Business Eye Jan Feb 2023

07

Co-Fund NI Hits New Funding Milestone

One hundred Northern Ireland companies have now benefitted from investments totalling over £42M through Co-Fund NI since the programme began in 2011.

10

eirEvo Lands £7 Million Council Contract

Leading telecoms and IT provider eir evo UK has announced it has won a major contract to deliver high-capacity fibre network and managed services to 10 regional councils across Northern Ireland.

20 Finlay Wealth Management –Record Year For Fast-Growing Firm

It’s at times when the economic chips are down that the value of solid, professional wealth management advice comes into its own. Business Eye catches up with one of Northern Ireland’s leading advisers, Jonathan Finlay.

23

All Change At NI Chamber

One of the legends of the local business community, Ann McGregor, is to step down from her role as Chief Executive of the NI Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

28 Andrew Park – Former Rugby Star Spotlights Workplace Wellness

It’s a subject which has taken on an even sharper focus in the shadow of the Covid pandemic. What is work life balance and how is wellness maximised in our working lives? Business Eye talks to ex-rugby player and wellness guru, Andrew Park.

30 Custom House – New Lease Of Life For Belfast Landmark

One of Belfast’s most distinctive building has been given a new lease of life thanks to a £7 million investment by entrepreneur and property developer Neil McKibbin. Belfast’s Custom House is a high-spec addition to the flexible workspace sector.

34 Business Leaders Forum

What are the key challenges facing Northern Ireland business in 2023, and what would your wish list for the coming year include? We ask a big-hitting group of local business leaders.

50 Turbulent Outlook For M&A But Not All Bad News

The outlook for M&A activity in Northern Ireland and RoI in 2023 is more uncertain than it was when heading into 2021 and 2022, as macroeconomic challenges have softened sentiment globally, according to KPMG’s annual M&A Outlook Survey.

51 Business Eye Sustainability Awards 2023

Judging has taken place and the shortlists will soon be published for Northern Ireland’s brand new Sustainability Awards, with awards night taking place on 23rd February at the Culloden Estate & Spa.

55 Law Firm Reflects On Biggest Year Yet

Multi-specialist Belfast law firm Millar McCall Wylie has experienced its “biggest year to date” across all aspects of its legal services, with particular growth noted in its corporate and media law departments.

59 FPM Launches Bespoke Finance Service

Leading cross-border accountancy and tax consultancy firm, FPM have today announced an expansion to their client services as a result of their merger with AAB.

Comment

Richard Buckley EDITOR Irish Magazine Editor of the Year 2005

At the time of writing, there are rumours of a breakthrough in negotiations between the UK Government and the EU with one London newspaper claiming that a potential deal includes agreement on the abolition of checks on GB goods coming into NI as well as movement on the thorny issue of European courts.

But, even if a deal is in the offing, that’s not the end of the story, nor is it the last of the hurdles that face devolved government and its resumption. Any deal has to be sold to Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and anti-protocol unionism. Even on the basis of a speculative newspaper story about a possible agreement, some harder-line unionists were straight on to a negative footing.

One staunch opponent, who doesn’t need to be named to be identified, described the whole exercise as ‘kite flying’ before the ink was dry on the press speculation. Quite how the UK government is going to be able to persuade some that any deal is a good one remains to be seen.

But most commentators and observers agree that some form of deal is likely and that it’s on the cards sooner rather than later.

They also agree – broadly speaking – that the DUP has some big and important decisions to make. Those who say that the party really wants to walk away from power sharing and devolution are on the wrong track. No Assembly or Executive would leave the party with little influence, save for a few fairly powerless MPs and plenty of local councillors. Add to that the prospect of a Sinn Fein-led government in the south, and the challenge is underlined.

As business and the economy here grapples with cost-related issues and an under-performing economy, working devolved government would help. That said, we’re well used by now to working without such a luxury.

As we’ve said many times before, the protocol isn’t a major issue for many businesses here. For some, it’s a minor hindrance. For others, it works to their advantages. Any deal that’s conjured up at UK government and EU level must be focused on the economy, on business here and on practical, pragmatic issues rather then simply pander to the petty politics of certain parties. Is that too much to hope?

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s economic development agency, Invest NI, has come in for some serious criticism in a long-awaited report from a review body led by Sir Michael Lyons.

It points to some serious issues at management level as well as a number of other areas, but fell short of calling for the body to be scrapped and replaced by something else. That makes sense. There’s little merit in nominally doing away with one structure to replace it with another, similar one.

But it would be good to see a new-look, well-led, well-managed, nimble and positive organisation emerging from the aftermath of the report. A bit like the protocol agreement, is that too much to ask?

“As business and the economy here grapples with costrelated issues and an under-performing economy, working devolved government would help. That said, we’re well used by now to working without such a luxury.”

More than one month into a new year, there’s been precious little progress on the political front and little prospect of any return to Stormont government.

Chris McSwiggan

Joan Maneely Mark Crothers

David McCurdy

Paul O’Neill

Richard Jennings

Eye on News

Errigal Group Reveals Plans For £150m Investment In Business Park In Antrim

Once completed and operational, the proposed new development has the potential to create over 1000 jobs in the local area, plus another 200 jobs during construction.

Subject to pre-application discussions, which are due to begin on 24th January, this proposal represents a significant increase in floorspace and investment in the Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough and the wider sub region.

Cormac McCloskey, Joint Managing Director of Errigal Group said,

“When it was first built, the Enkalon Business Park was one of the largest and most modern industrial parks in Europe and made a significant economic contribution to the local area. Our aim is to revitalise the site, restoring it to its former glory and bringing it up to date with the latest technology and design.”

Errigal Group has revealed plans for a £150M investment to redevelop and extend the Enkalon Business Park in Antrim.

Located next to The Junction Retail and Leisure Park, the redeveloped business park is set to span more than 1.7M sq ft of warehouse and distribution space. The Southern part of the site is currently home to several distribution centres including BathShack, Fastway and Sports Direct and the plans will see a number of these centres refurbished as well as over 900,000sq ft of new build space and a rooftop solar farm.

The announcement comes on the back of the annual Northern Ireland Economic Conference, hosted recently in Antrim, where Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Chief Executive, Jacqui Dixon outlined its ambitious plans for achieving £1Bn investment and the creation of 2500 jobs in the area by 2025. Errigal’s development plans will contribute significantly to these objectives.

Ideally located close to the M2,

the park is likely to attract local and international businesses alike, and the potential economic boost for the surrounding area is considerable.

Damien Treanor, Joint Managing Director, Errigal Group added, “Development of the Park will create 200+ construction jobs and an additional 1000 jobs for the local community once complete, we look forward to working closely with the council members and local stakeholders over the coming months to bring these plans to fruition.”

Errigal acquired the Enkalon Industrial Estate in April 2019 and since then, has carried out £2M of additional upgrade works. The site as it stands is fully leased to key tenants as warehousing, distribution and showroom space.

The company has also set up an off-site manufacturing unit to service construction projects in Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. The site currently employs over 400 people across all the business units with the number projected to grow in 2023.

A community drop-in consultation will take place on Wednesday 15th February 2023, from 1:00pm – 7:00pm, at Holiday Inn Express, Ballymena Road, Antrim. Additionally, a virtual consultation will run from Monday 30th January – Friday 10th March.

New Deputy Medical Directors Appointed At Kingsbridge Healthcare Group

Kingsbridge Healthcare Group has appointed two new Deputy Medical Directors.

Dr Lisa Neligan and Mr Michael McMullan are two long serving and highly respected Doctors who will support Medical Director, Dr Martin Shields, on a more formal capacity whilst also practicing their own clinical specialties, within the Group. Their vital roles will be dynamic

with a focus on ‘patient safety’ as the Group, who are very much an integral part of the public/private healthcare network in both NI and ROI, continues to invest in clinical facilities, additional staff, and the number of patient episodes of care.

Both Dr Neligan and Mr McMullan will be a welcomed addition to the safety profile at Kingsbridge Healthcare Group which is led by Dr Shields, and all look forward to the exciting times ahead, especially with the clinical delivery of complex models of care like Cardiac Surgery.

(L-R) Damien Treanor and Cormac McCloskey, Joint Managing Directors of Errigal Group

Medical Director at Kingsbridge Healthcare Group, Dr Martin Shields welcomes his new Deputies, Dr Lisa Neligan, and Mr Michael McMullan to his team.

Eye on News

CO-FUND NI HITS LANDMARK OF INVESTING IN 100 COMPANIES

One hundred Northern Ireland companies have now benefitted from investments totalling over £42M through Co-Fund NI since the programme began in 2011.

Co-Fund NI is part of Invest Northern Ireland’s Access to Finance suite of funds and a partner of the Regional Angel Programme, delivered by British Business Investments. The fund co-invests alongside Business Angels and other private investors in deals typically valued between £150,000 and £2M. Co-Fund NI is managed by Clarendon Fund Managers.

The first company to benefit from the fund in 2011 was Cirdan Imaging Ltd. To date, Co-Fund NI has provided close to £43M in funding to Northern Ireland businesses, alongside £285M in private investment.

The 100th company to secure investment from Co-Fund NI is

Belfast-based IT firm, Kinsetsu. Securing a total of £1.55M, this funding round was led by Par Equity alongside Business Angels, supported by a £300,000 investment from Co-Fund NI.

Founded by Jackie Crooks and Joanne O’Doherty, Kinsetsu is a global software and IoT company that provides innovative sensor-based and automation technology solutions for tracking equipment, people, inventory and fleet to organisations within the healthcare, defence, government and commercial sectors. The business plans to use funding to scale business operations and fuel growth.

William McCulla, Director of Corporate Finance at Invest NI said,

“Since 2011, Invest NI has provided investment support to 100 high growth potential companies through Co-Fund NI which has leveraged significant private investment in the portfolio. We are pleased that our funding will contribute to Kinsetsu’s growth and support its plans for the future of the business.”

Joanne O’Doherty, Chief Executive of Kinsetsu said, ”This funding from Co-Fund NI has come at a very important time for our business. In recent months we have secured a number of large contracts and this financial support will play a vital role in the expansion of our business operations. It will also support plans for further growth within the critical sectors we serve and help us to continue to provide positive change through our technology solutions.”

Claudine Owens, Investment Manager, Clarendon Fund Managers said,

“Reaching the 100th company milestone is a fantastic accomplishment and makes Co-Fund NI the most active equity investor in Northern Ireland. Kinsetsu is a welcome addition to the portfolio and we are excited to be part of their growth journey.”

“As an investor we are committed to supporting diversity and we’re proud that over a quarter of our businesses have a female founder. We’re particularly pleased to welcome female-founded business, Kinsetsu, as our 100th portfolio company.”

Co-Fund NI’s portfolio companies include businesses from a range of sectors including Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering, Financial Services, Life and Healthcare Sciences, and Digital ICT. Invest NI’s support is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth & Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2021) Programme.

Joanne O’Doherty, Chief Executive, Kinsetsu; Brian Cummings, Investment Director, Clarendon Fund Managers; Claudine Owens, Investment Manager, Clarendon Fund Managers; William McCulla, Director of Corporate Finance at Invest NI and Jackie Crooks, Chief Commercial Officer, Kinsetsu.

LEDCOM’s SUPPORT SEES LOCAL JOB CREATION ALMOST DOUBLE

thank all of the team for their hard work during the year and one such example can be proven via the social output value. It is over £100k and has to be applauded. This includes staff time, pro bono use of the conference facilities, incubation support and the Board’s voluntary time.

“I’m exceptionally proud of this small organisation and its large and valuable output to the local economy.”

At this year’s Annual Business Networking Lunch, LEDCOM was delighted to be joined by Richard Kennedy, Chair of InterTradeIreland as keynote speaker as well as Jenny Ervine, of Raise Ventures and Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd. LEDCOM draws on the expertise of leading business people who share their knowledge and expertise of business and entrepreneurship.

Richard Kennedy, Chair of InterTradeIreland said;

Business enterprise LEDCOM, which inspires local economic development, has recently published its annual report for the year ending 30th September 2022, revealing that LEDCOM support and facilities have helped towards the creation/safeguarding of 410 jobs across the Mid and East Antrim and the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council areas. This sees an 193% increase on job creation/safeguarded on the previous year’s results.

The Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough saw 117 jobs created whereas Mid and East Antrim benefitted from 93 jobs. The report also concluded that the employment created would have an economic impact of approximately £12.2 million and a gross added value of £1.1 million to the region.

LEDCOM, the Enterprise Centre for Larne and Ballyclare, has been encouraging entrepreneurship and community economic develop for 37 years. It offers a range of support and

activities, from training unemployed people to assisting local start-ups by providing workspaces, support with business planning and development, and through mentoring schemes. In 2021/22 it worked with around 250 businesses and start-ups, with some 750 individuals accessing some of the many facilities and opportunities made available by LEDCOM.

The success of 2021-22 builds on the positive results of the previous year, when 212 jobs were created with a £10 million boost to the economy.

Dr Norman Apsley OBE, Chairman of LEDCOM said.

“We are delighted that LEDCOM has been able to build on the results of the previous year so successfully. It demonstrates the positive impact that this business enterprise has had in boosting economic regeneration in our region. Our focus is on inspiring and supporting individuals and companies locally, sharing our time and experience to help the economic growth of the community.

“As part of that we have a wide

range of business programmes, covering inspiration, start-up, scaleup and mentorship, all of which are geared towards assisting start-ups and entrepreneurs and these figures, 410 jobs created with an economic impact of over £12M illustrate just how important these initiatives are.”

With a portfolio of managed workspace across the council areas, tenancy occupancy levels continued to perform well at Bank Road Business Park, Willow Business Park at 77% ,the Work Cube and Foundry House in Ballyclare, a new and ongoing project continues to improve and grow in line with the charitable objectives.

Ken Nelson MBE, LEDCOM’s Chief Executive continued.

“We are very fortunate to have so many tenants who run excellent businesses across various sectors, each one contributing to the local economy. We have continued to work effectively in partnership with local councils, and other Enterprise NI members.This year’s report is strong and should be welcomed. I’d like to

“In InterTradeIreland, we understand the entrepreneurial landscape very well, as we have supported thousands of firms on their innovation, trade and funding journeys. LEDCOM has to be commended for their strong annual report and the added value that it brings to the local towns and community.

“It is clear, under the exemplary stewardship by the Board and its senior management, that this business enterprise will continue to underpin the local business community and strive to make a real and lasting economic impact through their various charitable objectives.”

Jenny Ervine of Raise Ventures and Kilwaughter Minerals said:

“At Kilwaughter Minerals, like LEDCOM, we want to connect with our communities and champion economic growth where we can, particularly in our local communities. It’s fantastic to see valuable advice and support given to numerous SMEs and entrepreneurs, helping them in many areas close to our own journey with product development, business process, and innovation. As a partner, Kilwaughter Minerals is delighted to see how well LEDCOM has performed over the reporting period.”

Simon McDowell, Director of Kilwaughter Minerals, Dr Norman Apsley OBE, Chairman of LEDCOM, Richard Kennedy, Chair of InterTradeIreland, Jenny Ervine, Founder of Raise Ventures and Director of Kilwaughter Minerals, and Ken Nelson MBE, LEDCOM’s Chief Executive.

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Eye on News

eir evo secures major £7m network services contract with NI

councils

Leading telecoms and IT provider eir evo UK has announced it has won a major contract to deliver high-capacity fibre network and managed services to 10 regional councils across Northern Ireland.

Representing an investment of up to £7 million over 10 years, the eir evo network solution will connect almost 600 council sites across Northern Ireland with the required infrastructure to enable more efficient delivery of digital services, achieve productivity improvements for more than 8,500 employees and support the development of new technology initiatives from within the local councils.

Spearheaded by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council along with Mid Ulster District Council, the contract was awarded under the Local Full Fibre Networks fund developed by the Department for Digital Culture Media and Sport in support of the UK Industrial Strategy. The contract will see eir evo deliver Wide Area Network connectivity and managed services to the Full Fibre Northern Ireland consortium of 10 councils outside the Belfast area.

The network services contract also provides for the future-proofing of local councils through the latest in

cyber security technologies and frameworks, which are offered under eir evo’s expert guidance, support and delivery partnerships. The cyber security protection offered by eir evo includes a prebuilt path to what is known as ‘Zero Trust’. This builds enhanced authentication, authorisation, and validation of access to the councils’ applications and data, delivering optimum cyber protection plus efficient use of the councils’ technical resources.

Confirming eir evo UK’s appointment, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Paul Greenfield said:

“As we work to deliver digital transformation and enhanced connectivity in almost every area, we are pleased to appoint eir evo as our telecoms and IT partner. We are the lead partner in a consortium with nine other councils to ensure consistency and cohesion of contract delivery. Not only will this project support our work towards a ‘10x Economy’ which prioritises digital innovation,

but it will drive greater accessibility and efficiency for all councils.

“With eir evo, we’re confident that we have the flexibility to keep on top of the latest advances in technologies to ensure we securely safeguard our digital infrastructure into the future for generations to come.”

Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Córa Corry, welcomed the announcement, saying:

“We’re delighted to partner with eir evo to deliver this transformative digital programme. Not only will this new project provide a significantly enhanced infrastructure for every council involved and improve how we work to better serve our ratepayers, but it will also support new digital initiatives we are working on today and into the future that will lead to a more connected Mid Ulster.

“We’re keen to demonstrate best practice in new technologies and digital enablement that can help us deliver the council services that matter to our citizens in the best way. I am confident that the services

provided by eir evo UK can future-proof our commitment to innovation.”

eir evo recently announced a major office move, signing a 10-year lease to take residency on the tenth floor of the newly redeveloped Grade A office development The Vantage in Belfast city centre, where the company plans to further expand the team to support its growth and success in a next generation working environment.

Philip O’Meara, eir evo Regional Director for Northern Ireland, said:

“We’ve been successfully servicing the enterprise and public sector locally for more than a decade and this new contract further underscores not only our technology excellence but our commitment to service delivery and quality assurance.

“The councils will benefit greatly from our intelligent and managed network which allows each and every office to scale and adapt services to their individual needs whilst benefiting from seamless integration with the wider consortium. With the proactive, 24x7 monitoring from our Network Operations Centre in Belfast, the 10 Councils are fully supported with a local expert team and the latest in cyber security solutions to protect against the ever-changing threat landscape.

“We are very proud to be working with the local councils as they embark on a new phase of digital transformation and as we embark on our new phase of growth in Northern Ireland.”

Since 2007, eir evo UK has been providing local businesses with the widest range of managed services including voice and data networking solutions, and more recently with IT, cyber security and cloud technology. Earlier this year, eir evo UK also embarked on an ambitious growth strategy to bring its island-wide experience and powerful technical know-how to new and existing customers and cemented a new 20-year commitment to the region, having already invested over £10 million in the last 18 months upgrading its state-of-the-art fibre network and adding new staff positions to its customer-facing team based in Belfast. eir evo is the largest provider to offer true end-to-end service delivery and technical innovation to the highest-level, both north and south.

Pictured at the Armagh Observatory & Planetarium are (left to right) eir evo Business Development Director Clair Gheel; Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Paul Greenfield; Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton; and eir evo Regional Director for Northern Ireland, Philip O’Meara.

Eye on News

Busy year for investors in Northern Ireland commercial property but headwinds pare momentum – CBRE NI

of Boucher Retail Park in Belfast for an undisclosed price; the sale of Premier Inn Four Corners in Belfast for £12.2 million; the sale of Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards for £15.75 million; and the sale of Central Park in Mallusk for £17 million.

Buyers were represented across the spectrum, led by local investors who accounted for 47% of all transactions, followed by institutional investors who accounted for 34% and property companies with 19%.

completed before the end of January. However, rising interest rates and concerns of an economic slowdown mean buyers will remain price sensitive, a factor which will likely curb deal levels.

“Offering further support is the fact investors in Northern Ireland are still attracted by the yield arbitrage when compared to similar assets in Great Britain (GB) and the Republic.”

Atotal of £330 million was invested across 36 transactions in 2022, a jump from £290M and 30 transactions respectively compared to 2021 and the highest level of investment since 2015.

Retail accounted for half of all transactions in 2022 while alternatives – commercial property which sit outside the traditional real estate sectors – was, for the first time, the second most active area with 22% of total transactions.

Some of the most notable investments which were completed throughout the year include the sale of Cityside Retail and Leisure Park in Belfast for £14.15 million; the sale

The report said the strong appetite exhibited by investors looks likely to continue in 2023 with deals amounting to around £86 million due to be

Gavin Elliott, senior director at CBRE NI, said: “Investors have been busy in the Northern Ireland commercial property market in 2022 and that theme looks set to continue this year despite the challenging economic backdrop. However, within the investment sector we can take comfort that the banks remain well capitalised and that there is a good supply of capital looking to be invested into commercial real estate, albeit at a realistic pricing.

Current yields for prime release estate in Northern Ireland stands at 6.5% against 6% in major regionals in GB and 4.35% in Dublin.

Brian Lavery, Managing Director at CBRE NI, said: “The robust performance in the commercial property investment sector reveals a market underpinned by strong demand for good assets at the right price. There is little doubt the rising cost of debt and increasing worries around the health of the local and global economies has and will put buyers in the driving seat, but we expect healthy transaction levels in the coming months.

Mr Lavery also said the stalemate at Stormont is throttling further potential investment.

“Investors have been drawn to the Northern Ireland market due to its unique location as a gateway between the UK and EU, although the region’s attractiveness has been dulled by a lack of direction and political leadership at Stormont. Progress on the Northern Ireland Protocol and a restoration of the Executive would boost the confidence of both local and international investors alike.”

Investment in Northern Ireland’s commercial property market continued apace last year despite worries around the rising cost of debt and gathering economic headwinds, according to research from CBRE NI.

The funds raised at the event have been donated to Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke.

Pictured at the cheque handover to the charity are (from left) Richard Lusty of event sponsors Ulster Bank; Zara Duffy, Chartered Accountants Ireland; Emma Murray, Chairperson, Chartered Accountants Ulster Society; and Gareth McGleenon of NI Chest, Heart and Stroke.

Eye on Tax The Choices We Make

This certainly resonates with us, as the question we get asked most by clients is “What are my options?”

People like to know what decisions they need to make and what the likely consequences of those decisions will be. It’s human nature to want to know what comes next and how we can get to where we want to go.

At BDO NI, whilst we’re used

to answering these questions for our clients, it’s important that we also reflect on our own options and assess the decisions we need to make. This helps ensure we continue to grow and thrive as a business.

One thing we do know for certain is that all these choices bring about change and, as a business, we must either choose to ignore change, respond to it, or create it.

Within BDO NI we like to plan ahead and seek to prepare for the unforeseen as much as possible. However, no matter how much we seek to do so there will always be unknowns that simply cannot be prepared for.

Life here has changed considerably since we opened our doors in Belfast’s Callender Street back in 1989. Indeed, the internet as we know it didn’t exist, email was years away from widespread adoption by business and social media amounted to sharing a copy of the morning newspaper with your colleague.

Life has changed immeasurably in recent times and that relentless march of progress means our world will continue to change and evolve.

In recent years, local businesses have had to make difficult and urgent decisions in order to protect their operations - in a relatively short space of time we’ve had the NI Executive collapse twice (with all the issues that came with that); Brexit; the Covid-19 pandemic and, most recently, the cost-of-living crisis as a result of spiralling energy costs and inflationary pressures. Perhaps nothing illustrates the unstoppable pace of change more than the fact that we’ve had the same number of Prime Ministers in 2022 as we had in the first 18 years of our business. Indeed, recent years have made us look again at how we work, and we too have had to make a number of decisions about what

There is a famous exchange in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland that will strike a chord with any business advisor; as Alice asks, “Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?” and the Cat replies; “That depends a good deal on where you want to get to”.

The BDO NI Partners, (L-R) Nigel Harra, Senior Partner & Head of Audit, Laura Jackson, Audit Partner, Maybeth Shaw, Tax Partner, Michael Jennings, Business Advisory Partner and Brian Murphy, Managing Partner and Head of Business Advisory.

Eye on Tax

is best for our team and best for our clients, to ensure BDO NI remains on the path that will lead us to where we want to go.

We have increased our workforce to 150 in recent years and as well as direct hires, this has included people coming through our local university mentoring and award programmes, as well as many being supported through the post graduate diploma by the firm. This helps us recruit the brightest and best in the country. This is a good thing, as we have plans to grow even further in the coming years. We have also had to assess what we need to do to provide for our team and be able to continue to provide the same unrivalled quality of service to our clients.

After almost 35 years we have also chosen to move from our Callender Street base to new facilities on Donegal Square South to accommodate our growing team and meet the changing needs of a modern office environment. Our new facility provides even more space for team break-outs, collaborative working and online meetings.

BDO NI has chosen to continue

to invest in Belfast City Centre, thus underlining our confidence in the city as being the primary hub for business in Northern Ireland.

It’s important for businesses such as ours to be part of the fabric of the local area, to support other local firms, especially retail, the coffee bars and sandwich shops, and to continue serving the needs of our team as well. We feel connected by being in the beating heart of Belfast.

We have chosen to invest in this new property and in state of the art technology to better serve our clients and improve the well-being of our team.

As employers, we know there’s no point investing heavily in our employees if we don’t also ensure that we appreciate the impact recent changes have had on our lives. When the pandemic first hit, we struggled to get used to working from home - from embracing online meetings and figuring out how to mute/unmute to struggling with home schooling and wrestling unruly pets who insisted on making starring appearances on every call.

In some ways, this has helped humanise working relationships, reinforcing the fact that we all

have a life and commitments outside of work; as the old proverb says, ‘necessity is the mother of invention’. We found that productivity actually increased in this period and these learnings have helped shape BDO NI’s choices for how we wish to grow as a business.

We have always viewed ourselves as a family. We support each other’s charitable works; we sponsor and cheer on the local sporting groups and clubs our colleagues are actively involved with, and we strive to help ensure our team enjoys a proper work-life balance.

To reach this goal, BDO NI recently launched its ‘agile working’ arrangements that allow our team members to work the hours that suit them best (in consultation with their colleagues and clients) as we know some people work better outside of the usual 9-5.

This has been an absolute game-changer for our business, and for our people, with unprecedented levels of support being voiced by them.

Productivity and retention rates have increased even further, and we have found that clients appreciate the flexibility as they too face the

same challenges. As a result, we are better servicing the needs of both employees and clients.

So, in answering the eternal question “What are my options?”, we will always remain focused on leading our clients on the best path to where they want to go. We know we must always be prepared for change, we know how to choose to embrace it and we know how to make sure it works for your business.

We’ve experienced a lot of change in recent times but as Lewis Carroll also wrote; “it takes all the running you can do to keep in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast.”

At BDO NI, we never stand still. We choose to work smarter, to empower our staff to work in a way that suits them and to recognise that the world has changed for all of us.

Yes, change can be difficult, and we may sometimes miss ‘the good old days’, but then the wise words of Alice spring to mind once more “it’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then.”

L-R: Pictured in their new city centre office, BDO Northern Ireland’s Nigel Harra, Senior Partner and Brian Murphy, Managing Partner. The company, who currently employ more than 150 people across the region, has announced growth plans for 2023 which includes the continued recruitment of young talent through a range of scholarships and internships.

Eye on News

New CEO For Phoenix Natural Gas

Michael McKinstry is to step down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Phoenix Group. Michael is one of the longest serving members of the Northern Ireland gas industry, having been a member of the leadership team at Phoenix since its establishment in 1996, initially as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and since 2014 as CEO. He will be succeeded by Kailash Chada, the current CFO at Phoenix.

Michael’s career in the gas industry coincided with a period of considerable greenfield investment, during which time Phoenix constructed a pipeline infrastructure to deliver gas to over 350,000 properties. It has also gained international recognition for its commitment to responsible business practices and supporting local communities. Its pipeline investment, in

Recruitment Drive Sees 80 New Jobs Ahead Of £4.5M Titanic Belfast Refresh

As Titanic Belfast prepares to reopen its doors following a £4.5m refreshment programme which will see the latter part of the Titanic Experience redeveloped, the world-leading tourist attraction has announced the creation of 80 new jobs.

The roles are available across Visitor Experience, Ticketing and Retail Outlets with part and full-time hours available in the fixed-term contract positions from March until October. A number of permanent roles are also being recruited for across the Marketing, Human Resources and Visitor Attraction departments.

Heather Graham, Titanic Belfast’s Head of HR said: “2022 was a momentous year as we celebrated a decade of Titanic Belfast. We are set for an even bigger year in 2023 when we reopen, so there has never been a more exciting time to be part of the team!”

“We value our staff as one of our key assets and reasons for success, so these roles will play an important part in bringing the reimagined experience to life for our visitors, both locally and from across the globe, to ensure they receive the memorable experience that Titanic Belfast is renowned for.”

“A job with Titanic Belfast provides a really unique opportunity for people to gain valuable experience of working in a world-class venue which will stand by them throughout their professional career. To ensure our five-star standards are met and maintained, all our employees go through a robust training programme, and we offer an attractive payment terms and benefits package,” Heather added.

In the ten years since opening, Titanic Belfast has welcomed over 7 million visitors and generated an additional £430 million direct visitor

spend for the NI economy. It was awarded 5-stars in the EFQM Ireland’s Organisational Excellence Award. The upcoming £4.5m investment has been fully funded from the Titanic Belfast

one of the most modern gas networks globally, leaves Phoenix well placed to play a key role in the delivery of an integrated net zero energy system in NI.

Kailash Chada takes up his new role on 1 April 2023. Kailash has served as the company’s CFO since 2017, having held several senior roles in leading financial institutions in London, including interim CEO for a division of Ulster Bank.

Chair of Phoenix Group, Mr. Peter Dixon said “I am confident that Kailash will build on the great success achieved under Michael’s distinguished leadership. At a time when there are significant opportunities for the energy sector to develop alternative renewable solutions from increasingly indigenous production sources, Kailash’s determination and drive will be key assets in leading Phoenix through its next phase of growth and development.

Gallery Refreshment Fund which was established when the building opened as part of the commercial operator agreement and held by the charity owner, Maritime Belfast Trust.

Heather Graham, Head of HR at Titanic Belfast is joined by Visitor Service Crew Philip Moffett and Grace McKendry as the world-leading tourist attraction announces the creation of 80 new jobs as it prepares to reopen its doors following a £4.5m refreshment programme which will see the latter part of the Titanic Experience redeveloped.

‘Titanic’

Overcome Adapt, Assess,

Are you in the tourism and hospitality sector? Then the TED programme is here to boost your business.

Support and advice

Tourism Northern Ireland’s top priority is to support tourism and hospitality businesses to survive and grow business revenues in the short to medium term.

Now more than ever tourism businesses must focus on costs and competitiveness as we face immediate challenges. Ensuring business operating models are as efficient as possible to safeguard operating margins and remain profitable, is key to long term survival and business sustainability.

The focus of this year’s TED Programme will be around people, sustainability, operations, digital capability and sales and marketing.

To be the first to hear about all the programme’s events and features, sign up now to our mailing list at tourismni.com/ted

NI Legends Unite For Grocery Campaign

of continuing to entertain shoppers and offer a bit of light relief at the same time as providing amazing deals.

The comic trio will unite in a six-part content series which will air on SuperValu and Centra social channels in January.

NI’s most iconic presenter and Catchphrase King, Roy Walker, joins Belfast funny man, Paddy Raff and Drag sensation, Cherrie OnTop to battle it out to be the face of Epic Deals – the year-long instore promotion designed to save shoppers money on household name, big brand products.

As consumers continue to deal with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Musgrave NI, parent company of SuperValu and Centra, is reaffirming its commitment to affordability and value while also recognising the importance

Commenting, Desi Derby, Marketing Director of SuperValu and Centra, said “With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, many household budgets are more stretched than ever. We are committed to helping our shoppers save money on their everyday essentials, offering great value and quality through our ownbrand products, and also on the big brands that they love to help them through this period when their purse strings are particularly tight.

“January and February will undoubtedly still be tough months for everyone. On a post-Christmas low, with the dark mornings and evenings, we wanted to provide some joy for our shoppers, and we

hope our hilarious new campaign with national treasure, Roy Walker; Paddy Raff and Cherrie OnTop does

just that. As they compete to be the face of Epic Deals, who will come out on top? They’re in it, to win it.”

Lambert Smith Hampton Strengthens Belfast Team With New Appointments

Lambert Smith Hampton has made four new appointments to its team in Belfast, including two directors, to meet ongoing demand for its services from the commercial property market.

Gráinne Leathem has been appointed as director of commercial property management, bringing more than 13 years’ experience in the property industry to the role. Joining from a multi award winning property investment, development and construction company, Gráinne will be actively involved in all aspects of property management for the agency’s key clients.

LSH has also appointed Carolyn Avery as director of lease advisory, with responsibility for lease renewals, rent reviews, re-gears and rating work on behalf of the agency’s extensive client base. With over 20 years’ experience, Carolyn joins from a Belfast commercial real estate business.

To meet the demand created by new and retained clients, LSH has also made two additional appointments to its property management accounts team, with Rahul Sodhi joining as senior client accountant and Diana Kaliczka as credit controller.

LSH is the largest and most active commercial real estate business in Northern Ireland, currently employing 78 people in the Belfast office. In recent months, the firm negotiated the successful sale of Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards and facilitated the sale of Quedam Shopping Centre in Yeovil, South-West England. Following the sales, the new owners of both properties retained LSH as the managing agent on the assets. The team also negotiated the sale of Central Park, Mallusk, the largest industrial transaction in Northern Ireland in 2022.

Leading convenience brands, SuperValu and Centra have called on some of NI’s best known personalities to support its latest value-led campaign.

Paddy Raff, Cherrie OnTop and Roy Walker

Gary Nesbitt, Head of Property Management; Carolyn Avery, Director of Lease Advisory; Diana Kaliczka, Credit Controller; Rahul Sodhi, Senior Client Accountant; Gráinne Leathem, Director of Commercial Property Management; and Darren Fitzsimons, Head of Professional Services at Lambert Smith Hampton.

From small meetings to major conferences and events, our meeting venues and event spaces can cater for all your business requirements. Ideally located just one hour from both Belfast and Dublin and ten minutes outside Newry City, Killeavy Castle Estate offers much more than a venue.

In addition to a range of spaces, function rooms and outdoor areas that can be

the setting of Killeavy Castle Estate that sets it apart from other venues, providing a calm space to make strategic decisions, a break from the norm that will rejuvenate your creativity and a surrounding landscape that provides the opportunity to take part in a range of unique activities that promote cohesion within teams. The abundance of natural daylight in our event spaces will stimulate fresh thinking, while the scenic landscape of Slieve Gullion provides a mindful focal point that will keep delegates calm, centred and focused.

With modern audio-visual facilities, award-winning cuisine, and a range of accommodation options, we are proud to offer a unique venue and tailor-made

meetings and events.

Whether it’s a small client meeting, a corporate away day or a company conference or board meeting, our dedicated meeting and events team will work with you to ensure its success.

Centred around a fully restored 19th century Castle, our Estate offers elegance

guaranteed to impress your guests.

Our 45-guestroom boutique hotel is ideal for residential stayovers, with the opportunity for your guests to enjoy

killeavycastle.com or

email events@killeavycastle.com

Finlay Wealth Management LLP

RECORD YEAR FOR FAST-GROWING FIRM

Hurst Ferrari and menswear specialist Hugo Thomas.

“On a day to day basis, we’re working with our clients on a wide range of financial and wealth management issues.

That’s a fact that goes some way to explain why Belfast-based Finlay Wealth Management is riding high at the moment after one of its most successful financial years.

“We have rebranded alongside St. James’s Place Plc, for whom we are a Senior Partner Practice. We have also increased our staff here in Belfast in the last year and currently manage in excess of £95million of funds for our clients.” says Jonathan Finlay, the firm’s Managing Partner.

The firm has expanded both during the Covid recovery period and the current period of economic instability.

“The pandemic, at its height, was difficult for us. This is very much a face to face business and we missed being able to sit down and talk to our clients face to face. But Covid also saw a lot of clients taking a long, hard look at how they were managing their finances, and we’ve been advising increasing numbers of them.”

Current financial and economic uncertainties, meanwhile, have led to another increase

in the demand for financial advice and guidance.

“Periods like this always mean that clients are looking for safe havens for their money and they’re looking for ways of insulating their finances from the worst effects of external circumstances,” adds Jonathan Finlay.

The company, he says, generates almost of all of its business through referrals – from satisfied clients to new clients and from professional advisers like accountants and solicitors.

“We’ve built up a really strong referral network over the years. Reputation is really important, but so is performance on a week to week, day to day basis.”

Finlay Wealth Management is also active in the community. It is involved in sports sponsorship and has also developed links with the Riding For The Disabled charity in Northern Ireland and recently sponsored its annual fund-raising ball.

During the autumn, Jonathan Finlay and his team helped stage a Ferrari driving event at Newcastle’s Slieve Donard Resort alongside Charles

“Our advice could be around pensions, it could be on tax planning issues, it could be on savings or it could be a bit more complex, perhaps around a divorce and its financial implications,” says Jonathan Finlay.

“We’re always happy to talk to a client, find out what their requirements are and what they want to achieve and then to find the right solutions,” he adds.

“There’s a common misconception that financial advice is only useful when you receive an inheritance, a windfall or have a lot of extra money. Crucially, we can help you maintain control of your money during the hard times.

Jonathan Finlay, a financial adviser with more than 30 years experience, works with a close-knit team of fellow advisers and support staff, and he’s proud to be working as an appointed representative of St. James’s Place, a GB-based wealth management giant with some 900,000 clients and over £142.3 billion in funds under management.

“Our clients have been investing in St. James’s Place products for quite a number of years and we’ve no hesitation

It’s at times when the economic chips are down that the value of solid, professional wealth management advice comes into its own.

“Periods like this always mean that clients are looking for safe havens for their money and they’re looking for ways of insulating their finances from the worst effects of external circumstances.”

Eye on Cover Story

in recommending them to those we’re advising, in a turbulent marketplace.

“Increasing numbers of new clients are coming on board –from all different backgrounds and from all across the island of Ireland. They have one thing in common. They’re looking for robust financial advice against the background of economic uncertainty.

“You may think that it’s only worth talking to us if you have a specific goal in mind, such as early retirement, or after a big financial event such as divorce or receiving an inheritance, when you have a large sum of money to manage.

“Although that’s part of our role – and these are all key moments when good advice is important –in reality, we can help you tackle a whole range of money-related issues. The ultimate goal is for you to reach a place of financial wellbeing, which can include:

• Making the most of your money on a day-to-day basis

• Being financially capable of dealing with the unexpected

• Feeling confident, empowered and knowledgeable

• Making smart use of debt, investments, insurance policies, tax reliefs and financial products to help you on your journey

The current cost-of-living crisis presents a huge threat to many people and their prospects of achieving these aims. Although some are more insulated than others, the impact of high inflation, energy bills, interest-rate rises and other economic challenges have become widespread. Despite the 80% rise in the energy price cap now being cancelled with the introduction of the energy price guarantee, prices will still increase for many who will already be feeling the

squeeze from previous rises.

We’re here to help you with all aspects of money management – including the more complex, where we can provide real value. Talking about how difficult things are, or how worried you are, is the first step to feeling better about it.

“We spend every day creating specific, actionable plans to help people reach their aims, based on realistic calculations of how much they’ll need. We can tweak and fine-tune these so that people who may feel they cannot afford to save for retirement, for example, or keep up their financial commitments, are able to do so.”

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief is generally dependent on individual circumstances.

Finlay Wealth Management LLP is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co. uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Eye on News

Ann McGregor to step down after 15 years at Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce

Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber)

Chief Executive Ann McGregor has announced she is leaving her role later this year, after almost 15 years at the helm.

When she steps down in Autumn this year, Ann will leave a remarkable legacy at the organisation which celebrates its 240th anniversary in 2023.

Ann joined NI Chamber in 2008 and in the intervening period she has led the organ-isation through a period of sustained growth and NI Chamber now delivers a series of business support initiatives which have facilitated business and employment growth across Northern Ireland plc. NI Chamber has won multiple business awards and is now firmly established as the leading business body in the region. It is rec-ognised across Ireland north and south, the UK and globally as the voice of the business community here and last November over 800 people attended the annual President’s Banquet.

Ann’s tenure coincided with some of the biggest challenges faced by businesses here including continuing political stalemate, a global economic crash, the chal-lenges of Brexit and more recently the impact of the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis. The President of NI Chamber, Gillian McAuley, praised the leadership shown by Ann throughout her career with the organisation.

“Ann’s leadership has been exceptional, especially during what have been very challenging times for the economy in Northern Ireland and indeed globally. At these times local businesses of all sizes look for support and advice from a trusted source, and Ann has ensured she and her team have been that source. NI Cham-ber has always offered support to our member

businesses and even during the Covid restrictions, continued to host networking events which have always been very well attended and which our own membership research tells us are very popu-lar. The level of professionalism associated with NI Chamber is down in no small way to the talent and commitment of the senior management team under Ann’s leadership. We will miss her at NI Chamber and we wish her every success in her future roles.”

Ann said,

“After 15 years in this role, I have mixed feelings about my decision to leave the team at NI Chamber, but I feel I have achieved a lot during my time here and, per-sonally speaking, this is a good time for me

try something new. I have loved my long period as Chief Executive, through all the significant economic challenges and all the ups and downs politically, everyone involved in NI Chamber can be proud of the role we played in support local businesses and wider society. We now have a considerably larger membership, a strong, enthusiastic executive team, quality support services to provide to the business community locally, and I think the or-ganisation is in very good hands.

“I have had a wide and varied career having started out in industry in production management and more recently in economic and business development. I have al-ready accepted a few roles in

charitable organisations and I am looking forward to seeking out and taking on new challenges and opportunities in private businesses as a Non-Executive Director. I am grateful to the NI Chamber President Gillian McAuley and the Board for their cooperation as we map out my departure and manage the recruitment process to appoint my successor. I am very confident that she and the Board will make an excellent appointment.”

The recruitment process for the new Chief Executive which is being led by NI Chamber President Gillian McAuley is underway with information available on the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry website.

Bank Of Ireland Backs Sustainable Development In Donaghadee

Over £70m is set to be invested by development company Strand Homes as it continues its seven year build programme at the multi award winning High Trees in Donaghadee, with funding supported by Bank of Ireland UK.

With 80 homes completed and occupied at High Trees, the Strand Homes team continue to grow their sustainable ambitions with a series of additional energy efficiency measures, including solar panels, a 5kw battery and an electric car charging point fitted in all recent homes.

Jennifer Mitchell of Strand Homes says, “Building sustainable homes with a community connection is the driving purpose behind Strand Homes and we are delighted to have the support of Bank of Ireland in delivering our

vision at the High Trees site.

“We have worked closely with Bank of Ireland to facilitate the innovations and enhancements across our High Trees homes and we are delighted to have their continued support for our future plans.”

“For us it’s about more than house building, it’s about creating a development that evolves as a community both in the development and across the local area.

“We’ve been achieving that in a number of different and unexpected ways including investing in an on-site plant nursery so we can grow our own plants on site. This secures the supply of the recommended plants in line with the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan of which we were the first residential developer in Northern Ireland to join. We’ve had lots of residents and local school children come

along for events at the nursery, aiming to establish a Community Garden which will be a great legacy in the development long after our works have finished.”

“At Strand Homes we genuinely want our customers to be the beneficiaries of what we are doing and this is in terms of the community aspect as well as the green initiatives. The feedback from the solar installation has been brilliant:

“We moved in on the 6th May 2022 and the meter hasn’t moved. To date, we haven’t used any electricity from the grid and couldn’t be more delighted. Especially given today’s prices, we feel so fortunate to have this included in our specifications. We even decided to upgrade from standard six panels offered by Strand Homes to 12. It’s been so efficient and cost effective”

Ciaran Lavery, Senior Business

Manager at Bank of Ireland UK says, “We are really pleased to support the Strand Homes team with the High Trees development, and very much support the company’s ambition to build sustainable homes, communities and connections.

“At Bank of Ireland we work closely with our customers to help them meet their ambitions and deliver further economic and social value. We look forward to working with the Strand Homes team as the High Trees site and their development programmes continue to grow.”

Based in Belfast, Strand Homes is focussed on building homes with community connections where homeowners love where they live. The company, which began in 2011 has committed to the construction of over 300 homes at High Trees Donaghadee and 46 homes at Ferndene in East Belfast.

Niall Devlin, Head of Business Banking, Bank of Ireland UK with Jennifer Mitchell, Sales & Marketing Manager, Strand Homes

SPAR NI brings £20,000 Community Cashback Grant Scheme back for second year

Officially, SPAR NI introduced the grants when community groups and charities felt the huge financial hit of lockdown in 2020, and in 2022, SPAR UK adopted the scheme and gave away £100,000 to community initiatives in every part of the UK.

Last year’s NI winner, the Community Rescue Service in Coleraine, benefitted from SPAR NI’s £10,000 grant, which District Officer

Barry Torrens described as a life saving benefit for the organisation, and the hundreds of people who need their services each year.

Barry explained; “We were delighted to be awarded with the £10,000 grant last year as it ensures that we can expand our services. It means additional modern search equipment, a more efficient service and more training for our teams, which ultimately means we are able to save more lives. Quite literally, this grant is life saving and enables us to carry out comprehensive searches and provide a vital service to communities across Northern Ireland.”

From 01 February, shoppers can apply for a grant for an organisation or charity they feel deserves funding. All applicants need to do is share details of the exceptional

contribution a local organisation has made to their community, and what the grant would be put towards.

Applications will run until 15 March 2023 via https://www.sparni.co.uk/community-cashback/ and successful candidates will be contacted by early May 2023.

Alongside the Community Rescue Service, North Coast World Earth and Tackling Awareness of Mental Health Issues were also awarded £5,000 and £2,000 grants respectively, while The Hygiene Bank, D’Sign Arts and Listening Ear were awarded £1,000 each to continue the valued work they do in their communities.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group which owns SPAR in Northern Ireland commented; “SPAR stores operate at the heart of communities across

Northern Ireland, and our store teams engage with community groups and organisations, charities, schools and playgroups on a daily basis. They all want the best for their communities and we are committed to nurturing our neighbourhoods.

“Awarding the grant to the Community Rescue Service last year just goes to show what a real difference grants like this make to those bringing essential and lifesaving services to their communities and beyond. We visited the team and accompanied them on a rescue training mission, which allowed us to show just how much work goes into keeping services like this going, and the specialist equipment they need. It is fantastic to bring that opportunity to more initiatives for another year.”

The Community Cashback Grant Scheme from SPAR NI, that has been labelled “lifesaving” by last year’s winner, has returned for a second year.

Community Rescue Service Search Technician Murrough McDonagh and District Officer Barry Torrens (left), Regional Commander Sean McCarry, Assistant Unit Commander Ruari Bailey (right) with SPAR NI Store Manager David Buckley (centre).

Andrew Park

Former Rugby Star Spotlights Leadership and Workplace Wellness

What’s helpful right at the outset is to define the term wellness. “It’s the complete integration of body, mind and spirit,” says Andrew Park founder of Oneparklife. “Everything we do, think, feel and believe has an effect on our state of wellbeing.”

Andrew’s new company, Oneparklife, is helping businesses and individuals drive positive change with the desire to make wellness accessible for all.

“We help clients achieve goals by working on individual’s strengths and values, creating plans for a longterm wellness strategy. In short, we help people to make positive and lasting changes to their health.”

A former Ulster rugby player, Andrew played alongside David Humphreys, Andy Ward and Simon Mason in the celebrated team which lifted the European Cup at the old Lansdowne Road back in 1999.

It’s a subject which has taken on an even sharper focus in the shadow of the Covid pandemic. What is work life balance and how is wellness maximised in our working lives?

Eye on Wellness

Since then, he’s had 22 years in business here, in Dublin and London, running his own advertising agency, as European director of a global sports management company and as part of the leadership team at a leading management consultancy practice.

Oneparklife offers a range of coaching services, consultancy on workplace wellness and health teaching.

“I recognised that in the new era we need to keep learning and evolving and, to use the old term, pivot’. I have pivoted and followed a career path that has kept me challenged and taken me out of my comfort zone, for me, being comfortable in the uncomfortable is the only way to grow.

But what does Oneparklife offer its clients?

“If you look at a lifestyle, it has a profound impact on how we work and live but is this down to a lack of education and accountability or to internal and external demands?,” Andrew asks.

“So we offer two approaches to our clients but there is a need to complement what we offer by combining the two when required.”

“We guide our clients through the process of creating a vision for their health and wellbeing, developing a

healthy mindset and healthy habits.

“Our breadth of coaching has highlighted the need for a more holistic approach to our clients that has wellness at the heart. So our wellness coaching aligned with health teaching complement individuals and wellness plans.

From a business leadership perspective, Oneparklife provides dedicated executive coaching. “We look at mindset shift, at specifics like coping with change when adapting to a new role, and we’ve held a number of personal branding workshops for CEOs, Senior Managers, Professional Athletes and most recently in London for a group of leading screenwriters,” says Andrew. “Our team coaching, meanwhile, will help drive culture development and performance.”

Apart from his professional sporting background, there’s another more personal reason as to why Andrew is dedicated to wellness and lifestyle change.

In 2010, he was diagnosed with an inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis. “I lost three stone in weight, I was hugely fatigued and I was struggling to control abdominal pain and other symptoms.

“I felt that I really needed to understand my body, to address

my lifestyle and to manage my own work life balance,” he says.

“But I’ve always been interested in how we live our lives. Working in sport, I’ve helped professional athletes during and transition into new roles. Experiences throughout my own career have also helped to shape the focus.

“Our teaching is based on health principles whose purpose is to help us return to our natural state of health, balance, and wholeness. In other words, we need to balance our imbalances.”

Oneparklife shares health teaching and seminars to help people make conscious choices across six key pillars of health and other aspects of our lives. This is now being highlighted in the workplace when working with businesses.

Research shows that, despite predictions, a true culture of wellness at work has failed to develop.

Nearly one in five (19%) are not currently doing anything to improve employee health and wellbeing

Only half of organisations (51%) take a strategic approach to employee wellbeing

· Management style remains among the most common causes of stress at work

“Most importantly, we set out to collaborate with businesses to create a strategic approach to wellness and to help shape programmes. Crucially, we help employees adapt to a better way of living within working boundaries, and we help businesses shape a plan that has the employee at its core.

“We all need to be more lifestyle centric, meaning our lifestyle is at the centre of how we live. So it’s not just health in terms of nutrition, emotions, etc, but it’s health in terms of finances, work/life balance and relationships. They all play a big part in our lifestyle journey.

“The blurred lines between our professional and personal lives are even more apparent these days. It’s more important than ever to identify what you need to focus on, and start by making small adjustments which will become more sustainable over time.”

Eye on Property

Custom House at Custom House Square has become the city’s very latest and certainly it’s highest-spec flexible workspace offering, complete with wellness pods, superfast broadband, podcast studio, it’s very own gym and coffee shop/restaurant.

It’s a building which has long been part of the fabric of life in Belfast. Designed in 1847 by Charles Lanyon, a man responsible for a number of key buildings around the city, work on the landmark site didn’t start until some seven years later. It was completed in 1857 at a cost of £30,000.

Until a couple of years ago, the building – as befits its name – was home to HMRC’s Belfast operations, which have since moved to Erskine House in the city centre.

Neil McKibbin, whose other Belfast property interests include Victoria House and Flax House elsewhere in the city centre, bought Custom House during the height of the Covid pandemic. Like many others, he’d long admired the elegant building in passing.

He acquired the building in October 2020 and work started with an internal demolition phase in April of 2021. As at the end of January 2023, most of the internal work has been completed.

“I always wanted to get this project absolutely right,” he says. “And I’m really pleased with how it has turned out. What’s more, I think our tenants are really pleased with how it has turned out.”

Custom House is already home to a number of businesses including Velocity Worldwide and Clarendon Executive. More are signing up for space all the time, attracted by a number of factors, not least the building itself, its level of finish, its location, the wellbeing features and an allinclusive package with no deposit.

Neil McKibbin walks around the building checking on details as he speaks. And the level of finish is worth seeing, from carpets to tiles and on to showpiece details like the magnificent chandeliers and original staircases and windows which have been retained. It’s a Grade B+ listed building and the entire restoration project has been completed with that in mind.

The building is being managed by London-based flexible workspace provider BE Offices, which already has a Belfast presence with another building it manages on behalf of EY in Adelaide Exchange. Heading up the onsite hospitality team is General Manager Richard Taylor, formerly Deputy General Manager of The Slieve Donard, with additional extensive experience working for The Hastings Hotel Group. “We see this facility as the hotelification of office space,” says Richard. “In other words, we’re bringing hotel industry levels of service and attention to the office arena.

“We’re more than 40% occupied as things stand and the building is capable of playing host to 600 people,” he says.

Both Richard Taylor and Neil McKibbin agree, as do most of us, that the world of work has changed since Covid. “People are returning to offices, of course,

but they expect flexibility these days, and that’s where we come in,” says Neil McKibbin. “At the moment, we’re showing companies around the building every day.”

Listed building that it is, the outside of Custom House remains the same, although considerably cleaner and brighter than it was in its last days of HMRC occupancy. Inside, almost everything, apart from a couple of balustrades, staircases and original decorative carvings, is brand new.

Custom House isn’t the only serviced flexible office space in town. There are others. “But we’re confident that it’s the best finished and highest specified,” says Neil McKibbin, who is clearly proud of what together he and BE Offices have achieved. “What’s more, it’s been created by an excellent team of local specialists and craftsmen.”

Prioritising wellbeing, Custom House is on track to achieve Platinum WELL Certification, a first for Northern Ireland. Certified through the International WELL Building Institute, WELL is a performance-based certification focused exclusively on the ways buildings can deliver more thoughtful and intentional spaces to improve occupier comfort, drive better choices, and generally enhance, not compromise, health and wellness.

One of Belfast’s most distinctive buildings has been given a new lease of life thanks to a £7 million investment by entrepreneur and property developer Neil McKibbin.

Custom House client Enda McShane, CEO of Velocity Worldwide and Neil McKibbin

Richard Taylor, General Manager

Eye on News

NORTHERN IRELAND’S TOP CHEFS WOWED AT FUTURECHEF TALENT AS 2023 WINNER ANNOUNCED

It’s the annual competition where curious cooks aiming for a career in hospitality chop, season and sauté their way to be crowned FutureChef NI champion.

This year’s winner, Kristen Nugent from Dungannon, created a Fermanagh Chicken Tasting Plate as her winning main course and an apple upside down cake for dessert, which judges Noel McMeel, Sean Owens, last year’s winner Michael Thompson and chef Geoff Baird from event sponsor, Henderson Foodservice, all agreed took the most points for taste, presentation, value, provenance and minimal waste.

Kristen, who attends St. Ciaran’s College in Ballygawley was the runner up in the competition last year, and was mentored by local Dungannon chef, James Devine throughout her time in the competition.

FutureChef is the annual initiative from Springboard, the charity that is committed to nurturing young talent and promoting hospitality as a great place to work. FutureChef is Springboard’s flagship educational programme and is supported by supplier to the hospitality industry across Ireland, Henderson Foodservice.

Kristen was selected as the winner from 1,650 students who registered to take part in this year’s competition, which is more than double the number from last year.

Hannah Dunn, a student at Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, was named runner up. Hannah was mentored by Lough Erne Resort’s new head chef, Stephen Holland.

Chef Geoff Baird, Business Development Chef at Henderson Foodservice commented; “Kristen is a hugely worthy winner, and blew us all

away with her consideration of flavours, local produce and conscientious cooking.

“While the local hospitality sector has bounced back well thanks to its collective determination and graft post-lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, recruitment is still a significant challenge, alongside rising energy costs, which threaten our vibrant offering here in Northern Ireland.

“Initiatives like FutureChef enable us to keep the younger generation excited about the sector, and see it as a credible, exciting and ambitious career path. We don’t want them to see the challenges as a barrier to their cooking or management ambitions, as we need their creativity and energy, alongside the skills which each participant has shown and learnt throughout this entire competition.”

Dr Mark Browne, Permanent Secretary, Department of Education added; “The future successes of our local industries begin in our schools where learning often extends outside of the classroom. Our young people need to

be encouraged with their creativity and initiatives like Springboard’s FutureChef will not only help them learn more about what they need to succeed in a future career in hospitality, but also arm them with vital and practical skills and knowledge from their professional mentors early on.

“This is a fantastic initiative and I send my congratulations to all the finalists, and this year’s winner, Kristen.”

Kristen will now head to London in March to represent Northern Ireland in the UK-wide FutureChef final.

Caitriona Lennox, Head of Springboard NI added; “Northern Ireland has a natural passion for local produce, farming, excellent restaurants and creative chefs, and many of them have been participants in FutureChef competitions over the past 24 years.

“We are delighted for Kristen and her winning dish, and are grateful to our mentors, judges and competition sponsor Henderson Foodservice for

lending their time, knowledge and skills to our participants over the past few months. This has been a fantastic year for the competition, and if the talent and ambition we have seen this year is any indicator, the future of hospitality in Northern Ireland is in great hands!”

The finalists who cooked up a storm at Belfast Met’s Titanic Quarter campus, alongside winner Kristen were Runner up Hannah Dunn, mentored by Chef Stephen Holland from Lough Erne Resort; Mollie Sloan, mentored by Chef Artur Fron from 2Taps restaurant in Belfast; Ella Wray, mentored by Chef Jack Mooney from the Marine Hotel in Ballycastle; James Webber, mentored by Sodexo chef, Cathy Adamson; Alex Maguire, mentored by Chef Chris Furey of Me and Mrs Jones in Portstewart; Cassie McAleavey,

mentored by Chef Darragh Dooley from Killeavy Castle Estate; and Lauren Blake, mentored by Chef Stephen Higginson from The Square Bistro in Lisburn.

Winner of this year’s NI final of the FutureChef, Kristen Nugent from Dungannon (front centre), pictured with (from left) Chef Geoff Baird from Henderson Foodservice, Inga McVicar from Springboard, Chef and mentor James Devine, Head of Springboard NI Caitriona Lennox and Managing Director of event sponsor, Henderson Foodservice, Cathal Geoghegan.

£40 million Funding for Redevelopment of Bangor Waterfront

Ards and North Down Borough Council will be receiving £40 million funding for its Bangor Waterfront Development as part of the Belfast Region City Deal. The news comes a year after UK and NI Executive Ministers signed the first ever City Deal for Northern Ireland in December 2021.

The Belfast Region City Deal unlocks £1 billion of co-investment that will deliver more than 20 highly ambitious projects and programmes, create up to 20,000 new jobs and make the region a global investment destination over the next decade.

The highly ambitious Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) represents a new way of working between central and local government and regional partners. The UK Government and NI Executive have each committed £350 million and partners a further £150 million toward the shared vision of inclusive economic growth that delivers more and better jobs, a positive impact on the most deprived communities and a balanced spread of benefits across the region.

The Bangor Waterfront Redevelopment represents an investment of circa £73 million in a 2-mile stretch

of the city’s coastline. It will connect the city to the sea through a range of sustainable, world-class visitor and leisure attractions/experiences.

With £40 million funding now secured, work can begin to deliver this ambitious 10-year plan, regenerating existing assets including Bangor’s 5 Gold Anchor Marina, the popular family attraction, Pickie Fun Park, as well as significant development and improvement of public spaces. This will deliver on a vision for Bangor agreed by local stakeholders in 2018 – to make Bangor a ‘destination of choice’ to live, work, study and invest in.

There are also plans to deliver a ‘Phase 2’ to the recently opened Court House music venue in Bangor that will include new event and performance spaces and to develop an international watersports facility at a newlook Ballyholme Yacht Club and Watersports Centre. This combination of funding and investment will transform and future-proof Bangor, delivering a significant boost to tourism and encouraging further investment.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Karen Douglas, said: “This is a significant milestone to an exciting new future for the City of Bangor. As the programme of

works rolls out over the next 10 years, this redevelopment of the waterfront will bring benefits and opportunities to residents, businesses, and to the wider Borough as a whole. I am very much looking forward to seeing Bangor firmly back on the map as a place to live, work and visit.”

Gerard Murray, Director of the Department for Communities’ Regional Development Office, said: “The Department for Communities is working closely with Ards and North Down Borough Council to support the development and delivery of the Bangor Waterfront Project supported by the Belfast Region City Deal.

“The agreement of the Contract for Funding is a significant milestone and an indication of the excellent collaboration between central and local government to deliver this exciting project. With the recent planning approval for the regeneration of Queen’s Parade by Bangor Marine, this really is an exciting time for the City.

Bangor’s residents and visitors can look forward to a revitalised Waterfront reconnecting the city to its marine heritage and re-establishing Bangor as one of our premier tourism and leisure destinations.”

Business Leaders Forum

Richard Buckley Editor, Business Eye

What are the key challenges facing Northern Ireland business in 2023, and what would your wish list for the coming year include?

That’s what their hopes are for the year, and inevitably, what the obstacles are.

In the pages that follow, an eclecic mix of business personalities and leaders give us their views, their spin, their priorities and their hopes and fears. Not surprisingly, politics comes up once or twice. The continued lack of devolved government at Stormont is a key factor for a lot of business people. The existence

of the NI Protocol, despite what some politicians might think, isn’t. But politics and the protocol aren’t the only shows in town, not by a long chalk. The poor state of the UK economy and the current costs crisis are major challenges. Particularly in some key sectors, energy and raw materials costs are a huge issue and a massive challenge. So too are staff shortages and a distinct lack of good people.

Part of that problem has its roots in economic facts, part of it in the Covid years. But maybe there’s some hope contained in it. If we still need people, our businesses continue to perform.

Northern Ireland, perhaps, can continue to reap the advantages that our unique position within the UK and Europe coontinues to deliver. For now.

There’s only ever one question you can ask a group of top-level business leaders as we glide into 2023 and all that it may hold for business and the economy here....

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Simon Hamilton

Chief Executive, Belfast Chamber

When asked to look ahead at what 2023 might hold for the Belfast economy, after the experience of the last few years, it is hard not to think of American baseball legend Yogi Berra’s great quote that “it’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future”. After coming through a pandemic with all of the damage it did to large swathes of the city’s economy, a whole new set of challenges have arisen, some stemming from the pandemic whilst others relate to Brexit and also the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Belfast Chamber members are experiencing all manner of issues including a cost of doing business crisis, double digit inflation, pressures on disposable income, a shortage of labour across all sectors and uncertainty in the financial markets. Barely a sector of our membership is untouched.

It is arguable that what has followed the pandemic is far worse than anything experienced during COVID-19. In the Autumn 2022 Belfast Business Survey, carried out in conjunction with Belfast City Council, Belfast Chamber found that, while sales and profitability had been strong earlier in the year, business confidence had collapsed with 44% of respondents believing that their business would get perform less well over the next 6 months – more than double the level of pessimism compared to the previous survey.

Whilst we shouldn’t dismiss bright spots like the reopening of Primark, continued inflows of FDI to the city and good trading for many over Christmas, it is a massive understatement to say that we head into 2023 with some concern about what it will entail.

A resolution on the Protocol and a restoration of the Executive at Stormont may not help us to overcome all of our problems but they would give businesses some much needed stability and, in the circumstances, surely aren’t too much to ask.

Despite the many economic challenges the tourism industry enters 2023 in relatively good shape. The most recent data suggests that in 2022 hotel room sales across Northern Ireland were back to 95% of rooms sold in 2019. Room rates were on average up 28% so revenues were hopefully sufficient to cover rising costs.

Global research shows the desire to travel remains strong and demand in the Republic of Ireland, which has driven the remarkable recovery of the past two years, has remained steady through the winter. New direct air routes into Belfast from the UK and Europe will see the number of seats available on routes into both Belfast and Dublin exceed that of 2019, so in terms of accessibility from overseas we have never been in better shape.

The tourism sector remains confident and this is evidenced by the investment in new accommodation stock in Belfast, Derry-Londonderry and the North Coast. The big challenge for the industry however will be achieving profitability as there is a limit to the extent that rising costs can be passed on to the consumer. Whilst we can hopefully continue to drive volume through our marketing activity, and the ambitious plans which Tourism Ireland has for our overseas markets, things may be more challenging for the hospitality sector which is more dependent on local customers whose disposable incomes are being squeezed.

The tight labour market continues to make it challenging on the recruitment and retention front as every sector competes for a limited talent pool. I would hope that given the positive longerterm outlook for the sector we can now convince people that tourism and hospitality offers rewarding career opportunities.

The most immediate challenge is finding a workable solution to the requirement for visitors coming to Northern Ireland via the Republic of Ireland to have an ETA.

John McGrillen Chief Executive, Tourism Northern Ireland

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Chris Conway

Group Chief Executive Officer, Translink NI

Richard Gillan

Managing Partner, Grant Thornton Northern Ireland

2023 will be a challenging year for Northern Ireland’s economy and the budget for public services.

Public transport is essential for the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of Northern Ireland, and we must continue the progress towards Net Zero this year, in line with the Climate Change Act (2022). Passenger numbers have returned strongly to bus and rail travel during 2022 and we will be working to continue this trend in 2023, with a continued focus on high levels of customer service; we are also continuing the deployment of contactless ticketing across the network to make it easier for everyone to use public transport. We will also be continuing the roll-out of our Zero Emission fleet and this will include the transition of our Foyle Metro fleet in Derry~Londonderry to 100% battery-electric technology.

We’re also undertaking some major track and signalling works across our rail network to address years of underinvestment and to make sure that the rail infrastructure is fit for future generations to use, helping to improve journey reliability and safety. Alongside this, work is being maintained at pace at the flagship Belfast Grand Central Station project, which is on target to enter the first phase of operational service by late 2024, with other major projects, including the new station at York Street, also making progress. Translink will work to build back and expand the public transport network to support the economy in Northern Ireland with a high-quality, sustainable service, but this will require ongoing investment in our services and in our infrastructure. We want to work with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure that public transport is appropriately funded and supported, ensuring that our society can benefit from better, extended, more frequent services, with public transport helping to drive economic and social regeneration, and play our full part in the shift towards an active, sustainable future, one that’s Better. Connected.

Challenges are nothing new to doing business in Northern Ireland. In fact, I would argue that the adversity that companies in this part of the world have had to face over the years has made business people here among the most resilient you will find.

With Covid-19 and the fallout from Brexit still fresh in the memory, not to mention the ongoing efforts to deal with the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, we haven’t had our sorrows to seek in recent years. Nor do we have to look far beyond the horizon to see where the next set of challenges will come from.

The official data is already telling us that we are, at the very least, experiencing a technical recession, with spiralling energy costs impacting businesses and consumers alike.

Thankfully, there is a growing consensus that inflation may have already peaked, which offers hope. The labour market also continues to show signs of positivity with the unemployment rate remaining below 3 per cent, and 2022 proving a record year with the lowest number of redundancies since they were first recorded in 2000.

We’re also anticipating a busy year for mergers and acquisitions activity in 2023, as money continues to chase deals.

As for a wish list, dare I suggest a return of the devolved institutions at Stormont – even if that means another trip to the polls for weary voters? The in-trays of Ministerial desks must, by this stage, be overflowing with the plethora of issues waiting to be addressed by local politicians. In the absence of Ministers, we need to put arrangements in place that allow decisions to be made to facilitate business.

Whatever challenges are in store in 2023, I am confident that the Northern Ireland business community will do what it does best - adapt and “find a way”.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Gareth Hetherington MBE

Director, Ulster University Economic Policy Centre

We enter 2023 with a marginally improved economic outlook and it seems likely that we will have avoided slipping into recession in 2022. The main challenges faced by local businesses are global in nature and therefore those same global factors will determine our economic outlook. Thankfully gas prices have not reached the levels anticipated in some of the more pessimistic forecasts, which helps the inflationary outlook but also importantly provides relief to the public finances by reducing the cost to government

of energy price guarantees. Despite this relief, many businesses are still facing significant cost pressures. Raw materials costs along with energy remain the key cost items, but research recently completed by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, has also identified rising finance costs as an increasing issue for many businesses. This reflects tighter monetary policy here and around the world, but it also has economists starting to anticipate when interest rates will reach their peak.

It is my expectation that the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy

Committee (MPC) may only raise interest rates to 4% from their current level of 3.5% before calling a halt to the current cycle of rises. I do not underestimate the importance of curtailing inflation, it makes us all poorer and history shows us that periods of significant industrial unrest always coincide with periods of high inflation, so the priority has to be to bring inflation back down. However, there are good reasons for the MPC to hit pause sooner rather than later. Firstly, the full impact of interest rate rises still has to feed through to the economy, which typically

takes approximately 12 months. Secondly, as energy prices fall back, inflation could also reduce quickly and finally, with increased pressure on household budgets, businesses will have limited ability to pass on cost increases through higher prices. This is a challenge for businesses, but good news for containing inflation. The prospects for 2023 remain challenging, but perhaps less severe than many expected.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Lynsey Mallon

Head of Corporate and Commercial, Arthur Cox

There is no denying that for many, 2023 is expected to be a challenging year with talk of adverse economic conditions never far from the headlines.

We all know about the inflationary pressures and climbing interest rates, not to mention access to skills and the general rising of cost of doing business, many of which are global issues, rather than specific to Northern Ireland.

As a result, the challenge might be finding an element of positivity – but it’s still there.

Working with organisations of every size and across all sectors, we can see this region continues to provide a place for new businesses to emerge and grow and for established companies, many of which are globally recognised, to thrive.

As such, Northern Ireland based entities continue to be attractive to investors both locally and on the international stage.

2022 was a busy period for our Corporate and Commercial department with high levels of activity in the M&A space cross multiple sectors, advising on some of the highest value transactions.

This included advising Danish logistics giant DFDS on its agreement to purchase McBurney Transport for a multi-million pound sum.

We also worked with MedTech firm Re-Vana Therapeutics as it successfully raised $11.9 million in a Series A funding round - among the largest ever to be secured by a Northern Ireland based company.

Looking ahead, we anticipate continued activity in the technology sector throughout the next 12 months with healthcare and pharma also expected to be strong.

Renewable energy is also highlighted as a key area for growth, particularly following the recent Statement of Intent from the Department for the Economy and The Crown Estate to enable the leasing of offshore energy projects to deliver 1GW of new energy.

All we can wish for in 2023 is that the positives will continue to outshine the many challenges that lie in wait.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Shaun McAnee

Managing Director, Corporate and Business Banking, Danske Bank UK

Whilst I expect to see continued slow growth and a gradual increase in business activity and investor confidence, I believe 2023 will be another challenging year for Northern Ireland businesses, many of which are still in rebuilding and recovery mode after the challenging Brexit and Covid years.

Key challenges include the retention and attraction of talent, the cost of maintaining expensive premises with high energy costs and many businesses looking to downsize with hybrid working accepted as the new normal. With demand for specialist talent at an all-time high, candidates are becoming more demanding in their quest for flexible working, attractive, collaborative work environments and four day working weeks.

That being said, there are growing signs for optimism with a significant increase in marketing, business development and events activity generally and especially in the digital space on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

My wish list for 2023 would include, in no particular order, renewed investor confidence, increased bank lending, availability of specialist talent to fill key positions, Stormont up and running and actively supporting Northern Ireland business, an agreed deal in respect of the NI Protocol, significant Foreign Direct Investment is attracted, making maximum use of our unique position of being a UK country with an EU land border, reduced unemployment (Harland & Wolff’s plans for 900 new jobs is a great start) and of course Ireland to win the Six Nations and Rugby World Cup!

Those management teams which have reimagined how they do business, have embraced the new ways of working and have been able to turn these challenges into opportunities, will continue to thrive and will emerge in 2024 all the stronger for the brave decisions they have taken.

The challenges facing households and businesses from local and global economic headwinds are well documented –the rising cost of living and doing business, high food and energy prices, global supply chain issues, talent shortages, fragile consumer confidence. For many NI business leaders, cost and cash will be the issues topping their list. They will be asking themselves how they can become more efficient? What can they do better in terms of processes and management? Is there new technology they can invest in to accelerate change?

For example, rising energy costs have resulted in an uptick in our customers looking for alternative solutions, seeking finance for solar panels, wind turbines and anaerobic digestors. These decisions may have been driven by cost but have the added benefit of helping them become more sustainable, which of course must be a top priority for all businesses. Good leadership is even more important in uncertain times, so it will be important in 2023 for organisations to keep investing in their leadership teams and in developing high quality leaders.

The resourcefulness of business leaders here continues to impress me. Having learnt ‘the art of the possible’ in business during the pandemic, many of our customers have adapted incredibly quickly to new, unforeseen stresses – finding new suppliers when other avenues have closed, pivoting to new product areas and winning customers in new geographies. A lot of businesses are growing, investing, and performing very well.

While businesses will always have a level of uncertainty to deal with, my wish for the year would be to see more stability, economically and politically, and for customers who need help to ask for it early. I’d also like to see more businesses having the confidence to forge ahead with ambitious growth plans.

Chris Ross

Managing Partner, McKees

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Dominic Kearns

Chief Executive, Fibrus

Businesses here are fairly resilient when it comes to downturns in the economy. The real risk for them and the local economy is the absence of policy and lack of stability. We need consistency to drive our economy forward and counteract the downturn.

I work daily with institutional investors that after some convincing, see the same opportunities for investment in NI as they see in the south of Ireland and in the UK. However, the policy and political landscape here is flagged as a key risk.

As local business leaders, we have a responsibility to say it as we see it. There are so many areas that are devoid of policy or a plan. We seem to spend more time naval gazing with consultation documents than making the tough decisions that will be the best thing for people and businesses.

Fibrus is an example of what can be achieved when the right policy environment exists. Three and half years ago our business was on a slide deck and today we are deploying over £700m of capital into critical fibre infrastructure. This was enabled by the Executive having a policy to address the digital divide and made possible by entrepreneurs like us having a plan to help deliver that policy.

The biggest challenge I see, and what needs to happen this year, is a concrete plan for decarbonisation and energy. Everyone is tired of talking about the cost of living, but I’m fed up with the fact we are doing nothing locally to address the issue at hand.

For example, our reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation is the underlying reason for most of our cost increases today. However, we have renewable energy projects shelved or stuck thanks to our planning service. It’s madness. Come on policy makers, you can do better.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Gina McIntyre

Chief Executive, Special EU Programme Body (SEUPB)

We have entered 2023 on the precipice of a recession that will bring many challenges for businesses in Northern Ireland and Ireland, of all sizes, from large companies to micro enterprises.

It is incumbent on us all, in private, public and third sectors to facilitate, support and encourage local businesses to take proactive steps that will create commercial advantage and increased competitiveness – enabling them to survive, and even thrive, in the difficult economic times ahead.

It is for this reason that support for projects will be available from the Spring within Theme 2 of the new PEACEPLUS Programme – a €1.1bn investment in the economic, social and environmental development of Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. The Programme has been designed to protect and preserve the peace and prosperity enjoyed across this region over this past two decades, address emerging challenges and leave a lasting legacy.

PEACEPLUS will provide investment to support and encourage enterprise and entrepreneurialism, particularly amongst SMEs and in sectors with significant growth and export potential, assisting local SMEs to scale up and increase their export potential. Businesses will also be encouraged to look increasingly outwardly, to learn from best practice internationally, and to work collaboratively with research partners to bring new products and services to the market.

The need to continue growing a highly skilled workforce has never been more important. Skilling, re-skilling, and upskilling opportunities will be supported in sectors with evidenced skills gaps, locally and on a cross border basis, so that businesses are best equipped to respond to international trends and increase competitiveness

Theme 2 will enable businesses to become more competitive through transition to the circular economy and digitisation; to engage in commercially focused research development and innovation; to work with local training providers to address existing and emerging skills requirements; and to maximise their digital capacity to increase productivity and profitability.

My wish for 2023 is that the economic needs and opportunities in the Programme area quickly begin to be addressed by PEACEPLUS and firm foundations are laid for the future which will have a real and long-lasting impact on local businesses and communities.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum Stephen Kelly

Chief Executive, Manufacturing NI

“We have over 120,000 small and micro businesses operating across Northern Ireland which provide jobs and sustain livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of people. The current trading environment, however, remains extremely hostile to small businesses with the cost of doing business squeezing start-ups out before they even get off the ground.

The 2022 NI Enterprise Barometer presents a concerning snapshot of our local economy. The findings clearly point to the current economic and fiscal environment being extremely challenging for small and micro businesses across NI. Global activity and events like the war in Ukraine and volatile global economic patterns are placing serious pressures on local businesses. And combined with our local political instability and uncertainty over post-Brexit funding to support local business start-up and growth – 2023 is not without challenges!

What we need (my wish-list)!

We need a common-sense citizen/business centric approach to how the limited Shared Prosperity Funds – the suggested replacement for EU funding is distributed. Councils have the opportunity to truly put local businesses at the centre of their plans – I hope the opportunity is not squandered.

We need local businesses to get the critical supports they have clearly outlined in the recent Enterprise Barometer - These include a reduction in VAT, a change to the business rates system to reduce the burden on small businesses, greater access to finance for stability and growth, and lowering of the energy cap.

We need the Executive to be operational immediately. Please see the sense in this! Whilst the Health Service in Northern Ireland needs immediate critical attention, our economy also needs the parties back in Stormont, Ministerial oversight and fresh policy around economic development, supporting more and better start-ups and delivering some basic supports to help the 1000’s of businesses that have survived the pandemic and Brexit to get through this cost of doing business challenge.

Some remain lumbered with the additional burdens on their GB supply chain as a result of the Protocol, but trading results show our manufacturers are increasingly capturing the opportunity which the Protocol brings. Indeed, the latest trade stats confirms that sales to GB, Ireland and Europe increased in our first year since Brexit.

But it is not the Protocol but the availability of people, eye watering power prices and problems with public procurement which pose the biggest risks to our prosperity.

When the UK Brexited, we did too. Despite claims, we’re not in the EU’s Single Market with the loss of freedom of movement most difficult just at the time when the impact of Covid and demographic change on the labour market became most pronounced. Every sector, across the UK, struggles to recruit.

Power prices are the biggest cost stress given that this is usually the thirds largest input cost for manufacturers. This doesn’t just risk our competitive position but adds costs to households and customers.

And finally, just as we need public spending to protect us from recession, we have public bodies stalled, scaled back and cancelling public procurement contracts such as the Housing Executive ditching contracts for new kitchens, doors and windows just before Christmas.

In 2023 our economy is changing. Driven by manufacturing entrepreneurs capturing opportunities at home and abroad but also by forces outside their control.

Brexit, Putin’s war, recession, supply chain challenges, energy prices and the availability of labour individually are existential threats for some, but collectively they represent the most difficult environment anyone could run a business in.

Given the rancour, disruption and political instability at home and abroad, some would say the performance of our sector is nothing short of miraculous. We’ve stretched their resilience, character and ability to just get stuff done perhaps to its limits. We’re very lucky to have them, it’ about time others gathered round to support them.

Michael McQuillan

Chief Executive, Enterprise NI

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Jacqui Dixon

Chief Executive, Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council

Local firms will continue to face many challenges in 2023 not least those associated with rising costs and inflationary pressures across every aspect of their business.

Whilst much of this remains outside of the control of businesses, there are some areas in which they can be proactive – skilling and upskilling employees, for example, and committing further to R&D and innovation in a bid to strengthen their competitiveness locally and globally.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council will continue

to offer a wide range of programmes and initiatives aimed at supporting our local businesses as they navigate the difficult economic landscape and build sustainable growth.

We will also use the full force of our economic development and planning powers to support entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors to create jobs and support economic growth in our Borough.

We have set ourselves the ambitious target of achieving £1bn of investment and creating 2500 new, high-quality jobs by 2025 and are already well

on track to achieving this.

The Invest NI-owned Global Point International Business Park site sits at the heart of our strategy to create an advanced manufacturing centre of excellence, and we have an impressive portfolio of investments lined up there – including the £150m Ardagh project, Sensata’s £16m state-of-the-art R&D centre, and a £4m investment from Steelmac.

The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Factory (AMIC), a Belfast Region City Deal project, will also be located at Global Point. Led by Queen’s University with industry

partners, AMIC will play a major role in delivering high quality, industry-focused R&D projects that can meet the demands of our advanced manufacturing sectors for business growth.

As Chief Executive of Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, my wish for 2023 is simple: to continue building our track record of attracting major investment to our Borough and the creation of high-quality, well-paid jobs for our residents.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

“Northern Ireland business is facing a perfect storm of challenges as we enter 2023; energy costs, the costof-living crisis, rising inflation rates, wage costs and mostly, the uncertainty surrounding all of these factors, which not only affects business but consumer sentiment and behaviour.

“It’s been a year since Northern Ireland had a functioning government, which means we are also still facing the impact of Brexit and the NI Protocol, which brings even more challenges when running a business. While the UK government need to work with the European Union on the Protocol challenges, we also need the NI Executive up and running, making informed and sustainable decisions for Northern Ireland, which would be a priority for the coming year.

“Such decisions that need to be made with urgency are help for businesses with rising rates and energy costs. Retail NI has warned of a ‘cost of doing business crisis’ alongside the cost of living crisis and has made the call for the Executive to be restored at Stormont so businesses here can also receive government support alongside households.

“As an established business working within a robust sector, we are able to find positives in the face of these challenges, however it is up to us to operate efficiently and for Henderson Group, that always has been and will always be continued investment within our companies, infrastructure and the suppliers we work with.

Martin Agnew

Joint Managing Director, Henderson Group

“We have earmarked over £60 million for 2023, which will be invested in partnership with our independent retailers and our Henderson Retail business to open more new stores and heighten value around our promotional and pricing activity. This will bring even more everyday deals to shoppers at our stores, while also committing to investment in our infrastructure to ensure that value proposition extends beyond the price points at our tills. This includes providing convenient parking, electric vehicle charging points and more efficient store design so shoppers can hit multiple missions in one visit.

“With all challenges come opportunities, and we will continue to be an innovative grocer that listens to our partners, shoppers and employees when navigating these uncertainties. Northern Ireland is a robust marketplace in itself, we have always been a force when faced with barriers to growth.

“Leadership is key in these challenging times, and the country as a whole needs our government leaders to set the tone, sort their differences and come together for the people of Northern Ireland. Businesses and business groups here have some of the most innovative leaders and figure heads, we hope that collective power can set a new agenda for business continuity in 2023.”

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Angela McGowan

Director, CBI Northern Ireland

As we embark on a new year, many firms in Northern Ireland are asking themselves questions about our economic future. The region is reported to have entered a technical recession towards the end of last year and the CBI’s economic forecast suggests that the national slowdown will last until the end of 2023.

There are of course several well-documented challenges currently facing the local economy which include: the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on economic activity and consumer confidence, sluggish productivity, low

investment levels, and acute skills shortages. We also need to reach a final resolution on the NI Protocol and get the Executive back up and running. In addition, the economy is grappling with a transition to a low-carbon economy.

These challenges are all set in the context of an uncertain political landscape (the lack of a local Executive) and of course geo-political challenges (the Ukrainian conflict) and how they will play out in terms of energy costs and trade.

But there are also undeniable opportunities for local firms. With good policy and political leadership, we could pivot the

local economy on to a more positive trajectory and seize opportunities that exist on green growth, capital investment, cluster development, tourism and raising productivity through technological transformation. To do that, we need to take a clear look at catalysing business investment.

Economic growth is indisputably the only way forward. In a recent speech, the CBI’s Director-General, Tony Danker laid down a challenge to the government on raising levels of economic activity across the country. Quite simply, at the national and local level, government policy must

concentrate on prioritising people, capital, and innovation to transform the economy. But of course, we can only achieve the best possible economic outcomes when businesses, a sitting Executive and the UK and Irish governments are all aligned on the most important issues for Northern Ireland.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Anyone who knows me will tell you I am always optimistic about the potential of this region and there is a lot to be celebrated in the progress made recently in key sectors of the economy like fintech, cyber security and the creative industries. It’s essential for the future of Northern Ireland’s economy that we successfully create the conditions in which high value sectors like these can thrive.

Clearly there are a number of challenges ahead of us. Everyone in the business community would like to have a functioning Northern Ireland Executive in place to ensure local decision making on key issues facing both the economy and wider society. Political stability is important for attracting investment, for tourism, and for encouraging our young people to stay and make their careers here.

Resolving the Northern Ireland Protocol issue appears to be the key restoring the institutions. Some businesses don’t like the current Protocol arrangement and have experienced an increase in costs and administrative burden, while others have found ways to benefit from the dual market access it provides.

However, at this stage, what most businesses here want is some clarity about the future operating environment. It has become hard for businesses to plan ahead because they don’t know whether further changes to regulations may be coming down the line. Uncertainty has a knock-on effect on business confidence and investment, so all of us would like to see the matter settled as soon as possible.

Jackie Henry

Senior Partner, Deloitte Northern Ireland

I’m excited that 2023 will be the year Deloitte moves into our new office within the beautifully restored Ewart Building. This will bring all of our people in Belfast together and provide a hub to continue growing our team. In September we welcomed another 100 people to Deloitte in Belfast across our BrightStart apprenticeship, graduate and industrial placement schemes and we will have lots more opportunities for the best people to come join us.

I am also excited that the One Young World Summit, which Deloitte is proud to support, is coming to Belfast later this year. This is a global event which will bring an international audience of the world’s leaders of the future to Belfast and provide a brilliant platform to showcase our people, our culture and all that Northern Ireland has to offer, which in turn will hopefully lead to further investment.

Northern Ireland has a young, vibrant population, an excellent talent base and a proven track record of innovation and entrepreneurial thinking. I’m hopeful we can do more to make both Deloitte and Northern Ireland a great place to live and work in 2023.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

CEO, Ardmore Group

War in Europe, global recession fears and sky-high inflation are still firmly in the picture for the year ahead as the cost-ofliving crisis drags on - so it’s great to see that our elected representatives are busily protecting our citizens and businesses from what’s being thrown our way. Oh wait!

Yes, as I’m sure other business leaders will echo, economic

optimism is hard to rustle up and the lack of a functioning, focused Assembly is a bitter pill to swallow, but there are still plenty of bright spots as the days get lighter.

Businesses will continue just like they always have, working hard to invest, innovate, reinvent and adapt to the challenging and changing economic conditions at hand.

The excellent leadership,

lobbying and representation of all that is good here in NI, as demonstrated by the CBI, Invest NI, IOD, local Chambers of Commerce and others, will be vitally important to keep our business interests at the fore and to ensure we capitalise on the many strengths we already have: great skills, talent and ideas, ambitious plans for growth and investment, and, above all, resilience. We have shown time and time again how we always bounce back. Competition for what’s left of consumers’ hard-earned cash and business investments alike will be as big a priority for businesses and likely stronger than ever, driving greater demand

for ‘share of mind’, share of market and value strategies to supercharge enquiries and sales; revenue to achieve this will be vital. In a weakened economic environment, ‘hunkering down’ has repeatedly been shown to be the strategy to avoid and, as always, there will be greater opportunity in some sectors than in others.

This is the time to work harder to understand your audience, carefully analyse your competition, innovate and where necessary change your approach.

So will you double down, hunker down or capitalise on a crisis?

During the Covid pandemic, resilient, future-focused businesses swiftly redefined their customer experience online and virtually with great results, investing in tech that will help them become better equipped for the future as consumer behaviours continue to evolve. The speed of transformation was quite unreal, and it showed just what can be achieved.

Globally active, locally invested, and ambitious, the Ardmore Group delivers strategic advertising, digital, PR and eCommerce services.

As shareholders in Worldwide Partners Inc., the world’s largest network of independent communications agencies, with partners in some 80 countries, we can help businesses make the most of their opportunities and transform fortunes - and we are aware, from our experience and theirs, that knowing your customers, understanding your options, and having a strategic plan for growth provides a solid base for success.

There’s no roadmap for the year ahead but there is plenty to do to prepare.

John Keane

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Thomas O’Hagan

Chief Commercial Officer, Weev

One of the biggest challenges facing Northern Ireland businesses, in keeping with organisations across the world, is dealing with climate change and the drive to be more sustainable.

As we look at how to reduce our carbon footprint, as individuals, companies, and nations, there is no easy answer. Part of the solution, however, will be reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and increasing electrification.

This will of course include more widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) both by consumers and businesses which are converting their fleets in greater numbers than ever before.

We are already seeing them respond in large numbers, with recent data from the Department for Infrastructure showing a 50 per cent increase in the past year alone in planning to purchase an electric car when choosing their next vehicle.

Therein lies another great challenge however – providing the necessary infrastructure that will support the mass movement towards greener modes of transport.

There’s a lot of work to do.

We are helping businesses and people across this region and beyond respond to part of that challenge, providing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Every day, we’re speaking to businesses and fleet manager, gearing their organisations up with new EV charging solutions as we respond to their exacting requirements.

Our public charging network covering route destinations, retail zones and workplaces will stretch to hundreds of sites over the coming years, but it’s just part of the puzzle.

Various publicly funded projects are in place but provision must be significantly accelerated over the coming years to satisfy demand with Northern Ireland still playing catch up on other parts of the UK and Ireland.

From the Weev perspective, our network will expand significantly this year and will continue to grow over the coming years. We are proud to play our part in driving this region out of the EV slow lane.

Eye on Business Leaders Forum

Michael Tomalin

Chief Executive Officer, City Auction Group & PurpleRock

There are many voices and opinions and if the last 12 months has taught us anything it is to expect the unexpected. The most recent data available indicates that the economy is now almost certainly in a recession that we think will last until Q3 2023.

This will support the ‘doves’ - economic policy advisors preferring policies that involve low interest rates- on the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) who say that interest rates have already risen high enough. However, the rise in services inflation in December and wage growth in November mean that a further interest rate rise looks inevitable. The jury is out on whether it will be 0.25% or 0.5%.

Recent weakness is concentrated in the services sector as higher interest rates and low consumer confidence weighed on domestic demand, particularly challenging for Northern Ireland where this sector is so important. Manufacturing recovered a little, but data is still suggesting a significant contraction.

As consumers reduce their spending in the face of soaring inflation and mortgage bills, and given the fact that economies across the world are weakening at the same time, it seems unlikely that firms will be able to rely on external demand to supplement a weaker domestic economy.

So, what are the “positives” out there? It may be small comfort but as interest rates near their peak, a slowdown in the pace of tightening is likely. In addition, data continues to indicate that Northern Ireland has had a much better “recovery” from the pandemic than the rest of the UK, assisted in part by the strength of the Irish economy. All the more reason therefore for a speedy resolution to some of the uncertainty around future trading arrangements and opportunities with both GB and our island neighbours.

The significant challenge across the automotive landscape for 2023 is supply of vehicles with additional obstacles as businesses navigate through increased costs versus the delicate balance of enhanced charges to established clients to ensure profitability remains.

There is no doubt Northern Ireland is more vulnerable than our mainland UK colleagues as we simply are a smaller territory with less volume of people hence a lower number of vehicles. Add that to the Republic of Ireland used car sector targeting Northern Ireland registered vehicles due to import duty savings against other areas of the UK and this ultimately is the perfect storm with two regions competing to purchase a smaller volume of vehicles on offer in Northern Ireland.

Typically this results in our regional motor retailers purchasing more vehicles from the UK mainland to supply the demand in the Northern Ireland region once again adding more cost to the purchase as they need to consider enhanced transport costs which naturally passes to the consumer which potentially limits their profitability to cover excess expenses.

The great news is our business City Auction Group has been supplying vehicles from our Peterborough centre to Northern Ireland motor retailers in high volumes over the past couple of years at significantly reduced rates with PurpleRock Logistics our in-house vehicle transport company delivering at competitive prices within five working days, something never witnessed previously.

In conclusion of all the above you have to be careful what you wish for however if we could witness more new vehicle deliveries to ensure the wheel effectively starts spinning the supply issues will slowly resolve and the automotive sector could operate in a normal manner if that now exists in our new world of business and commerce.

Richard Gardiner

Belfast Managing Partner, RSM UK

Turbulent outlook For M&A But It’s Not All Bad News

The outlook for M&A activity in Northern Ireland and RoI in 2023 is more uncertain than it was when heading into 2021 and 2022, as macroeconomic challenges have softened sentiment globally, according to KPMG’s annual M&A Outlook Survey.

The survey reported that 16% of M&A leaders expect higher deal volumes in 2023, while 44% believe they will remain broadly stable, and 40% believe they will decrease.

The survey of over 150 of leading M&A executives from across the island of Ireland found the balance of power is expected to swing toward buyers this year as funding streams tighten. 72% of respondents anticipate that 2023 will be a buyers’

market bolstered by the expectation that deal multiples will soften.

Three-quarters still wish to pursue M&A opportunities

Following an extended period in which fierce competition drove deal multiples (valuations) to historic levels, respondents anticipate value rebasing in 2023.

However, in a positive outlook for deal activity, almost three-quarters (74%) of respondents intend to pursue M&A opportunities in 2023, as deal makers capitalise on inorganic growth opportunities. Investors are expected to act opportunistically with anticipated deal valuation declines in some sectors.

Tech remains attractive

M&A leaders expect the tech sector (38%) to be most active in 2023 as investors look to strengthen their existing offering and capitalise on lower valuations. Healthcare/ pharmaceuticals (25%) and energy/ infrastructure (11%) are also expected to be active in 2023.

59% believe that strategic

buyers rather than financial buyers (41%) will drive M&A in 2023. With private equity sitting on significant dry powder, it is expected that financial buyers will continue to play a central role in 2023.

Interest rates and financing concerns causing a move away from debt

In a shift from prior years, respondents noted a propensity to fund a transaction from a reduced level of debt fuelled by recent interest rate hikes. Despite these external challenges, there continues to be support from traditional banks and non-bank lenders for island of Ireland M&A transactions.

Given rising interest rates and market uncertainty, 51% of M&A leaders identified availability/ cost of financing as the primary obstacle facing deal activity in 2023. 39% cited the current inflationary environment as a concern, indicating that macroeconomic trends will be at the forefront of dealmakers’ minds in 2023.

ESG and IT/Operational due diligence on the rise

Traditional diligence workstreams, such as finance, tax, commercial and legal & regulatory continue to be seen as key to unlocking deal value. However M&A leaders also highlighted the growing importance of ESG and IT/operational diligence in 2023.

Commenting on the survey findings, Russell Smyth Head of Deal Advisory at KPMG in Northern Ireland, said: “After a buoyant period for dealmakers, macro concerns and a more constrained debt financing environment looks likely to pare activity in 2023. Appetite however remains strong from private equity, with record levels of dry powder and corporates with strong balance sheets. While investors are being more selective, we continue to see strong competition and pricing for targets with resilient business models and in select sectors such as energy and technology.”

Russell Smyth, Partner and Head of Deal Advisory at KPMG in Northern Ireland

Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Business of The Year

SHORTLISTED

Further Space

NI Silver

Killeavy Castle Estate

Maldron Hotel Belfast City

The Boatyard Distillery

The Salthouse Hotel

Larchfield Estate

Sponsored by Tourism Northern Ireland

Innovation in Sustainability Award

SHORTLISTED

Lagan Energy Engineering energystore ltd

Foods Connected

MJM Marine Ltd

Environmental Street Furniture Ltd

The Boatyard Distillery

Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland

The Salthouse Hotel

BPD Limited

Sponsored by TLT Solicitors

Sustainable Manufacturing Business of the Year

SHORTLISTED

Collins Aerospace energystore ltd

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland

Tobermore

Wrightbus

Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland

The Boatyard Distillery

Sponsored by Bank of Ireland

Sustainability Business Leader of the Year

SHORTLISTED

Henry BrothersIan Henry

Environmental Street Furniture LtdAlan Lowry

The Salthouse HotelCarl McGarrity

Sponsored by Queen’s University

Sustainability Team of the Year

SHORTLISTED

GRAHAM

Progressive Building Society

Greiner Packaging UK & Ireland

Sponsored by Tarasis Enterprises

Sustainable Company of the Year 2023

SHORTLISTED

energystore ltd

GRAHAM

Danske Bank

Vyta

Progressive Building Society

Wrightbus

Henry Brothers

The Boatyard Distillery

Larchfield Estate

Sponsored by Strategic Power Connect

Eye on Awards

Young Sustainability Champion Award

SHORTLISTED

Rebecca McGorty

Carl McGarrity

Sustainable Services Company of the Year

SHORTLISTED

Farren Architects

Vyta

Sponsored by Fleet Financial

www.businesseyeawards.co.uk

Sustainable Retail Business of the Year

SHORTLISTED

Musgrave Northern Ireland

The Boatyard Distillery

Designer Dolls Dress Hire

Sponsored by Maxol

Built Environment Project Of The Year

SHORTLISTED

Sustainable Food and Drink Company of the Year

SHORTLISTED

GRAHAM

GRAHAM BAM Healthcare

Partnership

Titanic Quarter Ltd

Sponsored by Alpha

Sustainability Project of the Year

SHORTLISTED Maxol

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council (as collaborative project lead)

Musgrave Northern Ireland

Environmental Street Furniture Ltd

The Boatyard Distillery

Translink

Cathedral Eye Clinic

Rademon Estate Distillery Ltd

Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and NI

DELI LITES Ltd

Yellow Door Portadown Ltd

The Boatyard Distillery

Clandeboye Yoghurt Ltd

Fish City

Full details are available online at businesseyeawards.co.uk

Eye on News

MILLAR McCALL WYLIE REFLECTS ON BIGGEST YEAR TO DATE

Multi-specialist Belfast law firm Millar McCall Wylie has experienced its “biggest year to date” across all aspects of its legal services, with particular growth noted in its corporate and media law departments.

Ranked by Chambers and Partners as number one Northern Ireland firm for Media and Entertainment law, Millar McCall Wylie was engaged to work on major global productions throughout 2022, including Netflix feature ‘The School for Good and Evil,’ Focus Features / Regency Pictures film ‘The Northman’ and the upcoming Blade Runner 2099 TV series for Alcon Entertainment & Amazon Studios which will film in Northern Ireland in 2023. Its team, led by Director Abbie Long, has also provided legal services on several successful TV series including Derry Girls, Line of Duty and Bloodlands. Within its corporate law team,

the firm has handled some of Northern Ireland’s most valuable and significant acquisitions over the last twelve months. These included acting for Cookstown Cement Group in its purchase of Lafarge cement business, one of the largest trade deals of the year. The firm acted for Cardinal Capital in its £30m investment in Uform, a Northern Irish kitchen company; for Traction Finance and its management in its partial sale to Radius Vehicle Solutions and for Cordovan Capital Management in its acquisition of specialist architectural powder coating business Powdertech.

Millar McCall Wylie Director Damian McParland leads the

corporate team at the firm as well as working on a number of the media projects:

“The continuing strength of the firm across the board is extremely encouraging and we can be very proud of every member of our team for providing first class service to our clients.

I am particularly delighted to see our client base within the corporate and media law teams having grown so significantly, with 2022 being our biggest year to date in terms of client volume and transaction value.

“Growth like this is down to the expertise of our people and the trust placed in us by our clients.

On the media side, Northern Ireland is home to some of the world’s most exciting film and TV productions. It is a great privilege to represent not only Northern Ireland Screen but also a large number of local and international production companies and studios

who are, collectively, contributing substantially to the local creative industries and wider economy.

“From a corporate law perspective, there is a sense of ambition and innovation within the local business community that is driving sales and acquisitions. This is a very positive reflection of local entrepreneurial spirit, and we are pleased to work with some of the most influential business owners here,” Damian McParland said.

Looking ahead, the firm has further growth plans on the horizon: “We’ve recently recruited and will do so again throughout the year as we focus on building on the success of 2022. Whilst we never rest on our laurels, we’re confident we can look towards the rest of the year with a sense of optimism and a focus on both broadening and deepening our client portfolio,” Damian McParland added.

Eye on Charity

Celebrating 50 years

2023 marks Action Cancer’s 50th year of being Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity. Throughout 2023 the charity will be marking this significant milestone with its clients, volunteers,

Timeline

Ambassadors, corporate partners and fundraisers. The 50th Anniversary year has also provided Action Cancer with an opportunity to tell the amazing story of its DNA; how change and innovation

have been key characteristics since the charity’s inception in 1973. Action Cancer has always led the way, it still does so today and it will continue to make this its Mission to do so in years to come.

1973 Dr George Edelstyn, an oncologist at Belvoir Park Hospital founded Action Cancer with the aim to fund pioneering research into chemotherapy and to support patients and their families during treatment.

November 1975 Action Cancer House, 1 Marlborough Park, Belfast, was purchased to provide facilities for patients awaiting treatment at Belvoir Park and recovery facilities for chemotherapy patients who had to travel long distances.

1977 Action Cancer began screening women for breast cancer – this was the rst-time screening was introduced in NI. The charity also o ered counselling for local people a ected by cancer.

In later years Action Cancer introduced other support services, as well as promoting healthy living, raising awareness of cancer symptoms and providing health checks.

2001 Action Cancer House extension and refurbishment completed and o cially opened by King Charles III. This enabled services to be consolidated on one single site and also the expansion of service provision.

July 2006 Action Cancer acquired two new digital breast x-ray machines, the rst in NI. In July 2006 this innovative technology became operational in Action Cancer House and a few months later onboard the mobile unit, the Big Bus.

Sept 2006 The original Action Cancer Big Bus was launched. Supported by SuperValu NI, the Big Bus brought its services to every town and village across Northern Ireland.

April 2018 Due to an increase in demand for its services, the charity moved to 20 Windsor Avenue, Belfast. The charity built a new breast screening suite using state of the art 3D imaging and a therapeutic centre of excellence, which is used by thousands of local people every year.

May 2018 In May 2018 Action Cancer hosted an International Conference on Breast Imaging and Cancer Detection at Queen’s University Belfast. This followed the introduction of Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), a technology that captures a 3D image of the breast. Moving from 2D to 3D technology enabled Action Cancer to detect more cancers and reduce the number of women being called for further investigation. Action Cancer was the rst organisation in either the public, private or charitable sector in Europe to use DBT for breast screening purposes. Speaking at the event, Dr Mike Linver, who led the USA Government’s task force on mammography in May 2018 said: “The introduction of DBT, characterizes Action Cancer’s pioneering role in breast cancer detection. It is quite remarkable that a small charity in N. Ireland is making such an impact on the world stage.”

Sept 2021 Action Cancer introduced its new Big Bus – a bespoke, unique vehicle which brings its breast screening and health check services to the hearts of communities throughout NI.

Today Action Cancer’s prevention, detection and support services are available all across Northern Ireland supporting 25,000 people every year and are free of charge at the point of delivery.

In addition to screening 8,000 women for breast cancer, the charity offers support and therapeutic services to anyone affected by cancer; patients, carers and family members across 13 regional locations. Action Cancer also carries out health promotion activity with children, young people and adults in school, community and workplace settings, as well as offering over 2,500 health checks annually.

Action Cancer does not receive any regular government funding and therefore heavily relies on the generosity of the NI public and business community to raise the £4m needed to deliver its services every year.

If you are thinking about your future and creating your lasting legacy, see the difference you can make that will be felt for generations to come by talking to our Legacy Team today.

Leaving a gift in your Will is one of the most meaningful ways you can help Action Cancer to save lives and support local families impacted by cancer.

Action Cancer gratefully receives on average £500,000 every year from legacy income. We dedicate all legacies

to providing early cancer detection, prevention and support services all across Northern Ireland. With your support we can continue to provide our cancer services for years to come.

If you're interested in leaving a gift in your Will to Action Cancer, we are happy to walk you through the process and discuss next steps, whether you have already made your Will or are yet to make one.

Citi Sponsors W5 Nature Zone Eye on News

Citi Belfast Site Head Leigh Meyer and Adrian Doyle, Director Experience Operations at W5, announce Citi’s sponsorship of W5’s ‘In Our Nature’ zone which allows children to explore the diverse landscapes of Northern Ireland. Aligning with Citi’s wider ESG agenda and purpose of helping to find solutions to the world’s toughest challenges, the zone provides an interactive discovery opportunity for visitors to Belfast’s Titanic Quarter to learn more about our local environment as well wider topics like climate change, the water cycle, and the ocean.

Friends of the MAC launched in Belfast arts venue

Belfast arts organisation the MAC is starting 2023 with an exciting partnership with businesses at home and abroad, including legendary New York bar and ‘World’s Most Awarded Pub’, The Dead Rabbit. Friends of the MAC was launched in the St Anne’s Square venue recently ahead of a unique fundraising event in Manhattan.

In addition to being an award-winning arts and social space, the MAC is also a charity. Through the Friends of the MAC membership scheme, businesses will support the work of one of Northern Ireland’s most progressive and forward thinking arts institutions, whilst enabling the MAC to continue its vital charity and community work. In return, the member companies will play an important role in supporting and protecting the arts in Belfast and will receive associated benefits including exclusive preview invites, staff and client entertainment opportunities and public association with the MAC.

MAC Chief Executive, Anne McReynolds called on businesses to support the charitable work of the MAC.

“Last year we celebrated our tenth

anniversary. That was a chance to evaluate the amazing impact the MAC has had on Belfast and on Northern Ireland as a whole, not just on promoting and the celebrating the arts but on individuals and communities.

We are now one of Northern Ireland’s top visitor attractions and an awardwinning home for the arts and a champion for social change. Since 2012 we have welcomed over 2.6 million visitors to our galleries, theatres, event and social spaces and we connect with an active social media audience too.

“But the MAC is also a charity, we exist for everyone and we deliver on our inclusivity through our outreach work, through affordable ticket prices, through our free playroom for families, subsidised transport for school groups, and close partnerships with some of our socio-economically deprived communities here in North Belfast and across Northern Ireland. Last year alone the MAC worked with 50,574 people from our poorest neighbourhoods including people who are struggling with addiction, mental ill health, homelessness and children living in poverty.

“With the support of the business community at home and abroad we could do so much more to promote a sustainable and shared community in Northern Ireland. That is why the Friends of the MAC project is so important and I hope more businesses will get involved.”

At last week’s event, The Dead Rabbit was recognised for its generous

donation to the MAC. This Thursday the Friends of the MAC goes global with a sister event in The Dead Rabbit, New York, kindly hosted by Geraldine Hughes and Conor Allen, to begin its U.S fundraising in earnest. Other businesses which have already signed up to become Friends of the MAC are Gilbert Ash, Belfast Harbour, Pinsent Masons and Options Technology.

Pictured are Jack McGarry from The Dead Rabbit and Áine McVerry from the MAC

FPM LAUNCHES BESPOKE FINANCE SERVICE FOR GROWING BUSINESSES

AAB originally launched a bespoke service in 2018 designed around the needs of business owners and their own finance team structure and plans. The new Virtual Finance Function at FPM is expected to be a vital addition for businesses operating across the island of Ireland, scaling-up for export markets or cross-border.

The Virtual Finance Function offers businesses a cost-effective

approach to getting better and easier control of their finances.

The specialist support is tailored to the needs of each client from an experienced team with a wide range of experience supporting businesses across all industries.

The cloud-based solution allows business owners and managers to access real-time accounting data providing valuable insight for making strategic business decisions.

For businesses who are challenged with in-house resources in their teams, the Virtual Finance Function at FPM can also offer businesses support with statutory and technical accounting, finance secondments and project support.

The full range of specialists are available to support with budgets, forecasting, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and other framework accounting.

As part of this expansion, FPM

have welcomed a new Partner to their leadership team. Stephen Smyth has joined the team as Virtual Finance Function Partner and will be leading the Virtual Finance Team across all FPM office locations in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Feargal McCormack, Managing Partner at FPM said: “We are extremely excited about the addition of the Virtual Finance Function as a new client solution to growing business demands. Securing Stephen Smyth, an Irish Chartered Accountant with significant international industry experience from London, Toronto and Ireland, who himself has utilised the Virtual Finance Function, and heads up the new FPM bespoke finance service, is an added bonus.”

Stephen Smyth, Virtual Finance Function Partner at FPM said: “There are incredible opportunities for us to provide a step-change in accounting data available to business owners

across the island of Ireland. Our team gives individual businesses the ability to react to change efficiently as their business evolves.”

Lauren McIlroy, Virtual Finance Function Partner at AAB Group commented: “In the last 5 years we have grown the Virtual Finance Function team to thirty specialists dedicated to supporting businesses of all sizes across all industries. The trusted relationships we have with our clients provides an unparalleled insight they can use to inform their business decisions. I can’t wait to develop these relationships with some of the fantastic businesses trading across the island of Ireland.”

For more information on how the Virtual Finance Function could transform your business, visit https:// fpmaab.com/services/virtualfinance-function/ or contact Stephen Smyth on s.smyth@fpmaab.com

Leading cross-border accountancy and tax consultancy firm, FPM have today announced an expansion to their client services as a result of their merger with AAB.

Eye on News

Maxol Cup of Kindness campaign raises £17k for AWARE NI

Maxol, Northern Ireland’s leading forecourt and convenience retailer, has raised £17,000 through their annual Christmas coffee cup campaign which ran throughout November and December of last year. The money raised will be donated to their charity partner AWARE NI and brings the total funds now raised by Maxol for Aware to over £600,000 across the island of Ireland over 7 years.

This year’s campaign, Cup of Kindness, was launched to coincide with World Kindness Day on November 13 and ensured that for every cup of Barista Bar hot drink bought at participating Maxol service stations, 10p was donated to AWARE NI.

Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, said: “I am delighted to see the success of our Cup of Kindness campaign. Our fundraising for AWARE now goes well beyond £600,000 and I’d

like to thank our customers, retailers and staff who have continued to support this campaign with their kindness and generosity. By simply buying a hot drink we can provide vital funds that we know will have a real and lasting impact for AWARE NI and everyone they help across Northern Ireland.”

Clare Galbraith, Head of Fundraising at AWARE, said: “We’re so grateful to have been a part of this hugely successful campaign once again! Thank you to everyone at Maxol for this fantastic donation to help us continue our work to improve the lives of people with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.”

AWARE NI is the only charity working exclusively for people with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, which means the proceeds will go directly to preventative, community-based and supportive work across the country.

Strategic Power Chief Welcomes Planning Decision

The Managing Director of one of Ireland’s leading renewable energy developers, Strategic Power Projects has said he is encouraged that the Climate Action Plan is now having an impact on the speed of planning decisions for nationally important renewable energy installations.

His comments come after Strategic Power Projects received planning approval for a renewable project site in Movallet, Co.Louth. The co-located facility, upon completion will generate 125MW of solar energy and 285MW of battery storage. With 1.5 gigawatts of battery storage now in planning and subject to grid connection on the island of Ireland, he says that that Ireland is now beginning to move in the right direction.

Paul Carson, who has raised concerns over the speed of the planning process as Ireland grapples with the

huge challenges of renewable energy transition, welcomed the decision:

“This is one of Ireland’s largest solar and battery installations, so it will make a significant contribution to the national energy generation and storage infrastructure. We all know the challenges which face the country, north and south. Energy prices have gone through the roof, security of supply is an ongoing concern and we have stringent and legally binding carbon emissions targets to reach.”

SPP has a substantial pipeline of projects, including solar and battery in both the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland. The company has an established partnership with Gresham House, a specialist alternative asset manager to deliver a pipeline of renewable energy projects into new build solar and battery storage assets throughout Ireland.

The partnership has a combined capacity of almost 2GW across Northern

Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with site locations secured close to major electricity grid infrastructure hubs.

In 2022 the company also launched Strategic Power Connect. The new business is an extension of their renewable energy provision

that will design and install onsite renewable energy systems to enable major companies make long term commitments in reaching their sustainability goals while securing energy supplies at a set price through an Energy Supply Agreement.

Maxol CEO Brian Donaldson celebrates a £17,000 sum raised for AWARE NI, with AWARE’s Head of Fundraising Clare Galbraith and Hannah Moore, Fundraising and Communications Officer.

Eye on News

FAST-GROWING TECH BUSINESS SCILEADS PLANS TO DOUBLE WORKFORCE

Belfast-based scientific software company SciLeads has unveiled plans to create up to 50 new jobs over the next two years after announcing its workforce has grown to a team of 50 as of this month.

Launched in Belfast in 2016 by friends Daniel McRitchie, Laura Haldane and James Campbell, SciLeads is an innovative lead generation and market intelligence platform that helps scientific companies identify, engage and close their ideal buyers.

SciLeads has created the most comprehensive and accurate database of scientific researchers, helping sales and marketing teams quickly identify who needs their products for their research.

The company placed 14th in the 2022 Deloitte Technology Fast 50 list, which ranks the fastest growing technology companies based on revenue growth over a four-year period. The previous year, the business was the top ranked Northern Ireland company on the list placing 11th, making this its second year in the top 20.

SciLeads began 2021 with 20 staff but having recruited across a number of roles it reached the milestone of 50 employees by the end of 2022. Now, with a strong pipeline of work, plans to launch new products, as well as further expansion into Asian markets, the company has projected that it will need to double its workforce to 100 by 2024 to manage the demand for its services.

Daniel McRitchie, CEO at SciLeads said: “We are at an exciting point in our journey where we are the industry leaders in our space but still have massive potential to grow

further. We believe our exciting plans for 2023 will enable us to double our headcount again over the next 2 years. We are open to all options in assisting us with our plans, including taking on investment from the right partner.”

In the past year, SciLeads has successfully expanded its senior team with the appointment of a Senior Product Manager, Head of People and Culture and Head of New Business, and is currently recruiting for a range of sales and software development roles.

SciLeads is trusted by hundreds of scientific companies globally to accelerate sales and drive growth. 93% of its customer base is outside of the UK with its software currently used globally by Fortune 500 companies right

down to the smallest start-ups.

Laura Haldane, co-founder and VP of Sales and Marketing at SciLeads added: “Finding talent in today’s market is definitely a challenge, particularly on the technical side. However, our remote first working has helped us to overcome this by hiring anywhere in the world, as well as being flexible with our current staff. We recently had a member of the team ask if they could move to Australia and work for SciLeads there and of course we said yes.

“When we started out, we knew we wanted to create a company with a truly flexible culture and work life balance. We have been working remotely since 2016, encouraging staff to get outside, walk the dog, go to the gym and see the sunshine. As we scale, we are

adamant about maintaining this.”

SciLeads has seen the benefits of flexible working with all roles fully remote, along with flexible hours and holidays to ensure people can make their schedule work for them. The company gives each SciLeader £750 every two years so they can make their home office exactly how they want it. The majority of the SciLeads team are based in Northern Ireland and Canada.

SciLeads continue to be on the lookout for talented Sales, Data, Product and Software professionals. More information can be found at scileads.com/careers.

Pictured from L-R: Laura Haldane, VP of Sales and Marketing at SciLeads; Daniel McRithcie, CEO at SciLeads; James Campbell, CTO at SciLeads.

Significant Investment For Trouw Nutrition Ireland

An additional five-figure sum, with plans for ongoing investments, on top of £2 million spent in recent years to contribute towards modernising their pre-mix mill located on Ship Street, Belfast. This was confirmed during Trouw Nutrition EU Managing Director Bastiaan van Tilburg’s first visit to the Ireland headquarters in Belfast.

The investments are a turning point for the feed nutrition company to continue to achieve a steadfast goal of developing sustainable practices throughout its supply chain and enhancing its staff and infrastructure.

“One of our key goals is to focus on inclusivity by continuously growing our teams’ leadership skills at all levels through empowering training opportunities managed by our newly appointed HR business partner Sarah Uprichard. We will also progress the uptake of pioneering technologies to measure the environmental footprint of animal feedstuffs and milk feeding habits such as FeedPrint and MilkPrint,” said Aidan Fisher, General Manager of Trouw Nutrition Ireland.

“The significant investment is a welcome opportunity for Trouw Ireland to keep developing our

teams’ skill sets and to continue the sustainability journey we began in 2021. As a result, our practices will advance innovation and push the feed industry forward with greener processes, in-depth studies, and informing customers through our quality and commercial teams’ expertise, “ added Aidan.

Bastiaan shared his impression of the Trouw Ireland team, commenting -

“My visit to Trouw Ireland has been an incredibly positive opportunity to see and experience the energy our teams deliver daily. I have been particularly impressed by the commitment to our staff training and investment in current and future talent.”

“The enthusiasm, energy,

and dedication that our experts deliver reflect the company’s growth on the island of Ireland. From researchers to sales and administration, our vast knowledge of each product and department’s role is inspiring as we represent Trouw’s values –placing both our customers and the environment in the centre of what we do,” added Bastiaan.

The EU Managing Director is a keen advocate of Trouw’s purpose of ‘Feeding the Future,’ which is an objective of Trouw’s future investments in sustainable research and manufacturing, delivered through their Roadmap 2025 sustainability strategy. In the past year, the business has significantly improved its

sustainability credentials. For example, their Ship Street mill is powered by 100% green energy and is well on its way to transitioning its entire fleet of vehicles to renewable fuel within the next three years. It has also reduced its plastic usage by 10%, which will increase to 25% over the next year.

“The nutrition industry is a key element of the solution to enhance sustainability within the wider food industry. Let’s play our part from planet to plate as innovators and investors in sustainable practices. Therefore, we can work in partnership with our customers and partners to behave as sustainability ambassadors and deliver solutions in their industry,” adds Aidan.

The animal nutrition specialists, Trouw Nutrition Ireland, have confirmed that considerable investments are underway to increase the company’s growth in the year ahead.

Aidan Fisher, General Manager, Trouw Nutrition Ireland & Bastiaan van Tilburg, EU Managing Director, Trouw Nutrition

SMARTS PLEDGES OVER £400k OF TIME & TALENT TO ‘BE THE CHANGE’

makes a real difference.

Simon Community has ambitious plans and by working with Smarts we have access to some enormous talent that we can utilise across the board, from branding and creating awareness to volunteering and fundraising. Our current project, Create Homes, aims to provide homes for people stuck in accommodation. We currently have eight homes with a plan to hit 50 across Northern Ireland in the next two years and without the investment from companies such as Smarts and joined up thinking we would be unable to realise this vision.”

‘Be The Smarts Change’ is the first campaign from their newly relaunched Smarts Community programme which aims to harness and utilise the passion and purpose of the diverse skillset of Smarts staff to make a positive impact to communities.

With the cost of living crisis starting to bite, the stats reveal a bleak picture with 12,000 people each year - 250 people every week - being deemed homeless and three homeless people dying every week in NI alone. Of the homeless community in NI, around

4000 are children who will be homeless this Christmas. It is no surprise that after consultation with the 130-strong workforce, poverty and homelessness were the areas staff were keen to focus their collective efforts on helping.

Both Simon Community and Crisis aim to provide a place where people experiencing homelessness can gain a sense of belonging and to help them find a home rather than just a roof over their head. This purpose chimed with Smarts staff who wasted no time in kickstarting the work when they took part in the ‘One

Big Sleep Out’ to raise awareness and vital funds for the charities.

Over the next 12 months Smarts has pledged to donate over £400k worth of agency time to charitable causes. In addition to their efforts with Simon Community and Crisis, every single member of staff in the organisationfrom the receptionist to the CEO - will take two days a year to devote to any charitable or worthwhile cause they desire to make a positive impact on the communities they work with.

Smarts was joined by CEO of Simon Community, Jim Denison, at their Holywood based agency HQ as they announced the partnership and launched the CSR initiative.

Jim said: “The scale of homelessness is at crisis point so we’re really excited to be working together with Smarts to plot a way forward that

Jim was hosted by Pippa Arlow, Global CEO of Smarts, who said: “We are proud of the purpose driven culture we have fostered and our work with Smarts Community has always been at the core of what we do. It’s the right thing to do and now more than ever, we’re excited to be putting our renewed energy, focus and commitment into our new charity partners, Simon Community in NI and Crisis in GB. Smarts has enjoyed exponential growth over the last few years and it’s incredibly important for all our people to recognise the highly privileged position we are in, and to focus the skills and expertise we have to help the wider community outside of our own marketing bubble.”

PR and Creative agency, Smarts has announced Simon Community as their official charity partner in Northern Ireland, and Crisis as their charity partner in GB, as part of their social responsibility initiative; ‘Be The Smarts Change’.

L-R Pippa Arlow (Smarts) and Jim Denison (Simon Community)

Eye on News

MORROW COMMUNICATIONS APPOINTS TWO NEW DIRECTORS

Leading integrated communications consultancy, Morrow Communications, has announced the appointment of two new Directors to bolster the company’s growth plans.

The two new Directors are Nicola McClean who has been with the company for over 15 years having started as a graduate and Clare Daly, who joined almost 9 years ago from a global communications agency. As well as contributing to the strategic direction of the company, they will continue to lead a number of integrated communications accounts for clients at the firm.

Based in Holywood, Morrow Communications currently offers a wide range of strategic communications support including public relations, digital marketing, event management, video production, advertising and graphic design services to a large number of organisations in the public, private and third sectors across the island of Ireland and UK.

Celebrating 38 years in business this year, the company has ambitions to grow its team to 40 by the end of 2023 making it one of the largest independent communications consultancies on the island of Ireland. This is designed to meet a growing demand for specialist and integrated communications services in key target markets.

In support of this it has also launched a new employee

experience programme called ‘Belong’ which includes an enhanced skills development budget to underpin its talent strategy. This initiative is designed to spell out the company’s commitments as an Employer of Choice, outline the ways in which employees can expect to grow and develop with the company and reinforce the overall company culture. This includes a new company manifesto that was developed collaboratively with colleagues to define the company’s purpose, values, ways of working and why people should care about the Morrows brand.

Speaking about the new appointments and growth plans, Managing Director, Peter Morrow said:

“As a company we have always enthusiastically embraced change and been able to adapt

to new market challenges and opportunities. Blessed with a talented team of people, we are very proud to appoint two new directors from within our ranks who will now play a key role in helping us seize such new opportunities. Both Nicola and Clare are consummate comms professionals, and we have no doubt that they will now bring a lot of energy, fresh thinking, and commitment to their new board positions.

“We are a people business, and we know the importance of recruiting, motivating, developing and retaining the best talent if we are to grow. Our company culture and ethos are critical to this, and together these announcements represent a continued investment in the best talent which we hope will help us achieve our individual and collective growth ambitions.”

Clare Daly and Nicola McClean join the board of Morrow Communications

Eye on News

New Beginnings for the Labour Relations Agency

Anew year brings new beginnings for The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) which recently moved from its former home in the iconic Cathedral Quarter of Belfast – its base for 25 years.

The team will now be located in brand-new offices in James House, at The Gasworks Belfast, where the space has been designed to accommodate the 60 strong team through its hybrid working model.

Alongside the new move, the Labour Relations Agency has also recently re-opened its North West office, following a closure of over two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The main objective is help rebuild the local economy by realising the long-term benefits of good employment practice and drive capacity as the local economy rebalances and recovers in the midst

of the current cost of living crisis.

Reflecting on the change of workspace, Mark McAlister, Director of Employment of Employment Relations Services at the Labour Relations Agency said,

“We are delighted to move to our exciting new office which provides a bright, modern, open plan space for our team and hosts a fantastic view of Belfast. The new space boasts state of the art meeting rooms with the latest technology to accommodate our customers’ needs. It will allow us to continue accommodating our highly skilled team and to continue providing the latest advice and support to organisations.”

The Labour Relations Agency provides an impartial and confidential employment relations service across Northern Ireland. Its services include advice and guidance on good employment practices and

assisting with the implementation of policies and procedures for employees and organisations. The team also

works to help resolve employment disputes through their conciliation, mediation, and arbitration services.

NI Hotels Federation Announces

‘Check In’ For NIHF Receptionist Awards

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) is delighted to be able to stage the competition this Spring which is part of a series of Key Awards designed to reward and recognise the skills of those working within the hospitality industry.

Discussing the awards Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) President, Eddie McKeever, said: “The Federation is thrilled to be able to relaunch the competition which is another milestone as we return to more normal times. The receptionist is an integral part of the operational team with an ambassadorial role within the hotel and often the first and only point of contact for guests.”

Mr McKeever continues: “Receptionists by nature are often very adaptable and engaging individuals. They are sociable, welcoming and helpful. The NIHF is keen to showcase the importance of this department and the difference it can make to a guest’s overall experience. People matter in hospitality, and they matter to the Federation. I believe that by focusing on exceptional staff, the vital roles they perform and the contribution that they make, we can demonstrate the range of opportunities that

exist within the sector for meaningful careers”.

The NIHF Receptionist Awards 2023 are now open for entries. In recognition of the breadth of the role, the competition has three categories: Receptionist of the Year, Most Promising Receptionist and Reception Team of the Year.

The award process also has three different phases, an assessment day in the Clayton Hotel, a series of in-person interviews and a ‘mystery shopper’

visit. Shortlisted entrants will be invited to attend an awards dinner in The Waterfoot Hotel, DerryLondonderry on Wednesday 26th April 2023.

The awards are supported by Tourism Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council, Guestline, Net Affinity, Insight6 and Life Adventure Company.

For further information or to enter please log on to the NIHF website: www.nihf.co.uk

It’s time to check in for the NIHF Receptionist Awards which return after a three-year break.

L-R David Anderson (Insight6), Carolyn Boyd (Tourism NI), John Keating (Life Adventure Company), Sharon Power-Cowley (Net Affinity), Eddie McKeever (NIHF President) and Clio O’Gara (Guestline).

(L-R) Mark McAlister, Director of Employment Relations Services at the Labour Relations Agency, Diane Edgington, Accommodation Project manager and Paul Lowe, Director of Corporate Services at the Labour Relations Agency pictured at the new Labour Relations Agency office in Belfast.

Major Growth At MCS Group Sees The Firm Double Its Office Footprint In NI

David Wright, director at commercial real estate agency CBRE NI, said: “The Ewart is an outstanding office development with digitally connected and sustainable office accommodation that is a great fit for the vision of many organisations in Northern Ireland.

“Leading businesses are seeking high-quality office spaces to attract and retain talent, as well as improve their client and meeting areas, and The Ewart has demonstrated its draw when you look at the companies that have agreed office accommodation in the building.”

‘Big Four’ firm Deloitte has taken 81,000 sq ft of the available space at The Ewart, while Evelyn Partners will occupy over 7,000 sq ft and Axa Insurance have moved into the 14th floor.

David Wright added: “After a slow start to 2022, the Belfast office market finished very strongly in the second half of the year. Supply decreased as the year progressed and whilst the sector has entered new territory in how we all work, the office market is alive and kicking with 53 deals recorded in Belfast city centre in 2022.”

Leading professional recruitment consultancy MCS Group has announced its plans to double its office footprint by moving into The Ewart in Belfast city centre.

MCS Group is the latest tenant announced in The Ewart – which is one of Belfast’s newest and most impressive Grade A office developments set in the city’s burgeoning business district – and will occupy 11,500 sq ft on the tenth floor.

This year marks five years since the professional recruitment specialist announced its move to

Flax House on Adelaide Street, also in the city centre, where it currently occupies 5,500 sq ft. The move to The Ewart will see the firm, that now employs 83 people in Northern Ireland and the United States, double its office size, paving the way for the future growth of the business.

Established in 2008, MCS Group has established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s leading recruitment firms, working across multiple industries, including ICT, Technical & Engineering, Accountancy & Banking, Legal, HR and Professional Sales & Marketing.

Barry Smyth, joint managing director of MCS Group, said that the firm had worked hard to achieve the significant growth that it has experienced in recent years.

“Everyone at MCS Group is excited

to be moving into The Ewart in 2023,” he added. “We feel that it is a deserved step forward and a key milestone in the business trajectory of the organisation.

“We have always aspired to set the highest standards for our industry and the quality of office space at The Ewart is totally in line with our ambitions. Doubling our office footprint will not only give us the space we need for the future growth we have planned but will also allow us to configure our offices to meet the needs of both our people and our customers.

“By working closely with our design partners Calibro and the Project Management team at CBRE NI, we have created a unique and collaborative space which we hope everyone associated with MCS Group can be proud of.”

The restoration of the Grade B+ listed former Ewart warehouse has been sensitively restored to its former glory and transformed to physically connect at first and second floors to a contemporary high specification 17-storey Ewart tower at its rear. The iconic Ewart’s unique characteristics such as its stone façade and copper domes have been retained within the restoration to ensure its heritage is protected for future generations.

A prominent architectural landmark on Belfast’s skyline, at over 69 metres in height with panoramic views across the city, The Ewart has exemplary sustainability and technology features, achieving a BREAAM Excellent rating, operational zero waste to landfill, 124 cycle parking spaces, solar PV roof panels and a green energy tariff for all occupants, making it one of Belfast’s most attractive and flexible new office spaces.

Pictured (L-R) is David Wright, director at CBRE NI, Louise Smyth and Barry Smyth, joint managing directors at MCS Group

BDO NI commits to future growth in NI Market

Business advisory firm

BDO Northern Ireland has announced growth plans for the company as it reaffirms investment in Northern Ireland thanks to the loyalty of clients, its hard-working staff, and partnerships across the region.

The company, which employs more than 150 people expect its workforce to grow in early 2023 across its senior client services, with plans to welcome more young talent through scholarship and intern opportunities.

Speaking at the opening of their new City Centre office, BDO NI Managing Partner, Brian Murphy said, “Like every business across the region and indeed globally, we faced many challenges as a result of the pandemic but thanks to the commitment and hard work of clients and staff we have emerged in a strong position to continue our growth plans and invest further in the local NI marketplace.

“Our new office, located on Donegal Square, is another example of our continued commitment to investing in Northern Ireland. We have accelerated new technological products to meet the growing demands of our workforce and clients, offering real choice in how we work together and provide our expert service to the business community.

“With plans for continued growth in the year ahead, we are well placed to support ambitious, innovative and resilient businesses, who themselves are

supporting the local economy.”

BDO NI has been serving clients for over thirty years, continually adapting to the changing business environment. In June last year, the company launched its new agile working framework, facilitating a sustainable work life balance and delivering long-term benefits for both the business and employee. A recent staff survey indicated that 91% of BDO NI employees feel that they had freedom to choose how and when they worked, while 84% stated that they were happy with their work-life balance. There was also a 29% increase in the number of staff who feel they are empowered in their role as a result

of agile working being introduced.

Nigel Harra, Senior Partner at BDO NI added,

“Whilst we have adapted to many changes in the business environment over the last thirty years, nothing has been more challenging than adapting to a global pandemic. We have listened to the needs and demands of both our staff and clients and developed several working solutions that we are confident will stand the test of time.

“These new ways of working will further contribute to our ability to attract and retain the next generation of talent across the industry. We have increased our workforce to 150 in recent years

and as well as direct hires, this has included people coming through our local university mentoring and award programmes, as well as many being supported through the post graduate diploma by the firm. This allows us to recruit the brightest and best in the country feeding our future plans to grow even further in the coming years.”

BDO NI’s new office space, located on Donegal Square South, Belfast City Centre has been designed with a focus on supporting employee wellbeing and includes more collaborative working areas and state of the art technology to support hybrid meetings and multi locational events.

Pictured in their new city centre office located on Donegal Square , BDO Northern Irelands Nigel Harra, Senior Partner and Brian Murphy, Managing Partner. The company, who currently employ more than 150 people across the region, has announced growth plans for 2023 which includes the continued recruitment of young talent through a range of scholarships and internships

Tourism Ireland Launches 2023 Marketing Plans

Tourism Ireland has launched details of its marketing strategy and plans to promote Northern Ireland overseas in 2023, at an event attended by hundreds of tourism industry leaders from around Northern Ireland. Tourism Ireland aims to rebuild revenue from overseas holidaymakers to pre-pandemic levels – by attracting ‘value-adding tourists’ (visitors who stay longer, spend more in Northern Ireland and the regions, arrive during the shoulder season and consider their impact on the environment) and by focusing on markets that deliver the greatest revenue. This will be achieved through a wide range of promotional activities, including major marketing campaigns, publicity and programming, social media and digital marketing, as well as working with the tourism industry at home and the travel trade overseas to facilitate sales.

This year, Tourism Ireland will roll out an extensive and targeted programme of activity with a marketing budget of £70 million.

Sustainability will be at the heart of Tourism Ireland’s work over the coming years. As well as focusing on the economic sustainability of the tourism industry (the contribution overseas tourism makes to economic prosperity and, in particular, to jobs and livelihoods), Tourism Ireland’s strategy also has social sustainability (the benefit that communities across Northern Ireland experience from overseas tourism) and environmental sustainability at its core. Tourism Ireland’s new global campaign – Fill your heart with Ireland – was unveiled at a recent launch. The new ads feature SaoirseMonica Jackson and Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, from Derry Girls, and Sharon Horgan, from Bad Sisters. The campaign is all about dialling up what differentiates Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland from other destinations – communicated through various celebrities, who share what fills their hearts with Ireland. The new campaign will go live from St Patrick’s Day in the top four tourism markets – Great Britain, the United States, Germany and France – and will then be rolled out in nine other important tourism markets around the world.

SENSOTEQ SECURES £500K FUNDING

Belfast-based tech firm, Sensoteq has secured a £500,000 loan to grow its sales and expand its workforce with plans to create 10 new jobs over the next year. The funding has been provided by Whiterock Finance’s Growth Finance Fund.

Established in 2016, Sensoteq is a market leading provider of wireless machine health monitoring solutions.

Founders Alan McCall and Idir Boudaoud saw the opportunity for wireless sensing technology suitable for heavy duty industrial environments to monitor the performance and efficiency of machines. Designed to cut costs and reduce unplanned downtime, the sensors wirelessly connect the machinery to the internet, providing instant analysis and diagnostics.

Sensoteq’s products are currently used across a wide range of industries including automotive, pharmaceutical, mining, oil and gas, renewable energies, waste recycling, and food and beverage. Manufactured in Northern Ireland, the sensors are exported across the

globe with the company boasting customers in North America, South America, the Middle East and Australia. Following an ongoing period of growth, the company reached record sales in March 2022 and has an ambitious strategy to increase sales significantly over the next 2 years.

Currently employing 27 staff across engineering, management, operations, finance and sales, the company also plans to use the funding to expand

its team, creating 10 new jobs at its headquarters in the Gasworks, Belfast. Finance for the £30m Growth Finance Fund has been provided by the British Business Bank, Invest Northern Ireland and private investors, Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC).

Idir Boudaoud, Chief Executive, Sensoteq, commented on the funding, “Over the past 12 months, Sensoteq has achieved significant growth and we

have ambitious plans to continue that trajectory by expanding our team and developing our customer base globally. The funding provided by Whiterock Finance will help us implement our sales strategy as we build our network of distributors to move into new markets.”

Rhona Barbour, Investment Director, Whiterock Finance, said, “Sensoteq has ambitious sales targets in the coming year, and we are excited to support them through our Growth Finance Fund as they embark on the next stage of their journey. With a versatile range of products and a solid customer base across various industries the company has huge potential to grow into global markets and across new sectors. As they work to expand their team, we’re looking forward to seeing what they do next.”

The Growth Finance Fund provides loans from £500,000 up to £2million to established high growth potential SMEs in Northern Ireland. Companies seeking funding must be based in Northern Ireland and demonstrate existing growth.

Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland; and Christopher Brooke, Chairman of Tourism Ireland, at the launch of Tourism Ireland’s 2023 marketing plans in Belfast.

Idir Boudaoud, Chief Executive, Sensoteq; Rhona Barbour, Investment Director, Whiterock Finance; and Alan McCall, Chief Technical Officer, Sensoteq.

Eye on News

Fibrus doubles its contribution to Community Foundation NI to help address digital poverty

Full fibre broadband provider Fibrus has announced the next tranche of funding it plans to distribute across Northern Ireland through the Community Foundation NI.

By the end of this year, Fibrus will have offered a total contribution of £120,000 to the fund, offering a lifeline to communities in need across the country.

The fund, with the aim of helping address digital poverty in rural areas, has a particular focus on grassroots organisations that support older people and young people (aged 18 and under). Having already provided funding of just under £60,000 since September 2021, nearly 5,000 people from across Northern Ireland have already benefitted from the fund to date. Two further rounds of funding, totalling £60,0000, will be distributed by the Fibrus Community Fund in 2023, helping to bridge the digital divide in Northern Ireland.

Some examples of the projects supported so far include the provision of devices to Sensory Kids in Broughshane which has helped children with special needs communicate in a way more comfortable for them, and iPads for St Joseph’s Primary School in Cookstown as additional learning tools for pupils.

The next round of funding opens on Monday 23rd January and will close on 20th February, with an additional round opening in August, the date of which will be confirmed nearer the time.

Speaking as one of the recipients in the last round, Nicolette Campbell of St Joseph’s Primary

School Fundraising Group, said:

“We were amazed when we were awarded funding from the Fibrus Community Fund to purchase new iPads as learning tools for both in school or at home. We were also able to purchase the application to link these devices straight to the overhead white boards in the school.

“This project allowed us to make IT more accessible to both the young people and their families as we plan to do a school community loan service, along with allowing the young people within the school to use these devices and create digital workshops, increasing confidence and on-line awareness.”

Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, said:

“Fibrus is committed to supporting the communities in which we operate and this is shown by doubling our contribution to date

to the Fibrus Community Fund. By working in partnership with the Community Foundation NI, we are able to provide transformational help to organisations doing wonderful work across thriving towns and villages in Northern Ireland.

“It is important to us to support projects that are specifically aimed at young people who have a need for increased access to technology or connectivity, as well as initiatives that combat digital exclusion amongst the elderly or those most vulnerable in our society. We are delighted to have helped so many people through the fund and look forward to seeing how the fund will enhance the lives and work of others over the next year.”

Dawn Weir, Grants Manager at Community Foundation NI, said:

“The extension of the Fibrus Community Fund, and the doubling their impact this year, will make a real

difference to so many grassroots, rural community organisations and we are delighted to once again be partnering with Fibrus on the roll out of this funding.

“The current cost of living crisis is making a huge impact across our society and rural community groups are being hit very hard. When other priorities result in funding being diverted towards additional heating, staff costs or simply keeping their doors open, the Fibrus Community Fund is a lifeline to ensuring that groups can stay connected digitally and provide much needed services to the local community.”

L-R Nicolette Campbell, Cillian Campbell, Linda McMillan (Fibrus), Cillian Campbell, Dawn Weir (Community Foundation NI)

To learn more about how to apply to the Fibrus Community Fund, visit www.communityfoundationni.org

66

Skin Tag Removal

Cosmetic Mole and Skin Tag Removal

Mr Chris Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and offers skin tag and mole removal and other non- surgical treatments including PDO Thread-lifts, Dermal Fillers and Anti-wrinkle Injections. He also offers Cosmetic Surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital. Today we interview him about minor surgery for skin tag and mole removal:

COSMETIC MOLE AND SKIN TAG REMOVAL

Mr Chris Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and offers skin tag and mole removal and other non- surgical treatments including PDO Thread-lifts, Dermal Fillers and Anti-wrinkle Injections. He also offers Cosmetic Surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital. Today we interview him about minor surgery for skin tag and mole removal:

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

Mr Chris Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and

Skin tags are a bit easier and can be removed by cutting, freezing (cryotherapy) or burning off (electrotherapy). This should be done in a controlled sterile setting to minimise the risk of infection, and they do bleed so the clinic needs to be able to manage this.

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

lesions are being removed obviously it will take a bit longer. A skin tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this is done in a controlled sterile setting (don’t try this at home).

Skin tags are a bit easier and can be removed by cutting, freezing (cryotherapy) or burning off (electrotherapy). This should be done in a controlled sterile setting to minimise the risk of infection, and they do bleed so the clinic needs to be able to manage this.

lesions are being removed obviously it will take a bit longer. A skin tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this is done in a controlled sterile setting (don’t try this at home).

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

READER OFFER

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

Skin tags are a bit easier and can be removed by cutting, freezing (cryotherapy)

Moles are usually excised with a scalpel. Occasionally they are shaved off but to ensure completion of the removal, especially if there are any suspicious features, the whole depth of the skin needs to be removed in one piece. Moles should be sent to the lab for pathology to ensure there are no suspicious cells. At Cosmetech we send all moles for pathology.

Moles are usually excised with a scalpel. Occasionally they are shaved off but to ensure completion of the removal, especially if there are any suspicious features, the whole depth of the skin needs to be removed in one piece. Moles should be sent to the lab for pathology to ensure there are no suspicious cells. At Cosmetech we send all moles for pathology.

Usually there is no issue with driving unless for example the lesion was near the eye and vision was temporarily affected by swelling or watering. Hand surgery can also affect driving but the vast majority of these lesions are small enough not to cause a problem. If in doubt bring a friend or relative or take a taxi.

Q: How long does the procedure take?

Usually there is no issue with driving unless for example the lesion was near the eye and vision was temporarily affected by swelling or watering. Hand surgery can also affect driving but the vast majority of these lesions are small enough not to cause a problem. If in doubt bring a friend or relative or take a taxi.

Quote Business Eye 347 when booking To

book a consultation at Cosmetech

Most of these procedures are very

Q: What about aftercare?

Q: What about aftercare?

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

setting to minimise the risk of infection,

If there is going to be significant discomfort the doctor or surgeon should usually administer local anaesthetic to numb the area. There will be mild discomfort as the anaesthetic is being injected but it is usually not significant and the anaesthetic takes effect within a couple of minutes. For very small skin tags, they can sometimes be frozen off without anaesthetic. Cosmetech has local anaesthetic cream which can be applied in clinic in advance of the procedure. We don’t like causing pain and make every effort to minimise it.

of the skin needs to be removed in one

If there is going to be significant discomfort the doctor or surgeon should usually administer local anaesthetic to numb the area. There will be mild discomfort as the anaesthetic is being injected but it is usually not significant and the anaesthetic takes effect within a couple of minutes. For very small skin tags, they can sometimes be frozen off without anaesthetic. Cosmetech has local anaesthetic cream which can be applied in clinic in advance of the procedure. We don’t like causing pain and make every effort to minimise it.

Administration of anaesthetic and skin preparation add some time, and

There is usually a dressing for the first 3 to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be removed. On the face these are often removed between 5 to 7 days, but are left a bit longer on other body areas. Again these should be removed by someone skilled and experienced as doing it incorrectly can leave bits of stitch in the skin, or risk reopening the wound. After about a week most wounds do not need dressed but should be kept clean, and paraffin ointment often helps at this time. Depending on your surgeon, the wound may be dressed with ointment alone or sometimes skin glue.

Anti-wrinkle Injections, Dermal fillers, PDO Thread-lifts, Thread vein removal, Aqualyx fat dissolving injections and Profhilo.

Q: How long does the procedure take?

Q: How long does the procedure take?

Most of these procedures are very quick. A mole can be removed and the skin sutured within 5 to 10 minutes. Administration of anaesthetic and skin preparation add some time, and if several

tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Most of these procedures are very quick. A mole can be removed and the skin sutured within 5 to 10 minutes. Administration of anaesthetic and skin preparation add some time, and if several

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

Q: Will I have a scar?

There is usually a dressing for the first 3 to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be removed. On the face these are often removed between 5 to 7 days, but are left a bit longer on other body areas. Again these should be removed by someone skilled and experienced as doing it incorrectly can leave bits of stitch in the skin, or risk reopening the wound. After about a week most wounds do not need dressed but should be kept clean, and paraffin ointment often helps at this time. Depending on your surgeon, the wound may be dressed with ointment alone or sometimes skin glue.

Q: Will I have a scar?

All surgery which cuts through the full depth of skin will leave a scar. Skin tag excision shouldn’t leave much noticeable scarring but mole excision usually

All surgery which cuts through the full depth of skin will leave a scar. Skin tag excision shouldn’t leave much noticeable scarring but mole excision usually

Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road Holywood BT18 9XH

T: 028 9042 3200

Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road Holywood BT18 9XH

E: frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk www.cosmetech.co.uk

discomfort as the anaesthetic is being anaesthetic cream which can be

T: 028 9042 3200

E: frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk www.cosmetech.co.uk

Q: What about aftercare?

to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be

After about a week most wounds do not wound may be dressed with ointment

will. The quality of the scar can vary depending on genetics. To optimise the scar we perform precise stitching, remove stitches at the appropriate time, and encourage scar management in the form of moisturising and massage. Scars can take up to 2 years to mature to their final appearance. If a scar does become thicker or remain red for a long time there are treatments such as steroid injections or laser colour reduction, but these are thankfully rarely necessary.

Q: Will I have a scar?

028 9042 3200 or email frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9XH

www.cosmetech.co.uk

Surgical Skin Clinic

Same Day See And Treat Service

Treatments available include:

Treatments available include:

Mole Removal

Mole Removal

Tag Removal

Tag Removal

Cyst Removal

Cyst Removal

Lipoma Removal Surgery

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

EarBuddies (Ear Correction for Babies)

Lipoma Removal Surgery

Split Earlobe Repair

Split Earlobe Repair

Facial Threadvein Removal

EarBuddies (Ear Correction for Babies)

Aqualyx - Fat Dissolving Injections

Aqualyx - Fat Dissolving Injections

Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy)

Facial Threadvein Removal

Thread-Lifts

Thread-Lifts

Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy)

Pinnaplasty

Pinnaplasty

Skin Biopsy

Skin Biopsy

Call 028 9042 3200 today or e-mail frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk to book a consultation with one of our Consultant Surgeons.

Call 028 9042 3200 today or e-mail frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk to book a consultation with one of our Consultant Surgeons.

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic, 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9HX cosmetech.co.uk

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic, 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9HX cosmetech.co.uk

Treatments available include: Facial Threadvein Removal

Mole Removal

Removal

Removal Lipoma Removal Surgery Split Earlobe Repair

Fat Dissolving Injections

Thread-Lifts

Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy)

Dermal Fillers

Cosmetic Surgery is also available at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast. For more information please visit kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com Cosmetech

Pinnaplasty

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

EarBuddies (Ear Correction for Babies)

Skin Biopsy

Dermatology

Cosmetic Surgery is also available at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast. For more information please visit kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

Cosmetech is a partner company of the Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group.

Cosmetic Surgery is also available at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast and Ballykelly. For more information please visit kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com

Timely Careers launches with focus on support into flexible careers

Timely Careers, Northern Ireland’s first support service and jobs platform specialising in only flexible, part time, job share and term time job opportunities, has launched today aimed at providing women with skills training and career support who are returning to work following a break or who require reduced hours.

The social enterprise, part of the WIB Group, is a free support service for women returning to work which will include job posts spanning a wide range of industries.

Commenting at the launch Roseann Kelly, MBE said, “The employment rate for females in NI has been consistently lower than for males over the past ten years. For many women full-time work is simply not a realistic option, yet it is still often difficult to find skilled part-time jobs, careers and opportunities that respect the other commitments and demands in their lives.

“Career planning and peer support groups form an integral part of Timely Careers to ensure that women receive the right support needed to upskill, network and ultimately find a job that works for them and matches their skills and experience.

“We wanted to challenge perceptions and remove the obstacles and anxiety often faced by women who want to return to work. As well as enabling and empowering women we want to educate companies and employers on the value and benefits that offering part time roles can bring to a business including

higher levels of productivity and increased staff retention.”

With more than 20 jobs already live on the site, Timely Careers aims to support businesses by connecting them to a unique pool of talent, unlocking new opportunities with the potential to have a positive impact on both their organisation and the local economy.

Launch event host Fibrus, one of the seven founding partners, believes that this innovative platform will help encourage more women into the telecoms sector and promote the career opportunities that exists within the industry.

Chief People Officer Linda McMillan said “We chose to be part of this scheme for many reasons. Fibrus is all about connecting communities and giving back to those areas in which we operate, which is why we wanted to become one of Timely’s founder partners.

“We want people to know that we’re here to support, educate and

deliver opportunities to females regardless of the stage they are at in their career, or are taking the huge step of returning to the workplace following a break.

“A diverse and inclusive colleague base brings benefits to a business and adds value to its bottom line – that’s why Fibrus encourages women to consider working here.

“If we can help give women the confidence to step back into work, or support them in a career change, that’s where we want to be. It’s a hugely exciting initiative to be a part of.”

The remaining founding partners of Timely Careers include Danske Bank, Deloitte, Hughes Insurance, Version 1, Allstate and NIE Networks who have pledged their support for the next two years.

Pictured are Roseann Kelly, MBE and Vanessa Milliken Timely Careers

For when business success needs admin support

Eye Moving On

Belfast-based commercial property Consultancy Lisney has announced two significant changes at Board level. Gareth Johnston has taken over the role of Managing Director from Declan Flynn, who has led the company for the last 20 years. Declan will remain as Director, and will concentrate on delivering deals for clients. Gareth joined Lisney in 1994 and was appointed as Director in 2001, specialising in commercial valuations and lease advisory services.

Tara Hamill has been appointed as Digital Marketing & PR Executive with RNN Communications. Tara’s experience to date includes digital marketing roles in both public and private sector organisations with a focus on the areas of social media, content creation, event management, and communications.

Also at RNN, Nicola Mulligan has been appointed as Account Manager responsible for managing client accounts across the North and South of Ireland. Nicola joins RNN Communications with five years of experience working in communications roles across the public and private sectors, and three years working as a journalist.

Galgorm Collection has appointed Matthew Stockton as Business Development Manager at The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn. Prior to joining Galgorm Collection, Matthew has over 5 years’ experience working in various business development roles within the occupational health and IT industries, and more than 5 years of experience working in hospitality.

Accountancy and advisory firm Baker Tilly Mooney Moore has welcomed two new tax professionals to its growing team. With over 25 years’ tax advisory experience in Northern Ireland, Neil Armstrong joins the practice as Tax Director. Prior to the move, Neil spent six years at a mid-tier practice and ten working at a Big 4 firm, advising high net worth individuals on all areas of taxation. The Belfast firm, which works across Audit & Assurance, Business Services, Consulting, Taxation and Restructuring & Insolvency has also welcomed Jessica Harris as a Tax Trainee. Having recently moved to Northern Ireland from Brisbane, Australia, Jessica spent two years working for the Australian Taxation Office and holds a First Class Honours degree in Environmental Economics.

Allstate NI’s Stephen Lomas has been appointed chair of the Contact Centre Network Northern Ireland (CCNNI). Stephen, who leads Allstate NI’s global service desk, takes over as chair of the industry body from Danske Bank’s Joanne Wilson, who has led the organisation since 2021. Established in 2018, CCNNI is a non-profit membership organisation supporting the contact centre and customer service industry, which employs over 15,000 people across Northern Ireland.

Bill Lazenbatt has joined Hamilton Architects as a Project Architect. Bill, a graduate of QUB and UU, is an ARB qualified architect with 10 years’ experience as a visual fine artist.

4. Matthew Stockton

2. Tara Hamill

6 Jessica Harris

3. Nicola Mulligan

5 Neil Armstrong

1. Gareth Johnston

7 Stephen Lomas

8 Bill Lazenbatt

Eye on News

NI Chamber Welcomes New Board Members

Two senior business figures have been appointed to the board of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber). Cat McCusker, Regional Market Leader at PwC Northern Ireland and Fiacre O’Donnell, Sustainability Director at Encirc’s parent company Vidrala, join as the business membership organisation prepares to celebrate its 240th anniversary.

Cat McCusker is the Regional Market Leader in Northern Ireland and the Education Consulting Leader. The professional services firm employs over 3,700 people in Northern Ireland, which is PwC UK’s fastest-growing region. Its destination workplace in Belfast’s Merchant Square is PwC’s largest regional office outside of London. Cat is particularly passionate about the skills agenda, mental health, ESG and customer led transformation. Across her role as the Education Consulting leader, Cat works at a global and local level to help universities to reimagine their student and staff experience, bringing people, experience and technology innovation together to help solve some of the firm’s clients’ biggest challenges. Beyond

Liberty IT Launches New Apprentice Recruitment Drive

THE industry leader in digital innovation, Liberty IT, is giving people the chance to take the first steps in an innovative career in technology with the launch of a recruitment drive for 10 Apprentice Software Engineers as part of its TechStart Programme.

The roles are open to those who meet the entry requirements to Ulster University’s BSc (Hons) Computing Systems, either through studying an A Level in Northern Ireland or through the range of entry routes available. The TechStart opportunities will combine on the job learning while completing academic studies at Ulster University structured academic and learning and development programs. Successful applicants will work side by side with and learn from Liberty IT’s experienced software engineers and through the company’s Buddy Scheme, they will receive ongoing feedback and coaching from a dedicated mentor.

Stephen Killilea Hannon, Talent Acquisition Manager of Liberty IT said: “Our TechStart program is a great way to kickstart a career in tech and have the support of some of the best talent in the industry through defined Learning and Development programmes while completing education at Ulster University. As a company, we are invested in the future of our Apprentices, many of which go on to enjoy long-term employment at Liberty IT and avail of the clear career progression opportunities available.

From the offset, successful applicants will be a key member within our core development teams that design, code, test and maintain a range of platforms and services for our Fortune 100 parent company, Liberty Mutual Insurance. They will learn the fundamentals of enterprise engineering and sharpen their programming skills. It really is a unique opportunity to get hands-

education, she has also worked with major organisations across local government, central government and the police, generating significant cost savings and tangible benefits.

Fiacre joined Fermanagh based, marketleading glass container manufacturer Encirc in 1998. Each year, Encirc produces more than 4 billion glass containers for leading global brands, filling many of them for retail across the UK and Europe. Having held various roles in planning, sales, marketing and sustainability, he was appointed Sustainability Director of its Spanish based parent company, Vidrala in 2020. Announcing their recent appointments, Ann McGregor, Chief Executive, NI Chamber said:

“We are delighted to welcome two people of such significant standing and experience to NI Chamber’s board. Cat and Fiacre bring a wealth of knowledge to our organisation and will represent their respective industries ably as we continue to support firms in all sectors across Northern Ireland. They join at the beginning of our 240th year, following in the footsteps of some of the region’s most eminent business leaders over centuries.”

on experience with the industry leader in digital innovation.”

Michael Anderson, Principal Software Engineer at Liberty IT said: “I joined Liberty IT in 2015 as an Apprentice and the programme gave me the opportunity to get started in a career that I really wanted to do having gone down a path in education that I unfortunately discovered didn’t interest me.

Eight years on I can confidently say that Liberty IT gave me every opportunity to learn and succeed, despite coming in with no formal training in the

field. In this time, I have progressed from the role of Assistant Systems Administrator to a Principal Software Engineer which clearly demonstrates how the company empowers its Apprentices to grow and succeed. I would strongly encourage anyone considering applying for the TechStart Programme to go for it - I haven’t regretted my decision for a second.”

For further information or to apply for Liberty IT’s TechStart Programme, go to www.liberty-it.co.uk/careers

Ronan Lavery, Associate Talent Acquisition Specialist and Gina Lonergan, Apprentice Software Engineer at Liberty IT

Fiacre O’Donnell (Sustainability Director, Vidrala); Ann McGregor (Chief Executive, NI Chamber); Cathal Geoghegan (Vice-President, NI Chamber) and Cat McCusker (Regional Market Leader, PwC Northern Ireland)

Eye on News

BGF REPORTS YEAR OF GROWTH IN NORTHERN IRELAND

BGF, one of the largest and most experienced growth capital investors in the UK and Ireland, has reported a standout year in 2022, having invested £20 million in the Northern Irish market and completed the first exit of an investee business.

This takes the total amount invested in Northern Ireland to close to £70 million since BGF opened its Belfast office in 2015.

In total, BGF has backed eight companies across the region over the last seven years, with several companies also receiving follow-on investments to facilitate further growth. Notable investees include waste management and recycling company RiverRidge, coffee shop chain Bob & Berts, and software developer AuditComply.

In 2022, BGF completed a £10 million follow-on investment into Lisburnbased blind manufacturer, Mzuri to support its ambitious growth plans and future acquisitions. The company has undertaken a series of acquisitions in the past 24 months which has helped grow its revenues to over £200 million. The business now employs over 1,500 staff across Northern Ireland.

Towards the close of last year, BGF also invested £5 million in Ballymenabased façade specialists, Clarke Group, to facilitate further expansion in the UK and Irish markets. The familyowned business recently opened a large new head office and adjoined manufacturing facility to support innovation and allow it to capitalise on the fast growth façade market.

The year was also marked by BGF’s first exit of a Northern Ireland company, following the sale of marketleading kitchen door and component manufacturer, Uform, to private equity group Cardinal Ireland Partners. The exit generated a money multiple of 2.2x on BGF’s initial investment

with an IRR of 25%. As part of the deal, BGF re-invested alongside Cardinal and will continue to back the company as a minority shareholder.

Patrick Graham, Head of Northern Ireland and Scotland at BGF, said: “We were delighted to expand our portfolio with the addition of Clarke and to complete our first significant realisation in Northern Ireland from Uform. BGF was set up to back brilliant businesses that are looking to scale and that is exactly what Uform has done.”

Other developments in 2022 saw BGF portfolio company Bob & Berts open a new site in Cookstown, plus new stores in Perth in Scotland and in Carlisle and Bury in England, taking total store numbers to over 25.

Graham added: “2022 has seen excellent trading performance from our portfolio companies, which is a testament to the management teams that we’ve backed and it’s great to see the businesses, such as Mzuri and Bob & Bert’s grow and scale into new markets. Our Northern

Ireland portfolio continues to grow and develop, and we’re pleased to have our investor, Chris Nixon based locally to develop these relationships and help to drive their growth.

“As we look ahead, BGF will still be seeking to support more businesses and fuel growth in the region despite the challenging economic landscape. We are confident that 2023 will be another positive year with further new investments to announce and more successful realisations as companies continue to mature.”

Since inception in 2011, BGF has provided £3 billion to more than 500 companies. Across the UK and Ireland, BGF delivered 45 new investments totalling £443 million in 2022. The firm also recorded a record exit volume and value: realising 40 investments, delivering over £675 million, and achieving a 2x MM and 22.5% IRR.

BGF has a strong pipeline of opportunities going into 2023, as it continues to fund promising and diverse businesses with capital throughout the economic cycle.

The BGF NI & Scotland Team

Version 1 Acquires Two UK Tech Firms

Version 1, a leading digital transformation partner, is to acquire two major players in the UK technology space – Automation Logic and Qubix – for an undisclosed sum as part of its ambitious growth strategy for 2023 and beyond.

The Automation Logic deal is subject to clearance by the National Security and Investment Act 2021.

Combined, Version 1, Automation Logic and Qubix will have over 3000 employees and more than 650 customers. This places Version 1 as the largest Irishfounded technology employer and comes after significant growth for the firm, doubling its headcount from 1500 in 2020 to 3000 in 2023.

Version 1 navigated headwinds and global talent challenges to surpass revenues of over €255 million in 2023.

Founded in 2010 in London, the Cloud and DevOps specialist Automation Logic is on a mission is to help its clients build the teams and infrastructure they need to thrive in the digital economy.

With over 160 employees, Automation Logic partners with technology giants such as AWS and Microsoft to enable the organisation to offer a diverse range of cloud solutions to customers including the Ministry of Justice, HM Revenue & Customs and Lloyds Banking Group.

Enda Diggins, Managing Director of Version 1’s UK Digital, Data and Cloud practice, commented on the significant benefits Automation Logic

will bring to Version 1’s customers:

“Version 1 and Automation Logic are coming together to create one of the strongest cloud transformation capabilities in the UK. With both Version 1 and Automation Logic being partners to market-leading Cloud providers AWS and Microsoft, we will be in a very advantageous position for our customers to tap into an unappareled depth and breadth of expertise in Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, DevOps and Platform Engineering. This acquisition deepens our Digital, Data and Cloud expertise, providing more opportunities for our people to develop professionally, and to do what they love – work on interesting challenges with our customers.”

Norm Russell and Kris Saxton, Automation Logic Co-Founders, also commented on the positive news:

“We see Version 1 as an organisation that shares the same values as Automation Logic and has maintained a culture very similar to our own. This alignment of our cultures and our combined expertise will catalyse our shared mission, greatly benefiting our clients as we jointly expand our Digital, Cloud and DevOps solutions.

This acquisition also presents a great opportunity for Automation Logic’s employees, dramatically increasing the number and variety of interesting challenges that our people love to solve.”

Version 1 has also acquired finance transformation experts Qubix, a 170-person organisation founded in 1987, that operates out of its headquarters in London with presence in the USA, India, Australia, and Slovenia.

Colm Gillard, Managing Director of Version 1’s Oracle Practice, commented on Qubix joining forces with Version 1:

“As an award-winning global Oracle partner of the highest level of accreditation, Qubix brings to Version 1 over 25 years of specialist experience and expertise from over a thousand successful financial engagements across hundreds of customers’ projects. With deep expertise evidenced at every stage of their customer journeys, Qubix will place Version 1 in an increasingly favourable position with both new and long-standing customers alike, enabling Version 1 to drive further business agility and transformation within our customers’ businesses. There are many positive synergies between Version 1 and Qubix, but it’s Qubix’ demonstrated dedication

to excellence in addition to the empathy shown to its people and its customers that further reassured to Version 1 that this would be a very positive partnership.”

Following the acquisition, the Qubix team will integrate with Version 1’s team. Qubix CEO Julian Owens and Group Director of Strategy and Growth, Paul Johnston will be stepping down as part of this acquisition, while the rest of the Qubix management team will join Version 1 and are eager to embark on the next phase of growth for Qubix as part of the Version 1 family.

Qubix CEO Julian Owens commented:

“We set out to find a partner who would complement our existing business and geographies and provide a good home for our staff in terms of a caring environment and great career opportunities. We believe Version 1 is that good home. Qubix brings a strong record to Version 1 in driving business agility and transformation and will strengthen the company’s existing Oracle ERP capability as well as providing springboards to international expansion in the Americas and Asia Pacific. I believe this arrangement will be good for everyone, most importantly the employees and customers of both Qubix and Version 1.

The acquisition of Automation Logic and Qubix brings Version 1’s total of acquired businesses to 16, and this number is expected to grow significantly throughout 2023.

Pictured following the signing of the two deals in London in January 2023 are: (Back row left to right) Andrew Mason, Qubix, Enda Diggins, Version 1, Colm Gillard, Version 1, Richard Pepper, Qubix, Kevin Ryan, Version 1, Neil Sellers, Qubix, Norm Russell, Automation Logic, Matt Yorke, Qubix and (front left to right) Emily Toole, Automation Logic, Nick Barton, Automation Logic and Kris Saxton, Automation Logic.

Eye on Motoring

Mazda’s clever hybrid

Sometime in the future all cars might be electric. Some buyers are already on board and have made the switch, but others just aren’t ready to run the risk of a range limited car that you have to charge at home or at a scarce public charger.

That’s why many car makers are taking a phased approach on the journey to all electric motoring, offering hybrids, plug-in hybrids as well as fully electric cars… sometimes all available in the same model.

Having launched its first allelectric car just two years ago – the

MX-30 - Mazda has just introduced this new MX-30 R-EV version. It’s a “unique series plug-in hybrid”, says the Japanese car maker.

The MX-30 R-EV partners a 17.8KWh battery with a 830cc petrol rotary engine and an electric motor, producing a total power output of 167bhp.

The innovative, brand new 830cc rotary engine acts as a generator for the battery, while the electric motor sends power to the wheels.

With more than half a century of expertise in the development of rotary engines, Mazda selected the rotary powerplant for this application due to its “unique ability” to produce the required output from a small, light and easily packaged unit.

Combined, the model’s 50-litre fuel tank and battery offer a

driving range of over 400 miles, with emissions of 21g/km, which compares to a range of around 130 miles only in the all-electric version.

The MX-30 R-EV can travel up to 53 miles on pure electric per charge. It can charge in around 90 minutes using a 7.2kWh charger, 50 minutes on an 11kW unit or 25 minutes with a 36kWh charger

There are three driving modes: Normal, EV and Charge. Normal mode delivers electric drive as long as there’s enough battery charge. If more power is required than the battery level can deliver - for example, when accelerating - the rotary engine generator will activate based on the degree of accelerator opening and supply the battery with more power.

Drivers can turn EV mode on when they want to stay in electric

drive for as long as possible. This mode will ensure the vehicle uses electric drive exclusively until the battery is completely drained. Charge mode can be used to safeguard the necessary amount of battery for situations such as the need to save zero emissions running for particular urban environments, additionally drivers have the option of setting the amount of battery charge they want to reserve in increments of 10%.

Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director, Mazda Motors UK, says the car is “the perfect solution for customers who want an electric car for everyday usage but the flexibility to undertake longer journeys without the reliance on charging infrastructure.

“It’s the latest example of how Mazda’s Multi Solution Approach ensures we have cars to suit all our customer’s needs by improving environmental performance with a combination of electrification and clever internal combustion engine technologies”.

Four specification levels are available at launch: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, Makoto and the range-topping Edition R, which is limited to 400 units. Orders are open now and deliveries are set to begin in the summer.

Prices start from £31,250matching the all-electric MX-30 - for entry-level models, rising to £37,950 for the flagship Edition R.

Mazda takes a different road to electrification, writes James Stinson.

Motoring with James Stinson

Eye on Motoring

Volkswagen is officially the UK’s best-selling new car brand for the second year running. The German marque sold more than 130,000 new vehicles in the UK last year.

Motoring with James Stinson

forthcoming ID. flagship model and the sixth member of the ID. family, the ID.7, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

The model adds a fully electric luxury saloon to the established family hatchback (ID.3), SUV (ID.4 and ID.5) and MPV (ID. Buzz) models already available to UK customers.

Presented in a quirky camouflaged livery, the new ID.7 will get a proper launch later this year but already we can see it follows the design language of the fully electric ID. model family.

The characteristic features of the saloon include the aerodynamic front section and roof, which both help to reduce energy consumption and increase the range.

VW top of the pops again

The iconic Golf was once again a star performer for the brand, retaining its position within the overall top 10 best-selling models sold in 2022. The award-winning ID.3 also made the top 10 list of best-selling battery electric vehicles (BEVs), a particularly promising

result in a year that saw a record number of UK customers making the switch to fully electric motoring. According to the SMMT figures, the wider BEV segment saw an upturn in sales of 40.1% year-onyear across all manufacturers and an overall market share of 16.6%.

The diversity and strength of the Volkswagen range was a key factor in the overall sales performance in 2022. The brand is especially well represented in two of the most competitive market segments for UK buyers right now: BEVs and SUVs.

Recently, the brand debuted its

The roof slopes to the rear and contributes to the very good drag coefficient of the ID.7. The range is said to be around 435 miles.

“With the new ID.7, we are extending our electric model range into the upper segments. The sedan will offer top-class technology and quality,” said VW CEO Thomas Schafer.

“The ID.7 is one of ten new electric models that we are planning to launch by 2026. Our goal? To deliver suitable products for our customers in every single segment.”

Electric C4 goes on sale

Citroen is taking orders for its new e-C4 X Electric – the brand’s first electric-only car to be launched in the UK.

The front end features Citroen’s distinctive bonnet-wide chrome chevrons that flow into dual-height front lights, which includes Citroen’s LED Vision lighting technology. At the rear, new distinctive LED rear lights echo the front light signature, picking up on the sculpted lines of the boot opening.

At 4.6 metres long, there is generous space in the front and rear, while the extra-wide boot offers 510-litres of useful load space. There is a high and wide opening for easy access, and additional storage under the boot floor.

From launch, there will be three trim levels; Sense, Shine and Shine Plus, with prices starting at £31,995.

It features a 100kW electric motor, paired with a 50kWh battery pack, offering up to 222 miles of range from a single charge.

A full charge from a 7kW wallbox will take around 7.5 hours. Supporting

up to 100kW rapid charging, an 0-80% charge can be completed in as little as 30 minutes.

Its distinctive silhouette combines the sleek lines of a fastback with the ride height and robust styling of an SUV.

Standard equipment on Sense models includes 18-inch ‘Crosslight’ alloy wheels, Keyless Entry and Start, as well as a 10-inch touchscreen equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All Sense

models also feature Active Safety Brake, Speed Limit Information, Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning and Driver Attention Alert. Shine variants, available from £34,495, add Citroen’s nextgeneration infotainment and navigation system with integrated natural voice commands as well as a head-up display, a reversing camera with Top Rear Vision, Automatic Intelligent Beam Headlights, as well as a heated steering wheel.

Range-topping Shine Plus versions, from £35,495, improve on Shine models, adding the Alcantara seats that are heated for the driver and front passenger. Shine Plus versions also come as standard with Highway Driver Assist, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control. Orders are being taken now for deliveries in the spring.

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