FC final_Layout 1 01/07/2014 11:26 Page 1
NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
£2.95
JULY/AUGUST 2014 ISSUE 5
BANK OF IRELAND UK AND PROAXSIS CREATE WINNING FORMULA
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: * BUSINESS SECURITY - ARE YOU KEEPING A WATCH? * DESIGNS ON STYLISH OFFICE SPACE * NI CHAMBER'S NEW PRESIDENT CALLS FOR AMBITION IN BUSINESS
sseairtricity.com
Sales: 0845 864 3546
Proud to make a difference
Ready for a change? Working with Northern Ireland’s leading organisations.
Left: Emma Kieran Search Consultant
4c Executive Search – 9th Floor Causeway Tower 9 James Street South Belfast BT2 8DN
– T +44 (0) 28 9055 8120 admin@4cexecutive.com 4cexecutive.com
Centre: Gary Irvine FIRP Principal Search Consultant
Right: David Winterburn Search Consultant
PAGE2_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:55 Page 1
NI CHAMBER COMMUNICATIONS PARTNER
CONTENTS
JULY/AUGUST 2014 l ISSUE FIVE
94 10
42
69
71 NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
NEWS 08 Capita expansion 10 Seat deal takes off 12 Medical break-through 13 Top honours
COLUMNISTS
19 Paul McGarrity 67 Guest columnist Roger Gilpin 69 Dorcas Crawford 96 Jim Fitzpatrick
FEATURES
20 Stylish and sleek space 66 My ambition is to.. 71 Bright young business brains 74 Mums with power
ÂŁ2.95
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: * BUSINESS SECURITY - ARE YOU KEEPING A WATCH? * DESIGNS ON STYLISH OFFICE SPACE
SPECIAL FEATURE FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY 28 Staying on guard 40 Making your mark 42 Covert operations
LIFESTYLE 92 Flying city to city 93 Culinary delights - Chris Rees 94 Jolly Holidays - Rebecca McKinney
Cover story - Page 16 This issue of Ambition features Ian Sheppard, Head of Business and Corporate Banking, Bank of Ireland and Dr Lorraine Martin, ProAxsis and Senior Lecturer in Molecular Pharmaceutics, Queens University on the front cover. * NI CHAMBER'S NEW PRESIDENT CALLS FOR AMBITION IN BUSINESS
Editor: Adrienne McGill Publisher: Chris Sherry Advertising Manager: Catherine Patton Editorial Assistant: Ashleigh Addis Email addresses: adrienne.mcgill@northernirelandchamber.com c.patton@ambitionni.co.uk Websites: www.northernirelandchamber.com, www.ulstertatler.com Addresses: Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 4-5 Donegall Square South, Belfast, BT15JA Tel: 028 9024 4113 Publisher: Ulster Tatler Group, 39 Boucher Road, Belfast, BT12 6UT Tel: 028 9066 3311 Printed by: W&G Baird, Antrim Front cover picture: Khara Pringle
NI CHAMBER PATRONS
02 NI Chamber
JULY/AUGUST 2014 ISSUE 5
BANK OF IRELAND UK AND PROAXSIS CREATE WINNING FORMULA
Belfast’s most glamorous serviced offices
Scottish Provident Building is a Business Centre like no other. With unparalleled style and a level of service befitting a 5 star hotel, your company could not be better placed to do business in Northern Ireland. For your personal tour of the most exclusive offices in Belfast call Chris Johnston on 028 9091 8200
SPB_Ambtn_A4_0614.indd 1
SUPERIOR OFFICES, MEETING ROOMS AND VIRTUAL OFFICES ADJACENT TO BELFAST CITY HALL
Tel: 028 9091 8200 scottishprovidentbuilding.co.uk
Wednesday, 25 June 2014 12:57
PAGE4_Layout 1 27/06/2014 14:02 Page 1
[EDITORIAL]
DRIVING AMBITION
STAY SECURE THIS SUMMER
T
here has been a hectic round of activity at Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) in recent weeks with a whirlwind of business events, initiatives and programmes taking place all of which have further extended the reach of the organisation and benefited members. We have a new President – Kevin Kingston, Deputy Chief Executive and Managing Director of Business Banking at Danske Bank, who was elected at NI Chamber’s Annual General Meeting along with a new Vice-President, Stephen McCully, Managing Director at Power NI, while seven new council members were also installed. We had the second Growing Something Brilliant Conference for exporters and growth orientated companies. At the event guest speaker Sean O’Driscoll, Chief Executive of the Glen Dimplex Group, highlighted the importance of internationalisation while fellow guest speaker Iain Gray, who heads the Technology Strategy Board, stressed the value of innovation to economic growth. Sport was on the menu at NI Chamber’s Annual Lunch at Belfast City Hall with legendary Northern Ireland goal keeper Pat Jennings and former Ulster Rugby favourite Stephen Ferris
joining World Champion and Olympic cyclist Wendy Houvenaghel to field questions from BBC sports presenter Stephen Watson. More than 450 guests heard them recall the triumphs… and some disappointments in their respective sporting careers. On top of all this NI Chamber moved to stylish new offices at 4-5 Donegall Square South, Belfast in the heart of the city’s business district with guest of honour Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster opening the new premises. It has indeed been a busy time – but as business in Northern Ireland now slips into a quiet period over the summer months, many companies close their doors for a couple of weeks and take a well-deserved break. However, it is the very time of year that businesses need to be on their guard because summer can provide a window of opportunity to those intent on crime. That is why we decided in this issue to take an indepth look at a wide array of security issues, particularly IT related, around business. Crime – whether it’s theft, cyber attacks, fraud, forgery, assaults on staff or vandalism – costs business in Northern Ireland millions of pounds every year. Far from being a victimless crime, it affects the profitability of a business.
furniture & seating storage solutions partitions design & contracting carpet & lighting 04 NI Chamber
“CRIME – WHETHER IT’S THEFT, CYBER ATTACKS, FRAUD, FORGERY, ASSAULTS ON STAFF OR VANDALISM – COSTS BUSINESS IN NORTHERN IRELAND MILLIONS OF POUNDS EVERY YEAR.” We hear from a range of specialists who provide an extensive array of security and protection services ranging from IT disposal to investigative surveillance and from CCTV to hacking the hackers. Providing food for thought, we also get a taste of security around food. In a regular new feature in each issue called ‘What’s in it for me?’ we hear from a company chief how membership of NI Chamber has helped his/her business develop and grow with Dr Peter Fitzgerald of Randox starting the series. As always it’s a packed edition. We hope you enjoy the read and look forward to continuing to cover issues of interest and relevance to our members. Adrienne McGill Editor Ambition
To find out how 1080 can help your business call us on 028 9070 1080 or email think@1080.co.uk www.1080.co.uk 1080 is part of the Alpha Group
Esri Ireland - Advert A4 Final Artwork OUTLINES - 1-11-13 .indd 1
01/11/2013 18:29
PAGE6_Layout 1 27/06/2014 14:12 Page 1
[EDITORIAL] which is a continuation of NI Chamber’s Growing Something Brilliant campaign which seeks to showcase the great businesses that we have in Northern Ireland and inspire more companies to accelerate their growth. One area that will be a particular focus in the year ahead will be the reform of local government which will see the reduction of 26 District Councils down to 11. The process, to be completed by April 2015, aims to have new Councils which deliver stronger,
“NI CHAMBER’S PRIORITIES REFLECT THE AMBITIONS THAT WE HAVE FOR OUR MEMBERS – GROWING EXPORTS AND HELPING OUR BUSINESSES AND OUR MEMBERS IDENTIFY AND EXPLORE NEW MARKETS.”
LET’S GET BACK TO AMBITION
T
his is my first editorial for Ambition since I became President of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the end of May and I am delighted to have the opportunity to share with members my ambitions for the year ahead. It is very apt that NI Chamber’s magazine is called Ambition because my main aim during my term in office is to ensure that Northern Ireland businesses rekindle their ambition so they can make their mark in international markets. It is time that we regained our confidence and started moving forward because if we don’t, we are going to be left behind. Businesses in the rest of the world are powering ahead – and there is no reason why
06 NI Chamber
businesses here can’t do the same. Let me refer to a comment made by Iain Gray, Chief Executive of the Technology Strategy Board, who was one of the guest speakers at NI Chamber’s Growing Something Brilliant conference recently. He noted that he sensed a greater level of ambition with companies in Great Britain than he sensed in Northern Ireland. That is a challenge for us. We have such a terrific history of entrepreneurship and have so many great businesses in Northern Ireland, there is no reason why we should not raise our ambitions in terms of what we are trying to achieve in the areas of business growth, product innovation and exports abroad. Lifting our ambition is of course a theme
more efficient and effective services. The Councils will also be responsible for delivering business support and we will be seeking to contribute positively to the restructuring of these important services. NI Chamber hopes to work alongside local chambers across Northern Ireland in making sure that every element of Government policy is directed to the right places. This is a crucial year for recovery and growth and NI Chamber has a key role to play in helping foster that improvement. Our priorities reflect the ambitions that we have for our members – growing exports and helping our businesses and our members identify and explore new markets. Our desire to see Corporation Tax lowered fits within that because it is an opportunity to really drive investment, growth and employment. Our activities with Government are centred around making sure that economic support is channelled into the areas where it can make the greatest difference. Equally, our activities in networking are aimed at helping our members find new sales opportunities and new ideas to help them innovate. The economic statistics are all saying that the economy is getting better and our nearest neighbours in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain are getting back to the business of growth – it is time for us to do the same. I am calling for us to put the recession mentality behind us and get back to the business of doing business – let’s get back to Ambition. Kevin Kingston President Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry
PAGE7_Layout 1 26/06/2014 16:27 Page 1
Filtered Water. It’s perfectly clear. 186b Kingsway, Dunmurry Belfast BT17 9AD Tel. 028 9260 5916 l info@hillsdownwaterservices.co.uk l www.hillsdownwaterservices.co.uk
Are you drinking enough water to stay properly hydrated each day? • No caffine • No sugar • No fats • No colouring • No artfificial flavours
Clean, Safe, Pure Drinking Water. We provide the safest, cleanest and freshest drinking water, offering high quality water filters, water coolers & water purifier systems for rent or purchase, or service your existing systems.
We Come To You. We pride ourselves on offering the highest quality in service, providing scheduled checks, maintenance and filter changes onsite. Email us at: info@hillsdownwaterservices.co.uk
Local, Just Like You. We are a local business, offering personal service at competitive rates. Call us on 028 92605916
Water Filters is what we do best. Our water filter systems connect directly to your main water supply, to provide you with an endless supply of drinking water, free of chlorine, taste, odours, chemicals and heavy metals. We also offer solutions for hot, cold, and ambient temperature water filters, water coolers and water boilers to suit your drinking preference.
PAGE8_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:16 Page 1
[NEWS]
CAPITA EXPANSION Capita Managed IT Services is continuing the recruitment of 400 new employees following the company’s announcement of a major expansion in a £30m investment over the next three years. Capita Managed IT Solutions (CMITS) was formed in 2013 when Capita acquired Northgate Managed Services Ltd. The company provides cloud, infrastructure and ICT managed services for public, private and third sector organisations. Welcoming the announcement, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said Capita’s investment would help to attract further inward investment in the IT and business services sector in Northern Ireland. Invest NI has offered £4m of support for the new jobs, and the Department for Employment and Learning has offered £1.2m of training support.
Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry said the investment by Capita emphasised the importance of the availability of a highly skilled labour force to support business growth.
Ed Brown, Managing Director of CMITS said the company was seeking to grow its customer base, expand its service range and significantly increase its service delivery capabilities in Northern Ireland.
Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry, Service Desk Analyst Gary Coates, First Minister Peter Robinson, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Managing Director of Capita Managed IT Solutions Ed Brown at the investment announcement.
ATTACH AND FIND
POWERING AHEAD
Belfast based company RF Proximity has launched a new security tag product that uses the power of the Cloud to help find lost items including keys, laptops, bikes, or anything else to which you can attach a small plastic tag. 'Attach and Find' includes a small wireless security tag and a mobile App that is free to download from the iTunes store. The Attach and Find App can search for a user's own tags and show the position on a map where they were last contacted. The App can also be used to report a tagged item as lost so that other users of the App can help find it and automatically (and invisibly) send the tag's owner details of where and when another user made radio contact with it. RF Proximity Marketing Director, Darren Fenton, said there were many uses for the product. “Attach and Find can help to reduce thefts of agricultural equipment, plant machinery and IT equipment. Our small security tags are easy to conceal and are automatically detected by all users of our App. Once reported as lost the Tag's owner will receive automatic updates showing on a map where and when their tagged item was last seen.”
Local wind energy company, Simple Power, has launched two new wind turbines in County Tyrone. The 250kW single wind turbines, located in Donemana and Sixmilecross on land owned by farmers William McCrea and Noel McFarland, represent the next stage in Simple Power’s development strategy with the company aiming to install a minimum of 200 wind turbines across Northern Ireland over the next four years. The firm has already started exporting power from the turbines in Tyrone. The electricity generated feeds back into the Northern Ireland grid via a power purchase agreement with Power NI. Simple Power Chief Executive,
08 NI Chamber
Simple Power's Chief Executive Philip Rainey with Power NI’s Philip Carson.
Philip Rainey, said: “We’re delighted to complete the construction of these two wind turbines in Tyrone. It’s an important occasion not only for Simple Power but for local farmers William McCrea and Noel McFarland, who have been able to turn a piece of their land into a reliable and sustainable source of income from wind energy for the next 20 years.” Philip Carson, Power NI's Front Office Manager, said: “Our relationships with power providers, like Simple Power, help us build on our strong links with both the farming and agricultural sector and are pivotal in ensuring Northern Ireland has a more secure energy future.”
Celebrating your business success Our Awards highlight the spirit of excellence and innovation that are the hallmark of our most successful entrepreneurs. Tell us your story before 26 September 2014.
Enter at businessachieversaward.com
This year’s award categories are:
In association with:
Terms and conditions apply. Ulster Bank Limited, Registered in Northern Ireland No. R733. Registered Office: 11-16 Donegall Square East, Belfast, BT1 5UB. Calls may be recorded.
BA2014_NI_Cat_Press_A4_210x297.indd 1
19/06/2014 12:10
PAGE10_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:26 Page 1
[NEWS]
SEAT DEAL TAKES OFF Aer Lingus is to buy luxury seats for its long haul Business Class services from Portadown based Thompson Aero Seating in a multi-million pound deal. The contract involves the purchase of 189 Thompson ‘Vantage’ seats, which convert to a flat bed, for all seven A330 aircraft with the first seats delivered in December this year and all in service by the end of March 2015. They will be available on all of the airlines’ transatlantic flights from Dublin Airport including the new route to San Francisco. There will be four different types of seats in the cabin with audio-visual and computer related technology. Aer Lingus Chief Executive, Christoph Mueller, said: “This represents a significant investment for Aer Lingus and we are delighted to award the contract to a Northern Ireland based manufacturer following an extensive competitive tender process.” Gary Montgomery, Chief Executive of Thompson Aero Seating, said: “We are delighted that Aer Lingus has selected this seat as it represents a major contract that helps secure jobs and the continued growth of our company.”
Ulster Rugby's Ruan Pienaar, John Afoa and Robbie Diack join Aer Lingus Chief Executive, Christoph Mueller and Chief Executive of Thompson Aero Seating, Gary Montgomery to comfort test the 'Vantage' seats.
GOOD TIMES CHECK IN AT HOTELS The Annual Hotel Industry Survey for 2013, published by ASM Chartered Accountants, revealed that Londonderry’s year as the UK City of Culture, the World Police and Fire Games in Belfast and the G8 Summit in Co. Fermanagh all led to increased demand for hotel bedrooms and service. Key findings showed across Northern Ireland, the average bedroom occupancy rate in 2013 increased to 74.8 per cent, as against 73.2 per cent in 2012 while the average rate per room sold across was £68.17, a 4 per cent increase on the £65.50 recorded in the previous year. Meanwhile, total revenues increased by 9.8 per cent year on year. Commenting on the results Michael Williamson, Director of Consulting at ASM said: “There is no question that these events have driven visitors into hotels, while helping to garner new respect and prestige for Northern Ireland as a whole.”
TOP PLACE US owned Liberty IT, has been recognised as one of the best places to work in the UK by The Great Place to Work Institute and is the third time the firm has achieved the accolade. With operations in Belfast and Dublin, Liberty IT employs 400 people and is part of Liberty Mutual Insurance Group’s IT operation which is headquartered in Boston. The Best Workplaces Programme is the largest of its kind in the world and helps businesses improve performance by encouraging them to understand and improve their workplace culture by building trust and engagement. “We understand the importance of creating an enjoyable working environment that is open, friendly and respectful,” said Dr William Hamilton, Managing Director of Liberty IT. This has allowed us to build a team of highly engaged employees and a strong company culture, helping us to become a leading IT organisation.” Tom O’Byrne, Chief Executive of Great Place to Work said: “We know that this accolade is recognised by Best Workplaces and their audiences as the mark of a quality employer and can be a potent recruitment tool.”
10 NI Chamber
Liberty IT's Patricia Meara, Project Manager; Dwayne Armitage, Software Engineer; Cathy Donnelly, HR Director; Brian Craig, Senior Project Manager; Ashley Morrow, Communications Officer.
Book A complimentary consultation oN 028 9038 1822
EXCELLENCE IN DENTISTRY
THE BENEFITS oF DENTAL IMPLANTS “I was unlucky enough to be kicked in the face by a horse in the summer of 2011, and lost my two front teeth. Having had initial treatment and assessment by my own dentist, I knew I would need implants, and was referred to Cranmore. I was impressed by the welcoming staff, excellent communication and confident, careful, comfortable course of treatment I received in the attractive environment of the clinic. Loss of teeth can be a very upsetting injury, but in the hands of Dr David Nelson, I felt at all times that an excellent cosmetic and functional outcome was assured. I would unreservedly recommend Cranmore Dental to anyone in need of dental implants, and I’m delighted to have a nice smile once again.”
Why choose cranmore? Dr nelson was awarded uK single implant award at the aesthetic Dentistry awards 2013. cranmore provides a fouryear guarantee for all dental implants. cranmore is the only practice in northern to be a member of the leading Dental centers of the World. complimentary, no obligation consultations are available with our patient care coordinators. Finance options are available.
Jean russell, implant patient at cranmore
15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE Read the full story at
www.cranmoredental.com 2012
2011 U k P R AC T I CE o F TH E Y E A R 2 0 1 1
2013
NI PRACTICE oF THE YEAR 2011
IR I S H P R A C T I C E o F T HE Y E A R 2 0 1 2
Uk S I N G L E IMPLANT 2013
Cranmore Excellence In Dentistry Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
PAGE12_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:34 Page 1
[NEWS]
COPPER FASTENED GROWTH
Cathal Shivers, Director of Copper Industries with Brian Gibson, Agri-Projects Manager for Moy Park.
An expansion drive by Northern Ireland’s largest company, Moy Park, is helping to fuel growth for Toome based Copper Industries which is creating 15 new jobs to meet demand from poultry farmers for its range of hot water cylinders and buffer tanks. The expansion is a knock-on effect of Moy Park’s highly successful Grower Expansion Programme, which aims to increase breeder and broiler growing capacity across the Province by up to 400 poultry houses. As the only indigenous company to manufacture hot water storage cylinders and buffer tanks for both the domestic and commercial markets, Copper Industries has seen a dramatic increase in
orders over the last six months resulting in round-the-clock manufacturing in order to meet demand. Cathal Shivers, Director of Copper Industries said it was a very positive development for the company. “It demonstrates how expansion within the agri-food sector is fuelling wider growth in other indigenous companies and across Northern Ireland’s economy as a whole,” he added. Brian Gibson, Agri-Projects Manager for Moy Park added: “We’re delighted that our expansion programme is providing a welcome boost to other companies, particularly those in sectors such as manufacturing.
MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGH A test devised by scientists at Almac, the Craigavon based pharmaceutical development company, to identify which ovarian cancer patients will react best to chemotherapy is a step closer to being used by doctors after being validated. The announcement was made at the annual conference of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, which was held in Chicago and was attended by some of the world’s top cancer specialists and researchers, including those from Almac. Over 225,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer across the world each year. Just over 7,100 cases were diagnosed in the UK in 2011 and almost 4,300 deaths were recorded from the disease that year. Professor Richard Kennedy, Vice-President of Almac Diagnostics, who is also Professor in Medical Oncology at Queen’s University, said: “This test is extremely significant as it may help clinicians discuss the likely benefits of standard chemotherapy with their patients and could inform discussions on other potential approaches to treatment for those with a predicted worse outcome.”
ROLE MODELS
Bombardier employees Trish Semple, Zoe Neill, Helen Savage and Moya Lee (apprentice) are among the latest to become STEM ambassadors.
12 NI Chamber
A group of Bombardier employees in Belfast are the latest to sign up as STEM ambassadors, acting as role models for young people, particularly females, and promoting careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). The new Bombardier STEM Ambassadors are in support of a national initiative launched in May by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne. The ‘Your Life’ campaign brings together business, educators, civil society and government, and aims to grow the number of women in
STEM careers. Canadian owned Aerospace giant Bombardier is one of a wide range of organisations who have pledged to do more to highlight the career opportunities open to those studying STEM subjects, committing to create over 2,000 new entry level positions including apprenticeships, graduate jobs or paid work experience posts. Major names backing the project include Google, Arup, L’Oreal, Microsoft, Ford, BP, BSkyB, Airbus, Balfour Beatty, Laing O’Rourke, IBM, Nestle, Samsung and the Royal Academy of Engineering.
PAGE13_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:28 Page 1
[NEWS]
DRIVING GROWTH Ballymena company Wrights Group is undertaking a major jobs drive in a £14m investment in five research and development (R&D) projects. The family-owned company is one of the UK’s leading bus builders and employs around 1,800 staff in Northern Ireland. The new jobs are being created in Wright EN-Drive, the company’s dedicated facility for the design and manufacture of integral vehicle chassis. Announcing the investment, which is backed by Invest NI, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said it would further strengthen the company’s product portfolio and ability to sell into markets around the world. The R&D projects include developing a
range of low-cost premium class buses and coaches for the Indian market, low height and narrower double deckers for the Australia /New Zealand market, electric powered, zero emission single and Wrights Group Managing Director, Mark Nodder, Enterprise Minister, double deck vehicles for Arlene Foster and Invest NI Chief Executive, Alastair Hamilton. the Hong Kong market, world class designer and manufacturer of double deck and single deck buses to meet integral public transport vehicles and evolve the operational requirements in Middle East into a major international supplier to the countries, and a new integral chassis. worldwide bus market. This investment Mark Nodder, Managing Director of Wrights Group, said: “Our aim is to become a brings us a step closer to achieving that.”
TOP HONOURS The hospitality and hi-tech engineering sectors led the way for Northern Ireland business in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. Hospitality bosses Dr Howard Hastings of Hastings Hotels Group and Bill Wolsey of Beannchor were awarded OBEs alongside aerospace and defence industry Vice-President David Beatty of Thales UK. James Kane, Managing Director J W Kane Engineering, was honoured with an MBE alongside Eugene McKeever, Managing Director of the McKeever Hotel Group and John Rainey, Chairman and Managing Director of the Denroy Group. Dr Hastings and Mr McKeever were recognised for their services to tourism and hospitality. David Beatty was awarded his OBE for services to the aerospace and defence industries in the Province while John Rainey received his accolade for services to Economic Development in Northern Ireland. Meanwhile, Bill Wolsey was awarded his OBE for services to Business and the Hospitality Industry in Northern Ireland and James Kane was recognised with his MBE for services to the Aerospace Industry in Northern Ireland.
John Rainey is one of a number of leading business figures in Northern Ireland to receive a Queen’s Birthday Honour.
BUSINESSES GET THE BUTLER SERVICE The final phase of sophisticated serviced offices in one of Belfast’s most impressive buildings has been launched. The Scottish Provident Building on Donegall Square West, which boasts spectacular views over the City Hall and gardens, offers a collection of superior serviced offices for companies ranging from start-ups to larger, established businesses. Chris Johnston, Managing Director, Scottish Provident Building said: “It’s a business centre that’s built on three principles; to provide five star service in a first class environment within the best location in Belfast city centre.” The historic sandstone building, designed by Belfast architects Young and Mackenzie, was built in sections from 1899 to 1902. “The Scottish Provident Building epitomised Belfast's status as a major economic powerhouse. The façade of the impressive architecture shows friezes depicting printing, rope making, shipbuilding and spinning – industries that made the city a major international force,” said Chris. “Our tenant companies are a reflection of the changing times and whether it’s digital media, communications or lawyers, they are all playing a part in driving forward the economic potential of the city. “We have worked hard to celebrate and sympathetically restore the rich heritage of the building, but also ensure that Northern Ireland’s business elite has a venue combining the best in style and service.” Scottish Provident Building Managing Director, Chris Johnston and Client Services Manager, Donna Linehan enjoy butler service at the stylish serviced offices.
NI Chamber 13
PAGE14_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:30 Page 1
[NEWS]
WHALE NETTED BY US FIRM Bangor based Whale has been acquired by US firm Brunswick Corporation. Whale, also known as Munster Simms Engineering, makes pumping systems, water heaters and other equipment for boats and caravans it made sales of around £18m last year. Brunswick Corporation, which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and is headquartered in Illinois, styles itself as "a market leader in the marine, fitness, and bowling and billiards industries.” Belfast law firm Tughans acted for Whale in the deal – the size of which was not revealed. Whale, which employs 150 people and is led by Managing Director Patrick Hurst, recently announced a £3m investment in research and development. Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said the investment would not only enhance the company’s reputation but also reinforce the excellent reputation of Northern Ireland’s engineering sector. Brunswick said that Whale would continue to be based in Bangor, and would be part of Attwood, a brand in Brunswick's marine parts and accessories operations.
Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster with Whale Managing Director Patrick Hurst.
CVS CAREMARK EXPANSION American health company CVS Caremark is to expand its Belfast IT centre with the creation of 100 new jobs. The offices, which opened in 2012, look after computer software, including the firm's mobile and tablet apps for services like prescription orders. CVS is the 13th biggest company in the US, with more than 7,000 chemist shops. The additional jobs will bring the Belfast based workforce to 150. In 2013, the company had a revenue turnover of $126bn (£74bn). Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “This expansion solidifies CVS Caremark Northern Ireland as an integral part of CVS Caremark’s global IT services.”
Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Senior Vice President CVS Caremark Ronan O’Loan.
14 NI Chamber
US INSURER SNAPS UP NORTHERN IRELAND BROKER Hughes Insurance has been bought by one of the largest insurance firms in the world. The Northern Ireland broker which has branches across Northern Ireland has been acquired by Liberty Mutual Insurance Group in the US. Liberty Mutual has a long history in Northern Ireland, having first invested in Northern Ireland in 1997 with the establishment of Liberty Information Technology, which now employs over 400 IT professionals. Hughes Insurance will continue to be led by Chief Executive, Gareth Brady and his current management team after Liberty Mutual becomes its leading underwriter for new policies after July I this year. All contact details remain the same for Hughes Insurance customers, and they do not need to take any action as a result of the change of ownership.
Gareth Brady, Chief Executive, Hughes Insurance; Joe Hamilton, Chief Strategy and Business Development Officer, Liberty Mutual Insurance; Leslie Hughes, Chairman, Hughes Insurance; Pat O’Brien, Chief Executive Officer, Liberty Insurance and Gerry Shearer, Personal Lines Director, Hughes Insurance pictured at the deal announcement.
PAGE15_Layout 1 26/06/2014 16:38 Page 1
PAGE16-18_Layout 1 30/06/2014 17:10 Page 1
BANK OF IRELAND UK NORTHERN IRELAND’S ENTERPRISE BANK Whether you’re a start-up or an established business Bank of Ireland UK has made it its business to support and champion local enterprise, earning it the well-deserved reputation as one of the leading business banks serving Northern Ireland. Ian Sheppard, Head of Business & Corporate Banking at Bank of Ireland UK says: "Supporting and encouraging business growth is a priority for Bank of Ireland UK. "We approved in excess of half a billion pounds of new lending to Northern Ireland companies in 2013. That trend continued right through the first quarter of 2014 and in the month of April we approved over £100 million. Our ambition is to substantially exceed £500 million this year." In a recent survey undertaken by Bank of Ireland UK some 86% of small and medium sized companies in Northern Ireland described themselves as either growing or stable while 68% were optimistic about growth in the second half of 2014. Ian says: "For SMEs in particular who are looking for finance, availability should not be an issue. The banking market is competitive and there has been growth in other sources of funding such as seed funding, Invest NI schemes and growth funds such as the Kernel
Capital Growth Fund in which we are a cornerstone investor." “What sets Bank of Ireland UK apart from other banks in the market is a mixture of factors; we have been here since 1825, we understand this market and have confidence in its future growth. We want to grow our customer base and recognise that in order to do so we have to ensure our products and services are aligned to business’ needs.” Bank of Ireland UK boasts an experienced team of business advisors across its branch network providing access to the full range of financial services required to support business growth. Dedicated experts in the areas of global trade, foreign currency management and working capital finance are all available locally. “Staying close to our customer is a core strength” claims Ian. Ian cites the bank’s products as another core factor of their attractive business offering including their 3-step credit application and Essentials for Business start-up package. It combines borrowing facilities with the support of experts in areas critical to small businesses such as business legislation advice, website development, accounts software and business insurance. Yet while the right finance, products and services are of crucial importance, Ian believes it is what Bank of Ireland UK provides beyond these that sets it apart from other banks in the market. He says: "Take Enterprise Week, a ground-breaking initiative that was developed to champion the ambitions of SMEs in Northern Ireland. It is now one of the key initiatives supporting this sector and has proved itself to be the blueprint for engaging with SMEs." In partnership with the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry through the Connecting for Growth Programme the bank is helping to increase business between companies from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Images: Khara Pringle Photographic
The bank also plays an important role in supporting the growth of Northern Ireland’s knowledge based economy through its sponsorship of Northern Ireland Science Park (NISP) INVENT2014 entrepreneurship competition which showcases the most exciting prototype technologies emerging from Northern Ireland. Last year’s winner of the NISP’s 25K award (now INVENT2014) was Dr Lorraine Martin, a Senior Lecturer in Molecular Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University, Belfast. She went on to found ProAxsis, a company which is developing a range of medical diagnostic tests which will enable routine monitoring of patients with chronic conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis. Her win proved the catalyst to developing a business plan and establishing the business. She says: "My co-founder, Professor Brian Walker and I were successful in securing a number of Proof of Concept Awards from Invest NI and MRC which developed a high level of technology readiness. Taking part in and then winning the award further pushed us to exploit the full commercial potential of our tests”.
PAGE16-18_Layout 1 01/07/2014 12:56 Page 2
Ian Sheppard, Head of Business and Corporate Banking, Bank of Ireland with Dr Lorraine Martin, Co-Founder ProAxsis and Senior Lecturer in Molecular Pharmaceutics at Queens University, Belfast
PAGE16-18_Layout 1 30/06/2014 17:11 Page 3
“QUB spin-out, ProAxsis is therefore the product of concerted efforts to expedite the commercialisation of our academic research, which we hope will achieve maximum impact. The interaction between academia and industry is more important now than ever before.”
support working capital and business growth, enabling companies to grasp opportunities whether they are exporters, agri, technology or engineering based, or indeed local businesses involved across all sectors of our economy."
"Bank of Ireland UK brought so much to the table from providing experienced mentors to opening up network and partnership opportunities, including potential investors."
Talk to Northern Ireland’s Enterprise Bank www.bankofireland.co.uk
Peter Edgar, Programme Manager, NISP CONNECT said: "Ideas generated here are technically brilliant and can compete on the world stage. CONNECT is about developing an eco-system where our innovations and ideas can be taken from concept to commercial reality so that we can create a more vibrant and sustainable private sector.” "To do this we need partners like Bank of Ireland UK who share our commitment to do all we can to realise the ambitions of our participants. The bank’s involvement helps us to provide this unique platform so that we can sell these ideas and innovations to the world which will help us grow a secure and sustainable knowledge-based economy here in Northern Ireland." Ian Sheppard has the final say: "We opened over 3,300 new small business accounts in the year to January 2014, more than a fifth of those were for completely new ventures. Bank of Ireland UK is committed to playing its part in building upon the positive sentiment now evident in the local market place. We’re providing credit to
PAGE19i_Layout 1 30/06/2014 17:00 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] PAUL MCGARRITY, DIRECTOR OF OCTAVE DIGITAL
RYANAIR’S DIGITAL STRATEGY TAKES OFF RYANAIR’S INVESTMENT IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY AIMS TO BOOST CUSTOMER LOYALTY AND IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE AS PAUL MCGARRITY EXPLAINS.
B
udget airline Ryanair broadcast in April its first TV advert in over 25 years to raise awareness about its new website. The new site is the latest in a series of improvements first outlined by Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O’Leary back in Autumn 2013 when he was forced to admit shortcomings in the company’s customer service and outlined a series of related investments. A closer look at Ryanair’s new marketing strategy reveals their investment in digital, including the launch of a new website, is the latest move in a very smart marketing and business growth plan. Over the past 20 years, Ryanair’s business strategy has been devastatingly effective at growing their market share and cementing their position as Europe’s leading low-cost airline. The Ryanair story stands out as a prime example of how to deliver a ‘cost leadership’ marketing strategy. Their strategy centred on prioritising a ‘no frills’ low-price offering to budget conscious travellers compared to the traditional high cost grandees of air travel including British Airways. Ryanair also differentiated itself from other airlines by offering an incentive to save money by booking and checking-in online. In marketing terms, Ryanair’s proposition was very clear: ‘We offer significant discounts as long as you follow our rules which in turn allow us to cut expensive overheads.’ However, Ryanair has issued a number of profit warnings within the past year, citing intense competition from rivals. An emphasis on price alone is going to be less effective given the
challenge posed by multiple competitors, so the company has to be about more than price alone. Their new marketing strategy aims to utilise digital technology to help the company achieve the objectives of mass product promotion, boosting customer loyalty and improving customer service. To that end, Ryanair appointed a new Chief Marketing Officer Kenny Jacobs, and for the first time in 25 years the airline has invested in TV advertising to communicate the new customerfriendly site. Ryanair’s commitment to utilising digital media and marketing aims to go well beyond their website. The company will use digital advertising, email marketing and social media to reach target audiences across different stages of the customer lifecycle. Effective use of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) will also be critical for encouraging repeat custom and the company is investing heavily in developing systems that make it easier to sell more to current customers. Investment has also begun in using social media, and a new mobile-friendly website and free boarding–pass app will also be launched soon.
There’s no doubt the global travel market has been transformed massively by the twin forces of deregulation and consumer power online. But while some companies have viewed the developments as threats, other more forwardthinking airlines have been fast to realise the potential opportunities. Jet Blue, the US regional airline, is a case in point. The company has grown significantly in the past five years by placing a very strong emphasis on customer experience including the use of social media sites such as Twitter and You Tube to speak to customers directly and promote the brand in an interesting, fun and friendly way. If there’s one company that has a lot of potential to improve its customer experience reputation – it’s Ryanair. Up to now, the company has been highly adept at marketing its service on price. The next hurdle is to deliver on their plans for improved customer experience and exploit the massive rise in consumer use of digital – from mobile to social media. If they can achieve that, then they’ll certainly have a lot to trumpet about.
“RYANAIR’S COMMITMENT TO UTILISING DIGITAL MEDIA AND MARKETING AIMS TO GO WELL BEYOND THEIR WEBSITE.”
NI Chamber 19
PAGE20-21_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:48 Page 1
[FEATURE] Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster, who officially opened the new offices, with outgoing NI Chamber President Mark Nodder and Chief Executive Ann McGregor.
STYLISH AND SLEEK SPACE Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster officially opened the new offices of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) recently. Based at 4-5 Donegall Square South, Belfast, NI Chamber’s new premises provide high quality accessible business support and export services to members including an information service to assist companies in finding the best support available from a range of public sector providers such as Invest NI, local Councils and InterTradeIreland. Around 40 guests attended the event including eight past Presidents of NI Chamber, members of the Board, Council and patrons. Addressing the gathering, Minister Foster praised NI Chamber for the organisation’s dedication to helping businesses grow in home and overseas markets and for the extensive range of programmes and events which it delivers to help companies network and make valuable connections.
Karen Yates from Zing DP; Anne-Marie McGoldrick from MCG Services and NI Chamber’s Oonagh O’Reilly.
NI Chamber’s Richard Willis; 1080’s John Roddy and Gillian Armstrong from the University of Ulster. Uel Hoey from Belfast International Airport; NI Chamber’s Martina Crawford and Kevin Houston from Houston Solutions. RIGHT: NI Chamber Past Presidents Francis Martin (L) and Mike Mills (R) with NI Chamber’s Adrienne McGill. NI Chamber’s Chris Morrow (L) and Esther Letman (R) with BT’s Heather Wells.
Timothy Quin and Ann McGregor.
20 NI Chamber
ABOVE: NI Chamber’s Andrew Smythe and Carson McDowell’s Richard Gray.
PAGE20-21_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:48 Page 2
Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and NI Chamber Chief Executive Ann McGregor with NI Chamber Presidents past and present. Past President Dr Ben Wilson with Power NI’s Stephen McCully and John Simpson.
Ulster Bank’s Ellvena Graham with Minister Arlene Foster and Mark Nodder.
NI Chamber’s Gareth Williamson and James Woods with John Toner from Williams Industrial Services.
NI Chamber’s Ciara McCoy (L) and Louise Turley (R) with NI Chamber Past President Mike Mills.
NI Chamber’s Ann McGregor (L); 1080’s John Roddy (R) and Minister Arlene Foster.
NI Chamber Past Presidents Dr Ben Wilson (L) and Bill McGinnis (R) with outgoing President Mark Nodder.
NI Chamber 21
PAGE22-23_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:35 Page 1
[FEATURE]
GRAND DESIGNS CREATING INSPIRATIONAL SPACES IS THE HALLMARK OF 1080, THE COMPANY BEHIND NI CHAMBER’S STUNNING NEW OFFICES. THE FIRM’S DESIGN DIRECTOR JOHN RODDY EXPLAINS TO ADRIENNE MCGILL WHY FUNCTIONALITY AND APPEARANCE ARE IMPORTANT FACTORS IN A WORKING ENVIRONMENT.
T
Moving offices can be a headache for employers and staff but when it comes to the design and fit-out of new premises – that is an area which can really pose a challenge. 1080 is a Belfast based company which has become renowned as a leading office design, build and fit-out firm specialising in innovative and dynamic office interior design and refurbishment. The company is a market leader in office space planning covering both office relocation and the transformation of existing offices for some of the UK and Ireland's leading companies and organisations. It is no surprise therefore that 1080 was chosen to lead the challenging project to create a suite of modern, inspiring and bright new offices for NI Chamber which had outgrown its offices on Belfast’s Great Victoria The spacious reception.
22 NI Chamber
Street and was relocating. But this was no easy mission - the new home of NI Chamber at 4-5 Donegall Square South in the city centre is a former bank and had been the headquarters of HSBC. 1080 was faced with the task of reinventing a building on a premier site which dominated with reinforced glass and metal lined walls. “As projects go, this one was particularly challenging,” says 1080’s Design Director John Roddy. “Internally, because the bank was not staffed by cashiers but was technology driven with rows of ATM’s and systems to allow for automatic transactions, we had to take out a lot of the infrastructure before we could begin work on the new layout. “Because of the nature of the ATMs and the self-service technology, all the walls were double lined in metal. Every stud wall was
actually encased in mesh and full height metal which naturally took quite a bit of time to remove and dispose of in an environmentally friendly way. “It was quite technical on the demolition side and took us a bit longer than we had expected to make the space an empty shell before we could actually start the transformation. “Our contracts team had to undertake quite a bit of restructuring and remodelling. “Our brief from NI Chamber was to create a state of the art work environment to help the organisation integrate with its members.” A major element of the project, which took 6 months to complete, has been for the offices to provide facilities which NI Chamber members can come in and use. This includes a high-tech mediascape room designed to help people connect and collaborate using
PAGE22-23_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:35 Page 2
digital resources with specially designed media tables connected into HD video conferencing components and interactive technology. With the offices boasting bright colours, modern furniture and eye-catching art, it means that members who walk in to access a range of business resources can do so in very pleasant surroundings. Overall, NI Chamber’s offices include a stylish reception area, impressive board room, open plan office for members of staff, an office for two directors, one for the Chief Executive, and general facilities. A number of other NI Chamber member companies were also involved in the project including Securitas, Pip Fire and Security and Pink Inc. “WE TRY TO GET “The majority of our INSIDE THE MIND OF clients are Northern Ireland businesses who THE COMPANY TO want a stylish but not UNDERSTAND WHAT over the top office,” IT DOES AND GET A says John. WISH-LIST OF WHAT “We try to get inside “We work out the mind of the how to centralise IT WANTS. IS IT company to understand the technology CLIENT FACING? IS what it does and get a and storage IT TECHNOLOGY wish-list of what it facilities. We wants. Is it client facing? want to create a DRIVEN? WE Is it technology driven? functional but BELIEVE THAT TRUE We believe that true aesthetic CUSTOMER FOCUS customer focus leads to environment in repeat business time which people can LEADS TO REPEAT and time again. work. BUSINESS TIME AND “In the past, senior “People spend TIME AGAIN.” people in private offices more than a third of would have remained their life in an office on an executive floor environment so it is now we find everything is very much about important to make them feel like it is a nice team work and collaboration. Directors want place to come into in the morning. We design, to sit with their teams. plan, supply and install everything needed to “Quite often when a client approaches us create your ideal business environment. we break down what they want in order to find “In a broad sense we provide a range of out who works with whom, how paper flows knowledge and services to create intelligent around an office, how knowledge is shared, workspace solutions.” what are the storage requirements, what is the 1080 is part of the Alpha Group which was technology integration? This workplace formed following the merger of Alpha interaction is the structure to every scheme. Marketing and 1080 Ltd (formerly Calvert
The board room.
Morgan) in 2010. John says the partnership has brought together two local companies with significant industry experience with 1080 as an interior led fit-out, design and build firm and Alpha as a leading office furniture company. This has resulted in an ideal platform on which to build, with combined supplier partnerships, and the integration of specialist skills of some of the industry’s most experienced individuals. The Alpha Group has offices in Dublin, Glasgow and Belfast where 30 people are employed out of a total staff of 80 across the Group. Clients of 1080 include BDO, Danske Bank, Ulster Bank First Trust Bank, Bank of Ireland, Allstate, CME, PwC and Tullow Oil. And what of the name of the company? The numbers 1080 must surely have a relevance. “It’s a cliché to talk about thinking outside the box – but it made sense for us,” explains John. “The inside angles of a box are 90 degrees and the 4 outside angles are 270 degrees so if everyone thinks outside the box you get 1080. “We knew also that 1080 is synonymous with quality. If you buy a 1080 TV it means it is high definition - and this reflects what we want to achieve - high quality and exacting standards. “1080 provides a range of knowledge, products and services that create intelligent workplace solutions that add value to any organisation and we recognise that the pace of work is continually changing and evolving. “Working in partnership with our clients, we aim to deliver an innovative but practical working environment solution that integrates people, place and technology and supports the business activities for further growth. “We are passionate about creating exciting and innovative work spaces and we pride ourselves in making our clients’ visions happen.”
NI Chamber 23
PAGE24-26_Layout 1 27/06/2014 16:40 Page 1
#WELLCONNECTED WITH… FELLOW CHAMBER MEMBERS NI CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENTS PROVIDE ACCESS TO BUSINESSES FROM ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND AND TO KEY GOVERNMENT INFLUENCERS. HERE, WE HIGHLIGHT A NUMBER OF RECENT EVENTS WHICH HAVE ENABLED OUR MEMBERS TO BE #WELLCONNECTED AND GROW THEIR BUSINESS.
Colm O’Neill (BT); Wendy Houvenaghel (World Champion and Olympic cyclist); Nichola Mallon (Lord Mayor of Belfast); Stephen Ferris (Ulster Rugby favourite); Kevin Kingston (NI Chamber); Pat Jennings (Former Northern Ireland goalkeeper); and Ann McGregor (NI Chamber) all of whom addressed guests attending NI Chamber’s annual lunch, supported by BT and Tughans, at Belfast City Hall. Colm O’Neill, BT (Ireland) Chief Executive who was one of the guest speakers.
The Great Hall in Belfast City Hall which was packed to capacity for NI Chamber’s annual lunch.
NI Chamber’s second Growing Something Brilliant conference in May was attended by over 200 members of the business community.
24 NI Chamber
Aisling Press (First Trust), Sean O’Driscoll (Glen Dimplex), Iain Gray (Technology Strategy Board), Mark Nodder (NI Chamber) and Laura Gillespie (Pinsent Masons) at the Growing Something Brilliant event.
Sean O’ Driscoll (Glen Dimplex) chats to David Manning (SSE Airtricity).
PAGE24-26_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:57 Page 2
#WELLCONNECTED WITH… GOVERNMENT NEW MEMBERS NI CHAMBER WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS:
Accounting Chantrey Vellacott Dimension Analytics NI Business Services Eurofire Systems Ltd GGS NHASCO [NI] Ltd Peninsula Print & Design Teutoniq Finance Minister Simon Hamilton in discussion with David Henry, Managing Director (Henry Brothers). Magherafelt–based Henry Group hosted a visit from the Finance Minister Simon Hamilton as part of ‘Minister on the Move’ – a series of events by NI Chamber in partnership with British Airways. Brenda Morgan, (British Airways), David Henry, Managing Director (Henry Brothers), Finance Minister Simon Hamilton and Ann McGregor, (NI Chamber) are pictured at the event.
Construction Thermoc Insulation Creative Industry Kube Design Green Sectors Light Footprint Ltd TCI Renewables Hospitality and Tourism Hostelling International Northern Ireland The Linen Hall Library ICT Cloud Consulting Legal Bar Council of Northern Ireland
Finance Minister Simon Hamilton answers questions posed to him by businesses who attended the ‘Minister on the Move’ event.
Malcolm McKibbin, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service and Permanent Secretary, Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister addressed guests at an in-camera dinner at which guests had the opportunity to meet the Permanent Secretaries of a number of government departments including Enterprise, Trade and Investment; Finance; Environment; and Employment and Learning.
Manufacturing Andor Technology R A Irwin Fourds Ltd. t/a Bloc Blinds Marketing & Public Relations Morrow Communications Navigator Blue ND Events Ratio Private (Custodial Market) Core NI Professional Services Advanced Parking Solutions
David Sterling, Permanent Secretary, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment makes a point to fellow guests.
Guests listen to Stephen Peover, Permanent Secretary, Department of Finance.
NI Chamber 25
PAGE24-26_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:57 Page 3
#WELLCONNECTED WITH… EXPORTERS
As part of Danske Bank’s Export First programme, an initiative developed by NI Chamber, the ‘Meet the Expert – E-commerce for Export’ event was attended by a wide range of companies keen to learn about selling goods and services online. Attendees heard from a range of business experts whose companies are already trading online.
Paul Bond of BrixWorkwear in conversation about how his company has grown sales online.
Danske Bank's Head of Small Business, Katherine James, NI Chamber’s Business Development Director Oonagh O’Reilly and O’Neills Irish International Sports E-commerce Manager Declan Burns who addressed attendees at the event.
Ian Sheppard, Head of Business and Corporate Banking Northern Ireland for Bank of Ireland UK welcomes guests to a flagship event for Enterprise Week. The major cross-border networking event was arranged in partnership with the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of the Connecting for Growth Programme.
Country Director Northern Ireland at Diageo Jorge Lopes, NI Chamber Chief Executive Ann McGregor and Ian Sheppard Head of Business and Corporate Banking Northern Ireland for Bank of Ireland UK at the event.
26 NI Chamber
The speed networking session proved popular at the Enterprise Week flagship event with more than two hundred businesses taking part.
PAGE27_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:33 Page 1
DANSKE BANK JOINS GIRO MANIA FOR AGE NI Danske Bank’s Managing Director of Personal Banking Tony Wilcox recently completed a Giro style 400 mile cycle across Northern Ireland in just three days fundraising for charity partner Age NI. Along the way Tony visited twenty Danske Bank and Age NI properties. Tony’s cycling challenge tour is one of a number of staff fundraising activities taking place across Northern Ireland during the charity partnership to help Age NI deliver vital services for older people. Speaking about his challenge Tony said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this difficult challenge. The reaction and support from staff, customers and Age NI has been tremendous. I fully commend and thank all those who have been involved in the various fundraising activities taking place within the branches. I know the money raised will be put to very good use by Age NI to support older people.” Tony was supported by two of Northern Ireland’s leading companies as he took on his cycle challenge. Danske Bank corporate customer Donnelly Group kindly provided the support vehicle that accompanied Tony as he made his way around Northern Ireland and Alexander Boyd Designs who provided the corporate branding artwork and was joined by Danske Bank staff members who cycled alongside him for various parts of his journey. Linda Robinson, Age NI Chief Executive added: “Our staff, clients
Linda Robinson, Age NI Chief Executive and Age NI volunteer Anne Maguire help Tony Wilcox, Managing Director of Retail & Private Banking, Danske Bank prepare for his Giro style challenge.
and volunteers were delighted to provide a warm welcome for Tony as he reached each location on his route. We congratulate him on completing this incredible challenge and thank all of the Danske Bank branches who supported him with lots of fundraising activities during his three day cycle. Money raised by Tony’s challenge will support our mission to help people across NI enjoy a better later life.”
ENABLING ENTERPRISE IN NORTHERN IRELAND BY IAN SHEPPARD, HEAD OF BUSINESS AND CORPORATE BANKING NI, BANK OF IRELAND UK.
Confidence, ambition and growth are the overwhelming findings in a recent survey of local businesses carried out on behalf of Bank of Ireland UK by Ipsos MRBI covering SMEs in Northern Ireland. The key findings were: - 86 per cent of SME businesses in Northern Ireland describe themselves as either growing or stable. - 68 per cent of SMEs surveyed are optimistic about growth in the second half of 2014. - 63 per cent of SMEs are more confident about the situation facing their business over the next 12 months compared to the past 12 months. - More than half (53%) think employment levels and the Northern Ireland economy in general are set to improve in the year ahead. - Nearly a quarter of SMEs (24%) expect to recruit new staff in the coming year.
- Asked about the biggest opportunities in the year ahead, more than a fifth of SMEs (21%) cited increased demand from customers while 12 per cent cited economic growth. - Nearly a third of the SMEs said they had exported in the last 12 months and a further 9 per cent saw expansion into new markets as a further opportunity for their business. Asked in the survey how banks could play a role in enabling enterprise in Northern Ireland, the top 5 responses were: Providing business start-up packages; promotion of business products and services in branch; access to networking events; insight into local economies and the provision of credit. These findings correspond with the demand the Bank is seeing from new and existing small businesses, particularly expectations for growth, which are being reflected in the increased demand for lending from all sectors of the economy. It is interesting that companies are seeking
every opportunity to grow, including expansion into new export markets. To support this demand, the Bank’s ambition is to exceed the £500m lending approvals that it made in 2013 and the Bank is committed to playing its part in building this positive sentiment in the local market place. Working closely with a number of partners, the Bank’s Enterprise Programme is designed to support, encourage and enable enterprises to grow. It includes the Bank’s recent Enterprise Week, the Connecting for Growth Programme in partnership with the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and INVENT 2014 in partnership with NISP Connect. These initiatives provide local businesses with the opportunity to engage with experts through a series of clinics, seminars and showcases, engage with cross border businesses to drive growth through exporting and expansion into new markets and benefit from business mentoring.
NI Chamber 27
PAGE28-29_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:24 Page 1
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY With crimes against businesses and governments becoming ever more sophisticated, particularly with regard to cyber attacks, companies and organisations are seeking more secure solutions to protect their assets. The extent of the crimes being perpetrated is alarming and spans stolen identity, theft of intellectual property, and loss of commercial data. In this section we hear from a range of experts involved in a wide spectrum of security for businesses - from fighting the cyber criminals to patent and trade mark protection and from investigative surveillance to the stringent testing of food. Security is a huge issue for business any breach will have implications for finances and reputation - both of which may be difficult to regain.
STAYING ON GUARD DEMAND FOR PRIVATE SECURITY IS ON THE INCREASE AS JOHN O’DONOGHUE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF SECURITY FIRM NOONAN EXPLAINS.
F
ounded in 1977 Noonan is a leading provider of integrated security services counting many of Northern Ireland’s best known organisations as clients including the University of Ulster, Victoria Square Shopping Centre and Harland and Wolff. The company is one of the largest employers in the private security industry in Northern Ireland, uniquely self-delivering all core services from remote monitoring to electronic installation. The private security industry plays a critical role in safeguarding property, possessions and people for organisations throughout Northern Ireland. Our industry operates below the radar providing services that impact on everyone in society including security guarding, car park management and video surveillance. In recent years our industry has experienced significant change. It is an industry that is evolving at lightning pace to meet the needs and expectations of our clients and society as a whole. The ability of the industry to cope with the demands placed upon it has been greatly enhanced by the Security Industry Authority’s (SIA) sound regulation and standardised vetting and training procedures. Since its launch in Northern Ireland in 2009, the SIA has ushered forth a new era of
28 NI Chamber
professionalism for the security industry here, delivering new crops of quality and customer service focused security professionals for the industry. Through its work, the SIA has helped to improve the reputation of the industry, deliver higher standards and higher levels of public confidence. Today, security officers in Northern Ireland are much more than a visual deterrent for criminals. Our industry has expanded its remit far beyond ‘detection and response’ to increase its focus on customer engagement, loss prevention and risk management. Our security officers now perform as multifunctional ambassadors for our client organisations. Our staff play a significant customer service role for many organisations, especially those with sites that experience high levels of footfall such as hospitals, universities and shopping outlets. On sites like these, our security staff are required to be health and safety assets, safeguarding the wellbeing of people using and visiting the site and providing an immediate, professional response to health and safety emergencies. Many of Noonan’s security officers have received emergency medical response training including the use of medical equipment such as defibrillators. The company’s security officers employ their
emergency medical training and medical equipment to save numerous lives every year. The challenges facing our industry are growing in line with the changes in our society and economy. Our industry is currently working hard to cope with increased levels of crime. In Northern Ireland in the year 2013/14, the number of violent offences against the person increased by 6.9 per cent, theft offences increased by 1.2 per cent, possession of weapons offences were up by 11.7 per cent, public order offences were up 1.3 per cent and miscellaneous crimes against society were up 10.2 per cent. Increased criminal activity demands a greater collaboration between our industry and our police force. While crime rates are increasing, many organisations, operating in this testing economic climate are looking to their security service providers for cost savings. We are innovating to deliver these savings. Our industry has always been quick to adopt new technologies –electronic security solutions have been popular here for many years, however their popularity as a means of reducing security costs and maximising service quality for clients is fast increasing. Remotely controlled and remotely monitored
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE28-29_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:24 Page 2
“OUR INDUSTRY HAS EXPANDED ITS REMIT FAR BEYOND ‘DETECTION AND RESPONSE’ TO INCREASE ITS FOCUS ON CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT, LOSS PREVENTION AND RISK MANAGEMENT.”
electronic security systems are dramatically changing the way security services are delivered in Northern Ireland. Many organisations are choosing to bolster their security service with CCTV over IP systems, lighting systems, alarms and remote access control systems. At Noonan, we believe that technology and CCTV in particular will continue its rapid growth in importance to the security industry in the coming years. The company has invested in state of the art, linked monitoring stations in Lisburn and Dublin. We use these stations to provide services such as alarm monitoring, lone worker monitoring, remote access control and
video surveillance to clients throughout the island of Ireland. We believe that the use of CCTV systems will increase sharply as the quality of IP video images, face recognition software and thermal imaging systems improve. While technology reduces the need for a permanent security officer presence onsite to handle basic tasks such as access control, security officers are undertaking higher level tasks such as performing analysis to identify and mitigate potential threats to property, buildings and people, managing the experience and wellbeing of site occupants, engaging with customers and ensuring the efficient and safe use of facilities. The future is bright for the security industry in Northern Ireland especially for the most progressive, forward-looking companies. Employees in the industry can expect greater opportunities for learning and career development. Client organisations can expect an improved quality of service, improved value, improved reliability and reduced risk.
NI Chamber 29
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE30-31_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:41 Page 1
IDENTITY TECHNOLOGY IS KEY TO EXPANDING MARKET CORE SYSTEMS IS A WORLD LEADER IN OFFENDER SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS FOR PRISONS. CHIEF EXECUTIVE PATRICIA O’HAGAN TELLS ADRIENNE MCGILL ABOUT THE INNOVATIVE BIOMETRIC SOLUTIONS THE COMPANY HAS DEVELOPED WHICH ARE PLAYING A VITAL ROLE IN MAINTAINING CONTROL WITHIN HIGH SECURITY FACILITIES PARTICULARLY IN THE US.
C
ore Systems has unlocked the jail software market through the development of innovative biometric technology. The Belfast based company works with the prison authorities in the USA, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland providing security solutions which make custodial facilities safer places for staff and offenders and which also deliver cost efficiencies. Since the 1990s, the company has been developing innovative biometric software that play a vital role in maintaining control at a number of high-security prisons. Core’s technology can identify inmates and prison officers from personal characteristics such as their hand geometry or even their veins. Unlike a password, pin or swipe card, biometrics can’t be forgotten. The biometrics solution improves security by ensuring certain areas of the prison and information are only accessed by those authorised and improves accountability by enabling real time monitoring. “Being a software security company based in Northern Ireland has given us credibility and generated interest in our innovations given the background of political instability here”, says Patricia O’Hagan, Core Systems Chief Executive. Patricia, who has headed the company since 2005, has led it to international success particularly in the lucrative US market. Core Systems is now recognised as a leader in corrections technology. The company has grown from operating within its home market of Northern Ireland to providing offender self-service software to around 30,000 offenders in over 30 facilities within the USA prison system. The company recently established a business relationship with a leading provider of inmate services to correctional facilities in America – giving the Belfast firm a direct route to over 50 per cent of the US corrections market. It is, by some way, the largest prison market in the world. Of the 8 million people in custody in prisons around the world, 2.2 million of them are in the US. 30 NI Chamber
Patricia O’Hagan, Core Systems Chief Executive.
“WE HAVE TO MAKE SURE WE GET THE RIGHT INFORMATION TO THE RIGHT PEOPLE SO WE USE THE IDENTIFICATION TECHNOLOGY TO DETERMINE WHO WE’RE DEALING WITH AND MAP THAT AGAINST THE INFORMATION THEY’RE ENTITLED TO.”
“The US lock people up at a higher rate than anywhere else – their rate is about 1 per 100 per head of population compared to about 1 in 1000 in some European countries,” explains Patricia. “It’s also a very competitive market and the main reason we’ve been successful is the innovation in our products.” Today many prison departments throughout the world are struggling with high prisoner numbers, reduced prison budgets and consistent reoffending. Prison facilities are looking for alternative methods which can reverse this trend and deliver benefits to the prison environment. One such innovative alternative that prison facilities are shifting towards is technology and exploiting that technology in order to save thousands of prison staff hours. In recent years technology has been introduced into prisons in many forms including CCTV, automatic key locking units with Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) tags, body scanners, and biometric access control. These accepted technology advancements in the prison environment have had positive impacts on prison operations and have become part and parcel of the way things are done now. Increased use of technology facilitates prisoners to service their own needs in terms of communication, education, information and much more. Core Systems’ solution Direct2inmate does just that. The software enables prisoners to email their friends and family under controlled circumstances with messages vetted by prison staff. The software can be installed from the cloud onto existing hardware such as TV’s, communal kiosks, tablets or prisoners’ personal devices. The interactive product provides a secure way for inmates to directly access information and make service requests and can allow prisoners to order items from the prison-shop, communicate with family and friends, access learning programmes and report grievances using electronic forms. “Our Direct2inmate solution has expanded to include service delivery on various devices including kiosks, computers, TVs and tablets”, says Patricia.
“We’re very proud of being at the forefront of technology in terms of locking down tablets to a degree of security suitable for prisoners”, she adds. The biometric system also provides an electronic audit trail that cannot be tampered with – giving prison authorities confidence that the system will help them deliver prisoner services accurately, efficiently and safely. The company works with the producers of biometrics technology – devices such as fingerprint or iris scanners that identify people based on unique characteristics – to create software that makes identification more accurate, whether for access control or people logging in to find confidential information. “We have to make sure we get the right information to the right people so we use the identification technology to determine who we’re dealing with and map that against the information they’re entitled to,” adds Patricia. Following its success in America, the company is exploring further areas of opportunity in export markets specifically in the UK, Europe and Canada. Patricia says: “We’re currently working on our European go-to-market strategy. We hope to have pilot projects kicking off this year in Europe. In a way Europe is like the US in that we will need local in-market partners. It’s another big step for us but also very exciting.” Working in a dynamic environment such as the IT industry, the company places research and development at the heart of its success, and a critical factor in its competitiveness. The privately-owned company commits 15 per cent of its annual turnover to R&D and Patricia believes this is just one of the reasons why it is leading the way with new technology and concepts. At the end of last year the firm announced an investment of £700,000 in an expansion and R&D project aimed at developing new technologies and pursuing opportunities in other markets. “R&D is at the very heart of our operations. It has ensured over many years that Core Systems has been at the forefront of security technology and in some cases seen us lead the way with new technology and concepts,” says Patricia. “It‘s all about innovation, looking into the future, trying to find solutions, sometimes to problems that haven’t quite materialised yet and taking a risk and investing to create the solution.”
NI Chamber 31
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE30-31_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:41 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE32-33_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:23 Page 1
EMBRACING CHANGE TO SECURE THE FUTURE CONCENTRIX CORPORATION, THE AMERICAN OWNED BUSINESS SERVICES GIANT WHICH HAS A BASE IN NORTHERN IRELAND, HAS TAKEN MAJOR STEPS TO ENSURE INFORMATION SECURITY WITHIN THE COMPANY. ANDREA CLOSE, ITS HEAD OF ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COACHING, EXPLAINS WHAT THIS HAS INVOLVED.
S
ecurity breaches are often a result of failures with technology, processes and people. And, unfortunately, businesses in the UK are seeing a significant financial impact with each individual breach. In fact, 10 per cent of organisations that suffered a breach in 2013 were so badly damaged by the attack that they had to change the nature
32 NI Chamber
of their business, according to the 2014 Information Security Breaches Survey, conducted for the UK Department for Business Innovation & Skills. With concern for our 800 employees in Belfast and a strong desire to maintain long-term relationships with our multinational clients, Concentrix Corporation tackled
security related issues head-on. In 2012, we embarked on an ambitious plan to achieve ISO 27001 accreditation within one year. For those who may not know, ISO 27001 is the best-known standard in the ISO family, also known as the International Organisation for Standardisation. This global standard-setting body is responsible for
“WE POSITIONED OUR MESSAGING SO THOSE INVOLVED KNEW INFORMATION SECURITY WAS A STRATEGIC TOOL FOR ORGANISATIONAL IMPROVEMENT RATHER THAN A RESTRICTIVE BUREAUCRACY.”
developing and publishing various standards and requirements for an information security management system (ISMS). Our goal of achieving ISO 27001 was driven by the desire to strengthen our existing client relationships in terms of quality of delivery, and to open up new opportunities for business growth. We realised the certification process would create value for our clients and, in turn, their customers. A very strong ‘one team’ approach guided us during the initial scoping and final delivery plan. We acknowledged this was a significant cultural change for our employees and partners. Rather than ignore it, we addressed it head-on by delivering a short YouTube change management video prior to our ISMS awareness sessions. Making sense of the elements needed for information security, and envisioning them within the context of our Belfast operations came first. This required a review and re-design of existing processes. More fundamentally, this activity brought home the idea that information security is not simply IT-related, as it has impacts across every aspect of the business. Equally, engagement with employees to identify owners for policies and formation of dedicated work-streams was vital. Using resources from within ensured our ISMS became a business-as-usual, fully integrated part of our culture. An example of this is a poster in our office that prompts everyone to swipe in securely with their employee badge when entering the building. It reads, ‘It’s good to follow the leader, but there are exceptions to every rule. No tailgating.’ This policy brought challenges. For example, people wondered, “do I still hold a door for others just to be polite, or do I let it
shut because I know they have to swipe in?” Since not everyone at Concentrix has an IT background, we positioned our messaging so those involved knew information security was a strategic tool for organisational improvement rather than a restrictive bureaucracy. This message was continuously emphasised in communications and educational sessions, where we demonstrated the benefits for our employees, as well as to our clients and their customers. We created an ISMS Forum Group, with a dedicated site on our intranet. This forum is responsible for the branding, publications and educational sessions hosted for our employees and partners. The group is charged with follow-up on security incidents raised and acts as internal consultants for information security – not just in Belfast, but globally. Adherence to ISO 27001 standardises our delivery and controls with other organisations, and ensures consistent best-in-class service quality. The ISO 27001 certification is a testament to the stringent information security processes and controls applied in our operation, unwavering commitment from our executive leadership, and expertise and knowledge of the associated team. Achieving this certification required a significant investment of time and effort by all involved. The ISO 27001 accreditation process has given us the opportunity to benchmark against the global businesses with which we work. Our Belfast team has demonstrated key points of differentiation for Concentrix in: • Drive and passion, helping our clients be number one in their market; • Process optimisation and technology innovation; and • Ensuring speed, flexibility and intimacy.
Having standards such as ISO 27001 accreditation in place at the right time is how we demonstrate the Concentrix Vision of offering ‘Value, Velocity and Visibility’ for our clients – in Belfast and globally. Concentrix is a global business services company that focuses on process optimization, customer engagement strategy and technology innovation and ecosystem performance. In our Belfast operation, we provide business support services to government organisations and large Fortune 500 companies. Our operation consists of customer care and technical support staff, as well as software developers. We specifically selected Belfast as our primary European hub because of the: • Talent of its skilled and educated workforce; • Competitive operational costs of doing business in Northern Ireland; and • Efficiency of our existing operations in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Since setting up operations, our Belfast team has achieved outstanding service delivery results and we’re continuing to build upon this success across our European base. We strongly believe the addition of 1,000 employees to our Belfast offices later this year will further our global growth, while at the same time providing tremendous benefits to our local community. As a member of NI Chamber, you may be asking yourself if ISO 27001 certification is something beneficial to your own organisation. That’s an excellent question. Obtaining certification will help you comply with global standards and drive business consistency – no matter where you’re located. This assures your customers that their products and services are being delivered to an agreed-upon international standard of excellence, which is taken seriously. Concentrix is demonstrating our own commitment to security by creating a newly created position of IT Security Compliance Officer in our Belfast location. While the process of obtaining ISO 27001 may seem grueling and lengthy, the benefits of certification will certainly prove well worth the effort. IT security has grown from a fringe element of an organisation’s operations, to a key business driver that can ultimately determine your success or failure.
NI Chamber 33
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE32-33_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:23 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE34-35_Layout 1 27/06/2014 09:55 Page 1
FOOD FOR THOUGHT CONSUMERS HAVE BECOME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF FOOD SECURITY GIVEN THE CRISIS WHICH PLAGUED THE MEAT INDUSTRY LAST YEAR. FANE VALLEY CHIEF EXECUTIVE TREVOR LOCKHART DETAILS THE STEPS HIS COMPANY HAS PUT IN PLACE TO ENSURE THE INTEGRITY OF PRODUCTS.
T
It was widely accepted that once you had (BRC), responding to industry needs, here is a saying in the food industry accreditation and supplied the corresponding developed and introduced the BRC Food that there are two types of food certificate, you had carried out your due Technical Standard to be used to evaluate business – one that has experienced a diligence in terms of food security and crisis and one that is potentially about to. This manufacturers of retailers own brand food quality. The horsemeat scandal re-focused products. The main requirements of this probably sums up attitudes to food scares and everyone’s minds on this and proved that standard are the adoption of HACCP, a food security. Everyone wants to do as much certificates and specifications could not be documented quality management system as possible to prevent the next food scare but relied on in isolation. in reality no one knows what the next one Within the Fane Valley Group of is going to be or where in the supply companies, we take our chain it is going to manifest, “THE 2013 HORSEMEAT responsibility under food safety whether farm, input supplier, SCANDAL HAS ONCE AGAIN very seriously. We have to. processor or retailer. Ultimately PUT THE FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN’S What follows are illustrations of supply chains can only be as INTEGRITY AND SECURITY how we fulfill our obligations in strong as their weakest link. UNDER THE MICROSCOPE.” practice. The 2013 Horsemeat scandal White’s Oats from Tandragee, has once again put the food Northern Ireland’s only oat milling business, supply chain’s integrity and has placed significant emphasis on the supply and control of factory environmental security under the microscope. The key base and focused on ensuring what they are standards, process and personnel. theme is that of taking control and managing buying in terms of inputs such as oats, In a short space of time, this Standard has risk. For many years accreditation through packaging or ingredients, is consistently up to become invaluable to other organisations certification has been used to manage the standard not only in terms of certification but across the sector. It was and still is regarded integrity of what processors were buying quality. White’s is also going further back up as the benchmark for best practice in the with traceability requirements. the supply chain to ensure that trust is food industry. In 1998 the British Retail Consortium
The rearing of healthy livestock is dependent on the provision of high quality and safe feeds.
34 NI Chamber
maintained and where feasible, visiting suppliers to see operations and audit physical processes and procedures. Managing supply chain risk is now a key area of business focus, which is discussed at a senior level within the Fane Valley Group where previously it may have been seen as part of the technical approval process. We try to focus on keeping the supply chain as short as possible which helps reduce risk by limiting the number of businesses involved and also makes good business sense from a cost perspective. Ultimately consumers still want to ensure they can trust a brand and we are working hard to ensure consumers who buy our products can do just that. Our award winning red meat processor Linden Foods in Dungannon is a member of stringent quality assurance schemes and deliver the highest standards of food safety which is built upon several important and fundamental areas such as Animal Welfare, Facilities, Regulations, Hygiene, Integrity of the Products and Environmental solutions. Linden Foods lead the way with their direct supply chain initiative called Linden Livestock through which 1000’s of calves are reared each year in specially designed rearing units with a specific focus on welfare. However, the food security cycle starts long before the animals are born or come direct to Linden Foods. Animal feed and the testing of raw materials have made huge steps forward in recent years. The research has advanced to include testing of a broader range of chemicals in foods and agricultural commodities such as mycotoxins, phycotoxins and plant toxins.
Stringent tests are done to ensure the quality and integrity of food products.
Professor Chris Elliott from Queen’s University, Belfast and his team of scientists are leading the way, managing risk in a wider Northern Ireland effort and also with a major EU research project called QSAFFE which is dealing with contaminant issues along the animal feed supply chain. Their work looks at how we can provide safer food for consumers by the use of state-of-the-art monitoring tools. The rearing of healthy livestock is dependent on the provision of high quality and safe feeds for these animals and at Fane Valley Feeds our mills produce and supply the quality and performance that all our customers can rely on, this in turn has a major influence on the total safety of the entire animal based food chain. When any animal arrives at Linden Foods, they will have come from farms where there have been a very high standard of animal welfare and where independent farm
Constant analysis of inputs into food is undertaken.
inspections have been implemented based on recognised Quality Assurance Standards. On that farm, all animals from birth are assigned an individual unique identification number (ID) that maps all history and movements and can be verified on the DARD Animal and Public Health Information System. Integrity of the product throughout the process is maintained by a computerized traceability system, which results directly from this unique number. The individual identification is maintained throughout the slaughter and carcass chilling process, which means that a consumer pack of meat can be traced back through the batch traceability system to the farms where the individual animals came from. In addition to our processing of red meat, we also export a range of dairy products from Fane Valley Dairies such as milk powders, butters and anhydrous milk fat which we supply globally to over 25 countries, including destinations like China, Indonesia, Algeria, Venezuela and Cuba to name a few. This is a reflection of the strong demand for dairy products, particularly in developing economies around the world. Our ability to provide assurances around the integrity of our supply chains including product safety and traceability are again key elements that have strengthened the excellent reputation of our milk powder ingredients and butterfat products. Underpinning everything we do at company level, is our very advantageous geographical position. We reap enormous rewards from the natural location of the island of Ireland. This has a number of distinct intrinsic advantages for the production of safe food. Ireland’s unique position offers natural protection for food production that can be deployed to set us apart from competitors. Prevailing winds from the Atlantic protect our shores from any wind borne diseases, while the sea protects the island from the transmission of land borne threats. Northern Ireland’s location therefore presents a significant business opportunity that can be harnessed to accelerate the growth of the local agri-food industry. NI Chamber 35
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE34-35_Layout 1 27/06/2014 09:56 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE36_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:15 Page 1
P
rotecting your business interests by effectively managing risk and ensuring safety is paramount for companies operating in Northern Ireland. However in a tough economy, security services are often de-prioritised, or not put under the microscope until after an issue occurs. It is important for businesses to understand that basic security enables them to grow. Securitas has been operating out of Belfast for a number of years and has established a strong presence, working with a large number of businesses across Northern Ireland from our Head Office at West Bank Road in the Duncrue area, as well as sub offices in Limavady and Fivemiletown. During this time we’ve seen both the regional economy and business pressures change dramatically. Security concerns have certainly heightened, but for many businesses a lack of understanding and perceived expense is proving a barrier to finding the right security solution. While Securitas is recognised as a global industry leader, the company places an emphasis on the local expertise and knowledge of our teams which is key to delivering effective services to our customers. The recent opening of our Belfast headquarters underlines the growth of our Northern Ireland business. Within the Province, Securitas personnel are currently delivering a range of services, to leading businesses such as Siemens, Thales, Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencers. We
36 NI Chamber
KEEPING BUSINESSES IN SAFE HANDS ACROSS A BROAD RANGE OF SERVICES INCLUDING SPECIALISED GUARDING AND TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, SECURITAS IS A GLOBAL LEADER IN PROVIDING SECURITY TO COMPANIES. THE FIRM’S MANAGER IN NORTHERN IRELAND, DAVID LEE, EXPLAINS HOW THE COMPANY IS HELPING BUSINESSES STAY SECURE.
provide services including front of house, retail and commercial security, controlled response, community wardens and loss prevention support. We appreciate it is important to recognise that security needs have become varied, and in response over the years have been expanding our portfolio of solutions to adapt to growing trends and harness new technologies. Different businesses have different security needs. From protecting customers, staff and merchandise, ensuring smooth service delivery and safeguarding assets and property – the world of security can seem a very daunting place. A new business starting out has to be more than just ‘good at the day job’ but operationally-inclined too. And for those more established businesses, with growth comes greater responsibility and ultimately increased risk. But security doesn’t need to be formidable if you have a strategy in place. Many of the businesses we work with across our three sites in Northern Ireland came to us with a problem, and after getting under the skin of
the issue, we developed a bespoke solution that was fit for purpose. Engaging in cost effective security is vital for firms. With significant advancements in technology, the traditional presence of a security officer may not always be the best approach and Securitas has a number of advanced surveillance tools which can be deployed. We have seen significant growth in recent months in companies using our state of the art remote video solutions (RVS). RVS uses technology to optimise officer time, by supplementing human resource and supporting, or replacing it completely. Other benefits include 24/7 surveillance with video analytics, which automatically triggers an alert when pre-determined situations arise. This proactive security tool works effectively to deter intruders before incidents occur, avoiding costs in property damage and work interruptions. Furthermore, video footage can provide appropriate evidence for legal and insurance proceedings, as well as a follow-up to incidents. My advice to any business owner, big or small, is to consider what the threats are to your business and honestly appraise what impact a worst case scenario could have on trading. It is important that security is not viewed as a business expense. Our partnerships have proven that an effective security solution can actually help drive a business forward, and positively impact the bottom line. We’ve recently launched our Securitas STARs – a specialist telephone and reception service developed for high profile corporate clients. It provides a professional first impression with experienced staff occupying an efficient and versatile role as brand ambassadors for the organisation. Personnel are recruited to a specific brief and can offer support across first aid, switchboard, access control, fire evacuation and reception. It may not be the kind of service businesses traditionally associate with a security company, but it is one part of an expanding portfolio we can offer to businesses in Northern Ireland.
MAKE SURE YOU’RE COVERED
cover for until we explain it to them. Larger businesses are going to be more familiar with what is involved in insurance cover and understand what the risks to their business are likely to be. “Ultimately – the purpose of insurance is to provide security for a company in the event of a claim. It means as a business owner, you are INSURANCE COVER IS AVAILABLE FOR MOST RISKS A COMPANY MIGHT FACE. secure in the knowledge that your business is ADRIENNE MCGILL HEARS HOW BUSINESSES CAN ‘FIND INSURANCE’ TO SUIT protected from financial loss – rather than ALL THEIR NEEDS FROM MANAGING DIRECTOR ROISIN BOYLE, WHO HEADS being faced with a claim which is going to wipe ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING COMMERCIAL INSURANCE BROKERS. out your business. It gives peace of mind. “As a broker we will negotiate on behalf of a client with a range of insurance companies and get the best possible product for the risk – but equally when it comes to a claim we represent unning a business comes with risks. Insurance Services and in 2008 following a the client and negotiate the best possible That is why the insurance industry exists management buyout of the commercial outcome. Don’t assume that the cheapest in order to help companies manage section, Open + Direct Commercial was policy is the best. their risks and claims for losses when things founded. The company changed its name to “The alternative is – if someone is insured unfortunately go wrong. Find Insurance in November 2013. directly with an insurance company they are Commercial insurance gives security and is The broker provides competitive most likely to have only their own products an essential safety net. The increasing commercial insurance quotes from top and are usually unable to give independent frequency of floods in recent years, leading to advice. A broker is there for you to ask devastation in business premises and homes, questions if you don’t understand something underlines why it is so important. It is not just about your policy.” the physical damage but also the interruption The insurance industry in recent years has to trading that follows. been providing more advice for employers to Insurance helps to put businesses back on assess and deal with the risks that they face. their feet and pay the cost of the damage. After all, good risk management leads to lower Hardly a day goes by without a disaster, rates of claims. And that, in turn, should lead such as a fire, featuring in the news and often to lower costs and premiums. businesses are hit badly. In addition to “In relation to risk management – we can property damage, there are also the financial arrange for specialists in a particular industry to obligations which businesses have in order to assess the risk within a business and advise the compensate their employees and customers. client what needs to Often these can only be met through their be done to improve insurance policies. the business. It is all Commercial insurance is therefore crucial “ULTIMATELY about minimizing the for any business. It protects a company from – THE PURPOSE OF Roisin Boyle, potential for a commonly experienced losses including Managing Director, “Depending on your property damage, theft, public liability and INSURANCE IS TO Find Insurance. trade, business employee injury. With adequate insurance, PROVIDE SECURITY interruption insurance firms can more easily recover from these FOR A COMPANY IN could be essential – types of losses. Without it, they risk going out insurance companies in this covers the loss of of business. Northern Ireland and THE EVENT OF A income that a business Some types of insurance are mandatory. the UK to businesses CLAIM.” suffers after a disaster For instance, you are required to have across the Province while its facility is either closed Employers’ Liability Insurance if you have ranging from sole because of the disaster or in the process of employees and Third Party motor insurance traders to large corporates. being rebuilt after it. A property insurance for your vehicles. With two bases in Belfast and Derry, the policy only covers the physical damage to the If your employee is injured at work, or company employs 40 people. premises, while the additional coverage becomes ill as a result of the work they do for “We cover a wide spectrum across the provided by the business interruption policy you, insurance covers the cost of Northern Ireland business community,” says covers increased costs of working and the compensation to a claimant and legal fees. Roisin Boyle, Managing Director of Find financial impact on your business.” Employees injured due to your negligence can Insurance. Even if you have a successful business, seek compensation even if your business goes “Find Insurance is particularly strong in the into liquidation or receivership. provision of insurance products and services to disaster could strike at any moment and force you to cease trading. Meanwhile, Public Liability Insurance covers SMEs – the sort of companies which account “Insurance is absolutely vital. It is like every a business if a customer or member of the for well over 90 per cent of all businesses in other scenario – you don’t understand and public was to suffer a loss or injury as a result Northern Ireland and which form the appreciate the value of it until you a have to of its business activities and if that person made backbone of our economy. We understand make a claim,” stresses Roisin. a claim for compensation. The insurance their needs, and the issues they face, not least “If you are paying for insurance year after would cover the compensation payment plus because we're one of them. But we also year and you have not had a claim – you may any legal expenses. appreciate the requirements of large ask – do I really need to pay for this? Dealing with the complexities of all that is corporates. “Although you don’t always see the obvious, involved in commercial insurance in Northern “We advise companies on their insurance real-life, tangible benefit of insurance until you Ireland is Find Insurance NI. needs. There is an onus on a broker to The company began life in 1972 as O’Kane establish what a customer needs. We find that have a claim, it plays a major part in protecting the future of your business and preserving its Insurance based in Dungiven in Co. Derry. In someone who is starting out and establishing a assets and the jobs of your staff.” 2000 it was acquired by Open & Direct business may not understand what they need
R
NI Chamber 37
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE37_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:36 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE38-39_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:00 Page 1
RESEARCHERS AT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY, BELFAST ARE ON THE FRONTLINE AGAINST CYBER CRIME. DAVID CROZIER, TECHNICAL MARKETING DIRECTOR AT QUEEN’S CENTRE FOR SECURE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, OUTLINES THE CRITICAL WORK DONE THERE.
GAME NOT OVER IN FIGHT AGAINST CYBER CRIMINALS
I
n a non-descript glass fronted building in the heart of the Northern Ireland Science Park, news on 2 June 2014 that Evgeniy Mikhailovich Bogachev, also known as "lucky12345" and "slavik", had been charged with being behind a major cyber crime operation that affected individuals and businesses worldwide, came as no surprise to a crack team of cyber security researchers who barely raised an eyebrow. The Russian man is wanted for his alleged involvement in a wide-ranging racketeering enterprise and scheme that installed, without authorsation, malicious software known as “Zeus” and a variant called “GameOver Zeus” on victims’ computers. Zeus is a type of malware known as a bot which makes up part a network of hijacked home computers, typically controlled by a criminal gang called a botnet. The software was used to capture bank account numbers, passwords, personal identification numbers, and other information necessary to log into online banking accounts. The team, based in Queen’s University Belfast’s Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT), is at the forefront of researching and developing new technologies to detect bots, botnets, malware and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) since it was established as the UK’s Information and Knowledge Centre (IKC) in 2009. The Zeus botnet, and the plethora of variants it has spawned, has been of particular interest to the team who work as part of the Secure Digital Systems research cluster headed by Professor Sakir Sezer. Professor Sezer says: “As the internet has evolved into a multi-trillion pound business, the threats have evolved as well. To date members of the gang who operate the Zeus botnet have stolen an estimated $500 million. This 38 NI Chamber
represents a huge loss to citizens and businesses alike. Our research is helping minimise the fraud and theft enabled by this pernicious software through the development of hardware and software tools and technologies which have been proven to detect and prevent this type of malicious activity.” In a secure laboratory within the facility, Professor Sezer’s team of researchers and engineers have installed a complete botnet for the purposes of determining how it replicates, evolves over time and communicates with command and control systems. The team are reluctant to say too much about their findings in an effort to stay one step ahead of the criminals in this cat and mouse game. What they will say, however, is that the solution they have developed has the ability to analyse gigabytes of network traffic, in real-time, pinpointing botnet activity on corporate, mobile operator or Internet Service Provider (ISP) networks. This malicious activity can be traced to a specific machine, laptop or mobile device which has been infected with the malware. Notwithstanding, the research isn’t a purely academic endeavour. Through its unique ‘Open Innovation’ model, CSIT works to exploit and transfer knowledge to industry through member companies such as global giants McAfee and IBM, as well as via commercial R&D and consultancy engagements with local SMEs such as RepKnight and AirPOS. This ensures the research is both industrially relevant and that findings can be put to work as quickly as possible to limit the impact of malware and botnets on society as well as bringing new cyber security technologies to market. Highlighting ISP and mobile network operators failure to adopt technology to limit the damage wreaked by malware and
botnets Professor Sezer says: “We have the proven technology to detect and stop these malicious applications at the ISP and operator level but many are reluctant to take on responsibility for providing this service to their customers. Common Carrier status means the ISP is not responsible for anything illegal taking place over the network. For example, Warner Brothers can’t sue BT because their digital content (films) are being illegally streamed to BT broadband subscribers. The ISPs use this legal provision to see no evil. Hence, they make no attempt to protect subscribers from malware. However, they are quite happy to detect and block Skype traffic when it effect’s their bottom line. The legislative framework needs to change to
Professor Sakir Sezer says the research conducted at CSIT is helping to minimise fraud and theft enabled by harmful software.
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE38-39_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:00 Page 2
enable broader use of this technology to protect internet consumers.” New technology is only one part of the CSIT story. Currently, the demand for cyber security experts is growing at twelve times the rate of the overall job market. The Centre has listened to the needs of industry and is complementing its technology research by developing a new Master’s degree in Cyber Security to skill up the next generation of cyber security professionals. The course is open for application now and will begin in September 2014. Professor Maire O’Neill, Co-Ordinator of the new MSc in Cyber Security, says: “The emphasis of the MSc is to provide graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the cyber security challenges facing industry and society, today and in the future, and equipping them with the skills necessary to address those challenges.” Finally, the Centre recognises its wider responsibilities to society in terms of supporting citizens, industry and government to tackle the scourge of cyber crime as well as
capitalising on the huge global demand for technologies in this area. CSIT staff are involved in a variety of prominent advisory bodies such as the Organised Crime Task Force’s Cyber Crime Sub Group, the UK Cyber Growth Partnership and chairing the Royal Society’s Cyber Security Research policy committee. You can find out more about CSIT and the MSc in Cyber Security on its website: http://www.csit.qub.ac.uk/ Hi-tech crime terms • Bot - one of the individual computers in a botnet; bots are also called drones or zombies. • Botnet - a network of hijacked home computers, typically controlled by a criminal gang. • Malware - an abbreviation for malicious software i.e. a virus, Trojan or worm that infects a PC. • APT – Advanced Persistent Threats are a set of stealthy and continuous computer
hacking processes, often orchestrated by human targeting a specific entity. Advice from Get Safe Online • Install internet security software from companies listed on Get Safe Online's website to download a free tool to scan for Gameover Zeus and remove it from your computer. • Do not open attachments in emails unless you are 100 per centcertain that they are authentic. • Make sure your internet security software is up-to-date and switched on at all times. • Make sure your Windows operating system has the latest Microsoft updates applied. • Make sure your software programs have the latest manufacturers' updates applied. • Make sure all of your files including documents, photos, music and bookmarks are backed up and readily available in case you are no longer able to access them on your computer. • Never store passwords on your computer in case they are accessed by Gameover Zeus or another aggressive malware program.
NI Chamber 39
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE40_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:02 Page 1
A
number of high profile court cases involving Intellectual Property (IP) have arisen in recent months. In February Amazon lost an infringement case after the High Court ruled that the online retailer infringed the trade mark of cosmetics company Lush by attempting to divert customers to similar products through online search results. Lush does not stock products on Amazon and it launched the claim in response to the online retailer using search adverts to target people searching for the Lush brand online and instead divert them towards similar products stocked by Amazon. The High Court ruled that the average consumer would generally be unable to ascertain that the products listed in Amazon’s online search results were not made by Lush. In another case, the High Court ruled that Marks and Spencer’s (M&S) use of Interflora as a keyword to trigger search results for its flower delivery service infringed Interflora’s trade mark. For many businesses, Intellectual Property (IP) protects genuine business assets that may be integral to the core services of the business and overall long-term viability. Like other more tangible types of property, Intellectual Property can be bought and sold, used as security and licensed. Intellectual Property embraces many
MAKING YOUR MARK BUSINESSES NEED TO PROTECT THEIR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OR RISK HAVING THEIR TRADE MARKS OR PRODUCTS COPIED WITHOUT RESTRAINT. THAT’S THE MESSAGE FROM ANSONS’ TRADE MARK ATTORNEY CHERRIE STEWART WHO TALKS TO ADRIENNE MCGILL.
The fact is, when you have a great product or service, there will always be people who will want to duplicate your success. Depending on individual circumstances, you can use a combination of patents, trade mark registration, design registration and copyright – each of which cover different areas of IP, to protect your business by preventing competitors or anyone else from using your property for their own profit without your consent. Cherrie Stewart, Trade Mark Attorney with Ansons says IP protection is vital. “We help clients protect any sign which might distinguish their goods and services from someone else – it could be a word,
Ansons’ Trade Mark Attorney Cherrie Stewart.
different things, from logos and corporate identity through to products and processes that differentiate your business offering. It’s when these important pieces of property are used without permission that an organisation can suffer. Almost all businesses have undoubtedly benefited from the Internet, where products, services and marketing communications can reach vast audiences at relatively low costs – but this has also increased the chances of IP theft. Companies of all sizes are at risk of having their unique works, products or brands infringed, making IP protection more important than ever.
40 NI Chamber
logo, colour or sound. We help our clients to register these trade marks in the relevant territory, for example at the UK Intellectual Property Office, the Irish Patents Office or further afield. If a third party is using those signs in connection with their own goods and services, having trade mark registrations in place can be used to stop that use. “If you don’t protect your rights, there is always the chance that a third party could come along and take advantage. This is especially true when it comes to unpatented products. If you don’t patent your product then once it is on the market someone could copy it or alternatively take it apart and put
together their own version. Whereas with a patent in place, you can be secure in the knowledge that you will be able to deter any potential infringers. “So if you are coming up with a new product, or even an improvement to an existing product, it is best to see a patent attorney, before making any public disclosure, and they can advise you on how best to protect it.” When it comes to IP, it is important to differentiate between a patent and a trade mark. A trade mark is a sign which can distinguish your goods and services from those of your competitors (you may refer to your trade mark as your "brand"). It can be for example words, logos or a combination of both. The only way to register your trade mark is to apply to the Intellectual Property Office of the territory in which you require protection. Well known trade marks include make-up brand L’Oreal, soft drink Coca-Cola, and Remus Uomo menswear. Meanwhile a patent protects inventions, or improvements to existing products, which are new, involve an inventive step and are capable of industrial application. A patent may cover how something works, what it does, how it does it, what it is made of and how it is made. Once a patent application is granted, it gives the owner the ability to take a legal action under civil law to try to stop others from making, using, importing or selling the invention in the country in which the patent is granted without permission. Whilst this may involve suing the alleged infringer through the courts, many infringement cases are settled out of court once the infringer has been notified of the patent. “Every company has some IP since every company has a name which should be protected. “However, when people start a business, cash flow is often an issue and they may not see it as important to check for third party rights or to register their trade mark and that is where problems can begin,” says Cherrie. “It is important for businesses to understand how IP may impact on, not only the day-to-day running, but also the future success of their companies.”
HARD DRIVE ON DATA DISPOSAL THE SAFE AND SECURE DISPOSAL OF COMPUTERS AND ASSOCIATED TECH EQUIPMENT HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT AS PHILIP MCMICHAEL, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR WITH ASSET MANAGEMENT IRELAND TELLS ADRIENNE MCGILL.
S
ince the first commercial computer was built by IBM back in 1953, the demand for ever more powerful computers has continued unabated up to the present day. This technological evolution has brought with it a whole host of benefits on both an economic and social level. Unfortunately, this insatiable demand has also created a tidal wave of legacy IT assets being discarded to make way for the latest and greatest must-have tech. In order to tackle this growing challenge, all organisations have a responsibility to ensure their legacy IT assets are disposed of in-line with both environmental and, where relevant, data protection standards. Firstly, the most pertinent environmental legislation relates to the European Directive for the disposal of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). This EU wide directive is focused on minimising the volume of equipment that ends up in land-fill and encourages re-use wherever possible. Secondly, where data bearing IT assets are involved, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) requires that all organisations adhere to the 7th principle of the Data
“THE LIST OF ORGANISATIONS BEING HANDED DOWN SIX FIGURE FINES IS GROWING ALMOST DAILY.” Protection Act (DPA) 1998. Specifically that ‘appropriate technical and organisational measures shall be taken against unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data’. So to paraphrase the ICO principle, that means there is an onus on organisations to keep all personal data relating to any individual safe at all times including when stored on IT assets.
Fortunately, there are specialist IT Asset Disposal (ITAD) companies that can help organisations effectively deal with this challenge. Asset Management Ireland (AMI), established in 2001, is a market leading ITAD that has its headquarters in Newtownabbey and a second facility in Dublin. AMI operates in many industry sectors across the island of Ireland including finance, pharmaceutical, legal, health and education to name but a few. Its services include collection, tracking, processing and data destruction. There are two main routes to achieve guaranteed data sanitisation; firstly there is software erasure where the entire drive is overwritten with a series of 1’s and 0’s. Secondly, there is physical destruction which normally involves shredding the hard drives
to an industry approved standard. Once each item is sanitised, its final destination is determined by the residual value of the IT assets. Wherever possible, it is remarketed to help achieve one of the key objectives of the WEEE Directive i.e. re-use. ITAD industry veteran and AMI’s Operations Director, Philip McMichael says: “All manner of IT equipment can potentially hold vast amounts of data, even an innocuous
office multi-function printer can contain several hard drives storing gigabytes of scanned and printed data. “Some organisations do not prioritise or even factor in the need to securely erase all data prior to disposing of IT assets. This gives criminals the opportunity to harvest the data for a range of nefarious activities including fraud, blackmail and even selling it on to other criminals. Engaging with a reputable ITAD will ensure these scenarios are avoided.” Indeed, the focus on Data Protection is only increasing with the forthcoming revised regulation to be rolled out across all EU member states concurrently within the next 18 months. Potentially it will include a range of new initiatives to further strengthen the current legislation including increasing the financial limit of an individual breach from £500, 000 to 5 per cent of annual turnover and make it mandatory for an organisation with over 250 staff to employ a Data Protection Officer. To underline the risks associated with poor IT asset disposal, the ICO commissioned a survey whereby a sample of 200 hard drives was purchased from online retailers including eBay. The drives were forensically tested and an alarming 1 in 10 drives was found to contain legacy data that could have been used for criminal purposes. Making the headlines for all the wrong reasons is becoming a recurring theme says Philip. “The list of organisations being handed six figure fines due to data breaches is growing almost daily. This trend can be reversed immediately by organisations implementing best practices in end-of-life IT asset disposal, it really is that straight forward. “Arguably the risk of a fine levied by the ICO isn’t in reality the biggest issue for an organisation. The reputational damage can extend much further and far longer. “The issue is further exacerbated by the fact that IT asset disposal is often only an afterthought and there is limited due diligence undertaken prior to selecting a supplier. “There is a silver lining to the cloud however, as a professional ITAD partner can help organisations to maximise the residual value in their redundant IT assets without the associated risks. Ultimately, organisations can avoid their legacy IT assets becoming a liability by planning ahead, engaging with the right partner and managing their assets throughout their entire lifecycle.
USEFUL LINKS: Information Commissioners Office - http://ico.org.uk/ Asset Disposal and Information Security Alliance - http://www.adisa.org.uk/ Asset Management Ireland - http://www.amiltd.ie/
NI Chamber 41
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE41_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:12 Page 1
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE42-43_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:05 Page 1
COVERT OPERATIONS THEY ARE LIKE POLICE OFFICERS WHO ARE NEVER SEEN…BUT THEIR WORK IS INVALUABLE TO EMPLOYERS WHO HAVE SUSPICIONS THAT A MEMBER OF STAFF IS BEING LESS THAN HONEST. ADRIENNE MCGILL HEARS ABOUT THE WORK OF A SURVEILLANCE OPERATOR FROM ALAN MCGOWAN, WHO RUNS ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING INVESTIGATIVE FIRMS WHICH HELPS BUSINESSES UNCOVER THE TRUTH.
T
he world of anyone involved in investigative surveillance is a strange one. They see things that people under surveillance hope won’t be seen and hear things that those same people hope won’t be overheard – and of course they have to accomplish this by being neither seen nor heard themselves. Sitting for hours or even days in a car or van, sometimes in the stifling heat or bitter cold, with a concealed video camera and sound recording equipment focused on the subject under investigation and no convenient way of responding to the call of nature – it’s definitely not the average job. Welcome to the world of Alan McGowan. The former Detective Superintendent, who served in the police for more than 30 years, specialising in covert operations for 17 years, is Managing Director of KRJ Projects, an investigative surveillance firm based in Belfast. The company undertakes a wide range of projects but increasingly on behalf of businesses who are experiencing problems with staff members, especially when it comes to claims of sickness absence. He has dealt with many cases involving unlawful absenteeism where the employee has claimed to be off sick but in fact is working elsewhere. The range of work involves investigations into fraud, moonlighting and fraudulent compensation claims as well as debt recovery and background checks. The service delivered by KRJ Projects is discreet, effective and helps employers to protect their business. Alan and his team of researchers and surveillance experts, all of whom have previously worked in law enforcement and who have a variety of skills and specialities, collate evidence on behalf of a client about an employee in order for the client to decide on a course of action – either through the courts or through mediation. “A 10 second video clip can show Mr A, who claims to have an injured leg, running or playing golf which goes against the medical
42 NI Chamber
claim he has provided to his employer,” says Alan. “About 80 per cent of a firm’s outlay is on salaries so if an employee is on extended sick leave and may be exaggerating or may be not ill at all – that is costing the company money. “A lot of HR departments are not aware of the value of bringing in an investigative surveillance firm to check up on an employee. It can be much more cost effective to monitor someone, rather than paying many months of sick pay and the extra expense of staff cover. “There are, of course, times when we investigate someone who is genuinely injured and that is obvious from his/her behaviour in which case there is no point in engaging in protracted surveillance over a number of
days. The client will be briefed accordingly in footage stored on DVD. The client is given a a timely manner thereby saving them money.” working copy which can be used as evidence In order to engage KRJ Projects, the in court. process is simple. The client contacts the “The master copy which contains all the company through the website footage obtained during the deployment is www.krjprojects.com and, upon hearing from held securely by me,” explains Alan. Alan, details suspicions about an employees’ “I am registered with the Information activities. Commissioner’s Office and therefore must These are passed on to Alan’s researchers comply with requirements under data who do a background check and find out as protection. much as possible about the individual through “I have steps in place to make sure all the open source material such as the internet. information we have obtained is held A surveillance team is securely. It is up then deployed to to the client to gather evidence decide whether “A LOT OF PEOPLE PUT which is compiled to take court in a report along action, but if this INFORMATION ON THE with a video happens, at the INTERNET AND THAT
GIVES CLEAR SIGNPOSTING ABOUT WHAT THEY’RE DOING.”
end of court proceedings, we destroy the evidence which we have held.” He describes a recent case where an employer had concerns about a member of staff who was on long-term sick leave claiming he had a bad back and leg pain and had difficulty walking. However, Alan’s researchers discovered the man was selling items on-line. When contacted he said he was abroad on holidays but gave details about when he’d be returning. Alan’s surveillance team swung into action and filmed the man jumping out of his car as he arrived back at home from the airport and lifting heavy cases out of the boot before he strode into his house. He gave no indication of any injury. “A lot of people put information on the internet and that gives clear signposting about what they’re doing,” says Alan. “Any information I get is available openly on the internet or in public records. I am not hacking into any systems or breaking any laws. We obtain information lawfully. “As investigators, we are not governed by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act which legislates for an individuals’ right to privacy. That said, KRJ Projects apply the spirit of the law and are very careful to avoid collateral intrusion – we do not film people unless they are pertinent to the investigation.” Alan has a van, which from the outside is anonymous-looking but which turns out to be a high-tech surveillance vehicle inside with sophisticated video equipment from which he can observe and record all matter of goings-on in the life of someone suspected of duping his/her employer. Of course not every problem has a simple solution but Alan says what makes the company stand out is that it is realistic, tenacious and resolves a very high proportion of cases. Alan insists there is no similarity, in either his looks or his job, between himself and the Magnum, P.I actor Tom Selleck, who starred as a private investigator in the 1980’s television series and he laughs when people make the comparison. “Investigative surveillance is much more than solving crimes. We offer more than following someone from A to B and clients see that when we provide them with evidence. “I enjoy what I do. Each job is different and has an objective. We offer a personal service. If a client has an issue we will resolve it one way or another. “It is quite exciting and I have been challenged on several occasions when someone has become a bit suspicious of me hanging around or sitting in the van. But I just think up a good reason why I am there and that puts them off the scent. “There are so many different elements. You don’t know from one minute to the next what is going to happen. It’s about thinking ahead all the time.”
NI Chamber 43
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE42-43_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:05 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE44-45_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:07 Page 1
HACKING THE HACKERS ARE CYBER CRIMINALS LOOKING AT YOUR BANK ACCOUNT? ADRIENNE MCGILL HEARS FROM PWC’S CRAIG MCKEOWN AND CARA MCCRORY ABOUT THE DAILY HAZARD OF ATTACKS.
Y
ou may never have heard of GOZeuS or CryptoLocker, but the chances are they know about you – and your financial affairs. Since 2009, between 500,000 and 1 million computers worldwide have been infected with malicious software like GOZeuS or CryptoLocker. Aimed at capturing passwords and account numbers, these malicious programmes helped a global hacking gang to syphon multi-millions of pounds from their victims’ accounts. The plot was revealed some weeks ago and since then, the gang’s alleged leader,
44 NI Chamber
Evgeniy Mikhailovich Bogachev - or “lucky12345” as he is known online, has jumped to number one in the FBI’s cyber crime “most wanted” list. Identifying cyber criminals is one thing; but putting a stop to their activities is something else again. “It’s not the sophistication of the hackers or their technological advantage, it’s their sheer persistence that’s the challenge,” says Craig McKeown, a director in PwC’s 100-strong UK forensic technology team, which is partly based in PwC’s Belfast headquarters. Demand for the hacker hunters’ expertise
is both growing fast and growing internationally, with the team frequently living out of suitcases as they respond to demand from public and private undertakings who have suffered from cyber crime or are anxious to avoid becoming victims. According to Craig, it takes a lot to put the hackers out of business. “Cyber criminals have three objectives; to steal secrets, steal money or inflict reputational damage on their target organisations and they mostly achieve at least one of the three.” Nonetheless, hacker hunters like Craig believe that much of the data theft and
financial misappropriation could be prevented. McKeown’s contention that criminal The Information Security Breaches Survey persistence pays-off is right. The UK Cabinet 2014, commissioned by the Department for Office now puts the cost of cyber crime to Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the UK economy at around £27bn annually, undertaken by PwC, says that 31 per cent of while a 2013 White House cyber policy the worst security breaches identified in the report estimated that data theft was costing survey were caused by human error, with a US businesses almost $1 trillion a year. further 20 per cent due to deliberate misuse In terms of how often organisations come of systems by staff. onto hackers’ radar, the Information Security That’s supported by Breaches Survey PwC’s Cara 2014 suggests McCrory. She that large “IT’S NOT THE specialises in organisations driving cultural were successfully SOPHISTICATION OF THE change across attacked on HACKERS OR THEIR companies and average 16 times TECHNOLOGICAL organisations – over the past hardly the stuff year, with small ADVANTAGE, IT’S THEIR to terrify organisations SHEER PERSISTENCE hackers, but attacked on THAT’S THE CHALLENGE.” seemingly average 6 times, changing culture with the main works. breaches over the past “Get the 12 months being: culture right and you instil good behaviours in managers and staff and eliminate the human 1 Virus or malicious software infection – error that leaves the virtual door open for 73 per cent of large and 45 per cent of hackers. In the last ‘Tone from the Top’ small organisations. survey, 87 per cent of respondents agreed 2 Attack by unauthorised outsider(s) - 55 that the culture of a business determines the per cent large and 33 per cent small potential for fraud and corruption as well as organisations. for ethical behaviour,” she says. 3 Denial of service attacks – 38 per cent Supporting the argument that cultural large and 16 per cent small organisations. change can help defeat hackers, she quotes 4 Network penetration by outsider(s) – 24 some of the incidents that have befallen per cent large and 12 per cent small companies in Northern Ireland, where organisations. employees’ careless password and access 5 Intellectual property/confidential data activities caused major problems. theft – 16 per cent large and 4 per cent “Staff in one firm logged onto their online small organisations. banking system one day to find over £110,000 had been transferred to China. Another business fell victim to "Ransomware" – software that encrypts the contents of your computer/server and demands a ransom to get it back – but nothing happened even when they paid it. And in a third case, an engineering firm found a competitor company in a different country had produced an identical product – clearly they had been the victim of intellectual property theft.” Craig and Cara agree that access to a wide range of technology is essential for most businesses to operate in a world dependent on the web but insist that organisations must consider the risks and be confident in their capability to manage them. They emphasise that it’s about more than technology and involves cultural factors like policies, procedures, employees and supply chain management. “Companies need to get the culture right and provide training for staff on basic awareness when using company computers and new mobile devices such as smartphones, iPads and USB keys. Everyone from the top down needs to understand that what they have has value and that’s why people want to buy – or steal – it,” says Cara. Research also suggests that Craig
Although organisations are experiencing fewer breaches overall, the severity and impact of attacks has increased, with the average cost of an organisations’ worst breach rising significantly for the third consecutive year of the survey. For small organisations the worst breaches each cost, on average, between £65,000 and £115,000 and for large organisations the worst breaches each cost an average of between £600,000 and £1.15m. But the public and private sectors can do better. Craig says despite warning the global public to change passwords and install anti-hacking software, it could be business as usual again for the racketeering enterprise. “The UK's National Crime Agency says that people have around just two weeks before lucky12345’s cyber scams could be functioning again. In fact, they’re urging people in the UK to protect their computers from what they describe as a powerful computer attack.” Cara McCrory concurs and says that staff are at the front line in fighting cyber crime. “These hackers and cyber criminals are not utilising particularly sophisticated technology; but they are relentless, day after day, and rely on public and private sector organisations assuming ‘it can never happen to me.’ That leads to complacency and poor behaviours and the relentlessness of the attacks means they eventually break through. Where the business culture is right everyone in the organisation understands the importance of cyber security and that means the hackers chances diminish markedly.”
PwC directors Craig McKeown and Cara McCrory leading the fight against cyber crime.
NI Chamber 45
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE44-45_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:07 Page 2
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE46-47_Layout 1 11/08/2014 10:49 Page 1
BIG DATA – BIG RISK? AS COMPANIES INCREASINGLY HARNESS BIG DATA TO UNDERSTAND THEIR CUSTOMERS AND CONNECT WITH E-COMMERCE AND SOCIAL NETWORKING, THE RISK OF ATTACK BY CYBER HACKERS ALSO INCREASES AS MARK MAGUIRE, CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER FOR FUJITSU IN NORTHERN IRELAND EXPLAINS.
T
here has always been data. What is different now is the scale and speed of data growth. Every day we all contribute to the creation of 2.5 quintillion bytes of data, with 90 per cent of today’s data created in just the last two years. This data comes from everywhere: your posts to social media sites, digital pictures and videos, mobile phone GPS signals, online transactions and even sensors used to monitor patient health to name but a few. These figures are set to grow exponentially with the introduction of more devices to the ‘Internet of Things’. This data, when considered across organisational boundaries, is called Big Data and has created a range of new opportunities for organisations that can harness it properly. Much of the data that organisations will look to exploit is within the public domain and when consolidated can provide more substantial information than persons or organisations may wish to divulge. According to McKinsey, Big Data is 'the next frontier for innovation, competition and productivity’. It is not without its risks however, and despite the huge potential benefits there are major security and legal risks which need to be managed. The explosion of Big Data, mobility and new international regulations means the impact of doing nothing is massive. The costs associated with data losses can run into millions, while negative headlines can undermine market confidence, erode share prices and negatively impact the reputation of an organisation for many years. Sony paid the price in 2011 when 77 million Playstation customer accounts were hacked. They said at the time that it lost millions, while its online gaming service was down for over a month. Some argue it is still trying to recover its reputation. Between July 2011 and July 2012, the NHS experienced several data breaches that exposed nearly 1.8 million patient records. A global payment processing company was hacked in 2012, with over 1.5 million payment card details stolen. In the same 46 NI Chamber
year, €36 million was taken from more than 30,000 bank customers in what was dubbed the ‘Eurograbber Attack’. And perhaps most worryingly of all, according to the Check Point 2013 Security Report, 54 per cent of organisations have experienced at least one potential data loss incident. As a threat, the question is how can organisations be protected and stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks? Some of the threats also relate to ethical and moral issues pertaining to the use of the data obtained from multiple sources generating a more detailed picture of people and entities than they would ever wish to personally divulge. The evidence suggests that the traditional security systems employed by most enterprises – designed to deal with smaller-scale, static data – are struggling to provide the levels of security and performance needed in the era of Big Data. As streaming data adds a new, mobile dimension to data collation, storage and retrieval, there is an even greater need for flexible and ultra-responsive security systems. Three key challenges stand out: Many organisations are not prepared for current or future data security requirements. Old or out-dated security tools not only fail to protect one of the most valuable assets
but also present their own challenges in terms of IT management. Recent lack of investment in security systems – due to economic conditions, a lack of foresight or inertia – has left many organisations exposed. Secondly, there are now greater threats and more opportunities for invasion of privacy. This is particularly important for organisations, from Government to Financial institutions, which rely on confidentiality. As increasing numbers of companies make a business out of mining information about individuals and as their technology becomes ever more intelligent, protecting data becomes a greater challenge. This places an emphasis on the policies that organisations define and adopt for the sharing of information and how these policies are implemented and enforced, taking into consideration any legislative requirements. Thirdly, the greater the volume of data collected, the greater the opportunity for security breaches. The amount of corporate information stored in data centres, servers, PCs and mobile phones is growing at an exponential rate and with so many more platforms there are now multiple entry points for a cyber attack. What is also true is that the risks associated with Big Data impact every sector. In Financial Services, for example, firms have
“THE EVIDENCE SUGGESTS THAT THE TRADITIONAL SECURITY SYSTEMS EMPLOYED BY MOST ENTERPRISES – DESIGNED TO DEAL WITH SMALLER-SCALE, STATIC DATA – ARE STRUGGLING TO PROVIDE THE LEVELS OF SECURITY AND PERFORMANCE NEEDED IN THE ERA OF BIG DATA.”
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE46-47_Layout 1 11/08/2014 10:49 Page 2
always collected vast amounts of market and customer data. However, with new and changing compliance legislation and increasing sources of information, firms need to modernise systems and improve data tracking to ensure the security of large, complex data sets. For telecommunications and media companies, consumer confidence is everything. The bundling of broadband, mobile, internet and TV is leading consumers to the cloud. With cloud computing and virtual storage comes the need for better management of third party data centre services. In Utilities, the big challenge is protecting data on the move. An increasingly mobile workforce is spending less time in the office, making it essential that the applications used ‘in the field’ are impenetrable if devices are lost or stolen. Meanwhile, retailers are at risk of breaching privacy laws despite recognising the benefits Big Data can bring to their
business. One estimate from McKinsey puts the potential increase in operating margin of the full use of Big Data at 60 per cent. However, unprotected data can have an even bigger impact on revenue if, as in the case of TK Maxx in 2006, the details of millions of customer credit cards are hacked. The public sector is not immune either. In the UK, the Government has already identified the need to raise the bar in IT security following high profile breaches. Fujitsu is very much at the coalface in tacking these new challenges and currently manages IT security for one of the UK’s largest government departments. Cyber threats occur daily, so Fujitsu’s approach is to provide a layered, end-to-end security service that focuses on operational risk. Using specialist technology partners, Fujitsu manages security systems that have become a ‘business-enabler’ – balancing the cost of protection against the cost of an attack. The bigger risks associated with Big Data require a new way of thinking. Instead of
relying on previous protocols or technologies, organisations must face up to the reality of a flexible, multi-layered and ongoing approach to IT security including the need to define policies on how organisations utilise and manipulate data to support their business operations. With the ability to track, compartmentalise and evaluate everything from online purchases to the latest Twitter trending topics, Big Data offers massive opportunities for real-time intelligence which can optimise decision-making. That is why it is important to look at every layer of the organisation’s Big Data solution, not just the entry or storage points. Perhaps most important of all, recognising that standing still is no longer an option requires a change of mind-set. Understanding that the cyber war should be fought on many battlegrounds and that threats are ongoing and relentless means organisations will be better placed to deal with them.
NI Chamber 47
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE48-49_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:13 Page 1
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF….. CLOUD COMPUTING HAS BECOME A BUZZWORD BUT DO WE REALLY UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS? JEREMY NUTT, PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT WITH ANSEC IA, HIGHLIGHTS SOME ISSUES AROUND THE MANAGEMENT AND SECURITY OF CLOUD TECHNOLOGIES AND THE IMPLICATIONS FOR SMES IN NORTHERN IRELAND.
Cloud computing is still an evolving paradigm therefore its definitions, underlying technologies, issues, risks and benefits continue to be shaped by those who adopt the various models and the many vendors and suppliers that offer services. In simple terms, ‘cloud computing’ is a common term used to describe the infrastructure that facilitates on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources. However, there are variations to cloud computing that allow for differing levels of information security. Private clouds include the ring-fencing of services solely for one organisation (or related group) and can afford higher levels of information security. In contrast, services provided through Public Clouds involve multiple clients accessing virtualised services which all draw their resource from the same pool of servers across public networks. The combination of both private and public cloud services is called a Hybrid Cloud. Using this model, businesses can maximise the benefits by employing public cloud services for selected operations, only relying on a private cloud services or traditional on-premise solutions where they need it. Cloud computing reduces the entry level costs for the development of significant technological capabilities thereby enabling organisations (big and small) in Northern Ireland to compete with global competitors without the requirement for huge capital expenditure on IT infrastructure. It also reduces costs that may be associated with providing employees with universal access to the information systems required to enable them to be productive, wherever they are. Cloud services enable businesses to dynamically scale IT systems and ecommerce sites to meet end user and customer demand, a trick which is much harder to achieve with traditional on-premise systems. However, despite the obvious benefits, many SMEs in Northern Ireland have been slow to adopt this technology. So, why is this? Taking the leap of faith into the unknown
48 NI Chamber
can be daunting. Often, companies flag a general lack of understanding of cloud services and the benefits that they can deliver; or the difficulty of migrating legacy information systems or applications to the cloud seems just a step too far. However, a commonly cited reason for not adopting cloud services is the concern over data security and privacy, and worries over legislative or regulatory compliance. With these particular issues in mind, there is an onus on SMEs to reflect upon some fundamental issues when considering migration to cloud services. There will certainly be mixed emotions in respect of company data being managed by support personnel outside of management’s direct control. The added risk to information in the care of others, even from a mere physical perspective, can be difficult to accept with wholehearted trust. This can be further compounded by the continued liability for regulatory compliance remaining with the data owners. The responsibility for confidentiality, integrity and availability of information assets will continue to be squarely placed at the company door, but
“A COMMONLY CITED REASON FOR NOT ADOPTING CLOUD SERVICES IS THE CONCERN OVER DATA SECURITY AND PRIVACY, AND WORRIES OVER LEGISLATIVE OR REGULATORY COMPLIANCE.”
now with potentially less control than may be the case with traditional on-premises solutions. It is typically easier to achieve cost savings through the use of cloud services but it can often prove more challenging to effectively manage the information risks. The suitability and choice of cloud service providers may be influenced by the geographical location of their infrastructures. Cloud services (particularly public cloud) will often involve both the storage and processing of information outside of the national boundary of the business. The complexities of data residency invariably raises issues in respect of data privacy and concerns regarding regional legislative requirements. From a data perspective, segregation within a shared infrastructure may also present specific/related challenges. Sharing storage or communications infrastructures, even with logical separation, can often present a risk of misconfiguration that may allow other cloud consumers to gain access to your information. Should the worst happen and an investigation of inappropriate or suspected illegal activity is needed, there can be added complexities within a cloud environment. It is important to remember that cloud services can be adopted for discrete business functions or information systems, it doesn’t have to be an all or nothing choice. Given the nature of hybrid models, the ability for SMEs to ‘dip their toe in the water’ to assess and experience the business benefits in a controlled manner, helps to build confidence and ease the impact of evolving business models. Whatever cloud solution you consider, understand the business risks and ensure that they can be appropriately mitigated within the cloud. We suggest that you carry out four fundamental tasks to ensure a level of a protection and assurance for your cloud hosted information: 1. Conduct appropriate due diligence on your preferred Cloud Service Provider – choose suppliers that have industry recognised indicators of
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE48-49_Layout 1 27/06/2014 10:13 Page 2
information security maturity. Look for suppliers with ISO 27001 certification and investigate the scope. Ask to see audit reports, such as SSAE16 but be mindful that not all audits are created equally. 2. Take a risk based approach to cloud security – identify critical information assets and provide extra protection where it is needed. Consider encryption, additional authentication and monitoring, and limit data access based on user context to manage your risks. 3. Don’t overlook security of the end user device – compliant device configuration is very important. Ensure corporate data is isolated from personal data on mobile devices and implement a mobile device management policy. 4. Look through the cloud – ensure that security devices, authentication mechanisms and applications create and capture the audit trail that is required to meet business needs should the worst happen and satisfy regulatory requirements, including the Data Protection Act in the UK. Consider adding a security intelligence layer to provide real-time visibility into both the data centre and the cloud infrastructure. Concerns and misconceptions can often arise when relinquishing control of the infrastructure that supports critical business systems. However, the reality for many SMEs is that, if they have conducted appropriate due diligence on their cloud service provider and have selected a supplier who understand the importance of information security, they need not settle for less security than they would get with an in-house solution. In fact, they may even benefit from improved security, as cloud providers often expend much more resource on information security as part of their core business. Organisations must be aware of the value of their information assets and understand the associated risks so that they can make informed decisions. Effective information security management can be a powerful catalyst for business enablement.
NI Chamber 49
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE50-51_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:57 Page 1
UNDER ATTACK DON’T PANIC HOW DO YOU RECOVER FROM A DATA BREACH? SIMON WHITTAKER, DIRECTOR AT IT SECURITY CONSULTANCY VERTICAL STRUCTURES, GIVES ADVICE ON HOW TO GET BACK TO BUSINESS AFTER YOUR SYSTEMS ARE COMPROMISED.
M
ore systems than ever are being moved to online environments including previously sacrosanct applications like accounting packages, payroll and sensitive file storage. Companies are increasingly trusting their sensitive data to third parties in an effort to reduce cost and attempt to improve how they operate. These perceived improvements come with risks with a growing number of high profile environments being compromised, leading to data being stolen or systems being utilised to infect others. In 2013, a Sophos labs report indicated that on average 30,000 new websites a day were detected to be distributing malicious code to visitors. Attackers tend to fall into a number of categories with varying motives including: • Competition • Competing with others in the community to compromise the largest amount of sites • Obtaining Information • Credit card • Personally identifying information • Obtaining items of value • Trade secrets • Payment system details • Hacktivism • Using compromised systems to make a political or social point • Curiosity • Investigating how systems are setup Notification The first time you notice a system compromise has occurred can be scary, your previously perfect website now features an animation of a laughing skull and attempts to login to your systems are denied. Whether the compromise report comes in from your clients, a member of staff or a monitoring system you need to take action quickly to prevent both reputational damage to your company and the likelihood of sensitive information being removed or exposed on your systems. Assessing the damage The key to a successful recovery is staying calm: “A data breach is not a disaster, but 50 NI Chamber
mishandling one is.” CIO Insight Magazine If you’re in the fortunate position of having a prepared and tested incident response plan, now is the time to follow it. If you don’t have a response plan, start with the below steps: • Stop network access to any obviously effected systems, the goal is to try and stop any further data being compromised or transmitted. • Don’t remove power from the systems, there may be valuable evidence in temporary files or held in memory which will help you to understand the scale of the issue. • Where practical - don’t allow anyone to login or out of the systems. Try to maintain as great a level of evidential integrity as possible. • Change your social media authentication information and all access tokens from a known safe machine. If your email systems have been compromised, this may be the quickest and most efficient method of communicating with your clients directly; you need to be in control of all communications. After the immediate steps, it’s now time to start understanding the scale of the issue and how it’s going to be fixed. Assembling the right team A key element to a successful recovery is to assemble the right team, one suggested format for an incident response team is: Leader – the person with overall responsibility for the resolution. They approve all messages and actions and can authorise money being spent. Communication – responsible for crafting and communicating a single message to both staff and clients. Technical – the people who will fix the issue. They require time, support and probably a large amount of coffee. Legislative – the team member responsible for assessing the scope of the data which has been breached and providing advice on whether it is required to be reported to legislative bodies (eg. Police, Information Commissioner’s Office, Financial Conduct Authority).
Plan your options The team should assemble and attempt an initial exercise to evaluate the current situation. A room with a whiteboard is useful for providing visual cues and reminders. Answer the following questions: • Which systems are down/infected/unavailable? • Has customer data been compromised? • Have sensitive internal systems been compromised? • What is the anticipated recovery time and how does this match the stated recovery time objective of the organisation (if one exists)? • What actions are currently being taken? Provide as much information as quickly as possible in this initial exercise, details will change but it is important to establish a baseline. This exercise should be repeated and the whiteboard updated regularly during the incident. Communicate STAFF Tell your employees what has happened in an open and honest fashion and make sure regular updates are provided to them during the recovery process. It is often useful to provide them with some sample text to communicate the known facts about the issue to your customers, this will stop any guessing or false promises being made. CUSTOMERS Let your customers know that you’re aware of an issue and that you’re dealing with it, regularly updated social media messages are a great way of communicating. If your site has been defaced, put up a holding page on a clean server hosted in a different location. It should provide a link to your social media updates and contact details. Take Positive Actions Using the information presented on your whiteboard, plan the actions and stick to them. FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS Provide your technical team with the support they need to identify and fix the intrusion
FOCUS ON BUSINESS SECURITY
PAGE50-51_Layout 1 27/06/2014 16:51 Page 2
LEGISLATION & NOTIFICATION “IN 2013, A SOPHOS The decision about who to notify LABS REPORT INDICATED of any data breach or system compromise depends on the THAT ON AVERAGE 30,000 nature of the business and the data NEW WEBSITES A DAY which was obtained. If dealing with WERE DETECTED TO BE the likely loss of blueprints, research information or money DISTRIBUTING MALICIOUS from bank accounts it will be CODE TO VISITORS.” essential to contact the police. However, in many cases of basic website defacement it would be points and to test for other intrusion points in suggested to learn from the compromise, fix your systems. the issues and get back to business. A common mistake by organisations As with other insurance policies, if you have effected by a compromise is to return to e-risk coverage, it may be necessary to contact business too quickly. A fast return can mean the police and receive a crime number to that systems are not thoroughly cleansed, provide to the insurance company. your reputation will be damaged further by If, during investigations, it is discovered that multiple compromises after the all clear has sensitive data has been compromised it will been given. be necessary to report the loss to the Priorities should be established to ensure Information Commissioner’s Office. that your business can return to normal and You should report to the ICO if: your staff can continue their work. • A large volume of personal data has been Change authentication information lost everywhere. Passwords should be updated in • There is a real risk of individuals suffering all systems and password expiry enforced on some harm users.
• The release of any amount of personal data could cause significant substantial detriment including substantial distress The “Take Positive Actions” step is an iterative process, it is always advised to take small actions, assess your current situation, communicate and repeat. Learn from your actions and mistakes When the incident has been resolved it is time to provide information to customers about what has happened. The important factors to include are: • The cause of the issue • The scale of any data compromised • Steps being taken to ensure the same or similar issues do not recur • Admitting fault and apologising for the issues will go a long way Internally, it is now time to step back and assess your performance honestly and openly. Discover from your staff, customers and incident response team what was handled well and what needs work. This feedback should be used to build up an incident response plan, regular testing and updates to this plan will help your company ensure that any issues are handled much more quickly and efficiently during the next incident. But let’s hope there isn’t one. NI Chamber 51
PAGE52_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:52 Page 1
[AMBITION PROMOTION]
SWINGING INTO ACTION Following on from the success of last year’s event the Asdon Group recently took their clients took to the greens again for their annual Golf Day. Set in the immaculate surroundings of Dunmurry Golf Club, a great game of golf was enjoyed by all followed by an evening meal and prize giving in the Clubhouse.
Brendan O'Kane, William Brown, Dean Beckett and David Best.
Deaglan Lundy, Ken Hanna, Ian Robinson and Robert Brown. Niall Bradley, Ronnie Hill, Adam Woods and Adam Spence. Shaun Jemphrey, Aaron Mulholland, Laurence Coey and James McKervill.
Gary McKee, Ken Craig, Tommy Maguire and Gavan Holmes.
Ryan McIlhatton, Tony Budde, Rory Clark and Joe Tunney. Donald Eakin, John Greer, Raymond Johnston and Brian Keenan.
Matthew Kennedy, Celia Worthington, Julie Leonard and Andrew McCready.
ASDON GROUP Head Office 12 Enterprise Crescent, Lisburn BT28 2BP
52 NI Chamber
Tel: 028 9267 5114 Fax: 028 9266 0256 Email: info@asdongroup.com Web: www.asdongroup.com
PAGE53_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:51 Page 1
THE GROWTH JOURNEY CONTINUES WhiteRock Capital Partners is a committed and highly-skilled team of investment officers and financial analysts – all from banking and accountancy backgrounds – that manages the £50 million Growth Loan Fund, finance for which has been provided by Invest Northern Ireland and private investor, Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC).
Paul Millar, Chief Investment Officer, WhiteRock Capital Partners.
(L-R) Paul Millar, Chief Investment Officer, WhiteRock Capital Partners; William McCulla, Director, Corporate Finance, Invest Northern Ireland; Tom Smyth, Director, Broadlake Capital; and Alyson Hogg, Founder and CEO, Vita Liberata.
W
ith September this year marking the two-year anniversary of the launch of the investment period of the £50m Growth Loan Fund in Northern Ireland, now is a good time to take stock of how the Fund has performed to date and look at what’s ahead for WhiteRock Capital Partners. Our aim is to support businesses in Northern Ireland as they strive to achieve their full growth potential – complementing existing sources of finance, including banks, trade finance sources and equity investors. In the past 22 months of our investment period we’ve approved some 70 loans worth over £20million; ranging from £50,000 to £1.25million per investment, with the average loan size £300,000. We have approved five deals at £1million or more, with a strong interest now emerging from medium-sized businesses as well as a continued significant interest from small businesses. Companies that have benefitted from the support of the Growth Loan Fund so far have come from a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, engineering and tradeable services – companies like Williams Industrial Services, Lowden Guitars, Bunk Campers, MD Golf, Flowlens, Copas Technologies, Connect Telecom and CIGA Healthcare. We recently had the pleasure of attending the British Venture Capital Awards in London where two of our investee companies won regional awards - with Vita Liberata winning ‘Venture Capital backed Management Team of the Year’ and Budget Energy CEO Eleanor McAvoy being named ‘CEO of the Year’. It was great to see local companies getting national exposure and at WhiteRock
John Toner, Group Chairman and CEO, Williams Industrial Services with Neil McCabe, Senior Investment Manager, WhiteRock Capital Partners.
Capital Partners we are proud to have supported the success of these companies through the Growth Loan Fund. The experience of all these firms very clearly demonstrates the impact that the Growth Loan Fund has made in helping local companies to achieve their full growth potential. WhiteRock Capital Partners welcomes applications from similar ambitious SMEs in Northern Ireland who are seeking to grow. Finance is being provided by Invest Northern Ireland and private investor Northern Ireland Local Government Officers’ Superannuation Committee (NILGOSC). Meanwhile - due to the success of the Growth Loan Fund - we are looking to expand our offering further and are currently in detailed discussions with investors on a new £50m mezzanine fund for SMEs which would address the issue of overhanging legacy property debt, widely reported as an issue affecting around 30 per cent of medium sized businesses in Northern Ireland. The growth journey for Northern Ireland companies continues and, at WhiteRock Capital Partners, we intend on being there every step of the way. Paul Millar is Chief Investment Officer of WhiteRock Capital Partners based in Belfast. For more information about the Growth Loan Fund’s criteria email info@whiterockcp.co.uk
Whiterock Capital Partners LLP 8th Floor 11-13 Gloucester Street, Belfast BT1 4LS Tel: 028 9500 1060
PAGE54_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:27 Page 1
[FACE TO FACE WITH....] HARRY PARKINSON, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CLOSE BROTHERS COMMERCIAL FINANCE IN IRELAND
ROADS TO GROWTH NORTHERN IRELAND NEEDS URGENT INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE HARRY PARKINSON TELLS ADRIENNE MCGILL.
A
recent survey revealed that almost half (47%) of small and medium sized businesses in Northern Ireland believe that the Government’s greatest priority should be investment in the country’s infrastructure ahead of health, education, energy and innovation. Over half of respondents who believe upgrading infrastructure is the most pressing issue to address said they feel this is what the economy most needs in order to prosper. The findings come from the Close Brothers Business Barometer, a quarterly survey that seeks to canvass the opinion of SME owners and senior management across the UK. Managing Director of Close Brothers Commercial Finance in Ireland, Harry Parkinson, says: “Ensuring the UK has a worldclass infrastructure is a crucial part of the country’s long-term economic plan. “I’m sure that many SMEs were heartened by the recent announcement of a new national infrastructure plan, outlining £375 billion of planned public and private sector investment. “THERE IS NO DOUBT The proposal set out vital THAT INVESTING IN long-term investment for INFRASTRUCTURE IS energy transport, flood defence, waste, water THE KEY TO THE and communications DEVELOPMENT OF infrastructure up to 2030 THE NORTHERN and beyond.” projects in The Close Brothers IRELAND ECONOMY.” recent years has Business Barometer also been the £150 revealed that a further 31 million Newry byper cent of SMEs surveyed in Northern pass which has significantly benefited cross Ireland believe that a modern infrastructure is border trade. Both the Northern Ireland and vital if their business is to achieve growth. Republic of Ireland’s economies have received Harry Parkinson says the expenditure will a boost as a result of this major road project.” not only create jobs and stimulate the Earlier this year, Lord Deighton, the economy in the short term, but with upgraded Commercial Secretary to the Treasury – the networks in place, the UK will be better man in charge of the UK Government's positioned to attract foreign investment and infrastructure purse strings – said he wanted ensure long-term growth and prosperity. to help Northern Ireland companies win more “Many business owners will undoubtedly be work building roads, railways and excited by the prospect of this sizable telecommunications. investment from the Government as it will Lord Deighton, speaking at the give the economy the kick start that it needs. Infrastructure Investment Seminar in Titanic “There is no doubt that investing in Belfast, stressed the importance of a strong infrastructure is central to the development of infrastructure base both here and in Great the Northern Ireland economy. Britain, where many Northern Ireland “Not only does it bring employment, it also construction companies compete for work. brings long term projects which are 3-5 year Meanwhile, Northern Ireland's Finance contracts where you are guaranteeing Minister Simon Hamilton has said he wants employment and investment. the public sector to work closely with the “If you look at inward investors, they want private sector to build better roads, public easy access whether that involves motorways transport, digital networks and utilities. or air routes. Business is fast moving and so Harry Parkinson agrees with Lord Deighton infrastructure has to be able to cope with the in his view that it is crucial that we all play our demands being made on it. part in building the country's future roads, rail, “One of the most impressive infrastructure 54 NI Chamber
digital networks to make sure we can compete in the global market. “Advanced transport networks and energy supplies will create efficiencies for businesses, while improved access to superfast broadband will benefit those that trade online immensely. By investing in infrastructure, we can ensure that businesses in the region are well equipped and ready to meet the challenges that recovery may bring head on. “I appreciate that Government funding for infrastructure projects has been cut back. I also realise there is a propensity for companies to stay in a market they are familiar with rather than going elsewhere. However, we are seeing a lot of companies in Northern Ireland securing contracts in the rest of UK and Southern Ireland because they can’t get the commitment here about Government funding. “The fact is investment will create much needed, jobs in the construction industry, across environmental and engineering consultancies, suppliers, contractors, infrastructure specialists and others. “At the end of the day, if we want Northern Ireland to prosper we have to construct the infrastructure to enable us to compete effectively.”
PAGE55_Layout 1 27/06/2014 14:28 Page 1
TERMS & CONDITIONS Opinions expressed in Ulster Tatler Group publications are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers. NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ulster Tatler Group do not accept responsibility for the views of the correspondents or contributors. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all the material within is accurate at the time of going to press, Ulster Tatler Group cannot be responsible for mistakes arising from clerical or printing errors. Advertisements for Ulster Tatler Group publications are accepted only on condition that the advertiser warrants that the advertisement does not in any way contravene the provisions of the Copyright Text and Advertising Trade Descriptions Act 1968. Where advertisements and art work have been specially designed for Ulster Tatler Group, copyright is strictly reserved. The entire contents of the magazine, articles, photographs and advertisements, are the copyright © of NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ulster Tatler Group, and may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publishers. The publishers will institute proceedings in respect of any infringement of copyright. Please note that whilst every effort is made to ensure that any submitted items which you wish returned are sent back in the condition in which they were received, Ulster Tatler Group cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage. All items submitted are at the owner’s own risk. Manuscripts and photographs/illustrations submitted should be accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. If possible do not send original or irreplaceable material - to avoid disappointment please send copies only. The Publishers - Ulster Tatler Group - reserve the right to reject any advertisement submitted.
3 C o u rse ch Lun Business
£20
Dental Implant Center Hungary One of Hungary's largest dental clinics (2 Operating Theaters, 7 Surgeries, 2 CT units) 25 years experience, highest technology Free Consultation/aftercare, in Newry every month!
www. dental-implant.ie
For Free consulation and appointment contact Michael O’Reilly: Tel: 00353 599130856, Mobile: 00353 8636566193 E-mail: michaeloreilly30@gmail.com
• Pre-Theatre Menu available Tues-Sat • Private Dining available on request • Fully Licensed with extensive Wine List • Closed Sunday & Monday
Wed-Fri
Contact us on
028 9043 4000 Find us on
TEDFORD S 5 DONEGALL QUAY, BELFAST BT1 3EA Tel: 028 90434000
www.tedfordsrestaurant.com
NI Chamber 55
PAGE56_Layout 1 27/06/2014 16:57 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] TREVOR ANNON, CHAIRMAN OF THE MOUNT CHARLES GROUP
GET WILD ABOUT WILDFLOWERS WILDFLOWERS ATTRACT A RICH VARIETY OF WILDLIFE AND ARE VITALLY IMPORTANT FOR NORTHERN IRELAND’S BIODIVERSITY SAYS TREVOR ANNON.
S
ometimes the best things in life really are free. We live in a part of the world where we sometimes take for granted the exquisite beauty of the flora and fauna that surround us. Nature has provided us with a rich and priceless bounty. But simply because we have an outstanding natural habitat does not give us the right to be complacent about its sustainability. The protection of our hedgerow and field heritage is one that as a society, we must recognize the importance of and relevance to future generations. In Northern Ireland we can be especially thankful that in many ways there have been dedicated individuals and independent companies prepared to shoulder that responsibility. But while those companies are based in different parts of the province and have various commercial priorities, they also share one defining mission statement. It is to ensure that the general public understands the importance of having a wildflower connection. As part of this strategy the business community in Northern Ireland is increasingly creating partnerships with the suppliers of wildflower seeds and bulbs to help promote the benefits of biodiversity. Local councils have also been encouraged to buy into the wildflower options that are available to them in terms of enhancing sometimesdifficult areas of landscape under their control.
The use of such pockets of land, particularly in what could be described more accurately as brown field sites, has the potential to both supplement the wildflower seed base while at the same time continuing the strengthening of wider biodiversity elements. That commitment to the protection and the ultimate expansion of the natural habitat is now needed more than ever. The combination of modern intensive farming practices, the revival in the local housing markets along with various heavy-duty infrastructural projects have all taken, and will continue to take a significant toll on our wildlife habitats. Since 1992 and the signing of the Rio Earth summit more than 150 countries, including the United Kingdom, have pledged their support for the continuing development of strategies to sustain biodiversity conservation. Over the past two decades since the signing of that document, the commitment to the principles enshrined in the Rio summit have been implemented with varying degrees of success. The economic down turn of recent years has obviously placed such eco-friendly commitments further down the scale of priorities for many global Governments. However, in Northern Ireland we can take justifiable pride in the fact that despite our many difficulties in relation to complex political issues, the message surrounding the importance of eco diversity has not been lost. There is a healthy level of recognition that it is for the common good to help maintain and
“THE COMBINATION OF MODERN INTENSIVE FARMING PRACTICES, THE REVIVAL IN THE LOCAL HOUSING MARKETS ALONG WITH VARIOUS HEAVY-DUTY INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS HAVE ALL TAKEN, AND WILL CONTINUE TO TAKE A SIGNIFICANT TOLL ON OUR WILDLIFE HABITATS.”
develop wildlife habitats. By protecting the various species of wildflowers it can lead ultimately to the reestablishment of precious habitats. Areas that had previously been either derelict eyesores or sterile and unattractive cement dominated structures have been transformed into positive generators of eco diversity. One of the strongest supporters of the use of wildflower habitats being incorporated into its projects has been the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. A number of community planting projects have been devised in conjunction with the Strangford based Eco Seeds Company. Founded as a local enterprise project in 1995, the Eco Seeds Company is a superb example of a concept being translated into a positive reality. It uses a ten-acre site on the shores of Strangford Lough to provide local provenance wildflower seeds and bulbs. It also delivers a tailored consultancy service in habitat creation, working closely with the Department of the Environment. And working in tandem with the Housing Executive they continue to identify a growing number of housing estates and urban parks where the local community can come together to design and participate in wildflower planting projects. Over recent years previously unused or environmentally damaged pieces of land have been sown out with mixtures of perennial and annual species designed to ensure a bloom of colourful flowers on a regular basis. A key element of the joint initiatives involving the Housing Executive and the seed supply companies continues to be the engagement of local schools and community groups to reinforce the awareness of the wildflower message. In the coming months, the colourful expression of that free and fragrant natural message will need no translation to a grateful general public.
PAGE57_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:06 Page 1
[AMBITION PROMOTION]
SUMMER MAKEOVER OF YOUR FINANCES Three months into the new financial year, now is the time to take stock of your finances and follow these top tips from ASM Chartered Accountants to remain financially healthy. A few months into the 2014/15 tax year which started on 6 April 2014, is the perfect time to take stock for the financial year ahead, organise your finances to reduce your personal tax liability and optimise your tax cash flow. Below, we have outlined a number of measures that may be available to you. As each individual’s tax affairs differ, we recommend that you seek appropriate advice before taking any action. Pension Contributions In the 2014 Budget, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced significant changes to the way in which money can be drawn from pension funds. From 6 April 2014, the maximum pension contribution an individual can make is £40,000 per year. Additionally, where an individual had a pension scheme in place in earlier years and the full annual allowance has not been used in the previous three years, it may now be utilised. THE COST TO YOU OF MAKING A PENSION CONTRIBUTION OF £40,000 IF YOU PAY TAX AT 45% IS AS FOLLOWS: Contribution: £40,000 Basic tax relief (20%): £8,000 Net contribution of basic rate taxpayer: £32,000 Additional rate relief (25%): £10,000 Net contribution for additional rate taxpayer: £22,000 Tax Efficient Investments ISAs and NISAs The ISA allowance will increase significantly from 1 July 2014 to £15,000 per year when the New ISA (“NISA”) is being introduced. This limit will apply to cash ISAs, as well as stock and shares ISAs. Additionally, the range of investments permitted in a stock and shares ISA is to be extended. ISA income and capital gains are tax-free, making them a good option for reducing your exposure to tax.
ASM
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Seed-Enterprise Investment Scheme (“SEIS”), Enterprise Investment Scheme (“EIS”) and Venture Capital Trusts (“VCT”) There is significant tax relief available if you invest in these schemes. Income tax relief is available at 30% (EIS and VCT) or 50% (SEIS) of the amount invested (subject to maximum limits). There are also rules allowing deferral of or exemption from Capital Gains Tax, which vary depending on which scheme you invest in. EIS and SEIS offer reinvestment relief for Capital Gains Tax, so if you have made a taxable gain on an asset within the last three years or expect to have a capital gain in 2014/15, this may be an attractive relief to defer or, in the case of SEIS, exempt part of the gain. Child Benefit Charge For those households where the highest earner has taxable income that exceeds £60,000 per annum, the Child Benefit Charge will be 100% of the Child Benefit received. Where the highest earner has taxable income between £50,000 and £60,000 per annum, the Child Benefit Charge will be 1% of the Child Benefit received for every £100 that the taxable income exceeds £50,000. Husband and wife planning Consider transferring income-producing assets to a spouse not currently utilising their personal allowance or who pays tax at a lower rate. Instead of paying tax on interest income at 40% or 45%, your spouse may pay no tax or 20% tax. Submit your 2013/14 tax return promptly If you are in the Self Assessment system, there can be significant advantages in getting your tax return finalised early (in particular before the second payment on account is due on 31 July 2014):
• You have longer to budget for any 2013/14 balancing payment and first payment on account for 2014/15 that will be due on 31 January 2015; • You can reduce your July payment on account if your 2013/14 tax liability is lower than in 2012/13 – remember your payments on account never increase by submitting your tax return early; • 2014/15 Gift Aid donations and EIS or SEIS subscriptions can be carried back and relieved against 2013/14 income, so again taking prompt action offers scope to reduce your July 14 payment on account. Mileage Claims If you are not reimbursed for your business miles or reimbursed at a rate lower than the HM Revenue and Customs authorised rates of 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles and 25p per mile thereafter, you can make a claim on your tax return for a deduction of the underpayment. You should maintain a record of your business mileage to support such a claim. Conclusion Receiving a tax repayment, while it can be a pleasant surprise, simply means that you have previously overpaid tax to HM Revenue & Customs. It is always advisable to try to manage your tax cash flow carefully to ensure that you do not pay more tax on account than you need to. These are only a few of the areas that can be considered as you plan for the financial year ahead. Remember, it is important to seek detailed advice before taking any action.
Caroline Keenan Tax Director ASM Chartered Accountants caroline.keenan@asmbelfast.com 028 9024 9222
PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE 20 Rosemary Street, Belfast, BT1 1QD Tel: 028 9024 9222 www.asmaccountants.com caroline.keenan@asmbelfast.com
PAGE58-59_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:33 Page 1
[FEATURE]
SHOWCASING BUSINESS TALENT AND ACHIEVEMENTS THE VERY BEST OF BUSINESSES FROM ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND WILL SOON BE BATTLING IT OUT IN THE HOPE OF BEING CROWNED WINNER OF THE REGIONAL HEAT OF THE ANNUAL CHAMBER AWARDS.
E
ntries to the 2014 Chamber Awards have now closed and, in the coming weeks, they will be assessed by a top judging panel before the Northern Ireland winners are announced on 22 September 2014. There are nine categories this year – with a number of new additions – setting them up to be bigger and better than ever. The categories are: • Small Business of the Year – NEW • Manufacturer of the Year – NEW • Best use of Technology to Improve Business Performance – NEW • Young Person in Business Award – NEW • The Sustainability Award • Achievement in International Business • Commitment to People Development • Entrepreneur of the Year • Excellence in Innovation The awards will crown nine Northern Ireland winners who will then go on to compete in a national final in London on 27 November 2014 against category winners from 11 other regions across the UK with the overall national winner receiving a £10,000 cash prize. The judging panel facing the tough challenge to select the Northern Ireland finalists includes: • Peter Burnside, Managing Partner, BDO Northern Ireland An acknowledged expert in corporate taxation including corporate reconstruction, mergers, acquisitions, pre-flotation planning and financial services, Peter services a broad range of corporate, personal and trustee clients, advising on investment and tax mitigation. • Jenny Cooke, Creative Producer, Groundswell and Carols in the City With a career in radio and television spanning more than 40 years, Jenny has worked across BBC NI, BBC Radio 4 and BBC Television Centre. She also worked as a Freelance Production Manager/Producer with DBA Television, HETV, Chrysalis Television and Ulster Television. She was has been Chief Executive/Founder of Music Theatre for Youth since 2005. • Philip Cunliffe, specialist publications editor, Insider Philip Cunliffe is specialist publications editor at Insider, the UK’s leading business-to-business media organisation. He has also chaired a number of events for Insider in NI, including the Business of Finance Conference and its renowned Dealmakers Awards. Philip started his career at the BBC before joining PSI, which he helped become the fastest growing publishing company in the North West of England.
58 NI Chamber
Peter Burnside
Jenny Cooke
Philip Cunliffe
Kieron Kent
• Kieron Kent, Business Development Consultant As a business development consultant, Kieron is widely experienced in solution sales, marketing, advertising, online publishing, social media and general management. He has enjoyed a 28 year long career in all areas of sales, marketing, advertising, public relations, organisational planning, social media, digital advertising, and web publishing. • Pauric McGowan, Professor of
Entrepreneurship and Business Development at the Ulster Business School, University of Ulster Afer joining the University in 1987, Pauric was seconded to the Northern Ireland Small Business Institute, (NISBI) and was seconded again in 2002 as Director of the Northern Ireland Centre for Entrepreneurship, (NICENT). He continues to be actively involved in entrepreneurial practitioner learning. He is also an acknowledged academic researcher, with a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurial Marketing.
PAGE58-59_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:29 Page 2
Pauric McGowan
Suzy McIlveen
Claire Moore
Julie Ann O’Hare
Heather Wells
• Suzy McIlveen , Senior Partnership Manager, Marie Curie With a passion for fundraising and raising the profile of Marie Curie together with a unique business acumen, Suzy previously worked for over a decade in the Capital Markets Debt Syndicate teams at some of the world’s top financial institutions including Morgan Stanley and Nomura. Amongst other headline partnerships, Sse is responsible for Marie Curie’s flagship Walk Ten events which last year raised over £175,000. • Claire Moore, Director of Finance and Corporate Development for the Northern Regional College. Working in the Education and Training sectors for 15 years, Claire’s previous posts have included include Head of Corporate Services in the North East Institute and Finance Manager in East Antrim Institute. She was also previously employed as the
Bursar of St. Dominic’s High School, Belfast and worked in the Audit and Economic & Social Policy Departments of Deloitte. • Julie Ann O’Hare, Director Business Banking NI, Bank of Ireland (UK) Part of the Banks’ senior management team, Julie Ann is responsible for leading and developing Bank of Ireland's Business Banking strategy in Northern Ireland. Since joining in 1988, Julie Ann has held a number of key senior management positions across Business & Corporate Banking and she has a wide breath of experience working with Northern Ireland business start-ups and international companies. • Heather Wells, Head of Stakeholder Marketing, BT Ireland Heather joined BT Business Marketing in November 1998 and has held a number of roles, most recently as Head of Stakeholder Marketing, BT Ireland. Previously she worked in retail as head of marketing
Adrienne McGill
for an electrical retail chain. • Adrienne McGill, NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry A multi-award winning journalist and former Business Editor of the News Letter, Adrienne’s career in journalism spans 25 years and includes writing for weekly and daily newspapers, business magazines and journals. She was appointed Editor of Ambition, NI Chamber’s official publication, last year. • Neil Gillies, Head of Business Development at Parity Professionals (Not pictured) Parity Professionals are specialists in developing leadership and management capability at the individual and organisational level creating a real impact in business performance.Parity Professionals have offices in London, Edinburgh, Manchester and Belfast and deliver services to Education, the Public and Private sectors.
NI Chamber 59
PAGE60-61_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:20 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] MAUREEN O’REILLY, NI BASED INDEPENDENT ECONOMIST
BASIC INCOME: PUTTING AN END TO THE WELFARE STATE WITH THE ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF A BASIC INCOME UNDER INTENSE DEBATE, MAUREEN O’REILLY EXAMINES THE PROS AND CONS OF SUCH A MEASURE.
W
hat would you say to the guarantee of an unconditional income for every citizen in Northern Ireland regardless of his or her personal circumstances? That’s the concept behind a ‘Basic Income’, that everyone should have the human right to receive an income without any means test or obligation to work. The idea has actually been around for a while and has had strong backing internationally. Martin Luther King was an
outspoken advocate of it. It has also received support from world-renowned economists like Tobin, Galbraith and Meade who believed it was the only way an economy could achieve full employment. A number of countries including the UK and Ireland have lobby groups advocating an unconditional income. The Irish government produced a Green Paper on the subject in 2002 but to date it has not gained any real traction within government. Switzerland has gone as far as to announce
a referendum on the issue later this year, the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Fuelled by what is viewed as the growing wealth disparity in the country, the proposal is that every citizen receives 2,500 Swiss Dollars a month (around £1,700) regardless of their wealth or employment situation. The Swiss recently rejected the introduction of the highest minimum wage in the world at £15 an hour (the UK’s is £6.31 for adults) so it will certainly be challenging to see a Basic Income being supported.
Zurich in Switzerland - the country rejected the introduction of the highest minimum wage in the world.
60 NI Chamber
PAGE60-61_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:20 Page 2
The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) recently held a Master class on the concept of a Basic Income outlining what it might mean in a Northern Ireland context and debating both its pros and cons. The impetus behind this was a view that alternative models of social security had to be considered and basic income was one option worthy of debate. For advocates of a Basic Income the benefits are numerous. The most obvious is the potential to reduce poverty, an increasingly prevalent issue in Northern Ireland. With this comes some associated knock-on effects such as lower crime rates and fewer health problems, both of which have associated cost savings for government if they are reduced. It would also mean an end to the benefits system as we know it, eliminating the ‘welfare trap’ which can stop people from taking jobs along with simplifying and reducing the huge cost of the welfare system. A Basic Income would allow people more freedom of choice in the labour market, for example staying on in education, investing in their skills or starting a business because they have the ‘comfort blanket’ of a guaranteed income. Another perceived benefit is in placing a value on unpaid and caring activities including bringing up children
and caring for the elderly and sick. So what of the negatives? The most obvious one cited is the disincentive to work. A person could simply rely on others without having to do much in return. Some would say that it is morally objectionable to give people money without any contribution to the economy, known as the ‘free rider problem’ in economics. There are those that argue that it means paying people who don’t need it and taking away money from people who legitimately earned it. Cost is a key consideration. One estimate suggests the basic income in the UK should be set at £7,000 per person. Estimates for Switzerland outline a cost of one-third of the country’s overall GDP, although there is surprisingly little debate about whether Switzerland can afford it. However, proponents of the concept dismiss this by saying that costs would be netted off against the withdrawal of income-contingent benefits, welfare administration savings and the potential for increased taxes, both direct and indirect as people get the jobs they want and more money circulates around the economy. The concept has been piloted in a number of countries. Canada introduced a Basic Income experiment called Mincome in the
“THE SWISS RECENTLY REJECTED THE INTRODUCTION OF THE HIGHEST MINIMUM WAGE IN THE WORLD AT £15 AN HOUR…SO IT WILL CERTAINLY BE CHALLENGING TO SEE A BASIC INCOME BEING SUPPORTED.” small town of Manitoba during the 1970s. The aim was to establish if a guaranteed, unconditional annual income caused a disincentive to work and if so how great? The main findings were that only new mothers and teenagers worked substantially less. Mums stayed at home longer with their infants. Teenagers stayed on at school and college and more graduated because fewer had to help support families. People in work had greater opportunity to choose what they did. There was also a link to well-being as people appeared to enjoy better health. Critiques, however, raised the point that the disincentive to work was not truly tested because people knew the experiment would end. The concept of a Basic Income is certainly interesting in light of the current debate on UK welfare reform. The idea is that it should mean a much less bureaucratic welfare system, would be easier to understand and less prone to error and/or fraud. The UK Government would say that it is already doing this with the introduction of the Universal Credit, a single monthly payment replacing six existing benefits. However, the Basic Income is different because in simple terms there would be no means testing. The only checks would be whether the recipient is a citizen of the state and an adult. Perhaps this might be a way out of the current political impasse in Northern Ireland over welfare reform – adopt a basic income instead. Imagine if we each received £7,000 a year without any conditions attached. What do you think the reaction might be?
NI Chamber 61
PAGE62_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:38 Page 1
[FEATURE]
WELL CONNECTED FOR EXPORT GROWTH
NI CHAMBER AND ULSTER BANK HAVE LAUNCHED A NEW SUPPORT INITIATIVE TO HELP BUSINESSES TAP INTO AN UNRIVALLED LOCAL AND GLOBAL NETWORK OF BUSINESS LEADERS.
Ann McGregor, Chief Executive of NI Chamber and Ellvena Graham, Head of Ulster Bank Northern Ireland & Managing Director SME Banking at Ulster Bank.
N
orthern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) and Ulster Bank have renewed their commitment to assisting local companies to grow and trade internationally with the launch of a new service - ‘NI Chamber Connections partnered with Ulster Bank.’ The new service will offer businesses the opportunity to connect to over 400,000 chamber contacts from across the globe that are able to advise and assist companies to break into and operate successfully in international markets. NI Chamber Connections partnered with Ulster Bank will also utilise local Chamber of Commerce contacts, offering businesses the prospect to meet and learn from other Northern Ireland companies who are already exporting and who have become experts in their field. Ulster Bank has £1bn available to lend to businesses this year and is committed to supporting growth. Earlier this year at its ‘Ahead for Business’ roadshows, the bank provided information to businesses on accessing finance, business planning and cash flow management. Commenting on the initiative, Ann McGregor, Chief Executive of NI Chamber said: “It is vital that Northern Ireland firms take a global perspective when they are doing business. 62 NI Chamber
Exporting is central to the growth of the Northern Ireland economy – but it is not always an easy road to navigate. “NI Chamber Connections partnered with Ulster Bank, will provide businesses with the opportunity to tap into the Chamber network and to seek advice from experienced exporting professionals and leading local businesses. “NI Chamber is uniquely placed as it is also a member of the worldwide chamber network, and as a result we have access to contacts in countries all over the world who are able to assist companies make useful contacts in international markets.” Ellvena Graham, Head of Ulster Bank Northern Ireland & Managing Director SME Banking at Ulster Bank said: “The development of our exporters is going to play an important role in helping the Northern Ireland economy to grow and rebalance. Locally, there are a great deal of high-quality companies in the food and drink, engineering and technology sectors that can benefit from further international links, reaching out to fulfil global demand. “Through initiatives like this and by providing significant financial support through our £1bn available for business lending this year, Ulster
Bank is confident of playing a leading role in supporting local enterprise and entrepreneurship.” The service has already resulted in a number of business connections for companies across Northern Ireland during a six month pilot phase earlier this year. Belfast drinks company CocoMojo, a manufacturer of a new innovative fresh coconut lifestyle drink, used the service to seek advice on a product distribution strategy for Sweden, Finland and the United States. Tricia McNeilly, Founder and Director of Coco Mojo said: “NI Chamber Connections partnered with Ulster Bank is just what a company like mine needs. A warm introduction to someone that can provide genuine advice makes all the difference. NI Chamber has presented CocoMojo in a very positive light and has now paved the way for what could be a very constructive meeting which will help inform our distribution strategy.” For further information on NI Chamber Connections partnered with Ulster Bank visit www.northernirelandchamber.com/connections or contact Richard Willis / Martina Crawford by telephone on 028 90 244113 or email richard.willis@northernirelandchamber.com.
PAGE63_Layout 1 27/06/2014 16:36 Page 1
[FEATURE]
WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME? HOW NI CHAMBER HAS HELPED MY BUSINESS.….WITH DR PETER FITZGERALD, CBE FRENG, OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF RANDOX LABORATORIES.
DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? Randox Laboratories are the largest medical diagnostics company in the UK. We have expanded over three decades into one of the world’s leading developers and suppliers of diagnostic products and services for healthcare – manufacturing a wide range of reagents, controls, analysers and our revolutionary biochip array technology and exporting our products to over 145 countries worldwide. Randox manufactures (mostly in Co. Antrim) 3.2 billion diagnostic tests per year and approximately 4 per cent of the total usage of tests in the world. We have grown so rapidly over the past 30 years that we now also operate outside the clinical laboratory. In 2012 we set up Randox Health and have opened a series of clinics across Northern Ireland and in London, offering a new way for people to access the most advanced medical tests in the world without having to face GP waiting lists. Other recently created divisions include Randox Food Diagnostics, which aims to protect consumer safety in food, from antibiotics in Ukrainian honey to growth promoters in Brazilian beef; and Randox Toxicology, who are an integral part of the global effort against drugs by supplying cutting edge technology to police forces across the world. WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT? The biotechnology sector is very competitive across the world and companies are always trying to develop new technologies to stay ahead of the game. Randox reinvests around 20 per cent of our annual turnover back into R&D to stay ahead of the competitive curve. We spent two decades and £200m in developing our revolutionary Biochip Array Technology; a ‘lab-on-a-chip’ piece of technology which allows us to test for a number of different disease conditions and pathogens in one test from a single sample. We can currently test for 45 different biomarkers from one patient sample and hope to increase this further. Randox is the only company in the world to have developed this
technology, through our commitment to research and innovation. Our expertise has allowed us to expand the Randox customer reach further. Confidante – our at-home STI testing kit utilises our Biochip ArrayTechnology. This product provides users with a discreet, easy-to-use testing kit. The patient sample is then posted back to our laboratory and using our technology, we can
Other than the invaluable help provided with our export operations and logistics, NI Chamber also provide us with a fantastic support and advice network. We have used NI Chamber in the past to make new business connections, both in the UK and across the world, so its database is incredibly useful. Networking events have also helped Randox to grow its customer base, and to gather information on what is happening within the Northern Ireland economy. Several of my team have attended the various ‘Growing Something Brilliant’ conferences over the past year and have found them to be incredibly helpful in terms of building contacts and sharing business experiences. WHAT WOULD YOUR ADVICE BE TO OTHER CHAMBER MEMBERS TO HELP THEM GET THE MOST FROM THEIR MEMBERSHIP? If you are unsure of what NI Chamber can offer you – speak to the team. The Business Development Director, Oonagh O’Reilly and the rest of the team in membership and business services are always on hand for any queries we have ever had, and always encourage you to get involved in NI Chamber’s various campaigns. I would also strongly advise that you attend the organisation’s events and meet other members face-to-face – speak to other business representatives about their experiences with NI Chamber.
test the patient for 10 different STI’s, giving them a thorough overview of their sexual health in a few days. This product has proved to Randox that our technology appeals not only to lab managers and clinicians, but can have a more direct effect on the general public. HOW HAS NI CHAMBER HELPED RANDOX ACHIEVE ITS GOALS? Randox have been members of NI Chamber for quite some time now and have built a close working relationship in a number of areas.
HAS BEING A MEMBER OF NI CHAMBER HELPED THE COMPANY IN EXPORT MARKETS? NI Chamber provides our export team with invaluable help on an almost daily basis. A total of 95 per cent of all of Randox sales happen in our international markets, so NI Chamber provides us with helpful advice on how to export to these different countries – the border controls, or other potential issues that a business exporting from the UK might experience. Some members of my team have also attended NI Chamber’s training courses on export documentation which have been integral to our daily operation.
NI Chamber 63
PAGE64_Layout 1 27/06/2014 11:42 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] IAN RAINEY FORMER INTERNATIONAL BANKER
SINGAPORE – THE NEXT SWITZERLAND SINGAPORE’S RISE AS A GLOBAL CENTRE FOR MANAGING MONEY COULD SEE SWITZERLAND TOPPLED FROM THE TOP SPOT. IAN RAINEY LOOKS AT THE BACKGROUND TO THIS CHANGE.
P
rivate Banking or Wealth Management has always been about secrecy. High net worth customers must be assured of complete discretion and above all their privacy must be protected. Traditionally Switzerland has been the home for much of the world’s hot money. The Brookings Institution is, however, predicting that the old world’s wealth which was concentrated in Europe and America will over the next 20 years shrink from 50 per cent to 22 per cent. By 2030 it is predicted that Asia will host 64 per cent of the world’s middle class. Asia’s new rich are growing at a staggering pace spurred on mainly by the economic rise of China and by the knock-on effect throughout the region, creating a new rich middle class. This growth has had a dramatic impact on the banking sector in Asia generally but more particularly on private banking and wealth management. The greatest beneficiary of this dramatic growth has been Singapore and to a lesser extent Hong Kong. Singapore has enjoyed a long history of light-touch trade regulation as a major entrepot shipping centre 64 NI Chamber
in the busy trading lanes linking East and West. It has close ideological and cultural affinities to many Asian states and probably, most importantly, it has a reputation for respecting the rule of law more than any other jurisdiction in the region. For a long time it has jousted with Hong Kong for private banking leadership in the region but as Hong Kong has increasingly come under direct Chinese hegemony, it has become less attractive to China’s wealthy who want to be more at arm’s length from the eyes and ears of the Communist motherland. At the same time Singapore seems to have become the principal benefactor as Switzerland’s veil of secrecy has been pierced. In 2009 the US extracted a $780m fine and thousands of client names from UBS, Switzerland’s largest bank, for its role in helping Americans evade taxes. This probe was extended to include Credit Suisse and 13 other banks. As a result Credit Suisse was obliged to plead guilty to criminal felony last month in the US and pay a fine of $2.6bn, but escaped having to reveal the names of some
13,000 account holders. All of these probes have had a toxic effect on Switzerland’s fight to maintain leadership in private banking. That the Swiss Central Bank has this year opened a branch in Singapore further underscores the nation state’s recognition as a respectable place to do business. Add to this the fact that Singapore imposes no tax on capital gains and has a much more relaxed approach to laws surrounding family trusts, an important differentiator in Singapore’s armoury. Singapore is a city state of just 5.3 million people which became involuntarily independent in 1965 when it was expelled from the Malaysian Federation. Today it enjoys one of the highest GDP per capita in the world. Lie Hsien Loong is the third Prime Minister of Singapore and is the son of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first Prime Minister and founding father. In many ways the son mirrors the country’s strength. Educated in both Mandarin Chinese and English, like both his parents, he went to Cambridge University where in 1974 he earned a first class honours degree in Maths and a diploma in Computer Science. This was followed by a decade in Singapore’s military achieving the rank of Brigadier General. Today he is probably one of the few world leaders who is active on social media. Probably more important for the health of the nation, Mr Lee is in the rare position of being able to boast that his country is regarded as a trusted friend of both China and the United States, the only country in Asia which can make such a claim. On a more personal basis Mr Lee is Patron of the Singapore Kindness Movement, which campaigns for better behaviour. This includes keeping your hair properly cut and not pushing when getting on a bus or train. It could be said that the Singaporeans are not the most exciting people to go partying with but if you want an inscrutable professional to manage your money you couldn’t be in a better place. Some commentators are predicting that Singapore will surpass Switzerland as measured by funds under management by 2020. Deloitte estimates that 3 billion people in Asia will have joined the middle class by 2030 and by 2050 the region will account for more than half the world’s financial assets. Singapore’s only deficit is the shortage of qualified wealth managers currently living in what is the world’s most expensive city.
PAGE65_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:29 Page 1
[NEWS]
CHANCE FOR STEM STUDENTS TO GROW IDEAS BT has marked the launch of the 2015 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition by announcing an exciting new partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, that will see both organisations come together to foster greater engagement in STEM (science, technology,
engineering and maths) subjects across Northern Ireland. In addition to encouraging more schools to get involved in the exhibition, the partnership with Queen’s provides BT with a platform to bring its successful ‘BT Business Bootcamp’ to Northern Ireland for the first time. The BT Business Bootcamp was launched in 2010 in the Republic of Ireland as a way to help students bridge the gap between education and business. Each year, 30 students who participate in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, and demonstrate entrepreneurial flair and business acumen, are invited to attend this four day innovation and skills camp. With the help of established business leaders, the bootcamp inspires
Science boffins Emma Crothers and Kenneth Millar from Wellington College, Belfast put their creative ideas to the test with Peter Morris, Director of Corporate Services, BT Ireland to mark the launch of the 2015 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition.
creativity and innovative thinking, and gives students the practical skills and the know-how to take their commercially viable ideas to the next level. Peter Morris, Director of Corporate Services, BT Ireland said: "We hope that even more Northern Ireland schools will get involved this year to showcase the tremendous talent of our young people on both a national and international platform.” Professor Tom Millar, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Queen’s added: “Some 58 per cent of all new jobs are going to be STEM related in the years ahead, and so we are delighted to be part of an event which helps pupils develop the kind of STEM skills that will enable them to have a well-paid and satisfying career in the years to come, and which are key to meeting some of the biggest challenges we face as a society today.” The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, now in its 51st year, has attracted almost 70,000 students and received over 33,000 projects since its inception. The 2015 exhibition will take place in the RDS, Dublin from 7 – 10 January and the closing date for entries is 1 October 2014. •For more information on the exhibition and for details on how to enter, log onto www.btyoungscientist.com, follow the exhibition on Twitter @btyste or find it on Facebook www.facebook.com/BTYSTE
NORTHERN IRELAND TO TAKE THE LEAD WITH BROADBAND BT is on track to provide broadband to an extra 45,000 premises in rural areas across Northern Ireland by the end of 2015. The expansion of its broadband network is part of a £24.5m project. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) and Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) are providing £19.3m of funding to the project. Currently over 90 per cent of premises in Northern Ireland are connected to fibre broadband and in delivering the current project, BT will be offering improved broadband speeds to the additional premises in some of the Province’s most challenging and rural locations. Colm O'Neill, Chief Executive of BT Ireland, said: “The delivery of the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project, once complete, will again put Northern Ireland ahead of the rest of the UK, Ireland and most major European countries for availability of fibre broadband technology.
Colm O'Neill, Chief Executive of BT Ireland.
This could significantly benefit the region’s continued economic growth, but is dependent on the take up of the technology which I’m pleased to say is continuing to grow steadily, with over 175,000 customers now enjoying the many benefits of high speed internet access.” In the latest financial results of its allIreland operation for the year to 31 March
2014, the telecoms giant reported a 2 per cent rise in revenues to £661.6m, boosted by demand for its combined high speed fibre broadband and television services. Operating profit was down 5 per cent from the previous year as a result of once off costs associated with the provision of new managed services contracts and restructuring costs within the business.
NI Chamber l 65
PAGE66_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:32 Page 1
[FEATURE]
MY AMBITION IS TO… ONE OF THE LEADING FIGURES IN THE LOCAL AIRLINE SECTOR CONTINUES TO BALANCE THE CHALLENGES OF WORKING FOR A GLOBALLY BRANDED COMPANY WITH HER FAMILY COMMITMENTS. ANDREA HUNTER, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER WITH AER LINGUS TELLS US WHY HER AMBITION IS TO CONTINUE AIMING HIGH ON ALL HORIZONS.
N
o two days are ever the same in the fast moving airline industry environment. And for Andrea Hunter, that’s the attraction of being responsible for the development of business opportunities for a company with the worldwide stature of Aer Lingus. From the moment you first speak “IT’S IMPORTANT TO to her, it is impossible not to be RETAIN A SENSE OF infected by the positive outlook ADVENTURE, TO ALWAYS on life that the mother of 11 year old twins, Daniel and HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE Megan, continually projects. AND TO ACCEPT EVERY She is an individual that enjoys CHALLENGE HEAD ON.” being a people person. And the core values she brings to the business table were those variety of people and situations and solutions that were instilled in her by her mother, required for whatever problems that might Lynn. arise during every working day means that “Mum has a great motto – ‘If it is to be, it repetition is never part of my agenda.” is up to me.’ Travel, and all things associated with new “In a world of tweets and texting we places and environments, has always been a sometimes become overly engrossed and passion for Andrea. sidetracked in our busy lives. After leaving Saintfield High school at 16 “But we should never lose that ability to her first job was in the family owned have a good old fashioned face to face talk Globetrotter Travel agency. with friends and family. In between her nine to five daily work “It’s important to retain a sense of commitments, Andrea continued her studies adventure, to always have a positive attitude at the former Rupert Stanley College campus and to accept every challenge head on.” in Belfast. Throughout her working life Andrea has Her educational focus saw Andrea earn a been prepared to take on the challenges that range of travel and tourism related come with every new element of her qualifications, all of which were specifically employment sphere. directed at strengthening her grasp of the In her working day there are always going industry. to be stresses and strains in coping with the “I eventually left the company after 11 demands associated with the continued years during which time I had moved up the success of Aer Lingus within the Northern rungs of the ladder to become Manager of Ireland travel and business environment. Globetrotter Travel. “Of course there will always be pressures “Of course it was a wrench but at the in the type of job I do, but from my same time I just knew that it was the right perspective that is both normal and healthy time to move on.” in helping reach various targets. The right move at the right time for “Real stress, of the negative variety, occurs Andrea was to join the United States based when there is relentless repetition on a daily Worldspan organisation. basis. Thankfully in my line of business, the 66 NI Chamber
A specialist airline booking and reservation business built around a global distribution system, it allowed Andrea to take on the role of Account Manager with sales responsibility for Northern Ireland and the wider Republic of Ireland border region counties. “The eight years I spent with Worldspan provided a marvellous grounding in terms of working in a cross border context. It also gave me an important insight into the travel industry complexities in both jurisdictions.” The decision by the management of Worldspan to merge with a rival company however led to redundancies in the organisation. Unfortunately Andrea was one of those – but again, her outlook turned what was a negative into a positive. “It was the best thing that could have happened. Shortly after I left, Aer Lingus advertised for a Business Development Manager to be part of their new Northern Ireland base. “I was fortunate enough to get the post in 2008. To be part of the set-up from the start was fantastic. It allowed me to put my particular stamp on the role from the outset. “It is something that I am very proud to be part of as Aer Lingus continues to expand and evolve as an airline. “My ambition is simple. It is to keep doing my best in all circumstances.”
PAGE67_Layout 1 30/06/2014 17:04 Page 1
[GUEST COLUMNIST] ROGER GILPIN, MANAGING PARTNER AT GILPIN EXECUTIVE SEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
GETTING THE RIGHT TALENT ON BOARD THE DIVERSITY OF A BOARD IS CRUCIAL TO A COMPANY’S SUCCESS SAYS ROGER GILPIN,
W
e already know that better people make better businesses. But have you thought about why a good mix of these ‘better people’ could make your business even better? You will have heard the phrase, ‘variety is the spice of life’, and that’s just it – some things are better mixed. Think about it. You will have chosen to fill your iPod with a variety of artists and genres because it’s better that way. A sports manager will select a team with a variety of strengths and skills because their overall performance will be better that way. Well, the boardroom is no different. A diversity of sex, race, knowledge, religion, age and experience of the individuals sitting on a board will contribute to the overall success of the business. It is therefore essential that the correct ‘mix’ is achieved but this must be on merit and this is where the debate arises. Whether it’s increasing female representation by 35 per cent or lowering the average age of the Board by 15 years, I don’t believe that diversity targets can be forced, particularly in the private sector. Capability and appointment on merit is essential and you mustn’t compromise to achieve diversity targets. The under representation of women in the boardroom is a hot topic in Northern Ireland. To
increase female presence in the boardroom to rival countries like Asia will take time. I do believe we are, however, making headway. Janet McCollum, Chief Executive of Moy Park made history earlier this year by becoming the first female to hold the reins of Northern Ireland’s largest employer. She also sits on the board of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In a recent survey of executives only 21 per cent of the 400 interviewed agreed that quotas for a board should be introduced. Three-quarters of respondents believed more appointments of women to senior executive roles could be achieved without quotas. And I agree. The fact is that diversity will ensure issues are challenged from multiple angles. Ultimately, the same issues will be debated, but the solutions will be approached in a different way. With a diverse board comes greater experience, unique expertise, knowledge, and therefore broader visionary thinking. Many people assume diversity is required to be ‘fair’ but often overlook the competitive advantages. Whilst it can lead to improved reputation and brand, it can assist your business extend its appeal beyond the current customer base. Yes, the different opinions brought to the table may instigate some healthy debate but it will also force the board to look at areas that may have
been previously overlooked. Selecting the ‘norm’ for your board will not result in change. Appointing those with a similar background to yourself and who will agree with all of your decisions is the easy option, but is it best for the company’s future? Probably not. Diversity can bring independence of thinking and a challenge to the norm. Your customers and clients are diverse, and the decision makers of a business should reflect the world we live in and the community we serve. But when striving for diversity it is important to remember that people have to be selected for what they will bring to the board, not just because they are a female or of a certain background. Only the right mix of board talent will create more meaningful change, increased levels of innovation and profitability.
“A DIVERSITY OF SEX, RACE, KNOWLEDGE, RELIGION, AGE AND EXPERIENCE OF THE INDIVIDUALS SITTING ON A BOARD WILL CONTRIBUTE TO THE OVERALL SUCCESS OF THE BUSINESS.”
PAGE68_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:35 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] ANGELA MCGOWAN, CHIEF ECONOMIST AT DANSKE BANK
RISK OR OPPORTUNITY? THE RECOVERY OF EUROPE’S EMERGING MARKETS SEEMS TO BE UNDERWAY. ANGELA MCGOWAN LOOKS AT THE TRENDS ACROSS THE ECONOMIES.
D
espite the jitters over Emerging Markets (EM) in the past year, it’s not all bad news. While some of these economies do carry a fair degree of risk in terms of corporate governance and political unrest, they can also present significant opportunities. Currently there are very serious concerns about the situation in Ukraine and over the past month violence has escalated further. Nonetheless, it seems as though investors are now willing to believe in the EM recovery. Overall, many of these markets have continued to rebound over the past month. A likely driver of this rebound (other than attractive valuations) is an easing of political risks in a number of EM countries. Here are Danske Bank’s forecasts for some of Europe’s EMs:
Poland In Poland the latest GDP data shows that growth seems to be picking up slightly faster than previously expected. Danske Bank now expects real GDP growth of 2.9 per cent in 2014 and 3.3 per cent in 2015. However, the ongoing Ukrainian-Russian conflict could act as a drag on Polish growth going forward (although the effect has so far been very limited). With the unemployment rate in Poland expected to be 12.6 per cent this year, private consumption will probably stay subdued. Given the expected weakness in private demand, external balances should improve somewhat (and have been doing so recently). The Standard & Poor credit rating for Poland is currently A- (stable).
“OVERALL, MANY OF THESE MARKETS HAVE CONTINUED TO REBOUND OVER THE PAST MONTH. A LIKELY DRIVER OF THIS REBOUND (OTHER THAN ATTRACTIVE VALUATIONS) IS AN EASING OF POLITICAL RISKS IN A NUMBER OF EM COUNTRIES.”
Estonia
Lativa
Kazakhstan
Turkey
The Estonian economy slowed significantly in 2013 due to weak growth in Estonia’s main trading partners such as Finland. Although some pickup in Estonia is expected this year, the overall lack-lustre European growth will place downward pressure on this economy. We expect annual Estonian GDP growth to pick up moderately to 1.5 per cent in 2014 and further to 1.8 per cent in 2015. Private consumption is estimated at 2.2 per cent this year and the unemployment rate is forecast at 8.9 per cent. Estonia’s credit rating is currently AA- (stable). The country has been using the Euro since 2011.
Latvia joined the euro area on January I this year, although it has effectively been ‘shadowing’ European Central Bank (ECB) monetary policy for years as a consequence of the peg to the euro. The performance of the Latvian economy is now linked completely to that of the euro area. Inflation came down significantly in 2013 and we are likely to see outright deflation in Latvia during some of 2014. However, inflation should pick up slowly in coming years. Although the recovery in the Latvian economy continues, the Ukraine-Russia conflict is clearly a downside risk to this country’s growth. The current forecast is for growth of 3.7 per cent this year and 2.6 per cent next year. The credit rating is BBB+ with a stable outlook.
Kazakh annual economic growth accelerated to 6.0 per cent in Q4 2013 as agriculture, production of services, wholesale and retail trade grew robustly. However, in 2014 the weaker currency is expected to increase inflation to 8 per cent and thereby weaken private consumption. As a result, Danske Bank has reduced its forecast for annual growth in 2015 down to 5 per cent. Low unemployment prevailed throughout 2013 and is currently sitting at around 5.1 per cent (March data). The biggest risk for this country is its dependence on oil exports and the fact that it trades extensively with Russia. A slowdown of the Russian economy could weigh on Kazakh’s exports. Kazakhstan’s credit rating is BBB+ and the outlook is stable.
The Turkish economy has been showing clear signs of slowing over the past couple of years due to increased political risk, significant volatility and a sharp monetary tightening. That said, we are now beginning to see a bit of stabilisation in Turkish growth and expect the economy to grow by 2.3 per cent this year and 2.6 per cent in 2015. However inflation is anticipated to average 8.4 per cent this year as the devalued currency will push up import prices. High inflation and the large current account deficit continue to be a problem from a fundamental perspective. Turkish unemployment is still relatively high and is expected to average 9.8 per cent this year and 10.3 per cent in 2015. The S&P Credit rating is BB+ with a negative outlook.
Given the implications of the economic indicators in these countries, it is important that Northern Ireland exporters seek expert advice from their bank when considering exporting to these markets. 68 NI Chamber
PAGE69_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:38 Page 1
DORCAS CRAWFORD, SENIOR PARTNER, EDWARDS & CO SOLICITORS [COLUMNIST]
MEDIATE DON’T LITIGATE MEDIATION – IT’S A NO-BRAINER FOR SMES SAYS DORCAS CRAWFORD.
A
recent report in the media highlighted the fact that a 'spike' in commercial litigation in the UK, thought to be due to a surge in litigation emerging from recession claims, began 5 – 6 years ago. However, these proceedings are only now coming to court. In the same week another report was issued – private sector firms in Northern Ireland reported a marked acceleration in the rate of growth in both business activity and new orders in April. Indeed, April’s figures represented the fastest rate of expansion in both business activity and new orders since the survey began nearly 12 years ago. How much of this reported growth in income for SMEs in Northern Ireland will end up being allocated to the type of commercial litigation in the first report? How many of them will have to devote valuable resources including people, time, and money, towards dealing with that litigation? There are no clear statistics on this, but what we do know is that another recent report – the sixth mediation audit undertaken by the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) – estimated that mediation saves businesses around £2.4bn a year in wasted management time, damaged relationships, lost productivity and legal fees.
It’s not hard to see how these figures are calculated since cases can take 5 – 6 years to reach court. In Northern Ireland, our Commercial Court has made exemplary progress in speeding up the litigation process, but even then, cases can take years to get off the ground and into court. It’s not just the time; as the CEDR audit highlighted, it’s the collateral damage that drains businesses at a time when recovery is vital. Traditionally the winner in any litigation gets his costs paid, but even in this scenario, it only means the legal costs; it does not reimburse the business for the hours of work spent by personnel preparing witness statements, bundles of documents, meetings with lawyers, copies of correspondence....the list goes on. The reality is, crucially for businesses, that mediation is significantly cheaper than traditional court action. A commercial case
listed for two days in the High Court could easily be expected to cost £50,000 – £100,000, whereas mediating the same case will cost in the region of £5,000. In a recent commercial mediation in London, the parties estimated the total costs in running the case, including a ten day High Court trial, to be around £2.5m whilst the maximum value of the claim was £1.5m. Unsurprisingly, a day’s mediation and several follow-up meetings resolved the case. There’s more than just a financial advantage; in court, solutions can be quite binary. There is an opportunity in mediation to preserve business relationships and come up with creative options that the courts cannot propose because of their limited remit. Mediation is faster, cheaper and preserves business relationships – a ‘no brainer’.
“A COMMERCIAL CASE LISTED FOR TWO DAYS IN THE HIGH COURT COULD EASILY BE EXPECTED TO COST £50,000 – £100,000, WHEREAS MEDIATING THE SAME CASE WILL COST IN THE REGION OF £5,000.”
NI Chamber 69
PAGE70-73_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:41 Page 1
[FEATURE]
BRIGHT YOUNG BUSINESS BRAINS
N
orthern Ireland’s top young entrepreneurs were recognised at the Young Enterprise Northern Ireland Company of the Year Awards held at Belfast City Hall recently with support from Invest NI, Ulster Business School and EY. The students were the finalists in the Company and Team Programmes, part funded by the Department of Education, which provide the ultimate entrepreneurship experience for young people. Students from Christian Brothers Grammar School, Omagh were named as Company of the Year for 2014 at the prestigious awards ceremony. Their business, named ‘IlumiNight’, developed a range of highvisibility safety clothing and accessories designed to ensure people are seen in the dark. Such was their dedication to the project, the students even recruited PSNI Community Safety Officer Peter Thompson to assess the safety aspect of the products and advise the company on expanding its range. The business, which also scooped the ASDA Retail Excellence Award, will represent Northern Ireland in the Young Enterprise Innovation Awards in London in July. Awards were also presented to students with special educational needs who took part in the Team Programme. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award was presented to Mohammid Islam from Tor Bank School while the Company of the Year accolade was presented to ‘Foybels’, a company from the soon-to-be amalgamated Belmont House and Foyleview Special Schools in Londonderry. The Entrepreneur of the Future Award was presented to Mary Thompson from Lisneal College in Derry who was chosen by a panel of top business people for having shown great potential as a future leader. Young Enterprise is the leading charity for business education in Northern Ireland, offering young people the chance to start businesses alongside volunteer business mentors from the local business community. Young Enterprise NI Chief Executive Carol Fitzsimons said: “We are proud of our 2014 winners and all who have taken part in our programmes this year. These young people have worked with our volunteers to develop skills in creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship that they will take forward as they build their future careers. They demonstrate strongly how we can create an entrepreneurial culture, encouraging business start-up as a strong career option.”
70 NI Chamber
ENTERPRISING STUDENTS THE NEXT GENERATION OF YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS SHINE AT PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS.
Christian Brothers Grammar School student, Corey Duffy, Managing Director of IlumiNight is presented with the Young Enterprise NI Company of the Year Award by Rob Heron, Partner at EY, Carol Fitzsimons, Chief Executive at Young Enterprise NI, and Stephen Wightman, Invest NI.
Professor Marie McHugh, Dean of Ulster Business School said the partnership with Young Enterprise NI has been very productive. She said: “Working alongside Young Enterprise is an ideal way to prepare our young people for the world of business. The Ulster Business School is delighted to support the Company of the Year Awards and to help celebrate the many outstanding achievements of students on the Company and Team Programmes, inspiring them to create and run their own business. “By providing students with the opportunity to gain an early insight into business, we hope to influence their views in terms of employment opportunities and career prospects. Self-employment and
entrepreneurship are important components of economic growth and development in Northern Ireland, and the Company Programme is an ideal way to encourage and to foster the entrepreneurial flair of our young people. “The Company and Team Programmes complement the work that we do at the Ulster Business School, and gives students a flavour of the exciting programmes that we have on offer at what is a most innovative, dynamic and entrepreneurial business school.” Young Enterprise Northern Ireland is funded in part by the Department of Education and delivers programmes to around 100, 000 young people aged 4 – 25 each year.
PAGE70-73_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:41 Page 2
ALMAC IN DRIVE TO FILL NEW POSITIONS
A
lmac is creating up to 20 new posts at its headquarters in Craigavon, most of which will be high-value jobs and attractive to graduates. The pharmaceutical development company has launched a recruitment campaign, Challenge Yourself, with jobs available ranging from project co-ordinators and project managers to supply chain managers, project leaders and design managers. Most of the jobs will be based in Almac’s Clinical Business Units, but the company is keen to highlight that candidates do not need to have a scientific background to gain employment. Dr Kelly Neill, Almac’s Head of Project Services for the UK, said: “As a global company providing unique services, demand from clients all over the world continues to grow. “To service that need, we currently have some fantastic opportunities for candidates who are interested in being involved in
making a positive difference to human health. “Working in project management with Almac provides many opportunities for career advancement and those who secure jobs with us face the exciting challenge of working with a dynamic, innovative organisation which offers extremely competitive rewards and benefits. Kelly Neill, Almac’s Head of Project Services for the UK, Project “We are looking for ambitious Manager Catherine Crealey and Project Leader Ashley Wasson people with experience of launch the company’s recruitment campaign, Challenge Yourself. project management, not necessarily in a scientific area, past few years with staff retention rates but there are also vacancies for high calibre remaining high. graduates.” It now employs over 3,400 staff across its Almac provides an extensive range of operations in Craigavon, the US - in integrated services to over 600 companies globally within the pharmaceutical and biotech Pennsylvania, North Carolina and California and its recently opened hubs in Singapore and sectors including all the world leaders and the Japan. company has seen significant growth in the
ULSTER GRADUATES GO GLOBAL
M
artina Muldoon, a law graduate from the University of Ulster, has recently joined the Belfast office of leading global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills. This follows a successful six month graduate placement with the firm through the University's Professional Experience Programme. Ulster helps over 2000 students annually to secure work placements in Northern Ireland and beyond, develop industry relevant skills and boost their chances of employment after graduation. The placements, some of which are with international firms such as Disney, Deloitte, PwC, Bombardier and Herbert Smith Freehills, are a key factor in almost 90 percent of Ulster graduates securing jobs or further study opportunities within 6 months of graduation. The Professional Experience Programme consists of a six month internship with an employer in either the private or public sector alongside an academic qualification (the Postgraduate Certificate of Professional Practice). The Programme is highly competitive, with only 35 internships available across a number of disciplines. Throughout their six month internship, graduates work within a department of the organisation relating to their degree discipline. Students who have taken part in the internship have commented on the great opportunity it provides to experience a busy business environment and apply theory learnt within University in a practical way.
Pictured with Martina are University of Ulster Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Denise McAllister (left) and Professor Jeanne Keay, Pro Vice-Chancellor, University of the West of Scotland, who spoke at a recent Ulster graduate skills event which highlighted the University’s Professional Experience Programme.
NI Chamber 71
PAGE70-73_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:09 Page 3
[FEATURE]
CHARLES HURST PUTS STUDENTS’ SKILLS UNDER THE HAMMER A SAVVY GROUP OF BELFAST STUDENTS HAVE LANDED PAID SUMMER WORK PLACEMENTS WITH NORTHERN IRELAND’S LARGEST CAR RETAILER, CHARLES HURST, AFTER COMING OUT ON TOP IN AN APPRENTICE-STYLE COMPETITION WHICH TESTED THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL TALENT, WITS AND SKILL.
A
competition, which was organised in partnership with Business in the Community (BITC), has seen teams of students from four of Belfast’s biggest schools pitching their worth to Charles Hurst’s Operations Director – and judge – Colin McNab. As part of the exercise, each team was awarded £500 pounds to enhance the value of their chosen used car with a view to making a profit for their school once the vehicle sold at auction. The teams were given a real taste of this exciting and ever-changing business by going head-to-head in a live auction at Wilson’s Auctions, Mallusk, seeing Malone College, aided by their mentor Robert Currie, come out on top with a £220 profit on their Jeep Cherokee. However, in a big departure from the format used by the popular reality TV programme ‘The Apprentice’, where only one apprentice is hired – judge Colin McNab was so impressed with the talent on show that he decided to take on four students from the schools which took part – Sophie Henry from Hazelwood Integrated College, Cody
Kennedy from Malone College, Tom Donnelly from Belfast Royal Academy and Emine-Imo Ottong from Methodist College. The four students can now look forward to a once-in-a-lifetime placement opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge by working across a number of key divisions at Charles Hurst during their summer holidays and get paid for their efforts. Each team that took part in the challenge was provided with a designated mentor from Charles Hurst who both assisted and advised them in their task, while acting as the eyes and ears for the judging panel and reporting back to Colin McNab on their individual and team performances. Charles Hurst Group Operations Director Colin McNab said: “We’re always up for a challenge at Charles Hurst and through this important community initiative, we had the great pleasure to work with a remarkable group of individuals who went to great lengths to show off their individual skills and tenacity while working as part of a team. As Northern Ireland’s largest car retailer, we know that our most important
asset is our staff and we’re really excited to see that the next generation of school-leavers are prepped and ready to go. “Everyone who took part deserves great credit for putting so much into the process. We’re delighted with the result and we look forward to welcoming our four new ‘apprentices’ on board.” Charles Hurst delivered the competition in partnership with Business In The Community, a membership organisation which supports companies that are committed to doing business responsibly and working together on issues where they can make a real difference. Business in the Community Business Development Executive Andrew Wallace said the competition not only tested every students’ skills and abilities but was also a great motivator as these young people started to consider their future careers and aspirations. He said: “This competition has been a tremendous success and we’re thrilled that not just one – but four – of the students who took part were recognised for the role they played. A paid apprenticeship at Charles Hurst is a real reward for their efforts and will provide these individuals with yet another great opportunity to extend their skills and experience and add to their eagerness to succeed. “Business in the Community is thrilled to have been directly involved in this worthwhile initiative and we would encourage other companies to think about creative ways to engage and support the future workforce and inspire young people about the career options open to them”.
Sophie Henry (Hazelwood College), Cody Kennedy (Malone College), Andrew Wallace (BITC), Colin McNab (Charles Hurst), Emine-Imo Ottong (Methodist College), and Tom Donnelly (Belfast Royal College) get into gear as the students look forward to working across a number of divisions at Charles Hurst during their summer holidays – and getting paid in the process.
72 NI Chamber
PAGE70-73_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:41 Page 4
RYOBI ENGINEER WINS TOP AWARD
Gareth Harkness with his award alongside Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry and television presenter Claire McCollum.
A TALENTED APPRENTICE ENGINEER HAS SCOOPED A PRESTIGIOUS AWARD IN RECOGNITION OF THE EXCELLENCE OF HIS WORK.
G
areth Harkness (19), who is completing his apprenticeship in Engineering at Northern Regional College, Ballymena, was named Apprentice of the Year 2014 at an awards ceremony organised by the Department for Employment and Learning, which was held in Hillsborough Castle and was hosted by television presenter Claire McCollum. Gareth is employed by Ryobi Aluminium Castings in Carrickfergus, who produce car engine castings that are distributed worldwide. Congratulating the winners, Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Stephen Farry said: “Gareth is an excellent example of how an apprentice can form an integral part of a company. “Apprenticeships are an efficient and effective means for matching supply and demand in an economy: this is why delivering a world class system through my Department’s current review of apprenticeships is essential. I am proposing
that, for the first time in Northern Ireland, a central service will be introduced to promote and support apprenticeship provision, including assisting both employers and potential apprentices to make informed decisions about their participation including improved careers advice. “As part of my review, I am also proposing that Apprenticeships will extend from Levels 3 through to Level 8 (PhD equivalent). This expansion into higher level apprenticeships will offer opportunities to expand the system into new occupational areas, including the professions and also into the public sector.” Barry Ferris, Ryobi Aluminium Castings, said: “Gareth is rated highly amongst management and staff and is meticulous about his work. He has shown great ability, and his first project led to significant savings for the company. Since this he has become involved in higher level products, coming up with innovative ideas and solutions. His strengths reside in his ability to identify faults
and if necessary redesign products, reducing downtime whilst maintaining a close eye on quality. Without doubt Gareth’s work is way beyond the remit of an apprentice and is certainly on par with experienced engineers. His future with Ryobi is very promising and his contribution greatly appreciated.” All apprentices throughout Northern Ireland follow a training framework developed with the relevant industry sector which includes attainment of a Vocational Qualification, a technical certificate and, if necessary, specified essential skills. The Apprentice of the Year competition is open to those currently on the Department for Employment and Learning’s ApprenticeshipsNI programme and showcases excellence in apprenticeship training. The other award up for grabs on the day, the Innovation in Partnership Award, was won by Terex Powerscreen, Dungannon, and South West College, Dungannon.
NI Chamber 73
PAGE74_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:43 Page 1
[FEATURE]
MUMS WITH POWER GILLIAN SKELTON IS GENERAL MANAGER WITH GLOBAL TALENT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LEE HECHT HARRISON IN NORTHERN IRELAND. SHE IS MARRIED TO ALLEN AND IS MUM TO 3 BOYS – JAMES (10), MAX (8) AND DAVID (10 MONTHS).
DESCRIBE YOUR JOB Lee Hecht Harrison is the global leader in talent mobility and career development solutions. We help organisations deliver on their business goals by getting the right people in the right roles, enabling people to achieve their own personal career goals. Our expertise lies in managing the talent lifecycle, whether it’s developing people to deliver on clients’ business priorities, helping people to deal with change effectively, or providing them with the right skills to succeed as they leave a client company. My role is to co-ordinate the operation in Northern Ireland and manage client projects on Employee Engagement, Change Management, Leadership Development and Career Transitions. However, my areas of expertise are Career Transitions and Employee Engagement, so on any typical working day I will also be delivering consultancy on a one-to-one basis or to groups via workshops. This consultancy and workshops can include help with completing job applications, developing CVs or interview preparation for people leaving a client company through redundancy. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE DAY? First thing in the morning, before the weather seems to have decided what it wants to do for the day, the sky always seems bright and clear, the birds are singing and there is a real sense of 74 NI Chamber
calm. It lasts for about 15 minutes, until everybody else wakes up.... WHAT DO YOU DO TO ENSURE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE? I make sure I bring the boys to school and pick them up as much as I can. This gives us a chance to catch up with no distractions and chat about our day. It also allows me to plan ahead and determine how much time is needed that evening for homework. The brighter evenings in Summer mean there’s more time to do things together as a family after school and work. We live by the coast and love to get on our bikes and cycle into Bangor for an ice-cream or games in the park. I think flexibility is critical to achieving a rewarding work/life balance. Whilst I will work whatever hours necessary to get the job done, I know that if I need some extra time for sorting out the boys the flexibility is there. HOW HAS HAVING CHILDREN IMPACTED YOUR PERSONAL AND WORKING LIFE? I think in order to maintain the same productivity levels you have to be much more organised. Time is precious and the emphasis of both my job and home life becomes more about quality rather than quantity. We always make sure that we have time together during the week, which normally involves a game of competitive tennis doubles (and one keen spectator in his pram!). Every once in a while,
we will arrange for the children to be looked after so we can enjoy a nice, relaxing meal in some of our favourite restaurants. ARE WORKING MUMS IN GREATER NEED OF STATE SUPPORT THAN STAYAT-HOME MUMS? I think it is really important that all women caring for a child/children have the option to go to work or to stay at home with the kids. Childcare is very expensive and unaffordable for some which can take that choice away. There are lots of factors affecting the affordability of family life such as wages, debt, cost of living and house prices. Support is therefore needed for all families and ways to meet their needs should be considered. For example, I think there could be more emphasis placed on support for family based care and more support for families in which one parent is seeking work because of redundancy or is studying to enhance their existing skills or employability. DO YOU THINK YOU WILL ALWAYS REMAIN IN EMPLOYMENT? Yes. I enjoy working and I love my job. Demographic trends are bringing us to a unique place and time where we are seeing no fewer than four generations coming together in the workplace. From Baby Boomers to Generation Y, each one has an attitude and style which is creating a challenging and exciting environment for people to work in.
PAGE75_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:04 Page 1
[AMBITION PROMOTION]
Sky High Talent PUPILS FROM TWO OF GEORGE BEST BELFAST CITY AIRPORT’S ADOPTED SCHOOLS HAVE HAD THEIR WORK DISPLAYED IN THE ULSTER MUSEUM’S INTERACTIVE DISCOVER ART ZONE THANKS TO FUNDING FROM THE AIRPORT’S COMMUNITY FUND. The creative ‘Porcelain Envelope’ project gave seventy-two P7 pupils from St. Joseph’s Primary School and Victoria Park Primary School in Belfast the opportunity to work with local artist, Lynda B, to make their own individual envelope from unglazed porcelain based on a historical collection of airmailed letters from the 1940s and 1950s whilst exploring the history of their schools and communities. Michelle Hatfield, Director of Corporate Responsibility at Belfast City Airport, said: “One of the aims of our Community Fund is to provide unique opportunities and valuable experiences to young people in our neighbouring area, which is why we were so keen to sponsor this wonderful initiative that has not only given the pupils the opportunity to work with an esteemed professional artist, but also the privilege of having their work displayed in the Ulster Museum.” After learning the techniques required for porcelain art from Lynda B, the pupils embarked on an extensive research project reviewing old school registers and addressing their porcelain envelopes based on their findings. St. Joseph’s Primary School chose to address their letters to a variety of famous people. For more information on how your school, group or project can apply to the Belfast City Airport Community Fund, please contact: communityfund@belfastcityairport.com
for Business
Find us on
FREE Wi-Fi
@belfastcity_air
NI Chamber 75
PAGE76-77_Layout 1 27/06/2014 17:10 Page 1
[FEATURE]
BANKING ON RECOVERY AND GROWTH THE NEW PRESIDENT OF NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY KEVIN KINGSTON TALKS TO ADRIENNE MCGILL ABOUT HIS PLANS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD, HOW HE ALMOST PURSUED A CAREER IN MEDICINE AND…..HIS LOVE OF A CERTAIN TYPE OF ICE CREAM.
K
evin Kingston could have become a doctor rather than an accountant had he accepted the offer to study medicine at University. But he opted for a degree in accountancy at University College Dublin (UCD) and so were the beginnings of a career which would see him become one of the most highly regarded and best known business figures in Northern Ireland. “At the time it was a difficult choice,” says Kevin. “I was accepted for both medicine and accountancy so I had to make a decision on which career I wanted to pursue. Although I was keen to study medicine, I always loved numbers – they fascinate me and so lured by that, I decided to become an accountant rather than a doctor.” Kevin, who is the Deputy Chief Executive and Managing Director of Business Banking at Danske Bank, was recently elected as the 164th President of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber). A leading banker with over 20 years’ experience, Kevin brings to the Presidency a deep understanding of the challenges which businesses in Northern Ireland are facing. Prior to joining Danske Bank, he held a number of senior roles within Ulster Bank including Director of Corporate Banking and Head of Business Centres in Northern Ireland. Kevin grew up and went to school in Belfast and in Dublin, followed by studies at UCD before relocating to Belfast to live. He started his career with KPMG, where he gained first-hand experience in learning how corporate clients operated in order to appreciate the finances around them. “I’ve always had an interest in business. There is nothing I like better than escaping from my office for a few hours to visit a company, see what’s happening and hear about products or new innovations. “From a banking perspective, it is important to have a deep understanding of our customers and their business in order to appreciate the challenges and issues that they face.” He talks animatedly about some of the great local businesses in Northern Ireland and singles out award winning Maud’s ice cream in Carrickfergus where – let’s just say – he likes to contribute to product development. 76 NI Chamber
PAGE76-77_Layout 1 30/06/2014 09:18 Page 2
The company was established in 1982 and firms’ ability to grow. It is an issue which an opportunity for people to meet, to discuss its ice cream is sold in hundreds of outlets must be addressed.” issues, to look for new opportunities and to across Ireland (and even in a little town in NI Chamber is to the fore in highlighting share challenges has been critical.” Spain). the need to increase the level of exports and Kevin’s predecessor, Mark Nodder, Chief “This is just an amazing business and such the number of local exporters. The Executive of Ballymena based bus a success story. It is a terrific example of a organisation has urged the Government to manufacturer Wrightbus, was the architect of small firm which has grown substantially and take immediate action and draw up a the Growing Something Brilliant campaign developed its product. I love visiting the comprehensive plan in collaboration with the launched last year with the aim of increasing company and seeing what new flavours they private sector to address the issue. business confidence and inspiring more are creating.” Against this background, NI Chamber has businesses to grow through innovation, Maud’s have made in excess of 350 developed an extensive range of programmes leadership and export. flavours – but Kevin insists that he hasn’t to assist companies to explore new markets Paying tribute to him, Kevin says: tasted them all – yet. or expand their existing foothold. “Mark’s leadership of NI Chamber over the Turning to his dual role as Deputy Chief at These include Connecting for Growth, past two years has been inspiring. The Danske Bank and President of NI Chamber, launched in partnership with Bank of Ireland experience and insights that he brought as the Kevin says: UK, which is a cross border trade initiative driving force behind Wrightbus, which is one “I see my role in Danske Bank as serving designed to help increase business between of our most export-focused businesses in the business community – that is our focus firms in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Northern Ireland, meant that he was able to and exactly the same thing applies to my role Ireland. speak with real authority on behalf of the in the Chamber – it is about serving our Meanwhile NI Chamber Connections, Chamber – people listened when he spoke.” members.” powered by Ulster Bank, links individual Kevin Kingston says he is not only looking The two words which he says will forward to his year as encapsulate the year ahead as he President of NI Chamber but leads NI Chamber are challenge to the year for all of and service. Northern Ireland, as firms “THERE IS NOTHING I LIKE “The challenge is making capitalise on a healthier sure that NI Chamber is as economic outlook. BETTER THAN ESCAPING good as we can possibly be “I think it is going to be a FROM MY OFFICE FOR A FEW so that we can deliver the big year. We are seeing highest quality service that tangible evidence of the HOURS TO VISIT A COMPANY, we can to members. economic recovery, with SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING AND “While we have moved Danske Bank forecasting away from the recession growth of 2.4 per cent this HEAR ABOUT PRODUCTS OR mentality – the agenda now year. That is almost back to NEW INNOVATIONS.” relates to more healthy pre-recession levels. challenges – if that doesn’t “The challenge for us as sound too contradictory. members of the business community “It is about is how are we going to respond to that? It competitiveness, innovation, entry into new businesses with experienced exporters or brings us to ask the question – have we got markets and growth. Those are all the good international chambers for one to one advice. the ambition to really get back to business? topics which we should be focused on as Then there is Export First in partnership “For the bigger businesses in the corporate opposed to the negative areas which we with Danske Bank, which seeks to inspire market, we are seeing much more activity have had to debate during the recession.” firms by having existing exporters share how and natural growth which is great to see. The The NI Chamber President has a number they got into selling overseas. confidence is there and that is reflected in of key priorities which he wants to focus on “The Department of Enterprise Trade and borrowing activity. during his year in office – including exports – Investment is due to deliver an export action “When it comes to medium sized in terms of growing new markets and plan and over the next few months NI businesses – we are not quite there yet – exploring opportunities, the costs of doing Chamber will be feeding into that review to there are early signs of recovery but we are business, energy costs and Corporation Tax. help inform the work”, says Kevin. probably 6 months or so behind where A further priority will be broadening the “It means that if a local business is looking corporates are sitting. range of business finance options. Earlier this to grow and explore markets outside “And with regard to small businesses, I year he stirred the debate by calling for the Northern Ireland – they will be given would say we are slightly further behind again creation of a new mezzanine fund to tackle direction on how to do that. and there are still some challenges to the issue of legacy property debt, which he “A key role for NI Chamber is to help overcome. says is holding back the growth of some companies on their export journey through “Large businesses see the opportunities first good local trading businesses. making connections with UKTI, Chamber and that confidence needs to filter down the “I think there is a need to advance the offices overseas and signposting them to network of businesses across Northern whole agenda around access to finance existing support initiatives. It is about helping Ireland. across the entire range of business finance. businesses identify the opportunities and “I am coming into NI Chamber as “The creation of a new mezzanine loan develop relationships in overseas markets.” President at a great time. The economy is on fund would support business growth by In business, networking is one of the best the up and we cannot afford to miss the freeing up trading cashflow that is currently ways to grow and make contacts and it is an opportunity that this brings. It is hugely being channeled into servicing property area in which NI Chamber reigns supreme. important that Northern Ireland does not get debt. “One of the reasons is the hunger for left behind the rest of the UK in terms of “Legacy property debt has been identified networking,” says Kevin. growth - and NI Chamber is here to ensure again and again as one of the major “ We are the best networking organisation that doesn’t happen.” challenges to economic growth in Northern in Northern Ireland and in a period like we Ireland, placing significant constraints on have been through with the recession, having
NI Chamber 77
PAGE78_Layout 1 30/06/2014 16:10 Page 1
[FEATURE]
NEW NAMES ON NI CHAMBER’S COUNCIL NI CHAMBER’S RECENT ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) NOT ONLY SAW THE ELECTION OF KEVIN KINGSTON, DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS BANKING AT DANSKE BANK, AS THE PRESIDENT OF NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (NI CHAMBER) BUT ALSO THE ELECTION OF STEPHEN MCCULLY, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT POWER NI, AS VICE-PRESIDENT.
A
total of 7 new members who were reviewed and approved by the Board in line with vacancies and expertise, were selected to sit on NI Chamber’s Council.
They are: PATRICK HURST, Whale (Munster Simms Engineering) Patrick, who also sits on the Board of NI Chamber, is Managing Director of Munster Simms Engineering. Previously, he worked for the Wright Group starting in May 2000. In 2006 Patrick re-joined Munster Simms Engineering as Managing Director of the company where he initially started his business career in 1989 and in 2008, along with his two fellow directors, completed an MBO/MBI of the firm. In 2012 Patrick was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for his services to the Northern Ireland Business community. DAVID MCCARTNEY, Bullivant Taranto David is the GB and Ireland Sales Manager for Bullivant Taranto whose main responsibility is managing the sales team to ensure the company achieves the budgeted sales targets throughout the UK and Irish markets. Bullivant Taranto is a precast concrete piling foundation company who specialise in complete piled foundation systems. David is a graduate in civil engineering from the University of Ulster, Jordanstown. RICK BUTTERWORTH, Diamond Recruitment With almost 30 years’ experience working in the logistics, outsourcing, recruitment and business support services sectors in GB, ROI and Northern Ireland, Rick Butterworth was appointed Managing Director of Diamond Recruitment Group in 2011. Prior to this he headed up the DMG Group (Kefron), Carlisle Staffing Services Ireland (now Impellam Group) and Exel Logistics Retail Ireland (now DHL Supply Chain). This year Diamond Recruitment Group, which is the largest recruitment agency in Northern Ireland, is celebrating its 25th birthday.
78 NI Chamber
MICHAEL MCKEOWN, Crash Services Michael McKeown is Founder and Managing Director of CRASH, an independent Accident Management company based in Newry which was established in 1996. He was also the former founder of Expert Information Systems Holdings. Prior to this he worked for over 20 years at the leading edge of the Insurance industry. ALAN LOWRY, Environmental Street Furniture Alan trained as an electrician and lighting engineer. He worked as Group General Manager of ‘Walter Allen Limited’, an electrical and lighting specialist, and oversaw four years of exceptional growth in sales. In 2005 Alan was appointed to the position of Business Development Director. Offices were opened in Dubai, Qatar, Perth and Brisbane, as well as the USA. In 2012 Alan purchased Environmental Street Furniture where he holds the position of Managing Director. IAN HENRY, Henry Brothers Ian Henry is a Senior Director in the construction firm Henry Brothers in Magherafelt and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building. He is Managing Director of Windell and RollFormed Fabrications and is CSR Director for the Henry Group. Ian is the past president of Magherafelt Chamber of Commerce and of the Northern Ireland Demolition Association (NIDA). JENNY IRWIN, RSM McClure Watters Jenny Irwin is Managing Director of RSM McClure Watters Consulting, a research and consulting firm which is part of the RSM McClure Watters group of companies. Her work involves economic and social research, policy and programme evaluation and organisation development across the UK and Ireland. The firm has offices in Belfast and Cambridge. Prior to RSM, she was head of NI Consulting for KPMG. She moved to consulting after working in both the public and private sectors including LEDU and Bombardier.
PAGE79-81_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:46 Page 1
[FEATURE]
INNOVATE AND INTERNATIONALISE INNOVATE OR DIE AND INTERNATIONALISE OR STAGNATE. THAT WAS THE MESSAGE FROM TWO LEADING BUSINESS FIGURES WHO ADDRESSED NI CHAMBER’S LATEST GROWING SOMETHING BRILLIANT CONFERENCE. ADRIENNE MCGILL DETAILS WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY.
N
I Chamber yet again “NORTHERN IRELAND HAS has taken the lead in spearheading A GREAT HISTORY AND business growth in Northern CULTURE OF INNOVATION Ireland with its second – AND THAT HAS TO Growing Something Brilliant conference. CONTINUE AND GROW.” The event at Titanic Belfast attended by around 200 members of the business community, formed part of NI Chamber’s Growing Something Brilliant campaign which was launched last year with the aim of increasing business confidence and inspiring more businesses to grow through innovation, leadership and export. The conference, held in partnership with SSE Airtricity and supporting sponsors Pinsent Masons and First Trust Bank, also provided a platform for firms to make their opinions known to key More than 200 delegates attended decision makers. NI Chamber’s Growing Something Opening the conference Brilliant conference at Titanic Belfast. shortly before he stepped down from the post of NI Chamber President, Mark and turning them into economic wealth. Randox Laboratories and cutting edge Nodder said the event was a means of “The Technology Strategy Board’s vision is systems designed at Queen’s University, highlighting the need for improvement if to see the UK as a global leader in innovation Belfast in the area of cyber security. Northern Ireland businesses were to grow and a magnet for technology-intensive “There are companies in Northern Ireland and thrive. companies, where new technology is applied with world leading capabilities and there are “Relatively few businesses export, rapidly and effectively to create wealth.” things that the rest of the UK should be management skills must become more TSB is a government funded body which looking in on,” said Mr Gray. strategic, and a faster rate of innovation is was formed in 2004 and to date has “Northern Ireland is punching above its necessary to drive up productivity, exports administered a portfolio of research and weight in the innovation agenda. and international competitiveness.” development projects worth over £1bn “The other side of the coin is that there are Guest speakers included Iain Gray, former (combined Government and Private some great opportunities to do more. General Manager of Airbus UK, who is now investment) across a wide range of industrial Northern Ireland has a great history and Chief Executive of the Technology Strategy sectors. culture of innovation – and that has to Board (TSB) which is the UK’s innovation “Northern Ireland has been a key part of continue and grow.” agency and Sean O’Driscoll, Chairman and our agenda since I took up my role 7 years More than half of the companies the TSB Chief Executive of Glen Dimplex. ago. There are centres of expertise around works with are SMEs who can avail of a wide Mt Gray stressed the importance of specific areas such as life sciences, IT, range of support including accessing finance, accelerating economic growth by stimulating telecoms, cyber security, food and sourcing knowledge and skills, finding lead and supporting business-led innovation while manufacturing and there are some great partners and customers, and thriving in Sean O’Driscoll, shared the growth story of examples of really innovative firms here.” clusters. Glen Dimplex and how a focus on He pointed to the aerospace sector and Often, collaborative research and internationalisation was central to its success. the composites development that development projects co-funded by the TSB, “It’s innovate or die,” Iain Gray told Bombardier is leading, the low carbon hybrid up to the value of £2m, involve larger delegates. technologies that Wrightbus has developed, companies teaming up with smaller partners “Innovation is about generating new ideas the life-saving diagnostic devices perfected at and universities. NI Chamber 79
PAGE79-81_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:46 Page 2
[FEATURE]
Glen Dimplex Chief Executive, Sean O’Driscoll.
My Gray also highlighted the benefits of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) which allow businesses to link up with the academic community in order to turn university research into commercial ventures. The TSB has already engaged with Queen’s University and the University of Ulster in this area. With an annual funding pot of £500m, TSB offers financial aid to businesses through a suite of funding competitions. For instance, the Smart programme offers funding ranging from £25,000 to £250,000. One of those to benefit is Randox Laboratories, which was awarded £100,000 to fund life-saving research into kidney transplant care. The Crumlin based medical testing firm was awarded the bursary after winning a national competition funded by the Department of Health through the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) which is part of TSB. Other companies to benefit from TSB funding include Toomebridge based precast concrete specialist Macrete and plastics drainage systems provider Cherry Pipes in Dungannon. Mr Gray urged companies who are keen to innovate and grow to seek funding from TSB. “Innovation is hard – it can take years, it involves people working together, developing science and technology. It is about securing funding, developing plans and identifying the applications of a product.” In a wide ranging speech, Sean O’Driscoll, the Glen Dimplex chief, shared the story of how a small electrical heating firm established in 1973 in Newry has grown to become the largest in its sector in the world. The company started out in business as Glen Electric when economic conditions could not have been worse. In the UK, inflation was running at 26 per cent and in 1974 Britain had to go on a three-day week because of power shortages. However, conditions and opportunities improved . With the acquisition of Dimplex in 1977, a company eight times Glen Electric s size, and a brand leader in electric heating, 80 NI Chamber
we were going to grow the business internationally.” The path to growth was clearly established when the Group acquired Morphy Richards in 1985. “We set about internationalising the business. The break came for us in 1990 when we were approached by Siemans who wanted to buy our Dimplex heating business but the roles reversed and we acquired all of Siemans electric heating business worldwide. “We have continued relentlessly to “AN OPTIMIST IN A SEA internationalise our business over OF PESSIMISTS IS AN the last number of ENTREPRENEUR…THAT decades. the ambition of IS HOW GLEN DIMPLEX “Today we the young Glen have 26 business SURVIVED AND GOT Dimplex business businesses across WHERE IT IS TODAY.” was confirmed. the world including “An optimist in in New Zealand, a sea of Australia, Malaysia, the pessimists is an entrepreneur…that is how Far East, the Middle East, Europe, Russia, Glen Dimplex survived and got where it is Canada, the US and the UK. today. In the first year in business, we had a “Internationalisation is a fundamental part turnover of £1m and broke even. Three of what we are about.. Businesses should years later, we had doubled in size and our not be afraid to grow overseas. We set out turnover was £2m,” said Mr O’Driscoll. to build a business in Japan 12 years ago and Today the Glen Dimplex Group, which has for the first 2 years we didn’t get an order. an annual turnover of €1.5bn and 8,500 Today we are the largest Irish company employees, is the undisputed world leader in operating in Japan.” electric heating and renewable energy However, the company is very much solutions, as well as holding significant global dedicated to its facilities in Ireland with market positions in domestic appliances, operations in Newry, Portadown and cooling and ventilation. Dunleer, Co. Louth representing an From manufacturing facilities around the investment by the firm of EURO 40m in globe the, company serves the domestic and recent years. commercial building markets worldwide, with “At the end of the day – business is meant an unrivalled range of low-carbon solutions to be simple. You go into business to for space and water heating. generate a profit in order to make cash. It is Mr O’ Driscoll said: “Initially the company as simple as that. It is people who make was exclusively in the electrical heating business complex. business and 95 per cent of its sales were in “Our constant thrust is looking is forward. the UK. It was important therefore to focus The future is full of opportunities. You just on the diversification of products and how have to seize them when they come along.” Technology Strategy Board Chief Executive, Iain Gray.
PAGE79-81_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:47 Page 3
PICTURES ON THE DAY AS DELEGATES NETWORKED Lorna Manley (Marsh), Suzy McIlveen (Marie Curie) and Andrew Galway (Marsh).
Niall Harkin (Danske Bank) with Daniel McIlroy (RTU).
Andrew Nethercott (Moy Park) and Tony Hawkins (Staffline Group).
Kevin Kingston (NI Chamber), Rick Butterworth (Diamond Recruitment) and Gareth McWilliams (BT). Laura Irwin (Semetrix) and Pauline Thompson (Semetrix).
Karen Yates (Zing Digital). Edel McCooe, Aisling Press and Michelle HarbInson (First Trust). Anne Marie McGoldrick (MCG Services).
Helen O’Connor (CMASS).
Dr Alan McKittrick (Ulster Business School).
John Toner (Williams Industrial Services).
NI Chamber 81
PAGE82_Layout 1 27/06/2014 15:03 Page 1
FIRMS TO SHOWCASE AT ULSTER BANK BUSINESS ACHIEVERS AWARDS BY ELLVENA GRAHAM, HEAD OF ULSTER BANK NORTHERN IRELAND AND MANAGING DIRECTOR SME BANKING.
Recent indications from surveys such as Ulster Bank’s PMI report suggest that the economic recovery in Northern Ireland is maintaining its pace. For those who have spent many years carving out new business leads in the face of economic downturn, this is an exciting point: it offers new opportunities and the chance to reflect on what has been achieved, even when the road has been bumpy. Initiatives such as the Ulster Bank Business Achiever’s Awards are an excellent opportunity for SMEs to secure recognition for their hard work, but also to showcase themselves to potential customers. These awards are a strong example of Ulster Bank’s support for local enterprise, recognising businesses as the drivers of economic growth. Alongside our ambition to lend £1bn in 2014 and our dedicated support
and propositions for sectors such as start-ups, they demonstrate our commitment to helping businesses grow across Northern Ireland. Local companies looking for more information on the awards, or indeed for ways to help improve their business, can visit SmallBusinessCan.com. It is a portal that we work closely with to provide advice and encouragement on how to evolve and generate sustainable success. Whilst winning such an award is of course one potential outcome, the act of taking a step back from your business – to assess the successes and look for opportunities – can also provide a new perspective that has a positive impact on your bottom line. The benefits gained via the new connections that can be made through the networks created by becoming involved in Business Achievers
or Small Business Can, as with your local chamber or local enterprise agencies, can be invaluable. We are proud to promote the shortlisted companies as beacons of best practice for other businesses across Ireland. The success of many Northern Ireland businesses in the creative and technology sector indicates that small can be beautiful when it comes to creating innovative new business opportunities. I know that over the months ahead our judging panels of industry experts and successful entrepreneurs are looking forward to seeing the pioneering thinking deployed by our business leaders. Those interested in entering the Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards can do so at businessachieversaward.com. Entries close on the 26 September 2014. Terms and conditions apply.
[AMBITION PROMOTION]
Reduce Your Fleet Costs
Know your current costs Be aware of exactly what each vehicle costs, monthly, annually and over its life. Agnew Corporate can provide their customers with Agnew Fleet Manager, an online application to assist with this process. Is ‘free’ fuel right for you and your drivers? Agnew Corporate have found that once analysed in more detail, there are often savings to be made by removing ‘free’ fuel for both driver and company. They use the Deloitte Fleet Choice application to ensure the true costs of fuel provision are understood.
Agnew Corporate understand the importance of vehicle costs and the impact on their customers’ profitability and bottom line. Over the years they now understand how best to address the issues that may well lead to savings in this key area of the business. Here are a few areas to consider:
Are you using the right funding method? While some businesses chose to continue to fund their Fleet as they always have done, Agnew Corporate have found their customers benefit from accurate up to date analysis to ensure their chosen method gives best value. Agnew Corporate use the Deloitte Fleet Choice software to ensure accurate results. Please contact David McEwen, Business Development Manager at Agnew Corporate for a free comprehensive fleet review. 028 9038 6600 or david.mcewen@agnews.co.uk
PAGE83_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:22 Page 1
[AMBITION PROMOTION]
SUPER CONNECTED BELFAST As part of the Super Connected Belfast Programme, Belfast City Council is providing businesses with grants of up to £3,000 to cover the installation cost of a high-speed broadband connection. The Belfast Connection Vouchers Scheme enables businesses to boost their connectivity and take advantage of the benefits of doing business online, such as opportunities for growth, greater efficiency and better reliability. All SMEs, charities and social enterprises located within the Belfast City Council boundary will be eligible to apply for a voucher. The deadline for the scheme is March 2015. The nature of the business environment today means that a good quality internet connection is essential to do business, whether it is to stay on top of industry trends, engage customers, improving communication , or even to submit tax returns. However, the cost to have the connection installed can represent a significant outlay for many organisations. The council grants are designed to overcome this cost. Jonathan Hassin, from Irwin Electrical explains the implications of the industry moving faster than their current internet provision: “The internet speeds in our Belfast Office were extremely poor. This was rendering the use of the office for day to day business tasks impossible, especially as we move to more paperless systems. If the scheme had not become available we would have had to seriously consider moving our Belfast office from its current location.” Support for businesses also does not stop with the grant. The council is also providing support and training for those organisations who have received a voucher, allowing them to maximise the benefits that the connection can bring.
Belfast has been awarded £13.7 million from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport's Urban Broadband Fund to make Belfast a Super Connected City. The development of Belfast's economic infrastructure, including an excellent communications network infrastructure, will be essential in promoting growth and inward investment. The Super Connected Belfast project will support this growth.
Initial indications show that the project is already having a positive effect to the local economy: over £600k worth of grants has already been issued, and voucher recipients have indicated that they expect to create over 600 jobs and grow by over £30million in the next 3 years. “The Connection Vouchers Scheme has helped us access high-speed broadband at an affordable price, through a local supplier. Not only are we increasing our online presence, but the upgrade will also allow us to investigate new ways of working which would have been impossible without this help.” Michael Jackson - General Manager, SOS Group
Michael Jackson General Manager, SOS Group To find out more about the Belfast Connection Vouchers Scheme, and to apply, visit: www.belfastcity.gov.uk/connectionvouchers
PAGE84-85_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:53 Page 1
[APPOINTMENTS]
Leading Communications Consultancy ASG has made a number of new appointments. Vicki Caddy has been appointed as Head of PR; Rory Jeffers has been appointed as Deputy Creative Director; Sarah Monahan has been appointed Client Manager; and Kieran McNicholl has been appointed as Client Marketing Executive.
NEW APPOINTMENTS
Gillian Ritchie has joined Belfast law firm Tughans as an Associate Director in the Banking Department.
Peter Gilpin has joined the marketing team at law firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin in Belfast as Marketing and Business Development Executive.
Paul Rickerby has joined Cleaver Fulton Rankin as IT Manager.
Brian McDowell has been appointed Board Director and Sales and Marketing Director at Hughes Insurance.
OUR PEOPLE ARE YOUR PEOPLE www.graftonrecruitment.com 84 NI Chamber
PAGE84-85_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:54 Page 2
WE’VE GOT TALENT KEEPING TALENT WITHIN THESE SHORES IS THE KEY TO GROWING THE ECONOMY SAYS SINEAD WALLACE, GRAFTON COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR FOR IRELAND. The Voice, X-Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, MasterChef, The Taste…we could go on. Talent shows on TV are great attractions for audiences and for contestants. People are prepared to let the nation see them in action. And let’s not forget Mastermind and University Challenge where academic talent is on show. In the work place it is more difficult to spot talent. The interview process can be limited, particularly if you are an SME and haven’t the resources to put in place psychometric testing and day long off-site interviews. However, asking people a lot of general knowledge questions, to sing a song, or make lunch would not be a good way to spot a new manager, marketing executive, IT coder or logistics expert.
Kieran Gilmurray has also been appointed Board Director and Operations Director at Hughes Insurance.
Getting people with experience is also becoming more challenging. The economic downturn of the last few years has resulted in more people leaving Ireland to seek their fortunes and many are hard to get back. The Irish have always travelled, which is why there are so many Irish communities around the world, but it is also why it’s almost second nature for young people to up and away when jobs in their homeland are hard to find.
identifying a selection of those that will fit a company’s brief. We carry out initial interviews and sift the candidate pool to make sure a firm’s time is spent interviewing a selection of people who can do the job. We can also help them with the interview design. Setting interviewees a task and asking them to do more than just turn up armed with a quick perusal of a web site will help pinpoint who is the right candidate for the job.
Canada and Australia, in particular, have been seeing a lot more of our well educated young people arriving for work.
In Ireland we are great at nurturing talent, but with the economic turnaround, we need to get good at keeping it here too. More talented people results in a better economy all round.
At Grafton we can help in a number of ways. We can start talent spotting by
Steve Amos has been appointed Chair of Clanmil Housing Association.
Stephen Mills has been appointed Business Development Manager at McCue Crafted Fit.
Victoria Poole has been appointed Account Executive at leading Public Relations firm Weber Shandwick.
OUR PEOPLE ARE YOUR PEOPLE www.graftonrecruitment.com NI Chamber 85
PAGE86_Layout 1 27/06/2014 15:04 Page 1
[NEWS]
BUSINESS BITES FROM BRUSSELS IN THE LATEST BULLETIN FROM THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION, MEASURES UNDER CONSIDERATION WILL HAVE REPERCUSSIONS FOR BUSINESSES, CONSUMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC IN NORTHERN IRELAND. HERE WE DETAIL WHAT’S UNDER PROPOSAL IN BRUSSELS.
GUARANTEED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, László Andor, was in Belfast recently to discuss the EU's ambitious and innovative new policy to address youth unemployment – the 'Youth Guarantee'. The policy is very simple – it will ensure that all young people under the age of 25 get a good-quality, concrete offer from public employment services within four months of them leaving formal education or becoming unemployed. The offer should be for a job, apprenticeship, traineeship or continued education and be adapted to each individual's need and situation. With 5.5 million people under the age of 25 unable to find work, youth unemployment remains one of the biggest difficulties facing Europe. This is why the Commission has been working on measures to help tackle this, namely the Youth Guarantee, proposed in December 2012 and adopted by the EU’s Council of Ministers in April 2013.
ACTION ON GENDER EQUALITY The European Commission is continuing to take action to improve equality between women and men including steps to close the gender gaps in employment, pay and pensions discrepancies, to combat violence and to promote equality in decision-making. The main findings of the European Commission's annual gender equality report published recently showed that solid progress has been made in the area of addressing the gender pay gap and increasing the number of women on company boards. However, challenges remain. Under current rates of progress it will take almost 30 years to reach the EU's target of 75 per cent of women in employment, 70 years to make equal pay a reality and 20 years to achieve parity in national parliaments. The report reveals that gender gaps have significantly shrunk in recent years, but that progress is uneven among EU Member States and discrepancies continue to exist in different areas – to the detriment of Europe's economy. The EU's progress in addressing gender inequality is reported each year.
86 NI Chamber
THE RIGHT TO A BASIC BANK ACCOUNT The European Parliament has adopted a Directive on the transparency and comparability of payment account fees, payment account switching and access to a basic payment account. This is a major step towards a real single market for retail financial services bringing numerous benefits to EU citizens. By providing for a right to a basic payment account irrespective of an EU citizen's place of residence or financial situation, the obstacles faced by many in accessing basic banking services across borders are removed. The Directive also substantially improves the transparency of bank account fees and makes it easier to switch a bank account from one bank to another.
GETTING UP TO SPEED ON ROAD HAULAGE RULES European Commission Vice-President, Siim Kallas, responsible for Transport, has called for simplification and clarification of EU rules on road haulage. Mr Kallas' remarks follow the publication of a report on integrating the internal market for road transport. The report concluded that while some progress has been made, removing the remaining restrictions would help the European economy and improve the environment. On any given day, almost a quarter of all trucks on Europe's roads are empty, either on their way home or between loads. Opening national road transport markets to more competition would help reduce empty runs and increase efficiency in the sector, according to the report. Its main findings include that the enforcement authorities of Member States must step up their efforts in enforcing existing legislation more effectively and consistently and the Commission and the EU can help by clarifying rules that are understood, interpreted and implemented differently in different Member States. The report will now be discussed further in the European Parliament and the Council.
PAGE87_Layout 1 30/06/2014 10:12 Page 1
by James Stinson
Supported by
www.agnewcorporate.com
PAGE88_Layout 1 27/06/2014 13:58 Page 1
[LIFESTYLE] JAMES STINSON, BUSINESS CLASS MOTORING WRITER
TOP OF THE RANGE EQUALLY AT HOME IN THE HIGH STREET OR WADING THROUGH RIVERS, NO-ONE DOES LUXURY AND PRACTICALITY BETTER THAN RANGE ROVER, WRITES JAMES STINSON.
W
hat sort of 4x4 do you buy when money’s no object – well, a Range Rover of course. The latest model, launched last year, will set you back £72,000 but can cost up to £105,000 depending on the spec. The figures are eye-watering but testament to how good a car this is. Range Rover has no problem selling them. Once synonymous with the Country Life set, the appeal and market for Range Rovers is far bigger these days with sales rocketing in the Gulf States, Russia, and China. Everyone wants a bit of Britishness, exclusivity, and luxury. And some are still after the Range Rover’s unrivalled off-road capabilities, which are underlined in this latest model. On the outside, it still looks like a Range Rover though less boxy than the 4x4 it replaced while the cabin, as you’d expect, has plenty of wood, leather and thick pile carpet on show. However, most of the clever bits are under the skin. This is the first 4x4 with an all-aluminium monocoque chassis. Combined with weight savings elsewhere, the lightweight structure contributes to a model-for-model weight saving of up to 350kg over the previous version. The weight saving helps the 505 bhp LRV8 Supercharged model accelerate from
0-60mph in just 5.1 seconds, 0.8 seconds quicker than the old 4x4. At the same time, fuel consumption is cut by 9 per cent. The lighter structure has also made it possible to introduce a sophisticated 3.0-litre TDV6 engine into the model line. With performance just as strong as the previous 4.4-litre TDV8 Range Rover, the smaller engine takes the total weight saving up to 420kg, and delivers a dramatic 22 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, achieving figures of 37.7mpg and 196g/km. This is a big 4x4 – two metres wide and five metres long - and feels it in and around town, which is where the forward and rear facing cameras and parking sensors come into their own. On the road it feels comfortable and quick. In standard D (for Drive) mode, it moves along briskly and efficiently. Push the S (Sport) button and everything tightens up and it
drives more like a car but with a premium to pay in mpg. With all this luxury, it’s remarkable that the Range maintains its ability to cross rivers and climb mountains. Indeed Range Rover claims improved off-road dynamics thanks to lots of clever electronics which adapt to the prevailing conditions and set up the 4x4 accordingly while the horsey / caravan set will like the best in class towing capacity of three and a half tonnes. There’s a host of features that will help with on road and city driving too, including Intelligent Emergency Braking, Park Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The latter is especially handy, slowing the 4x4 when you get too close to the vehicle in front and resuming your set speed when there is space to do so. Other firsts are a panoramic sunroof, ambient LED cabin lighting, and electrically deployable towbar. More dinner party talking points than must haves are the heated steering wheel and seats with built-in massage mode. The serious point here is that having included such fripperies, does any buyer really think they’ve left anything out?
T The he c complete omplete ffleet leet ssolution olutio 18 B 18 Boucher ou c h e r W Way, ay, B Belfast el fa s t B BT12 T1 2 6 6RE RE 028 0 28 9038 9038 6600 6600 www.agnewcorporate.com w w w.agnewcorporate.com 88 NI Chamber
2014 Hot 0ffers Contact us on 028 9038 6600
Mercedes-Benz E-Class range from £299 + VAT per month • Was £349 +VAT per month • Based on E220CDi SE 4dr Manual • CO2 from 120g/km • Other Models available inc. Estate • Fully Maintained Contracts also available
Seat Leon range from £189 + VAT per month • Was £219 +VAT per month • Based on Leon Hatch 1.6TDi SE 5dr Manual • CO2 from 99g/km • Other Models available inc. Sport Coupe & Estate • Fully Maintained Contracts also available
Skoda Octavia from £189 + VAT per month • Was £249 +VAT per month • Based on Octavia Hatch 2.0TDI 150 SE 5dr • CO2 from 106g/km • Includes Metallic Paint • Fully Maintained Contracts also available
Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0CDTi 115ps Sportive Van from £199 + VAT per month • Was £239 +VAT per month • Based on high spec Sportive model • Includes Plylining • Fully Maintained Contracts also available
Quotations available on specific requirements to suit your needs – for Personal Contract Hire just add VAT.
Are you a Fleet Manager looking for Total Fleet Control? Let us introduce Agnew Fleet Manager…. A system that will streamline the administration of your fleet to the absolute minimum, eliminate paperwork and automatically help you to fulfil your duty of care as an employer. Ultimately, it will save you not only time but money – contact us today to learn more. All rentals are plus VAT at 20% and are based on Agnew Corporate Contract Hire (not funded through a Manufacturer Scheme), payment profile of 3+47 (48mth term) with RFL for term of Contract, 10000 miles per annum non maintained. Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply. Pictures are for indicative purposes only. Join us on Facebook.
18 Boucher Way, Belfast BT12 6RE 028 9038 6600 www.agnewcorporate.com
113169_Agnews_Ambition_pressA4_v1.indd 1
25/04/2014 09:54
PAGE90_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:56 Page 1
[LIFESTYLE] JAMES STINSON, BUSINESS CLASS MOTORING WRITER
NEW V40 ENGINE IS A REAL SIPPER SUPERSIZED GOLF PACKS MORE IN…. If you want a VW Golf with a bit of extra room but don’t fancy an estate, then this Golf SV could be just the thing. It takes over from the previous Golf Plus but is likely to be more popular because it’s more flexible and better looking. At 500 litres, its minimum luggage capacity is 76 greater than that of the Plus and 120 more than the current hatch provides. And that's with the moveable rear seats in their furthest-back position. Shift them forward by the available 180mm and the figure rises to 590 litres. That's only 15 short of the estate, which is nearly nine inches longer. Fold down the rear seats entirely and you get 1520 litres. The front passenger seat can also
be folded, giving a load length of just under 2.5 metres. The trim levels - S, BlueMotion, SE and GT - are identical to those of the hatchback, and there's a range of power outputs from 84bhp for the 1.2 TSI petrol to 148bhp for the 1.4 TSI and the 2.0 TDI diesel. Most engines, except for the least powerful ones, are available with DSG semiautomatic transmission as well as a manual gearbox. Pricing ranges from £18,875 for the 1.2 TSI S to £26,815 for the 2.0 TDI GT DSG. The BlueMotion (109bhp 1.6 diesel engine, six-speed manual gearbox) costs £22,715, and is expected to boast mpg figures in the 70s and sub 100g CO2 emissions which means it costs nothing to tax.
Two of what will eventually become eight engines in Volvo's new DriveE family are being introduced to the V40 this year. The first, already available in the V60 among others, is the two-litre D4 turbo diesel. In other applications, this produces a maximum of 179bhp, but due to the lighter weight of the V40, Volvo has been able to bump this up to 187bhp here while still keeping official CO2 emissions on manual-transmission models down to 99g/km and combined fuel economy up to 74.3mpg. A V40 Cross Country with the same drivetrain is rated at 104g/km and 70.6mpg. With an eight-speed automatic gearbox, the figures become 104g/km and 70.6mpg for the regular car and 112g/km and 65.7mpg for the Cross Country. The other engine is the new 242bhp T5 four-cylinder turbo petrol, which is slightly less powerful than the current five-cylinder one but astoundingly more economical on the EU combined cycle at 47.9mpg rather than 34.9mpg. CO2 emissions have fallen from 189g/km to 137g/km. The V40 will be the first Volvo to be sold in this country with the T5 unit. It's already offered in other countries in the S60 and V60, but sales of those in the UK are so heavily weighted towards diesel that it was felt the T5 would be of little interest here. The D4 and T5 are available to order now, with prices starting from £24,570.
NISSAN X-TRAIL - NO LONGER THE UGLY DUCKLING You can’t help but like the look of this new Nissan X-Trail. Gone are the boxy lines of the old car to be replaced by this sleek new body shape - all part of Nissan’s aim to be the best selling Japanese car maker in Europe by 2016. There is just one engine offered in the range, a 129bhp 1.6 dCi turbo diesel, and four different trim levels. You can have five or seven seats and manual or automatic transmission, and if you stick with the manual option you can have all four wheels being driven rather than just the ones at the front. It’s an entirely new car with plenty of new technology, including the latest development of the NissanConnect navigation, information and entertainment system, which includes smartphone connectivity and
integration with Google to provide weather forecasts, point of interest location and so on. Two world-first features are Active Ride
Control, which scans the road ahead for surface undulations and primes the suspension to be ready for them, and Active Engine Brake, which as the name suggests improves the braking performance by getting the engine to help slow the car down. A third feature was first used by Nissan on the Infiniti M series. Called Active Trace Control, it monitors the X-Trail's speed, steering angle, throttle opening and braking force and brakes wheels individually to reduce understeer, primarily on wet roads. Prices start at £22,995 for the entry level Visia version which includes 17" alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors and a proper spare wheel as standard.
T The he c complete omplete ffleet leet ssolution olutio 18 B 18 Boucher ou c h e r W Way, ay, B Belfast el fa s t B BT12 T1 2 6 6RE RE 028 0 28 9038 9038 6600 6600 www.agnewcorporate.com w w w.agnewcorporate.com 90 NI Chamber
App Innovation page_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:13 Page 1
App Innovation Ltd We build Apps for business, we bring you cutting edge, easy-touse, cost-effective mobile solutions to your customers fingertips. Over 75% of the world’s population are mobile subscribers – connect with your customers the way they want to connect. The fastest and easiest way for businesses to create mobile apps, websites and solutions. Our easy mobile solutions keep you in front of your competition and will increase the traffic to your business right before your eyes.
How It Works Want your Business to Grow? You Need to Go Mobile!
di
*S
pe
cia
Contact us on : www.appinnovationltd.com info@appinnovationltd.com or NI 028 9581 8880 or IE 00 353 12544321
lR sc To ou r e e a A m nt s c e i v d e r b i im e 1 o tio pl 0% ffe n0 y q r* 5 uo te
App Innovation simultaneously creates, edits and manages native iPhone, iPad, android and mobile web apps with our dedicated programmers. Our broad range of templates allows us to provide an eye catching design which will be customized to showcase your businesses’ attributes across a broad range of mobile platforms. With App Innovation you get a powerful custom management system, secure hosting, beautiful applications and dedicated support.
PAGE92_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:17 Page 1
[LIFESTYLE] JAMES STINSON, TRAVEL WRITER
FLYING CITY TO CITY
THE NEW LONDON CITY SERVICE IS JUST THE TICKET FOR BUSINESS TRAVELLERS WRITES JAMES STINSON.
A
ny new air service from Northern Ireland is big news and more so when travellers are given a different option like Flybe’s new route between Belfast City and London City airports, starting late October. The London market accounts for more than a third of all passenger traffic through Belfast’s two airports and nearly half the traffic through Belfast City alone. It’s vitally important for travellers and people doing business in London and the south east of England. Presently, three airlines (easyJet, BA, and Aer Lingus) fly from Belfast’s two airports to four airports in the London area (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton). And on the surface, there looks to be plenty of competition and choice. However, Belfast isn’t as well served as comparable cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dublin, especially in terms of frequency of flights. If we assume that business travellers, for the most part, choose which airport to fly from on the basis of which is nearest, then the new Flybe London City service is essentially providing competition for Aer Lingus and BA services from Belfast City to Heathrow and Gatwick. There are some obvious advantages in flying 92 NI Chamber
to London City. Like Belfast City, it is a relatively small airport, which is very close to the centre of London. It is quick to get to and through. On the Docklands Light Railway, it takes just 12 minutes to reach Canary Wharf while Bank in the heart of the City of London can be reached in 22 minutes. Switch to the Underground at Canning Town and you can be at London Bridge in 19 minutes and Westminster in 24 minutes. The Flybe service will also offer passengers flying from Belfast City the longest working day in London, with the first flight landing at 0815 and the late evening return leaving London City at 1945. Consequently, it should be easier to make early morning or late afternoon meetings without the expense of having to do an overnight stay. The route has been tried before, with British European (now Flybe) serving it for a time around 2000. More recently, Cityjet flew the route for just over a year in 2007/2008. However, Flybe is a different airline now with a strong route network from Belfast. The airline is also launching the route at a time when the economy is on the up. It has
everything going for it and should prove popular with business travellers especially. Furthermore, if you want to do some work or simply relax before your flight, a new business lounge has opened at Belfast City Airport. The Aspire Lounge, operated by Swissport, replaces the former Flybe-run lounge and is located just beyond the recently revamped BA lounge. And it gives travellers much more flexibility, allowing passengers to pay and use the lounge even if they aren’t flying on a premium / business class ticket. Entry for adults costs £18.99, with reduced rates for children and is free to some airline frequent flyer card holders: Aer Lingus Gold Circle, and Flybe customers (flying on a premium ticket and Lounge card holders), as well as Priority Pass and Airport Angel card holders. It’s open daily from 0500 with three food menus throughout the day. These include bacon rolls, a selection of cereals and fresh fruit, fresh soup and bread rolls, and cheese and biscuits. Complimentary newspapers and magazines are also provided. The Aspire lounge is a great addition to facilities at Belfast City Airport.
PAGE93_Layout 1 27/06/2014 12:58 Page 1
[LIFESTYLE] CHRIS REES, HEAD CHEF, GALGORM RESORT AND SPA’S RIVER ROOM RESTAURANT
CULINARY DELIGHTS SUMMER CALLS FOR LIGHT DISHES BURSTING WITH REFRESHING FLAVOURS AND FRUITS TO TINGLE THE PALATE. FOLLOWING HIS RECENT APPOINTMENT AS HEAD CHEF AT GALGORM RESORT AND SPA’S RIVER ROOM RESTAURANT, WE ARE DELIGHTED TO INTRODUCE READERS TO CHRIS REES WHO HAS CREATED TRULY SENSATIONAL DISHES THAT CAN BE RECREATED AT HOME. HERE HE GIVES AMBITION A TASTE OF SUMMER WITH A MOUTHWATERING DESSERT WHICH IS SURE TO GIVE YOUR TASTE BUDS A TREAT.
BUTTERMILK MOUSSE, WHISKEY, RASPBERRIES AND HONEY
Ingredients
Preparation Method
• • • • • • • • • • • •
• Heat the sugar, cream and vanilla pod, add the gelatine, when cool, add to the buttermilk and fold in the whipped cream. Set in ramekins in fridge for 2-3 hours.
½ pint buttermilk 50g cream 65g sugar 1 vanilla Pod 2 x leaves gelatine (Soaked) 60g cream (Whipped) 50ml Bushmills Whiskey 50g honey 100g sugar 100g honeycomb Toasted oats to garnish Raspberry sorbet (Optional)
• Add 100g sugar to the whiskey and cook to form a thick syrup, mix with honey. • To serve, turn the mousse out of the ramekins, garnish with honeycomb, oats and add raspberries and whiskey as well as some honey syrup.
NI Chamber 93
PAGE94-95_Layout 1 27/06/2014 13:01 Page 1
[LIFESTYLE] REBECCA MCKINNEY, PERSONAL STYLIST, VICTORIA SQUARE, BELFAST
WITH SUMMER FAST APPROACHING AND THE COUNTDOWN TO SUNSHINE AND HOLIDAYING BEING ON EVERYONE’S MIND, REBECCA MCKINNEY THOUGHT IT WAS ONLY RIGHT THAT THIS MONTH’S FASHION COLUMN SHOULD BE FOCUSED ON A CAPSULE WARDROBE TO TAKE YOU FROM BELFAST TO BARBADOS AND BACK AGAIN!
JOLLY HOLIDAYS THE BIKINI Summer shopping frightens so many people – especially when the dreaded ‘bikini’ is mentioned, but this year – it will be a different story! Victoria Square is brimming with beautiful swimwear options that will delight even the most daunted of women and once you have found the perfect fit, then confidence on the beach will be guaranteed. Phase Eight have just launched an amazing range of control swimwear in gorgeous colours and prints. River Island is top of my list for fashion forward options and H&M is amazing for bargain bikinis. House of Fraser have the best range for girls with curves and Ted Baker have brought in a range of underwired bikinis and swimsuits to turn heads.
THE BEACH COVER-UP Throw something colourful over your swimwear to get you from the beach to the bar with style. I am loving the nautical options in Accessorize, or why not go for something sheer and floaty? H&M have great value kaftans that look super cute over a bikini and teamed with shorts. For the ‘matchy matchy’ look, Ted Baker will satisfy those ladies who love a good print! This will be your best friend on holidays!
THE SUMMER SANDAL I always like to add a bit of style to my footwear during the summer, even if it is just in a flat sandal. On trend this season would be embellishment. Oversized stones and metallic detailing make standard sandals suddenly look special. My favourites can be found in Kurt Geiger and Dune. PS: There is nothing like a nude wedge to lengthen the leg on holidays, so throw a pair of these in your suitcase!
94 NI Chamber
PAGE94-95_Layout 1 27/06/2014 13:01 Page 2
THE MAXI A summer holiday travelling essential – a maxi dress is the must have item this summer. Whether you like fitted or floaty, the high street choices are endless. Monsoon and Phase Eight have great jersey options that nip in at the waist and float over curves, while Warehouse and Topshop are my favourites for fitted maxis that look great dressed up or down. Add a statement necklace to style it up.
THE BEACH BAG Don’t forget about essential arm candy this summer – the bigger, the better! I love canvas beach bags that fit multiple bottles of sun cream, but still look stylish. Accessorize have some gorgeously girly options, or try Pull & Bear for something a little more slouchy. Ted Baker are matching Perspex beach bags to their bikinis and House of Fraser have an entire swimwear section with lots of beautiful bits and pieces to perfectly finish off your beach look.
THE SUNNIES Sunglasses complete a summer time look and this year, invest in a timeless shape. The 3 key shapes that will never date are ‘oversized’, ‘aviator’ and ‘wayfarer’ style glasses. However, I am also loving the ‘catseye’ shape – very chic and just subtle enough to wear with daytime looks at home and beachwear on holiday. Michael Kors would be the designer of choice and for the high street, River Island can do no wrong!
THE PRINTED TROUSER This trend has filtered from Autumn, straight into summer, but the key to nailing this look is balancing your proportions. Printed trousers are slouchy and comfortable, so it is essential to go for something more fitted on top. Tuck a coloured vest into them and wear with a cropped jacket and sandals for a cool look. My favourites come from Monsoon and Warehouse. Embrace the pyjama trouser – your legs will love you for it!
Check out my favourite holiday essentials to get your beach brain thinking about jetting off to sunnier climes. I’m off to plan my own poolside looks! Happy shopping, Rebecca x
NI Chamber 95
PAGE96_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:07 Page 1
[COLUMNIST] JIM FITZPATRICK, INDEPENDENT BROADCASTER
SIGN OFF… POLLS APART – POLITICS AND PROGRESS ELECT TO APPRECIATE THE BENEFITS OF EU INTEGRATION SAYS JIM FITZPATRICK.
P
eople are angry with politicians. Not just in deadlocked Northern Ireland, but across Western Europe. The frustration is palpable and has been expressed at the polls with a surge in support for parties outside the mainstream. These parties have generally identified the key problem as foreign interference in sovereign affairs. They offer the promise that strong national politicians can take charge and put the world to rights. Sometimes these interfering foreigners are bureaucrats in Brussels. Sometimes they’re bankers and bondholders in Frankfurt and London. And sometimes they’re Polish or Romanian workers living and working in local neighbourhoods. This populist analysis is dangerous on so many fronts. The anti-EU rhetoric is a convenient myth that stirs nationalist passions, but is fundamentally deceitful. Let’s scrap all the EU regulations and close the borders – simple. Go ahead, and watch the UK economy collapse. Ireland had its own experiment with economic isolationism post-independence but by the 1950s people had grown tired of cutting turf and knitting Aran sweaters. A UK outside of the EU would still have to comply with various rules and regulations if it wanted to trade. It would also need to allow immigration if it wanted its industries to grow, many reliant on the skills and work ethic those immigrants bring. The anti-banker rhetoric of Sinn Fein in the Republic has perhaps more validity in the sense that it was fundamental flaws in international finance that brought about the economic collapse from which Ireland is slowly emerging. However the remedy applied at the time - the infamous bank guarantee - was a decision taken by the national parliament. Other options could have been pursued. So the consequences of that bailout rest at home, not abroad. And ironically it was a decision supported by Sinn Fein who have benefitted in the recent polls and opposed by Labour who have been trounced. Whether it’s EU officialdom or Frankfurt finance, the message is essentially the same: these foreigners are ruling our lives and we need to take back control. But when this lazy logic hits the streets and is filtered through dumb and prejudiced minds we see xenophobic politics at its worst. The racist attacks on Polish families in East Belfast are a disgusting manifestation of hate Churchill andWinston ignorance thatadvocated feed offbuilding a political climate in a kind of United States of Europe.
96 NI Chamber
which immigrants are to blame. Condemnation from the dominant unionist parties such as the DUP has been slow and perfunctory. Rather than tackle the generational problems of educational underachievement, they prefer to hoist the flag and rally the troops to the streets. “Our flag. Our city. Our jobs,” is the war cry. But it’s nasty nonsense. Thankfully, in a modern competitive economy, employers don’t hire on the basis of creed or passport - but skills and motivation. Scare off the foreign workers and you scare off the foreign contracts that employ them and the money they spend in the community. Study hard and gain the skills and you can compete for the work. Where are the politicians with the guts to spell out the truth?
One year after the end of World War II, Winston Churchill set out a vision for the future of Europe. It is a remarkable speech that offers guidance and solace in these confused times. “We must build a kind of United States of Europe… “If Europe were once united in the sharing of its common inheritance, there would be no limit to the happiness, to the prosperity and glory which its three or four hundred million people would enjoy,” he said. Churchill, the personification of British bulldog spirit and ardent Europhile – the two are entirely consistent. No matter how many voters want to stop the world and get off, it will continue to spin.
Winston Churchill advocated building a United States of Europe.
“ ONE YEAR AFTER THE END OF WORLD WAR II, WINSTON CHURCHILL SET OUT A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF EUROPE. IT IS A REMARKABLE SPEECH THAT OFFERS GUIDANCE AND SOLACE IN THESE CONFUSED TIMES.”
IBC_Layout 1 30/06/2014 15:45 Page 1
UlsterTatler
£15
SUBSCRIPTION SPECIAL OFFER FOR NI CHAMBER MEMBERS
FOR 12 ISSUES JUST CALL 028 9066 3311
ALTERNATIVELY SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT ULSTERTATLER.COM QUOTE NI CHAMBER UT 23 The minimum subscription term is 12 months. The normal cost of 12 issues IS £35.40 based on the cover price of £2.95. Offers applies to UK residents only.
call 028 3832 3296 or email mail@alwood.co.uk to arrange a consultation with our multi-award winning designers Shaerf Drive Lurgan BT66 8DD
www.alwood.co.uk