Business Scotland 14

BusinessScotland Scottish Chambers of Commerce Magazine

WINTER2018/19

ScotRail appoints new Engineering Director SnowRoads scenic route launches inspiring app Skills for Growth helps physio firm get fit for expansion

Scottish Business & London Stock Exchange strengthen relationship

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

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BusinessScotland

CONTENTS

WINTER 2018/19

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SCOTLAND’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY GATHER FOR SCOTTISH CHAMBERS ANNUAL BUSINESS ADDRESS THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED LEADS TO TOURISM SUCCESS SCOTRAIL EXCEEDING AMBITIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL TARGETS SNOWROADS SCENIC ROUTE LAUNCHES INSPIRING APP

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LIFT-OFF WITH HEATHROW AIRPORT FOR SCOTTISH BUSINESSES RETAILERS RECEIVE MUCH NEEDED SUPPORT FROM SCOTTISH BUDGET AFTER RECORD LOW NOVEMBER SCOTLAND AND IRELAND’S GAELTACHT AREAS TO BENEFIT FROM RECIPROCAL TRADE OFFICES

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Business Partners

Front Cover Image: Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive, London Stock Exchange plc

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VIRGIN TRAINS BENEFITS FROM BANNING THE BOX SKILLS FOR GROWTH HELPS PHYSIO FIRM GET FIT FOR EXPANSION AWARD-WINNING BUSINESSWOMAN SHINES IN DUNBARTONSHIRE ASSOCIATION OF SCOTTISH BUSINESSWOMEN AWARDS

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FOREWORD

Grasping the economic opportunities Thank you for picking up this edition of Business Scotland magazine, showcasing the great work of the Scottish business community. This edition is packed with success stories of entrepreneurship, sustainability and innovation, as well as celebrating the best of Scottish talent.

As we get down to business in 2019, and adapt our businesses to the changing economic and political environment, I am confident that Scottish businesses will rise to the challenge. The excellent features in this edition are great sources of inspiration as we look to grow our businesses and tap into new markets. Take ScotRail, who have committed to furthering the status of rail as the most environmentally-friendly mode of transport in Scotland and its move to appoint Syeda Ghufran as the first ever female Engineering Director. These are clear signs of ScotRail’s ambitions, responding to the economic opportunities ahead.

Tim Allan

President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

From rail to air, the Highlands will see the Inverness-to-Heathrow service extended from March 2019. Good news for Highland business and news that Inverness Chamber of Commerce has played an active role in securing. I’m also delighted to share other

outstanding stories from all across Scotland including Emma Armstrong of B-ABLE, who has been part of Dunbartonshire Chamber’s Women in Business programme, Nicola Walters, an innovate entrepreneur who invented a new method of keeping visual notes and crowd-funded the launch of ‘OnIts’ and celebrating the winners of various Business Awards throughout Scotland.

It is also my delight to have Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive of London Stock Exchange plc and Keynote Speaker at SCC’s Annual Scottish Business Address in December 2018 featured in this edition. Our relationship with the London Stock Exchange continues to go from strength to strength and I look forward to expanding this even further in 2019 and opening up more opportunities for Scottish business.

Thank you and enjoy this edition of Business Scotland!

Featured Stories and Contributors Malcolm Roughead OBE

Kerry Sharp

Scottish Investment Bank

Cairngorms Chamber

Chief Executive, VisitScotland

Liz Cameron OBE

Skills Development Scotland

Edrington

Stewart Nicol

Heathrow Airport

Clovery Woods of Rest

ScotRail

Association of Scottish Businesswomen

Gina Hanrahan

Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Inverness Chamber of Commerce

Head of Policy, WWF Scotland

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COVER STORY

Annual Scottish Business Address celebrates best of Scottish business The much-anticipated Annual Scottish Business Address brought together Scotland’s biggest influencers and innovators from business, politics, media and civic Scotland.

Sponsored by Heathrow Airport and CGI, the annual celebration showcased the best of Scottish business and the achievements of the Scottish Chamber Network. The evening featured an excellent array of speakers including Tim Allan, President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive, London Stock Exchange plc.

Tim Allan urged government, business and civic society to establish a common purpose to tackle the big challenges facing Scotland’s economy. The challenging environment – politically, economically and culturally – points to an increasing need to collaborate and implement long-term solutions.

He pledged that Scottish Chambers of Commerce will provide business leadership on the critical economic issues that are holding back growth in Scotland’s economy and present business-led solutions to decision and policy makers.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon delivered her annual speech at the event and highlighted the important role of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network in shaping policy and providing real-time business intelligence to politicians. The First Minister focused on the critical work of the Chamber Network in promoting Scottish business overseas and building businessto-business links in growth markets. As part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to internationalisation, the First Minister announced investment of £2 million into the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network to provide vital business-to-business support to Scottish companies and encourage more businesses to export.

Nikhil Rathi

Welcoming the funding on the night of the event, Tim Allan commended the Scottish Government for their commitment in boosting overseas trade. The unique Scottish model, developed by the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network, has reimagined and reshaped how we go about increasing our exporting performance, and the additional funding will galvanise the expertise and connectivity of the business community and deliver even more impact for business communities across Scotland.

The after-dinner Keynote Speaker, Nikhil Rathi, Chief Executive of London Stock Exchange plc (LSE) took to the stage in his first speech to the Scottish business audience. Nikhil paid tribute to the special

relationship between Scottish Chambers of Commerce and the London Stock Exchange, and highlighted the important historical links between the London Stock Exchange and Scotland. Nikhil shared his immense insight into global business trends and international trade opportunities for Scottish entrepreneurs and firms, and committed to playing an even more active role in Scotland to support business growth. Commending the important work of the Chambers of Commerce in growing business links in markets such as China, he highlighted the practical steps taken by the London Stock Exchange to work more closely with growth markets. LSE’s business initiatives including the London-Shanghai Stock Connect give UK

One of our priorities – throughout the 30 months since the Brexit vote – has been to make clear that Scotland remains an open, internationalist, welcoming country. This new funding will provide vital business-to-business support to companies through the Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

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COVER STORY

We had a great night, but don’t just take our word for it, see what other people have been saying.

Justene Ewing @JusteneEwing

Our @CGI_UKNEWS SVP Steve Smart delighted to catch up with the FM @NicolaSturgeon @ScotChambers #sccbusinessaddress18 We are

delighted to be associated with such a fabulous event and leave completely motivated to do even more this year to support #Scotland‘s economy Janice preston @JaniceJPreston

Amazing evening @ScotChambers #SCCBusinessAddress18 hearing how

innovative and inspiring Scotland’s contribution is across the globe: growth high. Collaboration key, community focus and disruptive leadership. We have got this scotland! @JusteneEwing thanks for having me!

Ben Macpherson MSP @BenMacpherson

Excellent #SCCBusinessAddress18 with great speeches from @TimAllan_SCC, @NicolaSturgeon, Nikhil Rathi (@ LSEplc) & @lizcameronscc. Uplifting shared sense of determination & collaboration in the room. Good to be working with @ScotChambers on #migration related issues & solutions.

Blair Moglia

@BlairMogliaCFL

businesses direct access to Chinese markets and substantially increase the flow of trading between China and the UK. Closer to home, Nikhil praised the ambition and innovation of Scottish companies and referenced the innovative work of SecuriGroup and Dow Waste Management and commended the growth performance of companies participating in LSE’s business initiatives, AIM and Elite.

Closing the evening, Dr. Liz Cameron OBE, Director & Chief Executive of SCC, called on businesses to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and urged the critical need to continue the collaboration between business, government and civic Scotland.

Establishing a common purpose between government, business and civic society is central to tackling the big challenges facing our economy.

Tim Allan, President, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Fantastic night @ScotChambers Annual Business Address with @CalMacFerries with @NicolaSturgeon giving the keynote speech . Great to be involved in this prestigious event for Scotlands business community!

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Alison Henderson @alisonhendo

Time to hear from @NicolaSturgeon as she confirms how important an evening the @ScotChambers Annual Address is, and the network as a whole in having a strong voice for business

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

The road less travelled leads to tourism success Malcolm Roughead OBE Chief Executive, VisitScotland

If I had a pound for every time I’d been told VisitScotland only promotes the Highlands and Edinburgh I would be a very rich man!

I can confirm that this just isn’t true, although we do indeed promote both.

Taking the tourism message outwith the honeypot areas is not only important for the sustainability of the whole visitor economy it’s at the top of our priority list.

For me, as well as ensuring awareness of the whole of Scotland, there is a real opportunity to grow regional spread by focusing on the people that have been to Scotland before and want to do something different.

Many such visitors are to be found in the domestic market, those visitors who come to Scotland every year who are looking to share unique experiences rather than walking the well-trodden path of the regular visitor. This is one of the reasons why the North Coast

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500 has been such a phenomenon – the talkability factor of having done something new or being somewhere new is irresistible to the experience-seeking visitor.

The key to getting this right is working with destination organisations to knock down traditional boundaries – often drawn on maps the visitor doesn’t recognise.

A project like Scotland’s Tay Country is a great example of this – a collaboration with VisitScotland, local authorities and destination groups which is capitalising on the opportunity presented by the opening of the V&A Dundee by encouraging visitors to explore more of Tayside on the back of a visit to this world class attraction.

This includes a video in English, French and German and is a Growth Fund collaboration between Fife, Perthshire, Dundee and Angus.

A similar approach has seen Glasgow and Argyll working together for mutual benefit and other examples of joint working between the Borders and Midlothian and Ayrshire and Arran Take a Different Path – as well as Shetland and Orkney working with Northlink and influencers Challenge Sophie and The Travel Hack.

A lot of these projects are supported by VisitScotland as well through initiatives like our Growth Fund.

One of the most exciting projects, as well as, presenting opportunities for regional spread is the work underway in the south of Scotland. There are some exciting times ahead with the opening of Moat Brae in Dumfries next year, alongside the new South West Coastal 300 driving route and established initiatives like Dark Skies and the opportunities from Borders Rail.

With the establishment of the South of Scotland Economic Partnership and the future agency for the area, there is increased interest in the region and by working together we can put the spotlight on the highlights and hidden gems in a more collaborative way.

As you can see, VisitScotland is promoting regional spread on a daily basis – watch out, you might find somewhere you haven’t heard of before and that would make interesting chat over the dinner table.

REGISTERS OF SCOTLAND

Ayr to Zetland I’ve now been in post as Keeper of the Registers of Scotland for over six months, and things certainly haven’t slowed down – every day is a learning day, and I continue to be impressed by the range of work that we do as a business, and our endeavour find new ways of working in order to better serve RoS customers.

I’ve mentioned previously how important it is to me that RoS works hard to engage with our customers in a variety of ways and I’ve worked hard to lead by example.

I’ve welcomed a range of stakeholders to our offices in Glasgow and in Edinburgh, but it felt important for me to get out of the Central Belt and update customers around Scotland on our direction of travel. Crucially, I also wanted to hear about the things that matter to them, and to explore ways that we can provide them with the kinds of services, products, and support that add real value to their work.

I started my roadshow with a flight on a very small plane over to Orkney in September, where I met with members of the legal profession and other stakeholders. We had some thoughtful discussions, and I was also lucky enough to fit in a visit to Orkney Library and Archive where I had a chance to see a 616 year old disposition. It records the sale of some land at Holm in Orkney for “fyve cronis of the usual mone of Skotland” and two cattle which took place in 1402. It was fascinating to see what these documents used to look like in the days of vellum and beautiful handwriting, and while the way that we transact business may be very different, the principle of protecting land for the citizen remains the same.

From Orkney I flew directly to Shetland, and have so far visited Dundee, Ayr, Peebles and Dumfries, with more dates on the agenda.

So far the Ayr-Zetland campaign has given me much to reflect on, and I have every intention of ensuring that RoS remains customer-focused as we move beyond the autumn, and into 2019.

ROTC I was delighted to attend my first Registrars of Title Conference in Canberra, Australia at the start of November. RoS hosted the ROTC in Scotland for the first time last year as part of our 400 year anniversary celebrations, and I had heard a lot about it, so I was excited to be addressing delegates and representing Scotland this year.

Scotland is home to the world’s oldest national land register, and, as such, we are respected for our long and impressive history in land and property registration, and in securing people’s rights. I was pleased to

The Keeper of the Registers of Scotland at Orkney Library

be able to talk about some of the new work that we are doing in order to stay at the forefront of land and property registration, and it was also great to meet up with other registrars from across the world. There are so many new developments, and exciting ideas brewing in the world of registration, and the ROTC was the perfect forum to come together and spend valuable time sharing best practice. It was also great to continue to develop Scotland’s relationships with our international partners.

An office fit for the 21st century I was pleased that our Glasgow office at St Vincent Plaza (SVP) received recognition from the British Council of Offices (BCO) in October. SVP was designed and delivered as a new smart working environment that supports our digital transformation, while at the same time providing wellbeing benefits for RoS staff, and the move to SVP has been a great success in project management and delivery.

and on the back of this success we were delighted to be awarded the National Award in the same category last month.

The BCO National Awards programme sets out to recognise top quality office design and functionality, with the objective of setting the standard for excellence across the office sector in the UK. The judging panel described the project as a great example of the public sector leading the way in the delivery of excellence in offices.

They also praised those involved for their seamless and enthusiastic collaboration, which ultimately led to the delivery of an excellent working environment for our workforce.

I hope that everyone involved in the SVP Platform are proud of their hard work – I am certainly proud of their achievement and dedication to delivering such an impressive and successful project.

The hard work that went into making the move such a success hasn’t gone unnoticed.

The BCO awarded SVP the Scottish regional award for Fit Out of Workplace in April,

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CHAMBER NEWS

New Directors join the SCC Board Scottish Chambers of Commerce welcomes four of Scotland’s most prominent and successful business people to join its Board of Directors, bringing with them decades worth of experience and expertise from a variety of different sectors of industry.

Tim Allan, Scottish Chambers of Commerce President said: “I am delighted to welcome such dynamic and talented business figures to the Board of Scottish Chambers of Commerce. Poonam, Stuart, Colin and Val have exceptional business acumen, strategic vision and leadership that will enable the Scottish Chambers Network to rise to the challenge of driving the Scottish economy forward.

“The Board will continue to focus on its business growth priorities including, the acceleration of plans to rapidly expand the ability of

Stuart Cresswell serves in a senior leadership role at Associated British Ports, the UK’s largest port operating company. As Port Manager, Stuart holds full operational and P&L responsibility for all of ABP’s Scottish Ports Operations. During his time at ABP, Stuart has held senior roles in Scotland, North West, and Hull. He served as President of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce for two years, after serving as Director of Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce for six years. Outside of business, Stuart takes a keen interest in an active lifestyle and has previously served as Captain of the Scottish Sea Angling Team, securing and winning 11 Championship medals.

Poonam Gupta OBE is the Chief Executive Officer of PG Paper Company Ltd. Poonam has successfully grown the company from her family home to a globally-recognised business which operates in 53 countries worldwide, with an impressive turnover of £20m. PG Paper is one of the UK’s fastest growing paper companies, and over 90% of its product is exported to the Indian subcontinent, the Middles East and the Far East.

Outside of the business world, Poonam is an avid supporter of several charities including Action for Children Scotland & Elephant Family.

Current Directors

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Scottish businesses to export, tackling the stubborn challenge of skills shortages in key sectors and creating a business-friendly environment for doing business in Scotland.

“Serving leadership roles on the board of a national body like SCC is vitally important, while demanding and rewarding. I am grateful to all our board members for their commitment in supporting business growth in Scotland.”

More about the new SCC Board Directors:

Val Russell joined the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) in 1999. As CEO of ACCI, Val heads up a team of 18 located at Glasgow Prestwick Airport. ACCI is a national award winning Chamber and is the largest non-city Chamber in Scotland with a diverse membership of over 800 local businesses. Val leads the Ayrshire Chamber’s involvement in schools and in the Ayrshire Work Experience Programme across three local council areas. Her work has steered the Chamber as the lead organisation for “Developing Young Workforce Ayrshire” a Scottish Government employer based Initiative. Val’s team at Ayrshire also picked up the award for Best Performing Team of the Year.

Colin Loveday is a mobile communications entrepreneur with an international blue-chip corporate background including Nestle, Sanyo and Nokia Mobile Phones, and has held senior roles in management, marketing, sales and retail. Colin is the Founder and Chief Executive of two mobile telecommunications companies; Predict Mobile and 4G Scotland.

He is a member of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Council and is past-President of Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce.

Scott Black Managing Director - FWB Park Brown

Waiyin Hatton Director - Wai Beyond

Tim Allan President - Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Linda Scott Chief Executive - West Lothian Chamber of Commerce

Maggie Morrison Client Partner – NTT Data

Liz Cameron OBE Chief Executive - Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Hazel Moffat Partner - DLA Piper

Neil Amner Director - Anderson Strathern LLP

CHAMBER NEWS

Scottish Chambers Network picks up three ERS awards

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce and Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce were all recipients of Silver Awards on behalf of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) in the last quarter of 2018.

The ERS, which is operated by the Ministry of Defence, is designed to reward organisations which have demonstrated amongst other things a commitment to not unfairly disadvantaging service personnel or members of the Armed Forces when

recruiting and have signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme was established in 2014 to recognise and reward UK employers for their support and commitment to Defence. The scheme was a commitment made in the July 2013 Government White Paper ‘Reserves in the Future Forces 2020’.

Silver Award holders show their support for Defence by actively communicating a positive image of Defence to their employees via established HR policies and procedures.

They also support Reservists by giving them flexibility to plan and meet their annual training and mobilisation commitments.

The ERS Silver awards reward employers which employ and support those who serve, both the veterans and their families

– typically by putting in place initiatives that make it easier to employ veterans, helping ex-forces personnel to move into a civilian career or supporting Armed Forces Reservists to train and mobilise whilst on active service. All ERS Silver award winners are vocal supporters of the Armed Forces community in Scotland.

Damon Scott, Chief Executive, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our partnership with the Armed Forces is an important part of our activities and we are delighted that our efforts thus far have been rewarded with the Silver Award. This recognition embeds the relationship further and we look forward to continuing to communicate the benefits that both reservists and veterans can offer to business.”

Our partnership with the Armed Forces is an important part of our activities and we are delighted that our efforts thus far have been rewarded with the Silver Award. This recognition embeds the relationship further and we look forward to continuing to communicate the benefits that both reservists and veterans can offer to business.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

ScotRail exceeding ambitious environmental targets As a business and as individuals, we all have to work together to help tackle climate change. Even though we are already a low-carbon mode of transport, we are committed to reducing our environmental impact ever further.

Every day, we operate 2,300 rail services – carrying thousands of passengers.

Getting people to choose to travel by train rather than by car is, in itself, good for the environment. But we know that there is more that we can do to lessen our impact on the world around us.

The ambitious targets set for us by the Scottish government require a commitment to reduce energy use across the business. We aren’t just meeting those targets – we are exceeding them. These targets, a critical part of the franchise agreement’s committed obligations, require us to take action to tackle climate change and support the transition to a low carbon economy.

Our committed obligations require a 4 per cent reduction in the energy used in stations and depots – with a 7.45 per cent reduction achieved; and a 1 per cent reduction in the energy used to power trains – with a 9.8 per cent reduction achieved.

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Through actions like the introduction of more electric trains, assistance for drivers, and increased investment, we are making considerable environmental and energy performance enhancements. Extending electrification across the network has been central in the success of meeting the targets, with growing numbers of class 385 electric trains being introduced to support a carbon efficient fleet.

Drivers are trained extensively on eco driving techniques and the Driver Advisory System (DAS), installed across the fleet, assists in promoting energy efficient travel. Stations and depots across Scotland are being made more sustainable through behavioural improvements via training for staff and investment in new technology to reduce energy usage.

As well as reducing our own impact on the environment, we also have to plan for climate change adaptation which is essential for the successful future of our business. We want to understand

the vulnerabilities and risks we face as a result of climate change and then take action to make our business resilient, to enable us to sustain our support for the Scottish economy whilst increasing passenger and stakeholder confidence.

That’s why we have measures in place to mitigate potential impacts to the business via our Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan, which we will manage in partnership with Network Rail, and have integrated both the risks and our action plan within our Environmental Management System (EMS).

But we aren’t complacent, we are continuing to drive performance by investing and trialling new technology and build resilience to climate change into our business processes, in order to maintain a reliable train service. It’s all part of our plan to build the best railway Scotland has ever had.

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Syeda Ghufran

ScotRail appoints first female Engineering Director Earlier this year, ScotRail has appointed its first female Engineering Director, Syeda Ghufran. The appointment was announced ahead of International Women in Engineering Day in June.

Ms Ghufran joined ScotRail in 2010 as an Engineering Management Trainee, gaining valuable hands-on train maintenance experience, and was more recently Head of Engineering Depots – the first female to hold that role.

Since 2013, she has delivered many engineering projects, including train reliability modifications, WiFi roll-out, and the installation of Driver Advisory Systems (DAS) – a GPS system which accurately

tracks a train’s location and advises the driver what speed to go, so that the train arrives on time.

ScotRail is committed to equality and encouraging more women to join the railway through graduate, apprenticeship, and internship programmes. The train operating company’s recent intake of Engineering Apprentices are 50-per-cent female.

Recent research from Skills Development Scotland has revealed the number of females joining the technology sector has risen by more than 30%.

Analysis of the most recent ONS Annual Population Survey showed that the number of women in tech has risen from 18% to 23.4% in the last two years, and has more than doubled in the last eight (rising from 10,300 in 2010, up to 24,000 in 2018).

as languages, art and music; the creation of best practice guides and tool kits for employers, and a real focus by colleges and universities to address the gender gap were all cited as reasons for the positive trend.

ScotRail is committed to continue working to create more opportunities for women across the board in all aspects of our workforce. We hope her appointment will encourage more young women and girls to consider a career in engineering with ScotRail.

ScotRail Engineering Director Syeda Ghufran said: “I’m really excited to lead a great team of engineers who will help us deliver a great customer service, and build the best railway Scotland has ever had.

“I want to change perceptions and encourage more young women to consider engineering as a viable and rewarding career.”

Mentoring in schools; the introduction of digital skills into broader subjects such

I’m really excited to lead a great team of engineers who will help us deliver a great customer service, and build the best railway Scotland has ever had.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Are you an ambitious Scottish SME looking to raise £2m+ of equity for growth?

Scottish Enterprise has increased the availability of later stage equity investment to support Scottish businesses to meet their growth and export ambitions through the Scottish-European Growth Co-Investment Programme (SEGCP).

Kerry Sharp, Director of the Scottish Investment Bank, tells us about this innovative programme which is aimed at increasing the available funding options for companies who are at the next stage in their growth journey.

At Scottish Enterprise, we look at ways to help the economy to grow. A key part of this is considering initiatives to build on Scotland’s business support ecosystem and how we can help companies with their grow ambitions.

As part of Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish Investment Bank aims to support companies with raising the appropriate funds at the right time to support growth. One of our roles is to monitor the Scottish risk capital market, gaps in availability and challenges for companies in accessing this type of finance - and develop potential solutions to support. To date, most support has been targeted at the early stage risk capital market, an area where we’ve seen the most significant financing gaps for high growth companies.

We are very aware that there are on-going and new challenges to secure Scotland’s economic prosperity and we need to increase the available funding options for companies who are at the next stage in their growth journey and ready to scale. The Scottish-European Growth Co-Investment Programme (SEGCP) is aimed at delivering exactly that – investment of scale from experienced investors who bring more than just deep pockets.

Utilising funding secured under Scottish Government’s Scottish Growth Scheme, this initiative is an innovative way to leverage funding from the European Investment Fund (EIF) whilst also accessing their Fund

Kerry Sharp

Manager relationships. This partnership has created a programme of £200 million+; a £50 million commitment from Scottish Enterprise and £50 million from the EIF to be used to leverage at least £100 million from EIF backed Fund Managers into Scottish SMEs to support their scaling journey.

We know that securing the right type of finance at the right time requires the efforts and co-ordination of a number of players, from the companies themselves and their advisors, to existing investors and funders, alongside support from Scottish Enterprise.

Many Scottish companies are successfully achieving significant growth through existing public sector mechanisms, but we’re keen to increase this number and achieve more economic growth. As well as the additional direct positive economic impacts this funding will create, it will further raise Scotland’s profile in the highly competitive global fundraising market.

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Under this Programme, we will work with those interested companies to maximise their potential to successfully raise scale up capital by preparing them for engaging with later stage investors, providing advice and support in identifying appropriate and relevant investors, preparing investment ‘teasers’ outlining the investment proposition, and accessing masterclasses to be able to present a compelling pitch to investors.

Many Scottish companies are successfully achieving significant growth through existing public sector mechanisms, but we’re keen to increase this number and achieve more economic growth. As well as the additional direct positive economic impacts this funding will create, it will further raise Scotland’s profile in the highly competitive global fundraising market.

For further information about the Scottish-European Growth Co-investment Programme visit www.scottish-enterprise.com/segcp

GREEN COMMUTE INITIATIVE

A new initiative encourages commuting by E-bike Concern for the environment has been hitting the news headlines but pollution is more than just an environmental challenge – it affects many aspects of human health and wellbeing too. In response, the Scottish Government recently introduced a range of measures promoting sustainable and active travel to encourage more people to use bicycles for short journeys.

Alongside the new funding, commuters can use Green Commute Initiative (GCI), a relative newcomer to the cycle-to-work industry.

GCI is leading the way with its unique offering. The scheme has no ÂŁ1,000 spending limit, no exit fees and offers tax-free savings of up to 47%. This enables scheme participants to choose quality E-bikes, conventional pedal, or even cargo bikes. The choice is theirs.

E-bikes bypass many issues such as long journey times, traffic congestion, inconvenient public transport timetables, lack of affordable car parking and high car running costs. At the same time, individual health and fitness is improved as well as the quality of air that surrounds us all. The E-bike battery assistance (which kicks in when required) means hills and distances are no longer sweat-inducing obstacles. Employees can arrive at work on time, wearing their business attire, feeling healthier and happier thus becoming more effective in their workplace. Everyone wins with an E-bike.

Established in 2016, GCI is a social enterprise, HMRC compliant and is the only cycle-to-work scheme provider to be FCA authorised and regulated. In addition, GCI supports independent bike shops with low commission rates and fast payments. theteam@greencommuteinitiative.uk @greencommuteuk Business Scotland

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ChamberFORCE

ChamberFORCE launches to join Forces with Business A new initiative to bring Chambers of Commerce and military units closer together launched earlier this month in Dundee. The ChamberFORCE programme is a partnership between 5 Chambers of Commerce and designated personnel from the Army, Royal Navy and RAF Reserves.

The 5 Chambers – Aberdeen & Grampian, Dunbartonshire, Dundee & Angus, Fife and Moray – have previously demonstrated their support for the Armed Forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant and winning Bronze or Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Awards, and all operate in the geographical reach of the Highland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (HRFCA) who are coordinating the programme.

Michelle McKearnon, Regional Employer Engagement Director for HRFCA and a former CEO of Chambers of Commerce, said: “There was already a very strong relationship between Chambers and the military, but we wanted to streamline it and make it more productive for all involved. It is important that the Ministry of Defence recognises the vital role Chambers play in the business community, and that we give something back to all the employers who support our people. ChamberFORCE

The launch of ChamberFORCE comes at a critical time for business and will act as an important enabler to showcase the talents and skills of those with military experience.

harnesses the power of the Chamber network and the resources available to businesses from the military, so it is a winwin situation.”

Chambers members will be able to access a range of benefits such as help with recruiting highly skilled ex-military personnel, access to exclusive networking and briefing events, and a range of free leadership and staff development opportunities such as Exercise Executive Stretch, and Exercise Mini-Stretch, both of which have proved hugely popular this year.

Lara McKay from Moray Chamber who attended Executive Stretch as one of the participants this year wrote in her blog, “Without a doubt this is a training course not to be missed. We learnt so much from this experience from basic soldiering skills to what it’s like to be in the reserves, but most importantly our strengths and weaknesses within a team environment. I would really recommend taking part in this course” ChamberFORCE differs from previous engagement in that each Chamber has been allocated a specific military “buddy”: – for Dundee & Angus Chamber it is 225 Medical Regiment – and this allows the two organisations to work more closely together in sharing best practice and gaining a clear understanding of the mutual benefits to be developed in the partnership. Tim Allan, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce who themselves received their ERS silver Award in November, welcomed the new initiative.

He said: “The launch of ChamberFORCE comes at a critical time for business and will act as an important enabler to showcase the talents and skills of those with military experience. With many sectors and companies continuing to cite recruitment challenges and skills shortages as a barrier to growth, ChamberFORCE is an excellent

example of how partnership working can tackle the big challenges facing our economy.

“Leadership, agility, resilience and adaptiveness are just some of the attributes that businesses need in a fast-moving economy and I look forward to supporting ChamberFORCE as we unlock these talents and grow Scotland’s economy.”

ChamberFORCE has also been widely welcomed by the military personnel involved. Lieutenant Colonel Matt Sheldrick, Commanding Officer of 7SCOTS, said: “7SCOTS is privileged and delighted to be involved in ChamberFORCE. “Our Army Reserve men and women are ‘citizen soldiers’ who live and work in the local communities alongside their civilian counterparts; employers, work colleagues, family and friends. It is important that there is an open and honest relationship between the Reservist and their employer, and that employers are aware of the range of benefits of employing a member of the Reserve Forces, including the many transferable skills which are brought to the workplace at no cost whatsoever to the employer.

“ChamberFORCE will present a unique opportunity for Chambers and 7 SCOTS to work together to maximise ‘Business skills in Reserve’.

With a range of networking and training opportunities being planned for the first 12 months of the ChamberFORCE programme, businesses are encouraged to get involved and maximise the benefits on offer to their staff and business community. For more information visit the HRFCA or participating Chamber websites, or contact Michelle at the HRFCA – hi-reed@rfca.mod.uk.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Frequency and reliability of rail positions Teesport as global gateway to Scotland There has never been a more important time to move goods around the country by rail, alleviating the over-burdened UK road network and chronic HGV driver shortage whilst helping customers reduce carbon emissions and cut costs in their supply chains.

PD Ports is at the forefront of this agenda and in the last four years, since the launch of a £3M quayside rail terminal at Teesport, the port operator has become the leading rail hub in the north for European and global exporters and importers trading with the north of the UK. Considerable growth in container volumes year-on-year at Teesport was a catalyst in the decision made by PD Ports’ management team that led to the opening of a quayside rail terminal on 15th November 2014.

Initial services ran on weekdays to and from Felixstowe and three days per week to and from Southampton. Demand grew rapidly and a direct link to Grangemouth and Mossend

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in Scotland followed less than 12 months later. The overwhelming popularity of the Scottish connection led to the recent launch of a second service opening up further opportunities to connect global importers and exporters with the north of the UK.

connections to and from Scotland than any other port in the north of England, running 10 trains a week and the potential to carry over 30 containers per journey each way full with a variety of goods including food, drinks and furniture.

The new service, operated by DB Cargo, runs five days a week from Teesport to PD Stirling Terminal at Mossend in Glasgow.

The timings of the service operate in direct connection with the P&O Ferries service calling daily at Teesport from Zeebrugge and Rotterdam; offering one of the fastest routes to Scotland from the continent for shippers, shipping lines and forwarders.

A substantial proportion of containers travelling on this service will be volume from the daily P&O Ferries service from Zeebrugge. Earlier this year P&O Ferries increased its capacity on this service by 25% in a response to market demand for Teesport as the port of choice to connect shippers with Scotland.

Teesport now offers more direct daily

Rail is a tough nut to crack, with investment decisions taking years to materialise and

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

often at a rate out of line with the demanding and unforgiving world of logistics where the market demands change daily. This was a bold move but a necessary one according to PD Ports’ CEO, Frans Calje.

“Rail is crucial to moving freight around the country and its importance is increasing as customers look to move goods quicker, more cost effective and in an environmentally friendly way, said Frans.

“One train fully loaded can take 30 HGVs off the road and with the current HGV driver shortage in the UK standing at 45,000 drivers and set to increase once we leave the EU, it would be madness not to invest in and capitalise on all modes of transport available to us. Customers want assurance and choice.

At Teesport we can offer that both through our own road transport fleet, port side rail connections and extensive European sailing connections, which we pride ourselves on.

“Our second rail service to Scotland is a major milestone for Teesport. It symbolises the tremendous sense of confidence and trust global shippers have in the Port to deliver peace of mind, unlike other congested UK and European hub ports.

“Frequency and reliability is fundamental to the success of our customers’ existence. We have vessels arriving at Teesport from the Baltics every 30 hours and every 48 hours from Poland with direct rail connections from the quayside to Scotland twice a day, five days a week.

“This frequency breeds trust and confidence amongst shippers that they can transport their goods from Europe to Scotland within a 36 hour period, minimising cost and carbon emissions.”

Janette Bell, Chief Executive at P&O Ferries, said: “Our customers will benefit greatly from the increased connectivity which this second rail link to Scotland will give Teesport. In tandem with our highly cost efficient 15 hour sailings to the continent, we can guarantee both exporters and importers an unrivalled service to and from northern Britain.”

Andrew Stirling, Managing Director at PD Stirling, commented: “This is excellent news for Scottish importers and exporters. It not only provides vital daily rail connections to and from the continent through Teesport, it also provides support to Scotland’s manufacturing base. This growth in rail transport with

Teesport has led to firm plans to expand our facilities and to launch the MIRP (Mossend International Rail Freight Park).”

Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, said: “Strong transport links are essential for a strong economy and this new service is fantastic news for PD Ports and the whole of Tees Valley.

“Teesport is one of the deepest water ports on the East Coast of England and its facilities connect our industries to the world.

It’s already an attractive prospect and an invaluable resource which has been made even better by this announcement, especially in ensuring we’re an outward-looking, global region able to take advantage of all the opportunities of Brexit.”

David Coppock, North East Region Director Northern Powerhouse, Department for International Trade, said: “This new service is

further proof of how significant and important Teesport is to the Tees Valley in expanding its global reach. PD Ports is providing further vital investment in the region by opening up frequent, efficient and flexible transport routes for international trade.”

The second service in to Scotland is a clear demonstration of PD Ports’ continued commitment to developing a truly multimodal logistics platform at Teesport with the ability to support future growth in international trade and the delivery of government plans to rebalance trade through the Northern Powerhouse.

Teesport continues to see considerable growth year-on-year in container handling and saw an overall volume increase higher than any other UK port in 2017.

Teesport is one of the deepest water ports on the East Coast of England and its facilities connect our industries to the world. It’s already an attractive prospect and an invaluable resource which has been made even better by this announcement, especially in ensuring we’re an outward-looking, global region able to take advantage of all the opportunities of Brexit.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

North Ayrshire giving small businesses a head-start

North Ayrshire Council’s Business Development team which includes Business Gateway has space available for start-up’s at its new premises at Quarry Road, Irvine.

Located iust 30 minutes from Glasgow, in a prime location in Irvine town centre, the new, contemporary office building offers flexible and collaborative working space for small start-ups and social enterprises who are looking to bring their business ideas to life.

It’s a low cost, modern, flexible working space for new, local and early stage growth businesses who currently don’t have commercial premises. It provides companies with access to on-site Business Advisor expertise, as well as co-working opportunities with other like-minded businesses.

By taking a space at the hub, our Business Advisers can offer help with fulfilling business plans and, subject to eligibility criteria, support with accessing funding and

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specialist consultancy support. The suite of free Business Gateway workshops, online resources and market research service will also be available to help start-ups on their journey.

Membership for the first month is free and each member of the hub will benefit from the following services: Wi-Fi Reception Printing/scanning/photocopying Mailing (incoming only) Meeting space • small interview rooms (up to 4 people) • large conference room with smartscreen (up to 30 people) • flexible break-out space

The Council realises the critical role played by small businesses in growing our local economy.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, Cabinet Member for Economy, North Ayrshire Council, said: “We are committed to supporting the growth and impact of new enterprise, and the new office accommodation is a valuable addition to the extensive suite of business support we currently provide.”

“With space for up to 16 businesses, members of the hub, will work with a dedicated Business Adviser, and our wider Team North Ayrshire partners, to create a growth action plan to help their firm to flourish.

Team North Ayrshire – business experts from the public and private sector – have done some fantastic work helping local

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

firms. They’ve helped create a really supportive and inclusive environment which puts us in a really strong position to take advantage of potential investments.

Since it was launched in November 2013, Team North Ayrshire’s innovative approach to business development and economic growth is paying off across North Ayrshire.

They have proved that by collaborating together and offering bespoke packages of support and expertise for business they have developed more in-depth relationships with companies which has helped them to grow and become more competitive.

Team North Ayrshire partners includes: North Ayrshire Council, SimpsInns, UPM Caledonian, Taste of Arran, Ayrshire Community Trust, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce, Ayrshire College, Centre for Engineering, Education & Development (CEED), University of the West of Scotland, Princes Trust, Department of Work and Pensions, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.

For more information speak to North Ayrshire Council’s Business Development team on 01294 449944 or email business@north-ayrshire.gov.uk

We are committed to supporting the growth and impact of new enterprise, and the new office accommodation is a valuable addition to the extensive suite of business support we currently provide.

If you’re looking to start up, grow or locate your business in North Ayrshire or would like further information on our approach email succeed@north-ayrshire.gov.uk or contact 01294 449944

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Landmark visitor centre for Inverclyde to be built at Greenock Ocean Terminal Inverclyde is a region founded on the River Clyde and the river is once again helping the area to prosper, allowing it to connect with the rest of the world. It is the focus of the successful regeneration currently taking place in the area which is also well served by roads, rail and the latest in digital technology.

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Clyde and Argyll hills, Inverclyde encompasses the coastal towns of Gourock, Greenock, Inverkip, Port Glasgow and Wemyss Bay.

regenerating the town centre, stimulating employment, driving economic growth, tackling poverty and cementing Inverclyde’s position as the ‘Marine Leisure Capital of Scotland’.

It’s been at the heart of Scotland’s shipping industry for more than a century and now a £14.7m investment is giving Greenock Ocean Terminal a new lease of life. Not only has it become Scotland’s cruise ship capital but it is also a hub for freight destined for ports around the planet.

The idea for Public Wi-Fi was one of the initial outcomes from the Greenock town centre Charrette process which took place in 2016.

Plans for a landmark visitor centre have now been revealed by Inverclyde Council to provide a fitting welcome for cruise ship passengers visiting Scotland from across the world.

The plans, developed by Richard Murphy Architects, also include a purpose built gallery celebrating the work of Inverclyde resident sculptor George Wyllie (1921 – 2012) and a new rooftop restaurant with panoramic views across the Clyde.

A dedicated cruise liner berth is also planned to enable the freight business to continue with its current growth trajectory feeding into Liverpool amongst others.

Greenock was the first Scottish port to break the 100,000 passenger barrier in 2015 and it is estimated that the proposed terminal could see 150,000 passengers passing through delivering a £26m annual visitor and crew spend to the economy.

The project, being delivered by Inverclyde Council in conjunction with Ocean Terminal operator Peel Ports, is part of the £1bn

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Glasgow City Region Deal funded equally by the Scottish and UK governments. The planned completion date for the visitor centre is Spring/Summer 2020.

Inverclyde Council also has an ambition to create one of Scotland’s first Smart Town’s through the SMART Greenock programme.

Professional services firm Capita have been awarded a contract by the Council to develop Smart Town connectivity on behalf of the Greenock Town Centre Regeneration Forum, which is made up of local retailers, resident groups, agencies, Inverclyde Council and Riverside Inverclyde (Ri).

Working closely with Capita, Inverclyde Council’s delivery agents Ri will design and deliver a leading-edge, secure and fully managed wireless solution, with the first project with the new capability to be a free public Wi-Fi system.

SMART Greenock aims to address a number of key strategic priorities for Inverclyde, including improving digital inclusion and participation,

An initial pilot phase of SMART Greenock is expected to be installed imminently with a full roll-out set to be in place in time for the start of the 2019 cruise season. It’s availability will cover key areas across Greenock town centre, including the various transport hubs and new Ocean Terminal, as well as the heritage, arts, leisure and retail quarters.

With a further £1.5m earmarked by Inverclyde Council to invest in improving the public realm of West Blackhall Street – another Ri delivery - at the heart of Greenock Town Centre, the level of investment and technology being utilised in Greenock will aim to transform tourism opportunities and experiences across Inverclyde.

For further information contact Andrew Bowman at andrewb@riversideinverclyde.com or call 01475 755080.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Award winning business property in Central Scotland Based centrally in Clackmannanshire, Ceteris has 13 business locations spread across Central Scotland offering over 260,000 sq ft of serviced offices, industrial units and workshops.

With over 150 tenant businesses (employing almost 1000 employees’) choosing our property portfolio, we take seriously our responsibility as landlord to deliver the very best in customer service, to manage sustainable, environmentally friendly buildings and to offer additional services such as our free, informative and timely workshops and events.

Indeed, in 2018 Ceteris were joint winners of the Success through Sustainability award at the Clacks Business Awards. Plus, in 2017 both the Alloa Business Centre and Cooperage Way Business Village were awarded Gold Level accreditation from Keep Scotland Beautiful National Awards for Environmental Excellence whilst, in recognition of our commitment to the environment, we were finalists in The VIBES - Scottish Environment Business Awards.

Our programme of added-value tenant events have recently included Modern Apprenticeship & Recycling information sessions, Defibrillator Training and a workshop on how to Combat Cybercrime.

The location is stunning; strategically located in the middle of Scotland, Clackmannanshire lies between the majestic Ochil Hills and the River Forth providing the perfect business base, less than 9 miles from Stirling and no more than a 40 minute drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh city centres.

Clackmannanshire City Regional Deal promises transformational change for the area.

Our varied portfolio includes modern, custom built offices alongside renovated historical buildings full of character. We can offer town centre locations, bustling business parks or beautiful, tranquil views across countryside and the aforementioned Ochil Hills.

Clackmannanshire is growing, call us to find out how Ceteris property can benefit your business.

Clackmannanshire has benefitted greatly from recent infrastructure improvements, a new train station and the Stirling &

BUSINESS PROPERTY RENTAL Offering customised serviced offices, industrial units and workshops in business parks across Central Scotland.

All-inclusive, flexible and cost-effective leases include utilities, reception, insurance, maintenance, cleaning, meeting room hire, car-parking, refuse and recycling.

T: 01259 721454 E: property@ceteris.co.uk

Visit ceteris.co.uk for more information

01259 721454 | property@ceteris.co.uk | ceteris.co.uk

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

New Phase for Strathleven Regeneration CIC £414m gross value has been added to Dumbarton’s economy since the creation of Strathleven Regeneration CIC. The new job count is 671 and 344 houses have been built. SRCIC has a solid track record of private investment as it moves forward towards a new era.

Working with Walker Construction, Chivas, Costa, Whitbread, Aggreko, The BBC, and Eurogarages have resulted in an impressive £112m of private sector investment. The Strathleven Regeneration model remains in robust condition to meet all of the economic and social challenges ahead.

SRCIC’s development agreement with Walker Group of Livingstone reached its natural end in December 2018.

Steven Szostak, is the new Project Director and a highly experienced and pivotal national figure in the field of regeneration. Steven said, “We have 23 acres of prime visible land which 11million people pass by every year.

We are at the gateway to Loch Lomond and our visibility and connectivity are high. The next phase is going to be a fascinating mix of new partnership, building on successful ones and contributing more to the local area”.

Conversations are being extended to include a wider group of private sector partners and

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landowners around this hugely successful cooperative working and funding model. The ambition and determination of the board throughout past, leaner times has translated into confidence within investors, public sector and the local population.

availability of local labour and supply chains.

The next phase will focus on a closer link with the challenges facing the local residential community where unemployment remains high. So, going forward, the Strathleven board will be constantly measuring their impact against demanding local jobs targets. The skill will be in matching new property occupants with the

Regeneration background and board vision Steven Szostak at SRCIC on 01389 722282 or steven.szostak@strathleven.org

Since its creation Strathleven Regeneration CIC has changed the economic landscape in the area. It looks towards new avenues that will be exciting, challenging and bring benefits for new business and the local workforce.

Site enquiries: Paul Broad at GVA on 0141 304 6382 Further information or visit: www.lomondgate.com

ELLENDALE ENVIRONMENTAL

Ecological consultancy goes from strength to strength A major new contract win sees Ellendale Environmental’s Edinburgh-based team build on their success and strong reputation. The ecological consultants are to undertake Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) on the A9 upgrade project assisting Balfour Beatty.

As part of this project, the 9.5km section between Luncarty and the Pass of Birnam will be widened to a dual carriageway, improving journey times, safety and reliability.

Drawing on their substantial experience delivering ECoW services across the UK, Ellendale Environmental is assisting the project team to ensure the project runs smoothly and that all construction activities are delivered in line with relevant wildlife/ environmental law.

Award-winning environmental consultants News of the contract win came as another project that Ellendale has provided ECoW services for – the Almondbank flood protection scheme – was awarded a prestigious Green Apple Award, which recognises environmental best practice.

Representing an investment of around £14.7million, the scheme has seen a series of flood defences created along the River Almond and the East Pow Burn, in order to protect a community that has suffered a number of previous flooding occurrences.

Undertaking protected species surveys and monitoring the project, Ellendale Environmental worked with Balfour Beatty as part of the onsite ecological and environmental management team. Their ecological consultants provided advice and support which enabled the project to progress efficiently and gain international recognition.

These major projects illustrate Ellendale Environmental’s expertise in delivering advice which enables construction projects to continue uninterrupted, whilst ensuring the wildlife and habitats are protected, which protects their clients too.

Andy Gardner, Balfour Beatty Project Manager says: “The Ellendale Environmental team are able to integrate into the site team and understand the engineering works. They support the project through the construction phase and are proactive in finding solutions to enable works around sensitive environmental areas. I have always found them extremely professional, easy to work with and experienced.’’

“They had a passion and deep understanding of ecology and environmental management

whilst being able to work pragmatically and deliver for the project and the environment.”

and Director of Ellendale Environmental explains:

Support with planning proposals

“We are proactive and solution driven in our work, always understanding the constraints our clients are working within and finding a practical way forward for them, helping them to obtain the planning permission they need.”

In addition to ECoW services, Ellendale’s expert team offer ecological consultancy services to support planning proposals for projects of all sizes. This often involves a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, where the habitat types on a site are mapped and evidence of protected animal species is recorded.

Appraisals which establish whether further species-specific surveys are required, thereby avoiding an impact on sensitive and/ or legally protected species and habitats.

Species-specific surveys that Ellendale ecologists regularly undertake include those for bats, great crested newts, birds, badgers and otters.

When undertaking survey work for planning proposals, Ellendale ecologists establish whether protected species are present on a site, identify how the site is used by them and advise clients on how to progress a project with minimal impact and in line with relevant legislation and policy. Where an impact on wildlife is unavoidable, the Ellendale team will suggest mitigating steps to protect the wildlife and habitats – giving planning proposals the best chance of success.

The ecological consultants have built up a robust track record assisting clients in securing and proceeding with their planning proposals. As Stewart Parsons, Founder

Keep your project on track Ellendale Environmental offers specialist ecological surveys and environmental management services for public and private organisations across the residential, utilities, commercial and construction sectors, throughout the UK and further afield.

Clientele includes Savills, McGregor Construction, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, Rio Tinto, WSP, Balfour Beatty and Perth and Kinross Council.

Their portfolio of work encompasses projects of all sizes and they are equally at home working on a small-scale, one-off project, like the conversion of a barn or outbuilding as a major infrastructure project.

“No matter what the size of the scheme, we will give it the same care and attention” explains Stewart. “Each project is the most important project to us.”

Contact Ellendale Environmental for ecological advice that will put your planning proposal or construction project on the right track, call 0131 4682499 or email info@ ellendale-environmental.co.uk

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The future of CRM - genuine intelligence from an artificial source If you jump onto any tech blog or happen to come across some marketing material for IT giants, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the hot topic shaping the marketplace.

But the term does seem to get overused and maybe undervalued at times AI is used to describe any type of automation, something which may can often get away with due to a lack of detailed general knowledge.

To help clarify what these means in my industry, I’d like to look at some of the key AI advances I expect to see in the CRM market over the next 12 months which may shape the way tasks are performed intelligently on the behalf of you, our user.

Lead Forensics Most CRM systems are based, at their heart, around improving the efficiency of the sales process for a business. Let’s look at an example at the Lead/Prospect stage (known as lead scoring). Something many Sales Directors use to boost efficiency is to prioritise the needs of the highest value prospects.

Lead scoring isn’t something that’s new to the market, but it is something which I believe is often wrongly classed as ‘AI’ for purely marketing reasons. Currently, most CRMs score leads on fairly straight forward conditions, i.e if the prospective company size is 30+ or the expected spend is higher than average, give them a high score.

The CRM hasn’t really applied intelligence, it has just followed the rules set out by the administrator.

True intelligence would sit outside these rules, with the CRM using trends of the past to inform decisions of the future. Soon, we may see systems recommending next steps

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based on previous results of leads with a similar profile.

When it comes to prospects, AI won’t just enable us to build up a score but instead, map out the ideal process which is tailored to their needs to get them over the line intelligently.

Pipeline Forecasting Almost an extension to the above, pipeline forecasting is used to give a manager information about how many sales are likely to come through in the future and what the revenue of those might be. This allows them to make plans related to hiring and other outgoings.

Soon enough I think we’ll see systems taking historic sales data, mapping it against data of the present, to give us intelligent insight into the future. Giving a secondary forecasting that maybe goes even further into the future.

It would then update that on a rolling, daily basis using the newest data available, something a set of simple rules couldn’t do.

We’ll begin to see our CRM systems give us recommendations on next actions based upon the existing relationship with our customers.

The intelligent thing here is the context. An automated system rule just wouldn’t cut it as every customer, their needs and their behaviours are entirely different. Soon CRM systems will be able to track hundreds of individual ‘norms’ and let you know when it’s time to step in!

Whether we like it or not, AI is on the horizon and won’t be disappearing any time soon!

For software organisations, it opens a whole new realm of possibilities and will allow customer the opportunity to transform the way they run their businesses and keep their customers happy!

To talk to a member of the OpenCRM team about how CRM software can benefit your brand, call 01748 473000 or visit the website: www.opencrm.co.uk

Contextual Recommendations As the name suggest, we need our CRM systems to help us better understand, manage and maximise the relationships with our customers. Whilst it’s undoubtedly true that they already play a major part in making this happen, with the data at hand and powerful computing, we need our systems to calculate the trends and highlight the issues we just can’t!

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

SnowRoads Scenic Route Launches Inspiring App The SnowRoads Scenic Route has launched a new mobile application to help visitors explore as they travel through the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

The app uses the latest virtual and augmented reality technology to bring the route to life for adventurers and includes an augmented reality treasure hunt, an audio guide and 360 panoramic filming.

It also curates local stories and legends and nearby listings of more unconventional tourist attractions which were unearthed during a community engagement programme across the route. The app is free and will be used by businesses to promote the area and by visitors to enhance their experience.

On Friday 23rd November 2018, the SnowRoads was announced as the winner of Innovation in Tourism at the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA) and will go on to represent the region in the national tourism ‘Oscars’, the Scottish Thistle Awards next year.

The SnowRoads aims to catapult the already iconic 90-mile journey, linking Blairgowrie in Perthshire (A93) to Grantown-on-Spey in the Highlands (A939) via Glenshee, Braemar, Ballater and Tomintoul, into a destination in its own right.

A £245,000 grant from Scottish Enterprise was awarded under the Tourism Destination Development Fund towards this £315,000 initiative which is being led by the Cairngorms Business Partnership (CBP) with partners the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA).

As part of the Scottish Government’s Scenic Routes initiative, three art installations were commissioned and placed along the

We have created a digital toolkit for a truly immersive visitor experience to highlight this destination road which will have a major positive economic impact on communities and businesses along the route.

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route near the Devil’s Elbow in Glenshee, a viewpoint at Corgarff and in Tomintoul.

Project Manager of the SnowRoads for the CBP, Jennifer Green, explained the aim is to create a must-do scenic route through the Cairngorms National Park. She said: “We have created a digital toolkit for a truly immersive visitor experience to highlight this destination road which will have a major positive economic impact on communities and businesses along the route.

“We know we have created something authentic that local folk will enjoy as much of the content has been built around local stories and legends unearthed through a major community engagement project where we asked local people what they would like to see promoted as part of the project.

“There is a huge amount of original content in our toolkit including videos narrated by the people who live and work along the route and even our own five-track SnowRoads EP which was composed and produced by Scottish musician, Calum Wood. The music Calum has created is emotive and reflective of each area along the way and offers a perfect soundtrack to listen to while looking out at the wild and dramatic scenery of this untouched place.

“The content will continue to build as local people and businesses will be invited to add listings and points of interest along the way which will then be delivered straight to visitors’ mobile phones.

“The treasure hunt feature encourages people to stop off and explore the area to truly discover the Cairngorms and the rest of Scotland. It’s also a lot of fun so will keep all the family interested.

“The SnowRoads does not apologise for its heritage, culture, challenging terrain and at times unruly weather conditions but rather, celebrates these things. It encourages people to discover a road less travelled.

“I’m not alone when I say I love to drive through the Cairngorms National Park. This route has local and international appeal for families on a Highland adventure, classic car drivers and cyclists. The technology and tools we have developed throughout this project will be invaluable for tourists and businesses alike, as they promote this journey as a bucket-list destination to the world.”

Pete Crane, Head of Visitor Services at the CNPA said: “A journey along the SnowRoads takes you through the Cairngorms National Park and over two of the highest public roads in Britain. This stunning route links five communities with the outstanding landscape of the Cairngorms and lots of reasons to slow down and experience this truly inspiring area of Scotland”.

Danny Cusick, Director, Food & Drink, Tourism and Textiles, Scottish Enterprise said: “This is a fantastic development. We know that visitors to Scotland are looking for true, authentic and unique experiences.

Through the use of digital technologies this App will enhance the visitor experience, enabling them to fully appreciate this unique destination and increased business engagement will further develop the tourism offering that attracts both UK and international visitors.”

The SnowRoads app is free to download on Apple and Android devices.

CHAMBER NEWS

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network with John Holland-Kaye, Chief Executive, Heathrow Airport

Lift-Off with Heathrow Airport for Scottish Businesses With the news of the green light for its expansion, Heathrow Airport is beginning an exciting phase in its history. With the opportunity to build a third runway comes an investment that is expected to be at least £14 billion and Heathrow is eager that businesses around the UK have access to this investment.

In September, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce were delighted to host the Scottish leg of the Heathrow Business Summit. The annual summits are an opportunity for businesses in all corners of the UK to access Heathrow’s supply chain, with the potential to have meetings that can lead to important and lasting economic partnerships. These meetings underline Heathrow’s importance to the Scottish economy – the airport is already an economic artery connecting Scotland with the rest of the world, and by partnering with SCC to host the summit, the economic benefit can be felt even more directly by Scottish businesses.

Delegates met with key members of Heathrow’s supply chain, including companies such as Balfour Beatty, Babcock, and World Duty Free. The day began with a breakfast reception, which was punctuated by speeches from SCC Director Neil Amner, Heathrow Chief Executive John HollandKaye. Following this, delegates were given the opportunity to network with each other and members of the wider chamber network.

After breakfast, the main event began. SCC facilitated meetings between supply chain members and delegates, who represented businesses from a variety of sectors such as construction, manufacturing and food and drink. Over 100 Scottish SMEs were present

at the summit, and attendees and organisers alike found the event productive and are optimistic that it will lead to concrete future results.

Better connections to Heathrow will give Scottish businesses more opportunity to reach markets, to expand and trade with the world. Last month, British Airways announced that from the summer of 2019 that they would be expanding their service to Inverness airport. The airline, who reintroduced a service in 2016 after an absence of around a decade, will increase weekly flights from 10 to 16 in the summer, with winter weekly flights going from seven to 14. This will also include a new morning service from Inverness enabling a daily commute for business passengers.

This is a significant step in improving accessibility to regions all across Scotland, and not just to traditionally economically dominant cities such as Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Stewart Nicol, chief executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, described the news as “excellent” for the Highlands region.

He added: “This development will have significant benefits for the region, improving connections for business travellers and increasing opportunities for the growing number of visitors to our area.”

Contact communication@scottishchambers. org.uk to register for any future supply chain events.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Recruitment on the rise as oil & gas optimism continues to grow Workforce recruitment is on the rise among oil and gas contractors in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) as business confidence reaches its highest level since 2013, according to an industry report released today (Wednesday, November 28).

The findings of the 29th Oil and Gas survey, conducted by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Fraser of Allander Institute and KPMG, reveal that 21% of firms have increased their total UK-based workforce by more than 10% in the last 12 months, with 33% anticipating this trend will continue in 2019.Looking further ahead, 34% percent of firms expect their headcount for contract staff to rise over the next three years. Almost two thirds (65%) of firms expect the level of core staff to increase and only 5% expect a fall over the same period.

Indeed the survey shows growing business confidence across the board with 63% of

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contractors more confident about their current UKCS activities compared to the previous survey, the highest level since 2013.

The industry appears to be setting its sights on growth opportunities, with 58% of firms forecasting an increase in profits in 2018 and a net balance of 50% of firms anticipating an increase in the value of production-related activities.

prospects in the year ahead as well as the next three to five years in order to assess trends in exploration and production, decommissioning and other related oil and gas extraction activities both in the UK and international markets. The autumn survey also asks firms what has happened and what they expect to happen to their UK-based workforce.

The trend in the value of UKCS explorationrelated work amongst contractors had been negative since 2014, dipping to its lowest point in 2016. Since then it has eased steadily though remained negative until Survey 28 in April this year where it rose to a net balance of 3%. This has now risen further to a net balance of 11%, with expectations the positive momentum will continue with a net balance of 28% forecasting a rise in value in the year ahead.

Companies report a sharp rise in the number of staff moving from contractors to other oil-related companies, up from 27% in 2017 to 47%; while retirement was reported as a reason for loss of staff by 36% of firms, up 32% from 2017, suggesting the demographics still have the potential to be a significant challenge in the years ahead.

The results do show however that contractors are still not working at full capacity, with 44% at or above optimum levels. While this is the highest figure since 2014, there is still some way to go to get back to peak levels of utilisation – 79% in the spring of 2013.

The survey looked at work in the six months to October 2018, asking firms about their

Looking at skills requirements, 44% of respondents identified at least one discipline in short supply, with a significant number pinpointing a lack of engineers. Firms also reported a lack of suitable technical staff and those with IT experience, particularly programmers and software engineers; with a number further noting problems attracting sales and management staff.

Moray Barber, partner at KPMG, said: “Despite a recent reduction in the oil price, the relative stability of recent months is

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

driving a more positive sentiment, and it’s hugely positive to see business confidence amongst contractors improve further on the already high levels witnessed over the past two years, and that optimism for the future outlook of the sector is high.

“The price of oil is driving a more positive sentiment across the industry, but the survey does highlight the importance of retaining our best people and ensuring that the next generation of talent has the right type of skills for the coming energy transition. We need to be asking where the next generation of talent is going to come from, what skills do they really need, and what are we doing in industry and academia to ensure we have enough people to help sustain that headcount growth?

“Overall, this survey tells us that change is afoot and the direction of travel is positive, but there continue to be potential traps along the way, not least the impact of Brexit, a potential impending skills gap and environmental and climate change risk.

We believe the industry is alive to these challenges as we are seeing our clients develop growth strategies and scenario planning to deal with the risks these present, as well as driving forward their technology and innovation agenda to become disruptors in their own right.”

Salaries in the sector are also recovering.

The proportion of firms reporting that they have reduced pay rates fell once again; in the 2016 survey 43% of firms reported reducing salaries, falling to 15% in 2017 and now just 5% in 2018. The share of firms reporting that they had increased pay during this last survey period rose from 16% in 2017 to 38%.

Russell Borthwick, chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, said: “The recovery of the oil and gas sector has been slow and steady since the low points of 2015 and 16 however a level of uncertainty does remain. We are all watching and trying to understand the implications of political declarations relating to the UK’s divorce from the EU. Interestingly the views of firms in the sector on Brexit have remained relatively unchanged since we first asked them to predict the impact of the vote in 2016. This survey again demonstrates a clear divide in opinion with half of firms anticipating this will have no effect on business activity in the UKCS, while 45% are predicting a negative impact.

“Contractor optimism not only remains high for UKCS operations but is continuing to grow for international markets too, where we are now seeing the highest figure since autumn 2006. It is vital however, if we are to achieve the ambition of creating a world class all-energy hub here beyond the operational phase of the UKCS, that supply chain companies continue to think about internationalising rather than simply refilling order books with emerging contracts on their own doorstep.”

Xplore Dundee is getting a buzz from electric buses once again Scottish manufacturer Alexander Dennis Ltd is lending the bus operator a new electric Enviro200Ev for a week to test it on the streets of Dundee.

Managing Director of Xplore Dundee Christine McGlasson said: “We believe that electric buses are the future and we were delighted to bring the first one to Dundee when we launched Service 360. Now we’ve got another short-term loan we will be taking a close look at what it can offer and how our customers respond to it.

“Although electric cars have been around for a while, this technology is relatively new in buses, and it’s very different from the vehicles we already have. So our team are keen to get their hands on this demonstration model electric bus. We’ll be putting it through its paces so we can see what it’s like to drive and maintain.”

The ADL Enviro200EV does not have one central “engine”. Electricity from a 307kw

battery drives each back wheel separately using 90kw hub motors.

The bus can do 160 miles on one AC charge. The lithium-ion iron phosphate battery sits on the roof of the bus and can be fully charged up in under four hours.

It’s equipped with cameras instead of side mirrors, offering a wider range of view for the driver. The demonstrator currently in Dundee is hi-spec on the interior too, with plush seating, tables, USB and wireless charging points and phone holders on the backs of most seats.

Customers on board one of these buses will notice a smoother drive, as well as the bus making no engine noise. And of course they can ride easy knowing they are making no emissions at all.

Although electric cars have been around for a while, this technology is relatively new in buses, and it’s very different from the vehicles we already have. So our team are keen to get their hands on this demonstration model electric bus.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

BA extends HeathrowInverness services

Stewart Nicol

Chief Executive, Inverness Chamber of Commerce

A good news story for the Highlands has highlighted the need to step up campaigning to maintain and improve vital transport links.

The announcement last month that British Airways is extending the InvernessHeathrow service from March was warmly welcomed by Inverness Chamber of Commerce which has been at the forefront of lobbying efforts, firstly to get the Heathrow service re-instated and, secondly, to have it enhanced.

From March 31, 2019 the number of weekly flights operated by BA between the two cities during the summer season will increase from 10 to 16. The winter flying programme will double from 7 to 14 return services a week, with the airline operating a doubledaily schedule every day of the week from October 27.

The increased schedule means that, for the first time since the Heathrow to Inverness

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route was reinstated in 2016, an aircraft will be parked overnight at Inverness Airport and BA customers will be able to travel between the two cities, complete a full working day, and return home the same day.

Flights have also been re-timed to improve onward connections on to BA’s global network of more than 150 destinations worldwide.

However, one of the factors in helping the BA service to be extended put a spotlight on a looming issue facing air travel connectivity in the Highlands.

BA was clear that it was able to increase flights to Inverness because the airport is exempt from Air Passenger Duty (APD) which it said is stifling growth plans elsewhere.

APD continues to apply to flights departing other Scottish airports, while discussions continue on the exemption for flights leaving Highlands and Islands airports. This has delayed the introduction next year of the Air Departure Tax (ADT), although legislation was passed in 2017.

Inverness Chamber, which is part of the ADT Highlands and Islands Working Group, has made it clear it will be putting the case in the strongest possible terms for the status quo to continue to maintain the region’s competitiveness.

It argues that it needs to keep the exemption to ensure air fares from Inverness do not increase and services are not put at risk.

Losing the exemption would not only affect passengers, but also Inverness Airport’s ability to attract more direct flights.

The BA announcement also highlighted the significance of growth in air services due to what Inverness Chamber sees as the inadequacies of both the rail and road networks serving the Highlands.

The Chamber has consistently pressed for improvements to the Highland rail network and feel that hourly trains to Aberdeen and the Central Belt are an absolute essential.

Full dualling of the A9 trunk road between Inverness and Perth is also several years away.

It has pledged to work with the Scottish Chambers of Commerce network to maintain pressure on the Scottish Government to improve these vital transport projects as quickly as possible.

Stewart Nicol, Inverness Chamber of Commerce chief executive, said: “Having frequent direct links to Heathrow as part of an overall air service programme at a thriving airport is essential to this area’s growth but we have to be wary of threats that could undermine our competitiveness.

“But we also have to continue to campaign on other transport fronts to make sure progress is not slowed or halted by a lack of momentum on the roads and railways.”

CHAMBER NEWS

Retailers receive much needed support from Scottish budget after record low November

November was not a good month for retailers in Scotland after sales plummeted to their lowest level in 21 months, according to figures compiled by the Scottish Retail Consortium.

Liz Cameron OBE

Director & Chief Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce

The figures showed that sales of clothing and footwear on the high streets had seen their biggest decline since current records began.

Even the Black Friday weekend which is usually one of the better periods of the year for retailers did not offer any solace, with sales falling 2.1% on a like-for-like basis compared with November last year, as online shopping was preferred over the high street.

Total sales in Scotland were down by 1.6% on November last year. Even adjusting for the

estimated effect of online sales doesn’t help much as total non-food sales are down 4.1% on a year ago.

2018 has been a rough year for the high street in Scotland. From those who have closed down (such as Toys R Us and Maplin), to those have been forced to shut stores (such as House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer). In the first half of 2018 there were 58 new store openings in Scotland’s main cities and towns, but 107 closures. The shop vacancy rate is at its second highest level it has been in the past seven years.

This will make the Christmas period critical for Scotland’s high streets as they seek to overcome this slump in sales and declining footfall caused by the rise of online shopping.

The latest Scottish Draft Budget will hopefully have provided some reassurance

for retailers. Business rates relief that the SRC estimate will cut £2m off the rates bills of retailers in the coming year will allow for more cash to be freed up for investment in other areas of the business.

Finance Secretary Derek Mackay’s commitment to not implementing an Out of Town Rates Levy as feared by many in the sector will have been a most welcome announcement. This added cost would not have helped already struggling retailers and small businesses not one bit.

The creation of a new £50m Town Centre Fund will intrigue many parts of Scotland who have seen widespread lack of investment in developing and maintaining crucial local centres for business and society. It will be interesting to see how this fund will be rolled out and if all of these measures will help to improve the fortunes of Scotland’s high streets in 2019.

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FOCUS ON FINANCE

A modern cash forecasting solution for Scottish enterprises Glasgow based Finvisage is working with corporate finance departments across the UK to automate their processes and help them prepare for the future.

“First, think. Second, believe. Third, dream. And finally, dare.”- Walt Disney. The evolution of Finvisage has passed through these stages. Arshdeep quit his well paid job as a lead commodity options trader from Standard Chartered Bank to build Finvisage with the express aim of providing state of the art solutions for the CFOs and corporate treasurers. After 3 years of pouring dedication, expertise and sheer hard work into the product, Finvisage is now live in the market and has been successfully launched for clients in the UK. From market studies, we realised that growing companies have not equipped their finance departments with the necessary tools. Significant investments are made in ERP and accounting software. While the right thing to do, these systems work with data from the past. A key function of the finance department is to prepare cash forecasts. This process and the consequent analysis is currently manual and dependent

forecast becomes a nightmare. Is there a system that automates all manual processes to such an extent that spreadsheets are eliminated and data collection, visualisation and analysis becomes a breeze? Is it affordable for a small and mid sized company’s finance department? Will it lessen the stress on the finance team?

Can the team be relied on for unparalleled customer service?

on spreadsheets. While a spreadsheet is a versatile tool it is not the ideal tool to use for a cash forecast. Collecting data from multiple sources which are themselves constantly changing is a time-consuming task. Visualisation of the data at more than one level is challenging. A spreadsheet restricts the capability to run critically important what-ifs and scenarios on the forecasts. Running a multi currency cash

The answer is a resounding YES. Finvisage is a cloud based integrated software system that acts as a decision enabling tool for corporate CFOs and treasury heads. It is already being used by clients in the UK to excellent reviews. We have a dedicated team of experts to ensure the best customer experience.

If you are interested to know more, please email us at finvisage@apexft.com with your contact details. We can be found at www.finvisage.com. Our number is 020-31291078.

Making Tax Digital (MTD) ‘Making Tax Digital’ was unveiled by HM Revenue & Customs in July 2017, and once implemented will have a dramatic impact on the UK tax system.

Those that already maintain financial records on software packages such as Quickbooks or Xero are already on the way to being MTD compliant. but businesses that still maintain records via a manual cashbook or excel spreadsheets will need to review their options in advance of April 2019.

Some business owners have raised concerns in regards to the additional administrative burden and the cost that compliance will bring, however, rather than seeing these new regulations as a negative they should find that this is a positive step with many potential advantages.

MTD will become mandatory for VAT registered businesses over the VAT threshold (unincorporated businesses, companies, LLPs, and charities) from April 2019 with all other taxes (income tax and corporation tax) having to follow suit from April 2020.

Landlords receiving income from property will also be required to maintain electronic accounting records and update HMRC quarterly from April 2020.

MTD for individuals will be centred around the online HMRC Personal Tax Account, which will enable taxpayers to interact with HMRC directly to review their tax records and liabilities.

Those businesses that embrace these digital changes and requirements will unlock benefits such as identifying key issues earlier, with the ability to delve deeper into the business to focus on how it is doing in real time. Early warning of future tax obligations allows planning for these to be effective, especially when combined with cash flow forecasts and budgets.

It is likely that some exemptions will apply, such as annual turnover below a certain threshold (not yet announced) or those that are deemed as ‘unable’ to engage with digital compliance.

Be passionate about reviewing systems and analysing data to improve your business, enjoy the mobility that cloud accounting can bring, and make the change today so you are ready for MTD.

The new regulations will emphasise the need for businesses to keep digital records and update HMRC on a quarterly basis.

It is therefore vital for businesses to establish how they will comply with these new regulations now, in readiness for these changes.

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FOCUS ON FINANCE

Meet James Smith. He runs a small cleaning business, Exterior Clean Scotland, in Lanarkshire.

His business recently won a contract with a well-known engineering firm that would have truly transformed his business and created new jobs. This should have been the start of a new chapter for James and for the people in the community he would have employed, but ultimately, he was left with no alternative but to decline the contract.

InstantPay getting suppliers paid, instantly Previse is working to help hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs, like James, to get paid instantly with InstantPay.

Why? Because the engineering firm was mandating that they would only pay invoices 90-days after the work had been done. Even if they paid invoices on time, James would have to wait three months to get the cash to pay his employees. James had to let the contract slip through his fingers.

Designed by some of Scotland’s best data scientists sitting in our offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh, InstantPay pays you as soon as your customer receives your invoice. We charge just a 1 per cent fee for every 30 days your invoice is paid before its due.

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James’ story is far too common. Slow payments, caused by lengthy payment terms, are a scourge which causes the death of 50,000 SMEs every year. The Federation of Small Business research shows 28% of payments to SMEs in Scotland are late, with firms waiting on average seven weeks before receiving payment, causing stress and uncertainty.

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FOCUS ON FINANCE

Above all, building organisational agility is a human interest story One of the key areas we at AAB Consulting Limited are focusing on with our clients is Organisational Agility.

Increasingly, organisations are facing disruption on an unprecedented scale – customer expectations are changing and we need to be able to react quickly and definitively. Industries have been turned on their heads by advances in technology and the availability of data – there is no option to hunker down and hope that you ‘survive’ – you won’t. Disruption causes chaos and chaos demands agility. the people aspects that are so important at each stage? an actionable business strategy that charts the bold decisions required to create the new order of things.

Ask yourself how bold you and your organisation is being with the big challenges you know you are facing but don’t like to talk about. Are you doing the easy thing or the right thing? the design and development of new products and services from the perspective of users. Nothing new here you may say but the important step is embracing the energy created at this stage to wrap the organisation around the new not the old. Reflect on the products and services you use every day.

How does it feel to you as a user? delivering change without any drama focus on early and incremental delivery of change that is accompanied by an increase in capability and confidence in teams so that they can grow and become self-sufficient. How often have you seen great initiative falter as they try to do too much or don’t build capability / capacity into team to deliver?

Lesley Fordyce, Managing Director, Anderson Anderson & Brown Consultancy Limited

Organisations in public, private and third sectors need to adapt at pace to changing demographic, social, technological and economic conditions. Sometimes the change is driven by new technology that enables new ways of working or market forces when a

new disruptive entrant enters the landscape but increasingly it is driven by users – demanding different, better, faster services and new products.

So what does agility look like and what are

use the new data and insights available to you to secure the assurance you need regarding delivery. Importantly, harness the sense of ‘team’ and the pride and confidence that has come from good delivery to go on and do more.

So, that is – at its most simple level - the importance of the human interest story in organisational agility. Please get in touch – I would love to hear your thoughts and any comments. Drop me an email at lesley.fordyce@aabconsulting.uk

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Circular Glasgow shortlisted for major award Glasgow Chamber of Commerce initiative Circular Glasgow ended a promising and productive year by being named a finalist at the Circulars. The prestigious awards, now in their fifth year, are a product of the World Economic Forum and the Forum of Young Global leaders and celebrate notable contributions from organisations across the world in leadership, innovation and value creation within a circular initiative.

The nomination - in the Public Sector Award for Cities, Nations & Regions - is a resounding confirmation of the excellent initiative and its ability to connect and inspire businesses across the city.

The award winner will be announced at the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos in January 2019, and Circular Glasgow is competing against other finalists, the City of Toronto; the European Commission; The Ministry of Environment and Food of Denmark; The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of The Netherlands and Shandong Association of Circle Economy.

In partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, Glasgow City Council and Circle Economy and funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce’s Circular Glasgow plays an increasing role in helping the city to achieve its ambition to become one of the world’s first circular cities.

Circular Glasgow has helped a variety of businesses to prepare for the challenges of the future by adopting circular strategies, that have included increasing revenue

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streams, enabling partnerships and increasing competitive advantage.

From new collaborations between Glasgowbased bakeries and breweries, and soil made from waste coffee grounds, to bespoke construction and finance summits and a range of events, the team has already engaged over 650 businesses to date.

The range of practical tools already used include one to one Circle Assessments, workshops, open forum information events, specific sector summits and stakeholder engagement conferences – both locally and internationally.

The initiative also led to a Circle Lab challenge, which received over 200 submissions to help encourage businesses to leave more positive economic and environmental legacies after major events and conferences. Created by the Circle Economy in the Netherlands and in partnership with the SEC and Glasgow Convention Bureau and Major Events team at Glasgow Life, three winning solutions are now being developed directly engaging with 17 businesses across the city.

Alison McRae, senior director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our business community in Glasgow has taken bold steps to begin the movement towards helping Glasgow to become a leading circular city, with many businesses exploring new ideas and partnerships that will benefit both the individual organisations and support the economic growth of the city in a sustainable way.

“Being a finalist in the Circulars is a great recognition of the work being led by the business community in Glasgow alongside our city stakeholders.

“Through our pioneering Circular Glasgow partnership, we will continue to raise awareness of the opportunities of adopting circular business models within the business community and take engagement to the next level. We expect this work will help to deliver a range of benefits for Glasgow including improved product quality, inclusive economic growth and jobs creation and ultimately a more future proof, more resilient city.”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Scotland and Ireland’s Gaeltacht Areas to benefit from reciprocal Trade Offices Businesses to benefit from a new alliance created between Scotland and Ireland’s Gaeltacht Areas as part of a recent Business Trade Visit.

Led by West Lothian Chamber of Commerce and facilitated by Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) and Údarás na Gaeltachta, Donegal the reciprocal arrangement is the first of its kind for Scotland and the Gaeltacht and will act as a valuable resource for SMEs looking to expand their international B2B partnerships.

Announced at a major gathering of Scottish and Irish business leaders, Scottish Government’s Minister for Trade, Investment and Innovation, Ivan McKee MSP, said: “This is an excellent example of private and public sector working together and building meaningful alliances that will make it easier for businesses to build their capacity to trade. The establishment of reciprocal trade offices demonstrates the commitment of the Scottish and Irish business communities to expand opportunities for trade and investment and foster great collaboration and cooperation. This is an excellent outcome of the three-day Business Trade Visit to the Donegal Gaeltacht that I was very pleased to lead, and I look forward to supporting this important alliance.”

Joining the recent Trade Visit to Donegal with West Lothian Chamber and Scottish Chambers of Commerce were a selection of businesses and representatives of West

Lothian Council alongside Údarás na Gaeltachta and they welcomed the new dedicated reciprocal trade offices to provide business support services to companies and facilitate investment & trade opportunities.

During the visit the delegates of the Trade Mission were able to tour local businesses and have one to one meetings with relevant contacts.

West Lothian Executive Councillor for West Lothian Council Cathy Muldoon said “This is a very uncertain time for all our economies and a time when we have to work together and forge alliances which will support business and trade. As part of the Trade Mission it was encouraging to meet with Irish Government, The Scottish Government and agencies to share our concerns and how we can find mutual benefit. I look forward to future opportunities for West Lothian.”

Liz Cameron OBE, Director & Chief Executive, of Scottish Chambers of Commerce, said: “There are immense opportunities between Ireland’s Gaeltacht Areas and Scotland and the establishment of trade offices in our respective areas is a clear indicator of our ambition and commitment to expand our international business relationships. The ‘business touchpoints’ will connect ambitious businesses looking to expand their customer base and identify new trading partnerships.

This alliance further extends the opportunity for Scottish businesses to connect internationally and adds to our existing international touchpoints in China, Canada and Indonesia, clearly demonstrating the

effective results for business when private and public sector work in collaboration.”

Commenting on the announcement, Micheál Ó hÉanaigh, Chief Executive Officer, Údarás na Gaeltachta, said: “This new alliance facilitated by Údarás na Gaeltachta and Scottish Chambers of Commerce is an important step forward to expand trading opportunities for Irish businesses. It will also provide Scottish business a significant chance to establish a presence in Ireland and to explore the new markets and opportunities that it provides.”

It is clear from the success and outcome of the recent trade mission that there is a demand for exporting in Scotland and Ireland with both countries looking to forge a closer business alliance ahead of Brexit.

Linda Scott, Chief Executive of West Lothian Chamber of Commerce said: “ We are delighted with the outcome of the Trade Mission to Donegal and look forward to welcoming delegates from Ireland to West Lothian and surrounding areas on an inward trade mission in 2019. It is vital we continue these Trade Missions as they allow local businesses to expand their knowledge of other markets while opening up new pathways for business. I feel that it is essential that businesses are made aware of these various opportunities available in markets across the globe and this will be an area we continue to work to improve.”

If you would like to know more about our international activities please contact us on chamber@wlchamber.com , 01506 414 808 or check out our website: www.wlchamber.com

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FOCUS ON GDPR

GDPR is here to stay – are you compliant?

GDPR Day - 25th May 2018 - has been and gone. Across the country, countless hours were spent preparing for the new regulation – writing privacy notices, amending procedures, conducting data audits. But what has happened since?

In the period following the introduction of GDPR, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has seen a huge rise in the number of personal data breaches being reported and organisations are reporting significant increases in the number of subject access requests. RGDP’s own evidence bears out these findings with considerable increases in both subject rights requests and personal data breaches reported by our customers; it seems the new regulation is leading to a significant rise in the number of individuals making complaints about misuse of their personal data. As a result, businesses are diverting key staff away from their core business to deal with the new compliance requirements or face the risk of substantial fines and reputational damage.

At RGDP, we supply Data Protection Officer (DPO) services to businesses and organisations that choose to outsource all or some of their data protection requirements.

We provide a flexible, high quality and cost effective GDPR solution allowing customers to focus on their core business. We assign an experienced DPO to each customer who becomes their link with the ICO and who is always bang up to date with the latest

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regulatory requirements and best practice solutions. Customers can buy in as much or as little DPO advice and support as they need, both on site and on call to help with compliance and respond to personal data incidents whenever required.

The reality is that GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and other related legislation isn’t going to go away, even after Brexit. With the risk of potentially significant fines and reputational damage, seeking out expert support is a responsible course of action, demonstrating a commitment to uphold people’s privacy, guard against the unwelcome consequences

of non-compliance and enable organisations to concentrate on their core business.

Mark Chynoweth is the General Manager of RGDP who may be contacted at: Website: www.rgdp.co.uk Tel: 0131 222 3239 / 07741 738842 Email: Mark@rgdp.co.uk

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Microtech GDPR software has the power to redact personal identifiable information at the click of a button and is a single, best practice solution, to best suit the individual requirements of each customer.

There is a choice of three, complementary modules that address each of the primary sources that are at risk of holding or hiding personal data - Paper, Files and Data. These modules can be easily configured into any permutation to provide the most relevant, affordable and deliverable solution to the customer.

PaperSafe - GDPR means that you cannot now avoid digitising all paperwork that may contain personal data. Having scanned it, you then need to discover the exact existence & nature (or not) of personal data across and within all the scanned documents. This needs to be a constant process of paper scanning, processing and reporting for personal data as new scans are generated.

FileSafe - Similar issues apply to any document images (e.g. BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG, TIFF) and digitally generated documents (e.g. Microsoft Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Visio, Word or HTML, PDF, RTF and Text files) DataSafe - Here, discovery is performed against relevant Line of Business systems, databases and data sources to find all instances of personal data; in particular, finding within metadata fields (data item labels) and free text sequences/silos (i.e. unstructured text in a structured data

system). Any of these may contain personal data which must be found, reported and managed.

Therefore, our GDPR Discovery software is the perfect ‘finding’ technology that provides an automated answer to the What, Why, When How, Where and Who of personal data discovery for GDPR compliance.

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Chris McConkey

Virgin Trains benefits from Banning the Box Five years ago, Business in the Community established the Ban the Box campaign in the UK – aimed at encouraging employers to take a different approach to asking prospective employees about convictions.

The practice of a tick box on a traditional application form can cause some businesses to disregard talented and experienced candidates, and at a time of skills shortages across the UK, we should reimagine how we go about recruiting talent.

Over nine million people in the United Kingdom have a criminal conviction.

Employers who have signed up to Ban the Box say this group includes exceptionally talented individuals who are often highly motivated, and it is short-sighted for businesses to automatically exclude these candidates from even entering

the recruitment process. Ban the Box encourages employers to wait until further into the process to request details about any convictions – this allows them to build up a better understanding of the candidate, and can give them a fuller picture of whether or not a criminal past is relevant to a candidate’s suitability to take on the role.

The box also negatively affects prospective employees. Research has shown that many candidates don’t move forward with an application past the stage of having to reveal their criminal past. If this stage is withheld until later of the process, the candidate can develop a relationship with the employer, and can feel more comfortable explaining the how, when and why of a conviction.

The Ban the Box campaign is gaining relevance as the UK struggles to make up a skills gap that is causing difficulty for employers. Firms can benefit greatly by reassessing and opening up their practices in the same way Virgin Trains has.

Virgin has been proactively recruiting people with convictions for five years. In that time, it has made prison recruitment fairs a regular

part of its recruitment regime, banned the criminal record declaration form on job applications and recently set up an in-prison training scheme to get people job-ready on their release.

Kathryn Wildman, Virgin’s Talent Acquisition Manager, said learning about people’s criminal history was an important part of the recruitment process. “We’ve banned the box, but that doesn’t mean we don’t ask job applicants about their past offending,” she said.

“Rather than ask people to tick a box on application, we’ll have a conversation at interview stage in which we talk about their offences and where they are on the rehabilitation journey. That may still result in a no from us, but it gives that person the opportunity to discuss their past and what they’ve got to offer in a supportive environment rather than just being dismissed out of hand. And our experience is that we’ve identified some fantastic people with convictions who have gone on to perform really well for us and helped our business grow.”

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BURNESS PAULL

Skills shortages – don’t be caught short We all realise how challenging life can be these days. When it comes to work, we have a never ending onslaught of emails all demanding our swift attention. We quickly forget all the grand plans that were agreed at the last strategy day and we start to relegate tasks to tomorrow’s to do list. We all know what those tasks look like – it’s the non-customer work and the work that does not immediately contribute to our immediate financial targets.

Think of auto enrolment, GDPR or even Brexit. Those are all topics we knew were on the horizon well in advance of them taking effect. However it was only when the implementation date started to approach that we began to grapple with the scale of the task at hand and wished that we had acted a little sooner.

When it comes to planning for the future talent and skills needs of your business, the time to act is now.

As the UK immigration and visa rules for non-Europeans continues to tighten, EU free movement of people looks likely to come to an end. When combined with record low unemployment and an ever tightening labour market, it is imperative that we start thinking much more strategically about people and talent strategies.

One effective way to do this is to engage with the Migration Advisory Committee’s current review of the Shortage Occupation List. This will review which skilled roles should be officially recognised as being roles where there are gaps within the local labour market where it would be appropriate to allow employers to look abroad to fill.

paramedics to classical ballet dancers and radioactive waste managers.

Inclusion of a role on this list essentially makes it much simpler for businesses to secure visas for international staff to fill those roles. Given that there are already proposals for this type of system be extended to EU nationals post-Brexit, this review is significant as it might help to shape our migration system post-Brexit.

A good prediction moving forward would be that we will see a shift away from the list being dominated by engineering roles towards inclusion of more digital technology roles, though the future list would likely retain a significant number of NHS roles as well as roles such as ballet dancers and certain types of specialist chefs.

This list has not been fully reviewed since 2013, though there have been partial reviews looking at roles such as teachers, nurses and digital technology.

Inclusion on the list is not guaranteed simply because there is a consensus within a sector that certain roles are hard to fill.

Consultation responses which simply regurgitate anecdotes will not be effective and businesses would be well encouraged to think very strategically about how best to engage on a sector wide basis.

The current list contains a number of North Sea specific engineering roles, though continued inclusion of those roles on the updated list might prove challenging.

Other roles on the current list range from

In this context, sectors and businesses

A good prediction moving forward would be that we will see a shift away from the list being dominated by engineering roles towards inclusion of more digital technology roles.

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also need to be able to justify what they themselves have been doing to address ongoing chronic skill shortages.

There are indications that the MAC could take a view moving forward that sectors need to be doing more to address skill shortages themselves and that they can no longer simply rely on turning to overseas talent whenever demand picks up unless they have been active in planning for that when demand is low.

Whilst that sound harsh, the view might be taken that it is only when easy access to overseas talent is stopped will business be forced to turn their minds to addressing ongoing chronic skill shortages in their sectors. Expect to hear words such as automation, apprenticeships, upskilling and innovation in the context of that discussion.

It would therefore be worthwhile thinking now about what skilled roles you might have difficulty in recruiting for in the future and consider engaging in the consultation exercise. If you chose not to engage now because you are short of time, do not be surprised if you get short shrift in the future when you start complaining about being unable to find the right skills to fill roles.

Jamie Kerr is a specialist immigration law Partner at Burness Paull

SPROCKETS CYCLES

Sprockets Cycles Sprockets Cycles is one of the biggest bike shops in Scotland. Since 2011 we’ve been serving the people of Ayrshire and the surrounding area. In 2016 we opened a brand new store in order to give our customers a better choice of bikes and accessories as well as access to a more reliable and better stocked workshop.

Since the beginning, we’ve had availability and reliability at our hearts. This is why, from those beginnings to the present day we only list products online that we have in stock and can ship direct from our own on-site warehouse. Meaning if a customer sees something on our website, they can be assured that it is in stock and ready to be shipped. We supply bikes and accessories the whole UK through our website www.sprocketscycles.com Our workshop business has been transformed too. Our turnaround speed, availability of parts and the level of expertise is second to none in the area. We undertake simple running repairs to full strip-downs and rebuilds on a daily basis.

All carried out by independently assessed, qualified mechanics.

Right up to date and fully settled into our new premises, our next big adventure is

in the electric bike market. After selling E-bikes since 2016, we are now Scotland’s biggest E-Bike stockist. We also have a large pool of demonstrator E-Bikes to try before you buy. Our mechanics are also

PUSH THE BUT TON START the journey...

Have you tried an E-Bike yet?

With ranges up to 200 miles, fast charging times and now every type of bike available from commuter, road to mountain.

There’s every reason to swing by Scotland Scotland’s biggest E-Bike demo centre.

w w w. s p r o c k e t s c y c l e s . c o m Sprockets Cycles. Peace & Plenty, Ayr Road Kilmarnock. KA1 5LF

01563 526800

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qualified to service and repair all popular E-bike systems.

Sprockets Cycles is located on Ayr Road, Kilmarnock KA1 5LF

Desk@theD is an Aberdeen based social enterprise set up by the Aberdeen Day Project charity. Our vision is to develop a dynamic, quality Coworking community where people can share their values, ideas and space.

Desk@theD provides a base for desk and laptop based work and a professional venue for meetings and workshops for the Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire community. We can’t wait to share our space with all those individuals out there who have been looking for alternative community of like minded folk. To all those entrepreneurs, remote workers and independent professionals who have been searching for a space with strong networking opportunities, with exposure to innovate companies, products and services.

Our objective is to create an environment that is happier, engaging and more productive for all.

Good Coworking spaces provide stability, build community and generate business opportunities for members and that’s what we are aiming for at Desk@theD. It aspires to be a creative, collaborative, flexible and joyful space for independent workers of every industry.

Why not try it for yourself? Everyone is welcome! All you need is a laptop and a Coworking spirit!

Bon Accord House, Riverside Drive, Aberdeen, AB11 7SL | 01224 608992 | mail@deskatthed.com | www.deskatthed.com

office furniture & interior professionals combining comfort and function to create inspirational workspaces

Tel 0141 225 5170 www.alphascotland.com e hello@alphascotland.com Alpha Scotland is part of the Alpha Group @AlphaGrpOffice

The Alpha Group

Business Scotland

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Skills for Growth helps physio firm get fit for expansion When small business owners Lynne Falconer and Sally Kiddie decided to expand, they recognised that getting the right support was a vital part of the process.

The pair have been the owners of Heal Physiotherapy in Dundee for 14 years, and recently moved into new premises on the city’s Dudhope Street with the aim of growing the business.

They made use of the Skills for Growth initiative – offered by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) in partnership with Remarkable – to identify their next steps.

Skills for Growth is a fully funded service for businesses with between five and 250 employees. It offers up to two days of business consultancy, helping employers

As physios, we’re very hands-on, so having the chance to take that step back and get assistance to look at things overall really appealed to us. Getting that external view of what we could do better and how we could take advantage of the potential for growth was really important.

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understand their skills needs and to create a detailed people plan with guidance towards the right support.

Lynne said: “When you’re busy running a business you don’t have a lot of time to stand back and look at it.

“As physios, we’re very hands-on, so having the chance to take that step back and get assistance to look at things overall really appealed to us.

“Getting that external view of what we could do better and how we could take advantage of the potential for growth was really important.”

Areas for growth Lynne and Sally were supported by SDS Skills for Growth Adviser Sam Greer and by Ruth Hewitt of Remarkable.

Lynne said: “We met both Sam and Ruth for a real in-depth conversation about our business and they got a feel for how our business ran and how we felt about it.

“Ruth went on and interviewed all our staff members individually which was a good opportunity for them to offer their opinions on how we run the business.

“One of the things that came out of the interviews was that we scored really highly for staff satisfaction, so we can use that to attract people to our business.”

Using Skills for Growth also helped Lynne and Sally identify areas where they could grow their business.

Lynne said: “There are always things you can do better. When you’re running a small business, you don’t have things like an HR department or a finance team, so it’s about identifying what your needs are so you can grow and make sensible decisions.

“We learned that we didn’t really have a clear vision or set of core values for the business, and that we could be making use of tools such as annual reviews to make sure

staff know they are valued and are being rewarded for the work that they do.

“So, we had a workshop with Sam to identify the core values that would be part of everything the clinic does, and we’ve also made use of the HR Advisory Service offered

by Business Gateway.

“We’re also looking at different accounting packages that we can use alongside our clinical software so that we’re making decisions based on sound financial knowledge.”

Paying dividends According to Sam Greer of SDS, Heal Physiotherapy is the perfect example of a small business with the right attitude towards growth and development.

She said: “As well-established small business owners, one of Lynne and Sally’s strengths is their willingness to find new sources of support, to take advice and to change how they do things in order to develop new skills and grow their business.

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Lynne Falconer, left, and Sally Kiddie

“Making use of Skills for Growth will help them as they look to expand, it has already helped their staff to play a greater role in the future of the business, and it will go on paying dividends in the future.

“This support is available to any small or medium business with between five and 250 employees, and I’d encourage any employer to look at how Skills for Growth could them progress.”

Lynne added: “Skills for Growth has been really worthwhile. You can always do things better and you can always improve on what you’re doing, so I’d certainly recommend it to other businesses.”

To find out more, visit www.ourskillsforce.co.uk/growth

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE / ENERGY FOCUS

Ready for the electric revolution Frank Mitchell

CEO, SP Energy Networks

Sweden has just opened its first electric road, and while it might look like a real-life Scalextric set, it means battery-powered vehicles can charge on the go. In India there are now more electric rickshaws on the roads – 1.5 million – than even China has electric cars. And in the US the development of electric cars could see the average range rise to 400 miles within the next few years.

Without a doubt the electric revolution has arrived. And not before time. The catastrophic warnings from the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change earlier this month, made it shockingly clear that immediate action to reduce emissions is vital.

The electricity sector has been acting already.

Old coal fire power plants have almost gone and with them the reliance on fossil fuels which contributed so much to climate change.

Renewables are now growing at a pace far beyond any predictions. We’re harnessing the wind, the tides and the sun in the new energy mix which is powering our future.

And we are all changing too, from being passive users of electricity to being active consumers.

We have solar panels on our roofs, heat pumps in our homes, and of course many people now have electric vehicles (EVs) in their driveways.

EVs are clean to run – and if the electricity they’re powered by comes from renewable sources too, they’re even more environmentally friendly. They’re also becoming cheaper as the technology progresses and consumers are already responding with sales of electric cars

steadily climbing in the UK. Indeed, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said there was a 90 per cent increase in sales of electric vehicles in August this year compared to last year.

Both the UK and Scottish governments are accelerating the demand for EVs too.

Nicola Sturgeon announced in her latest Programme for Government that millions would be spent on installing electric chargers in people’s homes, in businesses and in council premises; that the government’s Low Carbon Transport Fund would be raised to £20m; and there would be the creation of 20 “electric towns” by 2025. Theresa May’s government has also launched a £106m package for projects developing green battery, vehicle and re-fuelling technology.

So the world of passenger transport is changing radically – be it cars, buses, or even three-wheeled rickshaws. More than that, the public switch to EVs is happening far more rapidly than anyone predicted – and the forecasts for the years ahead will see that move continue to gain pace.

But there is a potential stumbling block in the road: ensuring that this change can be accommodated by the local electricity grid. And that is where SP Energy Networks comes in.

We are the network operator which transmits and distributes electricity to more than two million customers across central and southern Scotland. It is our job to keep the electricity flowing 24 hours a day, seven days a week; making sure that it is there whenever you switch on a light, or the television, or charge your mobile phone – or even your car.

We ensure power flows through the pylons and the cables which make sure homes, businesses and organisations can rely on a secure supply of electricity. Which is why we spend around £1bn a year in our networks (which also includes north Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and north Shropshire); and it’s why our network is 99.9 per cent reliable with the

cost of that, to an average bill payer, being just between 30 and 35 pence a day – less than the price of a second class stamp.

So SP Energy Networks is an integral part of the Scottish economy. Not just because of what we provide, but because we employ 3000 people directly and a further 3000 through service partners, as well as supporting another 12,000 jobs across our supply chains, and of course, ensuring all the businesses which rely on us can keep trading because we’re keeping their lights on.

And now we need to keep the traffic flowing too. So we are at the forefront of innovation, leading the charge on ensuring the future of our network is resilient when new demands are placed on it; ensuring that rather than being a block to the electric revolution, we are delivering a better future, quicker for everyone.

But here are the facts: current capacity of our electricity network can handle one house in every eight having a charge point fitted for their EV, but after that increased

We are the network operator which transmits and distributes electricity to more than two million customers across central and southern Scotland. It is our job to keep the electricity flowing 24 hours a day, seven days a week; making sure that it is there whenever you switch on a light, or the television, or charge your mobile phone – or even your car.

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE / ENERGY FOCUS

capacity and innovation via SMART charging technologies will be required if we are to ensure the overall costs, met through customers’ electricity bills, are kept to a minimum and low carbon transport keeps moving. So there needs to be investment in the wider electricity infrastructure to ensure that as the number of electric chargers increases, the necessary local grid capacity is available when it’s needed.

SP Energy Networks can, of course, deliver that work efficiently but we require the support of Ofgem, the energy regulator, to allow us to do the work ahead of demand across all our communities to ensure the whole electric revolution doesn’t stall, and that costs are minimised. After all, we believe all parts of society should benefit from this low carbon revolution, to have access to private and public electric vehicles and the health benefits of low or zero emissions.

We have already connected 7GW of renewables to our network – which is more than the peak demand for the whole of Scotland – which shows we have the capability to deliver a low carbon economy, but in order to be able to meet oncoming demand, to meet the targets set out by governments, there needs to be fundamental shift by policy makers and their understanding of our emerging energy system and its needs.

ambitious stage of the energy revolution and decarbonise our transport sector, it will be vital that energy network companies are able to invest in the required infrastructure, ahead of consumer demand, and at a pace that reflects local government plans so that people can be confident that they will be able to charge their cars when they need to.

Without that investment, it would be like today’s drivers getting to the petrol station on an empty tank and finding the pump dry.

Over the past ten years our energy system has moved from large, centralised power stations to much more local, distributed renewable generation. The new revolution is in transport and Ofgem has to move from centralised decision making and devolve this power to our communities who know best what is required locally to meet the challenges of this revolution at their own pace.

SP Energy Networks wants to help Scottish businesses and consumers benefit from the change to a low carbon economy. But that change begins at the roots – and the roots are the wires and cables which deliver electricity to all of us. They need to be ready to meet the challenges of the electric revolution ahead, and so we at SP Energy Networks can continue to make sure that on the list of the many challenges facing Scottish business, the electricity supply is not one of them.

While electric vehicles are driving the change to low carbon transport, an even larger decarbonisation project is looming.

More than half the energy used in Scotland is in the form of heat and a shift to electric heating is being seen as key to meeting climate change targets and reducing fuel poverty – as well as boosting the growing economy in renewable energy sources.

But the effective and efficient transformation of heating, just as with transport, is only possible through the innovation and skills of the electricity networks sector.

As with electric vehicles, it is the electricity network which will be the foundation of this step change in heating, and it will be SP Energy Networks which will ensure the grid is resilient and able to meet the new, increased, demand.

We are already leading on the active management of our network, and we consistently invest in the innovation which drives all our future planning; so fewer roads have to be dug up and less expensive copper put in the ground.

For instance, we recently received the green light from Ofgem to trial a project we are creating along with Fife Council, the University of St Andrews and others, to introduce a flexible, on-line, marketplace where consumers will become “prosumers” and be paid for being flexible in their electricity usage – opting to go off the grid and use their own stored power from solar, or heat pumps or even their electric vehicles’ batteries when demand is high.

The FUSION project will mean a gear change in how people interact with their electricity – no longer just being content to be passive users, but to actively generate it, store it and receive financial reward for being flexible with it.

Underlining our commitment to aiding this change, our £20m Green Economy Fund, which was launched earlier this year, will invest in low carbon heating projects, kickstarting community pilots in how to make the move to electric heating a reality.

Without doubt the electricity networks sector is changing rapidly and SP Energy Networks is determined to deliver a better future, quicker, for everyone.

And at the heart of it all is our commitment to ensuring that our customers can benefit from a network which is now more reliable, resilient and flexible than at any point in history and ideally placed to meet their future demands.

The existing policies that guide how we invest do not take sufficient account of regional differences, nor do they allow investment in infrastructure before the consumer demand exists. If we are to realise the next

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Helping your business lower fuel costs With the Scottish Government’s commitment to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2032, it’s time to consider your next car purchase. Whether you’re a sole trader or taxi driver with a single car or a large employer with a fleet we can help you make – and fund – a smart decision.

Our job is to offer impartial advice about the benefits and considerations of electric vehicles (EVs) and help you access interest-free loans and chargepoint grant funding for yourself and your business. We run free Switched On @Work workshops at workplaces across Scotland which answer all the questions that you or your employees might have. Call your local specialist transport advisor on 0800 0931 669 if you’d like to book a workshop. We can also offer free trials of ebikes lasting from 3 days to 3 weeks (subject to availability).

The top 3 questions we’re asked at workshops are: 1. What happens if I run out of power?

2. How fast does it go?

3. How much money can I save?

Ready for the rEVolution?

Discover the answers to these questions and find out more about electric vehicles for your business by requesting a free workshop.

Email sustainabletransport@est.org.uk or phone 0800 0931 669.

SC399 © October 2018

SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE / ENERGY FOCUS

Renewable Oil Services Ltd, Mid Williamshaw, Old Glasgow Road, Stewarton, East Ayrshire KA3 5JR

RENEWABLE OIL SERVICES ONSHORE AND OFFSHORE Renewable Oil Services Limited are the UK’s largest supplier of oil products and oil exchange services to the wind turbine industry across the UK and Ireland covering both the onshore and offshore markets. The company formally known as Peter Lonsdorfer UK Limited have been carrying out gearbox and hydraulic oil exchanges on wind turbines across the UK and Ireland with the use of our specialised oil pump trucks for over 10 years. Back in 2013 we were the first company worldwide to carry out a vessel mounted combined gear and hydraulic oil exchange on an offshore wind turbine using our specially designed and manufactured vessel mounted pumping system.

Innovation is a key part of our business and we are delighted to be at the forefront of the wind turbine service industry; designing,

manufacturing and operating our specialised equipment to ensure the cleanliness level of the wind turbine systems are maintained throughout the life of any operational wind turbine whilst achieving the minimal down time to carry out the gear, hydraulic, glycol coolant or main bearing greases exchanges and all at the highest health and safety standards possible.

As well as the supply of bulk oils for wind turbines we also supply other consumable products for the continued servicing of the wind turbines for example: gearbox and hydraulic oils supplied in 20 litre drums for top-up, glycol coolant, grease, filters, cleaning rags, oil absorbent pads, disposable gloves, etc. making us your one stop shop for all your industrial servicing needs.

01560 485 854 | inbox@renewableos.com | www.renewableos.com

Hospitality BIOMASS HEATING SCOTLAND

Does your business use a lot of heat?

Are you looking to reduce your CO2 footprint?

Would cheaper heating benefit your business?

Biomass heating might be the answer Heating with biomass massively reduces your CO2 footprint and can substantially reduce fuel bills. It also qualifies for 20 year Government support under the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme.

Call us for a free consultation and feasibility assessment

Care Homes

Offices

0800 234 6626 scotland@dunster.biz www.dunster.biz

Dunster Biomass Heating Unit 4, Horizon Scotland, The Enterprise Park, Forres IV36 2AB

Warehouses

Business Scotland

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THE GAELIC GAELIC

IN COLLEGE COLLEGE

SCOTLAND SCOTLAND

LEARN GAELIC GAELIC

CÙRSAICHEAN CÙRSAICHEAN AIR AIRASTAR ASTAR Faigh airson a a Faigh barrachd barrachd fiosrachaidh fiosrachaidhair aira’a’phrògram phrògramionnsachaidh ionnsachaidhairairastar astaragainn againn airson h-uile Gàidhlig a neartachadh. h-uile duine duine aatha thaag agiarraidh iarraidhGàidhlig Gàidhligionnsachadh ionnsachadhnonoanancuid cuid Gàidhlig a neartachadh.

Tha iomadh latha tòiseachaidh is clàr-ama againn agus bith na cùrsaichean againn gad Tha iomadh latha tòiseachaidh is clàr-ama againn agus bith na cùrsaichean againn gad fhàgail nas fhileanta sa chànan agus a’ leigeil leat a’ dhol air adhart gu ìre ceum oilthigh fhàgail nas fhileanta sa chànan agus a’ leigeil leat a’ dhol air adhart gu ìre ceum oilthigh tro tro mheadhan mheadhan na naGàidhlig.

Gàidhlig.

Find out more about our supported distance learning programme for anyone wishing Find out more about our supported distance learning programme for anyone wishing to learn or improve their Gaelic. With various entry dates and timetables to suit your to learn or improve their Gaelic. With various entry dates and timetables to suit your needs our courses are designed to enable you to become fluent in the language. ProneedsFind our out courses are designed to enable distance you to become fluent in the language.

Promorelevel about ourthrough supported for gression toout degree study the medium oflearning Gaelic isprogramme also available.

Find more about our supported distance learning programme for gression to degree level study through the medium of Gaelic is also available.

WWW.SMO.UHI.AC.UK astar@smo.uhi.ac.uk 01471 888449 WWW.SMO.UHI.AC.UK astar@smo.uhi.ac.uk 01471 888449

Because People Matter Sheila Fazal,

Turning Point Scotland board member

Enterprising approach to social challenges Turning Point Scotland is making social enterprise a key strategic priority as it prepares to enter a landmark 20th year. Set up in 1999, Turning Point Scotland is one of the country’s leading social care charities.

According to the Scottish Government, the social enterprise sector is worth £1.68 billion to our economy each year and supports more than 100,000 people in employment.

Turning Point Scotland board member, Sheila Fazal, believes developing existing social enterprise activity into a core part of what Turning Point Scotland does will have huge benefits: ‘The Turning Point Scotland Board are aware that the services we provide primarily support people part way through their life journey.

However, we can see the improved confidence

and social interactions of the people who are involved in Rosie’s cafe and gift shop in Aberdeen for example, our Rosie’s Retro retailer in Ayr and Rosie’s Orchard View cafe in Inverclyde. Many of our people go on to work at other social enterprises and we have seen the direct benefits to them through the development of life skills, improved mental health and the value of self within society.

These are all key components of what we call our ‘Citizenship approach.’

Boards of charities are also acutely aware of the pressure on funding and in order to be able to continue to meet their charitable objectives, achieve their social outcomes and deliver their services, alternative funding sources need to be sought out.

Social Enterprise is also a way of developing alternative income streams.’

54 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 1JL 0141 427 8200 turningpointscotland.com Registered charity SC028827

Enterprise-class ICT Managed Services For Every Business When everything else in your business is getting sharper and more able, how does your inhouse IT department compare?

These days, everything is getting smaller, smarter, more connected and more affordable. Everyday technology has given businesses everywhere unprecedented agility and reach.

But, when everything else in your business is getting sharper and more able, how does your in-house IT department compare?

At Dacoll Group Ltd, we know that every organisation needs an intelligent and responsive IT service, 24/7. Without it, you just can’t get on with the job of running your business.

But could your IT services be letting you down? Or costing you too much?

Dacoll Group Ltd can professionalise your IT infrastructure and services, with a price tag that may just surprise you. In fact, we will confidently provide the level of IT managed services that you’d expect to receive only from a tier 1 provider, but couldn’t afford.

Until now.

From our headquarters in the heart of Scotland, we provide a 24/7 service desk, manned by real people, whatever the hour.

In addition, our UK-wide fleet of skilled engineers means that we will come right to your own desk for those manual fixes. These, and other services, are tailor-made to fit your needs, whatever your size, so that you get the best value support possible.

We’re a family-run business, and we know all about the daily pressures of running your own company. Because of that, our people care about your IT and its smooth running as much as we do our own.

So, let us take care of your ICT. And you can get back to work. sales@dacoll.co.uk | www.dacollgroup.co.uk

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BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

CalMac encourages new awareness of wildlife Over the summer volunteers on CalMac ferries spotted more than 500 marine mammals across the west coast as part of the company’s Marine Awareness Programme.

The Awareness Programme has involved a total of 14 conservation bodies who have partnered with CalMac to gather vital scientific data and to educate passengers more about the environment they are travelling in.

A team of more than 60 wildlife enthusiasts compiled the survey results that tracked different species on different routes as part of the programme.

They were supervised by resident ORCA Wildlife Officer Andy Gilbert, who, was taken on this year to increase understanding of the wealth of biodiversity that exists in CalMac’s area of operations.

‘Our Marine Awareness Programme focuses on increasing awareness of wildlife in our network by gathering scientific data, facilitating conservation and engaging with the public, Andy has been central to this over the past few months,’ said CalMac’s

Environmental Manager, Klare Chamberlain.

As well as training survey volunteers, during his time with CalMac he has also engaged with more 2200 people on board during 45 trips, explaining about nature on the islands and demonstrating techniques to find wildlife.

‘Wildlife tourism is growing on both a global and local scale and now accounts a significant amount of the total spend across the tourism sector in Scotland. Scottish Natural Heritage research suggests that we sail in one of the most attractive eco-tourism destinations in the world,’ said Klare.

It is estimated that CalMac’s area of operations contains as much as 6500 different species of plants an animals.

‘As well as having a duty to help protect this environment by gathering as much data as we can, we can also play a role in promoting

the wealth of wildlife we have in our area as a way of helping to sustain and grow island economies.’

CalMac is considering expanding the Wildlife Officer programme next summer and the Marine Awareness surveys will kick off again in April.

‘We are exploring a number of options to expand the Wildlife Officer programme next year, this may include information sessions on board and extra services on some of our most biodiverse routes. We are also looking at expanding our information sessions on board to engage with even more people,’ added Klare.

The survey information is compiled for ORCA, a UK whale and dolphin conservation charity dedicated to their long-term protection. Marine bird surveys coordinated

by Joint Nature Conservation Committee are due to start in early 2019.

Wildlife tourism is growing on both a global and local scale and now accounts a significant amount of the total spend across the tourism sector in Scotland. Scottish Natural Heritage research suggests that we sail in one of the most attractive eco-tourism destinations in the world Business Scotland

56

CHAMBER NEWS

Climate change is on the business agenda now Climate change is no longer just a concern for a few ‘green’ businesses. It’s on the agenda in the boardrooms of most of Scotland’s largest companies.

By Gina Hanrahan

Head of Policy at WWF Scotland We know this because of a recent poll we conducted of Scottish firms with 250+ employees. The overwhelming majority (85%) said they believe climate change poses a risk to their business.

It’s encouraging that so many firms are aware of the many chronic and severe risks climate change poses to our planet’s natural and financial systems. Indeed the Bank of England recently mandated that all banks have to appoint a senior executive to report to the board on climate risk.

It’s not all doom and gloom though – we don’t all need to pack our bags and go home. The actions we need to tackle climate change, like building warmer homes, developing new modes of transport and modernising how we grow our food also present huge innovation and economic opportunities for forward-thinking businesses in Scotland.

Many businesses are waking up to these opportunities, but others, particularly SMEs, seem less prepared according to our poll findings. That’s understandable, when it can be harder for smaller companies to horizon scan on their own. That’s why it’s critical that SMEs are supported too, and that’s where networks like the Chamber of Commerce come in to support, guide and advocate for the right solutions for all businesses, large and small, as we make the transition to a zero carbon economy.

The best way for Scotland to minimise the threat posed by climate change and maximise the opportunities arising from our response is for Scotland to continue to take a world-leading role, as businesses across the country clearly seem to understand, with 85% calling for Scotland to exert leadership in this space.

We recently brought together some key business leaders that are adapting to climate risk and captialising on the opportunities presented in reducing emissions at an event.

A packed room of business leaders and politicians listened with interest to speakers including Keith Anderson, Chief Executive of Scottish Power, Michael Alexander, Head of Environment, Water, Agriculture and Sustainability at Diageo, and Sarah Williams, Public Affairs Manager at the Aldersgate Group, which represents a group of companies with a combined £600 billion turnover. All three spoke eloquently about the challenges climate change brings to their businesses and what action they are

taking to deal with them and catalyse new products, services and business models for the future.

WWF Scotland believes that working with businesses is essential if we’re to achieve positive change for the planet. Some companies have already made positive advances, while others are unsure about how to go about it.

Sometimes the biggest changes can come about by forming challenging relationships and creating constructive solutions together.

Recently WWF announced a partnership with Tesco with the aim that in ten years the environmental footprint of the average UK shopping trolley will be halved.

Working with business is a critical component to achieving large-scale, long lasting environmental and social benefits.

We hope that by continuing the conversation, businesses of all shapes and sizes will help us all adapt to the challenges climate change brings.

Scotland’s expertise places us in pole position to reap the economic and social benefits of a modern, greener economy and we encourage more businesses to explore the new market opportunities of a low-carbon economy.

Charandeep Singh – Head of External Relations

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Loganair Limited Four new routes are being introduced by Scotland’s Airline, Loganair from Edinburgh airport as part of its summer 2019 schedule.

Named last month as European Regional Airline of the Year, Loganair will introduce regular year-round services to the Norwegian cities of Bergen and Stavanger, a new airlink to Islay and seasonal flights to Guernsey.

Both Bergen and Stavanger have thriving business communities, home to vibrant oil and gas, maritime and aquaculture industries.

Islay is another region which is booming, with a year-round tourist industry attracting whisky connoisseurs from across the world.

The new air routes will also be welcome to people from the Inner Hebrides visiting Edinburgh, potentially to use Loganair’s wide network of onward international destinations with some of the biggest airlines in the world.

Kay Ryan, commercial director of Loganair said: “I’m delighted to launch four brand new

routes from Scotland’s capital, significantly expanding our presence at Edinburgh.”

popular to people looking for a short break after a busy week or travelling for business.

“It marks the first phase of our summer 2019 schedule announcements, and we expect to make more in the coming months across our network.

With international connections via our ‘better connected’ programme with our rapidly growing group of airline partners, we’re confident these routes will also increase customer demand in both directions, as passengers from Norway and Islay use Edinburgh as their gateway to the world.”

“We know that Stavanger and Bergen will be of interest to both corporate customers and have no doubt that Islay will prove very

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Award-winning businesswoman shines in Dunbartonshire Women-owned businesses are now responsible for creating 231k Scottish jobs and contribute an estimated £8.8bn GVA to the Scottish economy. If women were to set up businesses at the same rate as men, this would add £13bn to the Scottish economy or the equivalent of 100,000 new businesses.

Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce launched its highly successful Dunbartonshire Women in Business Programme last year designed to provide the opportunity for women in Dunbartonshire to connect, learn, be inspired and set up and grow businesses in the area.

Dunbartonshire Chamber member, Emma Armstrong of B-ABLE Business Services, is a shining example of a businesswoman making a real impact to establish and grow a highly successful business.

Emma started working for herself after being made redundant as an office manager in the credit crunch of 2008 before moving to the accounts department of an Audi servicing and repair business during which time she focused on attaining her first professional qualifications. Emma’s mix of financial management and organisational skills led to a full time General Manager position and, separate from this, she built an 80-strong client base for her bookkeeping services.

Emma took the decision to set up her own full-time business in May 2012 when she took space in a local business centre in her hometown of Clydebank and established B-ABLE Business Services. By June of the following year the client base had expanded to more than 150 and Emma took on her first part-time member of staff. Encouraged by the demand for, and successful delivery of, B-ABLE’s services the business re-located to some former retail units to create new offices that were subsequently purchased and refurbished. Within 2 years of the relocation the number of clients had risen to more than 500 leading to the employment of 2 full-time bookkeepers and a part-time

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admin assistant. During this time the range of services was expanded to provide a more comprehensive offer taking in mailboxes, hot-desks, meeting facilities and payroll management.

Earlier this year B-ABLE continued its upward trajectory by acquiring an old church hall in Clydebank which has been transformed into a new business centre fitted-out to meet the needs of the current staffing and client levels.

Multi-award-winning B-ABLE Business Services now has more than 1000 clients, a turnover of around £300,000, employing 9 staff at its new premises.

A comprehensive range of services now take in Bookkeeping, Accountancy, Payroll and access to the new business facilities.

Expansion plans include rolling the business model out to multiple locations across the region.

Emma puts much of her success down to the approach the business takes to its customers: “We have carved out a bit of a niche to not only provide a full range of business services but also to build a really strong understanding of client needs, taking the time to get to know them and providing a lot of added value through the advice and support we offer to help them grow their business. The reality is that if our clients do well so do we, especially if we have played a part in helping them work more effectively and grow so we put that relationship at the heart of everything we do.”

Emma has been lined up to share her business journey at an upcoming

Chamber event as part of the Chamber’s Dunbartonshire Women in Business programme.

Damon Scott, Chief Executive, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, adds: “Women are increasingly becoming the job creators and growth drivers both in Scotland and throughout the UK. Emma’s entrepreneurial spirit is infectious, she has a real passion for her business and for delivering great quality services for her clients to help them grow. I am delighted to have B-ABLE as a valuable member of the Chamber and continue to pass some of Emma’s knowledge and enthusiasm on to our other members.”

Emma Armstrong MICB/ACPA won “Professional of the Year” at this years’ Scottish Women’s Awards.

For more information about B-ABLE Business Services visit: b-able.co.uk

Dunbartonshire Women in Business Dunbartonshire Chamber launched Dunbartonshire Women in Business in 2017 to create a programme of events and opportunities to support women in business or those considering setting up in business.

A range of guest speakers have presented so far from business transformation specialists to those that have unique and inspirational business journeys to share. All the events have an element of networking built in to encourage guests to build connections, share knowledge and provide support to peers.

To find out more about the Dunbartonshire Chamber, or to join go to www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

How to make a quantum leap in your productivity The UK is facing a crisis in productivity. Since the 2007 financial crisis, the rest of the G7 have recovered twice as well relative to British performance. This slow down in productivity has been more acutely felt in the UK than almost every other OECD state. It’s time for change.

Traditional solutions to transforming productivity are failing. By disrupting these conventions, and adopting a radical new philosophy of change, we can make a quantum leap in individual, business and national productivity.

Concord holds the key to making that happen.

The D4 Difference The D4 method of business transformation practised by Concord, achieves greater returns in shorter timescales, fundamentally transforming the productivity of a business.

The method identifies new and innovative ways of exploring business processes and working behaviours to optimise effectiveness and efficiency. Alan Fowler, developer of the D4 method, puts it this way: “Efficiency and effectiveness is all about sharing a vivid and tangible picture of what the end result is to be and then constantly re-planning to achieve it. Does anyone doubt that Christmas will come? Does anyone doubt that the Olympic Games will open on its scheduled date? When faced with immovable goals, people will come up with radical ways to meet them.”

A different way of planning The traditional notion of change management suggests that you work

forwards in time – planning from the start. A traditional business plan works from left to right - you analyse and plan change against the individual processes that contribute towards the whole. This is a ‘bottom-up’ approach which too often gets mired in excessive short-term detail, to the detriment of the end objective.

The D4 method works back to the causes of change - from the future, backwards, from right-to-left. Rejecting the notion of measurement that focuses solely on numbers and statistics, the D4 method delivers both qualitative change in the form of business change, as well as financial and numerical outcomes.

Better behaviour The efficiency and effectiveness of a workforce can be influenced by changing its behaviour. However, behaviours are stubbornly immovable and resistant to change.

The D4 approach engages everyone on an equal level, regardless of their position and seniority. Gaining that buy-in shifts the perception of a transformation from something being done to the workforce, to something done with them. Everyone becomes aware of their role in the big picture, and embedded support mechanisms ensure that the entire team works in unison.

When teams can see the future and understand how their role specifically influences the end objective, they are more willing and able to contribute ideas and options. Objections can be more readily addressed and overcome. Those with the strongest opinions often become the strongest advocates when the outcomes and benefits are clear.

Transforming workforce productivity by changing behaviours will mean new ways of thinking and developing new habits.

However, the costs of doing this are low and it is less disruptive than implementing new technologies in the hope of gaining a productivity advantage.

Having the right people, with the right skills, who understand how they contribute to the objectives of the business is the key to increasing both efficiency and effectiveness, and therefore productivity.

How can you achieve this for your company Concord is here to help you make that quantum leap in productivity, and is already contributing to the broader recovery of the struggling UK economy.

To learn more about Concord, and how you can make it work for you please do take action today and contact us to find out about our next event or connect with a local practitioner who can tell you more. enquiries@ctaglobal.net

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CELEBRATING SUCCESS

Full List of Award Winners: ASB Young Inspiring Businesswoman of the Year Olivia Conlon, ThePropertyStagers ASB Most Innovative Start-up of the Year Diana Parusheva, Bhaile Craft Bakery ASB Young Business of the Year Fiona Wilson, The Edinburgh Practice ASB Employee of the Year Leslie Craig, Break the Silence ASB Best Performing Team of the Year Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce ASB Community Commitment Menopause Café ASB Recognition of Outstanding Contribution Tricia Fox, Volpa Liz Cameron OBE, CEO, SCC with Fiona Rosamond, President of Ayrshire Businesswomen and Wendy Maltman, Past President of the Association of Scottish Businesswomen

Association of Scottish Businesswomen Awards The Association of Scottish Businesswomen hosted their National Business Awards at the Apex City Quay Hotel in Dundee.

Visiting ASB members were given the opportunity to make the most of the trip to the City of Discovery, with a design challenge at the newly opened V & A museum, in order to introduce them to Design Thinking, and solve problems that come up within their business.

The event itself was a showcase and celebration of the many great achievements of women working across all sectors in Scotland. Sponsored by Re:markable and Gallaghers Insurance, the evening gave out awards in twelve different categories

to both members and non-members, with 50 of Scotland’s best and brightest businesswomen and professionals being named finalists before the event.

Attendees were treated to a keynote speech from Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive, Liz Cameron OBE. Liz highlighted the importance of values-based businesses and cascading those core values to the everyday operations of business including customer service, employee engagement and investment decisions.

Wendy Maltman, President of the ASB,

The Association of Scottish Businesswomen is so incredibly proud to play an integral role in shining a spotlight on the many successful and inspiring women in our business communities.

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Commendation Theresa Slevin, Journeycall ASB Professional of the Year Mary Geaney, Rossie Young People’s Trust Commendation Louise Potter, Lothian Psychological Assessments Ltd ASB Exporting Business of the Year Louise Tierney, Lash Inc ASB Most Enterprising Business of the Year Nicola Martin, Small City, Big Personality ASB Business of the Year Jacqui Taylor, Lifelink ASB Best Affiliated Group of the Year Ayrshire Business Women

said “I’m absolutely delighted to welcome such high calibre finalists to ‘Scotland’s coolest little city’ at such an exciting time in its history. Dundee is really buzzing at the moment and it serves as the perfect backdrop to honour these amazing business women.

“The Association of Scottish Businesswomen is so incredibly proud to play an integral role in shining a spotlight on the many successful and inspiring women in our business communities by facilitating the awards and giving the opportunity to praise and reward the most talented women for their achievements in business and in the community, recognising their hard work and dedication.”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ROCCO 2018 Categories and Winners Excellence in Customer Services sponsored by the Scottish Leather Group Polly Rose Ltd Developing the Young Workforce West - sponsored by Developing the Young Workforce (West) NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde – Workforce Employability Team Innovation & Technology - sponsored by Creation IP Terumo Aortic Excellence in Manufacturing - sponsored by University of the West of Scotland Rolls-Royce Plc International Trade - sponsored by Glasgow Airport Bridge of Weir Leather Company Ltd

Record Success at ROCCO Awards 2018 A sell-out crowd of 500 people witnessed 17 Awards presented at ROCCO 2018 on Friday 16th November at the Normandy Hotel Renfrew.

Renfrewshire’s principal business event now in its 15th year was sponsored by Paisley. is, the new destination brand for Paisley and Renfrewshire. Chamber President Tom Johnston welcomed the audience warmly and showcased the chamber’s achievements in the last year.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance Derek Mackay MSP spoke as a special guest and emphasised the economic success and future investments coming to the area, acknowledging the vital contribution of the Chamber to the local economy.

Deputy Council Leader Jim Paterson gave the main sponsor address and highlighted the opportunities showcased via the Paisley. is destination website, considered the place to find out all that is happening in Paisley and Renfrewshire. The audience were given paisley.is branding toolkits and encouraged to use the new brand on their own media channels to help promote Renfrewshire to the world.

The ROCCO raffle raised a record-breaking £11,000 with individual pledges of £1000 each from intu Braehead and the Normandy Hotel for local charities and good causes with main beneficiaries St Vincent’s Hospice

and Paisley YMCA’s digital fabrication project.

The outstanding entertainment was provided by talented emerging artists from Scottish Opera; Mezzo-soprano Bethan Langford, pianist Erika Gundesen and soprano Lucy Anderson. General Director Alex Reedijk emphasised the importance of young people building on three sell-out shows of Pagliacci in the summer at Paisley Opera House.

He noted the support of the community in bringing these performances to life.

ROCCO favourite Fred MacAulay hosted and was enthralled by all three performers.

The ROCCO audience were in awe of the talented artists who received thunderous applause. The ROCCO Twitter Wall proved a great hit with all the guests and saw #2018ROCCO trending on the night reaching almost 300,000 accounts and 1.1 million impressions.

Commenting on the awards, Chamber chief executive Bob Grant said “ROCCO 2018 will be remembered as a ROCCO record-breaker.

The event sold out in record time, we had a record number of awards and raised a record amount for our two ROCCO charites.

Invest in Renfrewshire - sponsored by Invest in Renfrewshire / Renfrewshire Council Carli’s Kindergarten Ltd Most Promising New Business - sponsored by Business Gateway Shore Wraps Ltd Renfrewshire’s Favourite Business - sponsored by the Paisley Daily Express Pandamonium Playcentre Excellence in Tourism - sponsored by Paisley.is Ingliston Country Club & Hotel Family Business of the Year - sponsored by the Malcolm Group Ingram Brothers Ltd Young Business Person of the Year - sponsored by West College Scotland Andrew McMillan & Ryan McIlravey – FE Live Audio Employer of the Year - sponsored by Rolls-Royce Ingliston Country Club & Hotel Community Champion of the Year - sponsored by Engage Renfrewshire & Royal Bank of Scotland Klas Care C.I.C. Ltd Outstanding Business <5 employees - sponsored by intu Braehead FE Live Audio Ltd Outstanding Business <25 employees - sponsored by Renfrewshire Council Allstaff Ltd Outstanding Business >25 employees - sponsored by Terumo Aortic Wholesale Domestic Equipment Company Ltd Business Leader of the Year - sponsored by Diageo Jonathan Hinkles – Managing Director, Loganair Ltd

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Unique Courses DISCOVER DIVERSITY IN DUNDEE

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Independent College of Higher Education Dundee, Scotland

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Arabic Language Islamic Economics & Finance Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies Business & Management

All of our courses are fully SCQF credit-rated by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)

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Focus on Training and Development

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DISCOVER DIVERSITY IN DUNDEE

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Discover Diversity at Al-Maktoum College

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Dundee’s Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education is in a unique position to help individuals looking to expand their prospects, make a career change, or to progress on to further academic qualifications.

On completion of the course, participants can expect to have:

Study at Al-Maktoum College The Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education is pleased to be offering two new Higher National courses to its curricular, HNC/HND in Business and HNC/Diploma in Management & Leadership.

• Developed knowledge and skills required for employment in business/ managerial environments • A global understanding of business, management and leadership issues

Both courses are set to begin in September 2019 and will adopt a flexible approach to teaching and learning, offering participants the opportunity to study either full-time or part-time to suit individual circumstances.

In studying with Al-Maktoum College, participants will gain a broad spectrum of highly sought-after skills. The courses are heavily theory based and are designed to provide a fundamental understanding of business operations and management/ leadership principles.

In both, Business and in Management & Leadership, courses will run with a strong managerial focus and will enable individuals to develop the skills needed to progress on to business management roles. In addition, the course units are deliberately broad, and individuals will

• A set of enhanced transferable skills which comply to the demand of employers • Competencies in a range of specialist areas of choice in line with preferred career pattern • Innovative and creative approaches to study mandatory units followed by optional units. These units cover aspects such as Business Accounting, IT Skills in Business and Management, Marketing, Business Law and Customer Care. Such a wide range of options will enable candidates to also progress on to specialist roles such as Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Financial Services.

work, with the ability to respond quickly to the challenges posed by changes in environments • Enabled progression within the SCQF framework and to further professional, academic or vocational qualifications • Developed study and research skills.

Discover Courses

As well as higher national courses, Al-Maktoum College offers a range of qualifications in Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, as well as Islamic Economics and Finance.

Courses are open to individuals from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities.

For more information, please visit almcollege.org.uk/study

What makes Al-Maktoum College different?

The independently-funded Al-Maktoum College was founded in 2001 and was established with the aim of promoting multiculturalism and greater understanding, while building bridges between communities through its promotion of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies.

Exclusively to Scotland, the Al-Maktoum College will be the first educational institution to allow individuals the opportunity to study basic Arabic language (an introductory certificate) as an optional unit, alongside their chosen course (HNC/D). Learning to speak, write and read in Arabic could prove of interest to those working in businesses or managerial roles dealing with Arabic speakers, or to individuals seeking to create new opportunities. Adding to the uniqueness of the course, all staff teaching Arabic language are native Arabic speakers and will present an authentic teaching and learning experience for participants.

For those also interested in working in Middle Eastern countries, the HNC/D courses will provide a unique teaching perspective and insight vital to international business, management and leadership. The College prides itself in its Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies expertise and are keen to incorporate aspects of these studies into courses, enhancing participants prospects.

Overall, the HNC/D in Business, and in Management and Leadership are contemporary courses and have been designed to have a wide-range appeal. The opportunity to study the Arabic language may help them to stand out against other candidates with similar qualifications from other educational institutions.

Study options

Full time - 7 months Part time - from 12 weeks (1 semester) up to 3 years Flexible Learning - classes are offered in the daytime and evening

Fees & Funding

Information on fees can be found here: almcollege.org.uk/study/fees There are also a range of scholarships and bursaries available: almcollege.org.uk/study/availablebursaries

How do I apply?

Apply online: almcollege.org.uk/study/how-to-apply

Discover More online at

almcollege.org.uk

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

National Apprenticeship Week 4th - 8th March 2019 The 12th annual National Apprenticeship Week - is set to take place in March 2019.

This annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships will bring the whole apprenticeship community together to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy.

Following the most successful National Apprenticeship Week ever that took place earlier this year, National Apprenticeship Week 2019 – which also coincides with National Careers Week - will look to involve more individuals, employers, partners and providers in activities that highlight the benefits apprenticeships bring to employers and the opportunities apprenticeships present to individuals.

National Apprenticeship Week 2018 was record-breaking: with 780 events taking place across England. The ambition of delivering a 10,000 talks movement -

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#10kTalks – to inspire the next generation of apprentices in schools across the country was exceeded, reaching over 33,500 people.

Over 300 schools joined the 10,000 talks movement and a further 130 schools also hosted teacher-to-teacher talks - reaching an additional 2,300 individuals. The Big Assembly reached 20,000 people with a live video stream - showcasing apprentices and employers sharing their apprenticeships stories. Events also took place to celebrate International Women’s Day, apprenticeships diversity and a launch event with the BBC and Sutton Trust included the announcement of a new ground-breaking apprenticeship programme.

Keith Smith, Apprenticeships Director, Education and Skills Funding Agency said: National Apprenticeship Week is an important date in the academic calendar and I am delighted to announce the date for National Apprenticeship Week 2019.

The success of previous National Apprenticeship Weeks’, especially during

2018, tells us that one week dedicated to celebrating, promoting and realising the importance of apprenticeships and their impact enables an apprenticeship movement across our sector. This movement sees employers, providers, partners and apprentices themselves grasp the opportunity and get involved in our celebration, creating fascinating events and opportunities to share the many benefits apprenticeship bring.

More detail, including the theme, will be confirmed over coming months. I am hopeful that by sharing the date 6 months in advance of the week partners will start to plan some new and exciting activity that they will run during National Apprenticeship Week 2019.

More information on National Apprenticeship Week 2019 will be announced on GOV.UK and on social media channels. Follow @Apprenticeships on Twitter and National Apprenticeship Service on LinkedIn to keep up to date

TRANSFORM YOUR FUTURE GLASGOW MBA Realise your true potential with our world class, one year MBA. Learn practical skills with 1:1 focus, in a triple accredited business school. glasgow.ac.uk/mba #GlasgowMBA Adam Smith Business School is triple accredited by

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

Proving his metal One man’s journey from the steelyards of Clydeside to an MBA and beyond Do you know what the Isle of Cumbrae, an ironman competition and an MBA have in common? Read on to find out more: You might associate MBAs with the traditional route of an undergraduate degree, postgraduate study and a little experience of the working world thrown in too, but some people take a different path.

Stevie Mitchell left school in 1988 and didn’t go on to higher education, instead, taking up a role as an apprentice plater at Clydeside Engineers - James Howden & Co. Until that point no one in his family had been to university.

Yet Stevie had a thirst to learn. Having completed his apprenticeship at Yarrow Shipbuilders, and while working as a plater, he signed up for and self-financed several courses at evening school including one in computer-aided design.

Just as he completed the course, an opportunity came up for a secondment in the design office using his new found skills.

It was a serendipitous move which proved a turning point in Stevie’s career, leading to contract design work around the globe.

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During the following decade, Stevie built up an impressive roll-call of clients in the engineering, construction, petrochemicals, and oil & gas industries.

Upon applying for a new design role, Stevie was surprised to be offered a job as a project engineer at an oil refinery. The role quickly grew in remit, following new regulations brought in after the Buncefield explosion and Stevie set to work putting the right controls, procedures and management in place, soon making his mark.

Never one to rest on his laurels and always looking to develop his skills, it was about this time that a new idea took root – to study for an MBA. Stevie began his search for a course that would fit in around his commitments and one stood out, the MBA offered at the University of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School.

Stevie explains: “From the start, the Business School was interested in what I had to contribute to the course, along with what the MBA would offer me and this fresh perspective intrigued me. Instead of giving

me the hard sell, as some business schools had done or simply taking a laissez-faire attitude along the lines of ‘well by all means apply and we’ll see how you get on’, Glasgow took a different approach.

“From my first phone call, the Business School took an interest in me as an individual. Instead of doubting whether I was capable of taking an MBA given I hadn’t been in full-time education for a while and didn’t possess an undergraduate degree – they looked at things differently. The team at Glasgow recognised the value of my experience and helped me to recognise it too – giving me the confidence to study for an MBA. “I was chatting to the Business School one day – still undecided as to which particular course to sign up for or how to study, maybe part-time, maybe distance learning. I’d assumed I’d work full-time, whilst shoehorning the MBA in around my job – when someone suggested– ‘Have you thought of studying full-time?’.

“I hadn’t, but focusing on the course

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT - UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

full-time really appealed. Not only would I complete the course sooner, but I could give the course my full attention, thereby giving me the best chance of success.

“The idea crystallised and I made my choice I chose the Adam Smith Business School and to take the leap of studying full-time. I was blown away with the support that had been offered to me and this support continued throughout the course and beyond.

“The School put a lot of thought into who they accepted on the course. We were a diverse group of people, some of whom were local like me, whilst others came from around the world, we all had different things to contribute, yet we gelled really well. I was pleased to find that I wasn’t made to feel like an elder statesman – I was just one of the students, like everyone else.

“Both those leading the MBA and those who’d joined the course became a closeknit community. We still keep in touch now and few days go by when we don’t connect on social media. Those of us based in the Glasgow area meet up when we can.

“Studying full-time when you have the responsibilities of a family or a job can be a challenge, but it also makes you more focused and determined. I was at the library each morning from 7 am, fitting in a couple of hours of studying before lectures began.

“I found this the best way to devote time to the course whilst being there for my family and supporting my children at after-school activities. It’s possible, you just have to be organised and a little bit tenacious, and every now and again accept you’ll have a day when it doesn’t all come together – and that’s okay.”

That same tenacity has seen Stevie enter ironman competitions and swim around the Isle of Cumbrae, for which he spent months preparing, swimming, weight training and sitting in ice-filled baths to acclimatise himself to the sea.

“Aside from the main course content, and our electives, the University gave us a huge amount of support, from mentoring and career advice to CV reviews and you can’t put a price on that.

More value was added as this support didn’t stop with the last lecture - the Business School continues to go the extra mile for us.

“Now I am pleased to be reciprocating. I was asked to speak this the next MBA group in 2016 and also assisted the business school in their successful reapplication for both AMBA and EQUIS accreditation. If you’d asked me several years ago if I’d be doing this, I wouldn’t have envisaged it at all. The MBA has improved my confidence no end, I’ve learnt to build a rapport with people from all backgrounds, at all levels of an organisation and as a result my

collaborative working has improved too.

“During the course, we completed a consultative project working with a business on a live problem and through this, one of the companies we contacted offered me part-time work on several projects. Several months down the line, I was delighted to receive a job offer from them, which I took up immediately after graduating. It proved a great opportunity to apply what I’d learnt on the MBA. “My advice to prospective students would be – make the most of every opportunity you are offered on the course – you don’t know where it will lead.

“Today, I am the Programme manager of a £330m+ Energy from Waste Plant EPC project. It’s not a job I’m likely to have been offered without the MBA – in fact, both my earlier experience and my qualifications dovetail perfectly in this role. A lot of the job involves negotiating with a wide range of stakeholders and the Glasgow MBA equipped me to meet this challenge.

“Completing the MBA took my career to a new level – it enabled me to take the leap from a managerial role to working at more of an executive level - which is quite a long way to come for a lad who once worked as an apprentice plater. When I stepped into the steelyard that first morning, I could never have envisaged the path my life would take.”

Today, I am the Programme manager of a £330m+ Energy from Waste Plant EPC project. It’s not a job I’m likely to have been offered without the MBA. Business Scotland

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FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Training is an award-winning Health & Safety Consultancy and Training organisation based in Prestwick, South Ayrshire which supports clients throughout Scotland.

Our Managing Director, Iain MacKay, has over 25 years operational management experience and over 20 years Health & Safety Training and Consultancy experience.

We support five main industry sectors: Health & Social Care: Care Homes and Community based Manufacturing: Aviation, Publishing, Food Production and Fabrication Hospitality: Hotels and Restaurants Further Education: Health & Safety for Colleges and Apprenticeships Construction : Small to Medium sized Building and Maintenance Contractors.

Our training ethos is simply to deliver what our customers require in order to comply with industry sector due diligence without restricting course content. Bespoke is our favourite mantra and not just delivering what accreditation bodies say is required.

The feedback from our direct delivery session are always extremely positive which leads to repeat business. Indeed, we are the preferred training provider for an increasing number of national companies and groups.

In October 2018, IM Training were awarded “Best Safety and Social Care Training Company” by SME News Our services range from creating Health & Safety Policies, Risk Assessments Method Statements and other compliance documents to delivering in-house and on-line Health & Safety training in over 50 topics.

For further information please go to our website www.imtraininguk.com or contact us on 0800 112 3359.

“Caring About Health and Safety”

Tailored training with an element of entertainment means that candidates enjoy and understand the sessions better and are more likely to embrace the important legislative messages delivered.

Delivering quality training to the transport and logistics industry Since the establishment of Jim Mair Driver Training Ltd in 1991, we have grown to be the leading training provider in Ayrshire and South West of Scotland.

With our modern fleet of vehicles and friendly instructors who have over 25 years of experience, learning to drive with Jim Mair Driver Training Ltd is made more comfortable and relaxed.

As well as LGV training we now offer a more comprehensive range of training courses for the transport and logistics industry, these include Driver CPC, Forklift, Telehandler, Lorry Loader, MEWPS, Health & Safety courses and many more.

Due to the high demand for training from our Individual Customers, Local Authorities and Businesses over the years we have now relocated to our new extensive premises which will allow us to continue to expand and provide you with our great service to suit your individual training requirements.

23 Whitfield Drive, Heathfield, Ayr KA8 9RX | 01560 600060 | email@jimmairdrivertraining.com Business Scotland

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A world leading business school on your doorstep

Strathclyde Business School is an innovative and entrepreneurial organisation, influencing business education as part of a leading technological University.

We understand the importance of global thinking. Our Masters programmes are consistently ranked among the best in the UK – and around the world. We introduced the first one year full time MBA to the UK in 1966 and we continue to introduce innovative business programmes, and bespoke executive education, to suit the demands of an evolving business world.

Our acclaimed MBA programme can be studied on a full time, part time or flexible learning basis which means you don’t have to give up the day job – or travel far – to get a world class MBA.

EDUCATION

HIGHER

TIMES

www.strath.ac.uk/business

SELECT and SQA — Meeting National Standards for Scotland’s Electricians

Using the Scottish Qualifications Authority’s Customised Awards service, organisations can design their own qualifications. SQA Customised Awards are unique qualifications developed in partnership with, and owned by, the partner organisation to meet their business needs, and demonstrate quality and industry compliance.

SELECT has been an SQA approved centre since 1999, delivering a variety of qualifications for Scotland’s electricians, with a commitment to providing high quality training for the industry.

As the first trade association in the world to serve the electrical industry, SELECT provide support to over 1200 member companies, and work closely with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) who run the only industry approved training scheme for electrical apprenticeships in Scotland. Apprentice electricians work to achieve their SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualifications) in Electrical Installation at SCQF level 7 (jointly awarded by the SQA and the Scottish Joint Industry Body (SJIB)).

Completing the SVQ and their apprenticeship is just the start! To stay up-to-date with changes in technology and regulations, electricians need to update their skills and training throughout their careers. To meet this need, SELECT designed a variety of SQA Customised Awards.

SELECT originally developed the SQA (SELECT) Customised Award in Design and Verification of Electrical Installations.

This qualification is for practising electricians who want an in-depth knowledge on how to design Electrical Installations.

It is delivered over three training days and includes home study. The qualification is also credit rated on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at SCQF level 7.

In 2013, SELECT and SQA developed three additional Customised Awards to provide important training on BS 7671 – the UK national standard for electrical installation and the safety of electrical wiring in domestic, industrial, and other buildings: • Requirements for Electrical Installations to BS 7671 — Developed for practising electricians and others responsible for ensuring that electrical installations are installed and commissioned in accordance with current requirements.

• Initial Verification of Electrical Installations to BS 7671 — Developed for practising electricians who wish to keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date in relation to inspection, testing and certification of new electrical installations as well as additions and alterations to existing installations.

• Inspection & Testing of Electrical Installations to BS 7671 (incl. Periodic Inspection & Testing) — Developed for electrical practitioners involved in the inspection and testing of both new and existing electrical installations.

The qualification is also credit rated at SCQF level 7.

Training for these courses is delivered by tutors from SELECT at venues across Scotland. An online course on BS 7671 is a compulsory element in two of the awards, but is available to candidates on any of BS 7671 courses. The online format provides flexibility for learners.

Elaine Ellis, Qualifications and Skills Development Manager at SELECT, believes SQA Customised Awards are of significant value to the trade: “Working with SQA and designing Customised Awards has been invaluable. During development, we redesigned existing training to ensure the content and training methodologies used met the needs of the industry.

We also developed additional assessment materials for each of the courses to ensure that our learners not only enjoy the training, but, through assessment, can prove that they have a clear understanding of the course content.

At the delivery stage we ensured high quality and consistency. Yearly visits by an SQA External Verifier have been valuable. These visits highlight good practice and help ensure we stay on the right track. They also drive consistency for learners and have encouraged us to have robust administrative processes and quality assurance in place.”

This partnership between SQA and SELECT has proven extremely positive for the electrical industry in Scotland, Elaine continues: “We value our relationship with SQA and the Customised Awards process. The qualifications are a real mark of quality.

From a candidate perspective, it provides them with a SQA and SELECT jointly badged certificate which allows them to demonstrate the quality of the training to their employers and any other stakeholders.

The numbers of candidates we have going through the Customised Awards is a testament to how much the industry values them. Training numbers have been rising and continue to do so. We have a lot of repeat business and deliver BS 7671 training to many well-known organisations.”

Theresa McGowan, Regional Manager at SQA, is delighted with the difference SQA and SELECT are making to the electrical industry in Scotland: “As Scotland’s National Awarding Body, we support qualifications and skills in key sectors nationwide.

I’ve worked with SELECT for a number of years and I am delighted to see that their commitment to providing high quality skills and training for electricians is going from strength to strength.

SQA Customised Awards give our customers the flexibility to design their own qualifications, to a high quality, specific to their needs. Our dedicated Business Development and Customised Awards teams can support a variety of private, public and third sector organisations to meet their training needs.”

SELECT SELECT is the trade association for the electrical contracting industry in Scotland. Founded in 1900 as The Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland, SELECT became the first trade association in the world to serve the electrical industry.

To find out more about SQA Customised Awards visit: www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment, e-mail: mycentre@sqa.org.uk or call 0303 333 0330

Scottish Qualificatio Authority

Credit Where Credit’s Due

SQA’s Credit Rating Service SQA’s Credit Rating service gives national recognition to your existing in-house qualifications and training programmes by positioning them on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.

We work with organisations in public, private and third sectors, helping them achieve their training goals.

Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: mycentre@sqa.org.uk W: www.sqa.org.uk/creditrating

FOCUS ON TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

Develop your workforce with Apprenticeships Apprenticeships are a significant part of our work to address youth employment and develop Scotland’s workforce.

Apprenticeships are delivered by Skills Development Scotland, our national skills body.

Modern Appprenticeship funding more opportunities for people aged over 25

The Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board provides employer leadership and contributes to the development of apprenticeships in Scotland.

enhanced contribution rates providing young disabled people and those with experience of care with the highest level of funding up to and including the age of 29

Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) In a Modern Apprenticeship you learn on the job, you get the experience you need, you work towards a recognised qualification and like any other job you get paid.

We have introduced changes to MAs including: a rural supplement for training providers in recogntion of the additional costs for delivering in rural areas the removal of public sector eligibility restrictions meaning that public sector employers have the same access to

Foundation Apprenticeships Foundation Apprenticeships are designed to help young people in S5 and S6 gain valuable, real work experience and access work-based learning as part of their senior phase experience.

They can provide young people with a a head start on a career by providing industryrecognised qualifications and experience employers are looking for.

We have expanded the scheme since it started in 2016 and will make up to 5,000

Foundation Apprenticeships available in Scotland’s schools by 2019.

Graduate Level Apprenticeships Graduate Level Apprenticeships enable people to study for degree-level courses while in employment.

Just under 900 places have been made available in 2018, following a pilot scheme in 2016.

The programme aims to meet the needs of employers looking for high levels of academic and industry accreditation with experience in the workplace.

UK Government apprenticeship levy The UK government introduced a UK wide apprenticeship levy in April 2017. Employers will pay 0.5% of an annual pay bill of more than £3 million.

We will use Scotland’s share of the levy to support skills, training and employment.

COULD YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT FROM APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING? Do you run a business in or around Lanarkshire? New College Lanarkshire can help you add new skills, knowledge and experience to your workforce – whether to existing staff or new recruits.

Contact us at apprenticeships@nclan.ac.uk or call: 0300 555 8080.

APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING AVAILABLE FOR: Business Administration

Engineering Manufacturing

Vehicle Accident Repair

Light Vehicle Maintenance

Computing Hardware & Software

Electronic Fire & Security Systems

Vehicle Paint Refinishing

Heavy Vehicle Maintenance

Dental Nursing

Fabrication and Welding

Life Sciences

Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair

Engineering Maintenance

Hairdressing

IT & Telecommunications

New College Lanarkshire is a registered charity. Charity number: SC021206. NCL Marketing no: 160825.

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Fully flexible and 100% online Take the next step without the need for a career break with an online Masters degree from Aberdeen Business School.

Postgraduate loans available for selected courses via SAAS

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MSc Accounting and Finance Professional Top Up

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MSc Procurement and Supply Chain Management

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MSc Health, Safety and Risk Management

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MSc Quality Management

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MBA Master of Business Administration

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MBA Oil and Gas Management

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MSc Project Management

APPLY NOW FOR COURSES STARTING IN JANUARY

www.rgu.ac.uk/januarypg

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EDUCATION

Why and how is boarding relevant in today’s age?

Are the fees worth it?

Two questions that we know exist when considering both independent education for your children, and the benefits of boarding.

Boarding in the 21st Century allows each child to develop and flourish in an individual way that combines character development, academic growth, enrichment and lifelong relationships. Time not spent travelling to and from school every day can be spent far more wisely. A boarding life teaches them tolerance, patience, respect and independence, within an environment of warmth, support, care and love. It develops soft skills which are going to be needed in the world in which they will enter at 18, a world which changes at great pace.

It provides stability and consistency, and

endless access to experts, friends and passionate individuals. It prepares and guides them; it gives them the confidence to stretch themselves to do things they never thought they could. It readies them for the next stage of their lives, and produces assured, modest, well-rounded and thoughtful individuals, who go on to succeed. Relationships are at a depth and are built from a community rich in diversity and span the globe as boarding in the UK is a popular choice for overseas students. These relationships last a lifetime, and boarding leaves a positive legacy which remains forever.

The key in today’s age is to make this as affordable as possible, whilst ensuring standards and quality of care are not compromised. Within a school which achieved ‘excellent’ for every measure of pastoral care in its last inspection, we have maintained a price which we feel is affordable, with the cost of a boarding

education at £69.04 per day over 365 days for a senior boarder (less for junior boarders).

There are alternative boarding arrangements that can also be made, which can include flexi and occasional boarding to meet a variety of needs unique to their circumstances and parents’ work commitments.

The culture of being ‘sent away’ is now well and truly banished to the last Century, and for good reasons. Times and society move on, and so have boarding schools in ensuring their product is outstanding and appropriate for now, and for the future.

Tony Jackson is the Headmaster of Barnard Castle School, an HMC independent boarding and day school for 4-18 set in the beautiful surroundings of the Teesdale valley in North East England.

More information or prospectus requests can be found on the school website www.barnardcastleschool.org.uk

A boarding life teaches them tolerance, patience, respect and independence, within an environment of warmth, support, care and love.

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A Rossall education provides young people with the skills they need to succeed in the technologically driven global village of the twenty first century.

The children develop attributes which will serve them well in this changing world.

The real strength of Rossall is the staff

A C O - E D U C AT I O N A L B O A R D I N G A N D D AY SCHOOL FOR 2 TO 18 YEAR OLDS

and the uncomplicated focus upon the individual.Young people thrive on positive encouragement and the knowledge that their opinions matter - an open and warm-hearted community is cultivated. Boys and girls at a Rossall express themselves with confidence. They are eloquent and erudite. They put others before themselves and they express their ideas with conviction.

The School is investing considerable sums in resources and infrastructure.

For 175 years Rossall School has been successfully enabling young people to become the best possible versions of themselves. It is a well-worn cliche

that successful schools are special places but Rossall is truly unique in terms of its clarity of purpose and solicitude for the holistic development of each and every boy and girl as he or she progresses through the school.

A Rossall Education develops character. It develops young people

with a palpable concern for the world within which they live. The Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s membership of the International Baccalaureate Organisation has led to a distinctive culture within which children are encouraged to become critically reflective thinkers and independent learners.

A Rossall School education engenders a concern for the environment and empathy for others. Children leave

Rossall as young men and women who exhibit a profound interest in humanitarian issues. They are politically literate and encouraged and empowered to make a difference to the world within which they live.

The newly opened Performing Arts Studio provides a fantastic space for the creative arts, and the new Sports Centre will be a state-of-the-art facility that will enable Rossall to extend on their already impressive performance in a number of sports, both regionally and nationally.

The Rossall School Golf Academy, opened in September 2016, has

grown substantially both in facilities and numbers. Rossall is currently number 1 in the ISGA (Independent Schools Golf Association) School Golf Ranking and the School has players selected for the regional England squad.

Above all else, Rossallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core purpose is teaching and learning. To inspire

excellence and to ensure that the children become active lifelong learners who value education for its intrinsic value rather than perceiving it simply as a facilitator.

As part of the Schools ambitious strategic vision to become a regional and national centre of excellence for teaching and learning, there have

been two key appointments: a new Director of Teaching and Learning and a new Head of Professional Development. There are also plans for the provision of a centre of innovation and the development of a leadership academy.

The Academic results are strong.

Nearly 50% of grades in reformed GCSE subjects scored a 7-9 (equivalent to A*/A) and the top performers in the Sixth Form achieved As and A*s across the board or over 40 points in the IB Diploma Programme. Rossallians access top universities in the UK and Overseas and the Oxbridge preparation programme provides the pupils with the best possible shot at the most competitive of universities.

Rossall is sharply focused on the future, believing that a modern

education must balance courage with compassion and creativity with consistency, and believe that personal happiness and emotional literacy are as important as academic success and professional fulfilment.

Headmaster: Mr Jeremy Quartermain

For the latest news from the School and details of forthcoming Open Events please visit: www.rossall.org.uk To request further information please email: info@rossall.org.uk

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EDUCATION

INSPIRING THE INDIVIDUAL IN EVERY CHILD In the heart of rural Perthshire, within an hour’s reach of Edinburgh and Glasgow, a team of inspiring teachers ignite young minds by delivering a curriculum filled with action packed, creative lessons, thrilling expeditions and thought provoking musical and drama productions.

EXCELLENCE & INTEGRITY

CARE & COMMITMENT

We aim to inspire every We are committed to child who walks through preparing our pupils for our doors by pointing out life beyond the gates by possibilities they may never have nurturing a tenacious approach contemplated or expected and to learning. Options for full or by cultivating an environment flexi boarding and for day pupils of honesty, trust and sound are available for today’s moral judgement. modern family.

ADVENTURE & COMMUNITY Ardvreck is an exciting and remarkable experience – an adventure! Our family ethos permeates the school and allows your children to grow, develop and make the very best of their talents, be they academic, sporting or creative.

To arrange a private visit and discover how your child can benefit from this exceptional preparation for life email: clarinda.snowball@ardvreck.org.uk or call: 01764 653112 ardvreckschool.co.uk | Local transport options are available | Registered Scottish Charity No. SC009886

The possibilities are endless

Strathallan School gives me a platform to express myself, I feel like I can be who I really want to be

1 in 5 pupils achieved straight A’s at A Level in 2018 Established in 1913, Strathallan School nurtures our pupils’ natural talents giving each and every individual the opportunity to excel in their chosen area. With over £20 million recently invested in our 153 acre campus in the beautiful Scottish countryside, Strathallan offers an all-round and progressive education which helps to bring out the very best in every pupil, no matter where their talents lie.

For further information, please contact us on:

Telephone: +44 (0) 1738 812 546 Email: admissions@strathallan.co.uk

www.strathallan.co.uk

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Bring the world to your doorstep...

My family is warm and welcoming We are interested in other countries We are willing to share our home We are proud of our local area

‘living, learning and being toget her’ USA theatre group visits Malvern . photo: WCG

Join our network of families who offer a home from home!

The ‘homestay’ underpins the ethos of EIL UK, shared intercultural exchanges and experiences that create lasting friendships and a more tolerant and understanding world. h their Worcestershire family wit Germany from ent stud ol scho h hig

Our charity, EIL UK, is looking for families to host international students and adults from other countries and cultures from one day or up to a school term.

Business Opportunities

Families who join EIL’s network come from all walks of life, with no two the same. You might be retired, live alone, be a single parent, have a house full of kids or have children who have now flown the nest.

EIL UK internship and volunteer programmes offer local businesses and organisations the chance to share international perspectives and develop language and business skills. Contact us to discuss opportunities.

We pay our volunteer families a contribution towards the cost of hosting and provide ongoing support and training.

Get in touch to find out more: host@eiluk.org • 01684 562 577 • www.eiluk.org/host • facebook.com/eiluk EIL Ltd. Is a Registered Charity in England and Wales No. 1070440 and Company Ltd By Guarantee no. 3166809

Become a friend of Bipolar Scotland

There is no cure for Bipolar Disorder... but our support transforms lives Bipolar Scotland is Scotland’s national charity for everyone living with Bipolar Disorder friends, family, carers and people with a diagnosis.

• We maintain a helpline for people seeking advice and information on how to control this condition.

• We organise support groups throughout Scotland where people can share advice, information and experience.

• We challenge stigma and discrimination wherever it exists.

• We offer free courses where people can learn to manage the condition.

All these things improve quality of life, reduce hospital admissions and hold families together.

BipolarScotland @Bipolar Scotland

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At the moment, people with Bipolar are twelve times more likely to be unemployed than their fellow citizens... and their life expectancy is often 10-15 years shorter.

These are figures we’d all like to change and - with your support - we will.

2-3% of Scotland’s population (150,000) live with bipolar disorder so we all know someone with a diagnosis - a relative, a friend, a neighbour, a workmate. Become a friend of Bipolar Scotland and give them a fair chance of living life to the full.

Contact Bipolar Scotland on 0141 560 2050 or info@bipolarscotland.org.uk

www.bipolarscotland.org.uk

EUROWINGS

Europe’s fastest growing airline GENERAL INFORMATION

channel islands of Guernsey and Jersey are also connected to Düsseldorf.

Eurowings operates from 10 UK airports to 9 destinations in Germany and Austria. With London’s Heathrow Airport being its largest operation offering seamless connections to important German business centres such as Düsseldorf. At a time when other airlines are reducing passenger comfort, Eurowings is proud to promote its greatest USP; legroom!

Eurowings offers 32’’ in the first 12 rows on its A320 fleet and the first 10 rows onboard the A319 fleet, which means that Eurowings offers the best economy short-haul legroom in Europe, while still offering low fares.

Since April this year Lufthansa’s low cost subsidiary is the first Low Cost carrier to offer a full flat Business Class Service on 5 of its intercontinental routes from Düsseldorf: New York, Fort Myers, Miami, Punta Cana and Cancun. From the UK the new BIZclass can be tested on connecting flights via Düsseldorf from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow.

PRODUCT Whatever your budget, Eurowings has a product offering that meets every passenger’s requirements. The BASIC fare, for the price conscious customer, Eurowings offers a flight only fare with a difference, compared to other low cost carriers, guests on Eurowings can still collect miles.

Looking for a little more comfort? The SMART fare offers just that! Choose your preferred seat, enjoy an inclusive snack & drink, travel with one 23kg bag whilst at the same time still collect your miles.

For maximum comfort Eurowings also offers BIZclass across the short haul route network. This premium offering includes a seat in the first 3 rows of the aircraft with the added benefits of a free adjacent seat, 2 x 23kg bags, à la carte catering, lounge access, security fast track and priority boarding.

Furthermore, next to the already mentioned best economy leg room - Eurowings also offers on-board Wi-Fi and on-board entertainment.

Scotland is also directly connected as part of the ever growing Eurowings network with direct flights to Düsseldorf whilst the stunning city of Edinburgh is connected to Cologne, Düsseldorf and Munich.

NETWORK Eurowings has over 10 bases across Europe which includes; Austria, Germany and Spain.

The biggest base is Düsseldorf with more than 90 routes and 40 based aircraft, closely followed by the airlines head office city of Cologne. Other German bases include Berlin, Hamburg, Hanover, Munich, Nuremberg and Stuttgart. Whilst in Austria Eurowings operates bases from both Vienna and Salzburg.

Most recently Palma de Mallorca has become the first Eurowings base in a non-German speaking country, clearly marking the airline’s ambition for more pan-European growth. In 2017 Eurowings grew by over 30% and has continued to do so during 2018 after taking over parts of Air Berlin. This year it means Eurowings has grown by a further 8 million passengers by adding around 80 new connections and +30 aircraft across the fleet.

From the UK, Eurowings is proud to offer 26 direct routes from 10 UK airports connecting 9 airports in Austria and Germany.

In 2015 Eurowings started its low cost long haul operations from Cologne, which subsequently were expanded to Munich and later Düsseldorf. In April 2018 the inaugural flight between Düsseldorf to New York took place, which was the first low cost flight featuring a full service complete with a full flat business class seat.

The long haul, full flat BIZclass is now offered on 5 routes from Düsseldorf direct to New York, Fort Myers, Miami, Punta Cana and Cancun. Additional long-haul destinations also on offer from Düsseldorf for winter 2018/19 will also include Bangkok, Havanna, Varadero, Cuba and Montego Bay, Jamaica.

CORPORATE PRODUCT – DYNAMIC FLEX Eurowings offers a dedicated programme called Dynamic Flex to all of its corporates with a revenue of more than £10,000. This makes travelling so much easier and, primarily, much more flexible. All this, obligation free. Corporates just need to register at www.eurowings.com/en/4u/ corporate-customers Daily business fares including flexible conditions Booking changes and cancellations possible

London Heathrow is connected with regular daily flights to Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Stuttgart, whilst from Birmingham, the heart of the UK, passengers from across the Midlands can fly directly to Düsseldorf or Vienna.

Preferred seating free of charge including more legroom (32”)

London Stansted has 5 Eurowings routes: Cologne, Hanover, Munich, Vienna and Salzburg.

Dynamic Flex company advantages are available on eurowings.com, an online booking engine (OBE) and all major global distribution systems (GDS), eg Amadeus.

In addition the British cities of Manchester and Newcastle, Newquay and the beautiful

Collect miles in the Boomerang Club Status and premium miles with Miles & More

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BUSINESS MENTORING

Clovery Woods of Rest Scottish Business Mentoring is for ambitious businesses and social enterprises that want to realise their personal and business growth ambitions, giving them the ability to take their company to new heights. Business Mentoring matches experienced mentors who come from all business areas and sectors with growing businesses. By sharing the entrepreneurial experience of mentors, this service gives the business the confidence to develop and grow, and access great network contacts that can open doors and inspire new thinking.

Mentee

Mentor

Fiona Rankin

Anne Irvani

Managing Director Clovery Woods of Rest

Like a lot of the mentors on the Scottish Chambers programme, Anne Iravani is unwilling to see the accumulated wisdom of an international business career go unused.

When an old friend sought advice on her woodland cemetery, unfamiliarity with the burials business was no barrier to her lending a hand.

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Business Development Officer, Business Plus Scotland

Having started her first business back in the 1980s, Anne has worked in the technology sector with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) from Bulgaria to Geneva to London, and currently is supporting a family gin company after having run the Aberdeen Gin Festival. She is an experienced business advisor whose

own company Business Plus Scotland, which she ran for 25 years specialised in business development, market research and event management.

Mentoring is a passion as she “loves helping other people in business.”

“They are not all new starts or young people, and they are in all kinds of different sectors. Whatever business you are in, a mentor is often the only person you can speak to confidentially about what is happening, good and bad.”

For Anne Iravani, mentoring is not a oneway street: “I’m interested in people and there’s a lot I can learn myself. The people I mentor have all got where they’ve got to

BUSINESS MENTORING

for a reason, I’m interested in how they turn negatives to positives.”

Some of her mentees are highly experienced business people who, like herself, have “seen it all and done it all”.

Others, like Fiona Rankin of Clovery Woods of Rest, are less experienced. A personal acquaintance (from the same village in this case), Fiona was looking for more fundamental advice such as: “How do I let the world know that my business exists and what it does”?

Clovery Woods of Rest is an eco-friendly 15-acre woodland burial ground near Fyvie in Aberdeenshire, started in 2002 by Fiona’s late husband. It offers a final resting place for people who do not wish to be cremated, who wish to be buried with a partner of a different religion, or who prefer not to be buried in a religious or municipal setting.

Although the business has an excellent reputation, and is the only one of its type in Northeast Scotland, it has trouble attracting attention.

“Marketing is the biggest problem”. Getting the word out about what we’re about. We have tried various things, but even if you

speak to people who live only 10 miles away they have never heard of us. Also, people in this part of Scotland are quite conservative, and a woodland burial ground is not something they are used to!”

Fiona describes her meetings with Anne Iravani: “We had about 6 meetings. I’ve known Anne for a long time and told her about our concerns. One is that the undertaking profession is not all that helpful to us, as it’s a long way for them to come out from Aberdeen.”

“As I don’t have the big budget you would need for TV advertising, Anne strongly recommended networking which I admit I find difficult, not least because my line of work can be a bit of a conversation stopper.

She advised me to have my website looked at again, and I started a Facebook page and have spoken at Rotary Clubs.”

“Anne has been very supportive and has helped with ideas like a candlelight service we had before Christmas, she was helpful with telling me how to go about it.

“I’d definitely recommend mentoring, its someone to speak to about your general worries who isn’t involved and doesn’t have an axe to grind.”

As I don’t have the big budget you would need for TV advertising, Anne strongly recommended networking which I admit I find difficult, not least because my line of work can be a bit of a conversation stopper. She advised me to have my website looked at again, and I started a Facebook page and have spoken at Rotary Clubs.

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UNIQUE VENUES

Race to The Experience for your next event Accelerate your event to pole position at The Experience, a 5-star leisure and events venue housing Scotland’s premier indoor electric go-karting track, laser tag and an award-winning, licensed café. With a fullyequipped conference centre, complete with quirky Formula One themed meeting rooms, this is the perfect location for mixing formal with fun.

Whether it’s teambuilding, a meeting space, corporate events and hospitality or something bespoke, The Experience will work with you to ensure your event is a success. Close to Glasgow city centre, with ample, free on-site parking and excellent transport links, the venue is fully accessible which means everyone can join in the fun.

Its three Grand Prix rooms are ideal for turbo-charged meetings and creative thinking. Sitting back from the karting arena, these offer a quiet, private space and of course there’s always the option of adding some high-energy activities after your productive meeting. The stylish Monaco meeting room celebrates the glory days of racing and can accommodate up to 90 delegates while the Monza and Silverstone rooms provide a sleek space for smaller meetings.

Delegates can recharge their batteries at The Refuel Café which offers a variety of hot and cold food options, freshly prepared in-house using locally sourced ingredients.

Whatever you’re planning, you’re in the driving seat and The Experience can help you plan an unforgettable event.

To find out more search online for The Experience, call 0141 883 4005 or email enquiries@theexperience.org.uk

The Gordon Highlanders Museum The Historic Venue in Aberdeen’s West End for Conferencing, Corporate & Private Hospitality The Gordon Highlanders Museum is an award winning, 5-star visitor attraction located in Aberdeen’s West End. Set amidst regimental treasures spanning 200 years of world history, the Museum’s corporate and private hospitality service guarantees you a first class setting for entertaining, fine dining and conferencing.

More than just a Museum, The Gordon Highlanders Museum is proud to be able to offer first class function rooms to cater for all your event requirements. Our conferences & meetings, fine dining and wedding packages can all be tailored to suit your exact requirements and with a first class, professional service offered as standard you can be sure that any function held at The Gordon Highlanders Museum will be as memorable as it is successful.

Why choose the ordinary?

Whether you’re looking for an ambient client evening or an interactive dining experience, Glasgow Science Centre is a venue that has it all. We can do classic, we can do cutting edge and we always deliver five star service.

With our dedicated team of specialists, we focus on each element of your event with scientific precision. This means you can relax, knowing your event will run smoothly from start to finish.

We look to create partnerships with our clients, not just events.

Stand out from the crowd in a world-class venue offering diverse and interesting spaces to accommodate events of all shapes and sizes.

See faces light up as our science communicators wow guests with live demonstrations, one of many bespoke packages we offer to ensure your event is like no other. With our in-house chefs, AV and marketing specialists, everything is taken care of with ease.

Holding an event with us at GSC will not only inspire your guests, your spend with us will get invested back into our charity; a charity that aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, mathematicians and technologists.

Step out of the box, and create an event like no other. If ordinary isn’t for you, come with us.

Get in touch with Hannah to discover more or book your event with us: hannah.wright@gsc.org.uk 0141 420 5008

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UNIQUE VENUES

The perfect location The RSE is the perfect venue for your successful event. Whether you are planning an international conference, educational seminar, prestigious dinner, business meeting or celebratory event, our venue can be tailored to meet your needs.

With audio-visual facilities, technical and event support, including free Wi-Fi in all rooms, and catering services, we can provide you with a comprehensive and flexible service, to enhance the occasion and create a memorable event.

Set in an historic city centre location, with stunning rooms and excellent customer support, we pride ourselves on being able to help with everything you might need to give you a day to remember.

For further information contact: Martina Hlinkova Venue Manager mhlinkova@theRSE.org.uk 0131 240 5034

A corporate venue with a difference...

Set in the heart of a 3,000 acre estate, Ackergill Tower offers a secluded event venue, situated on the rugged Caithness coast. The days of stuffy boardrooms, lifeless lunches and lack-lustre team building activities are well and truly over!

Ackergill Tower offers a range of client and employee activities, ideal for client entertainment and team building programmes. We invite you to experience something quite uplifting in this beautiful Scottish Highlands location.

With the castle’s extraordinary setting overlooking the coast to the Orkneys, you won’t be short of inspiration. The Tower is one of the finest meeting and outdoor adventure locations in the area – from clay pigeon shooting to highland games, golf to rib rides and fishing to archery not forgetting falconry and eating marshmallows by the beach bonfire.

Make a night of it No one needs to leave early either. Why not treat your clients or employees to a threecourse dinner and an unforgettable night’s stay in one of our beautifully designed bedrooms or cottages?

With 33 bedrooms including seven cottages and our onsite pub, Smugglers Inn, Ackergill Tower offers the perfect all-round location to delight guests and employees.

We offer a choice of 13 elegantly designed and flexible function rooms for up to 150 delegates. Simply let us know what you want to achieve from your event and we’ll ensure your objectives are met. Exclusive use available too.

Historic venue in a prime location Step into EVH, in the heart of Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street and find a venue like no other in the city.

Brimming with character and flooded with natural light, Betty’s Room, is a congenial, inviting venue, providing all you need for a contemporary corporate event. The high ceilings and bright, airy ambience, reflect its origins as a photographer’s studio.

You won’t be surprised to learn this building was designed by renowned architects Honeyman, Keppie & Mackintosh and that it has been suggested the plans were drawn by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself.

A versatile venue, the layout of Betty’s Room can be adapted to meet your needs, with the maximum capacity of 50 people seated theatre style, allowing ample space for refreshments or a breakout area.

The Green Room provides an additional meeting room, set up in a boardroom style, perfect for meetings of up to 10 people, with AV equipment provided as required.

Betty’s Room and the Green Room can be booked separately or together, with or without catering, and all special dietary requirements can be catered for, making this an eminently flexible and convenient event space in the city.

A cost-effective venue, our fair, transparent pricing, means you won’t face any hidden charges.

Just a ten-minute walk from both Queen Street and Central Stations, a number of subway stations, bus stops and car parks are within easy reach.

Find out more about EVH room hire, call 0141 352 7435, email contactus@evh.org.uk or visit www.evh.org.uk

Why not view our Virtual Tour today? https://ackergilltower.com/virtual-tours/

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UNIQUE VENUES

© Mark Wild Photography

Dunkeld House Hotel For the whisky lover it is a pilgrimage Lindores Abbey’s widely recognised links to the earliest reference to Scotch whisky and we are determined to live up to our fascinating history with our beautiful Visitor’s centre and event spaces.

We offer four event space choices for our corporate customers. For a drinks reception or cocktail party with memorable back drop, our Legacy Bar or Visitors Centre are perfect. We can cater for all palates from a large selection of whiskies, wines and of course our own Aqua Vitae cocktails.

The Cloister forms one of the most beautiful parts of the Visitor Centre with its graceful curved roofs juxtaposed against the stately fifty-two foot oak table. The Cloister can accommodate up to eighty guests for banquet-style dining under gentle candlelight, making it ideal for opulent dinner parties.

Finally, The Refectory is one of our most versatile spaces catering for everything from business meetings to ceilidh nights. The refectory walls are often displaying exhibitions of artwork from our finest local artists to appreciate during your event. The space can seat 60 theatre-style or 40 class-room style.

We offer a day-delegate rate for our corporate guests to include the venue hire and morning coffee. lindoresabbeydistillery.com

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Nestled on the banks of the River Tay in the heart of Perthshire sits the four star Dunkeld House Hotel.

The historic country house, built by the Dukes of Atholl, mixes the splendour of traditional Scottish hospitality with 21st century comforts.

Dunkeld House Hotel boasts 98 bedrooms, including suites, with many enjoying fine views over the River Tay, lawns or surrounding woodlands. Dine in the restaurant on dishes brimming with local produce. Or spend an evening in the cosy bar enjoying the vast array of specially selected drinks served by the experienced and knowledgeable staff.

Walk in the stunning grounds along the banks of the River Tay, take a dip in the pool, and relax in the spa or workout in the gym.

Choose to hold your event at Dunkeld House Hotel in one of the event suites, suitable for weddings, drinks receptions, meetings, conferences and much more.

A dedicated events team will ensure that you and your guests enjoy the best of Scottish hospitality during your visit. Bring ideas to life in one of our event suites, suitable for corporate occasions such as conferences and seminars.

The flexible event spaces include our Birnam Suite which has views over the River Tay, the Drawing Room with a stunning balcony looking out over the gardens and the river, or get down to business in the Jagermeister Room. Amaze your guests and clients in our marquee in the grounds of the secluded and stylish hotel.

To find out more, call 01350 728338.

Òran Mór – meetings and events with a difference Your next business event does not need to be held in your usual conference centre or hotel. Gaelic for ‘great melody of life’ or ‘big song’, Òran Mór offers the flexibility of a ‘traditional’ venue, but in a more inspiring and creative setting.

Formerly Kelvinside Parish Church, Òran Mór is ideally located in the heart of Glasgow’s West End. Its doors opened in 2004 after two years of sympathetic renovations in which the space was expertly reimagined to maximise its potential, whilst retaining all the period features of the original church. Òran Mór is now an internationally renowned venue that is well loved within both the local and business communities.

Each area of Òran Mór is unique and available for meetings and events. You can choose from a small meeting or dinner in the Boardroom (formerly the church’s bible school), entertain your guests in the Auditorium with celestial ceiling mural by acclaimed Scottish artist Alasdair Gray, or have exclusive use of the atmospheric Brasserie Restaurant with original gesso panels

by Sheila Tandy.

Catering for meetings and events from 15 to 400, Òran Mór have an accommodating approach to any enquiry.

For bookings, please contact Events: 0141 357 6200 info@oran-mor.co.uk

BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Strathclyde Business School wins ‘Outstanding Contribution to Scottish HR’ award The Business School at the University of Strathclyde was awarded ‘the Outstanding Contribution to Scottish HR award’ in November 2018, at the HR Network Awards. The award recognised Strathclyde Business School’s longstanding and sustained contribution to the Scottish HR sector.

This wasn’t the only success for the Department, as Veronika Gruber, who studied the MSc in International Human Resource Management in the Department of Work, Employment and Organisation, was also named Brodies LLP ‘HR Graduate of the Year 2018.’

The timing of the Outstanding Contribution to HR Award was apt, as Strathclyde Business School is currently celebrating the 70th anniversary of its first Diploma in Personnel Management. The judges noted the award was in recognition of SBS’s contribution to the HR profession locally and regionally, as well it’s international contribution too.

The awards were made at the 12th HR Network National Awards Gala event

in Glasgow. The event had around 800 attendees and recognised champions of the Scottish HR profession.

Associate Principal and Executive Dean of Strathclyde Business School, Professor David Hillier said, “I am absolutely delighted that we had two successes at the HR Network Awards. Strathclyde Business School has been offering professionallyaccredited programmes since the 1940s and our ethos of being ‘a place of useful learning’ is integral to everything we do in terms of education, research and knowledge exchange. I would also like to congratulate Veronika on her well deserved win as Brodies’ HR Graduate of the Year and wish her every success in the future.”

Professor Tom Baum, Head of the Department of Work, Employment and Organisation, said, “We are delighted to accept this acknowledgement of our longstanding contribution to teaching, research and the wider work of the HR community.

“At a time of major uncertainty for employment in Scotland and internationally, the role of professional human resource managers has become central to the economic prosperity of organisations and the social well-being of employees in the workforce and the wider community.

“We look forward to providing relevant support for the development of our professional colleagues in the future.”

Strathclyde Business School has been offering professionally-accredited programmes since the 1940s and our ethos of being ‘a place of useful learning’ is integral to everything we do in terms of education, research and knowledge exchange.

Professor David Hillier

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CHAMBER NEWS

Nicola Walters

When it comes to developing sustainable products organisational elephant is onit!

Award winning Nicola Walters launches new organisational venture.

Award winning Scottish female entrepreneur, Nicola Walters has launched her latest business venture, onits. onits are dry-wipe, reusable magnetic notes that are perfect for brainstorms, workshops, personal planning, idea generation, strategy building, reminders, shopping lists, or even just for leaving notes on a fridge.

As an experienced business trouble-shooter with a deep understanding of how people work effectively, Nicola designed onits as both a sustainable and fun tool designed to improve personal organisation and collective working.

“I see onits as the tool I always wished I had!” explains Nicola. “My lightbulb moment occurred in 2015 when I had three months to

Organisational Elephant is more than just a company and onits is just the start. Nicola’s desire is to create a community of people from across the globe known as The Herd joining together to solve organisational problems, however big or small.

Robin Hackshall, Agile Coach, Enigma Consulting and Solutions

plan my own wedding. I trawled the internet to find a tool that could help me with the management of guests, seating plans and so on. I started using sticky notes on a wall but they would just fall off. I wouldn’t dare open a window for fear my plan would literally fly out of it. I searched the market for an alternative solution – something that would stick to a wall, was fun, colourful, engaging and re-useable to avoid waste. I never found that solution so I created onits”.

With a career background helping large corporations resolve organisational challenges through effective teamwork and planning, Nicola could see the vast range of potential uses for onits from major project planning and global business workshops to

“onits could be the replacement for post-its. The ability to reuse them and the variety of colours makes onits a great investment. And of course, being magnetic, there is no more picking coloured pieces of paper off the floor. onits are great for writing user stories, creating process flows, retrospectives and even your daughter’s pocket money.”

Richard Sykes, Environmental Construction Advisor, United Utilities

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personal goal setting, event planning and family note sharing.

Did you know, a meeting room that uses 2 packs of paper sticky notes a day can consume over 129,600 in 3 years! A single pack of 200 onits will do the same job. An investment that many are saying is well worth it: “We used the onits for our brainstorming sessions. These reusable notes help to avoid an additional consumption of paper and are in line with the environment-friendly trend of the moment. onits have a great look, are colourful and stick well. I recommend this innovative solution in the workplace and hope companies will integrate more sustainable solutions on a day to day basis.”

“A brilliant planning collaborative tool. I’ve been in a few CP workshops, which are built around using Post-it Notes, and some always fall off and get mixed up. onits work so much better, whilst ticking the sustainability box at the same time.”

Aude Firmin, Product Manager, New Look

CHAMBER NEWS

Edrington unveils new Macallan distillery as part of £500 million investment

Edrington distillery in Wyoming

International and premium spirits company Edrington was this summer proud to open a new distillery and visitor centre to produce Macallan, one of the jewels in the malt whisky crown.

The new distillery and visitor experience is located on the stunning Easter Elchies estate, which has been home to the leading luxury single malt since 1824. From humble beginnings, the brand has risen to become the leading international single malt by value and enjoys leading positions in some of the world’s most significant Scotch whisky markets including The USA, Taiwan, and Japan.

Edrington is investing £500 million in the brand of which the £140 million distillery is the centrepiece. This investment will be felt all across the business, with whisky, warehousing and casks all benefitting.

The project was announced in 2012 and the build began in December 2014. The first whisky ran through the stills in December

last year and the visitor experience opened its doors to the public on 2nd June.

It is the first distillery on Speyside to be designed by an internationally acclaimed architect, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, who were selected to lead the project after an international competition.

Elgin-based Robertson Construction has delivered the complex architectural design, working with 25 contractors to bring the vision for the new distillery and visitor experience to life. During construction, up to 400 people specialising in more than 20 different trades were employed on site.

The new distillery will enable production of The Macallan to increase by a third if required. The new stills were crafted

by Scottish coppersmiths Forsyths, who have been making the brand’s distinctive, ‘curiously small’ stills for The Macallan since the 1950s.

The striking piece of contemporary architecture is cut into the slope of the land, taking its cues from ancient Scottish hills and maximising the aesthetic beauty of the building whilst minimising the visual impact on the Speyside landscape, which has been classified as an ‘Area of

Great Landscape Value’. This dual impact of increasing production while protecting the natural surrounding is an innovative approach that can help the region continue to be prosperous whilst not affecting the outstanding visual appeal of the area’s landscape.

The undulating timber roof structure is one of the most complicated in the world, comprising 380,000 individual components.

Ian Curle, Chief Executive, Edrington, said: “This is an exciting occasion for Edrington and The Macallan. The unsurpassed quality of The Macallan is in high demand and we face the future confidently with this new distillery. It’s an authentic, abiding, ambitious investment that will match consumer expectations for generations to come.

When the doors open in June, we expect this new Macallan enterprise to deliver significant benefits for the tourism industry, Scotch whisky exports, and the economy.”

This is an exciting occasion for Edrington and The Macallan. The unsurpassed quality of The Macallan is in high demand and we face the future confidently with this new distillery. It’s an authentic, abiding, ambitious investment that will match consumer expectations for generations to come.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Go ahead for new bridge to transform Clyde Waterfront A major project to transform the Clyde waterfront, connect communities and bring thousands of jobs and investment to the regional economy has taken a significant step forward.

In November, Scottish Government ministers approved the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project.

It is expected to create more than 2300 jobs and inject £867million into the regional economy, ranking it one of the top performing economic growth projects in the Glasgow City Region City Deal.

The project will see construction of the first opening road bridge over the River Clyde, linking Renfrew and Yoker. It has been designed by leading engineering consultancy Sweco working with Kettle Collective, the award-winning architects behind the Falkirk Wheel.

The crossing will greatly improve access to employment, education, health and leisure for communities on both sides of the river and increase access for businesses to more customers and suppliers.

It also includes new roads, walkways and cycle routes into a 150-acre site next to Glasgow Airport being developed into a manufacturing district, which has already attracted two national innovation centres,

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the National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland and a major centre revolutionising medicines manufacturing.

“This is fantastic news for the entire city region and for Scotland,” said Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson, welcoming the waterfront planning decision.

Councillor Nicolson added: “The completed project and subsequent regeneration has the potential to deliver a significant economic boost to the Glasgow City region.

“Current businesses will gain access to more customers and suppliers, while new companies and developers will be attracted to locate to the regenerated waterfront.

“Communities on both sides of the Clyde will benefit from greatly improved access to their work, to education and to hospitals through the new connections which will also help reduce congestion and improve journey times.

“It builds on the development of the new manufacturing district which will bring thousands of new high skilled jobs and training opportunities to Renfrewshire and the wider region and help secure the future of Scotland’s vital manufacturing industry.

“We will continue to work closely with neighbouring councils to ensure the project delivers on its significant potential and the

benefits reach all communities on both sides of the Clyde.”

There has been strong support for the project during extensive engagement over a two-year period, with surveys signalling 90 percent backing for the plans.

Public engagement helped identify the preferred bridge location, guaranteed environmental enhancements and ensured all new roads come complete with pedestrian walkways and cycle lanes.

Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside is one of three Glasgow City Region City Dealfunded projects in Renfrewshire alongside the Glasgow Airport Investment Area project, which will deliver the underpinning infrastructure behind the new manufacturing district and the flagship Airport Access Project, creating a direct rail link between Glasgow Airport, Paisley Gilmour Street and Glasgow Central Station.

The £1.13billion City Deal is an agreement between the UK Government, Scottish Government and eight local authorities to deliver improved infrastructure, create new jobs, tackle unemployment and drive innovation and growth.

It has already helped 8085 people across the region into jobs through a pioneering youth gateway programme, including 745 in Renfrewshire.

CHAMBER NEWS

CBC Partner wins Legal 500 Award Congratulations to Clyde Blowers Capital Partner, Shauna Powell, who has won Individual of the Year in Private Equity at the prestigious Legal 500 Awards.

The Legal 500 United Kingdom Awards recognises and rewards the best in-house and private practice teams and individuals over the past 12 months each year.

The awards ceremony will be taking place on the 6th of February 2019 at The Great Hall, Guildhall, London.

Shauna Powell trained as a solicitor with Maclay Murray & Spens (“Maclays”) in Glasgow where she dual qualified in both Scotland and England & Wales, following her legal degree from the University of Glasgow.

On qualifying she specialised in corporate law focusing on private equity and venture capital M&A. After 6 years in Glasgow with Maclays, Shauna moved to Aberdeen to open a new office in 2003 where she focused on private equity, acting primarily for 3i Group plc.

She joined Clyde Blowers in August 2006 focusing on M&A activity, including the acquisition of all portfolio assets for Fund II and Fund III, and the successful disposals of ClydeUnion, Maag Group and Cone Drive.

Shauna was also part of the team that led the fund raising processes for CBC II and CBC III. Shauna was promoted to partner in 2011 and is primarily responsible for all legal activities across Clyde Blowers. She also acts as the Compliance and Money Laundering Officer for the firm.

We would like to congratulate her on a very impressive achievement.

Shauna Powell

Spreading Christmas cheer in Ayrshire As 2018 came to an end, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s staff decided to spread some Christmas cheer by doing some fundraising for West FM’s Cash for Kids’ ‘Mission Christmas’ and Save the Children. West FM are platinum partners of Ayrshire Chamber and staff of the two organisations were delighted to have the opportunity to benefit the local community.

The Chamber staff raised the money by having ‘Santa’s sack’ at their events, including a Members Market as part of the their ‘Festive Fun’. They received a number of gifts that will be distributed to disadvantaged children around the local area, to help reduce the number of people who will go without at Christmas time.

Members of staff also took part in Christmas Jumper Day on 14th December, raising £67 between them whilst also brightening up the office with their style choices! This was part of a co-ordinated effort from all across the UK organised by Save the Children, and Ayrshire’s contribution was part of over a quarter of a million pounds at the time of writing.

Congratulations to Ayrshire Chamber for their good work.

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Stagecoach West Scotland serving local communities Stagecoach West Scotland provides local bus services in Ayrshire, Arran, Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow and parts of Lanarkshire for almost 27 million passengers each year.

As a major employer in the local economy with 1003 staff of which 766 are drivers, 153 are engineers and cleaners and 85 are administration and managerial staff. The majority of employees live within the local communities in which Stagecoach West Scotland buses operate.

We are committed to staff training. Our drivers attend classroom training sessions during the year as part of their Certificate of Professional Competence; in 2018 we recruited 135 new drivers. We are also active in encouraging you people to join our team

through our apprenticeship scheme; we currently employ 10 engineering apprentices within the local community.

Our Fleet We operate a fleet of 375 buses and in the past year, we have invested ÂŁ5.6 million in 27 new buses for local areas, all of which are full accessible and meet the latest Euro emissions standards.

Our vehicles are inspected by our engineers approximately every 28 days, and maintained to a much higher standard than the legal minimum to ensure safety and comfort.

Every vehicle is cleaned internally and externally on a daily basis.

The Environment We used over 14.8 million litres of fuel last year. On the mainland, we run on ultra-low sulphur diesel with 30% sustainable bio content. In addition to this, we use high tech fuel additive Envirox to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

In East Ayrshire we operate 8 buses that run on 100% biofuel from sustainable sources such as recycled cooking oil.

Our Services We operated a total of 20 million miles over the last year, over some 1.2 million journeys.

Our key measure of performance is the reliability and punctuality of our journeys.

Trust Stagecoach To Get You Home!

You might be heading to meet friends, visiting family, shopping or heading to work. Wherever youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re travelling, we can help get you there.

Planning your journey is simple, the Stagecoach bus app lets you find live bus times, your closest stop or even buy your tickets online.

@StagecoachWScot

www.stagecoachbus.com

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Taking steps towards a happier, healthier workforce Scotland’s national walking charity, Paths for All, are asking workplaces to take steps to improve the health of their employees.

The Walk at Work Award

The charity recently launched a ‘Walk at Work Award’ which recognises workplaces in Scotland who promote a healthy and active workforce.

Taking part is free and open to any Scottish workplace, whether public, private or third sector, that wants to promote everyday walking.

Research shows that employees that are more active in and around their working day are more productive, takes fewer sick days, and are more focused.

Workplaces that register for the award will receive one-to-one support as well as examples of best practice, resources and signposting to other sources of information.

Why walk at work?

Walking is the simplest way to increase activity levels – it’s free, no equipment is required, most people can do it, and it can be done anywhere. It’s also easy to fit into the average working day by commuting to work on foot, taking a break from the desk for a lunchtime walk, or going on a walking meeting.

Businesses that encourage staff to walk to work for all or part of their journey can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and reduce congestion and emissions in their area.

Recent findings from UK workplaces reveal that half of all employees experience poor mental health at work, including stress, anxiety and depression. Regular walking can reduce the effects of poor mental health, particularly walking in greenspace. A short walk in a local park, woodland or garden

The Award equips workplaces with the knowledge they need to foster a walking culture, provide the right facilities for employees who walk to work, and support initiatives such as active meetings and lunchtime walks.

can promote positive mental health, helping people to relax, feel refreshed and more connected.

Stop ‘sitting disease’ Given that working aged adults sit for an average 9.5 hours a day, with much of this being in the workplace, workplaces need to take action to reduce sitting time and improve health outcomes. People who spend long periods of time sitting have been found to have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and poor mental health.

Paths for All’s ‘Walk at Work Award’ aims to reverse the trend of inactive workplaces and get people moving in Scotland. Supported by the Scottish Government, the awards will see thousands of employees across Scotland improving their health and wellbeing in and out of the workplace.

Businesses that receive the award will show that they are committed to their employee’s health and wellbeing and will have an additional employee benefit to attract and retain motivated staff.

Get in touch Paths for All is Scotland’s national walking charity. The Walk at Work Award is supported by the Scottish Government. For more information visit www.walkatwork.scot or get in touch at walkatwork@pathsforall.org.uk or 01259 218888.

If you are interested in helping Scotland lead the way in promoting active, healthy and green workplaces, find out how Paths for All can support.

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Scotland Sells!

Businesses of all types are increasingly using .scot domain names for their websites, so lets catch up with the company behind it, DotScot Registry to see what they’re about.

“It’s all about community” explained their CEO, Gavin McCutcheon.

“We set up DotScot to provide a digital home for the world-wide community of Scots. Not just for Scotland the country but for Scots all around the world who want to promote their business online.”

So what are the benefits of using a .scot name versus a .com or a .uk domain?

“Scotland sells. Brand Scotland is extremely powerful and being associated with Scotland, its values, culture and quality in a crowded international marketplace is an extremely positive marketing stance.” Gavin explained.

using a .scot raises you above nondescript, anonymous domains which say nothing about your business or where you are.

“12,000 .scot websites operating from 43 countries around the world is a testament to how we are perceived internationally.

Whether it’s tourism, products or services,

Powerful stuff but what about very small companies or consultants who don’t have the expertise or don’t want the expense of managing a domain and website?

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Plus an independent study showed that 75% of folk would rather buy from a .scot website.”

“For customers who want a simpler, less expensive way to promote their Scottish connection, we have just introduced a .scot email service. So now you can get an easy to use package of .scot email address plus calendar, address book and task manager.”

Sounds ideal for individuals and smaller businesses, check out domains.scot for details.

SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Electric bikes: The b o o s t your cycle to work scheme has been waiting for Health and well-being in the workplace, and environmental policies, are at the top of most businesses’ lists. The good news is that e-bikes can tick both boxes.

Cycling will improve your employees’ physical and

mental health, and e-bikes can play an important role in your green travel plans.

This makes them the ideal bike of choice for commuting to work.

Cycle2Work offers 80 e-bikes under the £1000 limit of the Cycle to Work scheme.

Starting from £29 a month for Whether you’re a keen cyclist 12 months*, this new mode looking for a fun, new way of transport is an affordable to travel, or a novice eager to option for your entire change the way you commute workforce. to work, or simply looking for a boost to help you up We are confident that your that last steep hill, we have employees would adopt this change to their daily e-bikes to suit every cyclist. commute, and a try before you buy service is available in “Over a third (35%) of Halfords and Cycle Republic stores to ensure they get the commuters who only right bike for them.

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, still run on pedal power, but benefit from the addition of an electric motor and battery.

cycle to work once a week would consider cycling more if they had an e-bike”

YouGov research commissioned by OVO Energy

For more information please contact cycle2.work@halfords. co.uk or call 0345 504 6444 Advertising Feature

*£600 RRP with 42% tax and National Insurance savings

we are Our customers are at the heart of everything we do.

We share our passion for cycling to work by delivering the best in; A wide range of brands available through

as well as over 800 independent bike shops

FREE Scheme Management

Certificates released to employees upon approval

Unique National Minimum / Living Wage Solution

cycle2work.info

Zero cost end of hire

plus many more brands

Employee helpdesk

Halfords Lifetime Cycle Guarantee

Retrospective invoicing

Access to sales & promotional prices

cycle2.work@halfords.co.uk

FREE marketing to encourage the best levels of uptake

Scheme member benefits

0345 504 6444 Business Scotland

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SCOTTISH INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Shared transport: the way forward How do you travel for work? Whether it’s getting stuck in traffic, boring and lonely drives to the office or travel to meetings, none of it is particularly enjoyable. However there are lots of shared transport options out there and at CoMoUK our aim is to find the one that fits.

The question that is most likely on your lips is ‘what is shared transport?’ At its most simple you either share the journey or share the mode of transport. This can mean ride sharing, car clubs or bike sharing. For many the idea of car sharing would bring to mind Peter Kay’s TV show of the same name.

It was hilarious but not always an ideal commute. However we can tell you that this isn’t the whole picture of shared transport.

Car clubs are pay- as-you-drive hire schemes allowing members to book a variety of cars online for the time that they need from an hour to a day, and paying only for the hire time and the distance driven. Bike share is very similar to a car club. It provides users access to bikes when they need them, for the time they need. On the other hand ride share is something many people are familiar with; it allows you to journey, whether it is a commute to work or a longer distant trip, to the same destination with others.

Shared transport offers businesses the opportunity to support their staff, the environment and the local community but

the other great thing about shared transport is that it can save organisations money. In the UK businesses spend millions of pounds on grey fleets for staff travel. Swapping to utilising a car club rather than a grey fleet can greatly reduce this burden. Car clubs are already in most cities in Scotland this means as a business you could utilise existing car clubs. There is also the option of having a car club set-up specifically office locations. If you used car clubs in tandem with bike share the option you can further reduce the costs of vehicle usage.

Studies have shown that sitting in traffic alone during a commute increases stress levels and often feels like time is being wasted. If you have to make a journey by car, then sharing it can make it a more enjoyable experience and help alleviate stress.

Companies like Lift Share can help set-up a bespoke car share for your organisation.

This can lead to happier and more productive staff who aren’t stressed when they arrive at the office.

Travelling to meetings, either in the same

Studies have shown that sitting in traffic alone during a commute increases stress levels and often feels like time is being wasted.

city or across Scotland, is a necessity for most business. Having a Car Club or Bike Share in place means that staff don’t have to bring their own car to work to go to meetings but can utilise shared transport options. For those shorter journeys Bike Share schemes are great. Cycling is great for physical and mental health and is a great way to travel for those shorter journeys and leaves you in a positive frame of mind for meetings.

We all know that the environment needs TLC. Any of these shared transport methods can help the environment; they can reduce the number of private cars on the road, promote the use of more environmentally friendly cars through car clubs and promote a healthy active lifestyle through cycling.

By helping to support schemes such as car clubs and bike share businesses can benefit the local community. Allowing local residents’ access to your businesses car club can help reduce the need for local residents to own more than one car and can also allow those who do not own a car to undertake journeys that can’t be done by other modes.

The same can be done with a bike share scheme, giving local people access to the bikes and encouraging them to participate in active travel.

Here at CoMoUK we want to help you make shared transport work for your organisation and your staff. It is as easy as dropping us an email or giving us a call. We have several specialists who are ready to help you in your journey to shared transport. scotland@como.org.uk

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

First Glasgow box clever with launch of new fleet of ecofriendly buses ahead of city-wide low emissions zone Local bus operator First Glasgow went all out to launch their fleet of 75 new buses for the city of Glasgow in October 2018, with the promise of more to follow.

The city’s largest bus operator, which carries around 1.6 million passengers per day across the whole UK, unveiled the first of their new state-of-the-art vehicles in a unique yellow and purple livery. They then turned the first one off the production line into the world’s largest model bus display.

The 20-foot high structure certainly captured the imagination of the passing public at the iconic Glasgow location with a day of entertainment and laughs hosted by Capital Scotland and breakfast host Des Clarke with live music from Busker Tommy McGuire and Radiophonic Tuckshop frontman Joe Kane.

The new eco-friendly buses represent a £14 million investment in First Buses’ new fleet, built in Falkirk by Alexander Dennis Limited.

The 75 new low emissions vehicles entered into service in time for the new city-wide

Low Emissions Zone which came into effect from December, which was praised by City Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, Councillor Anna Richardson: “The bus industry has worked closely with the council to ensure delivery of the first phase of the LEZ and I was delighted to hear of the investment First Glasgow has made to its fleet in advance of its implementation.”

First Glasgow Managing Director Andrew Jarvis said: “We are happy to say that this new investment means we will be fully compliant with phase one of the Glasgow Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) Traffic Regulation Condition. We now look forward to working in close partnership with Glasgow City Council to not only deliver the next phase of the process, but also to improve bus services and help make public transport more attractive to more people in Glasgow.”

The new Double Decker MMC 400 buses offer an improved customer experience with USB charging points, comfortable e-leather seating and free WIFI, which will encourage customers to forego taking cars and instead choose a more comfortable, environmentally friendly mode of transport.

This is in tandem with the peace of mind that

they offer by being fitted with the latest Euro VI diesel particle filter and start/stop engine technology for a more eco-friendly journey.

Of course, like all of the vehicles across the entire First UK Bus network, customers can now pay on bus, by contactless, mobile ticketing or smartcard payment types. The First Bus planner app also gives customers the opportunity to plan their journeys in advance for any bus or train service in the UK with real-time data, meaning it really has never been easier to use the bus.

First Glasgow are now pledging to continue to improve their offerings throughout their Glasgow network and are keen to work in close partnership with Glasgow City Council to deliver a better bus service for the city.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “Bus services play an important part in our transport system and the Scottish Government is working in partnership with operators to improve the environment and air quality in our towns and cities with greener fleets. It is very encouraging to see the introduction of these new buses in Glasgow.

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CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

Versatile venue in a picturesque location Discover a striking venue of remarkable versatility, when you book the Atholl Palace for a corporate event, built in 1878 as a spa hotel, it has since developed into a unique hotel and conference facility.

The stunning, circular Atholl Suite, caters for up to 400 guests, benefiting from 360° views and saturated with natural light, it is an exceptional event space.

An elegant suite, bursting with original character, the Bow Lounge, is ideal for up to 140 delegates, with the adjacent roof-top garden offering a beautiful spot for lunch or drinks, accompanied by stunning views.

For select events of up to eight people, the Garden Room is an ideal venue, providing the perfect setting for a board meeting, team away day or to strike the right note with clients.

Each event space may be booked individually or together, with catering or without, and optional onsite accommodation is available too - making the Atholl Palace a particularly adaptable venue.

Our dedicated corporate events team organise a wide variety of occasions including conferences, product launches, exhibitions, seminars, presentations, award ceremonies, team building exercises, formal dinners and mini highland games.

Located in the Atholl Palace Hotel set in the Perthshire Highlands, we have created the Lavender Spa which enjoys spectacular views of the Scottish countryside. Our spa draws on its heritage as a Victorian health hydro using the powers of our natural spring water which comes from the mountain of Ben- y -Vrackie which stands over Pitlochry.

Pitlochry is a picturesque, mainly Victorian town, situated in the heart of Perthshire, 26 miles north of Perth and just 2-3 minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive from the A9.

Explore the 48 acres of idyllic grounds, including formal gardens, wildlife walks, ancient woodlands, a pitch and putt golf course, tennis courts and much more besides.

Contact us today about your next corporate event, call 01796 472400, email: events@athollpalace.com or visit: www.athollpalace.com

Benefitting from a railway station on the Highland Main Line, direct train services run between Pitlochry, Perth, Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow and London, amongst other destinations.

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#NOWHERECANCOMPARE

Opened in 2017 the purpose built, state of the art, Firth Pavilion at Seamill Hydro has been designed as the ultimate conference and banqueting destination.

The ÂŁ6 million development has made the most of the stunning coastal setting of the Victorian eighty bedroom hotel and enhanced it with all of the modern comforts and conveniences you would expect of a leading modern hotel. There is a choice of three sizes of conference room and a smaller break-out or meeting room so events from 2 to over 200 can be accommodated in comfort.

Meeting rooms are set over two floors and all enjoy natural light and panoramic view of over 100 square miles and land and sea including the majestic mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde.

The delegate experience is further enhanced by the superb quality of food and the dedicated service from our team of experienced managers and conference porters, who are always on hand to help.

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CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

With 18 function suites to choose from including our newly refurbished Grandstand and over 1000 complimentary car parking spaces on-site, it is easy to understand why Hamilton Park Racecourse is the venue of choice for a wide range of corporate events.

Day Delegate Rates from ÂŁ20 + VAT per person For further information e-mail enquiries@hamilton-park.co.uk or call us on 01698 206478

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CONFERENCING AND EVENTS

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DRONE REGISTER

The rise and rise of aerial drones Commercial operations using drones are on the rise. These small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs), which gained popularity as the perfect gifts for teenage boys and their dads, have become tremendous tools for the likes of construction companies and estate agents looking to showcase their high-rising assets. But what exactly is meant by “commercial operations”?

Put simply, commercial operations using drones are any flight by an SUA which is available to the public or, when not available to the public, is performed under contract between an operator/pilot and a customer. Any flights where the photos taken or data collected are solely for the operator’s own promotional use are generally not considered to be commercial operations.

option for many businesses and selfemployed entrepreneurs. Before these SUAs became widely available, the likes of estate agents and property developers in need of HD aerial photography would have to resort to hiring traditional aircrafts or sending trained professionals up ladders, scaffolds or cranes. Of course, these options are lengthy, complicated and expensive when compared to flying a drone.

The availability of drones in modern society, coupled with their rapid technological advancement, has made them an appealing

If you’re interested in hiring a drone for commercial use, there are many important points to be aware of; this includes

ensuring that your operator/pilot has all the necessary permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). If you yourself are considering a career as a drone pilot for hire, you will need to complete an assessment under a National Qualified Entity (NQE), as the CAA do not organise or run assessments themselves.

For more information on the legal requirements regarding drones and their use for commercial operations, visit the CAA website at caa.co.uk.

Rooflinings and Cladding Ltd We are an independent roofing company and have been established for over 20 years, as a result we have a huge wealth of experience in the industry.

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We can provide detailed high definition pictures of buildings and structures where access towers, cherry pickers and scaffold may not be viable.

Rooflinings & Cladding Ltd have various Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in our fleet and can offer detail photography for your needs.

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Rooflinings & Cladding Ltd can investigate an area that needs to be inspected. We can co-ordinate with the client on the ground ensuring that all areas of concern are inspected. The client or surveyor is able to see what the camera is looking at via a real time High Definition down link, with more detailed results available once Drone has landed.

Rooflinings & Cladding Ltd has full CAA Permission for Aerial Work certification, including Insurance cover for all our Aerial activities.

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DRONE REGISTER

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LKDWN Videography take that process a few steps further, taking our content and reshaping it by creative editing, colour correction, grading and carefully chosen royalty-free music.

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CHAMBER NEWS

Huawei reaffirms ongoing research partnership with the University of Edinburgh The Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei took part in an Informatics Ventures Speaker Series event at the School of Informatics at Edinburgh University in October. The main speaker was Tian Tiao, advisor of the Huawei International Advisory Council and Co-Director of the Ruihua Innovative Management Research Institute at Zhejiang University. Also present at the event was Walter Ji, President of Huawei for Western Europe.

The focus of the talk was the ethos and philosophy of Huawei, which has recently surpassed Apple to become the biggest smartphone maker in the world behind Samsung. This is the first time there has been a split between the perennial market leaders Apple and Samsung in seven years.

Huawei’s swift growth over the past decade has intrigued many in the tech business world, especially regarding the company’s unique management philosophy. This was the main topic of Mr Tiao’s talk, he has studied the structure and values of Huawei for around 20 years and in 2016 published a book called Huawei; Leadership, Culture, and Connectivity. The book has become a key reference point for anyone wishing to find out more about the story of Huawei as well as its unique strategy when it come to investing and training its workers.

Huawei is already a key technology partner for the UK, working with industry and government on research and major projects.

Huawei President Walter Ji gave an insight into how Huawei see themselves expanding over the course of the next decade. ‘’We believe that there are two technologies that are going to become much more important, one is 5G networks. 5G networks can provide tremendous connectivity and the latency is almost nothing. There are a lot of fantastic opportunities for 5G to improve productivity across all sectors of industry.

The other is robotics, information is becoming more and more complex. AI can help us gather and maintain that information and help us build a more connected and informed society.’’

The event at Edinburgh University was part of an ongoing partnership between Huawei and the University of Edinburgh. Last year, the two parties announced a three-year joint project to open a new lab that will explore scientific and engineering research challenges relevant to academia and industry. The lab will be based in the University’s School of Informatics which is renown among academics for its work on data management, artificial intelligence, theoretical computer science, computational linguistics, systems architecture and bioinformatics.

Edinburgh University is currently strengthening its capabilities around data-

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Professor Charlie Jeffery, left, Senior Vice-Principal at Edinburgh University with Tian Tao, senior advisor of the Huawei International Advisory Council (Huawei IAC) Image © Lesley Martin Photography

driven research via a number of major investments, including its new Bayes Centre for Data Science and Technology, which opened at the end of October last year.

Commenting on the attraction of investing in the UK, Tian Tiao focused on the strong relationship between academia and business in terms of research:

‘’The UK has been leading the industrial revolution and l think this has come down thanks to a great combination of research and industry The UK is doing a great job in terms of Universities doing fundamental research and l think in the future, the UK should try to work more with all industries to improve productivity.’’

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Financial services entrepreneur joins award winning financial services company

Alan Fergusson

Mearns & Company, a multi award winning Chartered wealth management and employee benefits consultancy based in Edinburgh, is pleased to welcome the appointment of Alan Fergusson as a Non-Executive Director.

Alan has over 20 years’ worth of experience in the Financial Services industry. He was recently the Employee Benefits Managing Director at Mattioli Woods until May last year. Before that, Alan was with Kudos Financial Services, helping to oversee its growth over the course of 11 years before it was sold to Mattioli Woods.

At Mattioli Woods, Alan was involved in a wide range of projects and opportunities including strategic development, and harmonisation of propositions around acquisitions.

Alan has interests in the wider business community as well. He was a board member at Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, and at the Worldwide Broker Network (WBN), both of which provided him with experiences across a broad range of

industries and entrepreneurial led firms.

Mearns & Company, well known for its strong client and people focus, has been growing its corporate client base organically for over two decades. The company excels in achieving significant cost savings for its corporate clients, while delivering a consistently high level of technical expertise and a personalised approach.

Catherine Bell, Managing Director of Mearns & Company said: “We are very excited to welcome Alan to the team. Alan understands that the unique culture at Mearns & Company is what drives our success, and is committed to supporting us in our desire to grow while protecting our long held values. We believe that having Alan’s skills and experience in our team will place us in a strong position to develop both

our business and our employee benefits offering, providing new corporate clients with an alternative to the larger, traditional employee benefit consultancies in Scotland.

On the announcement of his appointment, Alan Fergusson said: “I am delighted to be working with the management team at Mearns & Company who I have known for some time. Their recent achievement of Investors in People Platinum accreditation demonstrates the high quality people practice standards that the company has, and shows they are well placed to provide employers with an outstanding calibre of service. I look forward to assisting them in evolving their business in the changing world of wealth management and employee benefits. The firm is in a great position to grow.”

We are very excited to welcome Alan to the team. Alan understands that the unique culture at Mearns & Company is what drives our success, and is committed to supporting us in our desire to grow while protecting our long held values.

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CHAMBERCONNECTIONS

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School, 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0QU T: 0141 444 7500 E: admin@scottishchambers.org.uk President – Tim Allan Chief Executive - Liz Cameron OBE

Dumfries & Galloway Chamber of Commerce

Scottish Chambers of Commerce

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce The Hub, Exploration Drive Aberdeen Energy Park, Bridge of Don Aberdeen, AB23 8GX T: 01224 343900 E: info@agcc.co.uk www.agcc.co.uk Chief Executive - Russell Borthwick President - John Brebner Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry The Mezzanine, Glasgow Prestwick International Airport, Prestwick, KA9 2PL T: 01292 678 666 F: 01292 678 667 E: enquiries@ayrshire-chamber.org www.ayrshire-chamber.org Chief Executive - Val Russell President - Lorna Gibson Cairngorms Business Partnership Ltd Inverdruie House, Inverdruie Aviemore, PH22 1QH T: 01479 810200 E: office@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Chief Executive - Mark Tate Chair of the Partnership - Angus McNicol Caithness Chamber of Commerce Naver Business Centre Naver House, Naver Road Thurso, KW14 7QA T: 01847 890076 E: info@caithnesschamber.com www.caithnesschamber.com Chief Executive - Trudy Morris Chairman - Stephen Sutherland

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Eskdale House, The Crichton, Bankend Road Dumfries, DG1 4UQ T: 01387 270866 E: admin@dgchamber.co.uk www.dgchamber.co.uk President & Chief Executive – Tom Armstrong Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Whitecrook Business Centre 78 Whitecrook Street, Clydebank, G81 1QF T: 0141 280 0272 E: admin@dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk www.dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Damon Scott President - Stewart Rennie Dundee & Angus Chamber of Commerce Unit 27, City Quay, Camperdown Street Dundee, DD1 3JA T: 01382 228545 F: 01382 228441 E: info@dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk www.dundeeandanguschamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Alison Henderson President - Ian Collins East Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Barrhead Foundry Main Street, Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, G78 1SW T: 0141 887 6181 E: info@eastrenchamber.org.uk www.eastrenchamber.org.uk President – Laura Molloy Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce 40 George Street, 2nd floor Edinburgh, EH2 2LE T: 0131 221 2999 F: 0131 261 5056 E: info@edinburghchamber.co.uk www.edinburghchamber.co.uk Chief Executive – Liz McAreavey President - Scott Black

Fife Chamber of Commerce John Smith Business Centre, 1 Begg Road John Smith Business Park, Kirkcaldy Fife, KY2 6HD T: 01592 647740 E: info@fifechamber.co.uk www.fifechamber.co.uk CEO – Alan Mitchell President – Peter Southcott Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce Group (incorporating Stirling Chamber of Commerce) Suite 2, Scion House Stirling University Innovation Park Stirling, FK9 4NF T: 01786 448 333 E: info@forthvalleychamber.co.uk www.forthvalleychamber.com www.stirlingchamber.co.uk President Lynn Blaikie Glasgow Chamber of Commerce 30 George Square, Glasgow, G2 1EQ T: 0141 204 2121 E: chamber@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com Chief Executive Stuart Patrick President - Jim McHarg Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce Room 5, Victoria House, 5 East Blackhall Street, Greenock, PA 15 1HD T: 01475 806824 M:07939 272787 E: enquiries@greenockchamber.co.uk www.greenockchamber.co.uk Senior Executive Officer - Margaret Moran President - Gavin McDonagh Inverclyde

Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER CONTACTS

Inverness Chamber of Commerce Metropolitan House 31-33 High Street, Inverness, IV1 1HT T: 01463 718 131 E: info@inverness-chamber.co.uk www.inverness-chamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Stewart Nicol President - Liam Christie Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce Barncluith Business Centre, Townhead St, Hamilton, ML3 7DP T: 01698 400 219 E: info@lanarkshirechamber.org.uk President: Sean Walls Lochaber Chamber of Commerce 15 High Street Fort William, PH33 6DH T: 01397 705 765 E: membership@lochaberchamber.co.uk www.lochaberchamber.co.uk Chairman - Bruno Berardelli Chief Executive - Lesley Benfield Midlothian & East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Moulsdale House, Edinburgh College 24d Milton Road East, Edinburgh, EH15 2PP T: 0131 603 5040 E: info@melcc.org.uk www.melcc.org.uk Joint Chief Executives - George Archibald and Keith Barbour Moray Chamber of Commerce Suite 7, Elgin Business Centre Maisondieu Road, Elgin, IV30 1QP T: 01343 543344 E: info@moraychamber.co.uk www.moraychamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Sarah Medcraf President Carol Stewart

Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Saltire House, 3 Whitefriars Crescent Perth, PH2 0PA T: 01738 448 325 F: 01738 450 402 E: info@perthshirechamber.co.uk www.perthshirechamber.co.uk Chief Executive - Vicki Unite President - Ross Graham Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive Glasgow Airport Paisley, PA3 2SW T: 0141 847 5450 F: 0141 847 5499 E: info@renfrewshirechamber.com www.renfrewshirechamber.com Chief Executive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bob Grant President â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tom Johnston Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce 27 North Bridge Street, Hawick, TD9 9BD T: 07771 865 758 E: communications@borderschamber.com www.borderschamber.com Convenor - Jack Clark Vice Convenor - Bruce Simpson

Scottish Chambers of Commerce Scottish Chambers of Commerce Strathclyde Business School 199 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0QU T: 0141 444 7500 E: admin@scottishchambers.org.uk www.scottishchambers.org.uk @ScotChambers Like us on Facebook Production & Design Distinctive Group 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 6UF Telephone 0191 5805990 production@distinctivegroup.co.uk www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk Advertising John Neilson Commercial Director Telephone 07813 874970 john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk This publication is also available as an ebook at: www.issuu.com/distinctivepublishing

West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Alba Centre, Alba Business Park Rosebank, Livingston, EH54 7EG T: 01506 414808 E: chamber@wlchamber.com www.wlchamber.com Chief Executive Linda Scott President Billy MacLeod

Disclaimer

Distinctive Publishing or Scottish Chambers of Commerce cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Scottish Chambers of Commerce.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Lochaber Chamber of Commerce provides a fantastic week of inspiration Lochaber Ideas Week once again provided a packed week of inspirational events designed to bring the whole business and wider community together in Fort William recently.

Lochaber Chamber of Commerce delivered an engaging mixture of business events and inspirational speakers from Monday 12th to Friday 16th November. The sixth Lochaber Ideas Week proved to be the busiest yet with an astounding 1,000 people booked onto events throughout the week.

We were delighted that Tim Allan, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, was able to join us for the official launch of the week with our presenting partners, Developing the Young Workforce West Highland. Tim also represented the SCC network alongside other selected panel members at an open Question Time debate on the future of Lochaber business.

As well as professional skills seminars during the day, there was also evening events to entice the whole community. We were thrilled to bring the sporting legend that is Michael ‘Eddie the Eagle’ Edwards to a packed house on Monday evening. His incredible tale of perseverance and dogged refusal to give up in the pursuit of his Olympic ski-jumping dream at the Calgary Winter Olympics wowed the audience and inspired many to follow their own dreams.

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Around Lochaber in 80 Tables, the everpopular speed-networking event sponsored

by Lochaber Times was fast, friendly and frantic – in a good way! One new member of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce was very impressed with the format and atmosphere, saying that this was the best networking event he’d ever been to!

Dragons’ Glen on Wednesday night provided a nail-biting evening of drama for the packed crowd at the Ben Nevis distillery, when five local entrepreneurs pitched their business ideas to our ‘dragons’ to win a £10,000 cheque from the West Coast Communities Growth Trust administered by Foundation Scotland.

Tourism is a massive part of Lochaber’s economy and Thursday’s Shaping Tourism in Lochaber event saw a great turnout from local tourism businesses who came to ask questions of a panel of experts about future industry trends. This was followed by a highly informative presentation on what tourism businesses can do to be ‘Chinaready’ by taking simple steps to suit the preferences of the Chinese visitor market.

Our most popular event this year was the

annual Charles Kennedy Lecture. Charles is well remembered as the former leader of the Liberal Democrats party and longserving Lochaber MP, who sadly died in 2015. Almost 300 people packed Lochaber High School on Thursday 15th to hear this year’s lecture delivered by Charles’ close friend Alastair Campbell. The former Labour Director of Communications gave a highly personal, often humorous and insightful lecture that shed light on his friendship with Charles and his beliefs about how to help those facing personal struggles. This was followed by a lively Q & A session, where it didn’t take long for the subject of ‘Brexit’ to rear its head!

We rounded off the week in style with a sold-out Ideas Week Gala Dinner. Our afterdinner speaker was the hugely successful tech entrepreneur and angel investor, Dale Murray. She gave a fantastic speech about never giving up on your business dream and the importance of getting more women into senior positions in business.

We’ve already started planning for Lochaber Ideas Week 2019 and can’t wait to bring more exciting and inspiring events to the Lochaber community next November.

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