suffolk
spring 2011 www.iod.com/suffolk
enterprising society...
IoD suffolk spring 2011
1
contents
1
contents
2
IoD events
3
thoughts from the chair
5 - 11
across the region
12
IoD members
13 - 14
IoD news
15
corporate news
16 - 17
Olympic developments
W
ith all the talk about the big society and the new enterprise culture, you would
think that Britain had become a world of dazzling opportunity for businesses of all levels, but is this the case? In this issue we delve a little deeper into what
Our front cover features the James
‘the Big Society’ means to local business
Heir Building, the fifth floor of
16 - 17
which is home to The Eastern Enterprise Hub. To discover more read our article on page 27 Photography and visualisation ©2Cs All Rights Reserved
people in Suffolk and North Essex and how we are responding to ‘this great idea that is struggling to get out’.
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a word from the accountants
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enterprise
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the big society
With unemployment standing at 7.9% and business start-up failures at an all time low we look at the support on hand for business people of the future. One fascinating idea is ‘The Y Factor’, a school’s based initiative to provide an inspirational spark for young people to ensure they are equipped with the right skills for business. We also have local support for budding
Publisher Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited enquiries@tilstonphillips.com www.tilstonphillips.com Printed by Healeys Print Group Unit 10 – 11 The Sterling Complex Farthing Road Ipswich Suffolk IP1 5AP
20 - 23
entrepreneurs with the opening of The School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) in Ipswich. We will be following Tracy Bose, one of the
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corporate news
first cohort, as she starts up a new business
26
sponsor profile
’Got to Read’ with the support of SSE.
27
enterprise
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motoring
corporations continue to struggle in our
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corporate events
present climate; perhaps it has never been a
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IoD events
34
charities
Consumers now want accountability and the
35
leisure
ability to communicate quickly with a
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commercial property
knowledge, rather than struggling with an
38
business books
amorphous global brand.
39
business start-up
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IoD Committee and
It’s salutary to note that large established
better time to be a SME.
All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the prior consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The content of this magazine is based on the best knowledge and information available at the time of publication. All times, prices and details of events were correct at time of going to press. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers, proprietors, the Institute of Directors or others associated with this production. © Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited 2011
business that is responsive and has local
new members
Local business, it seems, is the key. Jonathan Tilston
IoD events To help Suffolk Branch members to plan ahead and organise their diaries, this programme summarises the forthcoming events in 2011. We hope the wide variety of our events gives you ample opportunity to entertain partners and guests and to get full benefit from your branch membership. All events are open to IoD members and non-members. For further information regarding our events visit www.iod.com/suffolk or call Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator on 07917 699498 or alternatively email: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
The Referendum – ‘What do electoral reforms actually mean for individuals, businesses, politics and the economy?’ 24/3/11 18.45 – 23.00 The West Wing at Ickworth House,
Top speakers lined up for 2011 Annual Conference ‘Achieving excellence through team spirit’
Bury St Edmunds The forthcoming referendum on voting reform is hitting the headlines, but what are we actually voting for, what are the options and the implications? How will individuals, businesses, local and national politics and the economy be impacted? Guest speakers will outline the options and debate the likely outcomes as we move ahead with further political reform. The Annual Conference and Annual Members’ Meeting – ‘Achieving excellence through team spirit’
I
oD Suffolk members are urged to
training and recruitment and development.
sign up now for this year’s Annual
His experiences in managing Cadbury’s talent
Conference, which takes place on
April 7 from 10am until 2.30pm in the
pipeline spawned the idea for Developing Potential which he founded in 1997 with Olympic Gold Medallist Dr David Hemery CBE.
7/4/11 10.00 – 14.30
Sir Bobby Robson Suite at Ipswich Town
In the past 10 years Les has worked with
Ipswich Town Football Club, Ipswich
Football Club, with a tour of the
multiple organisations in business, education
See panel opposite.
stadium following the event.
and sport with the aim of fostering high performance and achievement.
The Importance of the Port of Felixstowe 12/5/11 14.30 – 17.00
The Suffolk IoD Annual Members’ Meeting
Claire Sandbrook is the CEO of Shergroup, a
Port of Felixstowe
will precede the conference, starting
law company created from the Sheriffs of
Join us for a rare opportunity to visit the Port
at 9.30am.
London dating back to 1780. Today Shergroup provides a full range of collection, litigation
of Felixstowe and gain an insight into the importance of the Port to our local and
The conference, which will be facilitated by
and enforcement services for court users who
national economy as well as our standing in
Suffolk IoD Chairman Paul Winter, will focus
want to recover their money or land from the
the international trade arena.
on the importance of good leadership skills
courts throughout England and Wales.
and team spirit which will help you to achieve Question Time Dinner
your business goals. Top motivational
16/6/11 18.45 – 23.00
speakers Les Duggan, from Developing
one of only 69 Authorised High Court
The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds
Potential, and Claire Sandbrook, CEO of
Enforcement Officers in England and Wales.
The Question Time Dinner, introduced more
Shergroup, have been signed up for what
She was admitted as a solicitor in 1989 and
Appointed by the Lord Chancellor, Claire is
than five years ago, has become a premier
promises to be an inspirational few hours.
became a partner, having started at her law
event in the IoD Suffolk event calendar. Enjoy
Similar to last year’s lively event, delegates
firm as an audio typist. Claire has set up
lively debate between eminent Suffolk
will have interactive keypads to give feedback
teams in the UK and India for Shergroup and
business and political figures as they are
on hot topics of debate.
will talk about her experiences.
Book early to avoid disappointment, this event
Les Duggan, managing partner of Developing
To book your place please contact branch
is always a sell out.
Potential, was sales director for Cadburys
administrator Caroline Kearney on 07917
before taking responsibility for all their sales
699498 or email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
questioned by the audience on topical issues.
The Aldeburgh Festival June 2011 (exact date tbc) 18.30 – 22.00 Snape Maltings, Suffolk Join us for an evening experiencing an event within the Aldeburgh Festival programme. With refreshments and the opportunity to meet the professional performers.
2011 programme is kindly sponsored by:
IoD suffolk spring 2011
3
welcome
thoughts from the chair
T
he debate over whether or not the Bank of England should raise its Base Rate goes on and on. It
seems that the only reason to do it, is not one of economics, but all about the Bank’s reputation on the control of inflation. The media seem convinced that an increase is essential but the fundamentals of the economy would suggest no increase is required. There still seems to be plenty of spare capacity in industry and a significant part of the current rate of inflation is either indirect tax increases or world commodity prices. An increase in interest rates will not affect either of these. My view is that the Bank should hold its nerve and keep rates unchanged for the time being. Economic activity in Suffolk seems to be holding up well although the possible increase in unemployment may influence growth for the next year or so. However we continue to see arrears in Suffolk which are not prosperous and it is unfair the incentives being offer by the Chancellor are not available due to Whitehall’s view of the prospects of the whole of the East of England. As far as IoD Suffolk is concerned we have started our new year’s activities with a sold out Economic Breakfast and a very successful evening for new and prospective members. Details of forthcoming events are set out elsewhere in this magazine. This year we have also launched a new venture- our Creativity Clubs. This is an innovative approach to problem solving which we hope our members
Ensors, Jackaman Smith and Mulley and
take advantage of. The branch will continue
Leema Risk Management for their continuing
to look for ways in which we can add value
support and welcome Fresh Ways to Work as
to membership.
a sponsor.
The support of our sponsors is essential to the
Paul Winter
branch’s progress and I would like to thank
Chairman
sound advice
for business • commercial property
advice you can depend upon
• corporate • employment Jackaman Smith & Mulley
• litigation • partnerships
s o l i c i t o r s
Offices at IPSWICH 01473 255591 • FELIXSTOWE 01394 279636 • DISS 01379 643555
www.jsm.co.uk
IoD suffolk spring 2011
5
across the region
New look as Coes grows
60th birthday for Seckford hotel Michael Bunn, owner of Seckford Hall in Woodbridge, is celebrating 60 years at the hotel. As a boy, he explored its rambling Tudor frame, watching builders as they converted the family home into a hotel. He knows every nook – it is all he has known as a home – but still finds the building and grounds a constant source of inspiration. Like their predecessors stretching back over five centuries, Michael and his wife, Christine, treat the building as a living entity, and have gently developed the hotel over the years. The building has a fascinating history.
Coes has announced the first phase of
The addition of a womenswear department in
redevelopment at its Ipswich shop.
2002 means that Coes now offers
The multi-million pound investment will see
merchandise to men and women. It also has a
the flagship store in Norwich Road
comprehensive sports shop.
transformed into a new retail environment. The business was founded in 1928 and is now Many of the existing departments
run by William Coe, the third generation of
will be upgraded, bringing the total space
the family to do so. It has shops across East
to more than 40,000sq ft over three floors.
Anglia, employing more than 180 staff.
Work will be phased to minimise business disruption.
Coes has also now extended into online shopping and ships goods to all parts of the world.
High flyers urged to enter prestigious business awards successful businesswomen as well as helping
The hall is grand and stately in the best
Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex,
to encourage younger women to pursue a
traditions of a Tudor mansion, but it’s the
Hertfordshire, Suffolk and Norfolk are invited
career in business and winning one of the
details – often the product of extension over
to nominate themselves or others in the East
trophies gives the chosen woman and her
the centuries – that make for such a
of England Businesswomen of the Year
company widespread recognition for their
fascinating hotel.
Awards 2011.
hard work and determination in business.”
The awards, run in association with the
Entrants can register their nominations online
and it was not until nine years later that it
Institute of Directors Eastern Region, were first
at www.eebw.co.uk. The closing date for
became a hotel. Michael’s father bought
launched by the Cambridge Businesswomen’s
entries is 9am on Monday, April 4. Judging
it in 1951.
Network in 1989. This year there are two new
will begin on April 11, followed by visits to
awards - Rising Star of the Year and Start-Up
the finalists in the week commencing April 18.
Corporate and independent women from
In 1940 the hall was claimed by the MoD
The 32-bedroom hotel, which employs 100 staff, has seen changes over the years. In the
Business of the Year. The winners will be announced at the awards
past year, a refurbishment and bedroom
EEBW Chair, Jane Cox commented “The
ceremony on May 26 at the West Wing,
upgrade paid dividends when it achieved four-
awards celebrate the achievements of
Ickworth House near Bury St Edmunds.
star status by both the AA and Visit Britain.
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IoD suffolk spring 2011
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across the region Jobs boost for graduates The employment market for university
eight weeks of full-time work, designed to
leavers is showing signs of improvement
enhance the employability of graduates.
for the first time since the start of the recession with an 8.9 per cent annual
“They support undergraduate career
increase in graduate jobs, according to
development and we have been keen to draw
recent survey figures.
in elements of the recruitment process to offer valuable experience at every stage.”
At University Campus Suffolk (UCS) students are reflecting this improvement
UCS also holds an annual careers fair which
with four recent graduates securing work
allows students to identify employment
after their involvement in a summer
opportunities as well as expanding networks
internship scheme.
and gathering company information.
UCS launched the internships programme in
This year it will be on March 17
2008, in conjunction with local businesses and
(11am-3pm) in the Waterfront Building.
it has grown ever since.
It is open to all local graduates.
Chantalle Hawley, head of student support, said the programmes usually consist of six to
10 years on… the pace of employment law changes continues to accelerate… Quantrills, the specialist employment law
But what does the future hold?
solicitors and HR advisers, in 2011 are celebrating 10 years in practice, and according
Simon Quantrill has few doubts: “Just focusing
to managing partner Simon Quantrill, it’s been
on the coming 10 months – never mind the
a period of rapid change for employers:
next 10 years – there will be major changes for employers resulting from the abolition of the
“During, the last 10 years we’ve been busy
default retirement age from April this year, and
helping organisations large and small to keep
new rights for agency workers.
up with the constantly changing demands of employment legislation. Having access to
“Then there is the possible extension of
specialist advice in a fast and cost-effective
flexible working rights for all, plus maternity
manner is essential for HR Managers and
and paternity leave changes! But at the same
business owners alike.”
time government is consulting on
“The last 12 months alone has seen the
employee can claim unfair dismissal, plus it
reintroducing a two-year service rule before an introduction of the Equality Act 2010 which
wants to reduce the impact of ‘TUPE’.”
consolidated disjointed discrimination
“I’d recommend for anyone involved with
legislation. Then there has been the
managing employees to take advantage of
introduction of ‘fit notes’, and significant
the regular updates we provide on all
changes to sick pay and holiday case law.”
these issues.” Simon Quantrill and Julie Temple, partners of Quantrills employment law solicitors and HR advisers, who celebrate their 10th anniversary this March
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IoD suffolk spring 2011
9
across the region
‘Ludicrous’ to scrap internship scheme With one in 10 university leavers
providing recent graduates with opportunities
unemployed nationwide, Essex-based
to work in and around Essex.
equipment manufacturer Pacepacker has expressed disappointment that a successful
Pacepacker’s managing director, Dennis Allison,
intern scheme – which had led to it employing
said: “Government’s decision to scrap a scheme
a local graduate – is being scrapped.
which helps businesses to successfully address their employment needs is ludicrous.
Pacepacker Services, designers and manufacturers of automatic packing systems,
“It is difficult to find talented individuals
took part in the University of Essex’s graduate
through the usual employment routes of
internship scheme, part of a nationwide
advertising, whereas this scheme gave you
initiative launched by the Government.
access to a pool of prospective individuals and helped speed up the recruitment process.”
By joining the scheme, local businesses could
‘Don’t delay’ over bribery
benefit from an injection of new talent,
As industry and commerce waits for more detailed guidance from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) on how the forthcoming Bribery Act will affect businesses, Suffolkbased adviser and accountants Grant Thornton is warning companies not to wait until the Act comes into force. The Act, which aims to provide a more effective legal framework to combat bribery across the private and public sector, was due to come into force last
Region’s key role in power project
April but was postponed for a year. The MoJ has now said it will not become
East Anglia will play a key role in
legislation until three months after
the £200 billion project that will revolutionise
publication of the long-awaited final
the nation’s energy supply, according to
guidance. When it does become law the
Energy Minister Charles Hendry.
UK will have the most stringent anticorruption legislation in the world.
During a visit to the £10 million OrbisEnergy hub in Lowestoft, home to companies
Chris Clements, of Grant Thornton
specialising in offshore renewable energy, he
East Anglia, advises businesses to
said: “East Anglia is one of the most exciting
“This country is now facing one of the most
assess their risk to possible anti-corruption
places in the country for energy and is doing
extraordinary challenges as, over the next
practices; carry out due diligence on their
some of the most important, inspiring work
decade, we must build or rebuild our whole
customers, suppliers and employees; put
in renewables.
energy infrastructure.
in place policies and procedures ensuring
“The OrbisEnergy wind turbine, Gulliver,
“What is especially exciting is that OrbisEnergy
should be a guiding beacon for the potential
brings together people with ideas and
have board-level ownership and establish
of the renewable energy sector in East Anglia.
enthusiasm and helps them get established.
the right culture for compliance and to
“There are now huge opportunities for local
This is exactly the sort of groundbreaking
monitor and review, preferably using an
businesses to re-invent themselves and to take
work we need, bringing all the links in the
external body.
advantage of this opportunity.
chain together.”
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IoD suffolk spring 2011
11
across the region
Getting youngsters into swing of golf The head professional at Ufford Park has become director of golf. Stuart Robertson has been involved with the golf club since the hotel opened in 1992. Colin Aldous, owner and chairman of Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa, said: ‘’ I have relied heavily on Stuart over the years for his golf expertise and detailed knowledge of the game, and it was this that gave me the courage to develop the whole golfing product particularly in the last five years. “Having recently reached the official
Artists heading for Aldeburgh International art will be coming to
retirement age, I wanted to reduce my involvement in the everyday decision-making process and Stuart, I feel confident, can fill
wealthy could afford – but since Tiger Woods
that potential void, and take golf at Ufford
burst on to the scene in the 1990s that has
Park to an even higher level.”
changed the culture of the game, opening up
Aldeburgh this summer, starting with aldeburghART in the last week of May.
opportunities that did not exist before.” Stuart added: “For years I have sought to get more children into golf by teaching at primary
He said that, as director of golf, he is hoping
Royal Academicians Peter Blake, Eileen
and secondary schools. Golf was always
to make a real impact on the local and
Cooper, Stephen Farthing, Anthony
looked upon as an elite game, which only the
regional golf scene.
Green, Nigel Hall and John Hoyland are among those taking part. Avant-garde artists Joseph Beuys and Marina Abramovic will inspire performance art on the beach, guest-curated by the
A spa-rkling success
legendary Richard Demarco. Open to the public late last year, Lifehouse
The range of spa treatments available at
Building on the strong cultural heritage
is a day and stay spa set within 130 acres
Lifehouse use BABOR products, made from
of Suffolk, aldeburghART’s aim is to
of beautiful grounds and 12 acres of historic,
plant-based ingredients to enhance natural
complement the profile of the
listed gardens. Guest rooms boast views of the
beauty. BABOR offers a unique concept to
Aldeburgh Festival, known internationally
surrounding gardens or courtyard and facilities
offer both male and female guests effective
for its innovative and classical music.
include 35 treatment rooms, gym, outdoor
results in harmony with nature. None of the
fitness circuit, exercise studio, swimming pool,
products or ingredients are tested on animals.
During the festival in June, Mat
thermal spa area, relaxation areas, manicure
Collishaw and Ryan Gander, two younger
and pedicure stations, makeup bays,
As part of the Weekly Activities Programme,
internationally-acclaimed artists, will be
a hairdressing salon and a spa boutique.
Lifehouse also offers regular complementary
making works specially for the Aldeburgh Beach South Lookout.
classes such as Boot Camp as well as talks on This contemporary spa is the new benchmark
a wide variety of topics such as detoxification.
for a holistic spa experience with intelligent
Put simply, the Lifehouse proposition is
Also planned are exhibitions, plays,
life-enriching spa and wellbeing programmes.
a serious one; focusing on ensuring the
discussions, films and projects plus visits
Dedicated experts, specialising in key areas
best results for the individual and improving
to private collections and studios,
such as fitness, life coaching, nutrition, spiritual
guests’ habits to enhance general wellbeing
lunches, dinners and music, all relating
awareness, weight loss, alternative and holistic
for the long term.
in some way to visual art.
therapy and horticulture have been recruited to ensure highly-personalised, specialised and tailor-made programmes to suit every guest’s needs and help them to achieve their goals.
IoD members
new PR co-ordinator for Suffolk IoD
P
enny Arbuthnot, director of
innovative service for Suffolk IoD members.
public relations agency Project PR,
Penny continues: “I am looking forward to
joined the IoD in November 2010.
helping the branch raise its profile as a voice
She has steered her company through several stages of development and
for the county on business issues and as an excellent forum for directors to enjoy meeting at business and social events.”
growth, culminating last year in winning Outstanding PR Consultancy of the Year
Paul Winter, chairman of Suffolk IoD,
in the Chartered Institute of Public
commented: “We are very pleased that
Relations Pride Awards for East Anglia.
Penny accepted our invitation to join the committee and bring her PR and business skills to the team.”
She says: “I joined the IoD to enjoy the wide range of benefits including the wonderful
Penny has a joint honours degree in English
business facilities in London which I’ve already
and Italian from Warwick University and
used as a meeting venue with clients
a post graduate diploma in public relations.
and journalists.”
She began her PR career in London before moving to Suffolk where she established
For further information about Suffolk IoD
Penny was elected to the committee of Suffolk
Project PR in 1996. In 2010 Project PR was
membership please contact branch
IoD in January and her first tasks include helping
named the fourth most awarded PR agency
administrator Caroline Kearney on 07917
to promote the Creativity Club as a new and
outside of London by Drum Magazine.
699498 or email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
new and prospective IoD members enjoy Kesgrave Hall
M
ore than 30 new and
car-share, use the train or walk to work, rather
prospective members of the
than drive alone.
Institute of Directors’ Suffolk
branch enjoyed a private drinks reception held at the exclusive Milsoms @ Kesgrave Hall on February 10.
Paul McIntee, from Obsidian Consulting, spoke about the benefits of membership and Christopher Johnson, from Nuffield Hospital and a Suffolk IoD committee member, introduced the Creativity Club to be launched
The Suffolk IoD committee hosted the invitation-
in March for IoD members. Charlie Baxter
only event to welcome more than a dozen new
from the Prince’s Trust, gave an overview of
members who have joined the IoD in the past
the charity’s work with young people.
year and to talk to local business people who have shown an interest in finding out more. Diary Date The event was sponsored by Leema Risk
The next ‘New and prospective members’
Management, Ensors Chartered Accountants,
evening takes place on May 24 (5.30pm –
Jackaman Smith & Mulley Solicitors and new
7.30pm) at The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds.
sponsor ‘Fresh Ways to Work’, the EU-funded
For further information please contact branch
sustainable transport campaign in Suffolk
administrator Caroline Kearney on 07917
which is encouraging people to bike, bus,
699498 or email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
Peter Lee (left), leader of the ‘Fresh Ways to Work’ campaign, new sponsors of the Suffolk IoD 2011 calendar of events along with Leema Risk Management, Jackaman Smith & Mulley and Ensors. He is pictured with Paul Winter, chairman, Suffolk IoD and chief executive, Ipswich Building Society.
IoD suffolk spring 2011
13
IoD news
get out of the box for new Creativity Club By Penny Arbuthnot, IoD Suffolk PR Co-ordinator
‘Get out of the box with Creativity Club’ – showing (left to right) Paul Winter (Chief Executive, Ipswich Building Society and Chair, Suffolk IoD) with Ian Johnson (Director, Select Office Furniture) and Leigh Bendall (Managing Director, Herbert Partnering Solutions Ltd) who are both Creativity Club trained facilitators.
I
t’s 8.30am and we have just one
which is when the magic will start to
We then redefine the business problem
hour. There’ll be no meeting notes,
leap out…
presented to us by the ‘owner’ and break down the words and phrases to get really
action points or follow up
(so that’s a relief then) and we’re told we can put on our insane, out-of-the
In our group of six this morning there’s the
under its skin and pinpoint the burning issues.
problem ‘owner’ who’s hosting the session, two work colleagues, two ‘volunteers’ from
It’s now 8.55am and Christopher wants us to
box creativity hats for the next 60
outside businesses (including myself) and
use reverse logic – we think of the opposites
minutes. Sounds fun.
Christopher Johnson (general manager,
of what the problem owner wants to aim for.
Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital), who’s
It then gets more bizarre when we’re
The ‘Creativity Club’ is born. It’s a home-
our IoD ‘Creativity Club’ trained facilitator
challenged to think of the impossible.
grown concept which IoD Suffolk has
for the session.
nurtured with David Hall, its inventor, who as
We enter the ‘insane zone’ when ideas such
chief executive of HFL Sports Sciences has
Our aim for the next hour is to avoid the
as putting children in charge, running the
used the techniques to achieve some startling
blockages our minds are programmed for and
business from the Moon or jailing everyone
results in a culture-change programme for his
instead, tune into a new way of thinking.
spin out naturally from the group. Taking
own organisation.
We do five minutes of warm-up during which
three of these crazy concepts we play with
Christopher shows us how our minds are pre-
them, answering questions such as what do
The essence of the Creativity Club is to
set naturally to think ‘inside’ rather than
we need to run the business from the Moon
stimulate creativity and innovation by getting
‘outside’ the box. We’re also briefed about the
and why?
the right hand (creative) side of our brain to
‘Creativity Club Charter’ which, put simply, is
connect with the left hand (logical) side,
that everyone’s equal and anything goes.
g
IoD news It’s 9.07am and we’re flowing. From our
We conclude with two minutes of
impossible and insane thoughts there are
‘re-energising’ when only statements are
some kernels of ideas which we throw into
allowed in a two-way conversation and no
imaginary ‘buckets’ which Christopher has
questions. Sounds easy? Try it!
drawn on the flip chart alongside the words and phrases which defined our problem.
CREATIVITY CLUB FACTS Available only to Suffolk IoD members. Six IoD Suffolk committee members have each undergone 8 hours training with
Christopher Johnson, who’s one of six IoD Suffolk committee members trained by David
David Hall, the creator of ‘Creativity Club’. Each session has an IoD facilitator, a
Bizarrely we’re starting to use some of the
Hall to facilitate a ‘Creativity Club’ session,
impossible ideas to solve what we set out to
says: “We are jailed by our view of how things
do. Breaking the rules and injecting colour
can be done because our minds are
and fun into things (as children would), or
conditioned into set patterns. This is a fast
creating noise and energy (like a moon rocket)
and fun way of coming up with some fresh
The problem ‘owner’ will be able
aren’t such bad ideas after all.
thinking and new ideas to solve a problem.”
to approve the ‘volunteers’ in advance
problem ‘owner’, 2 - 4 of their colleagues and/or 2 - 4 ‘volunteers’ from other businesses (no more than 4 - 5 in total).
so there’s no conflict of interest Fifty minutes through and it’s time to land the
‘Creativity Club’ is available to IoD members
rocket and recap about whether our problem
only. If you have a problem you’d like to
owner has found their solution: “I have got a
address, or if you’d like to be part of a pool
new and clearer perspective and I know what
of ‘volunteers’ to take part in a session,
the next steps should be” and “we’ve achieved
please contact Caroline Kearney,
more in one hour than a typical half-day
IoD Suffolk Branch Administrator.
The facilitator has a portfolio of 14 Creativity
workshop would do”, were how our problem
Email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
Club ‘tools and techniques’ which can be
owner and colleagues summed it up. Job done!
or competition. Problem ‘owner’ hosts the session at own premises or books another venue at their own cost.
used, depending on the problem.
COST EFFECTIVE CREATIVE DESIGN WHATEVER YOUR SIZE OR TYPE OF BUSINESS In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to market your business, so excellent service and are crucial. Contact Paul Newman or visit our website to find out how we can help take your business forward.
ALANBRANNANDESIGN ▲
01359 240202 www.alanbrannandesign.co.uk
CORPORATE IDENTITY BROCHURES ADVERTISING MAGAZINES PACKAGING EXHIBITIONS SIGNAGE WEBSITES
IoD suffolk spring 2011
15
corporate news
how to remove the uncertainty and worry of managing staff
T
his year Quantrills is celebrating 10 years in practice as a specialist firm of employment law solicitors
and HR advisers. Being the managing partner has given me plenty of insight into the rewards but also the challenges of running a small successful business. I understand the demands placed on business owners and directors, like you, on your time and business skills. You’re expected to be your own expert in sales, marketing, finances and managing staff, plus you have to juggle conflicting priorities and make it all happen. If you have responsibility for the HR role for your business, it can cause you more
Simon Quantrill
uncertainty and worry than any other aspect of running your business. This is not surprising
means we will keep you out of trouble, and
Timely, pragmatic and best-practice advice and
when employment law demands on businesses
minimise the risk of you ending up at the
supporting letters and documents from
are so great, regardless of how many
employment tribunal.
experienced and qualified professional advisers
employees you have. And employment law has the unhelpful habit of always changing.
ensures you have the knowledge, confidence The 10 years running Quantrills and 10 years
and reassurance to deal fairly and successfully
helping clients like you, means there is very
with each employee problem. For me and my
Keeping up to date with the detail of new
little I or my team have not seen or handled!
team this is all in a day’s work.
employment law can be tricky even for me!
Using Quantrills will let you have more time
But when it is not your key activity, you can
to concentrate on making profits, safe in the
quickly get out of date.
knowledge your HR issues are being correctly handled.
It is easy to get caught out. You’re busy focusing on trying to grow your business and
Would you like to know more? Simply call us on 01473 688100, and we’ll send you full details of our fixed-cost services.
Solving HR problems with less expense
keeping your customers happy. But
Also, visit our web site www.quantrills.com
sometimes, even with all your hard work and
to view our hrlegal news library of articles and
the best of intentions, an employee-related
briefing notes which will help you prepare for
problem can crop up when you least expect it.
new changes in employment law, such as This affordable fixed-cost solution provides
the 6th April abolition of the default
If this happens, Quantrills can provide you
you with unlimited advice, guidance and
retirement age.
with the right level of advice and guidance
support for all day-to-day HR and
whatever the problem. And we make sure our
employment-law questions and problems.
advice reflects your unique business
We don’t have stock answers or scripted
circumstances and your business goals.
advice to stop you taking action.
At Quantrills we talk your language. You’ll
We understand you have a business to run,
Simon Quantrill
appreciate our jargon-free plain speaking
and in the real world you have to take action
Quantrills Solicitors
advice, and we do not shirk from telling you
and avoid unnecessary delay. You will like our
simon.quantrill@quantrills.com
what you may not want to hear – but it
speed of response.
01473 688100
olympic developments
clock ticking for the greatest show on earth
A
s the clock ticks down to the
service training locally with an email,
The venue will be built at the main eastern
start of the London 2012
telephone contact point and website:
entrance to the Olympic Park, next to the
www.onourmarks2012.co.uk; email
Aquatics Centre, in what will be one of the
onourmarks@suffolkchamber.co.uk
most compact areas of the 500-acre site.
telephone 01473 694818.
To make the best use of space, a number of
Olympic and Paralympic
Games, the Suffolk IoD magazine catches up with some of the latest
back-of-house facilities will be shared between
Games-related news.
Tickets
the two buildings.
Suffolk tourism businesses urged to get
Tickets for the Games go on sale shortly – on
After the Games, the venue will be taken
‘2012 Ready’
Tuesday, March 15 – and on Friday, September
down and elements reused elsewhere in the
9, for the Paralympics. A total of 8.8 million
UK, including incorporating materials available
Brigit Parker, marketing manager for Choose
tickets will be available for the Games, with
through the rental market to promote reuse
Suffolk, explained:
another two million for the Paralympics.
and reduce construction waste.
“When people buy tickets for the Games they
Applications for Olympics tickets close on April
The place to hear about Games-related
also start planning where they are going to
26. Oversubscribed sessions will be allocated
contract opportunities is
stay and the places they want to visit. We
by ballot. Applications can be made at any
www.competefor.com.
want people to think of Suffolk as a
point during the six-week period – it is not
convenient base from which to attend the
a first come, first served process. Starting gun has fired for jobs created
Games and enjoy a holiday. Details of the application process for “Suffolk’s hotels, tourist attractions, travel and
Paralympics tickets will be announced later
retail businesses need to start preparing right
this year, with news of the prices due in May.
now to promote themselves as offering a superior customer experience.”
by London 2012 Pre-registration for the official London 2012 Job Board has opened. Anyone hoping to join
Full details at
the army of people needed to make ‘the
www.tickets.london2012.com.
greatest show on earth’ the best yet can register at www.jobsforthegames.co.uk
Suffolk’s On Our Marks campaign aims to encourage local businesses to improve their
Suffolk company to help build Olympic
customer-service skills by training staff and
water polo arena
taking on trainees.
The London Organising Committee (LOCOG) is predicting that tens of thousands of jobs will
Ipswich-based Jackson Civil Engineering Group
be created by sponsors, suppliers and other
Dee Crowe, head of training and adult skills at
has been chosen to help build the Olympic
businesses staffing up around the Games.
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, says: “We want
water polo arena.
as many businesses as possible to sign up now
Run by Adecco, the official recruitment services
for customer-service apprenticeships and other
The 5,000-seat temporary arena will be one of
provider of the Olympic and Paralympic
courses with local colleges and trainers.
the last venues to go up at the Olympic Park.
Games, www.jobsforthegames.co.uk will
“Suffolk needs to be well-prepared to
Jackson will undertake the substructure works
from catering, cleaning, security and
welcome visitors – including the media – from
of the venue, which will be distinguishable by
administrative support to media, hospitality,
all over the world at Games-time and beyond.
its silver wrap and inflatable roof made from
tourism, sport, leisure and customer services.
We need to be recognised as ‘2012 Ready’ for
recyclable plastic.
Some professional and technical posts will
feature an array of jobs. Opportunities range
our customer-service skills, which will give us
be available.
an advantage over other counties.”
The arena, which will contain a 37m competition pool and a slightly smaller warm-
Roles created as a result of increased footfall
The campaign makes it easier for businesses
up pool, will stage the men’s and women’s
are expected to be as diverse as receptionists,
to find out about – and take up – customer-
water polo competition.
who may be employed by local businesses to
IoD suffolk spring 2011
help with the surge in visitor numbers, to security guards, who may be brought on board as businesses increase security at such a busy time. Kitchen staff, waiters and bar staff will also be needed as existing hotels and restaurants take on staff to deal with the demand and new establishments open.
QUICK FACTS A year-long exhibition documenting Suffolk’s Olympic and Paralympic heritage will open at Moyse’s Hall Museum, Bury St Edmunds, in July this year. Ipswich-based DanceEast has secured one of 13 major new London 2012 Cultural Olympiad commissions celebrating arts and culture by disabled and deaf artists. A new volunteer project has been established in Suffolk to capitalise on the enthusiasm created for volunteering by the Games, including the establishment of a volunteer events team. Ipswich Building Society, Adnams, Customer Service Direct, Prettys, Ufford Park Hotel and Mark Harrod Ltd have all adopted a Suffolk 2012 hopeful and are supporting them on their journey to the Games.
17
a word from the accountants
what should you do when times are troubled?
T
Brian Pring, regional partner
ake positive action is the answer,
“This enables us to give comprehensive services to
There is extensive parking for staff and visitors.
and Larking Gowen Chartered
all our clients,” says Brian Pring, regional partner.
Larking Gowen is very positive about the future in
“We can now provide assistance for businesses of
Suffolk and is certain that the private sector will
all sizes, from start-up to PLC status, and our link
take the lead in driving the economy into
Accountants has taken this to
heart with its recent move to new
with MacIntyre Hudson widens that scope to
recovery. Anyone wanting to explore this
regional offices in Suffolk and Essex.
national and potentially international coverage.
positivity further should contact Brian Pring
The firm has also joined up with five other
“As well as the mainstream accounting and
free consultation.
independent firms across the UK to become
tax services, we can assist with corporate
founder member of the MacIntyre Hudson
finance, business turnaround, specialist tax
Larking Gowen
Association (MHA) to help it continue with
and VAT advice. Other specialisms include
Unit 1, Claydon Business Park
its growth plans.
agriculture, the not-for-profit sector and
Great Blakenham IP6 0NL
professional firms, to name but a few.”
www.larking-gowen.co.uk
Larking Gowen’s Suffolk offices have
Ideally placed just off the A14, easy access for
combined in a new office on the outskirts
clients and staff, who number nearly 40, was an
of Ipswich.
important factor in the firm’s choice.
Larking Gowen is registered to carry out audit work by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. Authorised and regulated by the financial services authority.
or David King on 01473 833411 for a
The corporate and private client teams of
IoD suffolk spring 2011
19
enterprise
providing a spark to inspire young people to develop their confidence and entrepreneurial skills.
T
he question of whether young people have the right skills for business – and how we ensure
they acquire them – is a hot topic, especially given the recent changes in government policy for education.
Local companies are constantly seeking young people with the self-confidence and intellectual ability to work in a rapidlychanging business environment. Yet we are still losing our best talent to other parts of the country. This is clearly a major drawback for our community as a whole and the region’s future economic prosperity. Suffolk Young Chamber and Andrea Davies of
This could provide an ideal opportunity for all
The programme helps young people at a key
AED Leadership Dynamics Ltd have developed
business sectors to identify potential early on,
stage in their development to gain self-
‘The Y Factor’ programme, an exciting
to nurture it and help keep talented
confidence, self-awareness, a better
initiative being piloted with Year 9 and 10
individuals in Suffolk, for their own workforce
understanding of business, and to acquire
students in a number of schools. The aim is to
– saving on recruitment costs. At present,
foundation knowledge of highly-valued skills.
help youngsters connect with the world of
it is targeted at young entrepreneurs, with
It will allow budding entrepreneurs
work and explore their own abilities. It is
the aim of accrediting it and linking to
to progress to real career paths and
designed to enhance the core curriculum and
the Eastern Enterprise Hub’s Young
businesses and to understand the
support the students with vital GCSE studies
Entrepreneurs Diploma.
opportunities available locally.
The first pilot was at Copleston High School,
It will also enable companies to:
and beyond. Working individually, in pairs and in teams the
with 16 specially-selected students, all with
students take part in a series of fun,
a range of interests and abilities; the
raise awareness of their industry
interactive sessions to enhance their
programme culminates in a Dragons’ Den
promote specific skill requirements
capabilities by:
event when each student and team put their
and competencies
new skills into practice by presenting their
spot talent early on.
Discovering their own skills, ambitions
business ideas in a presentation pitch. The
and abilities
Dragons were so impressed that they awarded
It is an ideal opportunity to feed the talent
Exploring potential roles that would
funding to each team to take their ideas to
pool for Suffolk businesses that depend on
play to their strengths
the next level.
a skilled workforce.
Introducing and developing business and
The Dragons who generously gave up their
The programme and pilot will be showcased
planning skills
time were Celia Hudson, chief executive of the
at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Business
Eastern Enterprise Hub, Harry Berry, chairman
Breakfast at Copleston High School on March
of the Enterprise Hub, and Dr Steve Barnes,
28. Contact jo@suffolkchamber.co.uk for
Suffolk Business School
more information.
Encouraging effective team working
the big society
IoD suffolk spring 2011
21
your county needs you! We’re seeing radical changes to life as we know it, happening at national, regional and local level.
W
ith fresh-ish faces in
While the first phase includes libraries and
Downing Street, a raft of
children’s services, in the longer term much
new policies, budget cuts,
more is up for grabs. Part cost-cutting and
Andrea Hill freely admits – as does David
part Big Society, the plan is for money to be
Cameron – that the Big Society has not been
saved, a reduction in the size and complexity
clearly explained.
emergence of the Big Society ideal and more, the sands are shifting. Locally,
The new strategic direction
of the council, a more localised feel to services
we’re seeing the demise of familiar
and a growth in community capacity. This
So, the council’s “The New Strategic Direction
structures like EEDA and cuts of £110
echoes David Cameron’s words and ambitions.
Explained” says: “Suffolk County Council’s
million (28 per cent) over four years in
NSD is about people coming together to get
Suffolk County Council’s funding.
Suffolk through the crisis that will be generated by public-spending cuts. It is also about developing a different way of working
It’s clear that tough times are ahead – in our
that will see the role of the council change in
business and personal lives.
the long term.”
On our doorstep, the county council is widely
The publication continues: “Big Society
hailed as a ground-breaker.
(Smaller Government). Giving communities a bigger say and a greater part to play in
The Economist article (January 22, 2011)
Such cutbacks, she argues, are essential to
delivering services. It is less about the county
“Where Thatcher feared to tread” singled out
balance the books. At a presentation to
council determining what services people need
Suffolk for comment. It said: “Some cash-
business on January 24, 2011, she said that
and more about individuals and communities
strapped local authorities are being more
“Big Society” rather than “Big Government”
deciding what they need and having the
radical still: Suffolk, a Conservative fief in the
was the future (again echoing David Cameron)
resources to achieve it.”
east of England, is handing over a majority of
and that many facilities and services might
its services, from libraries to children’s
well be delivered by social entrepreneurs,
Writing in The Guardian last summer,
facilities, to the private sector.”
charities or commercial enterprises.
commentator, Jonathan Freeland said: "The
It says: “Across much of the public sector –
Two projects were cited as examples: The
Big Society idea is mockery. Even the Tories
from health and education to local authorities
Bridge Project in Sudbury was set up in 1995
can’t resist. The Prime Minister had barely
and prisoner rehabilitation – the provision of
as a local charity to assist disadvantaged
launched the project on Monday when Boris
public services is increasingly being farmed out
adults in the community. The Wilford Demand
Johnson seized the chance to take another
to private suppliers.”
Responsive Scheme provides “transport on
pop at his arch-rival. ‘We must tackle the
demand in a rural community” in the
scourge of obesity, or the Big Society,
County chief executive, Andrea Hill, might
Melton/Woodbridge/Orford area.
as it’s sometimes known,’ smirked the
argue with “farmed out”. She is keen to
In both, volunteers play a key role.
London Mayor.
most common reaction to David Cameron’s
emphasise the plans are to “divest” rather than “outsource”.
g
the big society
“That was polite compared to the senior
Liverpool City Council has written to the Prime
The Long Shop Museum in Leiston and Bealings
Conservative who, during the election
Minister, withdrawing its involvement from
Village Hall. There have been many more non-
campaign, said of the idea that could come
the Big Society.
profit making organisations to benefit from
to define Cameronism: ‘The Big Society is bollocks.’”
their pro bono work over the years. But closer to home, Conservative-led Tendring Council in Essex is taking its place in working
He said: “Professional businesses are no
But Jonathan Freedland believes there is the
with the Department of Communities and
different to others in finding difficult economic
germ of a good idea at its heart and Labour,
Local Government and will receive £500,000
times challenging, but still seem to find the
too, should be wary of dismissing an idea to
to give to community groups.
resources and energy to help organisations on
which it “has a decent claim of paternity”.
specific projects on a pro bono basis. What As central government cuts local authority
they won’t do is help with organisations who
He says: “To find it, it’s worth digging into
budgets, grants to voluntary organisations are
do have the ability to pay!”
Labour’s roots. There you will find the
also being hit hard. Dame Elisabeth Hoodless,
Co-operative movement, friendly and mutual
retiring from Community Service Volunteers
societies, as well as the trade unions, out of
after 36 years, has spoken out saying that a
which Labour was forged...
lack of funding would threaten even the
But he adds: “Similarly, they will not want to
voluntary sector. Her view is shared by Citizens
take on projects where holes have been left by
Advice Bureau chief executive, Gillian Guy.
government or the local authority unless
“What those Labour pioneers understood was that more was at stake than providing services
Fair enough.
proper funding is in place to get the project
efficiently; that there was an extra, human
But if divestment is on the cards, funding to
value in people coming together and working
the voluntary sector being reduced, money
for the common good. The sociologists speak
tight in all sectors, jobs under threat and hard
Active ProHelp member, Needham Market-
of the ‘social capital’ that accrues when
to come by, rising food and commodity
based IT company, CPW Computing, has won
people form such connections with each
prices, increasing VAT et al, is the Big
awards for its community efforts. In recent years
other...
Society workable?
it has provided IT equipment for Ormiston
off the ground.”
Family Centres and the Waterfront Project, “There is no reason for people on the left to
Will individuals step up to the plate?
be opposed to a society made up of
which provides support for young unemployed and ex-offenders. In the latter case, CPW
neighbours who don’t wait for the council to
In general terms charitable donations and
networked the IT, using it as a training exercise
clean up a needle-strewn park, but do it
volunteering are in decline. It may get worse.
for a young employee. Managing director,
themselves...”
As Jonathan Freeland says: “If you’ve got two
Christine Lock, shares Keven’s misgivings about
jobs to survive, how are you going to have the
how much more the business sector can give.
More than political expediency?
time to be a school governor?” She said: “Some will step up but many, I think,
But, is the Big Society no more than political
And if individuals are going to struggle to play
will be increasingly resentful over having to
expediency in times of dramatic cuts? Few
their part, can Suffolk’s business community,
help when they see it as maybe something
would argue against cutting waste, wherever
historically very generous, do its bit?
that should be provided by local government.
Suffolk businesses playing their part
“It’s almost an abdication of responsibility
it might occur, and at all levels of government. Similarly, greater social responsibility and participation is an attractive ideal.
as many of the services we’re asked and Keven Mulley retired from solicitors, Ashton
encouraged to think about supporting are the
But Labour-controlled councils are lining up to
Graham, after 35 years. He is now doing his
very things that we pay taxes to fund.”
make their feelings about cutbacks known.
bit in retirement administering the Suffolk branch of ProHelp, a thriving organisation of
And will it change the face of Suffolk?
Manchester City Council has announced
32 members which was set up 12 years ago.
“I think that it will undoubtedly, but hopefully
sweeping – the cynical might say deliberately
It rallies and organises local businesses into
not irrevocably.”
controversial – plans to cut its funding to
meeting the needs of the charity and non-
leisure facilities, swimming pools and even
profit making sector.
Another award-winning, Suffolk-based business,
The option of running these as community
In recent months, surveyors, architects,
to community and charity involvement. It has a
projects or social enterprises is, however, still
PR experts, lawyers, accountants and other
staff volunteer programme which enables
under consideration.
professionals have supported Fornham St
members of staff to take paid work time off to
Martin Village Hall, The Romany Theatre Group,
assist the community.
plans to close all but one of its public toilets!
Ipswich Building Society, is similarly committed
IoD suffolk spring 2011
23
Keven Mulley
Chief executive, Paul Winter, is also chairman
“Some people might call this the Big Society
of IoD Suffolk. Like Christine, he believes that
but we call it common sense – to develop new
business should play its part. He also believes
solutions with the people who will use them
that there are sound business benefits in
and to put in place sustainable business
doing so.
models,” she said.
“Big Society is a big ask for business, but there
“As social entrepreneurs we enjoy utilising an
are benefits for any business that takes its
enterprise model to create these social
corporate responsibility seriously,” he says.
outcomes. A social enterprise has all the same
“Allowing an employee regular time away
challenges as a mainstream business, plus
from the office to give their skills and expertise
more on top, because we are interested in far
to the board of a local charity, for example,
more than just the bottom line,” she added.
benefits both the community and the
“Financial sustainability is necessary for us to
employee, who gains in confidence and is
have the impact we want to have – but it isn't
motivated in their work.”
the end purpose.”
But how far should business go?
Is this the best of both worlds maybe?
Speaking specifically about Suffolk County
The new, changing face of Suffolk?
Council’s divestment plans, he says: CPW Computing managing director, Christine Lock
“The strategy presents new opportunities for
While there may be strong opposition and
the private sector, in particular for those
concerns voiced by many sections of the
smaller local companies who have previously
community, from trade unions to
been unsuccessful in tapping into public
educationists, library users to
sector contracts.
environmentalists, both local and national governments have been democratically elected
“But this is a whole new approach, so
to carry out the will of the people.
innovation and creativity in how you can work
Belinda Bell
in partnership with the voluntary and
Admittedly at the general election only
community sectors will be important.”
10,706,647 actually chose Conservative, with 6,827,938 voting Lib Dem. Of the entire voting
Creating opportunities for some
population just over 65 per cent (29,653,638) voted at all. But our democratic system is as
One businesswoman who has successfully
it is.
seized the opportunities is social entrepreneur
Paul Winter, chief executive Ipswich Building Society, and chairman of IoD Suffolk
Belinda Bell. She runs Suffolk Circle, a
Change is under way as a result. Lives will be
membership organisation in Bury St Edmunds
transformed and there will be winners and
for people over 50 years of age. It is an
losers. But is this a change too far? Four or
enterprise that has been co-designed by local
five years down the road, will it be “all
residents.
change” again?
She said: “The Circle provides practical help
As for now, we have David Cameron – and
with life's everyday tasks through a network of
indeed Andrea Hill – continuing to try to sell
helpers of all ages, and links members together
the Big Society idea to a sceptical public.
to get out and about and learn new things. He said recently: “It is a good thing to try and “Our income is generated through
build a stronger society, whatever is
membership fees and also charged-for events
happening to public spending”.
and services. We have an initial contract with
Ipswich Building Society staff at Foxburrow
Suffolk County Council. However over three
And a better, stronger, more cohesive society
years the Circle will grow to be entirely
is hard to argue against. But will that be the
financially sustainable.
actual outcome? Only time will tell.
PERSONAL We invest time in understanding your objectives and provide a personal approach to build an unbeatable working relationship.
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Unit 5 Deben Mill, Old Maltings Approach, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1BL
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IoD suffolk spring 2011
25
corporate news
intellectual rights and wrongs Andrew Fleming
by Andrew Fleming, Partner, Blocks Solicitors
A
s our economy becomes ever
purchase by a limited company which includes
Any buyer of IPRs should seek an assignment
more dependent on knowledge-
IPRs, their security instruments need to be
of those rights with full title guarantee and,
based industries, intellectual
recorded both at the relevant IPR register and at
ideally, an agreed form of the transfer
Companies House.
document attached to the sale agreement.
property rights may constitute an important asset of a business and
It should also insist on confirmation that the Unregistered IPRs, including copyright, moral
seller has sole ownership of all rights in the
should be fully considered in any
rights , know-how and confidential information,
intellectual property and that the seller will do
business sale and purchase.
are not capable of registration but, like
all it reasonably can, at its own cost, to give
registered IPRs, should be transferred in writing
the buyer the title it purports to give. The sale
Intellectual property rights (‘IPRs’),confer on
along with other business assets in the asset
document should also include an assignment
their owners a raft of rights which prevents
purchase agreement.
of the right to sue for infringements by third
others doing certain things without the
parties and the right to retain monies owing
owner's consent, usually given by way
Appropriate due diligence is needed to find out
of licensing.
what IPRs a seller actually owns and how
in respect of such infringements.
transferable these really are. The retention of key
Generally, it is vital to remember that these
Some IPRs are registerable and their value is
employees of the seller, who have a working
most intangible of business assets will not
at risk unless ownership is duly lodged at the
knowledge of a product or process may be more
transfer across to a new owner automatically.
appropriate registry. These include patents,
important than the registered IPR itself. Where the
Their existence, ownership and value need to
registered trademarks and registered designs.
seller is retaining some intellectual property rights,
be identified, evaluated and assigned with
On a sale of business assets, the transfer of
it may be necessary to have a licence back of some
appropriate care and precision.
such IPRs needs to be promptly registered,
of those rights on completion. Where third
since any subsequent buyer of those rights,
parties, such as directors of the selling company,
For more detailed information or for advice.
acting in good faith and without knowledge
may have an interest in any of the IPRs, they
tel: 01473 230033
of the earlier sale, will buy free of it. Where
should be required to join in the sale agreement in
email: arf@blockslegal.co.uk
banks are assisting with funding for an assets
order to transfer or waive that interest.
www.blockslegal.co.uk
ADVERTISE WITH US IoD Suffolk Magazine is the premier business to business magazine in the Suffolk and North Essex region, published quarterly as a high quality A4 format publication. The magazine is mailed directly to key business leaders and has a high profile presence in businesses across the region. To view a digital version of this magazine visit: www.tilstonphillips.com
To advertise please call 01473 268155 or email jonathan@tilstonphillips.com
sponsor profile
realise your company’s true potential eema Risk Management (LRM) seek to make your business more secure and realise your company’s true potential.
L
Our Suffolk team Lee Weavers
Alan Pawsey
managing director Until recently Alan was
Enterprise risk management, business
Lee has extensive
the risk manage for
resilience and business continuity are
experience at executive
Suffolk County Council.
increasingly applicable to all businesses
and management level
In this enterprise risk
whatever their turnover either as corporations
and been responsible for delivery of business
management (ERM) role he worked across
or small to medium enterprises.
resilience and continuity programmes and
the organisation and responding to strategic,
change-management projects to business
operational and emerging risks. We are
Often risk management can be the difference
clients in the UK and Internationally. He has
delighted to now have him working with us
between those companies that fail or are
successfully led a raft of projects around the
as part of the local team, bringing as he does
merely able to ride out a significant business
world and has particular expertise in
extensive risk and continuity management
disruption or indeed the current economic
business resilience risk management, security
experience in the Suffolk area. In addition,
climate and those that are truly robust and
and safety. Recent programmes have
Alan has a strong training background which
will reap the benefits of many new
involved worldwide corporate
is invaluable in the delivery of workshops
opportunities that are arising.
implementations and the attainment of five
and exercises designed to enhance people’s
British Standards including BS2599 for
confidence in dealing with significant
a Middle Eastern client in the UK.
business interruptions.
LRM are independent client side advisers and implementers in:
John Coyle
Miriam Burrell
Business recovery
John is a highly
Miriam is our business
Enterprise risk management
experienced and skilled
manager and a highly-
Security risk management
consultant. He has
experienced trainer in
Learning and development
trained as an assessor
business resilience and
Business resilience Business continuity management
in the EFQM business excellence model and
risk management. She is also a qualified
Our services are provided to clients
completed courses of study with the Institute
coach with the Institute of Leadership and
through three core overlapping services:
of Risk Management. John covers Essex and
Management (ILM) and an accredited
Advisory and technical consultancy
Suffolk and has been involved with a range
practitioner in neuro-linguistic
Capacity building through implementation
of clients providing risk management and
programming (NLP) providing work and life
Learning, development and training
business continuity services. This has involved
mentoring and coaching to our clients
creating incident response and crisis
adding another set of key learning and
management plans, together with wider-
development skills to the Leema team.
Encompassing: Risk profiling and risk assessment
reaching business continuity plans for major,
Strategic business planning
multi-tenanted sites in London, Europe and
Programme and project management
US and Asia.
Leadership, management, coaching and team building Training, workshops and exercises
Our core values of integrity, reliability and quality underpin
Information security to BS 27001
everything we write, say, teach and do.
Data centre and workplace recovery Testing ICT systems and software to establish recovery times
Leema Risk Management Ltd Halyards Business Centre, 1 Wherry Lane Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1LG 01473 254666 www.leemarisk.com
IoD suffolk spring 2011
27
enterprise
Ipswich: the hub of enterprise and entrepreneurs
A
lthough many people see the
The programme is built around supporting,
present economic climate as
setting up and running a micro business for at
doing little to inspire
least four months.
entrepreneurial spirit, for a large number the opposite is true.
The academy, based in Ipswich, will be taking on this vision, offering a one-year, full-time course for 16 to 24-year-olds that allows
Indeed, the Eastern Enterprise Hub has
students to take a business idea from
committed itself to boosting the number of
conception, through stages of development to
entrepreneurs and start-up businesses in the
a final, concluding point.
East of England this year. The level-3 BTEC in Enterprise and Offering training and support, the Hub aims
Entrepreneurship begins in September and is
to provide a central focus for enterprise in the
delivered with partners Suffolk New College,
east. It hopes to promote the region’s
Suffolk One and South Essex College.
strengths in areas such start-up businesses and social enterprise while broadening the
The School for Social Entrepreneurs is a
Several businesses are showing their
east’s economic base.
nationally-run initiative that aims to provide
commitment to the 5th Floor –including
people of all ages with training and
Prettys, Adnams, Archant and 2Cs
Celia Hodson, director of the Hub, explained:
opportunities to use their entrepreneurial and
Communications – and are supporting
“We want to establish the right environment
creative skills for social benefit.
students in different ways.
entrepreneurship and develop skills, with high
This will help entrepreneurs create
Finally, the Wider Enterprise Support strand
impact across the East of England, for the
“community-engaged, community-shaped”
hopes to ensure there will be a co-ordinated
benefit of the region’s economy.”
organisations. The programme is practical
approach across the region for enterprise
rather than academic and requires no
support. It will develop relationships with
One of the Hub’s main goals is to overcome
minimum qualifications. The School for Social
different regions, guaranteeing
to foster enterprise responsibility, drive
youth unemployment while encouraging
Entrepreneurs – Suffolk is a franchise of the
a comprehensive support package
business start-ups and growth. The Hub will
national school and has 20 students who
for entrepreneurs.
deliver four strands: the National Enterprise
started in January. Their time consists of
Academy, the School for Social Entrepreneurs
undertaking various activities, learning from
Celia Hodson said: “We are a dynamic
– Suffolk (SSE), the 5th Floor Business Club
other social entrepreneurs, visiting projects
enterprise hub in the heart of Suffolk,
and Wider Enterprise Support.
and resolving issues.
bringing together business leaders and
The National Enterprise Academy is the
The 5th Floor Business Club is focused on
brainchild of Peter Jones, from the Dragons’
enterprise responsibility and is a platform for
budding entrepreneurs to offer a unique learning style.”
Den TV programme. This course aims to
local leaders to get involved with
If you would like to get involved in the Hub
deliver educational programmes that will
entrepreneurs at the Hub. Celia Hodson
please contact info@eehub.co.uk
equip the younger generation with skills such
describes enterprise responsibility as “ensuring
as how to develop an entrepreneurial mindset,
that your actions have a positive impact on
creating a business plan, brand development
the entrepreneurs of tomorrow and the long-
and creativity.
term future of the region’s economy”.
motoring
Audi’s latest heart-stopping executive coupe…
T
here’s no stopping Audi. In
With the introduction of the A7 Sportback,
Google Earth mapping and in-car wi-fi – the
addition to all the A1s, A3s, A4s,
Audi creeps ever closer to occupying every
A7 Sportback does showcase Audi’s new
conceivable market niche but, more important
head-up display system for the first time.
A5s, the forthcoming new A6
and the A8s, not to mention the S, Q,
for the discerning consumer, the A7 Sportback is, in Audi’s words, “an unashamedly luxurious
Paul Newman, owner of Alan Brannan Design,
TT, R and RS models, there’s now a
yet also distinctly driver-oriented five-door
was on hand to test-drive this impressive
blistering A7 on sale, or more
performance coupe”.
vehicle and was immediately won over by its
specifically, the A7 Sportback.
sleek lines and responsive handling. Now it could be argued that the existing A5 Sportback already fulfils that role very capably,
He drove an SE 3.0 TDI 204 PS Multitronic in
but with a longer wheelbase and an extra
a commanding midnight blue livery. The car
length, the A7 Sportback affords passengers
manages 0-62mph in a brisk 7.2 seconds and
valuable additional interior space. The A7
is equipped with fuel-saving stop/start
Sportback is also built on the chassis that
technology and the super-smooth, quick-
underpins the all-new A6, due later this year,
changing seven-speed gearbox (with an
while its aluminium and steel body is about
almost superfluous manual mode), and can
15 per cent lighter than an all-steel equivalent.
effortlessly dispatch motorway miles at
Much of the technology on show has trickled
seriously high speeds.
down from the A8 – for example, its retractable multi-media interface monitor,
As Paul commented: “The A7’s ride, steering,
touchpad control, internet capability with
grip, agility and general handling is very hard
Photographed at Ravenwood Hall Hotel
to fault, and the build quality isn’t just hard to
What is new is Audi’s forward-thinking
The A7 Sportback range starts at £43,755
fault, it’s effectively impossible! All the interior
approach to online services, with the top
(3.0 TDI SE) and rises to £49,860
leathers, plastics, metals and woods are to an
phone prep option installed (£400) the A7 can
(3.0 TFSI S line Quattro), excluding the
impeccable standard, as are the paint, chrome
provide Google news and weather. Drivers can
options detailed above.
and alloy finishes of the exterior. The A7 is
also plan detailed routes in advance on a
impressively quiet and refined, and if you’ll
computer elsewhere, upload them to an Audi
If you’re in the market for a sleek and
pardon the tired clichés, it really does feel
server and then download from there to the
luxurious but practical car, then the highly
‘hewn from solid metal’ and ‘state of the art’.”
car’s sat-nav system. This internet connection
desirable A7 Sportback is a tempting
also loads 3D images from Google Earth
proposition. In fact … make that
During the drive I was sitting next to Paul and
which appear in a bird’s-eye view on the
very tempting.
in terms of interior passenger space, the A7
screen, with the car’s navigation data and
offers almost the room of the standard
software filling in the roads.
Ipswich Audi
words, there are acres of space in the front
One feature that caught Paul’s attention is the
Ipswich IP2 8SG
with generous legroom and in the back.
A7’s in-car hotspot that can simultaneously
01473 556300
2 Bath Street
wheelbase, top-of-the-range A8, or in other
It almost goes without saying that the
connect as many as eight wi-fi enabled
SE spec A7 comes extremely well-equipped
laptops, tablets, smartphones etc to the web.
with safety features like light and rain
We easily hooked Paul’s iphone to the car’s
sensors, ESP, front and side airbags with
wireless network and it worked like a dream
curtain airbags, Xenon and LED lights
as if we were accessing the internet from
and tyre pressure monitoring.
a static location.
corporate events
cutting-edge communication improves business results LOGISTICS LOGIC A recent example of using digital signage in a manufacturing environment occurred when Ransomes Jacobson, precision craftsmen in the worldwide turf maintenance industry, wanted to improve their internal communication of key business intelligence. They had a strong database system but the information it contained was not easily shared in a useful way. AV Unit installed a system which interrogates the Ransomes Jacobsen database to pull out key information (KPIs) and then display this on a series of screens. Each of the four teams within
I
n a world where news travels fast,
leisure or travel and tourism, to name but a
the parts department now sees the
you want your message to travel
few, there will be a use for digital signage.
information that is pertinent to them, and it continues to update, so real-time
even faster, and with digital signage
your message can keep up with the pace of hectic modern business life.
The more familiar ones we see all around us
information is achieved. It has been
are screens to help passengers find their way
proven that people are more likely to
around when travelling, promotional
achieve their targets if they are visible
information in trains, buses and planes to
to them.
Digital signage provides the ultimate flexibility
inform customers and screens giving local
in keeping your message up-to-date, with
information and details of latest offers in
Dominic O’Brien, warehouse and
real-time monitoring and updating. And what
shopping malls.
inventory manager at Ransomes Jacobsen Ipswich, explains: “Instead of
is more, because digital signs can be put in any place, you can get your message across
But there is no limit to where up-to-date
information being held locally by an
while your customer is simply walking about.
information may be required – in the
individual, it is automatically tailored and
emergency operations room of a power
displayed to the relevant teams. Thanks
On average, digital signage solutions deliver
supply company, at a charity silent auction, in
to AV Unit, the information is now
an 18 per cent increase in sales, not counting
a call centre or in the canteen of a hospital for
literally available at a glance and, what’s
the many intangible benefits of a better
off-duty staff.
more, it is always current and correct as
customer experience, better service and brand
it is digitally linked to our systems. This
awareness. The applications are endless and
improved transparency of information on
so are the opportunities.
orders, stock controls, sales and more has led to better business results for us.”
Digital signage technology can drastically change and improve the way your
Adam Clark, managing director at AV
organisation interacts and communicates to
Unit, comments: “This project is a good
all while reducing your costs and increasing
example of the benefits of taking key
your revenue at the same time.
business information, sharing it in an appropriate way, and seeing business
Whether your market is hospitality, healthcare, retail, banking and finance, gaming and
performance improve.”
www.avunit.com SOUND ADVICE WITH VISION
AUDIO VISUAL BEYOND EXPECTATION At AV Unit we provide an innovative approach to your audio visual requirements. Our experienced team of experts deliver accountable results every time. Our services include:
‚ 0 (. *,) / .#)( ‚ # *,) / .#)( ‚ ĂŒ - & -} #(-. && .#)( ƒ "#, Call 0845 678 0390 Email enquiry@avunit.com
Stimulate your senses
Dine in our boutique restaurant where Simon Barker and his team prepare modern British food sourced locally.
Wherever you sit you can enjoy the hotel’s collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures and interesting nic-nacs. In summer, dine alfresco and watch the harbour from our courtyard. Book a table now and enjoy. Reserve by telephone 01473 226789.
DELIVERING INNOVATIVE AV SOLUTIONS
salthouseharbourhotel
www.salthouseharbour.co.uk
***
%' + # (
%# ' !$%#) ! "' & ! " ! "' '% ' ) #$! "' ' ! " ! "' The fundamental principles of growth management apply to every kind of enterprise. Ambitious businesses and organisations wanting to grow, improve and become more profitable need to consider: how are we going to generate cash and accumulate funds? how will we manage the risks of driving the business? do we have a clear strategy for the creation of value (and eventual succession and exit)? is our team strong enough for today and will it be tomorrow? how will we monitor and manage our increasing wealth?
%
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$ #% (%' % " #%! ' #" #" ' % + %#*' %# % !! #"' ' ' $ " ( '+ #" #% ! &' $ " ( '+ %' + # ( Baker Tilly , Abbotsgate House , Hollow Road Bury St Edmunds , Suffolk , IP32 7FA
$ + ' & $ + * ! ( %"$+ $( % $ + "$#"$ & ! ! $ + %&$' &'$ ! ! "( $+ ! $ + * ! "'!& ! & $ !"& '& "$ % '! $ & !! $( % ! $ &% & '& ) $ ! $& ! $ ' %& ! % &" " $ & $ ! " !( %& !& % $( % '% ) $ $% " & !%& &'& " $& $ "'!& !&% ! ! ! ! % ! #$"( & % !( %& !& % $( % & + $ ! ! !& # $& " & #$" %% "! % $( % ) ( ! ! &" #$"( $ + " & % '& "$ % ! $ ' & +& !! $( % '& "$ &+ &" "! ' & $ ! " !( %& !& '% ! %% & ( & %
IoD events
“raising interest rates won’t help the economy” says IoD chief economist at Suffolk breakfast event
Professor Graeme Leach, The Institute of Directors chief economist and director of policy, who spoke at the Suffolk IoD Economic Breakfast
M
ore than 50 Suffolk business
“Wages are not spiralling up and unit labour
leaders attended a sell-out
costs pressures are flat. Another key reason is
‘Economic Breakfast’ event,
organised by Suffolk branch of the Institute of Directors.
that broad money supply growth is negative.” Professor Leach said that household income is likely to decline in real terms this year but a double-dip recession was unlikely. He said:
Guest speaker was the IoD’s chief economist
“We’re seeing a slower, weaker recovery but
and director of policy, Professor Graeme Leach
that is to be expected after the financial crisis
and after breakfast guests sat on the edge of
– we’ve come through the economic and
their seats to hear his take on how Britain’s
financial turmoil of the past few years
economy will develop this year. The fiscal
relatively unscathed.”
squeeze (and the chances of a double-dip recession) as well as a possible rise in interest
Looking towards the Chancellor’s next
The event was sponsored by Leema Risk
rates (on everyone’s minds) were the main
budget he urged Government to protect
Management, Ensors Chartered Accountants,
focus of the talk.
infrastructure spending while being more
Jackaman Smith & Mulley Solicitors and new
aggressive on spending reduction in other
sponsor ‘Fresh Ways to Work’, the EU-funded
Professor Leach said: “It’s a knife-edge
areas. He called for the 50 per cent tax rate
sustainable transport campaign in Suffolk.
decision and there’s huge pressure on the
on Britain’s highest earners to be abolished
Bank of England, but I believe there’s a strong
because it was having a detrimental impact
For further information about Suffolk IoD
argument for not raising interest rates. If we
on perceptions of the UK among foreign
membership please contact branch
exclude the effects of indirect taxes then
investors, as well as increasing the numbers
administrator Caroline Kearney
inflation is 2.4% rather than 4 per cent.
of business leaders moving out of
on 07917 699498 or email
the country.
caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
milsoms meetings! kesgrave hall
- 3 fully equipped private meeting rooms - team building space and breakout areas - bar-brasserie restaurant and/or private dining - 23 bedrooms with exceptional 24 hour delegate rates
book your meeting, training or conference today! 01473 333741 | hall road, kesgrave, ipswich, suffolk, IP5 2PU
Seckford Hall Hotel & Restaurant
visit www.milsomhotels.com/meetings for full specification
U F F O R D PA R K H E A LT H & S PA W H E R E I T I S A L L A B O U T YO U
I I I I I I I I
Magnificent 16th Century Manor House Hotel Excellent location – 4 miles west of Ipswich Award winning restaurant – AA 4 Red Stars Harry’s Menu for casual dining, available all day Stunning conference rooms (exclusive use available) Licensed for Civil Ceremony – Beautiful gardens Helipad – Health Club – Associated Golf Course Complimentary broadband WiFi internet access throughout
Lu xur y The rma l S ui te w it h Hy dr o Po ol, Mi ne ral G r o t t o , F o o t S p a s, A r o m a S t e a m R o o m , S o f t S a u n a , Fe a t u re S h o w e r s & I c e Fo u n t a i n . Sp a exp er ie nce s f ro m £ 20p p. R e s i d e n t i a l s p a b re a k s f ro m £ 8 5 p p . Op e n t o n o n m e m b e r s , 7 d a y s a w e e k .
Call
08 44 477183 2 to book
or visit w ww.uf f ord pa rk.co .uk/ sp a Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW.
U
UFFORD PARK HEALTH & SPA
charities
24-hour drive raises £2,000
S
uffolk digital marketing agency Itineris raised £2,210 for a children’s charity by competing in
a 24-hour karting fundraising challenge. The Copdock-based agency, which specialises in website design, development and email marketing, raised the money through personal donations for Camille’s Appeal, a charity that helps young children fight the long-term effects of treatment for brain tumours. Matt Horsup, head of sales and marketing, led a
daughter Camille, who has a brain tumour.
As part of their treatment, the youngsters are
team of 10 from Itineris who drove a go-kart for
The race was pretty gruelling as we had to
likely to undergo chemotherapy, surgery and
24-hours at Anglia Indoor Kart Racing in Ipswich.
keep driving continuously in shifts but was for
radiotherapy and this can leave them with
an extremely worthwhile cause.”
disabilities, making an independent life
He said: “This cause is extremely close to my
difficult. Camille’s Appeal aims to help with
heart as I personally know the parents who
More information about Camille’s Appeal can
the rehabilitation of such children.
originally founded their charity, and their
be found at www.camillesappeal.co.uk.
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IoD suffolk spring 2011
35
leisure
build relationships to build your business
A
lthough it is a tough time for businesses right now, we are all looking at how to maintain or increase our share of the market.
Stuart Robertson
While telephoning and sending email is great
horseracing, shooting or for a round of golf.
for certain parts of your business, it can be
Four hours on a golf course, walking and
very cost-effective to spend time, in person,
talking with your clients without the
with some of your major suppliers.
interference of a telephone, can be very beneficial to both parties.
Customers will still buy from people they like, The more successful companies will have
even if their product is not the cheapest. It is
You may also find out a lot about their core
already trimmed some of their expenses and
the relationship between seller and purchaser
beliefs when you see how they approach and
looked at ways to reduce overheads and will
that is so important.
overcome certain obstacles on the golf course.
now be looking to develop further the
Although it has often been said that there is
relationships they have with suppliers
What is your company doing
no place for friends in business, now would
and customers.
to enhance that?
be a great time to renew or build new
It is harder to refuse someone if they are
relationships to take your business further.
Now, more than at any time, it is vital that
standing right in front of you. Invite your
your business finds ways to enhance the
customers or suppliers out for a day to
Stuart Robertson
working relationships it has with all staff and
something that would interest them. This
Head PGA Golf Professional
clients. How is your business doing that?
might be to a motor sports event,
01394 383480 mail@doctorgolf.co.uk
the New Wolsey Theatre presents Guys and Dolls – a musical fable of Broadway Premièred in New York in 1950, Guys and Dolls is a landmark in musical theatre. It broke new ground in its portrayal of Broadway's underworld – a world of gamblers, petty criminals, hoods and hustlers who haunted the bars, card games and pool halls around Times Square. Considered by many to be the greatest of all Broadway musicals, the story begins when Sky Masterson hits town and falls for a bet with Nathan Detroit, a small time gambler, that he can take any girl he wants to Havana. When Nathan names Sarah Brown, a beautiful leader of the salvationists at the Save-a-Soul Mission, as the girl he must win, the sparks begin to fly… Tickets can be booked online at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk or by calling the New Wolsey Box Office on 01473 295900. This is one production you don’t want to miss!!
A meeting of business and pleasure...
Day Delegates
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in beautiful Constable Country
• Only 10 minutes from Colchester, 15 minutes from Ipswich and 8 minutes from Sudbury • 45 minutes from both M25 and Stansted Airport • Air-conditioned conference centre – 9 suites for 4 to 450 guests • All function rooms have natural daylight and private terraces • 1000 sq ft exhibition area • Free WIFI throughout and ample free parking • Tailor-made events including team building and product launches • 80 spacious, contemporary-style bedrooms • 2 championship 18 hole courses - corporate golf days • State-of-the-art Spa and Fitness centre • Winner of 2010 Suffolk Business Tourism Award
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To book please call 01206 265818/827 or email: sales@stokebynayland.com Keepers Lane • Leavenheath • Colchester • CO6 4PZ
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FA C TO R S
BESPOKE KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, BEDROOMS, HOME OFFICES, HOME CINEMAS & MORE
www.angliafactors.co.uk visit us online
01473 610 192
34 Gloster Road Martlesham Heath Ipswich IP5 3RD
ask for advice
1
0
14:19
IoD suffolk spring 2011
37
commercial property
Penn Commercial looks forward with new initiatives
P
enn Commercial enjoyed high-
In the Ipswich area Penn Commercial
profile success in its third year of
continues to punch above its weight, acting
trading, winning the prestigious
for two of the most interesting projects in the
Archant Commercial Property Team of
town in years. The Archant site in Lower Brook
the Year 2010. In January of this year it
Street is to be redeveloped to retain a home
added to that the accolade of Estate
for the long-established publishing business,
Gazette's seventh most active agent in the East of England.
but at the same time “The Link” site will be promoted as a mixed use scheme suitable for hotel, retail, leisure and offices. Wrenbridge is the joint venture partner.
The latter, in particular, came down to numbers. Penn Commercial achieved a very
Elsewhere, the landmark Electric House, sold
creditable 65 transactions in the year. Those
by Penn Commercial in just weeks, has just
ranking higher were – almost entirely –
received the go-ahead for a stunning facelift,
competitors with multiple offices or with
with plans for rooftop restaurant, offices,
national coverage.
retail and leisure use.
There’s no standing still for managing director,
The newest face – Mike Simpson FRICS –
Vanessa Penn. For 2011, growth is her
further strengthens the team. Mike joined
watchword. Having consolidated a position in
earlier this year following 30 years with
Ipswich and East Suffolk, Penn Commercial is
Framlingham- based chartered surveyors,
expanding on several fronts, making new
Clarke and Simpson.
Vanessa Penn
connections, adding new faces and widening its geographical spread.
Mike, a fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, brings a wealth of
Penn Commercial’s reputation for pro-active
practical experience and will complement
service has built flourishing relationships with
the services of existing consultant Paul
national agents and receivers who value local
Iacobucci MRICS in providing marketing
knowledge and expertise, and local/regional
advice and Energy Performance
lawyers who require a results-led service for
Certificate assessments.
Triton House, Bury St Edmunds
their clients. Penn Commercial is also teaming up with London contacts have introduced instructions in
Green EU Energy specialists in solar panel
Felixstowe, and in Enfield for a 60,000 sq ft
heating, eco-cooling and infra red systems
warehouse site, and others have brought
to encourage landlords to lower energy costs
instructions for Triton House in Bury St Edmunds
and meet carbon credit levels in accordance
and the 8.2 acre Stanton Europark in Harwich.
with the new feed-in tariff scheme. Electric House, Ipswich
More recently, Penn Commercial has been instructed to acquire a site for a 25,000 sq ft office in the Ipswich area for a major international client, a rarity in the current market.
www.penncommercial.co.uk
01473 211933
for a personal and proactive service
commercial agency • property management • lease renewal • rent review • valuation • epc assessment
business books
business books The Personal MBA:
PowerPoint presentations and outdated
Social Media Playbook
A World-class
financial models, rather than learning what it
for Business: Reaching
Business Education
takes to run a real business. "The Personal
Your Online Community
in a Single Volume
MBA" distils the most valuable lessons of the
with Twitter, Facebook,
By Josh Kaufman.
finest business schools and the best business
Linkedin, and More
Published February
books of all time into simple, memorable
By Tom Funk.
2011, Viking, £12.99
ideas and tools. It covers concepts such as The
February 2011, Praeger
Iron Law of the Market, The 12 Forms of
Publishers, £31.95
Are you searching for your next challenge?
Value, The Pricing Uncertainty Principle, and
Are you tempted to go to business school?
The 4 Methods to Increase Revenue. This book
Social media can be an incredibly powerful
Before you do, save your money and read "The
is all you need to learn the fundamentals of
marketing tool that brings a company or
Personal MBA". Getting an MBA takes two
business quickly, and discover exactly how to
organization huge rewards. But for beginners
years of your life. And most of it is spent on
apply them to transform your career.
in this new world, the potential risks are also high. Consumers are particularly passionate in
Aerotropolis: The Way
giant airport, planned city, shipping facility and
We'll Live Next
business hub, the aerotropolis will be at the
networkers are poised to be your brand's
By John D. Kasarda,
heart of the next phase of globalization.
gushing fans - or your most scathing critics.
Greg Lindsay.
Drawing on a decade's worth of cutting-edge
Both multimillion-dollar profits and self-inflicted
Published March 2011,
research, John Kasarda and Greg Lindsay offer a
PR fiascos are possible via social media. This
Allen Lane, £14.99
visionary look at how the metropolis of the
guidebook begins by defining 'social media,'
future will bring us together - and how, in our
'social networking,' and other terms that may
globalized, 'flat' world, connecting people and
be ambiguous, then details what recent market
the online world; the most active social
goods is still as important as digital
research reveals about the scope and growth
From Dubai to Amsterdam, Memphis to South
communication. Airport cities will change the
rate of the social media landscape. Real-world
Korea, a new phenomenon is reshaping the way
face of our physical world and the nature of
examples of both large and small organizations
we live and transforming the way we do
global enterprise. "Aerotropolis" shows us how to
who have successfully implemented social
business: the aerotropolis. A combination of
make the most of this unparalleled opportunity.
media strategies are showcased, and the hype
Get a Dog, Don't Work
makes us happy. This book is about making
social networks are examined. The author
Like One: Think
people more successful and happy, by getting
outlines a comprehensive strategy for success
Differently About Your
them to think differently. Packed with real-life
with social media, including practical
Work-Life Balance
experiences, case studies, anecdotes and
information on watching metrics, establishing
By Jim Banting
stories, James Banting provides 101 advice and
beachheads, determining your driver, building a
Marshall.
tips to redesign parts of your life in order to get
checklist of driver 'amplifications,' and
Published January 2010,
a life. This includes using technology to get
combating the 'what now?' factor. Tom Funk is
Cavendish, £12.95
ahead of the curve, learning from failure,
vice president of marketing for Timberline
delegating, how to say No , evaluating people
Interactive, a web development and online
For many people today, the notion of success is
differently, and ultimately, how to become self-
marketing consultancy, and former web
now set against a range of other wants and
sufficient.For those who find climbing the
manager of Vermont Teddy Bear Company.
desires which are not necessarily to do with
career ladder is not the one and only goal in
Funk has been involved in e-commerce and
having a large bank account or sports car.
their life, this book will be an inspiration to an
web publishing since 1995. He is a frequent
Instead, work needs to form part of what
alternative, balanced life.
speaker in the United States and abroad.
and failed promise of famous flash-in-the-pan
Please join us at our
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING
Saturday 12th March 2011 and Saturday 14th May 2011 9.30am - 12.30am
A co-educational Independent Day School for 2-18 year olds with boarding facilities. Scholarships and bursaries up to 100 per cent of fees available. A Christian School in the Lasallian Tradition. Belstead Road, Ipswich, England, IP2 9DR Tel: 01473 6980281 registrar@stjos.co.uk www.stjos.co.uk
IoD suffolk spring 2011
39
business start up
last word... So, why take the route of being a student with
Another part of being at the school is sharing
the SSES, using one precious day a week for a
all of these practical challenges with the other
year to be ‘at school’, rather than setting off
students, who have an amazing range of
independently as with any other new company
backgrounds and experiences between them.
start-up? For me, with a background of
Action Learning Sets are in place to help us
developing computer systems for commercial
work through the issues which are part of
profit, the main answer is about the key
social entrepreneurship.
difference of being a social entrepreneur and a traditional entrepreneur; setting up a project
So, four weeks in, and I’m thriving on being
with social aims, and the recognition that I’ll
part of the energy and creativity at the SSES,
need to develop a further set of skills and
and on driving forward a business in which I
knowledge to make this really work.
believe so passionately. I’m enjoying the blend of practical advice from the school, support
How does the SSES support this? Well, it
from the other students, and then ‘getting
organises Witness Sessions, where existing
on and doing’ – which means things
successful social entrepreneurs are generous
are moving quickly.
H
with sharing their stories and learning.
journey: to establish a social enterprise
For example, this week’s lesson was invaluable
involved in any way, I would love to hear
called ‘Got To Read’.
to me as it covered company legal structures,
from you.
i I’m one of 20 students in the first cohort at the School for
Social Entrepreneurs Suffolk
There are also essential practical advice
I’ll be reporting back here on progress over
‘lessons’ led by local business experts who
the year. If you would like more information
support the school’s aims.
about ‘Got To Read’ or about the SSES
(SSES), and I’ve started on an exciting
student experience, or if you would like to be
courtesy of Prettys solicitors. Previous experience may have taught me about limited
tracybose@btinternet.com
Research shows that one in six adults in the
companies: but for ‘Got To Read’, does it
UK cannot read well, which for Suffolk
need to be a Charitable Incorporated
You can learn more about the School
translates to potentially 60,000 adults. If you
Organisation, or will a Community Interest
for Social Entrepreneurs Suffolk at
struggle with reading, you are less likely to
Company provide more flexibility? Would a
www.sse.org.uk/suffolk.
have a good job, live in good housing, be
mutual or a co-operative approach be a better
healthy or participate in democracy. I’m
fit for the company’s aims?
convinced that the impact of poor reading skills is a long-term drain on individual
Finance, as always, will be a key issue: and
wellbeing, our communities and
against a background of recession and
our economy.
austerity, how will the new company get established and become sustainable? I’m
The ‘Got To Read’ approach will offer literacy
predicting a revenue stream from delivery of
awareness training and will work with
training, and expecting membership fees: but
partners locally and nationally to bring
will I also be able to convince trusts and
resources into Suffolk to deliver reading
funds, national bodies, local government and
promotions. But, most important, it will
local businesses that this is a good investment
involve and mobilise communities themselves
- that supporting ‘Got To Read’ will actually
to decide what approaches work best for
boost the local and national economy? Each
them, how they can best support each other,
student has a dedicated tutor: in this case, his
and how to have fun with and get enjoyment
independent review of my financial strategy
from reading along the way.
will be very welcome.
introducing the IoD committee
Paul Winter
Chris Johnson
Chairman tel 01473 278403 email PaulWinter@ibs.co.uk
Sponsorship Officer tel 01473 279175 email Christopher.Johnson@nuffieldhealth.com
Ian Johnson
Leigh-Ondrea Bendall
Branch Membership Officer tel 01284 767670 email ian@selectofficefurniture.co.uk
Branch Treasurer
Neil Prentice
Dawn Carman-Jones
Marketing and Magazine Liaison Officer
Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator
tel
01473 228811
email neil@white-spacedesign.com
01440 711400 tel email leigh.bendall@btinternet.com
tel
01379 873181
email dawn@mercatus-marketing.co.uk
Dean Willingham
Catherine Chambers
Vice Chairman
Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator tel 01473 226645
01473 283283 tel email dean@dpstech.co.uk
email catherine@easilife.uk.com
Caroline Kearney
Penny Arbuthnot
Suffolk Branch Administrator mob 07917 699 498 email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
Public Relations Co-ordinator tel
01473 326401
email penny.arbuthnot@projectpr.biz
new members to suffolk branch
IoD Pall Mall, London
IoD Suffolk Membership Benefits • IoD Travel Services
Graham Lee Consultancy
Regroup Media UK Ltd
Graham Lee
Scott Muir
Healeys Printers Ltd
Richard Jackson Ltd
Philip Dodd
Richard Miall
Itineris Ltd
Stepstone Solutions
Tim Butcher
Robert Symons
MLM Consulting Engineers Ltd
Topicas Ltd
Stephen Beales
John Cheshire
PER International Electronics Recruitment Ltd
University Campus Suffolk
Jacqui Grimwood
Brendon Noble
Project PR & Marketing Ltd
Penny Arbuthnot Pro-Tec Systems Ltd
• IoD Car Rental • IoD Director’s Liability Insurance • IoD Professional Indemnity Insurance • IoD Home and Contents Insurance • IoD Health Plans
Geoff Marchant
To find out more about joining IoD Suffolk branch... Please call Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator mob: 07917 699 498 email: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk www.iod.com/suffolk
For a complete list of the current affinity member benefits, please see
Institute of Directors Suffolk Branch, 25 Wilding Drive, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 2AE
www.iod.com/speciallynegotiated
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