Chamberlink Nov 24

• Michelin-starred chef’s restaurant closes

• Peaky Blinders gang warfare at canal

• Winner of £1m business investment prize

CHAMBER

The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Editor: John Lamb 07814 539329 lambjohn@mac.com

Deputy Editor: Dan Harrison 0121 274 3239, 0797 1144052 d.harrison@birmingham-chamber.com

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Reporter: Feron Jayawardene 0121 2743240, 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com

Reporter: Darby Newman 07951 245985

d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

Contents

Chamberlink November 2024

66 Manufacturing: Manufacturer discovers

68 Legal: Trowers to relocate to new Colmore premises

70 Property: Why Jewellery Quarter is still sparkling

72 Skills: Charity backs skills programme

74 Technology: Millennium Point funds innovators of the future

Digital Media Services: Reaching 16m users searching on TikTok 56 Business Banking & Finance: Navigating a route to better borrowing

Challengers vs high streets: The battle of the banks

76 The Arts: Bringing Christmas magic to the stage

Sport: Eventmasters sign Ascot deal

…any other business News from Chamber businesses

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is here to connect, support and grow local businesses. Accredited by the British Chambers, we have acted as the voice of local businesses since 1813.

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Putting engineers into the spotlight

Iremember a former president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce lamenting the fact that UK engineers never seemed to be regarded in the same high esteem as they were in Germany, for instance.

That’s one of the reasons why it’s so good to see an apprentice engineer receiving the highest accolade of Young Professional of the Year 2024 at our Future Faces awards night – and she’s only 19.

Santina Bunting’s award delighted the audience of nearly 500 at the ceremony at the ICC in Birmingham and interviews afterwards reveal her to be a person not only of great talent but one of principle and care.

She is full of praise for the way her mum brought her up and persuaded her to take an apprenticeship in civil and ground engineering – a discipline for which she is clearly suited.

And her family appears not to have had the easiest of starts because Santina’s grandparents were part of the Windrush Generation. The name derives from the ship Empire Windrush, which brought one of the first groups of Caribbean people to the UK in 1948 to help rebuild the country after World War II.

But Santina has triumphed over any adversity and gives enormous credit to

FRONT COVER: Santina Bunting, Future Faces’ Young Professional of the Year 2024. See pages 5, 50 and 51

her employers, Arup. She describes their support through her apprenticeship as “amazing”.

And Santina’s caring nature is brought to the fore by her work in putting an event together for Black History Month in Birmingham. “It’s really important to me because I’m from a mixed heritage background,” she says.

Readers can learn more about Santina on pages 5, 50 and 51 and by listening to a podcast she recorded with Future Faces manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell. You can hear it by using the QR code on page 5.

It is sad to report (on page 7) that Glynn Purnell has been forced to close his city centre restaurant. He blames the economic climate and ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry.

These problems were continually highlighted by the Chamber’s policy team, especially during the restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

It gives us no satisfaction that this particular chicken has come home to roost for the Michelin-starred chef. But it is uplifting to know that his two other restaurants in the region continue to trade and that he assures us that we have not heard the last of the Yummy Brummy.

Let’s drink to that...

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Santina’s mum a ‘massive influence’

By John Lamb

The remarkable engineer who has been crowned the youngest Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year has spoken about the “massive influence” her mother has had on her education and career and the trauma her grandparents faced as part of the Windrush Generation.

Santina Bunting was revealed as the winner of the 2024 title at the awards ceremony organised by Future Faces Chamber of Commerce in front of nearly 500 guests at the ICC in Birmingham.

The 19-year-old apprentice in civil and ground engineering with global consultants Arup is the youngest winner of the award, sponsored by University College Birmingham, in 24 years and describes her victory as “a surreal experience and moment”.

She adds: “I feel so honoured and blessed to have been named the Apprentice of the Year and overall Young Professional of the Year winner.

“Breaking the record of the youngest winner is something I am very proud of and showcases all the hard work I have put into my apprenticeship.

“As a Christian, I think it’s important to thank God for all these amazing opportunities that I have been presented with. My mum has always been a massive influence in my life and I would not be the woman I am today without her.

“I would also like to thank Arup for the amazing support they have provided for me throughout my journey and apprenticeship. I am so excited for the future and to be an ambassador for Future Faces and continue to represent and champion apprenticeships and early careers.”

In a podcast interview with Future Faces manager Sophia Poduval-Morrell, Santina talks about the sacrifices her mother has made in bringing her up and her influence in urging her to enter an apprenticeship.

She talks movingly about her grandparents, who were part of the Windrush Generation. She says: “My grandparents, who unfortunately aren't with us, came over during the Windrush Generation. They were among people from Jamaica who came over after World War II to help rebuild the country.

“On hearing the stories that my grandma and mom used to tell of the sort of the challenges that she had to go through and overcome, it really empowers me when I think of their legacy.”

Santina also describes how she became

involved in organising an event as part of Black History Month in Birmingham. “It’s an incredibly diverse city, which is really important. I think Black History Month really is a celebration of past and current black individuals, organisations and groups. It’s really important to me because I'm from a mixed heritage background.”

She tells of her schooldays and how she grew to love engineering subjects and undertook work experience to discover it was the “perfect path” for her. For her apprenticeship, she researched several companies and chose Arup, who, she says, stood out because “the value that they have on community and cultures is so massive”.

She joined Future Faces, the young professionals’ arm of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), as part of Arup’s corporate membership and learned about the “amazing advantages” the network provides. She says: “...the good thing about Future Faces...is there are loads of people from different sectors”.

Despite her early years, Santina has already spoken to the House of Lords about apprenticeships and was nominated to attend the King’s Summer Garden Party at Buckingham Palace – and took her mum along.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “It was brilliant seeing Santina named Greater Birmingham’s Young Professional of the Year. She’s an apprentice, showing how far the apprenticeship route into professional careers has grown in impact and opportunity in recent years. She’s already leading and making a difference within her organisation and beyond and she’s only 19 years old. Congratulations to Santina and I’m excited to see where her career takes her.”

• To listen to the full interview with Santina scan the attached QR code

• For full reports from Future Faces awards, turn to pages 50 and 51.

“Surreal moment”: Santina Bunting with (left to right): Kasim Choudhry (Future Faces president), Amber Sandu (awards host) and Richard Behan of University College Birmingham, who sponsored the Young Professional of the Year 2024 award

Celebrating the region’s female entrepreneurs

The shortlist for the second Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition, highlighting the West Midlands’ best women-led SMEs and start-ups while plugging the gender funding gap, has been revealed.

The competition, delivered by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), is returning for a second year, with partners NatWest and the British Business Bank also backing the initiative.

According to The Gender Index, just seven per cent of West Midlands-based companies receiving angel investment and six per cent of those receiving VC investment so far this year are female-led.

The winner will be announced on 13 November at a venue in the city centre yet to be identified. Details and joining details will be on the Chamber website: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

The four-strong shortlist, drawn from an entry of around 30 applicants from throughout the West Midlands, comprises:

AGM is at the STEAMhouse

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce annual meeting takes place at STEAMhouse on Friday, 22 November.

The 2023-24 annual report will be presented, giving an opportunity for members to reflect on the past 12 months and explore priorities for the future

New Chamber council members and non-executive directors will be formally confirmed and chief financial officer Helen Bates will present the audited accounts.

Other speakers will include Nasir Awan, president ; Henrietta Brealey, CEO; and Greg Lowson, chair.

Proceedings start at 10.30 with refreshments at STEAMhouse, Belmont Row, Birmingham B4 7RQ.

• Wolverhampton-based Eureka Inventions Limited, which aims to make surgery and childbirth safer, starting with an AI-enabled device to prevent the most common cause of avoidable harm.

• Dudley-based Iron & Velvet, who make plastic-free and sustainable cleaning products, aim to reduce single use plastic from their customers’ daily lives.

• Birmingham-based Econominds , who use AI and gamification to create personalised and streamlined revision resources.

• Stourbridge-based MIXD Reality, who aim to revolutionise children’s storytelling by blending the magic of Augmented Reality (AR) with inclusive and interactive experiences.

Judges were Deb Leary, scale-up director at Innovate UK Business Growth, entrepreneur and former GBCC President, business leader Nigel Hall, NED and mentor to Founder Entrepreneurs in Tech and

Innovation start-ups and scale-ups and Sharonjit Clare, chair of the WMCA Race Equalities Taskforce.

Deb said: “There were a large number of high-quality applicants to the competition. It’s a testament to the calibre of women-led enterprises in the region that there was plenty of healthy debate among the panel.

“For those who haven’t been shortlisted, I’d encourage them to attend the pitch competition event to connect with and learn from the judges, entrepreneurs and investors in the room as you take your businesses to the next level.”

Report will look at business case for AI

Maximising business growth through artificial intelligence (AI) will be in focus at the launch of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) Quarterly Business Report.

Phil Webb, CEO and co-founder of Vu Ai, brings over 10 years of extensive experience in the technology industry. His journey began as the sole employee of a tech start-up, playing a pivotal role in driving growth that led to a successful exit. Phil now leads Vu Ai, a consultancy specialising in business process optimisation through artificial intelligence, with a sharp eye on AI, sales, business growth, and tech trends which shape the future.

As the GBCC flagship economic publication, the Quarterly Business Report, delivered in partnership with Chamber patron Birmingham City University, is the most comprehensive regular report of its kind in the cityregion. Its launch comes after the UK economy expanded by 0.2 per cent in August, a development welcomed by business leaders in Greater Birmingham ahead of the autumn budget.

The figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) followed stagnant growth in June and July.

Services output grew 0.1 per cent in August, manufacturing was up 0.5 per cent and construction expanded 0.4 per cent, the ONS said.

Emily Stubbs, head of policy at the GBCC, said: "Early analysis from our latest Quarterly Business Report reveals the challenges that exporters continue to face locally and this is mirrored in the national data as the trade deficit widened over the previous three months as geopolitical tension continues to impact day to day activity.”

To book on to the free event at Birmingham City University on 7 November go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “We know there’s a great big gender gap when it comes to angel and VC investment. With the Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition we, along with our partners NatWest and the British Business Bank, are looking to help change that.

“Our shortlisted companies have all been identified for their high growth potential and drawn from diverse sectors such as edu-tech, health-tech to plastic free cleaning solutions. We can’t wait to see the pitches and announce the winners.”

High quality entrants: Deb Leary

AI expert: Phil Webb

A sneak ‘peak’ at new movie

It was eerily quiet on the canalside when a team of actors, camera operators and producers arrived at Birmingham’s Gas Street Basin to film the latest Peaky Blinders.

The footage will be part of the new Netflix movie of the ongoing gang warfare story, and the perfect Victorian location is bound to generate extra tourist income for local businesses for decades to come.

The heart of the canal network next to Broad Street in the Westside district of the city was an oasis of calm after two days of preparation involving numerous vans occupying suspended parking bays.

And then it was time for “action” as Peaky Blinders’ creator Steve Knight brought the genius of his 11year-old BBC drama series home to roost with scenes shot for the Netflix film that is currently codenamed The Immortal Man.

Right at the heart of the action masterminded by production company Oblik was the Tap & Spile pub, whose Grade II-listed buildings date back to 1821.

Brian Hughes, chairman of Westside BID, said: “In true Brummie fashion, everything was remarkably low-key, with the locked set having the friendliest security guards and members of the public watching from wherever they could as the shoot unfolded into late evening.

“Fires burned on Regency Wharf’s towpath and above the water itself, while a boat docked outside of the Tap & Spile and bags were thrown onto the towpath as characters jumped off.

‘Diners at the Bistrot Pierre restaurant overlooking the canal were able to watch the filming’

“The set had the unmistakable ‘Peaky’ look – the darklyatmospheric, sometimes golden night light broken only by characters dressed in flat caps and long coats swirling around.”

To cap it all, even the moon was ‘peaking’ through clouds as boats with names including Thomas

Coathupe & Sons Ltd - 1893 and W.G.E. Wyrley & Essington - slowly sailed into view of the flickering flames and beer barrels outside of the Tap & Spile.

A giant crane in Gas Street held a suspended light box high above the basin and other lights were mounted on the balcony at the back of the Walkabout pub.

Mr Hughes added: “Diners at the Bistrot Pierre restaurant overlooking the canal were able to watch the filming, while Broad Street’s first floor Barajee Indian Restaurant was closed for the shoot. But in future, diners there

will be able to look directly down to where the action took place.

“Other Westside businesses along the same stretch of water that will also be able to trade on having been part of a famous film location include the Italian deli and restaurant Ciaro, the Canalside Cafe and The Gin Vault.

The Netflix movie will star Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer) as Tommy Shelby, as well as Rebecca Ferguson (Mission: Impossible), Barry Keoghan (Saltburn), Tim Roth (Reservoir Dogs) and Stephen Graham, who has already played Hayden Stagg in the series.

End of an era as top restaurant closes

A combination of economic pressures and ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry are blamed by Glynn Purnell for the closure of his Michelin-starred restaurant in Birmingham city centre.

The decision marked the end of an era for the Cornwall Street restaurant, which for 17 years had garnered widespread acclaim.

Purnell’s, which first opened on 7 July, 2007, quickly became a gastronomic hotspot, earning a Michelin star in 2008. Known for being a leading light in Birmingham’s dining scene, Glynn, who trained with top chefs including Gordon Ramsay, Gary Rhodes and Claude Bosi, expressed deep sadness over the closure, citing a combination of economic pressures and the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry.

Glynn said: “Purnell’s has been my proudest moment, and I am heartbroken to say that after 17 years we have served our final guest. It fills my heart with pride to say that Purnell’s was a

roaring success from day one. It won every accolade going, from a Michelin star just a year after opening, to the Craft Guild of Chefs New Restaurant of the Year Award, and the AA Restaurant of the Year Award.

“However, the world doesn’t stand still. Things have moved on, and times have changed. In this current climate, no-one is bulletproof.”

Raj Kandola, the GBCC’s director of external affairs, said: “The Chamber played a vigorous role in collecting vital data from businesses during the pandemic and shared this information with key local and national stakeholders. This shaped the policy support programmes that were put in place to help those organisations that were knocked from pillar to post as a result of Covid-19.

“Although lockdowns are a thing of the past, the long-term ramifications are there for all to see –with footfall in city centres taking a hit and many firms still suffering from crippling cost pressures.”

Action!: Peaky Blinders being filmed outside the Tap & Spile pub in the Westside basin

Times have changed: Glynn Purnell

NEC gets Nick’s magic touch

Sir Nick Varney has been appointed as non-executive chair of the NEC Group, Birmingham’s leading live events business.

Sir Nick brings a wealth of board and sector expertise to the group. He has over 30 years’ experience working in the tourism and leisure industry and was chief executive officer at Merlin Entertainments from its inception in 1999 to his retirement in November 2022.

He oversaw a period of extraordinary growth for Merlin and transformed the business into a global provider of memorable experiences for over 60 million guests every year.

Nick has previously served as chair of UKHospitality, the trade body representing the UK’s hospitality and tourism industry, is currently a non-executive on the board of Marston’s PLC, a senior

NEC’s significant potential: Sir Nick Varney

advisor to Blackstone Private Equity, and a non- executive chair of Bath Rugby.

NEC Group CEO Melanie Smith said: “We are delighted to welcome Nick as chair at such an exciting time for our business. We have ambitious plans to transform our site into the UK’s entertainment and leisure capital, offering an ever-evolving set of experiences for everyone to explore and enjoy.

“Nick’s deep expertise in the leisure sector will be invaluable as we execute our plans.”

Sir Nick added: “I am delighted to be joining the board of the NEC Group and look forward to working closely with Mel and the executive team. This is a great business with a unique offering and world-class venues. I look forward to supporting the team in delivering on its significant potential.”

Council MD to outline vision for city

The new managing director of Birmingham City Council is to deliver a keynote address at the launch of the Birmingham Economic Review for 2024.

Joanne Roney will speak at the launch of the review on Tuesday, 19 November, at the Exchange in Centenary Square (9-11am).

The Birmingham Economic Review is a yearly economic snapshot of the city and region, analysing capabilities, innovation, infrastructure and more.

It is produced through a partnership between the University of Birmingham’s City-Region Economic Development Institute (City-REDI) and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The review provides an opportunity to bring quality insights from academia, leading

businesses, and local government together, to share insights on the local economy and measures needed to drive local economic growth.

‘We very much look forward to Joanne setting out her vision for the city’

The launch event will present the findings of this year's report and discuss them with an expert panel of leaders from business, policy and academia.

Joanne Roney joined Birmingham City Council in September 2024. Before her move to Birmingham, she was the first female chief executive of Manchester City Council, and in

B:Music offers A-listers

B:Music, the Birmingham music charity responsible for Symphony Hall and Town Hall, has launched its new winter programme for 2024/25 which includes comedy, live music, dance and spoken word on its two world-famous stages.

The new season showcases an array of diverse performances at Town Hall and Symphony Hall, from Steps superstar Claire Richards to Escape to the Chateau’s Dick and Angel.

Live music will include The Bootleg Beatles and folk royalty Kate Rusby gracing the Symphony Hall and Town Hall stages in December. In January the legendary soul group The Drifters return as well as comedian Stewart Lee with his new show Stewart Lee vs The ManWulf.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Beke joins forces with his live band, vocalist Lance Ellington, and a troupe of dancers, to bring a magical evening of music, dance and laughter to Symphony Hall on 17 December.

To see the full programme and to book tickets, go to: bmusic.co.uk

September, 2021, was named the Local Authority Chief Executive of the Year at the annual Municipal Journal Awards. She was awarded a CBE for services to Local Government in the 2024 New Years Honours list.

Emily Stubbs, GBCC head of policy, said: “We very much look forward to Joanne setting out her vision for the city, the council's plan for ‘Shaping Birmingham's Future’ and key messages for the local business community. This year’s Economic Review will reflect on how we can work collaboratively across the local economy to drive inclusive growth and enhance the attractiveness of the city to visitors and investors.”

To register your free place at the launch of the Birmingham Economic Review for 2024 go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

McDonald’s ‘of the future’ opens in West Bromwich

A popular McDonald’s branch in the West Midlands has relaunched with a new look following a threeweek facelift.

Customers can expect to find a more contemporary dining area following the removal of the front counter, with dedicated areas created for the different ways to order. Meanwhile, employees will also benefit from the makeover following redesign of the staff room.

The refurbishment of the West Bromwich branch is part of the fast food giant’s “convenience of the future” restaurant revamp

programme, which combines new restaurant layouts with the latest technology to improve facilities for customers.

Doug Wright, who owns and operates 26 McDonald’s restaurants across the West Midlands, said: “I’m proud to reinvest in our All Saints Way restaurant – especially as McDonald’s celebrates its 50th anniversary in the UK this year.

“The dining area is more contemporary with separate facilities for our dine-in customers and our couriers leading to a better experience for both our Sandwell customers and our staff.”

President’s Focus

Fiona Rouse, president of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce and director of PI-KEM Group, explains why a sense of community is important to her in all elements of life.

Community has always been important to me. Being part of a community gives not only a sense of belonging but also security and support.

This year I celebrated 35 years as an adult volunteer in Scouting and the people I have met and the experiences I have had through this have had a significant impact on who I am today.

In today's interconnected world, the concept of community has taken on a new significance. It's no longer just a geographical location or a shared interest - it's a network of individuals and organisations that interact, support, and collaborate.

Charlie Elliott, our head of Royal Sutton Coldfield and Lichfield & Tamworth Chambers of Commerce, launched her strategy for 2025 at our recent AGM and at the core of it is our business community. This led us to think about what community really means to businesses and we broke it down into three levels.

Our internal community: This is one our most valuable assets and getting this right gives us a solid foundation on which everything else within our businesses can be built. Encouraging colleagues to voice their opinions, and acting upon these, develops a sense of ownership and shared purpose. Cultivating a company culture that values diversity, equity, and personal growth helps drive workplace positivity, improves colleague retention and recruitment success. Ensuring communication is two-way and free flowing increases trust, reduces misunderstandings and promotes collaboration.

‘Building a strong community is not just a nice-to-have; It is essential for longterm business success’

Our local community: This isn’t just the locality we are in but equally the networks we belong to, the advisors we collaborate with, and the shared purpose we have with other companies within our sectors. Being part of industry or professional networks and sharing experiences,

demonstrates our commitment to learn from, and to provide support to, each other. However, our businesses should be part of our local geographic community, even if our products or services are not. We can support colleagues to volunteer, operate in environmentally sustainable ways, and can reach out and engage with our future workforce through schools or youth organisations. This all enables us to move from being “based in” to being “part of” an area.

Our global community: It’s rare now that businesses are not operating across borders or have supply chains that include other countries. These international links allow us to build strategic partnerships, increase our brand reach and widen our supply chains so they are dependable, sustainable, and ethical. Equally,

they allow us to widen our cultural understanding, develop empathy with the challenges others face, provide support for change and develop respectful, meaningful connections.

Building a strong community is not just a nice-to-have; It is essential for long-term business success. As business professionals, by investing in internal relationships, fostering local connections, and building global partnerships, we can create a more resilient, and socially responsible future. Together our businesses become forces for good, leaving a legacy that benefits both our companies and the communities of which we are part.

Many people ask why my company is part of the Chamber and it is about the knowledge and relationships we have built through it. Greater Birmingham Chambers

of Commerce has allowed us to upskill our team, build a strong network of trusted advisors; increase our visibility within the business community, and given us a platform to advocate for the needs of our company as a globally trading SME. Making use of the resources and support the Chamber offers has helped us navigate challenges and seize opportunities, ultimately contributing to our business's growth and success.

As Charlie and I have discussed with many of our members – the Chamber is more than just networking, it is all about championing our own businesses, growing our regional economy and working together to build a stronger community. Take a look at what more the Chamber can offer you at www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

It’s made me who I am today: Fiona Rouse.

Picture: Fiona Millington-Pipe

The Griffin Report

Ebullient Professor David Mba has launched a five-year plan called Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond for the historic Birmingham City University, where he became vice-chancellor just over a year ago. One of his priorities is to be the largest supplier of skilled graduates in the region. He explains his vision to JON GRIFFIN

Professor David Mba is not a man to mince his words. “I think this is a sleeping tiger, and now it’s time to roar.”

The sleeping Big Cat in question is Birmingham City University (BCU), where Professor Mba took over as vice-chancellor just over a year ago, presiding over an establishment with 33,000 students and nearly 5,000 full and part-time staff. It’s clearly a demanding role in a highly competitive sector, with around 40 per cent of universities expected to run up budget deficits this year.

But the ebullient professor is full of hope for the future of an institution which has been part of the city’s educational fabric since the early days of Queen Victoria, when it launched in 1843 as the Birmingham College of Art.

More than 180 years later BCUfollowing its more recent incarnations as Birmingham Polytechnic and the University of Central England - has firmly established itself as the second largest university in the city. But Professor Mba is not content to play second fiddle to frontrunners the University of Birmingham.

“Overall, the university has some fantastic metrics – we are now 33,000 students. We are the second biggest university for now but absolutely we would like to be top.”

To steer BCU towards that aim, the university is launching a new five-year strategy this month called Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond following nine months of consultations with staff, with skills at the heart of the new agenda.

“One of our key priorities is to be the largest supplier of skilled graduates in the region. We can do that – I am certain we can do that. We have nursing, we have midwifery….engineers, architects, lawyers. We are not theoretical, we are very practice-applied - I think we should have the most-ready graduates for work, and that is what we want to improve on. We want to be an exemplar as an institution.”

‘First and foremost we want to help address the societal challenges in the city and in the region’

The vice-chancellor once worked in warehouses and washed cars before taking the first steps into the academic world which eventually saw him hold senior leadership posts at Cranfield University, London South Bank University and De Montfort University.

He was born in Westminster, London, but grew up in Nigeria where he went to school and attended the University of Lagos. Originally planning to become an engineer, he moved to the UK in 1990 and studied aerospace, aeronautical and astronautical engineering at the University of Hertfordshire.

He later completed a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Cranfield University before moving full time into the academic world in 2000.

He expands on his theme of transforming the lives of thousands of students who often hail from deprived backgrounds.

“Seventy per cent of our students are from the West Midlands – a lot of them commute. Forty-eight to 50 per cent are from the most deprived areas of Birmingham and the West Midlands. Twenty-two per cent have no family household income.

“We offer a transformation that really speaks to social mobility –we are now 68 per cent minority ethnic students, so we really represent the city. It is a very ethnically diverse student body and the fact that we can give them a transformational education and see them go on to get professional jobs is good for them but also good for the community.”

The vice-chancellor pinpoints the new Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond strategy as a key milestone for the future of BCU in a sector where several universities are discussing potential mergers in an increasingly tough landscape, with dozens of campuses nationwide launching voluntary severance programmes to cut costs.

“We want to reach beyond but first and foremost we want to help address the societal challenges in the city and in the region, be it health and wellbeing, the creative areas, culture, sport. We are going to reimagine our research, our knowledge exchange, our enterprise to focus really on what sort of impact we are making here.

“We put together dozens of face-to-face online workshops. We spent months getting all this information, then began putting it

all together. It is going to take us to 2030 and beyond and is going to speak to our agenda for skills.”

The vice-chancellor recognises that merger options in the university sector are part of “live discussions” - but stresses that BCU has avoided voluntary severance programmes, unlike more than 60 other campuses across the country.

“Financially we made a surplus last year and we should be OK for this year whereas a lot of other organisations/universities have gone into voluntary severance to cut staff. We haven’t, we were very prudent early on.

“I made savings very quickly. The question about mergers is an ongoing live discussion, many vicechancellors are having this type of discussion. Those discussions are still active – there isn’t a clear path as to how that would emerge.

“We need to be really agile and creative in how we teach to find efficiencies, but still get the best outcome for students.”

Prof Mba gets to grips with the latest technology at BCU’s STEAMhouse complex

Prof Mba at the former Victorian cycle factory turned state of the art offices STEAMhouse

As BCU gears up for the launch of Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond, Professor Mba says growing numbers is key to the future prosperity of an institution which he says throughout its lengthy history has stayed true to its original mission to link engineering and manufacturing with the world of arts and design. “We graduate more creative graduates than any other university in the West Midlands – that stems from our history.

“That is the challenge – It can remain in a stable position if I keep growing my numbers and hopefully that growth overcomes inflation, overcomes the annual pay increase, overcomes the pension increase, you are constantly chasing your numbers.”

For now, the vice-chancellor sees the new five-year strategy as a key part of a three-pronged BCU blueprint to help nurture the skills of the next generation of talent.

“One is about the talent of tomorrow, to make sure that

students going into work have the skills that align with what the city needs and the region needs – that is our core business.

“We want to ensure that nursing students, computer science students, engineers, business students all tackle live projects that can impact society. You have got to be creative, the world is changing so fast, technology is changing so fast.”

‘We have spoken about economic prosperity but there is also the health and wellbeing which is an explicit line in our strategy going forward’

He cited the second priority as “applying knowledge for good”. “That is about how our research can help make a difference. It is not

research for the sake of research any more – it is about research because there is something we want to do for the city.

“The last pillar for us is prosperity – we have spoken about economic prosperity but there is also the health and wellbeing which is an explicit line in our strategy going forward. How do we deliver prosperity of health and wellbeing?

“We have (sport programme) teaching in Alexander Stadium. How can my nursing students work with the communities, work with the sports students to help inform and educate the community about nutrition, about sports?”

Professor Mba is equally passionate about his role as chair of the Birmingham Cultural Compact, set up to create and deliver a new vision for culture across the city.

“This is to develop a new cultural strategy for the city. That is about what is going to attract the next generation of creatives into the city, what is the attraction of the

city for both international and national investment. Why do we generally have to go to London for culture? Why can’t London come to Birmingham?

“It is about trying to change that narrative and find a uniqueness that is very Brummie. If you think of us as the second biggest city I don’t think the culture and arts provision reflects that size, nor does the investment in culture reflect the size, so there is more work to be done.”

A year into his vicechancellorship Professor Mba is clearly relishing the challenges of helping drive Birmingham and the West Midlands towards a prosperous new post-industrial future in a competitive hi-tech world on various fronts, from developing 21st century skills to enhancing the region’s culture.

But is BCU’s national reputation as firmly established as it could be?

“No, I don’t think it is – when I said sleeping tiger, I genuinely mean it. We are up for the competition.”

The STEAMhouse, innovation centre of Birmingham City University

Patrick leaves role at BTG

Patrick Twist has one major regret as he steps down from the chairmanship of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Business Transport Group (BTG).

The lawyer has been in the post for 13 years and became chair at a “desperate” time when there was a background of the “deindustrialisation” of Birmingham and the region.

He says: “Big industrial companies and many commercial firms like venture capitalists were moving away, concentrating much of it into London and the south-east.

‘It has become a huge disappointment that the northern leg of HS2 has been scrapped’

“HS2 was a way of reversing the trend of people moving out and would act as a relief to the over-heating economy in the south-east. But it has become a huge disappointment that the northern leg of HS2 has been scrapped. The changes to HS2 have been detrimental and will have a negative impact on links with Leeds and Manchester. It’s 100 per cent a wasted opportunity.”

Jerry Blackett, then chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, invited Patrick to chair and revive the BTG. He saw the role as an opportunity to help “change the economic geography” of the country.

Patrick says: “In the earlier part of my career I spent a lot of time travelling from Birmingham to both Manchester and Leeds. The rail connections were really poor even compared to the West Coat Main Line.

“I felt strongly that this held back our regional cities and was both a cause and a consequence of the increasing dominance of London in our national life.

“The West Midlands was being ever more hollowed out, both by deindustrialisation and also by the flight of head offices and finance houses to London and the south-east.

“When Andrew Adonis first promoted the idea of HS2, I saw this as a real opportunity to breathe new life into the principal regional cities. I still do.”

Jet2 launches festive package trips to Bratislava

Jet2CityBreaks has launched a new city break and Christmas market destination for this winter from Birmingham Airport, with packages to Bratislava.

The UK’s leading operator of European city breaks says it has responded to strong demand from UK holidaymakers looking to explore a new city or enjoy a festive getaway this winter, by expanding its network with the launch of Jet2CityBreak packages to Bratislava.

The addition of this new destination gives customers and independent travel agents more choice for Winter 24/25, as well as the opportunity to enjoy a winter break to a new country in the Jet2 network – Slovakia.

City break packages are on sale to Bratislava from Birmingham Airport until 28 April, 2025. Flights will operate to Vienna Airport, with twice weekly services (Monday and Friday) from Birmingham. From there it’s

a short hop over the border to Bratislava. In total, nine Jet2 city break destinations are available for winter from Birmingham Airport (Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, Bratislava, Rome, Krakow, Prague, Vienna and Venice) and seven Christmas market favourites (Cologne, Budapest, Bratislava, Gdansk, Krakow, Vienna and Prague).

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “City and Christmas market breaks are continuing to grow in popularity, so we are delighted to be going on sale with a brand-new destination for winter 24/25 from Birmingham Airport.”

For more information visit: www.jet2holidays.com/ city-breaks and www.jet2holidays.com/citybreaks/christmas-markets

Forging a powerful partnership

Stratford Energy Solutions (SES), a premium solar installation company, and Swof Media, a digital marketing agency based in Birmingham, have continued a marketing partnership following impressive results.

Both firms are members of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and Swof Media successfully delivered a new website for the installation firm.

Now, both firms have committed to a strategic partnership with the West Midlands Police Club to offer exclusive discounts for key workers.

Swof Media provides a full marketing service to SES which includes social media management, PPC, SEO, email marketing, graphic design and website management. This all helps to generate regular solar installation leads from homeowners and businesses across the West Midlands and beyond.

Steve Swoffer, founder at Swof Media, said: “We thoroughly enjoy working with Stratford Energy. Their team is ambitious, which makes a perfect partnership for us as their marketing partner.

“We initially started our scope of work back in February, but it’s exciting to share that we’ve recently extended our partnership after delivering a new website for the firm. We hope to continue our work with their team going into 2025.”

Jonathan Watt, director of SES said: “We are extremely impressed with the depth and range of marketing expertise Swof Media brings, which has made a very positive impact on our business in this highly competitive market.”

Jay Muldoon, marketing manager of Swof Media, said: “The work Stratford Energy does is great – the new partnership for key workers is heartwarming and speaks a lot about Stratford Energy’s values.”

Partnership (left to right): Jonathan Watt, Jason Savidge, Georgia Howson, Steve Swoffer and Jay Muldoon

At your service: A Jet2 crew ready for take-off to Bratislava

Finding funds to help environment

Ambitious plans are being drawn up to unlock up to £100m of private and public sector funding for environmental projects across the West Midlands.

The plan aims to speed nature recovery, improve people’s health and wellbeing and help protect communities from climate change.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has already identified 200 environment projects covering 46,000 hectares of land – the equivalent of 70,000 football pitches – that could be included in one of the UK’s first regional natural capital investment prospectuses.

These projects include habitat enhancement and connectivity, blue and green infrastructure, nature-based solutions to build resilience to climate change impacts, improving access to green space for health and wellbeing benefits, species protection and biodiversity net gain.

‘We’re aiming to bring in private sector investment to create more green spaces’

Having a pipeline of investmentready projects will make it easier to match funders with a range of bold and innovative nature recovery schemes.

For developers, it will help them meet new planning rules requiring them to deliver a Biodiversity Net Gain of 10 per cent – this means more or better-quality natural habitat than there was before development. It will also mean businesses and other organisations can find nature projects to invest in in other ways as part of their own Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies.

Speaking at the first West Midlands Natural Environment Summit, Mayor Richard Parker announced a package of direct support to help the first projects become investment ready.

He said: “My focus is on securing new funding that will directly support nature projects, improving the quality of life for people across our region.

“We’re aiming to bring in private sector investment to create more green spaces, restore habitats, and plant thousands of trees, especially in areas that need them most.”

Residents and community group can register an interest in saplings or hosting an event in their area by going to: wmca.org.uk

Charity will support local hospitals and healthcare

The name for the newly-created independent charity for Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust has been unveiled as Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity.

The charity will continue to support the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, the UK’s newest healthcare facility, and the Trust’s other sites –Sandwell, City and Rowley Regis Hospitals – as well as GP practices and community services.

‘I

am honoured to chair this wonderful charity and be part of a board of trustees with boundless enthusiasm and ambition’

Your City & Metropolitan Hospitals Charity is also celebrating the successful closure of the £2m “We Are Metropolitan” fundraising campaign for the Midland Met opening. Funding raised will be used to enhance the experience for patients, staff and visitors to the new site. This includes a gallery and

exhibition space for art programmes and performances by community organisations, sculptures raising awareness around organ donation, a play unit and artwork for the Children’s Department and additional PhD studentships with university partners to help pioneer new treatments for heart disease, leukaemia and ovarian cancer.

Steve Allen, chair and trustee for the charity, said: “We are delighted to reveal the new name for the charity, its brand and strategy after more than a year of consultation with our key stakeholders.

“This included valued conversations with our Trust staff and volunteers, as well as our grateful supporters, funders and partners. I am honoured to chair this wonderful charity and be part of a board of trustees with boundless enthusiasm and ambition.

“Your City and Metropolitan Hospitals Charity’s vision is improved life chances and better outcomes in our communities and care systems. The successful fundraising for Midland Met, which is now the nearest adult hospital to the centre of Birmingham, has started this very important work.”

City hotel scoops green award

Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre has received an international environmental award from Green Key England.

Green Key sets the standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism sector.

Each establishment is assessed against strict standards, which are set by the global Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and backed by the World Tourism Organisation and the UN Environment Programme.

These criteria include staff involvement, guest information and sustainable management of energy,

waste, water, cleaning products, food and drinks.

Through making greener choices, each establishment is able to

significantly reduce its environmental impact, reducing the consumption of energy and water and improve their guests’ experience.

Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre joins over 5,000 establishments across the globe who have also met the stringent criteria of the certification.

The hotel has implemented a number of initiatives in order to improve the ecological footprint of operations including replacing all air-conditioning units with more energy-rated efficient systems, refurbishing mechanics of lifts for further energy efficiency and replacing boilers with better energy-rated units.

Charity launch: Steve Allen (left) and Johnny Shah (Sandwell and West Midlands NHS Trust) with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce CEO Henrietta Brealey

Green accolade: David Constable, assistant maintenance manager, and Pearse McDonnell, assistant front of house manager, at Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre

HyDEX – helping to develop the Midlands’ hydrogen economy

HyDEX is a programme designed to address a market failure and challenge: How do you rapidly build a new business, industrial and manufacturing sector when very little exists already?

The HyDEX programme is funded by Research England and managed by the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA), a partnership of eight leading universities and the British Geological Survey. HyDEX has been supporting and fostering the creation of a new hydrogen industrial economy in the Midlands. The HyDEX programme has been working with businesses from SMEs to world-renowned international corporates such as Toyota and JCB, and regional public sector bodies like the Midlands Engine, to accelerate innovation, build markets and support the required skills transition.

In recent years hydrogen has become increasingly recognised as an energy vector that could be a low-carbon fuel that could play an important role in decarbonisation across multiple sectors, including transport and industry.

Building hydrogen knowledge and expertise

Over the last couple of years, HyDEX has been helping to build the hydrogen sector in the East Midlands by:

• Working with commercial partners to accelerate innovation, build markets and support businesses.

• Improving hydrogen facilities at university partners and offering research expertise to businesses to encourage the development of new hydrogen products and services.

• Supporting the design and development of hydrogen skills to help businesses retrain for emerging technologies.

• Working with local government and policymakers to influence the development of national and regional policy around hydrogen.

• Capitalising on international connections to link businesses with growing international countries to build commercial for the Midlands and beyond.

Raising awareness

The HyDEX project has successfully raised awareness hydrogen as a net zero fuel which can be used by a variety of industry sectors across the Midlands. It has engaged and worked in

collaboration with leading businesses and organisations including Hydrogen UK and the newly established East Midlands Hydrogen partnership.

HyDEX has held events at Toyota and JCB to bring together businesses, academics and public sector specialists who have an interest in building the hydrogen economy.

Thanks to HyDEX funding, more resources are now available to businesses with the development of hydrogen skills & training programmes, and the installation of new hydrogen infrastructure in the region. Furthermore, co-investigators have worked with partners and businesses to help raise millions of pounds in funding for future research and development across multiple sectors including the hydrogen aero industry.

Demonstrating hydrogen’s potential HyDEX has co-funded a number of projects as first steps towards realising its aim of creating a hydrogen economy, for example:

• The Midlands Hydrogen Rail Study set the vision for hydrogen passenger rail services in the region.

• SMEs have been supported with resources to enable product testing and validation which increased technology readiness levels (TRL) towards commercialisation.

• Tailored workshops with local authorities explained the potential of hydrogen to decarbonise council and local business resources, backed up by the developed an online toolkit.

• Industry roundtable discussions looked at the opportunities and challenges of hydrogen in various sectors including the infrastructure and price-point needed to make it a viable option.

• Focused events brought together EU and UK policymakers in a series of workshops aimed to exploit shared learning and opportunities for change.

International links

HyDEX has established links with several countries, including Singapore on the use of hydrogen as a Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and also with South Korea’s Chungnam Techno Park where innovative hydrogen businesses are looking to link with businesses and researchers in the Midlands. HyDEX has also undertaken a study looking at the ways in which the UK and EU can accelerate the hydrogen economy by working together.

Supporting hydrogen innovation

HyDEX has been helping businesses and researchers to innovate. Over the last three years, the programme has:

• Supported the development of over 20 new products and services relevant to the hydrogen economy and generated over 10 commercial opportunities.

• Provided opportunities for over 50 businesses and 300 individuals to learn new skills as technology changes in line with a new hydrogen economy.

• Run workshops with industries to identify hydrogen opportunities in the future.

• Enabled partnerships and connected hydrogen businesses within the UK and internationally to allow the rapid establishment of UK hydrogen projects.

• Supported activities to share knowledge between UK academic partners and international counterparts.

Developing skills for the new hydrogen economy

HyDEX and the Energy Research Accelerator have been helping to develop the skills that will be needed to support the growth of hydrogen. This has included promoting STEM and hydrogen careers to school pupils through our Hydrogen Grand Prix competition, where students built and raced a model hydrogen car. For business people and university researchers we have been raising awareness of the latest developments in hydrogen through our Winter and Summer Hydrogen Schools, where delegates learned about hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilisation in various sectors.

Creating a Midlands Hydrogen Valley

The HyDEX programme has also coordinated the formation of a regional consortium to bid for EU Hydrogen Valley funding. If successful, the Hydrogen Valley will support the development of hydrogen projects across the Midlands and will produce at least 4000 tonnes of clean hydrogen.

The Tyseley Energy Park – at the heart of the Midlands’ hydrogen economy

HyDEX has been working closely with partners in the West Midlands to help build the hydrogen economy.

The Tyseley Energy Park, which is based in East Birmingham, is based on the site of one of the city’s oldest companies – Webster and Horsfall.

A little known fact is that the Tyseley Energy Park boasts the largest green hydrogen refuelling station in the UK. It takes power from a dedicated offshore wind turbine and generates zero carbon, fuel cell grade hydrogen. The refueller, run by ITM Motive, consists of a car refueller operating at both 700 bar and 350 bar. Two bus refuellers operating at 350 bar and a tube trailer refueller operating at up to 450 bar. The site can generate over a tonne of hydrogen per day which is enough

to fuel up to 40 buses a day.

The hydrogen refueller at the Tyseley Energy Park is providing hydrogen for buses and waste collection vehicles operating in the City of Birmingham.

The Tyseley Energy Park is also home to the University of Birmingham’s Energy Innovation Centre which is undertaking collaborative research and development projects to overcome regional energy and low carbon transport challenges in addition to demonstrating new and emerging technologies.

TEP is also providing incubation space for companies involved in energy, through the Climate Innovation Platform which is supporting 100 SMEs to commercialise innovative energy products and services.

There are also office, laboratory and industrial units for businesses at the Tyseley Energy Park at their Energy Transition Centre, ranging in size from 250sqft to 800sqft.

Come to the HyDEX celebration event in Derby!

If you are interested in hydrogen, you may like to register for the HyDEX celebration event which is taking place at the Museum of Making in Derby on Thursday 7 November. The event is FREE to attend - register on www.tiny.cc/HyDEX

Want more information?

For more information about HyDEX, visit www.hydex.ac.uk

Or email enquiries@era.ac.uk if you have any questions about the HyDEX programme

AA accolade for farm restaurant

A family-run independent restaurant now in its fourth generation has been awarded two AA Rosettes.

The Barn at Berryfields, a Solihull Chamber member, is based at Meriden, where most of the produce served in the restaurant is home produced.

Will Barber, one of the three brothers who run the business, said: This is a very proud moment. We are delighted that our independent a la carte restaurant and private function room have been awarded two AA Rosettes.

“It’s a phenomenal achievement by our incredible team. This is a testament to all the hard work our farm team, shop and butchery team, artisan bakery team, front of house and events team and chef brigade have put in over the last eight years.

“As one of the three brothers, I am beyond proud of our fourth-generation family-run hospitality business. This award is a culmination of eight years of focused hard work and dedication to offer the very freshest food, showcasing true provenance that is often difficult to achieve.

“Our own herds of Berryfields pigs and Hereford cattle are home-reared right here on our family farm that's been in our family for over 80 years, alongside our two-acre kitchen garden growing fruit, vegetables and salad as the seasons allow.

“Our artisan bakery hand-makes all of our bread,

Businesses are being urged to give employees time off to donate blood in the face of a major nationwide shortage.

Blood supplies in England remain under Amber alert with more O negative and Black heritage donors urgently needed. With a critical need to boost blood stocks, NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is urging more companies to help save more lives this winter.

More donors of Black heritage are particularly needed because a sub-type known as “Ro” is increasingly needed to treat people with sickle cell.

To register or book an appointment to give blood,visit: www.blood.co.uk, use the GiveBlood app or call 0300 123 23 23

Full-service law firm

Shakespeare Martineau has supported Solihull-based developer Sama Investment Group on its acquisition of two purpose-built student accommodation schemes.

The Pinnacles and Chambers 51 developments in Sheffield and Wolverhampton will be significantly upgraded by Sama Investment Group, which has commissioned contractors to undertake full cladding and remediation upgrades.

confectionery and pastries and our butchery prepares all the meat. Our chef brigade then uses these ingredients to create exquisite dishes for our restaurant and private function room.

“They hand-make every salsa, jus, dressing, sauce, purée and multiple accompaniments, and use varied cooking methods, like fermenting, pickling and slow-cooking to create technically skilled, comprehensive fresh food.

“The Barn will continue championing sustainable, fresh food and will always offer friendly customer service in a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere. This award is a recognition of what we've always done and will continue to do moving forward.”

For more information go to: thebarnatberryfields.co.uk

Solihull primary school praised in Ofsted inspection

Tudor Grange Primary Academy Hockley Heath has received a glowing report from an Ofsted inspection, reflecting the school’s continued commitment to instilling ambition, confidence and curiosity.

The report praised the school’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive learning environment and quoted a child saying “teachers are good at this school. We can go to them with any problems or worries and they will help”.

This inclusive, one-form-entry primary school is known for its ‘family feel’. Hockley Heath is a leafygreen small village in the area of South Solihull. It joined the Tudor Grange Academies Trust family in 2022 and provides a high standard of education and care for children aged two through to 11 years old.

‘Our Early Years provision is designed to inspire young minds and cultivate a love for learning’

With its onsite before and after school club and wide range of extracurricular activities inside and outside of school hours, it serves the families within its community exceptionally well.

The report highlights many strengths across the school, particularly focusing on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which received praise for creating a nurturing, engaging, and stimulating environment for young learners. Inspectors noted that its Early Years provision for two- and three-year-olds encourages a love for learning.

It describes the nurturing environment as “a magical place to learn and play”. They praised the use of imaginative play, hands-on activities, and a strong focus on communication and language development.

Headteacher Lousie Porter said: “We are thrilled with our latest Ofsted report, which reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire school community. Our Early Years team, in particular, has shown incredible commitment to ensuring that every child receives the best possible start to their educational journey.

“Our Early Years provision is designed to inspire young minds and cultivate a love for learning, and at Hockley Heath children can receive a Tudor Grange education from only two years old. We encourage parents to visit our school and see for themselves the nurturing and dynamic environment we provide.”

The Barber brothers (left to right): Joe, Tom and Will

Conker calculations: Pupils at Tudor Grange

Members earn praise of peers

Three members of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce are in the spotlight this month after gaining recognition in their own fields of business. One is from the public relations world while two legal firms have added to their list of accolades.

Birmingham-based PR and social media agency WPR has been named best PR agency outside London at the PRWeek Awards 2024.

The awards, widely known as the most prestigious in the PR and communications sector, reward the best talent and work from the UK’s marketing and media industry, with a judging process renowned for being robust and rigorous.

WPR won the best agency outside London accolade in recognition of its client list and strong people, purpose and planet ethos.

Jane Ainsworth, managing director, said: “Over three decades ago, WPR was founded with the vision of creating an agency delivering world-class work from our home in the heart of the UK –and we’ve been doing that ever since.”

The Birmingham office of national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has again achieved top-tier rankings in the 2025 edition of the Chambers and Partners Guide.

The office retained a Band 2 ranking for its leading family and matrimonial expertise with three team members achieving prestigious individual rankings - Rayner Grice retains Band 1 while Caroline Young and Adam Maguire are ranked as Band 3. Birmingham personal injury expert, partner Philip Edwards, also retains his Band 1 rating.

The immigration team at Sydney Mitchell retains its top tier ranking in this year’s edition of the Legal 500 directory, together with outstanding editorial comment and great results across the rankings with listings in 14 practice areas.

This includes Tier 2 rankings for the firm’s family, personal tax, trusts, private client and debt recovery teams.

Rousing speech: Ade Adepitan

New Chancellor aiming to make a real difference

The new Chancellor of Birmingham City University is hoping to “change a lot of lives” and become “a torchbearer for disability rights”.

Television presenter, journalist, disability campaigner and Paralympic medallist Ade Adepitan, 51, was officially installed as successor to Sir Lenny Henry CBE at a ceremony at The Grand Hotel in Birmingham.

‘Like

Sir Lenny before

me, I never thought there would be a day where I would lead a university’

In front of more than 150 guests, including the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Birmingham, Ade called Sir Lenny his “hero” and “a trailblazer” in an emotional and rousing speech, adding that the 66-year-old actor, comedian and writer would be a very tough act to follow.

Sir Lenny, who served as Chancellor for eight years and will remain involved with the university via the Sir

Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity, described his role as “one of the most wonderful things I will ever do” and backed Ade to be a huge success.

Sir Lenny added: “BCU took a risk with me – and I’ll always be grateful for that.”

Ade, who uses a wheelchair after contracting polio as a child, will serve as chancellor for an initial period of three years, working alongside vice-chancellor Professor David Mba, chair of the board of governors Anita Bhalla OBE, and the university’s leadership team.

Ade told guests at the ‘Passing The Baton’ ceremony: “Like Sir Lenny before me, I never thought there would be a day where I would lead a university.

“People of my background, my experience, my ethnicity… this isn’t where we usually get to sit.

“I don’t want to get all ‘Spider-Man’ about this, but I am very aware that with ‘great power comes great responsibility’, and my immediate responsibility is to be an advocate for thousands of dedicated colleagues, and a representative for tens of thousands of students.”

Lawyers sponsor Burton lunch

A Burton-based solicitors with a rich history dating back to 1982 and an expert in wealth management have been confirmed as sponsors for the upcoming Burton Celebratory Lunch, at the Pirelli Stadium on 20 November.

Astle Paterson, a leading fullservice law firm with a team of expert solicitors who specialise in a wide range of areas, will be sponsoring the Burton President’s Award. It will be presented by Richard Wileman to an individual who has gone above and beyond in championing the region.

Meanwhile Rob Page Wealth Management, who specialises in providing holistic financial coaching and life planning, will sponsor the Start Up of the Year award. Inspired by a passion for finance

Sponsoring next generation: Rob Page

and business, director Rob Page’s target includes young professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, and corporate executives, particularly within Greater Birmingham and Staffordshire.

He said: “We are proud to sponsor the Start-Up of the Year Award at the Burton & District Chamber of Commerce Celebratory Lunch.

“Starting a business is no small feat, it requires immense courage, determination, and dedication.

“We believe that small businesses and start-ups are the backbone of innovation and growth in our community, and we are committed to supporting and celebrating those who take the bold step of turning their vision into reality.

“Congratulations to all the nominees for their remarkable achievements.”

• See page 45 for more news from Burton.

Fintech startup wins £1.35m

Inicio.AI, a fintech startup based in the West Midlands, has been awarded £1.35m as part of the groundbreaking One To Win pitch competition at Birmingham Tech Week’s Tech Awards.

One to Win is spearheaded by TechWM, set up to promote tech in the region, with support from sponsors Rigby Group plc, SCC, Haatch, and the West Midlands Co-Investment Fund (delivered through Midven, part of Future Planet Capital). It is the largest single prize for any pitch competition in the UK.

Four months after One to Win was launched at London Tech Week, Inicio AI, which has developed Budgie AI, a virtual agent that provides consumers with financial support designed to remove the fear, embarrassment or the wait associated with speaking to a human, has been picked as the region’s most promising start-up business among 140 applications.

‘The £1.35m will truly change the game for us as a business’

Backed by leading investors, stakeholders, and key tech players, the pitch competition aims to show a belief in the region’s potential to become a national and even a global tech superpower and a desire to shine a light on the region’s vibrant and thriving tech sector.

After deliberations, the judges were so impressed with Inicio.AI’s proposition that they increased the prize fund to £1.35m - having welcomed judges Yiannis Maos and Hephzi Pemberton as angel investors too.

The two other impressive West Midlandsbased startups shortlisted were ChangeMaker3D, a 3D concrete printing company aiming to reduce carbon emissions and material costs, and Skyfarer, a startup focusing on revolutionising the use of drones, particularly for medical uses.

The three finalists pitched to a panel of judges including Steve Rigby, CEO of Rigby Group plc (SCC is part of Rigby Group); Yiannis Maos, CEO of TechWM; Charlie WeaversWright, B2B SaaS investor at Haatch; Hephzi Pemberton, founder and chair of Equality Group; and, Rupert Lyle, investment director at Midven and fund principal of West Midlands Co-Investment Fund.

CEO and co-founder of Coventry-based Inicio.AI, Rachel Curtis, said: “I am completely overwhelmed and blown away for Inicio.AI to be named the recipient of the One To Win prize. The £1.35m will truly change the game for us as a business - in fact, it’s officially closed our funding round, something that I feel excited, relieved, and so grateful to announce.

“This funding will allow us to accelerate our growth plans and bring our solution to so many people who need it that much more quickly. To receive this backing after the hard

graft of the last three years, makes me feel immensely proud, and I can’t thank the judges enough for believing in us.”

Yiannis Maos said: “The One to Win competition is a testament to our ongoing efforts to nurture, support, and promote the thriving tech ecosystem in the West Midlands. We firmly believe that our region is a hidden gem in the global tech landscape, and we’ve been working tirelessly to showcase its immense potential.

“Innovative initiatives like One to Win provide invaluable platforms for local startups to shine. Thanks to the generous support of our stakeholders, partners, and sponsors, we’re able to offer the winner, a life-changing opportunity to receive the UK’s largest pitch competition prize. This win is not only a significant milestone for the winner but also a testament to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for tech innovation.”

...as consortium boosts digital skills

The West Midlands has solidified its ambition to become the UK’s premier digital hub with the announcement of the region’s Digital Skills Consortium (WMDSC).

Announced during Birmingham Tech Week 2024’s Digital Skills Symposium, the consortium –comprising businesses from various sectors – will seek to revolutionise the region’s digital ecosystem by creating a unique environment for digital skills development and innovation.

Founding members include TechWM, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), IBM, SF Technology, IN4 Group and AND Digital, working together under the leadership of Victoria Pargetter-Garner, director of

digital skills & commercial impact at TechWM.

‘Our region’s growing digital sector is key to creating new job opportunities’

Lord Kulveer Ranger, chair of digital skills on the West Midlands Tech & Digital Advisory Board, will collaborate with the consortium to ensure its goals align with the broader tech strategy for the region.

A working group of key members will meet regularly to discuss progress and make recommendations that will be fed back to the WMCA, academic institutions and training providers.

A major objective of the consortium is to develop a robust pipeline of digital talent. By collaborating with colleges, universities, and specialised training providers, the WMDSC will design programmes aimed at training individuals in highdemand digital skills, such as coding, data analytics, cybersecurity and AI.

The consortium is working with IBM to offer a range of free digital programmes such as IBM SkillsBuild and other training opportunities, including a newly developed “AI for All” workshop.

The consortium also aims to provide SMEs with strategic guidance on how to attract, retain, and develop tech talent.

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Our region’s growing digital sector is key to creating new job opportunities, especially for young people. WMCA is investing in training for vital skills to help bridge the digital skills gap.

“Supporting young people into these careers is essential to tackling youth unemployment, and I’m committed to working with the tech sector to meet their needs.

Victoria Pargetter-Garner, digital skills director from TechWM, said: “This initiative not only positions our region at the cutting edge of technological advancement but also reinforces our commitment to creating a future-ready workforce.”

Windfall: Inicio.AI are presented with the winning £1m cheque, later increased to £1.35m

Where do you fancy?

Birmingham Cosy Club has two outlets in Birmingham. One standing proudly on Bennett’s Hill, was built in 1830. This Corinthian-styled masterpiece was originally the headquarters for the Birmingham Banking Company. In 1914, it was taken over by the Midland Bank and eventually became today’s Birmingham Cosy Club. The Brindleyplace restaurant is at Water’s Edge where the menu is similar to Bennett’s Hill but does not have private dining facilities.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink

Breakfast is served daily from 09:00 until 12:00, with a selection of dishes ranging from a Classic Breakfast to Shakshuka, breakfast sandwiches and pancakes

Lunch

Lunch is available from 12:00, with a selection of brunch dishes, sandwiches, small plates and mains.

Dinner Served from 17:00 with a pick from a selection of mains, small plates, steaks and burgers. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available.

Wines

Varied wine list from all over the world.

Business facilities

Bennett’s Hill has two private dining spaces. The Board room is located on the first floor and can hold up to 50 guests for a standing event or 32 guests seated. This room has its own bar, which would be staffed throughout the event.

Perfect for a business meeting or a party style event.

The Holden room is on the ground floor, located just off our main bar. This space can hold 12 guests for a meeting or sit down meal, or 50 guests for a standing event.

Cosy Club

BirminghamBennett’s Hill

33 Bennetts Hill Birmingham B2 5SN T: 0121 695 1131 W: cosyclub.co.uk/ location/birmingham

Cosy Club Brindleyplace Unit 9F, The Water's Edge, Brindley Pl, Birmingham B1 2HL T: 0121 546 0438 W: cosyclub.co.uk/ location/brindleyplace

Owner: Loungers

Opening hours: Sunday-Wednesday 09:00-23:00 Thursday 09:00-00:00 Friday-Saturday 09:00-01:00 Food and drink

We are renowned for our superb customer service and while working with you on your metal forming project, our expertise and experience leads you all the way through from the initial metal working process, to the successful delivery of your project.

Scholarship to support student’s research

A

Birmingham Newman student in history has been awarded a scholarship worth £32,000.

Susie Longstaff, graduating from Birmingham Newman University with a degree in history, secured the Wellcome Trust MA Studentship for the 2024-2025 academic year.

This scholarship will support her pursuit of an MA in History of Medicine at the University of Warwick.

As well as allowing Susie to study medicine from the early modern period through to contemporary society, the scholarship will fund her dissertation research into the exponential boom of deaf cures advertised in the 18th-century Burney newspaper collection.

Susie believes that an analysis of these cures reveals valuable insights into the historical development of medical ideas and practices which shaped and continues to influence social attitudes towards deafness.

She said: “Due to financial hardship, I could not have pursued further studies without scholarship funding.

“Now, I am one step closer to my passion for researching deaf and disability narratives within the context of the history of medicine.

“I hope my research will make a difference for others and that my story will inspire students to see that success is possible, regardless of their background.

“Birmingham Newman University transformed my life in more ways than I can articulate due to the support I received from the staff and the student support services. Anything is possible with a community.”

Susie has already started her MA at the University of Warwick, a full-time, one-year course.

The Wellcome studentship will cover the cost of fees for the MA, a stipend, and a provision for research expenses.

Susie began as a Birmingham Newman student on the Foundation Year course in September 2020 as a contextual admission and progressed onto the history programme in 2021.

Dr Duncan Frankis, who was Susie’s tutor, said: “Susie, throughout her undergraduate degree at Birmingham Newman University, was a model example of a student.

“She not only produced some of the finest historical analysis I have seen during my time in higher education, but also fully embraced the wider university community. She participated in a staff-student partnership with a local cerebral palsy charity, joined the university choir, and was a mentor to new students.

“Her successful application for an impressive amount of post-graduate funding from the Wellcome Trust was fully deserved – and is a testament to what can be achieved when students engage in all services offered by universities, and dedicate time to personal, professional, and academic development.”

Head chef welcomed at Aston

Conference Aston, a leading Birmingham residential events venue, has appointed a new executive head chef with an impressive career spanning 30 years in the catering and culinary industry.

Paul Harris honed his craft within privately-owned and group hotels across the Midlands, earning a reputation for excellence in managing all aspects of food service operations.

This mastery shines at Conference Aston, where creative chefs and exceptional restaurant spaces strive to elevate catering services far beyond the ordinary.

Throughout his career, he has successfully led menu planning initiatives and introduced innovative culinary concepts across various venues, consistently delivering notable dining experiences.

His expertise and creativity have significantly enriched Conference

Aston’s renowned culinary team. At Conference Aston, Paul will oversee a talented team of seven chefs and four kitchen porters. His passion for mentoring and nurturing the next generation of culinary professionals is evident as he shares the

Bumper month for deal makers

Public company lawyers at Shakespeare Martineau have advised on five deals for listed company clients in quick succession, following a bumper month in fundraising deals and acquisitions, including raising more than £4m.

In under three weeks, corporate partner Keith Spedding, along with legal director Jennie Davis, supported the series of rapid-fire deals for businesses across property, energy, pharmaceuticals, tech and manufacturing.

Deals included the acquisition of Gateway Electronic Components Ltd by long-standing Shakespeare Martineau client Solid State plc. The Worcester-based technology manufacturer purchased the ferrite and magnetic component experts in a cash deal worth £1.4m.

The firm also supported cloud-based enterprise data analytics platform Rosslyn Data Technologies to raise funds of more than £3m via a placing, subscription, issue of loan notes and a retail offer.

Nuformix plc, a pharmaceutical development company targeting unmet medical needs in fibrosis and oncology via drug repurposing, announced fundraising through a placing raising £300,000. The team also advised UK-based residential developer, development manager and property manager One Heritage Group PLC (now called Zentra Group PLC) in a restructure.

extensive knowledge and expertise he has gained throughout his career, say the centre.

Samantha Brown, head of Conference Aston, said: “As the executive head chef, Paul is committed to elevating the dining experience at Conference Aston, ensuring that creativity, quality, and passion are reflected in our culinary offerings.

“His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Conference Aston, and we are confident that his leadership will further enhance our status as a premier events venue in Birmingham.”

Paul added: “The catering team at Conference Aston has an outstanding reputation, and I am proud to work alongside such amazing chefs, front of house staff, and managers.

“Together, we will continue to deliver outstanding culinary experiences for all our guests.”

A third acquisition came from Oscillate plc, which agreed to acquire Minnesota-based Quantum Hydrogen with the help of the firm.

New president for law society

Richard Port, of George Green LLP, has been sworn in as president of Birmingham Law Society. He succeeds Alice Kinder and is a passionate advocate for victims of domestic abuse.

With a presidential campaign theme of ‘Voices’, Richard’s focus will be firmly on empowering those who often lack a platform, both within the community and among society members.

Amazing team: Paul Harris

Financial hardship: Susie Longstaff

New team steers JLR into the future

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has made several new appointments to their executive leadership team to meet the gathering pace of change in automotive and to support the next phase of its development and transformation.

Steve Marsh becomes executive director, vehicle programmes, reporting to JLR chief executive officer (CEO) Adrian Mardell. Steve is a highly regarded and experienced global leader and currently director, global manufacturing operations, JLR.

In an automotive career of 36 years, Steve joined JLR in April 2022 from Nissan. Since joining JLR, Steve has overseen an intensive period of transformation across the business’s global manufacturing footprint as JLR readies for electric vehicle production.

He said: “The transformation of JLR to a global modern luxury automotive manufacturer is well underway and delivering our next generation vehicles to the highest standard – across all touch points – is critical to our ongoing success.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead JLR’s global vehicle programmes teams at this once-in-a-generation moment of powertrain and industrial change.”

Swarna Ramanathan is appointed chief strategy officer, also reporting to Adrian Mardell. As chief strategy officer, Swarna will lead JLR’s

strategy creation, innovation, strategic foresights, alliances and collaborations and product and customer experience strategy teams.

An MBA graduate and mechanical engineer, Swarna has 20 years’ growth strategy development and implementation experience, working across the automotive, consumer and energy sectors.

Swarna joins JLR from McKinsey & Company, where she is a partner and leader in McKinsey’s Centre for Future Mobility.

She said: “As an experienced and passionate advocate for the automotive, consumer and energy sectors, and a longterm follower of JLR, I am thrilled to be appointed chief strategy officer, JLR, at an important moment in JLR’s transformation to be a global modern luxury automotive leader. I look forward to playing a leading role in the evolution of the business’s Reimagine strategy for continued success.”

To ensure the effective implementation of its strategy, JLR also announced the appointment of John Beswick to the new role of chief transformation and performance officer.

John joins JLR from Great Ormond Street Hospital where he is chief financial officer. John spent two decades at BT Group in transformational change and finance leadership roles, having started his career as a chartered engineer in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.

JLR have paid tribute to leading businessman and former chair Ratan Tata (pictured) following his death at the age of 86.

Mr Tata was chair and owner of the Tata Group, one of India’s largest companies.

With Swarna Ramanathan’s appointment, Andrea Debbane, who joined JLR’s executive leadership team in August 2024, will continue in her role as chief sustainability officer, relinquishing her interim responsibilities for strategy.

Snobs in launch of new live music night Family law expert joins Enoch Evans

Enoch Evans Solicitors has added highly skilled lawyer Llewelyn Stott to their family law department.

Llewelyn has gained over 10 years of valuable experience from various law firms before joining Enoch Evans.

Before embarking on his legal career in 2012, Llewelyn enjoyed a successful tenure in international hotel management, driven by a long-standing passion for service.

Enoch Evans Solicitors is also experiencing impressive growth, highlighted by a recent expansion into larger premises for their Cannock branch.

This year also marks a significant milestone as the firm celebrates its 140th anniversary, demonstrating its presence in providing expert legal services.

During his tenure as chairman of Tata Group, the conglomerate made several high-profile acquisitions including the purchase of automotive giant JLR from Ford in 2008 for £1.8bn.

The group also bought tea firm Tetley for £331m in 2000.

In 2012, Mr Tata retired as chairman of the group and was appointed chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, the group’s holding company.

nightclub on

Street

Birmingham is launching a new live music event to host up-andcoming local artists.

Snobs Plugged In started last month and was sponsored by Beavertown Brewery, with free Neck Oil beer for the first 100 fans and merchandise prizes all night.

The new live music evening is the latest development that Snobs has launched since moving into its new premises at Cumberland House at 200 Broad Street earlier this year.

The Plugged In events will run monthly and come on top of Snobs’ regular live music nights, with more established acts at

Blueshouse every Tuesday, and Birmingham Rocks every Sunday.

Wayne Tracey, the owner of Snobs, said: “Over the years, a number of bands and artists have joined us at Snobs, either to let their hair down or more formally for work, such as The Clause filming a music video with us.

“We’re now going back to our musical roots and, with some help from our friends over at Beavertown, launching Snobs Plugged In, a monthly live music event hosting local bands.

“This is in addition to the great work that promoter Jim Simpson at Big Bear Music organises for us on

other nights with more established acts.

“Snobs Plugged In will see us once a month focusing on current up-and-coming artists, working hard to give them a home to show Birmingham their talent.”

Brian Hughes, chairman of Westside BID, said: “We’re so pleased to see how quickly Snobs has settled into its new home on Broad Street.

“It’s not only a tremendous nightclub but is also quickly getting known as the best place for live music. We can’t wait to see the new acts every month at Snobs Plugged In.”

Snobs

Broad

in

Henry’s

Back to musical roots: Wayne Tracey

Skilled: Llewelyn Stott

Guarding employees from sexual harassment

Employers will have a duty to protect their staff from sexual harassment with the introduction of strict new laws.

The workplace alert comes from employment specialist Sally Morris, who says that under the new legislation which came into force last month, employers must take a proactive approach to prevent sexual harassment of their workers or face action from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Sally, partner and head of employment at law firm mfg Solicitors, has urged bosses to be aware of their obligations under The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality) Act 2023.

‘Employers have always had a duty to protect their employees from discrimination’

She said: “Employers have always had a duty to protect their employees from discrimination but these new laws put more onerous obligations on companies to shield their staff with regards to sexual harassment.

“This legislation will introduce a mandatory duty on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their employees.

“Vitally, a failure to do so will mean that Employment Tribunals can award an uplift of up to 25 per cent to an

City leaders dine for dignity

A Birmingham Hospice dinner drew more attention to its work, celebrating its heritage in the city, and highlighting the funding challenges currently faced by the sector.

Dining for Dignity was attended by guests including Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands Anita Bhalla OBE, High Sheriff of the West Midlands Doug Wright MBE, mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker, Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton and president of the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce Mark Smith, together with representatives of the media including Hits Radio and ITV Central.

The evening was hosted by hospice chair of trustees Dawn Ward CBE DL and was compered by hospice patron and former ITV Central news presenter Llewela Bailey.

It also featured talks by the hospice’s head of care services Kerry Millard and income generation director Lucy Watkins.

employee’s discrimination compensation where it finds that there has been a breach of the duty. That’s a real game changer.”

The new legislation was introduced following concerns that workers received inadequate protection against sexual harassment, with the Commission making it clear that employers must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace among their own staff and also by third parties.

Sally said reasonable steps could include introducing a specific Sexual Harassment Policy, training staff in relation to sexual harassment, providing support services to complainants, and carrying out assessments to identify areas of risk.

She added: “Employers will need to take steps to prevent sexual harassment taking place and put further measures in place to stop it happening again where it discovers that it has already done so.

“What is considered ‘reasonable’ will vary from employer to employer and depend on factors such as size and resource of the employer, the sector the employer operates in, the working environment, the risk present in the workplace, and the types of third parties workers may come into contact with.

“Failure to act will present a wide range of problems, both commercially and reputationally.”

New bill must protect workers and businesses, says Chamber

The government must ensure its new employment bill - described as the “biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation” – is both pro-worker and probusiness, business leaders say.

Although the Employment Rights Bill promises a major shake-up of workers’ rights, some of the proposed reforms are still being worked out and changes could be made to proposals before most of them take effect in two years’ time.

Reforms could grant workers in England, Scotland and Wales the right to claim unfair dismissal from day

one – a big change from the existing two-year qualification period.

Major changes have also been proposed to zerohours contracts, flexible working (which will become “default” for all workers), sick pay (the waiting period and lower earnings limit to receive Statutory Sick Pay will be removed) and unpaid parental and bereavement leave.

Fire and rehire practices will also be banned in most circumstances, although a company could still use it if at risk of becoming insolvent.

The Bill was discussed at a GBCC roundtable with senior business leaders, along with Jane Gratton, deputy director for public policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, and Caleb Deeks, the director general for competition, markets and regulatory reform at the Department for Business and Trade.

The meeting took place at the campus of Chamber patron South & City College Birmingham.

Raj Kandola (pictured), director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The announcements will have major reverberations for employers across the country as the Government attempts to create a framework of workers’ rights which reflect the contours of the modern economy.

“The principles that underpin the legislation are clear – ultimately, a healthy and happy workforce is a more productive one.

“However, as many local business leaders stressed at our roundtable, the overwhelming majority of firms across the country are already operating in the right fashion and employers should not be punished as a result of the actions of an unscrupulous minority.”

Game changer: Sally Morris

United in Diwali celebration

By Feron Jayawardene

The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, by paying homage to South Asia’s rich cultural heritage.

The event, at Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club, was attended by over 100 members and guests and marked the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness.

ABCC committee member Monica Ghai hosted the event, highlighting Diwali's significance to Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains - a time when families, friends, and communities unite in celebration and joy.

The keynote speech was delivered by Piali Ray, director of Sampad South Asian Arts & Heritage.

Sampad is a charity that connects people and communities to South Asian and British Asian arts and heritage by breaking down barriers, raising critical issues, and amplifying unheard voices.

Piali, who founded Sampad in 1990, emphasised the importance of coming together to celebrate life.

She remarked: “Diwali is a time of coming together - an opportunity to celebrate life.”

Community well-being is central to Sampad’s mission, with the organisation supporting various Birmingham businesses through multidisciplinary approaches, including mental health initiatives.

Piali also highlighted the importance of resilience alongside cultural enrichment, referencing initiatives like ‘Chai and Chat’—a women-focused event aimed at improving mental health and well-being through informal storytelling and poetry, amplifying unheard voices and hidden talent.

She continued, “We programme a whole range of activities, working both inside and outside the formal education sector. After 33 years, I feel blessed that our aim has been achieved - developing talent, collaborating with global artists, and fostering a passion to serve the community.”

ABCC president Omar Rashid welcomed the guests, while Adam Peters and Emma Wilkinson from Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club offered members a 20 per cent venue discount.

Celebration (left to right): Monica Ghai, Omar Rashid, Piali Ray, ABCC director Anjum Khan, Adam Peters and Emma Wilkinson

Gala dinner to celebrate hit BBC TV series

Award-winning writer, creator and director Steven Knight is personally inviting the public to an exclusive black-tie dinner celebrating his hit BBC TV drama series This Town, to raise vital funds for a cause “close to his heart”.

The Acorns This Town Gala Dinner takes place on 28 February at the ICC Birmingham, bringing together fans of the show and supporters of the charity.

Steven, a patron of Acorns Children’s Hospice, is supporting the event alongside Kudos (part of Banijay UK) - the production company which made the series. All funds raised from the evening will go directly towards Acorns vital care for seriously ill children and their families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire.

Mr Knight said: “The This Town Gala Dinner will be the kind of evening that only our town can put on. It will be Birmingham and the West Midlands to its roots and all in the best possible cause.”

Martin Haines, managing director at Kudos, said: “Kudos are delighted to be supporting the This Town Gala Dinner and for the opportunity to help such an important cause.”

The Acorns This Town Gala Dinner is inspired by the hit series, which is set against the backdrop of the vibrant ska and two-tone music scenes and captures a pivotal moment in local history.

Guests can expect a journey through 1980s Birmingham, with entertainment and a fine dining experience – all while helping local families caring for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions to get the care and support they desperately need.

Trevor Johnson, chief executive at Acorns Children’s Hospice, said: "We’re incredibly grateful to Steven Knight and Kudos for supporting our very first black-tie gala dinner.

“Thanks to their dedication, we’re setting the bar high with what promises to be a truly special evening bringing community and culture together to support vital children’s hospice care that touches the lives of so many families in our region.”

Acorns needs around £30,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Tickets for the exclusive Acorns ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ are available now, starting at £165.

Tickets can be secured at: acorns.org.uk/thistown

Musical theatre plans strike the right notes

A report on new plans to create a national “centre of excellence” for musical theatre in Birmingham is being discussed with local business leaders.

Southside Business Improvement District (BID), which has Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre in its area, has been asked to provide input into a feasibility study looking at turning the idea into reality.

The study into a possible National Centre for Musical Theatre has been commissioned by the Hippodrome, Arts Council England, Birmingham City Council, West Midlands

Combined Authority (WMCA), Birmingham City University and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Julia Robinson, manager of Southside BID, said she was “delighted” to have been asked to take part in the feasibility study.

She added: “Birmingham has a very rich tradition of live theatre, not only on our doorstep with the Hippodrome, but throughout the rest of the city centre. A National Centre for Musical Theatre would be ideally located in Birmingham.”

As part of the feasibility study, individuals and organisations are

New premises at mobility vehicle firm

An award-winning Birmingham business that rents specially adapted vehicles to people with disabilities is investing in new sustainable premises to house its growing fleet.

After realising there was a shortage of car hire options for wheelchair users and disabled drivers in the UK, Specialist Vehicle Rental was founded by Jagjeet Kudhail in 2009.

It provides crucial mobility services to thousands of customers nationwide.

From its roots with just one employee and a fleet of five vehicles, the firm has expanded to a team of 12 staff and 300 vehicles, operated by 20 drivers.

Now the business has secured a £422,500 funding package from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking to support the purchase of a second premises in Aldridge.

being invited to give their expertise and advice to help draw up a business case for a world-leading facility for musical theatre in the UK.

‘Birmingham has a very rich tradition of live theatre’

Darren Henley, chief executive of Arts Council England, said: “Birmingham’s far-sighted plans for a new National Centre for Musical Theatre will help drive the growth of this important art form nationally

and internationally, as well as offering the opportunity to nurture the next generation of creative talent in the West Midlands.”

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “Even Birmingham’s greatest TV export, Peaky Blinders, is now a stage musical so I can't think of a better place to have a National Centre for Musical Theatre.”

Jon Gilchrist, artistic director and chief executive of Birmingham Hippodrome, said more than half of the 600,000 tickets they sell annually are for musicals.

Major award win for Eventurous team

Corporate events experts Eventurous took home their biggest award yet at the M&IT Awards.

Joined by over 900 event professionals, the Eventurous team celebrated their win of the silver award for Best Intermediary Agency.

The mid-sized agency has gone from strength to strength making a huge impact within the industry in recent years, gaining expert status and making a difference for

important causes such as sustainability in the sector.

The M&IT Awards is the biggest award ceremony of the year, recognising excellence in events and hospitality. The night was hosted by celebrity comedian Tom Allen and sponsored by Virgin Voyages.

Joe Garland, director at Eventurous, said: “To be named one of the top event management agencies in the UK – we couldn’t be happier.”

Only in Birmingham: Steven Knight

AI: The competitive edge your business can't afford to ignore

Tim Mahoney (pictured) is the CEO and founder of EEvolution, a UK-based IT company specialising in digital transformation, data management, artificial intelligence, and software development. With over two decades of experience, Tim delivers tailored solutions that drive efficiency and empower organisations to leverage data and artificial intelligence (AI) for informed decision-making. His passion for innovation fosters a culture where technology transforms how businesses operate, helping them stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Is your business ready for AI, or are you already behind?

AI has moved beyond a buzzword – it’s now a critical tool reshaping industries. For large organisations, the question is no longer whether to adopt AI, but how to leverage it effectively for immediate impact and long-term growth. Failing to act on AI could mean losing a competitive edge, leaving your organisation vulnerable to competitors already using AI to drive efficiency and innovation

AI as a driver of efficiency

Across industries, efficiency is more critical than ever. Much like how online shopping automates the in-store experience, AI-driven processes streamline operations while reducing costs. Automated systems, such as AI-powered workflow management, allow companies to reduce manual labour and increase operational speed. According to Accenture, AI could boost productivity by up to 40 per cent in the workplace by 2035. Can your business afford to ignore this?

For service industries, AI-based automation of routine tasks – such as invoicing or customer service chatbots – frees staff to focus on highervalue activities, improving productivity and service delivery. The reality is that businesses without AI will be outpaced by those that adopt it.

Best Practice Tip: Identify repetitive, labour-intensive tasks in your business. The goal isn’t to overhaul everything at once but to focus on areas where automation will have the most measurable impact. Start small, but start now

AI for smarter decision-making

AI is revolutionising how businesses make decisions, much like how GPS navigation offers real-time route updates compared to manually following a map. No longer reliant on static data, companies are using AI algorithms to process massive datasets instantly, providing faster and more accurate decision-making. With real-time insights, AI empowers businesses to make faster, more informed decisions, adapting quickly to shifting market conditions.

Imagine a company processing thousands of transactions every second. In the past, it could take days to analyse the data and identify trends. Today, AI-driven analytics platforms provide real-time insights within minutes, enabling better-informed decisions. PwC found that 72 per cent of business leaders believe AI will be the key business advantage in the future. Is your company prepared to make decisions faster than your competition?

In retail, AI is already being used to personalise customer experiences in real-time, adjusting recommendations and promotions based on live behavioural data. These smarter, faster decisions not only improve sales but also increase customer loyalty

Best Practice Tip: Integrate AI into your decision-making by starting with areas that handle high volumes of accurate data, like customer insights or financial forecasting. The more accurate the data, the better the AI insights.

Future-proofing with AI

As smart home systems evolve with user needs – automating lights, security, and energy usage – AI allows businesses to adapt seamlessly to changing market conditions and technology shifts. AI systems, like those powering smart home controls, can learn and adjust as your data streams and operations grow, ensuring your business remains agile. Without scalable AI, businesses risk being left behind in a competitive, tech-driven world.

As your business expands, so do the demands on your operations and decision-making processes. AI is built to evolve alongside these growing needs, learning from new data and adapting to emerging challenges. Whether it’s optimising supply chains or automating workflows, AI ensures that your business remains flexible and prepared for future market shifts. By investing in AI today, you're equipping your organisation to stay ahead of industry trends. Are you ready to future-proof your business?

Best Practice Tip: Make sure your AI platforms can handle increasing data volumes, adapt to challenges, and grow with your business. Your competitors are already thinking ahead

An example of a picture generated by AI

Organised cybercrime and AI: A growing threat

Just like criminals can easily bypass traditional locks, cybercriminals are now using AI-powered tools to break through standard digital security measures. As cybercrime becomes more sophisticated, relying on conventional security systems leaves businesses exposed. The visual of a secure login screen emphasises the importance of AI-powered tools in protecting digital systems and keeping sensitive information secure from cybercriminals.

Organised cybercriminals constantly evolve their methods, using AI to bypass traditional security systems. Without AI-powered protection, your organisation could be the next target. By the time you realise it, it may be too late to recover fully.

Best Practice Tip: AI-powered security tools continuously evolve to identify and neutralise new cyber threats in real-time. Don't wait until a breach happens to act. Invest now to protect your organisation's future.

Ethical AI and governance: A growing priority

As powerful as AI is, organisations need to address ethical concerns. From algorithmic bias to data privacy, CEOs are increasingly aware of the reputational and legal risks involved. Businesses that establish ethical frameworks for AI will have a significant advantage over those that fail to address these issues early.

Governance frameworks help mitigate these risks by ensuring that AI is used responsibly, from data management to ensuring transparency in decision-making processes. Those without governance frameworks risk regulatory penalties or customer trust issues.

Best Practice Tip: Develop an AI governance framework that aligns with ethical standards and ensures compliance. If your competitors aren’t focusing on AI governance, their risk will become your advantage.

Embrace AI or risk being left behind

AI isn’t just an emerging technology – it’s rapidly becoming a critical business tool. Companies that embrace AI are already seeing benefits in efficiency, decision-making, and cybersecurity. But more importantly, they’re future-proofing their businesses. Those who delay are putting themselves at risk of falling behind or, worse, losing market share to more agile, AIenabled competitors.

However, adopting AI should be a strategic process. Start by identifying areas of high impact, ensuring your solutions are scalable, and prioritising responsible governance. Don’t wait until it’s too late. As your competitors continue to adopt AI, they’ll be the ones driving innovation, while those who delay are left scrambling to catch up.

Final thought: What are you risking?

Ask yourself: Are you ready for AI-powered competitors to outpace your business? What would it mean for your company if the competition has smarter tools, more efficient processes, and better cybersecurity in place? Can your business afford to wait, or is it time to make AI part of your strategic future?

It’s not just about adopting AI; it’s about adopting it strategically and responsibly Reach out to learn how your business can stay ahead in the AIdriven future.

Chamber Patrons

Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Partner revealed for exhibition

The UK’s largest event for influential installers and specifiers of heat, water, air, and energy technology has announced three key partnerships with the flooring industry.

The Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA), The National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF), and the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) has partnered with InstallerSHOW, raising the profile of flooring among a variety of audience groups.

The event will take place from 24-26 June at the NEC, Birmingham.

InstallerSHOW has grown rapidly with expansion into new sectors. The increase in multi-skilled trades in attendance, along with specifiers and building owners, has been a key driver behind this success.

Accompanying this is an increased demand for flooring products from visitors working on both commercial and residential projects.

To meet this demand, InstallerSHOW will be working with FITA to create a live three-day demo area, with the NICF who are hosting the semi-finals of the Fitter of the Year LVT competition, and the CFA supporting Building Safety Week alongside a number of industry stakeholders to represent the flooring sector.

Nathan Garnett, business development director at InstallerSHOW, said: “This is a fantastic partnership for InstallerSHOW, bringing a vital sector into the mix for our visitors who are specifying, buying and installing flooring products.

“The traditional heating and flooring sectors are now so intertwined that bringing professionals and manufacturers from these sectors together is going to help everyone and is at the very heart of what InstallerSHOW is about.”

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

AI transforms delivery of apprenticeships...

In-Comm Training and Birmingham City University have secured funding to embark on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) that will use AI to transform the way apprenticeships and learner journeys are managed.

The announcement was highlighted as being one of the key projects in the company’s pursuit of operational excellence over the next five years.

Funded by Innovate UK, the focus of the KTP will be on the implementation of an AI-powered Learning Management System (LMS) that will provide real-time data on all aspects of operations at In-Comm Training’s Technical Academies in the Black Country and Telford.

This will cover and enhance the learning journey of more than 2,500 apprentices and learners accessing upskilling courses, as well as engagement with over 700 SMEs and large employers across Birmingham, the Black Country, Telford and in wider Shropshire.

Professor Hanifa Shah, pro vicechancellor STEAM and executive dean, faculty of computing, engineering and the built environment, Birmingham City University said: “We are immensely

proud to be moving forward with this exciting KTP and are delighted to be recognised as In-Comm Training’s strategic technology partner.

‘Our partnership exemplifies how academia and industry can successfully work together’

“This partnership reflects our commitment to driving innovation in education and skills, as well as our dedication to supporting learners and employers through advanced technological solutions.

“The AI-powered LMS, built from scratch, is a testament to our collaborative efforts with Innovate UK and will help the business achieve its long-term goal of delivering employer-led skills support.”

Gareth Jones, managing director of In-Comm Training, said: “Through our collaboration with Birmingham City University, we will embed the AI-powered Learning Management System into the heart of our business.

“This will enhance the learning experience, digitising the classroom and work-based elements of the journey. Individuals will have access to digital material and there is now 360-degree transparency around progression data, employer involvement and communication.

“The system is designed to deliver for both our internal and external stakeholders, including Ofsted, ESFA and other awarding bodies. Our partnership exemplifies how academia and industry can successfully work together to create solutions that positively benefit both learners and employers.”

The KTP partnership began after In-Comm Training approached BCU with the concept, which was led by the support of Professor Adel Aneiba, head of college, computing (CEBE), supported by Dr Khalid Ismail, senior lecturer.

Their combined expertise was crucial in identifying key challenges and designing effective solutions that seamlessly integrated stakeholders and facilitated clear communication.

Importantly, it also has the potential to create ten additional projects at the training provider, which will give university students valuable real-world experience.

Transforming training (left to right): Natalie Lewis (Birmingham City University), Gareth Jones and Julie Cadman (both In-Comm Training), Prof Hanifa Shah (Birmingham City University), Mark Matchett (KTA at KTN), Dr Khalid Ismail, Dr AbdulRahman Alsewari and Shashank Hosahally (all Birmingham City University)

Backers sought for brain injury treatment

Birmingham scientists are seeking commercial partners to co-develop and take to market a device which has shown that light therapy delivered transcranially (though the skull) can aid tissue repair after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

Their research, published in Bioengineering & Translational Medicine, indicates that this novel method could result in a new treatment option in an area of medicine that currently has few, if any, treatment options.

Traumatic brain injury (mTBI) results when the initial trauma of head injury is magnified by a complex set of inflammatory changes that occur in the brain. These secondary processes, which take place from minutes to hours after head injury, can dramatically worsen outcomes for patients.

The method invented by scientists at the University of Birmingham and patented by University of Birmingham

Enterprise, aims to protect against this secondary damage, and stimulate faster, and better recovery for patients.

In the study, the Birmingham team, comprising researchers Professor Zubair Ahmed, Professor Will Palin, Dr

Mohammed Hadis and surgeons Mr Andrew Stevens and Mr David Davies, examined the effect of two wavelengths of near infrared light (660nm and 810nm) on recovery following injury.

The study in preclinical models used daily two-minute bursts of infrared light, delivered by a laser, for three days post-injury.

The findings showed significant reductions in the activation of astrocytes and microglial cells, which are heavily implicated in the inflammatory processes in the brain that follow head trauma, and significant reductions in biochemical markers of apoptosis (cell death).

Professor Ahmed, who led the study, said: “We want to develop this method into a medical device that can be used to enhance recovery for patients with traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, with the aim of improving outcomes for patients.”

HS2 ‘building blocks’ in place

HS2’s Interchange Station in Solihull has taken a step forward after a 20-strong team lifted 15 colossal bridge beams into position.

Hoisted into place onto existing abutments and piers using a 650-tonne crane, the concrete beams form the “building blocks” of a road bridge that will take vehicles over the high-speed railway and onto the station car parks.

The giant beams weigh a collective total of 565 tonnes and are the foundation of the two-lane bridge, which will stretch 63.5 metres once finished. Due to be completed in early 2025, the next phase of construction will see a concrete deck placed on top of the beams, before parapet walls are installed and surfacing work can take place.

It represents the most significant structure yet built as part of the new station development.

HS2’s Interchange Station will be the catalyst for huge growth in Solihull, driving economic transformation for the region. The plans, being led by

the Urban Growth Company, will support 30,000 jobs, up to 3,000 new homes and 70,000 square metres of commercial space.

The contract to build Interchange Station was awarded to Laing O'Rourke last year, with work currently underway on design. HS2’s main works civil contractor for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), is currently preparing the site where the new station will be built and carrying out preliminary civil engineering work.

Ailsa Waygood, HS2 Ltd’s project client for Interchange Station, said: “We’re very proud to mark this engineering milestone and I’d like to thank everyone involved for delivering the operation safely and precisely during particularly challenging weather conditions. As we approach a new phase of construction, we are excited to bring our plans for Interchange Station to life. Interchange will be transformational for the Midlands, providing new jobs and supply chain opportunities.”

Pharmacy lab opened at uni

Aston University Pharmacy School has officially opened its new £3.3m pharmacy teaching laboratories.

The state-of-the-art main teaching laboratory has accessible facilities and is capable of accommodating 83 students at a time. There is also a new asepsis suite and technician prep room. The much-upgraded facilities will set the standard for all future new laboratories in the College of Health and Life Sciences.

Professor Tony Hickey, professor emeritus of pharmacoengineering and molecular pharmaceutics of the Eshelman School of Pharmacy, was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony.

Professor Hickey is an Aston University alumnus, having obtained PhD and DSc degrees in pharmaceutical sciences from the university. Professor Hickey cut the ribbon and gave a short presentation on the importance of educational background, and his research.

Aston University’s 2030 strategy includes a focus on inclusion, and the new laboratories have been designed with that in mind, with the provision of height-adjustable benches, fume hoods and safety cabinets suitable for students in wheelchairs.

The audiovisual system works with hearing aids and is noise cancelling. There has also been consideration of acoustics for the comfort of all students with sound baffles on the ceiling.

Large visual screens have been provided for teaching presentations, which can also link to optical magnification equipment, which is particularly helpful for students with certain visual impairments. Real-time transcription software provides lecture subtitles on the screens.

Professor Hickey said at the event: “It was a great honour to open such an outstanding facility and to see both the impact it will make on pharmacists and the investment that the university has made in their future.”

New treatment: Professor Zubair Ahmed

Official opening: Prof Tony Hickey (right) cuts the ribbon to open the new pharmacy watched by (left to right) Prof Aleks Subic, Jiteen Ahmed and Prof Liz Moores

Easy does it: A huge concrete beam is lifted into place

1813 Club and Premier Members

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Premier Membership

Contact: Gary Birch T: 0121 274 3236

Honour for NSPCC volunteers

Two NSPCC volunteers from the West Midlands have received Honorary Council Member awards at the charity’s annual council meeting (ACM) at Birmingham City Football Club.

The NSPCC’s ACM is one of the most important events in the charity’s calendar. It is when volunteers, trustees and members of staff meet to reflect on accomplishments and to discuss their ongoing commitment to child safety.

Garry Peal is a retired event commissioning manager from Birmingham City Council and is now a devoted volunteer who has been giving up his free time to support the NSPCC West Midlands business board since 2015.

Garry became president of the

West Midlands Business Board and won the award for his contribution to corporate fundraising. He organises events such as the NSPCC’s annual ball in Birmingham which raises up to £50,000 for the children’s charity every year.

Garry said: “I’m absolutely proud and delighted to be bestowed this accolade, particularly here in Birmingham, my home city. Without volunteers, the organisation wouldn’t function, that’s like so many charities and organisations. Volunteers are priceless.”

Sue Wardle, a long-serving volunteer from Stoke-on-Trent, has been volunteering for the charity for 20 years. She is the chair of the Leek and Moorlands district committee but also chairs NSPCC North Staffordshire branch, a team

Apprentices begin building careers

Eleven ambitious trainees have taken their first steps towards a career in construction after securing sought-after apprenticeships with energy and regeneration specialist Equans.

The new recruits will work alongside experienced teams and mentors on the housing repairs and maintenance service which Equans provides on behalf of Birmingham City Council.

Since 2016, Equans has created apprenticeships for over 200 people living in the city and the surrounding areas, providing opportunities to build successful careers and to learn trades and skills to last a lifetime.

Justin Catton, senior operations director at Equans, said: “Our new recruits have shown real grit already by beating off hundreds of applicants for these roles. I’m looking forward to seeing them progress and become fully-fledged members of the team.”

• Turn to page 72 for more skills news

of volunteers who have raised an amazing £1m for the NSPCC and Childline since 2006.

The ACM also included a welcome from the NSPCC’s new chief executive, Chris Sherwood, who will be joining the charity in January.

Caroline Morgan, NSPCC supporter fundraising manager for the Midlands, said:“I am absolutely thrilled for both Garry and Sue to have their years of service and dedication to the charity recognised and awarded.”

Acquisition to boost growth for Samphire

Birmingham-based Simpex Express’ sister company, Samphire Cargo Limited, has acquired ACT Forwarding & Logistics Limited, marking another milestone in its 23-year history.

Initially founded in 1986 by Tony Ball, ACT enjoyed significant success during the Brexit transition through its customs clearance expertise, and its ideal location in Dover. Its team of nine staff will now join the Samphire team, combining resources and capabilities, as both companies seek to expand.

The synergies created are expected to boost both companies’ growth and offer enhanced services to clients across the UK and EU.

Tony Ball, managing director of ACT, said: “When meeting with the Samphire team, I quickly realised how closely our company values and activities aligned, and felt they were a safe pair of hands to take the reins.

“I have full confidence that the combination of personalities,

experience, and services at Samphire will safeguard the longevity of our team, clients and business for many years to come.”

Gary Smith-Watson, managing director of Samphire Cargo Limited, said: “We are incredibly excited to begin working with the new team. The diverse customs expertise shared between both teams will undoubtedly benefit all of our clients.”

Deal: Tony Ball (left) and Gary Smith-Watson

Taking their first career steps: The Equans apprentices

Award winners: Sue Wardle and Garry Peak with Sir Peter Wanless, the outgoing NSPCC CEO

Children’s charity expands the team

Kids’ Village – the Lichfield-headquartered charity which will build the UK’s first holiday village providing free breaks for critically ill children and their families – has expanded its team with the appointment of Amy Jacklin as fundraising executive.

Amy has held roles with Birmingham Settlement and prior to that Virgin Money.

She is also vice-president of Future Faces, the young professionals’ network of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

‘The

charity is a cause I strongly believe in and cannot wait to support’

Amy will join CEO Katrina Cooke as the charity’s second full-time employee, working alongside cofounder Samantha Fletcher-Goodwin, chairman Doug Wright and the board of trustees.

Katrina said: “I’m delighted to welcome Amy as our new fundraising executive.

“Amy has a proven track record in planning and delivering fundraising activities, which will be vital as we continue on our mission to raise the funds needed to build Kids’ Village.

“I have admired Amy’s work as Future Faces vicepresident and the energy she brings, and I’m greatly looking forward to working with Amy at Kids’ Village.”

Amy added: “I’m so grateful to be given the opportunity to join the Kids’ Village team. The charity is a cause I strongly believe in and cannot wait to support.

“With fundraising playing a huge role in both my personal and working life over the last decade, I’m hoping to bring some of this experience to the role.

“I’m excited to start some adventurous and fun plans that reflect the Kids’ Village mission to be the UK’s first holiday village for critically ill children & their families.”

To find out more about Kids’ Village please visit kindsvillage.org.uk or for enquiries email info@kidsvillage.org.uk

...and glittering gala dinner boosts fundraising efforts

A capital fundraising appeal to build the UK’s first holiday village for critically ill children has been boosted thanks to a gala dinner which raised more than £100,000.

The inaugural Kids’ Village gala dinner at the Grand Hotel in Birmingham raised £119,000 towards the charity’s mission to build the village in the Staffordshire countryside.

And it was revealed during the event that £1.52m in pledges have now been received towards the £5m capital fundraising appeal.

The Kids’ Village will be used exclusively by critically ill children and their families to enjoy respite holidays.

The charity was co-founded by cancer survivor Sam FletcherGoodwin and is led by chief executive Katrina Cooke and chair Doug Wright.

Hosted by Heart FM presenter Ed James, the gala dinner was attended by over 200 guests.

The event received support from sponsors including Wright Restaurants (t/a McDonalds), Lioncroft Wholesale, South & City College Birmingham, Awan

Marketing, Mercia Design & Build and Hollywood Monster.

To find out more about Kids’ Village and to register your interest in attending the 2025 Gala Dinner visit kidsvillage.org.uk or email events@kidsvillage.org.uk

Witch hazel earns special status

The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire has been awarded its first National Plant Collection status by Plant Heritage, recognising its conservation work on the Hamamelis (witch hazel) and Amelanchiergenera.

This designation helps secure the future of these plants and enhances the arboretum’s standing as a key centre of horticultural excellence and biodiversity.

The Arboretum’s Hamamelis collection has been awarded full national plant collection status, and its Amelanchier collection now holds provisional status, to allow time to ensure younger plants establish well. The Arboretum will continue to develop the Amelanchier collection with plans to apply for full status within a year.

Andy Ansell, head of estates at the Arboretum said: “It has long been a personal passion and ambition to create a nationally recognised collection of Hamamelis at the Arboretum, injecting some winter colour and providing opportunities for visitors to understand and celebrate these stunning plants.”

The Arboretum’s Hamamelis collection features over 300 specimens of this beautiful winterflowering shrub. The vibrant yellow, red, and orange blossoms provide a spectacular display from December through to February.

The arboretum’s recognition is in part due to the expert guidance of Chris Lane, one of the UK’s foremost horticulturists and cultivator of one of the UK’s three other collections of Hamamelis.

Chris supported the arboretum in developing its collection, supplying many of Arboretum’s examples of Hamamelis.

Gwen Hines, CEO of Plant Heritage, added: “The National Memorial Arboretum is a stunning location for this new National Plant Collection of Hamamelis, or witch hazel. By having these plants in a National Plant Collection means they will be looked after carefully by the Arboretum’s team, so that we can continue to enjoy them in the future.”

Strong belief: Amy Jacklin

Fundraising success (left to right): Doug Wright, Katrina Cooke, Sam Fletcher-Goodwin and Ed James

Personal passion: Andy Ansell

International Trade

Chamber appoints head of international divisions

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has made a key appointment to lead its international divisions.

Jayne Hume will take up the role of head of international divisions, having worked as a relationship manager at the GBCC since March, 2022.

The role will include responsibility for leading the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic and Global Chambers of Commerce.

Jayne began her career working in the aerospace industry for BAE Systems, in manufacturing facilities in the north-west and as a business analyst in their Farnborough head office.

She also ran her own business for more than 12 years.

Since joining the Chamber, Jayne has supported members across the GBCC’s divisions in her relationship manager role.

In addition, she set up the Small Business Academy,

which has supported more than 80 businesses through a programme delivered alongside Chamber members and partners.

Jayne said: “I feel honoured and privileged to be leading the international divisions at the Chamber at an exciting time for those in our region who are currently or planning to trade globally.

“I am very much looking forward to supporting our members by enhancing our services and events, connecting them to more opportunities and expanding the network of key stakeholders.”

Lillian Elekan, director of membership at the GBCC, said: “I am proud to welcome Jayne as our new head of international divisions.

“Jayne’s exceptional organisational skills and talent for relationship building make her a valuable asset.”

BRB awarded grant to support dancers

Birmingham Royal Ballet has been awarded a £100,000 grant by the Jerwood Foundation.

Split over two years, it will provide vital support for junior ballet company BRB2 for the 24/25 and 25/26 seasons.

The foundation will support a total of 15 dancers (BRB2 cohort 2, 3 & 4), and the delivery of two regional tours of a new ballet programme to eight to 10 venues.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is a patron of Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce.

Carlos Acosta, director of Birmingham Royal Ballet, said: “We are so grateful to Jerwood Foundation for its declaration of

confidence in Birmingham Royal Ballet through its transformative support for our junior company, BRB2.

“BRB2 is at the heart of our mission to develop emerging talent and serves as a vital bridge enabling young dancers to make the important transition from training to commencing their careers as professional dancers.”

Lara Wardle, executive director and trustee, Jerwood Foundation, said: “This major grant of £100,000 reaffirms Jerwood Foundation’s long-standing relationship with Birmingham Royal Ballet and underlines Jerwood’s commitment to supporting excellence in the arts.”

Helping students study in America

Carl Richardson, an Elliott School alumnus (MA ’99), and his family have created an endowed scholarship at George Washington University’s Elliott School in Washington DC, through the Richardson Brothers Foundation.

The Richardson Family Scholarship, established in perpetuity, will offer scholarships to UK citizens - or citizens of countries in the British Commonwealthseeking to study in America at the Elliott School. The scholarship is a charitable milestone for the foundation, marking its first major gift to a US university.

Carl Richardson said: “My graduate studies at the Elliott School provided me with an important perspective on international business and global geopolitics. As our business continues to expand our investment activity in America, this is a perspective that my family and I would now like to share with future generations of UK students seeking to study in the US.”

Leadership thoughts: Carl Richardson with Dr. Aliyssa Ayres at the House or Lords event

Dr. Aliyssa Ayres, dean of the Elliott School, added: “We deeply appreciate the outstanding generosity of Carl Richardson and his brothers in establishing the new Richardson Family Scholarship at our school. Education is one of the most powerful ways to change the world for the better, and scholarships are so important in our times.”

The Elliott School is located in the heart of Washington DC.

Exciting time: Jayne Hume

Deb tightens bonds with Mexico

By Dan Harrison

Former Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) president Deb Leary has been appointed as Birmingham and the West Midlands’ inaugural honorary consul to Mexico.

The appointment - made by Mexico’s Ambassador to the UK, Her Excellency Josefa GonzalezBlanco Ortiz-Mena, and approved by the Mexican government - is the first of its kind for Birmingham and the West Midlands.

It cements the growing partnership between the region and Mexico, which was forged during Deb’s spell as GBCC president between 2021 and 2023.

Deb - the founder of Birmingham-headquartered threat intelligence experts Forensic Pathways and a scale-up director in the GBCC’s Innovate UK Edge team

– will serve as a conduit between the West Midlands and Mexico in a bid to create economic, academic and cultural opportunities.

‘Over the past three years the relationship between Birmingham, West Midlands and Mexico has grown significantly’

Her appointment as honorary consul was confirmed during an event at the Birmingham offices of accountancy firm Forvis Mazars.

In addition, as president of the UK Women In Diplomacy Network, the Ambassador presented Deb with a certificate of recognition in honour of her “unwavering commitment to fostering bilateral relations between Mexico and the

UK, as she continues to inspire and empower women”.

Deb said: “I’m absolutely honoured to be appointed honorary consul to Mexico.

“Over the past three years the relationship between Birmingham, West Midlands and Mexico has grown significantly.

“Both myself and Her Excellency Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco Ortiz-Mena, Ambassador of Mexico to the UK, recognise the growing opportunities for trade, collaboration and innovation.

“As honorary consul it is my role to be the bridge between Mexico and our region, fostering opportunities for economic growth, academic collaboration, and cultural understanding.

“The UK is an island, but we should never have island mentality. In the world of global connectivity and global challenge, we are stronger together.”

Liquid enjoys the sweet taste of success

International integrated communications consultancy Liquid has secured the Gold Standard Award for Country and Trade Promotion as part of its campaign – The Magic of Maple – which marked the launch of Maple from Canada to the Australian market.

The award recognises excellence in communications and public affairs activities that promote a country, region, industry, or trade. It highlights the work of chambers of commerce, embassies, trade and industry groups, tourism bodies, and government trade promotion and investment agencies.

The awards were announced in Singapore, with Liquid COO and chef director David Colcombe in attendance. Liquid was praised for its exceptional efforts in launching syrup manufacturers Maple from Canada and winning over the hearts and minds of Australians in just 12 months.

This achievement comes at a high point for Liquid, following a successful year marked by internal promotions and continued growth.

Liquid CEO Elisabeth Lewis-Jones said: “Winning this award is an incredible achievement, and we’re honoured to be recognised on a global stage.

“As the first UK PR agency to operate simultaneously in Australia, this win demonstrates that through bold decisions, hard work, and a commitment to the growth and development of the Liquid team, we have the ability to consistently push boundaries.

“We have exciting plans for the coming year and look forward to further expanding our global reach and services.”

Liquid has also announced its new partnership with leading food charity FoodCycle for their Food Invention Challenges.

The initiative – which is a Ready, Steady, Cook! inspired challenge - tasks teams to create delicious meals from surplus food, using teamwork and creativity.

Liquid’s state-of-the-art cookery school and demonstration kitchen is being used to host the events where corporate teams have two hours to turn their ingredients into tasty meals, that will then be given to people in the community.

The unique teambuilding challenges have been created to help raise money for FoodCycle’s community meals, which run in over 90 locations across the UK.

In 2023, FoodCycle saved more than 239 tonnes of food from going to waste, transforming the ingredients into nutritious community meals for those experiencing food poverty and loneliness.

Global Chamber Patrons

Cementing partnership: Deb Leary (right) with Josefa GonzalezBlanco Ortiz-Mena

Syrup success: COO and chef director of Liquid Australia David Colcombe accepting The Gold Standard Award for Country Trade and Promotion in Singapore

Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK

Contact: Anjum Khan

T: 0121 274 3255

Ex-president leader tackles health inequalities

West Midlands business leader Amina Hussain has been appointed as CEO of a new British Heart Foundation (BHF), fundraising partnership to help tackle health inequalities in South Asian communities.

Amina, a former co-president of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce and a board member of the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce, is the first CEO of the Asian Business Board (ABB).

ABB has been set up with BHF to raise awareness and essential funding for research into pioneering treatments for heart and circulatory disease, which disproportionately affects people in South Asian communities.

Risk of coronary heart disease is approximately 50 per cent higher for people of South Asian heritage compared to the wider population.

Amina has a very personal reason for becoming involved in the partnership. Her son, Junaid, now aged 13, was diagnosed as a baby with a rare life-threatening heart condition called Cor Triatriatum.

Junaid underwent major open-heart surgery aged nine months at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and has made a full recovery. He is a keen footballer and has taken part in coaching sessions led by former England and Aston Villa winger Tony Daley.

BHF business boards are made up of groups of business leaders in cities across the UK, harnessing the power of the local business community to raise funds and help make heart and circulatory diseases a thing of history.

Amina, who runs her own accountancy firm, said: “I am delighted to take

this position as CEO and look forward to creating boards around the country predominantly where South Asian communities are based.

“It is important to get the message to our community, raise awareness and fundraise that will go to research aimed at people of the South Asian heritage background living in UK.”

Balvinder Kaur, BHF partnership/fundraising manager, said: “We are so pleased about the development of an ABB. As the first of its kind we are hoping to accelerate much of the focused research with a huge impact in time to come for the benefit of the South Asian community. We hope to tackle inequalities head on, raising awareness and saving lives. A big thank you to Amina for leading this initiative with tenacity and commitment.”

The importance of resilience in business

By Feron Jayawardene

“Success comes from showing up every day, navigating challenges and empowering others to thrive— this ultimately drives innovation and long-term growth,” remarked a business leader at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) patrons’ dinner.

Parveen Mehta, director of Minor Weir and Willis (MWW), delivered the keynote speech at an event sponsored and hosted by Hotel Du Vin in Birmingham city centre.

Over 40 ABCC patrons and guests were in attendance.

Parveen highlighted the important of resilience, adaptability, and constant learning to thrive in the current fast-paced business environment.

He said: “My father started our journey in the UK in the 1960s with a grocery shop, and through hard work, expanded into importing and wholesaling.

“I joined in 1981 during a recession, and though the path hasn’t always been smooth - especially with recent

challenges like inflation and the pandemic - we’ve persevered thanks to a loyal workforce and strategic decision-making.

“Entrepreneurship means wearing many hats, but as you grow, you must learn to delegate while maintaining operational excellence.

“You have to disrupt yourself before the market does, always staying ahead by networking, evolving, and investing in talent.

“I believe in spending 20 per cent of my time nurturing future leaders—diversity in age and ethnicity brings fresh ideas and

energy. At the top, continuous learning is crucial. Those who stop evolving get blindsided by change.”

Headquartered in Birmingham, MWW is a long-established, familyowned business with deep roots in the fresh produce supply chain.

For over 20 years, MWW has cultivated strong partnerships and joint ventures that span across Europe, with operations in Spain, Holland, and Germany.

In recent years, the company has expanded its presence into developing countries, establishing new operations over the past five years. Under Parveen’s leadership, MWW operates as growers, packers, and importers, supplying fresh produce to major retailers, the food service industry, and food manufacturing sectors across Europe.

President Omar Rashid welcomed the guests while Money Chopra, cluster sales manager of Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin, outlined the opportunities available at the hotels and how businesses can benefit from their offerings.

Key to success (left to right): GBCC president Nasir Awan, GBCC CFO Helen Bates, ABCC president Omar Rashid, cluster sales manager of Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin Money Chopra, ABCC director Anjum Khan and Parveen Mehta

Inspired: Amina and her son Junaid with former Aston Villa star Tony Daley

Thirty vying for glory at awards ceremony

competing for Asian business glory across eight categories on Saturday, 30 November, at the ICC.

The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) awards also stage a celebration afterparty at Malmaison. The awards will recognise and celebrate businesses and charities with all winners from each category being nominated for the overall business of the year award, sponsored by Practice Plus Group Birmingham Hospital (practiceplusgroup.com).

ABCC president Omar Rashid will also hand over a special award to a business that has gone above and beyond in

during the dinner.

The headline sponsor this year is Doug Wright (T/A McDonalds).

The panel of judges was chaired by Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

Other panellists included Professor Martin Levermore, CEO of Medical Devices Technology International Ltd (MDTi), Dee Kundi, CEO and founder of Find Me A Solicitor, general manager of Malmaison Birmingham Emma Morgan, CCO and founder of Word360 Kavita Parmar, and Amer Awan, CEO of Awan Real Estate Ltd and Awan International.

was impressed by the exceptional calibre of applicants for this year’s ABCC awards.

“The depth of talent, innovation, and dedication showcased made the task of selecting the shortlist incredibly challenging, as each business brought something unique and valuable to the table.

“Congratulations to all the shortlisted applicants, not only for excelling in their individual roles but also for their commitment to elevating our business community.

“Their efforts are instrumental in making our region a thriving, dynamic hub for entrepreneurship, growth, and opportunity.”

New branch for the A-Team

Examination centre A-Team Academy has opened a new tuition and exam centre in Greater London in Ilford.

The educators offer GCSE, IGCSE, Functional Skills and A-level examinations as well as awardwinning tuition and homeschooling services in both core and additional subjects.

The new London centre aims to build on the existing success of the Birmingham branches, with locations in Handsworth and Yardley. The London office is located at Clements Road, Ilford.

A-Team Academy, a registered Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) centre, won the Business of the Year award at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce annual dinner last year.

Safwaan Ali, centre manager, said, “We are very much looking forward to bringing our experience and enthusiasm to new students.

“We are looking to further develop our contribution towards the academic success of a wide range of children and young people through our services, including direct tuition and exam preparation, administering examinations and providing university application support.”

Their services include tuition - which is designed to provide additional support alongside conventional schooling - and a full homeschooling curriculum for those who would benefit from a more comprehensive support package, as well as the option to simply register to sit examinations with us at the centre.

The shortlist for this year’s award categories is:

Outstanding Charity of the Year –

Sponsored by Our Training Department

Birmingham Hospice

Feedo Needo

Focus Birmingham

Our Community Foundation

Outstanding Contribution to Diversity & Inclusion - Sponsored by South and City

College Birmingham

Birmingham Hospice

Birmingham Impact FC

Connected Places Catapult

Enterprise Loans East Midlands

Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year

Amna Akhtar - GirlDreamer

Kuljeet Bains - Clean Hearing

Saira Butt - Midlands Living CIC

Sumreen Saleem - Tuition 4 Success

Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year

Farhad Tailor - V12 Sports & Classics

Hassan Kapadia - Kapadia Rose

Tahir Mahmood - Amsons

Outstanding Professional Services

Business of the Year

Bonafide Marketing

Lawrence Kurt Solicitors

Mogul Empires

Primo Dialler

Outstanding Small Business of the Year

Amsons

Tuition 4 Success

Primo Dialler

Outstanding Start-Up Business of the Year

– Sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau

Amicis Legal Services LTD

Glam and Glow Beauty Lab

Kapadia Rose

Mogul Empires

Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year

- Sponsored by Pathway Group

Amaan Dad - Our Community Foundation

Kavita Mehey - Lawrence Kurt Solicitors

Kiran Shergill - Barclays

Lakshman Ganatra - Evolving Families

Celebration: The ABCC award winners 2023

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Historic university gets new name

Staffordshire University has been renamed as the ‘University of Staffordshire.’

They say the change represents a significant step forward in the university’s ongoing journey, highlighting its deep connection to the county of Staffordshire and its commitment to creating positive opportunities for its students, staff, and communities around the world.

For more than a century, the university has been a catalyst for change, empowering individuals to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.

Professor Martin Jones, vicechancellor and chief executive, said: “This change is about more than just a name. It encapsulates our vision for the future and the endless possibilities that education can unlock.

Endless possibilities: Professor Martin Jones

Enoch Evans Solicitors welcome Emily to team

Emily Davidson (pictured) has officially qualified as a solicitor after successfully completing her training contract with the firm, Enoch Evans Solicitors has announced.

Emily’s journey with Enoch Evans began in July 2022 when she joined as a paralegal in the conveyancing department. Her dedication and performance earned her a coveted training contract in January 2023.

Throughout her training, Emily gained valuable experience across various departments.

Emily will now be permanently based in the wills, tax, and probate team in Cannock.

She said: “I am extremely grateful to all of my colleagues and mentors at Enoch Evans for the training and support I have received since beginning my career with Enoch Evans in 2022.

“I am very excited for the future and to continue my career with Enoch Evans Solicitors as a member of the wills tax and probate Team.”

“For over a century, we have been transforming lives –empowering individuals who, in turn, have transformed society across Staffordshire and beyond.

“Our roots run deep in the heart of the region, and our impact resonates far beyond our borders. Based in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Lichfield, and London, we take immense pride in this latest evolution, signalling that we are not just a university in the region, but a university for the region – a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity like no other.”

The new brand strategy, centred around the theme of “possibility realised,” celebrates diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. It is a reflection of the university’s belief in the transformative power of education and its role in helping individuals unlock their potential.

Cannock Chamber hosts jobs fair

Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce partnered with DWP Cannock to successfully host their Jobs, Careers, and Education Fair.

The event, at the Aquarius Ballroom in Hednesford, was organised in collaboration with Michael Evans and Sarah Smith from the Job Centre.

The key focus was to build awareness and close the skills gap between business, schools, colleges and job seekers.

It was supported by Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce president David Mitchell and executive committee member Emily Kenny.

Richard Brooks, head of Cannock Chamber, said: “We were incredibly pleased with the turn out from businesses, organisations and job seekers, and thank everyone for coming, especially Michael and Sarah from the DWP who worked very hard to make everything happen.

“However, there is much more to do and the chamber hope to keep on pushing to bring recruitment needs to the forefront.”

Helping recruitment (left to right): Michael Evans, Sarah Smith, Richard Brooks and David Mitchell

Contact:

Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Arboretum wins green award for sustainability

Staffordshire-based National Memorial Arboretum has become a regional winner in Green Innovation at the British Chambers of Commerce business awards 2024.

The arboretum, a member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), was established over 20 years ago on former gravel works, and has now become the UK’s year-round place for remembrance.

A paragon of regeneration and sustainability, the once barren 150-acre site is now home to more than 400 memorials and 25,000 trees.

In recent years, the arboretum has installed 250 solar panels on the roof of its Remembrance Centre, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. It introduced 100 per cent recyclable/compostable packaging for its food services and grows an onsite herb garden to supply fresh ingredients for its restaurant.

Committed to supporting local communities, the Arboretum also sources seasonal, sustainable produce from local suppliers. It is an uplifting and inspirational place where the nation celebrates lives lived and remembers lives lost.

Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum lead, said: “In recent years, our entire team has made significant efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.

“From installing solar panels, to supporting local suppliers and adopting eco-friendly packaging, we are committed to making a meaningful, positive impact on both the environment and the community around us.

“We are absolutely delighted to have our efforts recognised with the Green Innovation award, and this will encourage us to continue focusing on sustainability in everything we do.”

GBCC director of membership Lillian Elekan also congratulated the Arboretum, saying: “We are incredibly proud that the National Memorial Arboretum has won the British Chambers Regional Award for Green Innovation. It’s no surprise that the judges were impressed by the arboretum’s unwavering commitment to sustainability.

“The arboretum truly embodies sustainability, and this recognition is well deserved. Congratulations from all of us at the Chamber!”

Cricket club achieves record junior participation

A village cricket club has reported record levels of junior participation this summer as its partnership with an award-winning PR and communications agency continues to pay dividends.

MIH Solutions has just completed a second year as the main sponsor of Dunstall Cricket Club’s junior section, whose mission is to provide yearround training and playing opportunities to youngsters of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Around 120 aged five to 17 were registered to play for Dunstall across soft and hard-ball formats in 2024, an increase of around 14 per cent on last season and the highest number in the club’s history.

In a year of breaking new ground, the club fielded its first all-girls’ junior team amid a spike in female participation and there was a double league-winning campaign for the under-15s squad.

Thanks to MIH’s support, there was also an investment in a mentoring scheme to develop and upskill junior coaches, with plans in place to boost volunteer numbers over the winter.

MIH senior communications and engagement specialist James Benstead, who is also Dunstall CC’s junior cricket co-ordinator, said: “MIH and Dunstall CC share a passion for supporting youngsters and helping them to achieve their potential. Thanks to MIH’s kindness, the club is achieving that goal for a growing number of aspiring cricketers and we are successfully achieving greater diversity in the sport.”

MIH Solutions managing director Jo Yeaman, who founded the Burton-based business in 2011 and runs it with fellow director Jon Beech, said: “We were honoured to be invited along to Dunstall Cricket Club’s junior presentation evening recently, hearing first-hand some inspirational stories about how our continued partnership is supporting young talent and making a real difference to grassroots sport in our local area.

“That’s something we truly care about at MIH and we look forward to seeing Dunstall’s ambitions continue to be realised in the months and years ahead.”

• Business of sport – see page 78

Contractor celebrates major milestone

Yee Group, an award-winning contractor based in Burton, are celebrating the 20-year milestone of project manager Dan Banford.

Starting as an apprentice electrician two decades ago, Dan has risen through the ranks to become one of the firm’s project managers. The company says Dan has been instrumental in delivering countless successful projects, consistently demonstrating his exceptional skills, dedication, and focus on delivery for Yee Group’s clients.

Group managing director Simon Chapman said: “We are immensely proud of Dan and his achievements over the past 20 years. His career progression from apprentice to project manager is a shining example of the fulfilling and rewarding careers we strive to offer.”

Embodying sustainability: The National Memorial Arboretum

Breaking records (left to right): Senior communications and engagement specialist James Bernstead, Jo Yeaman, and Jon Beech

Commitment: Simon Chapman (left) presents a 20-year service award to Dan Banford at Yee Group’s HQ in Burton on Trent

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Consultancy launches financial crime training

Lichfield recruitment firm Kind Consultancy have launched a collaboration with the Great Chatwell Academy of Learning to provide online financial crime training to their base of specialist financial services candidates.

The new e-learning service is designed to help people in financial services to advance their knowledge and in doing so enhance their career prospects, while also supporting with the crucial task of combatting financial crime.

The package of digital training courses is available exclusively through the Kind Consultancy for people interested in upskilling their financial crime knowledge.

Kind co-founder Lynsey Moore said: “We are delighted to announce our new partnership with GCAL, who are true specialists in this space. This means that people will be able to further their knowledge across multiple areas of financial crime and be awarded an official certification, allowing people to get ahead when searching for a new opportunity to further their career.”

Improvements: St Editha’s Square

Go-ahead for town centre regeneration

Planning permission has been granted for several changes at St Editha’s Square, part of Tamworth Borough Council’s plans to develop and regenerate the town centre.

The work includes:

• Removing the steps to make the whole area accessible for all and replacing with decorative paving

• Removing existing tree, replacing with six native trees around the square

• New benches and bike racks

• Replacing security bollards

• New lights throughout the area

• Repaving part of College Lane.

The improvements are part of the wider Future High Street Programme. The council say the St Editha’s Square landscaping project will provide a more high-quality and relaxing space, complementing South Staffordshire

College’s work to build a new college in the heart of the town, and will see an enhanced space created with benches and level access by removing the steps and creating an even surface throughout.

Tamworth Borough Council’s conservation officer has also been consulted throughout the application process to make sure all work preserves St Editha’s Church character and appearance of the conservation area.

These projects are part of a wider programme of regeneration schemes to transform Tamworth town centre.

Councillor Carol Dean, leader of Tamworth Borough Council, said: “It’s a positive move to see more of our plans continue to progress, and I’m looking forward to seeing the new St Editha’s Square take shape and become an open space that the public can enjoy.”

Big Ticket Appeal shares the joy of theatre

The Lichfield Garrick Theatre has announced its rebranded Big Ticket Appeal, formerly known as the Christmas Ticket Appeal.

This annual appeal helps young people who may have experienced trauma, bereavement, illness or financial barriers, to attend the Garrick’s pantomime and experience the magic of Christmas no matter their circumstances.

With the support of local businesses and individuals, the appeal benefits groups including Lichfield Foodbank, Pathway Project, Spark Burntwood and National Deaf Children’s Society.

For many of these children and young people the appeal gives them their first visit to a theatre or arts venue.

Just 42 per cent of parents in the UK with children under the age of 16 said they cannot afford to take their child to the theatre this year.

Last year the initiative garnered support from 28 local businesses and 1,089 individual Garrick audience members, whose contributions allowed

the theatre to provide 478 tickets to children facing various challenges.

Since 2017, local supporters and businesses have sponsored over 1,000 tickets given to families and groups of young people via local charities.

Matt Clay, director of development, said: “Accessing live theatre is so important for young

people, not only for learning and development, but also for their wellbeing and experiencing escapism.

“We are so grateful to the supporters of the appeal who make this happen and are thrilled to welcome Cathedral Hearing as our first new sponsor this year.”

Independent family-owned audiology practice Cathedral Hearing is among the business sponsors of the Big Ticket Appeal 2024.

The practice has donated for a family, including grandparents, to enjoy this year’s Christmas panto.

Principal audiologist Laura Evans said: “I am a working mum and very fortunate to have the support of my parents and that’s why my donation will cover the cost of not just a mum, a dad and their children, but also grandparents.”

Businesses who would like to become a sponsor can email matthew.clay@lichfieldgarrick.com

Collaboration: Lynsey Moore and Mathew Kind

Business backing: The Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

New initiative offers greater data security

An initiative has been launched to provide businesses with a pathway to enhance their customer experience while ensuring protection of sensitive data.

The Safe CX initiative is a collaboration between data security leaders Centrivault and Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce member insight6.

The initiative combines the expertise of insight6 in customer experience (CX) transformation with Centrivault’s leadership in data security, enabling businesses to prevent risks and personalise customer interactions safely and securely.

Safe CX integrates superior customer service with cuttingedge data security measures.

A short questionnaire has been developed for firms to self-assess how effective their current CX and data security tools are in the event of a cyber-attack or data breach.

The questionnaire is free for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and West Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre (WMCRC) members.

Shaun Cremmins, CX director at insight6 and Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber committee member, said: “The Safe CX initiative offers a well-defined pathway for

businesses to excel in both customer experience and data security.”

Stuart Plant, director of training and insight at Centrivault Ltd, added: “Our partnership with insight6 through the Safe CX initiative is about creating a secure environment where businesses can personalise their services without fear of data breaches.”

Rebrand for web design firm has added gravitas

A Sutton Coldfield web design agency has embarked on a new chapter in its 16-year history by underdoing a rebrand.

Darren Langley Web Design, based in High Street, Sutton Coldfield, will now become Gravitas Web Design.

Director Darren Langley said the agency had been seeking a new name that would resonate with the core values of the company and its clients.

The word “Gravitas” was chosen for its strong connotations of seriousness, wisdom, and purpose.

“Gravitas speaks what we aim to achieve for our clients,” said Darren. “We wanted a name that communicates the seriousness, dignity, and authority that businesses need to project online.

“Our goal is to design websites that not only look exceptional but also build trust, convey prestige, and command respect in the eyes of our clients’ customers.”

Although the name has changed, Gravitas Web Design will continue to provide web design solutions, offering clients a blend of creative innovation and functional performance.

Business coach lends support to Buddy Bag

Sutton Coldfield business coach Clare Whalley is leading a community-driven initiative to support the Buddy Bag Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping women and children who have fled domestic abuse.

A bag packing event, set for 9 December, will bring together local businesses who are joining forces to make a meaningful impact.

Joining Meta4 Business Coaching founder Clare will be design agency Cudos Creative, Halestorm Marketing and Pure Leisure Marketing, along with other members of the Sutton Coldfield business community.

The bag pack event aims to provide essential items for women and children in need, helping them rebuild their lives after escaping domestic abuse.

Clare said: “We believe in the power of community and collaboration. This event is an opportunity for local businesses to come together for a fantastic cause and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Participation in the bag pack event requires a donation of £25, which will go directly to the Buddy Bag Foundation to cover the cost of essential items such as toiletries, clothing, and comforting items for children.

The event will be held at The Buddy Foundation HQ in Sutton Coldfield.

The foundation provides Buddy Bags filled with essential items to children who have fled violent and abusive situations, often arriving at emergency accommodations with little more than the clothes on their backs.

They offer comfort and a sense of normality during a time of crisis.

For more information on how to participate or support the bag pack event, contact Clare Whalley at Meta4 Business Coaching (clare@meta4coaching.co.uk).

You can also donate online at shorturl.at/fZVCy

Fighting domestic abuse: Clare with Buddy Bag Foundation CEO and founder Karen Williams

New look: Web designer Emily Slack and Darren Langley

New standard: Shaun Cremmins

All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community

Contact: Samantha Frampton

T: 0121 678 7488

Self-driving shuttles are at your service

Visitors to the NEC will soon be able to get around by hopping on board a new selfdriving shuttle service.

The Solihull & Coventry Automated Links Evolution (SCALE) project is a collaborative initiative, aimed at better understanding the role self-driving vehicles might one day play within our future transport system.

As part of a pilot, SCALE will see a fleet of three electric self-driving shuttles ferry passengers along a new 7km route linking Birmingham International rail station, the NEC and Birmingham Business Park.

In 2021, Solihull became one of the first places in the country to use self-driving vehicles as part of an earlier set of passenger trials led by the council.

SCALE will demonstrate and further develop understanding around connected automated mobility (CAM) services. It will look specifically at the commercial viability of self-driving operations, passenger experience and operational factors such as insurance and vehicle maintenance.

The shuttles have been built by New Zealand-based autonomous vehicle manufacturer Ohmio and can carry up to 20 passengers. They use a sophisticated suite of cameras and sensors to understand their surroundings, allowing them to interact with live traffic and move around safely.

In line with current legislation, the shuttles will have a human operator permanently onboard, who will have the ability to take control if required. Each journey will also be tracked in real time from Transport for West Midlands’ (TfWM) control centre on Summer Lane.

The pioneering project is being delivered by a consortium led by Solihull Council, including both the University of Warwick and Coventry University, TfWM, the NEC, Coventry City Council, Direct Line Group and automated vehicle simulation specialists IPG and dRISK.

Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for climate change and planning, said: “Connected Automated Mobility (CAM) technology has the potential to revolutionise the way we get around. We are excited to be leading the way, not just in Solihull, but regionally and across the country, in providing learning on CAM deployments in different settings and scenarios.”

Patrons share views on public transport

Patrons of Solihull Chamber of Commerce and the winners of the Solihull Awards 2024 gathered at Hogarths Hotel to celebrate the success of the award winners and discuss the findings of a survey into public transport links in Solihull.

A report by the Business Commission West Midlands found that 70 per cent of firms felt it was important to improve public transport infrastructure, and the Solihull Economic Snapshot 2024 findings reported a need to level up within the borough due to disproportionate inequality in the north.

The recent Quarterly Business Report compiled by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) featured a survey with the aim to find out how residents of Solihull feel about the public transport links in the borough.

‘Solihull is a really vibrant community. It is really important that the transport links reflect this’

It was reported that 24 per cent of the total respondents to the QBR survey were Solihullbased. The questions aimed at the Solihull-based businesses were centred around public transport links in the borough, whether it impacted areas such as recruitment ability, and whether changes to the transport links would impact employers’ and employees’ choice of transport when commuting to work.

Twenty-eight per cent of respondents said that they felt the public transport links between north Solihull and the rest of the borough were inadequate.

Meanwhile, 44 per cent of respondents said public transport connectivity has an impact on recruitment, and 51 per cent of respondents said they would use public transport links more frequently if changes were made to the public transport system.

Gemma Dilkes, policy and projects officer at the GBCC, said: “Solihull is a really vibrant community. It is really important that the transport links reflect this and encourage employment opportunities and social mobility throughout the borough.”

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber, said: “The Solihull Patrons’ Dinner is an opportunity for me to thank the patrons for their continued support whilst enjoying the surroundings and hospitality of fellow patron Hogarth’s Hotel.

“The dinner also provided an opportunity to once again celebrate the success of the recent Solihull Awards 2024 winners!

“It was great to also receive an overview of the recent QBR Solihull survey questions on local transport in the borough.”

For the full Solihull Economic Snapshot report, scan the left QR code. For the full Business Commission West Midlands report, scan the right QR code.

Celebrating Solihull (left to right): Eileen Schofield (president of Solihull Chamber), Samantha Frampton (head of Solihull Chamber) and Gemma Dilkes (policy and projects officer at the GBCC)

Jump aboard: The self-driving fleet

Future of BID secured after resounding yes

Solihull Business Improvement District (BID) will continue until at least 2030 after receiving resounding support from its business community.

Over 450 companies were balloted about the continuation of the not-for-profit, business funded organisation that was originally set up in 2010.

The BID received 93 per cent backing by total number of votes and 96 per cent support by Rateable Value of all properties that voted.

This result means the BID’s next term – their fourth – will begin on 1 August, 2025 with a strong mandate and run until 31 July, 2030, allowing its work in the town centre to continue.

Melanie Palmer, chief executive of Solihull BID, said: “We are thrilled to be given the opportunity to serve the businesses and people of Solihull for a fourth term.

“The BID team and I are excited to start work on delivering five more years of projects that retain the status of Solihull at the forefront of success. Our heartfelt thanks go to our wonderful businesses for their positive votes and messages of support.”

The BID organises the wide range of events in the town centre that bring in thousands of extra visitors, including the annual Solihull Food Festival, Solihull Music Festival, Solihull Spooktacular, Christmas Lights and Festivities.

The BID works closely with

fellow town centre stakeholders such as Solihull Council, West Midlands Police, Touchwood and Mell Square to ensure it remains a vibrant place to visit and do business in.

Kevin Johns, director of Prime Accountants and Chairman of Solihull BID, said: “This result confirms that local businesses value the work the BID is doing within the town centre and we’re

Innovative collaboration saves customers money

Following the success of its UK fintech incubator programme, BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK is bringing four new innovative tech-based solutions to its customers.

The company launched the innovation lab in collaboration with SuperTech WM and STEAMhouse, inviting eight fintech organisations to solve real-life data-led challenges set by the finance provider.

The cohort has worked with experts from the programme’s founding partners as well as delivery partner STEAMhouse to develop an innovative solution that will enable the finance provider to use data and insights to deliver more value to its customers and partners.

At a final showcase event, the eight participating companies – Autofile, Inicio, Financial Cloud, Furbnow, CarCloud, Voolu, Paylow, and Wyser – demonstrated their solutions and reflected on their journey throughout the Innovation Lab.

After investigating the commercial viability of the digital solutions developed during the programme, BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK

has announced that it will be taking forward four solutions to trial with its customers via myCreation on the Creation App which has 1m customers registered. This will include:

• Furbnow’s Home Energy Check Tool, helping to make homes energy efficient without the hassle.

• CarCloud which provides car insurance, finance, admin and running costs in one place.

• Inicio’s friendly virtual agent Budgie, providing customer with support to complete a detailed affordability form.

• Paylow which analyses people’s habits and needs to provide a proactive autopilot for all recurring expenses.

By incorporating these solutions into myCreation, BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK aims to measure the reception from its customers and test the solutions’ potential to deliver significant value in the financial services sector.

delighted to see local businesses continue to vote in favour of the BID.”

Tony Elvin, general manager of Touchwood and vice chairman of Solihull BID, added: “I am delighted, but not surprised to see a resounding ‘yes vote’ for a fourth Solihull BID term. As vice chair of the BID, it is important to know that the work we do is valued by and has the support of our levy payers.”

Esports lab to inspire the next generation

Computing & Emerging Technologies students from Solihull College & University Centre have opened the doors to their new Esports Lab at Blossomfield Campus.

The room was designed by lecturer Anthony Stafford with the students having their say during the decision making processes. They also voluntarily helped with building the room.

The state-of-the-art lab features multi coloured lighting, light changing keyboards and gaming chairs.

Esports is a mix of sport, marketing, enterprise and creatives. The College’s BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Networking, Business and Games Design (Esports) has been developed to meet the upcoming demand for skills including computer networking alongside games development.

The course provides an opportunity for alignment of social, physical, mental and financial skills into one qualification to deepen and expand learning.

Esports and computing lecturer Antony Stafford said: “We wanted to get the students involved in the look of the lab as we felt it was important for them to study in a place they have an attachment with and somewhere they feel proud to work in.”

The new Esports Lab will be on show at the college’s open event on Saturday, 23 November.

Safe until 2030: The Solihull BID team

Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell

T: 07540 751590

Apprentice takes the top prize

By Darby Newman

A 19-year-old engineering apprentice has scooped the top prize of Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2024 - becoming the youngest winner of the accolade.

Santina Bunting, apprentice in civil and ground engineering with global engineering consultants Arup, took home the top prize at the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, having also triumphed in the Apprentice of the Year category.

The award, sponsored by University College Birmingham, was presented during the awards ceremony organised by Future Faces Chamber of Commerce, attended by nearly 500 people at the ICC in Birmingham city centre.

Judges commented that Santina was “absolutely remarkable at presenting and talking about her journey, with some major achievements”, and were very impressed with how “she was behind on maths compared to her university peers, so she taught herself A-level maths”.

In her role at Arup, Santina has grown steadily from developing geotechnical databases and creating drawings for early-stage highways projects to taking on engineering assessments, analyses, and report writing.

She is also the voice for Early Career employees at Arup, regularly organising workplace initiatives centred on topics such as imposter syndrome, personal branding and work winning.

Winning the G4C Construction Excellence Apprentice of the Year was another proud achievement that recognised Santina’s engineering competencies. Now, as an assistant technician, she is aiming to become an incorporated engineer after finishing her degree and eventually achieving chartered status. With a passion for promoting apprenticeships and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths), Santina was recently nominated by the CEO of the Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical

Education and invited to the King’s Summer Garden Party at Buckingham Palace for her work on their apprentice panel.

Kasim Choudhry’s President’s Award went to Suzie Branch-Haddow, vice-principal – external development, at Birmingham Metropolitan College Sophie Poduval-Morrell, Future Faces manager, said: “We’re so proud of Santina. She’s an incredibly bright, vibrant, energetic and passionate person who will continue to have a huge impact on the region.”

All the winners

Greater Birmingham Apprentice of the Yearsponsored by Pathway Group

Santina Adjari-Bunting, Arup

Creative Arts and Culture - sponsored by United by 2022 Charity

Sunjay Kohli, AAA Media

Digital, Technology and Innovationsponsored by Shoosmiths LLP

Charlotte Stanyer, Entec Si

Environmental, Social and Governancesponsored by Entec Si

Alex Peart, KPMG LLP

Events, Retail and Hospitality

Money Chopra, Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin

Finance - sponsored by mfg Solicitors

Nadia Johnstone-Smith, Quilter Cheviot

Financial Planning

Legal - sponsored by Forvis Mazars

Shereen Johal, Shoosmiths LLP

Property, Construction and Engineeringsponsored by BMet

Aysha Bateman, West Midlands Combined Authority

The Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards ceremony was compered by Amber Sandhu, the BBC Midlands Today, BBC Asian Network, BBC Radio WM and Sky Sports News reporter, and the drinks reception was sponsored by Blackberry Events.

Georgie Butler, associate director of Blackberry Events, said: “Sponsoring the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards gave us an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young professionals across the Midlands.”

People and Wellbeing - sponsored by PI-KEM

Charlie Pendlebury, Mills & Reeve LLP

Sales, Marketing and Communications

Rory Pickin, Rohlig UK Ltd

Start-ups, Enterprise and Entrepreneurshipsponsored by Birmingham City University

Iveta Pudilova, Happy Autistic Lady

Not for Profit - sponsored by Unity Trust Bank

Francesca Bagley, United by 2022 Charity

Training and Education - sponsored by Arup

Samantha Strong, Aston University

Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year - sponsored by University College

Birmingham

Santina Adjari-Bunting, Arup

Future Faces Ambassador Award - sponsored by Common Purpose

Joel Blake, The Wilkes Partnership

Future Faces President’s Award

Suzie Branch-Haddow, Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet)

Winners all: Santina Bunting (centre), flanked by Future Faces manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell and president Kasim Choudhry, with all of the category winners at the awards night at the ICC

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

Rosie’s gown designs light up show

Gowns by fashion designer and salon owner Rosie Billington were worn at the awards night by Future Faces manager Sophie PoduvalMorrell and host Amber Sandhu.

Renowned for her focus on sustainability and empowerment, Rosie, based in Cranes Park, is credited with bringing a new, exciting perspective to the fashion world - rooted in her Birmingham community and beyond.

Her brand stands out for blending environmental responsibility with a passion for creating meaningful, bespoke designs. Rosie was also shortlisted in the Start-Up, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship category of the awards.

‘Seeing both of them wear the designs was surreal – I felt proud to

have played a part in their special night’

Sophie wore the Julia ballgown, and Amber wore Rosie Billington’s new collection piece, the Bhavna dress.

Rosie said: “It was truly a delight to dress Sophie and Amber for such a special event. Both of them exude confidence and elegance, and it was

an honour to create designs that complemented their vibrant personalities.

“For Sophie, I designed a gown inspired by timeless glamour with a modern twist. The dress was crafted from luxurious silk with intricate beadwork to capture attention under the lights. I chose a silhouette that would make her feel both powerful and graceful on the red carpet.

“Amber’s dress was all about boldness and sophistication. I wanted her to feel like the life of the party, so we went with a striking cut and vibrant colour palette, using a custom-made fabric that shimmered beautifully in motion.

“Seeing both of them wear the designs was surreal – I felt proud to have played a part in their special night. I’m so glad they felt as incredible as they looked.”

Speaking about being styled for the awards, Sophie said: “I feel honoured to have worn a dress designed by Rosie on the red carpet. I felt like a million dollars. So proud to have Rosie as part of the Future Faces network.”

Amber said: “What a pleasure it was to be dressed by Rosie Billington. The dress she made and designed made me feel amazing and super confident. It was perfect for such a prestigious and special evening.”

...and the night raises vital funds for sports charity

Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2024 raised a total of £4,970 for the division’s charity, Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA).

BYSA Foundation was established in 2002 as a voluntary organisation and has received funding from several organisations to offer football coaching to young people aged 6-18 at Small Heath Leisure Centre – every Saturday morning – from 10:30am-12:30pm.

The awards night raised the funds for the charity through a raffle of prizes donated by a wide range of businesses and companies.

BYSA spoke about how the money raised will hugely benefit the children in their care, from giving them the ability to buy bus passes for children who aren’t able to travel to the charity base, to funding coaching sessions and much more.

New Members

Francesco Di Lallo Barker Brettell

Jack Denaro BDG Training Consultancy Limited

James Cronin tobook - the venue finding specialist

James Higginson tobook - the venue finding specialist

Jay Dhaliwal Chase de Vere

Jude Bennett Forvis Mazars

Kalvin Saranna EZOO

Khadeem Duncan-Banerjee Transformation

Partnership Trust

Kianya Lightbourne Touchwood

Leah Shepherd BDG Training Consultancy Limited

Lucio Darby Vision for All CIC

Lucy Allen MFG Solicitors

Megan Evans MFG Solicitors

Morgan Paine Mode Transport Planning

Oscar McCracken MFG Solicitors

Patrick Magner Mode Transport Planning

Rory Smith Wyndham-Smith Garden Design

Charity: Birmingham Youth Sports Academy founder Anwar Khattak speaks at the awards night with Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry in the background

Elegant trio (left to right): Sophie PoduvalMorrell, Amber Sandhu and Rosie Billington

AGM features in Christmas build-up

Two months packed with jolly Chamber events across the GBCC network are planned in the build-up to Christmas. On a more serious note, the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce annual meeting takes place on 22 November.

AND MANY OF THE EVENTS ARE FREE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS

November

Burton Business at Breakfast

Date: 1 November

Time: 7:30 – 9:30

Venue: Hoar Cross Hall

Division: Burton

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

SBS Conference

Date: 5 November

Time: 8:30 – 12:00

Venue: Midlands Art Centre

Division: GBCC

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

US Election Breakfast

Date: 6 November

Time: 8:00 – 10:00

Venue: TBC

Division: Transatlantic

Cost: Members only

ABCC Member Social

Date: 6 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:00

Venue: TBC

Division: ABCC

Cost: Members only

QBR Briefing Q3

Date: 7 November

Time: 9:00 – 11:00

Venue: Birmingham City University

Division: GBCC

Cost: Free to members and non-members

Cannock Chase Business at Breakfast

Date: 7 November

Time: 7:30 – 9:30

Venue: Parts Town UK

Division: Cannock Chase

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

Sutton Coldfield Business at Breakfast

Date: 12 November

Time: 7:30 – 9:30

Venue: Gracechurch Centre

Division: Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

Charity Quiz

Date: 12 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: The Yard @ Button Factory

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Future Faces members only

Delegates and guests at the Future Faces awards night get into the spirit at this year’s event.

Full reports on pages 50 and 51

Premier Breakfast

Date: 13 November

Time: 8:30 – 10:30

Venue: Edgbaston Park Hotel Division: GBCC

Cost: Premier members only

Pro Solihull Networking

Date: 14 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: TBC

Division: Solihull

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 +VAT

Greater Birmingham Global and Transatlantic Chambers of Commerce AGM

Date: 14 November

Time 9:30 – 11:30

Venue: Browne Jacobson

Division: Global and Transatlantic

Cost: Free to members and non-members

Birmingham Economic Review

Date: 19 November

Time: 9:00 – 23:00

Venue: The Exchange Division: GBCC

Cost: Free to members and non-members

Burton Celebratory lunch 2024

Date: 20 November

Time: 12:30 – 14:30

Venue: The Pirelli

Division: Burton & District

Cost: Members and nonmembers: £50+VAT

Professional Development

Date: 21 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: UCB

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Future Faces members only

GBCC AGM

Date: 22 November Time: 10.30 – 12:00

Venue: TBC

Division: GBCC

Cost: Free to members and non-members

Sutton Coldfield Networking with Future Faces

Date: 26 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: TBC

Division: Future Faces/Social Networking

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

Thanksgiving Celebration & Social Networking

Date: 25 November

Time: 17:30 – 19:00

Venue: TBC

Division: Transatlantic

Cost: Members: Free

Growth Through People - Fostering Diversity: Building Inclusive Talent Pipelines

Date: 27 November

Time: 9:00 – 11:00

Venue: TBC

Division: GBCC Cost Free

December

Social Networking - Burton Christmas Social

Date: 05 December

Time: 16:30 – 18:30

Venue: Burton Rugby Football Club

Division: Burton & District

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces:£15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Solihull Social Networking with Future Faces

Date: 05 December Time: 16:00 – 18:00

Venue: Gymshark

Division: Solihull & Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Future Facess: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

Meet the Presidents Christmas Drinks

Date: 09 December

Time: 16:30 – 18:00

Venue: Manahatta

Division: Transatlantic & Global

Cost: Members only

Social Networking

Date: 11 December

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: TBC

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT

Social Networking - Christmas Social Date: 11 December

Time: 16:30 – 18:30

Venue: TBC

Division: Lichfield & Tamworth & Cannock

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Social Networking

Date: 12 December

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: BOX

Division: ABCC & Birmingham

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Presidents Christmas Drinks

Date: 13 December

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: The Regency Hotel –Harry’s Bar

Division: Solihull

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Social Networking - Christmas Social Date: 12 December

Time: 16:30 – 18:30

Venue: The Cancer Support Centre

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces:£15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/ networking-events

Training courses

During November and December Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) will be running a wide variety of courses designed to help all businesses with international trading ambitions, from understanding export and import documentation to methods of payment.

ALL CHAMBER MEMBERS CAN ENJOY REDUCED COSTS.

For more details contact Leah Quarmby, international trade training manager, on 07860258387

NOVEMBER

Methods of Payment (BCC accredited)

Date: 13 November

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

Attendees will receive a comprehensive overview of the various payment methods accessible to exporters engaged in international trade, along with an analysis of the associated risks and advantages of each method. It will also examine the most appropriate choices for a range of potential situations and the related documentation required for each payment method.

Documentary Letters of Credit (BCC accredited)

Date: 19 November

Time: 9:30 – 12.30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

This training is ideal for professionals engaged in international commerce, particularly those responsible for managing and presenting letters of credit or those seeking to deepen their understanding of the process. Participants interested in gaining a more thorough insight into letters of credit, as well as exploring other alternatives to letters of credit, will find this training advantageous.

Agents and Distributors (BCC accredited)

Date: 20 November

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

This detailed course is suitable for anyone in an international trade environment who is currently leasing with different Agents & Distributors or are looking for opportunities to lease with an agent / distributor and would be interested in learning the best way how.

International business trading; the risks & rewards explained

Date: 26 November

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost:

Members: £140+VAT

Non-members: £210+VAT

This specialised half-day course is designed to equip businesses and their personnel with a clear understanding of the various risk factors in International Trade. It aims to empower them to make wellinformed choices regarding the level of risk they are willing to accept in different facets of exporting and importing, and to implement strategies to minimise or mitigate these risks wherever feasible.

Incoterms 2020 (BCC accredited)

Date: 27 November

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

Looking at each of the eleven Incoterms in detail, explaining what each term ‘does’ and ‘doesn’t do’.

The half-day session will explore the correct terms for your shipments, what to consider when choosing your Incoterm and what could occur if incorrect terms are used.

Internal Auditor Training

Date: 27 November

Time: 9:30 – 16:30

Venue: Birmingham Chamber house

Trainer: ISO Quality Services Ltd

Cost: Members: £230+VAT

Non-members: £300+VAT

This training is suitable for any ISO Management System including the popular ISO 9001 Quality, ISO 27001 Information Security, ISO 14001 Environmental and ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety. Our training is conducted by experienced and approachable auditors, who are well accustomed to applying theory to real life business scenarios.

Exports solved; Decoding the documents

Date: 28 November

Time: 10:00 – 12:00

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members: £80+VAT

Non-members: £130+VAT

Ideal for individuals who handle documentation daily or weekly, newcomers to paperwork, or anyone seeking clarity to ensure an understanding of what documents might be required and also a deeper understanding of their purpose and necessity.

The course will solely focus on what documents are and needed for the export process and what other documents may be needed for certain items.

DECEMBER

Importing Made Easy - A Guide for Beginners

Date: 2 December

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £180+VAT

Non-members: £250+VAT

In this beginner’s guide attendees will gain an understanding of the

terminology used in an import role, as well as why import procedures must be adhered to correctly. This course also explains the consequences for business if they are not compliant. Procedures will be explained in a very accessible manner, suiting those with little to no experience in importing.

Import Procedures including Inward Processing and Outward Processing (BCC accredited)

Date: 9 December

Time: 9:30 – 3:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members: £300+VAT

Non-members £370+VAT

The attendee will gain a full understanding of all the applicable areas of the import process. The day will explore supplier, country, payment risk, duty payments, regulations and more.

This course will provide a deeper knowledge for anyone who has previously attended our ‘Importing for Beginner’s’ course.

Reaching 16M users searching on TikTok

By Michael Farr, eKim Commerce

TikTok is evolving from a place to discover entertaining short-form videos to one where users actively seek information – 57 per cent of users now search on the platform. Whether it’s tutorials, product reviews, or trend inspiration, nearly 10 per cent of Gen Z now prefer TikTok over search engines like Google –and with TikTok’s user base of 16 million in the UK, it provides a sizable audience for brands to reach.

In September 2024, TikTok announced the launch of search ads, providing advertisers an opportunity to place content in user’s feeds based on the keywords they search. This will increase competition in the search results page and mean brands need to consider a keyword strategy as part of their TikTok post schedule.

This article looks at how brands can improve the keyword relevance of their posts, so users searching can find their content more easily.

TikTok ranking factors: Alongside great video content, improving post relevancy will be crucial for businesses to increase their discoverability on TikTok

Great content with high user interaction (views, likes, shares, comments, etc) is still the dominant factor for TikTok when ranking content. However, you can’t guarantee that every post will be a viral success, and that’s where a keyword strategy can come in useful, to help users searching find your content more easily.

There are several factors that can help TikTok to understand the content of your video and relevancy to categories that can help it to display. These include, on-screen text, trending hashtags, trending soundclips, and post captions.

Step 1: Identify what your audience is searching for on TikTok

Keyword research is crucial to get your content in front of the right audience on TikTok and there are several tools that can help:

• TikTok keyword insight tool: provides related hashtags and keywords that can help you target the right audience.

• Search bar results: searching relevant keywords in TikTok’s search bar will prompt auto-populated search terms to give you an idea of popular search terms. A great method for researching is to add qualifiers to your keyword to cast the net out. For example, ‘how {your keyword}’, ‘Top {your keyword}’’ and ‘{your keyword} vs’ to see relevant queries.

• Similarly, ‘Other Users Searched For’ in TikTok search results, provides additional related search queries.

• You can also leverage traditional keyword research tools like Google for broader category search terms.

Step 2: Feed these into your search strategy on TikTok

Once you have a shortlist of priority keywords, feed these into your post content on TikTok to ensure your post ranks well and reaches the right audience. Here are some TikTok best practices you should follow:

• Improve your discoverability by adding keywords into your post:

• Captions

• On-screen text

• Hashtags (up to five relevant hashtags is optimal)

• But avoid keyword stuffing; instead, naturally integrate them into your content to enhance discoverability.

• Optimise your profile:

• Add relevant keywords and hashtags to your bio to make it easier for users to find your content when they search for related topics.

• Try TikTok Search ad campaigns

Conclusion

‘Great content with high user interaction is still the dominant factor for TikTok when ranking content’

Navigating a route to better borrowing key considerations for small businesses

Dr. Steve Walker, CEO at Birmingham-based ART Business Loans, discusses why funding applications are increasing, and the key considerations small businesses should make when taking on debt - including the pitfalls to avoid.

For many SMEs, the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic meant that they were forced to switch into survival mode. In terms of financing, that meant using up cash reserves and/or borrowing funds to simply stay afloat.

Businesses that had to borrow to survive lockdown may now be seeking funds to either accelerate future growth or to refinance their pandemic loans - perhaps having optimistically borrowed over a shorter period. Whether businesses borrowed or spent reserves to help navigate the pandemic, there are challenges to face when securing new borrowing.

Businesses might not be able to produce the level of figures and forecasts being demanded by lenders post pandemic, and smaller loan amounts are not as attractive to major funders.

Post-Covid, SMEs have been turning to alternative lenders who, for the first time, now account for over 50 per cent of the loans made each year to SMEs in the UK. These include those that operate solely online. It’s easy to see the rationale for this - decisions are quick and convenient online, and can provide fast access to finance.

Proceed with caution

However, it’s crucial for every small business owner to adopt a thorough and robust approach

to taking on new debt - and have a clear understanding of the pitfalls to avoid.

When using some online lenders, depending on circumstances, interest rates can be very high, reaching well over 30 per cent. Couple this with short payment terms, which in some cases can be as little as two years, and there can be a lot of pressure on cashflow, with businesses struggling to make the repayments.

As a lender, ART is seeing a growing trendwith an upsurge in demand in the last quarterof organisations coming to us for refinancing in addition to larger loans geared to growth. This may be because businesses can’t meet the requirements of their original loan and are struggling to obtain funds from banks or other finance sources, even if seeking a new loan to support growth.

Driving growth

Post-pandemic, it’s concerning to see a growing trend of businesses falling prey to three key pitfalls in lending: taking too little advice, borrowing over too short a period, and committing to excessive rates of interest.

While online lenders can undoubtedly offer quick solutions and fast access to finance, lending should always be based on the viability of a business - with a clear understanding that owners can afford to take on and repay the debt.

Not every lending request can end in a ‘yes’. But for those SMEs facing a financial dead-end, a relationship-based approach that is built on transparency and viability can provide an important route to long-term financial securitywith no short-cuts. This is where Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs), like ART Business Loans, can help.

An appropriate route to finance CDFIs are prepared to lend in three key scenarios: 1) when other lenders say ‘no’; 2) when other lenders have already lent all they can; or 3) when they can lend as part of a package alongside other banks or finance sources. Crucially, CDFIs can say ‘yes’ because they take a people-centred and relationshipbased approach when supporting businesseswith a deep understanding of the organisation, and the financial support it needs to thrive.

ART Business Loans is a leading CDFI, based in Birmingham and covering the West Midlands and adjoining counties. ART is a proud member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, and our mission is to ensure viable businesses and social enterprises across the region can access appropriate loan finance that is tailored to the specific requirements of the business.

Challengers vs high streets:

The battle of the banks

In one corner, we have the high street banking giants – the long established, brick-and-mortar and traditional establishments that we’re all familiar with. In the other, we have the challenger banks that are shaking up the status quo of the finance world. Which will be the winner? Chamberlink takes a ringside seat to watch the battle unfold.

‘So, which is best for your business and your needs?’

The contenders

A challenger bank is a smaller retail bank that is competing with the ‘Big Four’ high street banks – Barclays, Natwest Group, HSBC and Lloyds Banking Group. They’re commonly thought of as branchless, digital-only banks (such as Atom Bank, Monzo and Revolut) but there are other types of challengers too, including:

• Challenger banks with a high street presence, such as TSB, Virgin Money and Metro Bank

• Shari’ah banks (a bank that adheres to Islamic law), such as Al Rayan and Gatehouse Bank

• Challenger banks focused on commercial lending, such as Shawbrook Bank, Aldermore and One Savings Bank.

Many challenger banks were formed in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, precipitated by a desire to overhaul the industry. Though a relatively modern phenomena, challenger banks are authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, just as traditional banks are. So, which is best for your business and your needs?

High street banks – the pros and the cons

High street banks have what the challengers don’t – long standing reputations and decades, if not centuries of expertise in the world of finance. They typically offer a wider range of services and products, such as savings, loans and investment

management advice, than a challenger bank. A physical presence on the high street means the ability to discuss your needs and concerns in person with specialist advisers. For business owners, high street banks can offer tailored packages to suit their needs, such as payment terminals and merchant accounts, and the ubiquitous nature of high street banks means cash-heavy businesses can take advantage of a large and convenient network of cash deposit points.

However, for all their benefits, traditional banks aren’t known for the speed in which they operate. Between business hours, bank holidays and limited opening hours on weekends, customers can find the pace at which issues are solved or transactions processed a bit too leisurely for the modern world. Additionally, utilising a high street bank can also mean higher fees and a billing model that can act as a barrier to particular services.

Challenger banks – the pros and the cons

Challenger banks appeal to business owners and individuals who worry that traditional banks might be too traditional. Because most challengers operate wholly in the digital space, they can offer such helpful tools as real-time spending notifications, instant transfers, cashback and budgeting tools. Their digital interfaces are easy to use and accessible from anywhere, meaning customers can bank at any time, offering a level of

convenience and flexibility that the high street banks can’t compete with. Advanced software means that transactions are processed quickly, and challenger banks usually offer lower fees and better rates compared to traditional banks – for example, they typically do not charge overdraft or monthly maintenance fees, which makes them a more attractive option for customers who are looking to grow their wealth.

However, challenger banks may not offer the full range of financial products that traditional banks do. Many challenger banks only specialise in one or two areas (savings or investments, for example) meaning that those looking for a full-service bank may have to go to multiple financial institutions to access all the services and products they need. Without physical branches, customers have to rely on digital support, such as chatbots, which often isn’t as effective as in-person support. And, as many challenger banks operate solely online, they may be at a higher risk of cyber-attacks and fraud. While many online banks have robust security measures such as two-factor authentication in place, your data and money may still be at higher risk than with a high street bank.

Final round

There’s a lot to be said for centuries of practice and established reputations. However, it’s clear that challenger banks are here to stay – the services and products they offer will continue to evolve and will have a radical impact on the future of banking. Now is a great time to get on board and see how they can help your business.

Sector Focus

The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Tourism Awards shortlist revealed

The shortlist for the 2025 West Midlands Tourism Awards has been revealed - with a strong field of applications whittled down to 37 of the region’s top tourism attractions and businesses competing across 14 categories.

Businesses from across the region’s visitor economy –including accommodation, arts, business events, food and drink, visitor attraction and heritage – will be aiming for success in categories such as international tourism award, café/coffee shop of the year and large hotel of the year.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony to be held on 18 March at Edgbaston Stadium, where they will be entered into the annual VisitEngland Awards for Excellence for a chance to be recognised at a national level.

The awards are delivered by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) – the region’s destination management agency and lead for the new West Midlands Destination Development Partnership.

Andrew Lovett, chair of the West Midlands Tourism and Hospitality Advisory Board, said: “With the West Midlands firmly fixing its position at the heart of sport in the UK, it feels absolutely right to host the awards ceremony at Edgbaston Stadium.”

Have your say on bus routes

Transport for West Midlands is asking everyone - including bus users, residents, students and those who drive, walk or cycle - for their views on designs for three new crosscity bus routes.

They are designed to improve bus reliability and journey times and connect communities and improve travel across Birmingham city centre and its suburbs.

Improvements include new bus lanes and adjustments to junctions, traffic signals, parking, and bus stops.

To have your say, go to: crosscitybus.commonplace.is

Flights to Brussels take off

Brussels Airlines has resumed flights from Birmingham Airport, operating six times a week.

The regular weekly services will offer convenient flight times and will use an A319 aircraft to serve both business and leisure passengers.

Brussels, the city with a love of architecture, chocolate and beer, is home to countless museums and galleries and is well known for its stunning architecture, both old and new.

Adam Parker, senior aviation manager of Birmingham Airport, said: “Brussels Airlines has been a partner of Birmingham Airport for many years, first serving the region from 1992.

“Its six times weekly service is ideally placed to ensure both business and leisure passengers have easy access to the Belgium capital.

“We are delighted to welcome back Brussels Airlines to our portfolio of airlines ensuring we really are on our way to serving the Midlands.”

Flights will arrive into Birmingham Airport six days a week, excluding Saturday.

Birmingham Airport is also investing £300m in terminal

growth and infrastructure to reach its 18m passenger goal by 2033. This investment is running parallel with is sustainable growth plan to meet its ambitious goal of net zero also by 2033.

Home to 35 airlines, flying direct to 144 destinations, passengers

from Birmingham can now access 657 destinations via one stop. Having completed its busiest summer yet, the airport has also launched its biggest marketing campaign, confidently communicating “We’re (Birmingham) on our Way.”

Indian eatery lands at airport

A leading Indian street food company has opened an outlet in the departures area at Birmingham Airport.

Muhummed Ibrahim, chief executive officer at Chaiiwala, said the brand was targeting a presence in all major UK airports by 2025.

“We truly believe Chaiiwala at Birmingham Airport is long overdue and cannot wait to serve passengers and staff and become part of the wider food offering available,” he said.

“Birmingham Airport is a premier destination that our customers have wanted for a number of years and we are delighted to finally make that happen.

“Chaiiwala provides a great food alternative option to current food offerings available for passengers as they head through to the next part of their journey.

“We are very confident that this will be a success in Birmingham. We want to be in every major airport and travel hub not just in the UK but globally attracting a wide range of customers.

“The feedback so far has been phenomenal and we feel Chaiiwala is slowly becoming a must-have food concession due to the variety of our offering and the demand from customers.”

The 1,100 sq ft Chaiiwala concession has been developed as a bespoke kiosk. Customers will be able to use the low-level seating while having clear visibility across the departures areas to flight information boards and boarding gates.

The new Chaiiwala outlet will create 20 jobs and will operate approximately 16 hours a day between 4am and 10pm. The store will feature the full Chaiiwala menu, known for its tasty and authentic dishes.

Spice with a smile: Chaiiwala in operation

Back in Birmingham: The Brussels crew

Funding adds £30m to economy

Community lending specialist

BCRS Business Loans has added almost £30m in value to the economy through funding delivered in the last financial year, new figures show.

BCRS Business Loans, which works across the West Midlands, surrounding areas and Wales helping SMEs unable to access finance from traditional sources, supported 72 businesses, safeguarding 675 jobs and creating 186 roles, according to the latest impact report.

At the annual meeting at Wolverhampton Science Park, chief executive Stephen Deakin updated members of the society on the cooperative business loan lending performance in the 2023-24 financial year.

Unveiled at the meeting, the impact report showed BCRS Business Loans lent £5.8m to 72 businesses, safeguarding 675 jobs and creating 186 roles while adding £29.9m in value to the economy of the West Midlands, surrounding region and Wales. Manufacturing businesses borrowed the largest amount by sector, totalling £1m.

Of the funding, 43 per cent went to the UK’s top 35 per cent most

disadvantaged areas, with 18 per cent going to female-led businesses and 18 per cent to ethnic minority-led firms.

As a Community Development Finance Institution, BCRS Business Loans operates as a non-profit distributing company through a story-based approach to lending, enabling firms to access finance from between £10,000 and £250,000 to help grow and support recovery plans.

Bank presented with King’s Award

Unity Trust Bank has been officially presented with the King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development by His Majesty’s personal representative for the West Midlands, Lord Lieutenant Derrick Anderson.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognise organisations for their contribution to international trade, innovation, sustainable development or promoting opportunity. Unity – one of only 29 businesses acknowledged for excellence in the Sustainability category this year - was awarded for its commitment to delivering positive impact in local communities and adopting socially-responsible business practices.

The Lord Lieutenant said: “Many organisations would have failed without the sort of support Unity is able to offer to disadvantaged groups and communities. I applaud Unity myself, but I also bring the wishes of King Charles III for longevity in the bank’s efforts in maintaining the sustainable platform that it’s created.”

‘Demand for lending has picked up significantly which is promising’

Mr Deakin said: “It was another challenging year economically but as a responsible lender we continued to lend when it was the right thing to do. Demand for lending has picked up significantly,

which is promising for the current year.”

The AGM was also told BCRS Business Loans has reinforced its support of the advancement of female entrepreneurship by making a pledge to the Investing in Women Code, a commitment backed by the UK Government to improve access to the tools, resources and finance women entrepreneurs need to achieve their goals

Tax hire strengthens PKF Cooper Parry

PKF Smith Cooper continues to strengthen its West Midlands presence with a new hire for the tax team. Nick Skidmore joins the Birmingham office as a manager to bolster the firms expanding transactions tax offering.

Since starting his career in 2012, Nick has amassed a wealth of experience, gained primarily from advising private and family-owned businesses. His skillset will bring great benefits to a team which specialises in advising its clients on matters including business sales and acquisitions, employee incentives, corporate reconstructions, and succession planning

Nick is a chartered accountant and tax adviser, notably winning a number of prizes throughout his studies, including the Institute Medal for the best overall performance across the CTA qualification.

Nick said: “It's a great opportunity to apply and continue to develop my tax knowledge to help clients achieve their business goals.”

PKF Smith Cooper are in the midst of a firm-wide expansion, with the tax team making 11 new hires alone since January and several more recruits confirmed to join this year. The firm also welcomed 21 graduates in September, their largest intake of graduates to date, growing and strengthening the audit, business services, corporate finance, corporate tax and VAT teams.

Graduate roles for September 2025 have opened, including career opportunities in Derby, Nottingham and Birmingham.

Meeting: Delegates at the AGM

King’s message (left to right): Colin Fyfe, CEO, Unity Trust Bank; Cadet Warrant Officer Lewis Jones; West Midlands Lord Lieutenant Derrick Anderson CBE and Alan Hughes, Chairman, Unity Trust Bank

Tax team boost: Nick Skidmore

Tax ruling gives breeders paws for thought

BCRS appoints finance director

BCRS Business Loans has appointed Emma Leigh as finance director. She has successfully run her own accountancy practice supporting SMEs and served as group financial controller at Barclaycard, bringing a wealth of financial experience to the role.

More recently, Emma served as group financial controller at water treatment firm Culligan Group where she provided integration and leadership support through a key business transition.

In her role as finance director, Emma will support BCRS to provide funding to help businesses reach their full potential.

Dog and cat breeders are being warned that a clampdown by the taxman could end up costing them thousands of pounds in fines if they don’t disclose their business income.

HMRC is writing to breeders it suspects of not completing tax returns, inviting them to make a voluntary disclosure on their tax position or run the risk of an in-depth enquiry into their business affairs.

Paislei Godley, associate director at West Midlands-based Prime Accountants Group, said the boom in the breeding market during the pandemic had led HMRC to investigate the sector.

Paislei said: “HMRC believes large numbers of people have started breeding and have failed to register for self-assessment – so they’re not currently completing tax returns at all.

“The pandemic led to a significant hike in breeding as pet ownership spiked, but ultimately if people are breeding and selling for trade they should be declaring it to HMRC.

“In this scenario, they are inviting taxpayers to respond voluntarily. They wouldn't send the letter if they didn't have some sort of evidence, so anyone receiving one shouldn’t ignore it.”

Paislei said breeders who don’t cooperate or aren’t fully forthcoming with HMRC could risk having 20 years of business records combed through by inspectors.

She added: “If you don’t voluntary disclose and are approached by HMRC, individuals will face higher penalties being levied. These penalties can be reduced based on their ‘Telling, Helping and Giving’ stand on penalty reductions so an un-prompted disclosure to HMRC to bring tax affairs up to date is always best.

“Penalties are a percentage of the tax loss, which can be anything between zero and 100 per cent, depending on how actively helpful you are with HMRC.”

Support: Emma Leigh

Higher penalties: Paislei Godley

Partnership reduces risk

Birmingham-based Alwayse Engineering Ltd has entered a strategic partnership with Rapid Racking Ltd, the UK's leading specialist in shelving and racking solutions, to integrate its precision range of ball transfer units into custom tables for roll-on/rolloff capability.

This collaboration aims to reduce the risk of physical strain and fatigue for warehousing and logistics workers when loading and unloading shelves, particularly when handling heavy items.

The integration of Alwayse Engineering’s 3016 series ball transfer units into Rapid Racking’s tables also offers enhanced customisation and flexibility for warehousing operators.

The ball tables will be available across Rapid Racking’s Rapid 1 workbench range and are available in 1830x760mm and 1830x915mm tables.

"We are thrilled to partner with Rapid Racking and begin integrating our ball transfer units into their custom tables,” said James Turner, head of UK and Ireland sales at Alwayse Engineering. “Poor manual handling is one of the biggest causes of workplace injury, so finding a safe, efficient and repeatable way to improve processes was a key driver behind the partnership.”

Tom Ellis, head of product and services at Rapid Racking Ltd, added: “We are always on the lookout for innovative ways to help make our customers’ lives easier. The integration of Alwayse ball tables into our racking units will deliver a step-change in workplace safety and productivity.

“Our team is very excited at the opportunity of partnering with another UK business that shares our vision of transforming the warehousing industry.”

Brockhouse Group, a longstanding West Midlands based manufacturer, has achieved significant savings after implementing energy-efficiency measures through the Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) programme.

By participating in the programme, the company identified key areas for improvement, leading to potential annual savings of £30,000, reduced energy consumption, and a lower carbon footprint.

Established in 1885, the West Bromwich-based company specialises in closed die hammer and upset forgings for various industries. With energy-intensive operations that consume over 12 million kWh annually, energy has become the company’s thirdlargest expense after steel and labour.

As energy costs continue to rise, the viability of its operations has been increasingly impacted.

Brockhouse Group recognised the need to reduce its energy consumption and mitigate the potential financial risks of future price hikes.

Eager to find cost-effective and sustainable solutions, the company joined the Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) programme,

energy

provided by Business Growth West Midlands and received a free energy assessment. Conducted through BEAS programme delivery partner, ProEnviro, it revealed several inefficiencies in Brockhouse’s processes.

The measures are expected to result in annual savings of 585,700 kWh of energy, a reduction of 112 tonnes of Carbon, and a potential £30,000 cut in energy costs.

Steve Walters, director and owner of Brockhouse Group, said: “The programme is a fantastic opportunity to get independent advice on the best options for energy and cost reduction for your business.

Cutlery firm Arthur Price has celebrated significant team members’ milestones - the 30th work anniversary of production assistant Penny Monk and the 25th work anniversary of warehouse manager Dan Monk… her husband and her boss.

Penny, 46, from Lichfield joined Arthur Price aged 16 in 1994 and has worked in various departments. Dan joined in 1999, aged 17. He started working as a packer

“It has provided us with a clear path to making our operations more sustainable and efficient.”

By implementing these energysaving strategies, Brockhouse is not only reducing costs but also ensuring long-term sustainability in a competitive and energy-reliant industry.

The programme is open to businesses in most sectors and various areas including Birmingham and Solihull, where it is delivered by partners Aston University.

Cutlery couple celebrate milestone Manufacturer discovers massive energy savings

To claim a free energy assessment and to see if your business is eligible for a match-funded grant, go to: businessgrowthwestmidlands.org.uk

in the warehouse and now 42, he is the warehouse manager, and last year joined the senior management team.

Penny and Dan met at work, dated for a few years after colleagues worked their magic at matchmaking and the couple got married in August, 2008. They have two children.

CEO Simon Price said: “Dan and Penny are two vital cogs part of our business and I am privileged to have them in the team. On a personal level, it has been wonderful to be part of their life over all these years. I vividly remember them both joining the business and also recall the slow-burn dating process that entailed. Thank goodness for work colleagues pushing them along.

“They are part of the family. Their eldest son has completed work experience here, they have brought their youngest daughter into work and it is a pleasure to know the whole family. To see two people join your company, fall in love and still contribute all these years later is wonderful to see. Here’s to many more years with us, together.”

Dan said: “Like all colleagues Penny and I have had our disagreements over the years at work and it is strange sometimes to be her boss but we are stronger than ever and we love working at Arthur Price. It is a family-owned business and everyone is treated as such. We’ve completed 23 years working together, let’s hope there are many years to come.”

Taking the strain: An Alwayse roll on/roll off table

Love match: Penny and Dan Monk with Simon Price (centre)

Potential £30,000

savings: The Brockhouse Group factory

Deal struck for logistics company

Wilkes acted on behalf of DMN Group Limited in the successful acquisition of Specialist Vehicle Logistics Limited, a strategic move that positions DMN Group as a key player in the rapidly growing automotive logistics sector.

The acquisition marks a significant step in DMN’s expansion, enhancing its capacity to deliver comprehensive vehicle logistics solutions across the UK.

The transaction was originated by the corporate finance advisors at Burgis & Bullock. The collaboration between Wilkes and Burgis & Bullock ensured the transaction was completed efficiently.

Wilkes’ team was led by partner Rick Smyth (pictured) with support from Christie Nelson, solicitor (corporate), and Leighann Richards, senior associate (real estate).

Rick said: “It has been a privilege to advise DMN Group on this acquisition. It once again demonstrates our commitment to long-term client relationships.”

Trowers to relocate to new Colmore premises

International law firm Trowers & Hamlins’ Birmingham office is relocating in December to One Snowhill at the heart of the city’s Colmore Business District to accommodate its ambitious growth and sustainability strategy.

The firm has signed a 10-year lease at One Snowhill, for 17,000 sq ft located on floor 3, moving from 10 Colmore Row, its home for over 13 years. It has worked together with Knight Frank on the lease and CBRE and Overbury on the fit out.

Partner and head of the Birmingham office Yetunde Dania said: “We are so excited about moving to our new office. It brings an enhanced new working environment for our staff and vibrant space for our clients to enjoy.

“The move demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the city, remaining in the same business district to not only continue being accessible for clients, but also to accommodate for our continued growth. This also supports our firm-wide growth strategy and our mission to be more sustainable as a business. We're really looking forward to welcoming everybody.”

Leading law firm welcomes education expert to team

Browne Jacobson has strengthened its growing higher education practice by appointing a special adviser with deep experience in the sector.

As the UK and Ireland law firm’s first higher education special adviser, Professor Janice Kay will provide strategic input and support engagement with the higher education sector.

Her experience includes two decades in senior positions at the University of Exeter, including as Provost and senior deputy vice-chancellor for nine years until August 2023.

She was also special adviser to vice-chancellor Professor Lisa Roberts, until July 2024, and earlier this year co-founded Higher Futures, a company that supports universities and sector organisations to deliver in challenging financial circumstances.

Professor Kay said: “This is a hugely exciting time to be collaborating with Browne Jacobson as the firm seeks to develop its higher education offering, and

Head of facilities and property

Rob Slater said: “As part of our ongoing investment commitment to our real estate, the relocation will bring our people into a contemporary workspace that is primary designed to support hybrid working, featuring new flexible areas to support both collaborative and individual focus working, alongside excellent meeting, and event spaces, to enhance our clients and visitors experience.”

Commitment to the city:

when the sector’s requirement for support from its legal advisers will become more important than ever.” Browne Jacobson’s sector-leading education practice supports higher education institutions, research bodies, schools, academy trusts, local authorities, education charities and executive government on a full range of services.

The Insolvency and Restructuring team at national law firm Freeths has been listed as the highest performing insolvency firm by volume at the half-year mark. Freeths were listed top last year with 365 insolvencies filing for 2023 and is already on track to surpass that figure with 194 filings recorded in H1 2024.

Joey Byrne, national head of insolvency and restructuring at Freeths, said: “These results reflect the ongoing strengthening of talent, sector knowledge and breadth of experience across our national restructuring and insolvency and creditor services offerings. I would like to thank our clients for their continued support and remain committed to providing the best service we can.”

Yetunde Dania

Support: Professor Janice Kay

Why Jewellery Quarter is still sparkling

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is still proving a magnet for ambitious, growing businesses according to commercial agents Siddall Jones, who have experienced a record level of take up across the area this year.

In Siddall Jones’ latest deal, Nettl, an expanding web design, branding and marketing company, have moved into 2,000 sq ft of space over three storeys at 13 Caroline Street, which comes with four car parking spaces.

Sophie Froggatt, agency surveyor at Siddall Jones, said that Nettl offered a range of marketing services including the design for print, websites, signage and promotional items, plus they were offering a range of meeting spaces available to rent.

Siddall Jones helped Nettl move from offices in Great Charles Street to a self-contained building where Nettl has refitted the space to create a better working environment for staff.

Ms Froggatt said: “We are seeing a return of occupiers wanting their front door space which they can make their own. Hybrid working is here to stay but employees want and deserve quality space in which to work and collaborate.

“The historic and vibrant Jewellery Quarter areas is well known for its rich heritage and thriving business community. We are pleased to have successfully negotiated a favourable agreement on behalf of our client and believe that Nettl will be an excellent addition to the area.

“13 Caroline Street was formerly occupied by an accountancy firm and attracted considerable interest, with multiple offers received.

Overhaul is full steam ahead

Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent have been officially granted for the transformative overhaul of Leicester’s Grade II Listed railway station.

Arcadis has led on the complex designs for the station transformation project which is led by Leicester City Council in partnership with Network Rail, East Midlands Railway and SLC Rail and SLC Property. Once complete, the major revamp will significantly enhance customer experience, connectivity, and accessibility while preserving the station’s historic features.

The redevelopment is supported by £17m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund and additional investment from Leicester City Council.

Gregg Barton, Arcadis project director for Leicester Railway Station, said: “This project is all about creating a station that’s logical and easy to access for everyone while preserving its historic charm. This redevelopment will enhance Leicester’s connectivity, support economic growth, and improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.”

Designs on the Jewellery Quarter (left to right): Adam Whitehouse of Nettl, Sophie Froggatt of Siddall Jones, Jenny Taylor and Brampal Bansal of Nettl

“The property will be a great base for Nettl, and the meeting spaces they are offering for rent are perfect for local businesses having corporate days, team meetings or anyone needing space for private interviews.”

Ed Siddall-Jones, managing director of Siddall Jones, said: “The Jewellery Quarter market shows no signs of slowing down, with a record level of take up for us this year.

“We are witnessing a return to the office and seeing a number of enquiries for the Jewellery Quarter with clients wanting well located space with character. Furthermore, with the choice of two train stations, multiple bus routes and permit and multi storey car parking, the location works well for employees commuting to the office.”

In another Jewellery Quarter deal, Siddall Jones helped structural and civil engineering consultancy SBK Consulting take 3,210 sq ft on a five-year lease in The Atrium.

Popular restaurant expands

Popular restaurant Smoke + Ash is growing with an expansion next door, into 13 Greenfield Crescent, doubling its size in Edgbaston Village.

Since opening its doors nearly two years ago, Smoke + Ash – part of the Calthorpe Estate - has quickly established itself as an authentic Neapolitan-style pizza destination.

The expansion into the neighbouring property is a testament to the restaurant’s success and growing popularity among locals and visitors.

Owner Paul Collins said: “Since we opened, we’ve struggled to cope with the demand for tables, especially at the weekend.

“The expansion will allow us to add extra seats for diners, as well as a lounge space for guests to relax and spend a little longer enjoying our cocktails and wine offering.”

The expansion will enhance the dining scene in Edgbaston Village, aligning with Calthorpe Estates’ vision for a thriving leisure and lifestyle destination in the heart of Edgbaston.

Construction firm heads to Manchester

Baily Garner, a leading multidisciplinary construction consultancy with long-standing offices in Birmingham, has opened a new office in Manchester, marking a milestone in their expansion strategy.

With operations already commenced, the Baily Garner team is set to offer a comprehensive suite of services within Manchester and the northwest, including architecture, building surveying, project management and more.

The firm’s latest business ambition is to deliver service excellence to clients across the UK’s North West.

Tom Cadman, associate partner at Baily Garner, will be heading up Baily Garner’s newest office.

Andy Tookey, managing partner at Baily Garner, said: “The opening of our Manchester office represents a significant step forward in our growth strategy.”

Tom Foley, asset manager at Calthorpe Estates, said: “We have worked closely with Smoke + Ash since they moved into Edgbaston Village just under two years ago, and it is a real testament to their hard work and innovative approach to see them go from strength to strength in such a short space of time.

“This is a particularly impressive feat considering the tough economic climate that has seen numerous closures up and down the high street, so it’s great to see them doubling their footprint here in the heart of Edgbaston Village.”

Hotel ready for Christmas parties

Delta Hotels by Mariott, located in the Birmingham city centre, is preparing to welcome guests for exclusive Christmas parties following a renovation.

The four-star hotel has created an exclusive floor for corporate occasions in advance of the festive season. Guests can take part in a range of activities including bubbly bars, flower walls, and dessert tables with a videographer on standby.

Transformation for underpass

One of Birmingham’s key city-centre pedestrian links is to be revitalised.

The Livery Street subway will undergo a longwaited transformation that will address years of maintenance issues, anti-social behaviour, and safety concerns, aimed at enhancing the connectivity between the Colmore and Jewellery Quarter Districts.

Colmore Business District (BID), in partnership with Jewellery Quarter BID (JQ BID) and rental living investor and operator Moda Living, has launched the new project.

Colmore BID spearheaded the initiative through their outstanding places working group, assembling a project group that includes Birmingham City Council (BCC), the subway’s owner, to collaborate on the project.

With contributions from all partners, £120,000 funding is being invested to begin the first phase of improvements.

Melanie Williams, board director and chair of Colmore BID’s Outstanding Places Working

Group, said: “We saw a great opportunity to work together to uplift this important yet overlooked part of the city.

“By creating a more welcoming and visually engaging environment, we hope to enhance the overall experience for pedestrians, bringing life and vibrancy to this key link between two major districts.”

‘Together, we are investing in the future of our community, fostering growth, and improving the quality of life for residents’

The centrepiece of the revitalisation effort is the creative vision of renowned ceramic artist Adam Nathaniel, known for his dynamic public artworks in Bristol and Croydon.

After exploring the architectural and cultural history of both the Colmore and Jewellery Quarter BID areas, Adam developed an

innovative ceramic tile design that gives the illusion of three-dimensionality, despite being a flat, two-dimensional surface.

The ceramic tiles, each uniquely crafted, are currently being produced by a specialist tile design studio. A precise referencing system ensures that the intricate design, from production to installation, maintains the artist’s original intent.

Pending additional funding, phase two will focus on additional improvements to the subway’s lighting, cleanliness, and overall cosmetic appeal.

Luke Crane, chief executive officer at Jewellery Quarter BID, said: “Together, we are investing in the future of our community, fostering growth, and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike."

With Phase one now in motion, Birmingham residents and visitors alike can look forward to a brighter, more pleasant journey through this key urban space.

Three-dimensional history: Adam Nathaniel’s subway design

Charity backs skills programme

FareShare Midlands launched its SkillsShare initiative with two half-day events showcasing the available programmes.

SkillsShare is a suite of personal development programmes designed to support participants on their journey into employment, education, training or volunteer work, while also helping local employers find suitable staff.

Through its employability programmes in Birmingham and Nottingham, FareShare Midlands provides comprehensive training, hands-on work experience, accredited qualifications and job opportunities.

In partnership with Challenge-trg Skills Ltd, the initiative also offers forklift truck training. While the primary focus is on warehousing and logistics, the programmes cover a range of other sectors.

These programmes cater to different age groups and abilities, offering tailored advice, support and opportunities to build skills, earn qualifications and gain confidence. Funding partners include Birmingham City Council, the West Midlands Combined Authority and Maximus.

For employers facing recruitment challenges, SkillsShare provides access to a local pool of trained and ready-to-work candidates. Businesses can nominate experienced staff quickly, without the high costs associated with recruitment.

The launch events took place at the FareShare Midlands Nechells Depot.

Attendees had the opportunity to participate in activities used during employability training sessions, receive an introduction to SkillsShare, tour the warehouse and enjoy refreshments.

Simone Connolly, chief executive of FareShare Midlands, said: “Our core purpose will always be to redistribute surplus food to local charities and community groups, while also creating opportunities for vulnerable people to improve their lives.

“Through our expanding SkillsShare employability programmes, we assist local unemployed individuals in developing skills, gaining valuable experience and boosting their confidence.

“By providing these opportunities, we not only deliver nutritious food to those facing food inequality, but also help families break the cycle of poverty caused by long-term unemployment.”

For more information go to: faresharemidlands.org.uk

Celebrations for recruitment firm in double award win

Pertemps Managed Solutions has solidified its position as a leader in the recruitment industry, winning two awards at the 2024 APSCo Outsource Awards.

They took home the RPO of the Year award, while director Abigail Farnham was celebrated as Outsource Leader of the Year.

The APSCo Outsource Awards bring together key figures from the recruitment and outsourcing sectors.

This year’s event highlighted innovative practices and celebrated outstanding achievements across the industry.

Pertemps Managed Solutions was honoured with the RPO of the Year award for its exceptional recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) services.

‘These awards are a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the entire team’

The company was praised for its tailored solutions, client-centric approach, and unwavering commitment to quality, consistently delivering superior outcomes for its clients.

Known for her strong moral compass and engaging leadership style, Abigail has led her team through a challenging year, maintaining a sharp focus on commercial priorities while delivering impactful solutions to keep her team ahead of the curve.

She said: “These awards are a reflection of the hard work and

dedication of the entire team, especially during such a challenging period for our industry.

“Our focus has always been on delivering meaningful solutions that make a lasting impact, and I’m proud of the relationships we’ve built and the success stories we’ve helped create.

“At Pertemps we are truly passionate about DEI and social mobility, always championing its importance and driving positive change. It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised for what we love to do.

“This recognition is a testament to our collective effort, and I look forward to continuing to drive social mobility, innovation and service excellence in the outsourcing sector.”

Job placements continue to fall

The number of permanent staff placements fell for the fourth consecutive month across the Midlands at the end of the third quarter, according to a KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs survey, compiled by S&P Global.

The decrease was moderate but eased to the softest for three months and was the slowest recorded of the four monitored English regions. The picture for temp billings remained positive in September, though the rate of increase eased sharply to the softest in the current six-month growth sequence.

Demand for staff was muted, as vacancies for both permanent and temporary roles reduced during September, with the latter falling into decline for the first time since October 2020. On the pay front, permanent salary inflation gained momentum for the second month in a row and was at a three-month high. Conversely, temp pay rates fell for the first time since November 2020

Initiative: Kyle Drackley and CEO Simone Connolly welcome attendees to the launch

All aboard: Students on the flightdeck of HMS Queen Elizabeth

Students learn rules of waves

Birmingham teenagers from Cockshut Hill School, Lyndon School and Ninestiles, an Academy, all part of the Summit Learning Trust, had an unforgettable experience at the HMS Queen Elizabeth, courtesy of the Royal Navy’s Attract Team.

The group visited Portsmouth’s historic naval base and toured HMS Queen Elizabeth, the Royal Navy’s most powerful flagship aircraft carrier.

They were able to immerse themselves in naval life and learn more about the inner workings of one of the most advanced warships in the world. The learners were given an exclusive look into various aspects of life aboard the vessel.

They explored key areas, including the control room where officers monitor and manage everything from navigation to communications.

The trip was also a guide to potential careers in the Royal Navy.

The Royal Navy Attract Team aim to inspire young people by offering insights into naval careers and encouraging interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.

With Portsmouth being home to some of the Navy’s most impressive ships, the visit was part of the Royal Navy’s outreach efforts to engage with young people, particularly in regions like Birmingham that are geographically distant from the sea.

Malak, a Year 10 learner, said: “The visit to Portsmouth was so good. Our guide was amazing and gave us lots of information about the vessel.

“The ship was enormous. We went to see the sleeping quarters and on the deck where we saw the fighter jets and helicopter. I recommend this trip to other students if they ever get the chance to go, it was truly a remarkable experience. It has made me think about joining the Navy as a medic in the future.”

Warrant officer One Rich Cartman from the Royal Navy Attract Team said: “It was an absolute privilege to bring leaners from the Summit Learning Trust to experience life onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth and showcase what wonderful career opportunities there are, and develop their understanding of the Royal Navy.”

Improved cyber security offering

Portech Systems has enhanced its IT solutions offering to include cyber security and cloud computing.

The Birmingham-based company has over 100 years of experience implementing supply chain solutions across organisations in the UK and overseas.

However, customers were increasingly asking for help on how to protect their companies from cyber-attacks as well as reaping the benefits of Cloud solutions.

Shaz Naeem, CEO of Portech Systems, said: “For decades now we have implemented solutions following a barcode applied to a product being manufactured to its journey to the warehouse and retail stores.

“Our automation solutions extended to field sales and service but the extension to protect customer data and enhance collaboration completes our total offering to customers seeking to drive growth and save money.”

Portech Systems has bolstered its team with expertise in the areas of cyber security and cloud computing to enable this total offering to existing and prospective customers.

Starting them young: Students of STEM subjects

Millennium Point funds innovators of the future

Birmingham’s Millennium Point has unveiled its latest programme to empower young people in the West Midlands.

The venue is searching for schools, colleges and notfor-profit organisations looking to make their STEMrelated dreams a reality. Until 6 December, interested groups are invited to apply for a Millennium Point Trust Grant for their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics projects.

The Millennium Point Trust Grants Programme is designed to enhance education and inspire the next generation of STEM professionals. With grants ranging from £1,000 to £20,000, the programme aims to support projects that have a substantial impact on STEM education and career choices.

Applicants are encouraged to showcase innovative ideas that will spark curiosity, creativity, and passion for STEM fields among young learners.

The Millennium Point Charitable Trust has already awarded £3.7m to over 160 groups in the region. The funds for these grants are generated through the commercial activities of the Millennium Point building, a landmark located on Curzon Street in Birmingham City Centre. Previously funded projects have included STEM labs, planetariums and even the building of a full-sized light aircraft.

Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, said: “Our grants programme is more than just financial support; it's about empowering young people to make a positive change. We want to help the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators to help shape our world for the better.”

For more information visit: millenniumpoint.org.uk/trust/grants

VR partner approved for specialist training

An award-winning Birmingham-based tech company has become the first provider to partner with the University of Birmingham and Sandwell Children’s Trust (SCT) to host their immersive virtual reality training for social workers.

Cornerstone VR, global pioneer of a VRenabled behaviour-change programme for children’s services, will offer the newly developed Research Informed Virtual Relationship-based Practice Training (RIVRT)an innovative training solution for social care professionals - on its flagship VR platform.

RIVRT was developed by the University of Birmingham and SCT after two years of ethnographic research, which closely followed social workers on home visits, in office environments and face-to-face supervision, providing real-world insights into their practice.

The training allows both new and experienced social workers to virtually engage in challenging scenarios, based on real-life social work visits.

The immersive experience helps professionals learn the best approaches for handling different situations in a safe and controlled environment.

Dr. Tarsem Singh Cooner, associate professor of social work at the University of Birmingham, said: “I am thrilled to be collaborating with Cornerstone VR to share our research findings through this cutting-edge platform.

‘Together, our goal is to bring this research-driven training to professionals empowering them to create positive impacts in the lives of the children and families they support’

“Together, our goal is to bring this researchdriven training to professionals, empowering them to create positive impacts in the lives of the children and families they support.”

Wearing VR headsets, participants experience a social worker’s 11-month journey with a fictional family, mirroring real-world child protection cases.

The seven-module training package allows trainees to experience what research has found leads to ‘barriers’ and ‘enablers’ in developing effective relationship-based practices by offering a front-row seat to the subtle nuances which can impact outcomes.

The training package provides learners with realistic, immersive experiences that foster empathy and understanding. By observing body language, tone, and relational approaches, trainees can develop skills to navigate complex child protection situations effectively.

Like the University of Birmingham and SCT, Cornerstone VR is dedicated to driving impactful change through its flagship virtual reality (VR) programme, empowering professionals to deliver enhanced care and support to individuals of all ages.

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Bringing Christmas magic to the stage

Birmingham Royal Ballet (BRB) return to their home base at Birmingham Hippodrome this month with Sir Peter Wright’s annual festive treat The Nutcracker.

The acclaimed production, which enjoyed its best-ever season at the theatre last year (over 40 thousand tickets sold), has become a mustsee for Midlands audiences since its world premiere in Birmingham in 1990.

With a spectacular 27 performances from 22 November through to 14 December, it marks the start of Christmas for seasoned BRB fans as well as attracting new audiences across the region.

BRB’s The Nutcracker has been acclaimed as one of the best productions of its kind with sumptuous costumes and magnificent sets by designer John Macfarlane and a memorable score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky performed by the world-class musicians of the Royal Ballet Sinfonia.

This year marks BRB’s first Relaxed Performance of The Nutcracker on 3 December at 12.45pm in partnership with Birmingham Hippodrome.

Relaxed performances are designed for individuals who may experience challenges in traditional theatre settings. These performances are supportive of people with conditions such as autism pectrum disorder, learning disabilities, or sensory and communication differences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience in their own way.

Andy Street

‘honoured’ to take on chair role at The Rep

Birmingham Repertory Theatre has appointed former West Midlands mayor Andy Street as its new chair.

Mr Street served as mayor from 2017 to 2024, helping to establish the West Midlands Combined Authority and oversee a huge influx of public and private investment into the region.

Prior to that he was managing director of John Lewis, guiding the employee-owned business to one of the most successful spells in its history - culminating in the department store chain being named the most trusted brand in Britain.

In Birmingham, Andy served as chair of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership from 2011 to 2016 - helping to establish Britain’s most successful enterprise zone in Birmingham city centreand has also served as vice-chair of Performances Birmingham.

He has always been a vocal advocate for arts and culture in the city, regularly citing its critical role as the lifeblood of Birmingham and the means by which the city’s story is told.

Mr Street will bring his wealth of experience in the public and private sectors to support the theatre at a time when The Rep will shortly be appointing a new artistic director to work alongside chief executive Rachael Thomas.

Mr Street said: “It is a huge honour to be asked to chair one of my home city’s great cultural institutions,

Attendees are welcome to walk in and out of the auditorium as they please and make noise throughout. Certain aspects of staging are also adapted to suit the audience, including an introduction to some of the characters, the musicians and magic tricks. House lights will be raised during the performance.

The theatre provides a calm space nearby. All front of house staff are trained in advance of all Relaxed Performances and a visual story of The Nutcracker will be sent out to attendees before the show.

The performance on 30 November at 2.30pm will be Audio Described, and those attending will have the opportunity to take part in a Touch Tour at 12.30pm.

and one that I am personally a huge believer in. Arts and culture are mission critical to the success and the story of Birmingham, and The Rep is right at the heart of that.

“But while the theatre has a strong reputation locally, I believe we could be doing much more nationally and perhaps indeed internationally. Working with Rachael, her team, and the rest of the board, I intend to help make The Rep the best regional theatre in Europe.

“With my next career move potentially taking me into a national position I was determined to keep strong ties to Birmingham, and I couldn’t have wished for a better way to do that than by chairing The Rep. I cannot wait to officially get started.”

Rachael Thomas added: “We’re delighted that Andy Street is joining The Rep as the next chair. Andy’s passion for Birmingham and culture is well known, he lives in the city and as mayor was a tireless advocate for the cultural sector, recognising the benefits a vibrant sector brings to the region.

“Together with the whole team here, I look forward to working with Andy to ensure that The Rep continues to be recognised as one of the most dynamic and exciting producing theatres in the country.”

Also, BRB have once again partnered with Birmingham Hippodrome to offer a free day of events in the BullRing Grand Central on 16 November.

160 years of

Moulin Rouge to land in Birmingham

The inaugural world tour of multi-award-winning hit stage show Moulin Rouge! The Musical, is coming to Birmingham Hippodrome, its only engagement in the Midlands.

The show will run from 15 October to 15 November, 2025. As in the film, Moulin Rouge! The Musical celebrates over 160 years of music – from Offenbach to Lady Gaga. The stage musical features over 70 iconic songs, many from the movie as well as recent hits released since the movie premiered over 20 years ago. Carmen Pavlovic for Global Creatures, producer of Moulin Rouge! The Musical said: “Birmingham is a dynamic, multicultural city, where the arts and music thrive, making it a perfect stage for this spectacular show.”

New chair: Andy Street with deputy artistic director Madeleine Kludje (left) Rachael Thomas

Celebrating

music: Moulin Rouge

Best-ever season: The Nutcracker

The Business of Sport

Eventmasters sign Ascot deal

Eventmasters, an 1813 Member at the GBCC, have agreed a multi-year contract with Ascot Racecourse to provide clients with hospitality facilities during both the flat and jump seasons.

This will incorporate the Royal meeting in June, including options that grant access to the Royal Enclosure.

It was a record-breaking year at the venue in 2024 for the Birmingham-based business with close to 3,500 guests attending the Royal meeting, generating over £2.3M in retail sales.

Royal Ascot is considered the highlight of the

British sporting and social calendar. The five-day horse racing festival continues to be one of the most popular events utilised by individuals and businesses when entertaining VIP guests and clients.

In the new contract Eventmasters will offer hospitality packages not only at Royal Ascot, but throughout the year which includes the King George Racing Weekend in July and Champions Day in October.

Denise Sheasby, CEO of the Eventmasters Group, said: “The appointment will give us the

Skills specialist to sponsor youth kits

Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) have announced that Pathway Group has committed to sponsorship of football kits for young players as part of their commitment to supporting grassroots sports and community development in the region.

BYSA is a community-driven organisation focused on developing young people through football and mentoring and has been a beacon of hope for young aspiring athletes in the city, offering a platform to develop their talents while fostering values of teamwork, discipline, and inclusivity.

Through this sponsorship, Pathway Group aims to enhance the sporting experience for these youths, allowing them to compete and train with confidence, representing their teams in brand-new kits.

Safaraz Ali, founder and CEO of Pathway Group, said: “At Pathway Group we are deeply committed to promoting social mobility and creating opportunities for young people.

“The work BYSA does in mentoring and coaching local youth aligns perfectly with our values, and we are excited to be part of their journey. Grassroots sports are crucial for building community spirit and providing positive pathways for future generations.”

Pathway Group's contribution is part of a wider community engagement strategy, which includes supporting skills development, fostering diversity, and promoting inclusion across the West Midlands.

For more information about Pathway Group and its community initiatives go to: pathwaygroup.co.uk

opportunity to offer our clients excellent entertaining options at the Royal meeting alongside individual Ascot racedays throughout the season. It is a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of the whole team here at Eventmasters.”

The association that Eventmasters has with the sport of horse racing has been established over many years.

Denise added: “Horse racing is such an important part of our business, we do look to invest back into the sport and sponsor where we can.”

Stadium lights up as a legacy beacon

Alexander Stadium can become “a beacon” for Birmingham as BCU ramps up Commonwealth Games legacy talk.

Birmingham City University (BCU) says it is time to turbocharge the 2022 Commonwealth Games legacy mission by making Alexander Stadium a “beacon for the whole city and for the whole of the West Midlands”.

of the Commonwealth Games, how they would help the region to grow and to succeed, how they would improve people’s health and wellbeing,” said Anita, who is also Chair of B:Music, the charity that runs Symphony Hall and Town Hall.

At an official launch marking BCU’s first full term of teaching at the iconic venue, Anita Bhalla, chair of the university’s board of governors, told Dame Denise Lewis and other assembled guests that the arena could become a powerful force for community good. “People have often talked about the legacy

“We’ve brought everyone together to gauge the potential of this stadium because that is what BCU does. We are an anchor institution of this city, and we know our responsibility in being a convenor of individuals, organisations and businesses that share our ambitions.

“We know the great potential for this stadium to be a beacon for the whole city and for the whole of the West Midlands.”

Full flight: Action at the Ascot Royal meeting

Kitted out: One of teams supported by Pathway Group

Legacy lift-off (left to right): Professor David Mba, Ade Adepitan and Dame Denise Lewis with BCU sports and exercise staff and students at Alexander Stadium. Picture: Jason Sheldon, Junction 10 Photography

Chamber Insight

Focus on a member

Name: Marc Brown

Company:

iMeta Training

Job Title: Contracts and employer engagement manager

What does your company do?

iMeta Training provides advanced courses in cybersecurity, data analytics, and leadership with free vendor certifications, thanks to partnerships with CompTIA and Cisco.

How did it all start?

The managing director launched the company after 15 years in education and seeing the digital skills gap. iMeta was launched to offer practical, industry-aligned training and certifications.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Bridging the digital skills gap in the West Midlands and seeing our learners secure jobs in top companies due to our certified courses.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

Launching with free certifications and job placement was risky, but our offering has attracted interest and produced strong success stories.

What keeps you awake at night?

Ensuring our courses remain relevant as the digital landscape evolves and constantly finding ways to innovate for our learners' career success.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

We would have expanded our digital course offerings earlier, given the skyrocketing demand for cyber security and data analytics skills.

What has surprised you most in your job?

How quickly individuals transform their careers with targeted

training, often achieving highlevel roles in just a few months.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Never stop learning and build strong relationships. Staying current with industry trends and forming partnerships is key to long-term success.

Which business do you most admire?

Cisco and CompTIA for their innovation and commitment to accessible certification programs that help millions advance their careers.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

We're expanding into AI and cloud computing courses and enhancing programs through partnership with employers.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

Joining the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce was a strategic move to connect with local businesses and community leaders who are committed to improving the region’s economic landscape. Through our membership, we’ve been able to network with other business leaders, share best practices, and create new partnerships that benefit both our learners and the wider community. It’s also been a great platform for raising awareness about our unique training model.

Tel: 0121 714 4129

Visit: www.imetatraining.co.uk

New Members

Your guide to new sign-ups

Ansons Solicitors

Jon Rowley 01543 466660

www.ansonsllp.com

Solicitors

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

BDG Training Consultancy Limited

Bob Denaro 07495 930125

www.bdgtrainingconsultancy.co.uk

Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club

Jayne Morris 0121 443 3631

moseleyrugby.co.uk

Activities of sport clubs

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Clays

Ayse Abbott 020 3011 4840

clays.bar

Other amusement and recreation activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

E3P

Stephanie Cox 0161 707 9612

e3p.co.uk

Remediation activities and other waste management services

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

EZOO

Lashman Saranna 024 7615 8448

www.ezoo.uk

Wholesale trade of motor vehicle parts and accessories

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Handelsbanken

Sean Leckenby 0121 704 2478

www.handelsbanken.co.uk/solihull

Banks

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

John Giazzi Marketing Consultant

John Giazzi 07908 405938

www.johngiazzi.com

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

Larato LTD

Lucy Green 01494 216201

larato.co.uk

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Marsden Direct Group Ltd

Joe Holt 01509 238800

www.marsdendirectgroup.co.uk

Advertising agencies

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Mode Transport Planning

Ben Fairgrieve 0121 794 8390

www.modetransport.co.uk

Urban planning and landscape

architectural activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Open Exhibitions Ltd

Huw Edwards 01926 754500

www.openexhibitions.com

Activities of exhibition and fair

organisers

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Oval Digbeth Ltd

Charlotte Cresswell 0121 224 8484

www.digbethevents.co.uk

Other service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

ReCognition Circular CIC

David Abosch 07856 504601

recognition-circular.org

Other education n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Reflex Accounting Ltd

Ahmad Tirmizey 07810 644435

www.reflexaccounting.co.uk

Accounting and auditing activities

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

SafetyRAC Ltd

Abdul Malik 07983 309307

www.safetyrac.co.uk

Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Temper & Brown

Roifield Brown 0121 758 8634 temperandbrown.com

Public houses and bars

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

The Global Centre of Excellence in Sustainability

Fajli Bibi 07766 441441

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

The Mel Evans MBE Foundation

Lynn Pritchatt 07808 157878

melevansfoundation.org.uk

Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Tobook – the venue finding specialist

Karen Guile 01676 522868

www.tobook.co.uk

Activities of conference organisers Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Tower Brewery Limited

John Mills 07771 926323 towerbrewery.co.uk

Public houses and bars

Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Vision for All CIC

Lucio Darby 07359 312661

www.visionforall.co.uk

General secondary education Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Wyndham-Smith Garden Design

Rory Smith 07300 565601

www.wyndham-smith.co.uk

specialised design activities

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

The Birmingham Workplace Champions programme, fully funded by Birmingham City Council and delivered by Optima UK, is calling on businesses to take part in this unique initiative aimed at transforming workplace wellbeing. This programme offers businesses the opportunity to nominate a dedicated team member to become a Workplace Champion - at no cost to the business empowering them with tools and training to foster a healthier, more engaged work environment.

Businesses that sign up benefit immediately from interactive webinars, one-to-one coaching, and exclusive access to quarterly in-person events - ensuring their champions are equipped with the latest strategies to improve mental health and overall well-being in the workplace. By investing in a champion,

businesses can reduce absenteeism, boost morale, and create a positive cultural shift that ultimately saves money.

The programme launched with a highly successful event in September at The Great Barr Hotel and Conference Centre, attracting over 70 businesses from across Birmingham. With inspiring sessions from Olympic medallist Joel Fearon and physical intelligence expert Jo Ferbrache, more than 80% of attendees committed to appointing a Workplace Champion within their organisations.

Larraine Boorman, CEO of Optima UK, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “The feedback from the launch was overwhelmingly positive. It’s incredible to see so many businesses ready to invest in their people through this fully funded initiative.

To speak to the Champions Manager, call M: 07768 800571

To speak to the Optima’s Training Division call T: 0116 303 3560

E: workplacechampions@optima-uk.com W: optima-uk.com

By signing up a Workplace Champion, they are not only improving their own environment but also joining a community dedicated to positive change.”

With funding still in place for more businesses to join the programme Birmingham businesses are invited to register a workplace champion and join the next Workplace Champions event on November 27th Escape Live, Birmingham, B19 3LY.

Sign up today by scanning the QR code.

Take this opportunity to invest in your team’s wellbeing and see the benefits ripple throughout your business!

...any other business

A roundup of news from Chamber members

Putting soul into Sundays

A historic pub in the Jewellery Quarter has launched Reggae Roast Sundays in a nod to its owner’s Caribbean heritage.

Temper and Brown on Albion Street (previously the Pig and Tail) was taken over by Roifield Brown in August and part of his vision was to re-create the Jamaican hospitality he grew up with.

Roifield, together with Cajun Soul - the team behind the menu at Temper and Brownhas now launched Reggae Roasts - Cajun Soul's twist on a Caribbean roast dinner.

Roifield proudly embraces his Jamaican heritage, and he knows just how important Sunday dinner is in the Caribbean community. He said: “Sundays are a time for family, great food and of course, reggae music.

“We hope guests will enjoy the reggae, drink some rum, savour delicious food and connect with fellow community members.”

Calls for Ozzy to be given freedom of city

A campaign for Ozzy Osbourne to be made a Freeman of the City in his birthplace of Birmingham has been launched.

The move came as “The Prince of Darkness” was set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.

But Brian Hughes, chairman of Westside Business Improvement District (BID), explained that it was now time for Birmingham itself to honour the world-famous rocker with a rare Freedom of the City award.

Brian said that the campaign was the latest stage of Westside BID’s championing of Ozzy and Black Sabbath, which has included stars on the Broad Street Walk of Stars and the installation of the Black Sabbath Bench.

Only 50 people have received the ceremonial honour in Birmingham, with Joseph Chamberlain being the first in 1888. It has been conferred just once in the past quarter of a century.

Brian said: “In July 2007, Ozzy got a star on the Walk of Stars on Broad Street. I think his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is long overdue and I think he should also get the Freedom of Birmingham.

“Ozzy and the band are all Birmingham born, they all come from Aston, they’re world famous.

“They are good for the city and bring in a lot of business. You’ve only got to look at the hits we get on the Black Sabbath Bench – it’s internationally famous.”

Jim Simpson, the original Black Sabbath manager, backed Westside BID’s call for Ozzy to be given the Freedom of Birmingham. He said: “Ozzy Osbourne is the most famous Brummie of all. The reason, probably, is that wherever he lives, whatever he does, he’s still totally identifiable as a Brummie.”

Westside BID has asked Birmingham City Council for a response to its campaign for Ozzy to be made a Freeman, but at the time of publishing this story no response had been received.

Gallery establishes prison art studio

Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace is to exhibit works of art created by prisoners. The new artist residency is funded by the Rothschild Foundation in partnership with HMP Spring Hill, Buckinghamshire.

Part of Ikon’s Art in Prisons programme, the gallery will establish an art studio in the grounds of the prison. The facility will enable a professional artist and group of prisoners to explore creative practice through weekly workshops in an art school-inspired setting. With a focus on the development of artistic expression and technical skills – in painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture and textiles

– the project complements the prison’s education scheme in supporting health, wellbeing and transition into the workplace.

HMP Spring Hill is a men’s open prison in Buckinghamshire. It is jointly managed with HMP Grendon, a Category B, therapeutic prison, where Ikon has produced an artist residency since 2014.

Working with the Rothschild Foundation and HMP Spring Hill, Ikon will invite Buckinghamshire partners to provide creative briefs for the residency. The work produced will form the basis of seasonal exhibitions and events, curated and hosted by the resident artist and prisoners.

Art inside: Every Prison Should Be An Art School Tote Bags by Dean Kelland

Finger-lickin’: The reggae roast

Brum’s most famous: Not Jim Simpson but Ozzy Osbourne, whose image is in the background on the Black Sabbeth bench in Birmingham

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