Norfolk Voice 22

voic e

norfolk Reasons to be cheerful

Taking time out for the future

Welcome to The New Economy

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce The Ultimate Business Network

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MAY JUNE 2014

Speaker line-up confirmed:

THE REGION’S LEADING ALL ENERGY

CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION

Tom Greatrex MP Shadow Energy Minister Basil Scarsella CEO UK Power Networks Andrew Austin CEO IGas Energy PLC Olivia Hartridge VP Morgan Stanley Duarte Figueira DECC David Williams Eco2 Jonathan Selwyn Lark Energy Tim Watkins Magnox James Bream Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce

John Innes Conference Centre Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK

Thursday 3rd July 2014

Exhibition space and delegate bookings: Book online www.eeegr.com Tel: 01493 446535

The opportunities are here Join us at EEEGR2014 & find out how you can benefit

INNOVATION

AWARDS 2014

& GALA DINNER THE REGION’S PREMIER SHOWCASE FOR BRIGHT IDEAS

TOP OF THE TERRACE Norwich City Football Ground Wednesday 2nd July 2014 For more details and to apply online visit

www.eeegr.com/energy-innovation-awards

CONTENTS

Contents.

03 04 05 06

Whether you are a new or established business, communication is a key ingredient to achieve growth. If you are reading this article, then we have succeeded in getting you to, not only pick up the magazine, but to open it and to start reading. In the past that would not have been such a big deal but in the days of online communication and social media getting your message to the right target audience can be challenging.

Modern thinking is that it is important to be a magnet and draw people to your products or services rather than as in the past fishing for prospective customers. In my opinion you need to do both. If you are a member, add your news and pictures to our website and get the opportunity of appearing in print in the next issue Norfolk Voice – be a magnet!

At the Chamber we still believe strongly in face to face communication and this was illustrated very clearly at our very successful Meet the Buyer event in March. Read about it on page 47 and put 19 March 2015 in your diary for our next Meet the Buyer.

Our ‘The New Economy’ Sustainabilty 2014 conference, gets stronger and stronger. 350 delegates last year and on 12 June we expect to beat that number. It is a free-to-attend event because as a Chamber we believe in the concept of sustainability and want to help Norfolk and Suffolk businesses to benefit. The line up of national speakers this year is our best ever, page 31, so please do take a stand to meet your target audience or be that audience and book your free place.

At our February MPs event, we launched our new campaign ‘Look at Norfolk – See Success’. Read the opinions of some of Norfolk’s business leaders on page 29. Also please put 21 November in your diary for our annual business conference. We will be celebrating the best of Norfolk business, with senior politicians included in the programme to ensure they hear and understand our messages.

Welcome/Contents

24 27

Business Support

Gold Patron News

32 35

Business Support

Apprentice Brokerage Service

38 41

Conference & Exhibitions

07 09

Members News

12 13

Chamber Policy

14 15

Members News

16 17

International Trade

18 19

The Big Interview

21 28 31

Membership Cover Feature Knowledge

37

A Week in The Life Of

Take a Break

50

Chamber Events

54

18

Chamber Events

49 52 53

Commercial Property

5

36 44 48

43

New Members The Last Word

44 Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

ALL EDITORIAL AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES: info@norfolkchamber.co.uk NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Norwich Office: 9 Norwich Business Park, Whiting Road, Norwich NR4 6DJ Tel: 01603 625977 Fax: 01603 633032

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING John Neilson, Commercial Director Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2343 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email:deangriss@btinternet.com E-BOOK www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk/publications

DISCLAIMER Distinctive Publishing or Norfolk Voice 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 Norfolk Voice.

Enjoy this edition and I hope to be reading about your business in the next issue!

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MAY/JUNE 2014

PAGE3

NORFOLK VOICE

What’s the Real Bottom Line?

Ian Hacon President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

Creating a spark for innovation.

At Anglian Water we believe that water encapsulates many of the challenges and opportunities of our time; it is the key to a thriving economy, a flourishing environment and a strong community. By raising awareness of water’s importance and changing the way people think about, and use it, we want to help lead the way towards a sustainable future.

The Global meltdown we all experienced over the last few years looks to be in the past and the economy is now starting to show signs of real recovery. The problem is that many of us do not seem to have learnt from it. Companies are picking up where they left off, focusing hard on ‘the Bottom Line’, by that I mean profit and profit alone.

In my opinion, this is dangerous and can lead to short termism, which can be very damaging in the long run. Some are asking the question - is there another way? Can you have a suitable financial return, but also have a long term view about the planet and its people? This is known as the Triple bottom line, the 3 P’s of People Planet and Profit.

There is a growing movement of businesses that are standing up and saying it’s not okay. Unilever’s Paul Polman and Virgin’s Richard Branson are just two that are saying there must be a better way.

Polman stood up to the capital markets and said, “No, I’m not giving you quarterly earnings figures.” He has also made Unilever a truly socially responsible business and supports movements in the USA, such as Conscious Capitalism (www.consciouscapitalism.org). Meanwhile, Branson has got together with like-minded leaders and formed the ‘B Team’ (www.bteam.org). Both of these organisations are a call to action to do business in a more responsible way. Locally, we have our own business leaders, such as Dr Andy Woods of Adnams leading the way.

Still thinking this doesn’t affect you? If the moral reasons are not enough, to protect the future of your grandchildren, then how about some hard business facts: n Statistically, many ethical companies are outperforming their peers in the market.

Our focus for 2014 is innovation, collaboration and transformation and as such we are keen to work with a wide range of industries to promote more open innovation.

As a result, we are hosting four innovation seminars across the East of England to explore some of the key issues being faced by our region, and to stimulate innovation and collaboration around water. These events will focus on energy and water, smart technology, collaboration in the supply chain and water in agriculture.

The first of these events will explore the link between water and energy and how new, smarter ways of working can help reduce water and energy consumption alike.

The event is taking place on Wednesday 14th May at The Green Britain Centre, Swaffham.

If you would like to find out more or would be interested in attending please contact public.affairs@anglianwater.co.uk.

n The big guys that are signing up to this will expect their supply chain to do the same. Those in M&S’s supply chain will already know this. n Consumers will become more conscious in their purchasing decisions, especially now as we recover and they start to have more disposable income.

The

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GOLD PATRON NEWS

Event helps Norse keep business in local supply chain.

New rail contract agreed.

Abellio Greater Anglia to deliver significant upgrades for customers and communities as new contract agreed with the Department for Transport

As a Norfolk based business, Norse Commercial Services is committed to supporting the local supply chain wherever possible and practical.

Abellio Greater Anglia (AGA) is to deliver some significant service improvements across its franchise area as part of a new contract with the Department for Transport (DfT). The agreement will see the train operator continue to operate train services in East Anglia from July 2014 to October 2016. Despite the contract covering only a short franchise period, the company has worked proactively with the DfT to agree a programme of investment and upgrades which focuses on a number of key priorities for customers and stakeholders in the region.

The company is an active participant in Chamber of Commerce activities and regularly attends the annual ‘Meet the Buyer’ events which have proved profitable days for Norse’s Procurement Manager, Matt Dewsbury.

“The 2014 Meet The Buyer event has proved productive with potential leads being investigated already in areas including fuels, occupational health, furniture and catering equipment. It’s a great event for networking not just with suppliers but also other buyers in local industry, giving us the chance to air views and exchange ideas and experiences.”

“We have had two recent successes from previous Meet the Buyer events. The first was when we were tendering our mobile network business and were looking for a company to manage the transition to O2 from Vodafone,” he explained.

Previously this type of management was dealt with in house by Norse but, with the number of devices on the market and the changing technical ability required in this process, it was decided to outsource.

“We are a prominent service company and therefore cannot afford to have communications issues affecting our customer satisfaction levels.” Dewsbury said.

“At the Meet the Buyer event we met Business First Solutions and were impressed with their knowledge and approach. They are now managing the Norse Commercial Services and Norsecare mobile phone estates and have been very supportive and proactive. Being local, they are only a mile or so away from us, it is much quicker and easier to integrate and resolve issues; a lot of the time these actions benefit from face-to-face interaction.”

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Matt Dewsbury

Once the mobile estate has been optimised by Business First Solutions (BFS) will then start to look at Norse’s fixed lines communications.

As they also provide security technologies, two other divisions of Norse, security provider Eventguard and the Facilities Management team, are also investigating further involvement with BFS. In the second Meet the Buyer success, Norse started working with another regional supplier, telemarketing company VTM, to provide and support an annual customer satisfaction survey.

“We managed to reduce costs significantly and improve the effectiveness of the survey,” Matt Dewsbury said. “VTM is also doing further follow up work tracking the effectiveness of improvement actions.”

In total the programme of upgrades amounts to an investment of over £20 million in service improvements over a 27 month period. The positive package of enhancements builds on progress made by Abellio Greater Anglia since it took on the Greater Anglia franchise in February 2012.

Commenting on the new agreement and significant improvements planned by the company, Jamie Burles, Managing Director, Abellio Greater Anglia said: “I am delighted that we have agreed a very positive new contract with the Department for Transport, which will deliver real improvements for customers across our franchise network. We have taken a very customer and community-focused approach to the development of this new deal, ensuring that there are tangible benefits for passengers and stakeholders, despite this being a short franchise period, as well as paving the way for further upgrades as part of the longer franchise that will follow from October 2016.

Chris Perry Business Manager at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce said, “This is a testament to the support that our region’s biggest employers like Norse bring to developing local supply chains and growing the region’s economy.

It’s clear evidence that big business is indeed open to working with SME’s in Norfolk and that through events like Meet the Buyer 2014, the Norfolk Chamber facilitates tangible business opportunities to both suppliers and buyers.”

Read more about Meet the Buyer on Page 47.

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PAGE5

NORFOLK VOICE

APPRENTICE BROKERAGE SERVICE

Young apprentices – a key to growth.

Do you want to benefit from taking on an apprentice? Norfolk Chamber Apprenticeship Brokerage Service can help you. Contact: Chris Perry Tel: 01603 729707 or Email: chris.perry@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Jake Hishon – KLM Life as an apprentice was a huge step up from life at school and although you never stop learning, everything changes.

When I first started my 4 year Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeship at KLM UK Engineering, everything was new to me. The people were new and the world of work was very new and initially quite scary. However, I soon realised that there were people around me who were more than willing to help and guide me and it all fell into place quickly as I started to settle into life as an Apprentice.

I spent most of the first year practicing my hand skills, working with sheet metal whilst attending College one day a week. In year 2, I was based at KLM UK Engineering’s Technical College and studied for the Aircraft Engineer’s Category A license.

In Year 3, I worked in Workshops and other areas of the Company, further developing my handskills and gaining a good understanding of how the Company works, also meeting more of the 400 strong work force.

I am now in my last year and will graduate in August this year. This has been the most exciting of the 4 years as I put into practice what I have learnt. I have worked with the Structures team, Avionics team and Aircraft Dismantling team. I have even spent some time in Edinburgh working at the Company’s Line station.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 4 year apprenticeship programme and I look forward to a very promising and successful career ahead at KLM UK Engineering. I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do when I left school, I certainly hadn’t even thought of aircraft engineering but on reflection, I’m very glad I did.

Jake Hishon

Luke Keegan - Norfolk County Council I was going to go to university, but when the fees went up the realisation that I would be in debt for a very long time kicked in. As I didn’t have a particular career idea in mind that required taking a degree I decided that work experience was more important and so I began looking for alternatives.

Working at NCC as a Business Support Assistant Apprentice really opened my eyes to the world of work. My role involved a variety of tasks such as co-presenting to schools in Norfolk, taking minutes for meetings, designing business cards and even social networking.

My verbal and written communication has developed the most. I feel less anxious about speaking in public and to colleagues in senior positions.

During January 2013 Norfolk County Council’s Employment and Skills Service launched

Luke Keegan

‘Apprenticeships Norfolk’ on Twitter, the purpose being to pave a fresh route for interaction with our local employers and young people, persuading them to either employ or become an apprentice. The team’s very own apprentice, Luke Keegan, was tasked with managing the project (and training the team and other apprentices how to ‘tweet’).

Within a couple of weeks the account had developed a strong hub of followers and Luke was in a position to address many valuable and potentially life-changing queries on apprenticeships.

Towards the end of the year the project had proved immensely successful, we had connected and generated interest with over 1,000 people including prolific employers, young people, schools and politicians. As a direct result 8 apprentices (so far) have been successfully employed, most of them in the Creative sector.

Administration apprentice with a difference.

Megan Kett I am a business apprentice with a difference, working for Highway To Training in their Café Saints and also their warehouse and retail shop at Ecogreen store. I started my apprenticeship as I really needed to gain confidence, work experience and earn a living.

Mine is an unusual apprenticeship as I work in the Café one day a week, learning the ropes of hospitality which shows me the importance of customer service and gives the real working experience for my qualification.

Megan Kett

During the rest of my time I undertake duties for the companies in bookkeeping, software

The

updates, website issues, answering customer queries and much more. I have been able to make some suggestions to help the companies I work in and some of them have gone ahead, this has helps me develop my business head.

Learning all of these skills has helped me decide that I want to learn more about accountancy, and might seek a higher apprenticeship in this area. I am very pleased with the opportunities my apprenticeship has given me.

I think apprenticeships are very valuable and my future, although not certain, is in a better position than some of my school friends who have moved in other directions and found themselves not where they want to be.

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MEMBERS NEWS

RS Occupational Health bought by Global Provider.

A leading occupational health firm has been bought by a global employee health services provider in a multimillion pound deal.

Aberdeen-based RS Occupational Health has been acquired by Houston-based DISA Global Solutions Inc. for an undisclosed sum.

RS Occupational Health employs around 50 people in Great Yarmouth and Inverness and

recently relocated its Aberdeen headquarters to significantly larger premises in the city. The company was established in 1999 by Fiona Sommerville and Dr Andrew Goodge who will continue to be closely involved in the company.

Houston-based DISA Global Solutions, Inc. has been in business since 1987 and specialises in delivering comprehensive employee screening and compliance services to safety-sensitive employers around the globe. The company’s international services include drug and alcohol testing, background screening, occupational health screening, safety training, and transportation compliance.

MD Simon Binks awarded Low Carbon Consultant Certification.

Cost Centre Services’ (CCS) managing director, Simon Binks, has become a certified and registered Low Carbon Consultant with the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). The certification demonstrates competence to minimise energy use and carbon emissions from new and old buildings, both in design and operation and adds yet another cost reduction opportunity when CCS investigates business energy management systems.

Want to become a Fit4Work business?

What is Fit4Work?

Fit4Work is a project that aims to promote the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle to employees. It is a ‘hands on’ project - it will provide your organisation with activities for your employees to be involved in, rather than just guidance and advice.

Simon Binks says: “A qualified Low Carbon Consultant Energy Management Systems Specialist can develop processes and procedures that systematically improves energy performance and ensures that a businesses conforms with its stated energy policy.”

Who can be involved?

Any organisation can be involved with the project, from the public, private or voluntary sector. From manufacturers, to call centres, retail to schools; we can offer something for everyone.

What are the benefits of being involved?

Rewarding excellence in British business

Physically active people take fewer days off sick.

Open for entry until 27th June 2014

Enter the Chamber Awards at: www.chamberawards.co.uk #chamberawards

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PAGE7

NORFOLK VOICE

Cooper Lomaz Recruitment appoint Companies business development specialist. merge services.

Creative technology agency, Knit, and digital marketing consultancy, Yodelay have announced the completion of a definitive agreement to merge their services.

Expanding Norwich independent recruitment specialist Cooper Lomaz has appointed Philip Pitt as Head of Business Development.

Both companies offer original and innovative digital services, and this recent move signals the beginning of a unified approach to further strengthen Knit’s digital offering and continue to drive measurable return on investment for their clients.

Key members of Yodelay have now moved into the Knit offices and both teams are enjoying the settling in period.

Knit creates multi-faceted digital campaigns which ensure that brands give their customers an unforgettable user experience through the use of innovation and technology. The additional skills that Knit welcomes in-house from Yodelay are anticipated to make their campaigns work even harder through search and social for brand amplification and increased impact and exposure.

“We had 200 applicants for the post and Philip was the stand-out candidate from Day One,” said Cooper Lomaz Operations Director Mark Fletcher. “He has a wealth of experience, working for large national agencies and we are tremendously excited by such a quality addition to our successful management team.”

“Very few of our competitors have someone in a business development role, but for us it was the next logical step. We have grown 20% in the past year and we aim to grow another 20% next year.

Having Philip on our team will allow us to develop the way we sell our service to existing clients and open up opportunities with new clients.”

Fantastic new menu.

Flybe enhances schedule on Norwich - Edinburgh Route. to mark the first day of an improved, business schedule, which was introduced by Loganair after taking the service over from partner Flybe.

Loganair has increased the frequency of its services between Norwich and Scotland’s capital, basing a second Dornier 328 aircraft at Norwich International Airport and taking on six locally based staff.

Norwich City FC defender, Steven Whittaker and a local piper visited Norwich International Airport to send off the first service of Flybe’s afternoon business schedule between the city and Edinburgh.

Steven Whittaker, who hails from Edinburgh, joined Dave Harper, a Norwich born bag-piper,

The carrier has started a double daily weekday service, adding a third rotation after the Easter holidays to provide a convenient business schedule. As an extra boost to passengers, a Sunday service will also be added, with Sunday frequency increasing to two flights during the peak summer season.

Hear Norwich International Airport CEO, Andrew Bell speak at a Chamber breakfast on 2 July 2014. Details Page 48.

The

The team of talented Chef’s at Below Decks Restaurant @ The Comfort Hotel in Great Yarmouth have compiled a fantastic new menu for the start of the 2014 season.

From BBQ Chicken Wings through to Caramelised Leg Of Lamb Steak or the very popular Wild River Medley, the Below Decks Restaurant offers a wide range of freshly cooked foods to suit all tastes and budgets.

For a warm welcome in comfortable, contemporary surroundings visit the Below Decks Restaurant Great Yarmouth.

To view the full menu please visit www.belowdecks.net

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MEMBERS NEWS

Norfolk’s construction industry warned to act now to meet fast approaching legislative deadline.

Business consultancy WLP is warning Norfolk’s construction industry to act now to ensure it meets the 1st July 2014 deadline of mandatory CE Marking for fabricated structural steel products, one of the most significant changes for the industry in a decade.

CE Marking demonstrates a product meets EU safety, health or environmental requirements and is an increasingly familiar sight as it applies to a wide range of products, from toys and household refrigerators and freezers, to pyrotechnics and machinery. The July deadline affects businesses in the county involved with a

wide range of products, from roller blinds to roof trusses and joists.

Watton-based business consultancy – and Norfolk Chamber of Commerce member – WLP has recently seen a surge in demand for its services which support businesses with CE Marking as the deadline approaches. However it is concerned that many businesses are still unprepared for the changes and may lose out on business as a result, or face restrictions on trading, a fine or imprisonment if they do not comply in time.

Companies have natural synergy.

Breakwater IT Chairman Peter Davies said “We started working with Netmatters when they developed our own website. We were really impressed with the way that they delivered the work on time and on budget. We quickly realised that there was a natural synergy between the two companies and an opportunity to work much more closely together in the future.”

Breakwater has formed a new alliance with Netmatters. The two companies will work closely together with Breakwater helping Netmatters’ clients with their Business Telecoms’ needs as well as helping out with larger IT Projects.

In return, Netmatters will help develop websites for Breakwater’s clients and will work on any bespoke software applications that they may require.

Netmatters MD Chris Gulliver said “Breakwater IT has a very good telecoms offering. Our clients often ask for advice on telecoms and previously we were unable to assist but now we can introduce Breakwater IT with confidence as we have experienced the quality of their services first hand. Breakwater IT is known as a leading provider of IT services and we also plan to partner together on larger UK projects.”

Breakwater runs the IT and Telecoms for some of the best known companies in the region and have recently completed major IT projects for EAAA, M+A Partners and Norfolk Country Cottages.

Liftshare is changing the way we live.

The Everline and Real Business Future 50 Awards celebrate the UK’s most disruptive businesses.

The annually published list provides definitive analysis of game-changing UK companies and is a major programme to support disruptive organisations that are triggering change in their markets.

The 2014 entries were as diverse as they were brilliant, showcasing businesses poised to revolutionise the way we do just about everything: from the way we shop, to the way we communicate, the way we travel, the way we eat, and even the way we die!

‘Third time lucky’ for Broker.

Following its success in reaching the last six of the prestigious Business Moneyfacts Broker Awards in 2012, and 2013, Norwich based commercial finance broker B2B Cashflow Solutions has gone one better in receiving a ‘Commendation’ this year at the recent awards in London.

Director Simon Reynolds to comment “We are delighted that this industry award has not only

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continued to acknowledge the work we are doing on behalf of SME’s, but has recognised our ongoing development compared with the two previous years. Some would say this is a case of ‘third time lucky’ but perhaps we are simply delivering our strategic development objectives (with an element of luck thrown in!)?”

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PAGE9

NORFOLK VOICE

In The Beginning, There Was Red And Blue - The Oyster Perpetual Gmt-Master II ADVERTISING FEATURE

Having just arrived home from the climax of Baselworld 2014 (the world’s leading watch exhibition), Winsor Bishop is proud to reveal that one of Rolex’s most iconic models will be arriving at our London Street store later this year.

From its launch in 1955, the Rolex GMT-Master stood out with its rotatable 24-hour graduated red and blue bezel. Thanks to an additional hand that circled the dial once every 24 hours, airline pilots on intercontinental flights – a rapidly expanding sector at the time – could read the time in two time zones simultaneously.

In 1959, still in the original two colours, the Plexiglas insert was replaced by one in anodized aluminium once the manufacture of a twocolour insert in this material had been mastered.

Various other combinations were introduced later, such as brown and gold on Rolesor (steel and gold) models, or burgundy and black on the GMT-Master II launched in 1982. The new-generation GMT-Master II with two colour Cerachrom bezel inserts in ceramic is a distillation of Rolex expertise and technology that remains faithful to the style of this legendary timepiece.

In the minds of many GMT-Master lovers, a red and blue bezel remains the signature feature of this model

Greenwich Mean Time In function as well as in name, the GMT-Master II evokes intercontinental travel across time zones.

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) marks mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London − the location of the original meridian used for calculating longitude and determining different time zones around the world. As intercontinental travel developed in the 1950s with the advent of the jet age, airliners began to fly swiftly across several successive time zones, making it important to know simultaneously the time in various places in the world (such as the airport of departure and arrival, or local time and GMT reference time). The GMT-Master was developed to meet the specific needs of airline pilots. It became the official watch of the famous Pan American World Airways, better known as Pan Am.

Two time zones simultaneously An evolution of the first model, the GMTMaster II was launched in 1982. In addition to conventional hour, minute and seconds hands, it features an arrow-tipped hand which circles the dial once every 24 hours as well as a bidirectional rotatable 24-hour graduated bezel.

This 24-hour hand displays the reference time in a

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

first time zone (‘home’ time for example), which can be read on the graduations on the bezel.

Travellers can read local time on the dial, indicated by the hour hand. It is easily set when crossing time zones, by “jumping” from hour to hour thanks to an ingenious mechanism operated via the winding crown. The adjustment can be made independently of the minute and seconds hands, without affecting the time for the first time zone or stopping the watch. As a result, travellers can simultaneously read the time where they are as well as their reference time, which is displayed in a 24-hour format to clearly differentiate daytime hours from nighttime hours (for example 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.). If desired, the time in a third time zone can also be displayed by turning the graduated bezel the corresponding number of hours. The time in this zone is indicated by the 24-hour hand against the bezel.

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PAGE11

NORFOLK VOICE

New faces for Great Yarmouth Chamber Council.

Following an interview process, Great Yarmouth Chamber Council has appointed three new members to strengthen the area council’s remit. Simon Nicholas, Andrew Penman and Neil Orford have a wealth of experience in the local area and will be strong additions to the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council.

Andrew Penman, Group Managing Director, Conductor Installation Services said: “I’ve worked in the oil and gas Industry for nearly forty years and have owned a local holiday park for the past eight years, so I have a foot in both of the key local business sectors. That said, having been involved with the education sector as well and employed several apprentices with excellent results, I believe that the Chamber is an excellent platform to wave the flag long and hard to help engage the local business to: firstly look at taking on apprentices; and secondly fill that all important ‘skills gap’ as a

Andrew Penman

Simon Nicholas

successful entrepreneur, I hope to be able to inspire and enthuse others into our local business community.”

Simon Nicholas, Partner at Paul Robinson Partnership said: “I have lived and worked in Great Yarmouth for many years and becoming a member of the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council will provide me with the opportunity to encourage passion and further opportunities for local businesses. Great Yarmouth has a huge amount to offer, which needs to be maximized in order for local business to succeed for the benefit of the local economy. I am looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead and it means a great deal to be involved with an active group who champion all that is good about Great Yarmouth.”

Neil Orford

Neil Orford, Partner at Lovewell Blake said: “I am very pleased to have been appointed to the Great Yarmouth Chamber Council and look forward to working with my fellow council members to support the membership. My role as a Partner at Lovewell Blake gives me good opportunities to interact with the business community and understand what is important to them.”

John Morse, President of Great Yarmouth Chamber Council said: “It is fantastic to see three well-established Great Yarmouth businesses getting actively involved in the Chamber Council. I am looking forward to working closely with Neil, Simon and Andrew to help drive better business engagement in Great Yarmouth.”

What do West Norfolk businesses need to grow?

At a recent meeting of West Norfolk Chamber Council, the Council welcomed a new member to the group, Chris Bishop from Archant. The meeting discussion centred around skills in West Norfolk and the need to attract a more people at all levels from skilled engineers, through to senior managers, as well as raising the business profile of West Norfolk.

From left to right: Paul Smith, Angela Pilkington and Heather Garrod

Members agreed that to attract new employees to the area, the local businesses community needed to raise their profile and ‘shout’ about the great business being done in West Norfolk.

There are many fantastic organisations based here, such as Cooper Roller Bearings, Germains Seed Technologies, Omex Agrifluids, Fosters Refrigeration and Adrian Flux Insurance to name but a few – all are Chamber members and together they contribute to a successful West Norfolk economy.

The

Heather Garrod, the President of West Norfolk Chamber Council said: “It is up to us, the business community of West Norfolk, to make more noise about how much we can offer and ensure the message that ‘West Norfolk is open for business’ is broadcasted to everyone.”

If you are a Chamber member and passionate about West Norfolk and want to help spread the message that West Norfolk is a fantastic place to live and work, we want to hear from you. The West Norfolk Chamber Council will be holding a debate on what local businesses needs to grow. The debate will be held at the Knights Hill Hotel, South Wootton on 16 June 2014 at 6pm. To have your say and to hear ideas from other like-minded businesses, please contact nova.fairbank@norfolkchamber.co.uk to reserve your place.

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CHAMBER POLICY

Chamber’s new Representation Council.

Norfolk Chamber’s Representation Council recently held its inaugural meeting. The Representation Council consists of members of the Chamber Board, the chairs of the Area Councils and Special Interest Groups, together with senior representatives of the Chamber’s Gold Patrons. They will meet on a quarterly basis.

Their aim is to set the policy direction for the Chamber and there are three key policy priorities for the Representation Council to consider: n Promoting a positive message for Norfolk n Unlocking the potential of young people n Improving Norfolk’s infrastructure Discussions centred around how to work collaboratively with Norfolk business organisations, local authorities and MPs as well as other counties, such as Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. In addition the group also received an update from Iain Dunnett, the Stakeholder Manager for New Anglia LEP on their Strategic Economic Plan.

The chair of the Representation Council is the Chamber President, Ian Hacon, who said: “The aim of the Chamber’s Representation Council is to drive the policy aspects of the business agenda for Norfolk and to ensure that the Chamber provides a positive influence at a local, regional and national level.”

Left to right back row: Andrew Barnes, Caroline Williams, John Morse, Bob Crawley and Tracey Howard. Left to rght front row: Ian Hacon, Jonathan Denby, David Whitehead, Jonathan Cage, Geoff Tucker, Heather Garrod and Bobby Burrage

Norwich see signs of economic improvement. campaign, Better Broadband for Norfolk’s improvement project and the Norwich in Ninety campaign.

Council members also provided an overview of how the economy was starting to improve in Norwich. RG Carters advised that they were seeing an upturn in construction with a mix of residential and public spending. Arnold Keys said that the commercial property market was performing well and they were seeing investors starting to review their property investment portfolios. The residential market was also picking up.

At a recent meeting of Norwich Chamber Council, members received an infrastructure update from Tom McCabe, Interim Director for Environment, Transport and Development for Norfolk County Council. He outlined the progress on the NDR, the A47 improvement

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Hugh J Boswell were cautiously optimistic, trading well, and seeing growth of 6%. Similarly, Naked Marketing were also doing well, their turnover for the year was up and they had a long order book. They also advised that they would be looking to recruit another member of staff as well as an apprentice this year.

Birketts provided an update on employment regulations. Since new regulations came into effect in November 2013, introducing fees for bringing an employment tribunal, there has been a significant drop in employment tribunal cases of between 60% - 70%. They also noted that as of 1 April 2014 there would be mandatory ACAS conciliation requirements for employment disputes.

John Lewis, Norwich advised that they had not seen the traditional drop in sales in January. As a result, they had retained six of the temporary Christmas staff on permanent contracts. Their online sales were also up by 20% and their fashion sales were also picking up.

Caroline Williams, CEO of Norfolk Chamber confirmed that Chamber members’ overall feedback was that they were beginning to feel more optimistic, although still cautious. Businesses were still not investing heavily, but there were signs of more confidence in recruiting staff.

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NORFOLK VOICE

Diss company is on the up.

Diss-based Glazing Vision are technical experts in the design, manufacture and supply of precision engineered, architectural glass rooflights for residential and commercial buildings. For the past 20 years they have grown in the UK and overseas.

Glazing Vision was established in 1994, initially set up as a glazing refurbishment company by Hugh Callacher who remains the major shareholder of the business to this day. In 2002 Glazing Vision launched its first rooflights, designed for flat roof applications. Today they offer a range of fixed, hinged and sliding glass rooflights creating maximum views of the sky above with minimum framework resulting in maximum natural daylight.

By 2006 as demand increased, Glazing Vision focused the entire company design and manufacturing efforts on rooflights, letting go of the refurbishment and bespoke glazing sides of the business.

The company instead focused on continued development of glass rooflights, on new ideas and solutions, responding to the creative needs of clients.

Centrum making good progress.

Glazing Vision’s Managing Director Jon Shooter grew up in Norfolk attending the College of West Anglia where he studied business.

He said: “I joined the company in 2004, it was clear that we had a great opportunity in the glass rooflight market, there was no one else offering what we were, we tailored our marketing to target architects, they loved the products and we have grown the company from £1m turnover to nearly £7m this year. We are specialists in our field, on the cutting edge of rooflight design, our products can be found on rooftops across the globe, we have shipped product to Hawaii, California, New York, Hong Kong, Kuwait and across Europe.”

Locally, Glazing Vision have manufactured and installed glass rooflights at a number of schools in the region including Swaffam Hammonds High School, they also installed a circular rooflight at Wymondham library and a large glass opening rooflight on Adnams Brewery shop in Southwold.

Glazing Vision has a distribution network throughout Europe and the USA, the latest rooflight to come off the production line is a sliding glass box rooflight destined for Boston, Massachusetts. Everything is manufactured using experienced engineers and CNC machinery at the factory in Diss and shipped around the world.

Glazing Vision moved to Diss in 2010 to allow them to bring everything under one roof, giving the company the capacity to grow further.

Glazing Vision employ around 90 people with plans to develop further overseas markets the company is still looking to grow.

2014 will see Glazing Vision launch an improved suite of market leading thermally efficient products to continue to be at the forefront of the industry.

The new Centrum building, on Norwich Research Park, is making excellent progress.

Centrum, located at the heart of the Park, will offer laboratory and office space on flexible lease terms, with a restaurant and drop-in café for networking and events. Informal meeting areas will create a good environment for stimulating collaboration and information sharing. Additional features include board and meeting rooms for hire and a link to the international conference centre at the John Innes Centre. Exhibition space and informal meeting areas in the large ground floor atrium will create a great environment for networking events and the sharing of ideas.

Companies located on the Park will benefit from investment in state-of-the-art IT infrastructure. This includes superfast broadband, site-wide WiFi, integrated telecoms and the ability to link into academic networks.

Showcase the best of Norfolk business.

From local standout to national champion: Chamber Awards to put best of British business on the map and we want Norfolk business to shine the brightest.

This year, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) are inviting businesses from across the country to take part and showcase their talents and achievements through a series of regional heats, culminating in the national final, which takes place in London on November 27th 2014.

Companies can enter nine categories, covering people development; manufacturing; sustainability; international

business; innovation; technology; young people; and entrepreneurship.

n Achievement in International Business

The Awards will be demonstrating the very best of British business, highlighting the positive contribution that businesses make to the UK economy and to society as a whole. The categories are:

n Commitment to People Development

n Small Business of the Year - NEW n Manufacturer of the Year - NEW n Best use of Technology to Improve Business Performance - NEW n Young Person in Business Award - NEW

The

n The Sustainability Award n Entrepreneur of the Year n Excellence in Innovation Norfolk Chamber members can enter for free.

The deadline for entries is Friday 27 June 2014, the regional winners will be announced on 22 September, with the national winners being announced on 27 November 2014 at an awards ceremony in London. To enter, go to: www.chamberawards.co.uk

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MEMBERS NEWS

CIS group completes conductor-driving operation.

Conductor Installation Services (CIS), an Acteon Company based in Great Yarmouth, has completed a contract for Weatherford Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

in Singapore and global headquarters in Great Yarmouth, England. Working in water depths to 62 metres, CIS installed all nine conductors in just six days on the Cendor Phase II Development.

Although CIS has provided Petrofac Malaysia with custom drive shoes in the past, this project marked an important first for CIS. “The contract award from Weatherford Malaysia represented the first time that we had been contracted to provide conductordriving services to Petrofac in Malaysia, so it was especially significant,” said Andy Penman, Group Managing Director of CIS.

The contract was to provide conductor-driving services and associated equipment on behalf of Petrofac (Malaysia-PM304) Limited (PML) and Petrofac Energy Developments Sdn. Bhd. (PED), collectively referred to as Petrofac.

These services were delivered as part of Petrofac’s plans to develop Block PM304 for production on the Cendor Field Development, and to further expand the Berantai Field Development, which are located offshore Terengganu, Malaysia.

CIS supplied full project management, including personnel and onshore technical support for the entire project, from the fabrication of drive shoes through to the installation of the conductors.

More specifically, CIS was responsible for carrying out drivability studies, fabricating customised drive shoes, welding the drive shoes to the

customer’s pipe, and supplying handling and cold cutting equipment.

Working from the GSF Galveston Key and Trident IX jack-up rigs, CIS used a 90kJ hydraulic hammer to drive fifteen 36-inch conductors into the seabed to form part of the foundations of the Cendor B and C platforms, which are key components of this development.

The contract, valued in excess of USD$1 million, was completed by CIS with support from its base

Growth Vouchers: strategic advice.

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CHAMBER DIGEST

The prestigious Eastern Daily Press Business Awards are open for entry from mid-May.

After following up the advice (yes, it pays to follow advice it as well as give it) we are pleased to announce that Onestop Webshop are now accredited advisers under the Government Growth Voucher scheme.

The vouchers cover 5 key areas of advice.

From our perspective the areas covered are

In 2005, CIS performed its first-ever hydraulic conductor installation operation. Since then, the company has carried out more than 800 conductor installation operations worldwide, in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Trinidad, China, the Middle East, West Africa, and the Gulf of Mexico, among others.

Eastern Daily Press Business awards – are you the best in business?

Those who have been following the Norfolk Chamber News may well remember the post highlighting the Government’s new Growth Voucher scheme.

For those not familiar with the scheme, Growth Vouchers are aimed at helping small businesses access expert advice more easily. In addition to providing a marketplace where business can match their needs with suitable Advisers, the Government has pledged £30M. funding in the form of vouchers, equivalent to a 50% subsidy on advice (subject to maximum funding of £2,000)

“We appreciate the opportunity to have contributed to the Cendor and Berantai developments,” he added. CIS has been carrying out conductor installation services in Malaysia since 2006.

Do you have what it takes to walk away with one of these iconic awards? If so make sure you get your entry in.

For categories, criteria and the entry deadline visit www.edpbusinesawards.co.uk

eCommerce and online marketing. If you are a small business you can find out more information on Growth Vouchers and how we can help with by visiting our website.

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NORFOLK VOICE

Powerful Global Network for Norfolk companies.

The Government’s aim of transforming the British economy by 2020 by doubling annual exports to £1 trillion and increasing the number of UK exporters by 100,000 is undoubtedly a challenge to UK business and support networks.

business with a powerful global business support network for the first time.

“Markets selected have been prioritised as high growth markets but are often seen by our SMEs as difficult to access so it makes sense to provide more B2B support in these countries. In time, this will help position UK businesses at the forefront of global growth opportunities.”

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director of Norfolk Chamber said: “One thing that remains absolutely clear is the priority that must be attached to boosting our bilateral trade and investment and I am delighted to welcome Bradley, who brings impressive international trade experience. I have no doubt that his combination of business knowledge of the UK market as well as overseas, will greatly benefit businesses in our region.

Rising to this challenge, UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the British Chambers of Commerce are developing a global network of businessled organisations to provide practical business support to exporting companies in the UK, offering a seamless journey from their local Chamber of Commerce to fully accredited British Business Centres overseas.

“Bradley will be developing a much needed integrated global business support network with Chambers of Commerce, UKTI and LEPs, focused on delivering quality services and maintaining high quality customer relations so that companies can see solid and sustained progress in their overseas markets”.

The Prime Minister recently launched an £8m programme to enhance these overseas business networks designed to provide SMEs with practical vibrant spaces in which to land and get started in overseas markets. In addition to the support offered by UKTI and Chambers, these business centres will provide other services – from hot desking to PR and discounted advice from experts – across 40 high growth markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Poland.

Bradley Rowley

Building a global B2B network has started by connecting the new overseas British Business Centres to UK Chambers. The East of England is fully involved in this initiative and has recently appointed a Regional Coordinator to link accredited Chambers in this region to the networks overseas.

British Consulate General, Shanghai, is in place to ensure that companies in Norfolk take full advantage of this new drive. Bradley brings his experience of supporting UK exporters both in the UK and overseas right here to the East of England and will be working in partnership with UKTI, who are behind this important initiative.

Bradley Rowley, recently International Trade Adviser for UK Trade & Investment based in East Anglia, and Vice Consul for Trade & Investment,

Bradley Rowley said: “Developing strong relationships between domestic and overseas networks is our first priority which will provide UK

Bradley will be based at Suffolk Chamber’s Ipswich office but will work alongside International Trade Advisers in this region.

Developing strong relationships between domestic and overseas networks is our first priority which will provide UK business with a powerful global business support network for the first time

The

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

NITAG is coming to King’s Lynn!

International Trade Training Courses.

Following three successful meetings since its creation, NITAG will be holding its next meeting in King’s Lynn during July.

We will be focussing on ‘Where do I start?’ where delegates can learn where to go and who to see for information relating to how to get started in the world of international trade.

One of the questions asked by the British Chambers of Commerce in their last national survey related to the barriers to export. A number of Norfolk firms responded with the following reasons:

If you are unable to attend the meeting yourself, please send a colleague who can attend on your behalf, to avoid missing out on the tips and advice that will be made available.

The date for this meeting is as follows:

The Norfolk Chamber of Commerce organises a wide range of Training Courses which have been specifically designed for staff involved in exporting and/or importing cargo to and from the UK. Whether you are an Export Sales Manager, Export Administrator, Shipping Clerk, Financial or Shipping Manager from Manufacturers, Exporters to Forwarding Agents, we have courses that will help you and your company succeed.

n Lack of market information and finding opportunities

Date: Wednesday, 23 July 2014

n Can’t find suitable customers/agents/ distributors

Venue: The College of West Anglia, Tennyson Avenue, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2QW

n Language/cultural differences with overseas markets

The deadline for pre-booking your free place is no later than 4pm on 18 July, by emailing tracey.howard@norfolkchamber.co.uk

4th

Understanding Exporting* (Full Day)

19th

Letters of Credit / Methods of Payment* (Full Day)

Recent feedback:

July 2014

I liked the informal format – and the length was just right so it didn’t take too much time out of a busy work schedule – the panel were knowledgeable and it was an excellent forum for raising topics, issues and questions directly relevant to the participants.

3rd

n Don’t know where to start The Norfolk International Trade Advisory Group (NITAG) was formed to help brainstorm particular issues that exporters face, in order to help come up with solutions. The Group Members all play a significant role within the field of International Trade, so are a great team to consult with.

Time: 3.00pm - 4.30pm

Forthcoming dates and topics:

Further details can be found at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/export

For more help and advice on how to export visit the International Section on www.norfolkchamber.co.uk, contact the International Team on 01603 625977, or email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

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June 2014

e-zCert Workshop

Courses marked with a *, form part of the British Chambers of Commerce Accredited Courses, which can result in a Foundation Certificate.

More details can be found on our website.

If you would like further details such as the content of these courses, please take a look at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk To book your place, please email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Tracey Howard, International Trade Director

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NORFOLK VOICE

THE BIG INTERVIEW Company’s international expertise bears fruit.

Norfolk’s growing global reputation for Agri-Tech innovation is opening up exciting new markets and one of the companies taking full advantage of the opportunities being presented is Omex Agrifluids.

The King’s Lynn company, which produces specialist liquid fertilisers exclusively for the export trade, is currently experiencing rapid expansion in a variety of overseas markets and has plans to increase its market share even further in the years to come.

Its Regional Director is Alan Lowes, whose interest in agriculture began at school where his favourite subjects were biology and natural history.

It was an interest that saw him work initially in East Africa. He said: “I knew at school that I wanted to work with natural history so I went on to do a degree in Natural Sciences, after which myself and a friend and our wives decided that we needed an adventure before settling down.

“We rebuilt an old Landrover and drove from Scotland to Kenya. I only intended to stay for three months but myself and my wife ended up staying for fifteen years where I worked in crop protection across East Africa.”

When he came home in 1995, he took his expertise to Omex Agrifluids, which was formed in 1976 and has since grown into a leader in plant nutrition technology worldwide.

The company manufactures and exports a unique range of plant nutrients, including liquid fertilisers, products designed to promote plant health, live microbial materials for seed treatment and nutrients for organic farming.

Alan believes that there is an ever-increasing need for the company’s products given that

the world’s population is estimated to number 7.156 billion, with food highlighted as one of the planet‘s major challenges.

He said: “The world population is expanding rapidly and it is predicted to continue doing so.”

“That means that we need to find efficient ways to feed ourselves. In order to do that, we have to make more effective use of the land that we have, which is where products like ours come into it.”

“One of our strengths as a company is our flexibility. Every country and market is different so we look at what each one needs and design our products to suit them.”

“Our big markets at the moment are the BRIC countries, particularly the expanding economies of China and Brazil, whose needs fit nicely into our product range.”

The company’s achievements in growing its international share were recognised recently at the annual Mayor’s Business Awards, organised

by West Norfolk Council in association with the Lynn News. Nine awards were handed out on the night with the main one, the Mayor’s Business of the Year prize, going to Omex Agrifluids.

And last year, the company gained the Queen’s Award for Enterprise with its directors visiting Buckingham Palace to meet the Queen at a reception held especially in honour of UK companies who have shown exceptional success in their field.

Such success does not happen by accident.

For Alan, the key to ensuring that export success is achieved is doing the correct groundwork before attempting to trade.

He said: “We have found that that the best way to trade internationally is to do the preparation.”

“We work with UKTI to do a survey of the country in advance of going there so that we

The

Alan Lowes, second from the left, in Mexico with growers and distributors

know the background because every economy, every country, every culture, is different.”

“The best way to do business is face-to-face but it is not enough to walk out of the airport and start talking to farmers. The way we operate is to partner a local distributor who can help us technically and commercially.”

“We have ambitious targets and this year we are looking to increase our presence in Mexico and Central America.”

“We are there already but we wish to increase what we do. I was in the North East of Mexico recently and some of their agricultural sites are very impressive.”

“The country is already supplying large quantities of tomatoes and peppers to the United States.”

One of our strengths as a company is our flexibility.

Every country and market is different so we look at what each one needs and design our products to suit them.

“But it’s not enough to go to a new country and try to be an expert in every crop, you have to have technical credibility.”

“In the case of our work in Mexico, we have an Omex Agronomist based in Colombia who is an expert in glasshouse production and he accompanied me. This really helped to open doors to gain access to some of the main producers and distributors.”

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BIG INTERVIEW

By John Dean deangriss@btinternet.com

Alan Lowes Regional Director, Omex Agrifluids Ltd

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NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk Recruitment Specialist Polkadotfrog Shares its Top Interviewer Tips.

ADVERTISING FEATURE and provide examples of how they use their skills through asking open-ended question.

Remember that on average the applicant should speak for around 80 per cent of the time

Most people have experienced the daunting prospect of being interviewed, but few have the knowledge or experience being the interviewer.

While it can be a formidable task, polkadotfrog advise careful planning which they believe is essential to the success of the interview and eventual hiring process.

Prepare a list of questions, review the candidates’ CV and consider competency-based interviews.

Norfolk recruitment specialist polkadotfrog offers its top five tips on conducting interviews:1. Have a strategy – If there are several colleagues present make sure you plan ahead as a team to work out who is going to ask what and who will initially greet the candidate. It’s essential that you give a good and smooth impression on the day 2. What not to ask - Don’t ask direct questions about family, marital status, age, religious or political affiliation which are not relevant to the person’s ability to do the job 3. Open questions – Give candidates the opportunity to explain their thoughts and opinions

4. Tests – a recruitment agency will conduct basic tests of their candidates to make sure that they are competent and have rounded writing, reading and numeracy skills. At polkadotfrog we also test on different IT packages and typing skills at basic, intermediate and advanced levels 5. Personal Biases - More hiring mistakes are made in the first 30 minutes of the interview. First impressions, personal biases, stereotypes and prejudices unconsciously come into play when the interviewer and candidate meet in person for the first time. Be aware of this and make sure that competency and suitability are the main focus.

Competency-based testing can ensure that businesses get the right person and help make the recruiting process easier.

Lucy Tufts, Director and Founder of polkadotfrog comments: “We recommend that businesses think about competency-based interviews to measure behaviour, minimise bias and showcase outstanding

The Games will take place on Friday 13th June 2014 at UEA Sportspark in Norwich from 9am – 6pm Active Norfolk is delighted to invite your company to take part in Norfolk’s Fit4Work Corporate Games 2014, sponsored by Healthy Norwich/NHS Norwich Clinical Commissioning Group and The Forum.

The Games offer a unique opportunity for your staff and clients to join the action, get active and compete in sporting challenges against teams from other local businesses. The event promises to be hugely enjoyable as well as a serious opportunity for you to network and promote your business to potential customers.

There are activities to suit all abilities and coaches will be on hand to explain the rules.

Entry costs just £50 per team so this event offers excellent value for money for an active day out with colleagues.

For more details and to register your team visit www.activenorfolk.org/corporate If you have any questions please contact us on

01603 732333 or info@activenorfolk.org www.facebook.com/activenorfolk @activenorfolk

sponsored by

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

candidates. The candidate is asked questions around specific incidents where they used certain skills. Get the candidate to describe a time when they contributed to the success of a team or what they learnt from a specific experience. You can then make confident decisions recruiting the right people, retain staff and save time and money.” polkadotfrog specialises in Office Support, Sales, Marketing, Finance, HR, IT, Legal and Shipping & Transport sectors across all levels and permanent, temporary and contract positions.

For more information visit www.polkadotfrog.co.uk or call 01603 337 000.

MEMBERSHIP

There can be no doubt though that fully developed businesses are vital contributors to our thinking. Norse, Aviva and Bernard Matthews and are just a select few of the nationally known and locally based companies who are active participants in the chamber. These top rated organisations are strategists and key wealth creators for the region. It’s their kind of experience and knowledge that drives thought leadership.

And, as big companies, they’re not alone in seeing Chamber membership as a valuable resource. More and more, sizeable operations are engaging with us. Within the last three months Smurfit Kappa, Jeyes, Co-op, Banham Poultry and Ridgeons have all joined the Norfolk Chamber to be involved with the business community and help influence key decisions locally.

norfolk

One of the real benefits of Norfolk Chamber is that we’re a platform to enable businesses to meet, engage, share knowledge and deliver influence.‘Big Thinking’ is not exclusive to big business of course. The attitude and innovation of our member companies, irrespective of their size, is an essential chamber trait.

voi ce

Big business brings big ideas to the Chamber.

By Chris Perry Business Manager

leaders to share best practise and find new innovative local suppliers.

Chris Perry the Business Manager comments “It’s the diversity and range of business sizes that are part of the Norfolk Chamber that makes the Chamber unique as a network. Big business cannot achieve everything on its own, as such they recognise that being part of the network they can strengthen their own business by growing their own influential contacts and sharing best practice with other like-minded regional business leaders. Increasingly over the last two years more and more big businesses are becoming part of the network as our high profile connections, training, media channels and influence can support even the largest employer in Norfolk. This benefits everyone as we provide business opportunities for our SMEs to meet with decision makers that normally are very hard to see.”

You could call it a virtuous circle; bigger businesses spreading their wisdom for the benefit of all Chamber members, and in turn being

Martyn Bromley CEO of Banham Poultry says “Banham has been operating in difficult market conditions over the last few years, but with renewed focus we have secured exciting new partnerships with retailers like Aldi and Morrison’s which will enable us to grow and create jobs.

With the support of the Norfolk Chamber we look forward to developing further and creating new influential contacts with like-minded businesses in the region.”

Astute enough to take notice of trends and tips from smaller and newer companies these flagship businesses bring their own big ideas and experience to the Chamber and its members.

Within our ranks we have now well over a hundred of the largest businesses in Norfolk, who together employ over 98,000 Norfolk people in which many of them featuring in the ‘EDP Top 100’ benefit from the being in the Chamber network. They recognise the Chamber’s voice as their opportunity to exert influence at the highest level, meet with other likeminded thought

Embrace the power of BIG THINKING Big Interview

Deal that offer sa of opportunities world for Norfolk’s young people

THE MAGAZINE OF

NORFOLK CHAMBER OF

Cover Feature

Exciting opportuni ties offered by fastgrowing sector

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

COMMERCE AND INDUS TRY

JANUARY FEBRUARY 2014

supported and amplified in their ability to speak up for the county. Whatever kind of circle it is, it’s certainly not ‘ever decreasing’. It’s growing.

And it’s growing business opportunities for all our members.

What the Chamber can do for you: n

n

Free PR system in place to promote your business and its activities. Potential of 13,000 people reached in every article/new submission.

n

Access to over 60 great business events each year.

n

Free training sessions put on by experts in the industry.

Access to Chamber services designed to save your business money.

n

Discounted export services

n

Be part of the growing Chamber Network

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NORFOLK VOICE

Recruiting For Growth In Renewable Energy Sector.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

PERFECTLY EQUIPPED TO FIND THE RIGHT TALENT Copyright Charles Hodge Photography

The renewable energy sector is one which has had a growing impact on the Norfolk economy.

Such has been the rapid growth in the demand for renewable energy sources, that it has put a strain on the supply of qualified people to fulfil the roles that are fuelling this sector’s expansion.

Experienced renewable energy recruitment

Europe’s largest producer of renewable energy Statkraft faced a significant challenge recently when it had to recruit a Warehouse Manager and six Turbine Technicians to work on the Sheringham Shoal Offshore Wind Farm that it operates for owners Statoil. Located off the North Norfolk coast, its 88 wind turbines produce enough energy each year to power around 200,000 homes in the UK. Statkraft commissioned energy recruitment specialist Cooper Lomaz to help.

Being based in East Anglia with offices in Bury St Edmunds, Norwich and Lowestoft it has established itself as the ‘go to’ consultancy for energy recruitment.

To solve Statkraft’s requirements it created a dedicated account team from its energy specialist consultants and ran an advertising campaign which attracted nearly 400 applicants.

Specialist screening and assessment

The applicants were initially scored using a skills matrix with the successful candidates then being telephone screened and interviewed in person before undertaking an assessment day and group activity.

Whilst this process was successful in establishing a high quality short list of six for the Warehouse Manager’s role, it proved to be more challenging for the Turbine Technicians’ roles. Over 300 applicants went through this robust screening process which eliminated all but three candidates who possessed the relevant level of skills and experience that Statkraft was looking for.

Networking skills to overcome volatility

So, the Cooper Lomaz team sprang into action and, utilising its specially honed networking skills, identified suitably qualified technicians via LinkedIn and numerous job boards, to form a final short list of 16.

Despite the challenges presented by the volatility of the candidate market in the renewable energy sector, Cooper Lomaz’s exceptional networking meant that Statkraft was able to successfully fill all the roles within their defined timeframe.

Philip Pitt, Business Development Manager, Cooper Lomaz said: “The energy sector has brought a jobs boom to the Eastern region but it has also resulted in a shortage of suitably qualified individuals in the supply chain. Because we have been working in this sector for many years we were able to use our own networking capabilities to search beyond the conventional methods of sourcing candidates to meet Statkraft’s requirements.”

The energy sector has brought a jobs boom to the Eastern region

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

From our offices in Norwich, Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft we have dedicated sector specialists to solve your recruitment requirements, whether you’re looking for full-time staff or contractors

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NORFOLK VOICE

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Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors

Annual Investment Allowances (AIA’s) Taxpayers will be pleased to hear that from the beginning of April 2014 the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) has been increased to £500,000 and will remain at this level until 31st December 2015. AIA’s give businesses 100% relief on certain capital expenditure up to the AIA limit, by deduction against taxable profits. It can be claimed by an individual, partnership or company carrying on a trade, profession or vocation. This offers a valuable relief for capital intensive businesses and it is important to make the most of the generous allowance whilst it is available. Business owners would be wise to seek advice to ensure purchases are carefully planned.

Self-Assessment Penalties Taxpayers who have failed to file their 2012-13 online tax returns by the deadline of 31st January 2014 will have received penalties of £100. Whilst the returns remain outstanding, daily penalties of £10 will be accruing up to a maximum of £900 by 31st July 2014. Further penalties will also be levied after the returns are 6 and 12 months late.

It is therefore advisable to file your tax return now, even if you are unable to pay the tax outstanding. HMRC will generally accept time to pay arrangements once the returns are filed.

Wayne Goddard FCCA ACA (Director of Newman & Co. Chartered Accountants)

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors have been serving local businesses and individuals in East Anglia for over 20 years.

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JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE27

NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk offers reasons to be

It has often been said that a failing of the British people is our ability to be selfdeprecating, if not downright negative.

Here at Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, we are doing our best to accentuate the positive about our area with a series of campaigns.

To that end, we have been asking key decisionmakers, ranging from local government

representatives and MPs to business people, to highlight the positive things about Norfolk.

One of them, Ian Hacon – President of Norfolk Chamber, said: “Norfolk is a positive and vibrant place to live and work, but I guess being born and raised here I would say that.”

“Behind the statement there are a few things to support it, though. We have a real mix of great industries, which is less risky than being dominated by one or two like other regions may be.”

“We have a strong agriculture industry, which is now complimented by one of Europe’s leading agri-tech industries.”

“There is also, of course, financial services, with Norwich being the second biggest financial centre in the UK, a big energy industry, the second biggest Oil and Gas centre in Great Yarmouth and Waveney, and a landscape onshore and offshore ripe to become a major Renewable Energy centre.”

“Finally, there is tourism. Norfolk is one of the top UK destinations for internal tourism.”

“People enjoy living in Norfolk which helps attract talent. We have some fantastic natural capital and Norwich is a vibrant cultured city.”

Norfolk is thought of by some as chiefly an agriculture and tourism-based economy, yet it is home to some of the most innovative hi-tech firms and highly successful service industries, cutting-edge research organisations and stateof-the-art training and further education facilities

The

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COVER FEATURE

cheerful. diverse training opportunities, and substantial levels of business for local companies through their supply chain, whilst the abundance of competitive, small to medium sized enterprises are the backbone of a flourishing Norfolk economy.”

“With such hubs of excellence on our doorstep, we at Norse often don’t have to look too far when sourcing potential suppliers and business partners.”

Peter Hawes

Ian Hacon

Andrew Barnes

“There is no surprise that the UEA has one of the best, if not the best, retention rates for students that stay on in the area after their degrees in the country. It also happens to be a world class university. So when I look at Norfolk, I really do see success.”

Peter Hawes, MD of Chamber member Norse Commercial Services, said: “Norfolk is thought of by some as chiefly an agriculture and tourismbased economy, yet it is home to some of the most innovative hi-tech firms and highly successful service industries, cutting-edge research organisations and state-of-the-art training and further education facilities.”

“The county’s larger organisations are a ‘force for good’, providing secure jobs, excellent and

One of the questions we ask during our surveys and meetings is: What are the key positives about Norfolk?

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“In fact, through the Norfolk Chamber’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ initiatives we have been able to add significantly to our commercial relationships in the region, and our own commitment to local sourcing wherever possible.”

Factfile

Andrew Barnes, Senior Partner of Howes Percival LLP, the commercial law firm, said “Norfolk has attracted an influx of people over the years whose talents have combined with the deep skills and aptitude of those brought up in the county to create a place which, with its exceptional historic, natural, social and cultural qualities, has the potential to make a significant mark on the world.”

Some Positive business facts

“There really is no barrier to the reach and influence we can have within the sectors which, as a community, we are ambitious to grow and develop – and to my mind there cannot be a better environment in which to live and work dynamically than Norfolk.”

For Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, 2014 marks the 60th Royal Norfolk Show at the Costessey site. With 90,000 visitors, more than 2000 entrants and 650 trade stands, it is the largest two day agricultural show in the UK.

1,000 patients are using a Bespak device every second of every day Kinnerton Confectionery produced more than 20 million Easter eggs in 2013

Factors identified by those questioned include: A great place for business

Local businesses have the ability to attract London graduates and keep Norwich graduates in Norfolk

Norfolk is a place of innovation and success

There us a large resource of young people with potential to be developed

Cheaper office space; the cost of doing business is less The business community works together, supported by the likes of councils, MPs, the LEP and the Chamber of Commerce There is a good balance of business versus quality of life There is a diversity of industries, from big names to smaller ones, all taking advantage of enterprise opportunities

A strong food and farming sector A competitive cost of living Norfolk is an attractive place to live/there is a pride in the area A strong tourism sector A strong sustainability sector

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PAGE29

NORFOLK VOICE

Taking time out for the future.

Business people can often find themselves so involved in the day to day demands of their job that considerations about the future find themselves pushed to the margins.

But good businesses always have an eye on the horizon and that is the theme of the Chamber’s Sustainability Conference being held at the John Innes Centre, Norwich, on June 12.

Last year, the conference attracted more than 300 delegates. Now in its fifth year, this year’s conference is expected to be more popular than ever and has a clear overriding theme; The New Economy.

Through a series of presentations, workshops and a showcase exhibition, expert speakers from leading companies will share their vision for the future.

They will examine what the business community will look like in 50 to 100 years’ time, explore the shape of future innovation in the digital world, talk about resource efficiency and look at longterm solutions to securing a talented, sustainable workforce.

They will also talk about encouraging diversity in Enterprise, including encouraging more women in business, supporting entrepreneurship and helping to grow international working.

Event Chair, Dr John French, Managing Director of the Adapt Low Carbon Group, said: “One of the themes of the conference will be lean and green, considering the fact that we have to become more efficient, something that is being called the Circular Economy.”

“It is fine to generate green energy but not if we go on as before and end up wasting it. We have to increase our efficiency, we are simply too profligate in our energy use.”

Dr John French pouring concrete on the Enterprise Centre site

“That’s all very good but there is more to it than that. Companies need to look five, ten years ahead to future-proof themselves.”

“It is also about reversing the situation and asking how they can not only manage their impact of society but also the impact of society on themselves, in the form of climate change or weather events or the like, which present risks but also opportunities.”

“I think a lot of companies compartmentalise sustainability and CSR when it should be fundamental to everything they do.”

“If you look at the FTSE 100, a lot of companies get that message but go down into the FTSE 250 or 350 and beyond and the number reduces.”

“I expect to hear people say at the conference ‘yes, but what does this mean to a SME in Norfolk?

I can imagine people will say ‘there are only three men and a dog here, or we only have ten people in the office, could we not end up wasting a lot of time on this?’”

“Take LED lights as an example. People see the benefits but they still leave them on all the time.”

“If we can become more efficient in our energy use then that benefits the bottom line. We have a mental block about the bottom line. There is nothing wrong with sustainable practices generating growth and profits.”

“One of the other major themes that I want to focus on during the conference is diversity and equality, looking at under-represented sections of society. There is no reason why they cannot be better represented in business.”

“Take women, an example. There are women doing great things in business but they remain under-represented. We need to focus on that.”

“These are important subjects. There may have been an excuse for businesses not to focus on the future when they were in survival mode but now that the economy is growing again these things have to be taken seriously.”

One of the speakers will be Mark Thompson, Director, Sustainability and Climate Change for Pricewaterhousecoopers, who will challenge companies large and small to take a hard look at themselves.

“One of the problems is that it is such a broad agenda. I think the answer to the question is about prioritising the three or four things where you can make a difference. If you are a low energy company then improving your carbon footprint might not make much of a difference.”

“However, if you are a manufacturing company, for example, and you only control the 20 per cent of the manufacturing operation you are responsible for do you understand the supply chain? Do you know what effect the extraction of your raw materials from the ground has.”

“Companies need to make an effort to understand the impact of their supply chain. If a factory collapses in Bangladesh, as it did, no one will remember the name of the owner but they will remember the name of the high street store that it supplied so companies need to understand the ethics behind what they do.”

“If you are a food company, for example, and you want to say your food is organic, that herbicides and pesticides were not used, have you checked that it is? Can you prove the provenance of the food that you are supplying to the consumer?”

He said: “I will be seeking to tackle some of the misconceptions about sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility.”

“As a company in the supply chain, you can place minimum standards on your suppliers and impose a code of performance. The bigger companies you supply will certainly expect to see that.”

“There has been a tendency for some companies to think that it’s about how they ameliorate their effect on society, sponsoring an orphanage and planting a few trees, painting things with a big of greenwash.”

“There is a danger that we hide behind the fig leaf of saying that we have the right paperwork, that we have something that says in writing that we do things correctly, but that might not be enough.”

The

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COVER FEATURE

Welcome to The New Economy.

Business can no longer ignore the benefits of transitioning to a new economy. A £3.2 trillion global market, sustainability is no longer optional for business success. Adopt, adapt and apply sustainable business practices to secure the future of your business.

Leading sustainable communities envisage a new sector of the economy, one that harnesses the power of private enterprise to create public benefit. There is a global movement driving business to be the agent of change and create value for society. By working together we can redefine success in business and use it as a force for the good of stakeholders, not just shareholders.

Five years running, this regional, free to attend, dynamic conference presents the opportunity to hear from local and national industry leaders with representatives from Sainsbury’s, HewlettPackard, Adapt, PwC and New Anglia LEP. From the novice to the practicising enthusiast,

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Sustainability 2013

this conference will cover all levels. Whether you have switched, are in transition or have not yet thought through sustainable working – this conference is for you.

Be inspired by those leading the way with a clear vision for the future. Translate ideas into action with information, innovations and strategy rich in value. Keep up to date with the latest thinking in sustainable technologies and discover ways to save money. Showcasing expert speakers, workshops, exhibition, networking and learning opportunities.

Delegates will have the opportunity to book into two further free to attend interactive workshops.

Peter Ford, Senior Director of Cisco Systems will take a visionary look at what the future will look like in 10-20 years. Jonathan Chapman-Davies, Director of Delta Sustainability Ltd will speak on how to use sustainability to drive business and deliver value.

With an outstanding speaker line up Mark Thompson Director of Sustainability, PwC Bruno Zago UK&I Sustainability Manager, Hewlett-Packard Mark Pendlington Chair, Green Economy Pathfinder & New Anglia LEP Dr Liliya Serazetdinova Programme Manager, Incrops Iris Anderson Business Innovation Manager, Incrops Beth Hart Head of Product Development & Technology Fresh and Frozen Food, Sainsbury’s Carmel McQuaid Head of Sustainable Business, Marks & Spencer

The Chamber is committed to the sustainable future of Norfolk. We are making this global opportunity our key priority by opening the event up to all businesses.

Peter Ford Senior Director, Cisco Systems

Book your FREE place today, visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk now.

Dr John French CEO, Adapt - Host

Jonathan Churchman Davies Director, Delta Sustainability Ltd

High Footfall - the ideal place to exhibit!

Haven’t booked your stand yet? There is still time. Position your business for success, let us do the work and bring business to you by exhibiting this June. With free admission to generate high attendance and full and half size stands available to fit your budget. For more information visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or contact Rachel Rogers, rachel.rogers@norfolkchamber.co.uk, or telephone 01603 729 705.

EXHIBITION

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#NorfolkB2B14

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PAGE31

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NORFOLK VOICE

KNOWLEDGE

Secure your IT perimeter from attack.

The “security perimeter of your IT system” is generally considered to be where your system meets the outside world and all the threats it contains; due to the high level of threats, this perimeter needs to be secured and, most importantly, it needs to be monitored – daily.

It the days of cabled networked systems, it was a relatively simple job to draw the perimeter as the “firewall” that was considered to be the point where your internal IT systems met the Internet (network based) connections.

Nowadays, due to the huge growth in the number and type of differing devices attaching to the IT system, things are more complex and it becomes more difficult to define that security perimeter; each device attaching to your network should now be considered when drawing the security perimeter.

Pass on your best practices and expert knowledge by submitting your articles to the Knowledge Section www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

Some of the main areas of threat to take into consideration are n Wireless access points n Mobile devices n Applications that traverse through firewall policies n BYOD

The second rule of marketing: really know your customer.

n IP-Enabled devices internal to the network

I can’t emphasise it enough. No amount of flashy marketing will help your business if you’re not targeting it at the right people. And the only way to make sure you’re reaching the right people with the right messages is to know who you need to speak to in the first place. Marketing is, after all, about satisfying a customer need. It may sound really obvious, but it’s often overlooked – an expensive mistake to make.

David Higgins 4ITSec

For example, who enjoys doing the book keeping or procedures. n There are good book keepers who are freelance. For as little as an hour a week, they will keep things in order and probably lower the accountant’s fee at the end of the year.

Your business has gone well and now you have too much work to do!

n There are health and safety specialists who write procedures for a living.

So now, you think you need an employee to grow the business.

n There are people who word process from dictation at all hours.

Firstly, if you are doing everything, look at the admin tasks you can give to someone else or automate.

n Use something like Google diaries and ask for access to your subcontractors’ diaries.

Another thing that all of these speakers had in common was that the family name was incorporated within the business name.

Emma Raines Example Marketing and Web Design

Developing an enterprising mindset.

It’s healthy to develop an enterprising mindset whether you are a student, employee, selfemployed, business owner or a stay at home parent.

To be more enterprising practice the four behaviours below:1 Be Confident – Grab opportunities

What’s in a name?

Speakers at the recent Great British Family Business conference in London included a number of family business owners from a wide variety of sectors including undertakers, traditional Scottish clothing manufacturers, catering suppliers and food manufacturers.

Despite the diverse range of industries, ages and sizes of the businesses, one common theme was very apparent – they all demonstrated an overwhelming sense of pride in the heritage and values attached to their family businesses.

The first rule of marketing: know your customer.

n External devices allowed on to the internal network temporarily

The first employee or is it the second?

Norman Wilson WLP

The first step to great marketing: know your customer.

Steven Scarlett Partner at Lovewell Blake

Most family businesses are not conceived as such when they are initially formed and the business name decided upon. Most are set up as an entrepreneur’s sole business initially and the succession to the next generation is not even considered until much later. The use of the family name may create additional pressure to retain future ownership of the business within the family upon retirement of the founder, but research on the matter appears inconclusive.

The

2 Be Creative – Ask questions such as What if?

Why Not? & how?

3 Be Flexible – Being Flexible with your thoughts and actions practice know that setbacks & mistakes are all part of a journey to success 4 Be Positive – Swipe away fears & limited beliefs & negative talk.

Teresa Kelly Talk Enterprise

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A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF

A week in the Life of...

Jason Williams – Small Business Manager

Monday

On Monday mornings we have our usual staff briefing to cover what we’re doing in the coming week which enables everyone to get a good idea of what everyone in the other departments are up to. After this I go about creating a new section on our website to prepare for our next international trade events series.

Tuesday

As we have a Chamber Refresher on Thursday today I work with the events team preparing the delegate list and agenda for it. All those that have registered to come along are long standing members who are keen to ensure that they are making the most of all the opportunities that Chamber membership can offer.

I spend the afternoon approving member submissions to the website and marketing them all out through our social media channels.

Jason Williams

Wednesday

Wednesday is spent ringing and emailing those companies who have expressed an interest in joining the Chamber.

It’s a real mix of companies today with a new start up company with just one person one moment followed by a company that’s been running for 15 years with a staff of 9, each in different sectors. However both of these companies are both looking for very similar things from the Chamber, which is networking opportunities through our events and using the Chamber’s digital resource to help to promote their companies to the Norfolk Business community.

Thursday

Today is the Chamber refresher, and as such part of the morning is spent preparing the meeting room with the delegate packs and setting up the laptop for the presentation.

The refresher itself goes very well,

with all in attendance seeming very keen to put into practice what they have learned. In particular the use of the website which everyone feels is a great opportunity to raise awareness of their business.

Friday

Friday morning is spent following up on the actions raised in the previous days Chamber refresher, mostly this means ensuring all in attendance are emailed their login details of our systems and are emailed an up-todate list of our upcoming events.

We now have the photos from our business breakfast on Wednesday so my time is now taken filtering out the unsuitable ones and uploading them to our Facebook and Google+ pages.

How Chamber Members can save money.

By Jason Williams Small Business Manager Norfolk Chamber of Commerce At the Chamber we understand that saving money is vital to any business, so to help make your money go further we’ll give you access to a number of business services designed to do just that.

Chamber Credit Insurance In the current climate, Chamber Credit Insurance is vital. Helping protect your business against the risk of bad debt so you’re secure in

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the knowledge that if your customers don’t pay, you’re protected.

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ChamberHR is a fantastic free resource for any size of business looking for HR support or giving support to their current HR professionals with useful free resources

Chamber Legal FREE 24/7 Legal Helpline + Legal Expenses Insurance with up to £670,000 of indemnity (£65,000 for each category), worth a minimum of £295 for the smallest business.

DHL Express Service – Chamber Discount Scheme Norfolk Chamber and DHL Express want to help you hit the ground running. That’s why shipments

Through the buying power of the British Chambers of Commerce, we are able to offer a leading Foreign Exchange and International Payments Service with exclusive discounts and services to our members.

Chamber Business Choice Healthcare Norfolk Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with AXA PPP healthcare to offer all Chamber members access to affordable private medical insurance with unique benefits in the form of the Chamber Business Choice Healthcare package.

EXHIBITION

15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

#NorfolkB2B14

@norfolkchamber

www.norfolkchamber.co.uk 24/03/2014 15:40 JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE37

NORFOLK VOICE

Conference and Meeting Venue

Thetford, Norfolk

Confer meetin

• Meeting facilities for 2 to 72 delegates

Meeting facilities for 2 to 72 delegates

• On site catering

l

• Ideally situated between Norwich, Cambridge, Kings Lynn and Bury

On site catering

l

Thetford is ideally situated between Norwich, Cambridge, Kings Lynn and Bury

l

Good road and rail links

l

• Good road and rail links, On site parking Telephone: 01842 768300

Email: bookings@keystonetrust.org.uk Website: www.keystonetrust.org.uk/business

Keystone Innovation Centre, Croxton Road, Thet

On site parking

l

Office space available to rent 20-450sqm

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Telephone: 01842 768300 Email: bookings@keystonetrust.org.uk Website: www.keystonetrust.org.uk/business Keystone Innovation Centre, Croxton Road, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1JD

Experience Something Different.

Set within the shadows of the iconic 900 year old Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral’s stunning hospitality facilities are guaranteed to create a lasting impression for you and your guests.

But it’s not just a pretty venue that we provide. With exceptional service, delicious food and state-of-the-art AV equipment, Norwich Cathedral offers an ideal venue for small meetings, conferences, seminars and receptions.

To experience something different, book your event by contacting 01603 218321, hospitality@cathedral.org.uk or visit www.cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire

Conferences Conferences at at Norfolk’s Norfolk’s Premier Premier Events Events Venue Venue TheThe MacGregor MacGregor Building Building is set is set in over in over 375375 acres acres of of attractive attractive parkland, parkland, signposted signposted from from all major all major routes, routes, with with ample ample freefree parking parking • Rooms • Rooms for for up up to 50 to delegates 50 delegates cancan be be hired hired for for meetings, meetings, conferences conferences andand training training courses courses • Audio-visual • Audio-visual andand Wi-Fi Wi-Fi facilities facilities available available in all in rooms all rooms • Refreshments • Refreshments andand menus menus tailor-made tailor-made to suit to suit individual individual requirements requirements

Conferen

The M attractiv

• Ro m • Audio • R

Save on small meetings

Looking for a venue to hold a small meeting, training session or seminar? Enjoy Norwich Cathedral hospitality with a half day delegate rate for only £12 +VAT and a full day delegate rate £24 + VAT. These rates are available until 31 August 2014 for bookings of 5 - 20 delegates and limited dates available. To book, call 01603 218321 or email hospitality@cathedral.org.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Other Other venues venues areare available available for for 3 - 33000 - 3000 people people Please Please contact contact a member a member of our of our events events team team to to request request an an information information pack pack or arrange or arrange a viewing a viewing T: 01603 T: 01603 748931 748931 E: info@norfolkshowground.co.uk E: info@norfolkshowground.co.uk www.norfolkshowground.co.uk www.norfolkshowground.co.uk

Othe Pleas reques T: 0160

CONFERENCE & EXHIBTIONS

De Vere Dunston Hall Large Meeting Spaces at Small Prices n Day Delegate Rates from just £30.00 +VAT per person n Bright, airy and flexible meeting spaces, with acres of outdoor space for teambuilding and ‘Blue Sky Thinking’ n Free Wifi n Free Car Parking

For more details and to book your meeting please contact us on

0871 222 4683 dunston.hall@devere-hotels.com

47–51 King Street | Norwich | NR1 1PH You can explore the Centre on our virtual tour www.kings–centre.com/tour

Flexible spaces to suit you.

Come and try our high quality conference venue in the centre of Norwich, offering a large number of rooms to suit various requirements, from 6 people to 650.

We can accommodate small meetings, interviews, training courses, exhibitions or large scale conferences with breakout rooms and full audio visual capability.

You can also take advantage of our quality in-house catering, prepared fresh in our fully-fitted commercial kitchens, or relax and enjoy our light and welcoming coffee shop.

Our city centre location is just five minutes walk from Norwich Train Station, and a short distance from central car parks and shopping.

Tel 01603 285260 Email bookings@kings–centre.com  @kcnorwich  /conferencecentre  /+kingscentrenorwich

JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE39

NORFOLK VOICE

CONFERENCE & EXHIBTIONS

Unrivalled facilities, exceptional service and delicious food. Experience something different.

Unrivalled facilities, exceptional service and delicious food. Experience something different.

Set within the shadows of the iconic 900 year old Cathedral, our stunning hospitality facilities are guaranteed to create a lasting you and guests.900 Butyear it’s old not Cathedral, just a prettyour venue that wehospitality provide. With exceptional service, delicious Setimpression within the for shadows of your the iconic stunning facilities are guaranteed to create food a lasting and state-of-the-art Norwich offers an that idealwe venue for small meetings, conferences, seminars food and impression for you and AV yourequipment, guests. But it’s not Cathedral just a pretty venue provide.

With exceptional service, delicious To experience something different, book your event contacting 01603 218321 or hospitality@cathedral.org.uk. andreceptions. state-of-the-art AV equipment, Norwich Cathedral offers anbyideal venue for small meetings, conferences, seminars and receptions. experience book eventrates by contacting Half dayTo delegate rates something from £12 + different, VAT and full dayyour delegate from £24 +01603 VAT.* 218321 or hospitality@cathedral.org.uk.

* Rates 31 August 2014+for bookings of 5 day - 20 delegates, Delegate Half day available delegateuntil rates from £12 VAT and full delegatelimited rates dates fromavailable. £24 + VAT .* rates for 20 or more people start from £20 per person.

* Rates available until 31 August 2014 for bookings of 5 - 20 delegates, limited dates available. Delegate rates for 20 or more people start from £20 per person.

www.cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire www.cathedral.org.uk/venue-hire

The Norfolk Suite, Marquee at Sprowston Manor, A Marriott Hotel and Marquee Country Club The Norfolk Suite, at Sprowston Manor, A

The Norfolk Suite, Marquee at Sprowston Manor, A

Marriott Hotel and Country Club

Marriott andEVENT Country Club ONE OF NORWICHS MOSTHotel VERSITILE SPACES

The Norfolk Suite Marquee is a permanent structure situated in the grounds of Sprowston Manor which ONE OFour NORWICHS MOST VERSITILE SPACES overlooks beautiful hole Championship golfEVENT course. The perfect for: ONE18 OF NORWICHS MOST VERSITILE EVENTvenue SPACES The Suite Marquee a permanent situated in thesituated groundsinof Sprowston which The Norfolkis Suite Marquee structure is a permanent structure the grounds ofManor Sprowston Manor which • Norfolk Corporate Dinners overlooks our beautiful 18 hole Championship course. The for: venue for: overlooks our beautiful 18 hole golf Championship golfperfect course.venue The perfect • Awards Nights • Corporate Dinners • Corporate Dinners • Team Building • Awards Nights • Awards Nights • Trade Shows • Team Building • Team Building • Exhibitions • Trade Shows • Trade Shows • Auctions • Exhibitions • Exhibitions • Charity Dinners • Auctions • Auctions • Conferences • Charity Dinners • Charity Dinners Catering up to 300• people for a dinner or 500 people for a theatre style conference. The Norfolk Suite, Marquee Conferences •has its Conferences own bar area, cloakrooms, LED coloured lighting, stage and dancefloor. With 480 sq. metres of open plan Catering up to 300 people for a dinner or 500 people for a theatre style conference. The Norfolk Suite, Marquee space it’sup thetoperfect canvass to transform yourpeople event intoa whatever your business desires.

Catering 300has people forbar a dinner or 500 for theatre style conference.

The Norfolk Suite, its own area, cloakrooms, LED coloured lighting, stage and dancefloor.

With 480 sq. Marquee metres of open plan has its own bar area, cloakrooms, LEDcanvass coloured lighting, stage and dancefloor.

With 480 sq. metres of open plan space it’s the perfect to transform your event into whatever your business desires. space it’s the perfect canvass to transform your event into whatever your business desires.

To talk through your unique requirements please call our Events Team on 01603 410871To talk through your unique requirements please call our Events Team on 01603 410871 To talk through your unique requirements please call our Events Team on 01603 410871

Sprowston Manor, ASprowston Marriott Hotel Road,Wroxham Norwich,Road, Norwich, Manor,&ACountry Marriott Club, Hotel Wroxham & Country Club, NR7 8RP MarriottSprowstonManor.co.uk NR7 8RP MarriottSprowstonManor.co.uk Sprowston Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Wroxham Road, Norwich, NR7 8RP MarriottSprowstonManor.co.uk

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

“The Halls – 600 years of stories... let them tell yours”

Whether you’re looking to house a large multi-roomed conference, formal dinner, trade show or even a board meeting, The Halls has an outstanding track record of hosting successful corporate events.

From the grandeur of St Andrew’s and the finesse of Blackfriars’, to the breathtaking artistry of The Crypt and The Cloisters, our rooms are sure to impress your delegates.

St Andrew’s Hall is available to hire from £95 per hour, Blackfriars’ Hall from £70 per hour and The Crypt from £45 per hour (minimum hire times apply), plus other meeting rooms priced at £40 for a four-hour morning or afternoon session. t: 01603 628477 • e: thehalls@norwich.gov.uk w: thehallsnorwich.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE

Apprenticeships are Good for Business.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The College of West Anglia is the largest provider of apprenticeship provision in Norfolk and Fenland and works with over 900 employers and 1300 apprentices. We pride ourselves in working with local employers to support workforce development through apprenticeship programmes.

pathways of competence. This has enabled us to work with a range of agricultural technology businesses and schools to develop local young people and up-skill their workforce.

We have also developed our curriculum to offer the cultural and heritage venue operations apprenticeship programme. This is specifically designed for the tourism sector – currently growing within Norfolk. Apprentices on this programme will train as a conservation assistant, exhibition guide/demonstrator, visitor services, front of house or administration support staff.

If these or any other apprenticeship programmes are of interest please contact the apprenticeship team on 01553 815280 or apprenticeships@ col-westanglia.ac.uk

The college offers a wide range of sector focused programmes and seeks to continue to meet business needs by developing new provision. Over the last two years the college has introduced two new apprenticeship frameworks.

We introduced the laboratory technician route focussing on industrial and educational

Rebecca Harrison, working at Thomas Clarkson Academy, was the first apprentice on the science and laboratory technicians apprenticeship

Best-rated college for employer satisfaction in Norfolk and Suffolk

A trained and skilled workforce means a healthy bottom-line.

Invest time in our FREE TRAINING for your staff.

SMEs qualify for a broad range of fully-funded training including: 

Plus a free skills ‘health check’ by our training experts to assess if the current skills of your workforce match your future business needs.

ILM Award in Leadership and Team Skills/Management Levels 2 & 3 (value £525)

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Contact us now to find out more about the Skills Support for the Workforce project on

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(value £600)

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THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

22/04/2014 16:04

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JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

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NORFOLK VOICE

Great Business for Great Yarmouth.

Over 70 members attended our sold out Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast on the 3 April. Our host Ian Hacon, Norfolk Chamber President started the breakfast off by introducing our featured charity Great Yarmouth & Waveney Mind. An ice breaker activity ‘guess my CV’ followed. There was much laughter across the room as delegates had to write down in secret their most interesting job and guess who around their table had been in what profession. It was a great way to break the ice and get everyone networking across their table.

The Comfort Hotel supplied a fantastic venue for the event and networking carried on over a delicious full English breakfast. Safari Networking allowed delegates to move to a new table and network with another group of people soon to become business contacts. Business cards

were exchanged and delegates made new connections.

Mark Pendlington, Chairman Designate of New Anglia LEP was set to speak but at the last moment had the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister, David Cameron. We were pleased to have Chris Starkie, Managing Director, New Anglia LEP deliver an engaging speech on ‘Going for Growth.’

Chris shared the successes experienced locally in the past year and his aims for the next 12 months.

Chris encouraged all businesses to find out about the growing business grants available to them.

A great example of Pasta Foods, represented at the breakfast, having just won a £500k grant.

There was a great atmosphere as the event closed and delegates stayed to network with the contacts they had just made.

The next Great Yarmouth Breakfast is on 11 September, full details www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

After Hours: Networking the Italian Way. On the 24 April in the heart of the city, delegates arrived at the Library Restaurant after work for an evening of informal networking over Italian wine and antipasto. It was networking the Italian way. There was a fun, relaxed and energetic atmosphere as delegates enjoyed an Italian cocktail on arrival. The ideal environment to network as delegates embraced the ice breaker activity ‘Tally-ho.’ Delegates had the opportunity to meet every person in the room, a perfect way to break the ice and get people talking.

usually attend networking breakfasts. ‘Networking the Italian Way’ was a highly enjoyable evening where delegates expanded their network and met new people in a casual setting.

Moving into groups, delegates were able to mix and network with a new group of people. Each group moved upstairs to the reading room to taste handpicked Italian wine and antipasto. Delegates commented on the atmosphere and the opportunity to meet other people who may not

The

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE

ON01749 Chamber B2B 2014 – 400x30 Strip Ad v1.indd 1 THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

CHAMBER EVENTS

New promotional package launched for Chamber Members.

The Norfolk Chamber has a reputation for delivering high quality, successful and professional events for the business community.

The dedicated Events Team are qualified and experienced in planning, organising and running events across Norfolk.

Norfolk Chambers’ annual calendar features in excess of 60 events, which attract inspirational national and local speakers, attracting high numbers and creating an enviable and influential delegate list.

We have created for 2014 a new package that halves the price of sponsorship, full details below: Joint Sponsorship: Max two companies to sponsor per networking event £250+VAT n Branding for the event could be shared between yourselves and another sponsor, if one is found.

Businesses join and remain members of the Chamber for the excellent networking opportunities at exclusive Chamber events. If you’re looking to increase your profile, maximise the exposure of your business, capture an audience of ever growing Chamber members or highlight and exhibit your products and services, then work in partnership with the Norfolk Chamber and sponsor an event.

n A 3 minute sponsors welcome to the audience

Why sponsor a Norfolk Chamber event?

n You will have a dedicated sponsors section on the event website listing for editorial

n A cost effective way to gain valuable brand exposure for your company n Your company branding will feature prominently on event publicity and PR for a growing network of Norfolk businesses n Take advantage of the exposure of the reach of Norfolk Chamber’s media channels n Let the experienced Norfolk Chamber events team organise the event whilst you reap the benefits of being an official event sponsor

n A promotional stand for your literature in a prominent position n Your logo will appear on all event promotional material, including the website, e-alerts, delegate lists & agendas. All electronic logos will link through to your company website.

n 2x free places at the breakfast for your representatives

Sole Sponsorship: One company to sponsor per networking event £500+VAT n A 5 minute sponsors welcome to the audience n A promotional stand for your literature in a prominent position

If I sponsor a Norfolk Chamber event how many businesses will my company be promoted to?

n Your logo will appear on all event promotional material, including the website, e-alerts, delegate lists & agendas. All electronic logos will link through to your company website.

n Website: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk – averaging 60,000 unique visits per year

n You will have a dedicated sponsors section on the event website listing for editorial

n Norfolk Voice: A bi-monthly, full-colour magazine, readership: 10,000+

n 4x free places at the breakfast for your

n Chamber Events e-newsletter – monthly, readership 5,000+ n Direct Mail (number relevant to target audience of each event) to 5,000+ contacts n Exposure through our social media channels;

– 4100+ Twitter Followers – 2000+ Linked In Group Members – 810 Facebook Likes – 500 in our Google+ Circles

n Exposure in PR materials, opportunity to be quoted in the press via our PR department.

E FOR MORE DETAILS

representatives

helped increase our profile substantially in the local business community and led to some very positive connections and new business opportunities. Well worth the investment.”

Patricia Douglas, Business Development Manager – RS Occupational Health

Sponsor a HR Forum & get your name out there as the expert to come to relating to employment issues. Showcase your expertise and become the ‘go-to’ for any HR related issues.

“Steeles Law is sponsoring our sixth HR Forum this year. We value the opportunity to partner with a high profile, reputable organisation like the Norfolk Chamber. We have found that Chamber events attract a diverse, high calibre guest list and give us the opportunity to engage with an excellent corporate audience.”

Gemma Pendleton, Marketing Manager – Steeles Law

Want to raise profile and engage with the local business community?

Our large scale events offer a unique opportunity to raise profile and engage with the local business community on a large scale.

“We are very pleased to support the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, a powerful voice speaking on behalf of Norfolk companies.

Working alongside the Chamber at their conferences and events gives us a great opportunity to interact with local businesses.”

Gareth Nicholls, PwC Norwich, – Marketing Manager

For just £75+VAT you can promote your business by having a stand at one of our networking events.

Sponsor one of our business breakfasts in your area (Norwich, Great Yarmouth or West Norfolk) & engage with your local business community.

For £75+VAT you can promote your business by having an exhibition stand or space for a pop up banner and literature during our networking events. This price includes one free place at the event.

“We were delighted at the chance to sponsor last September’s business breakfast in Great Yarmouth, especially in view of the topic which the Chamber had correctly identified as being of interest to ourselves. Sharing a platform with well-known and respected individuals

For a fully tailored package, to book a stand at a forthcoming event or to become a sponsor please contact Abi Charter – Events Manager. Tel: 01603 729703.

Email: abi.charter@norfolkchamber.co.uk

EXHIBITION

15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

#NorfolkB2B14

@norfolkchamber

www.norfolkchamber.co.uk 24/03/2014 15:40 JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE45

NORFOLK VOICE

Chamber Sessions Series 3.

Better your Business today.

At the Norfolk Chamber we are pleased to announce the launch of Series 3 of the Chamber Sessions with an exciting lineup of new and returning speakers.

The Chamber Sessions are free training delivered by expert Chamber members for Chamber members, providing practical, results orientated top tips to take away. This series includes both breakfast and lunch time sessions across a wide range of topics. From creative marketing, forming a brand, media, essential tips for small businesses and start ups, building relationships, managing people, IT, PR and much more.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to better your business today.

For more information on Series 3 of The Chamber Sessions or to book your places, please visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

THE CHAMBER SESSIONS SERIES 3 8 May 12:30-14:00

Be Better at Facebook Hear Holly Stibbon, 101Smart, on top tips for making your Facebook engaging and effective.

Find out how to use Facebook to market your business.

13 May 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Strategic Marketing Hear from an expert with 20 years of experience, Michael Gurney, The Point, will share his top tops for developing a marketing strategy and how by being intentional you can deliver leads and increase sales.

20 May 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Web Conversions Improve your website to increase leads and sales. Mark Ellaway, Bigfork will talk through what your website needs to do to engage and persuade visitors to respond.

3 June 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Managing People Rachel Blackburn, US2U Consulting, will look at how you engage your staff, adapting your style if necessary to raise the standards.

5 June 12:30-14:00

08 July 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Forming a Brand

Be Better at PR

You might have a great product, but have your got your branding right? Discover the importance of brands with Ben Handford, Naked Marketing.

Find out why PR isn’t the dark art people often assume with Racheal Shakespeare, Jungle PR. Delegates will pick up practical tips for improving their communications and gain insight into how to structure a PR campaign and learn what really makes a good story.

10 June 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Building Rapport with Clients Rapport isn’t just about matching and mirroring, Ermine Aimes, Sandler Training, will look at top tips for building relationships and rapport with clients.

17 June 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Using the Media

10 July 12:30-14:00

Be Better at Google Plus Duncan Johnson, Yodelay, will look at the essential guide to Google+ for your business.

Attendees will be taken beyond the common mistake of comparing it to Facebook and instead given the deeper understanding of how it is changing your industry and your businesses impact within in it.

Su Ingle of Su Ingle Media, will give you an introduction to how the media machine works and top tips on press releases, using quotes to profile your business and the best ways of preparing to talk to reporters.

24 June 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Creative Marketing How can you be creative with your marketing while remaining consistent to transmit the right message to your customers? Learn from Carole Osborne, Osbornenash.

26 June 12:30-14:00

Be Better at IT Security Ensure you have appropriate IT security measurements in place with David Higgins, 4ITSEC and his top tips to safeguard your business and your staff.

01 July 08:30-10:00

Be Better at Quality Assurance Michelle Murdoch, QMS International will help new start-ups and existing businesses develop a better understanding of how to implement a Management System that meets international standards of industry best-practice and how this can help your business.

Here’s what our members think about our Sessions: “Really interesting concepts and ideas were presented by a trainer I’d never came across before, but who was really good at motivating me to do new things in the office.”

Stephen Coby, Larking Gowen “The fact these workshops are free is excellent added value for the Chamber Membership.”

James Shelton, Norfolk Football Association “Very Helpful ‘takeaway’ Session with things I can go back to the office and apply today!”

Gemma Neill, The Space “Practical info for business development and good Norfolk connections over breakfast. What’s not to like?”

Ermine Amies, Sandler Training

Series 4 of The Chamber Sessions will start 30 September. For more information please visit our website www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

The

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE

ON01749 Chamber B2B 2014 – 400x30 Strip Ad v1.indd 1 THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

CHAMBER EVENTS

Big Business at Meet the Buyer.

60+ buyers combined with 250+ suppliers equalled big business for the region at this key supply chain event.

Meet the Buyer 2014, delivered by Norfolk Chamber and supported by Norfolk County Council, New Anglia LEP, Suffolk Chamber and Archant was held on Thursday 20 March at Norwich City Football Club.

The event was bustling with 250+ suppliers who were matched with buyers requirements using the Norfolk Chamber’s bespoke software system, allowing them to pre-book appointments and have time to tailor their pitch and do their research. They then had the unique opportunity to pitch their services and products to those buyers at 10 minute appointments.

Norfolk businesses valued the opportunity to get involved in the local supply chain. Ermine Amies from Sandler training commented “Meet the Buyer 2014 represents the best value networking in East Anglia. I had quality appointments with companies and I’m going to business with several fellow suppliers.” Richard Booth from SPP Digital went further, stating “The casual networking was interwoven with the structured, planned appointments very well.”

Colleen Walker, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Norfolk County Council officially opened the event and commented “The Meet the Buyer event has once again proved successful which I hope will impact positively on the county’s economy.”

“It has been a really important opportunity for Norfolk’s businesses to raise their profile by promoting themselves to some key buyers in the region.”

The 60+ buyers that were part of the event were looking forward to the opportunity to meet with those in the local supply chain. Dominic Purslow from Jack Richards and Son found the event was “Good old fashioned face to face business in a smart, well organised and modern format” with Charles Tyndall from NPS Group commenting “This is an excellent chance to meet buyers and suppliers in a well organised relaxed situation.”

In addition to the buyers appointments, suppliers had the opportunity to learn top tips from experts in the know in a series of workshops entitled “How to sell to...” with topics including the construction industry, the energy industry, a buying consortium and local authorities.

There was also a networking lunch for the suppliers, sponsored by Norfolk International Trade Advisory Group, who were looking to encourage a number of local suppliers to think about boosting their business through exporting.

NITAG Founder, Tracey Howard commented “Meet the Buyer was a fantastic opportunity for us to reach a number of the region’s businesses and spread the word about how exporting is good for business.”

Meet the Buyer will be returning in 2015 on Thursday 19 March. Put the date in your diary and keep up to date by visiting our website www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

E FOR MORE DETAILS

The key success from the event was the positivity about the meetings from both suppliers and buyers: @montagecomms: A busy and exciting day at #ChamberMTB @norfolkchamber @PrintLinkStuart: @norfolkchamber Buyer event. Very worthwhile so far and the day is still young! #ChamberMTB @Ryan_Nesbitt: Really good morning @ norfolkchamber #ChamberMTB Some great business sharing ideas and looking to work together @EastworksUK @ChemicalsChris: #ChamberMTB has been really productive so far, excellent event @norfolkchamber @Lloyds_Prec_Eng: Enjoyed my time at #ChamberMTB yesterday thank you @norfolkchamber. My first time at a #networking event. Looks to be a promising summer. @Director_Di Contract Personnel: Hi @ norfolkchamber Meet the Buyer, excellent event, good networking opportunities, very well organised.

EXHIBITION

15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

#NorfolkB2B14

@norfolkchamber

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PAGE47

NORFOLK VOICE

CHAMBER EVENTS

Diary Dates.

NETWORKING EVENTS The 2 LEPs, The Council and Us: A West Norfolk Business Breakfast Where: Knights Hill Hotel, King’s Lynn When: 9 May 08:00 – 10:00 What: Meet the neighbours at this business breakfast as we team up with Cambridgeshire Chamber for some morning networking. Perfect for those wanting to raise their profile across Norfolk and Cambridgeshire and extend their network of business contacts. Hear the plans to support local businesses from the two Local Enterprise Partnerships and King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council. Norfolk and Cambridgeshire Chamber members only event.

Effective Networking: A Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Norwich City Football Club, Norwich When: 15 May 07:30 – 09:30 What: Chris Liles will share his networking top tips so you make the most out of every new connection, ensuring you can communicate about you and your organisation clearly and succinctly. Networking builds a personal relationship and people do business with people they like and trust. Let us create a relaxed environment where you can enhance your networking skills. Hear from expert networker and people skills coach who will show you how to perfect your pitch. Members only event.

After Hours: Pub Quiz!

Where: The King’s Centre, Norwich When: 5 June 18:00 – 20:00 What: Join us for an evening of networking in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere as we challenge you in a test of your local and general knowledge. With a round on Norfolk and on local businesses, you may be an answer to one of our teasers! Enter as an individual or as a team, Meet our host, the new BBC Radio Norfolk Breakfast show presenter Nicky Price, take part in some relaxed and informal networking and perhaps be crowned Norfolk Chamber’s Pub Quiz Champions.

Members only event, but exclusive to the After Hours series – bring a guest who isn’t a member.

The more the merrier!

International Connections: A Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Sprowston Manor, Norwich When: 2nd July, 07:30 – 09:30 What: Business networking over breakfast with ice-breaker activities and an agenda designed to help you make new business connections and maximize this unique networking opportunity.

Also hear from our two speakers, Andrew Bell Chief Executive of Norwich International Airport and Melissa Hartal, Sales Manager for KLM on being a vital economic driver for Norfolk.

Members only event.

After Hours: Look the Business Where: Jarrold, Norwich When: 21 August 18:00 – 20:00 What: The ultimate business fashion event is back again for its third year, following two sell out events. This year it’s at a new venue that is exclusive to Norfolk, Jarrold, it will be bigger and better than ever before, with over 100 delegates expected. Members only event, but exclusive to the After Hours series – bring a guest who isn’t a member. The more the merrier!

Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast Where: Great Yarmouth Town Hall When: 11 September 07:30 – 09:30 What: Join us in Great Yarmouth for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast.

Members only event.

NEW After Hours: Gizmos and Gadgets Where: John Lewis, Norwich When: 18 September 18:00 – 20:00 What: Join us for a new event filled with technology know-how designed to get you talking and making new connections. With Sonos bringing you their top speakers, Google offering you their new gadgets and Sony providing you with an evening’s entertainment of themed games and challenges, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to marvel in the modern world of technology whilst networking with likeminded businesses. Members only event, but exclusive to the After Hours series – bring a guest who isn’t a member. The more the merrier!

SPECIAL EVENTS The New Economy: Sustainability 2014 Where: John Innes Centre, Norwich When: 12 June 08:30 – 13:00 What: £3.2 trillion global market – Sustainability is no longer optional for business success. The New Economy: Sustainability 2014 is a dynamic, free to attend, half day conference that presents a programme of national and local industry leaders. Whether you have switched, are in transition or have not yet thought through sustainable working – this conference is for you.

With high footfall – this is the ideal place to showcase your product or service. Book your stand or your free to attend place today. Open to all businesses.

HR FORUMS HR Forum: Recruitment Issues Where: Dunston Hall, Norwich When: 18 June 14:00 – 17:00 What: With talk of an economic upturn, many employers are now turning their attention to recruitment. In this HR Forum, Steeles Law will consider some of the key factors that should be taken into account, in order to ensure your recruitment process is watertight. Sponsored and delivered by Steeles Law. Open to all businesses.

HR Forum: Where: Dunston Hall, Norwich When: 10 September 14:00 – 17:00 What: Join the Norfolk Chamber for an afternoon of accessing specialist knowledge essential for any HR Professional or business owner. Sponsored and delivered by Birketts.

Open to all businesses.

CHAMBER SESSIONS Free training delivered by Chamber Members, for Chamber Members at the Norfolk Chamber HQ, Norwich. For more information go to page 46

Chamber members can add their events to the Norfolk Chamber website for free. Find out more by visiting www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or calling the Membership Team on 01603 625 977

The

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE

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TAKE A BREAK

Ridley Pinstripe.

Sudoku May-Jun

It’s 9.15am on a Monday morning and the offices of Barking, Madd and Madd are full of excited chatter.

Not that any of it is about work, it’s all about the weekend just gone. Folks will not get down to work until a bit later. Thursday, I imagine. That’s if they are not talking about the forthcoming weekend by then, of course.

Me? I was not involved in the chit-chat. It does not befit someone in my elevated position on the lower rungs of the middle-middle management ladder.

Answers in the next edition

I need to show more gravitas than the chattering classes. Besides, what can you say about a fourpack of cheap cider and a meal-for-one Pasta Surprise, the only surprise being how little pasta it contained?

Anyway, I was much more interested in the brightly-coloured document that had just arrived on my desk. Entitled Making Sure We Care, it enshrined our approach to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Now, responsibility has not really featured prominently in our company’s history, largely, indeed entirely, because we have never shown any. At least, that’s what three High Court judges have said. And our local Chief Constable. Oh, and several grim-faced people at the Health and Safety Executive.

Our security staff showed CSR by bundling them into the back of a van, driving them out of town and dumping them on a roadside.

However, that is all about to change, according to the foreword introducing Making Sure We Care, of which 38,000 copies have been printed in an attempt to improve our tarnished image.

Rather, in an attempt to source cheap paper, we bought it from a company who flattened a sizeable piece of South American rain forest to obtain it, wiping out the last colony of one of the world‘s rarest beetles in the process.

Written by our MD in the continued absence of the company owner, whose main contribution to CSR is that he is still languishing in a Caribbean jail following that unfortunate misunderstanding about the mercenaries and the 600 grenade launchers in their truck, the foreword says: “Barking, Madd and Madd has a responsibility to the world about us. We have to operate in a respectful way and so we will.“ Just when everyone had gone for lunch, my perusal of the document was disturbed by shouting outside. I wandered over to the

E FOR MORE DETAILS

Sudoku Answers Mar-Apr

window and looked down to see a group of scruffy individuals processing round the car park, wielding placards bearing images of trees.

By the time everyone had returned from lunch - Wednesday, I think it was - all the copies of Making Sure We Care had disappeared because it turned out that we didn’t.

Cartoons

Last I saw of Making Sure We Care was 38,000 of them in a skip out the back of our warehouse.

And it wasn’t even the recycling one.

Ridley

“The first little pig built his house from straw and qualified for a green energy tax credit”

EXHIBITION

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www.norfolkchamber.co.uk 24/03/2014 15:40 JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE49

CHAMBER EVENTS

NORFOLK VOICE

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce presents the B2B EXHIBITION 2014.

It’s back! The region’s premier Business to Business Exhibition that last year generated a record attendance. More exhibitors, and more visitors than ever, made B2B bigger than ever! In 2013 our cohesive campaign of high impact marketing created a 25% hike in footfall. Now comes B2B 2014. This is your chance to appear live in front of potential customers, who want to buy! Get in to B2B 2014.

Get in to B2B. it’s about bettering your business Being at B2B means doing business. And we’ll be banging the drum for you! As an exhibitor you’ll benefit from: n EXCLUSIVE enhanced individual profile & promotional opportunities through Archant, with an estimated additional audience of 230,000+ n Targeted marketing and FREE attendance for visitors driving up footfall n Clearly defined zones to ensure that your stand is visited by the right potential customers- actively seeking your kind of products and services

Make sure you’re part of the line up!

Full and half size stands with early bird offers are bookable now.

ON01749 B2B

Chamber - Supplem

ent Cover 210x270

FP.indd 1

11/04/2014

Special rates are available for Norfolk Chamber Members.

We’re pumping up the volume with even stronger promotion to drive visitors to the event, swell the crowd and increase your opportunities to sell. Clearly defined exhibitor zones will ensure that your stand is visited by customers actively seeking your kind of products and services.

Full details on our B2B can be found in the insert inside this edition of Norfolk Voice or at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk.

This is the live event that will make a difference.

B2B BETTERING your BUSINESS

Get your act together!

Book a stand now!

15:24

New for B2B2014! Advance Tickets for attendees. Visitors can secure FREE tickets for the Exhibition, making the audience even more engaged and genuinely interested to meet Exhibitors.

Chamber members can add their events to the Norfolk Chamber website for free. Visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or call 01603 625 977

EXHIBITION

The

15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE FOR MORE DETAILS

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@norfolkchamber

www.norfolkchamber.co.uk 24/03/2014 15:41

We are living through a revolution!

ADVERTISING FEATURE

... we are here

Barrister only legal service We set the bar high & now you can reach us burrowslaw.co.uk - 0845 154 8620 Few, least of all those who are of an age, (dare I say) will be inspired by that opening statement. However, that does not stop it being a welcome starting point.

What we do know is that consumer choice and members of the public leading with their feet will design the shape of the legal market during this time of change. That means you have a huge responsibility to the way that you choose your legal service for now and anyone spending money or considering legal assistance should do just that, question yourself: what is the most efficient route to justice for you.

As with any product that you select in a market place whether that is a computer or suit, you want to make sure that you are getting the highest quality, most effective and the most cost efficient solution to your need. With that much power you really should be demanding those three things across all services.

You control the revolution; it is in your hands and you can now see for the first time what that has created.

For some time we have had different ways that you can get a legal service and this perhaps is now more uncertain than before. In the legal market there are a number of changes as companies jostle for position with what has often been referred to as “Tesco Law”. When you log on to the internet there is a whole host of companies offering different ways to receive this.

This can be confusing.

As a legal service, ‘The modern barrister’ is able for the first time to remove that middle process, but it offers an effective, cost efficient and high quality solution that builds your confidence on a very well-known reputation: the barrister.

Barristers until this time have kept quietly in

the back ground. Burrows Law Chambers gives you the barrister and is pioneered by a barrister wanting and creating that choice for members of the public. The choice of now being able to use ‘the modern barrister’ has come from understanding consumer choice. Barristers are known for their sharp wit, specialisation, highest quality, direct and solution based accuracy.

Barristers are also known for being the highest qualified in the country.

What is clear amongst directors, employers, entrepreneurs, and individuals is that they are looking for a service that has a resounding foundation within the legal profession and who knows about law. Trust is a huge part as is receiving clear and transparent communication.

Through Burrows Law Chambers and those that are selected to work as a barrister within our Norwich/national based company, you are receiving counsel advice of the highest order with a convenient approach. We encourage you to tap into a resource to set your case up against the other side in a punchy and practical way. That revolution is still in your hands, but you may just want to try Burrows Law Chambers to see if that could be where the revolution becomes the status quo. www.burrowslaw.co.uk and enquiries@burrowslaw.co.uk and 0845 154 8620

FEBRUARY/MARCH MARCH/APRIL 2013 2014

PAGE51

NORFOLK VOICE

New Members.

ATHE

CloudQast

01603 760 030 www.atheuk.com Education

Athena Business Services

01553 650 182

www.athenabusinessservices.co.uk Business Support

Atkinson Bolton Consulting Ltd

01638 564230

www.atkinsonbolton.co.uk Financial Planning

Baden Consultancy Ltd

07983 296403

www.badenconsultancy.co.uk Consultants (Business/Management)

Banham Poultry Ltd

01953 455001

www.banhampoultryuk.com Agricultural (Goods/Services)

Business Buddy UK

07799 062093

www.businessbuddyuk.com Business Support Services

0203 086 9377

www.cloudqast.com Coaching & Mentoring

East of England Co-operative Society

01473 786000 www.eastofengland.coop Retail

Eastworks Ltd

01603 513095 www.eastworks.co.uk Marketing Services

Fleet Sense Ltd

0845 459 4998

www.independenttracking.co.uk Security Equipment

Gas Arc Group Ltd

01379 652263

www.gas-arc.co.uk Manufacturing (General)

Gasway Services Ltd

0800 074 3030 www.gasway.co.uk Energy

The

Glazing Vision Limited

0333 8000 881

www.glazingvision.co.uk Manufacturing (General)

GNAW Chocololate Ltd

01603 501518

www.gnawfolkchocolate.co.uk Confectionery

Ian Garstka Graphic Design

01603 259959 www.iangarstka.co.uk Graphic Design

Independence Matters

0300 790 0508

www.independencematters.org.uk Health Care

International Decorative Surfaces

01603 402133

www.idsurfaces.co.uk Floor Coverings (all types)

ITV Sales

01603 543802 www.itvmedia.co.uk Advertising

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE

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NEW MEMBERS

Jeyes Group Limited

SCS Accounting Solutions

01223 269100

01362 691275

www.jeyes.com Manufacturing (General)

www.scsaccountingsolutions.co.uk Accountancy Services

JRT Plumbing & Heating Solutions

01493 659538

01603 516304

www.jrtplumbingandheating.co.uk Renewable Energy

www.shaperaccountants.co.uk Accountancy Services

MyWebChat

The Base Community Trust

01953 529014

01603 463121

www.mywebchat.co.uk Communications

www.thebasenorwich.org Charities

Onebyte

TMorph Digital Design

0203 189 2100

01354 661246

www.onebyte.net IT Infrastructure

www.tmorphdesign.co.uk Website Designers

RG Projects

VLW Consultancy Services

01953 857877

01553 841884

www.rgprojects.co.uk Business Support Services

www.vlwcs.co.uk Debt Collection

Ridgeon Group Ltd

Wrightway Health Ltd

01223 466000

01603 274460

www.ridgeons.co.uk Building Material Suppliers

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Shaper Accountants

www.wrightwayhealth.co.uk Health & Safety Consultants

Find out about the benefits of being a Norfolk Chamber member.

All information can be found at www.norfolkchamber. co.uk or email us at membership@ norfolkchamber.co.uk

EXHIBITION

15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

#NorfolkB2B14

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www.norfolkchamber.co.uk 24/03/2014 15:40 JULY/AUGUST MAY/JUNE 2011 2014

PAGE53

NORFOLK VOICE

The last word.

Name: Ermine Amies Company: Sandler Training Job title: Managing Director Ermine is an award winning sales coach. She trains business directors and their staff with proven techniques, attitudes and behaviours that will secure consistently improved results. She works in-house and also trains at St Andrew’s House in Norwich. Ermine came to Norfolk as a child to visit her uncle Ronnie Roxburgh who was the first consultant paediatrician at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Lynn. She moved here in 2007 when her husband retired due to ill health. She loves walking Deri, the Office Dog on the beach before work. He is a Lucas terrier, a rare breed created at Blickling Hall in the 1940s from crossing Sealyham and Norfolk terriers.

What did you want to be when you were young?

I’d read Tschiffely’s Ride and wanted to buy two ponies in Argentina and ride all the way to New York, as he did in1933. I wasn’t very happy when my mum pointed out there were revolutions and guerrillas along the route and it wouldn’t be safe for a blonde 10 year old!

What could you not live without?

My husband, Philip. He nearly died from Lyme’s disease in 2006 so every day is precious. There’s Lyme’s disease in Norfolk. So if you get an infected tick bite, with a small or large inflamed ring around the bite, it’s vital you go to your GP. Lyme’s disease is much easier to treat in its early stages, when you may not even feel ill.

If you could invite any two people to dinner, who would they be and why?

Queen Elizabeth I, an amazing survivor who succeeded against the odds in staying on the throne in the face of social norms of the time and the powerful Spanish Empire. I’d like to know if she would change any of the decisions she made. I’d also invite my great great grandfather, Edward Evans and ask him his secrets of success.

He was the son of a welsh immigrant, who created a global business exporting vinegar from his factory in Worcester.

If you could build a house anywhere in the world, where would it be?

A modern house overlooking a lagoon in Baja California with the wintering grey whales and their new-born calves. But we love living by the beach in West Norfolk so probably I’d just like to visit and not build there. So maybe we could have a safari style tent so it can be dismantled and leave no trace in the wilderness.

What makes you angry?

FGM – it is totally unacceptable that girl children are mutilated anywhere in the world – and it even happens here in the UK.

especially love our dark skies at night – the stars are even better thanks to the reduced light pollution from the new street lighting.

What is, in your opinion, the greatest invention ever?

Effective contraceptives which have liberated women from endless childbirth, enabling them to get educated and be economically active in their own right, reducing poverty and improving child mortality rates.

If you only had a £1 left in the whole world, what would you spend it on?

Some fishing line so we can catch some mackerel or even bass. Not sure how well that would work without a sea rod and with hooks made from safety pins!

What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt in life?

If you have doubt about stepping up to a promotion or some new challenge, prepare well, ask for advice and support and then just do it.

Review and adjust as necessary in light of your results.

What is the best thing about Norfolk?

The natural beauty of this county. We have such an amazing variety of different landscapes from the mud flats, beaches, dunes, marshes, bogs and rivers, the chalk scarp, the Broads and Fens, the medieval settlements and old churches, huge arable fields and even wider skies. And I

If you could come back as an animal in your next life, what would it be and why?

One of the oyster catchers which fly over our house. They live long lives, pair for life and fly over the Norfolk coast calling in the summer so joyfully.

EXHIBITION

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15 OCTOBER 2014 NORWICH CITY FOOTBALL CLUB, 10AM–5PM

THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS TO BUSINESS EXHIBITION – BOOK YOUR STAND TODAY! SEE OUR INSERT IN THIS ISSUE FOR MORE DETAILS

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