FFB May 2015 by RMC Media

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MAY 2015 www.ffb-online.co.uk @ffbmagRMC

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First For Business

CONTENTS

MAY 2015

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CONTENTS

MAY 2015 AGENDA 6

A New Retail Quarter that may never open, and a rare record store that the council want to close, have exposed the confusion at the heart of Sheffieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy for the city centre

DREAM TEAM 16 Our Dream Team advises on when and how to expand your business without getting into difficulties

SHEFFEX 21 The countdown is on to Sheffieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest and most exciting business festival

CITY ON THE UP 39 Commercial development is ripe in Sheffield

HOW TO... 44 George Elliott, business communication executive and customer service trainer at The Source Skills Academy, has some top tips for making sure your business has the wow factor when it comes to customer service

WORK & PLAY 48 Round-up of news, achievements, celebrations and new faces

10 THINGS... 50 That are reviving the commercial development sector, by James Oliver, managing director of m3

Editor Chris Wilson chris.wilson@regionalmagazine.co.uk Consultant Editor John Yates Chief Feature Writer Julie Farmer Chief Sub Editor Richard Abbey Sub Editor Richard Smith Operations Director Jillion Wood Publishing Manager Mandy Ogle mandy.ogle@regionalmagazine.co.uk

Studio Manager Chris Brierley Design Dan Wray, Steve Levers New Media Manager Terri Moore Regional Magazine Company 6 Broadfield Court Broadfield Business Park Sheffield, S8 OXF Tel: 0114 250 6300 Email: ffb@regionalmagazine.co.uk Web: www.ffb-online.co.uk

FRONT COVER: Sheffield Showcase By Mark Rodgers

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First For Business

PREVIEW

MAY 2015

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PREVIEW C

ity centre regeneration has been top of the agenda for Sheffield for the best part of a decade – and sometimes it appears that we are no further forward now than at any time in the last ten years. Of course, a vibrant city centre is about more than just attracting the same national shop chains that are prevalent across the nation. A vibrant student life, new tech start-ups and social enterprises can all play a part in breathing new life into areas that have become ominously quiet of late. So where do we start? Can local politicians and business leaders work together to kick-start a new era of prosperity in the heart of Sheffield? This month in First For Business, consultant editor John Yates considers the options and asks whether the recent ‘yes’ vote for a Business Improvement District, which supporters say puts the destiny of the city centre into the hands of those who live, work and play in the city centre, is a giant step in the right direction. This month we also prepare to welcome SheffEX to the city. This major event at Ponds Forge International on Monday 1 June is the place where local business and industry gets together to make new contacts, opportunities and deals. Whether you do business in Barnsley, Bassetlaw, Bolsover, Chesterfield,

CHRIS WILSON, EDITOR

Derbyshire Dales, North East Derbyshire, Rotherham or Sheffield, SheffEX is the place where bright new ideas will spark to life. It is free to attend with a lively choice of activities to fill an entire day with the business exhibition, expert lectures and networking sessions.

2050 are reasons to be positive for the future. We look at some of these projects and James Oliver, managing director of M3, a Sheffield-based principal contractor, tells us ten things that are reviving the commercial development sector.

The cover of this month’s First For Business throws the spotlight on local apprentices as they show off their skills designing window displays to exhibit the work of artists, designers and retailers in an innovative scheme backed by The Source Skills Academy.

Of course, at the heart of every successful business is good customer service – but how do you keep the client satisfied? Chief feature writer Julie Farmer asks George Elliott, business communication executive and customer service trainer at The Source Skill Academy, for some practical pointers.

Sheffield Showcase is a scheme that utilises empty shop premises and gives apprentices, usually aged between 16 and 18, the opportunity to develop their visual merchandising skills. This may be only a temporary fix when it comes to enhancing the appearance of the city centre, but the good news is that after completing the course many of the youngsters go on to pursue careers in retail. While the battle to create a better shopping environment is one of the issues that continues to rage in Sheffield, when it comes to commercial development there is definitely a buzz of excitement in the air. Major projects as varied as the Chinese inward investment plan for New Era Square, the new Olympic Legacy Park in the Don Valley and the University of Sheffield’s Factory

There is more expert advice on hand from our Dream Team, as First For Business’s own panel of experts tackle the question of how to steer clear of the problems that can arise when expanding a successful business. I do hope you enjoy this edition of First For Business. Let us know what you think by tweeting us at @ffbmagRMC.

@ Facebook: Regional Magazine Company Twitter: @FFBmagRMC LinkedIn: First For Business magazine Email: ffb@regionalmagazine.co.uk

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First For Business

MAY 2015

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Fantasy or reality? The proposed New Retail Quarter for Sheffield city centre

CENTRE OF CONTROVERSY A NEW RETAIL QUARTER THAT MAY NEVER OPEN, AND A RARE RECORD STORE THAT THE COUNCIL WANT TO CLOSE, HAVE EXPOSED THE CONFUSION AT THE HEART OF SHEFFIELD’S POLICY FOR THE CITY CENTRE. JOHN YATES REPORTS.

hen Jarvis Cocker declares that it would ‘be a crime’ to demolish three shops in a street of little architectural merit – and more than 20,000 people sign an online petition for the preservation of what the Sheffield songster called these ‘global treasures’ – it is clear that local politicians have spectacularly misjudged the public mood on city centre regeneration. A few weeks earlier, the council had reannounced ‘plans’ for a ‘New Retail Quarter’ (actually the Old Retail Quarter formerly known as Sevenstone given a new label) with a price tag of

£480million. The artist’s impression of the ‘planned’ quarter – Sheffield has no shortage of quarters, but is seriously short on cash – reveals a Disneyland-like tower rising into the night sky, with street lights forming what looks like a halo of stardust. The fantasy quality of the image was not lost on the public who have been treated to no less than three announcements of the same plan since June of last year – “Who do they think they are kidding?” “Another World Student Games disaster in the making.” “Well, I am not holding my breath” –

were some of the more printable comments posted online. So what do these two events tell us? The former snooker star Steve ‘interesting’ Davis, was in no doubt. Moved to an unfamiliar eloquence at the loss of an idiosyncratic, independent record shop and bookstore, he said: “I’ve been visiting Rare & Racy ever since I stumbled upon it back in the nineties. It’s such an uplifting place, a real treasure trove of amazing music, books, magazines and art,” Davis said. “If this row of shops bites the dust a little bit of the character of Sheffield will die.”

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AGENDA

When asked by reporters why the council was knocking the building down, Leigh Bramall said: “Our hands are tied by the stringent planning laws set out by the government. If we did not follow these laws we would be putting the Council under a big risk of being taken to an appeal by the developer, which would mean that the Council would be overruled and the development go ahead, but with the Council facing huge legal bills.” Bramall may be in a difficult position. But the council has been only too happy to take on developers in the past. Think of their misguided opposition to Next’s proposal for a new superstore near Meadowhall which the planners fought tooth and nail at great financial and reputational cost to the city. Had Bramall and his colleagues chosen to oppose the application, the council would have been seen to be standing up for the little guy, the independents who make Sheffield special and different. The fight would have highlighted – or exposed as false – their claim that central government was to blame. But Sheffield has a habit of picking the wrong fight at the wrong time. Instead Bramall is seen as promoting a New Retail Quarter which will be just another clone of the bland, characterless High Streets that blight the landscape. The point that Steve Davis and others are making is that Sheffield, as a city centre, is at its best when it is different. It needs a business climate where independents like Rare & Racy can flourish, not be killed off. Sheffield is already strong on retail. It has the hugely successful Meadowhall just a

short train ride away from the city centre. Instead of seeing one of Europe’s most successful shopping malls as the enemy – which is still the prevalent view from Town Hall, as the Next fiasco illustrated – the council should be seeing it for what it is: one of its most valuable retail assets. Rather than trying to compete with Meadowhall, the council should be looking at how to complement and connect with it in a way that makes the most of the 25 million visitors it attracts to the city every year. The council should be trading on Meadowhall’s success, not trading blows with it. It is time to stop seeing Meadowhall as an out-of-town mall – a kind of dismal parochialism that has damaged Sheffield long enough. The more than 10,000 international students who have travelled around the world to live and study in Sheffield think nothing of taking the train down to London to go shopping for a day – for them Meadowhall is the city centre. And here is a clue. Sheffield’s success depends not only on attracting these students, but also on keeping them here when they graduate: this will not be done by building a New Retail Quarter. And, while the early success of RISE – a council/university collaboration to match graduates to local businesses – is a step in the right direction, a more concerted effort is needed to promote the character and personality of the city in a way that will make Sheffield a powerful and magnetic brand for global graduates. The recent visit to the city from Brookings Institution Vice President Bruce Katz sparked an immediate

Castle House – the former Co-op building – is being billed as a ‘Maker Hub’

debate about whether Sheffield could become Europe’s first advanced manufacturing innovation district. In the flutter of Tweets that followed the visit there were audible references to Austin, Texas, a city that for decades was little more than a sleepy, southern capital. In the space of just 15 years, however, Austin transformed itself using its greatest natural resource: the tens of thousands of young, educated people who were studying at its universities. The spark for that change came about when an English accountant, Laura Kilcrease, teamed up with technologist, businessman and dean of the business school, George Kozmetsky. “We needed to start our own companies,” Kilcrease has said. This dynamic duo – along with others in higher education, the private sector and government – began by fostering local technology companies that not only created jobs but also a lasting asset: intellectual property. “When you build one job at a time you build a very strong structure,” she said. “In contrast, when you import 100 jobs, you can easily export 1,000 jobs.” The growth of high-tech, fast-growing businesses in the heart of Austin also allowed a very different kind of retail and supply chain dynamic to develop: one that encouraged the development of smaller, service based outlets from boutique coffee bars and takeaways to suppliers of post-it-notes and scanners. While no one is suggesting that Sheffield can offer the sunshine provided by Texas, it already has the kind of alternative, counter cultural, creative environment that made Austin so attractive to bright and ambitious graduates who didn’t want to join the rat race in New York or Los Angeles. It also has a burgeoning digital infrastructure that is spawning companies like Pimoroni – who describe themselves as a ‘Makers and Educators’ – whose Pibow was the UK’s first Kickstarter.” This idea of Sheffield being a city of makers, is gaining traction. The under-theradar success of Emma Cheshire and Lee Strafford’s digital accelerator Dotforge has belatedly been recognised. Over the last two years they have brought some of the most talented and ambitious techies to Sheffield, put them through their paces in a startup bootcamp and brought them to the market with the support of venture capital. >>>

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First For Business

AGENDA

MAY 2015

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Now, with the help of £3.5million from George Osborne’s giveaway Budget, Emma and her team will be moving from the beautiful but corporate Electric Works to Castle House, a five-storey, partly listed building in Castlegate, to open what is being billed as a Maker Hub – a place where the city’s tech and creative types can develop a powerful critical mass. Emma’s dream would be for Castle House (the old Co-op building) to act as a catalyst for this part of the city to become the Shoreditch of Sheffield, a place where a new tech city is born and where new start-ups and social enterprises spill out to regenerate neighbouring buildings and streets. She believes that, as in Austin and London’s Old Street, the influx of tech companies will create a fertile ground for supply chain and retail businesses to take root and grow. The importance of Castlegate to the city – the market hub of Sheffield until the council foolishly knocked it down and moved it across town – has at least been recognised by the council’s head of regeneration, Simon Ogden. But it was only last year, when the University of Sheffield used the area as the stage for their hugely successful Festival of the Mind, that people woke up to the potential this area has for the rebirth of Sheffield – and, by implication, how damaging it could be if its decline is allowed to continue. Building on this success, the university was instrumental in creating the vision for Castle House as a Maker Hub and continues to work with the council to drive the regeneration of Castlegate itself. With the Sheffield Cultural Consortium as partners, the university plans a series of high impact events in the Castlegate area in 2016 as part of a year-long celebration of Sheffield’s maker heritage and the role that makers will play in shaping its future. This kind of collaboration between an engaged and outward looking university, tech accelerators, grass roots organisations and entrepreneurs will do more to transform Sheffield than any number of shopping malls. Although loosely modelled on the principles that made Tech City in London such a success, Emma is keen that the new hub is both expansive and inclusive

Rare and Racy – part of Sheffield’s character

– and will include not only commercial companies and the accelerator, but also a strong civil and community enterprise element. “The goal is to bring together a number of different strands around the idea of what a maker is – but we don’t want to be too prescriptive – it could be hardware it could be software,” Emma said. The hub will offer a home to a maker’s lab of the type that was instrumental in helping Primoroni build the Pibow ‘rainbow case’ for the Raspberry pi. “Sheffield also has a strong tradition of social activism and we want the hub to support and develop that tradition,” she added. Working with the RSA and the Key Fund she and her team have already created “an accelerator and investment programme for social entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of digital technology to realise positive social change”. A soon to be published by report by the CIQ Agency’s Richard Motley will show that Sheffield now has a burgeoning network of digital media and maker centres that: “offers a social model for sustainable economic development through hosting experts and like-minded people to grow expertise and work collaboratively.” Mapping, connecting and supporting the growth of these digital networks should be a centerpiece of making Sheffield an innovation district – a vision that has to extend beyond the narrow confines of

the isolated, campus-like Advanced Manufacturing Park which some members of the Local Enterprise Partnership seem to think is the core of the innovation district. Take board member Chris Scholey. He recently suggested that “the critical mass of activity on the Advanced Manufacturing Park and Sheffield Business Park represents a gamechanging opportunity to create an Innovation District, an area where R&D expertise and industry cluster together commercialising new techniques and ideas through spin-outs and start-ups.” This is not a vision for an innovation district, but a description of a technology park. Clinging to an expanding AMP, or a city centre vision that has a fantasy New Retail Quarter as its crowning glory, will not transform Sheffield. Thankfully, the city is no longer relying on the council. It is taking the future into its own hands. The recent ‘yes’ vote for the Business Improvement District means more than the six-figure sum raised by the levy to promote and develop the city centre. For the first time, it puts the destiny of the city centre into the hands of those who live, work and play in the centre. What they do next will be key. Austin marched proudly to the banner of ‘Keep Austin Weird” (today it might be Keep Austin Wired). If Sheffield needs a slogan it could do worse than adopt the name of the book and record store that the council is about to knock down – Keep Sheffield Rare and Racy.

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First For Business

MAY 2015

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APPRENTICES ARE SHOWING OFF THEIR SKILLS AND DISPLAYING THE WORK OF ARTISTS, DESIGNERS AND RETAILERS IN AN INNOVATIVE SCHEME BACKED BY THE SOURCE SKILLS ACADEMY.

TALENT SHOWCASE S

heffield’s city centre windows are in full bloom thanks to a team of apprentices at Sheffield Showcase. Launched in 2009, Sheffield Showcase is a scheme established in partnership between Sheffield City Council, Yorkshire Forward and The Source Skills Academy. The scheme uses empty shop units in Sheffield City Centre to display the wares of local artists, designers and retailers, improving the shopping environment and helping to promote local businesses. The scheme employs a team of apprentices who design the window displays and also work in the charity shop, First in Best Dressed, which raises money for local charities including St Luke’s Hospice, The Children’s Hospital Charity and brainstrust. Sheffield Showcase currently has nine window displays in the city centre on Pinstone Street, Cambridge Street and Furnival Gate and since the launch, over 800 businesses have engaged in the scheme with 100 per cent of them reporting an increase in profile. The scheme gives the apprentices, usually aged between 16-18, the opportunity to develop their visual merchandising skills and use their creativity to produce

engaging displays which will best promote the businesses’ products or services. After completing the course, the apprentices often go onto pursue careers in retail and visual merchandising and have even gone on to managerial positions. Matthew Webster, 23, first became an apprentice at Sheffield Showcase in 2010 and after a career in the visual merchandising team at Sports Direct, he is now the store manager at

No. 26 The Makers Emporium on Rotherham High Street and manages two apprentices himself. Matthew said: “Without the amazing help I’ve received from The Source I wouldn’t be where I am today. The Source helped me build a solid foundation for a brighter future. I honestly can’t thank them enough.” David Webber, manager at Sheffield Showcase and First in Best Dressed, said: “It’s great to see our apprentices move on into employment once they finish their apprenticeships. We work with some fantastic young people here and it’s a pleasure to watch them grow throughout the course and become ready for the world of work.” If you would like to display your products or if you have an idea for one of the windows please contact David Webber by calling 0114 2728094 or emailing david.webber@thesourceacademy.co.uk. The charity shop relies on donations of clothing, accessories, homewares, toys, bricabrac, books and DVDs and there are several options for dropping off your unwanted items. You can drop them into the shop on Cambridge Street, Sheffield or at any of The Source’s locations; opposite Meadowhall Centre at 300 Meadowhall Way, in Sheffield city centre at 2 Surrey Place or in Rotherham at 15 High Street..

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RETAIL

… AND THE AWARDS FOR THE BEST SERVICE IN THE COUNTRY GO TO THE RETAILERS OF BOLSOVER.

with his family to open the specialist shop last year. Castle Cycles also offers a route-planning service and personal bike coaching, as well as bike maintenance and repairs.

High street giants watch out.… professional mystery shoppers rate Bolsover as best in the UK The historic Derbyshire town of Bolsover has been rated best in the UK for outstanding customer service. In a mystery shopper exercise conducted by retail skills specialist, The Source Skills Academy, an unusually high proportion of the town’s retailers were highlighted as going above and beyond to achieve exceptional levels of service. The Source has been conducting Mystery Shopping projects for the last three years in town centres, districts and markets around the UK. George Elliott, business communications manager from The Source, commented, “We found the warmth and friendliness of Bolsover retailers to be outstanding. ”

brilliant opportunity for the town to attract more visitors and local residents to shop here.” Twelve businesses achieved a score of 100 per cent in the Mystery shopping exercises and one of these was Castle Cycles, a specialist retailer tucked away in Cavendish Walk in Bolsover. Following a lifelong love of all things cycling, Malcolm Smith, 59, from Lincolnshire, chose Bolsover as the place to pursue his passion. He sold his convenience stores last year, before making his own grand depart to the area

“I’ll always try out a route myself before providing it to the customer,” said Malcolm. “Roads and tracks change quickly because of weather conditions and other things and people often don’t have the time to plan routes themselves.” Malcolm is a qualified Bikeability coach, teaching cycling skills to school children as well as adults. The business is booming, with the shop brimming with bikes waiting to be repaired. Malcolm has plans to expand and open a larger retail premises; his recent achievement in the mystery shopping exercise is surely further proof of his commitment to his customers and their shopping experience.

“From a shopper’s point of view, this kind of welcome contributes greatly to the overall customer shopping experience,” he said. Bolsover’s mystery shop scores were revealed at the Bolsover Town Jewel Awards ceremony last month, which was held to celebrate business growth and success in the town. Castle Card Shop, run by owner Dawn Walker since mid2014, was named overall winner in the Awards. The Bolsover Town Jewel Awards come after the town last year won a £750,000 bid for European funding to brush up Bolsover’s image and boost the local economy, backed by a marketing campaign to increase visitor footfall. “I’m truly passionate about customer service,” added Mr Elliott. “Any business of any size can stand out against the competition by prioritising their customers, encouraging them to come back time and time again.”

Malcolm Smith of Castle Cycles in Bolsover

“As Bolsover already has the popular attraction of Bolsover Castle, this is a

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First For Business

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

HOW’S MY DRIVING? SEE HOW FIRST FOR BUSINESS’S CHIEF FEATURE WRITER JULIE FARMER FOUND THE INMOTION! ECO-BUSINESS DRIVING SCHEME.

TRANSPORT

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he last time I had a driving instructor sat beside me in a car I was 17, so I couldn’t help but feel slightly nervous when I was invited to try out the free Eco-Business Driving course being offered to businesses in South Yorkshire through a team of qualified instructors.

Eco-safe driving can result in significantly lower fuel consumption

My instructor for the day, Andy McPherson, was keen to point out straight away that the course was in no way a test; although I remembered to demonstrate ‘mirror, signal, manoeuvre’ just in case. We drove to a local retail park where I was asked to park the vehicle, a Fiat Punto. After setting the trip counter Andy directed me on a short journey, before announcing that my average fuel consumption was 40.1mpg and that I’d made 22 gear changes along the way. We proceeded to drive around Sheffield for approximately one hour while Andy questioned me on my eco-safe driving knowledge and offered tips on reducing fuel consumption. At this point I did have a confession – that I’ve written quite extensively about driving and have even worked with a national road safety charity in the past. Because of this I already knew about planning ahead, reducing the vehicle’s load and the importance of driving at a safe speed. Even so, I discovered I wasn’t necessarily practicing what I preached. Andy showed me how – and where – I could make block gear changes to further improve fuel efficiency and how to better drive to suit the road conditions. He explained how, over the years, engine technology and the performance of cars has improved dramatically – but that many drivers haven’t adapted their driving style accordingly. For years I’ve more often than not moved up gears one at a time. The training session prompted me to try changing up two – or even three – gears where appropriate to cut down fuel consumption and, ultimately, save money. I’ve been driving for almost 18 years and in that time it seems things have changed considerably in terms of the most fuelefficient methods of driving. I can only imagine how much they’ve changed for people who have been driving 30 or 40 years. The problem is that the more experienced a driver the less they probably feel they have to learn and this is potentially a challenge for Inmotion! in

‘Multiply the results over a month or a year and you see how making a few minor changes to driving style can have a large impact. For a company with several drivers, the benefits would be even greater.’ encouraging people to sign up for the scheme. Yet for the businesses which do sign up the benefits could be significant. The scheme is free of charge – the only commitment a company has to give is three hours of its drivers’ time. In return business owners can expect financial savings (this will vary depending on the size of the company and fleet), in addition to having the confidence that they are doing all they can to improve the safety of employees and protect their business. At the end of my session, Andy directed me back to the retail park so I could make the same journey that I had previously.

Despite my average fuel consumption staying the same, I made eight fewer gear changes along the way. This was on a short journey of around five minutes. I could expect, therefore, to make around 100 fewer gear changes on an hour-long journey, which would no doubt lead to significantly lower fuel consumption. Not a bad outcome considering I’m no novice and was already using my prior knowledge to drive as economically as possible. Multiply the results over a month or a year and you see how making a few minor changes to driving style can have a large impact. For a company with several drivers, the benefits would be even greater. In fact, Amey, who are delivering the Streets Ahead programme on behalf of Sheffield City Council, put 65 employees through the scheme and are seeing significant savings. Graeme Symonds, Account Director, said: “The scheme allows us to train and educate our employees to ensure they are driving in a fuel efficient and effective way. We’re actually seeing somewhere between a 10 and 15 per cent reduction in fuel usage and we are reducing our carbon footprint.”

TO FIND OUT MORE CONTACT: Email: travel@inmotion.co.uk inmotion.co.uk

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First For Business

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

Kevin Kerley Rob Moore

Lisa Leighton

GROWING PAINS OUR DREAM TEAM ADVISES ON WHEN AND HOW TO EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS WITHOUT GETTING INTO DIFFICULTIES. ROB MOORE RECOVERY EXPERT AND PARTNER AT TAYLOR & EMMETT I am pleased to see that your business is doing well. However, you are right to be cautious. Unfortunately a lot of small businesses don’t survive beyond five years. Although things may change following the general election, at this moment in time the most significant barriers faced by SMEs include a complicated tax system, lack of bank lending, late payments or cash flow and too much bureaucracy. Before you take positive steps to expand your business you should ensure that you have the support of your bank. You should prepare a detailed business plan which takes into account the increased overheads you will incur through moving into larger premises, taking on more staff etc. You need to be satisfied that you are able to maintain a healthy cash flow to meet the additional costs you will incur in running your business.

DEAR DREAM TEAM My business plan seems to be a success – orders are coming in, and if we expand any more we will need bigger premises. But before I rush into things I am trying to be realistic. I know many SMEs can end up one late payment away from disaster. How do I know when it’s time to take the plunge? Where should I go for advice about hiring? And since I am planning on expanding the team further, how can I manage my own changing role

The Federation of Small Business or the Confederation of British Industry can provide general advice on how to grow your business. You should, however, take

specialist advice before you take on additional staff. In particular you should take advice from a lawyer to ensure that your employment contracts, policies and procedures are legally compliant and protect your business from the risks of constantly changing employment law. Managing your own changing role is difficult. There are various factors that have an impact on your ability to manage and lead the business. These include your individual ability to lead and manage an expanding business including an expanding work force and the size and structure of your business. You are clearly an entrepreneur in that you are building a successful business. However, running an expanding business requires a different set of skills including commercial nous and, most importantly, skills of managing and developing other employees who have not been so closely associated with the business from its beginning. As your business grows and matures, you may find that you need to appoint someone to manage the business who is not as close to the business as you are

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DREAM TEAM

who can take over or assist you with the day to day running of the business. Likewise, as your business grows you will need to think about creating specific roles for finance and accounts, HR and marketing. As much as you would like to continue to try and do it all yourself, you will not be able to do so.

KEVIN KERLEY CHAIRMAN, ACADEMY OF CHIEF EXECUTIVES It sounds like your business is enjoying good growth and that is great news. Your questions on management of the expansion are a natural concern that all successful business leaders go through at some stage. The key to helping you decide on when the time is right to expand the premises and the team is really based around the cash flow and the restraints on delivery of your products or services. Considering the headroom that you have in your cash flow before expanding is always the key to ensuring that you are not one late payment away from disaster as you point out. On this front, I would suggest a meeting with your accountant to look at forward orders and budgets and produce a 12-month cash flow forecast which will highlight the pinch points and then give you a clearer picture of when you are in the strongest position to make a move, and also whether you need a further capital injection to fund the expansion. If this is the case, then you can use the forecast to aid your conversations with the bank or other funders. In terms of hiring, there is a whole industry of professional recruiters and head hunters out there in the marketplace, I would seriously suggest that you ask around and get a recommendation or two , as this is usually a good indicator that you will get what you are looking for. The Sheffield city region is a great area for recruiting skills, and the talent is out there to be had, the help of a professional recruiter with great process and contacts can make the whole procedure a lot more smoother and allow you to focus on your core activity without getting too distracted. Finally, to manage your own changing role and personal development, I would suggest a few strategies that will assist you to continue to be successful and ahead of the curve as the business grows.

Thnk carefully before you start hiring

I would seriously recommend the services of a good business coach and mentor. An experienced coach will be able to act as a great sounding board and give you a different perspective on the issues that you face, help you to work on the business instead of in it and give you focus. I would also ask you to consider a succession plan in terms of do you wish to move up and become more strategic as a CEO or chairman, in which case you should start to consider developing an MD for the future, perhaps someone already in the business or consider bringing someone in to take over the day-to-day operations and allow you the time to focus on strategy and growing the business. You might even consider joining a peer group such as the Academy, which helps with a holistic approach to business leaders’ development, both personally and as a leader. It sounds like you are well on the way to having a very successful outcome and I hope that you have found the Dream Team’s advice to be helpful in moving forward. I wish you continued growth and prosperity.

LISA LEIGHTON PARTNER AT BARBER, HARRISON & PLATT With any growing business comes a variety of growth pains. One of those pains, as you quite rightly point out, is the need to expand the team. Up until now if you are a start-up business you may have been carrying out all roles yourself – sales, operations, technical, HR, accounting to name but a few (in addition to making tea and ordering stationery!). There is only so far that you can grow your business if you continue to try and do everything yourself. At some point you

will need to hire so that you can concentrate on what you do best in your role and to continue to grow the business. This is a major stepping stone for any business owner as you have to learn to delegate and to some extentlet go. One of the ways that you will know that it is time to recruit is that the existing workforce will no longer be able to cope with the increased activity (ie there will not be enough hours in the day!). Before you do take the plunge and start to recruit it may be worthwhile in the first instance assessing at a high level why there has been an increase in tasks required to be carried out by the team. Hopefully, it is as a result of increased sales or opportunities but it may be because of inefficiencies in your current processes which may be able to be absorbed if the current team changes the way in which it works. Assuming there is a requirement to recruit, there are many ways in which you can find the right person. A key element of getting the right person on board is being specific about the job role. Preparing a job spec is essential to attracting the right person for the role. Once you have that available there are numerous ways to advertise the role, including on your website, using social media (LinkedIn and Twitter for example are great ways to draw out candidates) or using a recruitment company which specialises in the area in which you are recruiting. 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

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

ONE CITY LAW FIRM DOESN’T BELIEVE IN HORSING AROUND…

TEAM READY FOR THE HIGH JUMPS A

ttercliffe-based Wosskow Brown, one of the sponsors of the Chatsworth Horse Trials for the second year running, has jumped to support amateur riders preparing to compete against the best in the world at one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar. The Dodson & Horrell Chatsworth International Horse Trials, from May 15-17, offers three days of thrilling equestrian sport and family entertainment to crowds of over 20,000. The gruelling equestrian triathlon sees riders from around the globe competing across the three disciplines of dressage, cross-country and show jumping. Three members of the nine-strong Team Wosskow Brown will be competing. Chesterfield based 19-year-old Katie Patrick, a university student who first got Katie Patrick takes the water jump

in the saddle at the age of two, will be riding her thoroughbred Harry in the one-star class alongside fellow Team WB rider Sarah Healy, 42, of Bamford, who works as a dental hygienist in Bakewell and previously competed for Great Britain. Huddersfield eventer Hannah Taylor will be taking a break from her job as a freelance horse groom to compete in the advanced class on her horse Trilby. And Sally Wood of Matlock, a retired lecturer who began eventing last year at the age of 59, will be a jump judge at the Trials as well as serving as the WB team’s Chef d’Equipe. Wosskow Brown ventured into the equestrian world last February when HR manager Louise Brown realised that ten members of staff had a passion for horseriding. Paralegal Annie Everard, who started at the practice as a 14-year-old on work experience and is a keen eventer, is a member and driving force of the company team. Louise Brown said: “We don’t know of any other local law practice supporting an equestrian team. We wanted to get involved in the passion our staff have for the sport and swiftly realised that while at a professional level there is lots of sponsorship for eventers, at a local amateur level there is absolutely nothing. “Our long-term aim is to help local equestrians who are combining their passion for the sport with careers or education. We hope one day some of them may go on to achieve Olympic status.”

Team WB member Hannah Taylor jumping the Wosskow Brown sponsored jump during the crosscountry event at Chatsworth International Horse Trials 2014

Annie Everard added: “It’s a very expensive game; the upkeep and training of the horses, competition entry fees and travel and transportation costs really add up. People assume horse-riders are from privileged backgrounds but many are not and those are the people Wosskow Brown want to support.” After the team’s Chatsworth Horse Trials debut in 2014, the law firm, which now employs 97 across four offices, has paid for additional training and individual coaching to improve skills and confidence. Bio-veterinary sciences student Katie Patrick commented: “The extra training will definitely make a difference to our performance but so will the fact that we go into the ring with less financial worry on our shoulders. We will be aiming to make our sponsors proud.” The team is now under the auspices of Wosskow Brown’s charitable foundation, launched in autumn 2014 to celebrate the firm’s 25th anniversary. The Foundation supports business growth, charities, social enterprises and sports clubs and individuals in sport from grassroots level.

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LEGAL

RIDER PROFILES: Hannah Taylor, 21, of Huddersfield Occupation: Freelance Horse Groom Competition horse: Utrillo (nicknamed Trilby). “Trilby is quite a character,” said Hannah.“He is the most chilled out horse to have around and a pleasure to own but he likes to make sure he gets all the attention and if he doesn’t he has a tendency to pull funny faces, including smacking his lips (especially at feed time). He also is a bit of a show off when he knows he has a crowd. His favourite foods are extra-strong mints and the occasional custard cream.”

Sarah Healy in the show jumping arena

FOUNDATION FACTFILE: n Building on the firm’s existing ethos of helping the local community, the Wosskow Brown Foundation is inspired by the assistance and goodwill experienced by partners Michael Wosskow and David Brown when they launched the business in 1989. Its support of local sports includes the Sheffield Sharks basketball team, a snooker player, a lightweight boxer and a skier. n Last year Wosskow Brown’s sponsorship of the Chatsworth International Horse Trials provided wifi hotspots for visitors, organisers and competitors, VIP hospitality for a number of its Sheffield City Region

clients and an equestrian-themed free prize draw. n The Chatsworth International Horse Trials first started in 1956 and in 2015 expects to welcome over 500 horses and leading international riders. The event is run as part of the Chatsworth House Trust – a registered charity dedicated to the long-term protection, enhancement and sharing of Chatsworth House, its collections and landscape.

CONTACT: Wosskow Brown The John Banner Centre, 620 Attercliffe Road, Sheffield, S9 3QS Tel: 0114 256 1560 www.wosskowbrown.co.uk

Sarah Healy, 42, Bamford, a former 3* rider Occupation: Dental hygienist Competition horse: Saratoga Candyman (nickname Buddie) Sarah said: “Buddie is an eight-year-old Irish Sport Horse who competed successfully at novice level in 2014 and moved up to 1* level but had to withdraw with a virus. I’m hoping to move up to 1* one and three-day events this spring. He is very sharp and never misses a thing but loves fuss and attention in the stable. He loves jumping - he does it for fun on his own!” Katie Patrick, 20, Chesterfield Occupation: First year university student at Hartpury College studying for a BSc Hons in Bio-Veterinary Science Competition horse: Pop the Question II (nickname Harry), “I have had him since he was six months old,” said Katie. “Harry is a fantastic event horse and I really believe that he has the ability and temperament to go all the way to the top level in eventing. His favourite phase is the cross country and provided I can steer him, he is a total machine!”

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First For Business

TRAINING

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www.ffb-online.co.uk

STAY ON COURSE WITH SIV TRAINING.

rom first aid to customer service and safeguarding to health and safety, SIV Training Centre provides one of the most comprehensiverange of courses for business in the Sheffield City Region. More than 30 courses are delivered by a team of fully qualified and experienced trainers, who ensure delegates have the knowledge needed to pass a course and feel comfortable in using new skills within an external environment. Having recently expanded, the awardwinning work-based training provider now operates out of six Sheffield venues which boast excellent transport links and ample free parking. SIV Training takes place at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, The English Institute of Sport Sheffield, iceSheffield, Hillsborough Leisure Centre, Concord Sports Centre and Springs Leisure Centre. Businesses can also host training sessions in their workplace.

Courses include: • First Aid • Fire Safety Warden training • Manual Handling • Conflict Management Training • Stress Awareness • Health and Safety in the Workplace • Risk Assessment • Customer Service Rachael Pyecroft, a training manager with SIV Training, said: “At SIV Training we aim to provide the best training experience for businesses and individuals, offering a wide range of courses to suit everyone. “With fully qualified and experienced trainers, we aim to delivery high quality sessions from one of our six training venues or we can also take our courses to a business or workplace. “Our success has been built on an ethos of guiding organisations and individuals through the knowledge needed to pass a chosen course and also to feel comfortable using those skills.”

CONTACT: For more information call 0114 237 4563 or visit https://www.sivtraining.co.uk

FFB May SheffEx_Layout 1 27/04/2015 10:32 Page 1

SPONSORED BY:

WELCOME... J

ust a few days after the 2015 dates for SheffEX were announced, hundreds of business people from across the Sheffield City Region had signed up to attend. Launched in June 2014 at Ponds Forge the event proved so successful that a follow-up event took place in December. SheffEX has now firmly secured its position on the business calendar and the third event – taking place on 1 June – is expected to host over 100 exhibitors and attract well in excess of 1,000 delegates. As well as the main exhibition, the event will offer exciting networking opportunities as well as business seminars and a line-up of influential speakers. The speaker programme currently includes: Jonathan Straight Lee Strafford David Watkins Faye Smith

Founder of Straight PLC PlusNet Founder Fortay Media MD of Keep Your Fork

* Further speakers to be announced on the SheffEX website. Sponsored by Business Sheffield, SheffEX is organised by local business people Tony Carroll and brothers Andrew and Mark McCormick. The idea came about out of frustration that as a city Sheffield is behind the curve with promoting itself to others. “We like keeping our head down and just getting on with things, but sometimes we need to shout about just

The countdown is on to Sheffield’s newest and most exciting business festival. how fabulous the city and its business community is,” said Tony. “We decided to make it easy for anyone to get involved so it had to be cheap – not more than a grand to exhibit was the message that came back from the people we spoke to. Free entry for pre-registered visitors would make sure that as many people as possible attend.” Last year’s events proved so successful that a number of partners are now on board. These include Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry, HR Media, Fortay Media, Connect Gazelles, TDC AV and Apps2Connect. Exhibitor costs have been kept low to ensure the event is accessible to any business – including one-man companies. The Market Place stand (1.75m wide x 1.5m deep) is £295, the High Street stand (3m wide x 2m deep) is £575 and the Deluxe stand (4.5m wide x 2m deep) is £775. Keen to support local good causes SheffEX offers five free stands to local organisations which do great work in and around the region, to give them the chance to showcase the work they do to local business people. Any organisation or group – small or large – with local roots can apply for these stands. Entry to SheffEX is free for pre-registered delegates. To register visit www.sheffex.com Registration is also now open for the fourth SheffEX, taking place on 7 December 2015.

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Creative Sheffield will be sharing their business expertise at SheffEX.

heffield City Council, through Creative Sheffield invests approximately £1million in services to support the creation and growth of businesses in the city. The services are delivered through Business Sheffield and are free to business and completely impartial.

Business Sheffield – The Offer Business Gateway • The channel for all business enquiries in the city • The Gateway Team undertakes a diagnostic for all enquiries and • Provides immediate information, advice or signposting or makes referrals to the support listed below: Business Start Up and Early Stage Businesses • A team of experienced business start-up advisors who deliver a series of start-up workshops and drop in sessions • Exclusive access to a series of expert delivered sessions in important areas of running a business, delivered by Creative Sheffield and private sector partners • Access to a team of Business Advisors who have years of experience dealing with new and early stage businesses • Specialists in sales and marketing

Business Growth Advisors The Business Growth Advisors spearhead Business Sheffield’s ongoing contact with growth oriented businesses, they: • Receive referrals from the Gateway which works proactively to generate new business • Work with businesses passed on by Intermediary partners and their own networks • Establish long term relationships with companies allowing Creative Sheffield to work with them and support their growth in the longer term • Provide direct support when appropriate and draw on specialist interventions when required (such as UK Trade and Investment for export support, the national Business Growth Service and the expertise available through Sheffield’s two universities) • The Growth Advisor Team includes individuals who have started and grown their own business, who have worked for FTSE 100 companies and who have significant expertise As the city’s provider of business support, sponsoring SheffEX is a natural choice for Business Sheffield. As well as exhibiting at the event Business Sheffield will also be delivering information sessions on export and sales.

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Looking for open, honest & expert advice If you are looking to save your company or need a solution to your personal debt problems, we are here to listen. Our experienced and qualified staff have extensive knowledge and experience in providing business recovery, liquidation, insolvency and personal debt solutions for businesses and individuals.

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by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs Connect Gazelles is a unique not-for-profit membership group for ambitious entrepreneurs that enables them to learn from many of Yorkshire’s most successful business people, our ‘Entrepreneurs in Residence’ (EIRs). Our EIRs give time and considerable expertise for free to support growing businesses and to help them create jobs and wealth in Yorkshire. We offer support in: Growth Acceleration • Leadership Improvement • Business Development

Membership criteria: Are you an ambitious entrepreneur running a high-growth business in Yorkshire? Are you looking to rapidly grow your business? Are you rich in ideas, but poor in time? Do you need help with key issues? T: 0113 384 5640 W: www.connectgazelles.co.uk E: info@connectgazelles.co.uk Leeds Innovation Centre, 103 Clarendon Road, Leeds, LS2 9DF

FFB May SheffEx_Layout 1 27/04/2015 10:36 Page 4

CASE STUDIES: Amy Goodson Amy Goodson, director of Leo Wealth Management, will be exhibiting at SheffEX for the first time in June. As the owner of a new business, Amy is confident that SheffEX will provide the ideal platform for meeting potential new clients and networking with other business people from the professional sector. “SheffEX will be an excellent opportunity for me to highlight the wealth management services I offer to company directors,” said Amy. “Working in financial services, there is a crossover with other businesses such as accountancy companies and solicitors so there may be potential to work together. “Face-to-face relationships are incredibly important to me and this is the way I develop my client base. SheffEX event will allow potential clients to have a chat and get to know a little more about me before making any decision to proceed. “The price of exhibiting is really affordable for small businesses, even ones that are not yet established. “I feel so confident that this event will be worthwhile for my company, I have already re-booked for December.” Tel: 07985 408638 Email: amy.goodson@leowealthmanagement.co.uk www.leowealth.co.uk

tdc

Enable Finance

We are tdc, Sheffield’s leading provider of all things audio visual for live events and permanent installation. We have sponsored SheffEX from the beginning as we believe Sheffield has a lot to shout about and bringing this many local companies together for a day of networking and activity is something the city has been crying out for. Tdc design and deliver award-winning events all across the UK week in week out. With clients including the BBC, The City of London, Sky, Black and Decker and The Bank of New York, we want to make sure SheffEX meets our usual high standards. For the event we build a theatre area in Ponds Forge, providing projection, PA, staging, lighting and stage management so that the incredible roster of presenters have the platform they deserve to communicate their ideas to the SheffEX delegates. Spending the day at SheffEX is a great way to do business and extend your network in an energetic environment. There is always a buzz around our area but this extends to the whole event as people meet, talk and interact. Come and say “hi” to one of our friendly team as we would love to meet you!

Enable Finance are national business and commercial finance providers based here in Sheffield. We have supported SheffEx from the beginning and we find SheffEx a great tool for us to spread the word locally that we are actively lending and supporting local businesses with their growth plans. SheffEx is always great opportunity to meet existing and new clients as well as catch up with our partners in the accountancy, legal and banking professions. Phillip Evans www.enablefinance.com

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Aizlewood’s Mill Aizlewood’s Mill is a prestigious six-storey 19th century flour mill restored and refurbished into a fully-managed business centre, conveniently located within the city centre of Sheffield. Aizlewood’s Mill offers a wide range of services to suit businesses of all sizes, both residents and non-residents, to save your business both time and money. For example we can provide fully-serviced office space, virtual office and secretarial services, as well as conference and meeting room hire. All room hire includes free parking, use of available audio-visual equipment and free Wi-Fi. Manager Catherine Beatty says: “We’ve exhibited every time with SheffEX because of the opportunity to renew friendships with some of our existing clients and the possibility of attracting new business every time. There’s always a busy, vibrant atmosphere and a very valuable day for us all.” For any more information please contact reception on 0114 282 3123 or visit our website www.aizlewoodsmill.com. Our reception team are on hand from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

Gem Vending Established in 1968, Gem Vending is an independently owned business covering the greater East Midlands and South Yorkshire. We can boast more than 40 years’ experience in supplying and looking after the following type of equipment; • Hot beverage vending • Snack vending machines • Cold drink vendors • Fresh food vendors • Water coolers • Coffee and catering supplies Gem Vending have the ability and expertise to be able to provide a complete refreshment solution for any business, no matter how large or small. From a small table top coffee system or water cooler all the way through to a fully inclusive, 24 hours-a-day automated refreshment service. We offer a range of vending machine management options, including refilling, cleaning, auditing and repair of your machine. We are keen to tailor a vending servicing solution to meet your individual requirements. Gem can offer unbiased, independent advice: • Supply and management of all types of vending machines • Ethical and healthier choices • UK suppliers and manufacturers • Technical support packages Our Nottingham based head office puts us in an ideal location to reach you wherever you are. We are also part of the WISE vending group which allows us to provide vending services nationwide. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements on 01773 765000 or sales@gemvending.com

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Does your business need funding, to take it to the next level? Enable Finance are actively lending and supporting growing companies, come and talk to us at Sheffex. We provide: • • • • • • • • • •

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0114 2945 046 www.enablefinance.com enablefinance.com a trading style of Enable Corporate Strategies Ltd. Cooper Buildings, Sheffield Science Park, Arundel St, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2NS. Telephone: 01142 945 046. Registered in England 7365867. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. ANY PROPERTY USED AS SECURITY, WHICH MAY INCLUDE YOUR HOME, MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR LOAN. Finance subject to status and formal underwriting.

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First For Business

BUSINESS SUPPORT

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

STEVE TAKES THE ACADEMY CHAIR BOOMING DEMAND PROMPTS THE LAUNCH OF A SECOND CEO GROUP TO HELP SUPPORT THE REGION’S BUSINESS LEADERS.

teve Knowles, South Yorkshirebased entrepreneur and businessman, has been recruited to chair and launch a second CEO group of the Academy for Chief Executives in the Sheffield City Region.

individual one-to-one coaching sessions.

The Academy launched in the region three years ago and has gone from strength to strength with Kevin Kerley chairing 30 business leaders from across the region. With these two groups at capacity and the demand for membership still strong, Kevin has recruited the services of Steve Knowles to take the lead of the second CEO group.

n The latest business ideas and insights from around the world.

The Academy is an organisation specialising in providing world class impartial advice and the sort of expert support that helps both the business leader and their companies to grow. Through peer group learning, listening to outstanding speakers and experiencing personal coaching from top business leaders, members are guided on a journey to greater career and personal fulfilment and are inspired to achieve extraordinary business results.

The benefits that a CEO / MD will take from being a member are: n Iinnovative expert solutions to there current business issues.

n Impartial advice in private coaching sessions n Professional support for member’s growth as a business leader. n Peer group issue solving to boost the performance of there business. n A balanced life/ work schedule. n Two-day annual retreat in luxury five-star surroundings to focus on goalsetting with an assured positive outcome.

Steve said: ``After three years as a member of the Academy it is a great honour to be asked to facilitate the launch of a new CEO group in the Sheffield City Region. The Academy for Chief Executives provided me with a vehicle in which to constantly push the boundaries of my business, achieve exceptional growth and polish my existing skills whilst also learning new ones in an exceptional and unique way, and find the correct balance with family life.”

New chairman: Steve Knowles has been recruited to lead the second group of the Academy for Chief Executives in the Sheffield City Region.

Organised in small, exclusive invitationonly regional meetings, each local Academy group has a maximum of 15 non-competing businesses and is led by an Academy chairman. Meeting monthly, sessions include an inspirational workshop led by a world class expert speaker, peer group learning and issue-solving together as well as CONTACT: Alyssia.bailey@chiefexecutive.com or www.chiefexecutive.com

034 FFB May15 22/04/2015 11:37 Page 1

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First for Business

LOGISTICS

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

MONSTER SUCCESS

Port of Tyne CEO Andrew Moffat with Paul Stephenson, MD of South Bay Civil Engineering Ltd

YORKSHIRE DRINKS COMPANY IS LOOKING FORWARD TO A BUSY SUMMER WITH THE HELP OF PORT OF TYNE’S FLEXIBLE LOGISTICS SUPPORT.

he Port of Tyne is one of the UK’s fastest growing major deep-sea ports and it is helping a Yorkshire-based soft drinks company make a splash with its products Yorkshire based Gourmet Water is gearing up for a busy – and thirsty – summer, with the aid of some little monsters and the Port of Tyne. The two-year-old soft drinks company centred in Harrogate secured the licence to produce its Moshlings range of drinks based on the hugely popular children’s cartoon characters Moshi Monsters. Moshi Monsters is a website with more than 80 million registered users in 150 countries around the world. It has grown from being a website game to merchandising and a magazine. Gourmet Water’s Moshlings Magic Water has joined the company’s range of vitamin waters made from natural ingredients sweetened with natural fruit and stevia. Moshlings Magic Water, along with the company’s other soft drinks, are distributed around the UK to major supermarkets, high street bakeries and pub chains. Gourmet Water’s Andy Clarke said: “With a little help from the Port of Tyne, our logistics partners, we are getting ready for summer which is our busy time with family holidays, days out, kids’ parties and people just enjoying the sunshine. We’ve been producing Moshlings Magic Water for just over 12 months now. It’s proving to be extremely popular and we are sure

it’s going to be another big hit this year.’ ’ Gourmet Water’s products are made in Sunderland and are distributed all over the UK by Port of Tyne logistics, which handles around four or five trailer loads a month for Gourmet Water. Andy added: “We have forged an extremely useful relationship with Port of Tyne which is enabling our business development. They are very reliable and always flexible. We drop things on them at the very last minute because our customers tend to drop things on us, but the Port always come through for us and handles our last minute deliveries.” The Port of Tyne is one of the UK’s fastest growing major deep-sea ports and is a vital trading gateway to worldwide markets. Investment of over £120m in the past 10 years has created the infrastructure to deliver continued growth of the Port’s diverse businesses and has culminated in the Port being named UK Port of the Year in the 2014 National Transport Awards. The Port of Tyne bulk and conventional cargo business handles coal, woodpellet, grain, scrap, steel and other cargoes, but it is the volume of imported coal, which has increased dramatically from zero in 2003 to

4.9 million tonnes in 2013, that has earned the Port its place as the UK’s second largest coal importer. Port of Tyne Logistics offers customers an integrated package of container handling, warehousing and distribution, with many customers already experiencing the advantages of using the Tyne rather than bringing their goods through Felixstowe or Southampton and trucking them all the way up country. Not only does it help reduce the carbon footprint, it also offers cost efficiencies. In addition to cruise and ferry, other business areas include car terminals, developed by the Port of Tyne to support manufacturing giants Nissan and VW, and Estates, which manages a growing portfolio of commercial properties and land holdings. The port is also leading developments in renewable energy and with its asset base and geographical location, is well placed to meet the needs of the emerging offshore oil, wind and gas industry. CONTACT: Port of Tyne Headquarters Maritime House, Tyne Dock, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 9PT Tel: 0191 455 2671 www.portoftyne.co.uk

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Sponsored by Mercury Taxis and supported by First for Business Magazine – with the charity raffle in aid of Support Dogs – Sheffield Chamber of Commerce Charity of the Year 2015

For the 14th year David Heugh will be organizing and hosting this wonderful day. Come along and join us in the same exclusive Winning Post Marquee for one of the most important social and racing events on the sporting calendar. It’s the perfect opportunity for private or corporate entertaining and we can assure you of good food and wine, sparkling company and a great day’s racing. Plus, the usual FREE bar all day! The usual special package in our private marquee includes: • morning coffee & biscuits • afternoon tea • super 3 course lunch • free parking PLUS !! A FREE BAR ALL DAY - Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks Please reserve places at £140 plus VAT

FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT David Heugh on 07785 243605 | e: davidheugh@yahoo.co.uk

037 FFB May15 22/04/2015 12:00 Page 1

First For Business

GOLF

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

GET INTO THE SWING OF GOLF WITH SIV.

ere you inspired by the Masters and want to get into golf? Andy Carnall has a new initiative for novice players which has launched in the region – goGOLF. Andy was twice County Professional Stroke Play Champion. He won the Derbyshire Matchplay Championship and reached the final qualifying stages for the British Open four times. He is now the golf manager for Sheffield City Trust and is in charge of four local golf courses – Beauchief, Birley Wood and Tinsley Park, in Sheffield, and Tapton Park, in Chesterfield. We’re keen to get into golf this summer, where do we start? Our new goGOLF package is aimed at novices or anyone looking to learn to play the sport. Whether you’re completely new to golf, you’ve played before or you are reasonably confident and want to get back into this fantastic sport, goGOLF is the perfect place to start.

Where can we play? goGOLF is available at all four of Sheffield City Trust’s courses – Beauchief, Birley Wood and Tinsley Park, in Sheffield, and Tapton Park, in Chesterfield. It sounds great, what’s included? You get three, 30-minute golf lessons with one of our PGA qualified coaches, which can be booked at any time during a three-month period. You can practice what you’ve learnt with three months free access to our courses after 1pm. There’s also unlimited access to the ninehole Academy Course at Tapton Park. What do the PGA coach sessions cover?

The coaches will teach the basics from grip and posture to swing and putting. The one-to-one sessions will be tailored according to your ability. Can golf help you get ahead in business? With plenty of time between shots for conversation, it’s great for building relationships. It’s a sport that suits all ages, backgrounds and abilities, which makes it a great leveller for clients and colleagues. With an emphasis on tactics, techniques and focus, golf improves your ability to remain calm under pressure and think strategically. It also burns calories, helps lower cholesterol and stress levels and reduces your risk of heart disease. Where can we find out more? There’s more information on our website www.sheffieldgolf.co.uk/gogolf including details of all our courses, PGA professionals and how to book on the goGOLF scheme.

Golf

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First For Business

LEGAL

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

WITH LOTS GOING ON IN THE REGION, IT’S IMPORTANT FOR BUSINESSES TO BE AWARE OF THEIR LEGAL OBLIGATIONS, SAYS BEST SOLICITORS’ STACEY POCOCK.

UNDERSTAND THE EFFECTS E

xciting times are ahead for the Sheffield and South Yorkshire region. The much awaited redevelopment of Sheffield city centre finally looks to be under way; works in Doncaster are on-going with the Finningley and Rossington regeneration and of course, the development of the national High Speed Rail College. Lots of re-development and investment equals lots of opportunities for all types of businesses in our region. Whatever kind of business you have, it is vital that before entering into any business transaction that you take time to understand the fine print. For small to medium businesses that are likely to feel the greatest impact if things don’t go quite to plan, there can be enormous benefit in taking time to understand the effects of these transactions. Stacey Pocock, Head of Commercial and Civil Litigation at Best Solicitors, advises “At the very least, small businesses and anyone new to the commercial arena should obtain independent legal advice before entering into a contract. The contract could impose obligations or limitations which could be costly to your business and once an agreement is

entered into, it can be very difficult and expensive to walk away.” Entering into business transactions can also impose statutory obligations on business owners. For example, construction contracts may require planning laws to be complied with before a project can begin. Recent changes to the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 mean that business owners, users or managing agents having maintenance, small scale or minor building works carried out in connection with a business have a responsibility to ensure that the project is planned effectively from the outset. For commercial tenants, particularly those who are taking out a lease for the first time and may not know much about the legal implications, you must safeguard your interests and ensure that the lease is independently reviewed and any terms which may be needed to protect your rights as a tenant are included. Stacey points out that “unfortunately, it is not uncommon for small businesses that are understandably keen to keep costs and expenditure to a minimum to enter into transactions without fully knowing

the implications, only to find at a later date, that it is going to be a costly exercise to get out of or implement.” The benefits of having knowledge about the implications of the transaction that you are entering into can help with business planning, forecasting, credit control and cash flow. Vital issues for any business. Whilst no one can accurately predict the future and hindsight is a skill that all business people wish they possessed, forearmed is forewarned and for a reasonable outlay, having knowledge about the transaction that you are entering into can be the difference between success and failure. If you have a question about your business or any property matter – feel free to email Stacey directly on staceypocock@bestsolicitorsonline.co.uk

CONTACT: Best Solicitors Head office: Broughton House, 48 West Street, Sheffield, S1 4EX Walk-in Centre: 26 Pinstone Street, Sheffield, S1 2HN Tel: 0114 281 3636 www.bestsolicitorsonline.co.uk

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COMMERCIAL

First for Business

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IS RIPE IN SHEFFIELD, WRITES JULIE FARMER.

CITY ON THE UP T

here is no denying that the economy has been through a difficult spell but confidence appears to have been renewed and once again there is something of a buzz in the air about the future of Sheffield. Most recently, new plans were unveiled to transform the heart of the city centre. The new, vibrant retail quarter that would be delivered by 2019 is a scheme that will service modern retail demands and meet the Council’s vision for 2050. The proposed £480 million scheme, designed by Leonard Design Architects, who have advised on some of Europe’s most successful retail developments, comprises approximately 900,000 square feet of mixed use accommodation. The proposed new scheme is predominantly retail and leisure led, but also includes over 200,000 square feet of residential and office space. Simon Green, Sheffield City Council’s Executive Director – Place, said: “These new plans provide an attractive new shopping district for Sheffield city centre. “The design merges with Sheffield’s award-winning public spaces and worldrenowned cultural assets – including City Hall, The Crucible and The Lyceum theatres – and links key retail pitches in the city centre from The Moor through to Fargate. This will complement the new shopping facilities and provide food and drink, office and residential space to extend the city centre’s attraction as an evening entertainment option. “These are exciting plans that will help Sheffield meet the changing retail demands of the 21st century – a development that will be crucial to the

city’s economic future.” The new scheme aims to attract contemporary retailers to an enhanced, street-based city centre district, blending the existing unique and historic buildings with new retail and leisure outlets linked by top quality landscaping of a similar quality to the award-winning Peace Gardens and Tudor Square in the Heart of the City. The scheme is also expected to benefit other shopping areas in the city centre, such as The Moor and Devonshire Quarter by encouraging more footfall. Simon Green added: “This is the right time for Sheffield. We sit at the heart of the devolution debate; we have an ambitious plan for growth; and we are delivering a series of enhancements to our city and public spaces through partnerships with universities, commercial

‘In the coming months we will launch the world leading Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District. All routes lead to the need for an improved and vibrant city centre with retail and leisure at its heart.’

Photograph: Katie Muscroft

real estate, homes and our hospitals. “In the coming months we will launch the world leading Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District. All routes lead to the need for an improved and vibrant city centre with retail and leisure at its heart.” Martin McKervey, partner at Nabarro and Sheffield City Region LEP board member commented: “This new and exciting opportunity is a further endorsement of the confidence we must all have in the city following the interesting developments in progress such as the £65million Chinese inward investment plan for New Era Square, the new Olympic Legacy Park in the Don Valley and the University of Sheffield’s Factory 2050, which will build a £43million centre of excellence for advanced manufacturing. Sheffield is indeed an attractive investment opportunity and we have a platform to build on this.” Another significant project currently taking place is the ‘Grey to Green’ corridor at the Riverside Business District. The project will transform 1.3 kilometres of redundant road space, creating an attractive new linear public space, including perennial meadows, a sustainable urban drainage system and rain gardens. Walking and cycling routes will create a high quality setting for a number of key development sites in the area, particularly at West Bar and Exchange Place.

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042 - 043 FFB May15_Layout 1 24/04/2015 09:36 Page 1

First For Business

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

TEAMWORK IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS SHEFFIELD-BASED AIRMASTER IS GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH, WITH THE HELP OF THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY’S SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM

hen Rachel Allen took up the position of finance manager at the beginning of March she completed Airmaster’s line-up of senior management. Rachel, a qualified accountant who has worked in practice for over 20 years, has joined Airmaster to take management responsibility of finances for the company, a provider of heating and cooling systems which is seeing an increase in turnover year on year. Rachel joins contracts manager Gareth Campbell, business development manager Ian Fisher and Lesley McNeill, who was recently promoted to maintenance manager. Lesley has worked for Airmaster since 2005, joining the company as a service co-ordinator. Her enthusiasm and dedication to customer service earned her the title of office manager in 2009 and her role of maintenance manager will see her quoting, renewing maintenance contracts, obtaining feedback from customers, invoicing and overseeing office staff and a team of engineers, including two apprentices. Lesley is a qualified internal auditor, has undertaken the SEATS environmental awareness training course and is currently working towards a NEBOSH qualification. “I have always been committed to delivering service that goes beyond customer expectations,” said Lesley. “My new role as maintenance manager will provide greater scope for interacting with

maintenance customers, obtaining useful feedback and developing ways of building on the strong customer relationships we already have.” Recently, Lesley – along with Ian and Gareth – has been heavily involved in designing Airmaster’s forthcoming new website, ensuring the new design is an accurate representation of the company. As an organisation which is passionate about getting out and interacting with clients the team was keen for the website to encourage customer interaction and serve as a hub for useful information. “It’s important for us to get out there and interact with customers and the business community,” said Lesley. “This not only promotes the business but it enables us to share our knowledge and build public

‘It’s important for us to get out there and interact with customers and the business community, This not only promotes the business but it enables us to share our knowledge and build public confidence in our expertise.’

confidence in our expertise.” One member of the management team who is particularly passionate about passing on useful information to customers – as well as the general public – is Ian, commonly referred to as Airmaster’s ‘energy nerd’. With over 25 years’ experience in the industry and having appeared in the press, on the radio, spoken at Westminster and regularly tweeting tips under his Twitter moniker @askenergyian, he certainly knows what he is talking about. He also recently became a committee member of the Institute of Refrigeration, contributing updates for service engineers. As business development manager Ian’s role within the company involves attracting new customers, further developing relationships with existing customers and raising awareness of Airmaster via events, social media and networking. It seems this is the perfect role for Ian, who likes nothing more than sharing legislation and energy-related news and tips with his social media followers. “It’s important to me to put information out there that people can use for their own benefit,” said Ian. “I strongly believe that if people understand what the regulations are and if I can educate them with regards their energy requirements then it puts us on a level playing field when it comes to quoting. The customer better understands what they need and as a company we better understand what

042 - 043 FFB May15_Layout 1 24/04/2015 09:37 Page 2

FEATURE

‘We’re already experiencing unprecedented sales figures and securing some incredible contracts, The GrowthAccelerator plan, coupled with the enthusiasm and dedication of the management team and all our other members of staff – who are equally hard-working and valued – is sure to result in an exciting future for Airmaster.’

we moved into our current building – the former Wetherby pub at Swallownest – and we are securing additional contracts year on year.” Over the last 12 months the number of employees at Airmaster has grown by 20 per cent and the company is well into its three-year GrowthAccelerator plan which has so far seen it experience record sales. they need us to deliver. Failing to fully understand each other’s needs is not good for customers or for businesses.” Recently Ian – along with three other colleagues – also became a STEM Ambassador, which sees him going into schools and colleges to encourage young people to enjoy STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects. “Being a STEM Ambassador appealed to me as it involves talking to students about your career and how it has progressed,” said Ian, “It is important to me to encourage young people to work hard and increase their aspirations. Having someone like myself – from an air conditioning company – talk to young people also helps to raise awareness of the different jobs that are out there within the STEM subjects. Previously they might not have thought of this as a career

but hopefully I’ll help them to appreciate the vast range of jobs they could aspire to as a result of studying STEM subjects at school.” The longest-serving member of the senior management team is Gareth Campbell, Airmaster’s contracts manager. Having started with the company at the age of 16, straight after leaving school, Gareth is now in his 15th year. He started as an apprentice and has climbed the ranks from installation engineer to service engineer to CAD technician, before taking up the position of contracts manager. “The company has changed dramatically since I started in 2000,” said Gareth. “In those early days we worked from the owner’s garage but within a short space of time we had moved into our own premises. As the company grew further

Resources director Lisa Pogson believes the company’s management team will be instrumental in taking Airmaster to the next level over the upcoming months. “We’re already experiencing unprecedented sales figures and securing some incredible contracts,” said Lisa. “The GrowthAccelerator plan, coupled with the enthusiasm and dedication of the management team and all our other members of staff – who are equally hardworking and valued – is sure to result in an exciting future for Airmaster.”

Contact: Airmaster Air Conditioning Ltd. Wetherby House, Park Hill, Swallownest, Sheffield, S26 4UN Tel: 0114 2889911 Email: team@airmaster.uk.com www.airmaster.uk.com:

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First For Business

FEATURE

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

HOW TO… DELIVER OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE GEORGE ELLIOTT, BUSINESS COMMUNICATION EXECUTIVE AND CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINER AT THE SOURCE SKILLS ACADEMY, HAS SOME TOP TIPS FOR MAKING SURE YOUR BUSINESS HAS THE WOW FACTOR WHEN IT COMES TO CUSTOMER SERVICE. t doesn’t matter what sector your business operates in, or whether you engage with customers face-to-face, through social media or by telephone, the way in which you communicate with your customers leaves a lasting impression.

Consistency is key If the service delivered is great one day but awful the next, customers won’t know what to expect. Every customer should receive the same standard of service no matter what day of the week they visit, how busy you were or which member of staff they were served by. If a customer or client does have a complaint, ensure it is handled quickly and efficiently and studies show that 95 per cent of customers will still do business with you again. Ignoring a complaint or handling it badly could lose you that customer for life. Let your customers do the talking In this digital age, it only takes a matter of seconds for a tweet or post to reach thousands of potential customers. A tale of bad customer service is likely to reach more than twice as many people as one of praise for a good experience. Limit the damage by encouraging customers to give positive feedback and deal with any

complaints quickly before they get out of hand. Staff as ambassadors Do your employees embody your company values? Have you considered how they behave when off duty but still wearing your uniform or name-badge? Your team should understand that they are ambassadors for the company and the way in which they present themselves has the potential to influence your reputation both in a negative and positive light. A corporate social media policy can be put in place to help protect your company online. Just one unprofessional tweet from an employee could severely damage your The Source Skills Academy delivers WorldHost Customer Service training, which has been used to train over 160,000 people in the UK, including the 2012 Olympics Games Makers. For more information about this training and about our fully funded courses (subject to eligibility criteria) visit our website www.thesourceacademy.co.uk or call 0114 263 5600.

reputation so it is worth ensuring staff are aware of this. Take the time to consider any issues your staff raise; happy employees will only want the best for the company. Product knowledge Thorough training in your catalogue of products or services is vital. The products or services you sell or provide may be lifechanging, but your sales team need to be capable of expressing this. Know your competitors Being aware of your competitors not only enables you to position yourself as a company that offers something different, it also allows you to hold your hands up when another company could serve a customer better. Be willing to accept when the competition offers something you don’t and point your customers in their direction. This will build your reputation as a company who wants what is best for their customers and won’t stop them from coming back for something which you do provide. Doing this also encourages the idea that you are experts in your field and that you are only happy to provide a service which will be the best around.

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First For Business

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

SHREDDING COMPANY OFFERS SERVICE FOR A DONATION TO THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL CHARITY Russell Richardson, a secure shredding company in Sheffield, is offering individuals and businesses the opportunity to have up to five bags or boxes of paper shredded and recycled in exchange for a suggested minimum donation of £10 to The Children’s Hospital Charity. Corporate customers can request confidential document sacks and ties for their employees to take home for their personal use. These sacks are then handed to the Russell Richardson service operative with the company’s usual collection for shredding and recycling in return for a charity donation. They also welcome individuals or small businesses to bring their confidential shredding to their site on Clay Street, Attercliffe. For a charity donation, sacks or boxes that are brought in to Russell Richardson will be taken for secure shredding and recycling. Jonathan Richardson, managing director at Russell Richardson, said: “The service not only helps the charities we support but it also provides a service to the local community wanting to protect themselves against ID theft and protect their personal information. Paperwork doesn’t even need to be separated from folders, ring binders, wallets or have staples removed.” All money received through the scheme will go to The Children’s Hospital Charity’s Make it Better appeal, which aims to raise £10million to transform The Children’s Hospital in Sheffield with world-class facilities to match the existing world-class care.

WORK & PLAY A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS, CELEBRATIONS AND NEW FACES.

NEW CREATIVE HUB FOR MERCHANDISING EXPERTS Following a period of growth, Sheffield based company Identity Merchandise Ltd has moved into a new ‘creative hub’. MD Marisa Thompson says the company’s growth is simply from recognising the need to advise companies on which products will work best for their brand. Marisa said: “Giving the right branded product to the right person will instantly deliver your brand personality, values and message, but busy marketers haven’t got the time to trawl the internet and, of course, the most innovative things are the hardest to find! “Research shows that if you give your target group something that shows you ‘get’ them – they will become advocates for your brand. It is marketing at its best... especially in these days of emails and social media, promotional products cut through the technological noise that bombards us all.” The company’s new hub is at 177 Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield.

PROGRAMME LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT SME APPRENTICES Leading merchant banking group Close Brothers Group plc has launched a pioneering programme to help SMEs secure the skills they need for future growth. Through the ‘Close Brothers SME Apprentice Programme’, Close Brothers will contribute to the cost of apprentices for 20 SMEs who might otherwise be unable to afford to take on a new apprentice. With the support of the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre and the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), the programme will help SMEs recruit and train a new generation of advanced engineering workers. Under the scheme, Close Brothers will help pay for 20 apprentices to learn their skills at the AMRC Training Centre. Close Brothers will fund half of the new recruits’ wages during the first year and a quarter in the second, meaning participating SMEs won’t have to bear the full cost of employing the apprentices until they are making a positive contribution to their business. The first intake will be in September 2015. The objective is to recruit a further 20 apprentices in year two and 20 more in year three. AMRC Training Centre Director of Training, Alison Bettac said: “We are really grateful to Close Brothers for creating this golden opportunity for smaller firms to put fears of the costs and the administrative burden of employing an apprentice to one side. “In addition to getting a high-quality vocational education, shop floor skills and access to employment, apprentices at the AMRC Training Centre can also be taking the first step on a road that could lead to undergraduate and post graduate qualifications that could make them company leaders in the future.”

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WORK & PLAY

NEW HEAD OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FOR M3

JAY RATED AS ONE OF UK’S TOP SOLICITORS

Jonathan Haran has joined m3 as Head of Business Development. Jonathan has worked in the sector for over 15 years, gaining experience in sales and marketing within both regional and national principle contractor environments. Jonathan, who has a track record of winning and retaining business, aims to further promote the m3 brand and support the continuing growth of the business in its traditional markets whilst exposing the company’s strength, quality and innovative approach to new sectors and clients.

Jay Bhayani, managing director of Sheffield law firm, Bhayani HR & Employment Law, has been listed in The Telegraph recently as one of the UK’s top rated solicitors.

“I joined from GB Building Solutions, turning down several other offers to work for m3 because of the ambition and vision of the directors,” said Jonathan. “The company’s energetic team shares the values that I hold dear in relation to listening to a client’s needs, providing a solution and excelling expectation in delivery.”

NEW GOLF SCHEME GETS CITY GOLFERS ON COURSE A new golf initiative for novice players has been launched to get more people to take up the sport in the City Region. Sheffield City Trust (SCT) has introduced goGOLF at its four local courses – Beauchief, Birley Wood and Tinsley Park, in Sheffield, and Tapton Park, in Chesterfield. Each participant will be given three 30-minute lessons a PGA-qualified coach and participants can practice what they have learnt with three months free access to SCT’s courses after 1pm. For more information visitwww.sheffieldgolf.co.uk/gogolf

Jay is the only employment solicitor in the city, which is testament to the highly regarded position she holds in the legal sector in the region.

CHARITY CYCLE CHALLENGE Qualified personal performance coach and tireless charity campaigner, Deborah Cundy, is about to embark on her latest challenge. An avid supporter of Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, Deborah will be donning her cycle helmet in June to take on a staggering 252-mile bike ride that will see her pedal all the way from London to Paris in just three days. She is raising money for Weston Park and has set herself a target of £1,000. Such charitable pursuits have helped Deborah to lose an incredible 12 stone over the years. Her incredible weight loss journey and motivation to live a healthy life also led to her establishing her own successful life coaching business, Clarity in Mind, to help others. To sponsor Deborah’s bike ride challenge for Weston Park, please visit www.justgiving.com/ Debbie-Cundy1.

The review, which is compiled by the consumer ratings website, www.vouchedfor.co.uk, lists the top solicitors with at least ten reviews on the site and who have achieved a rating of at least 4 out of 5. Jay’s overall rating is an impressive 4.9. Aside from being a ringing endorsement that she is among the most respected in the business, Jay was featured in a guide to the UK’s Top Rated Professionals which was distributed in The Sunday Telegraph newspaper on 29 March. Jay has over 20 years’ experience of dealing with all aspects of HR and employment matters. Specialising in complex and sensitive issues, she has established an impressive reputation as one of the leading employment lawyers in the region. Jay said: “Being a Top Rated solicitor means a great deal – there are thousands of solicitors in the UK so to be recognised as one of the best reviewed is a real achievement. What makes it even more special is that I’ve been selected as a result of support from my clients. It means a lot that they’ve gone out of their way to help me to get this award and I’d like to thank them all.”

WIN TICKETS TO SEE THE HUMAN LEAGUE AT DONCASTER RACECOURSE

ummer evening race meetings at Doncaster Racecourse have a special atmosphere all of their own – especially when the sporting excitement is followed by top class musical entertainment. One of the highlights of this year is bound to be the meeting on Saturday 16 May. The last race is at 8.45pm and shortly afterwards local pop music legends The Human League will take to the stage. Regional Magazine Company has a pair of County Enclosure tickets to give away for this dazzling event, presented in association with Visit Bawtry.

For a chance to win these tickets enter our competition online at www.regionalmagazine.co.uk What is The Human League’s home city?: A) Sheffield B) Wakefield C) Huddersfield The closing date for the competition is Friday 8 May Please note, there is a dress code for the County Enclosure – no denim, trainers or sportswear, and gentlemen must have a collared shirt.

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First For Business

10 THINGS...

MAY 2015

www.ffb-online.co.uk

10 THINGS... THAT ARE REVIVING THE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT SECTOR BY JAMES OLIVER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF M3, A SHEFFIELD BASED PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR.

ommercial development is back on the agenda within The Sheffield Region. James Oliver, lists ten of the reasons for this upsurge and highlights the reasons why commercial development will play a huge role in the invigoration of the region.

GREAT PLACE TO LIVE

Sheffield really is an interesting place to live, work and play. Some of the fantastic facilities including theatres, performance venues, museums, sports, gardens and parks and the proximity of the Peak District make the city a truly unique place for leaders, managers, staff and their families to live and support the demand for new commercial development.

IMPROVING ECONOMIC CONDITIONS 2

Confidence has returned to the UK economy with a variety of investors looking for attractive and commercial development opportunities. This has already led to development of The Moor, the relocation of Castle Market, with plans to regenerate the city’s Castlegate area that include reconstructing the former Castle’s gatehouse and creating a surrounding park.

DEVELOPMENT SITES

The region has an abundance of suitable large sites and existing buildings ripe for regeneration in a variety of locations that complement both the developer/investor and long term planning objectives. Examples include the proposed regeneration of West Bar in Sheffield and continued development of office space at the electric works adjacent to the train station and Westfield Health’s investment and planned move to Milton House.

HIGHER EDUCATION FACILITIES

SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS

Sheffield has world class universities and colleges offering a wide range of learning opportunities with facilities that are constantly being improved to support latest learning techniques. The qualified students provide a high calibre of staff that supports employers’ aims to be innovative and successful. RISE is a Sheffield citywide initiative to increase graduate employment in small and medium-sized enterprises.

The region benefits from support organisations that aim to provide suitable conditions for growth and wealth creation opportunities for existing and, new, businesses. The Sheffield LEP is a collaboration between public and private sectors with a growth plan to create 70,000 private sector jobs and 6,000 new businesses, Sheffield Chamber of Commerce is a membership organisation sharing opportunities and knowledge while Creative Sheffield is Sheffield City Council’s economic development function focusing on enterprise, investment and the economy.

CAPABILITY

The UK’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre demonstrates to investors what can be achieved as a result of a joint approach taken by the government, industry, academia and the region. The future continues to look bright as Factory 2050, heralded as the UK’s first totally reconfigurable digital factory industrial unit, opens later this year. This clearly demonstrates capability and highlights what can be achieved in the Sheffield region, creating impetus for follow-on investment in support of world leading companies such as Boeing and Rolls-Royce.

COLLABORATIONS

Many higher education facilities in the region are targeting industry collaboration, leading to fruitful partnerships and commercial success. Examples are The University of Sheffield offering almost 90 research institutes and centres and Sheffield Hallam University providing companies with the structure and support needed to tackle strategic business challenges by assisting in the successful application and implementation of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs).

TRAINING

Skills Made Easy is funded through the City Deal with the aim to help SME’s get high quality training. This includes recruiting apprentices or training the existing workforce. This two way commitment of Public and Private sectors encourages companies to develop their business in the region.

LOCATION

The Sheffield region comprises of nine local authorities and, located centrally in the UK with a good variety of transport links, the area can boast a strong proposition.

BRAND

Many businesses within the region produce high quality products that are exported around the world and promoted by the “Made in Sheffield” brand. Knowledgebased businesses are leading the way at driving future success and growth and in making the Sheffield region a unique and attractive place to do business.

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