OCTOBER 2016 www.ffb-online.co.uk @ffbmagRMC
MADE 16 ENTREPRENEUR FESTIVAL 8 November 2016 madefestival.com
STILL GOING STRONG 110 years of Robson THE BUSINESS OF SPORT Sheffield City Region looks to cash in THE SOCIAL NETWORK Rising business star Steve Bartlett joins the speakers at MADE
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CONTENTS
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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CONTENTS OCTOBER 2016
MADE 2016 9 A look ahead to this year’s entrepreneurial showcase, including the keynote speakers
AGENDA 14 City’s legion of winners underlines the importance of sport to the region’s economy
INTERVIEW 18 Steve Bartlett is behind Europe’s fastestgrowing social media and marketing agency
DREAM TEAM 23 Can your company cope with being owed large amounts of money? Our Dream Team look at the steps to take to maintain cash flow
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LEADING LADIES 24 We talk to some of our region’s most successful female business leaders to find out just what makes them tick
CHRISTMAS PARTIES 31 It’s time to start thinking about that festive office do
CONFERENCE GUIDE 37
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From flagship conferences to small seminars, Sheffield has got a venue to suit any kind of business occasion
COMPETITION 42 It’s a competition like no other – to celebrate 30 years RMC Media is giving away 30 prizes. And one person will walk away with everything
IN PICTURES 45 The Master and Mistress Cutler and 140 guests from the corporate sector enjoyed a sunny day’s racing at the St Leger Festival
WORK & PLAY 46 A monthly round-up of news, achievements, celebrations and new faces
Editor Chris Wilson chris.wilson@rmcmedia.co.uk Consultant Editor Andy Waple Chief Feature Writer Clare Parkin
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Chief Sub Editor Richard Abbey Sub Editor Richard Smith Operations Director Jillion Wood Publishing Manager Mandy Ogle mandy.ogle@rmcmedia.co.uk Studio Manager Chris Brierley Design Dan Wray, Steve Levers RMC Media 6 Broadfield Court Broadfield Business Park Sheffield, S8 OXF Tel: 0114 250 6300 Email: ffb@rmcmedia.co.uk www.firstforbusinessmagazine.co.uk
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OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk The new board of directors at Robson (L-R): Back row: Jeff Hudson (CEO), Julian Bestwick (FD), Neil Gardiner (Operations Director), Bill Speirs (Chairman), Front row: Abby Young (Company Secretary), Christine Robson (Non-Ex Director)
MODERN OUTLOOK EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR FAMOUS SHEFFIELD HANDLING TECHNOLOGY FIRM, ROBSON.
obson Handling Technology Limited is the new name for the modern, progressive, long-established Sheffield business, Geo Robson & Co (Conveyors) Limited.This change of name reinforces the message that the company is much more than a conveyor manufacturer and signals its ambitions and drive for the future.
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Picture the scene, Sheffield 1906, and the Steel City’s streets hum and thud to the sounds of the big manufacturing companies and their highly-skilled engineers. Robson sits proudly in the landscape, providing handling equipment to a range of industries and playing its role in building Sheffield’s excellent manufacturing reputation. Fast-forward to 2016 and while many of the city’s former household names have since closed their doors, Darnallbased Robson is still going strong – proving what a giant it is in the Sheffield engineering family. In fact, the company, which has an enviable reputation around the world for innovative, robust and reliable equipment, is developing and growing further. The fourth generation family firm is celebrating its 110-year
4 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
New CEO Jeff Hudson proudly displays the company’s new name Robson Handling Technology Limited
FEATURE
RJD Engineering, providing the heavy engineering expertise to the Robson Group
anniversary by announcing a new leadership team and the new company name – Robson Handling Technology Ltd. Significant investment is taking place to improve the infrastructure, build enhanced systems and further develop the senior management team. Accompanying this, visible changes can be seen at Robson with a refresh of the company branding, giving a clear and contemporary face to the business. These exciting changes come amid news that orders secured in the first six months of the year exceeded £10million.The company credits the engineering and technical expertise of its highly-skilled and loyal workforce with winning those contracts for Robson in a diverse range of industries. This year’s successes include £4.5million of export contracts to design and supply handling equipment for the sugar industry in Belgium and Thailand. The company is particularly proud of its work with a number of the major UK airports including Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester Airports Group where it is creating and refurbishing baggage handling systems. One of the examples of how Robson is developing is the introduction of a Systems Control Department to provide fully-integrated solutions for customers. The diversity of recent contracts undertaken by Robson Handling Technology extends to the cement, glass and environmental industries. It is currently working on a £4m ‘Waste to Energy’ project that involves the supply of 17 Robson Airglide conveyors covering a distance of 2.5km. Innovation has always been one of the key strengths of Robson, and using the principle of employing a cushion of air to support the loaded conveyor belt, the cutting-edge technology within the Airglide has many benefits.These include significant energy efficiency savings and reduced maintenance costs due to less moving components.
Robson is proud of its work creating and refurbishing baggage handling systems at airports
This follows similar work from large and prestigious references in recent years at UK biomass plants.This includes E.ON’s Blackburn Meadows Renewable Energy Plant near Meadowhall in Sheffield. Luke Ellis, site manager at the plant said: “The team at Robson provided a professional service from the design phase, right through to installation.Their expertise and continued maintenance on site helps support the ongoing success of Blackburn Meadows.”The site now supplies 30MW of low carbon energy to the local distribution network as well as heat to various local customers via a district heating network. Drax Power Station at Selby, which is responsible for producing seven to eight per cent of the UK’s electricity demand, further signifies Robson proficiency in delivering complex large-scale projects. At the same time as helping to provide greener, more sustainable energy sources. At the core of the company is the ability to offer options of a single product to full system designs, with the capability to integrate into supplementary products and technologies to provide full Turnkey solutions. It is this complete package which Robson offers which has made it the company of choice for so many. To complement the Robson business model, 1 August 2016 saw the establishment of its new subsidiary company, Robson Site Services Ltd. Providing pro-active on-site service and maintenance support for the long-term stability and increased longevity to products, systems and technologies. Completing the Robson portfolio is RJD Engineering Company, which specialises in fabrication work. One of RJD’s illustrious projects over recent years included constructing an offshore oil rig with single structures weighing in at a mighty 125 tonnes! This particular contract characterises how RJD, providing the heavy engineering side to the business, completes
Robson Site Services Ltd has recently been established to complement the Robson business model, providing on-site service and maintenance support
the Robson business model. Taking Robson Handling Technology Ltd into the future is the new board and executive leadership team headed by CEO, Jeff Hudson. Jeff brings to the company a wealth of experience in delivering international capital projects, having previously held senior leadership roles as European Director with Clyde Bergemann Power Group and latterly President EMEA and Global Strategy for the NASDAQ quoted company, CECO Environmental Corporation. Speaking about his new role and the future of Robson, he said: “I was attracted to join Robson as it has a very strong brand, great products and extensive client base. It also has a professional board and shareholders that have an aspiration for growth, underpinned by a strong commitment to investment in the company, its employees and infrastructure. I am delighted to be appointed to this key role and together with the board, we are committed to building upon the heritage of the Robson brand.” Chairman Bill Speirs added: “These are exciting times for Robson. Jeff has a proven track record of success in project management, strategic re-alignment and delivering shareholder value. He is perfectly placed to complement the board and provide effective leadership to the executive team to further develop our position within the market. I look forward to the successes which await.”
CONTACT: Robson Handling Technology Limited Coleford Road, Sheffield, S9 5PA Tel: 0114 244 4221 Email: sales@robson.co.uk www.robson.co.uk
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PREVIEW
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OCTOBER 2016
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PREVIEW nnovation is at the heart of this issue of First For Business, as we welcome the MADE festival back to Sheffield and celebrate some of the region’s most successful women in business.
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MADE Entrepreneur Festival has become a must-attend event and is highly renowned for its inspirational roster of high-profile speakers and as a sounding board for new ideas. This year’s festival, on 8 November at the Crucible Theatre, promises to be just as stimulating as previous events. Speakers include Ian Livingstone CBE, co-founder of Games Workshop and chairman of Sumo Digital; James Akrigg, head of technology partners Microsoft Ltd; Penny Mallory, the first woman in the world to compete in a world car rally and Stuart Miller, co-founder and CEO of Bybox, a Silicon Valley start-up which now turns over $120million. Chief feature writer Clare Parkin has spoken to all the key players including Steve Bartlett, the 24-year-old behind Social Chain, Europe’s number one social media agency and fastest growing marketing agency. So what’s the secret of his success? One element seems to be having a happy staff and with a fullystocked bar, day trips, birthday presents and unlimited holidays he sounds like the perfect employer. Too good to be true? Turn inside to find out more. Another soar away business success featured this month is former Abbeydale
Grange pupil Sally Preston whose business The Kids Food Company, which sells toddler and baby snacks under the Kiddylicious brand, overtook Heinz to reach number two in the kids’ snacking category earlier this year. Sally decided to go it alone in 2002 after working as a food scientist for Marks & Spencer for many years, and after some early tribulations she now heads up a company that expects a 17 per cent share of the whole kids’ snacking category in the UK by the end of the year and an expected brand value of £12million. One of Sheffield’s oldest established and most forward-thinking companies is celebrating its 110-year anniversary this year but it is more a case of looking forward to an exciting new future than wallowing in nostalgia. Robson Handling Technology Limited is the new name for the modern, progressive, long-established Sheffield business, Geo Robson & Co (Conveyors). This change of name reinforces the message that the company is much more than a conveyor manufacturer and signals the ambition and drive behind this fourth generation family firm. Sheffield City Region’s prowess in producing sporting heroes has been in the spotlight once again with the Ryder Cup and the Olympic Games showing the city and surrounding areas have
CHRIS WILSON, EDITOR what it takes to be champions. Sheffield first paid attention to the value of sport by hosting the 1991 World Student Games, and now more than 25 years later, sport is considered to be a key wealth creator. Figures suggest the sector has a total economic value in excess of £800million generating over 50,000 jobs for the City Region, whose local enterprise partnership formed a sports leisure and tourism sector group to maximise potential. There are a number of sporting attractions the region can offer already and all are bringing in good money to the local economy. Consultant editor Andy Waple looks at how sporting success can be converted into big business. Along with a round-up of local business news and another tricky business problem for our Dream Team to ponder, that is just a taste of what is in this issue of First For Business. Let us know what you think by tweeting us @ffbmagRMC.
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WELCOME TO MADE he UK’s premier business event for entrepreneurship is back for 2016, offering a brand new experience to educate, inspire and motivate early stage entrepreneurs and established business owners. The MADE 2016 Conference has moved to a new location at the Crucible Theatre, in Sheffield, which will offer room for more audience interaction, as well as increasing engagement opportunities and networking. This year’s speakers include Ian Livingstone CBE, cofounder of Games Workshop and chairman of Sumo Digital; James Akrigg, head of technology partners, Microsoft Ltd; Penny Mallory, the first woman in the world to compete in a world car rally and Stuart Miller, co-founder and CEO of Bybox, a Silicon Valley start-up which now turns over $120million. And this year, all MADE ticket holders will have the chance to pitch for a six-figure investment in front of five key northern angel investors live on stage at the event on 8 November 2016. MADE – named as one of the ten best worldwide conferences for entrepreneurs – will provide meaningful, practical advice and inspiration from experts and peers who will share their views, advice and experiences on growing and succeeding in business.
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This year the conference will focus on finance, technology, creative thinking, leadership and market development. All delegates will be guided on how to submit a compelling MADE Crowdfunder project to raise investment from the crowd using the global platform. The five entrepreneurs that raise the most will receive specialist coaching and will be put forward to pitch for further angel investment and mentoring live on stage in a ‘Dragons’ Den’ style event. This means that all MADE delegates can raise significant investment by attending. To find out more and to book a ticket visit www.madefestival.com. Ticket holders will also benefit from a number of offers including: • Three months free membership to Enterprise Nation which offers support to businesses including weekly online masterclasses, free consultations with experts, discounted event tickets and unlimited access to an extensive library of resources, ebooks and recorded webinars. • Free daily morning email from BQ Breakfast giving the latest national and regional business stories. • 12 month free annual subscription and monthly newsletter to Elite Business Magazine.
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 9
EMMA JONES HAS HELPED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE BE THEIR OWN BOSS Entrepreneurs are “vital” to the UK’s economy, says business expert Emma Jones as she gears up to talk at this year’s MADE festival. Through her role in Enterprise Nation, Emma has helped thousands of people become their own boss and will be will be sharing her unrivalled experience and advice at MADE 2016. “Entrepreneurs are the ones responsible for delivering the boost in private sector employment at the moment and their optimism will get us through just about anything,” Emma told First For Business. In 2000 Emma started her first business Techlocate and successfully sold it 15 months later. The experience of starting, growing and selling a business from home gave her the idea for Enterprise Nation which launched in 2006 as a home business website. The company is now a small business community with more than 75,000 people benefiting from business books, events and funding.
Talking about the benefits of MADE Emma said: “I started my first business in 2000 and there weren’t many events at that time to connect you with experts, entrepreneurs and peers. That’s been one of the highlights of the past decade – the significant increase in the amount of support and resources for aspiring and growth entrepreneurs.” Some of that support comes from what Emma does in her new role. This summer she was named new Small Business Crown Representative with the responsibility for helping more small businesses in the UK bid for and win government contracts. Emma also has an MBE in Services to Enterprise, awarded in 2012, and was appointed in 2015 by the then Prime Minister David Cameron as a Business Ambassador with a focus on increasing international trade.
JOSH LITTLEJOHN ONE OF SCOTLAND’S MOST PROLIFIC ENTREPRENEURS “Sleep more, read more, drink more water.” The advice Josh Littlejohn says he wishes he had been given as a budding entrepreneur. But Josh hasn’t had much time for sleeping, in just a few years he has quickly risen to become one of Scotland’s most prolific entrepreneurs, and is passionate about making a difference in the world. Co-founder of Social Bite, a chain of sandwich shops which donates all profits to charity, Josh employs a dedicated workforce which is partially made up of staff from formerly homeless backgrounds. And this year will see the launch of The Social Bite Academy; the UK’s first skills and employment academy for the homeless community.
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Josh has made headlines in recent years by attracting big named speakers to his Scottish Business Awards. They have included Bob Geldof, Bill Clinton, Richard Branson and most recently, George Clooney. Talking about the key characteristics which have enabled his quick rise to business fame, Josh told First For Business: “I just believed that capitalism could be used as a power for good and had the energy and determination to help link the two. In my game you have to be good at helping people say ‘yes’.” 2016 has also seen the launch of Josh’s new charitable venture, Brewgooder; the World’s first craft beer to donate 100 per cent of its profits to clean water projects. He is sure to be one of the most exciting and engaging speakers when he takes to the stage at MADE 2016.
HOW MADE HAS HELPED TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION OF SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEURS Tom Charman, co-founder of Kompas, a travel app which gives tailored suggestions and relevant reviews to travellers, attended the conference last year and said it had played a big role in helping him to build his brand. “Attending MADE 2015, gave me the opportunity to hear from speakers that are experts in their fields, and understand the importance of the role they play in the company,” said Tom. “For me, MADE inspired me to build a brand that people could both connect with and understand. Hearing from representatives from both Microsoft and Innocent, helped me realise how important it is to understand your market, and how to develop your product to meet the needs of that particular market. “Since attending MADE 2015, we’ve developed our product, refined it and built a strong audience that are ready to get involved with what we’re doing. We recently launched, and welcomed the first group of people onto the platform and build a community of people that believe in what we do. I’ve also been personally mentoring for a number of organisations, hoping to help others in business work towards their goals. “People should attend MADE, as it gives them a way to find inspiration for what they’re doing, as well as hearing from industry experts, and the problems that they’ve overcome. “MADE gives people the opportunity to hear from people
who are passionate about what they do, but also network with like-minded individuals. By attending MADE, there’s the opportunity to meet new business partners, create new opportunities, and find inspiration in a whole new way.” Natalia Welch, is behind Pura Panela, the Panela ambassadors for the UK which imports the 100 per cent natural alternative to sugar from Colombia. She said attending MADE 2015 had inspired her. “Coming to the festival and seeing other entrepreneurs who are in my same situation inspired me,” said Natalia. “I met many interesting people that I learnt loads from. Also, the talks were inspiring for me to make me believe that it is possible to be successful and continue working hard. “Since Made 2015 I have change the focus of the business and moved into manufacturing drinks. I have developed a smart partnership with another local enterprise, who also goes to MADE to work together developing and selling cold brew coffee. “One of my biggest achievements is a partnership with Twin Café.” She added: “I think people should attend MADE because it is important to meet entrepreneurs who you can relate to in order to understand that you are not alone and to inspire you to continue with the hard work that success takes.”
HOW YOU CAN PITCH FOR SIX-FIGURE INVESTMENT All MADE ticket holders have the chance to pitch for a six-figure investment in front of five key northern angel investors live on stage. All delegates will be guided on how to submit a compelling MADE Crowdfunder project to raise investment from the crowd using the
global platform.The five entrepreneurs that raise the most will receive specialist coaching and will be put forward to pitch for further angel investment and mentoring live on stage. This means that all MADE delegates can raise significant investment by attending.
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 11
CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
09.00–09.05 Welcome – To Inspiration The day will start with a welcome address from MADE host, former rally champion and entrepreneur Penny Mallory will introduce the experts and peers to come. 09.05–10.30 The Disruptors – Learn To Behave Differently Welcome address from Mark Mullen at Atom Bank telling their ‘market redefining’ story. Disruptive thinking is defined as an innovation that disrupts an existing market, displacing established market leading firms, products or services. Hear from game changing entrepreneurs Steve Bartlett at Social Chain and Jimmy Cregan at Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, who have dared to challenge the status quo. 11.00–12.15 Future Business Tech,Today – Stay Ahead Of The Game Live demonstration from James Akrigg at Microsoft, showing how future technology including VR can deliver real value and benefit to businesses. He built some of the most iconic worldwide brands and had to adapt to the industry’s ever changing landscape, one of the founding fathers of the UK games industry Ian Livingstone CBE at Sumo Digital takes to the stage. 13.15–14.10 The World Is Your Market – Make Sure You Grasp It Growing internationally is a decision that is often deemed out of reach for small businesses. Selling in foreign markets is arguably easier than ever with platforms delivering a worldwide audience to the doors of small business. Hear from a variety of small and growing business on their experience of
8 November 2016 madefestival.com
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selling internationally with companies from Enterprise Nation and Sheffield’s Year of Making. 14.10–14.40 Building A Social Business – Benefiting You & The Community A Social Enterprise is just a different kind of business. They are driven businesses aimed to achieve social objectives, although not profit driven they can create huge amounts of value not only to the communities they work in but also for the individuals that make it happen. Hear from Josh Littlejohn at Social Bite, one of the leading lights in this sector and find out what inspired him and what he has received in return. 15.10–16.20 From The High Street To The Crowd – The Great Financial Debate A panel debate discussing various funding options from high street and challenger banks, crowd funding and angel investment, their relative benefits and pitfalls with case studies from entrepreneurs and business owners who been there. An inspiring entrepreneur’s story from Stuart Miller at ByBox, telling you about his experience of building a start-up from nothing to £100million turnover covering issues such as supply chains, talent matching and over funding. 16.20–17.00 Enter The Dragons’ Den – It Could Be You TBA. But trust us, it’s very exciting. 17.00 Closing – With a Bang The day will end on an exciting keynote address which will fill you full of entrepreneurial inspiration, education and motivation to grow and succeed in business. There might even be a few surprises as a finale.
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OCTOBER 2016
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BOUTIQUE FAMILY LAW FIRM EXPANDS PRINCE FAMILY LAW ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THEY ARE OPENING AN OFFICE IN SHEFFIELD CITY CENTRE.
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rince Family Law opened its doors in Chesterfield in 2005 and was the first boutique family law firm in North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire. Since then Prince Family Law has grown both in size and reputation. David Prince has put together a formidable team of experts now comprising five fee earners and support staff. David Prince,who is regarded as one of the foremost family law solicitors, says: “We are fortunate to have secured offices in the heart of the professional
quarter in Sheffield City Centre. We already have many clients from South Yorkshire and there is a high level of demand for our bespoke service, which we tailor to each of our client’s individual needs. Our Sheffield office furthers our continued growth.” Prince Family Law are recognised as one of the leading family law practices in the area specialising in high net worth and complex divorce cases. Having located offices in a prime city centre location in
The Prince Family Law team
Sheffield the new office opened on 1 September 2016. The office is within a short walk of all major transport hubs, the law courts and within easy reach of the M1. Prince Family Law offer a free 30 minute consultation for anyone wishing to seek their services both in Sheffield and Chesterfield.
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OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk Danny Willett (left) and Matt Fitzpatrick (right) at a recent charity golf event hosted by the BBC’s Dan Walker (centre) Credit Andy Chubb
IT’S ALL IN THE GAME! CITY’S LEGION OF WINNERS UNDERLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORT TO THE REGION’S ECONOMY. ANDY WAPLE REPORTS.
14 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
he Sheffield City Region’s prowess in producing sporting heroes has been in the spotlight once again with the Ryder Cup and the Olympic Games showing the city and surrounding areas have what it takes to make champions.
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The Rio Olympics featured city and UK star Jessica Ennis-Hill, but also produced other medalists with Sheffield credentials, including Bryony Page who made history by becoming the first British trampolinist to win an Olympic medal.
One quarter of the European Ryder Cup golf team was from the region, surely a historic moment. Danny Willett, the current US Masters champion, was born in the Sheffield and plays at Rotherham Golf Club, while fellow rookie Matthew Fitzpatrick is a former Tapton schoolboy who plays his golf at Hallamshire, Lodge Moor. The local trio from the Sheffield City Region was completed by Lee Westwood, raised in Worksop, and a long time member and local hero of the town’s golf club.
The Sheffield-based athlete, who trains at Hillsborough Leisure Centre, finished a mere 0.425 points behind Canada's Rosannagh MacLennan to take second place in Rio. Bryony, won three successive British Championship titles between 2013 and 2015 and finished fifth in the individual event at the 2015 World Championships. Meanwhile, University of Sheffield Economics alumna Hollie Webb helped Great Britain's women's hockey team win
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gold in the final against the Netherlands. Hollie was a recipient of the university’s Elite Sports Performance Scheme (ESPS) during her time at the University of Sheffield, launched in 2009 to provide financial and non-financial support to talented student athletes at the University. Thanks to donations from the alumni fund and other donors, the ESPS is able to offer a small number of athletes a scholarship of up to £1,000, which they can then use to help fund their training and competitions. This allows many students the chance to take part in training camps and events that they previously wouldn’t have been able to afford to attend.
Hollie Webb won a gold medal with the GB hockey team at the Rio Olympics
Others were quick to spot that the gold medal winning women’s hockey team goalkeeping hero Maddie Hinch has strong Sheffield connections. Maddie’s family are Sheffield Wednesday fans and her parents Neil and Catherine Hinch were born and raised in South Yorkshire. Neil was born in High Green where his parents, Maddie’s grandparents, Gordon and Joan Hinch still live.
Legacy Park that is taking shape on the site of the former Don Valley Stadium.
Not to be outdone, Grace Clough claimed a Paralympic rowing gold in Rio just three years after taking up the sport. The 25-year old Sheffield girl won the mixed coxed four title with Daniel Brown, James Fox, Pamela Relph and James Oliver.
It coincided with Lord Sebastian Coe’s visit to Sheffield when he toured the Olympic Legacy Park, including the newly opened university technical college on the campus, and unveiled Sheffield's Rio 2016 stars in the Hall of Champions at the English Institute of Sport Sheffield.
EIS based table tennis player Will Bayley also took gold - in table tennis -while Sheffield Steelers’ Phil Pratt played a big part as Great Britain’s men’s wheelchair basketball team chased a medal .
Lord Coe heard from athletes, young students, representatives of the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre and the Olympic Legacy Park's project leader, Richard Caborn, about the health, wellbeing and sporting legacy being created in Sheffield.
The fantastic performances of the region’s sports people prompted former MP and Sports Minister Richard Caborn to instigate a celebratory sports’ dinner organised by the city’s evolving Olympic
Later he officially opened the new National Centre for Sport and Exercise ¯ Medicine at Graves in Norton.
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‘Sheffield first paid attention to the value of sport by hosting the 1991 World Student Games, and now more than 25 years later, sport is considered to be a key wealth creator.’
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Speaking in 2012 when she was awarded the scholarship to help provide support for her training, Hollie said: "Without the scholarship I wouldn’t be able to play at the level I am and do well at university, so it’s helping me to reach my goals. Before coming to university I had a part-time job to pay for transport so I could get to training. Now I’m at university I wouldn’t really have been able to work, so something would have had to give. The scholarship was one of the reasons I chose to come to the university as there are not many others that would offer something like this."
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Held at The English Institute of Sport, the Celebration Dinner highlighted the wealth of talent the region boasts in terms of elite performers and also celebrated lesser-known sporting figures with a series of awards for unsung heroes. The event, attended by many prominent local businesses, raised money for The Children’s Hospital Charity and SportsAid Yorkshire & Humberside.
routes and easily obtained basic skills.
the horizon, the most notable being
The sector group’s priorities include attracting major events, developing a family-based visitor experience of national significance, promoting high quality conference and exhibition opportunities, marketing the region’s sporting credentials internationally and developing a health and fitness culture across the city region’s organisations.
the blueprint for the 500-acre multimillion pound European Tour golf course at Rossington Hall near Doncaster. The proposal includes an 18-hole course, clubhouse and 500 homes with an estimated completion date of 2019.
The sporting events, Lord Coe’s visit and the dinner itself did more than cast the spotlight on successful individuals – they helped focus the attention on the importance sport has as an economic driver.
There are a number of attractions the region can offer already and each bringing in good money to the local economy.
Sheffield first paid attention to the value of sport by hosting the 1991 World Student Games, and now more than 25 years later, sport is considered to be a key wealth creator. Figures suggest the sector has a total economic value in excess of £800 million generating over 50,000 jobs for the City Region whose local enterprise partnership formed a Sport leisure and tourism sector group to maximise potential. The sector group’s objective is to further develop the region’s reputation as a world-class destination for sports and leisure, whilst growing the tourism economy to create jobs, wealth and a global platform for marketing the area. It also aims inspire young people pointing them to jobs with clear progression
The World Snooker Championships, which the Crucible has retained for at least another ten years, brings an estimated £50m boost to the local economy. It is watched by over 350 million people across the planet in 89 different countries. It also has brought about an International Trade partnership which will see the city promoting itself to investors and future international students at over 17 events on the World Snooker Tour held outside the UK. Meanwhile the St Leger at Doncaster Racecourse goes from strength to strength. Considered the jewel in the crown of the annual four-day racing festival, it’s ranked among the best in the country, attracting more than 65,000 enthusiastic racegoers to Town Moor giving an estimated £25 million shot in the arm for the Doncaster economy. There are other key developments on
Meanwhile Sheffield is making the most of its golden frame and activity promoting itself as UK’s No1 Outdoor City. City Council-commissioned research found that outdoor recreation in Sheffield generates more than £53m in economic output a year, with the bonus of getting people active generating significant health benefits. In addition the study revealed that Sheffield’s passion for the outdoors generates a higher than average expenditure on trips and gear, with total consumer spending on the outdoors estimated at being around £93m a year. Dr Larissa Davies Reader in Sport Management in Sheffield Hallam's Sport Industry Research Centre, said: “This report highlights the potential of the outdoor economy in terms of generating economic growth and jobs, with household spending on outdoor equipment more than three times the UK average.” With much to boast about it is of no surprise that last year 71 per cent of those polled in BBC Countryfile Magazine said Sheffield was the best UK city for countryside lovers. The World Snooker Chamiopnships boosts the local economy by around £50m
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Will your business have to pay the new apprenticeship levy introduced next year? From 5 April 2017 employers with an annual pay bill of more than £3million will be charged 0.5% of their pay bill as an apprenticeship levy, used to fund new apprenticeships. Those employers will also benefit from an annual levy allowance of £15,000
s Is your business going to be effected by the apprenticeship levy? s Do you need advice on how the new system will impact your business?
Howells can provide you with straight forward, expert advice on this and any other employment law queries. You can call us on 0114 249 6666 to speak to one of our expert team. Or try us out using our free online employment law clinic every Monday. Simply email a question regarding employment law through to ask.employment@howellsllp.com on any Monday and one of our expert team will respond the same day. HowellsEmpLaw www.howellsllp.com
...we’re here to help The Business & IP Centre Sheffield can help you develop your business idea, nurture your entrepreneurial spirit or support your growth company – whatever your intellectual property needs we can provide the right support for you and your business. As part of the British Library Business & IP Centre National Network, we are a vital resource for entrepreneurs, innovators and business start-ups. Centrally located, the Business & IP Centre is based in the welcoming environment of Sheffield Central Library. We offer a wealth of tools to research your ideas including market research reports, business databases, trade publications and industry guides. We work with a network of business professionals offering innovator in residence sessions, trade mark & patent attorney clinics, legal advice and social media marketing workshops. Look out for our #BizTalks events where you’ll get to hear real personal journeys of local business owners.
Got a great idea? We can help you turn it into a business. At Sheffield Central Library www.sheffield.gov.uk/businesslibrary
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OCTOBER 2016
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SOCIAL CLIMBER
STEVEB ARTLETT IS BEHIND EUROPE’S FASTEST-GROWING SOCIAL MEDIA AND MARKETING AGENCY. fully-stocked bar, day trips out, birthday presents and no limit on the amount of holidays you can take. Sound like the perfect employer?
A
that has been recognised by The Drum as Social Media Agency of the Year, and Prolific North as Best Large Digital Agency 2016.
Manchester-based Social Chain is Europe’s number one social media agency and Europe’s fastest-growing marketing agency. Launched in 2014 it is already a multi-million pound business
Its CEO is 24-year-old Steve Bartlett who will be telling budding entrepreneurs at MADE 2016 about the company’s amazing story so far. Speaking to First For Business Steve himself admits he didn’t envisage the company’s quick rise. “Although I have always had big dreams, I definitely didn’t anticipate how quickly the business would grow,” he said. “We have grown as a team in the space of two years and have now opened offices in Berlin and New York. “I think part of our success is due to the fact that we were in the right place at the right time. A massive increase in demand for influencer-style marketing and a shift in focus from more traditional marketing to social media has meant that our proposition was exactly what big consumer brands are looking for. “This has allowed us to achieve massive year-on-year growth – we actually achieved the entire annual turnover of 2015 in the first few months of 2016.” Steve’s initial idea for Social Chain came about whilst trying to promote his first business WallPark. In the process he came across a Twitter page called
INTERVIEW
LEFT: Steve at his ‘cool’ Manchester offices
Student Problems which posted funny anecdotes relatable to students at university and had gathered a huge following.
“We did our research and with Manchester housing the largest population of students in Europe we just felt it would be a better fit for Social Chain.
Steve said: “I contacted the owner of the page Dom McGregor, my now business partner, and we started to discuss ways in which these massively influential social media pages could be used to connect brands with huge numbers of young people, through a medium that they used and enjoyed every day.”
“A lot of industries are still pretty London-centric, but a really thriving tech scene and a great retainment rate for students after graduation has helped put Manchester on the map.
Social Chain was borne and it is now made up of a team of young people that Steve says know “exactly” what the target audience want to talk about and what will resonate with them. “To prevent creative block we hold regular creative meetings where anyone from the business is invited to take part and this helps to keep our ideas fresh,” he said. “We are also constantly looking for inspiration from the wider industry and regularly share really innovative, exciting campaigns that capture our imagination.” The Social Chain office is unlike most, it boasts slides, a ball pool and ping-pong table. It is down to Steve’s belief that the environment you work in contributes enormously to your ability to think creatively and to overall wellbeing. “Stick a load of people in a dingy room with no windows and I wouldn’t expect them to come up with anything groundbreaking, or most importantly be happy!” he said. “We like to think our office space reflects our personality and what we are trying to achieve as a brand. “Me and Dom understand that the team is Social Chain’s most valuable asset, and so along with a cool office, we try to go the extra mile to make sure everyone is happy. We don’t really offer formal incentives to work hard but there are many perks of the job, like a fully-stocked bar, day trips out, birthday presents and no limits on the amount of holidays you can take, plus lots of personal development.” Social Bite also took the decision not too long after setting up to move out of the capital to the north. Steve explained the benefits: “When we initially set-out we had people commuting from all over the country down to London and staying in an Airbnb for five days a week.
“As the industry grows and with the rising cost of living in London showing no immediate signs of slowing, I think Manchester is going to become the destination for young ambitious people starting out their careers.” So what’s next for Social Chain? “The demand for influencer marketing is growing and more and more brands are seeking greater visibility across social media, so we will continue to do what we do best and provide our clients with really fun campaigns that push the boundaries,” said Steve “In terms of our expansion plans, we have just opened a New York office and so we will be focusing on strengthening our existing relationships in the US and replicating our business model across the American markets,” he added. “We are also in the midst of a full rebrand, which is due to be unveiled at the beginning of October and this will help illustrate the progress we have made as a brand and who we are today.” With such an impressive CV at such a young age, Steve will be a huge inspiration to budding entrepreneurs when he takes to the stage at MADE 2016. Offering advice to anyone setting up their own business, he added: “Set your sights high; have belief in your ability and think big from the very beginning. If you have confidence and belief in your vision then others will too. “Big ideas are one thing, but I would also say keep a watchful eye on the numbers. When it comes to finances, check check and check again, as in order to have complete oversight over the business then the finances must be in check.”
Steve will be joined at MADE 2016 by other game changing entrepreneurs who have dared to challenge the status quo including Jimmy Cregan from Jimmy’s Iced Coffee. For more details and a full line-up visit www.madefestival.com
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 19
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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EARNING & LEARNING AN APPRENTICESHIP PUT JADE ALLEN ON THE ROAD TO A SUCCESSFUL CAREER. HERE’S HOW.
hen Jade Allen started her marketing and design apprenticeship three years ago she did so after a friend encouraged her to use her talent to build a career for herself with prospects. What she didn’t realise is that earning and learning would get her a promotion as well as the skills and confidence to build her own business. Now a graphic designer at Chesterfield College and co-owner of developing business, Yellow Tang, she tells us about her apprenticeship journey and what impact apprentices can have on a business.
W
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Did you always know you wanted to be a designer? No, I didn’t. I liked art at school and I loved creating things at home but nobody gave me the encouragement or even expected me to use this skill to its full potential so I didn’t believe I was good enough. When I left school I went to work in a bar for a while. It wasn’t supposed to be a career choice it just happened, but I needed a new challenge. Someone bought me a graphics tab and I started to play on it in my spare time sharing what I created with friends who gave me the confidence to develop this skill I had and that’s when I started looking at ways to get a career in design. Apprenticeships were the best way for me to get the qualifications I needed and the industry experience.
Jade Allen hard at work as a designer at Chesterfield College
How has your employer benefited from offering you an apprenticeship? In return for their support and the fact they believed in me, within three years they have been able to significantly reduce the amount of outside design agencies they use, saving thousands of pounds. Because they tailored me to the role and the direction of the organisation, I know the college inside out, so designs produced are consistent and effective. How do you think your apprenticeship prepared you for your career and life in business? There’s no substitute for experience. Working in the industry teaches you so much more than sitting in a classroom. I have learnt a lot from colleagues and
TRAINING
There’s no substitute for experience. Working in the industry teaches you so much more than sitting in a classroom. I have learnt a lot from colleagues and suppliers and seen projects from concept to development to production.’
suppliers and seen projects from concept to development to production. Having that insight is vital when it comes to being a successful designer. There is so much more to the graphic design than meets the eye and I think having a deep understanding of this in practice means that I have an edge over those who might have taken the academic route. My apprenticeship has given me confidence, technical knowledge and a realistic view of how graphic design can deliver key business objectives, when it’s done right. What do you think you’ve still got to learn? With anything creative, trends change and technology changes so there is always something to learn. As Yellow Tang is still in its infancy we also need to develop our
business administration and professional skills which is all very new. I don’t think you ever get to a point where there is nothing left to learn. You’ve just been promoted and you’re developing a new business, how do you fit it all in? I am lucky to work with someone who shares the same drive and enthusiasm for design as me. We started to develop Yellow Tang when we saw a gap in the market for bespoke and unique gifts for key occasions in people’s lives; we create one off wedding stationery, memory maps and other illustrated gifts. We both share a passion for the kind of creative freedom that this kind of design offers so that keeps us motivated to put in the extra hours. Our approach has attracted business customers too looking for something different. I think the variety of working at College and Yellow Tang means that we get the best of both worlds when it comes to keeping our work fresh and current. What are you most proud of so far? There are so many individual design pieces that I am really proud to say are mine but, I think the journey I have been on to get to where I am now is what I am most proud of. At 19 I had no idea what I would be doing with the rest of my life but thanks to my apprenticeship and the fact I found something I love doing means I am doing a job I want to do, and I’m
developing a new business. Not a bad achievement in three years! How did you see Yellow Tang developing in the future? At the moment there is an even split between the work we do for business clients and the personal gifts and this is working well. As the business evolves though I think we will eventually focus on one area. We are testing the market at the moment and will adapt as we go. It’d be great to be in a position where we can take on an apprentice one day and give someone the same opportunity I have had as well as benefit from everything an apprentice brings to the business.
At 19 I had no idea what I would be doing with the rest of my life, but thanks to my apprenticeship and the fact I found something I love doing means I am doing a job I want to do, and I’m developing a new business.’
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 21
First For Business
DREAM TEAM
OCTOBER 2016
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KEEPING YOUR HEAD ABOVE WATER CAN YOUR COMPANY COPE WITH BEING OWED LARGE AMOUNTS OF MONEY? OUR DREAM TEAM LOOK AT THE STEPS TO TAKE TO MAINTAIN CASH FLOW.
DEAR DREAM TEAM, One of my biggest customers has just gone bust owing me £500,000. This will have a massive negative effect on our cash flow, what do I do to get through it and avoid going bust myself as a result?
KEVIN KERLEY CHAIRMAN, ACADEMY OF CHIEF EXECUTIVES The size of the bad debt that you have incurred is enough to cause even the most robust company to have huge difficulties and perhaps ultimately cause them the same fate as the customer has endured. You do not state the size of your company, so I will take it that you do not have sufficient reserves to absorb this debt. The first thing I would do in your situation is to talk to your bank and explain and seek support from them through the months ahead. Whilst the debt is £500k it will take more like a £1million in cash to make up for the loss possibly more depending on your margins. You should also contact all your suppliers and re-negotiate your payment terms with them and seek their support through this, most will get nervous but are likely to be loyal, particularly if you have a good history as a payer.
Naturally you will need to look inwardly at costs and cut these to a minimum, this may even involve letting some people go, but of course you still need to be able to service the business that you have left to a high standard. At a conservative guess I would think that this will take you 12 to 18 months to overcome, and it will be a difficult road with challenges along the way. You may be in a position to re-finance the business, or look at confidential invoice discounting if you don’t already use this which may help to make the matter easier to deal with. If cash flow looks a big issue after having explored all the above, other actions that you could take is to negotiate a payment plan with the Inland Revenue of VAT payments, and perhaps as a last resort you could also ask the workforce to take a 10-20 per cent pay cut across the company until the cash flow improves, again I am sure they will be loyal, as its better to take a short term pay cut than lose their jobs altogether.
Kevin Kerley
Continuing to work hard at sales so that you can trade through this unfortunate occurrence is also a key factor. Finally I would seriously recommend that you take a look at insurance in future against debtors and ensure that any customers you do business with are stringently credit checked and insured against, as you probably would not survive another bad debt going forward. This is a very frustrating place for any business owner to find themselves, however maintaining positivity and focus will help you through this and will be a major factor in your survival. I wish you the very best of luck.
CHALLENGE OUR TEAM. The team will respond to one selected question in each edition of First For Business. Send your questions to ffb@regionalmagazine.co.uk. Name withheld on request
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First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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WOMEN LEADING THE WAY WE TALK TO SOME OF OUR REGION’S MOST SUCCESSFUL FEMALE BUSINESS LEADERS TO FIND OUT JUST WHAT MAKES THEM TICK. t could be said entrepreneur Sally Preston is at the top of her game. Her business, The Kids Food Company, which sells toddler and baby snacks under the Kiddylicious brand, overtook Heinz to number two in the kids’ snacking category earlier this year.
I
SALLY PRESTON – KIDDYLICIOUS Back in 2002, desperate to see healthy but tasty ready meals for babies, mum-of-two Sally Preston launched her innovative frozen baby food company – 14 years on and after battling adversity and many hurdles along the way, her firm Kiddylicious is the second biggest selling brand in baby and toddler snacks. First for Business talked to the former Sheffielder about her bumpy ride to the top.
Celebrity parents including Denise Van Outen, Danni Minogue, Greg Rutherford and even the Beckhams are said to be fans of her products and incredibly every second two of her snacks are eaten somewhere in the world.
pupil whose parents still live in the city. In fact Sally, now Buckinghamshire-based, has had to overcome more than a few hurdles to get to where she is today.
When First for Business caught up with Sally she was just preparing for a ten-day business trip to China, South Korea and Thailand to see suppliers.
The food scientist was a busy mum-oftwo and had worked with Marks & Spencer for many years when in 2002 she decided to go it alone and set up Babylicious, the first commercial frozen baby food available in the UK.
But it hasn’t been an easy ride to the top for the former Abbeydale Grange School
Sam Kerley
“I could never understand why mums and
SAM KERLEY Director and owner of Solutions 4 Cleaning When it comes to girl power successful cleaning operatives Solutions 4 Cleaning has it in abundance with 98 per cent of the staff women. The company took off in 2000 just as the Spice Girls were winding down. In 16 years Doncaster-based Solutions 4
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dads would feed their children sterilised gloop,” said Sally. “I worked at Marks&Spencer and I knew we had good quality chilled food so it was about copying that.” But in the early days Sally endured theft of the company's name and a consequent legal battle to win it back, then she became the victim of a vendetta campaign staged by an ill-wisher who impersonated an official to make Cleaning has become one of the region;s largest commercial cleaning companies in the region. In the words of director and owner Sam Kerley: “My husband and I started the company with just a mop, a bucket and a van, 16 years on and we clean at over 200 sites and have a workforce exceeding 350.” Sam’s husband Kevin is no longer involved in the running of Solutions 4 Cleaning as he heads up another business venture and so
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
snacks, and the rest as they say is history.
Sally Preston’s Kiddylicious snacks are a huge hit with youngsters – and their parents
“There becomes a point where you are banging your head against a brick wall and it’s bleeding, I thought ‘I’ve got to do something different’.” She said. “With the frozen food, logistically there were problems. There needed to a frozen baby section in the supermarket, they didn’t know where to put it.” Now the company no longer sells frozen products and concentrates solely on its snack range. After overtaking Heinz to number two in the UK baby food market in May the company has continued to thrive and expects a 17 per cent share of the whole kids’ snacking category in the UK by the end of the year and an expected brand value of £12m. For Sally one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is seeing the emails from grateful mums and dads, singing the praises of the Kiddylicious products. She said she still found it “unbelievable” the number who took the time and trouble to send a message to say something nice about Kiddylicious.
derogatory calls to her customers. Despite the huge setbacks Sally, 51, whose children were aged just two and four when she started on her business venture, said she never considered throwing in the towel. “When you have invested so much emotional time and cash there becomes a point where you don’t have a choice, you have to work hard,” said Sally. “You can’t say it’s not fair, because life isn’t fair.You just have to get on with it.” In 2004 things started to improve when she won the HSBC start-up stars Best
Sam leads the team.The company specialises in cleaning commercial premises and its client base ranges from those with small offices to the likes of Doncaster Rovers and Rotherham United football clubs with large stadiums to maintain. Sam previously worked in the hotel trade and through her experience in the industry knows just what is important in the world of corporate cleaning . “It’s not about the cleaning, if you want a
new British product, but even then Sally admits it was just about being recognised rather than the business really taking off. “It was the year I started to look for investment and put people into positions,” said Sally who previously had done everything herself. She had been the company’s accountant, secretary and even the delivery driver taking the food directly to the supermarkets. In 2004 Sally launched Kiddylicious selling frozen food for toddlers which set the standard of no added sugar or salt but it was 2009 after identifying a gap in the market that the company diversified into
cleaning company there are plenty of them out there but we are about understanding the customer’s frustrations and finding solutions to them,” she said. Sam puts a lot of the company’s success down to the staff’s enthusiasm and hard work.The large and dedicated team work in both part-time and full-time roles and she has staff who have been with the company from the early days, seen the changes and developed with those changes to ensure
The company’s ethos is about taking the best ingredients and turning them into tasty snacks – and it certainly seems to be working. The Kiddylicious wafers, said to revolutionise the rusk, won The Grocer New Product of the Year award last year. “We sell 110,000 wafers every day, said Sally. “The wavers were a big big thing, taking on the iconic rusks as a go-to snack for babies.” Now selling snacks in 22 countries from Australia to Norway to China, Kiddylicious is looking at further product development early next year. But Sally is not surprised by the success. “It was never going to be a cottage industry, this was always the plan and why not!” she said.
they continually deliver what the customers want. The dedication shown by staff is repaid with Solutions 4 Cleaning's in-house training scheme which upskills staff; all of the company’s managers have worked their way up the ladder and have been promoted from within. “We like to focus on the positive,” said Sam. “We see potential and we utilise our staff’s skills.” First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 25
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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HOCKEY’S GOLDEN GIRL HOLLIE WEBB – LIFE ON AND OFF THE PITCH GB Hockey player Hollie Webb became an instant hero when she calmly slotted home the winning penalty to clinch gold and send the country into raptures in the recent Rio Olympics.The University of Sheffield Economics graduate talks to First for Business magazine about her sport and how it complements her accountancy career. “I knew I was capable, I knew I just had to execute it.” The words of hockey star Hollie Webb discussing her mind-set as she smashed in the winning penalty to make history for team GB in the women’s hockey in Rio 2016. Her calm, determined attitude ensured that the team won their first ever Olympic gold against defending champions, the Netherlands. “At the time I just thought to myself; ‘it’s just a penalty, I’m a hockey player, I do this every day’,” said Hollie who is originally from Belper in Derbyshire. “It was a really weird feeling. I was in a bubble. We had done a lot of work off the pitch about pressurised situations and the psychology of it so I was prepared.” She may have been prepared for the penalty but the 23-year-old was not prepared for the amazing reaction to her goal back home. With the hockey team putting a selfimposed ban on social media during the games she and her teammates had no idea how wildly fans were celebrating across Britain. The BBC said nine million people were glued to their television screens to watch the dramatic penalty shoot-out with Hollie’s winning goal dubbed ‘the best moment of the Olympics.’ Twitter went crazy with celebrities from
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JK Rowling to Kelly Holmes and Greg Rutherford tweeting their appreciation for the team as the side were the number one trend on Twitter for a while. And even the BBC’s News at Ten was delayed due to the penalties. “We went on social media after the final and we were like ‘oh my God’! It was amazing to have so many messages,” said Hollie. “Now a lot of people want to play hockey. That was one of the goals as a team, that is one thing we said we wanted to do, that’s bigger than winning a gold medal.” Hollie is a full time athlete for GB and England hockey but also amazingly manages to fit in a part-time role with the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on its finance graduate scheme. After finishing her
Economics degree in 2013 at the University of Sheffield she was offered the position full-time but managed to negotiate to enable her to also have her hockey career. “For me it was really important to have something else as well as hockey,” said Hollie who is currently doing her CIMA exams and wants to be an accountant. “I had never been a full time athlete and work helps me in that it’s a bit of escapism so I can think about something else. “I think there’s a massive crossover in being a successful sports player and being successful in business. The skills I have learnt in sport are also useful at work. “How you can get the best out of people is hugely important in both areas. You learn that when you are part of a team. “On the pitch some people need you to be direct, even aggressive, some people need more constructive criticism. “In hockey there are 31 in the squad and they all have different personalities and are a very different people and you work together with individuals who you may not naturally have been best friends with to get a result. That’s the same in business.” Hollie also talks about the importance of being focused and self-motivated. “I started playing hockey at 8 or 9 years old but my parents have never been
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
pushy, I have always motivated myself which I think is important,” she said.
LISA POGSON, AIRMASTER
“I don’t like the idea of failure and I have to make sure I do everything I can to achieve what I want to achieve, If I am going to do something I do it as well as I can.”
President-elect of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, a founding member of its Women in Business group and director at Swallownest-based mechanical services experts Airmaster.
Keen to share some tips for success, Hollie added: “I set goals and I think that’s important and then I think ‘how am I going to get there?’” “I would say whether it’s in sport or work; set goals and then work hard to get there. “I also ask a lot of questions even if I know the answer, I ask so I can learn from many different peoples’ experiences.” So what now for Hollie after such a triumphant summer? “I just want to be a success in everything I do,” she said. “I want to win another Gold in the Olympics, I want to win in the Commonwealth games, I want to win the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup which is in London, it would be amazing to win on home soil. “I want to qualify as an accountant. There’s lot I want to do!”
Lisa Pogson is one of the region’s most respected businesswomen. Later this year she will be named President of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce and she is also director at Swallownest-based mechanical services experts Airmaster. Another string to Lisa’s bow is her work with Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber Women in Business group, of which she is a founding member. The group offers a support network for professional women who own and work in businesses in South Yorkshire. “We encourage celebration, collaboration and instilling confidence to get to positions of influence,” said Lisa. Women in Business works with the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce which provide the group with help to organise events, publicise achievements and generally encourage and support. The group meets regularly to develop ideas and opportunities for creative, inspiring and interactive ways for women to network, learn, signpost and share with each other. And with Christmas just around the corner the group is preparing for its annual Women in Business Christmas network lunch which will be held at Whitley Hall on 9 December at 11.45am – 4pm. “The event is a great opportunity to meet informally and celebrate the successes of 2016 with other professionals, while enjoying good food, great service and supporting local charities,” added Lisa.
Hollie also has the small matter of organising her wedding to fiancé Tom Pearne - planned for late next year.
Anyone new to the Chamber or the Women in Business group will also get the chance to learn more about events in 2017, including the International Athena Awards, which are being held in March as part of the hugely successful International Women’s day event. The event is being planned for 8 March 2017 at Tankersley Manor.
But with such a determined attitude to life there’s no doubt whether it’s hockey, accountancy or wedding planning it will be a success with Hollie Webb at the helm.
Women in Business also organise events with inspirational speakers and provides a platform for sharing information and specific business opportunities through its web site and social media.
DENISE QUAYLE Director of Taxation at Knowles Warwick Denise recently joined Knowles Warwick as the Director of Taxation, managing a busy and thriving tax team in a forward thinking firm of accountants. She has hit the ground running and, supported by her team, has been proactively helping Knowles Warwick’s clients to save money on their tax bills whilst remaining compliant. Denise brings with her almost forty years’ experience in tax, having worked for both large and small firms, and as a self-
For more details visit www.brchamber.co.uk/external-affairs/women-in-business
employed consultant. Her varied knowledge and experience means she is well positioned to advise clients, both personal and corporate, with their tax liabilities. Denise started out as a trainee working for the Inland Revenue, before progressing to the level of Tax Officer Higher Grade. She then moved into practice as a Tax Senior, where she sat the
ATII (Associate of the Taxation Institute Incorporated) exams and was promoted to Assistant Manager. After eight years in practice, Denise then worked as a freelancer for small accounting firms, building up her own client base. Eleven years later, she returned to practice as a Tax Senior, working for various firms over the course of almost twenty years, before joining Knowles Warwick. In her spare time, Denise likes to get creative. She is a keen painter, favouring watercolour. She is also a fan of classic cars, owning a classic Alfa Romeo which she likes to spend time working on at the weekend. First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 27
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ENTREPRENEURS
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OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
DOING WELL BY DOING GOOD- THE SECRETS OF AN ENTREPRENEURIAL BUSINESS BY LISA POGSON, MD OF AIRMASTER
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he MADE Festival is all about the spirit of entrepreneurialism and we caught up with MADE sponsor/ exhibitor Lisa Pogson, award-winning MD of Airmaster to discover what makes a great entrepreneur. Rotherham businesswoman Lisa left school at 16, graduated with a Masters in management in her 30s and this year became co-director of fast-growth £10m mechanical services company Airmaster, who work on projects as diverse as Not on the High Street to Tower Bridge and The Shard. “I am proud to live and work in Rotherham where I juggle roles as wife and mum of my daughter alongside being Airmaster’s MD. It’s not easy as many women will know, but my passion – one I share with my team – is for giving back to the region in as many ways as we can. I hear too many people say they haven’t got time. Even an hour a month to help a child
who is struggling to read can make an enormous difference to their life chances. In October I will be spreading this message even further when I become the first female President of Barnsley-Rotherham Chamber where I have been an active founder member of both their Women in Business group and Sheffield Chamber’s Inspiring Women group, involved in events to empower iwomen n the workplace. “I have joined the national Women in Refrigeration Business group to represent women in this male-dominated industry. This year I was Highly Commended at the Athena Awards for my contribution to local business community and a finalist in Northern Power Woman Awards for my work in advancing STEM subjects.
Lisa Pogson and her team
Trustee of Grimm & Co, a fabulous national literacy charity headquartered here in Rotherham has all given me chance to help young people become more employable and entrepreneurial. “Airmaster is committed to continually growing our extensive Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. Our team fundraises around £5,000 each year and is committed to a wide range of local good causes from the local hospices and breast cancer support to teen homelessness. “We are an award-winning business consistently achieving the highest standards of quality and customer service in our industry, but I think it is the good that we do across the country that puts the biggest smile on my face and makes me so proud of the incredible team we have here.”
“Being on the Board for Longley Park College’s Careers Academy, RCNN Enterprise Network Advisor, a STEM Ambassador and finalist for Yorkshire STEM Businesswoman of the Year, plus
Bringing comfort to your environment ៉ ៉ ៉ ៉ ៉ ៉
Design Commissioning Maintenance Installation Servicing Energy Assessment
Airmaster Air Conditioning Limited Wetherby House | Parkhill | Swallownest | Sheffield S26 4UN
Tel: 0114 288 9911 | Fax: 0114 288 9922 Email: team@airmaster.uk.com | Web: www.airmaster.uk.com
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 29
WHO’S
C
TO 31. OUNTING DOWN 10.201 6?
try a taste of
tradition Farmers Ales from Bradfield Brewery
On-Site Brewery Shop open Monday – Saturday 10am until 4pm. Visit our page on Facebook or follow us
info@bradfieldbrewery.com • 0114 2851118 • www.bradfieldbrewery.com Bradfield Brewery Limited.Watt House Farm, High Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6LG
Our C-Fleet management tool is now available, a cloud-based LIVE permission based access system for both Fleet Managers and Drivers. Drivers, administrators and fleet managers have live 'real time' access to fleet data through one cloud based portal, ensuring your entire fleet is running at its optimum performance.
A
Drivers can update mileage, vehicle inspection and fleet management system condition reports, book services & tyres and get in touch directly with all of the other associated services, while administrators and fleet managers can see, and receive alerts for all of the actions as they happen.
CLOUD-BASED & reporting suite
Consolidated reports are available at the click of a button too!
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CHRISTMAS AT SHOWROOM WORKSTATION
CELEBRATE WITH US IN OUR BEAUTIFUL ART DECO BUILDING IN THE HEART OF THE CREATIVE QUARTER
DANCING Christmas party packages AVAI BLE FROM £25 PER HEAD Including buffet and a DJ
DINING Three course Christmas menu £25 PER HEAD
ALL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR ON REQUEST Bespoke packages also available
Email: geoff.bell@neva@consultants.com Call: 01709 940770 SHOWROOM WORKSTATION, PATERNOSTER ROW, S1 2BX WWW.SHOWROOMWORKSTATION.ORG.UK/INFO/VENUE-HIRE PLEASE QUOTE ‘FIRST FOR BUSINESS’ WHEN ENQUIRING CALL TO BOOK ON 0114 221 0239 OR EMAIL christmas@showroomworkstation.org.uk
Providing high quality Business & Personal Contract Hire, Vehicle finance & Fleet Management consultancy services.
30 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
FEATURE
www.ffb-online.co.uk
PARTY ON! IT’S TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT THAT FESTIVE OFFICE DO. he nights are drawing in and the summer holidays seem like a distant memory. It can only mean one thing, the countdown to Christmas and the festive party season is on!
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Across the Sheffield City Region this December work colleagues will be pulling on their glad rags, getting out the Christmas crackers and enjoying a tipple or two together. But the key to a really good Christmas work party is to make sure it is booked well in advance so you are not left to find every venue is fully booked and the only option is an office party dancing around the photocopier to Wham. A well organised Christmas party in a quality venue can give dedicated, hardworking staff something to look forward as the year draws to a close. It can be a great bonding experience and good for team morale. If you are short on ideas of what to do
and where to host your Christmas party this year take a look at some of the venues showcased here. It does not have to be manager who takes on the task of booking the Christmas party either. Why not hand it over to the party-planner of the office, the one who loves to socialise. They will probably relish the task of getting everyone on board and booking a truly fantastic Christmas party. So whether it’s a traditional turkey meal with all the trimmings at a cosy pub, a lavish five-course banquet at a top restaurant, a dinner and dance evening or a themed party night, there are plenty of venues across the Sheffield City Region that can accommodate your plans whether you are a small business with a handful of staff or a huge organisations with hundreds of employees. No matter the budget or scale of your party get into the festive spirit and get your Christmas party booked now!
‘Whether it’s a traditional turkey meal with all the trimmings at a cosy pub, a lavish five-course banquet at a top restaurant, a dinner and dance evening or a themed party night, there are plenty of venues across the Sheffield City Region that can accommodate your plans.’ First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 31
BO TA NO O K IN W KI G NG S
CASINOS & RESTAURANTS • SHEFFIELD ECCLESALL ROAD • SHEFFIELD OWLERTON STADIUM •
EXPERIENCE
Thrill THIS CHRISTMAS THE
Please visit our website for all our festive packages & menus.
CHRIS CHRISTMAS TMAS
Party
DRINK COURSE MEAL MEAL 3 COURSE £5 GAMING CHIP
PACKAGES
FROM FR OM JUST JUST
££17 17 17 *
Per person
Sheffield Owlerton Stadium 17 Livesey Street, Sheffield S6 2BL T: 0114 285 5566 E: owlerton@napoleons-casinos.co.uk
www.napoleons-casinos.co.uk/owlerton
Now taking b New ookings f o Y in ou ear’s Eve 2r r rest auran 016 ts
£67.50t
Sheffield Ecclesall Road 844 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield, S11 8TD T: 0114 266 1115 E: ecclesallrd@napoleons-casinos.co.uk
www.napoleons-casinos.co.uk/ecclesall Strictly 18+ * Terms and conditions apply
Jus
pp
LEISURE
First for Business
OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
YOU’RE ON A WINNER! IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A MEMORABLE FESTIVE NIGHT OUT, NAPOLEONS IS A SUREFIRE BET.
I
f you really want to become the office superstar this Christmas or you’re keen to impress friends and family, then make sure Napoleons is at the top of your list for an unforgettable festive gathering. With two venues to choose from in Sheffield both serving succulent threecourse Christmas dinners in the restaurants and not forgetting the fantastic bars and casino games in both venues, one thing is for sure - Napoleons is the winning combination for 2016. Christmas dinners are priced at just £25 and include three courses and a £5 gaming chip to try your luck with on the casino tables. The menus differ in both locations highlighting the individual approach Napoleons takes with each of its venues. To give you an idea of the delicious dishes you can expect to enjoy, you can get your taste buds going with one of our delicious starters including pulled gammon terrine with piccalilli syrup, spiced apple purée and sour dough toast, or why not choose the garlic mushrooms with focaccia croute and a beetroot reduction. The main courses are sure to
get you in the Christmas spirit with options including the traditional dish of roast turkey with all the festive trimmings; shank of lamb slowly braised with redcurrants and rosemary with caramelised onion mash, or for vegetarians, there’s the roasted winter vegetable and butterbean cottage pie with red onion gravy. Make sure you save room for the best of all courses though, as on the desserts
menu you will find treats in the form of Christmas pudding with rum sauce, warm chocolate brownie with salted caramel ice cream, lemon and mascarpone cheesecake with limoncello syrup and, for savoury fans, a selection of cheeses with celery, chutney and crackers. Once you’ve finished your meal you can head onto the casino floor to try your luck on the casino tables with your £5 chip. Don’t worry if you haven’t played before as the croupiers are always on hand to offer advice on how to play. Napoleons is often referred to as the friendly casino with customers saying that Napoleons is a place they feel comfortable to come to and often remarking on the enjoyable relaxed atmosphere. All the staff, from managers to croupiers to valets, are very hands on and welcoming and, unlike other casinos, you’ll always be able to see the management team out and about on the casino floor, talking to customers and ensuring that everyone is having the best possible experience. Please note: Napoleons is a strictly over 18s venue. First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 33
HAVE A
Brocco
CHRISTMAS Our neighbourhood kitchen is now taking Christmas bookings for: Festive afternoon teas Family gatherings Work socials Boxing Day and New Year’s Day brunch Call us on 0114 266 1233 or email christmas@brocco.co.uk www.brocco.co.uk/christmas *Some teas will have live music, check website for details.
Open every day till 10pm (Sundays till 6pm)
Brocco on the Park 92 Brocco Bank
s Christmas Christma hts Party Nig Party Fri 2nd, Sat 3rd, Fri 9th, Sat 10th, Thurs 15th, Fri 16th, Sat 17th, Sun 18th, Thurs 22nd & Fri 23rd December yle! t with st r a m s s s e Dr
£29
3 Course per person Dinner Dinner 7.30pm for 8.00pm, Bar till 1am
Thursday
ONLY £25
Sheffield S11 8RS 0114 266 1233
New e Years Ev
er Gala Dinn uffet B e iv t s e F & Disco with DJ
Thursday 8th or Sunday 4th December
4 Course Dinner
7.30pm till late
£47 per person
£15 per person
Dinner 7.00pm for 7.30pm,
For further information please view our website at www.niagaracentre.co.uk Our Events Co-ordinator is available to discuss your individual requirements on 0114 2964945, email: events@niagaracentre.co.uk
34 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
HOTELS
First for Business
OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
THINGS ARE CHANGING AS HELLABY HALL GETS A WHOLE NEW LOOK AND BEAUTIFUL NEW FACILITIES.
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he new owners of the historic Hellaby Hall Hotel in Rotherham are well underway with improvements to the popular four star hotel. The Lavin Family acquired the hotel at the start of 2016 for ÂŁ5.6m and had previously bought Aston Hall Hotel in 2012 to add to their portfolio, which also includes The West Retford Hotel.
The hotel is opening a new chapter in its history following considerable investment and the appointment of new personnel including new sales manager, Sarah Myatt, to drive the venue forward. Part of the improvement project undertaken so far includes work to the
Hellaby Hall is a Grade II listed building and is the converted 17th Century House of Ralph Fretwell. It today consists of 89 bedrooms some of which are located in the original house and is a popular location for weddings, Christmas, functions and conferences. It also has the award-winning rosette Carnelly Restaurant and a health and leisure club with two gyms and large swimming pool.
outdoor grounds and gardens. The bedrooms and corridors are also on a schedule of refurbishment. The wi-fi in the hotel has also been improved and approval has been sought to bring the hotel into the Best Western Group in line with the other two properties. The spa has had a total refurbishment with four new treatment rooms and a relaxation room installed and both day and overnight spa packages are being offered. Local people are also being encouraged to use the facilities for nail, brow and beauty treatments. The hotel is also building on its already excellent reputation as a wedding venue and will soon welcome a permanent marquee on site enabling two weddings to be held on the same day.
Cinderella Panto & Lunch
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Sunday 11th December ÂŁ15.50 per adult, ÂŁ10.50 per child
Monday - Saturday throughout December ÂŁ17.95 per adult
$ " , *# -, #!",
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Thursday 15th December ÂŁ24.95 per person
ÂŁ59pp inc. Spa Treatment & Festive Afternoon Tea
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Sunday 18th December ÂŁ18.95 per adult, ÂŁ8.95 per child
Fridays & Saturdays throughout December ÂŁ29.95 per person
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Thursday 22nd December ÂŁ24.95 per person
ÂŁ99pp inc. Spa Treatment with any Party Night and Stay
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ÂŁ59.95pp over 18s only
ÂŁ59.95 Adult, ÂŁ24.95 Child
T: 01709 702701 sales@hellabyhallhotel.co.uk www.hellabyhallhotel.co.uk
1
1 1
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 35
Winter Special Offer
At Wortley Hall
DAY DELEGATE RATES – From Only £20.00 Per Person 24hr DELEGATE RATES – From Only £95.00 Per Person To include: Meeting room hire, arrival tea/coffee, mid morning tea/coffee & biscuits, buffet lunch, mid afternoon tea/coffee & biscuits, chilled mineral water & cordials in meeting room, jotter and pen, TV/DVD, projector, screen, flip chart & pens. Overnight Stay with Dinner and full English Breakfast (24hr Package)
Wortley Hall is an excellent location for your meeting needs, just a few minutes from junction 35a/36 off the M1. At Wortley Hall you can be assured that we will do everything possible to make sure your conference/event goes smoothly, from start to finish. Our team offers a quality service at very affordable prices.
Book your meeting room at this discounted rate, valid on bookings between 1st December 2016 and 31st January 2017
Contact our reservations team on 0114 288 2100 or info@wortleyhall.org.uk
Wortley Hall l Wortley | Sheffield l S35 7DB t: 0114 288 2100 f: 0114 2830 695 e: info@wortleyhall.org.uk w: www.wortleyhall.org.uk
THE OLD RECTORY Conference & Meeting Room Hire 402b Handsworth Road S13 9BZ tel 0114 2692537 www.orh.org.uk email: tim@orh.org.uk - Close to junction 33 of the M1 Sheffield - Free car parking for 36 cars - 5 Meeting rooms available to hire - Rates from £10 per hour - Full catering service
Advertising Sales Executive required Preference will be given to candidates who can show previous success in the field of selling print/internet advertising. OTE - upon application dependent upon experience Company car can be supplied Holidays - 25 days plus statutory Bank Holidays - Pro-rata If you feel you have the experience and the drive to succeed within our company, please email your current c.v to jillion.wood@rmcmedia.co.uk
36 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
CONFERENCES
First for Business
OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
EVENTS CENTRAL FROM FLAGSHIP CONFERENCES TO SMALL SEMINARS, SHEFFIELD HAS GOT A VENUE TO SUIT ANY KIND OF BUSINESS OCCASION. cathedral, football stadiums, stately homes, top quality hotels, former steelworks and historical settings when it comes to conference facilities the Sheffield City Region (SCR) really does have it all.
A
Whether you are planning a huge corporate affair or a smaller more intimate occasion there is a venue to complement every occasion, style and budget. The region has perfect locations for every business occasion whether it is an exhibition, event, interview, meeting, training course or networking event you want to hold. And not only does the SCR have top
quality and diverse venues in wonderful locations most can also offer event management services to ensure every occasion is planned out expertly so it goes without a hitch.
and the newly opened Great Yorkshire Way it has never been easier for people from further afield to get to the SCR and for people based in the area to get around the region for business events.
From organising the perfect food and drink packages to ensuring the right technical facilities are in place, event planners can take care of everything and take the hassle and headache out of your event.
The region is also just two hours by train from London and sitting in the heart of the UK it is an ideal location for any business event. Commuters can travel to the area with ease and enjoy some true Yorkshire hospitality.
Many venues can also offer bespoke packages, tailored to suit your budget, needs and requirements. And great with recent transport developments including additional routes to and from Doncaster Sheffield Airport
First For Business enjoys a great relationship with many of the region’s finest venues and is pleased to present a selection here. Of course, our region offers so much more but this is a great place to start. First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 37
SHEFFIELD’S GOT THE We’re on a mission to
#SHOUTABOUTSHEFF The very best of Sheffield in one handy place, updated every single day. Sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? Well that’s exactly what we do at sheffieldvibe.com your first and only stop for all things Sheffield! If you can’t decide where to head on Friday night, want to be the first to hear about new bar and restaurant openings, are looking for the latest interviews with the Steel City’s biggest movers and shakers (the list goes on) we have it all.
And while you’re out and about discovering all the brilliant things that Sheffield has to offer, follow us on social media and let us know what you’re up to on our hashtag #shoutaboutsheff. @VIBE_Sheffield
There’s so much more to discover at rmcmedia.co.uk. Each of our nine titles has its very own section, dedicated to giving you even more news, views and pictures from your home region. Whether you have a local business and are looking to advertise or you’re a reader who wants to share their story, you’ll also find all the details you need to get in touch with us.
Time is running out! Don’t miss your opportunity to win 30 fantastic prizes in our huge 30th anniversary competition. It’s the ultimate prize package, with pampering treats, race day experiences, luxury hotel stays, beautiful jewellery and gorgeous homeware - plus much, much more - up for grabs, you’d be crazy not to! To enter, and see details of the full prize, go to rmcmedia.co.uk/competitions. Good luck!
@rmc_media
vibesheffield
Stephanie Burns is our dedicated web editor. Contact her on stephanie.burns@rmcmedia.co.uk with all of your news, views and gossip.
Beyond the magazine pages
Find us on social media
VIBE-Sheffield
www.facebook.com/ThisIsRMCMedia
CONFERENCES
First for Business
OCTOBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
DON’T GO ROUND IN CIRCLES LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT CONFERENCE VENUE – JUST BOOK THE CIRCLE! he Circle is a vibrant, stylish conference and events space right in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
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Whether you are planning a day, evening or weekend event, The Circle, can offer tailor-made packages to meet any hospitality need.
Situated on Rockingham Lane, just off Division Street, it boasts a range of high quality, contemporary rooms to host everything from conferences to meetings, training courses, workshops, IT training, exhibitions, trade fairs and networking events.
Food and drink can be provided for any event and The Circle works with local suppliers to create menus to suit every taste, budget and activity. There is also the option to hire audiovisual equipment for events and on-site technical support is available. In addition The Circle offers an event management service and can even promote events to its network of contacts. Owned by Voluntary Action Sheffield (VAS), businesses which use The Circle’s high quality services are also benefiting community organisations in the city. Voluntary Action Sheffield - which
this year is celebrating its 90th anniversary - provides information, advice and services to local voluntary and community organisations and promotes volunteering in Sheffield. Rachael West, Facilities Building Manager at VAS, said: “Whether it’s a large corporate event you are organising or a more intimate affair we can offer rooms suitable for all. We are there to make your event work for you.” Visit www.thecirclesheffield.org.uk or call 0114 2536666 to find out more about The Circle and take a virtual tour.
The Circle is a unique, modern conference venue in the heart of Sheffield city centre, just off Division Street. Offering a range of high quality and versatile rooms that are available to hire by the hour, half day or full day, including a fully-equipped IT Suite, flexible Conference Suite, and spacious Gallery area. Perfect for private meetings, staff training, conferences, exhibitions, networking and client entertaining. No hidden costs – excellent rates available, with complimentary tea and coffee and discounts for block bookings.
www.thecirclesheffield.org.uk The Circle, 33 Rockingham Lane, Sheffield S1 4FW T: 0114 253 6666 E: info@thecirclesheffield.org.uk
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 39
GILDER GROUP PREMIUM USED CARS
NOW OPEN
GILDER GROUP PREMIUM USED CARS
GILDER GROUP PREMIUM USED CARS
Visit Visit the the full full range of premium premium cars at www.gildergroup.co.uk www.gildergroup.co.uk
GILDER GROUP TO RE-OPEN BANNER CROSS SITE City’s famous family dealership to sell approved used cars once again become a car dealership. we’re back by popular demand “So, we’re and we’ll be making use of the prime ellll a range off pr emium, location to se sell premium, affffordable, approved approved used cars yet affordable, from Monday 12th September.” September.” from Simon continues: “Our focus, as it een will een, ill be to of ffer f always has been, offer quality y, rreliable eliable used cars from from the quality, ave in-depth knowledge brands we ha have W, Mercedes, Mercedes, and off as wellll as BMW BMW, marques that we other sought-after marques trust.
One of Shef Sheffield’s fffield’ fie s most popular car dealerships p is to re-open after eight years off closur closure. l re. Group’’s Banner Cross The Gilder Group’s Cross site on Ecclesall Road South was one of the busiest dealerships ealerships in the city city, y, serving thousands of drivers since Jack Gilder first opened the doors in the 1960s. Hardwick, Managing Explains Simon Hardwick, Director of The Gilder Group: Group: “The Director
site has actually been semi-operational for several years as we’ve been using it as an additional preparation and storage area area for our preparation across Honda and Mitsubishi outlets across region. the region. “After we sold our dealerships in 2013, we made the decision to hold offf fr om rre-opening e-opening the site but ever off from since then, we’ve had customers asking us, almost on a weekly basis, when the Banner Cr oss site would Cross
“Every used vehicle on show will have undergone our rigorous rigorous quality and undergone safety checks and include a compr p ehensive warranty to ensure ensure comprehensive trouble-fr bl ee motoring.” trouble-free udes: “It’ ’s particularly Simon concludes: “It’s exciting for me and many members of Group team that Banner the Gilder Group Cross is set to re-open. re-open. Lots of us Cross have been with the business for decades and have worked at the site previously y, so it’s it’s great great to be back – previously, and I know that lots of our customers share that same sentiment!” share
GILDER G GROUP PREMIUM USED US CARS
A SELECTION OF OUR USED APPR APPROVED OVED CARS MERCEDES-BENZ MERCEDES-BENZ CLS 220D BLUEEFFICIENCY AMG AMG SPORT SPOR POR RT 13 Reg Reg Auto Auto
A UDI TT 2.0 TDI QU AUDI QUATTRO ATTR T O 58 R eg Manual Reg
AMG AMG Alloy Alloy Wheels • Full Black Leather Sat Nav Silver Nav • 32,086 Miles Miles • Metallic Metallic Silv er
Leather /Suede • Rear Rear Sensors Sensors Leather/Suede 17,554 Miles Miles • Metallic Metallic Silv er 17,554 Silver
Our pric price e
£20,995
BMW 118D M SPOR BMW SPORT RT 14 Reg Reg 5dr Manual
MINI COOPER COOPER 1.5 Reg 14 R eg 3DR Manual
GILDER PREMIUM PREMIUM USED CARS COME WITH COME PEACE OF THIS PEACE D PACKAGE PACKAGE MIND
£13,295
Our pric price e
FREELAN 2 2.2 TDI LAND R ROVER OVER FREELANDER Reg XS 5DR 62 R eg Manual
Pack 1 Owner • Sat Nav Nav Media Media & Chilli P ack 15,169 15,169 Miles Miles • White White / Black Roof Roof
Our pric price e
£13,495
7 DAY DA AY eA way 7 Day Day Driv Drive Away Insurance Insurance
VW Golf 2.0 TDi BlueMotion VW BlueMotion T Tech e ech GTD 64 Reg Reg 5dr Manual
Multipoint Check
Business Sat Na ooth Duel ZZone Navv • Bluet Bluetooth one Climate C ontrol • 26,254 Miles Miles • M etallic Silv er Climate Control Metallic Silver
Our pric price e
£13,995
MERCEDES SLK250 CDI AMG AMG MERCEDES 62 Reg Reg Sport Sport Convertible Convertible Auto Auto
Tow Bar Sat Na Navv • Full Leatherr • Tow Miles • White White 35,234 Miles
Our pric price e
£16,995
Mercedes AMG M ercedes C250 CDi AM G Reg Sportt 15 R eg Spor Coupe Auto C oupe A uto
1 Owner • 18 18"" Alloy Alloy Wheels • Classic T ar a tan Seats • 17,722 17,722 Miles Miles • Metallic Metallic Black Tartan
Our pric price e
£17,995 £17 7,995 ,
Mileage Mileag age e History History Check
A UDI A 4 2.0 TDI UL AUDI A4 ULTRA LT TRA S LINE Reg Navv 4dr Manual 15 R eg Na
HPi Check
Leather • Sat Nav Nav • 18" 18" AMG AMG Alloy Alloy Wheels 17,839 17,839 Miles Miles • Red Red
Our pric price e
£17,995 £17 7,995 ,99 ,
ROVER EVOQUE EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 RANGE ROVER DYNAMIC DYNAMIC 12 Reg Reg 4x4 Auto Auto
1 Owner • Sat Na Premium Pack Pack Navv • Premium AMG Alloys Alloys • 11,854 Miles Miles • White White • AMG
Our pric price e
£20,495
RANGE R ROVER OV VER SPORT SPORT 3.0 SDV6 SDV6 HSE DYNAMIC 15 Reg DYNAMIC Y Reg Auto Auto
Navv • Bluetooth Leather • Sat Na Bluetooth Extremely Extremely Low Silver Lo w Mileage Mileage 3,129 3,,1129 Miles Miles • Metallic Metallic Silv er
£20,995
Our pric price e
RANGE R OV ROVER VER 4.4 SDV8 SDV8 AUTOBIOGRAPHY Reg Auto A UTOBIOGRAPHY 63 Re g Au to
Competitive FC Competitive Approved Finance Finance Approved
24 4M MONTHS O ONTHS
o 24 months Up tto Roadside Roadside Assistance Assistance
Navv • Leather • Panoramic 1 Owner • Sat Na Panoramic Roof R oof • 26,408 Miles Miles • Metallic Metallic Red Red
Our pric price e
£26,995
Alloy 1 Owner • Leather • 22" All oy Wheels Panoramic Panoramic Roof Roof • Sat Nav Nav • 32,300 Miles Miles
Our pric price e
£52,995
Navv • Leather • FFridge ridg ge 1 Owner • Sat Na Panoramic Roof Miles Metallic Gold P anoramic R es • M etallic Gol d oof • 16,683 Mil
Our pric price e
£67,795 £6 7,,795
1 Ecclesall Ecclesall Road South, South, Banner Cross, Cross, s, Sheffield, Sheffffield, S11 9PA 9P PA
T T:: 0 0114 114 3 349 49 3 3223 223 www.gildergroup.co.uk w w w.gildergroup.co.uk
Transfer T ransffer e of Manufacturer Warranty Warranty Manufacturer
First For Business
SEPTEMBER 2016
www.ffb-online.co.uk
WINNER TAKES ALL
IT’S A COMPETITION LIKE NO OTHER – TO CELEBRATE 30 YEARS RMC MEDIA IS GIVING AWAY 30 PRIZES. AND ONE PERSON WILL WALK AWAY WITH EVERYTHING. e launched Westside, our first magazine, in 1986 and competitions have been at the heart of all our publications ever since. Over the years we have been able to give away some fabulous prizes. This is different. In fact, this will be our most exciting competition yet. To celebrate our 30th year we have put together a fabulous package of 30 gifts, all generously contributed by some of the region’s finest businesses.
W
1. Raymond Weil watch Made from stainless steel with rose gold PVD plated detail, this simple and original timepiece is perfect for any occasion (choose from a lady’s or gent’s size, RRP £850). PA Jewellery, www.pajewellery.com.
4. Half case of prosecco The Austin’s Group has selected this Prosecco Spumante Brut, Azienda Abbazia, Piemonte Italy for its light silver colour, fresh aromas and bouncy, medium dry flavours (RRP £11 per bottle). www.theaustinsgroup.com
7. Cinema tickets for The Showroom, Sheffield Enjoy four trips to the cinema or take three family members/friends with you. Showroom & Workstation, www.showroomworkstation.org.uk.
10. Selection of RMC books Discover new recipes and expand your culinary knowledge with a selection of cookery books published by RMC Media.
42 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
Our competition is available to readers of all our monthly printed titles – nine in total – and one very lucky winner will be collecting this sensational array of gifts including jewellery, hotel stays, holiday flights, fine wines, champagne and much more besides. The only way to be a part of this once-in-alifetime competition is via RMC Media’s new website – www.rmcmedia.co.uk – so take a closer look at the amazing prizes on offer and enter online now.
How to enter: Enter our competition online at www.rmcmedia.co.uk. The closing date is Monday 31 October 2016. Question: What year was RMC Media’s first magazine, Westside, launched? For full terms and conditions, visit our website.
CHARLES
BROOKS Est 1972
2. £50 voucher for gentlemen’s shoes Select a pair of gentlemen’s shoes from Charles Brooks including Loake, Barker and Tricker’s and get £50 off. Charles Brooks, 241 Fulwood Road, Broomhill, Sheffield, S10 3BA.
3. Hotel stay at Brocco on the Park, Sheffield Spend a blissful night in The Dovecote, Brocco on the Park’s penthouse room overlooking Endcliffe Park, Porter Brook and Hunters Bar. Enjoy an overnight stay for two with a glass of fizz on arrival. www.brocco.co.uk.
5. Luxury dining at Napoleons, Sheffield You and three friends can dine in style with a bottle of champagne for the table, a three-course meal, and a £5 betting chip each for the casino (redeemable at the Ecclesall Road or Owlerton branch). Napoleons, www.napoleons-casinos.co.uk.
6. 30 bottles of ale Enjoy 30 bottles of our refreshing Thirty Something celebration ale, lovingly brewed by Bradfield Brewery, www.bradfieldbrewery.com.
8. Race day experience Spend your race day for two in style with a glass of champagne on arrival, followed by a three-course lunch in The Old Weighing Room and a race day programme (dress code applies. Age 18+ only). Doncaster Racecourse, www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk.
11. Ray-Ban sunglasses Keep cool with these blueframed Ray-Ban sunglasses. Visit Bawtry Eye Academy at their new premises at 7 Dower House Square. www.bawtryeyeacademy.com.
9. Dine, stay and breakfast at The Crown Hotel, Bawtry After a three-course dinner for two, you and your partner can enjoy a bottle of proseccco in your room and wake up to a full English breakfast the following day. The Crown Hotel, www.crownhotelbawtry.com.
12. Two flights to Guernsey Aurigny Air Services are pleased to offer two return flights to the beautiful island of Guernsey, well known for its stunning coastlines, wealth of outdoor activities and French culture. Leeds Bradford Airport, www.leedbradfordairport.co.uk.
COMPETITION
13. Tickets to a Sheffield Wednesday game Enjoy two tickets for a home game at Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, www.swfc.co.uk.
15. Chiminea Staying warm is easy and stylish with this Floral Chiminea (RRP £90). Ferndale Garden Centre, www.ferndalegardencentre.co.uk.
14. Set of pans This Schulte-Ufer four-pan set worth £130 is suitable for induction, gas, ceramic or electric hobs. Grid Thirteen, www.gridthirteen.co.uk.
16. Tickets to see Diversity See dance titans Diversity at Leeds First Direct Arena. You and three family members/friends will also have access to the Premier Lounge with a restaurant, bar and window overlooking the Arena plaza. First Direct Arena, www.firstdirectarena.com.
17. Triple activity package Experience 4x4 off-roading, clay pigeon shooting and quad-biking at Yorkshire Outdoors, www.yorkshire-outdoors.co.uk. 19. Silver daisy pendant A delightful daisy cut-out pendant with dot detailing. In polished silver with a silver chain, it is charming and easy to wear. Green+Benz. www.greenandbenz.com.
18. Domino luxury rug This brown Domino shag pile rug is made from quality polypropyline fibre, suitable for all areas of the home. Dronfield Carpets & Floors, www.dronfieldcarpets andfloors.co.uk.
20. £100 Sandersons gift card Have a shopping spree at Sandersons, a new boutique department store opening soon at Fox Valley. Sandersons, www.sandersonsdeptstore.co.uk.
21. Lunch and a shopping spree Enjoy lunch for two and a complimentary drink at Ponti’s Italian Kitchen, followed by a £100 shopping spree at Fox Valley, www.foxvalleysheffield.co.uk. Ponti’s Italian Kitchen, www.pontisitaliankitchen.co.uk, 24. ghd curve This soft curl tong gives you effortless waves. Selected by Posh FX, 46 Middlewood Road, Sheffield S6 4HA.
22. The Schoolrooms hamper This hamper of treats includes a bottle of wine, parkin, biscuits, and Schoolrooms branded coffee and jarred goods. The Schoolrooms, www.theschoolrooms.co.uk.
23. Hair and shaving set Get that fresh-from-the-barbershop feeling with Savills’ selection of hair and shaving products. Savills, www.savillsbarbers.com. 26. 24-carat gold Balmain hairbrush Add some glamour to your hair care routine with this 24-carat gold hairbrush worth £129. The Vanilla Rooms, www.the-vanilla-rooms.com.
27. Family Feast Hamper The hamper includes five chicken breast fillets, five gammon steaks, five sirloin steaks, 2lb beef mince and 2lb diced beef worth £19.99. Underwood Meat Company, www.underwoodmeat.co.uk.
25. Tickets to a Sheffield United game Enjoy four tickets for a home game at Sheffield United Football Club, www.sufc.co.uk.
28. Bailey of Sheffield CABLE bracelet Bailey of Sheffield has created the CABLE bracelet for men – jewellery manufactured to last a lifetime (prices from £179.99). Bailey of Sheffield, www.baileyofsheffield.com.
29. Bottle of champagne Selected by Mitchells Wine Merchants, this Montaudon Champagne has a distinctive flavour, a deep gold colour and a doughy and nutty aroma. www.mitchellswine.co.uk.
30. Bottle of Slingsby Gin Gin specialists Spirit of Harrogate are offering a bottle of Slingsby Gin, made with the finest natural and locally sourced botanicals, Harrogate aquifer water and pure single grain spirit. www.wslingsby.co.uk. First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 43
THIS IS
entertainment THIS IS
the biggest party for miles THIS IS
doncaster-racecourse.co.uk 01302 304265 christmas@doncaster-racecourse.co.uk DoncasterRaces
DoncasterRaces
#XMASLIVE2016
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
IN PICTURES
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RACE DAY SUCCESS THE MASTER AND MISTRESS CUTLER AND 140 GUESTS FROM THE CORPORATE SECTOR ENJOYED A SUNNY DAY’S RACING AT THE ST LEGER FESTIVAL. THE CHOSEN CHARITY WAS ONCE AGAIN SUPPORT DOGS AND GUESTS GENEROUSLY DONATED OVER £1,200 DURING THE LUNCHTIME RAFFLE.
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 45
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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CELEBRATING 15 YEARS IN BUSINESS Sheffield’s Best Solicitors celebrated 15 years in business with a lunch party at Baldwin’s Omega. During its decade and a half the business has adapted and evolved to meet the changes in the legal system and the roller coaster economy and has successfully grown in size and John Booth, partner at Best speaking reputation. at the lunch
Pictured at the lunch are: Peter Rose of BforB; Polly Kerr of Optimum Finance, Michael Rhodes of The Star; Tom Sutton from Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Joasia Lesniak of St Luke’s Hospice
A spokesman for the company said: “It is testament to the professionalism and determination of all our staff to always be looking to improve and take Best forward and we are proud of our position in 2016.” The lunch was attended by colleagues, peers and friends who have been with Best on their 15-year journey.
WORK AND PLAY
A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS, CELEBRATIONS AND NEW FACES
DAME KELLY SET TO INSPIRE
RECORD BREAKING SUMMER FOR YORKSHIRE’S AIRPORT AS PASSENGER FIGURES SOAR August was the busiest month on record for Doncaster Sheffield Airport with more than 145,000 passengers flying from the Yorkshire base making it a record breaking summer. This record month takes the airports passenger figures to over one million, with 1,083,333 people flying from Doncaster Sheffield Airport, the Sheffield City Region’s airport, in the past 12 months. Steve Gill, chief executive of Doncaster Sheffield Airport said: “This is fantastic news, we’ve had our busiest August ever and the number of people travelling from Doncaster Sheffield Airport is continuing to rise. This summer has seen us notch up a number of record breaking months, “The improved accessibility of the airport, thanks to the Great Yorkshire Way link road from Junction 3 of the M18, and the 11 new destinations on offer with Flybe, has significantly expanded our offer to people across the region. I strongly believe that an ambitious region such as ours needs a thriving airport and with the continued support of the region, we can achieve even more.”
46 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
Dame Kelly Holmes DBE, MBE will share the secrets of her winning mindset at a keynote conference of chief executives who are grappling with the challenges presented by the UK’s decision to leave the EU. She is attending the Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield on Thursday October 13 for Unlocking Potential, part of a major series of events hosted by the Academy for Chief Executives, the UK’s leading coaching and leadership support group for senior executives. Dame Kelly inspired a nation when she won gold medals in the 800m and 1500m at the Athens Olympics in 2004. Kevin Kerley, Chairman of the Academy for Chief Executives said: “Brexit presents both a massive challenge and, importantly, a huge opportunity with massive potential. Every business leader in Yorkshire has significant influence; the attitudes we choose and actions we take now will influence lives far into the future. “Dame Kelly can give us some real insights into how we can develop a winning mindset to deliver the prizes that Brexit potentially offers. At the Academy for Chief Executives we work hard to improve lives by unlocking the potential of every business leader. This conference is another step along that road to success.” Admission is by invitation only; for further information, please email alyssia.bailey@chiefexecutive.com
WORK & PLAY
WESTFIELD HEALTH SEALS THREE-YEAR BRITISH TRANSPLANT GAMES SPONSORSHIP Westfield Health has announced it will continue its long standing support of the British Transplant Games by unveiling a further three year title sponsorship deal. The not-for-profit Sheffield-based health insurer has now been involved with the Transplant Games for a number of years and will remain headline sponsor Medal winners celebrating at the 2016 Westfield of the event until 2019. Health British Transplant Games
Hosted annually by the charity Transplant Sport (TS), the Games attract hundreds of athletes from across the UK – all of whom have undergone a lifesaving transplant – to compete in a variety of sporting events, from swimming and lawn bowls to running and volleyball. The 2017 Games will be held in North Lanarkshire from the 27 to 30 July. Graham Moore, Westfield Health Chairman said: “As an organisation Westfield Health is committed to making a difference to communities throughout the UK and we are thrilled to help make the Games happen for the next three years.”
STEEL CITY ‘BEST VALUE’ FOR THE WEEKEND Sheffield has once again taken the title for offering the best value UK city break, following the recent August bank holiday weekend. TripAdvisor’s annual cost comparison study, TripIndex UK Cities, gave the steel city the accolade for the second year in a row. The travel and booking site compares the cost of a three-night break over the August bank holiday weekend in the 20 most popular UK cities taking into account typical costs for two people. These include; a four-star hotel for three nights, a visit to four attractions, lunch each day, a taxi to and from dinner each day, plus the cost of dinner. The study found that a three night (four day) trip for two in Sheffield costs an average of £706, almost two thirds less than the price of a break in the UK’s most expensive destination which is, unsurprisingly, London. An average weekend break in the capital was found to be £1,190.
NEW UNITS OPENING AT DONCASTER BUSINESS PARK Commercial Property Partners has been appointed by St. Modwen to market two new warehouse units that are soon to be completed at Parkside Business Park, Doncaster. The two detached industrial/warehouse units have been built to the front of the business park as the first phase of the development, and will soon be available for occupation. Unit A offers approximately 36,934 sq ft of warehouse space, plus office accommodation of 2,684 sq ft while unit B totals 41,438 sq ft and also includes an office space of 2,549 sq ft. Each unit also has its own large, secure service yard area and more than 30 car parking spaces. The Parkside Business Park is just off the A630, on the way to the M18. The new developments aim to add an economic boost, particularly within the manufacturing sector. “Doncaster is a great location for manufacturers to consider if they are expanding or relocating their premises,” said Ed Norris of CPP. “It is one of the lowest-cost regions in the UK for the manufacturing industry, and offers access to a highly qualified workforce – there is a large proportion of people with NVQs up to level 3 in Doncaster when compared with the rest of the UK.”
NEW GENERAL MANAGER CHECKS IN AT HAMPTON BY HILTON SHEFFIELD Louise Thrussell has been appointed the new general manager of the Hampton by Hilton Sheffield, overseeing both the hotel and the adjacent Marco’s New York Italian restaurant. The 35-year-old, who has relocated to the region from Luton for the role, brings almost two decades of experience within the hotel industry to the post, having worked her way up from her first job as a guest service assistant in 2002. Since then, Louise has climbed the ranks, building an impressive CV of extensive hotel management and operations experience, as well as achieving accolades such as ‘General Manager of the Year’ twice with past employers. Louise now joins the Sheffield team from her previous role as general manager of the Holiday Inn Express Dunstable.
Louise Thrussell
Housed within the former West Bar Green police station, the Hampton by Hilton Sheffield and adjacent Marco’s New York Italian restaurant opened to the public in spring 2014, following an extensive refurbishment of the site. First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 47
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
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NEW ROLE FOR EXPERIENCED LEISURE AND EVENTS EXPERT
Westfield House.
Leisure operator SIV has appointed Dominic Stokes as its new Head of SIV Events and Ponds Forge. Previously general manager of SIV Events, the events arm of SIV, Dominic will now also be in charge of the day-to-day management of Ponds Forge. He will also continue to be responsible for attracting major sporting, business and entertainment events, conferences, exhibitions and meetings to the SIV portfolio as well as overseeing their delivery. Every year, SIV hosts more than 1,500 events across its portfolio of venues contributing over £30m to the Sheffield economy. Dominic Stokes.
Dominic has worked in the leisure, entertainment and events industry for more than 20 years.
He enjoyed a successful five-year role as general manager of SIV’s Sheffield City Hall, where he was responsible for the reopening of the venue following a £12 million refurbishment.
MAJOR CITY CENTRE INVESTMENT BACKED Leading figures in the Sheffield City Region have welcomed the move by Westfield Health to establish new offices in the heart of the city following the announcement that its relocation and expansion created 120 construction jobs. A number of local firms played a part in Westfield Health’s redevelopment of the former Milton House on Charter Row, including Sheffield’s JF Finnegan Ltd, Yorkshire Fabrications Ltd and Saxby Surfacing, and Rotherham’s Classic Lifts.
Since 2010, Dominic has helped to build Sheffield’s reputation as a premier destination for conferences and events during his time as general manager of SIV Events.
The eight-storey Westfield House – as it is now known - features a spacious new customer hub, a roof terrace with 360 degree views overlooking the city, and business incubator spaces to support the growth of health and wellbeing start-ups.
Dominic said: “I’m extremely proud to have been appointed to this new role. Ponds Forge is one of the best venues of its kind in Europe and I’m looking forward to building on the success and legacy it has enjoyed over the last 25 years.”
Paul Blomfield, MP for Sheffield Central, said: “Westfield Health is a great Sheffield institution. Their decision to open new offices in the heart of the city is another boost to the local economy and a sign of confidence in Sheffield as a place to do business.”
YORKSHIRE AIRPORT BOSS TAKES TO THE PISTE! Doncaster Sheffield Airport has announced a new route will take off in December to popular ski-resort Chambery. Chambery in the Rhone-Alps region of south eastern France, and the gateway to Alpine ski resorts, is one of a number of routes announced by Flybe for their winter programme from Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Young Olympic hopeful freestyle skier, Mason Flannery, was at the airport to help make the announcement. The 14-year-old from Doncaster, who has been skiing since he was five years old and competes across Europe, will be using the route when it opens later in the year. Doncaster Sheffield Airport Chief Executive, Steve Gill, said: “Given its proximity to Mont Blanc, Chambery offers Yorkshire winter sports enthusiasts easy access to some of the finest slopes and facilities the world has to offer.” Flights will start just in time for Christmas from December 17. Other winter programme destinations include Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Dusseldorf, Dublin, Faro, Malaga, Alicante and Jersey.
48 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
LOGISTICS ACADEMY OPENS IN DONCASTER A logistics academy has been launched in Doncaster aimed at bringing jobs to the town. Business Doncaster and developers Verdion launched the iPort Academy in Rossington which will help to signpost individuals to available jobs, apprenticeships and professional qualifications and training. The Academy will help people to obtain the skills they require to pursue a career or upskill those currently working in the logistics sector. John Clements, Verdion’s European Development Director, said: “We have a very exciting few years ahead of us and we begin to fill the iPort scheme with occupiers that will bring jobs and other economic benefits to the area. “We have announced the first letting to Fellowes and are in detailed negotiations with a number of other occupiers who will very much welcome the access to potential employees that the Academy will provide.”
WORK & PLAY
MANUFACTURERS TAKE A PEEK INTO THE FUTURE
NEIL MIXES IT UP WITH HIS NEW PAINTING AT GATECRASHER APARTMENTS COMPLEX A Sheffield painter has paid homage to the former Gatecrasher nightclub with a mural that honours the site’s iconic musical heritage. Neil Antcliff, from Walkley, has produced a giant nightclub-themed painting, which depicts a female DJ, inside the brand new £11m Gatecrasher Apartments.
Over 100 global manufacturing companies had the unique opportunity to interact with the first Microsoft HoloLens during a conference in the city. Neil Antcliff with the Gatecrasher painting.
The HoloLens were demonstrated for delegates at The Smart Factory, a two-day conference in September hosted by the Integrated Manufacturing Group (IMG) of the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).
The specially commissioned artwork is located in the communal area within the student complex, which is on the site of the famous former Gatecrasher nightclub at the corner of Arundel Street and Matilda Street.
The conference was aimed at discussing and interacting with the technologies driving change in the manufacturing sector, including robotics and augmented and virtual reality.
Neil, who works under the name Foundry, said he wanted his work to reflect the history of the site.
The AMRC is one of a handful of research centres in the UK to be working with the HoloLens; a self-contained, mixed reality head mounted device, capable of producing interactive, situational holograms. It is currently unavailable commercially in the UK, so the AMRC is using the opportunity to mature manufacturing processes ready for industry early adopters.
He added: “It’s good to see development in the area, particularly using some of the abandoned buildings that have been left unused for years. Sheffield is a big university city and you see a lot of different cultures coming here to study. I think it will have a positive influence on the students.”
AMRC SETS £10,000 CHARITY TARGET The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre with Boeing is teeing off with a target of raising £10,000 for charity. The Advanced Manufacturing Park-based organisation is hoping to build on the success of last year’s inaugural charity golf event, which was organised by apprentices from the AMRC Training Centre and contributed the lion’s share towards the £7,500 they raised for the Master Cutler’s Challenge.
The Microsoft HoloLens in use at The Smart Factory Conference. Hololens
This year, the AMRC is setting a higher target for the golf competition alone and will give all the money it raises to the cancer charity run by Weston Park Hospital in Sheffield. The charity golf competition takes place at Abbeydale Golf Club on Friday September 30 and includes a gala dinner at the Mercure St Paul’s Hotel the evening before. For more information, contact Gualberto Cigala, e-mail: g.cigala@amrc.co.uk, tel: 0114 222 6661 or visit www.amrc.co.uk/news/events
FOCUS ON LOGISTICS Construction and logistics companies from across the Sheffield City Region came together for a breakfast meeting to discuss how to build the area’s logistics hub. The event, arranged by Logistics Hub UK (LHUK), was held at Doncaster Racecourse and was the second in a series of events looking at how to strengthen and build the area’s logistics hub as a gateway to the world. Steve Swann, who is leading on the LHUK project, said: “At our first meeting Rob Bell, CEO and co-founder of Archomai, told the group that logistics in the Sheffield City Region are one of the most exciting prospects in the country. He went on to stress that the logistics effort is THE story for the Sheffield City Region because that is where we link into supply chains globally..”
AMRC Augmented Reality Technical Fellow, Chris Freeman, said: “Along with a range of other wearable technologies such as the HTC Vive, ODG R-7 Glasses and Google Glass, we are assessing the HoloLens for its suitability to create proof of concept applications for automated assembly tasks and in-line support assistance. “For technologies like these, the ultimate goal is that they will be used for digitally assisted assembly techniques, assisting engineers and technicians to improve quality and create efficiencies by reducing rework, scrappage and concessions.” He added: “Here at the AMRC we are developing the manufacturing processes of tomorrow and actively promoting the most effective routes to industry, to show the manufacturing sector what impact these technologies will have on their businesses in the short and medium term.”
First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com 49
First For Business
OCTOBER 2016
10 THINGS…
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10 THINGS... TO HELP START AND RUN A BUSINESS BY IAN LIVINGSTON, CBE an Livingstone CBE is Co-Founder of Games Workshop and Chairman of Sumo Digital and will be one of the headline speakers at MADE 2016. Ian co-founded iconic games company Games Workshop in 1975, launching Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer in Europe.
I
He co-authored The Warlock of Firetop Mountain with Steve Jackson in 1982, writing 14 titles in the Fighting Fantasy gamebook series which has sold over 18 million copies worldwide. In the Wired 100 list for 2012, he was ranked the 16th most influential person in the UK’s digital economy. He was listed in the 2015 Debrett’s 500 of most influential people in UK.
As an entrepreneur starting out today, what single piece of advice would you give? Be yourself and follow your heart.
1 Do not be afraid of failure. The
What funding models do you think work best for start-ups? Banks struggle to understand digital content businesses, especially games, so don't waste your time asking them for money. My advice is to keep costs to an absolute minimum by working from home or a low cost place of work. If possible, borrow funds from friends and family, and perhaps follow that with crowd funding, which not only raises initial working capital, but is also the market telling you whether or not your idea is any good. Use the initial funding to prototype whatever you are hoping get to market before trying to raise serious money. It's much easier to get Angel or VC funding once you have something real to show them. Do everything you can to de-risk your business to give comfort to early investors.
2
What advice would you give to a young person in the industry, maybe starting a business. Do not be afraid of failure. Failure should be seen as success work-in-progress! Angry Birds was Rovio's 51st game, not 50 First For Business | www.sheffieldvibe.com
learning from failure should be seen as positive and helpful. Failure is success work-in-progress Retain ownership of your Intellectual Property. Try to avoid trading it away for project finance
their first game. They learned a lot about themselves and the market with their first 50 titles. And, like Rovio did with Angry Birds, make sure you retain ownership of the intellectual property. IP ownership is central to building real value in a company. What would you advise for new small businesses to help grow, expand and get their business name out there to potential customers and the public with no budget/a low budget? People respond well to openness and honesty. If you believe in what you are doing, and are passionate about what you are doing, it should be easy to communicate your message.
3 Do what you are good at.
Tell your story warts and all. Use social media and speak to anybody who will listen to your story.
4 Make yourself investor-ready
Speak from the heart - people are wary of corporate press releases. If people like what you say, they will say nice things about you and your products. Give interviews to anybody who is interested in your story. Hopefully it will go viral and rise up to become national news.
Partner with somebody to do the stuff you don’t want to do before asking for investor money
5 As the Americans say, ‘get some
skin in the game’ to demonstrate that you are invested in your own ideas
6 Ideas are cheap. It’s the execution of the idea that is the hard bit
7 Be yourself and follow your
heart. Try not to be a ‘me-too’ person
8 Hard work and sacrifice should
be seen as a positive part of the journey
9 Listen to everybody and treat people well
10 Enjoy what you do or do something else
What has been the biggest lesson you have learnt to date? What would you have done differently if you could? Retain ownership of your intellectual property. You build greater value in any business that owns IP. So often is the case in the UK where we trade away our IP in return for project finance, or sell it outright before its full value has been realised. With the benefit of hindsight I probably sold out of Games Workshop too early!
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