creative thinking. Whether it’s a blue-sky session, a game-changing presentation, dynamic learning and development or transformative team building, Fanhams are famous for facilitating successful business outcomes. With unrivalled facilities in Hertfordshire that actively encourage interactivity, the team can help to fulfil the most demanding of agendas, in the most idyllic of locations.

The team at Ware Priory, like everyone else, are hopeful for some return to normalcy in 2022 so that guests can hold the events that they wish to with confidence.

Eat, drink and be merry ... The relaxed atmosphere at Fanhams Hall results in the perfect choice for a delicious array of treats whether it’s an Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch or a light bite from the all day dining menu.

Celebrations Fanhams Hall has a number of private dining rooms ideal for any special celebration. So if guests are looking for birthdays, wedding anniversary celebrations, a special family celebration or a good old foodie treat there is a perfect private spot just for you!

For more information email fanhamshall@exclusive.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS

NEW HOME marks new chapter for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

MEET THE CHAMBER TEAM LEADERSHIP TEAM

“As businesses look to the future and start to recover from the impact of the pandemic, we are in a position to offer more companies vital support to underpin the county’s growth.”

• The Chamber team at their new office on the perimeter of Hatfield House

New premises herald the next chapter for the county’s Chamber of Commerce, as it sets out its vision to support business growth in 2022.

The Chamber’s new home in Salisbury Square – an area which is set to become a hub for retail and business – features a better layout for teams to work alongside each other. These include key staff in business development, HR, events and communications, finance and international trade.

Briege Leahy Chief Executive

Following the Chamber’s move from the MacLaurin Building in Bishop Square, it will retain the important and intrinsic links with the University of Hertfordshire through the business consortium which includes the county’s Local Enterprise Partnership and Hertfordshire Growth Hub.

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce has moved to York House in Salisbury Square, a landmark building at the heart of the regeneration of Old Hatfield. The new premises provide the Chamber with a larger base, reflecting its plans for further growth. The Chamber was recently named the fastest growing in the UK by the British Chambers of Commerce. The Chamber remains at the heart of the county, and its proximity to the A1 and Hatfield train station means it is well placed to continue to support more businesses in Hertfordshire.

Naomi Powell Operations Director

Our new, larger • Herts Chamber received a visit from Anthony Downs, Estates Director at Hatfield Park to their new premises

The move comes as the Chamber continues with growing success since 2019. The vision and plans for the next 12 months are just as innovative, and ambitious to Connect, Collaborate and Grow the businesses in our wonderful County of Opportunity. The Chamber’s CEO, Briege Leahy, said: “Our new, larger premises reflect the ambition of the Chamber and the role it has to play in the future of business in the county.”

For further information on Herts Chamber, visit

www.hertschamber.com 42

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premises reflect the ambition of the Chamber and the role it has to play in the future of business in the county. As businesses look to the future and start to recover from the impact of the pandemic, we are in a position to offer more companies vital support to underpin the county’s growth.

CHAMBER NEWS

MEMBERSHIP TEAM

Gemma Rydqvist Head of Customer Relations

Donna Schultz Head of Business Development

Mary Sykes Corporate Relations

Amy Rich Business Support Executive

Gillian McDowall Membership Coordinator

EVENTS & COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

Alison White Head of Events and Communications

Sarah Castleman-Turner Marketing and Communications Executive

Georgia Nicholls Events Coordinator

INTERNATIONAL TRADE TEAM

John Woodruffe Head of International Trade and Policy

Frances Harris Internal Export Manager

The Chamber team are here to assist however we can, contact us today on 01707 502180 INSPIRE

FOR THIS WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP EDITION, eTh carbon ThTh e carbon e carbon benefi t hidden benefi t hidden in in in benefi t hidden clothing ourour clothing our clothing ENVIRONMENT

ENVIRONMENT TIPS ENVIRONMENT TOP TIPS TOP ENVIRONMEN

spanning International Women’s Day, we asked female leaders within Hertfordshire councils’ waste and sustainability departments about their experiences and the impact they have.

The work is fulfilling and varied ranging from developing policies, to researching and implementing paint and electrical reuse schemes.

Although I feel we have a achieved a great deal; one of the biggest challenges is the breadth of the issue.

Much of my work currently is HCCSP has delivered shared focused on improving use of the communications campaigns, dedicated reuse centres, located lobbied Government, launched Why is this to this your business? withinis thethis Recycling Centres. It’s business? For a business wanting to reduce four relevant Strategic Actions key Why relevant torelevant your Why is to youron business? a business wanting toareduce For business wanting to reduce There are lotsThere of ways There lots of ways you can areyou lotscan of ways you can anaging footprint, projects, people satisfying toWe be moving waste away priority areas of focus are and recently theirfootprint, carbon textiles may might be familiar with greener products r carbon textiles may their carbon footprint, textiles may might be familiar with greener products We might be familiar with greener products reduce your organisation’s waste. reduce your organisation’s waste. reduce your organisation’s wa and resources to excel in our We from landfill and is amazing to see partnered with the Energy Saving and services – but looking inwards tolooking the an odd place to focus. We and services – but looking inwards to Trust the and services – on butan toapp the m an seem odd place to focus. We seem an odd place to focus. We chose field is an accolade what gets thrown away in good energyinwards efficiency Our top are:top tips are: Ourreally toplooking tips are:tipsOur resources usedagain, isresources another angle to resources used another angle to consider. used is consider. another to consider. about the three big theand witnessed athear a national level, as erallygenerally hear about the three big generally hear about three big condition canisbe used for residents. I am angle Changing to moreChanging environmentally-friendly Changing to more environmentally-friendly outlined by Jennie Probert, Waste to more environmentally-friendly areas that affect climate change saving resources and energy.” forwards to continued successes 1. consider For events, consider magnetic as that affect climate change areas that affect climate change 1. For events, a magnetic Fora events, consider a magnetic This1.ability to facilitate real change businesswill practices willmoney save you and through & Environment Manager at Three practices save business you and practices will save you money and for the money partnership energy, transport food. business / pin badgerather oralanyard rather nergy,–transport and food.and / pin badgeour or lanyard than – energy, transport and food. / pindriving badgethan or lanyard rather than is major force for these Job satisfaction Rivers District Council: “Since provide a stronger selling proposition when provide a stronger selling proposition when provide acollaborative stronger selling proposition when approach.” branded goods, asbranded these are branded goods, as these are goods, as these are the textiles industry wever,However, the textiles industry leading women. Joanna Boyd, through the However, the textiles industry joining Three Rivers District Council pitching and to your pitching your goodsyour and goods services to services your pitching your goods and services to your easierif to replace if easier a name/ easier replace a name/ logo to logo replace if a name/ logo Environmental Awareness desire to make isinresponsible for 10% ofrate global Partnership working is atocommon 2003for I’ve10% seenisour recycling esponsible of global responsible fortarget 10%audience. of target global audience. changes. Officerchanges. changes. at Dacorum Borough a materialtarget audience. thread through many of the roles grow from 13.31% to 64.1% at its carbon emissions. This means the bon emissions. This means the carbon emissions. This means the Council details a fun interaction difference is highest. In 2019-20 we had the these women carry out, as is 2. Buy work related apparel from ethical / 2. Buy work related apparel from ethical / related 2. Buy work from ethical / clothes that we buy contributes to Why become more sustainable? Research hes that we buy contributes to clothes that we buy contributes to Why become moreasustainable? become moreimpact sustainable? Research with our The county’s young apparel people via theme Why Research highest recycling rate in England the direct it can have on sustainable brands. premium sustainable brands. The premium sustainable brands. The premium that once consumers want to be climate change more than and showsthan thatshows once consumers want tothat be shows once consumers want to be school engagement: “I am really mate change more than airI’m and climate change air and Sarah- a fantastic achievement very airmore residents, as explained by also paid often also means paid often means better quality, paidbetter often quality, also means better quality, with environmental or ethical Climate passionate about teaching our associatedassociated with environmental or ethical associated with environmental or ethical sea travel combined. Jane Little, proud to have been of. combined. Elen Roberts, travel combined. seapart travel so theyand lastyou longer and youlast need to and you need to so theyChange, last longer need tothey so longer younger generations the importance products. A recent survey conducted by Coordinator products. A recent survey conducted products.by A recent survey conducted by Sustainability, and Recycling buy less. Ethical Consumer a Consumer buy less. Ethical Consumer has a less. buy Ethical Over the last 18 years I’ve forged of changing our has wasteful habits in has a found 71% offound millennials are more of the AYTM found that 71% ofthat millennials are more Officer Three Rivers District AYTM thatat 71% of millennials areofmore From growing and harvesting the raw m growing harvesting the raw From growing and harvesting theAYTM raw list how suppliers measure up.planet.measure up. list of how suppliers measure up. list of howour suppliers a and career managing waste, as well order to protect Hertfordshire Climate Change likely to support an environmentally-friendly Council: a woman in the likely to support an environmentally-friendly likely to support an“Being environmentally-friendly to how they’re made, to crossing erial, tomaterial, how to crossing material, to how they’re made, to crossing has they’re having amade, great work-home and Partnership Reuse: is of amazing. Following business. Likewise, 86% ofworld customers say Reuse: business. Likewise, 86% of customers say of waste business. Likewise, 86% customers say get from factory to store, the Sustainability OneReuse: of my favourite projects to date world tothe get from to factory to store, the the world totwo get fromtofactory to store, to the lifeworld balance. Supporting myto (HCCSP) shares, along with degree inatGeography which they prefer to shop at businesses that recycle, they prefer to shop at businesses thatarecycle, isthe ‘Monsters on Mission’, a food they prefer to shop businesses 3.that Forrecycle, businesses, reducing the aclothing footprint impact of washing them and how they’re children is incredibly important 3. For businesses, reducing clothing footprint 3. For businesses, reducing the clothing foo act of washing them andimpact how they’re of washing them and how they’re insight into the breadth topics included on sustainability, preferof companies that limit use of waste competition runreusing in as Primary couldofbe simpleand as washing prefer74% companies that limit use of themodules 74%the prefer companies that limit use to me item - hopefully I’m a produced good disposed of,of each item of clothing could bethe as simple as as washing reusing could be asand simple washing and reusin osed of, each clothing disposed of,role eachproduced item74% of clothing produced and engagements her role brings: I fell in love with all things waste and schools across Dacorum. pollutants and unnecessary chemicals anduniforms someone has know left. youTo know model to them.” pollutants and unnecessary chemicalsand and unnecessary chemicals and after afteruniforms someone has left. uniforms Did you afterDid someone has left. Did you has a lifecycle carbon the a lifecycle carbon impact across the across has aimpact lifecycle carbon impact across the “Having worked in a number ofpollutants recycling and gained a real interest encourage children tothe recycle their that extending the average lifespan of 67% of shoppers prefer companies that that extending the average lifespan of 67% of shoppers prefer companies that that extending average lifespan of 67% of shoppers prefer companies that whole of a product’s life (the ‘cradle to grave’ e of a product’s life (the ‘cradle to grave’ of a product’s life (the ‘cradle to grave’ partnerships across the charity in behaviour change. Working smartly whole with flexible hours food waste, we provided each class clothes by just 3 months of active use support renewable energy. clothes by just 3 months of active use clothes by just 3 months of active use support renewable energy. support renewable energy. impact). This is using measured using and public when I moved act). This is measured kilograms impact). This measured usingsector, kilograms means it is perfectly possible tois kilograms with a caddy bin and stickers to in leadreduction to a 5-10% towould a 5-10% in reduction would lead toina fun 5-10% reduction One of the thingswould I lovelead is the CO2 eqadioxide (or carbon dioxide a equivalent), Hertfordshire, I wanted O2 eq of (ormaintain carbon acarbon to demanding career ofequivalent), CO2 eq (orequivalent), dioxide a to make turn their caddy into a monster with carbon, waste and water footprints! carbon, waste and water footprints! carbon, waste and water footprints! variety in the waste and resources There is also evidence that many consumers There is also evidence that many consumers a positive impact here. 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The ofwaste emissions and waste from both thewell-placed with very small or significant sustainability and tackle the Management Unit explains: “As consumer awareness and understanding about importance wears two thirds of the what’s in their consumer awareness and understanding consumer awareness and understanding andstage. disposal Fast fashion wears two thirds of what’s in their wears two thirdsof of recycling.” what’s in their uctionproduction and disposal Faststage. fashion production and stage.head Faston. fashion changes. Waste management challenge I enjoy a mother of three, the flexibility of disposal more importantly, change the way they wardrobe. WasteAware can offer you and,disposable, more and, importantly, change way they and,the more importantly, change the way wardrobe. WasteAware offerwardrobe. you is making clothing more disposable, with WasteAware can offer you aking clothing disposable, with is making clothing with working can have a far-reaching impact onthey can Through collaboration, aspiration building relationships, workingmore for the County Council has more railsthat and hangers for freeand to get you for free to get you consume. Fordid example, did you know that rails and hangers for free to get you consume. For example, you know that rails hangers consume. For example, did you know cheaper prices and less durable garments, aper prices and less durable garments, cheaper prices and less durable garments, and skilled delivery, these are just people’s lives – from consuming toward common goals and enabled me to balance my threestarted. Fashion Revolution Week – is and every year, Hertfordshire residents throwclutter-free started. 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approach you can easily in easily adopt in approach you which can easily adopt in adopt and production methods, but it won’t approach which you can production methods, but it won’t and production methods, but it which won’t Recycle: Recycle: Recycle: your business and at home: change overnight. We need to play our your business and at home: your business and at home: nge overnight. We needchange to playovernight. our We need to play our 6. are When youtoare togarment, part garment, part inthe changing the use and consumption 6. When you ready partready a 6.with When youwith are aready to part with a gar in changing use and consumption part in changing the use and consumption • Preventing the purchase of new clothes of newsee Preventing the purchase new clothes • of Preventing the purchase clothes if you can a can donate it to a see if you can donate it to donate a see itif to clothing (the Waste and• (the you othing of too. WRAPtoo. (theWRAP Waste andtoo. of clothing WRAP Waste and (reduce) (reduce) (reduce) charity ratheritthan send itrather to charity rather than send to charity than send it to Action Programme) estimates ourcesResources Action Programme) estimates Resources Action Programme) estimates landfill.that Forcan’t those can’t bethose that can’t be landfill. Forfor those bethat landfi ll. For in the UK alone, wethe consume around • clothing Keeping in active use for in longer in the that UK alone, we consume around that in UK alone, consume aroundin clothing •weKeeping active for longer • use Keeping clothing active use longer used again you,used lookagain into by you, look into used again by you, lookby into 1.7m tonnes annually, of textiles annually, and of annually, (reuse) m tonnes of textiles and of of textiles 1.7m tonnes of (reuse) and (reuse) http://www.uniformreuse.co.uk/ http://www.uniformreuse.co.uk/ http://www.uniformreuse.co.uk/ this more thantonnes 600,000 sent to more than 600,000 aretonnes sent this more thantoare 600,000 tonnes are sent to • unwearable Recycling unwearable textiles (recycle)textiles (recycle) • Recycling textiles (recycle) • Recycling unwearable landfill or incinerated. #RememberYourReusables: fill or incinerated. #RememberYourReusables: landfill or incinerated. #RememberYourReusables: any against small effort against the fast Remember,Remember, any small effort the fast Remember, any small effort against the fa #RememberYourReusables:

#RememberYourReusables: #RememberYourReusables:

fashion trends makes a positive impact the fashion trends makes a positive impact on the fashion trends makeson a positive impact o https://www.rapidformations.co.uk/blog/how-can-your-business-reduce-its-carbon-footprint/ tps://www.rapidformations.co.uk/blog/how-can-your-business-reduce-its-carbon-footprint/ https://www.rapidformations.co.uk/blog/how-can-your-business-reduce-its-carbon-footprint/ wasteaware.org.uk/reusables #RememberYourReusables: wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables environment! For more see #RememberYourReusables: #RememberYourReusables: environment! For more see environment! For more see wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables https://www.ecotricity.co.uk/news/news-archive/2018/the-carbon-footprint-of-getting-dressed tps://www.ecotricity.co.uk/news/news-archive/2018/the-carbon-footprint-of-getting-dressed https://www.ecotricity.co.uk/news/news-archive/2018/the-carbon-footprint-of-getting-dressed www.wasteaware.org.uk/textiles www.wasteaware.org.uk/textiles www.wasteaware.org.uk/textiles https://www.trustedclothes.com/blog/2016/02/23/fast-fashion-and-your-carbon-footprin/ tps://www.trustedclothes.com/blog/2016/02/23/fast-fashion-and-your-carbon-footprin/ https://www.trustedclothes.com/blog/2016/02/23/fast-fashion-and-your-carbon-footprin/ wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership #RememberYourReusables: wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership #RememberYourReusables: #RememberYourReusables:

Keep in touch WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership #RememberYourReusables: RememberYourReusables: #RememberYourReusables: wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership Sign up to our monthly e-bulletin https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/updateme/ HertsWasteAware wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware #RememberYourReusables: RememberYourReusables: #RememberYourReusables: HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership @HertsWasteAware www.wasteaware.org.uk HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware @HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware wasteaware.org.uk/reusables wasteaware.org.uk/reusables HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership WasteAwarePartnership 44

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

WOMEN’S PROGRAMME - Confidence Building Programme A research based, upbeat and engaging, 3-step training programme for organisations who are serious about helping women to achieve. Delivered over 3 separate 90 minutes sessions by Jo Phillips, Passionate women’s champion.

‘‘Companies with more women board directors Broxbourne, Enfield & outperform others by 53%’ Lea Valley at

Why is there a need for this?

What are the benefits to SME’s?

Retention, the cost of replacing an individual runs at 213% of their salary, • Increased engagement, as participants feel valued, and invested in What’s in each session? • Leading to increased discretionary effort, • STAND UP - Fact based and research participants want to excel after attending driven giving women the facts behind their Whilst many blue chips have their own inhouse experiences, empowering them to recognise Fine Shepherds would towant help its recognised thatlove SME’s to you followwith 86% of women struggle with self& Country ataccess, unique start to for a local, We aretheir proud toachievements, have foundand a buyer landmark suit, by having access to a women’s champion promotion and speaking up when they are your premium home move. Feel free to get in touch understand how to communicate them residence. sale of Garden Cottage leaps into the top three assisting their efforts. directly challenged. Some of the reasons in theThe workplace. today, to find out more about this case study and how we for this are cultural most• expensive sales in Broxbourne's history. Ournorms, such as when SPEAK UP -residential The practical application, as www.freshfuturescoaching.co.uk could market your home. We are your local agent, with women are accused of being aggressive to how as to frame your accomplishments, thirty years the community's local,sohigh street agent, or emotional. an international presence. that people listen to you and enjoy hearing Meet your facilitator Jo Phillips afforded us the chance to sell the spectacular home, owned by your story. We launch into the mindset that’s Due to the pandemic women’s pay parity • 25 years on corporate, learning a long-standing client. Shepherds' exclusive access into the required to make this happen and then Email: hoddesdon@fineandcountry.com and gender equality has been pushed and500 development, group training, cover & practical tips for smashing allowed that 1-2-1, us to meet Phone: Number: 01992 449 area's Fine Country network, the specific back a generation or more. 1-2-1, on-line EN11 8TA review or meeting. Address: 37 High Street, Hoddesdon, needs of the client and buyer, to facilitate an enjoyable and There are simple and easy techniques • Qualified Exec Coach, Post Grad • STEP UP - Combining the research and favourable outcome for all parties. that help women to thrive at work. Dipl ILMl7 practical methods, step up focuses on Afterwards participants will feel planning career trajectory, and aims for the • EMCC affiliate member With such an iconic to market, it was a empowered perfect and confident, more next 12-18 monthshome participants create their • Systemic Team Coach Certified committed to their role and the company. step-by-step plan succeeding. opportunity for us toforshow why Fine & Country at Did you know, if a woman is talked over more than 3 times in a meeting, she just won’t speak up again… that means that valuable information and insights are being lost, she feels undervalued and demotivated and that has a direct impact on your bottom line.

•

We value the little things that make a home

Shepherds excel at selling premium stock, like Garden Cottage. As well as all of our usual superior & bespoke Broxbourne, Enfield marketing materials, Garden Cottage was featured on all of Fine & Country's central social media channels & Leaand Valley at exhibited in The Times and Telegraph, as part of the network's national marketing strategy. The results were outstanding. There were more viewings and offers in a shorter period of time, than in the six-month period that the client's previous agent had marketed the home for.

Presentation at your service With& suchexposure, an iconic home We are proud to have to market, it was a perfect found a buyer for a local, opportunity for us to show why landmark residence. Fine & Country at Shepherds excel The sale of Garden Cottage leaps into the top three most expensive residential sales in Broxbourne’s history. Our thirty years as the community’s local, high street agent, afforded us the chance to sell the spectacular home, owned by a long-standing client. Shepherds’ exclusive access into the area’s Fine & Country network, allowed us to meet the specific needs of the client and buyer, to facilitate an enjoyable and favourable outcome for all parties.

at selling premium stock, like Garden Cottage. As well as all of our usual superior and bespoke marketing materials, Garden Cottage was featured on all of Fine & Country’s central social media channels and exhibited in The Times and Telegraph, as part of the network’s national marketing strategy. The results were outstanding. There were more viewings and offers in a shorter period of time, than in the six-month period that the client’s previous agent had marketed the home for.

Fine & Country at Shepherds would love to help you with your premium home move. Feel free to get in touch today, to find out more about this case study and how we could market your home. We are your local agent, with an international presence. Email: Phone: Address:

hoddesdon@fineandcountry.com 01992 449 500 37 High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8TA

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Hemel Hemstead town centre following its regeneration in 2017

MEMBERS NEWS

Hertfordshirebased business celebrates 100 years with growth strategy

ne of Europe’s leading suppliers of world foods, Grace Foods UK, which has its UK headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, is celebrating its 100-year heritage with the appointment of a Hertfordshire-based agency to support its ambitious growth plans.

St Albans-based award-winning Loudbird PR and Communications has been appointed to handle the UK PR for Grace Foods UK and its market leading brands, Grace, Nurishment, Encona, and Dunn’s River, alongside Irie Eats, which is an exciting new mainstream Caribbean brand, which consists of a range of mainstream-targeted meal kits inspired by authentic Caribbean street food, which are all suitable for vegans. Loudbird PR and Communications, whose client base includes local, national and international clients, will be overseeing a number of campaigns for these brands alongside a PR campaign to support Grace Foods UK’s yearlong plans to celebrate its 100th anniversary this year. Grace Foods UK employs 180 people at its Welwyn Garden City head office. Loudbird PR and Communications will also be working alongside brand activation agency Circle and digital agency Engage to promote the amazing tastes, flavours and Caribbean heritage of the food supplier. Vandu Patel, Marketing Manager at Grace Foods UK, said: “We’re very proud of our heritage, which sets us apart from any other provider of Caribbean food products, and next year is a huge year for the company, as we celebrate 100 years of Grace and 60 years of Jamaican Independence too.” “We’re really pleased to appoint these impressive agencies to support us in demystifying Caribbean cuisine. We’re looking forward to seeing the impact the work of Loudbird PR, Engage and Circle has on our digital strategy, customer base, and growth plans.” Loudbird PR Partner Sophie Banks said: “We are so excited to work with Grace Foods UK. The UK is a big market for them, because of both the Jamaican diaspora here and also because Caribbean food is becoming more mainstream with a lot of UK consumers keen to try the iconic dishes such as jerk chicken. The UK arm works closely with their Jamaican team when developing the products for the UK and we are looking forward to working hard to ensure that Grace is not the best-kept secret in UK supermarkets anymore. With 100 years of heritage in producing and distributing Caribbean food, it shouldn’t be.” One of Europe’s leading suppliers of world foods, Grace Foods UK is an established multi-category sales, marketing, import and manufacturing organisation offering unrivalled access to the UK and European retail, wholesale and food service markets. The business’ portfolio encompasses a significant number of retail brands including Grace Foods (‘Grace’), Encona, Irie Eats, Nurishment, and Dunn’s River. For more information, please visit www.gracefoods.co.uk

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Hemel Hempstead celebrates 75th anniversary

Dacorum Borough Council will be celebrating the diamond anniversary of Hemel Hempstead being declared a New Town.

n 4 February in 1947 Hemel Hempstead was chosen for expansion, coming to the rescue of Londoners who were living in slum housing or whose homes had been bombed during World War II. An ambitious building programme began and the first ‘New Town’ residents moved into their homes in Adeyfield in 1950. Over the next four decades Hemel Hempstead grew – creating eight new neighbourhoods, a new town centre on Marlowes and a thriving industrial estate around Maylands Avenue. According to the national census, Hemel’s population grew from just over 20,000 in 1951 to over 55,000 in 1961. At the last census in 2011, the population was 94,932, but is now estimated to be over 100,000. Dacorum Borough Council will be looking back over the town’s history on its Facebook and Instagram channels and will be asking residents to share their memories of Hemel over the years. Sara Whelan, Hemel Strategy Place Programme Manager, said: “The Council values the history of Hemel Hempstead’s strong neighbourhoods and communities. Having been one of the first New Towns, we are reinventing the town for the 21st century as a place of green open spaces and opportunity.”

Hemel Hempstead town centre before pedestrianisation

“As we look to the future, we want to think big; this is a place where the prospects are bright.” Hemel Garden Communities, an ambitious development programme that will transform Hemel Hempstead and create attractive and sustainable new neighbourhoods and communities to the north and east of Hemel Hempstead, has provided Hemel Hempstead with Garden Town status. Over the next 25 years, it aims to take the best of the New Town heritage into the 21st Century with over 11,000 quality homes and 10,000 jobs anchoring the transformation of Hemel Hempstead and the wider area. Andrew Percival, Chair of Hemel Place Board, said: “From its earliest days, Hemel Hempstead has always embraced the opportunities of its time, not least gaining its status as a new town in 1947. As Chair of the Hemel Place Board, it is evident to me that, 75 years on, Hemel Hempstead’s neighbourhoods and thriving business communities continue to work energetically together to ensure the town can face the future with confidence.”

To find out more about Hemel Garden Communities visit,

www.dacorum.gov.uk/hemelgardencommunities

Ignite your Business Growth through the Building Back Better Growth Programme

THE BUILDING BACK BETTER GROWTH PROGRAMME is aimed at helping Hertfordshire SMEs to sustain their recovery and growth following the pandemic, as well as equipping them with the skills and capabilities they need to develop their sustainable practices, net-zero literacy, and digitalisation. Much has been said in the past year about running your business in the ‘new normal’ landscape, but as businesses look to stabilise and rebuild growth the burning question now is what will the ‘next normal’ look like and how can you be ready for it in time? Innovation, outlined as one of the three core pillars for growth in the Government’s plan for growth ‘Build Back Better’ published in May 2021, plays a crucial role in helping businesses to increase their productivity and improve their competitiveness. Simply put, innovation is all about introducing something new into your business. This might mean improving your businesses processes, developing a new product or service, or perhaps adding value to an existing product or service.

Improving business processes Improving or just replacing existing business processes by introducing a new technology or working practice will help to increase the efficiency and productivity of your business. According to a survey conducted by CEP-CBI on technology adoption in response to the COVID-19 crisis, over 60% of businesses have adopted new digital technologies during the pandemic. The pace of technology adoption has highlighted a further challenge for businesses as the demand for digital skills increases. Developing a new product or service COVID-19 has changed the marketplace for many businesses as the needs and wants of customers have changed. Developing a new product or service is the lifeblood of all businesses. Investing in their development

isn’t an optional extra - it is crucial to business growth and profitability. Adding value to an existing product or service In a competitive marketplace, adding value to an existing product or service can differentiate your business from its competitors and increase the value of your businesses brand. Support to jump-start innovation in your business Help is at hand from Hertfordshire Growth Hub to help businesses in the County plan for the future. The Hertfordshire Growth Hub is working in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire on the Building Back Better Growth Programme – a project funded by the UK Community Renewal Fund. To find out more about the Building Back Better Growth Programme visit bit.ly/HGHBBBGP.

New and improved Paradise Wildlife Park Paradise Wildlife Park is excited to announce that as of 12th February the park will reopen with some exciting changes across the whole park. view across the habitat will be a dining experience you are not going to want to miss out on. With no need to book to eat at Bamboo Kitchen this up close encounter is available to all!

This reopening will see the grand opening of Bamboo Kitchen! An Asian cuisine restaurant right in the heart of the Land of the Tigers. Visitors will be able to come eye to eye with Amur tigers; the largest tiger species in the world whilst enjoying a selection of asian street food including noodle and rice dishes. The floor to ceiling glass providing a 180 degree

The whole team at Paradise, including all the animals and dinosaurs are excited to welcome everyone back! Since the Park has been closed there has been a vast amount of changes across the site including updates to the driveway and entrance, addition of vibrant colours as well as, new and improved areas. Lynn Whitnall the CEO of Paradise states ‘the team are brimming with excitement to welcome everyone back and to see the reactions to

the fun changes we have made across the site, as we continue to make Paradise a place for families to make wonderful memories with a roarsome twist!’. Exciting new additions including Sun Bear Heights, Jaguar Jungle, Otter Rocks and new Dinosaurs are expected to arrive later this year. Paradise Wildlife Park continues to evolve and develop and be a place for all the family to enjoy. From the variety of animals in the World of Animals to the life size animatronic dinosaurs in the World of Dinosaurs. There is something for everyone.

Strength in numbers

Female leaders are a business asset

The accounting profession has stereotypical characteristics which often are perceived as ‘male’. But now, the working landscape is changing. n Faye Thompson

Head of Cloud Accounting at Wilder Coe Chartered Accountants

----------------------------------------------------------Faye Thompson has seen a shift in attitudes during her 14-year career journey to Head of Cloud Accounting and is delighted to be part of a company that proactively supports females in management roles. “We now proudly have three women at Partner-level at Wilder Coe. I am currently involved in the Partnership Development Programme alongside two other female managers. Across all departments, we have women in management roles and, this shift has been an asset to Wilder Coe’s growth. Although there are challenges, women must realise their potential for success. Male dominance may still arise in the workplace. However, women bring different skills and perspectives that have a positive impact an organisations bottom line. You often feel that your workload can overtake your life and leave little time for anything else. However, the pandemic has taught us that a healthy work-life balance is possible. Having a female support network as you work up through the ranks is integral to understanding you can have a family and a career. One does not dominate the other. Seeing successful women partners and managers will help the future generation know they can do it all.”

Wilder Coe Chartered Accountants are here to help with your business advisory and outsourcing requirements. Arrange a free initial consultation with Faye and the team to discuss your individual needs on 01438 758 100.

www.wildercoe.co.uk

Wilder Coe Ltd Business and Technology Centre Bessemer Drive, Stevenage, SG1 2DX

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Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME to new members u Amber Mountain Marketing Limited Digital Marketing consultancy – offering affordable marketing for business through our apprenticeship packages Email: info@ambermountain.co.uk Web: www.ambermountainmarketing.co.uk Tel: 01727 648780 Address: Redfern House 105 Ashley Road, St Albans Hertfordshire AL2 1JG

u Blue Mole Promotional Merchandise & Print Promotional merchandise & work-wear provider Email: hello@bluemolepromotional.co.uk Web: www.bluemolepromotional.co.uk Tel: 01442 236750 Address: PO Box 1393 Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP1 9NJ

u Cawleys Recycling and Resource Management Twitter: cawleys Email: Nicky.severn@cawleys.co.uk Web: www.cawleys.co.uk Tel: 0845 2602000 Address: 1 Covent Garden Close, Luton Bedfordshire LU4 8QB

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u Cloud9 Business Services

u Futurelink Group

Cloud9 Business Services specialise in telephony, communications and collaborative working solutions Web: www.cloud9bs.co.uk

Payroll Company

u Debenhams Ottaway Solicitors A multi-service law firm helping individuals, families and businesses across Hertfordshire Twitter: DebenhamsOtt Email: lawyers@debenhamsottaway.co.uk Web: www.debenhamsottaway.co.uk Tel: 01727 837161 Address: Ivy House 107 St Peter’s Street St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3EW

u EIC Insurance Services Limited Commercial Insurance Broker Twitter: EICInsurance Email: charlie.hicks@eicinsurance.co.uk Web: www.eicinsurance.co.uk Tel: 01442 286910 Address: Unit 1b Tring Business Estate Upper Icknield Way, Tring Hertfordshire HP23 4JX

u FFEC Limited Passionate and talented designers and project managers, with a combined industry experience of over 20 years in construction, surveying, interior design, architecture and manufacturing Email: info@ffeclimited.com Web: http://ffeclimited.com Tel: 020 77291414 Address: 61 Bridge Road East Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL7 1JR

u Hey Burt Social Media and Marketing Consultancy, Agency and Training Twitter: ChrisPikeuk Email: chris@heyburt.co.uk Web: http://heyburt.co.uk Tel: 07531 108157 Address: The Old Stable 109 Piccotts End Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP1 3AT

u Hopespare Limited Manufacture & Distribution of Hydraulic & Pneumatic Hose & Coupling Connections Email:

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u Hour Hands Hour Hands can save you time by taking on your business and home admin tasks, leaving you free to focus on what’s important to you Twitter: HourHandsUK Email: christine@hourhands.co.uk Web: https://hourhands.co.uk Tel: 07766 004520 Address: 28 High Street Kimpton Hertfordshire SG4 8RN

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u Indigo Tree Digital Ltd

u Marmite Fine Dining Catering

u Stem Connect

Web design agency specialising in providing the right, and most impactful, digital solutions and support to help our clients grow their business Twitter: IndigoTreeSays Email: louise@indigotree.co.uk Web: www.indigotree.co.uk Tel: 01442 877473 Address: Indigo Tree Digital Ltd 2nd Floor, Sutton Court Church Yard Tring Hertfordshire HP23 5BB

Marmite Fine Dining Catering are bespoke caterers who can provide services from private chefs, fine dining experiences, afternoon tea, finger buffets, corporate catering services, and funeral catering Email: marmitefinediningcatering@gmail.com Web: https://marmite-fine-diningcatering.ueniweb.com/ Tel: 07908 992854 Address: Unit 12B Parsons Green Industrial Estate Boulton Road Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 4QG

Telecoms Company- Global Internet

u ITVET Limited

u Network & Security

IT Support and Software solutions Twitter: itvet Email: servicedesk@itvet.co.uk Web: www.itvet.co.uk Tel: 01279 464470 Address: ITVET House 93 London Road Bishop’s Stortford Hertfordshire CM23 3GW

u KG Electrical Contractors Electrical Contractors Twitter: KGElectricalCo1 Email: gabby@kgec.co.uk Web: www.kgelectricalcontractors.co.uk Tel: 01727 741993 Address: 10 Rowlatt Drive St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4NB

u Lakemarine Ltd Training for skills based Apprenticeships in hairdressing, delivering NVQs Web: www.ciente.co.uk

u Mach6 Media Production of and consultancy and training in video, audio, still photography and podcasting for businesses Email: jonw@mach6media.com Web: www.mach6media.com Tel: 020 83649200 Address: 6 Holwell Road Holwell Hitchin Hertfordshire SG5 3SL

We work with you to develop an IT infrastructure that is fast, reliable and reactive to your needs by providing IT Support Services in Hertfordshire and surrounding areas Twitter: net_sec_it Email: neil.kemp@networkandsecurity.co.uk Web: https://networkandsecurity.co.uk Tel: 07958 545129 Address: Redfern House 105 Ashley Road, St Albans Hertfordshire AL2 1JG

u Puddingstone Distillery Gin Distillery - Main brand is Campfire Gin Twitter: campfiregin Email: hello@puddingstonedistillery.com Web: www.puddingstonedistillery.com Tel: 01442 502033 Address: Unit 1 Artisan Workshop Lower Icknield Way, Tring Hertfordshire HP23 4NT

u Rigging Team Rigging Team are friendly, expert providers of creative, safe, reliable rigging and automation solutions. Working in close partnership with all sectors of the production community, covering all aspects of specialist rigging, automation, performer flying, inspections and technical training Twitter: RiggingTeam Email: office@riggingteam.com Web: www.riggingteam.com Tel: 0203 126 4040 Address: Unit 3, Gunnels Wood Park Gunnels Wood Road Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2BH

Service Provider Email: mark.pearce@stemcommect.net Web: www.stemconnect.net Tel: 07984 486536 Address: Maylands Business Centre Office 4, 10 Redbourn Road Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP2 7ES

u STYLIDEAS Limited Reinventing Beauty Accessories Twitter: StylPro_UK Email: teamtom@stylideas.com Web: www.styltom.com Tel: 0203 2255559 Address: No 22 Boxted Farm Berkhamsted Road Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP1 2SG

u Team Factors Ltd Financial Services Email: operations@teamfactors.co.uk Web: www.teamfactors.co.uk Tel: 01923 882910 Address: Stationers Road London Road, Apsley Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP3 9QU

u The Hospice of St. Francis Charity Hospice Twitter: Hospicstfrancis Email: info@hospiceofstfrancis.org.uk Web: www.stfrancis.org.uk Tel: 01442 869555 Address: Spring Garden Lane Northchurch, Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 3GW

u Twenty-Two Business Support and Development Business Support – Recruitment, Lead Generation, Social Media Management, Web Development, CV Writing, Interview Techniques, CRM Building, Business Mentoring. Email: amanda@twentytwobusiness.com Web: https://twentytwobusiness.com Tel: 01923 562558 Address: 10 Blenheim Mews, Shenley Radlett, Hertfordshire WD7 9LL

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MEMBERS NEWS

Governance Spring Clean By ERIKA ELIASSON-NORRIS Chief Executive at Beyond Governance

Every organisation has governance, but only some realise its full potential to make their organisations efficient and effectively run and managed. Good governance is the hallmark of a strong and productive organisation. In short, governance provides a framework to support the decision-making process thereby protecting the Directors and enabling the company to deliver on its strategic direction. Good governance demonstrates the company is well run which gives confidence to investors, customers, employees and suppliers of your continued operations and demonstrates sincerity in your operations. Organisations with robust and defined governance frameworks have a reputational advantage over their competitors.

1. PURPOSE AND LEADERSHIP - How clear is the Board about its purpose and does it drive decision making? Is there clarity on culture and is the organisation’s purpose and values part of its employee behaviours? 2. BOARD COMPOSITION - Is the Board effective and does it provide strategic leadership in line with the organisation’s purpose and values? Does the Board review the right materials and in the right depth? Do you have diversity of thought and experience, and can you increase this by engaging a Non-Executive Director?

As we start the new year financial year you should consider reviewing your governance framework:

Castaway

win!

‘Grandad Castaway’ was a finalist as Parent of the Year for his support of Archie. He used his knowledge and expertise to help Archie and Castaway thrive through lockdown, whilst caring for his wife with dementia who sadly died at the end of last year. Archie was a finalist for Young Achiever of the Year, which he won! It was a fantastic evening and testament to how three generations of family have come together to enable autistic Archie to shine and build a business that will give him full time employment in the future. In 2021 The Office for National Statistics (ONS)

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3. DIRECTOR RESPONSIBILITIES Is there integrity of Board information? Is there sufficient delegation and accountability across the organisation? Are succession plans in place? 4. OPPORTUNITY AND RISK - Does the Board ensure that its decision-making processes are informed, rigorous and timely? Are delegation, control and risk assessments effective? 5. REMUNERATION - Are remuneration structures sufficient to secure and retain Directors, Senior Management, and the general workforce? Are appropriate policies in place to ensure compliance, transparency? 6. STAKEHOLDER RELATIONSHIPS AND ENGAGEMENT - Is the right level of stakeholder engagement taking place? 7. STRUCTURE - When did you last update your articles of association? Do you have a Board forward look agenda to ensure timely action on reporting requirements? Do you have a Corporate and Board calendar? Are you looking to grow your organisation this year? A governance uplift could be exactly what you need.

Local bath bomb making business and Herts Chamber member Castaway Cottage joined other nominees on Friday 21 January for the annual Hertfordshire Heart Hero Awards at Sopwell House. It was hosted by Heart FM drivetime DJ, John Darin and sponsored by Taylor Walton.

reported just 22% of autistic adults are in any kind of employment. Archie said, “A huge thank you to all of the sponsors, nominees and Heart FM. I feel incredibly proud to win this award, and the opportunity to highlight how autism can be a huge advantage and what is possible with the right guidance and support. The evening was a fantastic celebration.” George Cronin, aka ‘Grandad Castaway’ remarked, “We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of a loyal and growing customer base, local businesses and retailers championing Castaway and what it represents in Hertfordshire.’’

Castaway Cottage is looking for offices to visit to offer staff a lunchtime shopping experience. If you are interested, please contact Louise: louise@castaway-cottage.co.uk https://castaway-cottage.co.uk/

MEMBERS NEWS

Hitchin entrepreneur revolutionises fragrance industry business

When MIKE EDWARDS began his career as an unassuming department store salesman at the age of 18, he was unaware he would successfully climb the corporate ladder, eventually owning his own company. Viviana: Creating the perfect blend

After working with the likes of Revlon and Unilever, Edwards saw opportunities in licensing fragrance, working with A-List clients such as JLS, One Direction, Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Bublé. Following this, he decided to look for the next big thing. What was the fragrance industry missing? When Edwards formed Viviana in 2019, he knew that his product needed to be different. He knew the sector had suffered from a lack of innovation to anticipate the changing demands of the customer.

The entrepreneur formed Viviana with the aim to deliver ‘disruptive innovation’ that exceeds customer expectation. Partnering with cutting-edge brands, designers and perfumers, Viviana looks set to redefine the consumer market, while sourcing the highest quality ingredients. ‘More is More!’, created in partnership with Judith Leiber – known for her iconic accessory handbags as seen on the runway, red carpet and high-end retailers – is a ground-breaking new fragrance. The first of its kind and hosting an innovative, lavish design, consumers can experience up to seven different scents all from one bottle. The brand is on sale in the UK, USA, all the GCC countries, South Africa, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong and India with more markets to come.

Consumers can build their own signature fragrance by selecting one, two or all three scents by moving the crystal sliders at the top of each reusable and refillable component. By blending technology with fragrance, Viviana is revolutionising the cosmetic industry with what is just the beginning of a new realm of fragrance technology.

What’s next? The leading fragrance company is currently working towards a new project, subject to investment. Pursuing a similar concept to ‘More is More!’, Viviana’s upcoming innovation allows consumers to leverage technology to mix variations through percentages. The bottle’s four chambers could create potentially hundreds of unique fragrances from one product. Its digital screen means that consumers can set, save and name different scents for separate occasions. Future developments could also see technology extending to

shareable QR codes of scents, as well as potential for demographic data access through fragrance preferences. Mike Edwards, Managing Director at Viviana, said: “In an increasingly digital world, claiming your own unique taste and personality has become vital. We’re looking forward to developing our technological advances in the industry, making way for ground-breaking cosmetic innovation.” “We’re incredibly proud to be a part of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. We have been able to create valuable professional relationships and partnerships, collaborate with organisations from different sectors throughout what is one of the largest and most successful creative business hubs of the country.”

Concert to celebrate

HM The Queen

St Albans Cathedral Wednesday 6th July 2022 at 7.30pm

Organised by the International Organ Festival and the Hertfordshire Lieutenancy in recognition of her Platinum Jubilee A unique and thrilling concert of popular and ceremonial music from across the Queen’s reign will be given in St Albans Cathedral to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee. We are honoured that a member of the Royal Family will be attending this special event and international choirmaster and broadcaster, Gareth Malone, will present the evening. Headlining the evening will be London’s Southbank Sinfonia, described as an ‘orchestra like no other’ comprising thirty-three of the world’s most promising graduate musicians. Conducted by their founder, Simon Over, the orchestra will be joined by a massed choir of 180 singers, fanfare trumpeters and other guest musicians. Music will include Military marches, Handel’s Zadok the Priest, Eric Coates’ London Suite,

Parry’s I was glad, John Williams’ Harry Potter Suite, and Paul Mealor’s Military Wives anthem, Wherever you are. After concert costs are covered, net proceeds from advertising sponsorship, donations, ticket sales and the retiring collection will be divided equally between Hospices serving Hertfordshire communities and St Albans International Organ Festival. A colour programme will be produced to accompany this unique concert and there are fantastic opportunities to support this event through advertising. Janie Wentworth-Stanley DL On behalf of the Hertfordshire Lieutenancy Concert Committee For further information please contact nicolastokes76@gmail.com

MANAGED PRINT SOLUTIONS • Supply Photocopiers, Printers & Multifunctional Devices

• Free print audits on request, that usually show savings upto 30% • Fully inclusive agreements that provide aftercare service, including all toners, parts & labour • Purchase, Leasing and Rental options all available • Supply new and used devices • Papercut printing & scanning solutions • Non contract repairs and supplies

www.copyquality.co.uk • david@copyquality.co.uk • 01707 659 312

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MEMBERS NEWS

Debenhams Ottaway strengthens its corporate team with senior city lawyer

Corporate lawyer Rebecca Lorne has recently joined Debenhams Ottaway’s corporate and commercial team. With many years’ experience in the city, advising clients on corporate finance deals as well as commercial contracts, Rebecca adds both strength and depth. Corporate lawyer Rebecca Lorne has recently joined Debenhams Ottaway’s corporate and commercial team. With many years’ experience in the city, advising clients on corporate finance deals as well as commercial contracts, Rebecca adds both strength and depth. Rebecca joins an ambitious corporate team with a strong reputation in St Albans and across Hertfordshire for working with medium-sized businesses, ownermanaged businesses and entrepreneurs on complex, high value transactional work. Her background and experience are a great fit for the team and will be key for their ambitious growth plans and continuing their dedication to providing outstanding client service. Left to right: James Brawn, Rebecca Lorne, Andrew Yates.

Rebecca will work with the existing team to advise businesses on their acquisitions, disposals, shareholders agreements,

bespoke articles of association and share buy-back schemes. Andrew Yates, who leads Debenhams Ottaway’s corporate and commercial team comments “Rebecca is a great addition to our team. She will be pivotal in helping us provide outstanding client service and reinforcing our growing reputation for advising local SMEs, entrepreneurs and national businesses on all aspects of their business.” Rebecca adds “I’m really thrilled to be part of an ambitious team and working in St Albans which has such a thriving business community. There are some great companies that call Hertfordshire home, it’s an exciting place to be.” For further details contact: Kat Malshinger email: kmm@debenhamsottaway.co.uk

Watford Borough Council flying the flag for LGBTQ+ History Month

Earn while you learn! Vacancies in construction related businesses are at an all time high and we, like our industry colleagues are facing a skills shortage right now and over the next 10+ years. MCP is a repairs and maintenance, family business based in Hertford, caring for our customers since 1978. We are committed to ensuring our people make a positive difference to our residents and their homes.

l We focus on attracting people who match our values first and foremost l We encourage people with little or no experience to come and ‘have a go’ through our work experience programme l Our own experienced people love to be mentors and share their experience l We are working with Herts LEP to partner with local schools, CTP to retrain ex-services personnel and in collaboration with other industry colleagues l We are starting an Academy to train and upskill apprentices and trainees

www.mcp.community 52

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Watford Borough Council’s Elected Mayor Peter Taylor and Chairman Aga Dychton have raised the rainbow flag to mark LGBTQ+ History Month. The overall aim of LGBTQ+ History Month is to promote equality and diversity for the benefit of the public. This is achieved by increasing the visibility of this community, the people, the history and their experiences. The council also supports the Ask for Clive initiative, which encourages pubs, bars, restaurants, cafés, gyms, sports clubs and other entertainment venues to display a rainbow sticker, indicating its staff will not tolerate homophobic or transphobic abuse. If LGBTQ people are experiencing discrimination, they can approach employees and ‘ask for Clive’ in these venues. The name Clive is inspired by Clive Duffey - organiser of Herts Pride. This year, Herts Pride, Hertfordshire’s largest LGBTQ+ festival, will be held at Cassiobury Park on 20 August 2022. It is an all-inclusive event supporting the LGBTQ+ community and everyone is welcome to attend.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said “One of the wonderful things that makes Watford the incredible community it is, is the diversity in our town. Throughout these last difficult few years, people from all parts of the world, of all faiths and of all sexualities have supported each other. We are proud to mark LGBTQ+ History Month to raise awareness of the issues that impact this community and promote equality for all.” For more information, please visit www.hertspride.org and facebook.com/askforclive.

Legal Property Experts

in association with Penman Sedgwick LLP

CAE Technology Services celebrates 30 years of culture, customers, and cutting-edge innovation Company is planning positively for its long-term future with a year of celebrations and future looking events. Infrastructure technology solutions provider, CAE Technology Services, celebrating its’ 30th anniversary on the 7th February 2022.

and we are now living in the internet age where technology is ubiquitous and both the source of, and solution to, so many of the challenges that humankind face.”

To mark this milestone the company is kicking off a year’s worth of events and initiatives to look back at some of the momentous moments for the business, industry and technology as well as looking to the future, and aspirations for the next 30 years.

With this in mind, CAE will be engaging with customers, partners, and industry figures old and new, to reflect on what the future will look like, the lessons we have all learned, and the difference that has been made since CAE was formed.

The last 30 years has seen the organisation grow to more than 350 people, representing sales of over £130m across seven offices in the UK and businesses in Europe, North America and Asia. The company’s growth and success has been directly linked to the adapting needs of customers, and a passion for continuously understanding, simplifying, and solving real business challenges with better use of technology.

Commenting on the celebration plans Justin says, “As I look back on our 30-year journey, I am proud that we have stayed focused on the customer experience and our culture.

CAE’s Chief Executive, Justin Harling, has been reflecting on the past 30 years, “It is humbling to take a moment and comprehend just how much the world of IT has changed in the last three decades. Major brands have come and gone,

It is our people and our partnerships that have allowed the company to come so far in advancing our vision, becoming stronger together and being able to look forward with a massive amount of optimism. “Many things have changed in the last 30 years, but CAE has always worked to put the best people in the most supportive environment so that they can help customers progress and in turn progress themselves, and that is certainly worth celebrating,” concludes Harling.

Claire Miller – Partner, Head of Property

Commercial Leases – Assignment: key issues Assignment (i.e. transfer) of a lease is one way a tenant might look to dispose of its interest. However, most commercial leases will contain restrictions on the tenant’s ability to assign the lease. The key issues to consider are: • Check what restrictions apply – these will be set out in the lease, but be sure to check any supplemental documents too e.g. side letters, deeds of variation, rent deposit deed, superior lease, agreement for lease • Landlord’s consent – most leases will require the tenant to obtain the landlord’s consent before the assignment may take place, and the tenant will usually have to pay the landlord’s legal costs and other professional costs of dealing with the application for consent • Superior landlord’s consent – if there is a superior lease, consent may also be required from the superior landlord (and the tenant will usually have to pay the costs of obtaining this too) • Authorised Guarantee Agreement (AGA) – the landlord may require an AGA as a condition of granting consent to the assignment of the lease. An AGA is a guarantee by

the outgoing tenant that the assignee will observe and perform the covenants in the lease, and will typically remain in place for the whole period that the assignee is liable • What additional security can the landlord require from the buyer? - e.g. a rent deposit or a guarantor • Circumstances for refusal – the lease might specify circumstances in which it would be reasonable for the landlord to refuse consent, e.g. due to arrears of rent, or breach of covenant, or the financial standing of the assignee • Offer back clauses – some leases require the tenant to offer the lease back to the landlord before proceeding with an assignment • Permitted use – is a change of use proposed, and if so is landlord’s consent required to this change and/ or any application for planning permission? This is just a brief summary: there are many other issues to consider, and it is important to obtain appropriate professional advice before proceeding, not least so that the tenant ensures that it complies with the terms of its lease.

If you are looking for legal advice, we can help.

Problem Solved e: cmiller@penmansedgwick.com t: 01923 225212 www.penmansedgwick.com

5 George Street, Watford, Herts WD18 0SQ INSPIRE INSPIRE 53 53

LONG STANDING MEMBERS

ING M EM

20 - 24

LON

Hertfordshire Chamber Celebrates its Long-Standing Members

AND T S

Years

As we approach 100 years in business, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce would like to express our sincere gratitude for our members. In particular those who have been with us the longest, for their continued support in contributing towards our chamber; from attending our events to sharing news on the website. Over the last two years, Hertfordshire businesses have battled their way through the COVID-19 pandemic, and have come out on top through resilience, tenacity and adaptability.

The 10th Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards took place in September at Warner Bros Studios in Watford, where we celebrated the successes of our members and non-members alike with a fantastic ceremony, and in excellent company. We value the trust that our members have put in us to support their business through good times and bad. It is a pleasure to serve you

PATRON MEMBER u

Longmores Solicitors

PLATINUM MEMBER u

MBDA UK LTD

DIAMOND MEMBER u

Moore Kingston Smith LLP

and we certainly look forward to continue doing so. From Bronze members to Patrons, we could not function without our members, so, on behalf of everyone at Herts Chamber, thank you. Briege Leahy CEO Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber is the premier business organisation in the county and patronage provides us with many business development opportunities. Events, lunches and peer to peer introductions help us get to know lots of Hertfordshire businesses and assist them with

PLATINUM MEMBER u

Organon Pharma (UK) Limited

PLATINUM MEMBER u

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Paradise Wildlife Park

the legal issues they face. Richard Gvero, Joint Senior Partner, Head of Commercial and Head of Employment, Longmores Solicitors

LONG STANDING MEMBERS

The Herts Chamber is at the very heart of our

business community. Our involvement with this very

Limited

active and forward-looking Chamber has supported us over the years to make connections with businesses and business leaders.

Istec Services Limited

Richard Long & Co

Kanegrade Limited

Robinson Low Francis LLP

Keech Hospice Care

u u

Kings House Management (UK) Limited

Stevenage Leisure Limited

Strutt & Parker, International Property

SILVIA VITIELLO Partner Moore Kingston Smith LLP

Stevenage Glass Co

Consultants u

Sue White Consultants Limited

Tewin Bury Farm Hotel

Shoal Group Limited trading as FS Cables

The Golf Foundation

The Peace Hospice

Shepherds Estate Agent

Mercer & Hole

Sonovision Limited

The Wine Society

Mobile Stationery & Printing Centre Limited

Spectrum Forwarding Limited

UH Venues

North Hertfordshire District Council

Stevenage Borough Council

UHY Hacker Young

Stevenage Community Trust

Watford Borough Council

Xylem Water Solutions UK

Oasys Technologies Limited

Stevenage Football Club

Limited

Pace 2000 Trading Limited

Pelmark Direct

Philip T Chave & Company

Herts Chamber of Commerce. We have been a part

R & D Marine Limited

of the business community since 1905. Working with

Raymond James Investment Services

Regent Shipping Agencies Limited

We are proud to be long standing member of

clients across accountancy, tax, financial planning and advisory. Natalie McSavaney Marketing Manager Mercer & Hole INSPIRE

The Four Services essential services for members The Chamber has an ongoing commitment to provide members with a range of benefits that offer real value to their business. Without a doubt services that help protect members are very important which is why we invest in key services that are approved and recommended by the British Chambers of Commerce. They are adopted by almost every UK Chamber. 56

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Four Key Services Did you know that members have access to four key services, Chamber HR, Chamber Legal, Chamber Health and Safety and Chamber Tax, which provide the following services; • Advice Lines - unlimited access to five advice lines – HR, Legal, Health & Safety, Tax and VAT. • Website - unlimited access to three document libraries with almost 800 free downloadable template documents plus guidance notes, news articles and general information • Chamber Legal Expenses Insurance, which underpins these services, provides cover across 11 different sections with up to £100,000 per claim and £1,000,000 in the annual aggregate. Areas of cover include employment disputes and tax investigations Access to all of the above is available for Silver members of Herts Chamber and up, and is included in the membership fee, so you have nothing extra to pay.

What’s In It For You? The benefits to members are extensive. These services can help you to manage problems, get answers to any questions

or concerns you may have, help keep you compliant, save you money, support your staff and give you ongoing protection and peace of mind.

Easy Access • One phone number – 01455 852037 for unlimited access to all advice line services. The HR line is available 365 days a year. • One website – all members are issued with individual login details for access and the link can be found on the Chamber website or visit the Chamber Index page at www.chamberhr.co.uk and scroll down to select your Chamber

One2One Services If you want to find out a bit more about the HR or health & safety services members can book a free One2One meeting with a Quest Business Support Manager who can help you to discover what the services can do for you or they can compare any current outsourced provision you may have to the service you get as a member…and you may find that you no longer need to pay extra for these services. They can also do a One2One Review which helps check your compliance status. To book a free One2One meeting email Myles at mday@questcover.com

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT

Welcome to a sustainable events venue, on the worldrenowned Rothamsted Campus in Harpenden. Rothamsted Conference Centre profits go to supporting the world leading science and research conducted at Rothamsted Research. Our Scientific colleagues are tackling the grand global challenges of food security and the impact climate change is having on our food supplies, therefore each cup of coffee, and meeting room sold helps to supports this cause. • A selection of spacious meeting rooms with natural day light. • Large outdoor spaces for coffee breaks and team building. • Flexible booking terms and conditions. • A focus on delegate well being. • High quality sustainable food options. • Direct train link to London and 5 mins from Junction 9 of the M1.

COVID SECURE VENUE

Call our sales team on 01582 938500 to arrange a visit or head to or website rothamstedenterprises.com for information and offers. Rothamsted Enterprises, West Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2JQ

OAKLANDS COLLEGE

www.oaklands.ac.uk

THE NEXT CHAPTER... State-of-the-art construction centre

The College has recently appointed its new Principal, Andrew Slade, who is leading the next chapter in the College’s strategy as it begins its next 100 years. The College is very keen to engage business in the formation of its strategy and on-going as it continually evolves its curriculum.

Oaklands College offers students of all ages the opportunity to shape their futures across three centres of learning, with campuses in St Albans, Welwyn Garden City, and a teaching facility in Borehamwood, covering one of the widest spectrums of subjects and sectors – having delivered educational excellence and skills training for the region over the last 100 years. The College’s commitment to community learning has been reinforced by the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, which aims to help provide local businesses with new workforces of upskilled adult learners, whose skills and qualifications meet the demands and job requirements in many growing sectors including construction, logistics, healthcare and primary education.

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The College is offering adult learners aged 19 and over, who are without a full Level 3 qualification, free access to the qualifications required to further their career pathways in key industry sectors. As a result of this, the funding creates opportunities for local businesses to upskill their existing workforce, ensuring they continue to support and flourish within the growing economy. In addition to the Skills Fund, Oaklands is actively engaging employers to inform its teaching as well as inform the development of its teaching facilities. The next development of its £62 million investment in its campuses will be the delivery of a state-of-the-art construction centre and the College is keen to gain input from all relevant business including Construction, plumbing and electrical businesses to ensure that the facility meets their training needs.

Andrew Slade, Principal and CEO Any local companies who are interested in contributing ideas to the Construction Centre, and more generally to the development of the College’s curriculum, should please contact: David Alder Director of Marketing, Admissions and Commercial by emailing:

david.alder@oaklands.ac.uk

SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT

HERTFORD REGIONAL COLLEGE Helping Hertfordshire businesses maximise their potential by equipping their current and future employees with the skills they need to succeed.

he College was inspected by Ofsted in November 2021 and it received a “Good” overall rating. Inspectors specifically noted that the College works: “… effectively with local employers to design a curriculum which equips learners and apprentices with the skills and knowledge required by the local and regional employment market. As a result, learners and apprentices progress to successful and rewarding careers in their chosen sectors.”

HERTFORD REGIONAL COLLEGE has two modern, well equipped campuses located in Broxbourne and Ware. The College offers a wide range of courses across all of the county’s priority employment sectors that are specifically designed to develop the skills, knowledge, and experience of its learners and apprentices.

But don’t just take our word for it…

We are committed to supporting the long term business goals of our employer partners across the county and simultaneously supporting individuals to maximise their economic and social impact through a curriculum model that focusses on progression and next steps. We are especially proud of the impact our apprentices have in the workplace and, as Ofsted noted: “…Apprentices learn relevant and industry standard practical skills in the college workshops, which they use immediately at their workplace. They are proud of being trusted by their employers to work independently as their knowledge and skills increase.”

We are already working in successful partnerships with fellow members of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce but we are always looking to develop more such partnerships to benefit both businesses and individuals. If you would like to find out more about how Hertford Regional College can help you to identify your future talent pipeline, upskill or reskill your existing workforce or support your business growth in any way, there’s never been a better time to get in touch and find out more about how we can support you. As Ofsted noted: “Learners and apprentices develop their critical thinking skills very effectively…. Teachers demonstrate high levels of technical knowledge and use industry standard resources to prepare learners appropriately for the world of work.” In addition to this, we always want our learners to learn about best practice in the workplace directly from employers in order to inspire them to work locally and contribute to the local economy. So, if you’re an employer looking to give something back within your own sector, which could be by providing invaluable workplace experiences such as industrial placements and/or work experience, offering opportunities for industry visits or coming into the College as a guest speaker to inspire the workforce of the future in your sector, please get in touch.

You could use the QR code or visit our website at hrc.ac.uk INSPIRE

Grants to cut carbon emissions, save money & minimise waste

What’s good for the planet is good for business Match funded grants of between £1,000 - £5,000 available. Low Carbon Workspaces help businesses* to identify projects that will reduce their energy, water and fuel usage. Eligible measures include LED lighting, solar panels, heating upgrades and more. *Available in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.

Funded by:

INSPIRE

Apply for your grant online: www.lowcarbonworkspaces.co.uk For more information contact: 01494 927131 or info@lowcarbonworkspaces.co.uk

Delivered by:

HERTFORDSHIRE GLOBAL

RECORD BREAKING YEAR

Photo Credit: Pixabay.com

for Herts Chamber’s International Team

We are very pleased to report that even with 2021 being another severely disrupted year, the Chambers’ International Trade Department recorded assisting Herts companies to export around £600 million of goods, which is a record. This shows that even with Covid and Brexit, trade is continuing apace, and the resilience of our local companies shone through. With Covid now, seemingly, and thankfully in retreat, international borders reopening, and certain restrictions being lifted, we are already seeing encouraging signs that companies are continuing to actively pursue export deals. To further assist companies to export, the British Chambers of Commerce has recently produced a Trade Manifesto. The Chamber of Commerce network has always been a champion of international trade and there is no doubt that any business that embraces exporting will be better off for it. It’s one of the reasons why more than 60% of Chamber members trade overseas compared to just 10% of all businesses in the UK. The world of trade has seen huge disruption over the past two years and more change is on the way. We now stand at a moment where we must seize this opportunity to be in the vanguard of a world-wide revolution in new technology, digital services and Net Zero innovations. The Manifesto outlines, in some detail, our offer including advice on documentation, training, Chamber Customs and our Global Business Network (spanning 75 countries), along with what the BCC feels the Government can do to help and what they would like to see from the EU. For more details please see our website. It is the aim of the BCC to double the number of UK firms exporting and if we use the considerable expertise, knowledge, skills, and networking ability at our disposal then we believe we can truly make a difference to exporters and the UK economy. In the last edition of Inspire I wrote about the Changes to International Trade from 1st January. Below are a few more useful pointers. If you import goods into GB from the EU, you or the person moving your goods must check whether the goods need to be taken for an inspection on arrival. This can be done on GOV.UK under Check if you need to report for an inspection. You don’t need to be registered to use the service but will need the Good Movement Reference (GMR) to access the correct information.

John Woodruffe Head of International Trade and Policy

If you don’t take your goods for an inspection when you’re told to, you may be liable to pay a penalty up to £2,500. The person who created the GMR is responsible for making sure the goods are taken for an inspection.

The way you submit a declaration when importing goods into the UK has changed. In most cases, you no longer need to manually arrive your goods on the system. However, there are some exceptions where you may need to.

Otodynamics has been a member of the HCCI for 25+ years. Working with the export team, in particular Frances, has

Please go to GOV.UK to read more about making a full import declaration and making a simplified frontier declaration.

enabled us to trade with

If you do need to arrive your goods manually on the system, you must do this by 11.59pm the day after the goods arrive in the UK.

have really considered, and

If you’re using a freight forwarder or customs agent to complete customs declarations on your behalf, you should make sure they’re aware of this information.

new countries we wouldn’t the knowledge and advice given has been second to none especially with more

Further support

complex issues. With forever

You can:

changing overseas rules

• Watch HMRC webinars and YouTube videos on importing and exporting with the EUHelp and support for UK transition GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) • Use the government’s free Export Support Service, if you export to the EU Ask the export support team a question - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) • Call HMRC Customs and International Trade helpline on 0300 322 9434 (8am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 4pm at weekends). Finally, please don’t forget Frances and I are very much here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us. johnwoodruffe@hertschamber.com francesharris@hertschamber.com or for general enquiries export@hertschamber.com

Frances Harris Internal Export Manager

and regulations surrounding export documentation etc., the benefits to us and the services offered in terms of training and the ongoing advice and support has been second to none. Thank you very much. Jon Parsons, Sales Coordination Manager, Otodynamics Ltd

INSPIRE

THE LAST WORD

Q What do you do?

I’m a Managing Director, which as a title and job role has changed so much over the years. In essence, I set the strategy and am responsible for the direction and ultimately profit of the company. These days you must be very hands-on as to survive you need to be lean and agile. With 30 years in recruitment, I’m still learning and that’s such an important lesson.

Q Who do you work for?

The Last Word

DAVID CLUBB Managing Director Tate Recruitment

You need to be passionate about your product or service and totally believe it will succeed, but you must learn by your mistakes and keep improving.

Patrons

INSPIRE

Tate Recruitment. We’re a provider of office staff to businesses, both private and public. We recruit your permanent support staff in customer service and admin, through to your professional managers in HR, marketing and finance. We supply temporary staff for short-term projects and managed solutions whereby we manage a volume-flexible workforce to suit the needs of a fluctuating recruitment cycle.

Q Why did you join the Chamber?

Initially for its networking opportunities. We then upgraded to become a Patron and enjoy sharing our expertise in recruitment, employee engagement and retention with fellow members. We’re committed to supporting the continued development of the future of Hertfordshire.

Q What do you get from it?

The opportunity to profile our brand and service, build working relationships, share and receive referrals, and increase revenue. Participating in events and awards allows us to meet contacts informally too.

Q How has it helped your network?

We’ve been members for six years now. If you do the right thing, people will refer you. I’m still a great believer in word of mouth.

Q What advice would you

give someone starting out in business?

You need to be passionate about your product or service and totally believe it will succeed, but you must learn by your mistakes and keep improving. Hard work and persistence will get you through. However, above all, I believe in integrity. I love the CS Lewis quote: “integrity is doing the right thing, even when no-one is watching!”

Q What’s the biggest challenge in running and growing a business?

Aside from the fundamentals of capital, cashflow and growing your sales, it’s about attracting likeminded people to keep your business growing with the same passion and enthusiasm as you. This is why I love recruitment and see the difference we can make. The heart of your business is your people and investing in your staff will pay you dividends.

Q What support do you want from government?

We have a shortage of labour and skills in the UK at present so I’d like to see more incentives to work and easier access to training funds. If we could access the apprenticeship levy fund more easily, this could really help.

Q How confident are you that your business will grow in the future?

At the moment, very confident. We’ve adapted our business model through the pandemic and with everyone wanting to expand again after the pandemic, it will be about how we can keep up with demand.

www.Tate.co.uk

David.Clubb@tate.co.uk #KeeptheHeartinHerts

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Inspire March 2022

Articles inside

Hertfordshire Global

Membership Benefits

New Members

Entrepreneur Foundation

Patron Focus

Diamond Club

Inspirational Leaders 11

Growth Hub/News

Tourism & Hospitality

Keeping the Heart in Hertfordshire

Chamber Charity