suffolk
SPRING 2015 | www.iod-suffolk.co.uk
Jordan Holder, IoD Suffolk Student Membership Officer
James White Drinks dancing to the beet
Election looming IoD students’ views
CMG Technologies leading the way
Inspiring and connecting the county’s business leaders IoD Spring 2015.indd 1
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IF YOU THINK THE PRICE IS GOOD,
WAIT UNTIL YOU DRIVE THE CAR.
XF FROM £309 A MONTH + VAT ON JAGUAR CONTRACT HIRE* A price like this would ordinarily mean basic features. Fortunately, like every Jaguar,the new 2015 XF is anything but ordinary. • Leather seats with full electric adjustment • 8-speed automatic transmission with paddles • Front parking sensors and rear camera *Business users only. Initial rental in advance of £1,854 +VAT. 36m term. VAT at 20% may be payable. Model pictured (including optional metallic paint) from £330 a month +VAT, plus initial rental in advance of £1,980 +VAT. BIK from £234 a month.** With a selection of offers available on a large variety of vehicles, from the exciting new Jaguar range featuring groundbreaking technology and industry firsts, to Approved Used vehicles maintained to the standards set by the engineers who built them. Enjoy all the expertise and knowledge of our Jaguar Academy trained technicians and with a range of exhilarating accessories to enhance the feeling of owning a Jaguar, make sure that you visit Marshall Jaguar Ipswich .
MARSHALL JAGUAR IPSWICH WEST END ROAD, IPSWICH IP1 2DZ. WWW.MARSHALL.IPSWICH.JAGUAR.CO.UK 0844 245 8373 With locations in Cambridge, Peterborough and Lincoln.
Official fuel consumption figures for the Jaguar XF Saloon range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 16.748.7 (16.9-5.8); Extra Urban 32.8-64.2 (8.6-4.4); Combined 24.4-57.7 (11.6-4.9). CO2 emissions 270129 (g/km). Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ.
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HOW ALIVE ARE YOU?
Based on an XF Saloon 2.2d (163) Luxury 4dr Auto standard specification, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum, non-maintained. Excess mileage charges (at 9.7p per mile) and return conditions apply. Finance subject to status. This promotion cannot be used together with other manufacturer’s promotions and is subject to availability at participating Retailers only for new vehicles ordered by 31st March 2015. Jaguar Contract Hire is a trading style of Lex Autolease Limited, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. **Based on the same model and specification as described above, for a 40% tax payer. Vehicle shown is XF Saloon 2.2d (163) Luxury 4dr Auto standard specification with optional metallic paint.
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CONTENTS / SPRING 2015
IOD SUFFOLK Luke Morris | Chairman
4
Jordan Holder | Student Officer
5
Business leaders’ breakfast
10
IoD forthcoming events
20
IoD Suffolk Annual Conference
21
FEATURES
14
24
Protecting the Director
6
Motoring | Jaguar XE
7
Taxation I Ensors
9
CMG Technologies 11 A word from the accountants
12
Putting Suffolk on the food map
13
Dancing to the beet | James White
14
General Election 2015
15
Media news | Anglia Radio
20
Corporate events | High Lodge
22
Leisure & sport
24
Fitness | Ipswich Sports Club
25
Across the region
26
Business books and culture
31
PEOPLE
11 Published by: Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited 141 Norwich Road, Ipswich IP1 2PP enquiries@tilstonphillips.com www.tilstonphillips.com
Martin Chambers | Editor
3
Regis Crepy | Dining Out
8
Leslie Cuthbert | Communication
23
Stuart Robinson | Doctor Golf Academy 29
Designed by: Jessica Barrowclough
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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. Š Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited 2015
12/03/2015 11:06
PG-CIB A4 IOD ADVERTS JULY 13:1 08/07/2013 15:39 Page 1
Bringing you certainty through our expertise 01473 346046 www.poundgates.com
Pound Gates St Vincent House, 1 Cutler Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1UQ Pound Gates & Co Ltd, trading as Pound Gates, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and is an ISO and Investor in People accredited company.
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THE EDITOR’S VIEW
I waited 18 years to vote in my first general election, and then two came along in the same year. The year was 1974, and I was a young university student studying psychology and philosophy in Glasgow. Martin Chambers
In 1974, February’s election produced a hung parliament, with the outgoing Tories unable to form a coalition with the Liberals and Ulster Unionists. Harold Wilson formed a minority government and in the October election his Labour Party was rewarded with a majority of three. Times have changed since then, of course, and David Cameron made a better fist of coalition forming last time round than Ted Heath did back in 1974. Whether that coalition will bring success to the two member parties in the coming poll remains to be seen. I enjoyed reading IoD student Jordan Holder’s article inside about the election
www.iod-suffolk.co.uk
and how he thought Cameron, Clegg and Miliband were simply copies of each other. Someone described this phenomenon recently as the ‘extreme centre’, where everyone is dogmatically constrained within the rigid boundaries of the centre ground, and scared to put a toe outside in case the others label them ‘right’ or ‘left’ wing. Whatever happened to standing up for what you believe in? The problem is that nowadays many, if not most, MPs will follow any line if it keeps them in a job, rather than following some kind of principles, or ideology.
The election does feature in this spring edition of the magazine, with a look at Ipswich as a key marginal, and we take in the thoughts of IoD sixth formers as they head for their first vote. I do hope they don’t have two elections this year as I did in my first voting year. We also look at Suffolk food producers, the cutting edge technology of CMG, and the success of local radio. On the leisure front, the benefits of golf to business are investigated.
Martin Chambers Editor
Our 2015 events programme is kindly sponsored by:
Follow @SuffolkIoD
IOD SUFFOLK Caroline Kearney Suffolk Branch Administrator 07917 699498 caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
EDITORIAL Martin Chambers Editor 01473 286155 martin@tilstonphillips.com
ADVERTISING Marina Jacobs Advertising executive 01473 286155 marina@tilstonphillips.com
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LUKE MORRIS / IOD SUFFOLK CHAIRMAN
NEED PIC OF LUKE MORRIS
Today’s political world Where today’s politicians are more like comedians and today’s comedians are more like politicians “The existing capitalist system is the foundation of civilisation and the only means by which a great modern population can be supplied with vital necessities.” Any idea who? I’ll give you a clue. We’ve recently had events to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of his death. On business, Winston Spencer Churchill was pretty much a free trader without deviation. That said, some of his views read a bit kookie by today’s standards. He also said that the Bolsheviks were “baboons” and that communism was a “horrible form of mental and moral disease”. I’m currently reading Boris Johnson’s book, The Churchill Factor. He seemed to like referencing baboons, WSC that is not Bo Jo. But it’s had me thinking. What would Churchill have made of today’s politics? A politics where our most aired politicians (Nigel Farage, Boris Johnson) are more like comedians, and our most aired comedians (Russell Brand, Al ‘Pub Landlord’ Murray) are more like politicians. Being able to rely on jokes or bonhomie (and a Twitter following) seems a big part of the modern politician’s appeal. Being able to laugh off serious scrutiny and survive any meaningful assessment of track record, integrity, or
rigorous interrogation over policies. (I’m now trying hard to resist using Churchill’s penchant for the baboon put-down.) It’s not all cynicism, though. I do have some confidence in “the people”. The electorate (especially the younger electorate) is better informed and connected than ever before. We no longer take what we’re told at face value—there’s just too much information out there to cross-reference and corroborate. We are more skeptical about authority. This has enabled minority parties to break down the two party Westminster cabal. One comment that has stayed with me from last year’s IoD conference at The Royal Albert Hall came from Andy Bird, the chairman of Walt Disney International. He said that, given social media, his and Disney’s is now a world of the ‘prosumer’ to be navigated: customers that both produce and consume content and information with gusto. Today’s politicians face the same challenge, and I think that firsttime voters in particular are, by and large, great prosumers. Just look at the referendum in Scotland. I wonder how a jowly and (slightly) inebriated Churchill would have coped?
election has not been as big a distraction as you might expect, or at least the big set-piece presentations and media appearances of the party leaders haven’t. Business leaders are doing what they always do: just getting on with it. The day-to-day of paying suppliers and staff, and dealing with customers. However, they are keenly interested in the local issues. What about the A14 and the London railway line? What’s the future for retail in Ipswich? How can government help businesses to grow in rural places? Where is the next generation of skilled local people coming from? We’re hosting all of the candidates for the Ipswich seat at a ‘Question Time’ event on 23 April. It will be the definitive preelection Business event. Make sure you book early. Places are limited. Luke Morris IoD Suffolk Chairman & Partner, Larking Gowen
From speaking with business leaders in our region, my impression is that the
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JORDAN HOLDER / IOD STUDENT MEMBERSHIP OFFICER
Students, a key audience to win over Expectations of young people today are high. We are asked to be innovators, creators and inventors. But how can we (fantastically bright individuals) flourish in an environment where tuition fees sit at £9,000 and rising per year, unemployment sits at 764,000 for ages 16-24 and where the lack of opportunities seems to be outstanding? With research from the National Union of Students telling us three quarters of students will vote if there were an election tomorrow, students are the key audience to win at this election. It’s thrilling knowing you have the potential to shape the nation’s future. Young people are often restricted on their independence so the opportunity to vote provides them with a sense of social and political standing. But trust in politicians is low. I’ve never really admired politicians, in particular the ones of today. In the UK they’re all copies of each other, same suits, same education and same policies. Cameron, Clegg and Miliband are just copies of each other, none shine out as being something to admire unfortunately. Wind the clock back a few years and then we have political figures that actually meant something, and stood for something more than self-gain and re-election efforts. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for trying to overthrow
the pro-apartheid government. After he left prison he carried on his fight and worked towards a more peaceful world. Something I feel he achieved. The party that will get my vote will be the one with strong decisive leadership, a clear agenda that tackles the problems we’re currently beset with, and educational reform that will support students, young people and apprentices, not hinder them. Young people are the key demographic that the parties need to consider in this election, attracting their votes could mean the difference between victory and defeat. As Student Membership Officer of IoD Suffolk I take all the opportunities that come my way and ensure my students do too. I encourage businesses and politicians to give a thought to one of the key demographics in this coming election, as they’ll be the ones who will swing it one way or the other. And students, I encourage you all to take every opportunity available and to
make your vote count as politicians and businesses need to hear from you. The coming election is pivotal to the direction our nation will be heading in for the coming years. The outcome will affect us all, and all of us have the power to shape that. It’s our chance to mould the future into what we want, so make it count. Significant and radical change is needed in British politics in order for the nation to move forward. What this radical change is to be, I do not know. What I do know is that young people need to be on the top of their agenda. Perhaps a student cabinet minister could shake things up in parliament … Jordan Holder IoD Suffolk Student Membership Officer A-Level Student Junior Account Manager of New Media Marketing for Sales
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PROTECTING THE DIRECTOR
FORCED OUT OF BUSINESS? In October 2014, Mr C, a distressed director, sought advice from Birkett Long LLP in relation to his duties and the future of his company The scenario he painted was not a happy one - a large national competitor, which had deep pockets and was willing to run at a loss, had set its prices so low that his small independent company could not make any profit and indeed was running at a significant loss. It appeared the aggressive pricing by the competitor was designed to force his company to go bust: Mr C had to match his competitor’s prices or have no income, but the level of income at those prices was such that he could not possibly make a profit. Mr C’s company was solvent at that stage and able to pay its bills, but at the rate it was losing money it was almost inevitable that it would run out of cash shortly before Christmas and be forced to shut down. All 170 staff would certainly lose their jobs if that were to happen.
Other small local businesses would also suffer, as they were dependent on trade with Mr C’s company. We had to advise Mr C that it was his duty to avoid putting the creditors at significant risk of loss if the company was heading for insolvency and that he may have to ‘pull the plug’ on his company if an alternative solution could not be found. If he acted irresponsibly he could be at risk of being personally liable for some of the unpaid debts of his insolvent company. Thanks to our network of contacts, we were able to put him in touch with a licensed insolvency practitioner (IP) which could take care of the administration or liquidation of the company if it came to that. However, the IP had a contact who had recently been willing to buy a loss-making business in the same industry with a view to turning its performance around. The details were discussed confidentially and the contact confirmed it was interested in buying Mr C’s business - some good news for our client at last! In late November we were instructed to carry out two business sales arranged
by the IP: the first, a sale of part of the business to a large competitor for a cash price, which would keep the company going for a few more days; the second being the sale of the main part of the business to the IP’s contact. It looked like all the jobs could be saved, if only we could get the detailed terms agreed and the sales completed before the money ran out - it was a race against time! We were able to advise on the terms of the sale and put contracts in place in a matter of days, working late into the evenings and over the weekend. In the course of seven days both parts of the business had been sold, saving all the jobs – no doubt to the relief of directors and staff alike. As an added bonus, the sales allowed the directors to have their loans to the company repaid in full – loans which they had mentally written off prior to instructing us. This real life example shows the importance to directors of seeking specialist advice at an early stage. The options may not be as bad as you think, but an early conversation with professionals will help you to plan your future path.
For advice on insolvency matters or directors’ duties, please contact Kevin Sullivan on 01206 217376 or email kevin.sullivan@birkettlong.co.uk
6 | IoD suffolk | winter 2014
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MOTORING
The new Jaguar XE launched to IoD Essex and Suffolk members Marshall Jaguar of Ipswich hosted an exciting evening event for members of both IoD Suffolk and IoD Essex branches The event was headlined by a key member of the car’s design team, Jonathan Sandys, who is Jaguar’s interior design manager and responsible for the XE cabin’s outstanding levels of comfort and spaciousness. The car uses exquisite materials and finishes, combined with traditional Jaguar craftsmanship that make this an interior like nothing else in the class. Jonathan was on hand to talk through key aspects of the car and explain the exciting innovations that are part of the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic car that Jaguar has ever made.
As he says : “For a designer, creating a car like XE off the back of the hugely successful F-type and with our unrivalled expertise in aluminium is a career defining moment. The perfect proportions and understated but elegantly purposeful aesthetic coupled with a real sports car driving experience have re-calibrated the entire segment.” It’s clearly a true driver’s car, the reardrive Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports saloon thanks to its advanced lightweight construction, streamlined styling, luxurious interior, and outstanding ride and handling. The XE goes on sale in 2015, with the high-performance S model at the top of the range. The XE S rewards drivers with the responsiveness and refinement of its supercharged 3.0-litre V6. Generating 340PS and 450Nm of torque, this high-revving engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift controls, giving the
driver immediate access to the vehicle’s incredible reserves of power. Accelerating to 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds, the XE S has an electronically-limited maximum speed of 155mph. For business owners it’s good to know that the XE boasts the lowest cost of ownership of any Jaguar and is also the most environmentally sustainable.
For more information and to request a test drive contact Marshall Jaguar: Marshall Jaguar of Ipswich West End Road Ipswich Suffolk United Kingdom IP1 2DZ 0843 777 2908 marshallweb.co.uk
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DINING OUT
The Great House, Lavenham, celebrates 30th anniversary This year, Regis & Martine Crepy are proud to be celebrating the 30th Anniversary at The Great House, their award-winning restaurant with rooms in Lavenham, Suffolk, renowned for its exceptionally good food, extensive wine list, contemporary and sophisticated bedrooms and caring and professional service. Regis Crepy, said: “The Great House has gone from strength to strength and we’ve made some fantastic friends along the way. As an independent restaurateur there have certainly been challenges but also tremendous rewards and excitement as we travel our own path, keeping ahead of the game and adapting to the huge changes in technology and use of social media. We have been very fortunate to have had the support from a team of loyal staff who share our passion for good food and wine and are dedicated to ensuring our guests always feel comfortable and have a memorable time.” For 30 years, Regis approach to food has been consistent. His simple modern cooking creates dishes of colour, balance and contrast and allows the honest flavours of the quality ingredients used to be truly savoured and enjoyed. “Food is not an expression of fashion, after all,” he says, “but a tasteful and unpretentious expression of flavours.” To mark their 30th anniversary, the Crepys are organising a programme of special evenings which include black tie dinners, wine tastings and art and food evenings. They are also supporting the charity EACH - East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices which raise funds for children with life-
threatening illness and their families. A grand draw is being held to raise £30,000 for the charity with exciting prizes to be won. Over the years The Great House has received many national awards with the most recent including The Good Hotel Guide’s 2015 editor’s choice Gourmet Award, The AA Inspectors’ Choice Award and the Sawdays’ British Hotel Guide’s first Fabulous Food Award. It is one of the 50 longest serving destinations in the Good Food Guide, has exceptional ratings, 112 from Hardens and TripAdvisor’s Certificates of Excellence; valuable recognition from customers. Regis is honoured that their customers, many of whom came as children now bring their own and with his unswerving commitment, boundless energy and enthusiasm he will doubtless be welcoming their grandchildren and celebrating many more anniversaries to come.
To make a reservation at The Great House, please contact 01787 247431 www.greathouse.co.uk
The Great House 30th Anniversary Programme of Events 2015 Thursday 30 April – Loire Wine Tasting and Dinner £69.50 per person Thursday 28 May – Bordeaux Wine Tasting and Dinner £85 per person Thursday 25 June – Raffle Draw for EACH, Black Tie Dinner sold out Thursday 3 September – Art, Canapés & Wine with local sculptor Kate Denton - £20 at Lavenham Hall (limited places available) Saturday 3 October – Call My Bluff, wine challenge £20 at Lavenham Village Hall Friday 6 November – Champagne and Black Tie Dinner £95 Events to be held at The Great House, unless stated.
Raising funds for EACH Tickets for The Grand Draw to raise funds for EACH are £10 and can be purchased from The Great House. Prizes include the exclusive use of The Great House with a delicious dinner and overnight stay for 10 people; a week on the French Riviera for eight and dinner for four at The Great House. The Draw will be held at a prestigious black tie dinner at The Great House on 25 June. EACH support families and care for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex and Norfolk. Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cambridge is the Royal Patron of EACH For more information about EACH and how to help raise funds, visit www.each.org.uk or call the Suffolk fundraising office on 01473 276196
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TAXATION
When can a forensic accountant help me? Fiona Hotston Moore – Partner, Ensors Chartered Accountants
Wikipedia defines a Forensic Accountant as:
Cartoon by kind permission of FHM Reports
“… an experienced auditor or accountant and investigator of legal and financial documents that is hired to look into suspicions of fraudulent activity...” In fact our role is far wider than this and there is no such thing as a typical client or project. I have been involved in a wide variety of cases over the years including: Assisting in tax enquiries and investigations for individuals, companies and partnerships including acting as an expert witness in a Tax Tribunal. Preparing expert reports on ‘loss of earnings’ in personal injury cases and for business insurance claims.
Acting as an expert witness in criminal cases such as money laundering and tax evasion. Due diligence on the sale of businesses and acting as an expert in post-sale disputes. Assisting clients and advisers on tax disputes involving film partnerships including acting as an expert and assisting in negligence claims.
Providing advice on the valuation of businesses in matters of matrimonial or family disputes including acting as an expert witness.
Review of company statutory accounts where there is a suspicion of fraudulent accounting.
Investigating suspected business fraud including employee theft and providing assistance in civil recovery.
Acting as an expert in matters of suspected theft from vulnerable individuals.
Acting as an expert in commercial contract disputes.
Assisting in mediation and arbitration.
Acting as an expert in matters of professional negligence. For example claims against accountants and lawyers. Preparing financial models to assist in reviewing cases of suspected wrongful trading.
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We are also engaged by companies, charities, colleges and other organisations to provide fraud prevention reviews or to investigate suspected employee fraud.
www.ensors.co.uk Fiona.hotstonmoore@ensors.co.uk Twitter - @hotstonmoore www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/fiona-hotston-moore
We are often engaged by lawyers to assist their clients in disputes or formal litigation. Our involvement can be brief and involve giving an objective view on a point of dispute to assist the parties in negotiating a settlement or, it can involve preparing a formal report as an expert witness and giving evidence in court.
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IOD BUSINESS LEADERS’ BREAKFAST
CMG Technologies
Chris Conway, CMG Technologies
Neil Sargent, Finance East
Our breakfast in January was kindly hosted by Chris Conway, Phil Marsh and Rachel Garrett of CMG Technologies, specialists in metal injection moulding. CMG is one of only 100 such companies across the globe and the only one in Britain. One of their biggest contracts is with the NHS and they export nearly 40% of goods outside the UK. CMG secured grant funding to help fund new equipment and Neil Sargent of Finance East gave a presentation about the grants available to businesses. Visit www.thefsegroup.com/finance-east for more information.
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BUSINESS INSIDER
The best kept secret in Suffolk Andrew Cann, IoD member and Director of ‘Planning Direct’, explains why CMG Technologies is at the leading edge of manufacturing innovation in Britian Suffolk and particularly Ipswich has a proud engineering and manufacturing tradition but few expect to find a local company leading the way in these sectors today. CMG Technologies is doing just with its sector leading Metal Injection Moulding (MIM) technology developed here. MIM is a process whereby small metal components are moulded rather than machined. The process enables parts to be made to higher tolerances, using less material with significant weight and cost advantage of machining. CMG has had significant success breaking into premium sectors such as surgical instruments, orthodontics and automotive by providing high-end product at a significant discount over older technologies. So how did this innovative market leading technology make its home here at Rendlesham airbase? Chris Conway, Managing Director of CMG takes up the story: “CMG was formerly owned by Egide SA, France, though was always a standalone business. Egide’s business strategy changed towards value-added, large components, rather than the small components that CMG produces. At that point Egide approached us regarding a management buy out as we jumped at the chance to own a business we were so passionate about.” Rachel Garrett, Sales and Marketing Director, continues: “Buying a business you already run is a lot easier than
buying a new business. We didn’t need to do due diligence for example. Both parties were happy about the process and price - we even ended up having a dinner with them at the top of the Eiffel Tower once the deal was done.” All three directors point out how important the team they have at CMG is to the business but they also recognise the value of a process that is little understood. Phil Marsh, Technical and Production Manager, explains: “We always strive to continuously push the boundaries of MIM to keep us ahead of the competition and to enable us to take on a greater range of products.” The buyout in November 2013 and business strategy have clearly been successful. CMG (named after the three directors) now has a £2.5m turnover and is the largest MIM operation in the UK. Meeting the directors you can see both their pride in the achievement of their team and in being a British company,
they literally wear this on their sleeve. So what does the future hold? CMG have just moved into titanium where their ability to save weight, over other processes, gives them a significant advantage with this premium metal. With a clear technical lead over rivals CMG see a huge potential in reshoreing of supply chains. As Rachel says: “Now that we are a stand-alone British company we hope to help support reshore activities, giving companies a high quality route to competitively priced complex components, overcoming rising overseas production and shipping costs, simplifying transport and logistics whilst at the same time reducing their carbon footprint.” With local technical excellence, a confident management team, reshoreing, and MIM technologies being used increasingly in place of traditional machining this local management buyout looks set for major growth. Not such a secret any longer.
Winning planning advice from the team that beat Tesco. Experienced, strategic and intuitive planning solutions
www.planningdirect.co.uk
Tel: 07545 289 190 UNIT 3.11, FELAW MALTINGS, 44 FELAW STREET, IPSWICH, IP2 8SJ
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A WORD FROM THE ACCOUNTANTS
We don’t just add figures – we add value too The New Year has seen chartered accountants Larking Gowen launch a new initiative - and one that isn’t just about adding up numbers! In 2013, the firm celebrated 125 years and staff were invited to swap their calculators for shovels to carry out volunteer work during office hours. A number of staff helped out at various charities within the region and it has been decided that this should not be a one-off, but something that should continue and be developed. The Larking Gowen Community Fund (LGCF) was launched to make it easy for
all members of staff to get involved with the local community in which the firm operates while increasing their pride in Larking Gowen and what the firm stands for. In addition to this, LGCF wishes to select a charity or charities to support for the year and when various fundraising activities are undertaken, all resulting proceeds will be donated to the chosen charity (or charities). In order for a charity to be selected, staff were initially invited to recommend a good cause and their reasons for nominating.
long and hard, and for the current year, the following charities will be supported by various fundraising events still to be organised throughout the year; Papworth Hospital Charity, Rebecca’s Wishes and Lifeblood. larking-gowen.co.uk 1 Claydon Business Park, Great Blakenham, Ipswich, IP6 0NL
Literally hundreds of worthwhile causes were nominated, many with heartfelt reasons as to why they were of particular importance to the staff member that had nominated it. A committee deliberated
This article is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this leaflet may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. ©Larking Gowen.
Larking Gowen volunteers
We see things from Where you’re sitting At Barker Gotelee, we know that you’re looking for more than just expert legal advice. The close working relationship we forge with each of our clients ensures we understand matters from all sides.
01473 611211
www.barkergotelee.co.uk
for life, land and business
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PUTTING SUFFOLK ON THE UK FOOD MAP
Showcasing the region’s best producers Martin Chambers looks at two small firms that are flying the foodie flag for Suffolk
fix
Two Suffolk food firms have been flying the flag for their county in the East of England Co-op’s Producer of the Year Awards. Hadleigh Maid, producer of hand-made chocolates, and The Taste of Suffolk, a sausage and cooked meats producer, have both been put in the spotlight as the Co-op showcases the region’s best producers who are working with its local sourcing initiative.
“We want them to turn round and enjoy what we create here,” said Donny. “We use Belgian grades of chocolate, but we produce them in our own distinctive style and method. “The launch of the Walnut and Mallow Whirls to the East of England Co-op was an overnight success and we were actually outselling Mars Bars apparently in some weeks and that was quite a feather in the cap for us.”
In the past five years the East of England Co-op’s Sourced Locally range has grown from a few to more than 140 suppliers, bringing more than 2,400 products into its 250 trading outlets in the region and creating hundreds of jobs in the process. In 1976, self-taught chocolatiers, Mike and Avril Briggs opened the ‘smallest chocolate factory in the UK’ in Hadleigh. Donny Briggs, along with his wife Angela, took over the running of the business around 10 years ago and in 2012 began supplying the East of England Co-op. Donny admits his passion is making luxury chocolates: “I’m a chocolatier. I love working with chocolate. Hadleigh Maid is a family-run business. We use the best ingredients that we can. We love to bring that enjoyment of what we create to the general public.” Together with the Co-op, Hadleigh Maid recreated one of its original sweets from the 1970s, the ‘Walnut and Mallow Whirls’. These ‘retro’ treats immediately proved popular with a new generation and have kept the Briggs family at full pace to keep up with demand.
“When I was eight years old I used to work in my father’s butcher’s shop and I used to stand on an orange box and help him by pushing the meat through the mincer at that age,” he said. Seven years later, Roger was working full time in the Essex family business. Roger came out of retirement four years ago to buy the business which became The Taste of Suffolk and immediately began supplying the East of England Co-op with a range of cold meats, and three sausage recipes. Roger said: “What makes our sausages special is the fresh pork we buy locally and the high meat content which gives them the succulence and the flavour. “If it wasn’t for the East of England Co-op and their local sourcing policy, I’m sure we wouldn’t be here today. It’s through them that we’ve been able to expand our delivery service and our products and product range.”
Roger Simons, owner of The Taste of Suffolk, the second of the Suffolk producers showcased by the Co-op, is another food entrepreneur who is putting the region on the quality food map.
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DANCING TO THE BEET
Lawrence Mallinson
A love of pressed fruit and vegetables James White Drinks has been based on White’s Fruit Farm in Ashbocking, just north of Ipswich since 1991.
recipient of a Royal Warrant by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2002. And now beetroot
Following a career in accountancy, corporate finance, IT Services and soup (New Covent Garden Soup Company Ltd), managing director, Lawrence Mallinson, rescued the remains of an old cider factory in 1990 and has turned it into a fruit and vegetable drinks making powerhouse, helping fuel a boom of British fruit juices being shipped overseas. James White Drinks helped fruit and vegetable drinks manufacturers in Suffolk reach a record £65 million of overseas sales in 2014 and contributed to a record breaking month earlier this year which meant juices made in Britain were shipped to nearly 100 different countries. From exporting nothing five years ago, James White’s exports account for around 20% of its business today. So much more than apple juice Although a range of apple juices lies at the heart and soul of James White Drinks, Mallinson’s thirst and knack for creating new and exciting flavours came to the fore with its Soil Association certified range of organic fruit and vegetable juices that included ‘Big Tom’. The Grandfather of its collection of vegetable drinks and
Today, James White’s best selling brand is Beet It! Used at 150 universities and research institutes worldwide for research into hypertension and enhanced sports performance, drinking a 25cl glass of Beet It a day is proving to reduce blood pressure I a similar way to the reduction caused by taking a antihypersensitive drug. A sporting success Beet It Sport is now one of the most popular natural supplements used by the sporting elite and was featured on Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped programme in January, when they tested the James White super drink on a presenter. The presenter’s fitness test showed a 4% improvement after using a Beet It Shot. This same shot won Best Fitness or Sports Drink at the World Beverage Innovation Award 2014 and the Beet It Sport bar won The Grocer magazine’s Top Launch of 2014.
conscious among us, James White’s apple juice range is often positioned as the perfect non-alcoholic alternative to wine. The Classics range, comprising five varieties: Bramley; Cox; Russet; Apple & Elderflower and Apple & Summer Berries are clear filtered and look like wine when in a glass and the range, available in both 75cl and 25cl glass bottles, is widely available. The secrets of James White overseas trading will be shared at a special IoD Suffolk event on 15th April 2015, 16:15 - 19:00 in the Sir Bobby Robson Suite, at ITFC, Portman Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 2DA. jameswhite.co.uk
Filtration techniques similar to the wine world For the less sporty but still health
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GENERAL ELECTION 2015
BATTLEGROUND IPSWICH Preparing for Thursday 7th May One or other major party will have to outperform the polls by some distance to win an overall majority. Possible postelection coalitions are multiple. And there is a lot at stake. If David Cameron remains Prime Minister, Britain could vote to leave the European Union. If Labour win, it will be on what looks set to be their most radical programme in more than 20 years
In few places will the campaign for an individual seat be more exciting than Ipswich. Ben Gummer’s majority in 2010 was just over 2,000 or 4%. His main challenger will be David Ellesmere, leader of the borough council. Both will have in their sights the 8,500 votes captured by the Liberal Democrats last time. Both will be hoping UKIP again fail to make the sort of advance they’ve made over the border in Essex.
in 1979 and 1983. Michael Irvine won it back for the Conservatives in 1987. Labour’s Jamie Cann scored the first of three election victories in 1992. Following his death in 2001, Chris Mole comfortably won the by-election and won again in 2005. Ipswich weathered the recession of the early 1980s relatively well. Industrial employers went but service sector jobs in industries like insurance took their place.
Ipswich is not a safe seat but it’s not a swing seat in the sense of a seat that goes the way of the national mood either. Ernle Money’s 13-vote victory for the Conservatives over Labour’s Dingle Foot in 1970 was the narrowest of that election and, up until the Blair years, the winning margins remained relatively small.
The post-2008 downturn has been harder on the town. Ipswich has a relatively high proportion of public sector workers. As a retail destination it was struggling to catch up even before the economic downturn and latest surge in internet shopping. The hospital and many schools have all been through difficult times.
Ken Weetch defeated Ernle Money in October 1974 and hung on to the seat through some of Labour’s darkest days
All parties know there is everything to play for in Ipswich. David Cameron’s visit in January was his third as Prime
Minister. Gordon Brown came three times while he was in Number Ten. Ed Miliband is expected at least once during the campaign. Both Labour and the Conservatives are expected to bus in party workers from less finely balanced constituencies to help with their campaigns. In recognition of the significance of the election in Ipswich, the Suffolk branch of the IoD in association with the Ipswich Chamber of Commerce and Ipswich Central is hosting a Business Question Time for candidates in the main building of University Campus Suffolk on Thursday, April 23 at 5.30pm. All IoD members will receive an invitation and request for questions in advance. Seats are limited to 160. Please come. This is your chance to have your questions answered and your voice heard. Tim Fenton IoD suffolk | spring 2015 | 15
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GENERAL ELECTION 2015
General Election 2015
STUDENT VIEW IoD Suffolk editor Martin Chambers asked students for their thoughts With the big day approaching faster than a BMW down that German road on the Tory election poster, the IoD approached its student members at Suffolk One to see what major changes they want, and what they would like to see more and less of. Many of the students will be first time voters in May and the IoD was interested in the teenagers’ fresh thinking. Not surprisingly, education featured heavily in their replies, as did opportunities and respect for their opinions. The latter was a key response. These young people want their voices heard. They want politics and the electoral process more accessible to the young through more information. They are looking for better education with more funding and less fees to pay to continue with their education. They want less of a fear factor connected with further education through the threat of debt.
Morgan Ball
“As a first time voter, I hope that younger people’s interests are voiced in parliament. “A change I would like enforced is more help and funding given to schools and colleges, especially those from workingclass backgrounds. This is so individuals who are deprived are given extra help, making meritocracy accessible to all, not just the bourgeoisie. “I would like to see less tax avoiders taking profits overseas. Less discrimination in the workplace, e.g. the ‘glass ceiling’ idea that women are not assessing higher paid jobs, such as managerial positions.”
Charlotte Coles - Morris
“The government should be putting in foundations for the future. Setting university fees at such a high rate means that the future workforce will be in a
large amount of debt. I would hope to see more of a focus put on education, raising the standard of teaching across all areas of the UK. “I hope to see less cuts to the NHS. It’s such a vital service that most of the UK rely heavily on. However, to ensure that the UK taxpayers benefit fully from this service, I feel as though the government need to have tighter policies on the availability of the NHS from asylum seekers and refugees.”
Tom Cowley “I hope that my vote will reflect the views and opinions of what style of government society wants, as well as my own personal views. I want more information available to voters, and to make it more easily accessible. I would like to see everyone who is able to vote, voting for what they believe in.”
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“I want students to be less scared of going to university due to financial complications” Josh Ward
Josh Ward “I want people’s vote and
Laura Harvey “I want a fair
opinion to be respected, but also to bring in a government that respects individuals as people as well as having the courage to act on everyday issues political, economic and social.
community in which every citizen, no matter what background, has equal, just opportunities. I also feel that we need to tighten the reins on border control, I feel the situation with illegal immigrants has led to an unfair system. British citizens should always have the better hand - it’s our country.
“I would hope to see more opportunities for young people including work placement degrees and apprenticeships offered by even more companies. “I want students to be less scared of going to university due to financial complications, everyone should have the choice to go to university and should therefore be provided with enough help and support where necessary for them to go.”
“I feel the need for a greener and more sustainable community is a step in the right direction. That means less oil, gas and coal and more solar, wind and hydroelectric power. We need to stop pumping money into the ground and start growing it. To grow a tree you must first plant the tree and nurture it.”
Charlotte Humphreys “I hope
Zeinab Faris “I believe students are
that my vote will help to get across the opinions of younger voters and make politicians realise what is important to our generation.
the voice of the next generation and any changes that the government wants to make should have an input from us. “I would like to see more effort from the government to increase children and adults taking part in more sporting activities and leading a healthy lifestyle to decrease serious health illnesses.
“I would like to see more of an effort to make politics accessible to people my age, so they not only feel motivated to vote, but so that they can be proud of their vote by understanding and supporting the policies of the party they voted for. “I would like to see less pressure on younger voters to automatically vote for one of the ‘three main parties’ and more of an encouragement to understand the ideology and policies of all parties in the political system so that young voters can make an informed choice about who to vote for.”
“I would like to see less crime as there was a surprise increase in violent crime in England and Wales in 2014.”
Behzad Monzavi-Tabrizi
“I want to see a prime ministerial candidate who won’t just use immigration kind of as a scapegoat in putting that towards the policies and not putting it as the pivotal thing in the UK right now
but using more things such as educational reform and trying to put forward different policies that actually make the UK economy sustainable.”
Lucy Sheppard “I hope that my vote will result in improvements in education, namely lower university fees so further education is more accessible resulting in more people having the opportunity to study and become graduates. “I would hope to see more people between 18 and 25 voting or at least being politically knowledgeable. Too many young people don’t even know simple things about their country’s government which results in indifference when it comes to general elections.”
Georgia Nathan “Voting provides people an opportunity to express themselves on their issues; politically, socially and economically. I hope that my vote will change society so everyone has equal opportunities in life. “I would hope to see Britain engaging more with its people and for there to be more opportunities for people of all ages. I would also like to see more support for students when applying for university, for their further education not to be restrained due to their financial situation. “I would hope to see less unemployment and poverty and for it to be a better place for everyone.”
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IOD FORTHCOMING EVENTS
IoD Forthcoming Events The Secrets of International Trade sponsored by NatWest 15th April 2015 | 16:15 – 19:00 Sir Bobby Robson Suite, ITFC, Portman Road, Ipswich, IP1 2DA Members: £10.00 (£12.00 inc. VAT) Non members £12.00 (£14.40 inc VAT) Students £5.00 (£6.00 inc VAT)
Learn how fruit and vegetable drinks manufacturers in Suffolk helped the UK economy reach a record £65 million of overseas sales in 2014 and shipped to nearly 100 countries. James White is one of those companies that has helped fuel the boom. MD, Laurence Mallinson will share the secrets
of successful exporting and how from zero five years ago, exports account for about 20% of business today. We will also hear from UK Export Finance and NatWest on the sources of support available to those thinking of exporting.
Pre-election Business Question Time In association with IoD Suffolk, Ipswich Chamber of Commerce and Ipswich Central 23rd April 2015 | 17:30 – 19:15 UCS Waterfront Building, 19 Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QL Free of charge for first 160 people www.business-question-time.eventbrite.com
Chairing this event is the esteemed journalist Laurie Mayer. Thanks to his long-standing career with BBC and Sky News, you can be assured that no stone will be left unturned in the quest for transparency and knowledge in this preelection event.
Our key issues: Ipswich Town Centre and the surrounding county, international trade, government and business, skills and education, transport and technology infrastructures. Please submit your question before hand to: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk
suffolk
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IoD Suffolk’s Annual Conference Endurance in Business 13th May 2015 | 08:00 – 14:30 Stoke-by-Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, Levenheath, Colchester, CO6 4PZ Members: £95.00 (£114.00 inc.VAT) Non members £114.00 (£136.80 inc VAT) Students £25.00 (£30.00 inc VAT) This is an interactive session beginning with breakfast and ending with networking over lunch. We are very pleased to announce that we have two extremely motivational keynote speakers who will also help stimulate some fresh thinking about how we all can get results over the long term.
David Hall
Heather Wright
Tom Boother
David established The Ideas Centre in 2011, leaving corporate comfort to pursue his passion for business transformation through the release of individual potential. He helps unblock “breakthrough thinking” using an ideas culture to drive the innovation process.
Heather has spent over 17 years inspiring people to change their lives in huge and tiny ways. Heather uses the psychology of behaviour and influence converting it into easily understandable and easily usable techniques.
Tom regularly blows the minds of his audiences when he talks about Ultra Running and how he tests body and sanity while completing some of Europe’s toughest runs, some 145 miles long. In his talks he explores why and how people can achieve what may seem impossible. He also shares a system that businesses can use to achieve tasks and targets more quickly
Mental Health, A Growing Issue In collaboration with Suffolk Mind 24th June 2015 | 14:30 – 21:30 Hintlesham Hall, Ipswich, IP8 3NS Members: £65.00 (£78.00 inc.VAT) Non members £90.00 (£108.00 inc VAT) Students £16.25 (£19.50 inc VAT)
In late 2014 the NHS published their 5 Year Strategic Plan which is a broadranging document including further reforms and changes. One of the areas that is profiled in the document is the need for clearer focus, resource and attention to our growing mental health issue in the UK.
Join us for this half day seminar and workshop and listen to several experts within this field. Discover how mental health issues can impact on your business and your responsibilities as an employer. We will finish this event with an evening meal and networking.
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MEDIA NEWS
News story
The Beach (Lowestoft & Great Yarmouth) now has 59,000 listeners per week
Anglian Radio Group achieves record listening figures
Radio Norwich 99.9 grew its audience listening hours by over 40% compared to last year Dream 100 (Colchester) increased its total listening by 25% on the previous quarter North Norfolk Radio increased its average hours per listener to 11 hours a week.
an unrivalled platform for reaching potential customers in their area. We intend to build on our successes by working ever closer with the local community - developing the success of the stations charities. Programme Manager at Town 102, Paul Morris said: “Town 102 has a great mix of presenters who love broadcasting in Ipswich. People enjoy listening to a station that lives in and loves the area it serves. We’ll keep on doing the same thing for the people of Ipswich”
On a national level, figures are showing that radio continues to attract big audiences with 92% of the population Paul Morris, Programme Manager David Cocks, The independently owned group Town of 102, and listening on average for 23 hours a week. Executive Chairman AnglianRadio, Radio inisthe Gt. Blakenham studios. five local-stations, Anglian now reaching 235,000 listeners a week. Executive Chairman of Anglian Radio, Its success is attributed to strong David Cocks, says: performances from all its five stations: “Our figures show that strong bespoke content, planned exclusively for Town 102 (Ipswich) reached its highest the local audience of each station audience ever with 68,000 listeners continues to attract listeners. This tuning in each week also provides our advertisers with
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COMMUNICATION
Where employee investigations can go wrong Leslie Cuthbert - managing director of Independent Investigative Interviewing Limited and author of the book, Effective Interviewing for Disciplinary, Grievance and Complaints Investigations, looks at the three main areas where internal employee investigations can go wrong.
Cognitive dissonance This is where an individual cannot accept an alleged occurrence because to do so would be to challenge their way of perceiving the world. For example, the immediate response of most managers to an allegation of wrongdoing by a member of their staff, someone whom they like and have worked with for many years, is to dispute the validity of the allegation, “I know X and I know that they wouldn’t steal from me.” This is because to accept it as accurate would mean that the manager’s world view is wrong, that they are a poor judge of character. They cannot accept this and therefore will seek to dispute, attack or undermine the assertion. This is cognitive dissonance. Not convinced that you would ever suffer from cognitive dissonance? Think of recent celebrities convicted of various crimes and ask yourself, when you first heard the allegation levelled against them, was your initial response to think, “No, they wouldn’t have done that”.
Confirmation bias
has likely happened and then seeking to prove that their theory is indeed correct. This is a ‘blinkered approach’ to investigating and whilse it may mean a quick, focussed investigation it may not be deemed to have been a reasonable investigation should the matter go to an employment tribunal.
Miscommunication While everyone communicates every day very few people are familiar with the mechanics of communication, namely something called the ‘Communication Cycle’. When we communicate we firstly encode what we wish to convey before we send the information out either verbally, non-verbally or in writing. This information is then recived by the recipient of our message and decoded so that they may take meaning from it. Following this the recipient may then encode and send a response to us and so on in a constant cycle. Nothing could be simpler, right? Wrong! Sadly many people are poor communicators and don’t spend enough time or energy ensuring that the Communication Cycle works smoothly.
As a result, there may be a break in the cycle (a breakdown in communication) or the cycle may veer off in other directions (miscommunication). The primary reason for this is because at the heart of the Communication Cycle is our individual ‘/ frame of reference’ the culmination of all of our experiences up to this moment in time. It is unique to us and is constantly evolving therefore in any conversation there will always be at least two different frames of reference involved. The risk with ‘miscommunication’ is that the two parties to the communication end the conversation with different understandings of what has been said during the meeting. For example, if you asked someone, “Do you think that was a best course of action to take?” and they replied “Yes”. What did the questioner mean when they used the word ‘best’ and was the same meaning of that word understood by the recipient? The term ‘best’ can obviously refer to lots of different qualities – cost, speed, ease of use and so on. If the two speakers had different understandings of the meaning of best at that point misunderstandings will follow.
Following on from cognitive dissonance is the very common problem of ‘confirmation bias’. This is a tendency to favour information that confirms your own initial hypotheses and beliefs. The British politician Lord Molson gave a wonderful description of confirmation bias when he said, “I will look at any additional evidence to confirm the opinion to which I have already come.” Too many investigations work on the principle of the investigator having deduced a theory or hypothesis as to what Leslie Cuthbert
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CONFERENCES & CORPORATE EVENTS
High lodge A unique Suffolk venue for sporting activities and celebrations nestling in 100 acres of charming mid-Suffolk countryside with a range of exciting outdoor pursuits and high level relaxation, High Lodge simply has something for everyone. If you are looking for a stylish destination for an activity break, a place to escape and unwind or somewhere special for a celebratory or corporate event, then look no farther than High Lodge. Created 25 years ago by shooting’s seven times FITASC Sporting World Champion, John Bidwell,
and run with his family, High Lodge nestles among 120 acres of tranquil countryside and woodland on the Suffolk coast. It is home to an array of first-class facilities, including luxury lodges with private hot tubs, world-class shooting, golf, fishing, an inviting restaurant and clubhouse and state-of-the-art function suite to name a few.
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The clay shooting boasts one of the best facilities in the country, with a large variety of sporting stands, skeet ranges and a 120foot-high tower, offering practice clays for the experienced shot as well as instructional packages for shooters to improve their technique or for the complete novice to be introduced to the sport – whether for a family day out, group of friends, corporate event or even hen and stag packages, the shooting is available to all. For those looking for the ultimate break away from it all, High Lodge offers awardwinning luxury holiday lodges (some with private hot tubs) and onsite self-catering accommodation – sleeping two, four or up to six people with scenic views over a lake and open countryside. They create a peaceful retreat within easy access of the clubhouse and other facilities and are available for short breaks and full weeks. 2014 sees a new development as work is under way on a 32-lodge ‘Clay Wood Retreat’. Twenty-one lodges will be available to purchase as holiday homes at a unique location, with the show lodge arriving in June. A well-stocked fishing lake provides excellent sport for the keen angler throughout the year and there is a ninehole golf course set in 50 undulating acres. This covers 2,500 yards, with a par-33
challenge consisting of six par-four holes and three par-threes. It welcomes all levels of golfer, whether regular and requiring a season ticket or one-off visitors on a pay-and-play basis. High Lodge is a unique venue for all celebrations, with a choice of facilities to suit the occasion – from the most intimate gathering to the grandest of events. The Champion Suite, an elegant function room, can be booked exclusive to your requirements, offering complete privacy for weddings and other memorable events. The venue has a licence for civil ceremonies and every detail of the planned event will be taken care of by the caring, professional team at High Lodge. High Lodge has full disabled access and parking spaces for up to 400 cars, including off-roaders. After a day in the fresh air, customers can satisfy a healthy appetite at the clubhouse, which provides café, restaurant and bar facilities, with a tantalising selection of mouthwatering breakfasts, lunches, snacks and refreshments – or enjoy a delicious carvery, now serving every Sunday as well as being open to the public seven days a week. For further information visit: www.highlodge.co.uk
Welcome to High Lodge
Conferences & Corporate Events ...with a difference
• Clay Shooting Packages • Conference facilities – up to 350 people • NEW 18 Hole Foot Golf course • 9 Hole Golf Course • Fishing lakes • Air rifle range • Archery • Variety of catering options
Suffolk’s
Premier Shooting Ground
Activity packages from just £12.95 p/head based on FootGolf book today, call 01986 784347 website www.highlodge.co.uk find us just off the A12 near Blythburgh, Suffolk IP17 3QT
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LEISURE & SPORT
Get ahead with golf Golf is great for business – but it helps if you know how to play Golf is a powerful and trusted networking tool that has long been associated with the business world. Whether it’s taking part in a corporate golf day or entertaining potential new clients, there is compelling evidence that the sport can help you win friends and influence people – especially if you know how to play! If your experience of the game is limited to the odd round of holiday golf or family pitch and putt, you might be a little nervous about taking your business on to the fairway. However, with the Suffolk Golf Partnership running a series of adult beginner courses as part of the Get into Golf campaign run by the England Golf Partnership and supported by Sport England with National Lottery funding, there has never been a better time to learn the golfing basics and discover how the game can enhance your business life. “I had been offered corporate golf days many times, but hadn’t participated in them because I didn’t know how to play,” says Carrie Bendall, a Suffolk-based marketing consultant who recently took part in a Get into Golf introductory session at Seckford Golf Club organised by Larking Gowen. “The PGA professional at Seckford, Simon Jay, guided us through a very good introduction to golf, completely taking away any idea of exclusivity the sport may conjure up for some people. “We went through the basic grip, stance as well as trying our hand on the putting
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green and driving range. It was a great day and now I will feel more relaxed about mixing golf with business,” she says. Golf can help you develop professionally and personally. With time to chat between holes, a shared subject matter and after-game drinks at the club house, golf is undoubtedly a great way make team and business connections and nurture them. Psychologist Dr Karl Morris says golf is a great way to build positive links with others. “Golf is unlike any other sport for building social connections. The handicap system means you can play anybody whatever their age or ability.” A group of people of widely different ages and experience can play together and still compete – which makes the game more enjoyable and a great leveller for all your clients and colleagues. It’s the perfect sporting business tool. As well as the obvious networking opportunities, golf also enhances the mental skills that can help you get ahead in business. With its emphasis on tactics, techniques and focus – golf improves your ability to remain calm under pressure, think strategically and build mental stamina and self-reliance. It brings impressive physical and mental health benefits. Golf also burns calories, helps lower cholesterol and reduces your risk of heart disease and stress. Research shows it may even help you live longer. The Get into Golf beginner courses can
help you learn the basics of the game from a PGA Professional. They won’t turn you into a golfing professional overnight, but they will build strong foundations that you can build on with practice or further lessons. Insider tips for beginners Learn the basics from a PGA Professional, you will gain long term enjoyment from the game. Venture out onto the golf course at the earliest opportunity. Invest in equipment that is right for you rather than being tempted by the latest, hottest kit. You can carry 14 clubs in your bag but won’t need that many when you’re first learning. Instead, start with a 3 wood, 9, 8, 7, 6 and 5 iron, sand wedge and a putter. Relax and enjoy your game. Overthinking is the best way to undermine your performance. Look and feel great by splashing out on some stylish golf clothing. If you would like to get started or improve your game go to getintogolf.org or call 0800 1182766 to find an activity near you.
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FITNESS
£25,000 investment in courts upgrade to grow the game of tennis at Ipswich Sports Club
Ipswich Sports Club, the members run and owned sports and leisure facility located on Henley Road, will soon complete a second phase of its tennis facilities upgrade supported by the Lawn Tennis Association. This phase will see the removal of Astroturf from three of the existing tennis courts to allow the surface to be prepared for an all new painted tarmac surface. The next phase of the plan will see the new courts being covered during the winter months with an air dome giving guaranteed indoor winter tennis for its growing membership and community partners, including local schools such as Ipswich School. The club was recently successful in gaining the required planning permission for the three court Covair structure. The court resurfacing contract went to ETC Sports Surfaces Limited. Andy Yorke, club general manager said: “We are delighted to have agreed a deal
with ETC and will be looking forward to completion so we can allow members back on the courts just in time for the spring/summer period and one of our annual main events, the Ipswich Sports Club Junior Grade 3 Tournament.” This event is planned for May 2015 and attracts more than 250 local, regional and national junior players to Suffolk to compete at the club in the varying age group categories. The event also forms part of the annual Lawn Tennis Association sanctioned junior graded competitions calendar.
The £25,000 investment being made by the club is to support its focus on growing participation in sports and health and fitness to all ages and abilities. For more details about Ipswich Sports Club visit www.ipswichsportsclub.co.uk.
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ACROSS THE REGION
Hotel gets spring redesign N2S showcases With the cold weather still hanging around, the owners of Ufford Park Hotel near Woodbridge, have their thoughts firmly on the months ahead.
One of the UK’s leading lifecycle management companies has recorded impressive recycling figures despite a 23% increase in the amount of equipment it handles.
Since the beginning of 2014 the company felt the need to reinvest, refurbish and redecorate their bedrooms in the original half of the complex. Having spent a great deal of time on research and development it was agreed that four bedrooms should be redesigned to reflect more modern tastes and four prototype bedrooms (two Premier, one Superior and one Classic) were completed in time for the Christmas party season. Such was the reception from the public that a further 20 bedrooms were designated for refurbishment, with work being carried out in the quieter period of the year to be ready by spring.
‘Green’ credentials
Tarnia Robertson pitches in with her roller
As staff pitched in to keep the work flowing, director Tarnia Robertson rolled up her sleeves and took up the challenge with paintbrush and wallpaper paste. “Having sourced the paint, wallpaper, bedding, soft furnishings and local art for the rooms and designed the overall look, it was only logical for me to get in at the sharp end,” she said.
During 2014, Network 2 Supplies (N2S), which has sites in Bury St Edmunds and London, handled more than 800 tonnes of equipment, of which 99.6% was recycled. Detailed figures show 70,730 kilos of the equipment were reused and 716,790 kilos was recycled. Just 3,295 kilos was sent to landfill. Jack Gomarsall, N2S managing director, said:
“We pride ourselves on being the leaders in the pursuit for zero waste technology and to record a figure of just 0.4% of 800 tonnes going to landfill is quite remarkable, this serves as a real testimony of our ‘Green’ credentials and our commitment to the circular economy.”
Photos: Paul Nixon Photography
School tech expo for Suffolk coming in April “We’ve already had bookings from Toshiba, one of the biggest names in the industry as well as Epson, Viglen and Canon” Three local businesses have announced plans to stage Schools ICT Expo, an exhibition of schools-focused technology, at University Campus Suffolk on April 23 in Ipswich. The organisers, locally-based Boleyn Events and The Writing House, are working alongside schools supplier and service company, CPW Computing of Needham Market. Christine Schofield, managing director of CPW Computing, said: "There are big
exhibitions of equipment for schools in London and in some of our major cities, but to our knowledge this is the first event of its kind in the local area. As such it's going to be a huge benefit to schools across the east of England. Kim Brown of Boleyn Events said: "We've already had bookings from Toshiba, one of the biggest names in the industry as well as Epson, Viglen and Canon, the kind of manufacturers who shape the future. Microsoft has also shown serious interest.
"Within the mix at Schools ICT Expo will be a lot of smaller companies too, who supply software and peripherals to schools as well. "The big advantage of holding this locally is that it makes it so much easier for local schools to attend," said Mrs Brown. The event is being staged in the foyer of University Campus Suffolk and will be open from 1pm to 7pm. Admission is free to teachers and visitors.
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Logistics firm joins board game campaign Century Logistics from its Bury St Edmunds has been supporting an inspired campaign to educate and excite the next generation about the global supply chain. Business on the Move is a unique initiative to engage children and young adults (aged 9 to 19 years) about logistics. To celebrate its involvement, Century Logistics hosted an event at Mildenhall College to provide a fantastic opportunity for students across the county to play the innovative game. Business on the Move has been designed to complement the new curriculum for schools and aims to work as a supportive teaching aid across all subjects. By effortlessly combining the complexity of the supply chain with the essential fun factor every game needs, the creators have cleverly introduced the concept of moving consumer goods around the world and the impact this has on society. Players will explore many aspects of logistics such as freight as they transport goods by land, air and sea during play.
The game also emphasises the importance of environmental issues making this game truly relevant to business today and, undoubtedly, the commercial world, which this next generation will face when starting their careers in the coming years.
They will also learn buzz words such as profit, assets, balance sheet, logistics and globalisation.
Commenting on his company’s involvement in the game, Stephen Basey-Fisher, managing director at Century Logistics, said: “As soon as I
Cash boost for coastal growth
build a more robust tourism economy along the Suffolk coast by boosting the Suffolk Coast Destination Management Organisation and its members, and enhancing the Suffolk coast brand.
Suffolk Coastal District Council is set to benefit to the tune of £490,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund to
The funding will help expand visitor facilities, develop key assets, deliver events and expand activities to attract
learnt about Business on the Move I was determined to be involved. Not only is it a great way to introduce logistics to the next generation, it is a great way of increasing awareness of the importance of logistics and its impact on day to day life.” Century Logistics will also be donating 48 games across the schools and colleges in attendance, to support ongoing studies.
visitors during the shoulder and off-seasons. Projects will include improving a section of the Suffolk Coast Path Network, developing food tourism, installing a sculptural viewing platform at Snape Maltings and establishing a children's film festival. This will create more than six jobs and 140 indirect jobs.
Innovation shines for Suffolk companies at boat show The annual CWM FX London Boat Show was packed with global debuts of boats and products and the latest in marine innovation and attracted 92,288 visitors. Visitors were impressed by the breadth of the show’s 400 exhibitors, which included 12 local marine businesses from Suffolk. Suffolk-based exhibitors, including Anglia Yacht Brokerage, Suffolk Yacht Harbour, Shetland Boats and A.S.A.P. Supplies were there to bring home a small portion of the £291million produced by the East of England’s leisure marine industry. IoD suffolk | spring 2015 | 27
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ACROSS THE REGION
SMEs boosted by £13m investment Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the government awarding New Anglia LEP a further £48.5m to be spent in the region to 2021 and which could unlock a further £120m in public and private sector investment. The announcement sees funding for a new Engineering and Innovation Technology Centre for West Suffolk College, a new Innovation Centre for Ipswich and investment for tackling issues faced by business in our coastal towns. “Today’s announcement is great news for Suffolk and for the East of England,” said John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce. “It is a vote of confidence in our economy and will rightly see investment of over £13m to support small and medium-sized enterprises, across Norfolk and Suffolk who want to invest and grow.”
Simon says he has to grow Just over 18 months ago Simon Wakefield was making bacon jam in his kitchen at home and selling it to the Kesgrave Women’s Institute – now he has landed a deal with one of the country’s biggest distributors. Former estate agent and partner at Essex and Suffolk Lettings, Simon Wakefield satrted Syms Pantry after deciding he could make bacon jam better than what was on the market, and after moving to an artisan kitchen at the Cookhouse, Wherstead, has expanded so much he is set to move to bigger premises.
already picked up his range and now Cotswold Fayre has snapped up pallet loads to distribute nationwide. “This is a real coup for Syms Pantry,” said Mr Wakefield. “It has taken us to a whole new level.”
Syms Pantry’s range of products includes three types of bacon jam, Original, Habanero and Smoked, while the Bacon Ketchup and Bacon Mayo is also proving popular. Eleveden Distribution, which was recently bought by Thomas Ridley, had
Made with real bacon and gluten free, Syms Pantry’s Bacon Jam range have been a favourite at farmers’ markets, food shows and country shows in East Anglia, and can also be bought online at www.symspantry.com
In addition there will be support for the development of flood defences in Lowestoft and support for the preparatory work for options for the proposed Ipswich Wet Dock crossing.
Bury chamber launches manifesto Bury St Edmunds Chamber of Commerce has launched its ‘Manifesto for Action’, in what it says is a ‘clarion call for our member companies and the wider business community’. With the election approaching, the chamber has put forward a five-point plan to get their message across to Westminster:
Developments over the last decade such as that of the Arc have done a great deal to transform and modernise Bury while retaining its unique character.
“Driving forward economic development: We will work in partnership with the wider business community and local authorities to ensure that the town’s firms are at the heart of business and economic growth.
Getting the infrastructure right: We will work with local authorities, agencies, and with government, to give the town and surrounding area the infrastructure needed to thrive.
Making the town accessible to business:
A vibrant town centre: New facilities and attractions such as the Apex have
made a great difference to Bury St Edmunds and we are keen to help the development of a vibrant modern town attractive to residents, visitors and business investors alike. Improving procurement systems to grow local business: Local authorities must explore smart ways of supporting their local economy and finding savings through better procurement processes so they can help more businesses start up and grow.”
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THE DOCTOR GOLF ACADEMY
On course for success Are you missing out on new business or a personal promotion? Stuart Robertson Head PGA Golf Professional The Doctorgolf Academy Ufford Park Woodbridge, 01394 382480 mail@ doctorgolf.co.uk
Golf is still the answer for many in business to develop relationships, internally and externally, and help propel your career up the ladder. There are many reasons why this game works. Business intelligence. You can learn more about a person in four hours golfing than in a lifetime of meetings. Not just by what they say but by how they handle
themselves on the course. Do they play by the rules and control their emotions? Or do they fudge and blow a fuse? Networking. One of the great things about golf is you can just show up at a club and get a game. Depending on your business, you could be looking at three prospects each and every time you tee it up! Golf is the ultimate networking environment for all kinds of professionals and services. This often continues into the bar afterwards where the attitude can be a little more relaxed! Open doors on the road. When you travel, golf is a great way to open doors by letting prospects or business contacts know you are in the area and up for a game. Many amazing relationships have been forged around the world by looking on LinkedIn for someone in the area that is planned to visit and suggesting a game.
your friendships several notches up the corporate ladder. Best of all, the friendships built around golf tend to last a lifetime so as people move around new opportunities will open up for you. It can also become a great, and underutilized tool, for women that play golf! Advantage women. If you are a businesswoman, playing golf is an even greater advantage. Adrienne Wax, co-author of Even Par: How Golf helps Women Gain the Upper Hand In Business, says: “Outside the office, you can communicate differently with your higher-level peers and get to know one another in a way that the office can’t provide. Being able to talk golf in the office gives you a chance to bond with the bigwigs. If you can talk about golf, suddenly you have reasons to talk with the CEO.”
Friendships forged. An interest in golf alone can be enough to move
IOD Spring 15_IOD Corporate 05/03/2015 17:12 Page 1
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INSTITUTE OF LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT TRAINING LEVEL 7 QUALIFICATIONS DESIGNED FOR NEW SENIOR EXECUTIVES OR THOSE PREPARING FOR THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF MANAGEMENT. The programme focuses on the following areas: Developing leadership and management capability
Our service and expertise equals Our local clients often refer to us as their outsourced marketing that of large city agencies - yet we’re on your doorstep in Suffolk. department.
Developing a high-level business case Developing and maintaining a high performance culture and optimising resources Courses held in: Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds Courses run on a regular basis, please contact us for the next start dates. Institute of Leadership and Management courses are also available for your Team Leaders or Supervisors (Level 2), Junior or First Line Managers (Level 3) and Middle Managers (Level 5). Develop Anglia West Suffolk College, Out Risbygate, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RL IP-City Centre, 1 Bath Street, Ipswich IP2 8SD
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Telephone: 01284 716246
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BUSINESS BOOKS AND CULTURE
How to Fly a Horse: The Secret History of Creation, Invention, and Discovery by Kevin Ashton William Heinemann £20, Kindle edition £8.03 Kevin Ashton is the man who coined the term “the Internet of Things”. The Birmingham-born technologist runs the research lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This book will reveal surprising truths of humanity’s greatest creations. These include how DNA was discovered by a long-forgotten woman, and how the Wright brothers set out to “fly a horse”.
Bold: How to Go Big, Create Wealth and Impact the World by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler Simon & Schuster International £10.99, Kindle edition £10.44
Friends Of The New Wolsey A little support makes a big difference. Your regular support will help us to ensure we’re here for generations to come. And there’s plenty in it for you too! Learn more by becoming a Friend from £25 a year Get the chance to meet the cast of our Rock and Roll Panto at our annual Friends Thank You Night.
From the authors of Abundance, their second book, Bold, looks at how entrepreneurs are creating wealth and improving the world. The book examines the power of 3D printing, artificial intelligence, robotics, networks and sensors, and synthetic biology. Billionaire entrepreneurs Larry Page, Elon Musk, Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos share their insights in this intriguing follow-up.
Get behind the scenes as a Best Friend from £50 a year
Work Rules! Insights From Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live And Lead
Get involved as one of our Benefactors from £250 a year
by Laszlo Bock Twelve Kindle £7.49 (published 7th April) Google says it receives 1.5m job applications a year. Here, the tech giant’s head of “People Operations” explains why. Laszlo Bock reveals Google’s HR secrets to creating a happy workforce. Advice includes: don’t trust your gut - use data to predict and shape the future; and if you’re comfortable with the amount of freedom you’ve given your employees, you haven’t gone far enough.
The Second Curve: Thoughts On Reinventing Society by Charles Handy Random House £14.99, Kindle £9.49 (published 20th March) Management thinker Charles Handy examines what challenges and opportunities lie ahead in the global economy. He asks whether capitalism is a sustainable system and explores the dangers of a society built on credit. This book will get you thinking.
Not only do you get an extra 5% saving on season tickets, you also get two complimentary tickets up to the value of £50 for one of a selection of shows – that means you get the cost of your membership straight back! No brainer!
On top of all the above, you will get an invitation to New Wolsey Theatre guest nights, as well as exclusive Director’s talks throughout the season. Add to that an extra 10% saving on season tickets and you’re paying a small price to support a great local theatre! Corporate Support/Culture Club The New Wolsey Theatre strives to be at the heart of the local community and a Culture Club membership provides an exciting way for businesses to highlight their recognition of the New Wolsey’s community work. Through a variety of innovative brand enhancement opportunities, your company can work in partnership with us to help raise your profile whilst affirming your dedication to supporting our region. From £500.
01473 295902 development@wolseytheatre.co.uk wolseytheatre.co.uk
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JOIN THE IOD
Are you a member of the IoD? New members Join us and you’ll discover a unique mix of opportunities to learn and be inspired by interesting speakers; meet other directors, senior managers and professionals and enjoy a variety of social occasions with a big member discount. Many of our members take advantage of other IoD benefits including the superb meeting space and facilities in Pall Mall, London, which are free to use; free one-to-one expert advisory sessions and free business information queries answered within 24 hours.
Jade Anderson Suffolk One Morgan Ball Suffolk One George Beattie Suffolk One George Bemrose Suffolk One
As an IoD Suffolk member you are also entitled to free access to a dedicated workstation in the new e-touchdown on the 5th floor at Eastern Enterprise Hub in the James Hehir building on Ipswich Waterfront. See www.eehub.co.uk
Janice Booth Sunbaba Systems Ltd
Members additionally benefit from:
Richard James Catherall Katarsis Ventures Ltd
IoD Travel Services IoD Car Rental IoD Director’s Liability Insurance IoD ProfessionaL Indemnity Insurance IoD Home and Contents Insurance
Charlotte Coles-Morris Suffolk One Nathan Dickson Suffolk One David Alexander Farmer D A Farmer Associates Ltd
IoD Health Plans
Phillip Anthony Stewart Griffin Menas Associates
For a complete list of the current affinity member benefits, please see www.iod.com/ speciallynegotiated
Andy Heyes University of Derby
To find out more about joining the IoD please contact: Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator 07917 699 498 caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk Institute of Directors Suffolk Branch 25 Wilding Drive, Grange Farm, Kesgrave Ipswich IP5 2AE
Christopher R Huckstep Britten-Norman Aircraft Ltd Chris Liggett ECL Marketing Colin Low Kingsfleet Wealth Georgia Nathan Suffolk One Alex Paul Gough Hotels Helen Lucy Rudd Prominent PR Ltd Luke Scruby Suffolk One Lucy Sheppard Suffolk One Yasmin Tampion Suffolk One David Upton Peru Consulting Sophie Ward-Shenton University Of Exeter
New members lunch
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