unLTD. Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #52 by unLTD magazine

JULY 2022 | ISSUE 52 | FREE | UNLTDBUSINESS.COM

stick

to the

plan Rob Shaw of Glu Recruit talks to us about the benefits of keeping it real and opening the new Sheffield office

DISRUPTSISVEES BUSINE

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CONTENTS

STORY: ROB SHAW OF GLU RECRUIT 28 COVER

DISRUPTIVE SHEFFIELD BUSINESSESBUSINESS 40 2021 26 AWARDS

FOUR-DAY SHEFFIELD BUSINESS WORKING WEEK 56 2021 26 AWARDS 4

INSPIRATIONAL SHEFFIELD OFFICES BUSINESS 48 2021 26 AWARDS

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CONTENTS

INSIDE... 6-10: News A round-up of the latest news from our region including updates from the region’s Chambers of Commerce, Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and BHP. 13-15: Appointments One of the first Doncaster UTC graduates secures an apprenticeship, plus the latest career moves around the region. 28: Cover story Glu Recruit managing director Rob Shaw on the growth of the business and being down-to-earth. 40: Disruptive businesses The Sheffield City Region businesses shaping future working practices. 59: A new park for Kelham Managing director of CODA Matt Bowker on creating a new park on Ball Street bridge in Kelham Island. 60-61: Have lunch with… unLTD’s Brogan Maguire sits down for lunch with Treat Time’s marketing manager, Hannah Ellis, to discuss the realities of working for a start-up business.

71: Five minutes with… Anne Horne talks about the South African cuisine on offer at her Orange Bird restaurant in Hillsborough.

EVERYTHING ELSE: 17: Legal Matters 22: Highlander 25: The Source 27: Equality in STEM 80: Launchpad 82: Charity

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@UNLTDBUSINESS UNLTD BUSINESS

BREAKING THE NORM

It’s a question we’ve been pondering over a lot here at unLTD – and we want to give special thanks to Andy Hanselman, who was more than happy to recommend some fantastic case studies. From getting creative with technology, to producing weird and wonderful workspaces and offering unusual employee benefits, there are plenty of ways organisations can shake things up. Lots of businesses across the Sheffield City Region are already doing just that – which is why we’ve featured them in this month’s edition! In this issue, Gravitate tell all about using social media to help their company reach new heights (more than 1m views on TikTok?!), while Simoda explain the benefits of offering a unique new sales approach. Plus, our cover stars, Glu Recruit, open up about their new offices in Sheffield and how being unapologetically authentic is what sets their business apart. Elsewhere, we look at some of the coolest offices in the region, including a helter skelter – yes, you read that right – at Electric Works and a roulette table at Narvartis. If you want to see the unLTD team taking advantage of the big slide – it was work, we promise! – then head to our Instagram page for a behind-the-scenes exclusive… We’re also debating the idea of the four-day working week – what are your thoughts? WANdisco and Maxons Sweets already offer one in Sheffield and they claim they haven’t seen any reduction in productivity or faced any pushback from clients. We’re looking forward to seeing the results of the trial in the new year!

UNLTDBUSINESS EDITORIAL News & features editor Brogan Maguire Brogan@hrmedia.org.uk Editorial editorial@unltdbusiness.com General hello@unltdbusiness.com 0114 252 7760 ADVERTISING Dan Laver dan@unltdbusiness.com 07867 313995 Phil Turner phil@unltdbusiness.com 07979 498034 General advertising@unltdbusiness.com FINANCE Lis Ellis accounts@exposedmagazine.co.uk DESIGN Marc Barker CONTRIBUTORS Andrew Rowley Beth Burley Chris Coates Jackie Cook Jo Davison Matt Holmes Ryan Kennedy Georgina Kerr Dan Laver

Sam Leeder Brogan Maguire Jade March James Marriott Rachel Measures Wendy Ward

unLTD is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd Unit 1B Rialto, 2 Kelham Island Sq., Kelham Riverside, Sheffield S3 8SD and HRM PR | Creative Unit 1A Speedwell Works, Sidney Street, Sheffield S1 4RG The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and HRM and while every effort is made to ensure information throughout unLTD is correct, changes prior to distribution may take place which can affect the accuracy of copy, therefore Blind Mice Media Ltd and HRM cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific listings.

AGENDA NEWS

SOUTH YORKSHIRE CHAMBERS SHARE LATEST NEWS New Chamber Champion programme set to support business in Sheffield Sheffield Chamber is an ecosystem of businesses working together to share expertise and ideas to support the fantastic businesses in Sheffield. Growing this community is one of Sheffield Chambers’ primary aims. As the world around us evolves the Chamber evolves with it to introduce new ways of working to facilitate and encourage this. Introducing Chamber Champions. Putting the business community centre stage, Sheffield Chamber Champions are nominated business individuals of Chamber members who share the same passion and drive to support businesses to be the best they can be. The new champion programme, sponsored by The Source, aims to create growth and showcase the value and impact of what being a Chamber member can bring. Generously volunteering his time and taking up the role of champion chair, is Matthew Lollar, business development executive at ASK4. He said: “It’s a pleasure to join the champion program. As someone who has been involved in the Sheffield business community for many years now, I understand how important the Chamber is in helping to bring businesses and people together.” To find out more and get involved email champion@ scci.org.uk or visit www.scci. org.uk.

The South Yorkshire Chambers of Commerce are busy providing innovative schemes to help their cities’ economies, improve support for businesses, and celebrate the achievements of organisations in their areas as they start to prepare for this year’s prestigious award ceremonies. Doncaster Chamber’s recent business conference saw business leaders and politicians, including Doncaster’s Mayor, Ros Jones, chief executive of the council, Damian Allen, and Nick Fletcher MP, come together to explore opportunities available to the city’s economy and what can be done to ensure its continued growth. Titled ‘Doncaster, What’s Next?’, the business conference took place at the Unipart Innovation Centre in Balby Carr. It was hosted by Tariq Shah, director of the Vigo Group, and Noreen Nasim, TEDX speaker and course leader from Doncaster College – they also acknowledged how their newly bequeathed City Status can be used to their advantage. Doncaster Chamber is looking forward to the Doncaster Business Awards, taking place in December at Doncaster Racecourse, with nominations now open. The black-tie event proves to be one of the biggest dates in the local business community calendar. Find out more: www. doncaster-chamber.co.uk/ doncaster-business-awards/ categories Similarly, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber is calling on businesses based in Barnsley, Rotherham and the surrounding area to showcase the strength and diversity of

the local economy by hosting another Celebration For Business event. Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber is hoping to recapture the spirit of South Yorkshire’s business community when the awards return on November 4. Find out more: www.brawards. co.uk Doncaster, Sheffield and Barnsley & Rotherham Chambers of Commerce have also come together to develop a quarterly podcast ‘South Yorkshire Policy Pod’ where business leaders can share their views and engage in thought-provoking

discussions about a given theme informed by the results of the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). While a few set questions are featured in every South Yorkshire QES, each one has its own focus too. The survey for Q1 of this year was specifically geared towards 'innovation', asking what motivates businesses to innovate in the first place, how much they spend on it and who they turn to for support. Businesses can have their say now, by filling out the 5-minute QES here: www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ H9Q9YG8

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AGENDA

ACTUS INSURANCE WELCOMED AS LATEST CHAMBER PATRON Neilson Hydraulics announced as new Bosch Rexroth certified excellence partner

Actus Insurance has joined Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce as the latest Chamber patron. The new patronage reflects the firm’s rapid growth within the region, with the brokerage drawing on nearly 50 years of combined experience to provide a no-nonsense approach to business insurance. Actus Insurance was founded five years ago by Sam Leeder

and Paul Taylor. They are passionate about working with local businesses to create long-standing partnerships. The company has grown significantly since 2017 and has a fantastic team of qualified insurance professionals to ensure they always deliver excellent service. Sam Leeder, Actus Insurance director, said: “When we founded Actus Insurance five years ago one of our key

drivers was to build great relationships. With Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber, we see like-minded individuals who not only forge great relationships but also build on them with time and effort. That’s why we’re proud to be named as the newest patrons for the Chamber - we look forward to many years of working in partnership with them to make an impact in the local business community.”

Fletchers Waste Management complete abseil in aid of charity A team from Fletchers Waste Management completed a 160ft abseil in aid of Roundabout Ltd on May 21. Roundabout is South Yorkshire’s local youth housing charity providing shelter, support and life skills to young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Roundabout supports over 300 young people aged 16-25 every day, providing emergency accommodation, supporting young people in residential projects in Sheffield and Rotherham and providing

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key services. The team delivers comprehensive programmes of training, involvement and empowerment which help

to prepare young people for independent living. Whilst there were some nerves amongst the group, the team from Fletchers Waste Management said they were very proud to have completed the challenge of abseiling the 160ft drop from one of Sheffield’s tallest buildings – Owen Building at Sheffield Hallam University - raising £1,595, smashing their £600 by miles. Visit the team’s Just Giving page to donate: www.justgiving.com/team/ FletchersWasteManagement

Sheffield-based Neilson Hydraulics & Engineering Ltd, which designs and manufactures hydraulic systems, and power packs and supplies a vast range of hydraulic components, has been announced as a new Bosch Rexroth Certified Excellence Partner. The Bosch Rexroth Certified Excellence is an international Partner Management Program for the Sales Partners of Bosch Rexroth. The Certified Excellence Program is a global sales partner qualification program to offer high-quality services and values to Rexroth customers. Neilson Hydraulics completed all stages of the certification process and will now specialise as an Industrial Hydraulics (IH) Distribution Partner of Bosch Rexroth in the UK. Rob Turner, managing director of Neilson Hydraulics, said: “This is a very proud moment in our working history. Neilson Hydraulics has been a long-standing partner of Bosch Rexroth since 1996, and we are delighted to gain this industry accolade.” Andrew Minturn, partner manager of Bosch Rexroth Ltd, said: “We are very pleased that Neilson Hydraulics & Engineering Ltd may now call itself a Certified Excellence Partner of Bosch Rexroth.” Neilson Hydraulics supplies hydraulic components and solutions to companies in the agriculture, construction, engineering, farming, materials handling, marine, plastics, recycling, and steel industry.

AGENDA NEWS

CELEBRATING OLYMPIC LEGACY IN ACTION AT SHEFFIELD OLYMPIC LEGACY PARK Glu Recruit x Whyy? Change: Power Up Your Workforce with South Yorkshire’s hottest collaboration Two Yorkshire businesses, Glu Recruit and Whyy? Change, have decided to stick together in a new collaboration that will help companies to attract, recruit and train the very best employees. At a time when the recruitment landscape is hit by skills gaps and personnel shortages, Glu and Whyy? have made a pact to help businesses to overcome their workforce challenges. Ultimately, businesses will be able to add value to their recruitment efforts by combining Glu’s expertise and Whyy’s ability to offer a range of accredited training packages – many of which are fully funded or heavily subsidised. Rob Shaw, Glu Recruit managing director, said: “Candidates are shopping around for an employment package that not only offers a competitive salary and usual perks but also offers a commitment to training, upskilling, and career development. And that’s how our collaboration with Whyy? Change began.” Local businesses looking to grow or upskill their teams can talk to either Glu Recruit or Whyy? Change to explore how the team can help you. This can include temporary, permanent or graduate recruitment or industryrecognised accredited qualifications in CIM, CMI, CIPD, Lean6, and Quality HSE.

An ‘Olympic Legacy in Action’ event took place at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park last month as part of the 10th anniversary celebrations for the London 2012 Games. On June 18, children and adults of all ages joined the free activities, ranging from paddleboarding to boxing, at venues across the park. The Olympic Legacy in Action event celebrated the 10th anniversary of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It was also an opportunity to see the hugely impressive facilities available in the park at partner organisations like Sheffield Hallam University’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre and the English Institute of Sport Sheffield. The day formed part of Move More Month 2022. It provided a platform to showcase a variety of activity providers

from across the city, all working collaboratively towards the Move More vision of creating a healthier, happier, and more connected Sheffield. Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park was established after London 2012 and is the only Olympic Legacy Park outside a host city anywhere in the world. Bringing together expertise

from academia, elite sport, the NHS, and public and private sector organisations, the park creates a unique cluster of life sciences assets, including research centres, business incubators, educational facilities and laboratories for collaborative research and innovation in health and wellbeing.

BHP Corporate Finance clinches five Dealmakers awards Leading Yorkshire accountancy firm BHP has scooped five accolades at the South Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards 2022, including Dealmaker of the Year. The firm’s Corporate Finance team was named Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year for the second year running. BHP won the Mid-Market Deal of the Year for its part in the Acquisition of 3G Truck and Trailer Parts, and the team also triumphed in the Deal of the Year (£10m+) category with the acquisition of Hydro-X by Marlowe. Partner Don Gray was named Dealmaker of the Year, while BHP Consultant David Forrest

was recognised for his 30+ years’ experience in the industry and presented with the Lifetime Achievement award. BHP’s joint managing partner Hamish Morrison said: “It was an amazing night for our Corporate Finance team at the Dealmakers Awards and we’re

delighted to have won across five categories. “It’s a testament to the quality of work that the team delivers day in day out for our clients, and the awards highlight their dedication to carrying out incredible industry-leading work.”

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AGENDA Interest rates, inflation and the cost-ofliving crisis

LAUNCHPAD SUPPORT HELPS BEERPIG UNLOCK CRACKLING YEAR OF GROWTH John Walker and David Mace launched their pub snacks business, Beerpig, in November 2019. Despite losing their customer base early into their business journey due to COVID-19, Beerpig’s tasty pork scratchings, which are sold warm directly from the bar, can be found in over 250 pubs and clubs across the UK. Central to Beerpig’s growth plans were creating a custom-built warming cabinet enabling pubs to sell heated

pork scratchings. John also embarked upon a quest to create the perfect pork crackling suitable for warming, meet the necessary shelf life and comply with all food safety standards. Working with business adviser Darren McDool, the pair realised it was vital to protect the Beerpig name and successfully secured a trademark to protect their unique brand. They also developed a short-term and a long-term business plan setting

out the company’s ambitious growth strategies. During this time, John and David took part in several free workshops by Launchpad, giving them the confidence to develop their website from scratch and further protect their brand. They also learnt how to market their products more effectively. Beerpig continues to grow with support from Launchpad - a support programme for new businesses.

Interest rates increased from 1 per cent to 1.25 per cent - the highest level in 13 years. Inflation is at a 40-year high of 9 per cent. The Bank warns it could surpass 11 per cent this year. One way to control inflation is to raise interest rates. The June rate rise means that homeowners with a typical tracker mortgage will pay £25 more a month. Those on standard variable rate mortgages will see a £16 increase. The Bank said energy prices were expected to drive living costs even higher but added it would “act forcefully” should pressures persist. Capital Economics speculates that the Bank could have to raise interest rates to 3 per cent. However, UK homes on benefits will receive £326 by the end of July, and another £324 in autumn. It comes as part of a £37bn government package to help families as bills soar.

Apprentice reservation capped numbers were reset this month Non-levy Apprenticeship Service reservation cap numbers were reset to nil on June 1. Small and medium-sized employers can start up to 10 new apprentices regardless of who they currently employ. Chris Cain from First Intuition, the award-winning training provider delivering programmes in the AAT, ACCA, ICAEW and CIMA Qualifications, said: “The ESFA announced that the long-awaited, much-needed reset of the cap on apprenticeship starts for SME’s was happening. “This reset will give employers the certainty they need for their recruitment plans, and to start apprentices with the full benefits of the knowledge, skills and behaviours that these robust programmes deliver.”

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L-R: MARTIN EASTWOOD (CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER) AND STEVE ADAMS (CEO).

SOUTH YORKSHIRE ONLINE RETAILER RECOGNISED AS 19TH FASTEST GROWING TECH FIRM IN THE NORTH The UK’s leading online mattress and bed retailer landed a double at the recent Northern Tech Awards placing 19th in the Top 100 Fastest-Growing Tech Companies in the North and 2nd in the Top 15 Fastest Growing Larger Companies. The retailer has long had technology at the forefront of the business and was one of the first online sellers

of mattresses back in 2003 when the company launched its bespoke e-Commerce platform. During COVID-19, they saw turnover leap to £37.5m fuelled by spending on DIY and homeware. Growth was underpinned by their in-house development team who found smarter ways to use technology to make customer experience slicker.

AGENDA NEWS

HLM ARCHITECTS CELEBRATE 40 YEARS IN SHEFFIELD University of Sheffield ranked within top 100 universities The University of Sheffield has been ranked as one of the top 100 universities in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023, reaffirming its position as a leading global university for teaching and research excellence. The global league table has also named the University as joint 16th best in the UK, 96th in the world and second in Yorkshire and Humber. In the 2023 edition of the QS World University Rankings, the institution performed among the top seven per cent of universities. The global ranking is the most-consulted independent evaluation of the world’s 1,422 top universities. This year’s edition featured expert opinions of over 151,000 academics and contributions from 99,000 employers. Over 16.4 million academic research papers and 117.8 million citations were also examined to measure the impact of the research produced by the universities ranked. The ranking follows recent news that the University of Sheffield’s Students’ Union was awarded the Whatuni Student Choice Award 2022 for Best Students’ Union for the fifth year running. Earlier in the year, the establishment was also ranked one of the most international universities in the world by Times Higher Education.

unLTD's Dan Laver was chuffed to bits to be asked to join HLM in the June sunshine to look back on their last 40 years as they look forward to many more. Hosted at Sheffield’s Victoria Quays in the True Loves waterside bar, Dan was among many asked to join the Sheffield-founded architects for signature cocktails created

for the event, along with food, while enjoying a selection of photos collected over the years. He said: “It’s great to learn about the people behind the Sheffield that we all know and love. When you look up and around the city, you see the work and passion of people you already know, people you bump into every week. It’s a pleasure to hear how the team

at HLM have put their mark on the city, and I’m proud to recognise that and celebrate a local business that breaks boundaries.” Delia Harmston, studio director, was joined by director Chris Liddle, to make speeches reflecting on the incredible journey that HLM, its clients and partners have shared over the last 40 years.

University of Sheffield student wins national nursing award A student from the University of Sheffield has won a national nursing award for her research into how hospitals, and other acute care settings, can make dementia patients feel more comfortable during their stay. Emma Peet, an undergraduate Adult Nursing student at the University of Sheffield has been named the Student Nursing Times Student Nurse or Midwife of the Year for Clinical Research after putting together a three-point plan of recommendations for

dementia patients when eating and drinking. Common symptoms of dementia can make it difficult to eat and drink well. As dementia progresses, it affects the area of the brain that controls swallowing, which means that the person may have a weak swallow or lose the ability to swallow safely. The recommendations include: Training to improve staff knowledge of dementia, how it affects people and how it changes their life.

Making environmental modifications to help dementia patients feel comfortable to limit sensory issues or decreased concentration. Creating a specific feeding skills workshop so staff can develop appropriate feeding skills. Emma presented her findings to Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, which said it is happy for her to contribute her research findings to its ongoing development of care and services for dementia patients.

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PROPERTY PROPERTY NEWS

CEO OF URBANA ADAM MURRAY WITH THE AWARD FOR SMALL CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR

Urbana wins small consultancy of the year

BERECO SHORTLISTED FOR FOUR INDUSTRY AWARDS Leading timber window and doors supplier Bereco is celebrating having been shortlisted for four prestigious industry awards. The company has been shortlisted in the timber company of the year, vertical sliding window company of the year and bifolding door manufacturer of the year categories with managing director Nicola Harrison receiving recognition in the director of the year category at the National Fenestration

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Awards 2022. Bereco was nominated for the awards by members of the fenestration industry and this year the organisers received the largest number of nominations on record. Bereco, founded in 2003, is a UK based supplier of timber windows and doors, offering made to measure timber sash and casement windows, entrance, patio and bi-fold doors to both the new build and home improvement sectors.

The company offers a 10-year warranty on all their products and a six-year warranty on installation in addition to an insurance backed guarantee. The firm uses only FSC 100 per cent timber and is already ahead of the anticipated future energy efficiency requirements coming in the 2025 release of the Future Homes and Building Standard, practising industry-leading sustainability and energy efficiency processes.

Sheffield-based planning consultancy, Urbana, has won Small Consultancy of the Year at the Awards for Planning Excellence, hosted by the Royal Town Planning Institute in Yorkshire. The awards celebrate outstanding plans, projects and people that demonstrate the power of planning, highlighting exceptional examples of how planning and planners have a positive impact on our quality of life. CEO Adam Murray collected the award last month at the ceremony in Aspire Leeds. He said: “Winning this award demonstrates that living by our strong values and delivering schemes that we truly believe in, to make cities better, is recognised across our industry and is evidence of what can be achieved by prioritising great urbanism.” Winners from the Nations and Regions round of awards will become national finalists in October, with winners announced at a ceremony in central London in November.

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AGENDA

VOOT TELECOM

NIGEL SHORT OF VOOT TELECOM GIVES AN INSIGHT INTO JUST HOW IMPORTANT INTERNET SPEED CAN BE FOR YOUR BUSINESS

SPEED DOES MATTER

I have a borderline obsession with internet speeds. I think it stays on the right side of a healthy enthusiasm most of the time. But I can’t help but feel my face light up when I see internet speed tests that my business, Voot Telecom, have conducted and they come back with the kind of results that are the equivalent of the fourminute mile. Honestly, it’s a joy. Maybe it’s because I’ve been around mobile phones long enough to remember the first time I loaded a page on WAP, which was a useful and notable step in mobile internet evolution, but hardly lived up to the promise of the internet in the palm of your hand. Younger readers might not remember WAP, but it wasn’t an amazing experience, no matter what Cardi B thinks. (Younger readers can console themselves that older readers are googling ‘Cardi B’ at this point!) Twenty-something years later, mobile internet has leapfrogged wired connections to be the main way we access the web. The Cardi B fans can barely go 10 minutes without checking their social media and the cardigan fans aren’t much better. The internet consumes much of our work and home lives and we need the internet speeds that we are accustomed to on our mobile phones on our work devices too. The modern office needs the internet, and it needs fast internet access. There have been a number of great initiatives to make sure our region has access to fibre broadband speeds, but unfortunately the holes can’t

always be dug quick enough to keep up with demand, or it simply isn’t affordable to get to us all. I found this recently when I visited a new client in North Sheffield who couldn’t get fibre access. They had jumped around providers over the years, always promised better speeds than eventually materialised. Fortunately, we don’t need to check a database to guess speeds, I can just take my mobile phone with me and find out the real speeds… DOWNLOADS mbps

UPLOADS mbps

60.1 29.4

That’s a solid result and means we can fit one of Voot Telecom’s Fast 4G connections very quickly and have them using

multiple devices over WiFi. It’s a fixed device that uses the mobile network, which in a lot of cases is stronger, faster and more reliable than the fixed line broadband in the area, particular if there’s a low population density and no-one has got around to laying fancy new cables. Then sometimes this happens… I visited a new client in Retford in a five-person business. They were struggling with video calls if more than one of the team was online at the same time. Here’s the screenshot from my mobile when I tested the speeds… DOWNLOADS mbps

637

UPLOADS mbps

47.2

Now, most of you haven’t spent as long as I have working

in business telecoms, so I’ll forgive you if your heart isn’t skipping a beat seeing those numbers. But for context, forget a four-minute mile. That’s a fourminute marathon. There’s a lot more to what we do than just that speed test. Keeping customers happy means we work a lot harder than just setting you up and walking away. But results like that are one of the joys of what we do and I’m very happy to report that modern 5G networks are making them all the more common. Speed isn’t everything when it comes to business web access, but it definitely matters. If you would like to arrange a free test to check your connection speeds at your home or office, give me call on 01143211504 or visit www.voot.org

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AGENDA APPOINTMENTS

CURRENT VACANCIES

ABOUT GLU RECRUIT Glu Recruit are a full-service recruitment agency established in 2016. We specialise in temporary, permanent, contract and graduate recruitment – offering a tailored solution from entry level to senior management and board level spanning your entire organisation.

As an independent recruitment agency, we focus on the long-term stick of the placement. Whether you’re a candidate looking to make a career move, or an employer looking to add to your team, our thorough and proactive recruitment and retention service ensures you are well looked after! Call: 0114 321 1873 Email: hello@glurecruit.co.uk www.glurecruit.co.uk

Role: Head of Community & Events Fundraising Salary: £40,000 per annum Sector: Charity Location: Sheffield Role: Sales Account Manager Salary: £25-£30K per annum DOE Sector: Advertising/Media Location: Sheffield Role: Marketing & Communications Services Manager Salary: £38,000 per annum Sector: Marketing Agency Location: Sheffield

YORKSHIRE AIR AMBULANCE APPOINT REGIONAL FUNDRAISING MANAGER Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) appointed a new regional fundraising manager which sees Vickie Bowden promoted to manage the whole of West and South Yorkshire. YAA serves five million people across Yorkshire and carries out over 1,300 missions every year. The charity operates two state-of-the-art Airbus H145 helicopters and needs to raise £12,000 every day to keep saving lives. Vickie joined YAA in 2016

and her move into fundraising and the Charity sector was accidental but she has never looked back. Businesses large and small play a critical role in raising

both awareness and funds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance and this year, Vickie will be focusing on building relationships within the South Yorkshire area. There are many ways businesses can get involved from sponsorship opportunities to fundraising initiatives, volunteering opportunities and employee engagement schemes. To learn more, visit: www. yorkshireairambulance.org.uk

Bhayani Law see growth up to 40 per cent National staff shortages and employees seeking a better work-life balance have led to growth at Sheffieldheadquartered employment and HR law firm, Bhayani Law. The company, launched by former Yorkshire Employment Lawyer of the Year Jay Bhayani, has recently grown by 40 per cent, employing new staff to keep pace with demand at its branches in Sheffield, Leeds, Leicester and Barnsley.

Further expansion for Simpson Millar’s ‘formidable’ Court of Protection team Law firm Simpson Millar has further cemented its reputation as a leading player within the Court of Protection with a flurry of new appointments. Spearheaded by Co-Chair of the Court of Practitioners Association (CoPPA), Melanie Varey, the team oversees the property, financial affairs and personal welfare of people who lack mental capacity to make decisions for themselves. Further to growing demand for its services, the firm has welcomed Radek Wojtylko, Pete Myers, Alex Kimpton and Holly White in the roles of paralegal, senior paralegal, legal administrator and Solicitor respectively. Their arrival follows several senior hires for the team including Kate Edwards who is known as one of the leading authorities on Court of Protection (CoP) in the country, and Kayleigh Smith, who has been involved in some of the leading cases to be reported in the last few years.

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AGENDA SPONSORED BY

HARDWORKING HARVEY SECURES APPRENTICESHIP AT AGEMASPARK One of the first graduates from Doncaster University Technical College (UTC), Harvey Smith, 17, has received an early career boost after securing an apprenticeship with a local precision engineering company. Set to graduate from the UTC, which opened in September 2020, with a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering in July, Harvey will undertake an apprenticeship with Agemaspark, with his education and skills training being delivered by the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre.

the AMRC Training Centre workplace coach. Students are allowed to follow a chosen specialism in engineering or creative and digital technologies while studying GCSEs, A Levels and developing employability skills. Aiming to offer clients a one-stop shop for engineering solutions by combining new HARVEY SMITH technology with cutting-edge design and manufacturing, He will learn an aspect of Agemaspark works with mechanical engineering at the industries including AMRC Training Centre working aerospace, oil & gas, medical, closely with Agemaspark. food processing, plastic While at Agemaspark, he will injection moulding and higher have regular reviews from education.

Gravitate Accounting welcomes new shareholder and makes trio of hires Gravitate Accounting, which specialises in Xero cloud software, digital accounting, and outsourced FD services, has added a third director to its board as it continues to grow. Jonathan Carr, who has been employed as a client finance director at the Sheffield-based business since early 2021, has become a minority shareholder to support the strategic direction of the business alongside co-founders Sam Newton and Mike Crocker. Gravitate Accounting

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L-R MIKE CROCKER, SAM NEWTON AND JONATHAN CARR.

has hired three new team members to support the firm’s growing client base. They are digital accountant Charlie Goodwin, client financial controller Charlotte Firth and office support Amy Howard. The changes have been made as the business reports a 34% revenue uplift for the period ending April 2022 and has added 40 new clients to its roster since January. Over the coming months, the accountancy firm plans to strengthen the team further with several more hires.

Pressure Technologies plc appoints Chris Webster as chief operating officer Pressure Technologies plc, the specialist engineering group, has appointed Chris Webster as chief operating officer with responsibility for manufacturing operations across its Chesterfield Special Cylinders, Roota Engineering, Al-Met and Martract sites. In this new role, Chris will drive operational excellence to support the growth and development of manufacturing capabilities across the business. He brings a wealth of knowledge and operational experience from almost 30 years working in the steel industry for Tata Steel, Corus and British Steel and more recently in the rail sector for US engineering and technology firm Wabtec Corporation. Chris Walters, chief executive at Pressure Technologies, said: “I am delighted to welcome Chris to the team. He joins us at an important time, with a strong defence order book and fastdeveloping hydrogen energy opportunities for Chesterfield Special Cylinders and a steadily improving oil and gas market outlook for our Roota Engineering, Al-Met and Martract sites.”

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BUSINESS

LEGAL MATTERS

BY DAX KEELING, BELL & BUXTON INCORPORATING IRONMONGER CURTIS Dax looks at the factors business owners should bear in mind if considering redundancies

REDUNDANCIES – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW We live in uncertain times. The cost-of-living crisis generally and increasing energy costs, allied to postBrexit trade issues, are daily news stories. There is dark talk of a possible recession looming. Whilst it is early days, my experience is that the number of redundancies being made by businesses may be increasing. If a business is to stop operating entirely, the issue of staff redundancy is straightforward and selfevident. However, if business owners feel the need to reduce workforce numbers rather than close the business altogether, that is potentially a trickier situation. The business is likely to need some professional

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help in negotiating its way through the redundancy process, drafting settlement agreements for staff who are to exit the business (not always on good terms) and reviewing or implementing company policies to provide a procedural framework when making staff redundant. If an employee brings an unfair dismissal claim against a business because they think they were unfairly made redundant, it is unlikely that an Employment Tribunal will find that the employee has been unfairly dismissed if the business decision to make the redundancy isn’t obviously flawed and if a fair redundancy process has been followed. That obviously makes the

redundancy process itself extremely important. It is vital that staff at risk are consulted at all times and are given the opportunity to provide input into the process. If the staff at risk are to be scored against a selection criteria, that criteria must be fair and fairly applied. Alternatives to redundancy must also be considered. Redundancy consultation timetables must be reasonable, and staff must be given the chance to appeal the decision made. There may of course be alternatives open to the business other than compulsory redundancy, but these issues too can be complex, and the business is likely to need professional

advice on how to negotiate potentially difficult situations. It might be that the plan is to temporarily lay staff off, in the hope that business can pick up again enabling the staff to return to work normally in the future, to implement pay freezes (or cuts), or similar approaches. In such a situation it will be crucial for the business to ensure that decisions made are contractually sound to avoid possible challenges by staff members. If you would like to speak to Dax Keeling about advice with making redundancies, please contact him on 0114 220 2172 or d.keeling@bellbuxton.co.uk

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ENTREPRENEURSUPPORT BY HELEN WILLIAMS, HELPING ENTREPRENEURS WIN

Our columnist Helen explains how coaching can get you the results you need.

HOW COACHING CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS Is it coaching? Is it consultancy? Is it mentoring? Is it business support? Well in our opinion, you can honestly define it however you want because it’s the results that we create that we focus on. And let’s face it, it’s results that you want, not an English language cross examination. When we talk about coaching though, here are two things we have said before and we will certainly say again: Key benefits: Allows and encourages positive • Coaching works communication amongst staff • Coaching is personal to and employees the individual Communication may happen and let’s face it we are living in So, how do we incorporate a world full of communication these two factors and help you but there’s no guarantee that its with results in your business? constructive, helpful or effective NB: your results are also for any of your team or client individual to you as your base. business isn’t identical to any Do you make time for actual other across the region and verbal conversations anymore? your goal and objective setting Is your industry changing and isn’t (or shouldn’t be) an off the do you need to be more active in shelf approach but allow us to a certain comms approach? share some of the key benefits When was the last time that all businesses experience you allowed staff to generate which in turn create results. ideas and suggestions for the company?

Identifies challenges and frustrations As individuals within a team and collectively as a team, there are challenges and frustrations. No one is immune! It’s not the immunity that you seek for your business but the allowance of expression and then the importance on the solution finding and application. Allows for personal responsibility and overall accountability All staff can understand their role as part of fuelling the engine room of the business. With that there is emphasis on personal responsibility through self-

awareness and personal growth to enhance the bigger picture and positive momentum. When everyone is involved and particularly via a third party, accountability is at its all-time highest. There is nowhere to hide, or pass the book – not that fully motivated, empowered staff would want to! No key areas we work on in coaching are mutually exclusive, they all interweave and perpetuate in a constructive or destructive nature. It’s our job to assist you out of destructive territory and into a harmonious tune. This is the desirable and much needed outcome for a business, whether there are three members in the team or 200. For help, more information or to book a free consultation, visit: www. helpingentrepreneurswin. com or email: helen@ helpingentrepreneurswin.com We look forward to helping you win.

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ABY ANDREW HELPING HAND ROWLEY OF BROOK CORPORATE DEVELOPMENTS Andrew explains how SMEs affected by the pandemic can access a programme of support

FULLY FUNDED SUPPORT FOR SMES At Brook, one of our company values is to provide support to businesses of all shapes and sizes. Naturally, if you are an SME with tight profit margins, being able to access support becomes more difficult, but we are involved with a new programme run by Barnsley Council which may offer an opportunity. The Future Proofed Workforce programme is offering 250 Barnsley-based businesses which have been adversely affected by the pandemic a chance to undergo a diagnostic assessment from one of our consultants. This support is funded by Barnsley Council and will come at no cost to the business. Eligible businesses will work with the consultant to identify key issues affecting their workforce. Following the assessment, each business will have its own action plan

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with priorities for further work, designed against one or more of five areas – organisation human resources, leadership and management, workforce mapping, development and culture and employee mental health. Common topics we have supported companies with so far include managing hybrid working, restructuring the workforce to replace long-serving employees, and introducing a new flexible working schedule. The business will be appointed another specialist consultant to work with them on the area identified. If more than one area is highlighted, they may in fact work with two or more consultants, each with a specialism in the area of support required. The business may have an idea of the areas they need help with, but our consultants will go through every aspect of the

business so that we can make recommendations about the areas we think could benefit from support. There are then further opportunities for the business to get that support implemented through Barnsley Council, whether it be through ourselves or other providers. There are still places available on the programme and businesses can apply through the Enterprising Barnsley website. You will need to demonstrate that your business is a small to mediumsized enterprise and has been facing issues and challenges caused by the pandemic in order to be eligible. Our work with programmes like Future Proofed Workforce has led us to recruit an additional business support manager to the Brook team. Chris Brown has joined us and will initially be working with the Barnsley SMEs to run the

diagnostic assessments. When Brook was first set up, supporting programmes like Future Proofed Workforce was the area of the business we wanted to use to drive growth. We are passionate about making sure that as many businesses as possible of any size can access the support we offer. If you are looking for business support but don’t qualify for the Future Proofed Workforce programme, please contact us because you may qualify for other projects we are involved with. To find out more about the Future Proofed Workforce programme, visit www. brookconsult.co.uk/futureproofed-workforce/ or call 01226 240435.

DIGITAL

HIGHLANDER

Highlander’s James Yates looks at the hot trends in disruptive business technologies

With disruption across different sectors being the theme of unLTD this month, our technology columnists Highlander look at the innovative tech that is shaking up the workplace.

Business owners and employees are much more aware of air quality since COVID-19. The pandemic made us all think about making sure our workplace was properly ventilated, but industrial environments pose even more risks. On-site workers are at risk from temperature, humidity, indoor air quality and gases that build up, such as CO2. Elevated levels can have a negative impact on your team’s wellbeing, comfort, and cognitive abilities. The widespread use of new products and building materials, as well as improved insulation for energy efficiency, can result in increased concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs originate mainly from paints and solvents, carpets and furniture, and cleaning agents and are also emitted by humans. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can be avoided or significantly reduced by regular ventilation, air purification and removal of strong VOC sources. The Total VOC (TVOC) concept has been established as a practical time and costeffective method of surveying indoor environments for contamination. Our range of sensors enables

measurement of TVOC levels and thus helps to increase the efficiency of ventilation and air purification and increases awareness of VOC sources and indoor air pollution. SUSTAINABILITY With costs of energy on the up, even the least ecoconscious out there are taking a harder look at making a workplace more sustainable and eco-friendlier in the long run. POWER DISTRIBUTION MONITORS (PDM) PDM's measure energy at mains, sub-meter or at circuit and asset level. The PDM securely streams consumption data to our cloud-based platform in realtime. Providing valuable and timely insight in to where and when your business is using energy. With the ability to reduce wasted energy usage and monitor plant equipment to reduce peak usage charges, sub-meter energy monitoring can save companies over 30 per cent. You see an exact breakdown of when and where your energy is being consumed, at machine or circuit level, in real time.

Barrett Steel, a local client, operates a number of energyintensive, critical assets. Being able to set up alerts to inform maintenance staff when a machine starts using increased amounts of energy can help to ensure hardware failures are reduced. The operational cost saving of this alone can be invaluable. You’ll see an itemised bill that is not dissimilar to the one from your current energy supplier. Then on top of this a detailed report will analyse the data to tell you when you might be wasting and where. This breakdown can be as detailed as you want – you can even look at specific circuit groups and compare historical periods. You’ll be able to optimise your energy usage from this. It goes without saying that we will help you to comply with CRC and ESOS and will therefore improve your public image and carbon footprint.

COMPUTER VISION Computer vision is a field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that enables computers and systems to derive meaningful information from digital images, videos and other visual inputs — and take actions or make recommendations based on that information. QUALITY ASSURANCE With the utilisation of computer vision, it is possible to perform realtime automated visual inspections in every single item that

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DIGITAL

is being produced. This is also utilised to detect defective items and categorise them by custom visual criteria, as well as identify pattern changes or additional anomalies. This impacts wastage across a business and can mean not just reduced costs during manufacturing but avoiding expensive product recalls further down the line. AUTOMATED SECURITY CAMERAS Computer vision can be utilised with outdoor cameras to automatically detect threats to the security of the premises. The system can alert the on-site security team a security breach is detected. This includes surveillance of access points, monitoring of barriers and perimeters, suspicious behaviour detection, vandalism detection and more. Some systems go as

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far as detecting movement, recognising faces, or sharing thermal estimations. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT COMPLIANCE Existing or new CCTV feeds can be utilised in combination with the latest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automatically detect and alert the site manager based on specific requirements. For example, the use of cameras indoors to automatically monitor use of safety equipment such as helmets and visors. While the fear of a surveillance state means that these technologies are sometimes controversial, their implementation in monitoring temperature for signs of infection during the

pandemic and even the ability to recognise a lost child in a shopping centre means they provide solutions that will undoubtedly become more utilised and ultimately keep people safe. ASSET TRACKING AND MANAGEMENT Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) allows real-time tracking of any physical asset in a facility to define its location. Materials

or products can be tracked to monitor their flow throughout the production process. By utilising UWB technology it is possible to provide full real-time visualisation of key assets, tools and materials across your entire facility. All tracked assets are visualised on your facility plan with one-foot (30 cm) accuracy and displayed in real-time on any device. Knowing exactly where assets are greatly reduces the time spent looking for missing or misplaced assets or all rejects from a single batch. Having full insights into where assets were in the past and what their flow across the facility was helps to plan processes better, monitor inventory, reduce search times, limit bottlenecks and streamline workflows.

Up to £5,000 Grant Funding for Your Digital Innovation Project The Digital Innovation Grant (DIG) can fund 50% of a project costing £2,000-£10,000* which will help you to introduce new products, offer new services, and access new markets. *grant value £1,000-£5,000

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The Digital Innovation Grant Programme is an ERDF funded project and Barnsley MBC are the accountable body. The project is receiving up to £1.6m of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

SKILLS

SKILLS FOCUS

SPONSORED BY THE SOURCE SKILLS ACADEMY The Source Skills Academy in Sheffield is passionate about bringing out the best in people. It has been helping businesses to increase the talents of their teams since 2003 and is proud to sponsor Skills Focus, a monthly spotlight on training and apprenticeship news and funding to help you develop your staff.

SOURCE PROJECT A SENSE-ATIONAL SUCCESS ACROSS ROTHERHAM The Source’s Sense of Place project has been a big success! It has engaged with thousands of Rotherham people, helped many on their way to jobs and training and increased pride in the town. The six-month scheme trained up six youth workers and sent them off to inspire young Rotherham people about career opportunities in arts, culture and entertainment as the town prepares to become the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture in 2025. The Source’s Sense-ational six worked with 10 schools and 20 organisations and connected with 2,250 people across the borough. The passion shown by Naomi Duff, Lisa Rudkin, Phoebe Williams, Armani Sadiq, Aisha Mosavi and Mya Fuller was steered by Dannielle Nixon. Youth worker Dannielle was hired especially for the task by The Source, one of eight organisations being funded by the UK Community Renewal Fund to help get Rotherham’s young people upskilled and engaged as part of Children’s Capital of Culture 2025, when a year-long festival will celebrate the town’s heritage and identity. “We’ve had positive feedback from every organisation our six phenomenal young women worked with,” said Dannielle. The team held career

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SENSE OF PLACE TEAM L TO R:NAOMI DUFF, PHOEBE WILLIAMS, YOUTH WORKER DANNIELLE NIXON, LISA RUDKIN (FRONT), AISHA MOSAVI, MYA FULLER, ARMANI SADIQ planning sessions at Thrybergh Academy and St Bernard’s RC High School, sharing information on apprenticeships and training and helping pupils prepare for job interviews and university applications. At four libraries they staged weekly job clubs and taught digital skills. They organised a twoday youth empowerment workshop led by entertainer and MTV Base star KAT B and ran a media skills workshop for other Rotherham CCoC trainees. Every week they worked with Rush House, outdoor education centre Endeavour, the Base Community Hub in Wath and the Rotherham Opportunities College

(ROC) for adults with special educational needs. The ROC won the £500 first prize in Sense of Place’s art competition with their two-metre-high Wheel of Life, featuring the things people need to thrive in life. “The trainee youth workers led conversations with students about what the wheel was about and what it could feature, sourced materials and helped them complete the work,” said assistant principal Louise Smith. “They were brilliant!” In addition to gaining CACHE qualifications in safeguarding, information advice and guidance, equality and diversity, mental health, First Aid and GDPR, the Source’s trainees grew in

confidence and developed new goals in life. Lisa Rudkin is now looking for jobs in theatre and cinema, and Phoebe Williams has landed a part-time job with the Base in Wath as a result of her work there. Aisha Mosavi is one of two trainees hoping to become teaching assistants and is applying for jobs with the ROC. “I have gained so many valuable experiences and made friends for life thanks to this project,” she said. “It has changed my life.” There’s progression for Dannielle too - she is now The Source’s full-time learner and community engagement officer, and feeling really positive about her new role.

“It’s all about the people and the by-product of this is a great, efficient and personal service!” Sheffield Eagles

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STEM

FEMALE ROLE MODELS PROMOTING EQUALITY IN STEM

Our Mission: To attract, develop and retain a diverse and inclusive mix of people in STEM careers

NATALIECLAIRE LUWISHA STRUCTURAL ENGINEER What is your current role? Structural engineer What does that involve, look like on a day-to-day basis? I’m involved in the design and repair of residential and industrial buildings. This includes calculating structural elements, writing reports and drawing structural layout details of designs using engineering software. How did you get started working in STEM? When I graduated from university, I didn’t go into the industry straight away. I’ve gained experience in a variety of careers and entrepreneurship. I am now returning to the engineering industry after 10 years and re-starting my career. For me this is a courageous decision. I want to be able to look back on my life and be proud for doing all the things I’m passionate about engineering and empowering women. What qualifications did you take or gain along the way? I graduated from university with

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a degree in Civil Engineering and went on to get a masters in Structural Engineering. I have additional qualifications in coaching, business and communications. Why do you love working in STEM? I love working in STEM because of the impact we make every day, in a variety of sectors. Solving problems on a large scale and small scale with each one making a difference in the world we live today. Each area of our lives is impacted by the work we do in STEM. Every day our world continues to develop and improve. Our homes, infrastructure, technology and environment are all impacted. What challenges have you faced in your career? And how have you overcome them? Some challenges I have faced in the past include bias and expectations. There are some biases that are obvious due to being a black female engineer but there is

also unconscious bias that can happen. More training in the industry is needed to address this. There are two types of expectations that have been a challenge. One is when expectations are set so low that you are treated in a condescending manner. Or, the opposite is when expectations are so high that you end up on a glass cliff and are therefore likely to fail. What advice would you offer for someone joining the STEM sectors? To develop both your personal and professional skills. Personal development helps you to become more resilient and selfaware, which helps you navigate different situations, challenges and opportunities in STEM. Having both technical skills and interpersonal skills is a great advantage to your career.

women face in their STEM career and to make the necessary changes to help women stay in the STEM industry. We attract women by having adequate training and development programs for women starting their career at any stage – young adult, graduate, returner, or those who are making a career change. We can further support women through their career and progress them into leadership positions. The way in which we work now has been a positive change to the constraints of typical office working hours. Roles that offer flexibility to office hours and remote working days are attractive to the modern woman. For the full article please visit our blog at: www. equalityinstem.org.uk/blog

What do we need to do as an industry to attract and keep more women in STEM? As an industry we need a long-term commitment to understanding the challenges

COVER STORY

From a home office with no intention to expand, to an ever-growing revolutionising recruitment agency that has no desire to stop, Glu Recruit is a company you should know about. unLTD’s Rachel Measures spoke to founder and managing director Rob Shaw to find out more about the company’s recent growth, their innovative approach to partnerships and how being down-to-earth is perhaps the most disruptive thing a company needs to do in 2022. When Glu Recruit was started by founder and managing director Rob Shaw in 2016 from his own home, he never expected the business to be where it is now – expanding rapidly, registering a record number of candidates in 2022, as well as building more new client partnerships than ever before. Aiming to use his extensive knowledge after a decade in the recruitment industry in Yorkshire and the Midlands, Rob set up the business not to revolutionise the market or with any insanely wild idea to go against the grain, but simply because he wanted more time

at home to support his family as he welcomed in two newly adopted children, a four-yearold boy and his 11-month-old sister. Wanting what he called a ‘lifestyle’ business, set up at home from just an IKEA desk, a laptop, and a phone, he always viewed the venture as something that would stay small, simply allowing him the flexibility to do the school drop-offs and pickups while still paying the bills. That’s where Glu Recruit started. With over 50 years’ combined experience within the recruitment industry and a drive to challenge the

norm, Glu, an independent recruitment agency based in Rotherham, is there to help employers and job seekers, primarily in the Sheffield City Region, find their perfect match by delivering exceptional recruitment solutions. Rob said: “Glu grew organically over time to a point where there’s 14 of us now. I’ll be honest, that was never the intention at all, but we’ve gone with it as we’ve grown and while the opportunities are there.” Now, with their sixth birthday fast approaching this month, the business has

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Marcela Livingston, Leeds Founder of Sacpot

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COVER STORY evolved vastly and is looking forward to its next phase as it opens a second office in the centre of Sheffield. Rob added: “I’m always looking for opportunities for us to grow as well as provide more opportunities to the people who work here. We must keep developing and retaining them, and the Sheffield office is an excellent part of this. “We’ve placed candidates all over the country and some in Europe as well and we do temporary, permanent, or contracted recruitment across our specialist areas, and most recently, we’ve set up a specialist construction arm of the business too. “Our new offices, based in Electric Works, will provide a great foundation for us to do more business in the Sheffield area and, much like the construction arm of the business, it’s something we might be able to replicate in the future in other towns and cities locally.” When asked what else is happening for Glu Recruit, Rob joked that he doesn’t sleep much. He said: “There’s so much happening at the moment; we’re always looking for ways to be disruptive as a business and challenge the norm of the industry and the stereotypes that come with being in recruitment. “We’re always trying to be fresh, modern and have the best, most current and upto-date processes in place to ensure that people are getting the best candidates in the most efficient way. “To make that more accessible for people, we expose them to the best jobs on the market to save them time and hassle, but we also set up excellent partnerships and collaborations with other brands and businesses. For example, we work very closely with unLTD, and they sponsor our Office Heroes Awards, which happen every December. “Most recently, however, we collaborated with a Sheffield business called Whyy Change. They provide accredited training courses for businesses

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COVER STORY across the region. Through this, we’re looking at value-added and not just transactional recruitment – always looking at what else we can offer companies to ensure they get the best people for their vacancies and hold onto them. “Whatever I say might not sound particularly against the grain, but for us, the thing that is our primary disruptive innovator is our down-to-earth, personable and non-corporate recruitment style. A lot of other recruitment agencies are very transactional, almost CV farming-esque, and are focused on experience and skills rather than matching them to the company based on culture and potential. “Skills and experience are important, but what is truly great is finding a person with that magic formula who will fit in with the culture of the business. Ultimately, they will have the best chance of staying long-term and sticking. That’s where the ‘Glu’ thing came from – the stick of the placement – and the bond between our clients and our candidates. “As part of this, we try our best to be personable, friendly and approachable. Our website has been designed to be very intentionally cartoony and humour-led using local language – we’ve even used ‘ey up’ in our email address. We’re not the kind of business that has two people on a website shaking hands, wearing suits with their briefcases in hand.” It’s clear that Glu Recruit intentionally aims to break that norm and bring a new lease of life to the recruitment industry. The way the company is so unapologetically down-to-earth is precisely how they remain disruptive and forward-thinking. Things have changed massively since the COVID-19 – with so many businesses now ditching the strict dress code and adopting a more casual approach – and Glu’s relatable style really reflects this. Even on their website avatars, they don’t hide their employee’s personalities, and Rob’s own avatar shows off his tattoos. He said: “Without sounding

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arrogant, I think if you’re the kind of person that would take offence to me having my tattoos on our website or my email signature, we’re probably just not right to work together. We’re just us, and being approachable and working collaboratively with businesses, rather than just order taking and ticking boxes, is truly the most important thing. “We’re very consultative in the way that we do business. In the current marketplace, where it’s very candidate-short and vacancy-rich, we’ve got to work closely with employers on filling their vacancies. It’s a very, very difficult market right now, so while an organisation might be going out to market for a particular skill or specific experience, it just might not be available. “That’s where working closely, collaboratively and innovatively with businesses is useful. We can figure out what other options might be available to them and make

sure they fill their vacancy gap in the best way. “We can also direct candidates to training from Whyy Change to get them where they need to be, or we can help someone internally at a company progress, helping employers think outside the box by considering different possibilities within their organisations. For example, we might more easily backfill a position left behind by someone progressing into the original role we were trying to fill. “We’ve seen accelerated growth over the last 12 to 24 months. We never sit around waiting for things to happen; we take a lot of chances and make things happen. “Looking back to lockdown, many recruitment agencies scaled back in staffing numbers, which made sense, but I decided to scale up instead. It was a very brave decision at the time, and some people would have said we were borderline stupid for it,

but there was an opportunity to be had because many agencies were nervous about retaining their teams. “We continue to utilise the opportunities that appear. So, we take chances, try to be innovative, and do the unexpected, but it’s always thought out and seems to be working for us so far. “Similarly, we work closely with our charity partners. We’ve been supporting Paces for the last couple of years, and we’ve helped them launch a business club named ‘Club 300’ - we’re one of 12 founding members – and it supports them while further expanding our brand in the business community. “As well as this, we’re working with Cavendish Cancer Care on their Master Cutler Challenge, which launched on March 9, helping raise money through various activities. “What is very clear is that we’re always open to opportunities, particularly those for the greater good. “We’re really excited for everything right now, and to celebrate that, we’re having a sixth birthday and Sheffield office launch party at Steel Yard Kelham on July 14. We can’t wait to get loads of businesses in the room – those we work with and those we don’t – to celebrate such a big landmark for us.” Glu Recruit’s culture continues to be centred around its core company values - collaborative, personable, committed, distinct, and the long-term stick of their relationships and placements. Their experienced team recruit permanent, contract, and temporary workers on a nationwide basis across key sectors such as office support, sales, creative and digital, IT, warehouse and driving. If you are looking for a new challenge in a job or a bright new spark to recruit for your team, contact the team and let Glu Recruit exceed your expectations. Head to their website www.glurecruit.co.uk or get in touch via eyup@ glurecruit.co.uk.

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SHEFFIELD CHAMBER SUPPORT RUN FOR ALL On Sunday, September 25, six members from across the Sheffield Chamber Council and Board will come together to tackle the Sheffield 10K Corporate Challenge, supported by Sheffield Chamber of Commerce. Antony Davies, Tim Latham, Tim Elgar, Alex Hill, James Berry and Steven Cheng will be representing the Chamber, and we can’t wait to see them enjoying the glorious sights of the Steel City, supporting other teams, and working together to complete the event. The Board exists to assure the Chamber achieve their strategic goals, whereas the Council is made up of elected members from the region’s leading firms. They serve as the Chamber’s main forum for discussing business concerns and making decisions. Both make an

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important contribution to the Chamber’s overall goal of making Sheffield one of the UK’s best places to start, grow and run a successful and sustainable business. The Chamber is highly committed to employee wellbeing, as well as encouraging the people of Sheffield to get active and live a healthy lifestyle. This is why we have chosen to partner with Run For All, who are also delighted to have Sheffield Chamber on board. Together, Run For All and Sheffield Chamber look forward to seeing increasing numbers of local businesses

using running as a way to boost office morale and enjoy team achievements outside of the work environment. This is more important than ever after the gruelling and lonely restrictions that have been in place over the last two years. With so many people now working from home, it’s vital that businesses find opportunities for their employees to connect with each other and have fun outside of a work environment. The Chamber team will be joining all corporate entrants in the hospitality area where they will be sporting their matching team t-shirts, networking with

others, offering a friendly face before the race and enjoying a post-event refuel after battling it out amongst the other teams on the day. Whether your team are seasoned pros or first-time runners, everyone is welcome at this fun-filled event day. With additional perks to in the exclusive race package, it is a fabulous opportunity to gather the corporate community, with a little healthy local competition involved too. Register your interest today via corporate@ runforall.com or sign up on the website: https://tinyurl. com/2p8waf8s

AGENDA

SECURING YOUR ASSETS BY SAM LEEDER, DIRECTOR AT ACTUS INSURANCE

Our columnist explains the steps you need to take to offer flexible working.

MANAGING THE RISKS OF A FLEXIBLE WORKFORCE The return to work postCOVID has obviously been different from one business to another and we are seeing a wide range of approaches from full time back at work, permanent home working or a hybrid approach. There are also those workplaces which by nature are unable to offer home working. Whilst businesses have largely been able to adapt to these new arrangements, they do bring increased pressures on the business and additional risks that need to be correctly managed. It is incredibly important going forward that all employees are aware of what is expected of them and what they can expect from their employers. Given the new approach to work for many, I suspect most companies haven’t

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reviewed their employment documentation such as contracts of employment and employee handbooks. This begs the question – are employees now totally clear of their new working arrangements and do their contractual documents reflect this? Managing your workforce in a small to medium-sized business can become a real headache as typically we don’t have the expertise in-house to deal with issues. We also don’t have the resources to employ a HR manager. If you don’t already engage the services of an Employment Law professional we would strongly recommend looking into this as you could easily find yourselves running into problems if you haven’t undertaken a review of your employment documentation in the last two years.

Should you find yourselves with a problem there is an insurance policy available which can support you through it, known as Employment Practices Liability. Many of these policies also provide an advice line which you can refer to on a day-to-day basis to head off potential issues ahead of time. Employment Practices Liability The cover is designed to provide you with the legal support you need in the event of a potential employment tribunal. In addition to this, the cover will also pay any awards made against you should the tribunal not go your way. If arranged correctly, this cover will support you regardless of whether you have followed the correct

procedures or consulted with a specified advice line. Beware however of cheap imitations! There are a number of providers of HR services, who also supply an ‘insurance backed’ helpline service. Whilst these services are cost-effective and have a place, the insurance cover provided comes with conditions which make claiming particularly difficult. It may now be worth reviewing your insurance provision and considering whether you can afford to ignore the protection that Employment Practices Liability cover can provide. If you’d like to know any more, feel free to get in touch on 0114 398 4498 or visit: www.actusinsurance.co.uk

We are a 2D animation studio Creating bespoke animations to promote your business, services and products.

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HERE ARE THREE TIPS WHICH MAY SUPPORT YOUR UTILITIES JOURNEY: Carry out a utilities review before you buy a piece of land or a building. The results may identify potential cost and inconvenience and in some cases can support the land price negotiation. No two jobs are ever the same. Try not to shoehorn data from your last project into your new project as it can lead to nasty surprises. Site specific data will influence an accurate budget and help mitigate any costly delays. Understand timescales! It is normal to allow four weeks to collate utility quotations and 6-8 weeks to have the work completed. There are many unavoidable factors which can slow these anticipated lead times and you need to know what they are.

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PREPARE TO BE AMAZED BY BARNSLEY STUDIO A specialist studio, based in Barnsley, is using the power of bespoke 2D animation to help clients share important eco-friendly messages with their audiences. B Animated specialises in the creation of 2D animations to promote businesses, services and products. The business, situated at the town’s Digital Media Centre on County Way, was founded by award-winning designer Laura Blackburn in 2018. Recently the studio has been working on a range of animation projects which focus on the promotion of sustainability and low and zero carbon initiatives. This includes work for The Seam, Barnsley’s Digital Campus, where B Animated created animations to promote the site’s development, including the upcoming Active Travel Hub, which encourages visitors to walk to the campus or travel by scooter or bike, and the use of electric vehicles. The campus will also use the latest digital technologies to be a testbed for

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future sustainability practises. Another project saw them create an animation for Zero Carbon Cities, a project led by Manchester City Council to help seven cities with the transition to zero carbon. This was then shared at an event for key partners and stakeholders to promote the work being done. According to Laura, 2D animation is a great way for clients to present information about the work they are doing or service they provide in a clear and eye-catching format, which appeals to their target audience. She said: “Zero and low carbon projects have been a really popular sector for us over the last few months as businesses and cities look to become more environmentally friendly and meet targets around reducing emissions. “Using 2D animation, such

as an animated explainer video, enables businesses to present what can sometimes be complicated information or infographics in a more visual and interesting way. “These could then be used, for example, in presentations to other businesses or the public, informing them of the key facts of a project. “We’ve had some great feedback from happy clients who say using an animation in this way has really helped them to create an engaging presentation which captures their audience’s attention. “These have been great projects to play a part in and we’re looking forward to helping more clients share their eco-friendly credentials in the future.” As well as carving out a niche in the sustainability sector, Laura and her team have also

been kept busy with global client projects - and have recently seen their work go Stateside. In collaboration with our client Science in Sport, they worked on artwork for New York City FC’s home ground, the Yankee Stadium, producing eyecatching LED strip advertising which runs the entire span of the pitch. Other clients B Animated has worked with include Barnsley Council, Barnsley Premier Leisure and Enterprising Barnsley and as the business prepares to celebrate its fourth anniversary later this year, there are more exciting projects in the pipeline over the coming months. For more information, call 01226 720774, email: laura@ banimated.co.uk or visit www. banimated.co.uk

From flexible working hours to impressive employee benefits and innovative uses of technology, businesses across the Sheffield City Region are setting the bar high. We asked some of the most disruptive companies across the area to tell us what they’re doing, why and how it’s helping them elevate their business to the next level…. Simoda - Managing director Daniel Bumby

Tell us a little bit about your business Simoda are based in the fantastic eagle works at Kelham Island in Sheffield, we work with business leaders & IT teams to help them solve issues, address challenges and achieve objectives through technology products, solutions and services. What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? We have implemented what we call the ‘technology first’ strategy – unlike our competitors we don’t have a traditional sales approach, we have a team of experienced and skilled technology experts (commercial and technical) who work together to help our customers. This means we don’t operate a traditional sales structure where you would

see a salesperson targeted to earn the business profit from sales to customers, instead we provide healthy basic salaries and everyone in the business is included in our companywide profit share scheme. This ensures our first focus is on finding and delivering the right technology solutions and support rather than the salespersons commission cheque.

means we have committed to providing our commercial team with healthy salaries to remove the commission/ bonus elements, this is a financial risk but one that we knew would pay off as our customers love our values, culture and ethos. What are the benefits and what has the reception been like?

How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? Our culture and our people are our major strength, lots of businesses talk about teamwork or collaboration but it is at the very heart of our success. We also like to market our business using our own voice rather than using lots of IT acronyms. What are the risks that come with doing something a little bit different? Our technology first strategy

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focus on building a strong relationship and growing their business. We know how important Google reviews are for referrals so we have a big focus on that, as well as our social media. We use LinkedIn a lot – it’s a huge source of revenue for us – and that’s where we show the more personal side of us, as well as through other channels like TikTok. We’re not the typical suitwearing, briefcase-holding accountants, we wear our own hoodies and merch most of the time! We have a fun office to work in, with mini golf, a Sheffield mural and a beer fridge, and we offer great employee benefits like bonuses, profit sharing, a flexible working policy and plenty of social events, from after work drinks to days out at Go Ape and Crystal Maze.

on client relationships.

How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? The way we work is a real reflection of who we are as people – what you see is what you get. I think a lot of people find that very refreshing and most businesses just want to talk to real people who have their best interests at heart and who they can genuinely get along with. The fact we are offering them an effective service that will save them time, while being upfront about who we are, is probably our biggest selling point.

What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? We are working hard to change the perceptions of typical accountants and do something a bit more personable and fun – we have a very modern outlook on business. Our digital approach means we work with some great technology, freeing up both our time and that of our clients so we can

What are the risks that come with doing something a little bit different? Not everyone is interested in doing things differently and there are still some people who prefer business to be much more formal and traditional, so they might be put off by our approach – but that probably means they’re not the right client for us either.

We see many benefits from implementing our strategy, which include: • Collaboration without fear or resentment • Focus on training and development • Customers are clear on our objectives • Fantastic culture The reception has been fantastic, our customers love the fact that we strive to understand their business needs before we talk technology, they also love that we have offerings that put technology first rather than commercials. Our partners and vendors love the clarity we provide them when engaging in market opportunities.

Gravitate - Cofounder Sam Newton

Tell us a little bit about your business We are a digital accountancy

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firm based in Kelham Island, with a people-first approach and a big focus on using the best technology to make life easier for our clients. We’ve scrapped timesheets and charging by the hour to focus

skills through workshops with schools, after school activities, holiday clubs, school residencies and family programmes. We’re all about the socio-cultural literacies that support us in making meaning of the world around us and we do this through the joyful discovery of stories. What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? Currently, we are operating from a pop-up story street, Linger Longer Lane, in the Old Town Hall of Rotherham town centre. We’re hosting festivals - our shop is open online and in the street with a magic-o-meter to check your inner character and many unique story-based products, many created in What are the benefits and what has the reception been like? I think the benefits speak for themselves – we have a 100 per cent staff retention in our accounting team and our employees shout about us from the rooftops because they love working here so much. We’ve also attracted the best people in the industry and their ethos really aligns with ours. We have received some amazing reviews and have great engagement on social media, which is also where most of our clients come from. The team has grown each year and our up-front attitude means we get to work with people who have the same values as us. We have built great relationships with our clients and a positive atmosphere around everything we do – and our unique way of working means we can focus on offering the best service rather than time on the clock.

Grimm & Co

Tell us a little bit about your business Grimm & Co is a charity that champions the writer in every child. We build confidence, self-esteem and

our workshop as artisan gifts. In 2022 we will be opening Grimm & Co’s Emporium of Stories with secret doors, a feast of story-based foddery, a book nook, children’s workshops and story parties all on site. Whatever your age, you’ll be able to come to Grimm & Co and engage in story activities at your table or sit in a quiet nook to enjoy artisan coffee and a good book. This will act as a social enterprise, embracing our mission whilst supporting the charity that operates behind the secret door and at the top of the beanstalk. How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? We are strong on authenticity. Every customer or school class visit is greeted with a theatrical explanation of how Grimm & Co was created and the attention to detail is fundamental. Our story was written by our writer, Jeremy Dyson (League of Gentleman) and is the backbone for our work. What are the risks that come with doing something a little bit different? There was always a risk that people might not engage in this artistic, creative approach to retail that would provide the magical front of the charity. However, this hasn’t been a problem. People of all ages embrace the opportunity to have fun, to escape the everyday and to be playful. What are the benefits and what has the reception been like? The Emporium of Stories has emerged because of demand. We receive three school visits a week, our workshops have waiting lists and the café and book nook are as a result of customer requests for us to do this. People across Yorkshire and beyond have truly embraced this arts destination and we receive beautiful messages from customers about

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their experiences and their delight with our products. It’s immersive – a witty joke told with a straight face – and we all need occasional relief from our everyday, a chance to embrace stories… we all love a good story!

Shakespeare Martineau - Ben Buckton, chief marketing and people officer Tell us a little bit about your business Shakespeare Martineau is a full-service law firm providing specialist legal services for life and business and is a brand within professional services group Ampa. We work with businesses and organisations of all sizes, as well as individuals, families and private clients.

What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? In November 2020, we announced our innovative house of brands strategy and group, Ampa, which creates opportunities and provides businesses within the group with the infrastructure needed to enable growth. Ampa offers bigger buying power and access to expertise, as well as shared values and beliefs – what we call our ‘Golden Threads’. Brands within the group include life and business law firm Shakespeare Martineau, consumer champion law firm Lime Solicitors, planning consultancy Marrons Planning, uninsured loss recovery experts Corclaim, cyber security consultancy CSS Assure and Sussex law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter.

strategy does just that. Our approach is different because we do not combine with failing or flailing businesses, but ones that are ambitious, looking for a route to fast-track and fuel growth. Culture comes first and if the main objective is to make a quick gain at others’ expense, then we know we’re not aligned. So often in our industry, large and aggressive businesses will acquire firms only to destroy the very heart of that brand and ultimately the reason they have loyal clients – we want to reverse that.

other industries have done something similar and done it well, and it feels like the right change for our sector, the results to date are positive and we are remaining agile, open to change and new ideas. Ampa is growing rapidly, which is exciting but could pose new challenges for the group’s risk profile. In response, we created a new group information security officer role, who is working closely with teams to preempt these challenges, developing a robust multi-year information security programme that will continuously measure and What are the risks that come manage risk. with doing something a little bit different? What are the benefits and This is the first time this what has the reception been strategy has been followed like? in the legal and professional A key benefit of our group services industry so as ever is shared access to greater there are no guarantees support for the benefit of or role-models. That said, our clients, whether that

be from other professionals across different brands, our enhanced infrastructure or our combined business operations capabilities. We offer a greater breadth of career progression opportunities and adaptability across our legal teams, specialist teams and professional business operation areas. Each brand is empowered to deliver on its growth ambitions and retain autonomy while collaborating when it makes sense to do so. The benefit of a portfolio house of brands approach helps mitigate risk for those businesses, brands, and people that join us – having a wider sector and service offering means we’ll be in a better position to weather future economic shifts and enable individual brands to focus on what they do best.

How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? Clients and people across our sector are crying out for change and transformation. It is time to consider the agile needs of clients more broadly and step away from the traditional consolidator model – our house of brands

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hidden or additional costs for end users. Our platform is provided using the SaaS (Software as a Service) model stored on the cloud, which gives our users unrestricted access and means there is no requirement for any complex software installations or hardware management. We are the first business in the sector to create and roll-out a platform like this. We operate nationally across the UK, for every sector within construction, and What are you doing to shake offer a solution for all sizes of things up in your industry? businesses. We have introduced the first digital platform to connect What are the risks that contractors and suppliers come with doing something more efficiently through the a little bit different? supply chain all the way to As with all new and onsite delivery of projects, disruptive ideas, there can meeting the needs of all be a reluctance to move parties. away from traditional We are revolutionising methods and adopt new procurement through our technology, particularly in online platform to provide the construction industry. in-depth data-driven The biggest risk to the reporting, offering insights industry is resisting the need to help businesses improve to adopt digital solutions their offering and de-risk - we feel moving online their strategy. is inevitable and the right course of action for both How does what you’re doing contractors and merchants. make your business stand out? What are the benefits and A major benefit of our what has the reception been platform is that the like? contractor pays suppliers Our users benefit directly with no commission. from speeding up the The platform is solely procurement process, subscription based – accessing new customers, therefore there are no improving stock availability,

NTUK

Tell us a little bit about your business NTUK was founded to assist with connecting contractors to suppliers in the construction sector. Our platform is easy-touse and helps tackle key industry issues such as supply chain availability, price inflation, net zero targets and compliance in procurement by connecting national contractors to local suppliers.

and introducing compliance. Contractors will get the best availability and have access to the local supply chain for better compliance and to meet Environmental and Social Governance criteria. Contractors will also benefit from supply chain information if working in new regions. Likewise, merchants get access to new customers and can service existing customers better. Merchants can also access detailed data reports that support regional stock profiles and assess the effectiveness of their branch network. Our digital footprint means that suppliers and contractors can be reassured of transparency, while also homing in on any challenges such as missed sales and leads. This is a huge benefit that has not been seen so far in the sector. To find out more about NTUK, please visit: www. ntuk.co.uk

Jessica Flinn Jewellery

Tell us a little bit about your business Jessica Flinn is a fine jewellery brand founded by Jessica Flinn-Allen 13 years ago. We specialise in unique and unusual engagement, wedding and eternity rings. Selling both online and in-person, we’re most known for our one-of-a-kind centre

stones which include salt and pepper diamonds, teal, blue and green sapphires and lab grown diamonds. What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? Firstly, we are the antithesis of typical high street jewellers. Among a sea of white diamond solitaires, we exist to offer customers something refreshingly different. Our designs and gemstones are proudly nontraditional. Secondly, we work with salt and pepper diamonds - aka, the rebels of the diamond world. Unlike traditional white diamonds which are coveted for their colourless and flawless appearance, salt and pepper diamonds celebrate inclusions and imperfections. Thirdly, we operate in other niches too. When most people think of sapphires, they see blue - yet we work with teals, greens, violets and more. Our showroom is unlike any other jewellery experience – an intimate space hidden away in the leafy suburb of Tapton. The Art Deco inspired space has two intimate ‘stations’ where people can experience our jewellery. This summer we will be refurbishing our space to create a ‘fine diamond’ experience, complete with a fine jewellery sushi track.

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How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? We’re offering customers something they didn’t know even know they wanted. Our alternative designs and gemstones capture people’s attention and drives customers to choose us. But that’s not the only reason. Many customers choose us because of our values. Not only are we proudly non-traditional, we’re fiercely inclusive. Our models are always diverse and we actively support the LGBTQIA+ community.

people who don’t align with our values.

What are the benefits and what has the reception been like? The reception to both of our brands has been remarkable. Actively disrupting the industry with alternative gemstones is exactly what our customers have been searching for. Between the two of our brands (Jessica Flinn and sister brand Flinn & Steel) we’ve grown over 800 per cent since the start of the pandemic and gone from a team of three to What are the risks that over 20. Together, our two come with doing something brands achieved a turnover a little bit different? above £2million - which is Operating within fine impressive considering that jewellery niches has its highs this time two year ago, we and lows. We’ll sometimes were still working out of our take a punt on a gemstone founder’s living room. colour, or what we perceive to be an emerging trend, only for it to flop. Figuring out what our customers want to see next from us is always a learning curve. Occasionally we’ll also receive some push back from

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SIMODA

Proud to do things differently

Disruptor noun

A company, person or form of technology that causes significant change in an industry or market by means of innovation, new ideas or methods

We help businesses Reduce I.T Costs Increase System Performance Mitigate Cyber Security Risks Enhance User Productivity Modernise Business Process

Our customers trust us to help them

SIMODA 32 Cotton Mill Walk Eagle Works Kelham Island Sheffield S3 8DH

0114 553 3600

www.simoda.co.uk

Webmart - Founder Simon Biltcliffe

Tell us a little bit about your business Webmart is an entirely self-funded print marketing company with three UK offices. Our motto is: ‘innovate, create, communicate’. What are you doing to shake things up in your industry? We are a Marxist-Capitalist business, which is less frightening than it sounds! Basically, we use capitalism, which is really good for making wealth, but then Marxism for sharing it out equitably. Once we’ve made profits, we have a minimum retained profit level which is £400,000 a year and the rest of it gets shared out amongst the team. This last financial year we shared out £700,000 of surplus profits, which equated to a 26.93 per cent base salary bonus for everybody in the business. Putting profits back into the business means we can support lots of charities and we have a real passion for good causes. We offer paid volunteer days and are committed to sustainability and helping the environment as much as possible. How does what you’re doing make your business stand out? We are a marketing services business which is based purely on delivering the optimal mix of marketing online and offline, to ensure customers get the best return on advertising spend,

and we’ve got a skill set that allows people to do that faster than anywhere else, more efficiently than anywhere else and more effectively than anywhere else. We’ve got the world’s first postal calculator, so it’ll work out the carbon offsetting required in the product range. Our whole business model offers a unique approach to hiring and people development – we just had one of our younger members of stuff win a European award for talent which was amazing and shows how much we invest into our team. What are the risks that come with doing something a little bit different? Telling people you are a Marxist-Capitalist definitely gets a mixed reaction and can put some people off who don’t understand the concept. But personally I think it’s riskier to do the same old things you’ve always done without any change or growth because that’s how you end up going out of business. Bringing something new to the market can make people a little apprehensive but as soon as you explain it properly, they’re on board and can’t stop shouting about how much they love working with you. I’m currently writing a book to explain the benefits of Marxist-Capitalism so hopefully more people will understand why it’s so useful. What are the benefits and what has the reception been like? We offer a radically evolving environment and the people that generally come to us and get through the first probationary period love it and bring all the people with them. We have a wonderful opportunity to work with great talent, and you

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maximise your intellectual, emotional and financial return as part of the outcome of us working together. The people who love working with us recommend us to some really cool companies who align with our ethos, and it allows us to be selective about our suppliers too. Ultimately, we want to bring the best solution and the best marketing expertise that we can to help them develop their business better and be more successful going forward.

DISTRUPTIVE BUSINESSES

DIFFERENT WAYS OF WORKING THE OLD FIVE-DAY WEEK IN THE OFFICE IS OVER. We live in a post-pandemic world, where our ways of working have seen massive disruptions. From being asked to abandon our offices and work from home to finding a new normal within a culture of hybrid working, coworking spaces and even the traditional, we’re heading back into the ‘office’ and returning to commuting. The popularity of the hybrid working model can’t be doubted and it is the new way many of us work. There have been some incredible benefits provided by working from home, many of which employers and employees can’t deny, but hybrid working is not without its challenges. Not everyone’s home is fit for work. Homes were not intended to be our place of

work but our haven, where we would leave the stresses of the day at the door. According to a study by Leeds University, 33 per cent of UK office workers have no dedicated workspace at home. With hybrid and at-home working, our work/ home lives are becoming merged and our routine is all over the place. Suddenly, we must find a space in our home that we call our office. Then, to add to the work/ life balance pressure, we’re met with the cost-of-living crisis. Not travelling to the office was a massive benefit for many. There were no traffic jams, no need to set the alarm two hours before work and no paying petrol prices and public transport fares at their highest. While commuting adds new financial stress,

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CRE8 Workspaces, Scunthorpe-based furniture and home furnishing manufacturer, tells all about creating workspaces that reflect the changing needs of offices in 2022. HYBRID WORKING

COVID-19 has accelerated the transition to flexible working practices and the subsequent need for smarter, more flexible and more focused environments. Many organisations have adopted this new normal due to the freedom it gives employees in how, when and where they work. The hybrid model combines the best of working from home and the office. Gone are the days when you come into the office to spend your day in front of a screen – this can now be done at home, so your time in the office can focus on collaboration, knowledge sharing and connection with colleagues.

THE SOCIAL HUB

staying at home is not much better. The cost of heating and electricity is skyrocketing, similarly increasing the pressure on individuals’ budgets.

private hybrid working spaces and noticed unused space on the public sector estate. Seeing the potential to reimagine what could happen in these underused spaces, WorkfromHub meets the Emerging solutions for the demands of hybrid working ‘new normal’ as 30 per cent of home workers Working from home is here to are seeking a third space to stay. However, it still cannot be work from – while giving the norm for many due to its unused space a new lease of challenges. Having autonomy life and new revenue for the and flexibility for individuals hosts. to choose where to work is WorkfromHub is a higha key long-term solution quality, private, calming that works for both staff and workspace environment close employees. to excellent transport links Having a ‘third space’ and community facilities. to work from, which is Currently, there are three convenient to get to, is an hubs in South Yorkshire, excellent new option to located at Sheffield separate work from home. interchange, Swinton Rail This is where WorkfromHub station and Halfway Park and comes in. Ride. These spaces are the Director Neal Byers perfect solution for people founded WorkfromHub who are on the go and need a in early 2021, using his place to focus and escape their experience in planning future usual remote working chaos. mobility and working closely To find out more about with local authorities. WorkfromHub visit www. He recognised a demand for workfromhub.co.uk

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Conversations on multi-use, flexible office spaces are not new – as with many things, an experience has accelerated the change. Most companies are coming around to the fact that various work settings need to be offered to allow employees flexibility in how they work and improve productivity. There has been an increasing emphasis on creating more social, collaborative spaces where staff can come together formally or informally. The collaboration ‘hub’ will offer staff more opportunities for chance encounters, social events, planned knowledge sharing or teambuilding sessions while they spend time in the office.

ZOOM BOOTH

It is important to appreciate that offices still need to support both desk-based and collaborative working. Focused working may be required between team meetings, and the rise of homeworking means video calls will be frequent and require acoustic separation. The focus/phone/zoom booth will be crucial to ensure that focused work, virtual meetings and team-based activities can function simultaneously.

THE HEALTHY OFFICE

People are now more aware of how the workplace can directly impact their occupant’s health. We can expect an increase in natural ventilation systems being installed in commercial buildings and more widespread monitoring of air quality through accreditations such as WELL and BREEAM. Biophilia through indoor planting and natural textures, colours and patterns will become even more prevalent in design concepts. Everyone’s mental health has suffered in some way during the pandemic. The importance of the social aspects of working in an office has been realised and forwardthinking companies will seek to bring employees together through space in the office or organised activities. Find out more about CRE8 here: www.cre8-workspaces. co.uk.

Between helter-skelters, innovative interior design, unique collaboration space and roulette tables, South Yorkshire offices have it all. Sliding into this issue, the unLTD team were welcomed through the keyhole at a number of quirky offices in the region as they explored different ways of working.

WIZU, SHEFFIELD

An award-winning, disruptive operator with a specific focus on the North, 32 Eyre Street is a prominent city-centre landmark that has been completely re-developed to provide a beautifully designed flexible workspace. The interior design is bright and modern, offering a mix of uniquely designed private offices, co-working spaces and meeting rooms. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness suite on the ground floor. unLTD’s Rachel Measures

spoke to Katie Sanders, Wizu’s marketing manager. She said: “We have seen an uplift in co-working and flexibility. More people have gone freelance or grown tired of working from home which can be lonely. “We have seen more companies come into the flex workspace from traditional leases that can tie them in for ten years or more. They are taking a more ‘hub and spoke’ approach to their real estate strategy, operating

much more efficiently from a flexible workspace where they can grow and contract more easily. “Wizu is a thriving community of like-minded businesses. Our spaces boost productivity and help people have those water-cooler moments. We deliberately refer to people as ‘members’, not ‘tenants’ because we’re about hospitality, not buildings.” Find out more about Wizu at www.wizuworkspace.com/ eyre-street.

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ELECTRIC WORKS, SHEFFIELD

A welcoming, professional environment for fast-growing creative, digital, technology and media companies, Electric Works provides flexible office spaces for any business, with a range of office space, meeting rooms, a co-working lounge and even a three-storey helter-skelter! The idea behind the helter-skelter was based on how fairgrounds have always functioned as a community on several levels. The sense of release that unifies individuals survives over centuries, and this jouissance is pervasive and powerful. You can read about it in a book called Disordered Haste: An Introduction to the HelterSkelter Office Electric Works. Find out more about Electric Works at www.electric-works.net/.

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DISTRICT FOUR DESIGN

NAVARTIS OFFICES, DONCASTER Project-focused technical recruitment specialists, Narvartis, have particularly quirky offices – and if you need proof, I offer two words – ROULETTE and TABLE. unLTD spoke to marketing manager Dan Stargatt all about their workspace. He said: “In our office, everyone sits together no matter the level of seniority, which helps create a supportive environment and a collaborative way of working. A positive, vibrant and functioning office space gives our employees an environment to thrive. Recruitment is a fast-paced, personable and lively industry, so having the right ‘buzz’ in the office is paramount. “We have a roulette table because we play weekly games for prizes, fun, and team bonding. People sit with their teams, so this time allows everyone to interact. It also helps that we'll have a Friday beer or prosecco in hand! “Our team talk about how working in an open space helps them feel motivated, as they are surrounded by like-minded, successful people who will always be there to support each other and through this, they achieve the best results for our customers.”

Doncaster-based District Four Design are strategists, storytellers, thinkers, creators and relationship-builders who are hardworking, trustworthy, detaildriven and passionate about the power of branding. Managing director Kyle Donnachie told us all about designing workspaces in 2022. He said: “We always look at a project from a brand perspective when designing a space. We ask our clients, ‘what is the first impression you want a visitor to have of your company?’ and ‘how do you want your employees to feel when they step through the door?’. Strengthening your brand message through interior design reinforces what your business is all about and shows people your values and why you are different. Learn more about District Four Design at www.districtfour.co.uk/.

BMC 01, BARNSLEY

DMC is more than just a workspace. DMC brings style with co-working spaces, meeting and conference rooms, a Maker Lab and a roof terrace. Matthew Snowden, communications and marketing manager at DMC, said: “DMC 01 is where we began. A home for anyone with a digital and creative business idea to start and scale their company and a collaboration space for companies wanting to do more with technology in their own business. “Across the road from DMC 01,

our expansion into DMC 02 provides much-needed growth space for larger companies who are scaling up. We’re powered by Barnsley Council, putting people at the centre of our creative world. “We provide real support to the businesses and individuals that make this space their own. Like you, we’re entrepreneurs, as well as nice people that want to make great things happen.” Find out more about DMC at www. barnsleydmc.co.uk/.

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SOUTH YORKSHIRE POLICE

A ‘LOAD’ OF GOOD ADVICE

FOR VAN DRIVERS Businesses operating vans as part of their fleet of vehicles could benefit from the advice being offered as part of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership’s latest video. The partnership has produced a short film to remind drivers and businesses about the importance of having a properly maintained and correctly loaded van and show how some simple predrive checks can keep you within the law, improve road safety and help save you time and money. The film covers some basic roadworthiness checks that drivers of light commercial goods vehicles can complete before they start their journey. Presented by a South Yorkshire Police officer, the film then goes on to look at the correct loading of goods to ensure vehicles are not overweight and the payloads are securely fastened for the journey. Both are important as overloaded or poorly secured loads can affect a vehicle’s handling and ability to stop, which can severely impact its safety on the road. Insecure loads also risk causing harm to the driver or other members of the public if they become loose and

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fall from the vehicle. And if stopped by the police, drivers could risk hefty fines and their vehicles being prohibited from being moved until the faults are rectified. Finally, the film looks at the role of the driver and

ensuring they have the correct documentation to drive the vehicle, including the right insurance cover and driving licence entitlements for the type of vehicles being used. Is the driver fit to drive – properly rested, not on any

medication that may affect their ability to drive safely or under the influence of alcohol? Does the driver know the speed limits that apply to their vehicle, which may differ from those of a car, and are they driving to that speed limit and the conditions of the road? Joanne Wehrle, safer roads manager, said: “All the issues we cover in the film are important safety considerations for anyone who drives a van or operates a fleet which includes light commercial goods vehicles. South Yorkshire Police do enforce these issues, so we would urge drivers and operators to avoid the risk of getting caught or worse still, being involved in a collision, because their vehicles are not properly maintained, correctly loaded or drivers are not fit to drive.” For further information and to view the film visit our website South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership www. sysrp.co.uk

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DISRUPTIVE BUSINESSES

The

four-day working week

The four-day working week has made headlines this year as the UK’s pilot programme began, but what are the benefits and is it sustainable in the long term? unLTD’s Georgina Kerr finds out. A hot topic of conversation over the last few months, the pilot scheme into the four-day working week finally began in June. Several companies in South Yorkshire have signed up to take part in the trial. The six-month trial, which is due to run until November, is designed to see how a four-day week affects employee productivity, while hopefully encouraging a better work-life balance. During the pilot period, employees are paid 100 per cent of their wages for 80 per cent of their typical working hours with a commitment to maintaining at least 100 per cent productivity. In line with the trial guidelines, staff at all of the participating businesses will be monitored to review their wellbeing, productivity and also how their workload has changed as a result of the new working pattern. One of the businesses embracing the four-day week is Maxons. A traditional sweet manufacturer, Maxons has a long history in Yorkshire with Henry Dixon first launching the business in 1855. Since then, the Maxons brand has continued to develop and grow, now stepping firmly into the 21st century with the adoption of the four-day working week, proving it is not just office work that can embrace a new style of working.

Fellow manufacturers Rivelin Robotics have also committed to a four-day week. A small high-tech start-up, Rivelin Robotics is working on both regional and national projects to make manufacturing processes more accessible to a wider range of industries. Based in Sheffield’s Kelham Island, the robotics business has introduced a four-day week for everyone, starting with all staff taking Fridays off. To encourage productivity, the company is also promoting a two-hour do-not-disturb period for each individual during the day where staff can be completely focused on their tasks. Whether the four-day week trial is labelled a success is yet to be decided, with five months still to go until its conclusion, but at this early stage, we can say that attitudes to the new working style from both business owners and employees alike have been largely positive. The UK’s current four-day week trial is one of the biggest worldwide with over 3,300 participants across a range of industries. So with not just the UK, but the entire world, watching and waiting to see the results of the trial we can’t help but wait with our fingers crossed, hoping for a positive step forward for the four-day week and a greater work-life balance.

CASE STUDY

WANdisco WANdisco plc is one of the biggest businesses in South Yorkshire to have committed to the four-day working week. Jointly headquartered in Sheffield and Silicon Valley, WANdisco is a data activation platform which allows businesses to access their data with zero downtime, data loss or disruption through the cloud to power technology such as machine learning and AI. With unlimited leave for its employees, WANdisco has already demonstrated how it is willing to adapt to benefit the wellbeing of its staff and

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compete against other employers in the job market, so joining the four-day week movement is a natural progression for this global company. I spoke to David Richards, founder and CEO of WANdisco plc, to find out how the company has adapted to the changes, what its employees feel about it so far and why they decided to take the plunge into a more progressive working style.

Our employees have embraced the opportunity to manage their time as they see fit to accomplish as much in four days as five. For some operations, such as customer-facing roles, a four-day week is not always possible, so we have introduced rota systems. Some of our staff initially said they would prefer to keep to a five-day week, which we would support, but in practice, we have not found anyone doing that.

Why did you decide to adopt the fourday working week? We recognised the significant and permanent changes to working patterns that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic and we wanted to offer greater flexibility to all employees.

How have clients reacted to the news of your four-day week pattern? The reaction to our announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Global companies tend to recognise the productivity and well-being benefits of a progressive approach to the working

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week. On a day-to-day basis, clients won’t have noticed any difference as we continue to provide high levels of service and we have introduced rota systems for some operations, including customerfacing roles. Employees are embracing the additional flexibility and freedom that a four-day week provides. Do you feel that the change in hours has improved wellbeing within the business? By being able to spend Friday with family and friends, pursue hobbies, volunteer, or go away for a long weekend, we believe the move has contributed to a greater work-life balance, which encourages mental and physical wellbeing.

Revco Workwear is your one stop for Personalised Workwear, Hi Vis, Safety Products. We’re independently owned and fantastically proud to cultivate a varied customer base of clients, serving businesses across the UK. We specialise in customers in the Soft Services Sector (Security, Grounds Maintenance etc). All our equipment is state of the art and in 2021 we have invested over £250,000. We now offer all embroidery, Print, DTF in house. We are totally accountable for your products from order to delivery. 2021 marks 7 years of expertise in full-service custom work apparel. Our existing clients rely on us for amazing customer service, top quality products, prompt delivery and excellent value. Whether you’re a small one-time buyer or blue-chip giant seeking a managed contract, you can ALWAYS rely on TEAM REVCO.

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GETTING THE BALL ROLLING FOR A NEW PARK During the pandemic, we saw a number of changes implemented to Sheffield’s traffic infrastructure, whether it was for social distancing or trialling cycling lanes. One of them saw Ball Street Bridge in Kelham Island close to traffic. unLTD’s Matt Holmes spoke to Matt Bowker from CODA about the potential of this site. On a crisp morning following the Platinum Jubilee weekend, I met Matt Bowker, managing director of CODA Studios, walking towards unLTD’s Kelham Island office from his own just down the road. Walking up Green Lane we discussed the ever-changing face of the area, with multiple schemes currently underway in the once-named 'coolest neighbourhood' in the UK. However, the redevelopment of Kelham Island isn’t what I went to speak to Matt about. Connecting Kelham Island to the Neepsend area is the beautiful Ball Street Bridge, recently pedestrianised by way of a few plastic planters blocking access by vehicles,

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and more recently some flower beds and benches popping up across the bridge. But what if we made the solution more permanent? What would that look like? That is exactly what Matt is hoping for, so I asked him where the idea for a permanent park on the bridge came from: “The bridge has been closed to traffic and as a result, has become a much more pleasant environment for people to spend time in, enjoying the river and the natural environment. Kelham Island and Neepsend have very little green space for residents. Both districts effectively turn their back on the river across most of its length which is a pity considering what a fantastic

natural asset it is. “A park on the bridge can provide some of the green and break-out space that is missing in the neighbourhoods and provides immediate access to the river. A project like this, and hopefully others like it, will enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of current and future residents, and help attract more families to live in the area.” Ultimately, it comes down to the local authority to get schemes like this off the ground. Matt told me how Sheffield City Council already understand the benefits of schemes such as this. All you have to do is look at the impressive Grey to Green

scheme seen elsewhere in the city centre. Part of the Council’s strategic vision for the city centre is to repopulate it through distinctive neighbourhoods. To help deliver the vision, Matt said: “Kelham Island has had a lot of success, but we believe interventions are required that the market and private sector can’t deliver on its own. The park bridge and other similar projects across Kelham and Neepsend will make these neighbourhoods more liveable. “Kelham Island doesn’t need creating, it already exists and has become a popular place to live in the inner city. Let’s make it even better!”

HAVE LUNCH WITH... HAVE LUNCH WITH… HANNAH ELLIS

Social media expert, honourary Sheffield resident and sucker for the chance to have a beer in any cool, new venue – unLTD’s Brogan Maguire sits down for lunch with Treat Time’s Hannah Ellis to discuss the realities of working for a start-up and moving up the ranks in your early 20s… It’s a story you hear a lot in Sheffield, and one not dissimilar to my own: “I came here for university, fell in love with the city and never wanted to leave”. Marketing manager Hannah Ellis is no exception, and after first arriving in the Steel City as a bright-eyed 18-year-old

University of Sheffield student six years ago, she knew she had found her home. From the incredible live music scene to the cool independent shops on Ecclesall Road and the quirky nightlife venues like Peddler Market, there’s no wonder Worcesterborn Hannah has never looked

back. After working in social media part time at the Students’ Union throughout her studies, journalism graduate Hannah landed a full-time job in social media and video production at the University, which she did for almost three years before leaving for pastures new. With a wide range of marketing, content creation and communications experience under her belt, an exciting new opportunity to work for a start-up came at the perfect time for Hannah, when she was looking for a way to be more creative and authoritative in her working life. For a story as interesting as this one, it’s only right that she takes a big swig of her beer before telling me more. “I had an amazing time at the University and I’ll always

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HAVE LUNCH WITH... be grateful for that,” she says. “But after being there since graduating I knew I was ready to take the next step in my career. “Being offered the marketing manager role at Treat Time was a little bit daunting, as it was a lot more responsibility than I’d previously had and working for a start-up obviously comes with slightly more risk, but I loved everything the company stood for and felt like I was ready for the challenge. All you need is for someone to show they believe in you, and to have a great support network around you, and the rest you can figure out as you go.” That mindset is exactly what led then-23-year-old Hannah to accept the position at the corporate gifting company, which is an off-shoot of OPL Leisure Group LTD – a high-end hotel booking and reservations company. Treat Time works with suppliers from across the UK – and mainly small independents, as Hannah is keen to remind me in between bites of her cheeseburger – to provide topquality items like cheeseboards, chocolates and experience vouchers which can be sent to employees, clients or friends and family. It offers a bulk-upload tool, so employers can easily upload

a spreadsheet of addresses, or link it to their HR provider's API, making the process as quick and easy as possible. “I think it’s really exciting to be working for a new company that aims to make the lives of very busy people much easier, as well as supporting small businesses,” Hannah says. “The fact I get to be involved in brightening someone’s day by making sure they receive a lovely gift is just an added bonus!” Being trusted in a role that gives her a lot of autonomy and responsibility at such a young age has not only given Hannah more confidence but has further fuelled her passion for supporting other young people in business. She can often be found spending her evening at networking events and connecting with other likeminded people across the region – and is always on the hunt for new local suppliers to feature on the website. “I’m very proud to live in South Yorkshire and I feel so lucky to have a platform where I can showcase all the wonderful businesses and creatives in our area. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.” Well, I’ll drink to that!

– on the 2p slot machines for a little while, we sat down and looked at the menu. The food at Heist is produced by Slap & Pickle, a street food brand that promises ‘banging burgers and fully-loaded fries’. Interviewing is hungry work, so we both went for the ‘personal cheesus’ burger - their signature double cheeseburger, dressed with burger sauce, shredded lettuce and pickles in a toasted brioche bun – as well as a plate of chicken kyiv fries to share. The food was ready quickly and as soon as I went to collect it, it was obvious we were in for a real feast. The double-stacked burgers were oozing with cheese,

sauce and meat juices, and every mouthful was full of flavour. The crunchy lettuce and tangy pickles were the perfect accompaniments. We may have been full, but we couldn’t resist tucking into the huge plate of chips, laden with beautiful crispy chicken, garlic and parsley butter, and parsley and lemon mayo… heaven. Slap & Pickle definitely delivered on their promise – the burgers were indeed banging and the fries were more than fully-loaded. Partnered with a pint and some good company, there’s nowhere I’d rather have spent my afternoon.

BEERS AND BURGERS GALORE AT HEIST BREW CO As a Kelham Island resident, it’s no surprise that I’m a sucker for an industrial building as any kind of hospitality venue. Throw in a brewery, a street food hatch and a whole host of arcade games and I don’t think it could really get much better. Heist Brew Co, located just down the road from me in an old warehouse in Neepsend, is the perfect low-key place to grab an after-work beer (or during work, in our case) and unwind with friends or colleagues. The taproom showcases all the wonderful beer the brewery is producing, from staples to one-offs, stouts to sours, as well as guest beers and ciders from around the world. There’s

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something for every taste, and a large range of wine, spirits and soft drinks if you’re not a beer fan. There are so many options, in fact, that they are displayed on a number of large screens at the bar. Hannah and I opted for a lager this time – we decided to save the 10.5 per cent drinks for an evening trip, rather than a working lunchtime – served in one of Heist’s signature glasses. It was light, refreshing and just what we needed on a hot June day. And the best part is that if you like the glasses, there’s a special box where you can drop a donation in exchange for taking one home. After playing – and winning

W c

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With recognition across the industry and the expansion of their Sheffield team, it’s been a busy 2022 so far for The SEO Works. Fresh from their recent relocation to a larger office space, unLTD grabs a few minutes with them to hear about their roles and the impact they are making on their clients in South Yorkshire and beyond.

ALEX BEECH, WEB DESIGNER Website design is at the forefront of digital marketing, with more businesses than ever shifting their focus online. A clean, modern and easy-to-use website can drastically improve conversions, with users spending very little time on each web page, meaning they don’t want to have to search around and spend time looking for what they need. The website needs to guide the users quickly to the content they need to keep them engaged. A good user flow helps this, with easy and fast experiences making it more likely for customers to return in the future. At The SEO Works, we build custom websites for a wide range of clients and have experience with different styles and needs. A custom website rather than a templated ‘off the shelf’ build allows us to create exactly what a client needs with very little compromise. We use our design knowledge coupled with SEO to create not only web-friendly, accessible and attractive websites but also a website that will rank well with Google. These two factors help to increase web traffic and conversions while also boosting your brand to a wider audience.

AHMED PATEL, PPC TEAM LEADER I head up a ‘pod’ of other PPCs while managing and leading my own client portfolio. I’ve been running paid search campaigns for clients for almost a decade now. The surprising part is it is still exciting, challenging, and demanding. The impact my team and I can have on the client’s business is the most satisfying aspect of the job. PPC is unique because of its integral role in online advertising campaigns, playing a huge part in helping a business to grow online. Typically, our team will handle establishing new campaigns and overseeing current ones for our clients, looking to utilise various paid channels - from Google Ads to paid social like Meta and LinkedIn. With PPC campaign optimisation is crucial, with our teams constantly analysing keywords and relevant trends to improve performance. What makes us one of the leading PPC marketing agencies in the North is our ability to communicate clearly, think critically, have an aptitude for maths, identify future trends, and have a high tolerance for change and dealing with tricky situations.

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TECHNOLOGY MIKAILA STOREY, SENIOR DIGITAL PR EXECUTIVE I focus on gaining links and coverage from a wide range of publications for clients. My role involves coming up with creative campaign ideas that will then be created and pitched to a wide range of publications. The end goal is that journalists will pick up these campaigns and share them on their website, gaining a brand mention or link for our clients. Digital PR is the latest offering from The SEO Works and although we’re currently a small team, new clients are coming in thick and fast, and we are already gaining amazing results! Digital PR is great for businesses as not only does it help get their name out there, increase brand awareness and build their online presence, but it also helps build their website’s backlink profile, which supports SEO strategy and helps to increase their ranking on Google.

MOLLY FLYNN, SEO TEAM LEADER I’m an SEO team leader, heading up a ‘pod’ of other SEOs while managing my own client portfolio. SEO (search engine optimisation) is the process of optimising a website’s content, technical performance and online reputation. The goal is to help our clients’ sites to perform better in Google’s search results so people can find them and buy from them. Every time you search the web, complex algorithms decide what websites are most relevant to best answer your query. My job is to help my clients appear in these results. We consider what terms people use in Google when they’re looking for our client’s services. Then we analyse how we can make a website more relevant and authoritative for those terms. I work with businesses in a wide range of industries and markets. Most people turn to the web when they’re wanting information, to buy a product or hire a service even B2B industries. Therefore, it’s the place to be if you want to be found by your customers. SEO is a long-term marketing strategy but one that can bring big returns on investment.

RYAN FOX, SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER My role within the agency is varied. I spend most of my time listening or talking to marketing personnel within businesses, whether they are at the early stages of writing up a digital marketing plan or ready to choose an agency. Above all, my aim is to thoroughly understand businesses’ paint points and current failings within their digital presence and craft a solution that will help meet their goals and objectives - whether that is more sales, enquiries or just more visibility. I work with our brilliant teams across SEO, PPC, social, web and digital PR to provide feedback on current performance and provide a bespoke and honest solution that can resonate with stakeholders at all levels of the business. Aside from this, I spend a lot of time working with our senior leadership team to ensure our solution remains industry-leading, whilst ensuring it is accessible to businesses of all shapes and sizes. I look forward to speaking with more companies who are ready to take full advantage of our suite of digital services.

To find out more about how The SEO Works could help your business, visit www.seoworks.co.uk. unLTDBUSINESS.COM

“Coaching that improves results, builds better relationships and transforms workplaces. We help individuals refine their approach to work, teams work better together and organisations create workplaces where people thrive.”

Tel: 0114 4000165 Web: www.theunlearningcompany.co.uk

An award winning training provider delivering programmes in the AAT, ACCA, ICAEW and CIMA Qualifications Level 2, 3, 4 and 7 Apprenticeship schemes as well as exams only programmes, using online and classroom delivery models Training centres conveniently based in Sheffield and Leeds city centres

HYBRID WORKING Founder of The Unlearning Company, Jonathan Cooper, reflects on things to be mindful of when considering a hybrid approach.

Recently, there has been a lot of noise in the media about our ‘national return to the office’. I found comments from the Prime Minister and Jacob Rees-Mogg particularly triggering. I have worked from home for a significant proportion of my career and the reality, for me at least, has not been the temptation to eat cheese! My position on working from home was further challenged when Elon Musk joined the conversation. I justified my objection to cabinet ministers’ views by branding them as outdated and out of touch. However, when Elon Musk publicly stated his position on Twitter, I was staggered – I didn’t expect this view from someone so progressive and forwardlooking! I needed to reflect and understand the issues more deeply. My research highlighted that the issues are so complex and a one-size-fits-all

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approach is unlikely to realise benefits. THREE THINGS TO BE MINDFUL OF AS YOU CONSIDER HYBRID WORKING ARE: Working without distractions It is more productive. Various studies show how long it takes to recover our concentration after an interruption. Recovery time is dependent on multiple factors and can be as long as 20-25 minutes. Three interruptions and an hour of productive work are lost. How many interruptions do you experience in a day? How many times do you create an interruption? How can we manage this better, so more things get completed to a higher standard more quickly? We all need different levels of interaction with others to thrive Introversion and extroversion are real. Extroverts thrive in

busy environments with many opportunities to interact with others. Introverts thrive in quieter environments where it’s possible to consider and reflect. Extroverts create energy, whereas introverts direct energy. Both are critical traits for a successful business, however both prefer quite different work environments. How can we intentionally enable these two ways of experiencing the world to complement one another on a day-to-day basis without becoming an either/or conversation? Relationships in the workplace Our relationships in the workplace create a sense of belonging, generate innovation and help us navigate our personal and professional development. There’s a risk all of this will be lost if we go to an exclusively home-based working model. The long-term financial

benefits of a home-based working model (reduced property and utility costs) are difficult to contest. The impact of a diminished sense of a common purpose, the loss of being able to bounce ideas around the office and the subsequent loss of a sense of opportunities are hard to measure. Still, it’s not hard to imagine quite how significant it could be. I don’t have the answers to these challenges, but I am sure of this - with open minds, a commitment to understanding each other and an ambition to improve results sustainably - there is an opportunity to make our workplaces worldleading. We can create places where balancing what an individual needs to be their most productive with the requirements of their colleagues, and the business will deliver sustained improvement and increased profitability.

In just a short six months, Zoe Wadsworth of Ask Zoe has gone from strength to strength as she scooped up a further award for overcoming adversity during the pandemic, resulting in a 750 per cent growth rate since March 23 last year. You may remember we brought an article to you in January following Zoe’s success at the Sheffield Business Awards in December 2021, where she received The Visionary: Creative Impact Award. Since then, Zoe, formally known as Fab Events and Marketing Strategy, has continued to grow and on the business’ sixth birthday on May 5, they decided to launch their rebrand of Ask Zoe – demonstrating their evolvement over the past two years. Their new award acclaim is Business

Growth of the Year 2022 – their first national accreditation and one they are extremely proud to receive. On receiving the award and asked the question: “What next for Ask Zoe?”, Zoe Wadsworth replied: “Just to continue and help more businesses because we wouldn’t be where we are today without the amazing support from our clients and our network, coaches and strategic partners. As if they grow, we grow and all we wish to do is give back and make an impact in our clients’ businesses and in turn our own, so hopefully, we will continue to do so in years to come.” If you wish to know more about multiaward winners Ask Zoe, check out their website here: www.askzoe.co.uk

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LAUNCHPAD

SEASONS BEST SPORTS TIMING Andy Norton from Seasons Best explains how working with Launchpad helped him to start a new venture.

Tell us about your company? Seasons Best Sports Timing is a company that times running races. We use MyLaps Timing Software, which is based in Amsterdam, and they provide timing equipment to the biggest races in the world The World Marathon Majors and Great Run Series etc. I wanted to start my business using the best equipment in the game and add to this equipment every year, rather than start with cheap equipment and then get better stuff down the line. Start as you mean to go on. When did you first decide to start up on your own and what inspired you? I started thinking about the practicalities of setting up my own business last Christmas as I was just about to turn 40 and

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I really didn’t want to work for anyone else anymore. I wanted all my time, focus and energy to be spent growing something for myself and for my family. So that’s when I started having meetings with MyLaps Timing to talk about costs and looking into if there was much competition in the area, which there wasn’t. How has Launchpad helped you? Launchpad has helped me as I used to work on big city centre races a few years ago on the organisation side and I have also timed a lot of races. Coming from a former Elite Running background, I have also competed in hundreds of races. But in terms of setting up a business from scratch, I really didn’t know where to start and the Launchpad start – up

workshops really helped me to focus on what was needed What are your hopes and aims for the business? I don’t want the company to be a massive company as I want to be able to provide outstanding personable customer service to a smaller number of clients. Also, coming out of the pandemic, a good work life balance is very important especially with two young children. But so far having been in business a little over a month and having timed two races already, both of which have repeat booked for next year and one having left a five-star review on my Facebook page is really nice. A runner who ran in one of those races has also booked us for next year so that is a really encouraging start.

Advisor statement from Gary Brocklesby, Launchpad business advisor: "When Andy first reached out to me at Doncaster Chamber, I knew right away that he would be a great candidate for Launchpad. His business idea was unique and he also had a well-thought out plan, but he just needed a little advice to get started. "So I organised for Andy to attend a few of our innovative courses and he found these to be useful. Since then, I have had the privilege of watching him fulfil his entrepreneurial dreams and seeing his business go from strength to strength. I am very proud to have been able to help him along the way." “Starting and growing a business is not easy and that’s why the Launchpad programme was created. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and our partners means there is no cost to the entrepreneur, so we can get straight to work on turning those dreams into reality. “Stop dreaming and do it. Contact us for information now on 03330 00 00 39 or email growthhub@ sheffieldcityregion.org. uk.”

A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

You’ve focused on your business, now let your business focus on you It’s never too early to consider your business exit strategy and future wealth plans

f you own a successful business, you know what you need to make your business succeed. You, your employees and business advisers focus on ensuring your business continues to create value for your customers, maintains your competitive advantage and exploits market and competitor opportunities. However, successful business owners tend to focus their time and energies on their business, sometimes at the expense of their personal needs. One key challenge for any business owner is how you can extract the rewards for the hard work and personal sacrifices you made in building your business, to create financial independence for yourself and your family.

savings can be made and demonstrating a good track record of expense control all help. To maximise your exit value, the business must stand alone without your involvement. This means recruiting a strong management team to whom you can delegate the running of the business. Your products and services should also be scalable and your business should have unique selling points, whilst you keep an eye on competitors.

When exiting your business, it is always best to plan as far ahead as possible

A strong client base is needed with measures established to protect it. Set up long-term contracts with key customers but also reduce dependence on key clients. Similarly, you should have appropriate commercial contracts with key suppliers, employees or any individual or entity that could impact your business. Ultimately, you should consider that a potential purchaser will conduct his or her own due diligence prior to a sale.

A close examination of your business to understand its strengths and improvements, can considerably increase the value you can achieve. If your business can demonstrate a track record of strong, growing profits it will attract potential purchasers. Knowing where your expenses are being incurred, where

When considering your options, you will need to take advice and consider the taxation consequences of the variety of options open to you; and where to invest your wealth. Whilst it may be practical to delay investment decisions until you have become accustomed to the funds you have, it will increase the taxefficiency and flexibility of your options

if you decide, before you sell, what to do with the profits. As part of this process we will work closely with your existing professional advisers, helping you make the most of your business assets. Similarly, we will work with you to maximise your personal assets. To achieve your goals, you need an adviser who understands you and your business and will work with you to help you obtain the maximum benefit from all your hard work.

You should plan for your financial security as rigorously as you plan for your business success The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. Exit planning may include referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place.

PROSPERA WEALTH MANAGEMENT LLP Managing Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

Tel: 01144 786020 | 07471 106334 prosperawm@sjpp.co.uk www.prosperawealth.co.uk

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives. SJP12203 V2 (09/21)

SJP12203a V1 A4 Busines Owners - Practice.indd 1

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5 MINUTES WITH

ORANGE BIRD’S

ANNE HORNER

Joint owners Anne Horner and Matthew Dugga-Jones run the Orange Bird, a neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Hillsborough. Their food has a modern twist on South African cuisine. They cook their delicious food on a Braai and serve this with some amazing home-made cocktails. We were inspired to start our business together as we had both always wanted to have our own restaurant. We make all the creative decisions and Matt has been able to showcase his food - inspired by growing up in South Africa. My favourite thing about running the Orange Bird is... Being part of the local community. We have met so many lovely people – customers and other business owners in Hillsborough. Matt’s favourite part is being able to write the menu and seeing customers enjoying the food he and Sophie (our other chef) make. The three words that best describe our business are… Neighbourhood, friendly, unique. Sheffield City Region is a great place to start a business because... Tthe local communities are so welcoming and appreciative of the people who make an effort. In Hillsborough we also have great transport links which means we are connected to the rest of the city and of course

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20 22:40

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having a major football team on the doorstep has been great for our business! The best advice we ever got was... Make a detailed business plan before opening. This really helped us know what we wanted to achieve and how best to achieve it. The organisation that has supported us most is Sheffield City Council as they provided us with grants throughout the pandemic and I went to several workshops before we opened run by Business Sheffield. These were very useful. Exposed magazine has also been a massive help, and This is Sheffield, as they have given us the opportunity to get our business out there. The main challenges are many! The cost-of-living crisis means people have less disposable income to spend on meals out. Rising energy prices will affect us massively and VAT returning to 20 per cent will be a large hit. Hospitality businesses, especially small independents rich investors, run on very small margins so all these things will make life very tricky.

In five years’ time... I hope to still be trading in Hillsborough but with more staff. More chefs will allow us to open on more days and take on some exciting off-site catering opportunities for weddings and festivals.

We will be there to listen, respond and deliver, whenever you need us. hentons.com | sheffield@hentons.com | 0114 246 1722 14 Jessops Riverside, 800 Brightside Lane, Sheffield S9 2RX

EVENTS JULY 05: South Yorkshire Chamber Networking Venue: Online Time: 9.00am - 10.30am Cost: Free - £10 + VAT About: The three South Yorkshire Chambers are working together to bring you a unique networking event. This event is free for Chamber members and £10+vat for nonChamber members. More info: https://tinyurl.com/m6upfjvx JULY 07: Free Breakfast Seminar: Which exit route is right for me? Venue: AMP Technology Centre, Advanced Manufacturing Park, Brunel Way, Rotherham, S60 5WG Time: 9.15am - 11.30am Cost: Free About: Find out which exit route is right for you, understand your options and the pros and cons of each, including management buy-outs and EOT. More info: https://tinyurl.com/5y238ju2 JULY 09: Dragon boat race and family fun day 2022 Venue: Manvers Lake, Wath upon Dearne, Rotherham, S63 7EH Time: 9.00am – 12.00pm Cost: Team entry is £500 per boat About: Bluebell Wood will be at Manvers Lake this summer ready to cheer on your team as you take to the choppy waters to raise funds for families and children who need us. More info: https://tinyurl.com/mvyurwn8 JULY 12: Chamber Business Networking Venue: Minster, Church Street, Doncaster, DN1 1RD Time: 5.30pm – 08.00pm Cost: Free - £20 + VAT About: Join Doncaster Chamber’s networking session hosted by Doncaster Minster. Situated on the site of the Roman fort of Danum, Doncaster Minster is a perfect meeting place for like-minded people. Networking sessions offer guests the chance to build new connections, long-term business relationships and knowledge share. More info: https://tinyurl.com/mruyy5y5 JULY 14: Charity Hub Networking Event – Grant Funding Information Venue: The Montgomery, 27 Surrey Street, Sheffield, S1 2LG Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm Cost: £5 About: In-person and virtual information sharing and networking event for charities and social enterprises. More info: https://tinyurl.com/2thm3j2t

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JULY 19: Landmarks Net-Walking Venue: Apperknowle Farm, High Street, Apperknowle, Dronfield, S18 4BD. Time: 8.30am – 10.00am Cost: Team entry is £500 per boat About: We are delighted to invite you to our free business Net-Walking event at Apperknowle Farm. This will provide a great opportunity for you to meet new people, build relationships and expand your network. More info: https://tinyurl.com/mwxjj42a JULY 20: Rotherham 3Cs Networking Morning Venue: AEON Court, 108 Main Street, Bramley, Rotherham, S66 2SE Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Cost: £7 About: An experienced, proactive networking group designed for SMEs, Sole Traders and Third Sector Organisations in Rotherham. More info: https://tinyurl.com/yr3mruxb JULY 20: Sheffield Networking Huddle July Venue: OEC Sheffield, Penistone Road, Sheffield, S6 2DE Time: 9.45am - 11.45am Cost: £15 + VAT About: Promote your business, generate leads and surround yourself with friendly and supportive elite and inner circle members. More info: https://tinyurl.com/mtr9r3we JULY 21: South Yorkshire Chambers – Social Games Night Venue: Shuffle Shack, 383 Abbeydale Rd, Sheffield, S7 1FS Time: 4.00pm – 6.00pm Cost: £20 + VAT About: Socialise, network, build strong connections as well as have a fun night playing Shuffleboard. This event is in partnership with all three chambers across South Yorkshire. More info: https://tinyurl.com/2td2xxuk JULY 28: Entrepreneurs Business Club Sheffield Networking Venue: Angel & Harlequin Bistro, 26 College Road, Sheffield, S21 3YB Time: 9.30am - 11.30am Cost: £11.37 - £13.52 About: There is a very good reason why Entrepreneurs Business Club is so popular - it works! Attracting senior decision-makers to our meetings. More info: https://tinyurl.com/2s4v7s2z

DIGITAL FINANCE

Award-winning Yorkshire accountancy firm BHP has rapidly expanded its team of digital finance specialists. The firm offers a full range of tailored, scalable solutions, curated to suit the needs of your business. Whether you’re looking for help transitioning to the cloud, getting ready for a digital tax submission, or you need an outsourced finance function to look after your day-to-day accounting, BHP can make your life easier. Tailored, Trusted, Transformative BHP offers a bespoke, personal service to meet your business needs, and a ‘pick and mix’ blend of services depending on your internal capacity and ambition. These include: • • • • • • •

Statutory tax compliance Bookkeeping MI and business reporting Cash flow Budgeting Systems and data Virtual Finance Director service

BHP also offers a first-class business advisory service. The firm has an excellent track record of successfully aiding businesses through major milestones such as equity or debt funding. A dedicated team of

specialists will coach you, provide friendly and supportive challenges and ask all the right questions to help you achieve your business dreams and aspirations. The benefits of this include: •

•

Streamlined accounting processes and integrated financial software to remove the stress of compliance and free up valuable time for you to run the business Timely and accurate management information to assist with financial applications and business reporting Strategic advice and personal support to improve your financial structures and processes Access to the broader breadth of BHP expertise as your business grows

Why BHP? When it comes to technology, BHP is a leader in the field. BHP believes that working with the best software service providers ensures a higher quality service for clients:

from operating systems to process invoices quickly to management reporting, the firm delivers optimal, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. BHP’s platinum partnership with Xero provides access to over 400 add-on partners, meaning the company can guarantee a solution that is right for your business. It also means that location is not a barrier to who the firm works with. The BHP team takes

immense pride in the way it looks after clients. A dedicated team of specialists are always on hand to offer expert advice and resolve any queries. Just think of them as an extension of your own team. Get in touch with the BHP Digital Finance today by completing a simple enquiry form at https://bhp. co.uk/?enquire or call the team on 0333 123 7171.

Client testimonial “Since working with BHP, we’ve been really impressed by their innovation, expertise, and honesty. They introduced us to Xero, which has totally revolutionised our finance function and they are quickly becoming a vital part of our business as our on-demand finance director service.” Andy Brooksbank, Director, The Commercial Property Buying Company

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APPRENTICESHIPS

WHYY? CHANGE DIRECTOR CELEBRATES THREE YEARS WITH TRAINING PROVIDER From governance officer to being a highly commended office hero and Ofsted superstar as Whyy? Change’s head of apprenticeships.

In July 2019, Emma joined Whyy? Change as their governance officer and this month celebrates her three-year anniversary as director of governance. Emma shares her transformation journey since starting her quality practitioner apprenticeship and being named as a ‘good provider’ by Ofsted. Following Emma’s recruitment, Ray Byrne, CEO of Whyy? Change, said: “Systems matter and it was always my intention to build the business with strong governance in mind. Emma was my first recruit to the cause and tasked with protecting the business from me.” In January 2021, Emma was one of the first apprentices to enrol onto the quality practitioner level four apprenticeship, with Whyy? Change being one of only a select few providers delivering the standard. Continuous learning is embedded into all employees at Whyy? and Emma’s decision to start an apprenticeship at 46 years old shows apprenticeships aren’t just for college leavers. Emma said: “There were limited training courses that offered the breadth of knowledge

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that I was looking to gain, so when the quality practitioner apprenticeship was approved, I jumped at the chance to start.” By April 2021, Emma was promoted to director of governance. Ray added: “Emma leads from the front by being a role model in her practice and her willingness to enhance her qualifications through an apprenticeship.” When asked about apprenticeships, Emma said: “I’m super passionate about learning and the opportunities that apprenticeships provide, seeing apprentices grow in confidence, skill and achieving success motivates me every day.” Through her course, Emma has developed skills in implementing quality tools to develop Whyy?’s strategic direction which she has applied through the application process for Whyy?’s CIPD centre status which was successfully achieved in July 2021. In December last year, Emma received Glu Recruit’s highly commended office hero award, having been recognised for her hard work, dedication and commitment to maintaining a

robust, learner centric, accredited apprenticeship delivery plan to meet the needs of their learners and employers. With all the work that Emma put in, when Ofsted came knocking in February, Whyy? Change was prepared and were graded as a ‘good provider’ across all five assessment categories in their first full inspection. Following Ofsted’s grading of Whyy? Change, Emma said: “Our customers matter. It’s important that we share knowledge and value to a high standard to help not only our apprentices, but the businesses themselves. Ray added: “The proof is in the pudding, and if Ofsted say we are ‘good’ this is because Emma has delivered above and beyond. I am the sole shareholder, but only one of many leaders in the business.” Success didn’t stop there, with Emma playing a key part in being nominated for Training Provider of the Year at the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards for the second time running. Emma’s question to you is: “What are you hoping to learn in 2022?”

FINANCES CHARITY

DAN WALKER STRIKES GOLD WITH NEW CHARITY CAMPAIGN

A couple of years ago, Strictly star and TV presenter Dan Walker was listening to a charity auction on a national radio station in the back of a taxi. There was a money can’t buy prize available and the bidding started at just £1. The value quickly went up and, within a few minutes, it was at £1,500,000. The £1 bidder had no chance. “What’s the point of that?” the taxi driver, who was also listening in, asked. “They would be better off getting everyone to donate a quid and then do a raffle. At least then everyone gets to be involved.” That got Dan thinking. Surely there was a way that £1 could make a difference – a way that £1 could go a long way. This is the way. Dan got together with Arnie Singh from City Taxis, Melinda Schofield from Hallam FM and Steve Manley, md of Universal Office Products and past president of Sheffield

The beauty of this is that everyone just gives a pound. You can do it as an individual, as a family, as a class at your school or through your business. We’ll keep you updated on where all that money goes...

Chamber. and the idea of the Sheffield 1000 was born. “We wanted to come up with a plan to support local people and organisations in the simplest way possible” Dan said. “We all know how brilliant the people of Sheffield are so we wanted to see if we could get 1000 people each donating £1 a week. All that money would go to support local charities and good causes with a £1000 donation every week of the year”. Arnie Singh said: “Sheffielders have big hearts and are always keen to help and support each other. There has never been a better time to do that and this is an opportunity to do it in a really simple and effective way with just £1 a week.” Steve Manley said: “We want as many people as possible to be involved. If we get more than 1000 then we’ll aim for 2000. You can sign up through our website and then, once you’ve

registered, you’ll be able to nominate your own charity or good cause which could then be chosen by our independent funding panel.” Melinda Schofield added: “The beauty of this is that everyone just gives a pound. You can do it as an individual, as a family, as a class at your school or through your business. We’ll keep you updated on where all that money goes and you get to see the difference it makes to your local community. Dan Walker is urging people to get involved in the initiative wherever they can. He said: “We feel this is something that the good people of Sheffield can embrace and get behind. We would love you to join the Sheffield 1000 and start making a difference in a city we all love.” For any more information please visit www. thesheffield1000.org

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BUSINESS ENERGY

PHOTO LEFT TO RIGHT: STEVE BARKER, MD AT ARDEN WINCH AND JASON MARTIN, ENERGY MANAGER AT PROFESSIONAL ENERGY PURCHASING.

Jason Martin, energy manager at Professional Energy Purchasing (PEP) shares insights into how businesses can plan for Net Zero, and how this will reduce long-term energy costs. With the ongoing daily pressures businesses face, trying to reduce carbon emissions and plan for Net Zero can feel like a daunting task. Knowing where to start and how to understand what to do first can make business owners and managers quite literally put it on the back burner. Unfortunately, with energy prices going through the roof over this last year and not showing signs of coming down any time soon, businesses should be putting energy management right at the top of their priority list. Reducing energy waste, become more efficient, and where possible generating onsite energy to reduce reliance on the grid is part of Net Zero carbon reduction planning, and it makes great business sense – win win. Companies waste around 20 per cent of energy, mainly through out-dated systems and lighting, inefficient boilers and buildings, and poor employee behaviour. Simple things like making

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sure staff switch off lights, computers and anything else that consumes energy when not needed will all add up. An energy audit will help you to understand the steps you need to take to become more efficient, highlighting the savings you can make and any investment needed to get there with payback periods. It will involve reviewing current and forecast energy consumption, evaluating operational activity including any energy intense machinery and when premises are unoccupied, and an in-depth assessment of all buildings including heating, lighting, roof structure, insulation and windows. We also help businesses understand energy legislation and actively look for any grants and incentives to help with investment costs. Our energy audits have been helping businesses across the region get to grips with their energy plans, and to prioritise what will make the biggest impact to them based on their

individual circumstances. One example has been Sheffield workwear provider Arden Winch. Following a thorough energy audit across their two buildings we produced a detailed report highlighting quick wins and longer-term investments that will take them on their carbon and energy reduction journey. Steve from Arden Winch said: “Jason at PEP has supported us every step of the way with our energy-efficiency journey, providing us with endless opportunities to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. “He provided us with an in-depth report explaining what equipment needs upgrading and installing, the estimated costs with a five-year payback period, and future forecast savings. The findings could potentially save us 13.1 tonne of carbon per year and reduce our energy consumption by 33 per cent.” Arden Winch have since worked with us to install an 84-panel solar solution

which generates 19.410 kWh of electricity and will save approximately 4.6 tons of carbon every year. Steve added: “The installation of the solar panels took only two days to install, and we were up and running instantly. The project was delivered on time, to the expected budget, and to an exceptionally high standard. We are excited about the 4.6 tons of carbon we will save annually, as well as the financial gains we will make of £3,833 per year once the investment has been paid back. This project is another step forward for us in reducing energy and helping us towards our Net Zero targets.” For help with your business energy planning contact us for a free initial energy consultation. 0114 327 2645 info@pepgb.com www.pepgb.com

Our highly qualified and experienced Chartered Accountants, Registered Auditors and Tax Advisors are on hand to assist with your business finances. As a partner-led firm, we guarantee your main point of contact will be available to you whenever you need them. Your contact partner will ensure the in-house specialists working on your behalf take full responsibility for everything we do for you. Our success depends on your success, therefore we work in partnership with you to ensure we identify every opportunity to make improvements to your business and its profitability.

Our services include: • • • • • • • •

Accountancy Audit & Assurance Business start-up support Bookkeeping & Management Accounts Cloud Accounting Company Secretarial & Legal Corporate Finance Financial Planning

• • • • • • • •

Forensic Accounting Payroll Private Client Restructuring & Recovery R&D Tax Relief & Patent Box Self Assessment Taxation VAT Returns

Book your free meeting Scan here or contact Josh Dickens on jadickens@smhca.co.uk or 0114 266 4432 www.suttonmcgrathhartley.co.uk

CUSTOMER SERVICES

In business since 2012, Sheffield-based contact centre CC33 has seen its revenue double every year for the last five years. The development of the firm’s dedicated client services team was implemented to help further develop CC33’s excellent client relationships. The team consists of industry professionals led by client services director Judy Unwin, who has more than 15 years’ experience in the client services industry. It works with clients to design and implement the right service that delivers their customer targets whilst perfectly aligning their culture and brand. Judy has a proven track record of project managing new campaigns through the initiation phase and cites responsibilities for the management of several large and successful FCA regulated campaigns as part of her wealth of experience. She has exceptionally high standards around quality control and attention to detail – a perfect leader for the firm’s client services team, and the perfect person to ensure her clients get the best. Judy said: “We believe in representing our client’s brand and requirements to the letter. Our client services team ensure we can do just that. By constantly challenging our internal delivery teams on performance, value and efficiency we ensure we get the best for our clients.” As director of client partnerships and operations,

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Judy is the conduit between clients and customers and CC33’s operational team, ensuring that standards and performance results are delivered and exceeded. She sees the client service team as the glue in business, ensuring that everything comes together and sticks. Judy added: “At CC33 we understand the importance of embedding our clients’ brand values meaning they can be confident in CC33 being an extension to their business. This ensures we deliver for our clients’ customers exactly how they would do internally, including hitting all targets and aims.” CC33’s focus is creating a great place to work for its employees, which in turn ensures that their people give their clients’ campaigns their absolute best, something evident in the high performance of the campaigns CC33 has. Since the business was founded in 2012, CC33’s managing director Paul Fletcher set out to operate a tailored offering to clients and the development of the client services team has served to strengthen this. The team’s combined industry knowledge

ensures that clients and in turn their customers are always satisfied. The firm has adopted a consultancy-based approach, keeping CC33 one step ahead of its competitors, meaning the company can always extend its current services to meet clients’ demands – for example, introducing more projects and campaigns to existing contracts. The transparent relationship allows the client to see the exact day-today work CC33 is doing for them and allows a more trusted relationship which in turn leads to higher client retention. One of the key benefits that this transparency

allows is the ability for clients to live listen anytime, anywhere. This is done by logging into CC33’s phone system and enables the client to listen to any call easily and without notice. This is a real benefit for clients and is very rare in the industry. CC33 believes that giving clients unlimited access to the company’s work not only builds trust, but also enables clients to be fully up to date. CC33 is a market leader in its sector. Working across more than 30 blue chip clients for ten years, the firm has shown a consistent level of growth, expansion and profit year after year. To find out how CC33 can help your business, email info@ cc33.co.uk.

LAUNCHPAD

ROLLEY LTD Rolley's Matthew Rollinson explains how Launchpad has been vital in his business journey. Nicole Hart, business start up advisor, said: "Matt is an expert in his industry but had never started a business before. He came on our core workshops to help him develop a solid business strategy right from the start. We covered other areas in one-toones, mainly looking at communications, hiring staff and connecting him with the relevant activities going on in Barnsley to build his networks. Rolley Ltd is a great addition to Barnsley and it’s going to be exciting to see where they go next!

Tell us about your company? At Rolley we have a passion for creating complex and bespoke software solutions ranging from 3D, AR and VR experiences to online tools and calculators. With over 15 years combined experience developing digital solutions for clients across the US, UK and Australia, we’ve seen, created and built it all. When did you first decide to start up on your own and what inspired you? Since early in our careers, it been a long-term goal for my brother and I to start our own development agency and

after seeing first-hand how businesses require new and innovative solutions to stand out in an ever-evolving digital world, we decided to start Rolley. After careful planning we were able to commit full-time to Rolley from February 2022 and haven’t looked back since! How has Launchpad helped you? When starting Rolley, we didn’t have any prior experience setting up a business and Launchpad have been a vital part of our journey, from the one-on-one guidance to detailed business workshops, it’s all been great!

We’d recommend anyone who is thinking about a business but not sure where to get started to get in touch with the Launchpad team. What are your hopes and aims for the business? We hope to grow our team in the near future to be able to expand our client base and take on more projects. We also aim to continue our inhouse product development to provide even more innovative solutions for our clients, while ensuring we keep our core values to always be an honest, friendly and approachable company to work with.

“Starting and growing a business is not easy and that’s why the Launchpad programme was created. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and our partners means there is no cost to the entrepreneur, so we can get straight to work on turning those dreams into reality. “Stop dreaming and do it. Contact us for information now on 03330 00 00 39 or email growthhub@ sheffieldcityregion.org. uk.”

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FINANCES CHARITY SPONSORED BY

RAISING AWARENESS AND FUNDRAISING FOR CAVENDISH CANCER CARE BY COMPLETING THE LEEDS HALF MARATHON Cavendish Cancer Care is a Sheffield-based charity that provides support to local families affected by cancer. They give those affected and their families the chance to talk in confidence and offer complementary therapies to help alleviate both the emotional strain of cancer and the physical side effects of the illness and its treatment. The Curve are a strategic partner of Cavendish Cancer Care and are looking at ways in which they can support the amazing work the charity does for families affected by cancer. Curve team members Paul

and Andrew decided they were going to take part in the Leeds Half Marathon as a friendly office wager and

decided this would be a good opportunity to raise some funds and awareness for Cavendish in the process.

After crossing the finish line in impressive times, Paul and Andrew raised an incredible £2,260 plus gift aid. This amount of money will help Cavendish Cancer Care with around 80 hours of therapy for those that need it most. With this contribution and others like it, families affected by cancer don’t have to suffer alone. Massive thanks are in order for everyone who supported Paul and Andrew by making a donation to their cause, it is greatly appreciated and we can’t wait to continue supporting Cavendish in the months to come!

Celebrate St Luke’s 50th anniversary with Night Strider 2022 St Luke’s Hospice 50th anniversary celebrations will reach their climax with Night Strider 2022. Sponsored by Pricecheck and Gripple, the event is the annual nocturnal half marathon and 10k walking challenge aiming to raise more than £100,000 towards patient care at Sheffield’s only hospice. The 2019 challenge - the last before the COVID 19 pandemic - saw more than a thousand St Luke’s supporters take to the streets as darkness fell on the city on an October evening. Booking is open and entries are coming in for Night Strider 2022, which returns on October 8 promising to be the biggest Night Strider yet. Starting from Sheffield’s Peace Gardens, the walk takes in some of Sheffield’s finest locations as it heads out towards Ecclesall and Abbeydale before heading back to the city centre finish line. Either a full half marathon distance or a shorter 10k route, Night Strider is open to everybody over the age of

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10 - though participants aged 10 to 17 must be registered and accompanied by another participant aged 18 or over and is suitable for all ages and abilities. Wheelchair users are encouraged to take part in Night Strider but due to the nature of the route and distance it is advisable they should source suitable assistance throughout the challenge. Individual entry is £25. To sign up, visit www.stlukeshospice. org.uk

CHARITY SPONSORED BY LET'S SAVE

PLANNING IS KEY FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS It’s summertime at last – time to take a holiday, put your feet up and relax! Your beneficiaries are also away, yes? Fantastic – if they are and don’t need you, then that’s great – look forward to seeing and supporting them again in the autumn. Planning is the key to being needed during the summer and bringing in more volunteers or staggering time off across staff may be the way forward so that no one gets burnt out. Lots of my clients who work closely with schools or keep to term time delivery use the holidays for reflecting on their organisation, putting together strategies for further growth and delivery. Some clients use the break for reviewing annual delivery and looking to start a

‘new year’ in September with goals, targets, plans all in place for presenting to staff on their return. Business planning, creating strategies for funding, auditing funding already done, these are all tasks that I can support you with on a face-to-face or digital basis over Zoom. I am here to facilitate your own planning sessions with trustees or directors or undertake the planning sessions with you. Give me a call to chat through your needs and let’s get your 2022/23 year off to a flying start. Enjoy the time away if you can fit a break in, send me hot dog leg pictures – I love them! If you need my assistance, email me on wendy@letssave. biz, or give me a call on 0772 9481010.

BHP RAISES 20,047 IN YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE A team of 60 people from BHP have raised an impressive £20,047 for charities across the UK after they completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. The charity trek began in Horton-in-Ribblesdale in the Yorkshire Dales, with the group tackling the 24.5-mile route incorporating 1,585m of ascent across the peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough – and returning back to the starting point in Horton-inRibblesdale. All those who took part chose to either raise money for charities personal to them or to support BHP’s elected charity, Macmillan Cancer Support. The team set an ambitious target of £15,000 and they have managed to surpass that by some margin, raising an incredible total of

MEMBERS OF BHP’S THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE TEAM. £20,047. James Houseman, senior manager at BHP and event project manager, said: “It was fantastic to see so many of the BHP team getting involved in our Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. I am so proud of everyone who took part. “The key word is challenge – this was a gruelling walk across

hard terrain and not something to be taken lightly. Our team – both those who walked and those who were part of the support team – pulled together brilliantly on the day to raise money for many worthwhile causes across the country. “It was a privilege to organise and to have raised more than £20,000 for so many different

charities is an absolutely fantastic achievement. A huge well done to everyone who took part!” BHP is ranked the secondbest accountancy firm to work for in the UK, and the 35th best company to work for across Yorkshire and the Humber in the Best Companies Survey 2021.

Give Wendy at Let's Save Consultancy Services a call on 0772 9481010 or email wendy@letssave.biz

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ST LEGER FESTIVAL Doncaster Racecourse FRIDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2022 THE ST LEGER IS ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS RACE WEEKS OF THE BRITISH HORSE RACING CALENDAR. COME ALONG AND HELP SUPPORT THE LIFESAVING WORK OF YORKSHIRE AIR AMBULANCE, AND ENJOY A FABULOUS DAY OF RACING. THE PACKAGE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING: DRINKS RECEPTION ON ARRIVAL, 3 COURSE SERVED LUNCH, AFTERNOON TEA, ENTRANCE INTO THE DAYS RACING, RACECARD AND GIFT FOR EACH GUEST, CAR PARKING (IF REQUIRED), UNLIMITED BEERS, WINES AND SOFT DRINKS. THE PRICE IS £185 + VAT PER PERSON WITH A DONATION OF £60 PER TICKET COMING TO YAA. FOR MORE INFOMATION PLEASE EMAIL K.COLLINSON@YAA.ORG.UK OR CALL 07770 835241

Are you a business in Sheffield looking to expand your team? Glu Recruit have landed in Sheffield and are ready to assist!

Pop over to our new office at Electric Works for a brew to find out more!

Celebrate with us…

If you want to get to know us a little better first, why not pop along to our 6th birthday party at Steel Yard, Kelham Island on Thursday 14th July?

Scan here to RSVP Electric Works

Web: glurecruit.co.uk

3 Concourse Way

Email: eyup@glurecruit.co.uk

Sheffield, S1 2BJ

Tel: 0114 321 1873

unLTD. Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #52

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