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PAUL ROBERTSHAW Talking about telecoms
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Full inter view - Page 3
JILL HAGUE Global ambitions Column - Page 4
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Chamber calls for action on funding BUSINESS leaders in Kirklees have w e l c o m e d t h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s announcement of a third round of Regional Growth Funding to help UK companies grow and create jobs. But the Lockwood-based Mid Yorkshire of Chamber said it was essential that the extra £1bn funding available under the latest round of RGF “should be provided with the minimal bureaucracy and delay”. Chamber policy chief Steven Leigh said: “Our region has benefited from about £60m of funding from the first two rounds of the RGF and the chamber welcomes this additional tranche, which could provide a significant boost to companies in mid-Yorkshire.” Mr Leigh said the funding should go to support advanced manufacturing businesses, saying: “Support for these key industries is strategically important as we look to rebalance our economy. “It is essential at this time of uncertain economic conditions that companies are given the support and reassurance to invest and grow with confidence.” Mr Leigh said the chamber’s latest quarterly economic survey showed that many firms were delaying investment and employment plans due to concern over current economic circumstances.
Businesses eligible for RGF funds must have ambitions to create new jobs in their local community – and must also illustrate that their development plans will have a significant impact on the local economy. “It is companies such as this, with real ambition and growth prospects, which will provide the employment and wealth creation necessary to lead our country’s economic recovery,” said Mr Leigh. “It is essential that this funding should be provided with minimal bureaucracy and delay – so that firms can begin to invest and expand immediately.” Mr Leigh also called for more pro-business measures in next month’s Budget to improve the business environment and provide greater incentives for private sector investment. “Previous commitments to reducing the amount of business regulation and red tape, to the substantive reform of the planning system, to the reform and simplification of public procurement processes and to facilitating the release of private money for major infrastructure projects should now be delivered as an absolute priority,” he added. Companies to benefit from previous rounds of RGF cash include Brighouse-based Halifax Rack & Screw, which received £200,000 to boost a
■ PRIORTY: Steven Leigh (left), head of policy and representation for the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; and David Frith, corporate finance partner at Deloitte in West Yorkshire
£1.5m investment in production facilities at its Armytage Road premises. David Frith, corporate finance partner with Deloitte in West Yorkshire, urged companies to prepare well if they intended to bid for round three funding. He said Yorkshire firms had enjoyed “real success” in the previous two rounds of RGF – but said it would become increasingly difficult to secure funding from this pot. He said: “The two previous rounds of RGF have been heavily oversubscribed, but with significant funding
available to business in Yorkshire, taking the time to prepare and submit a quality bid is worthwhile.” He added: “Businesses should ensure they fully understand the bidding criteria and options.” He said: “This is expected to be the single largest grant funding route available to businesses in 2012. “Plan your project now, assess its merits and recognise it weaknesses. A well thought through bid, carefully planned and impartially reviewed, will boost your chance of success.”
Redknapp case fuels demand for insurance
■ ENQUIRIES: Steven Gash, of Clough & Co
DEMAND for tax investigation insurance is soaring in the wake of football manager Harry Redknapp being cleared of tax evasion, it is claimed. Steven Gash, practice chairman of Cleckheaton-based chartered accountancy firm Clough & Co, said specialist insurance policies were available to cover accountancy and legal fees that may be incurred during HMRC tax enquiries. He said: “Any business or individual submitting a tax
return can be investigated by HMRC and a large number are selected randomly, so lots of people find themselves under investigation every year. “In the past, a lot of people failed to understand how much an investigation could cost them and just saw the insurance as another cost, but we recently had a client that had to claim for fees of more than £40,000 through tax investigation insurance – even though they were completely innocent – so it’s
well worth the small outlay. “It also cost the last seven clients to be investigated – who didn’t have cover – a total of £139,723 which could have been paid by insurers.” Said Mr Gash: “Although very few people will find themselves in Harry Redknapp’s shoes, his situation highlights how much these cases can cost and how long they can last and it’s certainly raised awareness about the importance of keeping tax affairs in order.
“We’ve been offering this insurance for the last 10 years, but just recently enquiries for it have gone through the roof.” Jurors accepted Redknapp's denials that he avoided tax on £189,000 in a Monaco bank account. His acquittal alongside co-defendant and former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric blew the final whistle on an £8m City of London Police investigation that lasted five years.
INSIDE Room for a winner A DESIGN and marketing agency with a national client base is the latest winner of a monthly business award. The Engine Room Design Co Ltd, based at Huddersfield’s Media Centre, won the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Award. Co-founders Darren Evans and Helen Whitehead received their framed certificate at a presentation at the law firm’s High Street offices.
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Business expands DENBY Dale businesswoman Jo Haigh has expanded her business in West Yorkshire. The partner at fds Corporate Finance Services, has set up a Wakefield office to complement the firm’s existing sites in Birmingham and London – and is already making an impact with the local business community.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
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HSBC fuels anger over bank bonuses HSBC was forced to defend bonuses for City high-fliers – as it revealed its boss received an annual pay package worth a potential £7.2m. The bank recorded one of the biggest profit figures ever for a British company when it posted a 156% rise in earnings to £13.8bn in 2011. The bank attributed the increase to a strong performance in emerging markets and a resilient performance in the UK. But chief executive Stuart Gulliver came under fire after it emerged his £1.3m salary will be boosted by a £2.2m bonus and long-term incentives possibly worth up to £3.8m. The report revealed that 170 members of staff earned more than 1m US dollars – almost £630,000 – last year while 205 key employees in the UK earned a total of 84.2m US dollars, or £53m. The figures have sparked a fresh row over City pay as the group, which employs
50,000 people in the UK and 288,000 globally, last year announced plans to cut 30,000 jobs over the next two years in a cull that will affect 10% of its workforce. David Fleming, national officer at union Unite, said: “How can Stuart Gulliver have a clear conscience over his reward package of £7.2m while thousands of staff face uncertainty about their jobs?” There was further controversy because the bank is set to fund the cash parts of its larger bonuses by creating and selling shares. This will help it build up its cash reserves, as called for by Bank of England governor Sir Mervyn King, but runs the risk of angering investors by diluting their stake in the bank. Chairman Douglas Flint, who is himself set to receive £3.4m for 2011, admitted t h at “ a f e w p e o p l e ” w e r e p a i d “extraordinarily well” but insisted that HSBC needed to attract and retain the
Primark sales boost AB Foods BUDGET clothing retailer Primark reported continued strong sales after a storming performance over Christmas. The chain’s owner, Associated British Foods, said Primark’s trading so far this year had been good, despite the economic climate. Primark, which includes a store at New Street in Huddersfield, is forecast to increase sales by 15% during the six months to March 3 – fuelled by nine store openings in the first half of its financial year. Same-store sales were up by 2%. The update comes a month after AB Foods reported an “exceptional” Christmas at Primark’s 232 stores,
with trading much improved on a sluggish autumn. The group said falling cotton prices mean it will see the benefit of lower input costs in the second half of the year. Across the group, which also trades in sugar and owns the Kingsmill bread and Twinings Ovaltine businesses, profits for the half-year are in line with hopes. Improved weather conditions and higher prices means profits in the UK sugar business should be well ahead of last year. UK sugar production is now estimated to be 1.3m tonnes compared with just under 1m tonnes last year.
best staff. He added that HSBC was the second biggest payer of dividends in the UK and said its success helped boost people’s long-term savings and pensions. Mr Gulliver said there was “puzzlement” over anti-business sentiment in the UK. He said: “If you really want to get growth to offset the austerity measures, you need investment and you need banks to continue to lend, which is what we are trying our hardest to do.” In the UK, HSBC met its Project Merlin targets agreed with the Government on lending to businesses in 2011, as loans to commercial customers hit a record high. It loaned £49.4bn to businesses, exceeding its target of £38.8bn. HSBC issued £11.9bn in new lending facilities to small and medium-sized firms – slightly higher ■ PUZZLED: HSBC chief than its target of a 15% increase on the Stuart Gulliver criticised UK’s previous year. “anti-business” sentiment
Earnings soar for insurer ANNUAL profits have more than doubled at insurer LV= despite the continued impact of fraud on its business. The group, which owns Britannia Rescue based at Folly Hall in Huddersfield, said fewer car accidents for its motor insurance division – as rising petrol costs cause people to drive more carefully – was offset by an increase in personal injury claims and attempted fraud. Premium income grew by 23% to £1.46bn and trading profits more than doubled to £72.1m as the UK’s largest friendly society overcame a challenging backdrop of market
volatility and uncertainty. John O’Rourke, managing director of LV= general insurance, said that 10 years ago for every 10 claims made two would have included a personal injury claim. Now it is four out of 10 an increase which Mr O’Rourke believes is “simply down to opportunism”. LV= serves more than 5m customers and has 2.9m motor insurance policies. The group said there was an estimated £2bn of fraud in the industry – equivalent to about 15% of the total premium written – including costs resulting from fraudulent whiplash claims and legal costs.
BP case adjourned A MULTI-MILLION dollar legal case into the BP Deepwater Horizon rig disaster has been put back a week. The case, which could last until 2014, will begin next Monday, the company said. BP and the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee (PSC) confirmed that the US District Court had adjourned the start of the Deepwater Horizon multi-district litigation civil trial by a week. “This adjournment is intended to allow BP and the PSC more time to continue settlement discussions and attempt to reach an agreement,” they said in a statement. “BP and the PSC are working to reach agreement to fairly compensate people and businesses affected by the Deepwater Horizon accident and oil spill. “There can be no assurance that these discussions will lead to a settlement agreement. A further announcement will be made as appropriate.” The group is due to be in the dock in New Orleans alongside contractors Halliburton and Transocean as a single judge decides who was to blame for what happened when the Gulf of Mexico rig exploded, claiming the lives of 11 men and triggering the biggest oil spill in US history. On top of millions of pounds of legal fees, BP and the contractors could face a penalty of up to £11.1bn for water pollution alone if the court finds gross negligence was at play.
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £33.97 +0.32 Gannett 952.80 -6.94 Hess Corp £42.75 +0.47 Microsoft 1984.48 -1.89 Motors Liquidation 47.32 Wal-Mart Stores £36.87 -0.23 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 303 -2 BAE Systems 316 -7/8 1 Rolls-Royce 807 /2 -3 AIM Brady Plc 82 Dawson Intl 15/8 Man Brnze 30 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 2321/2 -3 BANKS Barclays 2433/4 -37/8 HSBC 5531/2 -213/8 Lloyds Banking Gp 347/8 -7/8 Ryl Scotland 28 -5/8 1 Stan Chart 1612 /2 -251/2 BEVERAGES Diageo 1501 +61/2 SABMiller £253/4 CHEMICALS Croda £215/8 Elementis 98 1657/8 -21/8 Johnsn Mat £233/8 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 2813/4 -4
-11/2 2013/4 ELECTRICITY Drax Gp 512 -7 Intl Power 344 -11/2 SSE 1283 +5 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 1691/8 -53/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3723/4 +1/4 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 2173/4 +11/4 Cable & Wireless 345/8 -1/4 Comm Cable & Wireless 277/8 +3/8 Wwide 1 Colt Group 98 /8 KCOM 701/2 -1/2 Talktalk Telecom 1443/4 +5/8 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2867/8 -21/2 Sainsbury 2987/8 -25/8 Tesco 318 -1/4 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1200 -19 Tate Lyle 709 +12 Unilever £201/2 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 2973/8 -11/4 National Grid 6461/2 +1 Pennon Grp 7011/2 +1/2 Severn 1540 United Utils 606 +3 Costain
GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 1933/4 -21/4 ICAP 3871/2 -71/2 London StockExch 920 -181/2 Man Group 1335/8 -3/4 Provident Financial 1073 -1 Schroders 1568 -4 Schroders NV 1244 -14 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 685 +141/2 REXAM 416 -1 Smiths Grp 1085 +4 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 211/2 +1/4 Carphone Whse 170 1 Dixons Retail 14 /2 Home Retail 1061/8 +23/4 Inchcape 3777/8 +11/2 3 Kingfisher 284 /8 +31/4 1 M&S 360 /8 +63/4 Mothercare 2171/4 -53/4 Next £275/8 1 WH Smith 535 /2 -61/2 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 6251/2 -3 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 761/2 -11/2 Barrat Dev 1413/8 Persimmon 627 +19 Reckitt Benckiser £343/8 +1/8 Taylor Wimpey 495/8 -1/8 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING IMI 974 -111/2
INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 3217/8 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BBA Aviation 2021/2 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3721/4 Lgl & Gen 1215/8 Old Mutual 1597/8 Prudential 7191/2 Resolution 265 Standard Life 2347/8 MEDIA BSkyB 6841/2 D Mail Tst 4293/8 ITV 791/4 Johnston Press 71/2 Pearson 1204 Reed Elsevier 552 STV Group 1061/4 Trinity Mirror 481/4 Utd Business 6011/2 UTV 1311/2 WPP 7951/2 Yell Group 45/8 MINING Anglo American £263/4 Antofagasta 1340 BHP Billiton £207/8 Eurasian Natural 726 Res Fresnillo 1858 Kazakhmys 1137 Lonmin 1076 Rio Tinto £37
-2 -11/8 -11/2 -1/2 -3/4 -21/2 -1/2 -31/2 -63/8 -7/8 -47 -4 -1 -1 -3 -1 -6 +1/8 -1/8 +4 +1/8 -13 -6 -26 -9 +3/8
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
3471/2 1001/8 6461/2 £221/4
-1 +1/8 +1
FTSE closed at
5915.55 down 19.58 VEDANTA 1477 RESOURCES Xstrata 1203 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES Inmarsat 4783/4 Vodafone Group 172 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1062 RSA Insurance Gp 1091/8 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 15401/2 BP 5013/4 Cairn Energy 356 Royal Dutch Shell A £231/8 Royal Dutch Shell B £231/2
-23 -12 -11/4 +1/4 +15 +1/4 -21/2 +51/2 -4 -1/8
Total £351/2 -1/8 Tullow Oil 1531 -12 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 1118 -5 Petrofac 1599 +5 Wood Gp(J) 749 +81/2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry Gp 1391 -30 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £283/8 -1/8 GlaxoSmithK XD 1 Shire £221/4 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 473 -53/4 Captl Shop Cent 3361/8 -23/4 Hamrsn 3983/4 -11/4 Land Secs 6781/2 -6 1 SEGRO 234 /4 -13/8 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Invensys 211 -1 Logica 861/2 -21/8 Misys 330 +21/8 Sage Group 3071/8 -11/4 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 508 +8 Bunzl 952 +211/2 Capita 7391/2 -8 De La Rue 966 -12 1 Electrocomp 242 /2 -11/2 Experian 942 -31/2 G4S 2875/8 +3/4 3 Hays 82 /4 -11/4 1 Homeserve 224 /4 -41/4
Menzies J 578 Rentokil 793/4 Smiths News 923/4 Wolseley £241/2 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 5751/2 Psion 481/4 Spirent Comms 1377/8 TOBACCO Br Am Tob £315/8 Imperial Tobacco £251/4 LEISURE & HOTELS Bwin.Party Digital 1611/2 Carnival 1841 Compass Grp 6361/2 easyJet 4521/4 Enterprise Inns 53 FirstGroup 2911/4 Go-Ahead Gp 1292 Greene King 504 Intercontl Htls 1425 Intl Cons Airlines 1627/8 Gp Ladbrokes 1511/8 Mitchells & Butlers 2661/8 Natl Express 2207/8 Rank Org 1451/8 Stagecoach Group 2681/4 TUI Travel 1973/4 Whitbread 1720 INDEX FTSE 100 5915.55 INDEX FTSE 250 11472.07
+3 -21/8 -11/2 +1/8 +11/2 -5/8 +3/8 +3/8 +1/8 +1/8 -31 +1/2 +31/2 +11/2 -4 +2 -2 +20 +21/2 +5/8 +25/8 -11/4 +61/2 +1/2 -31/8 +17 -19.58 -54.91
TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.41 dollars Bangladesh................. 122.24 taka Brazil.............................. 2.42 reals Canada....................... 1.51 dollars China ............................. 8.93 yuan Czech Republic ...... 27.09 korunas Denmark....................... 8.34 krone Euro............................... 1.12 euro Hong Kong................ 11.67 dollars Hungary................... 307.05 forints India.......................... 68.54 rupees Japan........................... 122.33 yen Mexico ....................... 18.27 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.77 dollars Norway ......................... 8.44 krone Pakistan.................. 135.86 rupees Philippines ................. 58.37 pesos South Africa.................. 11.28 rand South Korea.............. 1560.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 180.99 rupees Sweden......................... 9.93 krona Switzerland.................. 1.35 francs Taiwan ...................... 40.98 dollars Turkey....................... 2.62 new lira USA ............................ 1.51 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS A CAREER in communications was always on the cards for Paul Robertshaw. Even as a student at Salendine Nook High School, Paul had ambitions to help get the message across. “I wanted to get into the media and radio,” he says. “When I was young, I did a bit of ‘DJ-ing’ and followed some of the DJs on radio stations like Kiss. “When I left school, I did a BTec national diploma in the subject at Huddersfield Technical College and passed with distinction, but after leaving college there were not a lot of opportunities to get into the industry.” Keen to get into the world of work, Paul followed the advice of a family friend and got a job with Aspley-based Travelworld – at that time a fast-growing business in a booming industry. He remained with the business following its takeover by Airtours until 2004 as help desk supervisor. Paul later moved to Safe Style Windows at Bradford as telephone engineer before moving from a strictly IT environment to telephony as communications manager looking after £40,000 of customer accounts. When recession hit, Paul took the opportunity for voluntary redundancy and joined his present employer, Golcar-based ME Consultancy, where his telecoms experience is being put to good use in his role as sales development manager. ME Consultancy, formed in 2002 and based in a converted mill boasting stunning views of the Colne Valley, is perhaps best known for its text messaging specialist division SMileS. But it also provides business customers with telephony hardware as well as advice on their telecoms spending and ways to get better value from their land lines, mobiles and broadband connections. Paul, who had already moved house from Salendine Nook to Golcar, said: “Mark Smith, who set up ME Consultancy, was looking for someone to build a sales team. “It was the perfect move for me because I was only living four doors away! “We have expanded the team and we have been going from strength to strength ever since.” Said Paul: “It is all about making sure the customer experience is of the highest. IT is an industry where the customer doesn’t always know what they need or what they are paying for when they get their telecoms bill. They rely on the professionals to help them. “We don’t railroad customers into a particular product. We look at a range which is suitable for the customer – having made sure we know what the customer requires – and seek out the products that
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Yes, it’s still good to talk!
Paul Robertshaw Role: Sales development manager Age: 30 Family: Single Holidays: Majorca Car: Volvo First job: Serving ice cream from a Sando’s ice cream van outside Goodalls Caravans at Crosland Hill Best thing about job: Meeting people, working in a great environment with a great team and some great customers Worst thing about job: Getting up early for networking events Business tip: Always deliver what you promise
ME Consultancy they need.” Among recent successes, ME Consultancy helped West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice save tens of thousands of pounds on the installation of phone lines for its new hospice at Bradley. Says Paul: “It is particularly rewarding when we can help local companies and organisations. “In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that businesses keep track of their costs, including utilities such as telecoms. “There is a greater need to explain to customers what they are paying for – and whether they need to pay it if there are solutions on the market to save them money and add value to their
■ BUSY: Paul Robertshaw of ME Consultancy at Golcar
business. “We act as a consultant advising on as many products as possible to give the customer the information they need to save money and get the best solution.” Says Paul: “We deal with business from sole traders up to companies with 250 staff – local as well as national. “Our customers are anyone who needs a phone, a landline, mobile phones or broadband connections.” Given ME Consultancy’s commitment to communication, Paul spends a lot of his time attending networking events to generate more business. Paul is a member of the Terriers Chapter of networking group BNI, which meets regularly at Lockwood Park. He is also involved with the Mid Yorkshire Network – which is attracting a growing number of delegates to meetings at Huddersfield Media Centre’s Cafe Ollo – and the LinkedIn business network. “BNI is a good way to generate business,” he says. “You have to find leads for 40 other members – but that means there are 40 businesses working to find leads for you.” Says Paul: “We do a lot of networking. As a result, we have never had to cold call or directly market ourselves because of the way we network. “In addition, I’m out of the office two days a week seeing start-ups and new
“We also attend meetings with existing customers. “The rest of the time we’re in the office on strategy meetings and working out the best way forward for the sales team to make sure they have everything they need.” After working hard all week, Paul values his free time. Paul plays squash at Huddersfield sports centre and Huddersfield University sports centre. He is also a member of Wharfeside gym at Slaithwaite. He classes himself as a “seasonal
camper” and enjoys holidaying abroad – with Majorca a favourite destination.. “Mine isn’t a nine-to-five job,” he says. “The day can start at 6am when I’m attending BNI meetings and it can be into the evening before I finish. “As a result, I like socialising and dining. I make sure I enjoy my weekends!”
Work: Business telephony and broadband Site: Golcar Phone: 01484 911912 Email: paul@me consultancy.com Website: www.me consultancy.com
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Electricians Beware!
On the board with
HMRC has launched yet another disclosure opportunity - the electricians tax safe plan. Anyone working in the electrical industry, who has not told HMRC about all of their income, can use the Electricians Tax Safe Plan (ETSP). HMRC defines an electrician as anyone who installs, maintains and tests electrical systems, equipment and appliances under the stringent safety regulations.
Revell Ward Tip: To take advantage of this campaign HMRC must be notified of the intention to take part by 15 May 2012, disclosure and payment of the tax, NIC, interest and penalties is to be made by 14 August 2012.
Lesley Sutton Tax Director
01484 538 351
theboard@revellward.co.uk Twitter@RevellWard
www.revellward.co.uk
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Opportunities for export success N a tough domestic market, Ithan businesses are now – more ever – taking advantage of
the new opportunities for growth that international expansion can offer. With the UK set to increase its international business activity by 59%, the opportunity has never been better. The economic picture for many countries in Europe remains difficult and, as a result, businesses across the UK are finding themselves negotiating a difficult path. So, now, more than ever, we believe that it is the businesses which are looking beyond our shores to grow which are seeing success, and which continue to drive the UK's road to recovery. This is supported by the findings of HSBC’s Trade Connections report; a global trade forecast recently launched which found that by 2025, the UK is set to increase its international trade by about 60%. World trade as a whole is also expected to grow rapidly to 2025, with
BANKER’S BLOG Jill Hague
global international trade predicted to increase by a combined 86%, taking total trade activity in that year to $53.8 trillion compared to a predicted $28.9 trillion in 2012. Businesses in Kirklees have as great an opportunity as any other UK region to capitalise on this growth. It is anticipated that a small number of key sectors will experience significant growth in the coming years. Medicine, for example, is a sector that the Trade Connections report predicts will offer exciting opportunities and the medicine and pharmaceuticals sector in the UK is world class
and global in its reach, with demand for medicine and pharmaceuticals increasing rapidly around the world. Its markets are particularly strong in Europe and North America and, accordingly, exports are forecast to grow annually over the next five years to Spain at 4.13%, to the Netherlands at 3.41%, to the USA by 1.59% and to Germany by 1.49%. It is also anticipated that a number of new trading partners will increase in importance. The UK’s largest export partners are Germany, the USA, Ireland and France.
Jill Hague is HSBC area commercial director for Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield
KIRKLEES BUSINESS
Export trade with Germany and the USA is forecast to increase annually over the next five years at the modest rates of 0.89% and 0.50% respectively. Significantly outstripping that growth is the likes of Latin American countries Paraguay, Chile, Bolivia and Brazil, whilst looking east Cambodia and Vietnam are forecast to become key trading partners given their growing importance in the textile industry. We believe that exports to all of these nations will increase annually by in excess of 8.5% until the end of 2016. And, of course, you cannot ignore the economic superpower that is China. HSBC forecasts UK trade with China will grow by 8.41% a year until 2016. All of these are positive steps, helping to raise the profile of the region and creating opportunities for Kirklees companies in this increasingly internationalised global economy.
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Well-informed A COMPANY set up by the former head of a Kirklees-based public company has launched a new product to help business people get information online. Profiled.com, which was founded by Steve Wainwright (pictured) and manages professionals’ online profiles in more than 30 countries, has launched the world’s first Professional Portal which allows business contacts to get information on a member in just one click. The free-to-join website has extended its offering into a full portal service bringing information spread across the internet into one place for members to
promote to their contacts on their emails, websites and business cards. “Your online footprint is now key to business success,” said Mr Wainwright, who was chief executive of Birstall-based ICM Computer Group until 2007. “The first thing people do before meeting you or after a networking event will be to Google you – so it’s vital that your information can be found easily. Profiled mends a business person’s fractured internet presence and is a much better solution than having your contacts wading through pages of internet search results trying to find your information.”
Rock lessons for businesses
STANDING in front of the mirror with a hair brush for a microphon could be a good way to prepare fo the business world. But instead of fantasising about fronting a rock band, people can now improve their presentation skills and interview techniques by learning from the musical masters A two-hour masterclass will be hosted by Ricky Comiskey (pictured), who owns and runs Linthwaite-based Ricky’s School o Rock, in association with Michelle Hodgson, of copywriting business Key Words. Said Michelle: “We all know how nerve-wracking it can be going to an interview or getting up in front a roomful of people to give a presentation. “The idea behind this masterclass is that all performers feel those nerves, but there are techniques that can be learned to improve yo confidence and allow you to stride out on to the stage – whether it’s Wembley Stadium or your firm’s annual sales conference.” Places on the masterclass can be booked directly with the School o Rock, which is based at Colne Valley Business Park, or via http://rockstar within.eventbrite.co.uk
Texts raise charity cash
A TEXT messaging specialist is helping a cancer charity. Golcar-based SMileS SMS is working with the Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust on a campaign to alert young people to testicular and ovarian cancer and raise funds for medical research. Staff at SMileS raised £150 for the trust by taking part in Tinsel Tuesday – when people wear fanc dress to raise cash for the trust’s Gonads Campaign. Gonads is the medical term for ovaries in female and testes in males. To make a donation, text “GNAD42 2” to 70070 to donate £2.
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Paying the price for discrimination DECISION in the EmployA ment Tribunal in 2011 has highlighted the potentially sig-
nificant repercussions of a successful discrimination claim. It also shows how a lack of training, commitment to policies and a lack of active management of staff can expose a business to a risk of substantial awards of damages. The employee in this particular case was a Brazilian national. She began working for her employer during 2006, earning a salary of just under £18,000 per annum. Throughout her time with the business, the employee was mocked in front of other colleagues, predominantly due to her Brazilian accent. The employee was regularly referred to as ‘Spongebob Squarepants’ – which was a reference to her “grating, nasal” voice. In addition, colleagues recorded her voice, played it back to her and made fun of the way that she spoke, stereotyped her as a drug user because of her South American con-
EMPLOYER’S BRIEF Neil Wilson
nections and banned items relating to her Brazilian culture from the workplace. The employee raised complaints on a number of occasions with the company, making use of their anti-bullying policy. The Employment Tribunal found, however, that the way in which the company followed up the complaint “lacked empathy”; in other words, the policy which it had put in place was not followed correctly. The complaints were never fully investigated and a resolution to the complaints was not achieved. The employee subsequently went
on long-term sick leave, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Proceedings were ultimately issued in the Employment Tribunal, and the employee succeeded in her claim of direct discrimination and harassment. Specifically, the Tribunal concluded that she had been treated less favourably on the grounds of her race and had been subjected to treatment which had the result of creating a hostile and degrading working environment. It was held that the employee had suffered “the most serious case of
Neil Wilson is an employment lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
Firms fail report gender diversity on COMPANIES are failing boards then the situation to follow the has actually got worse recommendations of a not better. report calling for more “Women are not being women in Britain’s appointed into executive boardrooms, says a roles – and if a pipeline Huddersfield of women with senior businesswoman. experience does not Heather Jackson, exist then that talent pool Holmfirth-based head of is not available to make it Europe’s largest into boardroom women’s business positions. This is the conference – The fundamental problem Women’s Business that the Lord Davies Forum – said the report report should be by Lord Davies was not ■ NO TO QUOTAS: addressing.” being acted upon by Heather Jackson In his report, Lord many public limited Davies said that a quota companies. She said: “Although early figures system may have to be introduced if show the FTSE 100 may have made companies dud not voluntarily some progress in meeting Lord increase the number of women on its Davies’ requirements, the FTSE 350 boards. has actually done the opposite and However, Ms Jackson said: “That is has less women in boardroom the wrong route to take as countries positions than one year ago. such as Norway, who have seen the “Of the FTSE 350, 89% still have no introduction of a quota system, are female board representation.” already seeing cracks beginning to She said: “The Davies Report urged appear. Introducing quotas and FTSE 350 companies to set out the encouraging boards to introduce percentage of women they aim to have women is just a quick fix and only on boards and in executive papers over the cracks. committees by 2013 and 2015. The “Companies urgently need to look at FTSE 100 boards was set a target for their pipeline of women and identify a minimum of 25% female potential leaders for the future. Men representation by 2015 and it is and women need to work together to encouraging to see some progress solve this issue. Women can’t do it by being made to meet this. themselves, but they do need support “However, it is the FTSE 350 that is from other women and strong the backbone of Britain’s economy and business female role models to aspire if we want to see the true picture of to.”
Coffee collection TOWN are up for the cup! Huddersfield Town has signed a partnership deal with Bradley-based Coopers Coffee, part of national group United Coffee, following months of discussion. Coopers Coffee products – of which there are more than 150 sources from more than 40 countries – will be sold around the Galpharm Stadium and at the football club's Canalside complex. Town fans had the chance to taste Coopers' ethically sourced premium coffee when they served drinks at the club’s corporate Christmas drinks event in December. David Porteous, Coopers’ director of business development said: “We are looking forward to working together closely as partners.”
discrimination”. The Employment Tribunal awarded total damages of just under £142,000, predominantly in relation to injury to feelings and personal injury. Aggravated damages were also awarded on the basis of the severity of the treatment. The employee was left unable to complete even the “most basic of household tasks” as a result partly of the treatment she suffered, but also the complete lack of support offered by the company. The case serves as a reminder to employers of the need to take the necessary steps to prevent discrimination in the workplace. At the very least, businesses should put in place an equal opportunities policy and grievance procedure, training managers on how to operate these and making it clear that they should take a pro-active rather than reactive approach to dealing with complaints. Regular training in anti-discrimination and dignity at work should also be offered.
Grants up for grabs RURAL businesses in the Kirklees area have been urged to seek grant funding to help their operations grow. The Rural Economy Grant Scheme, worth up to £60m in total, will be launched from the end of this month – offering grants of up to £1m for micro-businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises in areas such as farming, forestry, tourism, renewable energy and food. The grant is being introduced under the Rural Development Program for England and adds to the Farming and Forestry Improvement Scheme (FISS) launched last November. Robert Hall, of property agent Savills, said: “The Rural Economy Grant Scheme and FFIS offer a golden opportunity to get new ideas off the ground for farming and other rural business.” Savills has been successful in working with rural clients to access funding under previous schemes – achieving an 85%-plus success rate.
property
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Land Registry chief visits town A LAW firm in Huddersfield hosted a visit by a major figure in the property field. Malcolm Dawson (pictured) , chief land registrar and chief executive of the Land Registry, was at the Market Street offices of Ridley & Hall as part of a programme of visits to find out how well Land Registry services meet customer needs and how they can be best developed. Ridley & Hall partner Adam Fletcher said: “I am very impressed with the proactive approach being taken by Land Registry. “The meeting was a great opportunity for me and my team to meet with Malcolm and it reiterated Land Registry’s plans to provide a more efficient service. “It is clear that Land Registry want to improve their communications with their clients by developing customer teams and the Land Registry Portal and this can only be to the benefit of us and our clients.”
Housing project A CONSTRUCTION and development company which carried out a major housing project in Huddersfield has been appointed to a £500m programme to boost training and education. Southdale, which partnered Kirklees Council in a multi-million refurbishment of Deighton and Brackenhall, has joined a partnership of more than 30 registered providers to develop housing schemes in North West England. Halifax-based Southdale is already on site with £9.5m of work across four sites with Great Places Housing Group, developing a total of 107 homes. Regional director Stuart Allison said the deal provided a “great opportunity” for Southdale.
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New premises for finance firm DEALMAKER Jo Haigh is expanding her business in West Yorkshire. Jo, who lives in Denby Dale and is a partner at fds Corporate Finance Services, has set up a Wakefield office to complement the firm’s existing sites in Birmingham and London. And the company is already making an impact with the local business community from its Silver Street premises with a number of transactions under way for its corporate finance team. “We are very busy with lots of transactions, including several in Yorkshire,” said Jo. “We are really bucking the trend. We are growing so fast that we may have to find somewhere else in the city by the summer. “We have two people on our apprentice scheme and hope to have a third in the near future.” Jo, who is supported by senior corporate finance manager Poonam Kaur, said she chose Wakefield as the location for the latest office because it retains a strong industrial base and has good access to motorway and rail. “I didn’t want to be in Leeds or Bradford,” she said. “I live in Denby Dale and Poonam lives in Pontefract, so Wakefield is the ideal location.” Jo is well-known in the business world as the author of a series of business books and as a speaker at major conferences on topics such as corporate governance and corporate finance and issues affecting women in business. Her latest book, The Financial Times Guide to Finance for Non-financial Managers, was
■ EXPANSION: Jo Haigh (left) and Poonam Kaur, of FDS Corporate Finance, have launched a West Yorkshire office
launched earlier this month at an event attended by 300 people in London. Jo also speaks at about 80 business events around the country each year. An experienced dealmaker, she has bought and sold over 300
companies in the last 25 years and has held more than 40 non-executive positions in her career. But she said: “We are not some scary corporate financiers; we have a more gentle touch! “We deal with businesses ran-
Leases ‘the big issue’
■ ADVANTAGE: Guy Gilfillan, of Lambert Smith Hampton in Yorkshire
LEASE expiries will be the main driver in the commercial property market over the next few years, it is claimed. Property agency Lambert Smith Hampton said that 800 “significant” lease opportunities will become available in the Yorkshire region between now and the beginning of 2016. Its National Property Database showed that these total more than 850,000sq ft. Guy Gilfillan, head of office for LSH in Yorkshire, said these represented a huge untapped market for existing landlords and developers. He said: “In our experience, around 30% of tenants choose to relocate at the first lease break and up to 60% at the second. Whilst I recognise that existing landlords will fight hard to keep their tenants, many won’t stay
due to a number of factors, including location and quality and size of accommodation. “So if you are a tenant, you need to plan early to take advantage of an upcoming lease expiry and if you are a landlord or a developer there is a significant opportunity if you are prepared to take the risk of financing new developments or refurbishing existing ones.” Mr Gilfillan said: “We predict that pre-let activity is only the start of a trend which will see a number of occupiers having to take premises ‘off plan.’ “There is a major opportunity for landlords to refurbish existing building stock particularly with new developments so hard to find at present and with occupiers unable to wait the 12 to 36 months it takes for new schemes to be constructed.”
ging from £2m to £10m turnover, generally with owner managers looking to dispose of their business.” The company is working on deals with a range of businesses, including a building contractor, a security services firm, an online florist, a training company and an online bingo operation. Jo’s skills have come into their own in the current difficult climate. “Banks are not lending and we have to find creative ways to do a deal,” she said. “Vendors sometimes have to wait a little longer for their money. “There is a sense that the economic picture is not getting any better – and may get worse – but that we can’t wait for things to improve, we have to get on with it. “We are well-placed to help because we are well-connected with offices covering the country and the experience in areas such as wealth management, taxation and specialist insurance as well as owner-managed business.” Said Jo: “We want to look after the owner-manager. Some 80% of GDP worldwide comes from family businesses, so you can see how vital they are to a thriving economy.” To reinforce its presence in West Yorkshire, FDS Corporate Finance Services will stage a free seminar on buying and selling businesses from 8am to 11am on Thursday, March 22, at the Cedar Court Hotel in Wakefield. Contact Luke at fdscfs.com. The first 10 delegates will get a free business valuation.
Revamped mill for sale PART of a former West Yorkshire mill is being offered for sale. Property agency CBRE has been instructed to market 8,000sq ft of ground floor office accommodation at Vanguard House in Leeds city centre following completion of a substantial refurbishment undertaken by the firm’s building consultancy team. The three-storey building, totalling 28,800sq ft, offers high quality office space near the M621. The upgrade included improved office accommodation and a contemporary new reception. Other benefits include secure parking, on-site security and the benefits of the high spec interior upgrades.”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
‘Sustainability now the issue’ MORE than four out of five minimum standard which is property professionals say suswidely expected to be an Energy tainability is the highest-priority Performance Certificate rating strategic issue facing Yorkshire’s lower than ‘E’. office sector over the next 10 “An estimated 63% of UK years. stock, including that in YorkThe Offices 2020 report by shire and Humber, has a rating Jones Lang LaSalle said the lower than ‘E’. This will force region was benefiting from new rapid change to the majority of UK legislation driving the develbuildings within a relatively opment of best-practice sustainshort timeframe.” ability – as in France and Jeff Pearey, head of Jones Germany – while economic conLang LaSalle in West Yorkstraints were hindering progress shire, said: “Sustainability was in other countries. once seen as a soft issue on the Jones Lang LaSalle director periphery of business strategy, Bill Page, who leads the combut this has now changed. We pany’s Offices 2020 research now have case studies where programme, said: “From almost ■ RAPID ACTION: Jeff sustainable changes to buildof Jones Lang nowhere a decade ago, sustain- Pearey, ings have improved employee LaSalle in Yorkshire ability is now a key consideraproductivity. tion for office real estate in “Owners and developers of Yorkshire and Humber region as with the rest office stock in Yorkshire will need to take of the UK. rapid action to protect the value of their “While environmental change, cost control buildings and prevent them becoming obsoland ethical business practices are all part of the ete. equation, legislation is the real game-changer “A sustainable building will quite quickly forcing the region’s occupiers and investors to become a prerequisite for prime property. adapt their office buildings.” Consequently, we expect the pricing gap to However he warned that, while the widen between sustainable and non-sustainEuropean Union requires all new buildings to able assets during the next few years.” be nearly zero energy by 2020, there was a Said Mr Pearey: “Employers cannot neglect widening divergence across different buildings and countries which would increase over the the increasing ‘social’ aspect of sustainable real estate. During the next 10 years we expect next decade. productivity, employee satisfaction and susHe said: “A clear example of enforced change is the UK’s 2011 Energy Act which tainability to become intrinsically linked. “We expect business managers to place clearly affects Yorkshire and Humber region. From April 2018, landlords will be unable to greater emphasis on the social value of suslet out residential or business premises below a tainable real estate.”
Company AIMS high A LETTINGS agency with offices in Huddersfield town centre has completed its listing on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. Dorian Gonsalves, managing director of Belvoir Lettings, said the move was “an important milestone in the evolution of our national brand” He said: “We are now in a position to focus on our future growth as a public company. Our previous holding company, Kilima Holdings, has now been liquidated and replaced with Belvoir Lettings PLC. “Primarily, the funds raised from the placing will enable us to fund acquisitions and execute our ambitious expansion plans. We will also be in a position to help franchise owners acquire competitors within their territory. “We will be proactively targeting key competitors and assisting with an operations strategy. “More importantly, the flotation will enable us to provide assistance with funding for the right opportunity, although this will depend on individual circumstances. “The strength and identity of our national brand is testament to the combined commitment of the franchise network and the team at Central Office and I make this announcement with great pleasure and pride in the network, and our achievements in previous years.” Belvoir, which has offices at John William Street in Huddersfield, was founded in 1995 by Mike and Stephanie Goddard. The company, based in Grantham, Lincolnshire, is one of the largest specialist
TO LET
Prestigious High Spec. Office Suite
Unit 1, Cartwright Court, Bradley Business Park, Huddersfield, HD2 1GN
1 199m2 (2,140 sq ft) 1 Established business park location 1 Ease of access to J24 & J25 of M62 Rent: On Application
TO LET
Workshop/Warehouse Unit
Part Hope Bank Works, Honley, Holmfirth, HD9 6QA
1 829.71m2 (8,931 sq ft) 1 Suitable for a variety of alternative uses (STPC) 1 Generous car parking provision Rent: On Application
TO LET
Unit 3, Rawfolds Industrial Estate
Bradford Road, Cleckheaton, BD19 5LT
1 Modern trade counter 1 163.46m2 (1,760 sq ft) Rent: On Application
TO LET
Character Town Centre Offices
10 New North Parade, Huddersfield, HD1 5JP 1 Attractive character town centre offices 1 66.1m2 (712 sq ft) 1 Newly refurbished Rent: On Application
TO LET
Prominent Town Centre Office 8 Victoria Road, Elland, HX5 0PU
1 102.49m2 (1,103 sq ft) 1 100% Business Rates Relief current year 1 Private car parking Rental: £6,000 pax
TO LET
Modern Workshop Unit
Unit B, Brockholes Business Park, Rock Mill Road, Huddersfield, HD9 7BN ■ PLANS: Dorian Gonsalves, managing director of AIM-listed Belvoir Lettings lettings agency franchises in the UK, with 140-plus franchises nationwide. It aims to increase that to 200 in the next three years.
1 307m2 (3,308 sq ft) 1 Prominent location 1 Frontage to the A616 New Mill Road Rent: £5.25 per sq ft per annum exclusive
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Steve Harvey-Franklin
WSI Yorkshire A HOLMFIRTH businessman is busy making expansion plans after acquiring a master franchise from one of the world's leading digital marketing groups. Steve Harvey-Franklin (pictured), who owns WSI Yorkshire, has been appointed as the regional master for Northern England by North American-based franchisor WSI. It is the first time a master franchisor has been awarded by WSI to a UK operator. Since starting WSI Yorkshire almost a decade ago, Steve has experienced an impressive 35% average growth year-on-year. The new acquisition will lead to the opening of new offices in towns and cities across the North, as Steve helps develop the existing network of 10 offices. He said: “I’m delighted and excited to be building a digital marketing agency in Holmfirth that can be replicated throughout the North, which will make marketing strategies even more accessible to small and medium businesses throughout Northern England.” Ron McArthur, president of WSI, said: “It’s always exciting when we grow the WSI franchise. As regional master of Northern England, Steve is able to use his business and marketing expertise to connect with local businesses and get them on the fast-track to success.” WSI Yorkshire was set up in 2004 and provides internet marketing services to clients across the UK. In addition to the UK, WSI has master franchise offices across the world in countries such as Australia, United Arab Emirates, Portugal, France, Germany and Switzerland.
Jay Everett, Andrew Llewelyn, Ben Rennocks, Stephen Raper, Matthew Davies & Nick Marsden
CBRE PROPERTY agency CBRE has announced a series of key appointments. Jay Everett, director of planning at the firm’s West Yorkshire office, has been promoted to director of northern planning to oversee the Leeds and Manchester planning teams. He said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the new and challenging role of director or northern planning. “To be able to work closely and efficiently with the all the member of the Leeds and Manchester planning teams will positively strengthen our position across the North.” Andrew Llewellyn has been appointed director of property and asset management at the West Yorkshire office. Mr Llewellyn, who was formerly at Jones Lang LaSalle and King Sturge, will be responsible for managing CBRE’s Northern client base in addition to continuing his long-standing work with MEPC’s Wellington Place development in Leeds. Other promotions see Ben Rennocks become director of building consultancy; Stephen Raper as associate director of valuation and advisory services; Matthew Davies as senior surveyor of valuation and advisory services; and Nick Marsden as senior surveyor of lease consultancy and rating.
Movers and shakers
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Agency proves it’s on the mark
A DESIGN and marketing agency with a national client base is the latest winner of a monthly business award. The Engine Room Design Co Ltd, based at Huddersfield’s Media Centre, won the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Award. Co-founders Darren Evans and Helen Whitehead received their framed certificate at a presentation at the law firm’s High Street offices. The Engine Room Design Co Ltd was founded in 2001 and boasts an experienced team of graphic designers, strategists, marketers and brand consultants who create projects, identities and campaigns for clients UK-wide. It has also expanded into the export market – with the addition of Washington DC-based educational software specialists, Blackboard Inc. Everyone at The Engine Room lives in the local area and are very proud of the t ow n , i t s h e r i t ag e a n d e c o n o m i c well-being. Their corporate literature highlights the town’s creative focus and they encourage clients to the town to visit their premises. They are also firm believers in buying locally, with many of their suppliers residing in Huddersfield. As part of their growth plans the agency has taken on extra staff and employed a marketing undergraduate from Huddersfield University on a one-year placement. The Engine Room was recognised for its business excellence when it was accepted as a member of the Design Business Association – a body promoting professional
■ BY DESIGN: Chris Taylor (centre), of Eaton Smith, presents the award to Darren Evans (third right) and Helen Davies (second right), of The Engine Room Design Co Ltd, with (from left) Kathryn Shuttleworth, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce; Mark Billington and Simon Steer, of Royal Bank of Scotland; and Annie Bradley, of UKTI
practice in the design industry and championing the effective use of design. Darren, who is creative director, said: “It was particularly great for The Engine Room to receive this award at this time as it ties in with celebrating our first 10 years as a company. “It’s always nice when companies can be
Give it some Umph!
■ TEAM WORK: Andy Hobson (left), of Fantastic Media, with Dean Hoyle (centre), chairman of Huddersfield Town; and Grant Thornton partner Ian Marwood promoting the Umph! competition A MAJOR competition giving young people an insight into the world of work returns to Huddersfield this summer. Following a successful first event lst year, Umph! takes place on July 3 at the Galpharm Stadium when teams from schools, sixth forms and further education colleges across the Leeds City Region will compete in a virtual business game. Umph! is the brainchild of financial advisors Grant Thornton as part of the firm’s Educate to Innovate programme, which aims to create
cohesive links between businesses and education in Yorkshire. It is being backed by Birstall-based marketing agency Fantastic Media, which also manages the Umph! website. Huddersfield Town chairman Dean Hoyle is also a keen supporter of the initiative. Fantastic Media has a history of supporting regional educational establishments – from schools through to universities – with involvement in vocational projects, offering work placements and sponsorship.
recognised for their achievements, abilities and work ethic.” The Business of the Month Award, run in conjunction with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and UKTI, is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Contact Ian Greenwood on 01484 821389.
Neil Muffitt
FDYL A COMPANY providing interim finance director services has made a key appointment. Cleckheaton-based FDYL has named Neil Muffitt (pictured) as its new managing partner. He succeeds Mark Raven, who will continue to manage his own portfolio of FDYL clients while seeking to recruit additional high calibre associates. Mr Muffitt will assume additional marketing and business development responsibilities aimed at raising the profile of FDYL and the understanding of the benefits that interim FDs bring to businesses. Mr Muffitt had a successful career with Coopers & Lybrand before running the finance functions for Real Affinity in Bradford and Advertising Principles in Leeds. Since working as an interim financial director he has concentrated on helping clients bridge the often difficult gap between the expectations of lenders, and of businesses.