DRIVING BUSINESS CONFIDENCE
CAMBRIDGESHIRECHAMBER.CO.UK
N 25 NOVEMBER 2014
MAKING WAVES IN CAMBRIDGE FOR OVER 25 YEARS... Meet the company that’s achieved perfect sound reproduction
THE OFFICIAL AWARD WINNING MONTHLY MAGAZINE
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CONTENTS
18
24
16
19
Inside this issue
5
6-7
CONNECTIONS
8-9
INFLUENCE
Chief Executive’s HIGHLIGHTS
10-11
KNOWLEDGE
12-13
GLOBAL REACH
14
NEW MEMBERS
15
Fenland Chamber News
16-17
18
ELY CHAMBER NEWS HUNTINGDONSHIRE Chamber News
19-21
cambridge & south cambs chamber news
22-23
OUT & ABOUT
24-25
Peterborough chamber news
27
STAMFORD CHAMBER NEWS
29
CAMBRIDGESHIRE CHAMBER NEWS
31
Update from the LEP
33
Charity of the year
34-35
37
38-39
Sector FOCUS
40-41
events
42
Report from Ian Mackellar in the hotseat – stephen king
ask the expert – ADVANTAGES OF THE CLOUD
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WELCOME TO CONNECTED
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o lc
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Contributing this month... Gill Prangnell
Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Policy Adviser at the Chamber representing our six local Chambers..
Re-freshed magazine warmly received! We are really pleased to have received such positive feedback for our re-freshed magazine which we launched at the Cambridge B2B exhibition at the end of September. Your comments and contributions help us to shape our monthly magazine and keep you up-to-date with what is happening throughout the Chamber Network. Please do keep sending your good news and photos through to me. I would like to congratulate all our members who were winners and finalists in the Ely Business Awards last month. We have a special feature on page 17 to showcase these members and their awards. Our Peterborough B2B exhibition took place recently and was a great success. A montage of photos from this event will be available in the next edition and also on our facebook page.
Do you follow us on Twitter? Sadie Parr Editor, CONNECTED, s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
We regularly tweet Chamber news; follow us at @CambsChamber to be kept up to date with all the latest news.
Ian MacKellar
MacKellar Consulting A freelance journalist with a background as business editor for a local newspaper.
Oliver Hall
Method Creative Account executive and copywriter working for a local creative agency.
Our editorial panel: We would also like to thank Chamber committee members responsible for shaping the key topics this month and researching these features to better serve the readers of CONNECTED in this edition.
DRIVING BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Chief Executive John Bridge OBE | Editor Sadie Parr | Creative Director Jillian Boys Publisher methodcreative.co.uk | Future Business Centre, King’s Hedges Road, Cambridge CB4 2HY | 01223 781220 | Print xlpress.co.uk Disclaimer Views expressed in CONNECTED are not necessarily those of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification. Membership Development Officer Peter Watts 07545 697799 or Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 Cambridge Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Peterborough 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6FT. Tel 01733 370809 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk | www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
@CambsChamber Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce
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Advertise in CONNECTED and reach more than 7000 potential customers every month! Contact the Method team on 01223 781220 or email connected@methodcreative.co.uk
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THERE IS SO MUCH GOING ON IN CAMBRIDGESHIRE! Here are some of our highlights this month... High quality sound and vision at Meridian ANDREW LUCKHAM SHOWING JOHN BRIDGE AROUND MERIDIAN HEADQUARTERS
For over 25 years Chamber members Meridian Audio have been on a journey to achieve perfect sound reproduction, driven by the company’s desire to ensure that the quality of an original recording remains unaltered from the recording to listening at home. Company founders Bob Stuart and Allen Boothroyd started the company with a passion for design, innovation and commitment to quality that still shines through the company today. This month I visited the company’s headquarters in Huntingdon to witness their award-winning craftsmanship, innovative design and expert research and development facilities first-hand. I was awe-struck to witness such beautifully designed, high quality pieces of equipment being developed and manufactured right here in Cambridgeshire. Surrounded by the finest sound and vision equipment I’ve ever experienced, I could see, hear and feel every sound and left with a true understanding of what makes this company and its products so special.
Outstanding conference facilities in Peterborough JONATHAN WILSON, KINGSGATE CONFERENCE MANAGER WITH JOHN BRIDGE
Over in Peterborough it was a pleasure to support the opening of KingsGate Conference Centre’s new meeting suite, complementing the venue’s existing 1200 capacity auditorium and atrium. The conference facilities here offer the latest digital sound and lighting technology, a 14 metre projection screen and a theatre-sizes stage – successfully competing with some of the country’s leading venues. Their facilities really put Peterborough on the map, and that has wider benefits for the local and regional economy.
New restaurant for Marco Pierre White We were privileged to join Marco Pierre White at the official launch of his Steakhouse Bar and Grill at the Doubletree by Hilton Cambridge recently. For those at the helm it was an opportunity to showcase the restaurant’s mouth-watering menus, tempting wine lists, iconic decor and exquisite location along the River Cam. Our thanks to Marco and all the team at the restaurant for their generous hospitality. ■
JOHN BRIDGE WITH MARCO PIERRE WHITE
John Bridge OBE Chief Executive, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce
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Connections We provide Chamber members with constant opportunities to widen their network of business contacts – building connections, creating opportunities and maximising the benefits of being part of Cambridgeshire’s most vibrant business network.
GET CONNECTED There are lots of ways to connect with other Chamber members. At events, on social media… you could even pick up the phone after reading their interview right here in CONNECTED. This month we meet Jaqui Fairfax from CUB (UK) Ltd.
What do you do IN BUSINESS?
I am Chairman of CUB (UK) Ltd an Energy Consultancy based in March. We look after all our clients’ energy requirements from purchasing to energy efficiency measures. I am extremely proud of our high level of customer service which is guaranteed by our 5 Star Promise.
What are your top three tips for running or working in a business? . Nurture a positive, happy and healthy working 1 environment 2. Train your staff to enable them to fulfil their full potential 3. Learn to delegate effectively.
What’s your favourite book and why?
hat’s easy - 1000 Places to See Before you Die – for me an T inspiring and frustrating book in equal measure. Unfortunately it is too heavy to fit in my backpack!
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What do you do to unwind? ravel is my passion – in fact I am sat by the sea in T Greece answering these questions. All I need to work and keep in touch with the fantastic staff in the UK is my laptop and a decent Wi-Fi connection. Later I will unwind by swimming in turquoise waters.
What value do you get from being a Chamber member?
I had the pleasure of being Chair of the Fenland Chamber of Commerce for a couple of years, which opened many doors for me. At Chamber events I have met many interesting, stimulating and supportive people and I look forward to meeting many more when I am back in the UK.
CONNECTIONS
CHAMBER EVENTS CoNNECt BuSINESSES ChamBEr events are a great way for businesses to get connected, here are a couple of examples of how our exhibitions have helped to generate business for our members. The Conference team from Downing College participated in the Cambridge B2B Exhibition and came away with high quality leads from local businesses and organisations interested in using the venue for conferences or events. They rated the event ‘an excellent event for making contacts and raising awareness’. Jacqui Cressey, Conference Services Manager at Downing College, said: “We were really impressed by this event. There was a steady stream of interested visitors to our stand who were looking for a venue. We are following up the leads and look forward to inviting the people we met to visit us so we can showcase our facilities.” At the Huntingdon Business Fair in April, Hazel Cottrell of Creative Content Company had a stand opposite Richard Vanbergen of FlexAble Group. Unbeknown to them this was to be the start of a superb working relationship in which both businesses could help each other. Over the months Hazel has re-written Richards website content and Richard and Hazel have attended business meetings together to offer consultancy packages for businesses. They embark on their most exciting project yet this month when they speak at a breakfast event. ■
doWNINg CollEgE EXHIBIT AT THE B2B
rIChard vaNBErgEN WITH HAZEL COTTRELL
PROMOTE YOUR CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Why not promote that you belong to Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce by displaying our logo on your letterhead, email templates and even adverts? Being a Chamber member allows you access to a number of benefits including member to member offers. Using our ‘member of’ logos helps businesses quickly identify fellow Chamber members. To receive a copy of our ‘member of’ Chamber logos please contact the Chamber on 01223 237414 or email s.parr@cambscci.co.uk ■
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Influence As a Chamber member you have the power to influence key decision makers and play a leading role in tackling the issues that are preventing your business from reaching its potential, while an experienced team of lobbyists represents your interests in Whitehall.
Creating Entrepreneurs If Britain is to meet the challenges of global competitiveness and growth, our schools, colleges and universities need to promote entrepreneurship. This is, ‘the capacity and willingness to develop, organise and manage a business venture, along with associated risks, in order to make a profit.’ So what are the specific skills and attributes needed by entrepreneurs and what sets them apart from other workers? Professor Howard Stevenson from the Harvard Business School reckons that entrepreneurs have a sense of urgency to pursue an ‘opportunity’ beyond their own resources. Opportunity in this context can take a number of guises including: pioneering an innovative new product, devising a new business model, improving on an existing product or targeting an existing product to new customers. Most importantly an entrepreneur has to have the courage to take calculated risks. Whilst it may not be possible to teach such a skill - schools, colleges and universities have a responsibility to endorse enterprise and profit making as legitimate and desirable career ambitions – right from primary school
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through to university the education system needs to support entrepreneurship. Attitudes and cultural influence take place from an early age which is why it is imperative that schools embrace enterprise and one way they can do this is to explicitly include enterprise as an objective on the school curriculum. To increase business engagement in education schools’ should be required to appoint a Business Governor whose role is
to encourage the development of better relationships with the local business community and to ensure that school prize profit making and job creation. There are some excellent young entrepreneurs around - like 22 year old Louis Barnett, founder of Louis Barnett Chocolates, who told young delegates at the recent BCC International Trade Conference about the ups and downs of running his business. Inviting businesses into the classroom is another way to broaden students’ knowledge of the business world and will raise pupils’ aspirations – like the Learn to Work primary school project taking place in Huntingdon shortly. Also, teachers, who have not previously worked in business, would better understand entrepreneurship if they were required to undertake work experience or to work shadow a local business owner during a summer vacation. Finally, practical experience is an effective way to promote a creative mind-set and students learn a great deal from running minibusinesses especially when local businesses provide advice and mentor the young entrepreneurs. n
inFLUenCe
Cambridgeshire business to play a leading role in improving international trade performance tHE British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has announced the formation of an international Advisory Council, bringing together a group of senior business leaders representing British businesses from across the UK to advise the BCC on international trade issues and the export potential for the UK business community.
AnDY HArtEr , CHieF eXeCUtiVe OF reALVnC AnD CHAirMAn OF CAMBriDge netWOrK
Chaired by Lord green of Hurstpierpoint, former Minister of State for trade and investment, members include ian Davis, Chairman of rolls royce, Willie Walsh, Chief executive of international Airlines group, Harriet green OBe, Chief executive of thomas Cook and Dr Andy Harter, Chief executive of realVnC and Chairman of Cambridge network. John Bridge OBe, said: “Andy’s appointment highlights his vast personal experience and detailed knowledge of the challenges impeding business growth overseas. As a member of the council Andy will be in a position to provide valuable insight that will shape the BCC’s international trade strategy and inform leading figures who increasingly understand the importance of removing barriers to export growth.” Dr Andy Harter added: “i am delighted to join the international Advisory Council and look forward to working with such a distinguished group.” n
LOCAL BusInEssEs COntrIButE tO BCC SUrVeY ‘nO tIME tO WAstE’ as export and manufacturing growth slows. the survey, made up of responses from more than 7,000 businesses across the UK, shows that whilst the economy is still growing, it slowed in Q3. Balances for both manufacturing and service sector exports were down on the quarter, highlighting the challenges facing UK exporters. this decline reinforces the BCC’s most recent economic Forecast that predicted economic growth would slow leading into 2015. BCC Director general, John Longworth, says the results for domestic manufacturing and exports in this quarter may be the ‘first alarm bell’ to warn of slower economic growth. the BCC is recommending that all political parties show support for the proposals within its Business Manifesto: ‘A Business Plan for Britain’ to create the best possible environment for growth and enterprise. n
KEY fInDInGs • fOr MAnufACturInG, two balances fell steeply; domestic sales and domestic orders. • fOr sErVICEs, balances remained largely unchanged but stayed at a historically high level. • The balance of manufacturing firms OpErAtInG At fuLL CApACItY fell while the number of service firms operating at full capacity rose to a very high level . • All EXpOrt BALAnCEs fell in Q3, for both exports and services.
• BusInEss COnfIDEnCE remains higher than the 2007 pre-recession levels, for both MAnufACturInG prOfItABILItY and service sECtOr prOfItABILItY. • The MAnufACturInG EMpLOYMEnt balance rose in Q3. the balance for sErVICEs sECtOr EMpLOYMEnt increased over the same period. • In the manufacturing sector, the CAsHfLOW balance remained five points below its last peak in Q3 2013. the service sector cashflow balance increased by five points to the highest on record.
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Knowledge Chamber membership provides access to key information, expert advice and legal protection, enabling you to stay informed, legally compliant and free to focus on what you do best - building your business.
Business Women share their knowledge
Grow your businesses through UK Government and European grants As the UK economy shows growth across a wide array of industries and sectors, the prognosis is good for those that have weathered the storm. Many businesses that are considered ‘high growth’ (typically with sales growth of 20 per cent or more per annum) don’t capitalise on their strengths, grants are available to boost businesses at both an operational and strategic level. As part of the ‘Early Bird’ initiative, businesses that already operate CRM databases (or would benefit from one) will be put forward for extra funding (from both regional and European funds). These businesses will be able to receive technical and strategic support, with a tailored CRM solution to allow for accessible data management while maximising the value of their records. To find out more visit http://olsen.marketing n
Poet’s House in Ely provided the ideal setting for the recent Storm in a Teacup session organised by the Business Women’s Sector. Over a spot of morning tea ladies took the opportunity to brainstorm business issues and gain valuable feedback with other professional likeminded women outside of their own working environment. The session went down a storm and will be a regular occurrence in Ely and other locations too. n
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Free Health & Safety Business Review for all members Protect your future with the knowledge that your company is fully compliant with health and safety legislation. We work with our partners to provide every Chamber member with a free, confidential health and safety review to ensure that right procedures are in place and that you have a solid understanding of health and safety legislation and the implication on your business. All reviews are completed by an experienced, NEBOSHqualified consultant. To find out more or request your free review, please call Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk n
KNOWLEDGE
Free advice for Chamber members As a Chamber member you can receive free advice from our 24/7 legal helpline and HR advice line. Keep these useful numbers to hand:
Focus on... Funding Huntingdonshire District Council has launched a free online funding search portal to help Huntingdonshire businesses identify and capitalise on the array of funding and business support opportunities available. Funded by Huntingdonshire District Council, the website is designed to support the growth and development of local businesses through a free and easy to use web based search facility. The site allows users to:
Chamber Legal Advice Line 0871 423 5239 For advice on Employment, Health & Safety, Tax and VAT, Data Protection, Property, Contractual, Debt Recovery and other related matters. Chamber HR Advice Line 01455 852037 Manned by specialist HR advisors offering advice and guidance, unlimited calls, available 24/7, 365 days a year.
legislation changes announced An Autumn Collection of Employment Law changes and topics were presented at the latest workshop, organised by the Chambers’ HR and Recruitment Sector. The format of these ‘collection’ events is kept simple – presenters talk on their specialist topic for 10 minutes before giving delegates the opportunity to learn more and seek further information to suite their own business needs at round table discussions. Thanks to our Autumn Collection sponsors – Hunt and Coombs, Leeds Day and Rawlinsons. n
• Search through a database containing hundreds of funding and business support opportunities including EU and Government sources. • Highlight suitability and eligibility criteria of funding streams. • Undertake as many funding searches as required. • Take advantage of proactive features including tailored e-mail alerts and weekly funding newsletters. The site highlights examples of local companies that have already received funding for a range of activities including capital equipment, business review and specific engagement with academic institutions. n For more information visit www. Huntingdonshire4Business.org
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Global Reach
We’re your gateway to international trade, providing a unique combination of expert knowledge, essential documentation and the business connections needed to capitalise on new market opportunities overseas and succeed in a global marketplace.
Half price MEMBER shipping
INTERNATIONAL Business Women TRADE COURSES shareTRAINING their knowledge Finance Options: Focusing on Letters of Credit Monday 10 November Import: Compliance and Savings Monday 17 November Rules of Origin: Preference and Non-Preference Monday 24 November
Chamber training courses are designed to provide the knowledge to assist with your international trade activities and you will receive detailed notes to takeaway to build up a toolkit of reference information. The rolling programme of courses culminate in the nationally-recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.
TIME 9.15am-5.00pm LOCATION Future Business Centre, King’s Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2HY PRICE Free £250.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £300.00 (plus VAT) nonmembers
Full details of all our training courses can be found on the Chamber website but if you’d like any further information please contact Karen Dawson, Events & Training Co-ordinator, on 01223 209808. n
If you’re beginning to take your business to the world, we want to help you hit the ground running. That’s why the Chamber has agreed a new deal with DHL where shipments are half-price for all members in their first year of exporting with DHL. You’ll be making savings every time you ship, giving you more money to invest in other areas of your business as you take steps towards establishing your business on an international scale, all as a result of your company’s Chamber membership. Terms and conditions do apply, so please see the ‘Support for Exporters’ section of the Chamber website for further details. n
INTERNATIONAL EVENTS Export Opportunities Think Germanic Europe Focus on Holland Belgium Germany organised by the International Sector DATE Wednesday 19 November TIME 4.00-8.00pm LOCATION Cambridge International Airport, CB5 8RX PRICE £20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £27.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT d.rivetti@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01733 370809. Sponsored by:
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Cambridgeshire Export Club organised by the International Sector DATE Tuesday 25 November TIME 5.00-7.00pm LOCATION The Moller Centre, Storey’s Way, Cambridge, CB3 0DE PRICE Free to attend CONTACT h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk or call Helen on 01733 370809
ExploreExport Organised by UK Trade & Investment in the East of England ExploreExport 2014 will be held on Tuesday 11 November at Newmarket Racecourse. Find out more at www.exploreexport.ukti.gov.uk/Newmarket.aspx
GLOBAL REACH
FIRST yEAR ANNIVERSARy FOR LANGuAGE SERVICE pROVIDER GLObAL Language Interpreting Limited celebrate their first anniversary on 19 November. In their first year their translation and interpreting teams have helped a varied and diverse selection of small and large businesses, medical clients and solicitors. Svetlana Harding, Founder of Global Language Interpreting Limited, said: ”Numerous leading public and private sector organisations trust us to provide them with an accurate, timely and cost effective translation and interpreting service. We are especially proud to work with the majority of solicitors in peterborough.” n
SVETLANA hARdING, FOuNDER GLOBAL LANGuAGE INTERpRETING
Special offer for Chamber members To celebrate Global’s first anniversary they are offering 10 per cent off for all interpreting and translating services during November.
important digital services VaT changes 1 JANUARy 2015 marks the introduction of new VAT rules for B2C suppliers of digital services. H M Revenue & Customs has signed up to MOSS, the ‘Mini-One Stop Shop.’ The benefit of the scheme is to allow uK-based businesses to have a single registration to cover all B2C sales within the Eu, rather than having to register in each Eu Member State. Registration is online via the Government Gateway. The process is distinct from conventional registration for VAT. Once registered, the taxpayer has to identify the Eu Member State in which each customer is located. For each VAT quarter, he provides the total value of sales made to each Member State. The online system calculates the VAT due to each Member State. More information is available on the Chamber website and at www.gov.uk and www.europa.eu n
Domino reports strong growth in export markets dOMINO, manufacturer of leading-edge coding and marking technology, has announced strong growth in several of its export markets. They recently announced their interim results and reported double digit revenue growth in their businesses in Europe and Asia and a nine per cent increase in the uSA. The company attributes some of this success to the recent introduction of ground-breaking technology which not only meets current customer needs, but also recognises future requirements which will drive business demand. New products which are already proving a success include the A520i continuous ink jet printed (CIJ), which represents the next iteration in Domino’s successful A-Series. This highly resilient printer is designed for challenging production environments, has ecofriendly credentials and comes with a separate Touchpanel user interface for maximum flexibility, which can be mounted remotely to suit production line requirements. Domino’s N-Series range of advanced digital colour ink jet label presses has been expanded with the next generation N610i ,which includes the facility to print opaque white ink. The N610i is packed with Domino i-Tech intelligent Technology, which optimises output of the uV curable label press to maximise production efficiencies and provide extended colour capabilities, while delivering the highest quality print resolution. philip Easton, Director of Domino’s Digital printing Business said: “With the label market booming, we noticed a growing trend for digital solutions that offer precision output at high production speeds at a viable cost. This was the perfect opportunity for us to launch the N610i, our next generation full colour digital ink jet press.” n
dOMINO BASED IN BAR HILL
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NEW MEMBERS Would you like to become a Chamber member? Get in touch today and find out the many benefits. tel: 01223 237414 email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk
A round-up of the new members that have joined the Chamber in the past month
CMIS www.cmisifa.co.uk
NEW MEMBERS
The Stamford based company, established in 1988, provide personal and business financial advice and planning. CMIS was awarded the prestigious title of ‘Chartered Financial Planners’ in 2008 ensuring clients can be confident CMIS are wholly committed to providing the best possible advice, service and support.
THIS MONTH 10 TO 8 AGE UK PETERBOROUGH BAKER TILLY BELL INTERNATIONAL LTD BLUNT BRIT MARKETING DAVID JOKINEN FORCE 36 LTD FULL CIRCLE FITNESS LTD GAVIN WETTON HR LTD IUK MEDIA LEGENDARY BUSINESS OWNERS LTD LIVING FUTNITURE NEWGLOW LED LTD PENTESEC LTD PORTAKABIN LTD RACHEL WARD LTD SAGE ACCOUNTS SOLUTIONS SHAYYPE SOCIUM MARKETPLACE LTD THE HAYCOCK HOTEL LLP THE STAMFORD STUDIO THOMPSON MEDIA PARTNERS LTD WORD & CO WWW.ADMIN4YOUR.BIZ WWW.DAZZLE.GRAPHICS
BLUNT BRIT MARKETING bluntbrit.com Blunt Brit Marketing helps you ‘get there first more often’ with locally focused digital media training, consulting and video marketing expertise. Having a system that works helps their clients convert more lookers to advocates. They also offer a range of animated videos for local and start-up companies.
JACKSON ASSOCIATES Jill Jackson is an educational and management consultant currently specialising in school admissions and home to school transport. Jill has spent 28 years in local authority management and is happy to give free initial advice in relation to general management or educational consultancy by schools, local education authorities, parents, businesses or other interested people.
BUILDING BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IN YOUR AREA 5% STAMFORD
Fenland 4%
✓ Promote Your Business ✓ Protect Your Company
Ely 4%
✓ Get Involved
30% peterborough
✓ Succeed Internationally ✓ Reduce Business Costs
15% Huntingdonshire Cambridge & South Cambs 35%
7% Other 01223 237414 14
CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2014
www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Fenland
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Fenland Chamber of Commerce
HERBERT GOES LARGE FOR AMERICAN CUSTOMER
LEE ADNITT, NATIONAL ACCOUNTS MANAGER.
NEW MANAGER FOR WISBECH BREWERY ELGOOD’S is expanding its sales team with the appointment of Lee Adnitt to the position of national accounts manager. He will be responsible for building up the wholesale side of Elgood’s beer business nationally. Lee has 26 years’ experience in the drinks
industry and joins Elgood’s from Wells and Youngs Brewing Company. Claire Simpson, Elgood’s Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted to have Lee join the team. His wealth of knowledge in the trade will be invaluable.” ■
NEW DIVISION FOR LOCAL IT COMPANY ENSIGN Solutions Ltd who have provided IT Support to businesses in the Fenland area for the last eight years, have launched a new division of their business called IT’S Cleaner which specialises in IT equipment cleaning. Danny Hackett, Director, commented: “After seeing news articles like computer keyboards being dirtier than toilet seats, some of our clients enquired about computer cleaning services. “Computers can be a business’s most important asset and they only want people who understand about computers cleaning them, hence we set up this new side of the business. “We clean computers inside and out not only on the hygiene side but for computer performance and longevity.” ■
DANNY AND LIZ CLEANING THE COMPUTER SUITE OF 15 PCS IN THE OASIS CENTRE WISBECH
THE HUGE WASHER AWAITING COLLECTION FROM THE HERBERT FACTORY BEFORE ITS TRANSATLANTIC VOYAGE
HERBERT Engineering supplies their largest barrel washer yet! The six metre long giant, with a diameter measuring a huge 1500mm, was supplied through their Canadian distributor HJV, to McCormick Farms, who have been farming in Western New York since 1945. McCormick chose the Herbert machine to meet market demand for gentle handling of the particularly large varieties of potatoes they handle. It has the capacity to handle over 75tph, which, combined with a Herbert wet reception hopper bought two years ago, cleans the produce to an exceptional standard. The Herbert six metre barrel washer has a number of impressive features, including a new easy adjust door assembly, full pintle lining and auger discharge system for waste water. ■
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ELY CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Ely
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Ely Chamber of Commerce
LABOUR-TECH SUPPORT LOCAL FOOTBALL TEAM LABOUR-TECH recruitment are very much part of the local community and to show their commitment to a local junior football club Keith Wilson, Managing Director of Labour-tech Recruitment, has sponsored the Soham Town under 10s football team. They play in the Cambs FA under 10 mini league and are enjoying some good success at present, having only lost twice
last season and winning the remaining 18 games. The team have been coached by Dan Peachey and Andy Johnson for the last two years. Dan commented that he felt his team were fortunate to be sponsored by Labour-tech, as he perceives them to be a growing business that actively supports local initiatives in the community. ■
KEITH, LEFT, WITH HIS SON ARCHIE AND THE SOHAM TOWN UNDER 10S TEAM
SAMMY LOVERIDGE
NEW ‘PAD’ FOR EMERALD FROG MARKETING AS TEAM EXPANDS EMERALD Frog Marketing, has welcomed a new team member and the company has recently moved to larger offices at e-Space North in Littleport, as the business continues to grow. Emerald Frog Marketing was launched in 2010 and provides award-winning marketing and PR communication services to businesses both locally and nationally, working with a wide range of clients from a variety of industries. Sammy Loveridge joins the Emerald Frog Marketing team as Marketing Assistant, responsible for marketing administration and account management. “Sammy has vast experience in sales, marketing administration and is currently studying towards the CIM Marketing Diploma”, says Jo Evans, Director at Emerald Frog Marketing. “2014 has been a particularly busy year for us with new clients on board; Sammy’s role will strengthen the service we provide to our clients and the excellent reputation we have in the marketplace.” ■ 16 2
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RPV ANNOUNCE IMI ORTON COLLABORATION RPV are pleased to announce that they now hold a comprehensive stock of IMI ORTON MV series triple eccentric metal to metal seated butterfly valves. The new stock range of IMI ORTON valves are from 2” (DN50) up to 42” (DN1050), available in various pressure classes, from ASME Cl.150 up to Cl.600. The range includes valves in low temperature carbon steel, super duplex and stainless steel material. RPV are also holding a stock of IMI ORTON butterfly valves for cryogenic service up to 36” (DN900). Matt George, Sales Director of RPV, commented: “We are delighted to further extend our vast stock range to include
another extremely high quality, internationally recognised brand in IMI Orton. With this exciting new partnership, we look forward to globally supporting existing and new clients requiring IMI Orton products on a stock delivery basis.” Stefano Nucci, Orton Sales Manager, said: “We are glad that IMI Orton s.r.l. and RPV have established an agreement to stock a wide range of Triple Eccentric Butterfly valves at RPV warehouse in Mildenhall. RPV will be able to support the global day by day requests of short lead time while Orton plant will remain focused on large international projects predominantly in the oil and gas market.” ■
ELY CHAMBER NEWS
MEMBER SUCCESS AT
ELY BUSINESS AWARDS THE ELY Standard East Cambs Business awards took place in the Lady Chapel at Ely Cathedral on Friday 3 October. A capacity audience gathered for this year’s awards. Guests at the black tie event included finalists, business leaders, council dignitaries, award sponsors and a judging panel which consisted of independent business leaders and award sponsors. A champagne reception was followed by a three course meal and the awards were hosted by Terry Gauci, the presenter of Star FMs Breakfast show. This event is perceived as a reward for best practice within East Cambridgeshire, as well as raising public relations within the local business community in the region. MICHELL INSTRUMENTS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Michell Instruments won three Awards and the judges described Michell as ‘a gem amongst the East Cambridgeshire community’. On top of being voted Employer of the Year and Medium Business of the Year, Michell also won the main award of the evening – Business of the Year. Michell’s CEO Mike Bannister said: “Winning these awards is a real boost for all our employees. It is great that all their hard work has had a positive effect for the company and that this has been recognised by a panel of external expert judges.”
AC TREE SURGERY AND GARDEN CARE NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD AC Tree Surgery and Garden Care impressed judges with its IT set-up and staff training. The judges said: “It is a new, forward looking business. It has entered the market determined to build a reputation as a business which delivers a quality service to all of its customers, large and small. “We were particularly impressed by the integration of IT into an industry AC TREE SURGERY AND GARDEN CARE which is not traditionally associated with it. This IT integration has had a particular impact on the process of completing quotes and risk assessLABOUR TECH ments. We were also impressed by the SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR business’ approach towards staff training Labour Tech entered the small business of the and a desire to engage apprentices early in year awards for the second time in three years, the life of the business.” ■ having previously won the event in 2012. Keith Wilson, Managing Director of Labour Tech, was delighted to lead his team onto the stage when the winner of the category for small business of the year was announced. The judges were impressed that the company continually re-invest its profits back into the business and has enjoyed consistent profit growth over the last few years. LABOUR-TECH
CONGRATULATIONS to all our members who took part and were runners up at the awards in the following categories: NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR • Breeze Technology • TaxAssist Accountants SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR • PA Answer • Greenlight FM Ltd MICHELL INSTRUMENTS
BUSINESS WEBSITE OF THE YEAR • PA Answer EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR • PA Answer CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD • AC Tree Surgery & Garden Care
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HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Huntingdonshire
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Huntingdonshire Chamber of Commerce
WEBTEC CELEBRATE AT HOLMEWOOD HALL
IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2014 BRIGHTVISIONS LAUNCH MICROSOFT IT TRAINING COURSES The workshop-style courses are delivered from a fully-equipped training suite where each delegate has their own PC workstation. This enables the training to be ‘hands-on’, ensuring trainees are given the opportunity to test out their new skills before they leave the session. One of the first to complete the Powerpoint training course was John Bridge OBE, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Speaking after the course John said: “I was highly impressed with the content and delivery of the Powerpoint course. It has made me realise how powerful Powerpoint is and given me the confidence to explore new ways of using this and other applications more effectively in the future.”
GEORGE HAY’S PAYROLL MANAGER BECOMES A NATIONAL FINALIST Chartered accountancy firm George Hay is celebrating as its payroll manager has been shortlisted in the National AccountingWeb Practice Excellence Awards 2014. Elaine Shaw, who manages George Hay’s GH Payscheme outsourced payroll bureau, was nominated for the prestigious award because of her skill and passion for the job and her exceptional ability to build strong client relationships. GH Payscheme provides a dedicated outsourced payroll and pay advice service that is tailored to individual requirements and available to all market sectors. Now in their fourth year, the Practice Excellence Awards celebrate excellence in all its guises. This is a national award so to make the finals is a fantastic achievement for Elaine and for George Hay.
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WEBTEC CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION WEBTEC was founded in 1964 and the company has enjoyed continual growth through innovation, export and a long-serving dedicated workforce. To mark this important point in Webtec’s history the company invited all of its employees and families, including those based overseas, to a ride on the historic Tornado steam train en route to a Garden party at Holmewood Hall, near Peterborough. Martin Cuthbert, Managing Director of Webtec and son of the founder Roy Cuthbert,
said: “Today is really a ‘Golden’ landmark for Webtec as we celebrate 50 years since the company was founded, we thank our loyal customers around the world and our dedicated and long-serving employees who have made this possible.” The recently refurbished factory, which has been Webtec’s headquarters since 1998, houses all of its engineering, manufacturing, assembly, test and sales support functions for customers world-wide, in conjunction with sales offices in the USA, France, Germany and China. ■
LUMINUS IS FINALIST IN THE NATIONAL BUSINESS AWARDS LUMINUS has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Employer of the Year category at the National Business Awards 2014. Luminus ‘wowed’ the judges with its ‘Organisational Wholeness Strategy’ which encompasses all aspects of the working environment and makes Luminus a truly different kind of place to work. The results speak for themselves: 92 per cent of customers said they were satisfied
with service provided by Luminus and 94 per cent of staff said they were proud to work for Luminus. Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People, UKCES and judge of this category said: “Luminus group provides a vital service for its community. The way it has engaged both the staff and the community is impressive and been a key part of its success.” ■
THE LUMINUS FAMILY CELEBRATES SUMMER TOGETHER
CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Cambridge & South Cambs
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber of Commerce
IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2014 ASTON SHAW LAUNCH NEW STATE OF THE ART WEBSITE The new website follows their high profile merger with a local accountancy firm and recent group rebrand. They have invested in the development of a information driven website that provides their existing and potential clients all the tools and information they may need to make an informed service decision.
SOME OF STREETS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS’ ACCREDITED QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PROADVISORS
CLOUD ACCOUNTING IS NOT PIE IN THE SKY RECOGNISING the growing trend for cloud based accounting solutions Streets Chartered Accountants has become a reseller, trainer and ProAdvisor for QuickBooks Online, the leading online accounting software solution. As a leading QuickBooks provider Streets has trained 12 members of its accountancy team in the software, with all of them having
ASL COMMITS TO NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME
achieved accredited status as QuickBooks Online ProAdvisors. In addition, and as part of the practice’s support for businesses both considering and looking to use a cloud based solution and in particular QuickBooks, Streets is hosting a series of introductory presentations, induction sessions and set up and training workshops. ■
A BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR BRIDGE THE GAP THIS year’s Bridge the Gap event continued to impress and delight its participants. Over 1800 people took part in this fundraiser which aims to raise £50,000 to be shared equally by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Press Relief. ■
SUCCESSFUL ASL APPRENTICES
AUTOMATED Systems Ltd (ASL) has enhanced business performance and provided a unique range of learning opportunities with their successful and ongoing apprenticeship programme. Paul Derry, Sales Director at ASL, said: “Not only are we recruiting apprentices to help business growth, our current employees are embarking on higher level apprenticeships to develop their skills and gain further qualifications.” ■
CONSCIOUS COMMUNICATIONS TAKES ON NEW RECRUIT Conscious Communications has made a further appointment, continuing to expand the team in order to meet demands of its growing client base. Kathryn Ford joins the team as PR and Marketing Executive, bringing with her experience of working in public affairs and events. Her Politics degree, keen interest in current affairs, and flair for public speaking and debating will be of great use at Conscious Communications.
HEWITSONS LLP MAINTAINS POSITION IN THE LATEST LEGAL 500 Hewitsons was recommended as a toptier law firm in 15 practice areas across East Anglia and the East Midlands, and for the fourth year running maintained its Tier 2 ranking overall. In total 38 lawyers in the Hewitsons’ team in East Anglia, the East Midlands and South East regions were either listed in the 2014 Legal 500’s elite ‘Leading lawyers’ list for the UK or recommended in its editorial.
FAMILY BUSINESS WELCOMES NEW ADDITION Lease Our Cars team, Pat and Mel Kilbey, welcomed their latest member to the family business in September. Little Isla isn’t ready to start working on the cars yet but it is business as usual for Pat and Mel.
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CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Cambridge & South Cambs
IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2014
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber of Commerce
RIDGEONS’ CELEBRATES EXTRAORDINARY EMPLOYEE ACHIEVEMENTS WINNERS OF THE RIDGEONS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2014
CAMBRIDGE LAWYERS STONE KING RANKED IN TOP TIER Stone King’s lawyers in Cambridge have been named among the region’s top legal eagles in an influential industry guide. Stone King is ranked as a top tier firm in several categories in the 2014 Legal 500 guide to the UK’s leading lawyers and law firms. The prestigious guide places both the Cambridge-based charity team and the firm’s education team in the highest tier for their work in the region. Stone King’s education team in Cambridge also receives a glowing recommendation.
Let us remedy your recruitment needs Whatever challenges you face, we can make the recruitment process easier, allowing you to focus your energy on growing your business.
RIDGEONS Group recently celebrated the extraordinary achievements of its employees at a special recognition awards lunch. The annual event rewards both individuals and teams alike for their commitment towards outstanding achievements and exceptional customer services across 14 categories. This year saw 259 nominations for the much coveted awards, with over 55
attendees including shortlisted employees, Ridgeons Managers and Directors, who all came together at the event to celebrate the outstanding performance. Commenting at the event, Master of Ceremonies, Director Gordon Ridgeon said: “It’s good to see so many finalists whose commitment we can celebrate at this special event.” ■
AN INTRODUCTION TO DOWNING COLLEGE DOWNING College opened its doors to new clients at a special reception to showcase its conference and events facilities, including the newly-refurbished Howard Building which has just undergone a six-month major refurbishment programme. ■
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GUESTS ENJOYING THE DOWNING COLLEGE RECEPTION
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VICTOIRE RAISE OVER £300 FOR MACMILLAN VICTOIRE Press, a printing services business based in Bar Hill, were proud to hold their second coffee morning for Macmillan Cancer Support. The event saw their staff collectively bake and put on an amazing spread for their visitors to enjoy throughout the day. The knowledge that they had raised over £300 for Macmillan Cancer Support certainly put a spring in Victoire’s step. ■ 20 2
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CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS
NEW DIRECTOR FOR CHALLENGERS BANK CAMBRIDGE & Counties Bank has appointed Sue Higginson as its new Director of Business Development for East Anglia. Sue has worked in business banking in the region for more than 27 years with all sizes of business helping them fund their growth plans and property purchases. Sue said: “My new role at Cambridge & Counties Bank is an exciting challenge. I look forward to raising the profile of this up and coming bank across East Anglia.” ■
SUE HIGGINSON OF CAMBRIDGE & COUNTIES BANK
PROPERTY CONSULTANCY STRENGTHENS TEAM
NEW TEAM MEMBER JOHNNY CLAYTON
JOHNNY Clayton has joined Bidwells as Head of Land and Urban Design, leading the firm’s specialist national team to provide landscape architecture consultancy including urban design and landscape planning. This includes detailed hard and soft landscape design, visual impact, capacity and character assessment, urban design and master-planning. Commenting on his appointment, Johnny said: “This is a great opportunity to lead a highly skilled team at one of the UK’s most respected and cutting-edge property consultancies. I am looking forward to working with our clients to achieve their objectives and deliver projects that fulfil the needs of the community and end user. ■
Taking your event to market By Nick Milne, Catering & Conference Manager, Robinson College Cambridge
YOU may be aware that we’ve been working on a very exciting event here at Robinson College, called clic+. This is a brand new show designed to help organisers maximise delegate engagement through the content and interactive value of events and will feature keynote speakers, interactive workshops, networking and Nick Milne panel sessions. In planning this event, we wanted to make sure we were getting the word out to the right people, which is where marketing comes into play. So where to start? A logo that encompasses your brand messages is vital; this should be eye-catching as it will represent the event and will appear on all marketing material. A website is also an important step; it should contain all of the information that a potential visitor will want to know. It should be interesting but also easy to use, with biographies of key speakers, a programme of events and a clear indication of how to register. A targeted newsletter campaign is a direct way to contact your intended audience. By giving the key information, a brief synopsis, a link to the website or registration system, potential attendees will be able to sign up with ease. However, don’t expect everyone to sign up first time around, quantity as well as quality is key in event promotion. Social media will enable you to follow the right people and engage in relevant conversations, with blogging being another great way to raise awareness of your event in an interesting and informative way. Having a pre- and a post-event social media contact plan is crucial to engaging with delegates and keeping the momentum going before and during the event, and beyond. It’s also a great way to encourage those who can’t be with you on the day to get involved with questions for panels, comments and feedback. Thinking of holding the event again in the future? Don’t forget the post-event marketing that will raise interest for next year and enable you to produce great collateral in the lead up to the next event. Why not come along to clic+ to connect, learn, innovate and communicate more about your next event – register at www.robinson.cam.ac.uk/clic2014
@RobCollConf robinson.cam.ac.uk/conferences 01223 332859
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OUT&ABOUT Enjoy our monthly montage of events and happenings across the local area with this colourful round-up of events
Make sure you send us your photos each month and we’ll include the best of the bunch! Email images straight to the creative team: connected@methodcreative.co.uk
LUMINUS SUPPORT CAMBRIDGESHIRE CYCLE CHALLENGE Luminus held a special cycling event for staff at its Brook House headquarters in Huntingdon as part of the Cambridgeshire Cycle Challenge.
ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY FOR CREATIVE CONTENT Peter Watts from the Chamber, Leigh Holden of Anvil and Simon Atack of AceTech met at Creative Content Company’s one year anniversary in Peterborough Museum. Hazel Cottrell, Director of Creative Content Company said she was thrilled to have such a wonderful turn out for her event.
PRE B2B CAMBRIDGE EVENT B2B EVENT Lorem Caroline ipsum Robinson dolorfrom sit amet, Sandler consectetur Training adipiscing and Cathy elit. Harper Nulla from sed aliquet Methodjusto. inspired Proin exhibitors gravida odio to maximise nibh, in ROI congue frommagna their stand congue at the at. Aliquam Cambridge eratB2B volutpat. exhibition. 22
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OUT & ABOUT
JANUARYS CELEBRATE EXPANSION
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL The 10th Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival held at Fen Ditton in September in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices was a spectacular success.
Januarys held a launch party to celebrate its acquisition of John Popham Planning. It was held at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds with over fifty guests.
METHOD STAFF TRAIN TO BE SECRET AGENTS! Method staff train to be secret agents on their team building trip to Spy Games, Milton Keynes. Tasks included safe cracking and laser dodging!
MOORE STEPHENS RAISES £2,000 Peterborough-based accountancy practice Moore Stephens East Midlands is delighted to announce it raised a fantastic £2,315 for its Charity of the Year 2013/14, Anna’s Hope - the leading children’s brain tumour charity in the East of England.
CAMBRIDGE B2B EXHIBITION Over 800 local businesspeople took the chance to build new connections and raise their profile at the Cambridge B2B Exhibition held in September at Cambridge International Airport.
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PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Peterborough
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
Peterborough Chamber of Commerce
ANNUAL DINNER CELEBRATES SUCCESS OF PETERBOROUGH BUSINESSES IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2014 NEW CATHEDRAL ARCHITECT APPOINTED Peterborough Cathedral has appointed Stephen Oliver as Cathedral Architect. He will succeed Canon Julian Limentani who retires after 25 years in the role. The duties of a Cathedral Architect are set in statute and they include advising not only on the repair and restoration of the cathedral itself, but also the buildings in the cathedral precincts.
WORLD CLASS HONOURS FOR BROKERAGE SERVICE Peterborough Skills Service was crowned the overall World winner of a Global Best Award in the category of ‘Youth Employability Skills’ at the 12th IPN Conference in Brussels. They had already won this accolade for the Europe region.
CITY COLLEGE STUDENTS ON TRACK TO CREATE EYE-CATCHING WELCOME TO PETERBOROUGH Creative students from City College Peterborough are showcasing their talents to thousands of rail travellers, in a unique art exhibition in the waiting room at the City’s train station. Over 60 budding artists took part in the initiative, with East Coast staff based at Peterborough Station deciding which six pieces of art to display in the Platform 1 waiting area for passengers to enjoy.
CROSS KEYS HOMES’ PREAPPRENTICES ACHIEVE SUCCESS Students studying on a preApprenticeship through Cross Keys Homes celebrated their success at a special presentation event held at their head office in Peterborough. The certificates were presented by Tracey Spiller, Apprenticeship Coordinator at City College Peterborough. 24
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OPPORTUNITY Peterborough’s annual Bondholder Dinner was a fantastic celebration of Peterborough business success. With 420 delegates attending, the prestigious black-tie event was set in the beautiful surroundings of Peterborough Cathedral and was delivered in partnership with the Peterborough 900 campaign. The evening commenced with a canapé and drinks reception in the stunning Cloisters, shortly followed by welcoming words from John Bridge OBE, Chairman of Opportunity Peterborough, and Charles Taylor, Dean of Peterborough Cathedral. After dinner speeches included words from Opportunity Peterborough’s acting Chief Executive, Steve Bowyer, Mick Leggett, Chief Executive of Cross Keys Homes - the headline sponsor for the event - and closing remarks from Cllr Marco Cereste, Leader of Peterborough City Council. ■
REBRAND ANNIVERSARY BRINGS MORE GOOD NEWS BUCKLES Solicitors revealed its new look last September and over the past year has notched up a series of achievements. Staff attended the company’s annual BBQ and cut a specially commissioned cake – the celebrations continue with the announcement of expansion plans. Buckles Solicitors will be opening its doors in Nottingham in November, which marks yet another milestone for the company. ■
CELEBRATING AT THE ANNUAL BBQ
PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL, THE VENUE FOR THE ANNUAL BONDHOLDER DINNER
FIRST STEP ON CAREER LADDER FOR GRADUATE JONATHAN Orrell graduated from Chester University with a degree in Business Studies and has joined Athene as a Graduate Account Executive for a six month period, as part of the Peterborough Graduate Scheme run by Change Agents UK. He will be supporting Athene’s community engagement team with organising events and working with local planners and councillors. The Peterborough Graduate Scheme is delivered by Change Agents UK, working with Opportunity Peterborough and University Centre Peterborough. Jonathan will also be involved with sustainable growth initiatives. Managing Director of Athene Communications, Richard Astle said: “We are really pleased to welcome Jonathan to Athene and I am confident he will be a great addition.” ■
PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS
THE OFFICIAL OPENING ON 25 SEPTEMBER
GREATER PETERBOROUGH UTC HOLDS LANDMARK CEREMONY THE OFFICIAL ground-breaking ceremony marked the commencement of construction for the £10m Greater Peterborough University Technical College (GPUTC) which is co-located at Peterborough Regional College. The GPUTC development is set to provide a specialist school for technical education for the city and surrounding areas. Its specialisms include sustainable construction, engineering and software engineering. The UTC is set to advance the education of 14-19 year olds from September 2015. ■ SEMINAR HOSTS: TIM THOMPSON, ANNE CORDER, EMMA CARTER AND MARTIN BLOOM
CITY BUSINESSES KEEP ABREAST OF EMPLOYMENT LAW WITH more and more offices now ‘open plan’ – some businesses could be falling foul of legislation on working conditions, according to a leading employment law expert. Speaking at the recent annual employment law seminar organised by city firm Hegarty Solicitors and Anne Corder Recruitment, Martin Bloom told the 180 HR professionals attending of the potential pitfalls. Other topics tackled at the briefing included changes to flexible working laws, debates over zero hour contracts and the very latest case law updates, providing real life examples of legislation in action. ■
IT’S ‘BUSINESS AS USUAL’ AS PARTNERS RETIRE THE MESSAGE was ‘business as usual’ for Roythornes as 250 guests attended an event to mark the retirement of partners Phil Brewster and Graham Smith, who between them have given over 83 years’ service to the firm’s agricultural business and land owning clients. Their contribution was celebrated by other members of their wellrespected agricultural and property teams who have been working with Phil and Graham over the last few years to ensure continuity of service to the firms’ clients. ■ CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2014
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Accounting for your Success
Moving Forward with Peterborough At the heart of the city’s business for over 75 years Eco Innovation Centre Peters Court City Road Peterborough Cambridgeshire PE1 1SA 01733 564082 peterborough@whitingandpartners.co.uk
www.whitingandpartners.co.uk
Services and Sectors: • • • • • • • •
Agriculture Audit Business Start-Up Charities Construction Corporate Finance & Tax Private Client Tax Wealth Management
STAMFORD CHAMBER NEWS
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
A round-up of news and events from across Stamford
Ely Chamber of Commerce
IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2014 PARSONS ESTATE CONSULTANCY CONTINUES UK ACQUISITION TRAIL
(LEFT TO RIGHT): ADRIAN REYNOLDS (MANAGING DIRECTOR), MARK TAYLOR, ALISTAIR MAIN, MICHELE COE-BAXTER, SIMON SHAW, RACHEL BARRETT, STUART COOPER, GRAEME HILLS AND TIM SAYERS (PDW)
ACADEMY PREPARING LEADERS OF THE FUTURE SEVEN members of the team are being coached for a future leadership role as members of the Duncan & Toplis Academy. The Academy was created last year to plan ahead and identify the people who might lead the practice in the future. It supports individuals with potential and helps them to develop their careers
through targeted training and support. The first eight employees have just completed a year of coaching and now seven more have joined the scheme. The Duncan & Toplis Academy is being run in association with PDW, a specialist management development firm, and training provider Mercia Group. ■
SATURDAY BOY HEADS TO UNI TO STUDY WATCH MAKING AFTER over four years’ service at Loomes, Thomas Wilkinson is saying goodbye and heading for Birmingham City University to read an honours degree in watch making. In spite of achieving outstanding A-levels and able to go in any direction, Thomas did not waver in his first choice of watchmaking. “I always wanted to study watchmaking seriously and Birmingham is the only place where you can train to degree level”. There he can study every aspect of watch design, repair and manufacture. Robina Hill, Managing Director at Loomes, said: “Tommy’s dedication and his unwavering commitment to the profession is faultless. We will be sure to follow his career with pride.” ■
ROBINA HILL WITH THOMAS WILKINSON
As Parsons Estate Consultancy enters its fifth year, it continues to deliver high quality work with ongoing acquisitions. They continue to work with clients in the retail and trade counter sectors as part of a UK wide acquisition programme. The work for these national clients involves providing both market and development consultancy advice to ensure that all opportunities are thoroughly investigated. The founder, Simon Parsons, is proud to continue working on opportunities with off shore investors who seek to gain from the current growth in the UK property market. He said: “I’m delighted that we’ve recently been retained by a major client and this in itself is testament to our high quality work in assisting, advising and delivering some challenging projects.”
BUSINESS START-UP COMPETITION LAUNCHED Students at New College Stamford have been given the opportunity to win up to £5,000 to start their own business, with guidance and direction from some of Stamford’s top business experts. The initiative entitled ‘Start Up Stamford’ is operated by the Stamford Youth Business Development Trust and is supported by a number of trustees, sponsors and mentors. Their industry and subject knowledge will serve as invaluable support for the development of the winning business idea. Students aged 17-21 from across the College attended seminars from Start Up Stamford’s Martin Fox, before being given the chance to submit ideas for review through the easy application process. Once an idea has been submitted, students will be allocated a mentor to develop their business plan before the top five are taken through to a Dragons Den final to be held in the new year.
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COMMERCIAL FEATURE
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE CHAMBER NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Cambridgeshire
Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk
LOCAL VOLUNTEERS GROW THEIR JOB PROSPECTS A GROUP of volunteers will learn new skills, gain qualifications and do their bit for the environment in Alconbury Weald’s new tree nursery. The volunteers – 12-15 local unemployed residents – will join together for Green Skills, an employment project run by community charity Groundwork Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, in partnership with Alconbury Weald owners Urban&Civic, Huntingdonshire Regional College and Jobcentre Plus. Huntingdon’s Jobcentre Plus held recruitment sessions to promote the project which were well-attended with lots of people keen to boost their job prospects while helping the local community and environment. The volunteers spent two days a week for six weeks at Alconbury Weald’s Community Tree Nursery. Supervised by two qualified Groundwork staff members, the group worked through a series of practical tasks to help develop the Nursery and in so doing achieved the City & Guilds Award in Employability Skills and a health and safety qualification which will enable them to take the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) health and safety test. Groundwork is one of the few providers offering young job seekers the chance to secure both of these qualifications for free – making them available to those who’ll benefit most. As part of the course, participants also took part in interview training and mock interviews with local businesses who are looking to recruit to similar vacancies. ■
GRASSROOTS GREEN SKILLS
GROSS & CO SOLICITOR RANKED IN WHO’S WHO LEGAL 2014 GRAEME Kirk, Senior Partner of Gross & Co, the Bury St Edmunds firm of Solicitors, has once again been listed in the Who’s Who Legal 2014, recognising leading international lawyers in their specialist field. Graeme is the only East Anglian lawyer recognised in the publication for the specialisation of Corporate Immigration. Entry to the publication is by nomination only from lawyers around the world. Graeme has specialised in Corporate Immigration work since 1981 and, during this time, has advised and assisted many East Anglian businesses in relation to UK immigration issues. ■ GRAEME KIRK, OF GROSS & CO
Developing young people for work and life! IF you enjoy a challenge or would like to support young people aged 14 to 24, you could be a fantastic Duke of Edinburgh volunteer or champion donor? Each year over 900 local young people take on the challenge to develop their creative thinking, physical fitness and team building skills. Achieving an Award creates the skills, confidence and a view on life that employers, colleges and universities are looking for. In order to grow, they are seeking Cambridgeshire champion donors and volunteers to help transform young people not in education, employment or training (NEETS) into work ready citizens, giving them access to opportunities they may never experience otherwise. To gain an unbeatable sense of achievement, develop your leadership skills and form new friendships - be part of something really special. Contact centralengland@dof.org to register your interest. ■
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Cash in on your efficiency purchases
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THE LOW CARBON KEEP Capital Grant Scheme aims to support efficiency and innovation initiatives within businesses that will result in reduced resource consumption (e.g. energy, water, raw materials). The scheme allows eligible small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the East of England to recoup 40% of the cost of buying capital items, between £2,500 and £20,000 in value (ex-VAT), such as equipment or software. All claims to funders are made retrospectively, with the SME incurring the entire expenditure in the first instance. Most business sectors are eligible, including charities and not for profit organisations, however the coal, agricultural and fisheries sectors are excluded due to European funding regulations. Ringrose Grimsley Ltd, independent financial advisers, is one company that has benefited from the scheme. David Frankland, the company’s Managing Director, commented: “Applications for grants always seem quite daunting, and the offer of a grant also seems to be too good to be true, however this was the complete opposite. “We supplied all necessary documents via email, were constantly kept up to date by Carole, the Process Manager, and were approved within record time! I am chuffed with the process and of course the result.”
We make the process painless... The Data Protection Act is complex and breaches of this Act can be expensive – it could lead to fines of up to £500k, loss of repute, negative publicity for your brand and could also involve painful 'clean up costs' for the Company.
Contact us today and see how we can help. Call 0843 886 9928 or email enquiries@k8dataprotection.com
@DataProtection8 k8dataprotection.com
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If you would like to know how your company could benefit from the Low Carbon KEEP Capital Grant Scheme, please don’t hesitate to contact the programme team. Carole Randall Programme Manager carole.randall@anglia.ac.uk 0845 1964310
Marla Fuchs Programme Co-ordinator marla.fuchs@anglia.ac.uk 0845 1965818
W anglia.ac.uk/lowcarbon T 0845 1964310 lowcarbonKEEP
LEP FOCUS Keeping you informed and up to date with the LEP
MILESTONE FOR GRANTS4GROWTH! A successful grant scheme is calling on businesses to apply before the end of the year as it hits the £1 million investment mark. GRANTS4GROWTH provides grants to small and medium sized enterprises to purchase or install new products or processes to help them invest to grow. From new lighting and equipment through to upgraded production facilities and clean technology, the grants have been used by a wide range of businesses to help them become more efficient. A wide range of different businesses have been supported across the LEP area, including: Pathology Diagnostics Leading UK industry-accredited research business Pathology Diagnostics provide tissue laboratory and diagnostic services. To support their growth, they needed to invest in new specialist equipment. Grants4Growth provided a grant of £7,385 towards the cost of a new IHC Stainer, positioning them to tender for potentially lucrative new contracts within the pharmaceutical sector. The specialist tissue arrayer provided the company with a unique selling point, not currently offered by many competitors. This project will increase the company’s market share by approximately 30 per cent and allow them to tender for work that was previously outside of their capability.
Dr Madhuri Warren, CEO of Pathology Diagnostics, said: “The equipment purchased with assistance from Grants4Growth has been critical to the growth of the business and has ensured that we continue to safeguard current jobs and are able to recruit new staff from the local community.” PA Answer Ely based PA Answer provide virtual PA services to a number of businesses across the UK. The company had identified a niche opportunity to provide virtual medical secretarial services to consultants and surgeons operating in the private sector. Grants4Growth provided a grant of £2,500 to the company to enable them to develop a new telephone dictation system, purchase voice recognition licenses and implement a new CRM system. Chris Grove, owner of PA Answer, said: “The grant via the LEP has been invaluable in allowing us to react quickly to this new opportunity and has meant that we can continue growing as a business.”
Workshop Consultants The Grants4Growth scheme doesn’t just help businesses to buy new equipment, it can also help to upgrade lighting systems to become more energy efficient and cut electricity bills. The Workshop Consultants took advantage of this grant funding to install highly efficient smart lighting, energy efficient air conditioning and to replace inefficient electric storage radiators as they moved from Cambridge to their new location in Elsworth. ■ HELPING YOU TO ACCESS FUNDING Grants4Growth Business Broker Katie Bavester is dedicated to helping businesses throughout Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to access this funding. To find out more: Visit www.grants4growth.org.uk Email Katie@grants4growth.org.uk Call 07909 702695
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The home of good ideas
A beautiful, flexible event space in a strategic location near the Cambridge Science and Business Parks • Conference room for 70+ • Meeting rooms • Roof terrace • Informal atrium café
• On-site parking • Convenient location near A14/M11 • Professional visitor service • High quality catering
E hello@futurebusinesscentre.co.uk W futurebusinesscentre.co.uk T 01223 781200 @ftrbusiness Future Business Centre, King’s Hedges Road Cambridge CB4 2HY
CHAMBER CHARITY OF THE YEAR This years charity of the year is Peterborough Cathedral
PETERBOROUGH 900
DINNER IN THE NAVE CELEBRATES BUSINESS SUCCESS A CANDLELIT dinner for over 400 guests was held in the beautiful surroundings of Peterborough Cathedral on 18 September. The dinner was organised by Opportunity Peterborough for their Bondholders and during the evening a collection was taken for the Cathedral’s Peterborough 900 development campaign. In his welcome to the dinner guests the Dean of Peterborough, the Very Revd Charles Taylor, said it was entirely appropriate that such an occasion should be held in the nave. “Our gathering here in this communal sacred space is especially symbolic
SPOTLIGHT ON HISTORY
of the bonds and mutual interdependence between this cathedral and the commercial and civic communities of Peterborough,” he said. “We share a common concern for the welfare of our city and region; not just for its economic prosperity, but for its social cohesion and cultural aspiration, all of which are of course intertwined.” Steve Bowyer of Opportunity Peterborough said: “We were delighted to work with the Cathedral to host this prestigious event in such an iconic venue and have received very positive feedback from guests.” ■
SAVE THE DATE! Christmas Carols 18 December COME along and sing some traditional Christmas carols in Peterborough Cathedral, at 1.00pm on Thursday 18 December. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served afterwards and Chamber of Commerce members are particularly welcome. ■
CONTACT US ACCORDING to tree-ring dating of its wooden boards, the painted nave ceiling, under which the Opportunity Peterborough dinner was held, dates from around 1250. It is the only surviving wooden ceiling of this age in the UK. ■
James Dyer: Peterborough 900 Campaign Manager Rachael Clarke: Senior Development Manager Contact us: 01733 355301 campaign@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk Visit: www.peterborough900.org.uk ■ CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2014
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REPORT FROM IAN MACKELLAR Four-day working week
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REPORT FROM IAN MACKELLAR
Four-day working week What impact would a reduction to the working week and additional holidays have on businesses? I came across an MP in the 1980s who thought Milton Friedman and John Maynard Keynes had been joint architects of a new town in Buckinghamshire with a lot of roundabouts and a grid system of dual carriageways. There were some pretty silly MPs in those years. The rest of us know, of course that Keynes and Friedman were influential 20th century economists with diametrically-opposed views about the effectiveness of government intervention in macro-economics. I was put in mind of this particularly because emergence from recession tends to throw up temptations to tinker with working arrangements, such as moving to a four-day working week or proposing a regime that allows employees to take as much holiday as they wish. What was in my mind partly was Cambridge-born Keynes’s prediction in 1930 that, by the beginning of the 21st century, employees would need to work for only 15 hours a week to meet their economic needs. He had reckoned without consumerism, of course, and the extent to which modern economies – not just in the West – are built on sand. Although Keynsian economics largely underpinned the Western world’s response to the noughties banking crisis, including ‘quantitative easing’ (which we used to call ‘devaluation’), the Friedman influence on money supply has been largely irrelevant in mitigating the inflationary effect that we would in previous cycles have expected to flow from recovery. It simply hasn’t happened – and it’s far from clear why not. Nonetheless, workers are clearly no longer so fearful for their jobs that they will not contemplate changing basic working arrangements, such as the number of days they work each week or the amount of holiday they take. The four-day working week – hardly a new concept: it was widely adopted in Fleet Street
in the 1970s and later abandoned – seems to have re-emerged in Scandinavia. And ‘unlimited holidays’ is another of Sir Richard Branson’s off-the-wall notions. The four-day week is flavour-of-themonth in The Gambia, has found favour in the Netherlands, and has been adopted and discarded recently in some US states, particularly for public sector workers. There are some theoretical attractions (such as more family time) and disadvantages (such as less family time). Most smaller SMEs, particularly those offering 24/7 services, would suffer grievously, while larger organisations without the need to offer instant reaction would be quite unfazed. The Scot Nats favoured moving towards a 30-hour working week if they had won the September vote, dividing the quantum of Scottish work among more people. That notion would have worked fine mathematically, but not economically. It is a
employment advisers E-RAS, reckons a lot of companies have already written off Fridays for productive work, even if they have not formally moved to a four-day week. If this means workers do not take time out of the rest of the week for medical appointments or childcare, so much the better. “SMEs often find managing requests for flexible working difficult enough, and maybe the four-day week can assist with this, given the new requirements on employers to consider flexible requests for all employees, rather than just those who are caring for their children.” Branson’s suggestion of unlimited holiday – incidentally, so rigidly safeguarded as to be practically unworkable for anybody but the iconic entrepreneur in person – find less favour with our Mr Bentley. “Some would relish the idea. Others prefer to work within a framework. Senior managers could work with it but [further down an organisation] it’s a question of ensuring the required levels of customer service.” Quite so. Branson doesn’t really need to turn up to work, anyway. Some of his former colleagues have privately suggested to me that little harm comes to the corporation when the master is elsewhere. Steve Ryan points out that closer examination of the proposition reveals that only 170 of Virgin’s 50,000 employees would qualify for such largesse in any case. “Not even Virgin could manage their workforce effectively if they applied this policy to all the staff in all their business operations,” he adds. In any case, Branson’s idea falls a tad short of Utopian. Employees must be satisfied that ‘they feel 100 per cent comfortable that they and their team are up to date on every project and that their absence will not in any way damage the business’. Anyone who has worked in a company with a Friedman-derived long-hours corporate culture will recognise the not-very-welldisguised threat. Eat your heart out, Mr Gradgrind. n
The idea could work in principal as long as it’s not enforced by legislation simplistic trap into which other narrow-focus organisations, such as UKIP, also fall. It just doesn’t work like that. Nonetheless, Alan Bentley, MD of Peterborough-based Chamber member International Personnel Management Limited, believes some firms could make a four-day arrangement work satisfactorily. “Even for those that have to be open seven days a week, it could help with employees’ work/life balance,” he said. “We have 20 employees, and we could possibly make it work, though it might cause us a bit of a problem. “There’s nothing wrong with the idea in principle, so long as it’s not enforced by legislation. “There are some times when we have to look at change and adopt new working practices.” Steve Ryan, MD of Spaldwick-based
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We help ambitious brands come to life and engage on a deeper level. We'd love to share ideas with you. @method_creative • 01223 781220 • methodcreative.co.uk
IN THE HOTSEAT In this month’s CONNECTED Hot Seat: STEPHEN KING
STEPHEN KING
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, LONDON STANSTED CAMBRIDGE CONSORTIUM
To ensure the region retains its current growth rate, Stephen King of the LSCC is working in partnership with both the public and private sectors to build strong cases for investors growing city.
IN recent years, the corridor from Cambridge to London has seen a rapid influx of new and exciting industries and, as a result, has become one of the most affluent regions in the country. In addition to housing approximately 20 per cent of the country’s life sciences and tech companies, it also has a large cleantech presence. The corridor’s profitability, combined with its green mentality, has done much to attract not just national interest, but international interest also.
We need to invest in growth if we want it to continue “The corridor – Cambridge especially – is under a lot of pressure to grow, and that’s great,” says Stephen King, Deputy Director of the London Stansted Cambridge Consortium (LSCC). “But without a solid infrastructure in place to account for that growth, we could run into difficulty. This corridor’s population is growing by about one per cent a year and we need to plan for that.”
The LSCC is a partnership of public and private organisations committed to promoting the economic development of the region. “We’re currently an alliance of 20 local authorities spanning the corridor, including Cambridgeshire County Council,” says Stephen. “We are also building our private sector base, getting their viewpoints and building a business leaders group to ensure we’ve got a business voice. By working with both sectors, we can build really strong cases to present to investors.” The LSCC’s key aim is lobbying around key infrastructure, with an emphasis on transport and communications. One thing that the corridor’s growth will have a huge effect on is the rail infrastructure. “The West Anglia line is something that we’re campaigning really hard on,” continues Stephen. “We’re trying to get more trains and services between Cambridge and Stansted, but also extra capacity down in London for commuters. This will cost hundreds of millions to expand, but if we want to continue the sort of growth that we have at the moment then we’ve got to invest in it.” At the heart of the corridor’s transport and communications infrastructure is Stansted Airport. Stansted provides both the local and global connectivity that modern day
We work with the private sector to get a business voice businesses demand. Its growing economic importance to the corridor was underlined in April 2014 when passenger numbers topped 18 million for the year. “We’re currently working closely with Stansted to help them attract business-focussed long-haul flights,” continues Stephen. Planning permission is already in place to double Stansted’s size over the next decade. Its owners, MAG (Manchester Airports Group), have committed £230m to help secure that growth. “We’ve recently seen a real change with MAG taking it over. They’re keen to grow and we’re keen to help them make their case to the airlines to make that happen.” Over the next 10 years, Stephen wants to see the corridor continue to grow at its current rate, with an upgraded infrastructure firmly in place to support it. To find out more about the LSCC, visit: www.lscc.co ■
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SECTOR FOCUS Updates from the Chambers Sectors Groups COMMUNICATIONS SECTOR
Businesses can thrive OFF social media A strong social media strategy is essential for any modern business, but knowing just where to start can be tricky. Social networking is essentially digitised word-of-mouth, long recognised as the most powerful form of marketing, and learning the best way to approach it can create a powerful space for customer interaction and engagement. The basis of good engagement with social media is the creation of quality original content to attract attention and encourage sharing, known as content marketing. This should reflect the ethos and attitude of your business; consumers expect a more personal, tailored B2C experience on social media. There are plenty of advantages to social media marketing. It allows you to build and maintain stronger relationships with customers than are possible with traditional media, it permits more responsive and effective customer service and with the right approach it provides the tools for fruitful tracking of customer data and habits. From Facebook to Google+ to Pinterest, there’s no shortage of options for where to launch your social media presence – although ideally you’ll operate across as many platforms as possible. Just remember that a profitable social media presence is about being authentic and engaging. You can read more about this subject on the Sector pages of the Chamber website. n
HR & RECRUITMENT SECTOR
Join the hr sector steering group Many employers, large and small, are daunted by the amount of pressure and responsibilities involved in employing and retaining staff. The Chamber’s HR and Recruitment Sector provides a forum for HR professionals, or anyone that deals with HR as a small part of their role, to share individual experiences, to share current thinking and best practice, develop a network of support and to meet with those who influence these issues across the region. Members are invited to take a pro-active role and join our Sector’s steering group which allows us to gain an understanding of any employee issues companies’ face which helps us deliver a programme of HR-related activities and events. Where the committee raises issues affecting local businesses, the Chamber will also support and lobby on behalf of sector members whenever necessary. Interested? Contact Helen Bosett, Sector Co-ordinator, h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk n
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SECTOR FOCUS For any feedback, general information regarding the Sector Groups, or to contribute, please get in touch with Helen Bosett. tel: 01223 209815 email: h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk
ICT SECTOR
Get your business noticed on the cheap! We all know that a website is now a critical part of any business - in many cases it is the first impression a potential customer will have of your organisation. A website’s design will make the visitor decide whether to stay and take action or leave - it’s as simple as that. The design of a website is important because it affects how quickly visitors can find what they are looking for. If it is difficult, frustrating or not pleasing to the eye, the visitor will leave and try on another site (your competitors) and that is a lost opportunity. A good design will be easy to understand and navigate, helping potential customers find what they need and taking you one step closer to making a sale or getting in touch. You need to have a spark on your website that appeals to people, something that catches their eye. The Internet is a visual medium and
it’s important to use images or video without overdoing it. Possibilities include modern designs relevant to your business sector, slideshows, photo galleries and videos. “But I can’t afford a new website!” I hear you cry. Well actually, it’s more affordable than you think. A dynamic, innovative, feature-filled website can be built around an easy-to-use Content Management System (CMS) such as WordPress …. Did you know WordPress is FREE?! Other CMS’s with additional functionality and features are also available. Plus Cambridgeshire companies can now apply for a grant of up to £4,000 for the design and marketing of your website through Connecting Cambridgeshire. So what do you have to lose? n
LEARNING & SKILLS SECTOR
The rise of the ‘expert novice’ in business A term coined by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) following a recent survey, the ‘expert novice’ is the manager who has been employed for their technical skills and is then promoted without further training into a management position. Somehow they are meant to know how to lead, how to inspire, how to handle their staff and resources, how to communicate effectively and how to make a profit for their organisation. How do they learn this?
In ILM’s survey they found that fewer than one in five employers expect managers to have had training before promotion. Only 43 per cent have a talent plan in place to ensure a future supply of managers and leaders. No wonder 93 per cent of employers, according to the survey, are concerned that low levels of management skills are having a negative impact on their business. n
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CHAMBER EVENTS Your essential business calendar for the next month
mEmBERSHiP BENEFITS maXimiSe Your memberSHiP - cambridge DATE Tuesday 25 November TIME 9.30-11.00am LOCATION milton Hall Cambridge, CB24 6WZ maXimiSe Your memberSHiP - PeterborougH DATE Wednesday 26 November TIME 9.30-11.00am LOCATION Chamber office, Peterborough, PE2 6FT
NETWORKiNG EVENTS cambridge buSineSS breakFaSt DATE Friday 7 November TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Red lion Whittlesford Bridge, Station Road East, Whittlesford Bridge, Cambridge, CB22 4Nl MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk PeterborougH buSineSS breakFaSt DATE Friday 14 November TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Park inn, Wentworth Street, Peterborough, PE1 1DH MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk elY buSineSS luncH DATE Thursday 20 November TIME 11.45am-2.00pm LOCATION Poets House, 40 St mary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4EY MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk At our popular Business Breakfasts and lunches you have the opportunity to meet new business connections through our popular safari networking. The relaxed but structured format offers guests the opportunity to move around the room and form connections with new business contacts from a wide range of industry sectors. n
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Free to attend, Chamber members only. Pleae contact Bren at b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 209811 Come along to our free ‘maximise your membership’ session to familiarise yourself with the benefits that are included within your membership package, discover our latest promotional opportunities and get connected with our cost-saving service providers. n
SECTOR EVENTS Women in management: inFluencing SkillS
organised by the Business Women’s Sector DATE Thursday 6 November TIME 9.00am-12.00pm LOCATION Peterborough Rugby Club, Fengate, Peterborough, PE1 5XA MEMBER PRICE £60.00 (plus VAT) NON MEMBER PRICE £75.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT Daisy Rivetti on 01733 370809 or email d.rivetti@cambscci.co.uk This workshop will look at identifying language and behavioural patterns accordingly, using the clean language framework plus some useful tools to take away, including team mapping and the influencing planner. n
Please visit the Chamber website for full details of all future Chamber events www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
Crowdlending Masterclass Do you run a business? Have you been unable to obtain funding from your bank? Are you looking for an alternative source of finance? If so, a Crowdlending Masterclass may be for you! DATE Thursday 30 October TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Doubletree by Hilton, Granta Place, Mill Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1RT PRICE Free to attend but places must be booked in advance CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 209808 Crowdlending is a way in which people, organisations and businesses, including start-ups, can raise money through online portals (Crowdlending platforms) to finance or refinance their activities. It provides a platform for individuals who are looking for a return on their investment with businesses that need finance at a sensible price, cutting out the banking middle-men in the process. n
informal networking Women in Management: Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
Informal Networking Evenings NOVEMBER 2014
organised by the Business Women’s Sector DATE Thursday 27 November TIME 9.00am-12.00pm LOCATION Peterborough Rugby Club, Fengate, Peterborough, PE1 5XA MEMBER PRICE £60.00 (plus VAT) NON MEMBER PRICE £75.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT Daisy Rivetti on 01733 370809 or email d.rivetti@cambscci.co.uk
Delegates will learn work-based presentation skills which can be used with groups of any size, from teams or boards to workshops and seminars. The workshop will look at exploring what makes a good public speaker including preparing for a presentation, how to capture the imagination of your audience, being at your best when giving a presentation and use of voice, body and space. n
WED 5
Crown Hotel, Stamford
5.30-7.30pm
THURS 6
Holiday Inn, Cambridge
5.00-7.00pm
MON 10
The Lamb Hotel, Ely
5.00-7.00pm
WED 12
Wyboston Lakes, St Neots
5.00-7.00pm
TUES 18
Old Bridge Hotel, Huntingdon
5.00-7.00pm
WED 19
Park Inn, Peterborough
5.00-7.30pm
THURS 20
Holiday Inn, Cambridge
5.00-7.00pm
WED 26
Octavia View, Wisbech
5.00-7.00pm
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ASK THE EXPERT This months Ask the Expert focuses on The Advantages of ‘The Cloud’
ASK THE EXPERT: THE ADVANTAGES OF INTEGRATING YOUR VOICE, DATA AND MOBILE IN ‘THE CLOUD’ Ty Gardner is Managing Director of CommsSolve Technologies, the Barkway based converged communications specialist.
WHAT IS CLOUD COMMUNICATIONS? Fundamentally it means disposing of an ‘on premise’ telephone system and replacing it with a ‘hosted’ service which means your capital investment is low and you can manage your communications costs on a ‘pay as you use’ basis. This helps with budgeting and cash flow. Cloud communications has actually been around for a long time, but has only recently come to the fore with increased bandwidth and higher Internet speeds. Cloud communications will be the norm in the near future. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CLOUD COMMUNICATIONS OVER SYSTEMS BASED ON YOUR OWN PREMISES? Aside from long term cost savings, the key benefit is flexibility. Cloud communications allows people to work anywhere they have an Internet connection. Here at Comms-Solve we enable businesses and their staff to work anywhere, anytime and on any device. This includes voice, video and mail integration. The other big benefit is business continuity. In the event of a local disaster such as a fire or flood, a business could carry on working from any location.
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THIS ALL SOUNDS VERY EXPENSIVE AND DISRUPTIVE. IS IT WORTH MAKING THE CHANGE? At Comms-Solve we are moving people to cloud technology at a pace that suits their business and their budget. From as little as renting a licence to running an IP Phone on a mobile device, through to installing a virtual PBX (telephone system) in a cloud environment. At CommsSolve we believe that the ‘hybrid’ cloud is the future. This gives companies the opportunity to utilise their current hardware and take the parts of a cloud service that can make a big difference to the way they operate. WITH PEOPLE INCREASINGLY WISHING TO USE THEIR OWN DEVICES IN THE WORKPLACE DOES CLOUD COMMUNICATIONS HELP STAFF WORK MORE FLEXIBLY? A large proportion of people own a Smartphone these days and do not want to have a separate communications device at work so the integration of devices into the workplace comms infrastructure is vital. Within a hosted environment this is so much easier and it enables staff to work remotely and collaborate with colleagues via sophisticated tools available in the cloud service.
INTRODUCING NEW TECHNOLOGY AND GETTING STAFF TO ‘BUY IN’ CAN BE DAUNTING. HOW EASY IS IT? 81 per cent of people in the workplace are already using cloud technology in some capacity, but small business owners are generally frightened of what they perceive as new technology. At Comms-Solve we have the expertise to make the transition from traditional to hosted technology understandable and seamless. Cambridge is part of the government scheme that enables companies to obtain superfast broadband and as Comms-Solve are part of this initiative we can help businesses get connected quickly. ■
01223 792237
COMMS-SOLVE technologies limited
MEET THE CLOUD EXPERTS Comms-Solve remove all the fear and complexity from companies considering migrating to cloud technology by ‘hand holding’ them through the process. Put simply, the cloud advances the way businesses can integrate their familiar IT and communication services into a single connectivity platform.
Flexibility
CSTL Cloud
The flexibility to grow and expand in unison with your business. Deploy rapidly on any device when and how you see fit in conjuction with existing infrastructure.
Cost Savings Our cloud-based system can easily be adapted without major capital expense – or unnecessary over-investment. On-going costs are more predictable too, typically paying a fixed monthly fee based on the number of users.
Voice & Video Crystal clear voice quality and HD Video conferencing, enabling full collaboration. Video meetings on demand from Video Conferencing units, PCs, Mobile and tablet devices all at the click of a button.
Simple to Deploy
Collaboration - Unified Communications
You don’t need IT staff to build and configure your system. You can focus on your business and let us focus on your communications. Maintenance and Support are simplified and upgrades completed automatically.
Stay connected regardless of location, device or time; allowing you to do business however you want. Functionality such as Presence and Mobile softphones transform the way you communicate.
‘Superfast Broadband Offer’ Comms-Solve can offer up to £3,000 off your superfast broadband as part of the government initiative. Please contact us to find out if you are eligible for this fantastic offer.
enquiries@cstl.co.uk www.cstl.co.uk Comms Solve Technologies Ltd
RewaRding innovation
Invest in the future and we’ll help you with yours invest in equipment or software that will reduce resource consumption...
40% ...and we’ll refund you Through our Capital Grant Scheme, Low Carbon KEEP can help fund your business ideas and make them a reality, by providing up to £4000 of grant funding to eligible SMEs. If you would like to know how your company could benefit go to:
anglia.ac.uk/lowcarboncapital