IOD Suffolk for the Summer 2010 by Tilston Phillips

suffolk

summer 2010 www.iod.com/suffolk

Paul Winter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new chairman

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

contents

2 3 5-9 10

IoD events Thoughts from the chair Across the region Member Profile

ith a new government in place, a new chairman of the IoD Suffolk Branch and a new

publisher for this magazine – plus the first signs that the weather is finally

front cover Our front cover this issue features Paul Winter, the new IoD Suffolk branch chairman. See pages 22-24 for an in-depth profile.

11 12-13 15 17 18 19 20-22

Corporate news Business news Legal Corporate news Travel A word from the accountants New Chairman Paul Winter

warming up – it feels like there is significant change all around. Ironically, change is the most permanent thing in the world. It happens everywhere, all the time, and in numerous ways. Without change, everything stops. It is an inescapable reality that every business must clearly understand, appreciate and embrace in order to succeed. I am very conscious of dramatic change since

Publisher Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited enquiries@tilstonphillips.com www.tilstonphillips.com

the formation of our new publishing house,

Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd Halesworth, Suffolk

my previous company ICM Media Limited. Our

Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited, which merges Janette Phillips (Marketing) Limited and publications have a natural synergy and share the same business philosophies; in merging we offer existing and future clients the ability to address key consumers in a broad range of engaging publications. Janette Phillips was a highly-regarded publisher and well-respected in the business community. It is an honour to have the opportunity to develop her publications and grow her vision.

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 2010

23-25 27 28 31 33 35 37 38 39 40

IoD News Education Motoring Entertainment Leisure Charities Business Blogs Business Books Mind your own business Introducing the IoD committee

Tilston Phillips will retain this magazine’s highquality production values, publishing quarterly and addressing regional businesses with a range of professional advice – topical and practical – to help ensure companies make the most of new opportunities and challenges. In developing IoD Suffolk Magazine, I look forward to continuing Janette’s astute ability to make this publication a ‘must’ read for leading decision-makers in the Suffolk and North Essex business community. Jonathan Tilston

IoD events To help Suffolk Branch members to plan ahead and organise their diaries, this programme summarises the activities we have planned for 2010. We hope the wide variety will give 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/events or call Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator on 07917 699 498 or alternatively email: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk

june

Your evening will include first-class

marketing, public relations and journalism,

25.6.10

entertainment with good food, wine, a jazz

spanning many industry sectors and working in

A Night at the Races

band and dancing until late. This will be a

client, agency and freelance roles.

This is a joint event with our IoD Essex Branch.

great opportunity to bring partners, guests

He will offer an insight into the digital

We will start the afternoon with a visit to the

and colleagues.

opportunities that the advent of web 2.0 has

National Stud in Newmarket for a unique

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, 7.30

made possible, including the myriad of social

opportunity to see behind the scenes of a

for 8.15pm

sites such as Twitter and Blogs, and the role

working thoroughbred stud farm. After the tour we will have high tea at their coffee shop

they play in journalism, PR and business

september

promotion in general.

and will then move onto the Newmarket

23.9.10

Racecourse ready for the first race at 6.00pm.

Networking for Business

As night falls and the racing finishes, the course

Join us for breakfast, then listen to our guest

transforms into an open-air concert arena where

speakers Tim Mills of The Stillpoint and Dean

live on stage, the 80s legendary band Spandau

Wales of White Space Public Relations. Tim has

Ballet will perform.

more than 25 years experience in business,

Newmarket National Stud, 2.15pm - until late

mostly in blue-chip companies, of which 20

Kesgrave Conference Centre, 8.00 for 8.30am

years have been in numerous director

july

appointments. His experience in management

16.7.10

led him to understand the crucial nature of

Summer Jazz Evening

communication and motivation and the

Join us for our summer event at Stoke by

importance of how we relate to one another

Nayland Hotel and Spa for a relaxing evening.

for commercial performance.

We will have cocktails and food on the terrace.

Dean has more than 16 years experience in

coming soon: 14.10.10 Business Briefing with Jackaman, Smith & Mulley Solicitors 18.11.10 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Beers with Foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tasting evening at Greene King 7.12.10 Open Evening at Saints Winebar 2010 programme is kindly sponsored by:

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IoD suffolk

summer 2010

welcome

thoughts from the chair

ell for the first time in more than 70 years we have a formal coalition government.

This could be the start of a new era in British politics, or it could be a time of real instability where the financial markets are spooked by a government which has to compromise on essential policies. Business needs to ensure its voice is heard loud and clear, particularly small business. The success of the economy is dependent on a thriving SME sector. As for the Suffolk Branch of the Institute of Directors, it has been a highly successful start to the year. Since taking over as chairman I have been delighted to see the high regard that the Institute in general and Suffolk branch in particular is held. To make sure we reflect the views of our members it is so important that we arrange events which will attract them. I am pleased to say we have succeeded in this objective so far in 2010. Paul Winter

new members Mark Witter Anglia Research Services Mark Dujardin Anson Packaging Martin Beauchamp British Telecom Mark Alan Poppleton BTS Group Ltd Steven Mark Gilbert Casuga Associates Limited Craig Anderson Customer Service Direct Ltd

Angus Smith FD Services Kevin Robertson Glasswells Ltd. Jon Kitto Jon Kitto Associates Kevin Lawley Lloyds TSB Bank Plc Dorothy Mclaren Penrith Consulting Aaron Cecil Steed Phoenix Security

Sten Bagert RJJ Freight Ltd Nigel Parsons Royal Bank of Scotland Plc Colin Brunt Trinity Construction Services Lynn-Suzanne Macdonald-Carr Vision Fulfilment Coaching Ltd Lisa Norris Wheatley Associates Antony Rawlins Xantus Ltd

Think about it

Focusing locally, growing internationally.

Business travel: Over three million passengers a year travel through London Stansted on business. Connecting business: We offer over 144 destinations to 30 countries with 20 airlines. European destinations: London Stansted provides more scheduled routes to Europe than any other airport in the world.

London Stansted, right for business www.stanstedairport.com

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

across the region

guiding the way across the world

low-down on high ambitions

After worldwide consultation with its

enjoyed exploring

members, the World Association of Girl

the website since

Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS)

its first launch by

Consense has been appointed by tree-top

commissioned Long Melford-based web

netXtra in 2005.

adventure company Go Ape to develop online consultation websites for new courses across

company netXtra to redevelop its website. By enhancing the site, netXtra has

the UK, US and Australia.

A visitor poll has confirmed that more than 80

enabled WAGGGS to offer members more

per cent of users like the new website.

things to do online, more ways to share

The project will allow Go Ape to communicate

stories and photos and more ways to learn

its plans to local communities – gathering

Hundreds of thousands of girls and young

about Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting across

useful feedback and comments.

women in more than100 countries have

the world. A National Business Awards winner, Go Ape

hotel heads for the stars four-star hotels in the UK, said: “Stoke by Nayland is rated among the very best hotels in

constructs and runs high-wire obstacle courses in UK forests and plans to build a course in the Bidjigal Reserve, near Sydney (and another in Itchen Valley, Hampshire).

East Anglia for its top-quality leisure, spa, golf and extensive conference and meeting facilities.” Susanna Rendall, MD and family owner of the hotel, said: “We are very excited about The family owners of Stoke by Nayland Hotel,

working with CBH who will help to raise our

Golf & Spa are joining Classic British Hotels as

profile in the international market.”

part of their strategy to upgrade their 80bedroom hotel to four-star status.

The hotel has recently completed a £5 million expansion and refurbishment and offers two

Len Louis, chief executive of Classic British

championship golf courses, state-of-the-art

Hotels, a marketing consortium whose

spa, air-conditioned conference and

membership consists of independently-owned

banqueting and the Lakes Restaurant.

kirsty’s chance to be creative

Ben Davies, Go Ape business development manager, said: “One of our key objectives is to

Kirsty McCullough, 22, is one of seven

engage with the local communities, here and

Creative Apprentices to start in January under

abroad, at all stages of a project to ensure we

Suffolk’s first Creative Apprenticeship scheme.

understand and address their queries.

The apprentices have joined seven leading arts

“The innovative system developed by Consense will enable us to involve a broader range of

organisations in the county to learn about the creative industry from the inside.

of Bury St Edmunds Art Gallery.

This scheme runs for 12 months and

Kirsty says that she has enjoyed every moment

culminates in a nationally-recognised

since she joined the gallery.

the community in each project and really help with the overall planning process.” Consense has doubled its client base in just one year and has helped renewable energy

arts qualification. “My goal is to become a curator and helping

developers, house builders and public sector

The apprenticeship enables Kirsty to learn ‘on-

curators every day is a great way to learn,”

bodies to run wide-reaching, community

the-job’, working in the creative environment

she said.

consultations.

SIZE

matters In PR, column inches count. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had no complaints!

CLEAR CONCISE CREATIVE

dean@whitespacepr.com 01473 228816 whitespacepr.com

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

across the region

new role for lawyer Louise

free help on offer

the one to watch…

Resource Efficiency East has announced the

University Campus Suffolk

locations for its newest business support

(UCS) has been recognised as

service, the EMS Club.

one of the country’s best employers in the 2010 Best

The free service, designed to help smaller

Companies to Work For survey.

businesses improve performance by adopting

Louise Long has become the latest partner at Blocks Solicitors.

an environmental management system (EMS),

UCS, which entered the survey for the first

will be delivered at four ‘hubs’ in Norwich, St

time this year, has been named as ‘One to

Neots, Chelmsford and Bury St Edmunds.

Watch’ in 2010.

The EMS Club was created after Resource

Based on staff feedback, the survey looks at

Efficiency East found that while small

employee engagement as an integral part of a

businesses often benefit from adopting an

company’s success and growth and sets a

EMS, many lack the knowledge and time to

benchmark for other employers.

implement such a system without help. Sarah Meelan, HR director at UCS, said:

Louise, who joined the firm in 2009 to head its private client team in Ipswich, graduated in law from Leicester University and completed her professional training at the college of Law

The support offered includes half-day

“Taking part in the survey provides us with

workshops, on-site EMS reviews and one-to-

important feedback and will give a clear steer

one support.

to our future HR planning.”

in Guildford. David joins Ensors as a consultant and will After completing her Articles with Birkett

continue to be involved in his clients’ affairs.

Westhorp and Long in Ipswich, Louise specialised in private client work, becoming a

Ian Brookman, managing partner of Ensors,

partner at Birkett Long in Colchester in 1995.

said: “We share a number of fundamental

She qualified as a Notary Public in 1998.

synergies with The David Verney Partnership – both firms pride themselves on working

Gerry Field, managing partner at Blocks, said:

closely with clients, really getting to

“Louise has developed our private client

understand their goals and taking the time to

service and forged strong working

help them achieve them.”

relationships with many local clients, as well as retaining her existing links with clients and

it’s two into one

professional referrers in and around London.

David added: “In today’s increasingly complex and regulated world, there is a growing need

The David Verney Partnership, based in

to establish specialist teams that have the

“Her accession to partner reflects her

Ipswich, is merging with Ensors Chartered

expertise and capacity to deliver specific

achievements and is richly deserved.”

Accountants.

advice, which I cannot match on my own.”

happy campers at Orchard site the site itself.”

The Orchard Campsite in Wickham Market is a

atmosphere on The Orchard Campsite is very

winner in the Campsite Category of the

relaxed and the wooded site is the ideal

Camping Magazine Awards for 2010.

environment to sample the traditional joys of

The Orchard

family camping.”

Campsite attracts more

The awards are made in association with The Camping and Caravanning Club. Judging

Alan Hammond, owner of The Orchard, said:

than 10,000

criteria includes value for money; quality of

“This award is a real boost for tourism in

visitors to Suffolk

service, innovation and originality; excellence

Suffolk and acknowledges the ethos of ‘real’

each year,

of design as well as safety. The magazine’s editor, Clive Garrett, said: “The

camping that we encourage. We have no

contributing to the local

need for endless rules and regulations, just a

economy and promoting the unique

fundamental respect for fellow campers and

characteristics of the Suffolk Heritage Coast.

across the region

the Case for success The Case Restaurant with Rooms in Assington

Toptable CEO Karen Hanton said: “It's

Britain has become a nation of diners who

has received a double accolade in the Toptable

hugely important for the British food

really recognise and appreciate a good

2010 annual awards.

scene that so many winners are outside

dining experience.”

the capital and even beyond major The Case, last year’s winner in the Hidden

metropolitan areas.

Barry and Linda Kappes, proprietors of The Case, said they were delighted to have

Gems category, was voted runner-up in both the Top Diner Rated and Best Value categories

“We may have been called a nation of

achieved high recognition in such

this year – above The Ritz in London.

shopkeepers once, but in the 21st century

prestigious awards.

top six spot for Penn

created a new holding company to enable them to take full advantage of the rapidly expanding market.

An Ipswich-based commercial property company has been named the sixth most active national commercial agent in

Ready to Travel will incorporate both

the Eastern region – after only two years

existing companies and be the holding

in business.

company for other businesses to be created over the next few years.

Estates Gazette Interactive (EGi), which surveys the market each year, has given the award to

The founding directors, John and Lizzie

Penn Commercial.

Hammond, have invited David Reich to join the board of Ready to Travel to help

Penn works as a sole agent for several

manage their growing group of companies.

developments in the area and has played a

David has a wealth of experience in

major part in the commercial development of

advertising and marketing as well as success

Ipswich Waterfront.

holidays in demand

in helping small businesses to grow rapidly.

A commercial property website, EGi compiles

One of the largest independent holiday

David, who joined the team in January, said:

its results from the number of deals

lettings companies in Suffolk has strengthened

“I love the drive and determination John

completed in the past 12 months.

its management team to capitalise on

and Lizzie both bring to this company, their

significant growth in the past 12 months.

absolute commitment to providing marketleading customer and owner care which

Vanessa Penn, managing director of Penn Commercial, said: “This is an excellent

The owners of Suffolk Cottage Holidays,

creates a terrific holiday experience for our

achievement for us, especially as we are such

incorporating Big House Holidays, have

holidaymakers in quality surroundings.”

a young company. It is clearly a difficult market at the moment, and we have worked very hard to complete 55 transactions over the last year.”

law firm branches out Law firm Prettys has celebrated the opening of

Employment partner Nick Sayer heads up a

a new office in Cambourne, near Cambridge.

team of lawyers now available in Cambridge to offer a full range of commercial and

Paul Dickie, Prettys CEO, said: “We are

private client legal services to businesses and

delighted to have a presence in Cambridge. In

individuals based in and around Cambridge.

2006 we opened a new office in Chelmsford, and we now have over 20 lawyers there.

The office is located in Cambourne Business Park.

“We are keen to continue this success throughout the region and Cambridge offers

Nick, who has spent 25 years practising

us an ideal location to complement our

in Cambridge, specialises in all areas of

Ipswich and Chelmsford offices, fortifying our

employment law and has wide experience

East of England presence.”

of a range of industry sectors.

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

practice manager Estelle wins ‘Oscar’

coming soon… a new cinema Picturehouse Cinemas, the

The cinema, in Hatter Street, was to be called

Orwell Vets’ Estelle Busby is celebrating after

independent cinema group,

The Hatter Street Picturehouse, but an art

being named Veterinary Practice Manager of

has acquired its first Suffolk

gallery across the road already has this name.

the Year.

venue – in Bury St Edmunds.

People are now being asked to choose between Bury St Edmunds Picturehouse and

Estelle attended an awards ceremony in

The Hollywood Cinema, the town’s original

Birmingham as a finalist in the 2010 Petplan

cinema which first opened in 1924, is set to

and Veterinary Business Journal Veterinary

undergo a major transformation but will be

The project will also include a café,

Awards – the ‘Vet Oscars’.

open as usual during the refurbishment.

delicatessen and evening bistro.

Abbey Gate Picturehouse.

The awards, now in their 11th year, received more than 1,800 nominations from customers and colleagues. They acknowledge staff and practices that have gone beyond the call of duty to help care for the nation’s pets. Veterinary surgeon James Bagnall, a director at Orwell Vets, said: “Estelle has worked in vet practice since 1986 and over the years has supported us at Orwell Vets in all areas of our work. “Two years ago we were also thrilled to have been awarded the title of Vet Practice of the

deals on wheels...

Year and to have Estelle recognised this year is great testament to her hard work and

A local entrepreneur who set up a ‘pay-as-

and return it when they have finished,

dedication.”

you-go’ car-sharing scheme is encouraging

reducing the need for car ownership or

businesses to sign up and save money.

leased cars.

Wombat Car Club, established two years ago

Justin said: “A lot of our drivers use the cars

by Justin Hunt, operates in the Ipswich,

for pleasure rather than business – doing a

Manningtree and Colchester areas and offers

big supermarket shop or visiting relatives.

all-inclusive access to cars on a pay-as-you-

However, we are offering special rates for

drive basis.

businesses because we think they could benefit financially.

Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, drivers can book a car online, unlock it with

“It is also suitable for employees who have

a swipe card from a residential location

to use costly car parks.”

sheriff does the honours Inspirational local charities, community groups

Fund, the event was held to recognise and

extraordinary people during my year in office,

and volunteers were celebrated at the annual

reward the work of voluntary groups and

and I have been amazed by the passion and

High Sheriff Awards ceremony in the Officers’

unsung heroes who do so much to make

dedication that so many people have to make

Mess at Wattisham Airfield.

Suffolk a safer, healthier and more vibrant

Suffolk a better place for the people living here.

county. Compered by BBC Radio Suffolk’s Lesley

“I hope the awards help to highlight some of

Dolphin and organised by The Suffolk

Speaking about the awards, the High Sheriff,

the wonderful work that is under way in

Foundation, which manages the High Sheriff’s

James Buckle, said: “I have met so many

Suffolk’s voluntary sector.”

member profile

Celia Hodson Chief Executive, Choose Suffolk you have made your final estimate, cut your first couple of years’ revenue in half. If your business plan still stacks up – do it. If not, proceed with great caution. Q: What would you consider to be Suffolk’s single greatest asset? A: The diversity of its entire package: a beautiful place to live and work with an extremely broad economy, a clear spirit of co-operation and determined entrepreneurialism. Q: What is your greatest dislike in business? A: Missed opportunity. Q: Who are your business role models? A: The founders of Innocent Smoothies – Richard Reed, Adam Balon and Jon Wright, who have built a successful business with an inherent

corporate responsibility. In Suffolk, Adnams is

elia Hodson joined Choose Suffolk as Chief Executive in mid-October 2008. She came to the agency from the Social Enterprise Coalition (SEC), which

another great business that takes seriously its social connections.

represents a wide range of social enterprises, regional and national support Q: What has surprised you most

networks and other related organisations.

about Suffolk? At Choose Suffolk, Celia has responsibility for promoting the county as a premier destination

A: Negatively, the stifling bureaucracy and slow

for business, investment and tourism.

pace of decision-making within local authorities. On the positive side, the diversity of its world-

Since her appointment, Celia has driven the agency’s evolution, giving it more of a business focus

class offer.

with the appointment of a new board of directors and making it a social enterprise, existing to enhance and sustain Suffolk’s social and economic prosperity.

Q: In business terms where or how do you think Suffolk can improve? A: We need to wake up to competition

Q: Describe yourself in three words?

to funding. I was overwhelmed by his humility

and do that very non-British thing of

A: Creative, brave, driven.

and achievement.

self-promotion, shouting about its success as a key economic driver in the region. We also

Q: What has been your most

Q: What single item would you want

need to invest in the county’s infrastructure

inspirational moment?

with you if you were stranded on a

and court out-of-county businesses with our

A: Meeting the economist Professor

desert island?

unique offer.

Muhammad Yunus, founder of the Grameen

A: Daniel Craig. Q: What is the most important quality you

Bank in India, when he was presented with Q: If you could give just one piece of

look for in employees and the people that

create the country’s first credit union had a

advice for business success, what would

you work with?

fundamental effect on India’s economy by

it be?

A: Talented, creative, determined and

allowing entrepreneurs who were too poor to

A: When setting up an SME be honest with

co-operative people who are aligned to our

qualify for ordinary bank loans to gain access

yourself regarding revenues and costs. When

organisational values.

The Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. His work to

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

corporate news

streetwise franchise Andrew Fleming by Andrew Fleming, Partner, Blocks Solicitors

t a time of tentative economic

• What are you buying? Typically, licence to use a business system, with manual and

provision needs to be made for rights of renewal.

recovery, franchising can

associated intellectual property rights such as

enable business owners

trademarks, but query whether the brand is

conditions have been fulfilled, which may

sufficiently strong and whether there is

include substantial application fees and

adequate training and other backup.

rights to a percentage of the purchase

(‘franchisers’) with a good product or service to expand without a large capital outlay and also allow buyers

• What are you paying? Generally, an upfront

• When can it be sold? Once the franchiser’s

price.

lump sum and a continuing licence fee, either

(‘franchisees’) to trade with an

fixed or based on turnover, but beware of

Effectively, a franchise business is only lent to

established name and format from

extra costs for administration, management

a franchisee and ultimately ownership returns

the outset.

or marketing.

to the franchiser. It is therefore vital that you

• Where are you trading? Usually, a territory is However, franchises range from McDonalds to small plumbing operations. Any prospective franchisee needs to ask some critical questions, such as:

• Who is the franchise owner? Check financial soundness and track record and, If possible,

are confident from the outset that you can

granted, but this should be exclusive to you

satisfy the terms of the franchise, in order to

and include the right to follow outside leads.

continue to run it and receive the income it

• What are your duties? Always extensive and

generates.

often onerous, including sometimes the obligation to take on business tenancies.

• How long does it run? As soon as a franchise

For more detailed information or for advice tel: 01473 230033

talk to existing franchisees to find out more

contract expires, goodwill in the business

email: arf@blockslegal.co.uk

about it.

reverts to the franchiser, so adequate

www.blockslegal.co.uk

the balancing act of risk

ith 3.8 million injuries and

to write insurance policies at low rates

the business through risk reduction changes

illnesses attributable to

without falling into loss and the need to dig

and costs.

work and the cost of health

and safety failures totting up a

further into their reserves. Scrutton Bland has created a Risk One option is to reduce the risks involved.

Management Service using independent,

£6.5billion cost, there is a need in the

This reduces the likelihood of claims and the

fully-qualified consultants to provide advice,

insurance market to increase premium

costs that come with this. Even with insurance

training and help with implementation. This

rates significantly.

in place, a large claim can cause huge

may lead to instructions to carry out specific

pressures on any business.

tasks, including the writing of health and safety policies, risk assessments or the

Underwriters are unable to achieve this because of the increased capacity in the

Health and Safety Executive statistics show

provision of training to improve the culture

global insurance marketplace. This has led

that the true cost of a claim can be between

of a business or a total review of security

to many insurers writing policies to sustain

eight and 32 times as much as the settlement,

and safety.

market share with the inevitable effect on

even where insurance is in force.

insurers’ reserves – their lifeblood in financial stability.

A good risk manager sits down with the

If you would like information on our Risk

management team to strike the balance

Management Services please contact Tim Long

What taxes an underwriter is how to continue

between reducing risk and avoid strangling

tel: 01206 838400

business news

all aboard for fine dining afloat

hen choosing a venue to impress customers or

exclusive stockists of the stunning Line Art range

staff, what could be better than to charter a 50ft motor cruiser and be away from it all mid-river on

your own? The Lady Florence River Cruise Restaurant, operating from Orford in Suffolk, is a unique experience.

Family Optician of the year, 2010

Lady Florence cruises all year, including Christmas Day, with a cosy coal fire in winter. With a maximum of 12 passengers, meals are chosen from an a la carte menu and the food is freshly prepared on board from the finest ingredients from local suppliers. There is no mains electrical power on board, so there is no microwave and meals are prepared to order. Lady Florence has been chartered by many companies. One, based in Old Harlow, chartered her for customer hospitality 50 times over a five-year period – almost once a month. BT groups have chartered her for team-building exercises and accountants, solicitors and estate agents have annual lunches on board for staff, particularly at Christmas. The Ipswich and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce are regular customers, both corporately and as private individuals. The Institute of Directors has held a committee meeting on Lady Florence and other companies have held board meetings. An eminent shipping organisation holds its annual meetings aboard. There have also been cruises with networking groups. With three-course, American-style brunches at £21.95 and a la carte lunch and dinner cruises from less than £30, both inclusive of the river cruise, Lady Florence provides excellent value for money. You can capture the essence of Lady Florence by watching the video clip of customer cruises on the website. Lady Florence won the 2009 People’s Award, one of the East Anglian Daily Times’ Tourism Awards in Suffolk. Nominations came from the public for a Suffolk-based company that exceeded customer expectations, and qualified for the Best Day Out in Suffolk. tel: 07831 698 298 www.lady-florence.co.uk

38 Berners Street, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 3LU

01473 255250 www.kiteopticians.co.uk

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

business news

family focus brings national award for opticians

Adrian Kite, of Kite Opticians, said: “The

eyes and home

award is recognition for all our staff and of

visits are provided

the service they provide. We have always

for those who

sought to provide personal care and attention

find it difficult to

the national title of ‘Family Optician of

to everyone who visits us, young or old,

get out.

the Year’.

ensuring they enjoy the very best in eye care. I

pswich-based Kite Opticians has proved it is the best when it comes

to family-friendly services, scooping

am delighted with this achievement.” Comedian Marcus Brigstocke presented the award at the London Hilton Hotel, Park Lane,

In many cases three generations of the

and the whole Kite Opticians team was there

same family attend the practice for eye

to receive it.

checks. Specialist services include a ‘reading difficulties’ clinic for children.

The judges were impressed by Kite’s commitment to a quality service for all ages of

The practice is equipped with the latest

the family.

technology for monitoring the health of the

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ow do you keep up to date

To help you, Quantrills publishes its free,

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new legal definitions and will replicate much

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Regular editions are emailed throughout the

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In employment law cases, things can change rapidly. If you do not keep up with the latest

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key deadline.

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IoD suffolk

summer 2010

legal

right first time

by Polly Stephenson | Dispute Resolution

he newly-formed Supreme Court

dispute arose between the parties. They had

The facts above have been condensed

(which replaced the House of

begun the project in the spirit of co-operation

considerably but the clear moral of the story

Lords) has made an important

and with a shared goal, but those good

is always to agree contractual terms first and start work later.

decision in the case of RTS Flexible

intentions melted and what resulted was

Systems Limited v Molkerei Alois & Muller.

a bitter legal battle.

It is a classic example of two parties beginning

The key issue for the Supreme Court was

written contract, and this is more common

a business relationship with the best of

whether there was a binding contract

than one might imagine, always set out your

intentions with a very dramatic fall-out

between the parties. The final draft contract

understanding of the agreement and each

when those good intentions evaporate.

had stated that it would not become effective

partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obligations in writing, be that a

until each party had executed that agreement.

letter or email.

Where that is not possible and there is no

By way of background, RTS entered

As neither party had done so, Muller went on

negotiations with Muller to provide

the attack and argued there could be no

Starting work before all the terms are

automation for Mullerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s repackaging process.

contract. RTS argued that they had a

agreed will always be risky: if commercial

While negotiations were still under way, and

contractual arrangement with Muller in the

circumstances dictate this is necessary then

before the terms of the contract were agreed,

terms of the final draft contract.

make sure you have protected yourself in

RTS began work on the project based on a

writing and that in due course the terms of

letter of intent while the parties continued

The Supreme Court overturned the Court of

drafting a formal contract.

Appeal and unanimously held that in fact the parties had agreed terms by the date of the

As always with these situations, taking time

The work began, but although a final draft

final draft contract despite the fact that this

to prevent problems occurring in the first

contract was prepared and agreed this was

agreement had been subject to contract and

place can save you a huge amount of cost

never signed. A few months later a major

was never signed.

and heartache in the long run.

the contract are signed off by both parties.

www.ashtongraham.co.uk Polly Stephenson | Solicitor, Dispute Resolution T: 01473 232425 | E: polly.stephenson@ashtongraham.co.uk This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. You should not act or rely upon this information. Ashton Graham is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Ashton Graham Solicitors is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 50075.

Ipswich: Waterfront House, Wherry Quay, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1AS | T: 01473 232425 Bury St Edmunds: 81 Guildhall Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1PZ| T: 01284 762331 Felixstowe: Anglia House, 22/24 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 7AN| T: 01394 277188

your fu ture is

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ure fut

Fo ra

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Unit 5 Deben Mill, Old Maltings Approach, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1BL

01394 387337 www.reactcp.co.uk

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

corporate news

how we can help keep your show on the road

t React Computer Partnership we are very aware that your IT network is a critical part of your

In the unlikely event of a critical failure, be

Exhibition Project Leader and Assistant Project

assured your system is in safe hands. We

Director, takes up the story:

take a special ‘snapshot’ of your operating system and set up, then store this securely at

“The Jewish Museum reopened its doors in

business infrastructure and any failure

our offices. Once your hardware has been

London this spring after a £10 million

is likely to cause significant problems

repaired we rebuild your system from the

transformation to create an exciting new

for you.

‘snapshot’, providing you with an extremely

landmark museum celebrating Jewish life and

fast and safe solution.

cultural diversity. We were delighted to work

We, therefore, design our support services to

with Suffolk-based company, React Computer

ensure your system is extremely reliable and

React Computer Partnership have built a

Partnership as the IT consultants for this

efficient and downtime is kept to a minimum.

reputation throughout East Anglia for

project.”

providing a quality level of IT support services, With our help, your business will have 99.9 per

ensuring businesses have a reliable and

The museum has been React clients for a time

cent availability. Working with you, we can

efficient system – allowing our customers to

now and when the project was first

arrange for the installation of suitable

concentrate on running their businesses not

announced we were extremely pleased to be

hardware and software which works

their IT departments.

able to tender for the new networks and IT

specifically for your business needs.

systems. Once we heard we had been Any successful business needs to keep

successful in our bid we worked with Sarah

Proud to be Microsoft Gold Partners, we use

accurate records of each quote, and orders

and her team to build a bespoke IT solution.

Microsoft software on your system to warn us

placed plus customers’ invoices sent – without

The new computerised systems we’ve put in

of problems before they occur, enabling us to

disappearing under a mountain of paperwork.

place meet the demands of the transformed

keep your business running seamlessly. We

museum, both internally for the staff and also

also arrange for quarterly maintenance visits

To reduce not only the time it takes to

for the public to enjoy the specially-created,

and, of course, when there is a problem we

find these important documents but also

ground-breaking, interactive displays.

fix it swiftly.

the space they take up in your premises, let us introduce you to our Document

Sarah Jillings concluded: “React Computer

Day-to-day support is provided using our

Management system. This will manage all

Partnership made it easy for us to work

telephone help-desk services, based at our

your paperwork electronically and increase

together as they designed and installed the

head offices in Woodbridge, and also with

the speed of information around your

entire network infrastructure we needed, both

remote access. We provide fast, efficient, help

departments, allowing you fast, easy access

for the network and the wireless used for

for all your workstations. Should it not be

to all your documents at a moment’s notice,

private and public access. They also helped

possible to resolve the problem through either

from anywhere.

with media streaming, security and building

of these methods we visit your offices – at no extra charge.

maintenance issues, nothing was too much Twice nominated in 2008 and 2009 for

trouble for them.”

Outstanding Customer Service, we offer IT networking solutions and support to

This new-look museum is the only one in

businesses large and small, throughout East

London dedicated to a minority group and

Anglia, promising no jargon, just solutions.

tells the story of Jewish history, culture and

We also host regular technology seminars to

religion in an innovative and compelling way,

help your business work more efficiently and

engaging with visitors from all backgrounds

increase your productivity.

and faiths.

Finally we are delighted to announce the

For more information or free advice please

completion of a project in conjunction with

take a look at our website ww.reactcp.co.uk

the Jewish Museum in London. Sarah Jillings,

or phone us on 01394 387337

travel

travel with the personal touch

magazine and I have a regular travel slot on Felixstowe Radio and have also been featured on BBC Radio Suffolk. In addition, I also write a monthly travel article in a Felixstowe-based publication. The combination of these has raised my profile and client awareness.

ndrew Rowdon is the owner and managing director of Andrew Rowdon Travel, which featured, in the last issue of IoD Suffolk. In this issue we

Q: Were your clients affected by the

discuss with him what really makes the difference when booking

recent volcanic ash disruption? A: Yes, I had three bookings affected. I

through a bespoke travel agent

contacted all three clients two days before Q: Andrew, can you tell me what you do?

A: Yes, because it is very personal and offers a

they were due to depart to make them aware

A: Well, simply, I work with my clients to

much more focused service. With over 25

that they may not be able to travel: The key

create their dream holiday.

years knowledge and experience, clients feel

here was to be in regular contact and keep

comfortable with my advice and know their

them constantly appraised. Two of these

arrangements are in safe hands.

clients have already asked me to quote for

Q: What makes you different from a conventional travel agent?

new holidays – it shows that communication

A: I visit my clients at their home, place of

Q: In common with many businesses you

work, local coffee or wine bar and at a

work from a home office, how do you

convenient time for them to discuss their plans

get your business?

Q: What makes a successful travel agent?

and tailor their perfect holiday.

A: Referrals mainly. Word of mouth and

A: Offering 100 percent financial protection,

personal recommendations you can’t buy. I

providing a personal and professional service

Q: That’s quite a service, I imagine clients

also advertise in various publications like this

to clients and being available from the time

like this?

one, Central, Select and Suffolk Coast

they book to the time they return home.

is the key.

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

a word from the accountants

are we out of the woods yet? By Malcolm McGready, partner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ensors Chartered Accountants

his time last year, things looked decidedly bleak. The outlook seems a little

As ever, cash remains a priority and HMRCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

deliberate policy rather than to sleepwalk

Time to Pay scheme provided some relief

into it. The loss of key staff can be

last year. Such funding is short-term,

damaging to a business. It may be a time to

however, and it is a salutary reminder that

think of more innovative arrangements to

brighter now, despite the shadows

HMRC account for 30 per cent of winding-up

allow employees to share in any upside.

cast by spiralling public sector

petitions. Businesses who continue to

borrowing and electoral uncertainty.

struggle with cash flow need to address

Finally, if your business is taking off again

However, while the classic recession

the underlying causes.

then managing your working capital to avoid overtrading is critical.

threats that faced businesses in 2009 persist into 2010, a return to growth presents new threats which businesses must be vigilant of. The depth and speed of the recession in

Last year will have spurred some businesses to re-evaluate their business models. It can

Managing cash flow is a core discipline that

be a painful process, but can result in a leaner

is ignored at your peril. Make sure your

and fitter organisation. These businesses may

accounting package is delivering the

now be better placed to service your markets

management information you need to run

and customers.

your business. Having visibility of your

2009 claimed many victims. The ultimate

current and future cash position is vital.

cause of business failure is a lack of cash.

Remaining competitive and not letting your

Underlying this is at least one major

competitors outmanoeuvre you means getting

There will inevitably be further casualties of

factor that brings a business to its knees.

out there to gather intelligence and talking to

the downturn in 2010. Businesses must

Knowing where your business is

your customers.

remain focused, ensuring they have a

exposed and mitigating those risks is critical.

sustainable business model while remaining Do not forget your employees. Pay freezes

alert to both the threats and opportunities

have been common and can seem an

that will arise.

If your business model cannot withstand a

appealing way to continue to control costs in

sudden shock you remain vulnerable.

2010. It is important this is a reasoned and

We are not out of the woods yetâ&#x20AC;Ś

Bury St Edmunds 01284 722300 Cambridge 01223 420721 Huntingdon 01480 417800 Ipswich 01473 220022 Saxmundham 01728 603005 mail@ensors.co.uk

www.ensors.co.uk

new chairman

Paul Winter

here is a certain thread running through the life of Suffolk IoDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new chairman Paul Winter, and it is one of empowerment, change and constant progression.

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

His philosophy is based on workers’

Against a bleak employment climate, where

become a blackspot for riots, he responded to

education. Passionate about training,

he was the first in his family to undertake

the advertisement for an assistant general

development and the need to invest in

higher education, the Derbyshire 22-year-old

manager and was the first “outsider” in

people, he is a master of change

was assistant project manager to the deputy

the role.

management.

CEO charged with improving systems and methods in the deeds department. When the

Paul had never set out to be a banker but

With nearly 40 years in mutual societies, the

departmental manager retired and the

found himself running branches and

past 27 with Ipswich Building Society and the

replacement fell ill Paul ran the department.

mortgages, selling his first in the mid 1980s,

last three as chief executive, he has turned

and being instrumental in branch expansion,

what was perceived as a safe and ordinary

“It was in chaos and it was my first taste of

implementing organisational methods and

building society into a dynamic, high-profile,

being a manager,” he said. “I like to think I

people changes.

award-winning, nine-branch, customer-

made it a success.”

focused organisation.

“An organisation has responsibility to its One area in which he made a mark during

people to never stop progression. I believe you

“We asked ourselves if we weren’t here,

those 10 years with the society was as chair

get from staff what you are prepared to give,

would anyone miss us. We had to make

of the staff association. Unafraid of “rattling

if you give opportunities.”

ourselves relevant.”

cages”, Paul became heavily involved

Against the background of the demise of

representing the staff at a troubling time

He is a great believer in making the business

for the nation.

an active part of the community. Each staff

Northern Rock and the crash of the early 90s

member is given half a day to serve the

when Ipswich was seriously affected by the

Feeling the society had no clear strategy and

community, the IBS matches any staff

drop in house prices, he briefed his executive

with his home in Wolverhampton having

fundraising for regional projects and it has a

team to help people live in a home of their own. He dispelled a culture of fear, pulling the team together and putting the development of people at its heart. Twenty years ago it was one of the early Investors in People and today Paul is a great believer in the power of awards for staff morale and the profile of the business. As CEO he has led a £1/2 m reduction in operational costs, grown mortgages by 14 per cent and delivered a nine per cent growth in the asset base in 2009. When major high street banks and building societies were keeping their heads down, Paul‘s strategy was to be very public and open. “Our branches were key to this. Everyone was briefed so any of them could answer questions. People suddenly distrusted big organisations, which worked in our favour.” It is a long way from 40 years ago when the quantitative social studies graduate from Kent University, who enjoyed politics, landed the first graduate management trainee role with the Staffordshire Building Society.

new chairman

charitable foundation with affinity accounts

“Look at Stuart Rose who took a dying

on the harmonica – his next challenge on a

with three local charities. It operates family-

organisation to the forefront of retail and The

summer evening.

friendly policies and is a strong supporter of

John Lewis Partnership that has stayed true

flexible working and employing women

to its roots.”

possible over the next three years, but do not

returning to work in senior roles to make the most of training investment.

Paul aims to meet as many members as

Paul’s other heroes include Brian Clough, for

be surprised if he starts talking chicken feed.

his clear vision and strong values played out “Our sector is not particularly interesting to

with an injection of fun, and Desmond Tutu,

Thelma and Louise started his interest in

people on the street so we have to keep

who stuck to his principles and stayed in

chickens and now Cagney and Lacey and Hinge

talking and use friendly, less formal language.

Africa, despite the unrest.

and Bracket live in a run which he built at the Old Newton home he shares with partner Julie.

Paul has campaigned on words and clichés and instilled a culture of clear communication

So it is hardly surprising that Paul’s iplayer is

to its customers.

loaded with his other major passion – 1950s

He is a sports enthusiast who consumes

and 60s American musicals, Oklahoma and

newspapers but will never be found on his

As chair of the IoD he is keen to give a clear

West Side Story being two of his favourites

BlackBerry on holiday.

vision of its future and feels there are two

for their superb lyrics and great music and,

major areas of need: Helping SMEs to grow

of course, the whole vision of the American

He achieved colours in rugby union for

by developing their individual directors

Dream and the new beginning.

Derbyshire, played football and rugby for his university and has ambitions beyond his

through masterclasses and making the link In fact music and attending live concerts are

success in the Ipswich half marathon to run

an integral part of Paul’s relaxation time. He

the Boston Marathon.

“I don’t think kids today really know what

firmly believes in leisure activities that

the word director means. We need to get

completely shut him off from business life and

Father to Leah and Nick, one of his greatest

directors in school to see what great role

give valuable recharging time.

desires is to help his 16-month-old grandson Harrison appreciate the joys of being a Derby

models they can be – take Rachel Ducker,

County supporter.

for example. Business people should be

Expect to hear Joss Stone, Katie Melua,

today’s role models instead of footballers

Norah Jones, Edith Piaf or Juliet Turner singing

and celebrities,” said the lifelong Derby

as he drives into the office car park, but at

Paul can be contacted at

County supporter.

least be grateful he is not playing the blues

paulwinter@ibs.co.uk

“

An organisation has responsibility to its people to never stop progression. I believe you get from staff what you are prepared to give, if you give opportunities.”

IMAGES: NICKILOTTPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

between education and business stronger.

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

IoD news

hot off the press...

uffolk IoD members had the chance to learn more about the

printing industry when Denny

Bros opened its doors for a tour of its facilities.

Barry Denny shows IoD Suffolk members around Denny Bros.

Originators of Fix-a-Form multi-page labels,

room and engineering and finishing machines.

Denny Bros managing director Barry Denny said: “We are a local company that makes

the family-run business was launched in 1945 Members were shown the printing process,

printed products that are licensed worldwide

focusing on the production of the innovative

and we’re proud to show other businesses

The well-attended event began with a talk

folding labels which are now under licence in

how we work and how local innovation can

about the company before a tour of the press

more than 20 countries.

achieve international recognition.”

and is based in Bury St Edmunds.

the Commons touch...

eld at the Terrace Pavilion at

the House of Commons, the joint London Stansted

and IoD Suffolk Parliamentary Reception welcomed members and other business leaders from across the region. Guests joined MPs and peers on the terrace overlooking the Thames to celebrate and promote regional business success. The IoD Suffolk and London Stansted, as the East of England’s largest single-site employer, have been working together to champion the region and its role in the UK’s economic recovery.

IoD news

election flavours dinner

he IoD Suffolk branch hosted its fourth ‘Question Time’ dinner in April and with the general

election so close, the guest panel had its work cut out. Held at the Angel Hotel in Bury St Edmunds, it was chaired by the charismatic Walter Herriot. The panel consisted of Celia Hodson, of Choose Suffolk, London Stansted’s Ashley

Suffolk businesses but on their own

Riley, Jane Osbourn, from MedImmune, and

industry sectors. This led to a discussion

Brian Morron, from Gotelee and Goldsmiths

about the prospect and practicality of a

Solicitors.

coalition government. The IoD Suffolk programme is kindly

Not surprisingly, the first question was about

Other questions covered the panel’s thoughts

sponsored by Jackaman Smith and Mulley

With an opportunity to meet and talk to

The recently-completed second phase of the

Accountants, Leema Risk Management and

Kesgrave Hall’s general manager Garth Wray,

development has added eight new bedrooms,

White Space Public Relations.

Solicitors, London Stansted, Ensors Chartered

the sponsors were given a brief history of the

bringing the total to 23, with two rooms

building by Milsom Hotel’s managing

having the option of being linked to form a

For details of forthcoming events and

director and host for the afternoon Paul

large suite – a popular option for families. The

membership of the IoD contact Caroline

Milsom. This included an account of how

new rooms are set slightly away from the

Kearney on 07917 699498.

the site has been transformed from a rundown school to the highly-esteemed hotel and restaurant it is today. Before settling down to lunch in one of the two well-equipped conference rooms in The Lodge, the sponsors were given a tour of the new facility. Sue Bunting, marketing manager for the group, said: “Companies tend to hold

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Gateway to Suffolk’ Suffolk’s Heritage Coast...

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

leisure

are you open to new opportunities?

fter many years of one government regime we have now entered a period of change.

Stuart Robertson

For any lasting change to have effect, it

These patterns have been shown not to help

will demand a change of movements

us improve or become more efficient and

from those that have already been learnt.

are likely to lead to more frustration in the

These may feel uncomfortable to begin

short term.

This is likely to be uncomfortable for

with, as the old movements have

anyone who finds it difficult to accept

become so ingrained that they have

If you want a different outcome – you will

that things will be different from before.

become the default that we always come

need to change your actions!

back to. Stuart Robertson is the golf professional

It is as we move through such periods of change that we examine ourselves and our

It will require quality – and quantity – of

at Ufford Park Hotel Golf & Spa where

surroundings to see if we really are better off.

practice over a sustained period if we are

he runs the very successful Doctorgolf

to learn new patterns of movement.

Academy and has tuition programmes

As golf professionals, we deal with similar

While we are going through these

to suit all calibres of golfers.

issues to these on a daily basis, where clients

changes we must keep looking forward

want real change to their game but may not

to the final outcome that is desired,

be willing for things to be uncomfortable for

otherwise we keep falling back into the

tel: 01394 383480

a short while.

patterns that we already knew.

email: mail@doctorgolf.co.uk

new practice rooms

Debbie Crooks

orpheus Associates have new Practice Rooms for Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk.

Clinical Hypnotherapist Debbie Crooks, has

painful conditions to manage their

proven and continuous success working with

discomfort, potentially reducing the need

people from all walks of life, including

for conventional pain relieving drugs

professional, corporate, the emergency/armed Now situated at The Heritage Wellbeing

services and sport.

Centre, Nowton Court Village, Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP29 5LU. There is ample free parking, a receptionist,

Want to know more? Book a free introductory appointment to start the process to a new you!

She has helped to facilitate the changes necessary to:

tel: 07840-694743 or 01284 846800.

• overcome anxiety - dealing with all forms

email: debbiec@morpheus-associates.com

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IoD suffolk

summer 2010

charities help for hospices

taking the high road Alison Budge, head of the firm’s corporate

A brave band of Ensors’ staff, friends and

and social responsibility committee, said: “The

relatives will be attempting to climb Ben Nevis

two hospices have been our chosen charities

in June in aid of Help For Heroes and The

for the last year. By asking staff to donate

Royal British Legion.

unwanted belongings we hope the hospices will be able to boost their funds by selling the

The challenge is being led by Robin Beadle,

items in their shops.”

Ensors tax manager based at the Saxmundham office.

Employees at East Anglian law firm Ashton

St Elizabeth Hospice has 11 shops in

Graham had an early spring clean to help two

East Suffolk and they rely on donated

The 4,409ft mountain – Britain’s highest –

local hospices by providing goods to sell in

goods, including furniture, to keep them

can be tough even for the most seasoned

their shops.

well-stocked.

walkers but Robin has the added difficulty of a walking disability. Without leg braces,

Staff from the three offices in Ipswich, Bury St

Abby Hunt, corporate fundraiser for St

crutches or a walking stick he can manage

Edmunds and Felixstowe have been gathering

Nicholas Hospice Care, said: “Our retail shops

only short distances.

good-quality clothing and homeware to

are key to us – so we are especially grateful

donate to St Nicholas Hospice Care in Bury

for Ashton Graham helping us with both

He said: “As they won’t let me drive my Land

and St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich.

financial support and donations.”

Rover up the mountain (only Mr Clarkson gets to do that) I will have to use crutches. I hope to complete the climb in about 12 hours. The record is about an hour and a half so I guess that is not in any danger of being broken!” Robin will be joined by colleagues Ian Brookman, Ensors managing partner, and Adrian Firth, financial planning mortgage adviser – and other friends. You can make a donation to either The Royal British Legion www.bmycharity.com/bennevis2010rbl or Help For Heroes www.justgiving.com/BenNevis2010H4H – or both!

China on their mind Alternatively, cheques for ‘The Royal British Local business couple Claire and Daniel Barr –

hike for eight hours a day, setting up camp

Legion’ or ‘Help For Heroes’ can be sent to

owners of Anglia Factors, at Martlesham

en route.

Robin at Ensors, Blyth House, Rendham Road, Saxmundham IP17 1WA.

Heath – are preparing for a 10-day walk along The Great Wall of China to help St

“We will have to set up practice hikes and

Elizabeth Hospice.

train at our local gym to get to full fitness,”

Claire explained: “We have supported the

than others about the trip. She has a big fear

hospice for many years, through smaller

of flying and heights. “I am absolutely

fundraising events but we decided this would

determined to conquer these fears,”

be the year we did something not only

she added.

said Claire, who has a lot more apprehension

personally challenging and rewarding but that would raise money for such a wonderful

To support Claire and Daniel contact them at

local charity.”

Anglia Factors 01473 610192 or at www.justgiving.com/DanielAndClaires

Along with other team members, they will

ChinaChallenge

IPSWICH ART SCHOOL Opening 9th July 2010 THE SAATCHI GALLERY AT IPSWICH ART SCHOOL

This 6 month exhibition gives unique access to pieces of work from seven international artists. The Ipswich Art School building next to the Ipswich Museum, providing a venue to experience world-class exhibitions, bringing contemporary art out of London and into the East of England. The Ipswich Art School lends itself to all manner of opportunities for corporate events. If you are interested in finding out more about what we can offer your business please contact us on 01473 432868 Find out more about Ipswich Art School and at www.ipswich.gov.uk/museums You can keep in touch, get regular updates and chat to us online by joining us on: Twitter @IpswichArtSch

Jon Pylypchuk Matthew Monahan Berlinde de Bruyckere Thomas Houseago Alexandra Bircken Andy Yoder Will Ryman

IoD suffolk

summer 2010

business blogs

welcome to the business blogosphereâ&#x20AC;Ś In a digital age, a world of discursive thought

gillin.com/blog

and blogs on financial management

is at your fingertips. Blogs at their best provide

Social media and open enterprise

blog.cristinafavreau.com

a source of fresh business ideas and advice, in

betterbusinessblogging.com

This blog is dedicated to new and established

an informed and immediate way.

An introduction to social media and blogging

service-based business owners who want to

in relation to business

start, run and market their business effectively.

Here we provide a list of some of those we

briansolis.com

openinnovators.net

find most interesting, inevitably some have an

Brian Solis is a leader in new media, a digital

Board Of Innovation is a European trend office

American focus but often the advice and

analyst, sociologist and futurist.

specialized in new business models. Their

comment is applicable to us on this side of

commoditytrader.com

focus: consulting and inspiring organizations

the pond.

From coffee to gold, news and comment

in exploring new media and new business

from the commodity pits.

models.

blogs.iod.com

sethgodin.typepad.com

The IoD blog that highlights a variety of

Written by Seth Godin, the founder of

All the hyperlinks are live for these links

business issues.

permission marketing (the first to create

on our digital edition and if you have a

ft.com/comment/blogs

promotions and direct mail campaigns online)

favourite business blog then please

The financial Times Blog, with the latest

smallbiztrends.com

do email us on

comment on the financial markets

Includes marketing tips, sustainability planning

enquiries@tilstonphillips.com

To view a digital version of this magazine, visit www.tilstonphillips.com

MORTGAGES UNPLUGGED Step away from the computer. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t waste any more time googling, analysing rate tables and comparing meerkats. Pop in to see us to talk mortgages face to face, in person, over a nice cup of tea. You only need a 15% deposit (just 5% if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re an existing Member) and we offer variable, fixed and tracker mortgages. How very refreshing.

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business books

Social Media 101

business books for summer...

Tactics and Tips to Develop Your Business Online, Chris Brogan. Published March 2010, John Wiley and Sons. £15.99

The Director's Handbook

and other principles of company law, this new edition updates and explains the

100 ways to tap into social media for a more

Your Duties,

laws which affect the way every director

profitable business.

Responsibilities and

does their job, including a review of

Liabilities. Institute of

2009's landmark Walker Review into

In Social Media 101, social media expert and

Directors, Pinsent Masons.

corporate governance.

blogger Chris Brogan presents the best

Published May 2010, Kogan Page. £25.00

practices for growing the value of your social It deals with all aspects of a company

media and social networking marketing

director's role, duties, responsibilities and

efforts.

This new edition of The Director's Handbook is

liabilities within the context of the current law

a practical guide for board directors, other

and good practice. Written by leading experts

Brogan has spent two years researching what

senior decision makers and company

and fully supported by research findings, this

the best businesses are doing with social

secretaries, covering pensions, pay, corporate

3rd edition also contains case studies from

media and how they're doing it. Now, he

governance, legal obligations, best

companies of varying sizes and sectors, plus

presents his findings in a single,

boardroom practice and how the law

new chapters on the role of the company

comprehensive business guide to social media.

affects all companies.

secretary and the latest legal developments in health and safety.

You'll learn how to cultivate profitable online relationships, develop your brand, and drive

First published in 2005, the book filled a gap in the market by providing a practical

"The Director's Handbook" is the essential

guide to key issues facing board directors

reference and source of advice for all new and

and senior business decision-makers. Now,

existing directors, as well as those who aspire

Brogan shows you how to build an effective

with far-reaching changes in directors' duties

to this position.

blog or website for your business, monitor

meaningful business.

your online reputation and what people are saying about your business online, and create

The Truth about Talent

potential of their workforce to go unused and

A guide to building a

talent in all its forms is a vital step in

Presents specific strategies, tactics, and tips to

dynamic workforce,

developing an organization and ensuring

improve your business through improved

realizing potential and

long-term, sustainable success.

social media and online marketing

new content to share with your customers.

unfulfilled. Understanding the truth about

helping leaders succeed.

Looks at social media and the wider online

Jacqueline Davies and

A core part of their thesis is that organizations

Jeremy Kourdi. Published

should recognize that people at different

July 2010, John Wiley and Sons. £24.99

universe from a strictly business perspective.

stages of their career and with different

If you aren't using the Internet and social

experiences and aspirations need to developed

media to market your business and stay in

In this new book, Jacqueline Davies and

and engaged in different ways. The book

touch with your customers, you're already

Jeremy Kourdi argue that organisations are

provides a practical guide explaining how to

falling behind.

failing to realize the simple truth about talent:

segment the workforce, why, what to expect

they are misunderstanding their people,

when you do, and how to ensure that this

The Social Media 100 gives you 100 effective,

making flawed choices and allowing the true

approach succeeds.

proven strategies you need to succeed.

Please join us at our

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IoD suffolk

summer 2010

mind your own business

how to be simply the best…

hy do the simple things in

Similarly, we are all familiar with the

Perhaps we are so psychologically programmed

business sometimes seem

frustrations of abstruse tariffs for services such

for purchasing problems these days that even a

so difficult?

as telephones, gas, electricity and internet

small success can rate so highly on our

providers or having to wrestle with insurance

personal satisfaction scale.

The concept of simplicity has occupied great

policies that require the forensic fortitude of a

minds over the years.

state legislator to establish what is – or more

A few days later I found myself wanting to

important what is not – included.

hand out another bouquet for consumerfriendly service – this time to whoever enabled

It was Albert Einstein who advocated that we should ‘make everything as simple as possible,

We seem to spend so much time as consumers

but not simpler’. Clarence L ‘Kelly’ Johnson,

wading through treacle that it comes as a

Lockeed’s celebrated innovative aircraft

eureka moment when suddenly we find

Who can forget the hassle of tracking down

design engineer, coined the acronym KISS –

ourselves able to complete a transaction with

paper documentation, searching for a post

keep it simple and stupid, which has now

minimum discomfort.

office that was actually open and then standing in an interminable queue for the privilege of

evolved into the ubiquitous aphorism: Keep it simple, stupid.

us to renew car tax online.

I recently made a small purchase on the

handing our money to the taxman?

internet from a company devoted to selling outdoor items. To my great relief the process

Online, all you have to do is enter a reference

was simplicity personified. An easily-navigated

number and the system does the rest

Marketing researchers have noted that

website allowed me to find the relevant section

electronically – checking that your MoT

consumers buying domestic electrical products

and the items were well-displayed, with useful

certificate is in order and that your insurance is

prefer those with more complex attributes –

product information, including helpful reviews

up to date.

paradoxically, even if the extra features tend to

by customers.

But can simplicity be overrated?

The only other thing left to do is to enter your

confuse rather than help the user. Purchasing was equally painless and within a

payment details. So painless is the process that

couple of clicks the deal was done.

you almost don’t mind parting with the cash.

barrier to purchasing. In certain selling

A confirmation email pinged into my inbox

If only all transactions were so simple.

circumstances, therefore, complexity can

immediately and next day another one arrived

If a product appears less capable of delivering sophistication then this can apparently act as a

become a plus point.

telling me my order was on its way. Within 48

And is this not the lesson for businesses?

hours the article was delivered safely to my Where many organisations fall down, however,

home.

Make life as easy as possible for your customers – add a dash of genuine after-sales concern

is in not keeping the buying process itself as Exactly one week to the day I received another

(preferably not in the shape of a customer

friendly email – to check that my purchase had

feedback survey that purports to take only a

In supermarkets, for instance, we are often

arrived safely and that I was completely

few minutes but ties you up for an hour) –

invited to choose between different-sized

satisfied.

and they are more likely to keep coming back

simple as possible.

for more.

quantities only to discover that the volume-toprice ratios are not expressed consistently,

Although there is nothing particularly

making like-for-like comparisons impossible

sophisticated about any of this I still found it

without a calculator.

instructive that such simple acts of communication could transmit a warm glow.

Simple really… G C Armstrong

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

Graham Reid

Branch Membership Officer tel 01284 767670 email ian@selectofficefurniture.co.uk

Branch Treasurer 01449 737661 tel email graham.c.reid@virgin.net

IoD Pall Mall, London

Neil Prentice

Dawn Carman-Jones

Public Relations, Marketing and Magazine Liaison Officer

Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator tel 01379 873181

tel

01473 228811

email neil@white-spacedesign.com

email dawn@mercatus-marketing.co.uk

Dean Willingham Vice Chairman tel 01473 283283 email dean@dpstech.co.uk

Deborah Watson Public Relations and Marketing Officer tel 01394 446490

Benefits of Membership to the IoD Suffolk • Director Travel • IoD Visa Gold Card

email deborah@lexiamedia.co.uk

• Director’s Personal Indemnity Insurance • Directors Loans Caroline Kearney

Catherine Chambers

Suffolk Branch Administrator mob 07917 699 498 email caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk

Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator tel 01473 226645

• Director Corporate Finance • Director Office Supplies

email catherine@easilife.uk.com

• Director Health and Fitness 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 Institute of Directors Suffolk Branch 25 Wilding Drive, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 2AE

For a complete list of the current affinity member benefits, please see www.iod.com/speciallynegotiated

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Official government fuel consumption figures mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 11.7(24.1)-53.3 (5.3), extra urban 23.2(12.2)-74.3(3.8), combined 17.1(16.5)-64.2(4.4). CO2 emissions: 392-116 g/km. *Average based on customer service feedback from Service Events held at the Mercedes-Benz retailer above between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2009.