Business Eye November December 2022

07 New Cookbook From Restaurant Couple

Jonny & Christina Taylor, the couple behind top Belfast restaurants Shed Bistro and Blank have launched their first ever cookbook - Neighbourhood Cooking.

10

37 The Digitalisation Of Retail

The digitalisation of retail shows no signs of stopping, with the metaverse becoming the latest technology to challenge conventional ideas, says Judith Hewitson of TLT Solicitors.

Maxol

Opens

NI’s First UltraRapid EV Charging Hub

The new charging hub at Kinnegar Service Station in Holywood, Co. Down, marks a major step forward in EV charging facilities in Northern Ireland.

20 Derek Hynes – New Face, New Agenda At NIE Networks

Derek Hynes could hardly have chosen a more challenging time to touch down as the new Managing Director of electricity transmission and distribution company NIE Networks.

26

Paul Yates – Notable Year For Local Artist

Local artist Paul Yates has held his first major exhibition outside of Northern Ireland in St. Andrews, Scotland. His works formed part of this year’s prize line up at the 2022 AIB Business Eye Awards.

28

Home Is Where The Heart Is For PwC’s New Head

PwC Partner, Cat McCusker, has spent her career helping organisations across the world to transform. As PwC’s new Northern Ireland Regional Market Leader, local woman Cat is focused on bringing this expertise, learning, and passion to the place she calls home.

32 Tech Eye – The Very Latest

From The Tech World

Tech Eye, in association with NI-based tech specialists Nitec, takes a closer look at the latest tech developments and innovations from around the world.

46 Investec For City Quays

Financial advisory firm Investec has been revealed as the latest blue chip organisation to take space in Belfast Harbour’s state of the art City Quays 3 high-rise office development.

47 AIB Business Eye Awards 2022

A pictorial look back at the AIB Business Eye Awards gala evening in late November when local companies and leading individuals were honoured across 19 different awards categories at ICC Belfast.

66

FinTrU’s People Go The Extra Mile For Action Cancer

Following a company-wide vote, FinTrU – a multi-award-winning business in the financial tech industry - nominated Action Cancer to be their charity partner for two years, across 2021 and 2022.

69

Buckley Publications

20 Kings Road Belfast, BT5 6JJ Tel: (028) 9047 4490 Fax: (028) 9047 4495 www.businesseye.co.uk

NI Firm Fibrus Secures £108 Million UK Government Contract

Northern Ireland full fibre broadband provider Fibrus has been awarded a massive government contract worth £108 million to connect thousands of rural premises as part of a major investment project.

72

IOD NI Director Of The Year Winners Announced

Entrepreneur Dame Rotha Johnston was awarded the highest accolade at the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoD NI) Director of the Year awards, sponsored by AIB.

Design McCadden

Tel: (028) 9024 2228 www.mccadden.co.uk

Photography Press Eye

45 Stockmans Way Belfast, BT9 7ET Tel: (028) 9066 9229 www.presseye.com

Editor Richard Buckley Commercial Director Brenda Buckley

Richard Buckley EDITOR

Irish Magazine Editor of the Year 2005

The DUP continues to hold firm on its line that it won’t be sharing power, tea, scones or anything else up at Stormont until the question of the NI Protocol is sorted out – and here’s the key – to its satisfaction.

Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris has been doing his best to play hardball with all of our political representatives. To date, it’s a policy that hasn’t produced any tangible results.

Hope lies, it seems, in the early months of 2023 and the run-up to the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. The plan is for US President Joe Biden to jet in for a spot of glad handing and celebrations. And, of course, he can’t do that if the political institutions formed by the Good Friday Agreement are lying broken in the corner.

He can, of course, abort the mission and go visit somewhere else instead. Somewhere, perhaps, with creative, positive political leaders who want the best for their region.

But, as things stand, it gives everyone a mission...a deadline. And we wll know how much we loved deadlines in this part of the world.

But making progress depends on the determination of the British Government right up to Prime Minister level, and it depends on the goodwill and flexibility of the European Union. They might not feel like being flexible but they probably will in an effort to get rid of a problem that’s been lurking on the horizon for some time.

Given a few tweaks to the protocol that it can sell to its supporters, will the DUP head back into government and take the Deputy First Minister’s role alongside Michelle O’Neill as First Minister. There are many who think that that’s the real issue, and not the intricacies of the protocol.

With strike fever spreading like Covid did this time last year, and businesses squaring up to plenty of other economic challenges, we could all do with having a bit of stability at Stormont. Mind you, has that ever really been the case?

On the UK national front, it’s fashionable in certain circles not to be a fan of Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt. But, for those who spend every waking moment agonising about evil Tories, the uncomfortable fact is that his government is starting to get a grip on things.

Fuel assistance packages (at least in GB) have worked, prices are stabilising and the early signs are that the brakes have been put on inflation, although at the cost of expensive interest rate hikes.

This time last year, we were in the grip of yet another bout of Covid, one which has the Michelle O’Neill predicting a colossal 30,000 cases of the virus per day. Fortunately, she wasn’t even close. The total never topped the 3,000 mark and, by February, we could ditch our masks with glee.

But it was a gloomy Christmas lacking in hope. This time around, despite the challenges, it’s been different. And, for that, we sould be thankful.

“With strike fever spreading like Covid did this time last year, and businesses squaring up to plenty of other economic challenges, we could all do with having a bit of stability at Stormont. Mind you, has that ever really been the case?”

As we head into another new year, there’s precious little hope on the political horizon, but the odds are that we could start to see some serious negotiations swinging into action in the early part of 2023.

Chris McSwiggan

Joan Maneely

Mark Crothers

David McCurdy

Paul O’Neill

Richard Jennings

Eye on News

MCL InsureTech Teams Up with Action Cancer to Support Wellbeing

The visit, funded by local online insurance company

MCL InsureTech, is part of the company’s staff wellbeing programme.

MCL InsureTech, the name behind online car insurance brand its4women. co.uk, is an active supporter of Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity.

Its4women has sponsored the award winning ‘Breast Friends’ campaign since 2019, raising vital funds for the charity’s breast screening service which is available to females aged 40-49 and 70 plus who fall outside the NHS age range. The service is always free to the user. However, each appointment costs the charity £120.

‘Breast Friends’ encourages

groups of friends to get together in social settings and fundraise. Its4women matches the money raised by the general public up to a value of £30,000 per year.

The its4women team has donated £97,500 to Action Cancer since the beginning of the partnership in 2019.

Even though the pandemic seriously impacted fundraising activities carried out by the general public, its4women generously stood by their pledge and donated the maximum amount. To date its4women has donated £97,500 to Action Cancer and overall, the campaign has generated £167,252.

With every £120 raised covering the cost of one Action Cancer breast screening appointment, the ‘Breast Friends’ campaign has

provided around 1,693 breast screenings for local women.

Discussing the partnership Kerry Beckett, Marketing Manager, MCL InsureTech said: “We recognise the importance of the services provided by Action Cancer’s Big Bus. I am delighted to see our staff and the wider public availing of the fantastic services on offer in Coleraine.

“Action Cancer’s breast screening service is unique to Northern Ireland. For every 1,000 breast screenings Action Cancer detects six cancers. This

means the ‘Breast Friends’ partnership with its4women has potentially saved the lives of nine females, while giving peace of mind to hundreds of others. Similarly, the health check is an important assessment that can detect health conditions such as irregular blood pressure or high cholesterol. It offers a timely lifestyle review, as well as providing cancer awareness information.”

Action Cancer’s Public Fundraising Manager, Leigh Osborne, added: “The health check service is available to men and women over the age of 16 and again is free to the user but costs the charity £50 per appointment. Both services are available in Action Cancer House in Belfast and on board the Big Bus, proudly supported by SuperValu and Centra which travels to 200 locations across Northern Ireland every year.

“Action Cancer’s services have never been needed more. In Northern Ireland someone receives a cancer diagnosis every hour of every day and one in two of us will receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime. While cancer rates are on the increase, early detection and improved treatments mean survival rates are improving.”

With no regular government funding Action Cancer is reliant upon community and corporate fundraising in order to deliver its services at Action Cancer House, on board the Big Bus and at 13 regional locations.

(L-R) Sam Woodrow, Patrick Gallagher, Darren Fillis and Jeremy Moore

Kate Cassidy, Kerry Beckett and Margaret Kirk

Sonya McLaughlin, Michael Rooney, Hannah Millar and Emma Beattie

Alex Todd, Kerry Beckett and Leigh Osborne (Action Cancer)

Terri Louise Henry, Gemma Morrow and Maggi Gilmore

Eye on News

New cookbook puts a 5-star plate on every neighbourhood table

Bistro to make the restaurant a place for everyone to enjoy. The book aims to bring the neighbourhood closer together through the joy of food prep and cooking.

Christina Taylor, who manages both restaurants, added:

Chef Jonny Taylor and his wife Christina, who took over Shed Bistro in 2018 and launched Blank in October 2021, have quickly established their two restaurants as among the most popular and unique in Ireland. Blank won Restaurant of the Year at the 2022 LCN awards just one year after it opened.

Jonny, from Belfast and Christina, who comes from Slovakia, created the book because of their desire to help home chefs across the UK and Ireland bring 5 star cooking to a plate on every table. The book contains over 40 recipes with a range of vegetarian and kids options too, including meals from Shed Bistro as well as some of Jonny’s own favourite dishes. All can be prepared in the home with local ingredients available in good

local shops and supermarkets.

Speaking at the launch, Chef Jonny Taylor said: “We’ve published Neighbourhood Cooking to help home chefs across the UK and Ireland put 5 star cooking on their family dinner tables. I’ve been cooking since I was a young teenager and want to help every home enjoy top tasting meals. The quality of food and produce across Ireland means we have access to premium quality ingredientsanyone who buys this book can bring these ingredients to life on a plate for their family, friends and loved ones. What better gift can you give someone close to you than a meal prepared with care and attention?”

The book’s title - Neighbourhood Cooking - recognises Jonny and Christina’s commitment at Shed

“We’re excited to publish Neighbourhood Cooking - our first ever cookbook - including over 40 delicious dishes that, under our guidance, are straightforward to make at home. During the pandemic we offered customers ‘Heat at Home’ kits which allowed them to enjoy restaurant quality food while we were forced to close. We aren’t able to do that this year, thankfully because our doors are open and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back, but we also wanted to provide an alternative which enabled people to continue enjoying quality cooking in the comfort of their own homes.

“That’s where the idea for our book came from. We’ve even included suggested wine pairings for many of the meals, and a range of options for

vegans, vegetarians and kids too.”

“Shed is a restaurant at the heart of the neighbourhood and we want this cookbook to be in the heart of every kitchen,” she added.

Neighbourhood Cooking will be able available at Shed Bistro on Ormeau Road, Belfast and a number of local bookshops across Northern Ireland.

To order a copy, visit www.shedbelfast.com.

The couple behind top Irish restaurants Shed Bistro and Blank have launched their first ever cookbook - Neighbourhood Cooking.

Transformation Of Shipping Containers Leads To 200% Growth For New Business

Abusiness set up at the height of lockdown offering modern, energy efficient modular buildings made from new and used shipping containers has reported bumper growth of 200 per cent over the last six months and the creation of six part and full-time jobs across a number of trades including plumbers, joiners and electricians.

Crossan Container Conversions was founded by Eoin Crossan, who is a welder by trade, and due to the success in the first year of operation, his wife Claire, a digital marketing manager, joined to oversee the continued growth and business development.

Eoin Crossan, Managing Director of Crossan Container Conversions said: “We are delighted with the response we’ve had since setting up the business. Our containers are being used for a wide variety of versatile spaces including tiny homes, granny flats, garden rooms, offices, gyms and hairdressers. Because of the current cost of living we are seeing an increase in the number of people, including firsttime buyers, choosing them as their homes – particularly couples who are able to live on their parent’s land. As well as the cheaper purchase price to a standard home, our customers don’t have the extra worry of how much it will cost them to heat their home as all of our containers are eco-friendly and spray foam insulated which means they are extremely easy to heat. We also design the containers for each

customer’s specific site to maximise sunlight throughout the day and they can also be designed to be solar powered and run ‘off grid’.”

Eoin works with each customer to create a bespoke design for the end purpose and location and all containers are manufactured from the company’s base in Derry-Londonderry.

“We can build and fit out a container in just 12 weeks and a key advantage is their toughness, stability and longevity so people can rest assured that they are getting a long-lasting space. We have had

customers purchase one to live in while their house was being built and when they’d finished using it, they rented it out as an Airbnb. We are also able to lift into place and remove again if required – so they’re also a great option if you’re waiting to see how the current volatile property market goes. We’ve had hundreds of enquiries in recent months from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and ambitious plans for further growth in 2023 so it’s an exciting time for Crossan Container Conversions,” Eoin added.

Eoin and Claire Crossan of Crossan Container Conversions

Eye on Finance

Upstream, never Mainstream! What next?

This has been an interesting year – and as the pumpkin carving dims in the memory and we start to hear sleighbells ringing, we can reflect on what 2022 has given us, thrown at us, and sadly taken away from us of course.

We started the year relieved to – “perhaps, almost, maybe, hopefully” – put COVID behind us and with a few exceptions this has been the case. That perhaps, and a strong feeling, certainly across business that we could not go back to working from home and Teams calls again. It has been such a pleasure to meet people face to face, to visit customers on site and to network once more with our colleagues across the region. We were almost a bit giddy at the first few events – catching up on all the gossip! The sense of relief to be back to some normality has sustained us through some challenging months and this sense of optimism and hope will be needed in the weeks and months to come.

The devastating impact of the war in Ukraine –first and foremost on the people, and in business supply chains from raw materials to energy – which economically, will have a long tail, and then the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has rocked the UK. The turmoil we have seen almost consistently since, doesn’t look like easing any time soon.

Locally, between BREXIT and the pandemic, it has been a time of uncertainty in politics and in business. Then just as we are all trying to get back on track, supply chain challenges, the cost-of-living crisis and the almost constant noise around the stability of the UK Government, all seem to conspire against ambition and growth.

Despite all of this, however, Northern Ireland business owners are proving themselves to be as resilient (or maybe stubborn) as ever. We are finding hidden strength and focusing forward – looking for opportunity locally, nationally, and ever more often, globally.

We started this year as ‘Upstream’, and with our new partnership with Cubitt Trade Holdings (Europe) settling down, we will leave 2022 with a new brand on the horizon. We are still teasing as to what exactly that might be, but there are new signs ordered, the designers are

waiting to do their ‘thing’, stationery is being reprinted, and new group websites are in development – but essentially the ethos that we started with in 2011 has not, and will not, ever change. We are simply customer centric funding partners. We listen, and we structure solutions that align with your needs and ambitions, and we do not expect you and your business to conform within a standard framework. Every business is different – age, size, market, focus, growth trajectory, exit dreams, operational structure – and we recognise and celebrate those differences by offering bespoke solutions to both match your needs today, and to evolve and grow as you do.

The single biggest change for us personally – aside from the brand – has been our ability to scale this year with access to significant capital. Coming out of COVID, like many funders, our book had contracted massively, and our risk appetite was low. However, we have now recovered fully, to the point that by the end of 2022 we will be at a funding level ten times where we were eighteen months ago – and this last twelve months alone has seen us grow fivefold, to support more growing businesses across Ireland and Scotland, with working capital facilities from £250K up to £25M+ . The scale of ambition and the hunger for growth we are seeing in the marketplace is hugely positive, and whilst we are not blind to the challenges ahead, we are maybe ‘choosing’ to be resolutely upbeat about the opportunity that this market can bring.

Our US partners have invested in over 90 businesses across North America and into Latin America in the last couple of years, and therefore our partnerships in these territories are opening up buying relationships, and collaborative networks for our clients across Ireland. This new market focus is ensuring both growth in sales and access to raw materials for our clients, and at a time when input costs are of very real concern, these

new relationships are proving priceless. Giving business owners the confidence to pitch for new business, safe in the knowledge that the raw material source is secure or that an off-take agreement in the US is in place, is simply something that we cannot place a value on.

We are also now part of a global network of hi-tech logistics, warehousing, and freight management businesses – so again our clients are availing of these services as they source, manufacture, and move their goods around the world.

So we are not just about money. Yes, our core focus is on funding your growth capital and cash flow needs – but being part of an innovative global service Group allows us to add value vertically and horizontally across your business. From ‘supplier to buyer’ and every step of the way in between, we will endeavour to align our interests with yours, to plan for and assure your growth and successful future exit at enhanced value.

We will share more of these transformational developments in the weeks and months to come, with live case studies, which always speak more eloquently than any article can, but safe to say that you won’t see us stand still. Everything all about us may be in turmoil, but you can rely on the team here to work with you to both stabilise and scale your business nationally and internationally.

Whatever name appears over our door – we will continue the adventure of what ‘Upstream’ set out to do. To offer the best, and most appropriate, complementary funding solution for you and your business every single day.

Contact us for more information:

Judith Totten MBE, Upstream: T: 02890 999450

E: judith@upstreampositive.co.uk

Eye on News

Maxol opens Northern Ireland’s first dedicated Ultra-Rapid EV Charging Hub

Maxol, Northern Ireland’s leading familyowned forecourt and convenience retailer, has opened the first dedicated Ultra Rapid EV hub in Northern Ireland at the newly expanded and developed Kinnegar Service Station in Holywood, County Down.

The hub features four highpowered rapid and ultrarapid chargers including a 200kw charge point that can charge a single vehicle* in as little as 15 minutes. There are a further two 150kw charge points that service four vehicles at any one time and a single 50KW rapid charge point. Up to six vehicles can be charged at one time and the chargers are powered using renewable electricity.

Brian Donaldson, Chief Executive of The Maxol Group said: “This is a landmark moment for Maxol and for Northern Ireland. Maxol has delivered the first dedicated Ultra

Rapid EV charging hub in Northern Ireland - to build upon the charging points we already have in place at Townparks in Antrim, at Mallusk in Belfast and later this month we will unveil another charge point at our newly refurbished site at Edenderry.

“Maxol continues to invest in and develop the right infrastructure across our service station network to support the move to electric. At all these developments we worked closely with the team in NI Electric Networks to provide the necessary grid capacity to power the chargers and additional requirements for each location.

“More importantly for our customers, Kinnegar has been developed to offer the ultimate in convenience. While customers charge their car, they can visit the brand new EUROSPAR with extensive range, grab a BARISTA BAR coffee or a bite to eat at the new Delish Hot Food Bar or stock up on cupboard essentials for all their daily needs. We are a hub in every sense – meeting the needs of our local community, right here on their doorstep.”

The sustainably designed new flagship development, which is part of a broader five-year investment programme has used cutting-edge technology to create a measurably different service station that will enable Maxol to reduce the site’s existing carbon footprint by up to 40%. Features include photovoltaic (solar) panels to reduce the site’s electrical import requirements; low energy CO2 refrigeration systems; heat pump technology to reduce heating loads; and an

energy management system to monitor and control the overall energy usage on the site.

On the forecourt, Kinnegar will continue to service its large customer base with advanced fuels including Maxol Premium, a 100% carbon offset fuel option with fewer pollutants. Parking has more than doubled in capacity to 41 spaces, to ease the flow of traffic on site even during peak trading periods.

Kinnegar’s retail space has almost doubled in size with the opening of a brand new EUROSPAR that offers a huge range of locally produced food including an expanded grocery offer, a large, dedicated butchery section as well as a choice offering of fruit & veg, dairy, and frozen food ranges.

A brand-new Delish food to go concept with a self-serve chicken bar has been included in the development and for the first time ever, Maxol have installed three self-checkouts for added speed and convenience for their customers.

Mark McCammond, Retail Director of Henderson Retail, Licensee for Maxol said: “The completion of the Kinnegar site brings a premium offering for the local area with our exclusive Delish food to go brand serving the high level of passing trade, complemented by bays of fresh, locally sourced products and our own brand ranges that can be picked up for tonight’s tea.

“This is a one-stop-shop and supermarket experience for the local community that has been built with their needs as a top priority.”

A total of 20 new jobs have been created for the local community as a result of the expansion and development.

Brian Donaldson, Chief Executive of The Maxol Group concludes: “This site marks an important step on our journey towards being a more sustainable business. The technologies and innovations we have used here are creating a blueprint that we will apply across our network in larger type locations to deliver a positive change for our customers, the environment, and our industry and that is a very exciting journey to be on.”

Overcome

WHITEROCK FINANCE HITS

Whiterock

Since it was established in 2012, Whiterock Finance has provided investment to businesses across three funds, the now fully deployed Growth Loan Fund I, the current Growth Loan Fund II and the Growth Finance Fund, all of which are part of Invest Northern Ireland’s Access to Finance suite of funds.

Whiterock’s first investment was made in September 2012 to ventilation systems manufacturer Brookvent, who received £425,000 from Growth Loan Fund I. Since then, Whiterock’s funds have made several further investments in the business, most recently a £400,000 loan from Growth Loan Fund II, which is being used to help the company continue to expand its offering across Europe. During this period, Brookvent has increased its turnover sixfold and now employs 147 people.

Pushing Whiterock’s total investment across the £100 Million mark was strength and conditioning

equipment manufacturer BLK BOX, who received £1.5 million in funding from the Growth Loan Fund II.

The firm, whose existing client base includes sporting teams such as Manchester United, Arsenal and Irish Rugby, as well as corporates such as Google, Nike and LinkedIn, will use the investment to scale its operations to meet increased customer demand and new contract wins.

Ben Stocks, Managing Director of BLK BOX, said,

“BLK BOX has grown exponentially over the past decade and gained an enviable client list supplying and fitting out gym solutions across the globe. In recent years, we saw huge growth during the pandemic when demand for home gym equipment soared and have since gone from strength to strength, expanding our team and manufacturing premises to meet demand.”

Welcoming the announcement, William McCulla, Invest

Northern Ireland’s Director of Corporate Finance, said:

“The funds within Invest NI’s Access to Finance portfolio continue to address the funding challenges of SMEs in Northern Ireland. Through the provision of over £100m of finance to over 150 SMEs, Whiterock Finance has become an established part of the local SME funding eco system and it is great to see first-hand Growth Loan Fund II having such an impact on a high growth company like BLK BOX.”

Paul Millar CEO at Whiterock Finance added,

“Over the past 10 years, our team has worked to provide finance to over 150 ambitious and motivated companies from across Northern Ireland to fuel their growth. As we move into our second decade in business, we are still constantly seeking out businesses that are keen to scale and BLK BOX is a perfect example. Currently experiencing an ongoing period of growth, BLK BOX is making a name for itself worldwide as an experienced and quality manufacturer of gym solutions and we’re excited to support them during this next period as they continue to win large scale contracts

and expand their business.”

Over the past 10 years, companies of all sizes and stages of development have availed of Whiterock managed funds, from a wide range of sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Fintech, IT Services, Leisure, Tourism and Creative Industries. Whiterock estimates that 3,000 jobs have been created as a result of the growth finance provided across the funds.

The loans have supported a variety of needs, including R&D support, staff recruitment, marketing, capital spend, working capital, stock and trade property purchase.

Finance for the £30m Growth Finance Fund – which can provide SMEs with loans up to £2m – is provided by the British Business Bank, Invest NI and private investors, the Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC).

Finance for the £30m Growth Loan Fund II – which provides loans of up to £1.5m to established Northern Ireland SMEs seeking to access growth finance – is provided by Invest NI, and part funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the EU Investment for Growth and Jobs Programme 2014-2020.

Paul Millar, Chief Executive, Whiterock Finance and Ben Stocks, Managing Director, BLK BOX.

new Enterprise NI survey finds

Over 600 businesses from across Northern Ireland and across all economic sectors responded to the NI Enterprise Barometer, the largest annual survey of micro and small businesses in Northern Ireland. The Barometer captures data, opinions, needs, and proposed solutions of local small, micro, and self-employed businesses.

47% of respondents stated that they will not survive the next 12 months without the right support in place, while 95% of businesses reported that their utilities and fuel costs have risen sharply throughout 2022. One in ten businesses are now also reporting severe cash flow pressures, up from just 3% at the beginning of this year.

The latest data also shows that economic growth is now slowing, with only 36% of businesses expecting to grow in 2023, compared to over 50% at the beginning of 2022. More significantly and worryingly, the number of respondents who expect their business to contract in the next year has doubled from 18% to 36%.

Supported by Ulster Bank and the British Business Bank, this year’s Barometer sought to gauge the experience of small and micro businesses during the cost-of-living and cost-of-doing-business crises, as well as their plans for the year ahead.

Michael McQuillan, Enterprise NI Chief Executive, said:

“The 2022 NI Enterprise Barometer presents a concerning snapshot of our local economy. As illustrated in these results, the current economic and fiscal environment is extremely challenging for small and micro businesses, from all sectors, across Northern Ireland. Macro-level events and challenges like the war in Ukraine and the global economic downturn are placing serious pressures on local businesses, combined with local political instability and uncertainty over post-Brexit funding.

Nearly half of micro and small businesses will not survive without proper support,

A major survey from Enterprise Northern Ireland has found that nearly half of micro and small businesses could face closure in 2023 without proper government support.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Chief Executive Michael McQuillan; Northern Ireland Minister Steve Baker MP; and Enterprise Northern Ireland Chair Jonathan McAlpin.

“While not surprising, 95% of businesses experiencing a significant rise in their utilities and fuel expenses over the past 12 months is a stark figure and one which drives home the gravity of the situation businesses find themselves in. The rising cost-ofdoing-business is having a severe impact on our local entrepreneurs. Without significant action in the coming weeks and months, businesses will go to the wall.

“Nearly half of our respondents have said they will not survive in the medium term without government support. Small and micro businesses make up the vast bulk of the local economy. The collapse of nearly half of these firms would have a catastrophic knockon effect on the Northern Irish economy, communities, families, and households across the country.

“Respondents to the Barometer have been clear on the interventions and support they believe are necessary over the next 12 months. These include a

reduction in VAT, a fundamental change to the business rates system to reduce the burden on small businesses, greater and easier access to finance for stability and growth, and lowering of the energy cap. In the absence of an Executive at Stormont, it’s crucial that the UK Government now steps in to protect the backbone of the Northern Irish economy and protect businesses, jobs, and households as we enter 2023.”

Maureen O’Reilly, Barometer Economist, also added:

“While last week’s Autumn Statement from the Chancellor was aimed at injecting stability into the economy once more, it did little to relieve the concerns of small and micro business owners in Northern Ireland. Our barometer shows that growth is slowing across the country and firms are now concerned about contractions within their businesses. Deteriorating growth, combined with rapidly rising inflation and the ongoing cost-ofliving crisis, is a dangerous mix.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Chief Executive Michael McQuillan.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Chief Executive Michael McQuillan; Small Business Commissioner Liz Barclay; Barometer Economist Maureen O’Reilly; and Enterprise Northern Ireland Chair Jonathan McAlpin.

Eye on News

Northern Ireland’s largest airline easyJet today celebrates the launch of the first flights on its seasonal winter route from Belfast City to Glasgow, providing customers in Belfast with even more convenient domestic connections this winter.

The route will provide stronger domestic connectivity from Northern Ireland to key cities across the UK whether customers are looking for a city break, to reconnect with family or friends, or a convenient business connection. Glasgow offers a perfect combination of vibrant city life and nature trails, as well as designer shopping and whiskey-tasting experiences. It is also just a few steps away from Clyre Muishiel, the largest regional park in Scotland.

The start of the new route follows the launch of new weekly services to Bristol, Liverpool and twice-daily services to London Gatwick in the past year, as the airline continues to strengthen its network from Northern Ireland

offering more choice for customers in Belfast to explore some of the UK’s most popular city destinations.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said:

“We are delighted to be celebrating the launch of our new service from Belfast City to Glasgow today and following our continued growth at the airport in the last year this new service will further strengthen our Belfast network by providing even more choice and convenient connectivity from Belfast City to one of Scotland’s major cities, which is already proving popular with leisure and business travellers alike. We are proud to be the largest airline in Northern Ireland and are committed to providing our customers flying with easyJet from Belfast with more choice, great value fares and a fantastic service.”

Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport, said:

“Following the success of its flights from Belfast City to London Gatwick,

Liverpool, and Bristol, we are thrilled to see easyJet take to the skies today with new flights to Glasgow.

“The three-times weekly service from our city centre hub provides great connectivity to Scotland’s second city and will prove extremely popular with both outbound and inbound travellers.

“The inaugural flight to Glasgow not only signals easyJet’s expansion at Belfast City Airport but is testament to the strength of our partnership and we look forward to working together in the future to continue providing choice, convenience, and flexibility of travel to our passengers.”

EasyJet Launches Belfast City To Glasgow Flights Danske Bank UK Appoints New Chairman

The former Director of Banks, Building Societies and Credit Unions at the Bank of England, Martin Stewart, is to be appointed as the new Chairman of Northern Bank Ltd (Danske Bank UK). He will take up the role on 1st January 2023.

Martin has been a non-executive director at Danske Bank UK since 2020 and is currently the Senior Independent Director on the Board.

Danske Bank UK are the biggest lender in Northern Ireland and a growing bank in Great Britain.

Headquartered in Belfast, the bank is part of the Danske Bank Group - one of the largest financial services companies in Scandinavia. Danske introduced the UK’s first carbon neutral mortgage last year, available first in Northern Ireland and then extended to customers in England through intermediaries. As part of its growth strategy the bank is also a lender to the social housing sector in Britain and is active in the syndicated lending space.

During his executive career, Mr Stewart held senior positions at the Bank of

England Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Services Authority (FSA). He was a key influencer of global financial services policy development post the financial crisis and while at the PRA his remit included being the lead regulator overseeing Northern Irish banks, building societies and credit unions.

He has two decades’ board-level

experience as an executive, nonexecutive, advisor and regulator, which include having also been Managing Director of a group of European subsidiary companies.

He will replace the current Chair, Gerald Gregory, who will leave the bank after nine years on the Board.

Vicky Davies, CEO of Danske Bank

UK, said: “On behalf of the Board I want to thank Gerald for his tremendous leadership over the past decade - a period in which we became a stronger bank, delivering significant growth. These were also challenging years, which included navigating unprecedented levels of change across the industry, rising regulatory demands, increased competition, Brexit and the pandemic.

“Martin is a well-known and respected figure in the UK financial services sector and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him in his forthcoming new position as Chair.”

Martin Stewart said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role. It is a time of economic uncertainty and at Danske Bank we remain focused on supporting customers through what will be increasingly tough months ahead. The Board will continue to put customers at the heart of everything we do, as we work alongside the senior management team to consolidate our leading position in Northern Ireland while pursuing opportunities in the rest of the UK.”

Martin Stewart with Danske Bank UK CEO Vicky Davies.

Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport, and Ali Gayward, UK Country Manager at easyJet

Eye on News

ICC BELFAST’S EIMEAR HONE MAKES GLOBAL ’20 IN THEIR TWENTIES’ LIST

ICC Belfast’s Eimear Hone has this year been named in the prestigious PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) ‘20 in their Twenties’ list, recognising her as one of the brightest and most talented global event professionals in the world.

PCMA is one of the world’s largest and most respected network of business events specialists and Eimear is the sole selection made in Northern Ireland, and one of only five European selections.

Eimear is a Senior Association Account Manager at ICC Belfast, the city’s only purpose-built convention centre. Hailing from Derry~Londonderry, Eimear’s role involves promoting Belfast and Northern Ireland on the worldstage. Targeting key national and international conferences to come to ICC Belfast that are aligned to the Department for Economy’s 10X Strategy is Eimear’s priority. This not only brings millions of pounds of new money into Northern Ireland, but it showcases the expertise of our people and builds on our reputation in these priority sectors, exponentially driving economic benefit. Her role is integral to the ecosystem that delivers socially, culturally and economically for the entire region. She graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Leisure and Event Management Ulster University in 2015, and has been working at ICC Belfast for five years, receiving three promotions in that time.

Eimear said: “I’m overjoyed to be named in the PCMA ‘20 in their Twenties’ list. It’s a huge honour

to share this with my peers across the world who also made the list and of course with my colleagues at ICC Belfast. It’s really rewarding to see my work recognised.

“A lot of my success has come from my innovative approach to solving problems. In 2020 when flights were grounded and one of my top event prospects couldn’t visit the venue as planned, I put our in-house facilities to use and delivered a live sales pitch from our hybrid studio and conducted a real time virtual site visit. The client loved how we adapted to their needs and as a result we secured a 2025 conference worth £1.5m

in economic impact for the city.

“Being part of a team that actually makes a difference is incredibly motivating. We are committed to Belfast and its journey to resilience and recognise the power that business tourism has to deliver that. Our motto is; when we win everyone wins and it’s something I really believe in.”

Earlier this year Eimear also developed a Knowledge Hub to educate her peers on emerging trends specific to business events. She also regularly delivers presentations at further education centres to educate and inspire young people to join the industry.

Oonagh O’Reilly Sales and Marketing Director at ICC Belfast said: “We are immensely proud of Eimear. To have been part of her growth and continued success with ICC Belfast over the past five years has been fantastic and this global recognition is well deserved. Eimear constantly seeks out opportunities for improvement and takes action to bring plans to life. Working in partnership with clients is what Eimear does best and the passion and the high regard in which she holds her clients’ goals and objectives is infectious!”

Eimear will travel to Ohio to receive her award in January 2023.

Eye on News

International recognition for Henderson Group Director

SPAR International has announced that Pat McGarry, Group Logistics Director at Henderson Group, has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2022 Connected Retail Conference in Rotterdam.

It is the second accolade of its kind Mr McGarry has been presented with this year, including the Transport Personality of the Year award at the Export & Freight Transport & Logistics Awards in September.

Organisers of the conference said Mr McGarry was awarded for his long and distinguished service to the global SPAR organisation and retail industry, which has spanned over four decades.

Tobias Wasmuht, Managing Director, SPAR International added; “Pat McGarry is a founding member of SPAR International’s Warehouse Action Group and a member of the team supporting the design of the warehouse infrastructure for SPAR in China.

“His passion and proactive leadership extends well beyond his roots at Henderson’s warehouse facilities in Mallusk, where he has introduced and directed many innovative large scale projects and streamline processes, which not only boost

productivity and improve working conditions, but also reduce overall environmental impact.

“This award from SPAR International reflects our thanks and appreciation to Pat McGarry for his contributions and achievements.”

Mr McGarry added; “I am humbled and grateful for this recognition for a career that allows me to work with such fantastic people and organisations around the world. To be part of the SPAR International family allows our team to affect change globally, to ensure we are all working to the highest level of efficiency with as minimal impact as possible on the environment, and we are very proud to be market leaders with our innovations.”

Martin Agnew, Joint Managing Director at Henderson Group commented; “We are thrilled for Pat to receive this recognition from SPAR International as it is truly deserved. In the 25 years that Pat has worked for our business, leading the logistics function for 22 of those 25 years, the business has grown exponentially both in scale and in profitability, and this has been in no small part due to Pat’s farsighted vision and plans, brought to fruition day and daily, by the high-performing team he has built.”

Nine companies from Northern Ireland make the 2022 Deloitte Technology Fast 50

Nine companies from across Northern Ireland have made it on to this year’s Deloitte Technology Fast 50 list. Now in its 23rd year, the programme celebrates the innovation and entrepreneurship in Ireland’s indigenous technology sector by ranking the fastest growing technology companies based on revenue growth over a four-year period.

Same day grocery delivery company Buymie emerged as the fastest growing technology company in this year’s awards. The company, which delivers groceries from Lidl, Dunnes Stores and Woodies in Ireland in as little as one hour, expanded into the UK earlier this year. Buymie has seen growth of 6,903% in the last four years.

Belfast-based fintech company Lightyear, which appears in the Fast 50 for the first time, is the highest ranked Northern Ireland business, coming in at number 11 on the list. The other businesses featured are

AquaQ Analytics, Datactics, Fibrus Networks, Foods Connected, Locate a Locum, SciLeads, Totalmobile and WorkPal. Fibrus, Locate a Locum and WorkPal also made it into the list for the first time.

Cumulatively, the 2022 Fast 50 winners generated approximately €500m in total annual revenues and employed over 5,500 people in 2021. The average revenue of companies featured in the ranking was approximately €10m, while the average growth rate of the companies over the last four years was 594%.

This year’s Fast 50 features a total of 17 new entrants and companies from all four provinces, with 29 from Leinster, eight from Munster, nine from Ulster, and four from Connacht.

Aisléan Nicholson, Deloitte Technology Fast 50 programme partner in Belfast said: “I would like to congratulate all the companies listed this year, in particular the nine from Northern

Ireland. As the business and economic environment becomes more complex, it is encouraging to see that the technology sector has continued to show great resilience, innovation and tenacity.

“This year’s ranking shows growth across a broad range of sectors with companies coming up with innovative solutions to address changing consumer and business demands.”

Pictured at Deloitte’s new offices in Belfast are Chris Gregg, CEO of Lightyear, Deloitte partner Aisléan Nicholson and Jonathon Clarke, CEO of Locate a Locum. Both Lightyear and Locate a Locum made the Fast 50 ranking for the first time this year.

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

Eye on Cover Story

Derek Hynes NEW FACE, NEW AGENDA AT NIE NETWORKS

we also manage and maintain the existing electricity network right across Northern Ireland, whatever the weather throws at us. But our priority is always to keep the network as safe and reliable as possible for everyone.”

Whilst the company doesn’t sell or supply power directly to customers here, it’s at the very centre of an industry that’s never far from the news these days. Add in emergence from the pandemic and the very serious challenges of the net zero agenda and the Derek Hynes in tray starts to look very busy indeed.

“In a lot of ways, this is a dream job for me,” he says. “For someone with an engineering background who has spent his career in the electricity industry, getting the chance to lead a major electricity network company is quite something.”

But it’s meant some upheaval. His family remains in Kildare while he is Belfast based during the working week. “We are getting used to being in separate parts of the island, but we all recognise the opportunity in a job like this to make a difference and my family are getting to know Belfast much better.”

An electrical engineering graduate from Trinity College, Derek joined parent company ESB’s graduate programme and has worked in a series of roles over the past 20 years, most recently

as Head of Electric Ireland’s retail business, ESB’s customer-facing entity. He made the move north in September to take over as Managing Director at NIE Networks. “Having worked in lots of different jobs in ESB Networks, I got a good understanding of how networks businesses work. Things are very similar in Northern Ireland, Ireland and GB, so I am hoping that I can hit the ground running.

“Our role here at NIE Networks is fairly straightforward. We’re responsible for making sure that everyone in Northern Ireland has access to a reliable electricity connection and one that provides enough capacity to encourage them to make the investment to electric heating and electric transport. That is the main way that Northern Ireland will meet its decarbonisation targets now and in the next 30 years. At the minute, the cost of electricity in general is a barrier for lots of people, so we have to ensure we play our part in running the network as cost efficiently as possible.

“While we are the people who build new electricity infrastructure and connections,

NIE Networks ranks as one of Northern Ireland’s largest employers with a workforce of almost 1,400 employees. The company is looking at renewal and growth in its near future, with at least an additional 500 people needed over the next few years, to meet the scale of the investment required.

But, while the organisation’s ‘day job’ is the management and maintenance of the transmission and distribution infrastructure in Northern Ireland, it’s also central to the ongoing decarbonisation of electricity as a major route towards net zero targets.

“NIE Networks has evolved over recent years and we’ll continue to change as the needs of Northern Ireland change. The electricity that the families and businesses of Northern Ireland use, comes from a range of sources – conventional large generating stations, wind and solar, and we will connect offshore windfarms in the next few years. We can see that the ask of us is more and more about capacity – getting as many zero carbon electricity sources as we can on to the network, as quickly and efficiently as possible. It’s about producing enough electricity from renewable sources to meet

Derek Hynes could hardly have chosen a more challenging time to touch down as the new Managing Director at NIE Networks.

“It’s about producing enough electricity from renewable sources to meet our decarbonisation targets, while making sure that society has access to enough capacity on the existing network so that they can plug in whatever they want.”

Eye on Cover Story

assets which require replacement so that the network remains safe and reliable. Both of these things are coming at a time when prices across society are increasing and many, many people are struggling. Doing all of this needs people and money and we need the trust of the people of Northern Ireland that we will do this work on their behalf carefully and efficiently.”

A strong electricity network, he says, is crucial not only to customers, but also to Northern Ireland’s attractiveness as an investment location. “If we don’t invest in the electricity network, it becomes difficult for Northern Ireland to attract investment and businesses will not come here. Inability for businesses to get fast and fairly priced connections to the network can cause problems to the wider economy and that’s something we’ll work hard to avoid.”

NIE Networks borrows money on the international markets to finance its investments, decarbonisation included. “A significant step-change is needed in the level of investment required to facilitate the scale of decarbonisation that has now been mandated by government. A large portion of the £3 billion outlined in our plan will come from international financial markets,” he adds.

investors want and that they can find in other countries.”

With so much change on the horizon the company has plans in place to increase its current headcount of 1,400 to almost 2,000 by 2030.

“That’s a significant number of jobs – quality jobs, well paid and in a very good working environment. It’s also a boost for the wider Northern Ireland economy.”

He describes NIE Networks as a ‘lean’ operation. “We’ve historically built what we need and didn’t spend extra money on building additional capacity into the network. The regulatory rules made sure that all investment was rigorously justified. That means that right now there isn’t a lot of additional capacity out there waiting to be used. While this has kept prices low in the past, there is a bit of catching up to be done.”

There are also specific challenges, like the provision of a fit for purpose charging network for electric vehicles here and reform of building regulations in favour of a zero carbon approach. “Our business plan addresses these challenges though and we will be submitting the plan to the Utility Regulator in March 2023,” he adds.

our decarbonisation targets, while making sure that society has access to enough capacity on the existing network so that they can plug in whatever they want.”

At the moment, against a backdrop of war in Ukraine and rising energy costs, Derek Hynes and his team have to concentrate on ensuring security of supply to domestic and business customers in Northern Ireland. And it has to be done within budget.

“Of the 28p per kilowatt hour a customer might pay for their electricity supply, 3.6p of that pays for the electricity network,” says Derek. “But we’re faced with a challenge to invest £3 billion in the electricity network to meet decarbonisation targets by 2030. It’s been described recently as the fight of our lives – NIE Networks needs to do its part, so that others can do theirs. If we don’t invest, we don’t have an electricity system that can support more renewable generation and increased domestic and commercial electrification that move

us towards a decarbonised future.

“We have targets to meet and we must meet them. If everyone keeps talking about what it is that we need to do, we will never get anywhere. So, we are getting on with the work and the planning, because we have to stay on track.”

The company has just finished a consultation on its new business plan to cover the next price control period out to 2031. The plan sets out where the money will be spent and how NIE Networks hopes to deliver the capacity, access and reliability that is needed.

“We frame our plans for investment in multi-year submissions to the Utility Regulator called ‘Price Controls’. The next price control is fundamentally different than all the price controls which have gone before. There are a number of elements coming together at once, most significantly our journey to net zero which means that we need to build capacity on the network, alongside the continued aging of existing network

“We are fortunate that we are in a position to fund the required investment, but we need an economic environment in Northern Ireland that makes this an attractive place for investors to place their money. We compete with companies from around the world for access to these funds and we need the regulatory and policy supports that make us a good investment. Our vision is to provide an electricity network that is capable of facilitating Northern Ireland’s overall plan to address climate change, which is based on energy self-sufficiency from carbon free sources and also helps with affordability by ending our society’s reliance on fossil fuels and its associated price volatility.”

Stable political, policy and regulatory structures, he says, are vital. “Investors want low risk environments and as things stand, while NIE Networks can attract investment, it is more expensive than it should be because we don’t have the stability that

Moving to the current energy crisis driven by the Ukraine conflict, he says that NIE Networks will do all in its power to work with SONI to avoid the rolling blackouts which have been mentioned in GB.

“In theory, short duration outages for a relatively small number of customers are possible. In practice, they are unlikely this winter,” he says simply. “There is a lot more risk of loss of electricity caused by a big Atlantic storm than there is of outages caused by geo politics. This will change in the future though if we don’t continue to connect new generators to the system, so we can’t take our eyes of this potential problem.”

Looking to the future, Derek Hynes says that NIE Networks aims to build on its reputation as an employer of choice and as a crucial part of the Northern Ireland economy and infrastructure.

“But we’ve also got to be an engine for the drive towards net zero. We know we have a central role to play and we’re ready to play it.”

Eye on News

Henderson Group puts focus on worker wellbeing with week of wellness initiatives

Henderson Group, which employs almost 5,000 people across its companies and stores, recently marked World Mental Health Day with a series of initiatives which not only gave workers the tools to look after their mental wellbeing, but also raised over £5,000 - vital funds for the Group’s charity partner, Action Mental Health.

It brings the total raised for the organisation to over £27,500 since the beginning of the partnership in January.

To kick off the week, and on World Mental Health Day, the Group worked with their charity partner to provide meet and greets across its companies for co-workers to understand the resources available to them through the partnership.

Staff across headquarters in Mallusk also wore purple for the day, alongside their colleagues in Henderson Retail operated stores, with collections going towards the Group total. 15-minute de-stress massages were also available to

the Main Support Office Building employees and retail teams, while two lucky winners also walked away with a Wellness Hamper packed with self-care treats.

Throughout the week, management worked with local wellness experts to create bespoke webinars for teams to log on and view live or in their own time, which included Wellness from Within by inspirational speaker and content creator, Annette Kelly, AKA, Little Penny Thoughts.

Other webinars included Sleep Well by corporate wellness service providers, Relaxa, alongside a Make the Most of Your Money session

by Kith & Kin Financial Wellbeing.

The week was rounded off by a charity truck pull organised by the team at Henderson Foodservice, raising over £1,000 with bucket collections on the day, and further donations via their Crowdfunding page which currently sits at over £350. The funds will be shared between Action Mental Health and PIPS, the suicide prevention charity. The team set off from EUROSPAR Glenwell Road and finished at PIPS’ Antrim Road headquarters after a four-mile pull, completed in under 90 minutes.

Sam Davidson, Group HR Director at Henderson Group commented; “The wellbeing of our employees is the most important priority at Henderson Group, so we want to equip them with the tools that will not only benefit their wellbeing for now, but also tools for the long term - not just for a week.

“Our Wellness Week was an opportunity for our team to get together after a long two years

of remote working and further understand how our partnership with Action Mental Health can also provide useful tools and information for them to avail of. It was an important week with helping raise funds for our charity partner, as well as the truck pull from Henderson Foodservice, which collected additional funds for PIPS.”

Jonathan Smyth, Head of Communications and Fundraising from Action Mental Health added; “We were delighted to work alongside our partners at Henderson Group to help mark World Mental Health Day. The theme for this year was making mental health and wellbeing a priority for all, so it is really encouraging to see one of Northern Ireland’s leading employers place such significance on looking after staff wellbeing. We are also thrilled with the fundraising efforts and the money raised will make a tremendous difference by helping to support our vital mental health services for local people.”

Front Row: Amanda Watson Action Mental Health Fundraising Officer with Henderson Group HR advisors Maria Jennings, Ashley Millar, Amy Carling and Lisa Mulholland. Back Row: Fiona Canavan, Corporate Marketing Assistant at Henderson Group with Jonathan Smyth, Head of Communications and Fundraising at Action Mental Health.

Eye on News

University of Cambridge Extends its Comms Contract with Barclay Communications

One of the UK’s most prestigious Institutions, University of Cambridge has signed an agreement with telecoms provider, Barclay Communications to extend its existing mobile contract for a longer period.

The partnership first emerged in January 2021 with a contract securing £3m in revenue for the local Northern Irish firm and helping to create additional jobs in customer service and technical support roles.

The extension of the original contract will see Barclay Communications continue to provide connectivity and a robust mobile solution to the University of Cambridge’s 31 constituent colleges and 150 departments.

The initial win saw the telecoms firm undergo rigorous procedures, competing against some of the world’s biggest communications providers.

Barclay Communications supports every College across the central departmentsfrom management teams and operations to contracts, procurement and PR. With multiple users located worldwide, the firm offers out-of-hours support services to overseas users.

Managing Director of Barclay Communications, Britt Megahey says, “This partnership

extension is a testament to our customer service team and the hard work they have put in over the last 2 years.

We pride ourselves on offering an exceptional customer experience no matter the organisation’s size. Our team of dedicated Account Managers have years of experience in overseeing telecoms accounts and provide recommendations to ensure customers are getting the best value for money.

We are delighted that the University of Cambridge has agreed to extend its partnership with us and we look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”

Barclay Communications is renowned for its robust and reliable telecoms packages including business mobiles, fixed-line, VoIP and IT services. With 19,000 customers across the UK, the firm has sights set on securing larger-scale contracts like that of University of Cambridge. In the past few years, the family-owned business has been successful

with a number of public sector contracts including the Welsh Parliament and New Forest District Council. In 2022 alone, Barclay Communications has grown its mobile base by 11%

and landline base by 300% and was recently awarded Mid-sized Business of the Year at the AIB Business Eye Awards as well as Reseller of the Year at the Comms Business Awards.

Managing Director of Barclay Communications, Britt Megahey.

on

ENTRIES OPEN FOR 2023 WOMEN IN BUSINESS AWARDS

Now in its 11th year, the awards, sponsored by Virgin Media O2 Business, are an annual celebration of the outstanding achievements of female business leaders in Northern Ireland. The gala evening will be hosted at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast on Thursday 2nd March, 2023, where businesswomen from all sectors will come together to recognise, reward and celebrate the very best of local talent at the only ceremony of its kind in Northern Ireland.

Women in Business Chief Executive, Roseann Kelly, commented: “In the 11 years since launching our Women in Business awards, women have made a

hugely significant contribution to the business community here in Northern Ireland. Our 2023 awards ceremony will act as a celebration of this impact across a wide range of business categories, championing the talent and dedication of local women who have achieved great success in the business sphere.

“As a business community, our aim is to: celebrate, encourage, and inspire women to achieve greater success, by highlighting the amazing talent of businesswomen locally and showcasing them as role models to future leaders. Following last year’s record attendance, I would warmly encourage women to nominate

themselves or a colleague, before the 12 noon deadline on Monday 23rd January 2023.”

The Awards recognise businesswomen from a diverse range of disciplines through 12 categories. The past 10 years has seen winners from a wide range of sectors including media, tourism, technology and the public sector.

Jo Bertram, Managing Director of Business at Virgin Media O2 Business, said: “Virgin Media O2 Business is committed to supporting, empowering and championing women - across our company and the business community. That’s why we’re proudly partnering with Women in Business for the fifth consecutive year and look forward to celebrating the most talented and inspiring female leaders across Northern Ireland.”

More than 500 guests attended 2022’s gala awards dinner,

where CEO of Staffline Ireland Tina McKenzie won Outstanding Business Woman of the Year Award and long-time event host Pamela Ballentine was awarded the Special Lifetime Achievement for her decorated career across broadcast, print and radio.

All finalists will join the Women in Business Award Finalist Alumnae of nearly 300 women which offers the opportunity to network and engage with like-minded business women, enhancing both personal and professional development.

The landmark achievements of Northern Ireland’s businesswomen will be celebrated at the 2023 Women in Business Awards.

Eye on Art

PAUL YATES

Notable Year For Local Artist

Song Of The Golden Dove: is part of a collection first shown in St Paul De Vance, one of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera. St Paul is famous for its modern and contemporary art museums and galleries.

The original was acquired for the exclusive collection of the La Colombe d’Or hotel in the town, the spiritual home and creative crucible or artists such as Chagall, Picasso and Matisse, it is a singular honour for a British artist to be included in this collection.

In this work Yates dressed an old vinyl record bought from a local French market with clotted gold paint and a faux label featuring Folon’s Golden Dove. The background is enhanced with circular depressions made by the twisting of a cork from a bottle of vintage Bollinger champagne.

The second work, Kelly’s Night-Time Flower Poem, was inspired by memories of his daughter Kelly when she was younger, collecting fragments of flora and fauna and placing them in a bottle

of water for display on her bedroom windowsill. During the day the sunlight would stream through the bottle and bring the fragments to life, at night the bottle would be placed by a bedside lamp and turned upside down to create an illuminated kaleidoscope effect.

2022 has been a busy year for Yates with his first UK based exhibition in 12 years being held at the Frazer Gallery in St. Andrews, Scotland, two major online exhibitions and preparation for the release of his selected poems, 1967-2022.

He’s been commissioned by a diverse and discerning client base from corporate collectors to architects and interior designers who are seekers of original works of art which successfully balance his unique creativity and the client’s brief. Unique among contemporary British artists Paul Yates has sustained a highly original and compelling creative output across, poetry, painting and filmmaking for over four decades.

His poetry has been published in several languages, his films

have won various international awards and his paintings feature in important private, public and royal collections.

For more than fifteen years Paul Yates has enjoyed the patronage of the Lord Glentoran, a member of the House of Lords, former Chair of the fundraising group that established Tate Modern and lifelong supporter of various cultural initiatives.

Lord Glentoran describes Yates as having, “A remarkable imagination and the sheer originality of his subject range truly sets him apart”.

Soon attention will turn to new large-scale works, a film and other media by Paul Yates, under the title THREE SCORE AND TEN, to mark his 70th birthday in 2024.

The full collection of original works, prints and information on how to commission Yates are found at www.paulyatesart.com

Eye on Cloud Communications

Radius scoops two major awards at Vodafone Business Awards

Radius Connect and Radius Telematics

teams who go above and beyond to keep their communications systems running smoothly.

Radius, the global mobility and connectivity company with a major business hub in Belfast, has scooped two major awards at this year’s Vodafone Business Awards.

The annual awards, which this year took place at London’s Oxo Tower, recognise the vital contribution and hard work made by their indirect sales partners in supporting local businesses with innovative technology solutions that drive growth and success.

The Radius Telematics division was also named IOT (Internet of Things) partner of the year at this year’s awards in recognition for demonstrating excellence in the implementation of innovative vehicle tracking solutions.

Radius Connect is the UK and Ireland’s fastest growing telecoms company.

The Radius Telematics division was also named IOT (Internet of Things) partner of the year at this year’s awards in recognition for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of internet and cloud-based customer solutions.

Radius Connect Ireland Director Stephen McQuoid said the awards were an acknowledgement of its commitment to serve local companies with cut-through connectivity solutions that build capacity and support expansion.

From telecoms to telematics, Radius has been helping hundreds of local SMEs connect their teams seamlessly and digitally in every region, improving turnaround times, productivity, cost management and project success.

“Our relationship with Vodafone continues to grow as Radius Connect expands across Northern Ireland, driving innovation in businesses and delivering best in class connectivity and mobility solutions.

“We’re proud of our relationship with Vodafone which will continue to develop as they support us in our strategy to provide seamless communications across Great Britain and NI.

“Helping businesses to navigate a sustainable future and solving almost 95 percent of problems in under two hours, our customers stay with us because of our local, qualified support

“They also choose us because we offer a huge choice of providers and brands in every category at market-leading prices and because our knowledgeable associates always recommend the products that best meet the needs of our customers, solving problems rather than just selling specific products.”

Radius Connect has a 30-year heritage as a provider of business telecoms products and services from all the leading networks and providers and includes many of Northern Ireland’s well-known business brands among its growing client base, including CBRE, Hastings Hotels and Parr FM.

With a focus on unifying business communications, and backed by an expanding local team in sales and technical support, Radius Connect integrates everything from mobile telephony, VoIP, business broadband and data hosting to software for security and productivity into tailor-made seamless solutions.

Kathyrn Platt, UK Head of Indirect Business, Vodafone said: “It is wonderful to bring together our key Indirect Partners to celebrate our joint successes and demonstrate the importance of the Indirect channel to Vodafone. It is testament to our partners’ hard work and dedication.”

In a separate major development, Radius has also acquired a majority stake in local energy broker Powerhouse Energy Management (PEM), a company which helps firms across the UK and Ireland optimise their energy usage and provide savings and advice to help businesses run more efficiently.

Its focus on a consultative sales approach, working with customers to find the best energy deal for their business, dovetails with Radius’ approach to find the best solutions for EVs, commercial vehicle hire and leasing, telematics, fuel cards, insurance, and telecoms. PEM helps

businesses choose the right supplier and type of contract for their specific energy needs.

Radius is a global business services company that operates in 18 countries across five continents. With a turnover of more than £3 billion, Radius is one of the largest and fastest growing private companies in the UK and regularly features in the Sunday Times Top Track 100 awards.

For

Stephen McQuoid is Regional Director, Ireland, Radius Connect. Radius Connect is rapidly becoming a leader in business telecoms in the UK and Ireland.

more information on Radius Connect and the wider family group of Radius businesses, visit www.radiusconnectsolutions.com

“We’re proud of our relationship with Vodafone which will continue to develop as they support us in our strategy to provide seamless communications across Great Britain and NI.”

Stephen McQuoid

celebrate ‘best in the business’ recognition for partnership and innovation success.

Eye on Leadership

Home is Where the Heart (of excellence) is, says PwC’s New Head of Northern Ireland

done, of what we can do - and most importantly - what we still want to achieve. And we are not shy about saying it.

Since taking up my post almost six months ago, I’ve had countless conversations with colleagues, with local business owners, with public sector leaders, with Higher and Further Education leaders, political and public figures; and the narrative is the sameNorthern Ireland can and should be a destination for excellence, in skills, in innovation, in technology, in tourism - the list goes on.

The hunger to drive Northern Ireland forward, and to achieve all that it has the potential to, is palpable. And I am committed to supporting that drive. Despite the many challenges we’re all facing at present, both locally and globally, I believe that Northern Ireland has enormous economic potential that’s just waiting to be unlocked.

I’m really excited by the potential we have to combine the passion I am seeing, with the opportunities that exist, particularly around the skills agenda, and net zero transition.

PwC Partner, Cat McCusker, has spent her career helping organisations across the world to transform. As PwC’s new Northern Ireland Regional Market Leader, local woman Cat is focused on bringing this expertise, learning, and passion to the place she calls home. Here, she explains what NI means to her, and how she’s determined to support NI to become a destination for excellence.

The thing that has struck me most, in my new role, is how important Northern Ireland is to the people who call it home.

Having spent many years with PwC, working across the world, leading PwC NI is one of my proudest achievements. And that pride in NI has been reflected everywhere I look.

As a people, we are proud of who we are, of what we have

In my view, one of the most effective ways to accelerate our economic growth is through increased investment in businessled training, and reskilling initiatives; to support the areas which will have the greatest, long-term impact on our productivity, such as AI, technology and green sustainability.

And to that end, I believe we need to grasp the opportunity to reimagine the education sector here. I’m privileged to be PwC UK’s Education Consulting Sector and, with that hat on, it feels to me that NI is perfectly placed to innovate.

We already have a dynamic and engaged education sector, a strong record in academic excellence, and strong links with

Cat McCusker Regional Market Leader at PwC Northern Ireland.

Eye on Leadership

the business community. Our next step should be to harness those strengths to invest in our future, through the leaders of tomorrow.

I’m proud to say that PwC NI already employs around 3,700 people in our Merchant Square office in Belfast city centre. I want to continue to attract new talent into the NI labour market, to bring home some of the talent we lose through limited university places, and attractive lifestyle choices elsewhere.

But I also want to support local businesses to offer, train, and attract the right skills for increased productivity in NI, and to ensure that every teenager leaves school here with the right skills, experience and qualifications to both want to stay in NI, and to drive

our economy forward by doing so.

And while investment in our skills agenda is important, I also believe it’s crucial that we share our story of excellence; of pride, drive and determination, in a much more proactive and positive way.

Northern Ireland is already widely recognised as a business focused region. Belfast has been ranked the second most successful city after London in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) projects from the US, and has over 1,100 international companies investing here.

Indeed, the Belfast Region City Deal is further evidence of our existing excellence and ‘can do’ attitude which makes us so unique.

The City Deal is a catalyst for business growth through research

and development, with critical investment in five universityled innovation and research centres already in the pipeline.

In my view, the time is now for NI. We emanate excellence in all that we do, and we aren’t finished yet. More and more I am hearing, and seeing the need for the private and public sectors here to work collaboratively and this - thankfully - is beginning to happen. But we also need to support and work with our valuable community, voluntary and charity sectors who have done so much to support NI through many of its welldocumented challenges, not least of all during the recent pandemic and current cost of living crisis.

As a business leader I am keen for businesses here to come together

to drive for the economic success of NI. We need to work alongside the government and other stakeholders to drive sustainable change for NI through meaningful collaboration. Only then can we realise our true potential and make NI the go to destination for people, skills and investment.

Together we must enable the NI Executive’s 10x economic report to bear fruit, we need to capitalise on our unique trading position, harness our excellence in fintech, regtech, pharmtech, agri-business and manufacturing, and accelerate our transition to green skills and green jobs.

There’s much to be done. But it’s true to say in NI we love a challenge, and in my opinion, there are no better people to meet it head on.

“Despite the many challenges we’re all facing at present, both locally and globally, I believe that Northern Ireland has enormous economic potential that’s just waiting to be unlocked.”

Eye on News

Industry leaders gather for skills discussion

Kirsty McManus, National Director at the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoDNI) has called for greater collaboration between further and higher education institutions and the business community here in order to achieve the region’s economic goals.

The remarks from the local business leader were made at a roundtable event hosted by the IoDNI and The Open University.

A number of key figures from the trade and business community took part in the discussion which was held in collaboration with The Open University in the city centre’s Merchant Hotel. Jackie Henry, Partner at Deloitte; Mary Meehan, Deputy Chief at Manufacturing NI; MarieThérèse McGivern, Non-Executive Director; Carol Fitzsimmons, CEO, Young Enterprise NI and Dr. Lynsey Quinn of The Open University, were all involved in the debate which looked at the direction of skills in Northern Ireland as well as how to open opportunities within this area.

Each of the contributors were asked what could be done to address Northern Ireland’s historic skills shortages and while it was clear no one intervention would remedy the situation overnight, Kirsty McManus suggested that “strategic and expertly planned collaboration

would help maximize the true potential of the local economy and a childcare strategy would open up greater opportunities.”

Answering the same question Dr. Lynsey Quinn, Senior Skills and Partnerships Manager with The Open University in Ireland put forward the case for a greater focus on employability.

“The future workforce is reliant on emerging talent having a robust sense of selfleadership; critical thinking and decision-making abilities and strong interpersonal skills in order to meet the demands and opportunities of an ever-evolving digital world. We need to see greater emphasis on lifelong learning and encouraging the workforce to not lose an appetite to learn but to want to develop their skills at all stages of their careers and ensure the structures

are in place in workplaces to allow the workforce to do so.

“Each of today’s contributors has brought new and exciting ideas to the table and it is encouraging to hear that these business leaders want to work in closer partnership with education providers, such as The Open University, to meet their upskilling and reskilling needs and maintaining a culture of learning and development within their respective organisations.”

Rounding off the discussion, Kirsty McManus reaffirmed the IoD’s position that it would continue to act as an intermediary between the business community and further and higher education outlets to tackle employers’ concerns around skills and protect work done to date through the existing Skills Strategy.

“Change best comes about through dialogue and partnership,

so this event has been a welcome first step for these organisations to come together and focus on the skills they need to fulfill their growth ambitions.

“It is positive that all partners have agreed to continue this discussion and we hope that by bringing this group of business leaders together we have created a forum which, in the absence of a functioning executive, will continue to put pressure on decision makers not to renege on commitments already made in the existing Northern Ireland Skills Strategy and resource and endorse this even further.”

“Thanks must go to all of our contributors for taking the time to engage with this event and for sharing their ideas so enthusiastically.”

Skills policy briefing session ‘Opening Opportunities - discussing the direction of skills in Northern Ireland’ hosted in partnership by The Open University and The IoD. Pictured L-R is Jackie Henry, Deloitte; Dr. Lynsey Quinn, The Open University; Kirsty McManus, IoDNI; Mary Meehan, Manufacturing NI and Maire-Therese McGivern, NED.

TechEye

Sponsored By

All Change On Twitter

Twitter Blue’s additional features include an edit button. This has long been a feature requested by many Twitter users, although there are others who argue that it increases the potential for the spread of disinformation, if a tweet is altered after being widely shared.

Blue-tick subscribers will also see fewer ads, have their tweets amplified above others, and be able to post and view longer, better quality videos, the platform says. Previously a blue tick was used as verification tool for high-profile accounts as a badge of authenticity. It was given out by Twitter for free - but only the firm itself decided who got one. Elon Musk argues that this was unfair.

Those who had a blue tick under the previous regime currently still have them, but now some of these users also have a message which appears if the tick is pressed saying the account is a “legacy

verified account” and “may or may not be notable”. However, those check marks will now eventually be replaced with either gold (for businesses) or grey (for others such as authorities) badges, according to Twitter’s own account.

Under the new system, subscribers who change their names or display photos will lose their blue tick until the account has been reviewed by Twitter.

Fake accounts

The service had a chaotic initial launch in November, when people started impersonating big brands and celebrities and paying for the bluetick badge in order to make them look authentic. Many pretended to be Elon Musk himself.

In one instance, a user claiming to be the US pharmaceutical firm Eli Lilly tweeted “insulin is free”, causing the real firm’s share price to tumble

- however, Eli Lilly has since agreed that insulin prices could indeed be lower. Having said that, anecdotally, quite a few accounts appeared to take the opportunity to subscribe for legitimate reasons.

Twitter changes

Elon Musk has made a number of sweeping changes since he took over Twitter at the end of October after buying it for $44bn (£38bn). He said the firm was operating at a loss of $4m per day, and that it needed to become profitable.

He has laid-off around half its workforce, introduced bedrooms at Twitter HQ in San Francisco for the remaining staff working long hours, and begun re-instating controversial banned accounts, including the rapper Ye (Kanye West), former US president Donald Trump and influencer Andrew Tate.

Measures in the code of practice include sufficiently highlighting app security updates, providing privacy and security information to users clearly, and creating channels for security experts to report vulnerabilities.

For the next nine months, the government will work with app companies such as Google, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft and Samsung to encourage the adoption of the app rules.

It follows months of consultation with industry experts to establish an app code of practice.

“We’ve already strengthened our laws to boost security in consumers’ digital devices and the telecoms networks we rely on. Today we are taking steps to get app stores and developers to keep customers even safer in the online world,” said Julia Lopez, UK Government Cyber Minister.

App developers signing up to the government rules will agree to share security and privacy in a “user-

friendly way”. Apps must still work even if optional permissions are not accepted, while app stores must have a security screening process.

While the app code is currently voluntary, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is reviewing whether to extend current laws to the app space and whether regulation is needed to make the rules mandatory.

Paul Maddinson, NCSC director of national resilience and strategy, said: “By signing up to this code of practice, developers and operators can demonstrate how they are delivering security as standard, as well as protect users from malicious actors and vulnerable apps.”

Eye on TechEye

Security – What’s In Store For 2023 (& Beyond)?

Cybersecurity is already one of the biggest pain points for businesses, although there are many pain pionts in the current climate. The problem is that cyber-criminal activity often outpaces business security efforts, resulting in a requirement for teams to constantly adapt to an ever-evolving threat landscape.

Now, faced with new macroeconomic issues, such as the continued financial instability, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the impact on the cyber landscape has been unprecedented. Globally, cyber attacks increased by 125% between 2021 and 2022 – accelerated by the pandemic – and this upward trend will likely continue into 2023.

For years, ransomware – a highly scalable attack where criminals lock up crucial files and demand payment to release them – has been cited as the number one threat to businesses. The resulting impact can be financially destructive.

Ransomware “as a service” organisations are commodifying the software and malware required for successfully executing attacks, and as a result the technical bar of entry for criminal groups lowers. This means we will see an increasing number of smaller criminal groups targeting the industries’ critical infrastructure.”

Threat actors revisit familiar tricks, such as phishing, credential theft and social engineering. As we enter a new cold war, we can expect to see increased offensive and defensive cyber capabilities from governments around the globe. This will result in more threats to national infrastructure, and an expanded definition of what is included in this group.

The metaverse ushers in a new

era of cyber threats, unleashing opportunities for new types of cybercrime. An individual’s avatar is essentially a gateway to their personally identifiable information, making them prime targets for attackers. Individuals can purchase goods and services in virtual cities, meaning digital wallets, crypto exchanges, NFTs and any currencies used to transact all present new attack surfaces to threat actors.

As more businesses begin to interact in Web3 environments, organisations need to take a step back and develop a strategy that prioritises secure interactions between people and customers.

At a minimum, businesses should be verifying the identity of online meeting participants by scanning official ID documents, before allowing them to join online interactions.

Businesses are increasingly moving operations to the cloud in a bid to increase efficiency and reduce costs. According to Gartner, the global spend on public cloud will reach $600 billion next year. However, for successful migration, Cloud security will need to be top of the agenda. While cloud security was once considered a dedicated cyber discipline, it is now completely synonymous with basic cybersecurity – and organisations are leveraging the intersectionality of cloud-based architectures to ensure greater confidence.

The proliferation of highly

sophisticated and intricately rehearsed ransomware attacks highlights the need for businesses to be one step ahead. Indeed, Some expect to see concerted efforts to break down the billiondollar ransomware business model in the year ahead. Taking a proactive security approach means consistently monitoring for emerging threats to pre-empt security weaknesses and implementing controls before they occur.

Some argue that cyber risk governance will be a top priority for business leaders dealing with higher stakes and fragile corporate reputations. Boards will need to have a much clearer role and responsibility when it comes to the process of ensuring adequate controls and reporting cyber attacks. When it comes to cyber, plausible deniability is dead.

Businesses will be prioritising how they can hold their data as securely as possible. Web domains are one of an organisation’s most valuable assets – often holding the keys to the entire company’s data and information… Portfolios must be audited to identify risk, and any domain name that carries business infrastructure, such as client data, must have the appropriate security measures in place to protect assets from a data breach or attack.

Malicious activity is often hidden within encrypted traffic on networks,

making it more challenging for teams to identify and respond to cybercrime at speed. As these attacks continue to rise, and encryption becomes fundamentally integrated into complex organisational networks, enterprises will be compelled to change their approach from decryption towards behavioural analysis for detection.

One easy way to boost cyber defences is to ensure cybersecurity professionals are equipped with up-to-date skills. Businesses need to empower employees and close gaps in security systems in 2023 through continuous learning opportunities to keep their IT teams up to date with the latest cyber threats. A robust training programme needs to teach the fundamentals of endpoint security, data security, network security, identity management and application security.

2023 will be a challenging year for many businesses – ongoing economic pressures and the rising level of criminals looking to prey on the vulnerable heighten the need for strong cybersecurity defences. Cyber responsibility spans the whole organisation, from board level to the employees on the ground. Those companies that prioritise education, constant re-evaluation of defences and new attack vectors will be ready to intercept attacks, protect their corporate reputation and mitigate costly financial penalties.

The downward spiral of FTX and its former CEO, the ‘King of Crypto’, has attracted massive media attention and thrust conversations about cryptocurrency back into the spotlight.

But for many, the language of crypto - bitcoin, blockchain, crypto exchange - still remains cryptic.

If you’re hearing these words for the first time or are simply in need of a refresher, here are a few key terms and what they mean...

Bitcoin

Bitcoin is a type of digital currency (cryptocurrency). Similar to traditional

currencies, like the dollar, pound or euro, there are many types of digital currencies. Other popular ones include Ethereum and Dogecoin. Unlike traditional currencies, though, Bitcoin is not backed or controlled by centralised financial institutions. Instead, it is decentralised. This makes it popular for people who think decentralisation can bring financial freedom, but it also makes it extremely volatile - rising and falling in value at the whim of Bitcoin buyers and sellers.

Blockchain

This is the biggie. Blockchain is the technology underpinning all cryptocurrencies, and many other products like NFTs (Non Fungible Tokens). All of the buying, selling and trading of cryptocurrencies is recorded onto this virtual spreadsheet, which is arranged in blocks linked together

in a giant chain. Every cryptocurrency transaction is individually recorded onto the blockchain by a huge network of volunteers verifying its authenticity by using computer programmes. Since the blockchain is decentralised, it’s not stored on one machine or network or owned by one company. The information is accessible to everyone.

Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is the term used for digital currencies like Bitcoin that exist on the blockchain.

Crypto Exchange

A crypto exchange is the digital platform where investors can buy, sell and trade cryptocurrencies. Similar to traditional investing, a crypto exchange acts as a brokerage where people can transfer traditional money, like pounds or dollars,

from their banks into cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. Most transactions are accompanied by fees.

Crypto Wallet

Cryto Currency –What Does It Mean? Cyber Security Knowledge Gap –It’s Still An Issue

A crypto wallet is a place where investors hold their cryptocurrency. It stores the virtual assets much like a traditional wallet holds cash. There are two types, a hot wallet and a cold wallet. Hot wallets are connected to the internet, and thus more accessible for quick transfers and easy access. Cold wallets are physical devices like specially designed USBs that store crypto offline typically for safer and longer term storage.

Helpful? It might be some day...

Almost half of UK businesses have a basic cyber security gap that is leaving them exposed. This stark reality was revealed in a report from the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

It found that the people responsible for cyber security in 48% of UK businesses lack the confidence to carry out basic tasks and are not receiving support from external cyber security providers. So, if your inhouse person isn’t confident in doing basic security tasks and you’re not seeking support, just who is checking that your business systems are secure, and your data hasn’t been compromised?

Many SMEs are unprepared for the cybersecurity threats lurking online, believing they are too small to be a target. The reality is that almost half of UK businesses suffered a cyber security breach or attack in 2019/2020[ii]. Most cyber criminals are looking for a quick payday. If an attack has worked well, they will keep repeating it. That is why phishing scams, where attackers send fraudulent messages to trick a person into revealing sensitive data, remain the most common type of attack that organisations face, with 90% of all data breaches involving phishing[iii].

SMEs need to understand that cybercrime is an organised and profitable

business, albeit an illegal and morally bankrupt one. Cyber criminals want a swift financial return on their activities and purposely go after soft targets. SMEs are seen as easy victims because they are less likely to have sufficient security in place to protect their systems and data. Hackers are after the information that SMEs store on their customers and suppliers, such as credit card numbers, bank account details etc. They will either use this themselves or sell it on the dark web to the highest bidder.

Credit card, identity and cyber fraud is costing the UK up to £190bn a year[iv]. According to UK think tank the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), fraud has reached epidemic levels and should be seen as a national security issue. While the profits keep rolling in, cybercriminals will continue their attacks and the sooner SMEs understand this, the sooner they can get serious about security and start protecting themselves more effectively.

The most common cyber security skills gaps identified in the report are in:

•Configuring firewalls

•Performing patching

•Storing or transferring personal data

•Detecting and removing malware.

Cyber security tasks are laid out in the government-endorsed Cyber Essentials (CE) scheme which was designed to help protect UK organisations from the most common cyber threats. These fundamental tasks are the foundation to good security.

The scheme sets out basic technical controls for organisations to use. It also lays the foundation to developing policies and procedures to mitigate against threats that can impact business operations. The benefit to being CE compliant is that it mitigates 80% of the risks faced by businesses such as phishing, malware infections, social engineering attacks and hacking.

Taking the first steps in tackling cyber security can be daunting but the ramifications of not doing so can be devastating to your business. Cyberattacks and data breaches are often financially crippling for SMEs to resolve. In addition to remediation costs there is also the loss of customers, suppliers and business reputation, plus fines for breaching GDPR data protection rules.

But the best advice? Talk to your IT supplier/adviser...or, if you don’t have one, get one.

An Amazon Christmas Story

In the waning shopping days of 2014, the retailer was preparing to promote its deal of the day: the Amazon Kindle, delivered just in time for Christmas. Then it discovered a problem: Stock was running low within driving distance of Seattle, where the company is headquartered. Amazon turned to UPS to airlift more e-readers to the city, but with the holiday shopping season in full swing, the parcel service was unwilling to divert more planes to appease its increasingly demanding client. Amazon, it appeared, would not be able to deliver its signature device to shoppers in its own backyard.

The prospect of failure was unbearable for executives steeped in Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’ doctrine of customer obsession, according to a former employee. They were also still haunted by the nightmare of the previous Christmas, when a mass of packages landed late on the doorsteps of aggrieved holiday shoppers. But the 2013 fiasco had largely been due to ground transportation issues. This latest crisis was an air problem. While Amazon had spent the previous year building up its network of sortation centers to streamline

delivery via trucks, the company depended entirely on FedEx and UPS to fly most of its packages around the United States. If those carriers couldn’t keep up with demand, Amazon wouldn’t be able to honor its Prime “promise” to ship any imaginable commodity to tens of millions of households within two days.

Worried about a second straight holiday season meltdown, Dave Clark, then Amazon’s head of worldwide operations, ordered his transportation team to rustle up some airplanes, fast, according to a former employee. Scott Ruffin, a former marine logistics officer who handled procurement for the sortation centers, reached out to everyone he knew in the

industry and eventually helped charter enough planes to fly Kindles to Seattle from far-flung fulfillment centers. Christmas was saved. But what about next year, and the year after that? Amazon decided it needed more control over its destiny. It needed its own air network. Amazon is famous—or infamous—for its breakneck pace of innovation and data-driven efforts to squeeze every drop of productivity out of workers. Its drivers are reported to operate on punishing schedules, its warehouse workers are timed to the second, and the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration has launched multiple probes into conditions at its warehouses. At the same time, its corporate values are hallowed within the company walls. “Jeff Bezos came down from the mountain with 12 leadership principles,” jokes a former staffer. They urge a “bias for action,” declaring that “speed matters” and “many decisions and actions are reversible and do not need extensive study.”

The aviation world moves more slowly. Airport space is difficult to come by; cargo jets are enormously expensive to convert and operate. (“You know how you become a millionaire

in the air business?” quips one aviation veteran. “You start with a billion dollars.”) Running an air cargo service requires compliance with government regulations covering security, labor relations, and most important of all, safety, designed to prevent accidents and loss of life.

But Amazon has managed to build its own sizable cargo service in just a few years, helping it to dramatically decrease its reliance on UPS and FedEx.

(FedEx eventually terminated its Amazon contracts in 2019.) The company now owns 11 planes and leases about 100 others, flown by seven air carriers that make more than 200 flights a day out of 71 airports, including a European hub near Leipzig, Germany. This fleet, known as Amazon Air, flies orders from fulfillment centers to customers when items are stored too far away to transport by truck, the company says. Last year, Amazon opened a $1.5 billion air hub at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)—among the largest capital investments in the company’s history. As a result, nearly threequarters of Americans in the continental US live within 100 miles of an Amazon airport, according to a September report by DePaul University.

2014 was rapidly approaching, and Amazon was facing a crisis.

Eye on Law

The digitalisation of retail

see themselves using the metaverse for experiences. Getting this balance wrong could damage a retailer’s reputation on this and other channels. Another area of debate, and therefore potential risk, is the relationship between the metaverse and the environment. While a fifth (20%) of retailers believe the metaverse is part of the solution to environmental issues such as climate change, 18% say it is part of the problem. This is due to the energy required to maintain servers across the world. Almost two thirds (62%) aren’t sure, but the long-term impact does need to be considered in a world where energy sources are scarce.

New ways to pay

While there are still many questions about why and how to use the metaverse, millions of consumers are flocking to these virtual worlds to spend their time and money.

Creators include everyone from affordable fashion brands to fast food chains and high street banks.

Our latest research among the UK’s top 100 retailers looks at the importance of technology to retailers’ growth strategies, including the metaverse, NFTs, data protection and payments.

Meta mismatch

Demonstrating the importance of digital channels to brand awareness and sales, almost a

third (30%) of retailers describe themselves as an “innovator” or “early adopter” when it comes to adopting new consumerfacing technology. Furthermore, 12% are already using the metaverse and two fifths (39%) plan to in the future.

However, there is a mismatch between how retailers and consumers plan to use the metaverse. The top use cases for retailers are marketing (35%), engagement (31%) and clubs and communities (29%), while only 27% see themselves creating experiences such as games and virtual classes.

In comparison, an overwhelming majority (72%) of consumers

Digitalisation has led to an increase in novel payment methods, with ‘buy now, pay later’ (BNPL) growing in popularity largely due to squeezed consumer wallets and cashflow issues. BNPL is set to become even more prolific, with more retailers planning to offer it in the future (58% vs 42% today).

While buying goods on credit isn’t new, BNPL is quick and easy and two thirds (64%) of retailers are worried about customers getting into too much debt. It can be an effective way of helping customers to sensibly manage their cashflow, but retailers will need to ensure they have sufficient protections in place and keep up to date with the latest regulatory developments in this area.

Protecting data

Data underpins retailers’ ability to operate in digital landscapes. However, as the range of digital channels and functionality grows, managing vast amounts of data can become harder and our research suggests that data protection is struggling to compete with other priorities. Only a fifth (21%) of retailers say GDPR compliance is a top priority for their business with exec-level sponsorship.

Despite identifying several areas for improvement, the majority (60%) of retailers say their investment in data protection is staying the same as opposed to going up. Now is a good time for retailers to review their risk exposure –including in line with recent changes to international data transfer law – and ensure their policies and processes are effective and kept up to date.

Retailers can rarely afford to ignore new trends; success will lie in finding ways to minimise the uncertainty that comes with new technologies and pinpointing the opportunities.

Download a free copy of the report at tlt.com

Judith

The digitalisation of retail shows no signs of stopping, with the metaverse becoming the latest technology to challenge conventional ideas about how to promote a brand and engage with consumers.

Eye on News

Belfast City Airport Announces Arrival

Of Lufthansa With Route To Germany

Germany’s flag carrier airline, Lufthansa, has announced it will commence operations at Belfast City Airport.

The airline, which is one of Europe’s largest, is entering the Northern Irish market for the first time and will operate flights from Belfast City Airport to Frankfurt, Germany, from 23rd April 2023.

This will be the only direct air link between Northern Ireland and Germany.

Katy Best, Commercial Director at Belfast City Airport which is located only five minutes from Belfast City centre, commented:

“Attracting an airline such as Lufthansa to Northern Ireland that will provide the only route from the region to Germany is a major win for, not only the airport, but the wider tourism and business industry.

“With Germany being the third-largest market for overseas tourism to the island of Ireland, there is a clear demand for direct connectivity.”

Flights to Frankfurt with Lufthansa will operate up to four times a week, giving both leisure and business passengers exceptional choice and convenience when travelling to the global hub.

Katy continued:

“Frankfurt is an important city for commerce, culture, and tourism, and its airport is one of the busiest in Europe.

“As a base for Lufthansa, Frankfurt is a key destination in its network and gives passengers an attractive option for connecting flights to markets further afield.

“Lufthansa’s commitment to excellent customer service and great value makes it a superb fit for Belfast City Airport, and we look forward to welcoming passengers travelling to Frankfurt and beyond to the terminal.”

Dr Frank Wagner, General Manager Sales, UK, Ireland and Iceland for Lufthansa Group, said:

“We are excited to announce the addition of Belfast City Airport to Lufthansa’s global network

the inaugural flight to Frankfurt on 23rd April 2023.

“This new nonstop connection will bring Northern Ireland much closer to Frankfurt and to the heart of Western Europe. Connecting passengers will enjoy a convenient and full service connection beyond our hub to our vast network of over 200 destinations in summer 2023.”

Flights to Frankfurt will be operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays by an Embraer aircraft and will offer both Business and Economy class services.

Fares start at £155 return and are on sale now at lufthansa.com

with

Ann McGregor, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce (far left), Katy Best, George Best Belfast City Airport (left), Mel Chittock, Invest NI (right), and MarionLübbeke (far right) welcoming the news that Lufthansa will commence operations in Northern Ireland in 2023. The airline will operate four flights per week from Belfast City Airport to Frankfurt, providing the only air link between Northern Ireland and Germany.

Get closer to what’s important

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Eye on Employment Law

Holiday Entitlement For Part Year/Casual Workers

The Supreme Court held in the case Harpur Trust v Brazel that a part-year worker’s paid holiday entitlement under the Working Time Regulations (the ‘WTR’) should not be pro-rated to that of a full time worker to take account of weeks in which no work is done.

This decision surprised many employers as it means that a worker, who only works part of the year, under a permanent contract, is entitled to the same holiday entitlement as a worker who works all year round.

The Case

Ms Brazel was a music teacher at a school run by Harpur Trust. She only worked during term time and worked a variable number of hours each week, depending on the number of students needing lessons. She was only paid for the hours that she taught.

Harpur Trust adopted the ACAS percentage method of calculating holiday pay. This involved calculating the number of hours Ms Brazel had worked at the end of each term and taking 12.07% of that figure multiplied by the hourly rate to calculate holiday pay. 12.07% is the percentage that 5.6 weeks (the annual holiday entitlement under WTR) is to the total working year of 46.4 weeks.

Harpur Trust therefore treated Ms Brazel as only entitled to holiday pay of 12.07% of the hours actually worked by her.

Ms Brazel disputed this method of calculation and brought a claim for unlawful deductions of wages before the Employment Tribunal.

Following various appeals,

the matter proceeded to the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court held that there is no requirement under EU law or under the WTR to pro-rate the leave entitlement of a part-year worker on a permanent contract. Ms Brazel was entitled to 5.6 weeks’ holiday per year and, to calculate her pay for that leave, the employer must calculate her average weekly earnings across the appropriate reference period immediately prior to the holiday. When carrying out this averaging calculation, the employer must discount any weeks where there was no pay (such as the school holiday weeks), and substitute these with

earlier weeks where there was remuneration. The fact that this means that part year workers get a more generous holiday entitlement relative to full year workers does not infringe the legislation. Legislation prevents less favourable treatment of part time employees, but does not prevent more favourable treatment of such workers.

Implications for Employers

Many employers will not appreciate that, regardless of the period of a year that is worked, that workers, engaged under permanent contracts, will be entitled to 5.6 weeks’ paid holiday. Employers should carry out an audit of part year workers and casual workers as this case has significant

implications for holiday entitlement and pay for those groups if they are engaged under permanent contracts. Employers should seek to put in place arrangements that comply with the Supreme Court decision and take steps to address any potential historic liability. Given the complexity of this area, legal advice should be sought.

Julie Anne Clarke

Partner

Elliott Duffy Garrett

Eye on Employment Law

Law Society Welcomes New President

The new president took up his post on 30th November 2022 with a promise to continue to represent the interests of solicitors throughout Northern Ireland and to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Commenting he said: “It is a great honour and privilege to take up the role as President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland and to serve the membership. Under my Presidency it is my intention to support our members and to promote the excellence of our profession at home and abroad. I will continue to underscore the importance of access to justice and the network of solicitor firms across Northern Ireland who provide the community with advice and access to a solicitor of their choice. I recognise that there are challenges ahead as well as many opportunities to showcase the invaluable work and legal services provided by Northern Ireland legal firms”.

The Law Society of Northern Ireland has welcomed Brian Archer as its new President.

David A. Lavery CB, Chief Executive, Brigid Napier, Senior Vice President, Brian Archer, President, and Darren Toombs, Junior Vice President.

Eye on Employment Law

Dyslexia discrimination in the workplace

A recent case involving the dismissal of a dyslexic M&S employee, who has gone on to successfully sue the retail giant for disability discrimination and unfair dismissal, brings into focus the complexities of disability employment issues and the damage it can cause a business if approached the wrong way.

In this case, the employee was dismissed from her employment for “appearing to rush her work” and making “repeated inaccuracies in her emails and other written work”. The tribunal in the case ruled that her managers had ignored the impact her dyslexia had on her working life.

What is a disability and is dyslexia a disability?

In this case, understanding that the employee’s dyslexia amounted to a disability was the first challenge. It’s important for employers and line managers to understand that disabilities can be hidden, invisible and difficult to diagnose. This is not helped by the rigid definition of disability defined by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (the DDA): a physical or mental impairment which has a long-term and substantial effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

There is no schedule or pro forma ‘tick box’ exercise to determine whether a person has a disability, and it can often be more complex, in particular when it comes to hidden disabilities like dyslexia. Many employees with dyslexia may not share details of their condition and may even have become accustomed to hiding it.

However, the fact of an employee not sharing details of their dyslexia with an employer does not means that it will not amount to a disability, or that the employer is not required to take any steps to address it. If an employee’s dyslexia is such that it has an adverse impact on their ability to carry out day-to-day activities, they will be

protected under the DDA and their employer will have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace to help them perform their duties if they knew of or ought reasonably to have been aware of it. Failure to do so could result in a discrimination claim.

Practical steps for employers

The law on disability discrimination is complex, but an employer’s starting point should be ensuring they are providing the right kind of support to help employees carry out their duties. If a workplace issue arises (commonly this will be performance or attendance related in the context of disability), employers are advised to take an enquiring approach to the issues to identify if there could be an underlying condition causing the problems. For dyslexic employees who may struggle to talk about the condition or its impact, an employer who takes an interest and asks questions could create a safe space for them to share information that will be important to unlocking the support that is needed. Employers should also remember that they are not expected to be medical experts, so should seek medical advice when required, such as from the employee’s GP or an occupational health doctor.

Reasonable adjustments for people suffering from dyslexia

For employers who have employees suffering from dyslexia, there are a number of adjustments that could be taken to ensure an accessible, inclusive and equal workplace.. Examples of reasonable adjustments might include:

• Allowing employees to record meetings instead of taking notes

• Allowing an employee to communicate in bullet points rather than full sentences,

• Providing a ‘buddy’ to proof read documents

• Allowing employees more time on deadlines

This is not a definitive list and employers should consider reasonable adjustments and make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

Employers should also be mindful of their duty to make reasonable adjustments in respect of recruitment exercises. Aspects of a selection process, such as aptitude tests or written exercises could have an adverse impact on a candidate with dyslexia, so employers may have to consider adjustments to their process to avoid any substantial disadvantage to that candidate in comparison with those who are not disabled.

In conclusion, increasing

awareness around different types of disabilities and the impact they can have on someone’s every-day life is becoming all the more important for employers and employees, particularly in the context of hidden disabilities like dyslexia. It is famously said that knowledge is power, and this is never more important when managing disability in the workplace. Communication, education and training on employer equality duties and the impact of medical conditions, physical and mental is key to ensuring that an employer is taking the right steps to comply with their legal duties and ensure that disabled employees can be supported and thrive in the workplace.

Leeanne Armstrong, legal director in law firm TLT’s employment team

Eye on Law

Tughans Invests In Future With New Headquarters In The Ewart

Located at Bedford Square in Belfast, the firm’s new office space spans approximately 23,000 sq. ft. across the 11th and 12th floors, boasting enviable panoramic views across the city.

Tughans is one of Northern Ireland’s largest commercial law firms, providing specialist legal advice across all business sectors. The firm has been recognised as the most active law firm in Northern Ireland in each of the last seven years by the Experian MarketIQ M&A League Table, having advised on deals worth over £1bn in each of the last five years.

From Tughans’ inception over 125 years ago to the progressive

firm it is today, the Ewart was a perfect fit. Based in the heart of the city’s historic Linen Quarter, the former Ewart’s warehouse on Bedford Street has recently undergone an £85m restoration of the Grade B+ listed site, with the addition of a 17-storey new build extension.

Built by property developers, MRP, The Ewart has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating, making it Belfast’s most sustainable new building. The redevelopment of The Ewart has merged a historic building imbedded in the fabric of Belfast with a dynamic, cuttingedge work environment that will redefine the city skyline.

Patrick Brown, Managing Partner at Tughans commented on the move, “This is a hugely exciting time for our firm, as we move our headquarters to The Ewart on Bedford Square. The success of the firm has been built on exceptional people, doing market leading work, for high quality clients but our previous office has not been reflective of that. The world class facilities in the Ewart very closely align with our own ambition for the future and will support both our continued growth and development of our culture of intelligence, collaboration, and innovation.”

Dave Jones, Head of Real Estate at Tughans, said, “The move to The Ewart is a natural one for Tughans, as the firm expands, we have outgrown our offices in Victoria Street, and we’re delighted to be taking up residence in one of the most sustainable and

digitally connected buildings in the city. As we work with clients to reach their environmental goals, the new offices’ environmental credentials were instrumental in our decision to move our headquarters to the tower.”

Welcoming Tughans to The Ewart, Stephen Surphlis, Managing Director of MRP, said:

“Tughans are one of Belfast’s most respected and established legal practices and I would like to welcome them to our award-winning development. At 17-storeys high, the modern tower building features panoramic views across Belfast and provides its community of tenants with a dynamic working environment which supports their wellbeing and offers extensive facilities to encourage active travel. Tughans arrival means that The Ewart is now over two-thirds let and on course to be fully let in early 2023.”

Dave Jones, Partner at Tughans; Patrick Brown, Managing Partner at Tughans; Kathy McGillie, Partner at Tughans; Paul Beacom, Development Director at MRP and Toby McMurray, Partner at Tughans.

Eye on Law

DWF EXPANDS BELFAST TEAM

The Belfast office of DWF, the global provider of integrated legal and business services, has further expanded, through several senior lateral hire appointments to the commercial team, including three partners, a new director and two senior associates.

In the last six months, DWF has also recruited 26 legal professionals to its Belfast office, with positions including support staff, paralegals, trainee solicitors, newly qualified and senior solicitors. The latest recruitment drive takes DWF’s total workforce in Northern Ireland to 120.

Central to this growth has been the expansion of the Real Estate team, which now boasts over 20 legal professionals in Belfast. The established team advises on some of Northern Ireland’s most highprofile property transactions.

Mark Blair has been appointed as a Real Estate Partner and will join the Belfast Real Estate leadership team alongside Julie Galbraith, Mark Tinman and Kirsty Mairs. A former joint head of Shoosmiths in Belfast, Mark is one of Northern Ireland’s most experienced commercial property lawyers. A specialist in institutional investment work he has acted on some of Northern Ireland’s largest commercial property investment transactions.

Amanda Byrnes, formerly of Tughans, has also been appointed as a Senior Associate, joining the Real Estate Occupier team. Amanda specialises in advising retail tenants on their property portfolios in Northern Ireland, England and Wales.

Toby Askin, Global Practice Head of Real Estate at DWF said:

“I am absolutely delighted to have Mark join us. He is a quality operator, experienced in a range

of asset classes and will bring additional capability to our growing pan-European Investment and Development team.”

Also joining DWF as a Partner is Olivia O’Kane who is leading the Technology, Media, Communications, Cyber Security and Data Privacy disputes team. Dual qualified and a former partner in Carson McDowell, Olivia brings 18 years of experience along with her specialism in TMC and Data Privacy to DWF’s all-island client base.

Scott Kennedy has been appointed a Partner in the Corporate team, advising on the full spectrum of corporate finance transactions. A former Partner at Millar McCall Wylie and with 25 years’ legal experience, Scott’s specialist interest is in start-ups, early stage, and technology-based companies.

Caroline McNally has been appointed as a Director specialising in Commercial Law. She will advise DWF’s public and private sector

clients on the planning, negotiation, drafting and reviewing of a broad range of commercial and IT contracts.

Further bolstering the senior team, Real Estate finance expert, Emma Copeland, has joined the Finance and Restructuring team as a Senior Associate from Carson McDowell. Emma will work with Orla Hanna, Director, advising several local banking and finance clients.

The news of DWF’s Belfast recruitment coincides with DWF Groups’ half year results which have shown a strong first half performance, achieved against a challenging macro-economic backdrop. Net revenue is up by 3.4% and the business remains focussed on attracting and retaining top industry talent.

Julie Galbraith, Executive Partner of DWF in Belfast, said: “DWF is recognised as a business innovator and continues to attract the best talent in a competitive legal market. The continued

investment in our people – across all levels – is significant, timely and speaks volumes for the strength of our business and breadth of our service offering.

“I am delighted to welcome our senior hires, who will complement our leading teams in Belfast with their additional experience and specialisms. Our people are the key to ensuring we deliver premium legal advice with commercial intelligence, industry sector relevant experience and excellent client service.

“We are very positive about the future and will continue to invest in both the best legal talent, and market leading technologies, positioning us to advise, steer and support our rapidly expanding client base. We listen to our clients and there is a growing desire for legal and business services to be delivered in an easier and more efficient way. So, we’ve built our business and designed our range of services on this principle.”

(L-R) Mark Blair, Julie Galbraith, Executive Partner, Scott Kennedy & Olivia O’Kane.

Eye on Law

Cleaver Fulton Rankin Appoints Four New Directors

Commercial law firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of four new directors. In recognition of their exceptional achievements and dedication to delivering excellent client service, lawyers Anna McClimonds and Brendan Martyn have been promoted from Associate Director to Director. Anna McClimonds, Director in the Dispute Resolution department, joined Cleaver Fulton Rankin in 2011 and advises on a range of commercial litigation matters including contractual disputes, debt recovery, contentious construction, and procurement.

Director, Brendan Martyn, is a Planning & Environmental Law specialist who is qualified to practice in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and England & Wales. Brendan acts for both public and private sector clients across

the renewables, minerals and waste sectors and has specialist expertise in planning, renewable energy, and commercial development projects.

Directors, Patrick O’Hanlon and Stuart Sproule were recruited to the law firm in September 2022. Patrick joined Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s Commercial Real Estate team from a national law firm and brings with him over 15 years’ experience in the Property industry with specialisms in acquisitions, disposals, property finance, leasing and structuring development land deals. Stuart is the latest addition to the firm’s Corporate & Commercial team, having most recently worked as in-house Legal Counsel for Danske Bank. Stuart has worked for a number of commercial law firms in both London and Belfast and specialises in mergers and acquisitions, finance and banking, and commercial contracts.

Jonathan Forrester, Managing Director at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, comments: “We are pleased to announce the appointments of Anna, Brendan, Patrick and Stuart as Directors in our firm. Each brings a wealth of

experience in their respective practice areas and they will undoubtedly play a key role in our leadership team as we continue to expand our marketleading legal services and look forward to our 130th year in business.”

McKees Welcomes One Of NI’s Leading Licensing Lawyers As New Partner

Belfast-based commercial law firm McKees has announced the appointment of a new partner, Linus Murray, who joins the firm’s expanding corporate and commercial team. With an expertise in licensing and a strong track record in commercial law, Linus brings with him over 20

years’ experience which will enhance McKees already extensive client offering. Linus’s experience within the hospitality and leisure sector has been well documented, having acted for notable hoteliers, publicans, offtrade, restaurateurs and acts in the acquisition, disposal, transfer and lease of all types of licensed premises.

Chris Ross, Managing Partner of McKees said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Linus Murray as Partner at McKees. He brings specialist knowledge and a wealth of skill and experience across a wide range of practice areas including corporate and commercial, leisure and hospitality, property and mergers and acquisitions. He is extremely driven and hungry for success, both for our clients and our own business, so I am confident that he will bolster our already highly specialised teams.

At McKees, our people are our greatest strength and it is high calibre appointments such as Linus that are fundamental to our ambitious growth strategy which has included two new partners, three solicitors and three trainee solicitors in the last six months, bringing our overall headcount to 56.”

Linus Murray, Partner of McKees said: “I am very excited to enter this new chapter in my career. McKees is a firm I have always had huge

respect for and whilst I have worked in competing firms for over 20 years, I’ve always regarded it as one of the best. Due to the nature of our industry, I have also had the opportunity to work closely with the banking team at McKees and their professionalism, expertise, legal prowess and people first culture was a big draw for me.

A key reason for continued success throughout my career has been the calibre of clients I have worked with and the importance I place on developing client relationships. McKees shares this ethos with me and I am confident that through our combined expertise and experience, we will support both our current and new clients throughout these challenging times. I’m really looking forward to working with the partners to help strengthen and develop our people and the client services we offer as we look forward to entering 2023 with exciting plans for continued growth and success at McKees.”

Pictured (L-R): Anna McClimonds, Stuart Sproule, Brendan Martyn and Patrick O’Hanlon.

Investec Announced As Newest Tenant At City Quays 3

Belfast

City Quays 3 is Northern Ireland’s largest Grade A office development, and the latest component of City Quays, a contemporary, sustainable, waterfront development that includes commercial offices, retail and multi-storey car parking, as well as the AC by Marriott Hotel.

The 16-storey, 250,000 sq. ft highly sustainable building has capacity to house up to 1,800 workers and with tenants confirmed, fitout works are now underway, with occupation scheduled for early 2023.

Wealth management business

Investec Wealth & Investment is publicly traded in London and Johannesburg and has more than 8,000 employees across the UK, South Africa, and other global offices. The team based in Belfast has a wideranging skillset and extensive experience in financial planning and investment management.

Belfast Harbour expects to confirm further tenants in the first quarter of 2023, reflecting the confidence global businesses and blue-

chip employers have in Belfast as a business destination.

Leigh Yeaman, Investec Wealth & Investment’s Divisional Director of Northern Ireland & Scotland, said: “We have increased the team of people we have looking after clients in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland due to the continued demand for our wealth management services. We are delighted to take floorspace in City Quays 3 based in the historical heart of Belfast, which provides the perfect premises for us to continue to grow our business. Aside from it being the ideal location, we were drawn to the premises because the sustainable building aligns with our own ethos of living in society not off it, and we are excited to officially take up

residence there early next year.”

Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, said: “We are really pleased to be able to announce Investec Wealth & Investment as tenants of City Quays 3. The arrival of this wellknown company demonstrates clear confidence in both the City Quays offering and in Belfast as a city to invest in. The letting also demonstrates that prime office developments like City Quays help to attract investment and support the growth of our local economy. Investment in this project and others on the Harbour Estate will ensure that Belfast Harbour continues to be a key economic hub for the region.”

AIB Business Eye AWARDS 2022

Eye on Awards

FinTrU & Feargal McCormack Honoured At 2022 AIB Business Eye Awards

The team from FinTrU, winners of Company of the Year.

Belfast and Derry/ Londonderry-based FinTrU has won the coveted Company of the Year Award at the 2022 AIB Business Eye Awards for the second year running.

The fast growing financial services software company recently announced a new base in Portugal and has been widely praised for the measures it has introduced to help its employees through the current cost of living crisis.

The 2022 AIB Business Eye Awards, covering 19 different categories, were awarded at a black tie event attended by almost 600 guests held at ICC Belfast.

A Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred on Feargal McCormack, the founder of FPM Chartered Accountants, former President of Chartered

Accountants Ireland and an active spokesman for the business community in Northern Ireland.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Business Personality of the Year Award went to Judith Totten MBE, Founder and Chief Executive of working capital finance specialists Upstream, and a board member at Invest Northern Ireland.

Amongst the other key winners announced on the night included retailers Lidl Northern Ireland as Employer of the Year and pharmaceuticals giant Almac Group as Manufacturer of the Year. Ballymena-based Wrightbus picked up the Green/ Sustainable Company of the Year Award for their low and no emission range of buses while a brand new Diversity & Inclusion Award went to Antrim-based high tech manufacturers Sensata Technologies.

“We were delighted with a record-breaking entry for this year’s awards, despite the economic challenges which businesses are facing in the present climate,” says Richard Buckley, Editor of Business Eye. “The awards reflect the resilience and continued commitment of Northern Ireland companies and their leadership teams to innovate and continue to succeed whatever the economic climate.”

Business Eye’s Brenda Buckley presents the Lifetime Achievement Award to Feargal McCormack, FPM.

Brian Gillian, AIB, presents a highly commended certificate in the Company of the Year category to John Harrower and Roopak Nair from Version 1. Also pictured is Brenda Buckley, Business Eye.

Eye on Awards

Homegrown Business of the Year Bathshack

Highly Commended ShredBank

Jennifer James and Susanne Worthington receive a highly commended award on behalf of Shredbank from Darren McDowell, Harbinson Mulholland.

Darren McDowell, Harbinson Mulholland, presents the Homegrown Business of the Year Award to Peter Dunlop MD and brothers Connor and Ryan Dunlop from Bathshack.

Richard Buckley addresses the audience.

Paul & Ciara Donnelly.

Eye on Awards

innovative Company of the Year Artemis Technologies

The Green/Sustainable Company of the Year award winners, Wrightbus.

Derek Hynes, NIE networks, presents the Innovative Company of the Year Award to Debbie Eve and Kiera McSorely, Artemis Technologies.

Compere, Pamela Ballantine.

Siobhan Matthewson, Brenda Buckley, Martin Caldwell, Ciara Donnelly and Deborah Wilson.

Eye on Awards

Employer of the Year

LIDL NI

Highly Commended Seating Matters

Highly Commended FinTrU

Martin Tierney, Seating Matters, receives a highly commended award on behalf of the company from Gordon Milligan, LRA.

Brian Gillan, Head of Retail & NI, AIB, addresses the audience.

Gordon Milligan, LRA, presents Jamie Foote and Niamh Conaghan from FinTrU with a highly commended award in the Employer of the Year category.

Gordon Milligan, LRA, presents the Employer of the Year Award to Adele Lyle & Conor Boyle, LIDL NI.

Eye on Awards

Tourism & Hospitality Award

Double award winners, the team from FinTrU.

Gerry Lennon, Visit Belfast, presents Claire Hunter, Marine Hotel, Ballycastle with the Tourism & Hospitality Company of the Year Award. Also pictured is Colin Moore, who collected an award for the same category on behalf of Galgorm Collection.

Colin Moore & Rebecca Fulton, Galgorm Collection, winners of the Tourism & Hospitality Company of the Year pictured with Mark McKeown, AIB.

Galgorm Collection Marine Hotel, Ballycastle

Eye on Awards AWARDS 2022

Highly Commended Outstanding Leadership & Management Award Louise

The team from Industry Training Services, highly commended in the Small Business of The Year Category.

Brenda Buckley, Business Eye, presents the Outstanding Management & Leadership award to Louise Skeath of SDG.

Barbara McKiernan, VanRath, receives a highly commended award in the Outstanding Management & Leadership category from Brenda Buckley, Business Eye.

Skeath (SDG)

Barbara McKiernan, VANRATH

Eye on Awards

Research and Development Project of the Year

ESO

Executive Support Professional of the Year

Joelene Poole Retail NI

Joelene Poole, Retail NI, receives the Executive Support Professional of the Year Award from Erin Butler, Honeycomb.

Jon Glass, ESO, receives the Research & Development Award from David Quinn, Global Innovation Institute at Queen’s University Belfast.

The team from Pinnacle Growth Group collected a highly commended award in the Professional Service Firm of the Year Category.

The team from MCS group.

Johnny Tremlett, Robert McConnell, Kim Robin and Scott King.

Jamie Stewart, Michael McNulty, Shannon Dave’s and Sam McCormick.

Eye on Awards

Community (CSR) Award Hagan Homes

Anne Heeks & James Hagan, Hagan Homes, collect the CSR Award from Roisin Wood, Community Foundation NI.

Caroline Rowan & Desy Derby receive a highly commended award in the CSR category from Roisin Wood, Community Foundation NI.

Roisin Wood, Community Foundation NI, presents a highly commended award in the CSR category to Lindsey Mairs, Ashling Hegarty, Aoife McCory, Artsekta.

Highly Commended Musgrave NI ArtsEkta Highly Commended

Joelene Poole, Retail NI, with Paddy Murney, Musgrave (left) and Glyn Roberts, Retail NI (right).

Michael Kelly, John Metcalfe and Sean Conolly.

Eye on Awards

Diversity & Inclusion Award Sensata Technologies

Heather Stewart from AIB presents the Diversity & Inclusion Award to Sindhu Bharadwaj, Adriana Morvaiova and Richa Bajpai from Sensata Technologies.

Leanne Armstrong, TLT, presents the Medium/Mid sized Company of the Year Award to Stephen Spence & Ashleigh Black (right) from Barclay Communications.

Highly

Medium

Guests from Honeycomb.

Eye on Awards

Green/Sustainable Company of the Year Wrightbus

Highly Commended Fraser Millar Homes

Johnny Laughlin and John Carrigan , Fraser millar Homes, receive a highly commended award in the Green/Sustainable Company of the Year category from Ruth Kimbley, Strategic Power Connect.

Ruth Kimbley, Strategic Power Connect (second left), presents the Green/Sustainable Company of the Year to Stephen Wright, Sharon Wilkinson & Alastair Peden, Wrightbus.

Ruairi Marton, Janette Burns and Anna Devlin.

Guests from Outsource Group.

Claire McGlinchy, Erin Bradley, Melissa Anderson and Rachel Maxwell.

Guests from MKB Law.

Eye on Awards

Young Business Personality of the Year Laura Haldane, Scileads

Fast Growth Business of the Year Maine Surface Finishing

Highly Commended Viberoptix

Judith Totten, Upstream, presents the Fast Growth Business of the Year to Joe Quinn and Ciara O’Kane (right) from Maine Surface Finishing.

Professor Ioannis Pantelidis, Ulster University Business School, presents the Young Business of the Year Award to Laura Haldane, Scileads.

Judith Totten, Upstream, presents a highly commended award in the Fast Growth Business of the Year category to Naomhán McCrory and Craig Adair, Viberoptix.

Guests from NSPCC.

Guests from Barclay Communications.

Eye on Awards

Professional Services Firm of the Year MKB Law

Highly Commended Pinnacle Growth Group

Highly Commended Cavanagh Kelly

Anthony Murray, Lockton, presents the Professional Services Firm of the Year pic to Gordon McIlroy, MKB Law.

Dr Scott King (centre) and Robert McConnell (right), Pinnacle Growth Group, receive a highly commended award in the Professional Services Firm of the Year category from Anthony Murray of sponsoring firm Lockton.

Janette Burns and Anna Devlin, Cavanagh Kelly receive a highly commended award in the Professional Services Firm of the Year category from Anthony Murray, Lockton.

David Hanna, Alan Montgomery and Gavin McKevitt.

Andy Mills, Sally Glaherty, Raymond Duddy and Niamh Maguire.

Eye on Awards

Manufacturer of the Year

Almac Group

Highly Commended AG Paving & Building

Highly Commended TBC Conversions

Richard Gardiner, RSM (sponsor), presents a highly commended award in the Manufacturer of the Year category to David Getty, Rodney Davidson and David Speirs from AG Paving & Building.

Guests from ITS.

David Donnell (left) & Terence Donnelly (right), TBC Conversions, receive a highly commended award in the Manufacturer of the Year category from Richard Gardiner, RSM.

Guests from Connected Health.

Richard Gardiner, RSM, presents the Manufacturer of the Year award to Jonathan Calderwood, Almac Group.

Eye on Awards

Small Business of the Year

SDG

Highly Commended Industry Training Services

Highly Commended Terry Moore, Outsource Solutions

Business Personality of the Year

Judith Totten, Upstream

Miriam Moertl, Ardmore Advertising, presents the Business Personality of the Year Award to Judith Totten, Upstream.

Peter McVerry, U105, presents a highly commended award in the Small Business of the Year category to Taylor Averall, Louise McClean & Laura Corr, Industry Training Services.

Peter McVerry, U105, presents the Small Business of the Year award to Denise Cinnamond, SDG.

Terry Moore, Outsource Solutions, receives a highly commended award in the Business Personality of the Year category from Miriam Moertl, Ardmore Advertising.

Eye on Awards

Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Feargal McCormack, FPM. Feargal & Anne McCormack, with son Ruairi (left). Feargal McCormack (centre) and the team from FPM.

Lifetime Achievement Award Feargal McCormack, FPM

Brenda Buckley, Business Eye, presents the Lifetime of Achievement Award to Feargal McCormack, FPM. Also pictured is Brian Gillan, AIB.

Eye on Awards

Brian Trainor and Stephen Thompson.

Guests from NIE Networks.

Guests from Sensata Technologies.

SDG double winners

Liam Coulter, Lauren Burns and Ian Creighton.

Melissa Anderson and Rachael Maxwell.

Eye on Awards

AWARDS 2022

Laura-Anne and Stephen Riddles.

Jamie Cotter, Sonya Cassidy and Kyllin Vardhan.

Aine Flett and Gary Ennis.

Hannah More and Emily Bain.

Mary McNaMara and Orla Black. Deirdre Moore and Shauna Kelpie.

John Keane and Philip O’Mara.

Paul Hughes and Eamonn O’Donnell. Martin and Elizabeth Tierney.

Eye on Charity

FinTrU’s people demonstrating passion for Action Cancer

Following a company-wide vote, FinTrU –a multi-award-winning business in the financial tech industry - nominated Action Cancer to be their charity partner for two years, across 2021 and 2022.

One of the reasons FinTrU employees voted for Action Cancer was because they offer services across the whole of Northern Ireland and have regional presence in the North West as well as Belfast where FinTrU NI offices are located.

As well as the early detection services such as breast screening, the therapeutic services available are free to any child or adult

impacted by cancer, at any stage throughout their cancer journey. In addition to an individual who has been diagnosed, Action Cancer also supports friends, families and carers impacted by a diagnosis as well as those bereaved. These services can help deal with the physical and emotional impacts of cancer e.g. pain, restrictions, fatigue, sleeplessness, anxiety and fear.

Therapeutic services available

at Action Cancer House and regionally across Northern Ireland via 13 locations include: Complementary Therapy; Counselling; Life Coaching; Scar Therapy; Yoga; Pilates; Positive Living Programme; Peer Mentor Support; and Physiotherapy.

Over the past two years, the relationship between FinTrU and Action Cancer has gone from strength to strength, with FinTrU employees having organised a huge range of exciting fundraising activities during this time. Initiatives throughout the partnership have included: Wellness Week; Online Bingo; Halloween Bake-Offs; Pancake Day; Virtual Quizzes; Talent Competitions; Movember;

and Christmas Card Sales. In May 2022, a record 100 FinTrU employees took part in the Belfast City Marathon in aid of Action Cancer - the highest number ever for a corporate entry.

Chief of Staff at FinTrU Katrien Roppe said: “Over the past two years, our employees have thrown themselves into fundraising for Action Cancer. We are so proud to have been able to raise much needed funds, in both our local and the wider community, for such an important charity. We also hope that our presence at events such as the Belfast City Marathon has further raised Action Cancer’s profile and will encourage even more support throughout Northern Ireland.”

FinTrU staff pictured at Action Cancer’s Breast Foot Forward Walk in Belfast in October 2021.

Eye on Charity

Corporate Fundraising Manager

Action Cancer Lucy McCusker added: “The staggering amount of money raised by FinTrU employees has been gratefully received by Action Cancer. This has made a huge difference to the lives of 5,004 people affected by cancer across NI. This funding will enable us to provide additional life-saving early detection screening appointments, health improvement and therapeutic sessions to local people.

Alongside the fantastic amount of fundraising generated, we have loved working in partnership and building relationships with the FinTrU team, especially with their Charity Committee. The partnership also brought lots of opportunities to spread

awareness of cancer signs and symptoms and cancer prevention advice to staff through the delivery of our bespoke health improvement programmes.”

Throughout the 2-year partnership, FinTrU brought the Big Bus to L/Derry and Belfast where their NI bases are located. This allowed employees to access early detection screening services and health checks. Staff also availed of Cancer Awareness Sessions via Microsoft Teams and in-person health checks which were delivered as part of FinTrU’s Wellness Week.

Throughout the partnership,

in line with national campaign days. This was disseminated to staff via their intranet to maximise engagement.

Action Cancer’s ‘In Good Company’ series seeks to highlight the strength and range of current

To find out how your company could work in partnership with Action Cancer, please contact Lucy McCusker via email lmccusker@actioncancer.org or call 07743 416325.

FinTrU staff take on the Stairway to Heaven Walk (Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail) in County Fermanagh in 2022

employees were frequently supplied with cancer resources and healthy lifestyle information developed by Action Cancer and

fundraising partnerships.

“The staggering amount of money raised by FinTrU employees has been gratefully received by Action Cancer. This has made a huge difference to the lives of 5,004 people affected by cancer across NI.”

Darragh McCarthy (FinTrU Founder & CEO) and Katrien Roppe (FinTrU Chief of Staff) with Action Cancer Patron Gloria Hunniford OBE at the launch of the charity’s new Big Bus at Hillsborough Castle in September 2021.

Eye on News

RUA Annual Exhibition celebrates 15-year partnership with KPMG

The Royal Ulster Academy of Arts (RUA) is celebrating a 15-year partnership with KPMG as it opens the doors to its Annual Exhibition 2022.

Once again held in the Ulster Museum, the 141st year of the exhibition sees it move to the largest gallery in the museum and accommodates a host of work across a variety of mediums including painting, drawing, print, sculpture, photography and video.

The milestone sponsorship from KPMG marks a two-way partnership which has been hugely beneficial for both organisations. As well as being the main sponsor, the professional services firm also sponsors the KPMG Young Artist Award. This year’s winner, chosen by KPMG staff, was by recent Ulster University graduate Oisin McDonnell for ‘Eternity in an Hour’.

Johnny Hanna, Partner in Charge of KPMG in Northern Ireland, said: “The RUA Annual Exhibition is a highlight

in the KPMG calendar, particularly so this year as we celebrate 15 years working together. We are immensely proud of a partnership which has proved so worthwhile for us as a firm and again shown that close cooperation between business and the arts is a powerful combination.

“Congratulations to all the finalists and to the RUA for curating such a fine exhibition. The works from some of our most exciting established and up and coming artists have once again proved that this exhibition draws some of the best talent in the world.”

Dan Dowling, President of the RUA, said: “The RUA Annual Exhibition showcases a plethora of both established and up-and-coming artistic talent which cements this event’s welldeserved reputation as world class.

Throughout the exhibition we also run a very comprehensive outreach and education programme which

includes guided tours and ‘meet the artist’ talks. Best of all, entry to the exhibition and the events are free”.

“Thanks to KPMG for its continued support and to the Ulster Museum for hosting the exhibition.

The adjudicator for the RUA Annual Exhibition 2022 is Belfastborn artist, writer, DJ, broadcaster and journalist, Joe Lindsay.

The exhibition runs until 3rd January 2023.

BGF Invests £5m In BallymenaBased Clarke Group

BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, has invested £5m in Clarke Group, a Ballymena-based specialist façade provider, to support its growth across the UK and Ireland.

Founded in 1996 by Michael Clarke, the family-owned business specialises in innovative design-led façade projects, providing an end-toend service to blue-chip construction industry clients such as Berkeley, Morgan Sindall, and Balfour Beatty.

With a strong market reputation for producing a high quality, sustainable product and cutting-edge designs for high-rise commercial and residential buildings, Clarke has recently experienced growth averaging 25% each year since 2018 and delivering revenue in 2022 of close to £30m.

In June, the business also opened a new high-spec head office and state of the art offsite manufacturing facility in Ballymena to support team expansion as it aims to become an industry leader.

The investment from BGF will provide Clarke with working capital as it continues to scale across the UK and Ireland.

BGF’s Talent Network has also introduced Adrian Ringrose, an experienced leader within the construction industry, to the business as Non-Executive Chair.

Eugene Clarke, Managing Director of Clarke, said: “With increased regulation regarding the fire safety of high-rise buildings post-Grenfell, the demand for safe and sustainable façades and cladding has increased. Our market leading designs and sector-experienced team mean we’re fast becoming the partner of choice for top tier construction firms across the UK.

“It was important for us to find an investment partner that could provide not only capital, but also expertise at Board level to support the company as it scales. The access to BGF’s network has been invaluable and we’re also delighted to welcome Adrian to the team.”

BGF is the UK and Ireland’s most active and dynamic investor of equity capital

in growth economy companies, backing entrepreneurs and innovators. It has now invested c.£65m into Northern Irish businesses, making it one of the most significant investors in the region.

Chris Nixon, Investor at BGF, added: “The UK façade market dynamics are extremely strong and double-digit sector growth will be underpinned in the long term by fire safety and ESG-

related demand. When you combine this with Clarke’s track record of quality and excellence, its impressive customer base, and a focussed and experienced management team, we believe the business is perfectly primed to take further market share in the coming years.

“We’re delighted to be supporting the business at such a pivotal point in their growth journey.”

Johnny Hanna of KPMG with adjudicator Joe Lindsay and RUA President Dan Dowling.

Pictured at Clarke’s new offices in Ballymena are (L-R) Adrian Ringrose, Non-Executive Chair, Clarke Façades; Chris Nixon, BGF; Eugene Clarke, Managing Director, Clarke Façades; Michael Clarke, Founder, Clarke Façades; and John Devine, BGF.

Eye on Awards

Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Business of The Year

www.businesseyeawards.co.uk

Sustainability Business Leader of the Year

This award is open to all types of business operating within the Hospitality & Tourism sector here in Northern Ireland, including hotels, pubs/ restaurants and visitor attractions. Entrants must demonstrate how a commitment to sustainability forms part of their business model.

Aimed at owners and senior managers, the award will recognise a business leader who has led his or her organisation to real sustainability achievement, and whose leadership can serve as an example for other business owners and leaders to follow.

Sponsored by Queen’s University

Sustainable Manufacturing Business of the Year

For manufacturers, embracing sustainability as an ethos can be more challenging than for businesses operating in other sectors. Entrants should be able to show how their manufacturing processes and systems have been adapted to improve the environmental impact of the organisation’s operations.

Sponsored by Bank of Ireland

Innovation in Sustainability Award

Open to all organisations based in Northern Ireland, this special award sets out to recognise genuine and tangible innovations which have produced real environmental and sustainability improvements and helped to change the way the organisation operates.

Sponsored by TLT Solicitors

Sustainability Team of the Year

Many NI organisations now have their own sustainability units, teams committed to spotlighting the sustainability agenda in everything their organisation does. This award sets out to honour the best local sustainability team working within a local organisation.

Sustainable Company of the Year 2023

The headline award, presented to the Northern Ireland company, of any size and from any sector, which has demonstrated the most impressive and lasting commitment to sustainability across all of its activities and operations.

Sponsored by Tourism Northern Ireland

Sponsored by Tarasis Enterprises

Sponsored by Strategic Power Connect

Eye on Awards

Young Sustainability Champion Award

The award will be presented to a young business/ organisation manager (30 years maximum at entry closing date) driving positive change towards sustainable/net zero targets within their own organisation and/or in the wider community.

Sustainable Services Company of the Year

Aimed at all NI-based services organisations (ie. not manufacturing) and highlighting best sustainability practice in how the organisation provides its services to customers.

Sponsored by Fleet Financial

Sustainable Retail Business of the Year

Similar to the Sustainable Services Company of the Year category, but aimed exclusively at retail businesses of any size with sustainability at the heart of their operations.

Sponsored by Maxol

Waste Reduction Project of the Year

Waste reduction, and recycling, are both central to Northern Ireland’s sustainable future. This award sets out to recognise a project which reflects the sustainability targets of the region and contributed to the wider goals.

Built Environment Project Of The Year

This award sets out to recognise the very best sustainable and environmentally focussed projects completed in the wider built environment. Entries are welcomed in respect of commercial developments, office/retail, infrastructure and housing/residential projects.

Sustainability Project of the Year

The individual project within a wider organisation which, in the opinion of the judges, best exemplifies the wider sustainability and net zero targets of the region as a whole.

Sustainable Food and Drink Company of the Year

Open to NI-based food and drink manufacturers, processors and suppliers with sustainability incorporated into their production/supply processes and whose products reflect the sustainable ethos of the organisation.

Hassle free renewable energy solutions at no capital costpowering your business to future success.

Eye on News

NI firm Fibrus secures record £108m broadband contract with UK Government

Northern Ireland full fibre broadband provider Fibrus has been awarded a massive government contract worth £108 million to connect thousands of rural premises as part of a major investment project.

Around 60,000 premises in Cumbria will benefit from the fastest broadband on the market thanks to the record-breaking deal with Fibrus, which represents the biggest contract to date under the government’s audacious programme.

Project Gigabit is the most extensive broadband roll-out in UK history, backed with £5 billion to deliver faster connections to hard-to-reach areas that would otherwise have missed out.

Fibrus Chief Executive Dominic Kearns said it was great news for the Belfast-based company and its dedicated team who always strive for excellence at home and away.

“This is further validation of the Fibrus model,” said Kearns.

“At Fibrus we are committed to

bringing the benefits of full fibre to those who need it most.

“Winning this contract to connect Cumbria extends the Fibrus investment plan to 700,000 homes and £700m – and sets us on the road to being central to national digital infrastructure.”

He added: “Fibrus has already created over 350 jobs and will invest over £500m in their mission to transform the digital infrastructure by bringing hyperfast, full fibre broadband to rural homes and businesses in towns and villages across the UK.”

Kearns said that, to date, 210,000 homes have been passed across Northern Ireland and Cumbria, with Fibrus on target to pass 250,000 homes by March 2023.

“Fibrus had already committed to investing its own resources to develop full fibre broadband across 45 towns in Cumbria. Now, the company is set to become the primary provider of full fibre broadband in the region, much in the way that it has done in rural and regional Northern Ireland.”

Installation work is already underway in Cumbria.

It comes as the firm recently unveiled over half of the 85,000 Northern Ireland premises scheduled for improved broadband access under Project Stratum, in predominantly rural areas, can now connect to gigabit capable broadband.

Gigabit-capable networks are fast and fit for the future, allowing users to work, stream and scroll online without the battle for bandwidth or disruption often experienced with ageing networks.

In a huge boost for jobs and skills for Cumbria, Fibrus has committed to

creating at least 90 apprenticeships following the government investment. These will cover a range of roles, from underground and overhead cabling to surveying, and Fibrus has also committed to establish an apprentice training academy at Newton Rigg near Penrith.

Michelle Donelan, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), said:

“We’re steaming ahead with our plan to level up internet speeds across Cumbria, which will see the biggest investment to date from the government’s Project Gigabit – the biggest broadband roll out in British history.

“Tens of thousands of rural homes and businesses will be able to plug into faster connections in the new network, allowing Cumbrian communities to take full advantage of the endless benefits lightningfast broadband has to offer.”

Northern Ireland full fibre broadband provider Fibrus has been awarded a massive government contract worth £108 million to connect thousands of rural premises as part of a major investment project. Announcing the contract is (L-R): Conal Henry, Chair of Fibrus; Michelle Donelan, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS); Dominic Kearns, Chief Executive of Fibrus.

Skin Tag Removal

Cosmetic Mole and 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:

Mr Chris Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

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?

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).

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?

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

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.

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.

Skin tags are a bit easier and can be removed by cutting, freezing (cryotherapy) setting to minimise the risk of infection, of the skin needs to be removed in one

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.

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?

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.

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.

There is usually a dressing for the first 3 to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be removed.

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.

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

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: 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

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? discomfort as the anaesthetic is being anaesthetic cream which can be

66

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Q: Will I have a scar?

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 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

Q: Will I have a scar?

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.

the scar we perform precise stitching, remove stitches at the appropriate time, and encourage scar management in the can take up to 2 years to mature to their are treatments such as steroid injections

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

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9XH Tel: +44 (0) 28 9042 3200

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 Thread-Lifts

Facial Threadvein Removal Thread-Lifts

Aqualyx - Fat Dissolving Injections Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy) Pinnaplasty Skin Biopsy

EarBuddies (Ear Correction for Babies) Aqualyx - Fat Dissolving Injections Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy) Pinnaplasty 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.

Treatments available include:

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

Mole Removal

Tag Removal

Cyst Removal

Facial Threadvein Removal Thread-Lifts

Fat Dissolving Injections

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

Lipoma Removal Surgery

Split Earlobe Repair

Dermal Fillers

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

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

Leg Vein Treatment (Sclerotherapy) Pinnaplasty Skin Biopsy Dermatology

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

EarBuddies (Ear Correction for Babies)

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

Contact us today to book a consultation with one of our Consultant Surgeons. E: frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk | cosmetech.co.uk

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic, 5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9HX 028 9042 3200

Cosmetech @ Kingsbridge Private Hospital, Church Hill House, Main Street, Ballykelly, BT49 9HS 028 7776 3090

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

Part of Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.

Eye on News

2022 IoD Northern Ireland Director of the Year Award Winners Announced

Entrepreneur Dame Rotha Johnston was awarded the highest accolade at the Institute of Directors Northern Ireland (IoD NI) Director of the Year awards, sponsored by AIB.

The current Chair of NIE Networks, Dame Rotha Johnston DBE, was the recipient of the Chair’s Award for Excellence in recognition of her contribution to the Northern Ireland Economy and her exemplary demonstration of good governance throughout each stage of her career which has spanned large corporations, public and third sector, and family businesses.

As the director of Wildflower Property and non-executive Chair of the Board of NIE Networks, Dame Rotha becomes the first female to collect this high-profile accolade in Northern Ireland.

Making the announcement, IoD NI Chair Gordon Milligan, said, “Throughout all of her roles, Dame Rotha has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and this award is in recognition of her ability to drive investment, skills, and innovation.”

Business leaders were honoured across 13 categories at the lunchtime awards ceremony at Belfast’s Merchant Hotel, attended by over 130 people.

Seamus McGuckin, head of business banking at title sponsor AIB, said;

“AIB is proud to work in partnership once again with the IoD NI to deliver the prestigious Director

of the Year awards and recognise the exceptional achievements of business leaders here.

“Each and every one of the winners honoured have been hugely successful and rightly deserve to be congratulated on their accomplishments.

From resilience and agility to good governance and innovation, we are proud to shine a light on the skills and attributes that contribute to the success of local businesses.

“On behalf of AIB, we offer our congratulation to this year’s winners and thank our partners at the IoD NI, and the team of judges for making the awards a success.”

Gordon Milligan, Chair of the IOD NI said; “I’d like to congratulate each of the winners on their highly deserved awards, including Dame Rotha Johnston for her Chair’s Award and Nick Whelan, the winner of the Large Business Director of the Year award.

“Congratulations to all those who were shortlisted and a big thank you to everyone who took the time to

Winners of the 2022 IoD NI Director of the Year Awards pictured outside the Merchant Hotel, Belfast where the awards ceremony was held on Friday 09 December. The winners are joined by Seamus McGuckin, Head of Business Banking at title sponsor AIB (front left) and IoD NI Chair, Gordon Milligan (front right). Also pictured is Kirsty McManus, National Director, IoD NI (first from left, second row).

enter. The awards ceremony could not have taken place without the support of our headline sponsor AIB and each of our category sponsors whose contributions we are extremely grateful for.

“Today has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the exceptional leaders we have working across the private, public and third sectors here and a welcome return to a full event after two years of socially-distanced presentations.”

Other winners on the night included Patrick Woods of Linwoods who topped the Family Business of the Year category and Caroline Van Der Feltz of Danske Bank who was recognised for her achievements within Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. Young Director of the Year was awarded to David Smith of Kilwaughter Minerals Ltd.

Eye Moving On

Andrei Mankov has joined EY Northern Ireland as Assurance Partner. Andrei brings a wealth of Audit experience to the Assurance practice, having worked with EY since 2004. Andrei started his career with EY in Russia in 2004 and served as Partner for the last eight years and worked across both large multinational corporations and indigenous, local firms.

Law firm Millar McCall Wylie has appointed solicitor Leigh Taylor to its growing team. A recently qualified solicitor and graduate of Queens University Belfast, Leigh joins the firm’s Corporate team, where she will specialise in a wide range of corporate legal services.

John Patterson has been appointed to the position of Head of Sales (Defence, Ports and Pilot Boats) at Artemis Technologies. John brings vast experience having previously worked at Harland & Wolff following an extensive military career with the Royal Navy. Marc Miskelly has been appointed to the position of Sales Manager at Artemis. Marc has extensive experience within the maritime and automotive industries, having spent the past number of years working for a large automotive plc and in the 10 years previous, held roles in marine distribution, yacht brokerage and dealer management.

Kim Rainey has been appointed Director at M.B. McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. An experienced accountant, Kim first joined M.B. McGrady & Co over 20 years ago as a Trainee and worked her way up through the company after she graduated from the Ulster University with a BA Honours Degree in Accounting and qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 2008.

Paul Courtney has been promoted to Head of IT at Belfast City Airport. Paul, who previously worked at Belfast City Airport as the Analytics and Information Security Manager, will be responsible for enhancing the company’s infrastructure, systems, and network.

The Lyric Theatre, the largest producing theatre in Northern Ireland, has confirmed four new Trustee appointments to their Board.

J. Jean Horstman is an experienced social entrepreneur with a background in business strategy, organisational development, fundraising, and partnerships. She is former CEO of Interise, and has held leadership positions in cultural policy and management, including the Director of Strategy at London Arts Board.

Louise Warde Hunter is the Principal and Chief Executive of Belfast Metropolitan College. Previously Louise worked as a senior civil servant across Education, Justice, Agriculture and Housing and in the private and voluntary sectors throughout Britain and Ireland. Strongly committed to diversity and inclusion, Louise was Gender Champion for the Northern Ireland Civil Service and Chair of the NICS Women’s Network.

Paul Hayes is the Director of An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk and Artistic Director of Catastrophe Theatre Company. Paul was previously Head of Drama at Monaghan Institute and Community Arts Officer with Meath County Council.

Rosie Timoney is a Senior Associate in the Corporate team at Belfast law firm Carson McDowell LLP. Rosie has served on boards of Northern Irish charities since 2016 after completing the Young Professionals on Arts Boards Programme with Arts and Business in 2015. She won the “Inspirational Trustee” award at the Arts and Business Awards 2021 for her role as Chair of Bruiser Theatre Company.

The Lyric Theatre is supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland National Lottery funding and Belfast City Council.

4. Marc Miskelly

2. Leigh Taylor

6 Paul Courtney

3. John Patterson

5 Kim Rainey

1. Andrei Mankov

7 J. Jean Horstman

10

Rosie Timoney

8

Louise Warde

9

Paul Hayes

Eye on News

Charles Hurst To Open New Lotus Showroom

by Charles Hurst’s highly experienced team in performance and luxury car sales, will be the latest addition to the company’s already established collection of premium brands, including Ferrari, Maserati, Bentley and Aston Martin.

cutting-edge technology, and we are thrilled to include it within our portfolio of world-class motoring brands at Lookers.”

Geoff Dowding, Executive Director, Sales and Aftersales, Lotus added:

It will see the company open a brand new state-of-the-art Lotus showroom at its renowned Boucher Road site. Set to open its doors to customers in early 2023, the premier new showroom will be the only outlet in Northern Ireland for Lotus.

Designed to exacting standards, the showroom will benefit from a bespoke premium fit-out featuring the latest Lotus visual identity. It will also incorporate the latest technology to support the move to electric vehicles, plus a range of innovative features to provide customers

with a high-end showroom experience.

With order books already open, the highly anticipated range of new and used Lotus vehicles available through Charles Hurst will include the all-new Lotus Emira sports car and the all-new and all-electric Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV.

With exceptional contemporary design and outstanding ride and handling, Lotus vehicles are known worldwide for their precision dynamics and agility, with core principles drawn from the highest level of motorsports.

The new dealership, to be staffed

Jeff McCartney, Group Operations Director at Charles Hurst, said:

“The new Lotus dealership reflects our continued commitment and investment in elite car brands, consolidating Belfast’s status as the official home to the very best in luxury and performance motoring.

“Charles Hurst is proud to partner with this first-class brand, which will provide another excellent offering to existing and future customers.”

Duncan McPhee, Chief Operating Officer at parent company Lookers, said:

“The Lotus brand is synonymous with innovation, dynamic performance and

“The only way to truly understand a Lotus is to drive one, and we’re delighted that our partnership with Charles Hurst will give people across Northern Ireland the chance to do just that.

“The new showroom and the Charles Hurst team means we’re giving more people the opportunity to experience our high-performance vehicles first-hand.”

A Top 100 NI company for several decades, Charles Hurst operates across eight sites in Northern Ireland and two in the Republic of Ireland, representing more than 20 of the world’s top global car manufacturers, including leading premium and luxury brands.

Charles Hurst, Northern Ireland’s biggest car retailer and part of motoring giant Lookers PLC, has confirmed an exclusive new partnership with iconic performance car brand Lotus.

Eye on Diversity

Embracing Diversity And Change Just Like Football Did...

what is being done is being driven by personal interest within organisations and we need more than that. We need government, education and business initiatives to be put in place to support all organisations, it’s not only the right thing to do, but it also makes really good business sense!”

Diversity Mark offer accreditation, expert support and guidance to organisations who are navigating the Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) landscape.

Nuala Murphy, Director at Diversity Mark is delighted to have Terex on board, and she feels a sea change coming within these traditionally male dominated organisations;

“Working with large scale global manufacturing organisations such as Terex is inspiring and exciting, this industry is on the precipice of a big change, and I’m delighted to be a part of it. In fact, I built the foundations of my career in manufacturing and engineering companies.

Terex, a global manufacturer of materials, processing machinery and ariel work platforms, with numerous sites in Northern Ireland, are embracing a new diversity and inclusion initiative as they strive for accreditation from Diversity Mark. The initiative is being driven by Senior Operations Director, Barry Taylor.

“Take a look at the representation we now see of women footballers on our television screens, 20 years ago that was unheard of, but now the sport is transcending into an equal sport for all. This successful change is taking time, and that took young trailblazing girls to insist on joining the boys’ team, and their coaches and managers to support them. This is what manufacturing and engineering organisations need to do – it’s time to not only embrace, but to drive and welcome the change.

“As a global organisation, founded in the USA, Terex overall is likely 5-10 years ahead of us here in NI, we are just at the start of our diversity journey. I am delighted to say that Terex are now signatories of Diversity Mark, an organisation which is helping to guide us on our way towards receiving our

Bronze Diversity Mark accreditation – a mark of progress that publicly declares our commitment to building a more diverse and inclusive workplace. I believe that this will absolutely improve business performance and innovation.

“Leadership is my passion, and building teams that are empowered, that can trust, rely and depend on each other and where each individual enjoys a sense of achievement and belonging is what I thrive on – this is when the magic happens – a happy, contented workforce will be braver, more creative and more productive which will lead to a higher performing team – no matter what department they are employed in.

While the initial stages for Terex in Northern Ireland will be to increase the number of women employed at all levels, Barry and his team are also embracing diversity across other

areas too, Barry goes on to explain;

“Our year one target will be to increase the number of our women employees, year two will officially focus on cultural diversities but we are already thinking of ways to embrace all forms of intersectionality. Ultimately, we are preparing Terex to be an employer for the future, we want to appeal to future generations as a desirable place to work that will embrace everyone while nurturing our existing employees.

“Signing on as signatories for Diversity Mark accreditation is helping my team create and meet goals, the support of the Diversity Mark team will help us to understand the conversations we need to be having and to also learn from a network of other organisations at many different stages of their Diversity and Inclusion journey.

“Manufacturing is a very male dominated industry, and this is not an overnight fix, we must first educate and raise awareness, changing mindsets and paradigms, I imagine this will take 5-10 years to cascade down through the levels and start to create lasting change.

“In Northern Ireland I don’t believe there is enough being done to create more diverse workforces, I believe

Nuala goes on to explain the benefits organisations can expect from accreditation;

“Making the choice to be a more inclusive employer will reap you, your business, and your employees both measurable and emotional rewards, at Diversity Mark we are with you every step of the way, providing counsel, information, resources and much more.

“Our role is to support each organisation in their commitment to progress and we fully understand the sensitivities involved and the barriers faced by organisations during this time of change.

Nuala goes on to say; “Transforming the workplace has a huge impact on our society as a whole, making our communities more accepting and allowing the world in which we live in to be a more welcoming place for all, that is something I feel very passionate about, and I am delighted to be able to help organisations achieve their goals.”

For more information on gaining Diversity Mark accreditation for manufacturing organisations please visit https://diversity-mark-ni.co.uk/ manufacturing-and-engineering/

Eye on News

BUSINESS STUDENTS EXCEL IN MOCK INTERVIEW COMPETITION

The awards, now in their 7th year is organised by the Business School at Ulster University as part of the BSc (Hons) Accounting Pathways Programme with support from BDO Northern Ireland. 89 students took part in the Interview skills session delivered by BDO NI as part of the award scheme with 23 taking part in this year’s interview competition, competing in a range of practical and skills led challenges, including taking part in mock interviews.

The 2022 winners were commended by judges for demonstrating strong communication and creativity during their mock interviews.

Danielle Foster from Ballymena came out on top, followed by Caoimhe Tohill from Maghera and Sarah Murray from Enniskillen. All three winners received a cash prize alongside the opportunity to continue their development with an initial internship with the firm and ongoing mentoring support from BDO NI during the remainder of their university studies.

Nigel Harra, Senior Partner at BDO Northern Ireland said, “This programme continues to be very popular with university students, not only in providing the opportunity to compete with their fellow peers but it opens the door to opportunities with potential future employers at a very early stage in their careers.

“They will gain a mentor who will provide advice and guidance throughout their studies and gain access to practical experience through interning at BDO NI. Working with some of the best experts and business advisors in NI and some of the most ambitious and successful companies across the UK and Ireland.

“Interviews have evolved significantly and there is an expectation to go beyond the usual question and answer approach. You need to stand out from your peers and show what you can bring to an organisation beyond your qualifications. These types of programmes are developed to give students this insight, so they are prepared in advance of job applications and interviews.”

Laura Morgan, Course Director & Lecturer, Ulster University Business School added, “Lisa McAleer, HR Manager from BDO NI delivered a mock interview workshop to the second-year accounting students, which the students found very beneficial. The interactive workshop provided the students with useful guidance on how to prepare for an interview with an employer. After a review of the student CV’s, BDO NI interviewed 23 students. This element of the module facilitates the growth and development of our young people in preparation for the workplace by giving them real life experience, and excellent exposure to one of the top graduate employers in Northern Ireland.

“I would also like to congratulate

year’s prize.”

The overall winner, Danielle, talked about how valuable gaining practical insights from seasoned professionals has been for her development,

“This was my first experience of a professional interview and I found it extremely useful to see how I could apply my own experiences to the competency criteria for this organisation.

On a personal front, I found the feedback from the interview process extremely useful as it has built my confidence levels and I feel more assured as I move away from an academic environment.”

Danielle Foster, Caoimhe Tohill and Sarah Murray for the effort they put into delivering an exceptional interview which resulted in them being awarded this

Three Ulster University Accounting students have been announced as this year’s winners of the BDO NI Interview Awards – an initiative aimed at putting students through their paces in a series of simulated interview scenarios.

Standing: Helen Foster, Ulster University Course Director, Nigel Harra, Senior Partner at BDO NI, Lisa McAleer, HR Manager at BDO NI and Laura Morgan, Lecturer at Ulster University. L-R Seated: Danielle Foster, Sarah Murray and Caoimhe Tohill.

Eye on Motoring

Honda’s flawed genius

the range in recent years.

In an era when so many cars look the same, this little Honda e is a very welcome outlier. Pull up on the school run and heads turn… because it’s cutesy, retro and quite unique.

It’s not to everyone’s taste nor is it the most practical small electric car around but it has loads of character and really stands out from the crowd.

The Honda e is Japanese marque’s first and, as yet, only fully electric car. More are on the way to accompany a slew of hybrid models that have joined

But this shouldn’t be seen as Honda’s definitive marker for an all-electric future. For starters, it doesn’t have the range to be truly brilliant. It’s fitted with a relatively small 35.5kWh battery, which means official range is between 125 and 137 miles. That’s pretty meagre compared to the likes of the Renault Zoe, which can do up to 245 miles.

Instead, Honda is keen to stress this is an “urban” car – one suited for city driving mostly, and where that sort of range is likely to suffice.

There are two motor options to choose from – a 134bhp version fitted to the entry level model and 152bhp one featured in the Advance version. The Advance can officially hit 62mph

in 8.2 secs (0.7 secs faster than cheaper model). In truth, they both feel extremely rapid.

Allied to a low centre of gravity, rear-wheel drive and perfect 50:50 weight distribution front and back, it delivers a zesty driving experience too. It’s planted with super responsive steering.

The five-door only body shape is a thing of beauty, with a compact footprint and lots of stand out design touches. The flat panel grille and distinctive eye-like head lights are neat and welcoming. The door handles, front and rear, sit flush against the body, popping out when needed.

The sleek lines are accentuated further because there are no wing mirrors. Instead, cameras serve up the view to screens placed

on either side of the dashboard. Honda’s attention to detail even goes as far as hiding the radio aerial in body panels so as not to disturb the clean exterior unnecessarily.

The quirkiness continues inside, where the cabin boasts lots of wood-like detailing on the dash, which works better than it sounds and complements the bronzecoloured seatbelts. The dash is one long set of screens that house the infotainment, settings, dials, bluetooth connectivity, satnav and other features. It’s futuristic looking but fairly intuitive. Aircon is controlled through old-fashioned buttons, which is a boon. The seats are comfy and there’s excellent all-round visibility.

It’s not all good news though. Rear passenger space is compact, with room for two only, while legroom is a bit limited. With just 171 litres of space, the boot isn’t much to write home about either. Nor is it the cheapest. General price rises and the removal of the government’s electric car subsidy has seen prices soar since the car first launched in 2020. These now start at around £37,000, which is a massive premium over rivals like the Renault Zoe and Vauxhall Corsa-e, which are available from around £30,000.

But then the Honda shouldn’t be seen as a value buy. It’s a unique offering, which Honda and some buyers will think is worth paying.

Motoring with James Stinson

Eye on Motoring Motoring with James Stinson

A luxury SUV with Scandinavian appeal

Polestar,

Prices start just shy of £80,000. That’s quite a price tag but justified, according to Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. “Polestar 3 is a powerful electric SUV that appeals to the senses with a distinct, Scandinavian design and excellent driving dynamics,” he says.

The new SUV is Polestar’s first attempt at building a car from the ground up without using Volvo’s concept designs, and features

several of the brand’s hallmark design features, such as dual-blade headlights and a ‘Smartzone’ panel which contains various sensors used by the car’s on-board tech. Polestar says that it has focused on optimising the aerodynamics of the SUV where possible. In addition to its sleek silhouette, the Polestar 3 also has pronounced bonnet contours, a winged rear spoiler and blade-like bodywork fixtures below its tail

lights, all installed to make the car’s powertrain slightly more efficient. It’s powered by a 111kWh battery pack, which works in tandem with two electric motors to provide 489hp and a 0-62mph sprint time of five seconds. Opting for the additional performance pack will up the car’s power output to 517hp and shave three tenths of a second off the car’s 0-62mph sprint time.

Adjustable one-pedal drive is

included, as well as an electric Torque Vectoring Dual Clutch function on the rear axle – an evolution of what was first developed for Polestar 1. A decoupling function is also available for the rear electric motor, allowing the car to run only on the front electric motor to save energy under certain circumstances.

Advanced chassis control is provided by dual-chamber air suspension as standard, allowing the Polestar 3 to adapt between comfort and dynamic suspension characteristics, and the car can adjust its active damper velocity electronically once every two milliseconds.

All versions include a full-length panoramic glass roof, all-LED lighting inside and out, retractable door handles with proximity sensing, and 21-inch alloy wheels. The Plus Pack and Pilot Pack are fitted as standard for the first model year and include a raft of premium, luxury and convenience features like a 25-speaker audio system from Bowers & Wilkins with 3D surround sound and Dolby Atmos capability, soft-closing doors, a head-up display and Pilot Assist.

Orders are being taken now with deliveries expected towards the end of 2023.

has

car’s front bumper. The grille design also follows the latest Peugeot family look, with diagonal body-coloured dashes framing the updated Peugeot logo.

The Hybrid 225 e-combines a 179hp PureTech petrol engine with an 81kW electric motor for a total power output of 225hp, while the Hybrid 180 e models come with a 150hp PureTech petrol engine that’s combined with an 81kW electric motor for a total power output of 180hp. Importantly, every trim level, from Allure to First Edition is available with hybrid powertrains.

six cameras and nine radars positioned around the vehicle to provide a suite of 30 advanced driver assistance systems. These include: Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go function; Night Vision, which identifies and warns of animals, pedestrians, or cyclists in the road, beyond the lighting range of the headlights; Longrange blind spot monitoring (75 metres); and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns of potential hazards when reversing.

Initially available with either petrol or plug-in hybrid power, this new model sits somewhere between a conventional saloon and an urban SUV, with a sloping fastback roofline at the rear and more ground clearance than a conventional car. While the new Peugeot 408 shares its

foundations and many components with the new 308 hatch, it is 44cm longer than its hatchback sibling, which allows for more passenger legroom in the rear seats.

The exterior design takes plenty of cues from the 308 too, including its angled LED headlights and narrow daytime running lights that stretch down the

A 12.4kWh battery is featured in both hybrid models and comes with an eightyear / 100,000-mile warranty. Depending on version, the new hybrid models are capable of achieving an electric only range of 40 miles, and therefore benefit from a 4% reduction in Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate to just 8% for business users in 2022/23. Petrol models use Peugeot’s 130hp 1.2litre PureTech three-cylinder engine.

The 408 is Peugeot’s most tech heavy car yet. It features no less than

The 408 range starts from £31,050 with the Allure trim, with standard equipment including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with high beam assist plus a new touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, both measuring 10 inches.

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