Iod scot summer 2017 by Rob Beswick

Direction

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SUMMER 2017: Events diary • DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT • ADVICE AND INFORMATION • NEWS

The official membership magazine of the Institute of Directors in Scotland

Party leaders share their vision with IoD

In conversation with Doug Whyte, Hydro Group

Conference news

Director of the Year winners

Welcome

IoD Scotland & Direction IoD Executive Director: David Watt

After the last votes are counted... it’s down to the real job at hand

For email enquiries: iod.scotland@iod.com

Executive comment: After a period of unprecedented political activity, the pressure is now on to build a new business and economic landscape that works for all, says IoD Scotland Chair Susan Deacon MIoD

Web: www.iod.com Address: 10 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4DR Tel: 0131 557 5488 Direction is the official membership magazine of the Institute of Directors Scotland and is published on its behalf by: Chamber Media Services, 4 Hilton Road, Bramhall, Stockport, Cheshire SK7 3AG Advertising sales: Colin Regan Tel: 07871 444922 / 01925 879830 Email: colinregan001@ yahoo.co.uk Production: Rob Beswick Tel: 0161 426 7957 / 07964 375216 Email: rob@chamber mediaservices.co.uk Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, neither IoD Scotland 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 advertisements or editorials in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

Cover: Party leaders in Scotland vie for your votes. Clockwise, from top left, Kezia Dugdale, Labour; Nicola Sturgeon, SNP; Willie Rennie, LibDem; Patrick Harvie, Greens; and Ruth Davidson, Conservatives. Photos courtesy Labour Party/SNP/PA Images

fter the General Election on June 8, Scotland will have been to the polls an unprecedented seven times in three years. For the record, the tally reads: a European election followed by the independence referendum in 2014, a UK General Election a year later, a Holyrood vote and EU referendum last year, and a local authority poll and (another) General Election this year. Never in the history of Scotland have so many people voted so many times in so many elections! But that overdose of democracy may be coming to an end. As a consequence of the Brexit vote last June, the UK will not take part in the European elections in 2019. And, barring another independence referendum – which appears more distant under Theresa May – the next time Scotland votes could be in four years’ time, at the 2021 Holyrood elections. This respite in electioneering – replete as campaigns are with slogans, demands and point scoring – will provide an opportunity to move on. Continued debate and scrutiny is essential, but the stakes are now high. We should be unforgiving of those (whether in politics or beyond) who are more interested in grandstanding and game-playing than with the business of delivering economic growth and a just society. An enormous job of work lies ahead. Managing Brexit while keeping the show on the road is a tall order. Never before has Government faced such a multifaceted complex cocktail of change. Disentangling 40 years of EU laws, regulations and institutions which are intertwined with virtually every area of the economy and society, while simultaneously crafting new relationships with Europe and the rest of the world, is an undertaking on a grand scale. The resources of Government and its agencies will be stretched to the limits. It is noticeable – and welcome – that politicians and civil servants have been stepping up their engagement with business and with an array of organisations with knowledge, expertise and interests in this process. But it will take more than an exponential growth in conferences, receptions, and roundtable meetings to address the detailed, technical, and frankly often dull and laborious, work which needs to be done. It’s time for everyone to roll up their sleeves. Of course, not every business leader will need, want

“Love or loathe Brexit, the fact is that it creates an imperative for a step change in the way that Scotland’s leadership community works together, with each other and with policy makers...”

“Scotland has gone to the polls an unprecedented seven times in three years ...” or have time to engage with policy makers or the Brexit process. But all will need to step up to the plate in the times ahead. Shareholders, investors, customers and employees alike need to have confidence in those who sit at the helm. What goes on in the Boardroom really matters. Directors – executive and non-executive alike – have a responsibility to ensure that their business strategy is future-proofed as best it can be. While necessarily an exercise in speculation, there is much that can be done to identify and mitigate the risks and to exploit the opportunities which might lie ahead. For those who do want to become more involved in shaping wider policy and practice, opportunities will abound. The doors of Government are more open to business than ever before and professional bodies, trade organisations, academic researchers and others are now tooling up for the task. Many, including the IoD, provide a vital conduit through which policymakers can get close to those with real experience at the coal face. In Scotland especially, given our scale and our strong business and leadership networks, there is tremendous scope to work across sectors and boundaries to address the challenges ahead. There are welcome signs that the UK and Scottish Governments – despite their differences – are co-operating in key areas. We need to encourage more of that. Having both Governments in the same room is vital – not least on industrial strategy and future arrangements for trade and the repatriation of powers. Love or loathe Brexit, the fact is that it creates an imperative for a step change in the way that Scotland’s leadership community works together, with each other and with policy makers. We have an unparalleled opportunity to craft new ways of business and government coming together to address real world challenges through a genuine process of ‘co-production’. That, in itself, is a big prize. WWW.IOD.COM

Executive comment: What will it take to fix Scotland’s economy? With a General Election just around the corner, there’s an opportunity to reset the clock, says David Watt, Executive Director of the Institute of Directors in Scotland.

often make the case for leadership, and how it should be the supreme characteristic of all aspects of our civic life, particularly as we head into a very challenging few years for our nation and its economy. However, things have changed – and a more urgent need for true leadership arises. Visionary leadership is the key to real progress for our nation and its economy. We have a right to demand it, and expect it to be demonstrated by our leaders in politics and the public, private and third sectors. We need some concentration on the long-term aim and less expediency. How often, if ever in recent times, do we hear of a long-term vision for our country, backed by substantive plans for achieving these aims? This type of direction is desperately needed to guide our country through the choppy waters we face right now. However, our political leaders often seem more intent on stirring up the water! We need leaders who drive transformation and are willing to force through and speed up the changes needed to keep up with everincreasing technological challenges and opportunities. Recent figures have shown a Scottish economy slowing dramatically and falling behind the rest of the UK, so some direction is clearly required – and not just from the politicians. Boardrooms all over the country must focus on what they can do to reverse this trend. It’s time to stop blaming the democratic establishment for our problems, and step up to deliver our own vision and transformation. Business leaders can take some key steps to drive forward positive initiatives. To achieve progress and improve Scotland’s long term outcome, we need to: • Face up to the fact that Scotland is ‘geographically challenged’ and get air connections delivered. Norway has proved it can be done, why can’t we?

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We must face up to the fact that Scotland is ‘geographically challenged’ and get air connections delivered. Norway has proved it can be done;x why can’t we?

“If Scotland was a business (and of course, it is), we would naturally develop a national business growth plan agreed by all parties. I’m sure that’s something business could get behind” • Focus on what Scotland offers in bucketloads – quality of life, an excellent health service, plus community and entrepreneurial spirit. • Stop focusing on short-term outputs and refocus on long-term outcomes, such as education and skills • Dissuade Governments from trying to ‘do’ things and realise they should only facilitate.

Their job is to make it easier for business to succeed. • Fully utilise the band of ‘Global Scots’, involving and engaging them properly in support of our economic needs. • Build Scotland’s international reputation for quality people skills and become known for excellent customer care, allowing us to exploit that in tourism and so many other industries. • Keep an eye on the future - struggling to cope with skills shortages does not do us any favours, particularly if importing specialist skills may become more challenging in future. We must plan our future workforce. To focus positively on business and economic growth is essential for us all. If Scotland was a business (and of course, it is), we would naturally develop a national business growth plan agreed by all parties. I’m sure that’s something business could get behind and take responsibility for driving forward together.

News

FM on hand to open Scotland’s new place in the City Scotland has officially opened its doors in London, with the launch of Scotland House, a new innovation and investment hub situated at the heart of Victoria Embankment. A celebration of the centuries-old connections that have been built between London and Scotland, the hub will provide a special place to develop these ongoing relationships. Global companies including JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Aviva and Amazon have all benefitted from the London-Scotland connection; having substantial operations in both Scotland and London allows them to maintain a presence in the City while taking advantage of cost efficiencies of up to 30-40 per cent of running some operations from Scotland. Scotland House will provide a base for London companies to engage with Scotland and our ambitious companies, sectors and investors. Hosting a dynamic business environment, it is designed to promote collaboration and active partnership between industry and academia, extending Scotland’s approach into London. Opening Scotland House, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “London is a very important trading market and a meeting place for the world’s business leaders, but for Scottish

Scotland House businesses it can be challenging and costly to try and break into these markets. “The new hub will play a critical role in attracting investment to Scotland, helping businesses trade internationally and raising Scotland’s international profile. Lena Wilson, chief executive, Scottish Enterprise, said: “The opening of Scotland House marks the start of an exciting new phase of growth and collaboration between Scotland and London. “Together, Scotland and the City are a formidable force for tourism, trade, investment and collaboration and this new facility will provide the ideal platform to help take our partnership to the next level. Russell Dalgleish MIoD of the Scottish Business Network was at the launch of Scotland House. He reports: “Within walking distance of Pall Mall, I would encourage IoD members to visit the facility and understand how best they can use the space - which is stunning. “As co-founder of Scottish Business Network we are already planning to hold one of our monthly events at Scotland House this year.”

Left, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon checks out the view over the Thames

Funds boost for oil and gas Innovation The Industry Technology Facilitator (ITF) and the Oil & Gas Innovation Centre (OGIC) have joined forces to fund and support the development of innovations which could reduce costs, raise efficiency and improve safety and environmental performance. OGIC has made £1 million available to support companies with projects that require research and development to be undertaken at a Scottish university. It can fund up to 70% of these costs, while ITF can potentially ‘top-up’ financial support if an innovative project engages the interest of its members. Ben Foreman, ITF Technology Manager, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to progress ideas from the desktop towards the marketplace. The oil and gas industry has undergone tremendous changes over the past few years and new technology is crucial to see it become more efficient, sustainable and safer in the future. “We are now seeing a fresh focus and commitment to progress innovation. Financial support and knowledge from ITF, OGIC and Scottish universities is invaluable to push forward those solutions and put them to work for the benefit of the industry.” Applications are invited for all types of innovation that will benefit the oil and gas industry. Supported innovations must involve research and/or development work in a Scottish university. Ian Phillips MIoD, Chief Executive of OGIC, added: “This collaboration with ITF offers developers an opportunity to access OGIC funding and the engagement of ITF industry members. Our complementary offerings will support the development of market relevant products and services. “This initiative should be seen as a call to action to the industry as a whole to embrace smart solutions and alleviate barriers to implementation.”

Scottish Enterprise backs Art of Growth Scottish Enterprise has awarded £250,000 of Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) funding to Axis Studios, one of the UK’s fastest growing animation and visual effects studios. The support deal, which was announced by Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop, will enable the Glasgow-based company to enter new international markets and open new revenue streams, and to create 20 new jobs over the next 12 months. Axis Studios has ambitious plans to further grow its business, reflected in the current doubling of its physical space at the Skypark in Glasgow to allow for a Scottish-based headcount of over 180 people. The company aims to dramatically increase turnover to over £15m by 2018, three times that of its 2015 turnover. The 20 new jobs created will comprise computer graphics artists, R&D development and production managers. “This is an incredibly exciting time for Axis,” said Axis CEO Richard Scott. “We’ve always had a ‘get out there and get it done’ attitude and the support from Scottish Enterprise has helped us achieve even more.”

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IoD members offer: Special rates from Kantar Media

The team from Erskine Music & Media Studio (EMMS) with their Enterprise Award

Young Scot Awards 2017 celebrates our aspiring entrepreneurs For the twelfth year running, the Sunday Mail Young Scot awards turned the spotlight onto the outstanding achievements of Scotland’s young people. This year’s glittering event at Glasgow’s Crowne Plaza and Clyde Auditorium witnessed the inspiring stories of 36 finalists across 12 categories. One of the keenest fought over was in the Enterprise category, which celebrated the business flair and entrepreneurial passion of young people in helping others. The audience was thrilled by their groundbreaking work in areas such as healthcare and helping people to overcome barriers to participate in work and education. The Erskine Music & Media Studio (EMMS) took away the Enterprise award following their work in providing a modern, safe environment for young people to learn and socialise in their local community.

EMMS is a Community Interest Company run by young people for young people in the heart of Renfrewshire. Officially constituted in 2014, EMMS has developed a sustainable business model offering training and hands on volunteering experience for young people in the creative industry which will help them onto further education and employment. Louise Macdonald, Chief Executive of Young Scot, said: “The quality and diversity of all entries this year was absolutely outstanding and we were blown away by the incredible stories we’ve heard. A huge congratulations to the Erskine Music & Media Studio for winning the Enterprise Award. The work they are doing in their local community provides valuable experience for young people and we are looking forward to seeing their progress in the future”.

For more on the 2017 Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards visit: youngscotawards.com

Inside track on business news Scottish Business Insider has a launched a standalone live business news website, at insider.co.uk. The free-to-use site will publish up-to-theminute business news each day and provide the reporting, research, analysis and comment for which Insider is well known but with more of a lighter touch and irreverent tone at times. Ken Symon, editor of Scottish Business Insider and insider.co.uk said: “We are aiming to be the go-to website for all the news you need if you’re involved in business in Scotland. “Insider.co.uk reports live business news and analysis from throughout Scotland each business day in a way that is informed, incisive and insightful.” Allan Rennie, managing director of Insider publisher Media Scotland said: “At a time of uncertainty over Brexit, Trump and Indyref2 WWW.IOD.COM

Sarah McColl, senior marketing and communications manager, tells us how Kantar Media has helped Sport Aberdeen take its press operations to the next level ... Sport Aberdeen is a charitable leisure trust delivering sport and physical activity services on behalf of Aberdeen City Council. My role is to deliver our value proposition to our stakeholders – that Sport Aberdeen is committed to creating opportunities, inspiring people and changing lives through sport and physical activity. What challenges were you experiencing before working with Kantar Media? With so many different stakeholders – from governing bodies, to members, to policy influencers – it was difficult to track the reach and impact of our PR activity without complicated reporting structures. PR professionals should be 100% focused on winning the air war, not filling in Excel spreadsheets! What benefits have you seen since working with Kantar Media? We’ve hugely simplified how we communicate our message to our stakeholders and, importantly, how we communicate internally. Kantar Media’s analytics enable us to assess how our PR output is directly delivering ROI to the business, as well as helping us continually improve it. With digital PR really coming into its own, Kantar Media allows us to track real-time impact on social media and map it against our earned press coverage. This is incredibly important to us, particularly at a time when we’re trying to navigate the continually changing digital landscape. What would you say to anyone thinking of using Kantar Media? Do it! Kantar Media lets you take your communications operation to the next level.

there is a thirst for serious business news, analysis and data. “Insider is not political but we have brilliant team of journalists who will unashamedly champion Scottish business.”

New offer to IoD members: IoD members receive preferential rates across Kantar Media’s media monitoring and analysis services. Contact dave.mcgrath@kantarmedia.com or 020 7264 4853 for details.

All about The 99ers.... and Behind the Desk with Bob Keiller

Introducing... the IoD’s 99ers... The IoD stands for leadership, and understands the fact that leaders come in many different guises these days. Gone is the age when business leaders all fell into a roughly similar demographic. In the modern era of build-your-own, many are choosing the entrepreneurial route into business, and in recognition of this, and the challenges that leaders of start-up businesses face, IoD 99 was created. Since inception it has encouraged a different, often younger, demographic into the IoD – creating the foundation for tomorrow’s membership of Scotland’s top business leaders. Over five years, the 99-ers take a journey from entry level (costing £99) up to full membership, and

along the way benefit from IoD support and events which will help their businesses thrive. Statistically, a great deal of start-up businesses will fail. Often with smaller networks and less experience of the core leadership functions (finance, HR, investor / stakeholder management, growth strategy, marketing, etc) the research, and the 99-ers themselves, have identified a need for additional support at the early stages. So, the IoD is keen to disrupt the data wherever possible. By launching IoD 99 in Scotland, we hope to play a significant part in supporting and developing the leaders of tomorrow.

Meet Scotland’s 99-ers The next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs Embracing the 99-er opportunity are two of Scotland’s brightest start-ups. Here they tell us what the future has in store, and how the IoD is helping to play a part in their future business success.

some time, she has felt passionately that the finance industry needs to make some adjustments to better serve those who need help the most in saving. The business she is building will innovate to help form new investment habits for those currently disengaged with their finances and unwilling or unable to save.

Reason(s) for joining the IoD: Fantastic location, inspiring

office space to work and grow my idea at this early stage, with the added benefit of networking with great people who are helping me along my journey.

Name: Anna Graziano Company: Bravety Group Ltd Established: 2017 Elevator Pitch: Anna has a strong pedigree in growing successful FinTech businesses. For

Five-year plan in five words: To

change the savings culture.

Name: Calum Leslie Business name: Xcask Established: 2015 Elevator Pitch: It’s the whisky subscription club that delivers a box of single cask Scotch directly to your door, every month. Each box comes with 8 drams where each dram is a sip of history and once gone is never again to be repeated. With over 100 whiskies in our portfolio, we are literally opening the doors to some of the world’s finest distilleries. We are the 21st century whisky club. Reason(s) for joining the IoD: Networking opportunities with a group of like-minded individuals, availability of workspace for meetings and access to resources that will help us to scale. Five-year plan in five words: The world’s

largest whisky club.

“We are literally opening the doors to some of the world’s finest distilleries. We are the 21st century whisky club...” Calum Leslie

Want to know more? IoD99 membership is designed to actively support young entrepreneurs aged 18-40, who might not have previously held senior roles in companies. 99-ers must be the founder or co-founder of a business, with an annual turnover of less than £3m, established for fewer than five years, and cannot have been an IoD member in the last two years. Find out more about the 99-ers at https://www.iod.com/membership/ iod-99 WWW.IOD.COM

Behind the Desk

Bob Keiller: 10 steps from good to great Name: Bob Keiller Position: Chairman Company: Scottish Enterprise Employees: 1259 Career history: 1986-90 1990-93 1993-2002 2002-06 2006-2011 2011-2015 2016-date

BP TFCW Consultants Amerada Hess Director Halliburton (led MBO to create PSN in 2006) CEO, PSN (sale of PSN to Wood Group) Wood Group director/CEO Chairman Scottish Enterprise

Short overview of organisation:

Scotland’s national economic development agency. We aim to deliver a significant, lasting effect on the Scottish economy. Our role is to help identify and exploit the best opportunities for economic growth. We support ambitious Scottish companies to compete within the global marketplace and help build Scotland’s globally competitive sectors. We also work with a range of partners in the public and private sectors to attract new investment to Scotland and to help create a world-class business environment.

What is the greatest recurring challenge you come across in your role, and what’s your strategy for dealing with it?

I often talk to leaders who are unsure about the ‘next step’ for their organisation. By asking lots of ‘daft laddie’ questions I can help them to understand what they CAN do rather than what they can’t.

Who, or what, drives you or inspires you?

I get great satisfaction from seeing people get on in life and in business and so want to help and inspire others where I can. Many people have helped me and I want to

give something back in a way that makes a difference. I work with business incubators, SMEs, scale-up companies, charities and public sector organisations by mentoring, coaching, training and hosting workshops and talks about four days a week. What makes a good leader great? Terms like “good” and “great” are subjective – in business it has taken me some time to try and distil the factors that I feel can make a leader effective. When I am doing talks on leadership they usually cover some of the ten areas listed below. Purpose: Having a clear purpose, clearly defined values and a compelling strategy Culture: Creating a culture that is based on the agreed values and principles. Rolemodelling the required behaviours. Perceptiveness: Looking for, seeking out and seeing – the bigger picture, from multiple viewpoints, the historical perspective, for connections and patterns Communication: Managing all your stakeholder relationships – communication is hard work Change: Leading change – taking hearts and minds with you is all important. Customers: Focusing obsessively on customers Trust: Earning Trust – how do you do this? Teams: Building great teams Time: Controlling your time Storytelling: The power of business storytelling

over many years who have helped me in many ways. One taught me the benefit of seeing issues from multiple angles, another helped me to understand how to lead an organisation through a downturn while another helped me realise that you can accelerate the development of great teams.

What is the ‘next big thing’ that will transform your sector?

Digitisation will change our world – and it has just begun. Many jobs we need today will disappear while many new, as-yet undefined, jobs will be needed. This will be disruptive and will present threats and opportunities.

What leadership advice would you give your younger self? It’s all about people and teams. Be good at your job, sure, but being great with people, the so-called ‘soft skills’, are actually the hard ones that make the biggest difference. Improve your presentation skills – work hard to make every presentation you deliver memorable and compelling. Present with passion – show you care for the subject matter!

Have you had a mentor, and what did he/ she add to your development?

I have had many mentors, coaches and unpaid advisors

“Be good at your job, sure, but being great with people, the so-called ‘soft skills’, are actually the hard ones that make the biggest difference” WWW.IOD.COM

IoD Scotland Election focus

Decision time: Party leaders share their vision with the IoD IoD Scotland asked the five leading parties in the forthcoming General Election to put their case to business leaders as the country prepares to go to the polls on June 8.

Low-tax promises will boost Scotland’s economy Ruth Davidson

Leader of the Scottish Conservatives We believe economic growth has to be driven both locally and nationally. At the recent council elections we returned representatives in record numbers, all of whom stood on a detailed manifesto prioritising local growth. And now, as we approach another election – this time for Westminster – boosting the economy is going to be at the forefront of people’s minds. We believe firmly in a low-tax economy, for firms of all sizes and the workers they employ. That’s why we see cutting corporation tax as key to that, particularly as the UK prepares for a new start after coming out of the European Union. The tax regime has to be right, but so do the skills that our young people possess as they enter the world of work. We want to see greater partnership between education and business, so pupils and students are equipped for the needs of modern workforce. That means more participation in STEM subjects, and making sure workers have the right skillset to deal with changing global practices and trends.

And while we have this range of positive ideas for the future of Scotland’s business community, we simply cannot ignore the risks posed. Yes, Brexit raises significant questions, but it also brings opportunities across a range of industries, particularly fishing and agriculture. But the darkest cloud on the horizon is created by the SNP and its complete unwillingness to take the threat of a second independence referendum off the table. The party is already harming Scotland’s economy by making us the highest-taxed part of the UK, along with punishing organisations of all sizes with a range of anti-business measures. As

we see healthy economic growth across the rest of the UK, Scotland is just one quarter away from recession. However, the obsession with separation drives this even further, throwing up trade barriers with the rest of the UK, which is four times more valuable to Scotland’s businesses than the EU. And that’s not to mention a hiking of personal and business taxes to cope with the massive black hole an independent Scotland would have. These are all reasons why businesses north of the border will be best served by a Conservative government in June, with Scotland’s place in the UK as its absolute priority.

“Yes, Brexit raises significant questions, but it also brings opportunities... the darkest cloud on the horizon is created by the SNP and its unwillingness to take the threat of a second independence referendum off the table...” WWW.IOD.COM

Support small businesses – and curb fossil fuels Patrick Harvie

Scottish Greens’ Co-convenor Small, independent businesses with their roots in the communities they serve are absolutely essential for the strong, resilient local economies we need. Scottish Greens believe we need to create an economic revival and thousands of jobs by focusing on rural and urban small business growth. Yet in our councils, in the Scottish Government and its agencies, and at Westminster, taxpayers’ money is being used to benefit giant multinationals, and the tax regime allows them to crowd out other businesses without paying back into the common good. The urgent need to transition Scotland’s economy away from a dependency on fossil fuels is too often seen as a problem or a threat; in

reality it can be a huge opportunity for investment in new, high quality and lasting jobs for the future. Businesses that are willing and able to innovate instead of merely defending their status quo will be able to realise these opportunities. We will continue to push both the UK and Scottish Governments to support this transition in ways which reduce wealth and income inequalities, and prevent the worst effects of climate change. In this transition, there’s great potential in recognised ‘green’ industries such as reuse and recycling, sustainable food production and green energy, but also in areas like clean chemical sciences, digital and creative industries, and modern efficient construction. Financial services remain an important part of our economy, but here again domination by a

handful of giant businesses fails to meet the investment needs of the real economy. Greens don’t see economic activity as an end in itself, with success measured by narrow metrics like GDP. We want an inclusive economy that taps everyone’s potential and meets everyone’s needs. Brexit has further endangered our economy; that much is certain, and the Conservatives’ internal party squabbles have triggered an opportunistic snap election and a power grab to undermine both Parliaments. Nevertheless, the election is another chance to highlight radical Green proposals to develop small businesses and transform our economy.

“The election is another opportunity to highlight Green proposals to develop small businesses”

Investment banks will unlock potential Kezia Dugdale

Scottish Labour Leader Businesses in Scotland face an unprecedented level of uncertainty. Both at Holyrood and Westminster, ideological nationalism has been prioritised above economic growth. Theresa May’s pursuit of a hard Brexit – a UK outside of the single market – is a major threat to our economy. Our current unrestricted access to the world’s largest trading block provides firms with extraordinary opportunities. But it also provides us with greater economic clout when competing with emerging powers like China and India. Theresa May’s vision for a post-Brexit UK addresses none of these issues. Yet the risks of Brexit are far outweighed by the risks of independence. Under the SNP, Scotland’s economy has stagnated and worryingly, is on the brink of recession. WWW.IOD.COM

To multiply its economic mismanagement, Nicola Sturgeon has now introduced the prospect of an unwanted and divisive second independence referendum. At a time when businesses need certainty, she has created doubt. The uncomfortable truth for Nicola Sturgeon is independence would not fix the economic woes created on her watch – it would only compound them. Breaking up the UK would cause turbocharged austerity in Scotland which would be bad for businesses. The SNP still has no answer to how it would clear Scotland’s £15billion deficit. While trade with the EU is important for Scottish firms, trade within the UK is worth four times as much. In contrast to both the Tories and the SNP, Scottish Labour has a pro-business platform and a plan to grow our economy. We would use the new powers of the Scottish Parliament to invest in the

economy. We would use consequential funds to provide £37million of relief for firms facing business rates increases. And we would make education a top priority to ensure people have the skills Scottish businesses need. A Labour Government would establish a National Investment Bank and Regional Investment Banks across the UK, to help unlock £500 billion of investment and lending, including a £20billion Scottish Investment Bank. This would rebuild industries, grow businesses and renew our country’s infrastructure. That’s the difference a Labour government would make, and a vision for the future which I hope businesses share.

“We would make education a top priority to ensure people have the skills Scottish businesses need”

IoD Scotland election focus

Progressive, internationalist and open Willie Rennie

Leader, Scottish Liberal Democrats This election is a chance to change the direction of our country. The best thing we can do for business is to keep our country open and internationalist. Liberal Democrats are opposed to new barriers to doing business, particularly with our nearest neighbours. Cutting ties with our biggest economic markets makes no sense in terms of trade, jobs, prices or incomes. The Liberal Democrats are the only party that is pro-UK, pro-EU and progressive. Meanwhile, official figures show Scotland on the brink of a recession. There have been a string of warnings about the fragility of the economy, business confidence and skills shortages. That is why we need a long-term plan to build a strong economy.

My party has consistently made the case for a transformative investment in education. It has slipped. However, new powers mean we have the chance to invest hundreds of millions of pounds to make Scottish education the best again, help people achieve their potential and enable businesses to find the skills they need. This includes repairing our colleges, where 152,000 places have been lost under the SNP. As well as investing in people’s talents, business needs government to invest in their wellbeing too. 643,000 days a year are lost to depression alone – just one mental health condition. However, the Scottish Government’s new blueprint for mental health services for the next decade was panned for its lack of ambition and detail. That’s why the long-term plan to support business must also involve serious investment in mental health. Our manifesto for the General Election sets out in detail the full range of support that we will

provide to businesses. While the Tories and nationalists offer propositions that would each harm our economy, we stand with the majority opinion in this country. This election is a chance to give businesses a brighter future.

“While the Tories and nationalists offer propositions that would each harm our economy, we stand with the majority opinion“

Crucial to build on our reputation for innovation Nicola Sturgeon

First Minister of Scotland and Leader, SNP Scotland is already a country that encourages entrepreneurship and is well established as an attractive place to do business and to invest. And as a nation, our reputation for innovation has long been recognised internationally, so it is crucial that we seek to build on that profile. In Government, the SNP has sought to capitalise on our key economic strengths, and in recent years Scotland has been among the top destinations across the UK, outside of London, for foreign direct investment. Meanwhile, under the SNP, productivity – a key driver of growth – is 9.4 per cent higher than before the recession, while the rest of the UK has seen productivity more or less flatline. Scotland has one of the most highly educated workforces in Europe and the SNP will continue to support our universities with £1bn investment

“The election is a chance to stand up for Scotland’s business and economic interests in the face of the Tories’ chaotic Brexit negotiations”

this year as well as increasing the number of funded Modern Apprenticeships to 30,000. We will also continue to support our successful renewables industry in the face of Westminster cuts, while we have also extended the SNP’s Small Business Bonus Scheme, which has already saved businesses more than £1bn. The SNP will continue to be a bulwark against the Tories’ reckless plans for an economically disastrous hard Brexit, which threatens 80,000 Scottish jobs over a decade and which many,

many businesses across Scotland are dreading. The election on June 8 is a chance to stand up for Scotland’s business and economic interests in the face of the Tories’ chaotic Brexit negotiations, which pose the biggest threat to our economy in at least a generation. And it is more important than ever that SNP MPs are elected in large numbers to protect Scotland from the danger posed by an unfettered Conservative government with a potentially increased majority. WWW.IOD.COM

Spotlight: Doug Whyte, CEO, Hydro Group

The secret of business?

Never stop learning

IoD Director of the Year Doug Whyte talks to Direction’s Rob Beswick about the excitement of doing business in Asia, the challenges facing Scotland and why stretching your staff is the best motivational technique

oug Whyte was in fine form when he gave up some of his busy working day to talk to Direction about the Hydro Group, its success and his views on life as a director in general. That good humour was in part down to his return the previous day from a business trip around Asia, a part of the world that always inspires him, he said. “Asia is such an exciting, vibrant place. It can be difficult to do business, sure, but there is a can-do attitude that’s infectious. “The whole business ethos is about growth and the way Thailand, Vietnam and others are transforming their cities is incredible. There’s something new every time I go. “Only problem is, on my return to the UK, I tend to find myself coming back down to earth with a bit of a dull thump!” Blame the weather. But that negative thought is surely not connected to the Hydro Group, which has seen steady growth in turnover, profits, products and workforce since its launch. They’re all the hallmarks of a great business and the qualities that saw Doug named Director of the Year in the Large Company category at the recent IoD Scotland awards. Rather, the negativity stems from a frustration at aspects of the current business landscape – but more on that later. To begin, that Director of the Year award. “It wasn’t something I set out to win,” he recalls. “I didn’t enter; I was nominated. I just gave the judging panel a straightforward account of the business’s growth and plans for the future.”

It must have been a convincing story, as the judges were unanimous in their decision to name Doug their winner. That straightforward, no-nonsense approach has stood Doug well over the years he has been at the helm of the Hydro Group. Where did the firm start? “I founded the company in 1982 as Hydro Bond Engineering. There were just a handful of staff then, working on electrical engineering projects for sub-sea applications in the oil and gas sector.” Doug’s background was in electrical engineering, and the challenge of solving complicated customer demands in what is a tough natural environment was something that has long appealed him – and still does to this day. Today, the core work of the company remains as it was in 1982: designing and manufacturing cables, connectors and penetrators for underwater use. As well as the oil and gas sectors the Hydro Group also works in the defence and renewables sectors. To a layman, the equipment manufactured – and the challenging environment it which it has to operate – sound impossible to construct, but that challenge is what Doug and his team thrive on. “One of the things we are very proud of at the Hydro Group is that we have a very low turnover of staff, and part of that I put down to the technical challenges we throw at our people all the time. There’s something to learn every day: we are forever testing and researching new materials, new concepts. “A lot end up in the bin – and I can have finance tearing their hair out because we’ve just

thrown away £30,000-worth of work. But I don’t look at it as a loss: every time you find out that something doesn’t work, you’ve learned something new. Life, and business, is all about learning.” The business’s ability to adapt is helped by its flat management structure, which puts huge responsibility on individual employees’ shoulders. “In many ways each member of the team is like its own small business unit, working on their projects and using their skills, solving technical problems as they go.” That means that staff can never rest on their laurels. “We are forever being asked to solve new problems by our customers, or change a design to fulfil a new application. But while it sounds complicated it’s just a process like any WWW.IOD.COM

:“A lot of our research ends up in the bin: :– and I can have finance tearing their: hair out because we’ve just thrown: away £30,000-worth of work. But I: don’t look at it as a loss: every time: :you find out that something doesn’t: :work, you’ve learned something new.: :Life, and business, is all about learning.”:

other, one you can learn from.” While the oil and gas sector was its principal market to begin with, Hydro Group has jumped at the chance to get involved with the defence and renewables sectors, too. “It’s been a hard time for oil and gas,” he admits. “There’s been lots of bad news and certainly I can see the oil price staying at the $50 a barrel mark for a while yet. When you hear that Keppel Offshore and Marine (the world’s biggest oil rig builder) is closing shipyards and laying off 18,000 people worldwide, you know the industry’s contraction isn’t going to end any time soon.” That’s one of the reasons why the Hydro Group has diversified into new sectors – though entering new markets wasn’t all part of some grand masterplan. WWW.IOD.COM

“We’ve never been into massive growth plans; all our growth has been incremental and very gradual. We’ve entered new markets when it has made sense to do so, and done it very steadily.” “We’ve never been into massive growth plans; all our growth has been incremental and very gradual. We’ve entered new markets when it has made sense to do so, and done it very steadily.” The Director of the Year judges remarked on an ‘honest and straightforward assessment of the business’ ; more evidence of that here? “Yes, you could say that. Our growth has always been paid for out of our own pockets. We’ve never chased investment or finance. We always grew out of

cash we could afford to invest in new projects and products.” That slow, gradual approach is heartening to hear when so often we hear about companies falling flat after embarking on a helter-skelter race for growth they can’t sustain. It also breeds a patient attitude that stands it in good stead when bidding for new work – particularly in the defence sector.

Continued on page 16

Spotlight: Doug Whyte, MD, Hydro Group

“The skills gap is a major worry. We have been training our own apprentices since well before it was fashionable to do so...”

Continued from page 15 “We are working with BAe on its new Dreadnought class of submarines but it has been a long process – it’s taken around 15 years to get ourselves in there. You’ve got to be patient!” The huge rise in renewable energy schemes around the world has given Hydro Group another sector to target – though they are no newcomers to this particular party. “We first started working in what was known as ‘Wecs and Tecs’ (Wave energy convertors and Tidal energy convertors) in 1994. There is a huge political will to see this sector grow now, which perhaps there hasn’t been before. “Early renewable projects weren’t always successful but they are large enough now for the big players to get involved; the economiesof-scale advantages are now huge. We’re seeing a lot of simpler, more reliable projects coming on line which we can get involved with.” Being able to keep his workforce up to speed with new challenges such as those posed by this growing sector is one of Doug’s biggest challenges. “The skills gap is a major worry. We have been training our own apprentices since well before it was fashionable to do so, but one of the reasons for that is our skills needs are unique. “We don’t expect our apprenticeships to deliver us a finished product, rather a well-rounded individual who has a good grounding in the basics. “We need good team players with a thirst for knowledge, who are looking forward to the technical challenges ahead.” That desire to rise to the technical challenge has clearly kept Doug hungry for a long time, but what other challenges does the business face? Brexit? “You can adapt to most challenges in our field – you research, you test – but others, you just have to get on with it and stop moaning. Brexit’s one of them. Yes, I can see the challenges but let’s look at the advantages. In recent months the value of Sterling has fallen, which has made my products more costeffective for overseas buyers. Export pricing is easier. That’s an advantage. My advice would be, don’t get bogged down with the negatives surrounding Brexit.” I point out that perhaps, for a global player with big interests in every continent, the loss of EU markets might not be as acute as for some other businesses. “Yes, that’s true but Europe is important for us. However, we are protected a little.” The fact that so many businesses don’t

export is something that baffles Doug. “I heard someone say the other day that just four per cent of Scotland’s businesses export. Just four per cent! That’s incredible. We claim we want to compete with Germany – well, around 30 per cent of German businesses export. That’s a big difference.” The landscape in which UK businesses operate needs a lot of looking at, says Doug. “Having just come back from Asia I wonder if the UK is still as attractive a place to invest in as it once was. Business rates are a scandal – they are a tax on jobs. I think councils just see businesses as awash with cash that can be tapped when they need it. “Red tape is another problem that holds business back. “The fact is, most small businesses are just ticking over, barely making a profit. You hear politicians talk about helping small businesses but in reality, what practical measure do they introduce to help? Over half the workforce works in SMEs but who is out there fighting for them? “Politicians just create taxes, red tape, and let it wash over people who are struggling to cope. It is very frustrating.” Looking to the future, where does he see himself and the business going? “Me? Retiring!” he says laughing. “Seriously, I’ve been looking at how to step out of the business for a while. We have taken succession planning very seriously and promoted good people to senior positions. I know the business won’t collapse without me around.” So as he nears the end of his own business

career, what advice would he give any aspiring directors at the start of theirs? “Have empathy. Understand the other’s point of view. Whether it is your colleagues around the boardroom table, your workforce or your suppliers. “When you get to board level, you tend to be there because you are good at something you’re a good engineer, for example. But you’ve got to sit there and listen to other people’s points of view, understand where they are coming from. “That same attitude needs to translate into how you deal with customers. It will give you a better understanding of their needs. Be straight and honest with everyone you deal with. “At Hydro Group we’ve had customers who can be difficult but we take the attitude, get them through the front door, ‘smother them in cream’, as the saying goes, be honest and straight with them and they’ll be the same with you in the end. I include suppliers in that: treat them like they are part of your team.” So if he stood down from the business and got the job as First Minister/Prime Minister for a day, what would he prioritise? “I’d take the day off!,” he said. “No, if I had one thing I could do, or get politicians to do, it is to help them understand better how business works, what really matters to SMEs. There needs to be an emphasis on the impact Governments have on small businesses; too many are vulnerable at the moment. “What worries me is, I’d be tempted to say to my children don’t be an entrepreneur, as there’s no support out there for you. “That’s sad, isn’t it?”

“I heard someone say the other day that just four per cent of Scotland’s businesses export. Just four per cent! That’s incredible. We claim we want to compete with Germany – well, around 30 per cent of German businesses export. That’s a big difference.” WWW.IOD.COM

When the family splits ...

who’s safeguarding your business assets? Jenny Broatch, Family Law Specialist at Pagan Osborne discusses contingency planning your relationship to protect business assets. When it comes to strategic planning, business owners and executives are astute in making realistic projections and forecasts for the years ahead – indeed, contingency planning is standard practice. However, one common theme we’re seeing more and more as family lawyers is that the same clear-headed strategic approach is not always applied to the protection of business assets in the context of personal relationships. Many relationships come to an end and it is important to think about how that could impact on your business interests. Many married business owners may make tax efficient decisions while all is well in their personal lives. If a spouse is brought into a partnership to reduce tax liabilities, they may have inadvertently ‘converted’ the business into a matrimonial asset, which will be considered in the allocation of assets should the

relationship break down. Cohabiting business owners should also be cautious as the law has changed. The Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006 created new rights for cohabitants regarding the maintenance and redistribution of assets. This particular legislation is now over 10 years old but there’s a lack of awareness that it even exists. This law gives an estranged partner the right to raise a court action against their former partner, within a year of their separation to seek financial compensation from them. Broadly speaking, economic disadvantage would have to be demonstrated. The law is somewhat unsettled, with no clear pattern of case law yet to emerge, thus increasing the risks to cohabitants. It is easy to see that things have changed over the last 30 years when people married and set up home together in their early 20s. As many people now marry or cohabit later in life, there are more complicated assets to consider. Often, we see people who’ve married or cohabited a second or third time so their legal and financial considerations are even more complicated. There are ways to minimise the legal and financial issues around this potential minefield

with a Prenuptial or Cohabitation Agreement, which will set out who owns what, and in what proportion covering aspects such as bank accounts, property, pension and debts. These agreements are legal contracts designed to set out how a couple would organise their affairs and divide their assets if the relationship were to end. Often people choose to ‘ring fence’ pre-relationship assets and a business should be included in this. These types of prenuptial agreements are still not regarded as the norm. However, they are particularly relevant to those who are bringing a business interest to the relationship. A recent case saw a food sales business, set up pre-marriage, argued to be matrimonial property. The husband changed the nature of the business during the marriage, made his wife a company director. If he had kept his wife out of the business, then the value of it would not have been brought into the split of assets on his subsequent separation. Every case will be different, so taking advice from a lawyer is paramount.

For more details, see www.paganosborne.com

“One common theme we’re seeing more and more is that the same clear-headed strategic approach is not always applied to the protection of business assets in the context of personal relationships. ”

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Technical briefings: Data analysis and education

Data analytics are driving the future If data is the raw material every business craves, then data analysis is the task that puts it to work, says Fraser Nicol, Partner, Scott-Moncrieff Data has been described as the ‘new oil’ given the fact that we are generating more now than ever before. Apps on our phones capture the minutiae of our daily lives, fitness data tracks our movements and social media data captures our downtime. Further to this, sites such as Google and Amazon log our browsing history, allowing tailored suggestions on products and services to be made. This willingness to share and propensity to generate vast pools of data is what makes the ‘oil’ analogy so appropriate. Like oil, data is not valuable in itself. What makes it valuable is its potential. And if data is the new oil, then data analytics is the ability to refine and exploit that oil. The process of analysis yields insights that enable less risky, more profitable, decision making and allows the use of such data to make a business processes run faster. Businesses, large and small, are using the huge amounts of data they control to drive their businesses, customer strategies, decision making and accurate planning.

Data is revolutionising how companies make investment decisions, operate financial controls and conduct their back-office processes. It’s not all positive though. The amount of power companies gain from holding this data has led to increased concerns about individual privacy and fair access to services across society. In many cases, the current regulatory and legal frameworks were designed in a completely different era – before the internet was a factor of daily life. As a result, a significant tightening of data privacy law is currently underway and it pays to stay up to date. In some cases, breaching the rules could lead to financial penalties that could easily put a small or medium-sized business out of operation. Generating and holding large quantities of this valuable commodity also enhances the threat of cyber-attacks and data breaches, with incidences of ransomware on the increase. Any organisation working with third parties will need to consider not only their own measures to manage these risks but also those of their partners.

When it comes to data, there are a few questions businesses should ask in order to challenge themselves and adapt to this new world. What does the business exist to do and is there a clear strategy? What data does the business generate through its operation that is used to support this strategy, and how could this be put to good use? Could your service offering be carried out better by a competitor if they had access to different or more data? Additionally, if data could be used to automate key business processes, would accelerating these current processes be enough, or could this power be used to do things completely new or differently? Scottish businesses have the potential to be at the forefront of data revolution, if they are not already. We are producing businesses and graduates to work within them who understand not just the questions, but also how to answer them. Pair this knowledge with the benefits derived from data analytics, AI and big data, and we have the potential to unlock something truly great.

“A significant tightening of data privacy law is currently underway and it pays to stay up to date. In some cases, breaching the rules could lead to financial penalties that could easily put an SME out of operation...”

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Developing the Young Workforce

You may have heard the phrase Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) — but what exactly is DYW? In January 2013, the Scottish Government set up The Education Working for All! — Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce. Through extensive consultations with leading figures in education, business and equalities groups, the Commission outlined the importance of vocational education and its role in the Scottish education system. Developing the Young Workforce — Scotland’s Youth Employment Strategy (DYW) includes the detailed plans, agreed with local government, to implement the Commission’s recommendations. DYW aims to improve the options available to young people, and reduce youth unemployment by preparing young people for the workplace, giving them the skills that employers need. SQA Journeys SQA is a key partner for DYW. It is uniquely placed to support DYW because it already works closely with training providers, employers, colleges and schools, as well as local authorities and SDS. SQA understands the needs of learners and employers. It can help one group to help the other, with the aim of creating a more qualified, more motivated and more productive workforce. A wide range of robust, relevant and respected SQA qualifications link directly into DYW. They are designed and continually reviewed in partnership with industry to develop the workplace skills and experience needed in the real working world to make businesses more competitive

and Scotland’s economy more dynamic. SQA qualifications sit at various levels, allowing the learner to move from one qualification to the next or to change paths at an equivalent level. DYW Regional Support SQA Regional Managers are actively involved in all of the DYW Regional Groups across Scotland. Every business working with SQA has a dedicated Account Manager who can advise on the best possible journey for enhancing any industry’s young workforce. This single point of contact will take the time to get to know each business and how it works. SQA can then provide the best possible advice and guidance for qualifications and skills development at a local level relevant to that business. Working together, SQA and Scotland’s businesses can give Scotland a more productive, more reliable and more skilled workforce.

More about SQA: see www.sqa.org.uk/journeys

“Every business working with SQA has a dedicated Account Manager who can advise on the best possible journey for enhancing any industry’s young workforce. This single point of contact will take the time to get to know each business and how it works. SQA can then provide the best possible advice and guidance for qualifications and skills development relevant to that business...” WWW.IOD.COM

Company Profile: AM Bid Services

Exponential growth from helping to win bids! AM Bid Services launched in October 2014 to provide expert bidding assistance to organisations large and small. The company was founded by Andrew Morrison, one of the UK’s leading bid experts, fresh from an award-winning stint managing most of the bidding function at British Gas. The business is both award winning and high growth, with turnover on track for £450k+ in its third year. Changes to Scotland’s procurement legislation have considerably increased the number of opportunities which must go through a public tender process and the private sector is now also utilising bidding processes more frequently. We talked to Andrew to find out how AM Bid Services is helping organisations develop and improve their bidding capabilities.

Question: What is the size of the bidding prize?

Andrew: Each year the Scottish public sector puts £11 billion of goods and services out to tender, with a further £200 billion in the wider UK public sector. The private sector figure is unknown, but significant. Long-term contracts with clients who always pay helps drive business growth.

Question: What difficulties do bidders face?

Andrew: Quite a number, including more bids than they have resources to complete; short timescales; complex bid documents and submission requirements; and not being sure exactly what the buyers are looking for.

Question: How can you help?

Andrew: We demystify the bidding process by deconstructing the client-issued documents. We then help present your business in a compelling way. We focus on client hot buttons, bid win themes, customer value propositions, USPs, key differentiators, managing risk, added value and innovation. We also suggest well-placed clarification questions that can help level the playing field – it’s important that bidders are not making wrong assumptions, so getting utmost clarity from the buyer helps remove any doubts around the interpretation of the requirements.

Question: What current trends are you seeing in bidding?

Andrew: Buyers are under increasing pressure to drive value from the procurement process, so the correct combination of price and quality is key. Community Benefits have been introduced to ensure that bidders are

David Sole OBE, Non-Executive Chairman (centre) with Andrew Morrison (second left), Managing Director, and the AM Bid Services team

giving back to the local communities, eg, in new jobs, apprenticeships and utilising the local supply chain. Brexit is starting to appear in some winning bid responses too, looking at how the bidder can cope with exchange rate fluctuations and potential reduced access to the EU labour market.

helpful at busy times. We can also provide interim bid staff when you need someone in your organisation for a temporary period, as well as help with bid recruitment. Sometimes, we are brought in to help on the client side, advising on best ways to optimise the procurement process.

Question: What is your ‘Top Tip’ for bidding?

Question: Which sectors do you have bidding experience in?

Andrew: ‘Super bidders’ have an organisation that ‘Thinks Bid’, so it is just not the Bid Team and senior staff who are providing content for bids. The net is cast much wider in the business so that examples of good practice, resolving problems and customer testimonials find their way into bids.

Question: We have a Bid Team and pretty good win rates; could we still benefit from your services?

Andrew: Absolutely! We provide a Bid Gap Analysis Review which will give you an external assessment of where your bids can be improved. This can help inform your bid strategy. We can provide Bid Training for your staff. We offer both Full Bid Writing Services and Review, Edit & Improve Services – very

Andrew: In the past six months alone, we have handled accountancy, architecture, care & support, City Deal funding, cleaning, construction, education, environmental, housing maintenance, IT, legal, mechanical & engineering, nhs, printing, telecoms, transport and water bids. Bring the bid to us and we will provide you with a quotation within 24 hours, with a menu of options for our services.

Question: Finally, what is the David Sole connection?

Andrew: I met David at a business event last December at a time when we were looking to appoint a Non-Executive Chairman. David is an outstanding coach and business expert who is helping us set the strategy for scaling the business in line with client needs.

Want to know more? Speak to us today for a FREE, confidential consultation Contact: David Gray, Bid Development Director E: david@ambidservices.co.uk T: 07921 624 099 W: www.ambidservices.co.uk

AM Bid Services

@AMBidServices

AM Bid Services WWW.IOD.COM

Technical briefing

Dell’s three steps to entrepreneurial heaven Bill Magee reports from Silicon Valley on the business strategy of one of the titans of the tech industry, Michael Dell

Michael Dell - inspirational and challenging

Michael Dell marked the first anniversary since he recorded Silicon Valley’s largest ever tech takeover to reflect on his entrepreneurial ‘golden rules’ for lasting start-up success, culminating in the tech veteran landing EMC Corporation for a cool $67 billion.   In 1984 a then 19-year-old Dell decided to mark the end of his freshman year in dorm room 273 at University of Texas by acting on an idea he had and using $1,000 saved to launch the PC manufacturing company that to this day carries his name. Fast forward and 33 years later the billionaire has been described as having an ‘interesting management style’, one more akin to the boss of a fast emerging start-up than a global giant in this data-driven, mobile-focused digital age. We’re talking about a $50 billion business with 100,000 employees operating in 170 countries before going private – the largest company ever to do so – re-emerging around 12 months ago with market leader in cloud computing and IT data storage solutions EMC on board.  He alluded to his approach here when he gave the keynote speech at Dell EMC World, staged at the Valley’s ‘retreat’ Las Vegas, also thanks to his alma mater for supplying his “banging around” on his father’s adding thoughts given to students over the years. machine: he’d type in an equation, the device Dell urges anyone wishing to become an made some cool noises and out came the entrepreneur should try things, not worry answer. “I was hooked,” he recalls.   about getting everything correct and learn from Today he is passionate about delivering experience. How fast you learn is the technology solutions his customers need, differentiator, as opposed to making every remaining energised by all the great things that decision correctly. If you’re waiting for “enable” in the world.  someone else’s advice to become an Step 2: Find a Problem and Fix It. Even entrepreneur, chances are you’re not one. breakthrough business ideas begin with There are a few things that distinguish solving a common problem - the real entrepreneurs. Dell calls them his Step 1: bigger the problem, the bigger the “three Ps.” Endowed with these, you Find a Passion. opportunity. In Dell’s case will not have to ask anyone’s Step 2: Find a personal and business advice before pursuing your Problem and Fix It. computing needs have dream. Step 1: Find a Passion. Step 3: Find a Purpose. radically changed, but he Work/life balance? Entrepreneurs employs the same approach: have a real passion so work It’s purpose that create modern data centres and doesn’t feel like work: it’s brings commercial software, services energising and fun, crazy hours to Fulfillment. and solutions. Also, always help someone else but there’s nothing else your customers to analyse, secure and you’d rather be doing. Dell has been manage their valuable information with fascinated about technology since a boy

“Even breakthrough business ideas begin with solving a common problem - the bigger the problem, the bigger the opportunity...”

open, affordable and accessible technologies. New and interesting opportunities almost always start with a problem. Find one you think you can fix and you’re well on your way.  Step 3: Find a Purpose -  It’s purpose that brings fulfillment. Dell’s has always been to enable human potential by accelerating the adoption of technology on a global scale, in turn opening the door to growth, productivity and opportunity for people everywhere.  Three decades-plus later Dell still stands by those 3Ps, which he says inspired him then and continue to do so today. It’s all enhanced by a social media ‘command centre’ the company has created based on listening and engaging with customers from all over the world. The company interacts with two BILLION customers annually and Dell told me he answers many emails personally!

n You can catch Bill Magee’s Daily TechPost (most days!) on Twitter #billamagee

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Inside IoD Scotland

Director of the Year Awards IoD Scotland Conference Membership benefits Director development

IoD Branch news

Inspiring events and a new focus David Hoey IoD Glasgow and West of Scotland It is refreshing to see the fresh buds of spring and early summer begin to blossom, with some sunshine to lift our spirits. Recent IoD events have equally lifted my spirits, too. The Director of the Year awards held in the Crowne Plaza was a great start to the spring session, highlighting talent and success. That followed our Influencers’ Talk with Captain David West from Loch Lomond Seaplanes, whose focus on resilience and optimism was an inspiration for us all. The Glasgow Committee has been focussing on our twin themes of personal development and entrepreneurship over the past few months. Your committee exists to focus events in our area and ensure local members receive the service and benefits needed. I continue to meet new and existing members and I remain committed to doing so. Please get in touch if you would like to catch

up to explore the IoD and ways we can help you on your leadership journey. Building networks and rapport is a key outcome for us as we learn together.

Events planning

We aim to create a mix of different events to cater for the disparate needs of our members – both formal and informal. Our recent whisky tasting event was a perfect example. A diverse range of our members attended this excellent session, held in 2 Fat Ladies at the Buttery, which provided us with a superb meal and a wonderful location. The brand ambassador for Macallan gave us an expert history and taste of the different offerings. It was the hardest test of my ‘dry 12 weeks’ yet but the aroma or bouquet from each of the drinks was amazing and those who were imbibing were full of praise and chat (and more chat). Only six weeks to go… We have a number of different events on the horizon, with a hustings event debating local and national issues together with a potential

Politicians under the spotlight at IoD hustings The IoD was delighted to be part of a hustings event in May chaired by Allan Hogarth. The panel comprised three politicians: Stewart Hosie SNP, Jo Swinson Liberal Democrat, and Dean Lockhart Conservative Party. The ACCA jointly arranged the event with the IoD and RSM hosted the session and kindly provided breakfast. Following an introduction as to their respective positions on issues affecting business in Scotland, a lively question and answer session took place, with plenty of input from the business leaders and delegates in attendance. Brexit featured heavily with much of the discussion centred around the logistics of achieving the best deal for Scotland and the need for certainty. The parties’ different position on tax, including corporation tax, was explored WWW.IOD.COM

together with the need for clarity with regard to immigration and devolved powers. It goes without saying that there was some focus on independence and the impact that debate is having upon business and the economic outlook. There was also a strong focus on education and the attainment of our young people, the leaders of tomorrow and of the desire to improve our position and ensure that we have the right approach. ‘Could do better’ was the general consensus among the audience. The IoD represents leaders in our fields. The discussion was a good forum to raise the bar in the discussion in ensuring we all think carefully about those leading our country.

high profile transport leader speaking. We are also arranging a business development workshop from a well-known expert. Watch this space! We aim to identify topics of local interest and invite leaders within their field to provide us with insight and leadership tips. If you have an idea for a particular talk or speaker do let us know.

Committee focus

We are finalising arrangements for our committee strategy day during which we will refocus on approach to the committee and how we can best serve our members. We are looking to identify new committee members, particularly from manufacturing, IT and local government/education sectors. If you are interested in joining the committee we’d like to hear from you. The IoD is unique and your Glasgow committee is devoted to ensuring we continue to provide the very best for our members. As we look forward to summer, we look forward to meeting with you at our events. We continue to build on our strong local and national relationships and to help our leaders bloom to their fullest extent.

Our political panel : Stewart Hosie, Jo Swinson and Dean Lockhart

IoD Scotland Director of the Year Awards

It’s your night: IoD Scotland salutes our finest directors

IoD Scotland Director of the Year – Large Businesses

Douglas Whyte

IoD Scotland celebrated the success of the country’s directors, entrepreneurs and business leaders at our annual Director of the Year Awards on 23rd March, at the Crowne Plaza, Glasgow.

Hydro Group plc

IoD Scotland Director of the Year - Medium Businesses

Jennifer MacKenzieHallwood

The main category – the Director of the Year Award – this year was split into three categories to cover Large, Medium and Small businesses equally. In addition to the nominated awards, IoD Scotland Chair Professor Susan Deacon presented a special Chair’s Award to Lady Susan Rice cbe, for her outstanding contribution to the Scottish business environment.

IoD Scotland Director of the Year Awards – Roll of Honour

TEFL Org UK

IoD Scotland Director of the Year - Small Businesses

Tom Campbell Doug Whyte, Director of the Year, Large Businesses with IoD Director General Stephen Martin

North Highland Initiative Badenoch and Clark Female Director of the Year

Shirley Campbell Scottish Water

SCVO Third Sector Director of the Year

Theresa Shearer ENABLE Scotland

IoD Scotland Emerging Director of the Year

Sonia Cottom

Pain Association Scotland

Marie Macklin, Non-Executive Director of the Year, with Jane Clark-Hutchison

Scottish Business Pledge Workplace Innovation Director of the Year

Gregory Chauvet

Glasgow Bike Station Theresa Shearer with John Downie

mclcreate Public Sector Director of the Year

Professor David Hillier Right, Alan Moir accepted the Director of the Year Award for Medium-Size businesses on behalf of winner Jennifer MacKenzieHallwood

University of Strathclyde

Bank of Scotland NonExecutive Director of the Year

Marie Macklin cbe Appointedd

Young Enterprise Scotland Director of the Year

Natalie Roberts Glass Act Shirley Campbell with Scott Miller

Chair’s Award

Lady Susan Rice cbe

Sponsors and supporters

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Regional awards Highlands and Islands Enterprise Regional Director of the Year

Alasdair Ferguson

Ferguson Transport & Shipping Aberdeen and Grampian Regional Director of the Year

Douglas Whyte Hydro Group plc

Glasgow and West of Scotland Regional Director of the Year

Theresa Shearer ENABLE Scotland

Edinburgh, Lothians & the Borders Regional Director of the Year

Above, Young Enterprise Scotland winner Natalie Roberts with Geoff Leask and Chris Floyd

Sheenagh Adams Registers of Scotland

Fife and Central Scotland Regional Director of the Year

Right, Sonia Cottom of the Pain Association Scotland with Mairi Mickel

Derek Robertson

Keep Scotland Beautiful Tayside Regional Director of the Year

Below, Tom Campbell of the North Highland Initiative with Stephen Martin

John Reid Michelin

Below, Professor David Hillier with mclcreateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ken Robertson

Above, Regional Award winners; from top, Alasdair Ferguson with Professor Lorne Crerar; Sheenagh Adams with Julie Ashworth, Branch Chair; Derek Robertson and John Reid with Ian Collins, Branch Member

The team from Glasgow Bike Station with winner Gregory Chauvet WWW.IOD.COM

Professor Susan Deacon presents the Chairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award to Lady Susan Rice

IoD Scotland Conference 2017

Creativity, Adaptability & Innovation

Photographs show delegates at the 2016 Conference

IoD Conference looks at why Scotland’s businesses need to seize the initiative Date: Thursday 2 & Friday 3 November Venue: Gleneagles Hotel Cost: From £150 + VAT It’s time to make space in your diary for the annual IoD Scotland Conference – the place to be if you are a business leader. We are returning to Gleneagles Hotel again this year for what is sure to be a thoughtprovoking and informative two days in the company of Scotland’s finest business leaders. Whether you are an IoD member or not, whether you are a regular attender or have never been before, we are sure you will take home a huge amount from this event. This year we will be focusing on Creativity, Adaptability & Innovation: key areas in which organisations from across all sectors need to seize the initiative. As Scotland responds to a changing geopolitical and economic environment, how should organisations build a

change and adaptability culture? Come and discuss today’s pressing business issues with colleagues from all sectors. Thursday’s Conference, which starts in the afternoon, offers workshops, a leadership lecture and panel debate followed by an informal networking supper. Friday’s intensive programme includes a range of keynote speakers, workshops and the IoD Scotland Forum, in association with The Times Scotland. Speakers already confirmed include: • Professor Dame Anne Glover, who will be delivering Thursday’s Leadership Lecture • Ian Callum, Director of Design for Jaguar • Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society. • Advocate Edith Forrest is Friday’s After Dinner Speaker. Delegates at previous conferences have described the event as, “open and friendly”,

“very relevant to current needs”, “brilliant range of presentations”, “great connecting opportunities” and “all in all, time very well spent attending”. The conference dinner on Friday evening attracts an influential guest list and is an enjoyable finish to the conference. We have worked closely with Gleneagles so that you can enjoy five-star luxury at preferential rates. A range of event options are available, with member rates from £150 + vat for Thursday’s half-day conference and supper to £730 + vat for the full conference package (full conference including black-tie dinner and two-night stay at Gleneagles). We will open for bookings over the summer, but please email conference@firstcityevents. co.uk to note your interest and we will keep you up to date with conference news, including special Early Bird Discounts and more confirmed speakers.

Conference speakers: Shona McCarthy Shona McCarthy joined the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society as Chief Executive in March 2016. From 2011-2014 she was Chief Executive of the Culture Company, leading on Derry - Londonderry’s transformational year as UK City of Culture. Prior to that she was Director of the British Council Northern Ireland. She also spent many years as chief executive of Cinemagic Film Festival for young people; and the Foyle Film Festival; and was head of exhibition at the Northern Ireland Film Council. Shona has 25 years’ experience of working in senior leadership positions and was awarded a prestigious Eisenhower Fellowship for Innovation in 2014.

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Conference speakers: Professor Dame Anne Glover University of Aberdeen

Anne is a molecular biologist interested in how we respond to stress at a molecular level. She was the first Chief Scientific Adviser to the President of the European Commission (2012-2015) and prior to that, she was the first Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland (2006-2011). In both positions Anne transformed the way science, engineering and technology were used and discussed within government and developed strategic initiatives to bridge the gap between science and policy. She has also been a very effective and well respected ambassador for European science. She is currently Vice Principal for External Affairs and Dean for Europe at the University of Aberdeen.

Conference speaker: Ian Callum Jaguar

From the moment he laid eyes on the Jaguar XJ6 when he was 14, Ian Callum knew he’d found his dream job. Inspired, he sent some sketches to the then Jaguar chief engineer, Bill Heynes, who encouraged him to follow his heart. He studied at the Glasgow School of Art before taking a Masters in Vehicle Design at the Royal College of Art in London. His talents had already been noted by Ford and for 12 years he was involved in designing some of the company’s best-loved cars before joining TWR, where he took on high-profile projects for the likes of Aston Martin (the DB7, Vanquish and DB9), Ford Puma, Volvo C70 and Nissan R390. Then, in 1999, Ian got the call he’d been waiting for all his life: the chance to be Director of Design for Jaguar. His understanding of, and respect for, the brand’s creators is clear in the cars he and his team have created. “We know how intently our predecessors pushed the boundaries of design and technology. Jaguar has always been a forward thinking company and that philosophy informs the work we do to this day.” This is clearly demonstrated by Ian’s work on the transformation of the range which began with award-winning designs for the XK, XF and XJ, soon followed by the F-TYPE, XE and F-PACE and now the I-PACE Concept, a preview of Jaguar’s first electric vehicle. Commenting on his work he said: “Jaguars are about great proportions, fantastic silhouettes…the optimum expression of metal…I’ve always believed any good design can be drawn in two or three lines.” You might think that successfully designing new Jaguars might be hindered by the weight of heritage and previous successes, but Ian isn’t phased: “My point of judgment is always: what would Sir William Lyons think of this? And I honestly think he’d approve, hugely.” WWW.IOD.COM

After dinner speaker: Edith Forrest Edith Forrest is regularly engaged as a speaker at corporate events, including numerous professional dinners and Burns Night celebrations. The reason? Edith is an Advocate, first called to the Scottish Legal Bar in 2007 and prior to that a solicitor with a wealth of experience in private practice. Her specialist areas are vast, encompassing everything from serious crime to employment law and professional disciplinary matters. Much of her speaking content draws on her experiences from her unusual yet fascinating line of work. Edith has travelled the length and breadth of the country for speaking events and has also appeared at events abroad. She recalls speaking at a Burns Supper in Kazakhstan at the invitation of the late Lord Fraser as “the best Burns Supper ever”.

Register your interest now – email conference@firstcityevents.co.uk for the latest news and details of special Early Bird discounts

Membership Benefits

international TRAVEL

Emirates’ IoD Silver Service is extra special Emirates has launched an exclusive offer to IoD members on its Skywards scheme, automatically upgrading their membership by one tier from either Blue to Silver or Silver to Gold. Additional benefits include dedicated check in areas, additional baggage, Emirates lounge access and priority waitlisting (a seat rescheduling benefit). (Please contact jill.niven@emirates.com for details on how to take advantage of this offer.) Emirates flies twice daily to Dubai from Glasgow and 16 times daily from a choice of five other UK airports, offering convenient onward connections to over 150 destinations. On board, passengers

can enjoy world-class service, regionally inspired gourmet cuisine and over 2,200 channels of award-winning entertainment – plus phone, SMS and Wi-Fi connectivity from every seat.

NEW Parking benefit Members can take advantage of a new exclusive members discount for parking at NCP Castle Terrace, Edinburgh. Park for up to 12 hours for £10. This is ideal if you are visiting the IoD‘s Charlotte Square Hub for a meeting, or director development. Pick up a voucher at the IoD office which can be used when you exit the car park.

MEETING ROOMS Please check out our new members’ facility at 10 Charlotte Square. : n Members’ lounge and workroom: Free of charge to members and up to three guests. Free refreshments and Wi-Fi – plus VAT-exempt meeting room hire n Exclusively for members to hire: - Boardroom for 16 - Garden View room, for 8 - Castle View room, for 12 - Forth View room, for meetings, training workshops, lectures for between 20-50 people, etc Free AV and laptop by prior arrangement Call 0131 557 5488 or email iod.scotland@iod.com for details.

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AIRPORT LOUNGES IoD membership gives you free access to four Airport Lounges in Scotland, plus eight other UK destinations. Edinburgh Airport – Aspire and No.1 Traveller lounge Glasgow Airport - Upperdeck lounge Aberdeen and Inverness Airports Swissport Executive Lounge. Just sign in with your IoD membership card.

PREFERRED PROVIDERS Health plans at special rates The IoD’s scheme with Westfield Health provides members with exclusive corporate and personal plans that provide cash back on essential healthcare costs. IoD Health Plans complement any existing Private Medical Insurance (PMI), as the consultation benefit can be used to cover PMI excesses. Benefits include 100 per cent reimbursement up to set limits on optical and dental care, fast access to MRI, CT & PET Scanning Facilities and DoctorLine™ 24/7 GP telephone access and webcam consultations

On the ground, First Class and Business Class passengers can take advantage of a complimentary chauffeur-drive service, expedited check-in, dedicated baggage handling and luxurious lounge access in a dedicated First & Business Class lounge at Glasgow Airport – ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish. With flights from Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester, travellers can experience the Emirates A380 featuring Private Suites and on board Shower Spas in First Class, an Onboard Lounge and flat-bed seats in Business Class.

HOTEL DISCOUNTS IoD Scotland has negotiated special discounts and rates for members at hotels in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness. Members can obtain a 15 per cent discount off accommodation (best available rate), food and beverages as well as meetings and event bookings at: n The Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow n Blythswood Square, Glasgow n The Roxburghe, Edinburgh n The Principal, Edinburgh n The Bonham, Edinburgh PLUS Special discounts at 200 svs Glasgow IoD hub. Aberdeen: Preferential accommodation rate at Aberdeen Hilton Garden Inn. Inverness: Preferential accommodation rate Kingsmills Inverness and IoD guests will receive a VIP package, including a late checkout and room refreshments.

The Principal, Edinburgh

WWW.IOD.COM www.iod.com

MEMBER BENEFIT

Workload getting on top of you? Find a new way to work this summer! Today, increasing productivity is on the agenda for all. With pressurising budget cuts and savings demanded across all services, it is vital that leaders look at their organisations, at themselves and how their people manage workloads and wellbeing. Effective working means we need to focus on performance and outcomes – irrespective of where and when people work. Priority Management has spent 37 years researching best practices in the workplace and has trained 2.5 million people in the last 10 years. Gilly MacMorran and her team in Scotland equip modern leaders with the skills and modern processes to manage their workloads. Most organisations have restructured their processes but not restructured how people work. We teach ‘A Better Way to Work’ called Working Sm@rt™: a four stage programme of around 15 hours for individuals and teams spread out over an eight-week period.

Special IoD members discount

Members’ benefit: 10% discount on our Working Sm@rt in-house group programme or for individuals a special offer of Three for the Price of Two on our open programmes on 13th June or 12th July or 22rd August 2017. Katherine McCudden MIoD – katherine@prioritymanagement scotland.com to take advantage of this offer or quote “IoD Summer Offer”

IOD ADVICE LINES All IoD members have access to specialist information and advice, including legal and tax helplines and business research. Make sure you are registered online at ‘My IoD’. This is the place to contact the Information and Advisory Service and to review existing enquiries – see www.iod.com/services. Our legal helpline provides IoD members with free and prompt business legal advice on a wide range of employment, company, commercial and personal legal matters in the UK and Europe. Our Business Information service you have access to our top professional researchers, who can provide you with valuable information on topics ranging from market forecasts and industry trends to trading abroad and employee salaries.

RAIL TRAVEL

Free first-class upgrade on ScotRail services Abellio ScotRail is continuing its fantastic offer to IoD Scotland members. Just present your IoD membership card to the conductor on-train along with a valid ticket type for that journey and receive a free upgrade to First Class*. The offer is valid on Anytime Single, Anytime Return and Off Peak where First Class accommodation is available. Members whose businesses use train travel regularly could also sign up to ScotRail’s Business Direct service, a solution designed to help support you by

PREFERRED PROVIDERS Home insurance cover from Hiscox. Why choose IoD Home and Contents Insurance? n IoD Members save 12.5 per cent on Hiscox’s standard rates (subject to underwriting criteria) n Over 98 per cent of Hiscox customers surveyed who have made a claim would recommend them n Individual items or sets under £15,000 are covered as standard n High-quality cover for your second and third UK homes available n Comprehensive cover for home building works available as an extension to your main policy n Could save with a 25 per cent no claims discount when you switch to Hiscox

Car Hire from Hertz Benefit from free membership of Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Five Star – a valued VIP service providing a speedier rental process, free upgrades and free additional driver cover.

managing your business travel programmes, saving you time and money. So let’s move your business travel off road and on to rail – and do it in style with our special offer, courtesy of ScotRail. For more information: See www.scotrail.co.uk/businesstravel or call 0141 335 4015 to find out more.

SPECIAL BENEFITS Free Career Consultation for IoD Scotland Members TCMO is a Scottish-based career and personal development business which specialises in delivering tailored career management programmes for individual business professionals and for employers in Scotland, and beyond. Working with IoD Scotland, TCMO is offering members a free career consultation. This is a personalised one-to-one session to review and plan for a portfolio and / or full time career. The sessions are usually around 45 minutes long and can be done face-to-face or over the phone. Following the consultation, members can also claim a 15% discount on our TCMO services for individuals and businesses. To book a consultation, call 0800 009 3141, or for more information: www.tcmo.co.uk/iod-scotlandmember-offer

Make the most of your membership with the IoD Scotland offers WWW.IOD.COM www.iod.com

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IoD Scotland Events

06 IoD Scotland - Crisis Management for Directors Jun Date: Venue: Time: Prices

06 June IoD Scotland, Edinburgh 09:00 - 17:00 Members: £345 + VAT Non-Members: £395 + VAT

This one-day (9-5) workshop identifies the various roles senior executives and directors may have to undertake within the context of a crisis. Whether from a private, public or third sector organisation, your role as a director is to help ensure the organisation survives the crisis by providing strategic leadership and, more importantly, by making an effective contribution to the preparedness of your organisation, to deal with major disruptive challenges. Who Should Attend? Individuals who are currently executive or non-executive directors and other senior executives who are seeking to gain a greater understanding of the crisis management process. Delegates need to be open to informal interactive learning with a facilitator who has practical experience of real strategic crisis management. Often there are no right or wrong answers available, but this workshop will help you think the ‘unthinkable’ and develop the resilience to ensure the sustainability of your organisation. Workshop Content • Understand the various types of crisis; is a fire a crisis? • Understand the potential origins of a crisis.

Do you know the risks to your organisation? • Building a crisis management capability. • Do you have the systems to cope? • Legislation pertaining to a crisis. • UK Emergency Concept of Operations? Are you a CAT 1 or 2 responder? Or none of them? • What are the strategic crisis decisions which need to be made? • Introduction to crisis communications. • Will your crisis plan will work? The workshop will prepare you to deal with major disruptive challenges and introduce you to crisis leadership expectations. It will also improve your current performance as a director/senior executive in all forms of crisis management as well as help prepare for a crisis by identifying risks.

There will be ample opportunity to share experiences and participate in the interactive scenarios. The workshop should give delegates a greater understanding of crisis management and their role. All delegates will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes. Workshop Tutor - Jim Mann Jim Mann was the National UK Resilience Duty Officer Lead at major crisis events including the 7/7 terrorist bombing in London, international earthquake disasters, major country wide flooding events. He also worked on UK preparedness in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in the USA, developing the UK command, control and co-ordination capability, and has written guidance for the emergency services on resilience matters.

07 Jun A Day at the Races: IoD takes to the turf at Hamilton Racecourse Time: 12 noon - 18:00 Venue: Hamilton Park Racecourse, Hamilton Prices: Members and Guests: £80 + VAT Non Members: £115 + VAT

The Institute of Directors invites you to A Day at the Races. Enjoy the Almada Raceday from the comfort of a personal box and hear first hand of life at the helm of a race track from Vivien Currie, Chief Executive of Hamilton Race Course The event includes return transport to and from the course from Hamilton West Rail Station, a glass of fizz on arrival, two course meal

and race course admission. The race day programme features seven races, the first at 2.10pm and last race is at 5.15pm. The dress code is Business The day starts at 12 noon for registration and a drinks reception before we are welcomed by Welcome by David Hoey, Chair, before our two course meal.

Between courses we will hear from Vivien Currie, chief executive, Hamilton Race Course, on the challenges of managing the facility and the benefits it brings the local economy. The first race is at 2.10pm, running through seven races until 5.15pm before the party will be transported back to Hamilton West Rail Station.

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To book online visit www.iod.com/events-community

13 Jun Time: Venue: Prices:

New Member Welcome Drinks 18:00 - 20:00 IoD Scotland, 10 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4DR Free of charge

We would like to invite all our recent new members to an informal get-together at the IoD Scotland head office on Charlotte Square in Edinburgh. Over drinks and canapés, you will have the opportunity to meet other new members, as well as the local chair and committee, learn more about the IoD and its membership services and see the facilities available to members at the head office. The Edinburgh & Lothians branch is the largest in Scotland and we recognise how important it is to get our members together and provide opportunities to connect, discuss and network. This drinks event is an ideal way to start getting the most from your membership.

Aug

BAAD Unveiled – An Influencer’s Pop Up Dinner

Venue: Barras Art & Design, 54 Calton Entry, Glasgow G40 2SB Time: 18:00 - 21:30 CPD: 2 hours Prices: Members and Guests, £35 + VAT Non Members, £40 + VAT * Please note this event date has changed to 16th August Come along and learn more about BAAD - Barras Art and Design. BAAD is a unique events and creative space in the heart of the Barras founded by Brian Traynor and Ricky Scoular. Passionate about food, Brian and Ricky were behind a series of unique outdoor pop-up food ventures in Glasgow’s lanes including Heverlee at Tontine Lane and Gordon Street Lane, as well as the hugely popular Fish Plaice at the Saltmarket during the Commonwealth Games. They also own the Sub Club and are involved in the Riverside Festival. In 2016 the duo decided to set up BADD, keen to harness the iconic vibrancy the Barras once had with a host of ideas to roll out over the coming months, including events to showcase other food entrepreneurs, festivals, and apprenticeship opportunities for locals. The Victorian warehouse features A’Challtainn (Gaelic of the Carlton), a Scottish fish restaurant, along with a courtyard for music and special events, a new outdoor yard for pop up food markets and summer beer garden, and a number of independent sups. If you are passionate about home grown quality food this is an event not to be missed! Includes fish tea and drinks. Dress: Business Casual

14 Jun Event: Time: Price:

IoD Brexit Webinar IoD Webinar - at https://goo.gl/PLvih0 From 11am Free of charge

The IoD’s policy executive Allie Rennison will be hosting her first Brexit webinar on 14th June for IoD members. This is part of our ongoing efforts to make access to IoD policy events and information around key topics, such as Brexit, available to members UK and Internationally, and as easy to access as possible. The webinar launches at 11am https://goo.gl/PLvih0 .Please click the link to register in advance The aim of this webinar series is as follows – • To provide access to guidance and advice on Brexit to IoD members, irrespective of whether they’re located in the UK/Overseas; • To give access to Brexit guidance to our current engaged audience; • To attract a wider audience with the IoD’s Brexit content and incorporate them into our engaged audience; • This allows members who are unable to make it to physical events to have full access to the IoD’s Brexit guidance/content; • The format will be a ‘surgery’, where Allie gives a short 20m update on developments over the past few weeks, followed by a Q&A session where she answers members questions directly; • The aim is to build up a regular audience for this.