IoD East Midlands Spring by Rob Beswick

SPRING 2019

East Midlands

www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

The official membership magazine for the Institute of Directors in the East Midlands

Meet the IoD Ambassadors Search is on for student mentors

Charlotte Valeur:

Collaboration, honesty and trust: my three watchwords EVENTS

DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT

ADVICE AND INFORMATION

NEWS

Business has a right to feel let-down by our politicians Garry Smith Regional Chairman IoD East Midlands Spirit-sapping limbo… that’s not exactly an optimistic note to start on, is it, but when you see a quote that you feel is apt and sums up the current situation, grab it regardless of the consequences. The line comes, of course, from the IoD in London and was uttered by our interim director-general the day Theresa May’s Withdrawal Agreement was voted down by MPs for the third time. It is possible that by the time you read this issue of IoD East Midlands a route through the impasse will have opened up… but that still won’t excuse what has been a pitiful period in British politics. What appears to have been lost in the point scoring and No Deal/soft deal/ new vote debates is that the fog of uncertainty created by Westminster is exactly the opposite of what business is calling for. From the start, indeed right from 2016, business has asked for clarity. Give us a path, tell us the landscape and we will work out the best way for our businesses to operate in it. But what we got in reply was anything but: where we wanted clarity, we got confusion. No business leader can possibly make key decisions in the current muddle of conflicting messages – and that’s why business has increasingly felt hamstrung by the unedifying farce played out before us

since Christmas. I have spoken to a number of business leaders across the East Midlands who tell me of investment decisions put on ice, of jobs not created, of new products not being exploited, as people keep their powder dry for the day when they know which way to move. Business confidence, as recorded by IoD polling, is low and soon this will start to have a knock-on effect on jobs created. Whatever the landscape is on the day you read this, what has gone previously has been a sorry excuse for government. The irony is, despite the political landscape, the economy remains reasonably strong. I speak to many people who are flying – particularly in the digital economy, where growth seems never-ending. It is particularly pleasing to hear about companies looking to export outside the EU, and more companies are taking their first steps trading overseas. What frustrates, though, is that that news shows the strength, versatility, flexibility and imagination of the UK business world; just imagine how well it would do if it knew what it needed to do to trade with its nearest neighbours! Our Women as Leaders convention at the end of March is reported on elsewhere in this issue so I will hold back on saying too much. What I will give you, however, are my thoughts on the day, which was a marvellously uplifting occasion. We were joined by the IoD chair, Charlotte Valeur, who had some interesting things to say on the current issues of gender balance, the

importance of women in the workplace and growing true diversity of thought in your business. Among Charlotte’s comments was a question as to whether we still needed ‘Women as Leaders’ conferences at all – should we just identify as ‘Leaders’ and stop ‘discriminating’ against men? She also wondered whether boys in today’s society were struggling to find a voice as the attention is directed towards girls. She was very strong on the values that have underpinned her own career, and spoke of the need for ‘authentic leadership’. It is impossible to bring your team with you unless you are an open, honest and transparent leader, she said. Her watchwords and key values are simple: Collaboration, honesty, transparency and truth. Charlotte was joined on the convention stage by a very eclectic group of speakers who informed, amused and provoked debate in equal measure. Ably hosted as previously by Louise Third, I was particularly impressed by Lincolnshire Chief Constable Bill Skelly – recently voted one of the UK’s ‘Top 50 Kindest Leaders to Work For’ – and Lisa Wainwright, who comes from a sporting background and is a naturally amusing and engaging speaker. All backed by a lively Q&A and plenty of interaction from the floor, it was a hugely enjoyable day – full of clarity, common sense, understanding of others’ views and honesty. Feel free to draw your own comparisons between the first half of this column, and the second!

‘It is impossible to bring your team with you unless you are an open leader,’ said Charlotte Valeur. Her watchwords and key values are simple: Collaboration, honesty, transparency and truth...” IoD East Midlands is grateful to our regional sponsors

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News

IoD on hunt for new member lounge as Crowne Plaza steps into breach Our sincere apologies but the IoD member meeting space in the Business Lounge at Nottingham Trent University is no longer available. IoD East Midlands is seeking a longer term alternative but in the meantime we have negotiated with Crowne Plaza Hotel Nottingham (five minutes away from the previous lounge) that IoD members can use their space in the atrium for informal meetings. The atrium has plenty of different seating areas, and the option to book private meeting rooms at a discounted cost. There will also be a discount on

production of your IoD membership card, of 50 per cent on teas, coffees and hot drinks and 25 per cent on food. The entrance to the Crowne Plaza Hotel is on Woollaton Street and the nearest tram stop is the Theatre Royal stop, which is visible from the entrance to the hotel. This will take you directly to and from Nottingham train station, or the tram park and ride sites. We also have a members’ premises in Leicester at the Castle Business School, please see panel below.

In addition, IoD member Paul Bresnihan has kindly offered his meeting rooms at Growth Partners Plc. These are based at 2 Colton Square, Leicester, LE1 1QH, and the rooms are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am5.00pm. To book either the Board room (for up to 12 people for two hours) or a meeting/private room (four people for up to six hours), please email natasha. plant@growthpartnersplc.co.uk or call on 0116 3403116 You can drop in and hot desk ad-hoc when space available, no pre-booking required.

Business School lounge open to IoD All IoD Members now have access to the lounge at Leicester Castle Business School, which is part of De Montfort University.

Exclusive to IoD members and guests The school is based in the Great Hall of Leicester Castle, which has recently undergone a £4.2 million refurbishment programme. The 11th century building is newly-restored and part of De business school. Coffee, tea and water Montfort University’s new world-class are available all day, in addition to business school. high-speed WiFi. The space is available for IoD members and guests and is a Opening Hours first-class networking environment. Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 5.00pm No need to book, just arrive on the day and sign in at reception with your IoD Directors’ Lounge The Directors’ Lounge is located in the Membership number. There is a maximum of three guests. Grand Jury room on the first floor of the

Please note the lounge is open to the university as well as IoD Members so space is on a first-come, first-serve basis and there may be other meetings taking place at the same time. Private meeting space is also available on a chargeable basis. Contact Leicester Castle Business School for more information.

Now, they can’t be official office attire... Staff from the IoD East Midlands Office took part in Silly Sock day on Friday, 5th April. By donning their most ridiculous socks they helped to raise awareness of autism, as well as funds to support the ongoing work of Autism East Midlands. Stephen Knott, head of fundraising & communications for the charity, said “We are so grateful to the amazing staff at the IoD and all the other members who played a part in the day. “In the business community many are showing an increasing awareness of autism spectrum conditions, but as a society we still have a long way to go to encourage

neurodiversity in the workforce. “Only 16 per cent of autistic adults work in a full-time role – despite many having the drive, ambition and skills to do so. We hope to open up the conversation and make an ongoing difference for all in society”. Autism East Midlands operates a number of services across the region, including performing environmental audits to ensure that workplaces are autism-friendly, and delivering autism in the workplace training sessions on a variety of topics. For more information on the work of Autism East Midlands see www.autismeastmidlands.org.uk www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Summer showcase for knowledge and talent Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 4.30pm-6.30pm Venue: Leicester Castle Business School, 7 Castle View, Leicester LE1 5WH Leicester Castle Business School and Leicester Law School, De Montfort University invite you to attend the Summer Showcase 2019. The showcase will give you and your organisation the opportunity to engage and work with us to the benefit of your business. You will have the opportunity to meet all of the areas that can support your business from our DMU Works team, including placements, graduate

champions, executive company projects and careers through to our research groups and executive education team for all of your continuing professional development and apprenticeship needs. The event will start at 4.30pm with a short introduction at 5pm followed by the opportunity to visit the information stands and network with other businesses while enjoying a glass of fizz with some light summer bites. It’s a great opportunity to access Knowledge – Network – Talent!

CONTACTS IoD East Midlands, Nottingham Trent University, Burton St, Nottingham NG1 4BU www.iod.com/ emidlandsevents Regional Chairman: Garry Smith e: chair.eastmids@iod.net t: 07747 696186 Regional Director: Ron Lynch e: ron.lynch@iod.com t: 0115 848 6190 / 07939 584626 Head of Business Development: Sue Charlesworth e: sue.charlesworth@iod.com t: 0115 848 6190 / 07939 584962 Regional Events Manager: Cari Grice e: cari.grice@iod.com t: 0115 848 6190 / 07545 206 238 Events Administrator: Sophie Jackson e: sophie.jackson@iod.com t: 0115 848 6190 Lincolnshire Branch Chair: Gary Headland e: chair.lincs@iod.net t: 07787 484448 Northamptonshire Branch Chair: Sarah Canning e: chair.northampton@iod.net The Institute of Directors East Midlands membership magazine is published on behalf of the IoD by: Chamber Media Services, 4 Hilton Road, Bramhall, Stockport, Cheshire SK7 3AG Advertising sales: Colin Regan t: 01942 537959 / 07871 444922 e: colinregan001@yahoo.co.uk Production: Rob Beswick t: 0161 426 7957 e: rob@chambermediaservices.co.uk

Beer and banter IoD East Midlands members had a fun and tasty night out when they indulged in a spot of Beer and Banter at the New Theatre Royal Lincoln. Our hosts for the evening were the Lincolnshire Brewing Company and one of its directors, Claire Brown, took us on a tour of the trials and tribulations of running a brewery – including some very tasty ales to try. After that it was a case of take the best seats in the house for a night of comedy with some top-level comedians. We’d like to say it was great CPD... but in truth, it was an informal, relaxing and fun networking night that gave members a break from business. www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Please note... Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, neither the IoD nor Chamber Media Services can accept any responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising content. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the IoD. The carriage of adverts in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. All articles within this publication are copyright IoD East Midlands. Editorial consent must be obtained before any are reproduced either in printed form or electronically. Cover photo: IoD Chair Charlotte Valeur, pictured at the IoD East Midlands Women as Leaders Conference. See pgs 8-10

News

Promote your business with IoD by Sue Charlesworth, IoD East Midlands Head of Business Development IoD East Midlands runs a number of exclusive ‘Members Only’ events such as our new Mastermind Groups . They are a great way to tap into the knowledge and experience of fellow members. For more details, contact the regional office – contact details on page 5. Our Mastermind Groups are just one of a number of superb opportunities membership can offer you to expand your network (see page 18). The networking opportunities at IoD

events are second to none, and the people you are networking with are fellow decision makers and business leaders. Benefits to your business Our events diary offers a host of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship means your logo is on the publicity material and you have a presence at the event with your banners and stands, etc. Our highest profile events include the annual Director of the Year Awards, which take place every June, and the Women as Leaders Convention – but there are plenty more which may suit your business’s budget and marketing

purposes. Talk to Ron Lynch or myself for more details. Advertise in this magazine The fact that you are reading this magazine means that other members are, too! There are opportunities to advertise or take editorial space to discuss a key issue affecting all businesses, or promote a specific service you provide. Speak to Colin Regan at Chamber Media Services for more details and discuss how this magazine can be part of your marketing agenda (see panel on pg 5). Remember - the IoD – on your side and at your side

Members evening – with the IoD The IoD East Midlands’ Members’ Evenings are a great chance to meet fellow members of the IoD in a relaxed and informal atmosphere, to share stories, seek advice and improve your knowledge and your network over wine and canapés. These evenings are also a chance to meet IoD staff for an update on IoD services and events. Each session is free. The next ones in Nottingham will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Tuesday, 2nd July. New for 2019: We are also running Members evenings in Leicester, with the next at the Castle Business School on 13th June. All sessions start at 5.30pm, running until 7.30pm.

IoD members pictured in relaxed and convivial mood at the February event

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Are you making the most of your IoD membership?

IoD membership – it’s not ‘one size fits all’. Rather, we can tailor the right type of membership for you and your business. Start ups – join the 99 If your business started within the last five years and you have a turnover not exceeding £3million, then IoD99 is the perfect way to benefit from IoD membership at a reduced price. IoD ‘Standard’ membership Enjoy all the benefits of an organisation which is on your side in representing views to Government and at your side in providing support including development, meeting facilities, networking events, advice and helplines. IoD Advance An exclusive, supercharged membership community dedicated entirely to you and your business; giving you access to all standard membership benefits and more. And don’t forget, members receive discounted prices on a host of IoD meetings and events, including Member Evenings with our regional team (see facing page). Amazing gifts Introduce a new member and claim a free gift – including one of an Amazon kindle, six bottles of selected fine wine, six bottles of Prosecco, or a Credit Card pre-loaded with £50.

Want to know more...

For details about all types of membership or to introduce a new member, call Sue Charlesworth on 0115 8486190 or 07939 584962, or email her at sue.charlesworth@iod.com

Fancy sparing us a Tweet? Did you know that the IoD East Midlands has a Twitter account? You can find it at @IoD_EastMids. Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date on upcoming events, how to book on to them, news, pictures from events, opening times of our lounges and more. If you don’t have an account or it never crossed your mind to have one, why not sign up? It’s free, quick and easy to sign up and whether you’re new or old, Twitter is a great way to stay connected and in touch. It’s not just the IoD East Midlands you can follow; there are other IoD accounts such as: • The Institute of Directors – @The_IoD • East Midlands Regional Director – @RonMLynch • The IoD 99 – @IoD_99 • Student Membership –@IoD_Students • IoD Press Office – @IoD_Press We’re always grateful for a like, retweet or comment.

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Key to success: unlocking diversity in your business IoD East Midlands is taking a lead in ensuring organisations understand the business benefits derived from unlocking the talents of all their people and within the wider society. Recently, an enthusiastic audience took part in our ‘Unlocking Diversity in the Workplace’ workshop, hosted by IoD Ambassador for Diversity and Vistage Chair, Carole Harvey. The event celebrated the International Women’s Day 2019 theme of #balanceforbetter, and as well as the workshop a fascinating presentation was brought to life by Jayne Mayled, CEO of retailer and brand creative agency True Story as she shared her experiences as founder of White Hot – a haircare brand for white and grey hair. Participants learned more about diversity and inclusion, why it matters to business and the economy and what might be blocking progress to a more diverse workforce and boardroom. Audience participation was particularly important as no single approach fits all businesses and initiatives that work in one sector may not in another. Carole has had a deep personal interest in the value of diverse workplaces after she became curious about women leaving the workplace; the ideas she formulated provided the base for her MBA dissertation research. She explained why diverse boardrooms are good for business, and offered personal examples of how different viewpoints and life experiences help broaden perspectives, enabling us to see more and different opportunities to develop valuable products and services. As an example, she launched the award-winning ‘We fit’ service for Halfords – despite coming from a nonengineering / motoring background. Participants at the event then spent time considering how they might unlock this potential, with ideas ranging from tactical steps such as developing training around appreciating diversity or mentoring young leaders, to more strategic approaches such as re-evaluating how and where work is done. As well as business wide initiatives, participants were able to consider the power they have as individuals, consumers and parents shaping the aspirations and attitudes of the next generation and hopefully helping the whole workforce flourish.

IoD East Midlands Women as Leaders Convention 2019 The female speakers at the Women as Leaders Convention: from left, Melanie Currie, Susan Hallam, Karen Smart, Charlotte Valeur, Louise Third, Lisa Wainwright and Caroline Killeavy

Collaboration, honesty and trust – the key watchwords for success

IoD chair Charlotte Valeur offers her blueprint for modern business leadership Tess Eggington Business Link Magazine

The fifth IoD East Midlands Women as Leaders Convention took place on Friday, 29th March, with Charlotte Valeur, Chair of the IoD, the keynote speaker. She was joined by some of the region’s top leaders, who shared inspirational stories with delegates at the lunchtime event at Nottingham’s Crowne Plaza Hotel. Opening the convention, Ron Lynch, IoD East Midlands Regional Director, outlined the importance of running events that will have an impact on society and improve diversity, which, as Ron said has many benefits. He noted: “We know that diversity on the board brings many benefits. “There is obviously a moral case for a diverse workforce but there are a lot of other business benefits. There is a financial case, because you end up with

far better decision making, you consider more perspectives and reach the right answer in more cases. “You also benefit from improved retention and morale, among other things.” Louise Third MBE of Integra Communications Ltd – a PR and communications consultant specialising in business growth – was the host of the event for the second year, and took over the mic to introduce Charlotte Valeur, Chair of the IoD. On leadership Charlotte presented key points including the importance of balance. She said: “Balance is what we’re looking for because balance is what makes the world go round.” She continued: “We want to be in a place where we have respect for everybody and space for everybody […] that is what I work towards, equality for all so we can all be who we are and bring to the table who we are no matter what it is. “Balance in everything has to come from the leaders. We are the ones who need to show people how to do that. Unfortunately, we have some political leaders that are not giving us great role models to follow. If you hold yourself out as a leader it comes with a

responsibility to be a proper role model for the society you’re in.” She went on to discuss how in the top levels it is important to have diversity – not just gender diversity – but all diversities as represented by our population. In her engaging speech Charlotte also made an interesting point on how leadership is “not about men or women” but rather togetherness and collaborative working. She emphasised that whether a leader or leadership style is ‘male’ or ‘female’ you get the value of one, one is not better than the other, and should not be excluded. Charlotte said: “Once we move to a blended male-female leadership style we get one plus one is three.” Quite importantly, she noted three levels of leadership: the first level, she said, is where we lead ourselves; the second is where we lead ourselves with a team; and the third, perhaps optimum, level is when we are able to create an environment to make others successful. Charlotte said: “We need to aspire to be that person that creates an environment for other people to be successful.” Charlotte also highlighted the need to have and know your values as a leader. www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

She said: “I see the world going over from typical capitalism to […] valuism, a new concept being discussed in various strategic circles. Values are a very big thing for me. I think if the world was more focused on values and the leaders were more focused on them too, and put that forward, the world would be a better place. Value is the measure of success in human terms.” She suggested that leaders consider and commit to value words: “Make a social contract with yourself where you say ‘my values are…’. If you have a LinkedIn profile, put your values in the top line, so that is what people see when they see your name and your face. Then you make a contract with the world. “Leadership needs to be based on values that you find in your heart. Once we do that it will trickle down in our society.” As for her, Charlotte noted that her value words are collaboration, honesty and trust. After a Q and A with Charlotte and a break for lunch, Louise introduced the next section of the event, the panel. The first to speak was Caroline Killeavy, CEO of YMCA Lincolnshire. Caroline highlighted that she is aspiring to set a collaborative, person-centred example for her team, in a sector where she has seen some rather cut-throat leaders. Caroline focused her time talking about the importance of followers, highlighting a saying used by US congressman John Boehner, who said “a leader without followers is simply a man taking a walk.” Caroline said: “Those leaders that actually care about who follows them and why, and those people that aren’t following them and why, are very wise. “Leadership for me […] is that actually I need all of my team with me. We need to be shoulder to shoulder, and you have a responsibility to make sure their talents and skills are given the chance to shine. “I have the opportunity to lead those people down a particular path. “I was asked how I model leadership in the charity sector […] I decided that I don’t walk alone.” Lisa Wainwright, Technical Director for International Volleyball (FIVB) and a member of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Governance Commission, reflected on her own values, particularly the importance of integrity. She said: “Being an authentic leader is about being honest about who you are. “I have been very honest, very open and shown vulnerability. That vulnerability is a strength because the more vulnerable you are, the more you will learn, the more you will grow, and www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Lisa Wainwright takes a question from the floor

Chief Constable Bill Skelly talked about the importance of authenticity and compassion the more people will follow you.” Lisa also noted the importance of developing oneself as a leader. “We have to push ourselves,” she said. Additionally Lisa, talked about the importance of delegating but also being aware of how deskilled you can become as a leader. Overall she emphasised that as a leader one should “be yourself be authentic, continue to learn, and enjoy it.” Karen Smart, Managing Director at East Midlands Airport followed, talking about modelling leadership in a corporate environment. Karen said that the leader’s most important job is being a role model. She noted: “Nobody’s perfect – it’s just about being the real you and letting people see the real you.” One of the key points that Karen made was the importance of visible leadership. She said: “Being visible is

hard in a big corporate environment. “I put time in my diary each week to do that. I get out there and talk to the people. “The only way to really truly show where you want to go and give people direction is by being out there and talking and taking the feedback first hand.” Karen concluded her time with the audience by saying that as a leader you must be yourself, be visible, listen to what people say, do not be afraid to challenge people and have difficult conversations, but equally give lots of praise. Bill Skelly, Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police, explored two areas of being a leader: the already touched upon importance of authenticity and compassion. Continued on page 10

Women as Leaders Convention

Continued from page 9 In regard to authenticity, he said that as a leader you must “be true to yourself […] know thyself, […] understand who you are and who you want to be, the person you are actually living, and you need to be able to open that out for others to see it.” Bill also highlighted that his value words, as initially brought into the convention’s conversation by Charlotte, are truth, justice, duty. In regard to compassion Bill noted that empathy and action are compassion. He went on to say: “The effect you have as a leader on people’s lives is massive and if you demonstrate that compassion then they will follow you.” Closing his speaking time, Bill highlighted that authenticity and compassion are not just words but verbs, they are activities to be done, so one must actually go and do them. The penultimate panel member was Susan Hallam MBE, of Hallam Internet, who discussed leadership in a small business environment. She talked about how leadership evolves in oneself and how leadership is something one can learn as one goes along.

Complimenting Charlotte’s speech, Susan brought up the importance of North Star principles, knowing your values and staying true to them in turbulent times of change. Susan also touched upon innovation and being open to ideas. She said that the big thing about leadership she has learned in the realm of innovation was to be able to ask for help and get the advice you need from other organisations. She noted that one must continue to develop leadership skills and not be afraid to say that we need to develop these skills. Melanie Currie, Deputy Dean of Nottingham Business School, was the final panellist. A key takeaway from Melanie’s talk came when she said: “The sense of saying ‘no’ can be important as a leader, but it’s also equally important to say ‘yes’ and agree to do things even if you don’t think they are going to work.” Melanie also noted the importance of reading how people are feeling and to tapping into those feelings, as well as the importance of being authentic and opening oneself up, being available for people and challenging people. On being a leader Melanie concluded:

“I am on a journey to becoming something. I think it’s really important that we don’t think anything is a marker of a space or place, we are all on that journey; we all have a really important story and in sharing those stories each of us is become a little bit more of who we want to be and who we want to be in terms of that inspiration for others.” A Q and A with the panel followed, covering topics from loneliness as a leader, balancing family and success, and the question of whether men find authenticity more difficult than women. Louise then rounded off the event with a summary of takeaways from what the speakers had said during the convention, including: • Values of fairness, justice and duty • The idea that empathy plus action is compassion • The importance of visible leadership, authenticity, and giving praise • Saying yes even though it might not work. The afternoon finished with words from Gary Smith, IoD Regional Chairman, who pulled out key themes from the day, including authenticity and the importance of followers.

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Be quick: Last chance to enter Director of the Year Awards The search is on for the most talented company directors in the East Midlands – but if you want to enter, you’ll have to get your skates on. Our Director of the Year Awards shine a spotlight on the region’s successful business leaders and recognise the best in business leadership. Open to both members and nonmembers, our awards also raise awareness among IoD members, the wider business community and the public of the significant contribution business leaders can make to society and to economic prosperity in our region. The awards are free to enter and you can enter as many categories as you wish. But here’s the catch: Entries should be submitted by midnight Friday, 12th April 2019. However, as long as we know your entry is on its way, we can accept entries in the week commencing Monday, 15th April. The full list of categories can be found in the panel right. New categories have been added for 2019 to recognise the Young Director of the Year and the leading director of a business with a £50 million-plus turnover.

The categories for the 2019 Director of the Year Awards are:

For more details of the categories and criteria, FAQs and to enter or nominate, see www.iodawards.com/eastmidlands The IoD East Midlands Awards lunch takes place on Thursday, 20th June. Attended by business leaders, entrepreneurs, government and media representatives, our annual Awards lunch has recognised directors from diverse regional businesses in our East Midlands branches – Greater Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

n Corporate Social Responsibility n Family Business n Inclusivity n Innovation n International n Non-Exec n Public Sector n Third Sector n Start-Up n Young n Small-Medium Business (below £50 million t/o) n Large Business (£50 million+ t/o)

It’s not too early to book your tickets!

Book for the Awards Lunch today. Member and non-member ticket prices available alongside great savings on Tables of 8 or 10. Contact Cari Grice to book tickets via Cari.Grice@iod.com

“The awards recognise excellence on the part of directors in the East Midlands. Those who have done something special and achieved something significant…” Ron Lynch, IoD East Midlands Regional Director

“It’s an accolade to strive for – a trust signal which people recognise” Our winning line–up from 2018’s awards. Could your photograph be here later this year?

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Pete Frost, Managing Director, Unity, and Trustee, Norton Housing and Support

In conversation with... David Radley, on Executive MBAs

Executive MBA opens leaders up to a world of new possibilities In Summer 2017, IoD East Midlands spoke to David Radley, Associate Director Geotechnics, at BWB Consulting Limited, about his experiences as he set off on an Executive MBA at Nottingham Trent University. Two years on, he tells Rob Beswick how has he found the course, and why he still thinks it’s an ideal pathway for other senior business leaders Two years ago, David Radley was awarded an IoD scholarship by Nottingham Business School. At the time, he told IoD East Midlands that the Executive MBA at Nottingham Trent University had ‘opened his view’ of the world, allowing him to broaden his experience in a way no other qualification could. An account manager and geotechnical engineer with BWB Consulting Limited, David is as likely to be found in muddy boots, a hi-vis jacket and a safety helmet on a building site as he is in boardroom attire. He took an MBA as a challenge to develop his managerial skills, building on his previous experience – including an MSc in Geotechnical Engineering, Design and Management and status as a Chartered Engineer. “I switched firms earlier in my career to develop my technical skills, and the MBA has given me the opportunity to develop my management skills in much the same way,” he explained. What was clear from the outset was that David has always taken career and professional development seriously: “My career has been one of continual professional development; it is a philosophy I swear by. “Undertaking the MBA was the next logical step for me.” It is a step that has gone well, as when I caught up with David more recently he was still clearly enthused by the process as he brings this chapter of his CPD to a close. Graduation is not too far off (July), after completion of the primary component of the MBA; a business research project on the sustainability challenges facing BWB’s developer

David Radley pictured at RedR’s Royal Event, where HRH Prince Charles was keynote speaker. RedR UK trains lifesavers to work in global emergencies and natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods and drought. Photo by Chris Andreou for RedR UK

clients. That final report allowed him to take a considered look at the property development industry as a whole. Much of the data and conclusions gathered from that final report and the other MBA modules have been fed back to the boardroom throughout the duration of the course. So there has been a real benefit for BWB – David has in effect offered some free-of-charge management consultancy services – but how has it helped him? “Looking back over the MBA, the biggest benefit I’ve derived is that it has taken me into different areas and broadened my perspective. I’ve a better understanding of how the different pieces of industry fit together. It has also allowed me to develop my strategic mindset so that I can fit those pieces together. “The MBA has really opened my eyes to a much bigger picture – given me a more wordly view, as it were.” Crucially, the MBA has helped him consider the role of the company’s stakeholders, too. “We have been heavily involved in improving the sustainability of everything we do, and that naturally brings us into contact with people and businesses outside our usual field. Doing the MBA has allowed me to focus on their needs and their goals, and to understand where we can

collaborate with them better.” What has been interesting for David is how colleagues have responded. “You do get the odd groan at meetings when I come out with ‘MBA speak’”, David admits. “But the overall response has been excellent. I have found that many of the company’s directors recognise the value and the impact it has had.” He accepts that the MBA isn’t for everyone, however. “In my field of work you get a lot of engineers who aren’t interested in the managerial side. They are technical specialists – they want to get out there, honing their technical skills as geologists and engineers, etc. Not everyone is commercially focused. What the MBA has done is confirm my interest in the management side of business, as well as the technical, which should stand me in good stead for the rest of my career.” So what area does he think has been most improved by undertaking the MBA? “Everything,” David jokes. “If I had to pin it down to one thing, I’d say my ability to reflect. “I’ve always focused on achieving goals, but never really stepped back to consider how they were achieved. I was too busy pushing on with the next task. The work environment does not give you much opportunity to reflect, but the final module focused on just this. It was www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

great to step back from ‘doing’ and instead consider how and why things played out the way they did. You develop a better understanding of the challenges others’ face and it allows you to make better decisions that are for the good of the business.” Indeed, perhaps the best thing he has learnt is to “look beyond the curtain”; “if you aspire to lead, you have to develop a real-world view and a 360 degree perspective.” Interestingly, during his MBA one of the biggest firms in his sector, Carillion, collapsed. “You look at a company like that failing and wonder if they had too many people at the top focusing on short-term goals, rather than a longterm sustainable perspective.” BWB Consulting Limited takes the development of its people very seriously and has an academy to develop the skills of its staff and management, but the MBA has given David even more than would be possible through an in-house training regime, because it took him outside his usual network. “The contact with others in the group has been very enlightening. We had a very mixed group, from all sectors, large and small businesses.

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“There was a great diversity of thought around the table; we all tapped into the thinking processes of different sectors in a way I didn’t think was possible. It was a real eye-opening experience.” “Each group session was an example of cross-sector pollination of ideas, philosophies and responses to challenge. Our discussions were very intensive and lively at times – I think MBAs attract a large number of extroverts! – but we all learnt a great deal from each other. “There was a great diversity of thought around the table; we all tapped into the thinking processes of different sectors in a way I didn’t think was possible. It was a real eye-opening experience.” To highlight this, David pointed out that his group contained “people from BP, BWB – we’re not a small business by any stretch of the imagination – but also owner-managers.” “One of our cohort used a module to ask for help on developing his business as, by his own admission, ‘he didn’t have the headspace’ to do strategy. He

was too busy being the business. For him, the MBA was a great chance to start to see how he could become more strategic in the way he developed it.” For David, the process has been very memorable – and one enhanced by the staff at Nottingham Trent University. “I’ve been there three times now, so you could call me an advocate. It’s a great place to study – a good mix of industry, business and academic. “The best thing was the lecturers running the MBA often had business/ industry backgrounds that enabled them to ‘walk the talk’.” It’s clearly something he’d recommend to others. “Absolutely. It’s been a great experience. It’s funny but at the start of the course a lecturer said to me ‘don’t expect this to change you… some people come here thinking they’re going to have a spiritual experience, but that’s not going to happen’”. “Funnily enough, it was for me. I loved it: it has really changed me as a leader and a person. I’ve got a much more holistic view of industry and stakeholders and how I can act, lead and think strategically. All in all, a very memorable experience and one I’d strongly recommend.”

Business advice

Employment tribunals – an overview Is your business prepared to defend its procedures and decision-making in an employment tribunal, asks Laura Kearsley of Nelsons Statistics published by the Ministry of Justice show that the number of Employment Tribunal claims lodged with its services is steadily increasing year on year since the fee regime was scrapped. In addition, in its last annual report, ACAS stated that the number of notifications for early conciliation (a prerequisite for lodging a claim) increased by 19 per cent compared with the previous year. Employment litigation is difficult, time consuming and expensive. Unlike other areas of litigation, even if an organisation is successful in defending its position, they are extremely unlikely to recover any of their costs. The potential liability for an employer if an employee succeeds in bringing an unfair dismissal claim against them is significant, with Employment Tribunals having the power to award a basic award (based on an employee’s age, gross weekly pay and length of service) and a compensatory award up to a maximum of 52 weeks’ pay (subject to the current limit of £83,682). Moreover, a judge may increase compensation by up to 25 per cent if they find unreasonable deficiencies in procedures in breach of the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures (ACAS code). Advice on handling procedures and making the decision to dismiss The vast majority of business managers and directors will have to deal with disciplining and dismissing members of staff during their career. When conducting a disciplinary investigation and sanctioning a dismissal, it is important that employers ensure that they have a fair reason for dismissal, follow a fair procedure and act fairly and reasonably.

Fair dismissal When determining whether a dismissal is fair or not, an Employment Tribunal will consider two key issues: n Has the employer established that the principal reason for the dismissal falls within one of the potentially fair reasons, those being employees’ conduct, capability, redundancy, illegality or some other substantial reason; and n Taking into account all the circumstances (including the employer’s size and administrative resources), whether the employer acted reasonably in treating the given reason(s) for dismissal as sufficient to justify dismissal. It is not for the Tribunal to substitute their own view of what would have been reasonable, but to apply the test of whether the decision to dismiss the employee fell within the range of reasonable responses open to a reasonable employer. Fair procedure: best practice In cases of misconduct or poor performance, employers should comply with the principles of fairness set out in the ACAS Code.

For all other types of dismissal, there is still a requirement to follow a fair procedure. Employers should do the following: n Try to resolve problems informally quickly, making it clear that a formal process may follow if the issue remains unresolved; n Carry out a fair and reasonable investigation without unreasonable delay; n Keep any period of suspension as brief as possible; n Provide the employee concerned with sufficient information about the allegations to enable them to defend their position; n Hold any disciplinary meeting without unreasonable delay and allow the employee to be accompanied by a colleague or trade union representative; n Allow the employee the chance to set out their case, present their evidence and call witnesses; n Consider alternatives to dismissal, such as final written warnings or re-training and ensure employees are treated consistently; n Give the employee the right to appeal against any disciplinary decision.

Prepare yourselves – Mock Employment Tribunal Nelsons’ Employment team is holding a mock employment tribunal with the IoD on Thursday, 6th June at Nelsons’ Leicester office. This is an opportunity to see first-hand how a tribunal examines the evidence and applies the law to reach a decision in a claim of unfair dismissal and you will learn how to minimise the risk associated with dismissals in real life situations. More information on this event and details of how to book your place can be found on page 22 of this issue of IoD East Midlands, or you can contact chloe.williams@nelsonslaw.co.uk.

The employment law advice you need Organisations make decisions every day that affect their workforce. Getting the right employment law advice from the start will help ensure these decisions are the right ones. For advice and support on any employment issues, please contact Laura Kearsley on 0800 0241 976 or email laura.kearsley@nelsonslaw.co.uk.

www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Stress at work

Suzanne Smith of Belvoir Human Resources Ltd explains how employers should respond when a colleague exhibits symptoms of stress at work Let’s start with some facts. Stress is not a mental health condition but if left unmanaged it can lead to depression or anxiety which are mental health conditions. Stress itself is a temporary and natural response to threat or exceptional demand. These stimuli are good when it is proportionate to the comfort level of the individual. We will all experience stress during our lives and it can be a positive process, ensuring that we are able to cope with an unexpected or especially difficult challenge. However, sometimes employees find themselves in situations that are too much to cope with or they lack control over a situation, eg, potential redundancy, a disciplinary situation at work or they feel they are being bullied. What are the common symptoms? The employee experiencing stress may start to be late or absent from work or under perform. They may be shorttempered or moody, or appear distracted or lacking in energy. They may also have physical health issues and probably not be very effective at work. You will notice changes in them. It’s at that point that the ‘Fit Note’ www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

from the GP arrives stating the employee is stressed at work. What should you do as their employer or line manager? Meet with the employee to discuss their concerns and ask open questions so that they feel confident to explain all the issues facing them, including, potentially, non-workrelated problems. You may not be able to help with personal problems but if you understand the full picture you can be more supportive. Agree an action plan, set time lines for regular reviews and, if necessary, adjust the work load or working hours for a short period of time. However, don’t overload their colleagues as this will cause resentment and won’t help the situation. Performance issues need resolving as the situation will get worse if ignored. Be open and explain your concerns about their work, attendance or conduct and set reasonable standards. Offer training if appropriate to the situation. Set action plans including self help. Check that it is not a problem arising

from a negative working relationship with colleagues. Make sure that there is no bullying or harassment happening; sometimes employees are too embarrassed to identify the real problem. Finally, we all know the employee who gets signed off with work-related stress the day before their disciplinary hearing. Their performance or conduct issue still needs to be addressed but give the employee options such as participating by telephone or submitting their response in writing. Re-arrange the hearing but don’t stop the process as the problem won’t go away. Seek specific professional advice to ensure legal compliance. Our employees are much more effective when feeling good so don’t avoid addressing the issues and have the conversation. Assist them in resolving their work problems and it will help you the employer achieve your legal obligations to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of your employees.

Need help with your HR? If you recognise this and would like some professional “hands on” support tailored to your business needs, please contact Suzanne Smith, the Principal Consultant at Belvoir Human Resources Ltd for a free chat and employment health check, at helpdesk@belvoir-hr.co.uk,

Student mentoring

Benefits of networking: IoD outlines its golden rules to NTU students On Tuesday 29th January, 45 engaged, participative and enthusiastic IoD Student Members and Nottingham Trent University students attended the first IoD student event of 2019, ‘How to make that first impression count’. The event was delivered by Regional Director Ron Lynch and organised by events administrator and IoD placement student Sophie Jackson. Topics covered in the two-hour session included: n Personal Brand n Networking Bingo n Networking on different social media platforms n Networking is a process, a discipline - not an event n Networking tips n Business cards n Perfecting your introduction n Six Degrees of separation n The Institute of Directors - why students should become a member? n Tomorrow’s Director Award exclusively for NTU IoD Student Members Each topic was chosen to help the students develop their CV and the skills they will need to enter the job market once the graduate. IoD Student Member Troy Brocklebank commented: “It was a great event that showed how easy networking is and how powerful it can be to create opportunities when done well.”

Above, IoD Regional Director Ron Lynch presents to the students, and left Rumaysa Bhimani discusses the benefits of student membership

Calling all business leaders...

Can you help the next generation by being a mentor for our students members? IoD East Midlands is looking for mentors from among our member businesses to work with our increasing student membership. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to encourage, motivate and work with some highly driven and enthused students as they look to bridge the gap between their academic careers and the work sector. We need company owners,

directors and managers to inspire today’s students from across the East Midlands to become tomorrow’s best leaders. The demands on your time are not onerous: a regular meeting schedule will be organised for you, and you can offer support via phone and email, too.

If you are interested in volunteering your time, to tell your business story to the students, host a seminar on a topic of interest to the student body at your workplace or through the £10 Challenge later this year, please email Sophie Jackson at Sophie.jackson@iod.com or call the IoD office on 0115 848 6190.

“This is a great opportunity to inspire the next generation of business leaders...” www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

IoD hits the road with a triple focus

Nottingham Business School is on the look-out for new students to take up its Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) and Senior Leaders Masters Degree Apprenticeship (SLMDA) with Executive MBA. Both are designed to create, nurture and develop the next generation of business leaders, and are an ideal way for you to help develop your employees’ potential. All NBS’s programmes provide a challenging but nurturing environment

with extensive mentoring to foster leadership within your organisation. These apprenticeships combine work-based learning and business education, resulting in an additional vocational qualification from the Chartered Management Institute (CMA) To find out more how these courses can help you move your employees – and your business – forward, contact Nottingham Business School on 0115 848 8460 or email the school at nbs.business@ntu.ac.uk

The need to innovate through inclusive and unconventional thinking has never been more important. This year, the IoD’s national showpiece event for business leaders – IoD Open House – is going on the road, giving you the chance to learn from, and network with, some of the business world’s greatest thought leaders. Choose from events based on three core themes – Global, Connected and Inclusive business – and join the conversation. Global: Business is exploration… trade and expansion to new countries means reaching new customers and markets; the possibility of real growth. Business needs to understand how to navigate and adapt to a whole new world. Connected: We’re wired to connect… the best business happens when the right people are working together; that person who challenges you to think differently, or learning something new from a mentor. Inclusive: Business is welcome to everyone… diverse business doesn’t just accept difference, it embraces it. It understands that when there is real difference, we’re challenged to think differently, to collaborate, to innovate. Events are held across the UK, see www.iod.com/events-community/ open-house-on-the-road

IoD competition adds up to good prep for NTU international business students An exciting new dimension has been added to the coursework assessments of the Accounting & Finance for International Managers module (AFIM), part of the International Business BA(Hons) degree at Nottingham Trent University. This year, for the first time, the business ideas of the first year students were judged by IoD East Midlands, with some highly enviable prizes going to the winning entries. Students worked in small groups to create an original business concept, around which they produced a presentation and business report covering projected financial statements, analysing the competition, reviewing prospects for future expansion and much more. Speaking of the collaboration, module team leaders from NTU commented: “The involvement of the IoD does not only help motivate the students, but also helps them to link the relevance of their task to the world of business. We are very grateful for their contribution to the module.” The winning team from the 2018/19 cohort – Charlie Hawthorne, Bradley Hutler and Mahesh Suthar (pictured right) – were awarded a certificate from the IoD, free entrance to an IoD business event of their choice and, of course, some Champagne to celebrate with! A spokesman for the winning team said that “winning has made our university experience, and the experience and advice we had from the IoD will prove invaluable as we go on to our careers.” www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

IoD Mastermind Groups

Mastermind opens the door to an extraordinary pool of talent What is a Mastermind group? Mastermind groups are a unique series of small group sessions organised by IoD East Midlands that give directors and senior business leaders the chance to discuss the key issues and challenges they face in an open, constructive and confidential environment. These sessions usually occur once a month and are exclusively for members. When and where? Groups are available to join in Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Northampton and Lincoln. They run from 6pm-9pm over a two-course dinner. What is the format? Mastermind brings members together to build strong business relationships, allowing them to share ideas in a constructive environment. These sessions offer a combination of brainstorming, education, peer accountability and support in a group setting to sharpen business and personal skills. The ethos is to provide a positive, informal but challenging and supportive space to discuss issues that confront directors on a daily basis. The format is simple, with introductions and feedback before all members share a summary of topics they would like to discuss. Once established, each mastermind group will meet 10 times over the year. Carole Harvey, facilitator for the Central Nottingham mastermind group,

said of the groups: “It really is extraordinary, the level of expertise and knowledge you have in the room when you get a group of IoD members together. There isn’t a problem or challenge that one of them won’t have encountered at some point in their career. It’s a remarkable pool of talent.” Who are the members? Each group will consist of up to 12 members, none of whom will be in competing industries. We will also strive to create a good balance between the genders, between public and private sector, professionals, manufacturing, etc. Therefore, before booking please

contact Cari Grice so we can confirm your place. Each session will cost £32 + VAT. Once the group has multiple dates in the calendar for the year then we use a block booking system to ease administration. If applicable, it is preferred that you tell us which three, six or more sessions you can attend and we will send you one invoice for these multiple dates If you feel that a colleague will benefit from joining a mastermind group, then please contact Cari Grice. • Please note that Mastermind groups are only open to current IoD members.

Quick route to becoming a better director IoD East Midlands will be hosting an Accelerated Certificate in Company Direction at Fawsley Hall in Northamptonshire from 19th - 24th May, and on June 30th – 5th July; October 6th – 11th; and December 8th – 13th. The course delivers all the essential knowledge and skills you need to become a more effective director in just five-anda-half days. Exploring the characteristics, mind-set and behaviours of a boardroom executive is crucial to becoming an outstanding leader. However, business pressures can make it difficult to take time out to focus on your personal and professional development. That’s why the Accelerated Certificate in Company Direction

provides the ideal solution for many directors. It covers the key areas of governance, finance, strategy and leadership in an intensive programme designed to fit around your schedule. This qualification will help you develop the competencies specific to the knowledge, skills and mind-set needed to perform effectively as a director. Why you should attend • Achieve the Certificate in Company Direction in a flexible way minimising the time spent away from day-to-day role. • Gain access to an unrivalled peer network and become part of a prestigious alumni community. • Share experiences with your peers in

an environment conducive to intensive learning and networking. • Experience the latest in online learning support, both pre and postcourse, and prepare for the exams using our new Academy website. • Key modules cover the Role of the Director and the Board; Leadership for Directors; Finance for Non-Financial Directors; and Strategy for Directors. The course costs £9,675 + VAT (members) and £11,775 + VAT (nonmembers). For more details contact the IoD Chartered Director team on 020 7766 2601 or via development@iod.com, and see iod.com/accelerated-certificate www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Meet... the IoD Ambassadors

Our new team of IoD Ambassadors brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to their role, which will see them take the lead in either a business sector, on a theme or in a geographical area to help their fellow members and represent the IoD. Here we introduce you to the team.

Mark Eydman – IoD Ambassador, Quality and Customer Loyalty Mark is an engineer (electrical & electronic), a Quality Professional (MCQI) and passionate advocate of outstanding customer experiences. He has held senior management and leadership positions in project management, sales and field service before a period in a global quality and customer loyalty role. He now works independently with businesses of all types and sizes in sectors ranging from financial services to retail, helping secure insightful feedback from their customers, using quality techniques to resolve issues of concern and positive feedback to accelerate strategic development and operational growth.

environments for anyone ‘different’, yet we need ‘different’ to help broaden our perspectives, to develop valuable products and services for our customers and to help us understand the needs of our workforce. Carole says: “Diverse boardrooms are good for business. McKinsey recently concluded that there was £150billion of products and services that could be developed to better meet the needs of women and minorities. I’ve developed several in my own career, including the award-winning ‘We Fit’ service at Halfords – the need for which simply didn’t occur to my car-enthusiast male colleagues. “As an ambassador for Diversity for the IoD I can help directors understand the financial case for diversity.”

Andy Leask, IoD Ambassador, Chartered Directors As a Chartered civil and structural engineer, Andy saw an opportunity to improve his skills by taking the Chartered Director qualification in 2007. A firm advocate of the programme, he is now delighted to act as its ambassador and promote being a Chartered Director as the gold standard for directors.

Helen Spencer, IoD East Midlands Ambassador for Healthcare Helen is as an experienced interim professional, spending the past 17 years helping clients on transformation, turnaround and efficiency programmes, most recently with a healthcare focus. Clients include healthcare, education, aerospace, chemical and water. She has supported a number of NHS Trusts on acute, commissioning, community and mental healthcare provision, and her focus on organisational improvement and efficiency has provided a platform from which to deliver the IoD Ambassador role.

David Thompson, IoD Ambassador, Professional Services and Finance David is the Chief Operating Officer and a director at Wright Vigar Chartered Accountants, who have offices in Lincoln, London, Gainsborough, Newark, Retford and Sleaford. He has responsibility for day-to-day management of the business and for its HR, IT, financial control and marketing functions, as well as formulating strategy and direction with the board. He hopes to use his new role with the IoD to support other members in this sector. Carole Harvey, IoD Ambassador for Diversity Carole has spent 30+ years in business, mostly on all-male leadership teams and boards at Boots, Halfords and Staffline Group plc. Those boardrooms weren’t always welcoming

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Jeff Lee – IoD Ambassador for Productivity Jeffrey Lee is the director of a leading chassis fabrication business and is an IoD Fellow. In his role as an ambassador he will have a particular focus on the manufacturing sector, drawing on experience gained throughout his 30+ year career in industry. His key area of interest is understanding the thoughts and concerns of manufacturing and engineering business leaders in the region – not

just in the context of their business, but also how the IoD could best provide the support they require. Steve de Looze, IoD Ambassador, Entrepreneurship Stephen has a background in senior business development and commercial operations roles within large international businesses and SMEs. He has run both established businesses and start-ups, including SEIS, and has a particular interest in entrepreneurship and the ability of companies to operate flexibly in their given market. Stephen believes that the desire to embrace an entrepreneurial operational culture within the organisation will define success over time. John Hebblethwaite, Ambassador for Financial Planning and Wealth Management John has had a successful career in financial planning and investment management and has been a member of the IoD for over 25 years. He hopes to add great value to our local community, highlighting the benefits of IoD membership, particularly its business tools, research, its national voice and, most importantly, networking with like-minded successful people. Cameron Ford, IoD Ambassador, Skills, Recruitment and HR Cameron is a Chartered Director and has been a member of the IoD for 25 years and actively involved with the East Midlands IoD since 2008. He sits on the Association of Labour Providers Member Council, the Recruitment and Employment Confederation and chairs HR Professionals Forums across the East Midlands. Cameron has been involved in a whole range of corporate transactions and has effectively managed the human capital aspects of those transitions during his career.

Events Diary

IoD East Midlands Events Diary 30th April Unique Creative Workshop for Directors

Northamptonshire

Holiday Inn, Northampton

6.00pm-8.00pm

10th May Making it in Business

Leicestershire

Morningside Arena, Leicester

14th May Nottingham Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Notts/ Derbys

MemSaab, Nottingham

16th May Mental Health Panel Discussion

Greater Lincolnshire

21st May Houses of Parliament Visit Sponsored by jch: wealth management

Greater Lincolnshire

Houses of Parliament, London

11.15am-4.00pm

22nd May Regional Networking Lunch Sponsored by Nottingham Business School

East Midlands

Crowne Plaza, Nottingham

12.00pm-2.00pm

5th June Behind the scenes at Micronclean Sponsored by jch: wealth management

Greater Lincolnshire

Micronclean, Louth

12.30pm-3.00pm

6th June Employment Tribunal Experience Sponsored by Nelsons

Leicestershire

13th June Leicester Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Leicestershire

13th June Members Evening

Leicestershire

20th June Director of the Year Awards Sponsored by Castle Business School 2nd July

Newark Showground (At Expo East)

Nelsons, Leicester

East Midlands

11.00am-12.00pm

9.00am-10.30am

Chutney Ivy, Leicester

East Midlands

Members Evening

11.30m-3.00pm 12.30pm-2.30pm

12.30pm-2.30pm

Castle Business School, Leicester

5.30pm-7.30pm

Winstanley House, Leicester

12.00pm-3.00pm

Crowne Plaza, Nottingham

5.30pm-7.30pm

4th July Annual Lincolnshire Charity Golf Day Sponsored by jch: wealth management

Greater Lincolnshire

Market Rasen Golf Club

12.00pm noon

5th July

Northamptonshire

NPS Shoes, Wollaston

12.30pm-2.30pm

16th July Nottingham Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Notts/ Derbys

MemSaab, Nottingham

12.30pm-2.30pm

12th Sept Leicester Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Leicestershire

Chutney Ivy, Leicester

12.30pm-2.30pm

12th Sept Members Evening

Leicestershire

Castle Business School, Leicester

Behind the Scenes with NPS Shoes

17th Sept Generation Z in Business

Northamptonshire

Ricoh UK Ltd

19th Sept Regional Networking Lunch Sponsored by Nottingham Business School

East Midlands

Crowne Plaza, Nottingham

27th Sept Connected Roadshow

East Midlands

Nottingham Belfry Hotel

5.30pm-7.30pm 5.30pm-7.30pm 12.00pm-2.00pm 9.00am-2.00pm

1st Oct

Members Evening

East Midlands

Crowne Plaza, Nottingham

5.30pm-7.30pm

3rd Oct

IoD 99 Social

East Midlands

Revolución de Cuba, Nottingham

5.30pm-7.30pm

10th Oct

Business Leaders Dinner

East Midlands

TBC

16th Oct Escape Rooms Experience Sponsored by jch: wealth management

Greater Lincolnshire

Escape, Lincoln

18th Oct

IoD Director of the Year Awards National Final

National

The Brewery, London

29th Oct

£10 Challenge Launch event

TBC 12.30pm-3.30pm TBC

Student Membership

Newton Building, NTU

5.30pm-7.30pm

12th Nov Nottingham Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Notts/ Derbys

MemSaab, Nottingham

12.30pm-2.30pm

26th Nov £10 Challenge

Student membership

Newton Building, NTU

5.30pm-7.30pm

6th Dec Annual Lincolnshire Lunch Sponsored by jch: wealth management

Greater Lincolnshire

Bentley Hotel, Lincoln

12.00pm-3.00pm

12th Dec Leicester Professionals Lunch Sponsored by Nelsons

Leicestershire

Chutney Ivy, Leicester

12.30pm-2.30pm

For more details or to book on any event, contact Cari Grice on 0115 848 6190 or email cari.grice@iod.com. Alternatively, see www.iod.com/emidlandsevents. More events are added throughout the year, so always check the IoD website for updates

www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

IoD Professionals Lunch diary for 2019, sponsored by Nelsons Members enjoy the February meeting at MemSaab

Professional networking with a difference Why not join us in 2019 at one of our highly-praised Professional Lunches in either Nottingham or Leicester? We alternate between hosting Professional Lunches in Nottingham and Leicester. Both events are kindly sponsored by Nelsons, who kindly provide all attendees with a free drink on arrival. After that it is a case of tucking into some of the UK’s finest Indian cuisine, courtesy of our host restaurants, MemSaab in Nottingham and the Chutney Ivy in Leicester. Both are multiple award-winners and will ensure that you enjoy a fabulous meal while getting on with some informal – but invaluable – networking. Our Professional Lunch series cost: £25 + VAT for members, £32 + VAT non-members. Book at www.iod.com/eastmidlands

NEXT DATES: Nottingham Date: Tuesday, 14th May Tuesday, 16th July Tuesday, 12th November Venue: MemSaab, Nottingham Time: 12.30pm - 2.30pm Cost: Members, £25 + VAT; Non-members, £32 + VAT

Chutney Ivy

Leicester Date: Thursday, 13th June Thursday, 12th September Thursday, 12th December Venue: Chutney Ivy Restaurant, Leicester LE1 1TR Time: 12.30pm-2.30pm Cost: Members £25 + VAT; Non-members £32 + VAT

“Our hosts are multiple award-winners and will ensure that you enjoy a fabulous meal while getting on with some informal – but invaluable – networking...” www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Events

Join us for Members Evenings 2019 Date: Time: Venue:

Thursday, 13th June 5.30pm-7.30pm Castle Business School Leicester LE1 5WH

Date: Time: Venue:

Tuesday, 2nd July 5.30pm-7.30pm Crowne Plaza, Nottingham NG1 5RH

Whether you’ve been a member for two months or 20 years, are you sure you understand all the benefits IoD membership gives you? If not, why not join us at our next members’ evening at the Crowne Plaza or Castle Business School to learn how to get the most from your membership and meet and network with fellow members? What’s on the agenda? The evening will begin at 5.30pm with complimentary drinks and canapés followed by… • A short presentation on the full benefits of your membership • Opportunity to have your questions answered • Meet the IoD East Midlands team • Network with other directors and business leaders and learning about their motivation for joining Why attend? Members evenings are run every quarter. These events highlight the

benefits of IoD membership such as our policy department, information and advice service, premises, upcoming local opportunities, professional development courses and much more. Any other info? This event is open to Members and

Non-Members. Arrival will be at 5.30pm with networking followed by the presentation. While this event is free of charge, please let us know you are coming to we can make the appropriate catering. Please inform us of any dietary requirements. Parking is available.

Employment Tribunals: Attend the Nelsons/ IoD mock event to avoid the real thing Date: 6th June Venue: Nelsons, Leicester Time: 9.00am registration, 9.15am start, 10.30am finish Cost: Free of Charge Employment Tribunals are often feared by employers – and rightly so. They can be costly and time-consuming, create mountains of paperwork and suck huge amounts of staff time into preparing for them. So it’s no surprise that businesses go to great lengths to avoid them. However, with the recent removal of

Tribunal fees there has been an increasing number of employees turning to the Employment Tribunal system to resolve disputes about their work. If your business were to find itself on the receiving end of a tribunal claim would you know what to expect? Nelsons Solicitors are delighted to invite you to our Employment Tribunal Experience. We will guide you through a scenario based on a real claim and give you a unique insight into the workings of the Employment Tribunal, from receiving the claim to the judgement. You will have the opportunity to ask

questions of our team of specialist employment lawyers who will also share their top tips for employers.

Book your place with the IoD East Midlands team or contact chloe.williams@nelsonslaw.co.uk. www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Regional Networking Lunch welcomes Polar explorer Date: Wednesday, 22nd May Time 12.00pm-2.00pm Venue: Crowne Plaza, Nottingham NG1 5RH Cost: Member £35 + VAT Non-Member £45 + VAT Student Member £30 + VAT

For our second regional networking lunch of the year we are delighted to announce that Fiona Thornewill MBE will be joining us for an inspiring and motivating afternoon. Fiona was the first British woman to walk to both the North and South Poles and broke the world record for being the fastest person to walk to the South Pole solo and unsupported. Fiona has been awarded numerous awards such as Pride of Britain in 2000, European Woman of the Year 2004 and in 2006 was awarded an MBE for services to Charity and Polar Exploration. Fiona is passionate about inspiring others to achieve their dreams and goals. This will be a perfect networking opportunity mixed with an amazing speaker over a two-course lunch.

Economists surprise IoD lunch with a positive outlook despite Brexit impasse It is said that if you put two economists together in the same room, you’ll often end up with three opinions! On Thursday, 28th February, directors from across the East Midlands tested that theory at the first IoD Regional Networking Lunch of 2019 for what proved to be a very interesting and eye-opening event. Tej Parikh from the IoD and Rosie Smith from the Bank of England East Midlands Agency were our knowledgeable and entertaining speakers, and delivered an up-to-theminute assessment of the rapidly changing economic environment. Despite all the uncertainty and confusion caused by the ongoing Brexit morass, Tej painted a positive picture and thought that the UK’s economic growth is actually quite resilient when compared to other advanced nations at the moment – though he was at pains to point out that political uncertainty around Brexit is impacting our potential. “We need to be thinking now about how we build on what we have: a strong business environment, scaling-up our ambitious start-ups, and the opportunity for fresh-thinking about our economy post-Brexit,” he said. Rosie Smith agreed that it would be a mistake to allow politics to get in the way of pushing forward a domestic economic agenda, including delivering skills improvements, infrastructure development, and regional growth. The number of questions were testament to level of interest of the attendees. Photographer Peter Nutkins and IoD member, joined us to capture the event. The event was sponsored by www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Above. IoD economist Tej Parikh goes through the current economic picture at the regional networking lunch. Left, lunch speakers Rosie Smith and Tej Parikh Photos: Peter Nutkins

Nottingham Business School and was one of our regular Regional Networking event series we run across the year, each with a different speakers. All feature a two-course lunch, a ‘hot topic’ speaker and a chance for some excellent networking with fellow business

leaders and directors. The next event is on 22nd May when we are pleased to announce Fiona Thornewill MBE will be joining us for an inspiring and motivating afternoon (see event description above for more details).

Events

IoD East Midlands Behind the Scenes tours...

NPS Shoes: history, luxury and quality in a fast-fashion landscape Date: Thursday, 5th July Time: 12.30pm-2.30pm Venue: NPS Shoes, 17 South Street, Woollaston, Northamptonshire NN29 7RY Cost: Member £12.50+VAT Non-Member £15.00+VAT

NPS Shoes (Northampton Productive Society) was founded in 1881 by five men in Wollaston, Northamptonshire as one of the world’s original footwear manufacturers. Today the company is at the cutting edge of modern and exclusive shoe design and production and this tour will offer fascinating insights into how to produce a luxury product in a ‘fastfashion’ world. The tour will take us through NPS’s original factory and offer an exciting insight into all areas of shoe production. The tour will be run by NPS Shoes Managing Director, Christian Castle. In its concept and route, the tour gives

guests access to all shoe production technologies: the ‘Clicking’ or cutting Room, Closing room, Levelling / Making Room and Shoe Room. What will become apparent is that while machines have made production more efficient, the fundamental process

has remained the same at their factory for over a century. Networking and light refreshments upon are available upon arrival, where during this time there will be the opportunity to have a look around the factory shop.

Micronclean: first for technological solutions Date: Wednesday, 5th June Time: 12.30pm-3.00pm Venue: MicronClean – Louth, Lincoln Way Fairfield Industrial Estate Louth Lincolnshire LN11 0WE Cost: Members £10.00 + VAT Non-members £15.00 + VAT

Micronclean’s passion is to be the first to develop new technological solutions that change the shape of the markets they serve. The company has been providing critical garment services for over 45 years. With a heritage dating back 140

years Micronclean has, since the 1970s, focused its laundries on becoming a specialist suppliers of cleanroom garments, workwear and PPE. Included in the price of the ticket is a sandwich lunch, an intro into Micronclean and a tour of the business followed by tea and coffee. The event will be kindly hosted by IoD member Robert Parket, Managing Director of Micronclean Please note places are very limited. With thanks to our Branch Sponsor jch: wealth management

Get creative – and see how it can boost your business Date: Tuesday, 30th April Time: 6.00pm-8.00pm Venue: Holiday Inn, Northampton, Bedford Road, Northampton NN4 7YF Cost: Member £20.00 + VAT Non-Member £20.00 + VAT

IoD East Midlands is hosting a unique Creative Workshop for Directors in what is the first event of its kind for the

region. Local Northamptonshire organisation Sara Penrose Limited will be delivering the session, and will explain why having good creative skills is seen as a key advantage for organisations. 82 per cent of companies believe there is a strong correlation between creativity and business results (The Creative Dividend - Adobe and Foster, 2014). www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace, at Expo East Date: Thursday, 16th May Time: 11.00am-12.00pm Venue: Newark Showground, Lincoln Road, Coddington, Newark Cost: Free of Charge

Mental health issues can have a serious impact on business. When the IoD produced its mental health report in 2017, entitled A Little More Conversation, it became rapidly apparent that this is an issue that affects businesses on a large scale and one that needed further attention. The Chairman of the IoD for Greater Lincolnshire, Gary Headland, will lead a panel of experts from the Local Enterprise Partnership, Local Authority, Third Sector and the IoD to explore a range of issues related to this increasingly important topic. Panel members include: Professor Derek Ward, Lincolnshire County Council Derek Ward has been the Director of

Public Health for Lincolnshire since February 2018. Dean Fathers, Greater Lincolnshire LEP Dean has been the Chair of Nottinghamshire Healthcare since January 2011. Kamile Stankute, IoD Kamile Stankute joined the IoD in November 2016 as Parliamentary Affairs Officer. Kamile joined the IoD after graduating from King’s College London with MA in Politics and Contemporary History. In addition to her role in managing relations with MPs and assisting with policy developments and research, Kamile is also involved in the IoD’s Mental Health & Wellbeing in the

Workplace campaign and has written a report on managing mental health in changing business environments. Charlie Blackwell, Business development manager / Counsellor NW Counselling Hub CIC, Charlie is the youngest member of NW Counselling Hub’s team (NWCH) and started his journey as a counsellor at 19 as a result of his own therapy and life experiences. • This event is part of Expo East. You can register for the show and join the seminar. IoD East Midlands will be in attendance and will be taking a stand.

Making it in Business – let’s celebrate local success stories in conjunction with ICAEW Date: Friday, 10th May Time: 11.30am-3.00pm Venue: Morningside Arena, Leicester, 31 Charter Street LE1 3UD Cost: Individual £45, Table of 10 £400.00 + VAT

Members of the IoD are invited to join ICAEW and the Leicester Riders, together with local business, professional advisors and local universities to celebrate and promote our region’s business community at this unique business lunch and networking event. In attendance will be some of the

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region’s best-known businesses and their inspirational leaders. The guest speakers include Norton CEO Stuart Garner, and local entrepreneur, Mark Esho, will be on hand to share their secrets and challenges to making it in business. The event will give all delegates and exhibitors: • Business networking opportunities • Chance to hear from and access local success stories and meet the inspirational leaders behind them • Connect local business, advisers, local authority, education and support services • Connecting people, connecting

Stuart Garner

opportunities. As well as hearing from our keynote speakers there will also be after-lunch entertainment from a local comedian. The lunch will also seek to raise funds for two local charities and hospices in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire: LOROS – Hospice care for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland; and Cynthia Spencer Hospice – specialist palliative care services for South Northamptonshire.

Events

Market Rasen to host Lincs Golf Day Annual Lincolnshire Charity Golf Day Date: Thursday, 4th July Time: 12.15pm with tee off times from 1.00pm Venue: Market Rasen Golf Club, Legsby Rd, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire LN8 3DZ Cost: Team of 4 £167.00 + VAT Individual £46.00 + VAT In support of Headway Lincolnshire Join fellow members and their guests at the IoD Lincolnshire Annual Golf Day. This year we are taking this popular event to Market Rasen Golf Club, which is a challenging, picturesque, heathland course with many natural hazards – including the River Rase, which flows through the course. It is rated among the top courses in Lincolnshire and the East Midlands. Don’t worry if you are entering as a solo player or pair, as teams will be made up on the day, but there are also prizes available for best Fourball, nearest the

pin and longest drive. The main individual prize for IoD members is the Carl Ross Trophy, which is played for by branch members, and there is also a trophy for the leading non-IoD member. The format is Stableford on 90% handicaps with a maximum of 24 for gents and 30 for ladies.

Both events on this page are kindly supported by our Branch Sponsor ...

The day will conclude with an evening meal and prize presentation. The dress code for the meal is smart casual. We are pleased to be holding this event in support of Headway Lincolnshire, a local charity providing support for brain injury survivors and those caring for them.

Event held in support of

Local LEP chair offers retail view at Lincs lunch Date: Friday, 6th December Venue: The Bentley Hotel, Lincolnshire Cost: Take advantage of our Early Bird (Until 31st July) Members £38.00 + VAT; Non-members £48.00 + VAT Table of 8 £266.00 + VAT; Table of 10 £342.00 + VAT

After 31st July Members £42.00 + VAT; Non-members £52.00 + VAT Table of 8 £294.00 + VAT; Table of 10 £378.00 + VAT

We invite you to join the IoD Lincolnshire branch at the ever popular Annual Lincolnshire Lunch. This promises to be a lively and informative afternoon, offering members and the wider business community an opportunity to enjoy relaxed networking and an excellent three-course meal as we start the countdown to the festive period. It’s the perfect atmosphere for entertaining clients and colleagues. Ursula Lidbetter, MBE, BSc, FCIS, DL will be our speaker. Ursula is Chief Executive of Lincolnshire Co-op, an independent co-op which is owned by its 280,000 members. You can make great savings by booking a table of 8 or 10 so why not invite your colleagues or clients – and we have an early Bird discount offer if you book before the end of July.

About our guest speaker URSULA LIDBETTER served as chair of the Co-operative Group from 2013-2015, leading it through a period of major reform. She is now a Director of Co-operative Federal Retail and Trading Services. In 2012, Ursula was awarded the MBE for services to businesses in Lincolnshire and she is Deputy Lieutenant of the County of Lincolnshire. She has honorary degrees from the University of Hull and Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln. Ursula has chaired the Greater Lincolnshire LEP since it formed in 2010. She led the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce for almost 20 years, recently introducing a new structure including a county-wide assembly. She’s currently Chair of the Lincoln Business Improvement Group and a member of the University of Hull’s Council. Alongside fellow senior industry leaders, Ursula sits on both the government’s Retail Sector Council and Food and Drink Sector Council. www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

‘Pitbull of Personal Development’ bares his teeth at National Sales Conference rich blend of ideas, expertise, networking opportunities and, of course, entertainment. The Learning & Development stream aimed at internal sales learning & development roles, training managers, talent and sales enablement professionals The National Sales Conference (NSC19) continues to be one of the most takes place at Coventry’s Ricoh sought-after tickets on the L&D Arena on Thursday, November conference circuit, due to the 28th – and already it is ‘pitch-free’ policy and the looking on track to be an focus on purist L&D for early sell-out and academies and training surpassing last year’s programmes to aid sales trend, when over 70% of transformation. attendees held a Growing on last year’s directorship role. success of the academy Now in its sixth year, sessions aimed at account the National Sales Larry Winget managers, BDMs and sales Conference (NSC19) is seen executives there will be as the leading independent academy and inside sales streams event for C-level sales-orientated that are designed at giving people leaders. outside of the leadership stream great This CPD Accredited Educational practical give-aways to help boost their Programme (7 hours/points) offers you results and take their careers to the next and your sales team the opportunity to level. be empowered and inspired by key As a continuation of the NSC’s presentations from some of the world’s corporate social responsibility, 2019 leading internationally renowned sees the return of the graduate stream leadership and motivational speakers. aimed at 18-24-year-old undergraduates Making his first appearance on who want to get a true flavour of what a foreign shores for a few years is Larry ‘sales’ career can offer them, helping to Winget a motivational speaker, build a better, more professional industry. bestselling author, television personality and social commentator. Winget Big brands, key brands markets himself as “the trademarked Key brands already committed to NSC ‘Pitbull of Personal Development’ and 2019 include Barclaycard, City & Guilds, ‘World’s Only Irritational Speaker’”. He JCB, Premier Inn, Royal Mail, Siemens is the author of six New York Times/Wall Healthcare, Total Gas & Power and Street Journal bestsellers and hosted the television series Big Spender. He regularly appears on many national news shows on CNBC, MSNBC, FOX Business Network, FOX News and also stars in his own online television show, Grow A Pair!

Exclusive 20% discount on tickets for members of the IoD

“NSC19 offers you the opportunity to be empowered and inspired by some of the world’s most renowned leadership and motivational speakers” UBM. Many are bringing multiple delegates – because they highly value the benefit to their sales leaders and teams. Steve Lindsey, managing director of the conference organiser Lincoln West, comments: “More than a third of our visitors are directly responsible for sales revenues of up to £50m, so this is a fantastic place for such senior leaders to network and share best practices whilst forging business alliances and opportunities.” Special offer for IoD members! NSC has teamed up with the IoD to offer members a 20 per cent discount on all tickets. To purchase your discounted ticket and find out more about the NSC19, visit https://www.nsconference. co.uk/book-today/and quote the code ‘IODNSC19’ to save an additional 20 per cent for both you and your sales team. For bookings and further information on the National Sales Conference, visit www.nsconference.co.uk, contact: 01732 525 950, or email Nick Squire at nick@lincolnwest.co.uk. A packed conference hall at last year’s event

Larry’s # 1 Rule for Life and Business: “Do what you said you would do, when you said you would do it, the way you said you would do it.” Larry will be joined by a host of top speakers, including sales guru and master motivator Steve Head, communications expert Andy Bounds and, from the Department of Social Sciences at Loughborough University, Professor of Social Interaction Dr Elizabeth Stokoe. This year the Stream-based conference will also feature break-out sessions with sales specialists offering a www.iod.com/emidlandsevents

Collaboration 4 Growth

Thinking BIG as Lincoln looks to boost city’s role as economic heart of county Collaboration 4 Growth Project is an ERDF-funded project to provide grants or business support to businesses based in the City of Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey District Council areas of Lincolnshire. Lincoln Business Improvement Group (Lincoln BIG) aims to put Lincoln on the map as a retail and tourist destination and improve the experience of the City Centre in Lincoln for those who live, work invest and visit. Actively supporting employers and employees in the city centre, Lincoln BIG aims to maintain the city’s role as an employment centre and to make it a great place to work. To support this aim, Lincoln BIG successfully bid for, and manages, the Collaboration 4 Growth project, and delivers a range of services as part of this project in partnership with Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce. Any new or existing micro, small or

medium-sized enterprise with ambitions to grow, and based within the administrative boundaries of North Kesteven or West Lindsey District Councils or the City of Lincoln and operating in ERDF eligible industry sectors, can benefit from Collaboration 4 Growth. What can Collaboration 4 Growth offer your business? Revenue of capital grants of £2,000£7,000 are available to support the growth or diversification plans of these businesses. Alternatively, a business can benefit from up to 12 hours of consultancy support which can take the form of a workshop or individual/small group support. Free workshops for eligible businesses planned to take place over the next few months in City of Lincoln, North Kesteven and West Lindsey District Council areas include topics such as:

Public Relations: 7th & 15th May or 4th & 11th June HR/Employment Law: 23rd & 30th April Marketing: 3rd & 10th July (TBC) Presentation Skills: 2nd and 16th October To find out more and to book on any of these workshops please visit: https://www.lincs-chamber.co.uk/ Pages/Events/Category/chamber-events? Take=26

How to find out more:

If you’re interested in finding out more about Collaboration 4 Growth, then please get in touch with Clare Gilman-Abel, ERDF Project Manager at Lincoln BIG on 01522 842 708 or by email: ClareGilman-Abel@lincolnbig.co.uk

“Any new or existing micro, small or medium-sized enterprise with ambitions to grow ... can benefit from Collaboration 4 Growth....”

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Caveat Emptor! Latin: ‘Let the buyer beware’ Have you ever been presented with a multi-year contract and thought, in a worst case scenario, what are the implications of signing this? My wife and I have both changed our cars in the last year and it was fascinating to observe the sales process and compare the client journey with the experience that customers would have in my own industry, which is supplying office equipment. On the face of it, there are a lot of similarities between acquiring a car and an MPS (Photocopier/Printer) contract, in that you either purchase or lease the item itself, then you have additional ongoing costs to service, maintain and run it. However, what I witnessed with the car dealership was a very different approach. Once the sales executive had agreed the contract in principal with us, he introduced us to the finance man. He proceeded to take us through the finance agreement and he explicitly explained the Terms and Conditions and what the obligations and potential consequences of the agreement were to us. This is very different to my industry, where the sales executive will typically write a proposal on a one or two-page document that covers the purchase or lease and the maintenance charges. There may be a conversation about Terms and Conditions, but it is very rare for anything to be provided in writing at this stage. Most customers will get two or three quotes to benchmark the pricing; these proposals will usually be very similar in layout, which in theory makes it easy for customers to decide which supplier the contract is to be awarded to. The successful supplier then usually visits the customer with an agreement that is pre-populated with the agreed figures and present it to the client for authorisation. It is surprisingly common for the actual Terms and Conditions not to be discussed in any great detail during this process, with everything being taken at face value. So why is this customer experience so different? Well, unlike the car industry, the financing of office equipment is not regulated. However, while the finance contract can be a worry, there has been a much more concerning trend in recent years

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in relation to the maintenance contracts, which are quite often authorised at a lower level in organisations. Some of these now have hidden terms which mean that the actual costs that the customer will pay for the service bear no resemblance to the figures quoted in the sales proposal. Quite often these terms will not be imposed until some time after the contract has been in force, which can make it difficult for organisations to spot them on the invoices. If they are picked up and challenged there will usually be a robust response from the supplier along the lines of ‘It’s in the terms and conditions, which you have signed’. We are also seeing really punitive termination clauses, whereby a company could find themselves paying very large settlement fees for a service that hasn’t been and never will be provided. This is pure profit for the supplier. Caveat Emptor! Kudos has a wealth of knowledge and experience in these matters and have put together some simple tips that can help you to avoid these expensive clauses. If you would like a copy of this then please email ianm@kudos.ltd who will be happy to provide you with them

“Quite often these terms will not be imposed until after the contract has been in force for some time, which can make it difficult for organisations to spot them on the invoices. If they are picked up and challenged there will usually be a robust response from the supplier along the lines of ‘It’s in the terms and conditions, which you have signed’. ”

Ian McKellar is the Managing Director of Kudos Technology, an HP Premier Partner based in the East Midlands. For more information, see www.kudos.ltd. He is a long-standing IoD member and a regular participant at all of our events, including our Leicester Mastermind Group.

Events reports

Industrial revolution hits fourth gear Gary Headland, Chair, IoD Greater Lincolnshire I was delighted to open and close an IoD business event at the Lincoln International Business School, University of Lincoln, on 20th March, where the topic was ‘The Fourth Industrial Revolution’ – or in other words, a global transformation as a result of data and connectivity. The event’s keynote speaker was Dr Kamaran Fathulla, an expert in this field, and there was plenty of time to debate the key issues arising from his presentation afterwards with fellow business leaders. We debated at some length the fact that ‘we, as humans, are in a race with technology and that we need to win that race or the consequences will be huge’. Another strongly debated issue was the premise that the Fourth Industrial Revolution, unlike its three predecessors (mechanics, electronics and electronically automated production), had the potential to change not only ‘what we do’ as humans but also ‘who we are’. Discussion around the good, bad and ugly characteristics of digital transformation was fascinating, with lots of things to think more deeply about. Chief among those things is the need for strong ethics and leadership by humans as well as faster formulation of policy and regulation to match the rapid pace of transformation. The big take-away for me was to ensure that we embrace the technologies that genuinely make life better for people without in any way allowing ourselves to inadvertently become de-humanised as a result of the nature and pace of digital transformation. I wasn’t the only one to take plenty away from the event. IoD member Alexandra Bavin, business development manager, Shooting Star, commented: “I really enjoyed my first IoD event as a member. This was an excellent and thoughtprovoking talk on industrial digitalisation at the University of Lincoln, which led to a most interesting discussion with those who attended. “The IoD delivers events that are the perfect opportunity to network and also to develop and widen your own skills and knowledge.” Couldn’t have put it better myself! Thank you very much to the University of Lincoln for hosting this highly informative event, and to Dr Fathulla for being such an excellent speaker.

Dr Kamaran Fathulla delivers his presentation

Gary Headland

“This was an excellent and thought-provoking talk which led to interesting discussion ... the IoD delivers events that are the perfect opportunity to network and also to develop and widen your own skills and knowledge.”

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University offers pipeline of talent to your business The University of Leicester supports employers to build a talent pipeline and identify future employees. Recognising the requirements and needs of each organisation, we advise on strategies to attract both students and graduates by engaging with curriculum areas, raising profile and awareness among the target audience and managing recruitment processes. A number of our programmes offer a Year in Industry opportunity for undergraduates and postgraduates. This is a fantastic way to bring innovation and new ideas into a business while giving our students the opportunity to gain valuable experience. Employers are able to identify potential recruits prior to them hitting the job market and it offers a cost-effective recruitment solution to fill a skills gap or vacancies without any longterm commitment. It allows resource to be devoted to specific projects or to support ongoing activity, while bringing in academic thinking to the workplace. During a Year in Industry, employers and students continue to be supported by the university, to ensure it is a hugely rewarding and enriching experience for all.

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Our students have undertaken roles in small to multi-national organisations operating in the private, public and third-sector, locally, nationally and internationally. Alongside the Year in Industry we also support employers to offer summer internships and work-related projects allowing them to build and develop a relationship with students before they graduate. During the summer WRG Europe Ltd, employed Shahir, a School of Business student, to undertake a paid internship reviewing the company’s online presence. It was the first time WRG Europe Ltd had undertaken this type of internship and WRG Europe Ltd’s Ruth Doubleday was delighted with the outcome. “We would like to thank Shahir for his time and exceptional work. This scheme has been highly useful for us as the host company and, we hope, for Shahir himself and the university also.”

For Shahir it was also a rewarding experience. “Throughout this placement I have learnt many technical skills and also developed many interpersonal skills in particular, time-management and self-discipline. My internship at WRG has been a very immersive experience, where I was continually learning many valuable skills.” A Year in Industry is offered on a wide range of programmes across the university, including all programmes in the School of Business and many programmes in the College of Science and Engineering. In addition, opportunities exist across all university programmes in respect of summer internships or other types of work related learning. To find out more about working with the University please contact: Career Development Service, Employer Engagement Team, at: employers@le.ac.uk

“The Year in Industry is a fantastic way to bring innovation and new ideas into a business while giving our students the opportunity to gain valuable experience...”