Business Direction 73

People & Skills

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BEN ALLMAN Partner

chartered accountants

People and Skills

It has long been acknowledged that people are at the heart of businesses.

Here at the Chamber, we couldn’t agree more and we are inspired everyday to see the way businesses are recognising their teams and helping the people they work with to progress daily.

The “Skills Gap” has been on the agenda for some time, with businesses reporting difficulties with both recruitment and retention. Post-pandemic, workplaces have been required to re-evaluate what is important to their employees, taking into consideration flexible working opportunities, reward and recognition, benefits and, particularly as the cost-of-living crisis unfolds, salary. Through our work with Hewett Recruitment in producing the Salary & Benefits Report 2023, we have provided a baseline for businesses to benchmark their offering against businesses across the county.

Throughout this edition, we discuss the importance of education and training in developing the skills and talents needed for success. Lifelong learning and investing in employee development are critical to compete and succeed in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

We also bring you the latest news from your local Chamber of Commerce, including our extensive portfolio of networking events, forums and conferences, as well as our esteemed Chamber Business Awards – which are now just around the corner taking place on Thursday 15 June 2023! Our Chamber Business Manifesto has also been launched since the last edition of Business Direction, and we are delighted to share with you our key priorities for the upcoming financial year.

Prioritising our most important asset is a key focus of businesses across the two counties. As such, I am thrilled to introduce the latest edition of Business Direction entitled “People and Skills”!

We have been delighted to interview Hewett Recruitment and hear about their thoughts on the changing skills market. Also in this edition, we speak to Rock Power Connections.

Best regards,

Sharon

Our Patrons are:

The Leadership Development Series Returns!

Back for 2023/24, we have compiled 6 new topics to enthuse leaders and ignite curiosity and development. Throughout the series, delegates will enjoy sessions focusing on the various skills that are important for emerging leaders in the workplace. The sessions include:

Communication, the good and the bad –Wednesday 24 May

Tackling imposter syndrome – Wednesday

27 March

Each session is delivered as a face-to-face workshop and delegates can enjoy networking with peers. In-person attendance will include refreshments, printed course notes and group work opportunities. For those who cannot attend in person, the sessions will also be delivered virtually via Zoom.

As part of our busy and varied training schedule, we have brought back the popular Leadership Development Series in partnership with 3WH for 2023!

The Leadership Development Series is a 6-part programme aimed at professionals looking to improve their skills in leadership.

Diversity and inclusion – Wednesday 19 July

Culture that sparks performance –Wednesday 20 September

Motivation through coaching – Wednesday 22 November

Managing change – Wednesday 24 January

Spring Budget 2023

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt delivered his Spring Budget to Parliament on Wednesday 15 March. In the 2023 Budget, the Chancellor made it a priority to tackle inflation, attributing it to ongoing economic challenges.

The highlight of the budget for businesses in Herefordshire & Worcestershire is the announcement of significant funding to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). The Deeper Devolution Deal confirmed in the Budget has secured £500m to support housing and regeneration across the region. The deal also includes up to six levelling up zones, backed by a 25-year business rate retention, with an expected total value to the region of at least £500 million. This is to target investment and encourage jobs and regeneration in areas agreed between the WMCA and Government and measures to tackle digital exclusion,

including greater influence over high-speed broadband investment and a £4 million fund for devices and data to get more people online. This funding will enable local authorities and the WMCA to better plan and fund transformative investment in our region to improve prospects in the West Midlands.

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce welcomes the Chancellor’s announcement of significant funding to the West Midlands to support growth and prosperity in the region, as well as the extension of the childcare system, with the support for working parents hopefully contributing to loosening the current squeeze on the labour market. However, the lack of support for businesses on reforming business rates to allow for investment and growth, and no announcement of support on energy bills, will inherently hold back businesses from growth due to the

Each workshop will run from 8:30-11:00am and will take place at the Bank House Hotel, Bransford, Worcestershire WR6 5JD or via Zoom for virtual attendees.

For more information about the series, or to complete an application form, please visit hwchamber.co.uk/training/leadershipdevelopment-series or call 01905 673600.

significant pressure firms are under from their energy bills.

As your local Chamber of Commerce, the team will continue to gather feedback from our Members on how the Spring Budget will impact their businesses and ensure their views are represented in regional and national policy frameworks.

Please contact the policy department, policy@hwchamber.co.uk, with any questions or concerns your business may have.

These four employees were nominated by our team for demonstrating our company values every day and were crowned the winners at our recent team away day.

Our company values are: Unity, Passionate, Colourful and Nurture.

The whole team felt these four people demonstrate the values and offer their support to both our Members, our team and the wider community in everything they do.

‘Congratulations to Robert, Tanya, Marie and Ash!’

Planning For The Future

Following the challenges of recovering from the pandemic, inflation is now becoming the largest threat to business.

We face continued challenges around labour shortages, supply chains, raw material availability and energy costs will drive price increases, wage demands, the cost of supplies and pricing. This backdrop underlies the importance of supporting economic growth through objectives to improve Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s strategic connectivity and infrastructure, support a creative future-fit workforce, stimulate investment in research, development and innovation to create a dynamic business environment and revitalise our cities and town centres.

In turn, I’ve been reviewing how the two counties are approaching their strategic framework and reflecting on their different geographies. As local authorities in our two counties look to develop their investment plans for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the LEPs, County Councils and Growth Hubs will continue to support the region by providing

local business intelligence, economic data and research insights to help inform local economic priorities and interventions for investment.

Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP), in collaboration with partners and key stakeholders, have developed a strategic framework to support business and infrastructure. Worcestershire’s Plan for Growth sets out a plan to 2040 for supporting economic growth, improving productivity and ensuring greater social inclusion. The Worcestershire economy is diverse with a total of almost 44,000 (2022) businesses registered, with an increase of nearly 5,000 new businesses registrations in the same year - with relatively high proportions of firms undertaking product or process innovation or performing internal R&D.

Herefordshire’s vision towards 2050 is to attract and grow a highly skilled population, support strong and inclusive communities in towns, villages, and rural areas. The aim is to encourage innovative growing businesses in green construction, agriculture, defence, and cyber technology with resilient local supply

chains. In addition, there are plans for faster and more frequent rail and public transport connections with superfast mobile and broadband coverage.

According to the latest data, in 2021, around 8,905 businesses were active in Herefordshire while new business registrations (920) outnumbered the number of deaths (695). The year-on-year growth in the number of active businesses has been positive for the last ten years. The latter point being a good indicator - as older businesses tend to be replaced by innovative companies. The two counties share a similar policy view on some of their strategic priorities. The more rural geography in Herefordshire creates a different framework direction and challenge, in some priorities, than for Worcestershire.

It is a challenge to support and maintain this new business growth and, for existing business wishing to scale up, the quality and availability of commercial property stock (both industrial and office) remains a live issue for both counties.

Food for thought. Until next time, Mike

Mike Forrester

Royal Visit celebrates successes in Worcestershire

Three businesses in Worcestershire were delighted to welcome HRH The Princess Royal on Monday 27 February 2023. GL in Great Western Business Park, Vision Labs in Kidderminster and Pershore College, all valued Members of the Chamber, were amongst the stops on the Princess Royal’s tour of the county.

GL, which is based in Great Western Business Park, McKenzie Way, has a long association with The Princess Royal, having previously been awarded the Princess Royal Training Award in 2016.

The Princess Royal toured the company’s recently launched E-home and spoke to staff about the all-electric solutions on offer to help house builders achieve carbon neutral homes. They also spoke about their experiences working for the company, from successful apprentices who started their careers with GL to working mothers benefiting from its flexible working policy.

Anthony Ottway, MD of GL, said: “It was an absolute honour and privilege to welcome The Princess Royal to GL. Everyone was thrilled to be part of her visit. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet The Princess Royal on several occasions and just as I remembered she was very charming and interested in what we do.”

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Pershore College as part of the launch of a research facility at its university centre.

The Princess Royal visited the college and spoke with staff, students, apprentices, employers and local dignitaries at the Warwickshire College and University Centre (WCUC) Agri-Tech Research Centre.

Professor Roy Kennedy welcomed Her Royal Highness to the research centre and gave a tour of the indoor hydroponic plant-growth chamber, specialist equipment and teaching laboratory. She then met with apprentices, employers and academic staff in the research centre, before

unveiling a plaque to commemorate the visit to the Agri-Tech Research Centre as part of WCUC.

Strategic Members of the Chamber, Vision Labs, also enjoyed a visit from HRH The Princess Royal.

The Princess unveiled a plaque commemorating the occasion and spoke with many of the employees, some who had been there for more than 30 years, as well as two Ukrainian refugees who work at the facility. Also in attendance were Specsavers’ Founder Dame Mary Perkins and several local dignitaries, including the MP for Wyre Forest, Mark Garnier, the Mayor of Kidderminster, Councillor Kevin Gale, the High Sheriff of Worcestershire, Andrew Manning-Cox and members of the county and district councils and Chamber of Commerce.

Lee Timbrell, Visions Labs General Manager, said it was a huge honour to welcome The Princess Royal and to show her round the premises: ‘We are extremely proud of what we’ve achieved here… We have a large, diverse workforce and are investing millions of pounds to maintain our manufacturing and distribution within the UK, making a vital contribution to the British economy at a time when times are tight for everyone. A visit from The Princess Royal is fantastic recognition for all of our hard-working colleagues.’

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate each of the businesses on the honour of receiving a visit from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

Vision Labs in Kidderminster

Pershore College

GL in Great Western Business Park

Menopause and the law –what employers need to know

Thursfields Solicitors is offering bespoke training sessions for employers on the legalities and best practice of managing the effects of menopause at work.

The training packages follow the company’s virtual workshops called ‘Menopause and the law – what employers need to know’ held as part of its regular HR Exchange events.

Lisa Kemp, a director in the Employment Law team at Thursfields, explained that the success of the online workshops revealed that a growing demand was out there for full training projects.

She said: “The menopause and how to cope with it at work has become a big challenge for employers.

“Our recent online workshops were well received by many HR managers and business owners wanting to understand some of the issues involved with menopause in the workplace.

“Therefore, we are now offering full training projects for employers across the Midlands.

“This will enable us to clearly explain how menopause and the law interact with each other and the steps employers need to take to help support staff with menopause, ensuring their actions do not breach the law.

“This will see us working closely with individual employers to put the correct menopause policies in place, helping them with their messaging about this important aspect of employment law and delivering bespoke training for their line managers.”

Key areas of Thursfields’ training projects will include: menopause and the law;

how to create an open and trusted culture among staff; the importance of awareness training for managers to deal with concerns sensitively; considering practical assistance and workplace adjustments; careful sickness absence management; and the importance of meaningful policies and procedures.

Lisa Kemp added: “The menopause is a natural occurrence in life that should be understood, considered and acted upon by all employers.

“By helping staff to deal with the menopause in the workplace, employers will only increase work rates, quality and loyalty.

“But aside from the positive human outcome, employers should take the issue seriously as there are laws that can be used to protect anyone who feels they are not being treated properly at work as a result.”

To find out more about Thursfields bespoke training packages on handling the menopause at work, contact Lisa Kemp via LKemp@thursfields.co.uk or call 0345 20 73 72 8.

Lisa Kemp

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, workplace planning has become essential for creating flexible and productive work environments that cater to employees’ diverse needs.

Advances in technology, the shift towards remote work, and the demand for improved collaboration requires businesses to adapt and stay ahead.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) play a crucial role in helping organisations achieve their workplace planning goals.

In this article, we’ll explore the services and technologies offered by MSPs and how they contribute to efficient and successful workplace planning.

1. Customised Approach to Workplace Planning

MSPs understand that each business is unique and requires tailored solutions to suit their specific needs. By working closely with clients, MSPs identify areas of improvement and focus on streamlining operations, enhancing productivity, and fostering employee engagement. This customised approach ensures that businesses have the necessary tools and infrastructure to create modern, agile, and future-proof work environments.

2. Comprehensive IT Support and Infrastructure Management

One of the main offerings of MSPs is end-to-end IT support and infrastructure management. This encompasses hardware, software, and network management, ensuring that your IT systems are up-to-date, secure, and reliable.

MSPs provide proactive maintenance and regular updates to prevent potential issues before they escalate, which significantly reduces downtime and boosts productivity. This support is crucial for implementing efficient workplace planning strategies.

3. Cloud Solutions for Flexibility and Scalability

Cloud solutions are an essential component of modern workplace planning, enabling businesses to achieve flexibility and scalability. MSPs offer a range of cloud services, including cloud-based applications, storage, and data backup, to help businesses migrate to the cloud seamlessly.

By leveraging cloud technology, organisations can access their resources and data from anywhere, supporting remote and hybrid work models and promoting a more agile work environment.

4. Cybersecurity and Data Protection

As workplace planning evolves to incorporate new technologies and remote work, the importance of cybersecurity and data protection increases. MSPs provide robust security solutions, including firewalls, intrusion detection, encryption, and anti-virus software, to safeguard your organisation’s valuable data. Regular monitoring and assessments ensure that security measures are up to date, protecting your business from potential cyber threats and helping you maintain compliance with data protection regulations.

5. Unified Communications and Collaboration Tools

Effective workplace planning requires the implementation of unified communications and collaboration tools that empower employees to communicate and work together efficiently, irrespective of their location. MSPs offer a range of solutions, including Voice over IP (VoIP), video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management tools, to enable seamless collaboration across teams. These tools are integral to fostering a culture of teamwork and productivity in a modern work environment.

6. Expertise and Ongoing Support

Partnering with an MSP provides your business with access to a team of skilled professionals who can offer ongoing support, advice, and strategic planning. By leveraging their expertise, your organisation can stay ahead of the curve, adopting emerging technologies and best practices that help streamline operations and improve workplace planning.

Conclusion

Managed Service Providers offer a comprehensive suite of services and technologies that enable businesses to implement effective workplace planning strategies. From IT support and infrastructure management to cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and collaboration tools, MSPs play a critical role in helping organisations create modern, agile, and future-proof work environments. By partnering with an MSP, you can access a wealth of expertise and support to ensure your business stays competitive and prepared for the evolving workplace landscape.

For more information, contact us online or call us on 0121 3680119.

Top 6 technologies you can leverage to revolutionise workplace planning: How MSPs can assist your business

The law firm for life

Protecting your family business – what shareholders should consider

Whilst it is hoped that going into business with family members remains good-natured, relationships in any context are often difficult to predict. Unfortunately, disputes can arise in a number of situations, particularly where younger generations are introduced to a business, sibling rivalries develop, or where an outside member becomes involved in the running of the family business’.

A company’s directors will control the day to day workings of a business, but it is important for shareholders to understand the nature of the rights attached to their shares and the way in which their rights are governed by the articles of a company, along with any shareholders’ agreement implemented.

Whilst the implementation of a shareholders’ agreement may seem intrusive, it is often compared to the preparation of a will in dealing with an individual’s estate upon death and can positively impact the development and growth of a business in the future.

What is a shareholders’ agreement?

Unlike a company’s articles of association, which is a document available for inspection at Companies House, a shareholders’ agreement is a private document which allows a company’s shareholders to introduce specific rules relative to that particular business.

The terms of a shareholders’ agreement can be as bespoke or as generic as your business requires, but typically the agreement will cover the topics stated in this article.

Pre-emption rights are a useful mechanism to prevent unknown individuals becoming part of a business as it provides for a right of first refusal when an existing shareholder wishes to transfer their shares to a third party.

There is scope to dis-apply the pre-emption process where a shareholder wishes to transfer their shares to a spouse or child of the shareholder, but in all other circumstances these rules would apply. You may wish to include provisions for such shares to be transferred back to the founding members in certain circumstances, for example, upon death, incapacity, or divorce of an existing shareholder. Alternatively, you may wish for shares to pass to a relative or family trust pursuant to your will on death; in which case the drafting of the shareholders’ agreement should be aligned with your estate planning.

A key consideration when transferring shares is how those shares are valued. If a minority shareholder is to exit, he/she may demand a price based on the proportion of the company’s estimated value represented by the shares. To reflect that the value accorded to the shares of a minority shareholder will, by reason of the lack of control conferred by them, equate to less than what would be calculated by simply looking at the proportion of the company’s value, a minority discount can be applied. A shareholders’ agreement is extremely useful to regulate this position.

Restrictive covenants can be incorporated into a shareholders’ agreement with the effect that during the period upon which an individual is a shareholder of a company and for a period after a shareholder ceases to be a member of a company, the shareholder cannot during the relevant period compete with the business of the company or solicit

customers, employees or key suppliers.

There is scope within the shareholders agreement to include a list of reserved matters requiring majority shareholders’ consent to allow those individuals to retain control in relation to large-scale decision making, these decisions can include entering into transactions over a certain financial threshold, or changing a company’s constitution.

It is best practice to revise a company’s articles of association in conjunction with the implementation of a shareholders’ agreement to ensure that the two documents correspond.

If you require any further information or advice on how you can best protect your family business, please contact Lucy Harrold, Corporate Solicitor, through lucy.harrold@mfgsolicitors.com or call 01562 820181.

Chamber Business Manifesto recognises key priorities for businesses in the year ahead

The recent Economic Conference sponsored by Bishop Fleming included the launch of the Chamber Manifesto for 2023/2024. The Manifesto outlines activities that the Chamber will undertake to represent the interests and address the challenges faced by our Membership. These challenges have been identified as a result of 12 months of research through the Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) and hundreds of consultations conducted by our Membership team.

Our Manifesto priorities have changed slightly from last year after changes in the business environment. The priorities are The Year Ahead in Business, Business Costs, Workforce Planning, Global Markets, Technology, and Innovation and Net Zero.

The Year Ahead in Business

We believe this title represents the importance placed on making sure that in times of unprecedented inflationary pressure, energy prices and labour shortages we ensure we also look forward and highlight opportunities for growth through sharing best practice, access to training, and highlighting any financial support that may become available.

The QES measures business confidence in terms of turnover and profitability. Four consecutive surveys have shown that confidence in turnover projections has fallen consistently throughout 2022. In Q1 2021, 65% of businesses predicted an increase in their turnover, this fell consistently to Q4 2022, where 45% of businesses predicted improved turnover. The average figure of business confidence in turnover increasing throughout 2022 was 53%.

Business Costs

The cost of doing business has experienced unprecedented increases in 2022/23. Inflation at its highest level in decades, the war in Europe, and the continuing effects of Brexit make trading conditions extremely difficult.

In the latest QES survey (Q4 2022), 65% of businesses reported that their utility bills were causing pressure to raise their prices. 61% reported labour costs were also causing concern to their business.

The 2023 Salary & Benefits Report in partnership with Hewett Recruitment is a highly important tool to ensure wage pressures are accurate and recruitment and retention of staff can be maximised.

Workforce Planning

Workforce Planning can be defined as ‘the process of balancing labour supply (skills) against the demand (numbers needed).’ It includes analysing the current workforce, determining future workforce needs,

identifying the gap between the present and the future, and implementing solutions so that an organisation can accomplish its mission, goals, and strategic plan. It’s about getting the right number of people with the right skills employed in the right place at the right time, at the right cost and on the right contract to deliver an organisation’s short and long-term objectives. Workforce planning can enable sustainable organisation performance through better decision-making about the future people needs of the businesses.

Global Markets

Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses import and export all over the world. Our most recent QES reported that 67% of businesses that answered the survey were importers/exporters.

In our recent QES surveys, many exporters commented that overseas trading remains a challenge due to Brexit causing extortionate prices and further paperwork causing a decrease in orders.

A recent British Chambers of Commerce survey for its ChamberCustoms brokerage service has found a third of businesses have little or no confidence on the costs they will pay to export goods.

Technology and Innovation

It is important to understand the definitions of Technology and Innovation when understanding the impact they have on businesses. Technology can be defined as ‘the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry’. Innovation can be defined as ‘something new or to a change made to an existing product, idea, or field.’

One major consideration however is that as we rely more on technology, we need to be clear on some of the major challenges we face. Are we training our younger workforce to use this technology? Do we have the skills to take advantage of the benefit? Are we protected from threats such as data theft and cyber-attacks? Therefore, it is our responsibility to understand these challenges to reduce the risk of them harming your business.

Net Zero

Sustainability and Climate Change remain amongst the most important concerns both for businesses and governments around the world. Many companies are increasingly paying close attention to their corporate social responsibility in their efforts to become greener and create positive change within society.

A British Chambers of Commerce survey of more than 1,000 businesses, of which 96% are SMEs, has found that nine out of ten don’t fully understand what the Government’s target of making the UK Net Zero by 2050 means for them. Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce along with the British Chambers of Commerce have a key responsibility in working with the government to ensure advice and funding are provided to businesses to increase every opportunity for them to become more sustainable.

We will work to deliver our priorities laid out in this Manifesto from our offices in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and from The British Chambers of Commerce in London. The British Chamber is a huge resource and support for all our activities and through our contacts there, we have direct access to Central Government. We will be providing quarterly Manifesto updates on our progress in delivering the priorities detailed in the document.

If you would like a physical copy sent to you, please contact policy@hwchamber.co.uk. Alternatively, you can download your online copy on the Chamber website.

Offering something different –a unique approach to banking

Stephen Ellis, branch manager of local relationship bank Handelsbanken in Worcester and Hereford, explains why the company’s approach offers something different from that of high street banks.

So, how does Handelsbanken differ from

the traditional

UK high street banks?

Unlike high street banks, we have a decentralised model, which means our customers benefit from swift, clear decisions, made in the branch by people they know. Each customer has a direct line to their own account manager, who knows the local market and invests time to understand their aspirations, to reach truly bespoke solutions. Our customers trust us because we focus on building long-term relationships, and because we’re free from sales targets or short-term bonuses, they know we’re always working in their best interests.

What is your company’s ethos and philosophy?

Our focus is on long-term relationships. We believe we can help our customers achieve their goals, by really knowing them as individuals. Our cultural handbook is clear “our advice must always be what is best for the customer, not what is most profitable for the Bank at the time.”

What can customers expect from Handelsbanken

For our personal customers we offer a bespoke service with a private banking experience. Each customer has their own private banking manager who gets to know them, to support their needs today and anticipate their requirements going forward. That could be everyday banking through to financial planning for their family’s future. If customers bring their businesses to us, they’ll benefit from a dedicated corporate banking manager who is backed by an expert team, who will really get under the skin of their business. Each and every customer can be sure of the best service which is driven by a focus on building long-term relationships, not by short term bonuses or targets.

Tell us a bit about Handelsbanken in Worcester and Hereford

We opened our doors in 2010 and since then we’ve gone from strength to strength. We’re a team of 17 experienced bankers serving Worcester and Hereford and the surrounding towns and rural areas. We offer personal and corporate banking along with a wealth management service, so no matter what stage in life our customers are at, we can help and it’s all done here in the branch. We recently moved in to larger premises at Brook Court at Whittington Hall in Worcester alongside our Meeting Place at Flexspace on the Rotherwas Industrial Estate near Hereford. With a focus on customer service rather than expensive marketing campaigns, our customers come to us through word of mouth and

recommendation, which we’re proud to say is down to the quality of service our branch colleagues deliver each and every day.

How is the bank evolving to secure a successful future?

With an approach like ours we can stay adaptable and agile, changing as our customers’ needs do. We recognise that customers want more choice when it comes to how and when they bank with us, so we’re enhancing our digital offering, to complement our face-to-face service. Working towards a more sustainable future has always been a priority for us and we’ve recently committed to reaching net zero by 2040. We’ll continue to run our business in a more sustainable way and deliver positive environmental and social outcomes, through sustainable finance products and responsible investment options.

Finally, what are your ambitions for the branch?

Put simply, to be the best bank in town. Customer satisfaction drives everything we do and we’ll continue to invest in our people and our branch so that we can help individuals and businesses realise their ambitions.

Find out more about Handelsbanken’s relationship approach to banking at handelsbanken.co.uk or contact the Worcester and Hereford branch – Second Floor, Brook Court, Whittington Hall, Whittington Road, Worcester WR5 2RX – on 01905 330350 or email worcesterandhereford@handelsbanken.co.uk

Stephen Ellis, Branch Manager at Handelsbanken Worcester & Hereford

Say hello to easy collaboration with a Sharp printer from Clarity Solutions

Advancing technology means the latest range of A3 colour printers from Sharp make collaboration effortless.

Their new built in Microsoft® Teams connector enables direct and secure access for printing from or scanning to your Microsoft Teams channel.

Integrate seamlessly with cloudbased business apps, mobile connectivity, and industry-leading system and data protection features alongside all the usual speed and quality of output you would expect from Sharp

The hardest part is deciding which model to go for, but with over 25 years’ experience, Clarity Solutions can help you choose the right multifunctional printer for your business We focus on understanding exactly what you need then use our expertise to recommend a solution that fits your budget and your requirements

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Precision Engineering

As an established sub-contractor to OEM manufacturers, we provide scheduled production, batch manufacture, and one-off prototyping. We offer a wide range of services including machining, fabrication, and assembly of precision-engineered products. Utilizing state-of-the-art CNC machinery including mill-turn and 5 axis machining with automated load and unload capability.

Contact us

Fabrication

Over 40 years of experience supporting industrial, marine and architectural customers. We have full fabrication facilities including sheet metal, cutting, profiling and bending. We bend tube up to 50mm diameter with radii down to 1.5xD. We offer Mig and Tig welding of ferrous and non ferrous metals. Our in house finishing supports brushed or mirror polished surfaces. We can assist with designs using 3 D CAD modelling.

Engineering • Architectural • Marine • Environment

HRH Princess Royal visits Pershore College Agri-Tech Research Centre

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Pershore College to officially open a research facility at its university centre.

Princess Anne visited the college and spoke with staff, students, apprentices, employers and local dignitaries as she officially opened the Warwickshire College and University Centre (WCUC) Agri-Tech Research Centre.

Students and staff from the college lined the paths from the main building to the Agri-Tech Research Centre – which is the heart of agri-tech course delivery for WCUC, the Higher Education arm of WCG.

Professor Roy Kennedy welcomed Her Royal Highness to the research centre and gave a tour of the indoor hydroponic plant-growth chamber, specialist equipment and teaching laboratory.

She then met with apprentices, employers and academic staff in the research centre, before unveiling a plaque to officially open the Agri-Tech Research Centre as part of WCUC.

Nicole Higginson, Director at New Leaf Plants, was among the employers present, alongside horticultural apprentice Thomas McDonald, 25, who studies at Pershore College and works at her company.

Nicole said: “It was a super day and I think it reflected really well on the college. As well as having an apprentice here, I’ve done some micropropagation work with the Agri-Tech Centre and it is nice to see it get recognised.”

Angela Joyce added: “It was an honour to be able to welcome The Princess Royal to Pershore College to officially open the Agri-Tech

Research Centre under the Warwickshire College and University Centre banner.

“We knew that Princess Anne had an interest in horticulture and land-based industries and that was clear from the conversations she had during her visit.

“She was particularly interested in the technology and research being carried out in the Agri-Tech Research Centre and spoke at length with Roy about the strides being made in research projects at the facility. To find out more about courses at WCG visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study

Service looking for new on-call firefighters

On-call firefighters play a vital role in Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service’s varied work across the two counties.

The Service is always looking for enthusiastic applicants from all walks of life to serve their community in many challenging situations across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

All 25 fire stations have an on-call fire engine with a dedicated crew of women and men who respond to emergency calls when needed alongside their regular day jobs.

Any potential on-call recruits must be aged over 18 and work or live within five minutes of any of the stations.

The most important qualifications are common sense, compassion, commitment, discretion and teamwork.

On-call firefighters do not spend all this time working and just need to be available for call-out if there is an incident.

Full training, uniform and personal development are provided with many opportunities to gain additional skills and qualifications that will be of use outside of the Service.

On-call firefighters will need to attend a weekly training session, usually on a weekday evening at their local fire station. To find out more, visit www.hwfire.org.uk/join-us/

Worcestershire showing a resilience to economic uncertainty says GJS Dillon

to Worcestershire commercial property consultancy GJS Dillon.

‘Quality accommodation that is in the right location is able to withstand the wider economic uncertainty that has become the norm. This is the case for all sectors and types of accommodation.’ says Andrew Lewis, GJS Dillon’s Commercial Agency Director.

Worcestershire is showing a resilience to economic uncertainty and businesses are benefiting from its location and the support that’s on offer, according

John Dillon, GJS Dillon’s Managing Director added ‘We’ve seen really good take up this year for office and industrial property to let however it is really difficult to buy commercial property in our County. Income generated from our commercial property is often going out of the County. We need to start building what we as a County need rather than simply leaving it to chance and market forces’

Ormerod Rutter announces new Partner

Ormerod Rutter, one of the region’s leading independent firms of Chartered Accountants, welcomes Rachel Smith as a new Partner.

Rachel will be celebrating her 20th year at Ormerod Rutter in 2023, after joining the practice from school.

“Rachel has cultivated a unique skillset during her time at Ormerod Rutter. She has led a transformation of our internal systems, which has been key to increasing the efficiency and productivity of the practice.”

Explains Colm McGrory, Senior Partner.

“I’m delighted to have been invited to become a Partner at Ormerod Rutter and I am excited for the future. I have been heavily involved in strategic development over recent years and this has helped the practice develop and continue to grow, along with

streamlining our efficiencies and ensuring that we’re working at an optimum production level.” Says Rachel.

“We are delighted to announce that Rachel Smith has accepted the position of Partner. Her involvement is integral to our journey as we continue to grow and develop our services.” concludes Colm.

People value and respect their differences

They use these differences to enable great problem solving, creativity and innovation

These are the kind of workplaces I aim to inspire through training teams, groups of leaders and coaching/mentoring people on a one to one basis.

This is the way great organisations achieve success and typically we don’t learn these techniques for business success at school, college or university or through our technical training.

People use positive language to constructively challenge each other to move teams and businesses forward Managers and leaders inspire and motivate others and coach them to be the best version of themselves. egpeopledevelopment.co.uk

Following research for our Salary & Benefits Report 2023, on average, in 2022, 57% of businesses attempted to recruit staff. Of these businesses, 73% had experienced difficulties when recruiting. There is much data to support the need for nurturing skills in the existing and future workforce. The skills gap has been reported for some time now, here at the Chamber, in the wider community and in national news.

There are many options out there to help bridge the skills gap.

Skills Bootcamps

Additional funding to support adults aged 19+ looking to change sectors or progress in their current industry was announced in the Spring Budget 2023. Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses designed to help people gain the necessary skills to secure or progress in a job.

The courses are offered across the country by various training providers and cover a wide range of industries including Business and Administration, Construction, Digital, Engineering and many more.

The additional funding announced will allow up to 8,000 more people to benefit from this scheme –taking the total number of training places up to an impressive 64,000.

This scheme aims to help bridge the skills gap for people both currently in, and looking to join new industries. The access to free education for many adults over 19 could be both career and life changing. Offering these courses as a flexible opportunity to learn new skills will help to improve the labour market, supporting businesses who are struggling with recruitment.

Training

When considering the difficulties businesses are facing in recruitment, it is an appropriate time to

consider the benefits of properly training your existing staff to support retention. Looking to your existing team to create opportunities to upskill your workforce can be a highly beneficial – and often less costly –alternative to recruiting new starters.

When employees attend a Chamber training course, they can take so many useful, valuable tips away to implement in your day-to-day running, creating opportunities for business growth. By taking part in training, businesses can diversify from within.

In addition, by allowing team members to grow their existing skills or gain new skills, they will feel more challenged at work and in control of their day to day tasks, thereby allowing for higher job satisfaction and encouraging staff to stay within the company for longer.

LSIP

Further to the Government’s Skills for Jobs White Paper (January 2021), Local Skills Improvement Plan’s (LSIPs) were created to put employers more firmly at the heart of the skills system to help ensure businesses and people have the skills they need to thrive and grow, alongside improving local productivity and international competitiveness.

Led by designated Employer Representative Bodies (ERBs), LSIPs will clearly articulate local employers’ skills needs and the priority changes required in the local area to help ensure post-16 technical education and training provision is more responsive and flexible in meeting local labour market needs.

The Chamber has been working closely with the communities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire to gain feedback and will be hard at work to produce the LSIP report over the next few months. We have been honoured to work with the businesses and education providers across the two counties to understand more about the skills needs for the future workforce.

In an ever-changing professional landscape, the need for more specialist and diverse skills is becoming ever-more present. What businesses are wondering, is how are they being supported to close the skills gaps that are presented to them.

The need for specialist and diverse skills is becoming ever-more present

Host your event at The Courtyard Hereford!

Home to corporate style meeting rooms, multipurpose studios, a Café Bar and the luxurious Courtyard Lounge complete with a stunning outdoor terrace, The Courtyard has a space available to meet all needs. With two dining areas, The Courtyard also offers award winning catering available for all events. From the famous quiche and salad bar, light bites and homemade cakes in the Café Bar, to innovative small plates and a private bar in

the elegant yet trendy Courtyard Lounge, the Food and Drink team at The Courtyard can quite literally cater for everyone. Alongside this, the Courtyard Terrace offers the perfect breath of fresh air for summer events.

From awards ceremonies and conferences to team meetings and staff parties, The Courtyard can tailor a package for small or larger groups so everyone can enjoy their day exactly as they wish.

THIS

Our

The Courtyard offers award winning catering, conference equipment, technical support, on-site parking, free wi-fi and much more! The Courtyard also offers disabled access and will always strive to meet any access requirements.

For more information about hiring a space at The Courtyard contact foh@courtyard.org.uk.

For

Located right in the heart of Hereford, The Courtyard is an independent, busy and vibrant Arts Centre that boasts an impressive array of rooms and facilities, making it the perfect space to host an event or function.

INSPIRING WOMEN IN BUSINESS

In this issue, we celebrate Inspiring Women in Business. We take a look at the contribution that women-owned businesses are making to our local economy.

We also shine a light on women who are making their mark in fields of expertise from equipment hire and sustainable packaging to logistics.

Globally, much more remains to be done to ensure gender parity in both the ownership and leadership of businesses. Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are actively working to support more female leaders and role models who can inspire an inclusive style of leadership in business and civic life.

Women’s Business Forums

The popular Women’s Business Forum provides attendees with the opportunity to make business contacts and hear from interesting and informative speakers.

After several successful years of running the event in Worcestershire, the Chamber has responded to popular demand and launched a Herefordshire Women’s Business Forum. Worcestershire events are organised in association with Harrison Clark Rickerbys and take place in a number of different venues across the county.

hwchamber.co.uk/events/forums/womensbusiness-forum

OPTIMEC METROLOGY

Celebrate the highs and learn from the lows!

The decision to start our own company was an easy one to make when the opportunity arose to purchase the company assets of our employer. Despite being established during a global crisis in unprecedented times the business is thriving.

Optimec Metrology manufacture, supply, service, repair and maintain soft contact lens metrology instrumentation for the global contact lens, intraocular lens and associated manufacturing industries. We are proud to support and promote British manufacturing with 80% of our revenue being raised from worldwide exports to over 35 countries.

Every business journey is individual, ours has seen us progress from employees to Directors and our amazing bond as business partners is unique and unbreakable. We make every decision together and value each other’s opinions, values and worth. Our combination of endless enthusiasm, commitment, dedication and pride has strengthened confidence and industry knowledge and we are fully supported by our incredibly skilled team. We are constantly learning and have a strong business vision, particularly regarding investment in facilities, staff, manufacturing, marketing, research and development, always in the most cost-effective way. The COVID-19 pandemic did affect sales, but not our motivation and we are constantly striving to identify and actualise improvements. We are currently in the final testing stages of a new product and have made significant improvements to an existing one whilst increasing turnover and profit year on year.

We would encourage everyone to start their own business but be fully prepared for long days, sleepless nights and hard work! We recommend creating a focused and detailed Business Plan together with Profit & Loss and Cashflow Forecasts outlining ambitious yet realistic plans for the first three years, then celebrate the highs and learn from the lows.

We’d love to share our story with you! Visit optimecmetrology.com

Kerry Blandford and Cathy Leach, Directors

PSG BOWDENS

After completing my accountancy qualifications at a family firm in Cheltenham, I specialised in tax and qualified as a Chartered Tax Advisor.

When returning to work from maternity leave, I fell on my feet at PSG Bowdens - a firm giving all round accountancy, business and tax services to small businesses and individuals. I began my time at PSG as Head of the Tax Department and I’m now the ‘go to’ tax expert and Tax and Trusts Partner.

Balancing family life and work is a tricky task and it’s made possible by the inspiring and talented individuals I work with every day. My advice to women in business is to always believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you. Imposter syndrome is real, especially for women in business, and being supported by people who appreciate your ability, even when you don’t believe in yourself, means you can get through the tougher periods.

The future is very bright for me and the firm. I’m currently working towards my qualification to become a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. PSG Bowdens is growing every day, taking on fantastic new clients and exciting projects. Recently I helped a business owner sell their company without paying any tax - a highlight of my career and strongly appreciated by the clients!

If you would like advice about the accountancy sector or if PSG Bowdens can help you with any business, tax or accountancy needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me for a chat.

Katie.Frost@PSGBowdens.com

01386 425125

www.psgbowdens.com

FMS HEREFORD LIMITED

Outsourced Payroll Bureau & Accountancy Services

FMS Hereford Limited was set up six years ago as I needed the flexibility to manage my own career alongside family life. This was pre-covid times, when the concept of remote working was not as common as it is today, and the start of my online business journey. As with any new business, it had been challenging to say the least, there were many ups and down, but looking back it has all been a worthwhile experience and shaped the business it is today. I am fortunate to have a good team on board now which has also helped with our continued success.

I think the key to success is to set a goal and remain focused, to treat clients as you would expect to be treated, with respect, professionalism, and efficiency.

My advice for aspiring women would be to aim high, work hard and be resilient. Keep asking for more; you will get it. Be confident in what you are trying to achieve, confidence and experience allows you to be balanced. Also, believe in yourself, especially when there are life’s knocks, pick yourself up as tomorrow is a new day.

At FMS our focus has been on our Outsourced Payroll Bureau and Real Time Bookkeeping Services for business owners. We have developed our electronic systems over the years to give a complete service for our clients.

Xero accounting software has really made life easy for bookkeeping, again being cloud-based software it lends itself to how we work. We help with anything from data entry, basic bookkeeping through to month end reconciliations and management information.

Visit www.fms.uk.com for more details, call 01432 360500 or email bernice.jaggard@fms.uk.com

Katie Frost

Bernice Jaggard

CapFest - a five-day event celebrating 100 years of Caplor Energy

Caplor Energy, is excited to announce CapFest, a five-day event celebrating 100 years of Caplor. CapFest will take place from the 5th to the 9th of June 2023, with each day having a specific focus on each of Caplor Energy’s sectors and valued stakeholders, with common themes of renewable energy and sustainability running across the entire event.

Caplor Energy was founded by Gareth Williams in 2007 on Caplor Farm, which has been farmed by his family since 1923. The business was born out of Gareth’s alarm at the impact of climate change on farming practices, and his realisation that the urgent adoption of renewable energy technologies was necessary to combat climate change’s harmful effects. With Caplor Energy representing the latest chapter in the Williams family’s story at Caplor Farm, CapFest is the celebration of a 100 year-long contribution to the sustainable rural economy.

CapFest represents a significant landmark for Caplor Energy and has been planned to promote the benefits of renewable energy and sustainable living. The event will feature a wide variety of workshops, seminars, and exhibits, as well as local music and food.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be announcing CapFest, and cannot wait to join our customers, partners, supporters and members of our local community to celebrate 100 years of Caplor,” said Gareth Williams, Founder of Caplor Energy.

The event will take place at Caplor Farm, which is home to Caplor Energy’s headquarters. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about renewable energy technologies, such as solar PV and heat pumps, and to see them in action. Each day will also feature specialist workshops and lectures, with guest presenters from Caplor Energy’s

trusted network of partners, including Good Energy, NFU Energy, Unitherm, Mitsubishi and Huawei; to name a few.

“Not only will CapFest be a fun and educational event, but it will be an opportunity for us to thank all those who have made Caplor what it is today. While many of those attending will already be passionate advocates of renewable energy themselves, we hope it will inspire them even further on their personal and professional journeys to a brighter, more sustainable future” said Williams.

Herefordshire Embraces Equity for International Women’s Day

Those of us who hold the idea of equity close, welcome a day to celebrate ‘International Women’s Day’ and the positive sentiment it brings.

On that basis, our article features words for reflection from Sharon Smith, CEO of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce as well as Inspector Julz Watson from West Mercia Police and Lee Gough (Mrs) from Megan Baker House.

Sharon says: “I strive to #EmbraceEquity. I don’t always get everything right, but ensuring Equity is at the top of the business agenda is hugely important to me and to most businesses.”

Lee Gough, CEO of Megan Baker House, agrees: “I embrace equity on a daily basis and welcome the chance to help recognise that equity is still some way off. For example, there are considerably less than 50% female CEOs

of charities than male in the UK and I’m very happy to spearhead more.”

Inspector Julie Watson, West Mercia Police, says: “No woman or girl should feel afraid walking in the streets of her own city, however we know that almost 70% of women do feel afraid, particularly at night.”

Herefordshire’s Safer Streets Project is working to make practical improvements to our CCTV network and street illuminations to make these areas feel safer for all who use these public spaces.

Whether we embrace the concept of International Women’s Day or not, it does provide a focus to forge forward in making an impact on equity - and women are embracing every bit of making that change.

Ruby Edwards at You Do Better PR www.youdobetter.co.uk 07891 777464

Making the most of the apprenticeship levy

Any business with an annual payroll bill of £3 million or more will be contributing each month to an apprenticeship ‘levy pot’. The pot is available to all businesses, whether levy payers or not.

If you are a small business and don’t pay the levy, you can still use apprenticeship funding to significantly reduce the amount it costs you to train apprentices.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to develop inexperienced new employees quickly, or to provide development to more experienced or older staff (there is no age limit for apprenticeships).

If you take into account the current incentive payments (see below) it could cost you nothing to train your apprentices, and you may well be better off.

Sutcliffe’s announced as Top Insurance Employers Award Winner

Worcester based Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers have announced they are a ‘Top Insurance Employers Award Winner’, reflecting their commitment to workplace wellbeing and drive for delivering service excellence.

Insurance Business UK (IBUK) Magazine is one of the leading publications in the industry and invites organisations to participate in this award by completing an employer form, which asked companies to explain their various offerings and practices. Employees from nominated companies are then asked to fill out an anonymous form evaluating their workplace on a number of metrics, including benefits, compensation, culture, employee development, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Through feedback from the team, Sutcliffe & Co have been announced as a Top Insurance Employer with a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to the workplace.

Duncan Sutcliffe, says, “This is a very special award because it’s due to the positive feedback from our staff. We are committed to providing the best support for our staff and because of this we are a close knit team. The personal service we provide our clients would not be possible if it wasn’t for our talented and experienced team. I couldn’t be prouder of this award.”

Incentive payments

In case that’s not enough of an incentive, the government is encouraging take-up of apprentices with an incentive scheme.

There is an ongoing incentive which pays a bonus if you employ apprentices who are:

16 to 18 years old

19 to 25 years old with an education, health and care plan

19 to 25 years old and they used to be in care

It’s an opportunity to make use of money that is frequently returned to the Treasury unused, and is really not to be missed.

Find out more at www.bishopfleming.co.uk

For more information about Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers being a Top Insurance Employer winner, please contact the Sutcliffe Head Office on 01905 21681 or alternatively email enquiries@sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk.

Inspector Julz Watson (West Mercia Police), Lee Gough (Megan Baker House) and Sharon Smith (Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce) embrace equity on International Women’s Day 2023

Boosting workforce planning with modern technology solutions

Workforce planning plays a vital role in ensuring businesses remain competitive in today’s fast-paced market. Embracing modern technology solutions can dramatically improve this process, allowing organisations to optimise staffing levels and enhance overall efficiency.

One particular aspect of workforce planning that benefits from technology is talent management. Through the use of data analytics, organisations can identify skill gaps, analyse workforce trends, and develop strategic plans to address their staffing needs. Additionally, cloud-based human resource management systems (HRMS) have

transformed the way businesses manage their workforce. These systems centralise employee information, streamline recruitment processes, and offer real-time data on workforce metrics, enabling organisations to make informed decisions.

Communication technology also plays a crucial role in fostering a productive work environment. Telephony solutions, such as VoIP and unified communication platforms, bridge the gap between remote and in-office employees, ensuring seamless collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the organisation. Finally, cyber security measures are essential to protect sensitive workforce data

and maintain compliance with data protection regulations. Robust security solutions, including encryption, firewall protection, and regular vulnerability assessments, can help businesses safeguard their workforce planning efforts.

In conclusion, integrating modern technology solutions into workforce planning processes empowers organisations to make data-driven decisions, enhance talent management, and ultimately, drive business success.

Thursfields awards four work experience scholarships in new inclusion project

Four aspiring law students have won a work experience scholarship with Thursfields Solicitors as part of the second phase of an inclusion project at the firm.

The scholarship includes a guaranteed interview for a training contract with the leading Midlands law firm on the successful completion of each student’s Legal Practice Course.

The work experience will take place over two years during each student’s degree and will include mentorship and a cash prize.

The four scholarships, which commenced on 15 February, were awarded to:

Elice Homer-Walton, at Wolverhampton University

Inderjeet Sandhu, at Birmingham City University

Nisha Bagga, at Aston University, and Shukry Ali, at Birmingham City University.

Jade Linton, HR director and chair of Thursfields Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee said: “We are delighted to announce the

first four successful degree students who have now received our work experience scholarship.”

She added: “Students will be given varied work within our Top Tier teams in various departments, including Corporate and Commercial, Employment, Dispute Resolution, Commercial Property, Residential Property, Wills & Estates and Family.”

Neoperl UK focus on staff training

Over a third of the 160 staff at Neoperl UK in Malvern, took part in personal development training during 2022 and that figure is set to increase with a new learning focus for 2023.

On the back of this drive to support and retain employees, the company invested in a new intranet and bespoke learning management system (LMS) for employees last year and provided pods to give private space and access for staff that don’t work on a computer each day. The new Intranet is called ‘NEOnet’, and the LMS – LEARNeo, which allows all employees to access approved e-learning.

“Our LEARNeo e-learning platform was launched in January so that all employees

can undergo the same training no matter where they are located in the world. This includes training on our company Values, our approach to Quality and Code of Conduct. We have already started to grow the number of courses available,” said Louise Hughes, Head of Human Resources at Neoperl in the UK.

“Excellence and passion are two of our key Values which drive innovation and as a business training keeps us sharp, agile and open to embrace new ideas. This new e-learning system makes training so accessible to all, helping us to create the right culture for the future of our business.”

More information about each training course and upcoming dates can be found on the Chamber website hwchamber.co.uk/events-andtraining-calendar

There has been much conversation about the digital skills gap of late, according to a government press release back in June 2022 by Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport it was reported that over eighty per cent of all jobs advertised in the UK now require digital skills. However, employers say the lack of available talent is the single biggest factor holding back growth. Estimates suggest the digital skills gap costs the UK economy as much as £63 billion a year in potential GDP.

The fact is that digital skills are no longer limited to technical roles but are widespread requirements across all sectors and skill levels today. Having a basic competency in Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Excel are no longer a competitive advantage, they are viewed as essential digital skills for most entry level roles across business sectors.

It’s not enough for businesses to have the latest technologically advanced systems and software to succeed in business and grow market share. They need the resources within the labour market to fill vacancies and/ or develop staff within their organisation. Businesses need to ensure they can recruit and retain top talent, those who can help companies see a return on their investment in their new shiny technology! But many are struggling due to what is known as the Digital Skills Gap. According to a recent article by Forbes, put simply, the digital skills gap is the inability to access skilled professionals with the proper knowledge and experience in emerging technologies.

So, what can businesses do to bridge the Digital Skills Gap. Here are our top 3 suggestions:

1. Recognise where the gaps are: This is the first step to identify skills gaps within your department. A lack of digital skills

will pose the biggest threat in automation and digital transformation process. These can be addressed at your staff appraisals and corrected through relevant staff training.

2. Nurture a learning culture within your business:

Ensure opportunities are promoted and given to all regardless of position to ensure diversity and inclusion within your workforce.

3. Encourage self-directed learning: Provide access to free learning tools and bitesize learning to build competencies and confidence. Empower your team to continue their professional development, increase their knowledge and achieve move. This will ultimately lead to increased motivation and increase productivity. Don’t forget to reward and celebrate their success!

Whilst the training department continuously looks to expand their portfolio and training offering, we are always looking for new ideas for courses. It’s great to understand what topics will be most beneficial to your business. We would like to hear from you! Let us know what digital skills are lacking in your sector and what training you are looking for.

For any suggestions, please email training@hwchamber.co.uk

The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is not training them and having them stay.

Henry Ford

Virtual meetings and training courses via digital platforms are now the norm

Training & Development

May Courses Dates

Managing People in the Team

Thursday 4 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members /

£200+VAT Non-members

Location: Worcester

Intermediate Microsoft Excel

Tuesday 9 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members /

£200+VAT Non-members

Location: Worcester

Train the Trainer

Wednesday 10 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members /

£200+VAT Non-members

Location: Zoom

Mentoring in the Workplace

Thursday 11 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members /

£200+VAT Non-members

Location: Worcester

An Introduction to Digital Marketing and PR

Tuesday 16 May, 9.00am-11.00am

Free Members / £110+VAT Non-members Location: Zoom

Manual Handling

Wednesday 17 May, 9.00am-12.30pm

£90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members

Location: Worcester

Professional Telephone Techniques

Thursday 18 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford

Communicating for Success

Wednesday 24 May, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

June Courses Dates

Introduction to Microsoft Excel

Tuesday 6 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Cisco Webex

IOSH Managing Safely

Tuesday 6 June - Friday 9 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

An Introduction to Finance for the Non-financial Manager

Wednesday 7 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Hereford

Managing Performance in the Team

Tuesday 13 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

We would like to hear from you!

Advanced Microsoft Excel

Wednesday 14 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

Mental Health First Aid

Thursday 15 June, 9.00am-4.00pm £200+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

Search Engine Optimisation

Tuesday 20 June, 9.00am-12.30pm

£90+VAT Members / £160+VAT Non-members

Location: Zoom

Employment Law Update

Wednesday 21 June, 10.00am-3.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

Fire Marshal Training

Wednesday 21 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non-members Location: Worcester

Effective Time Management

Wednesday 21 June, 9.00am-4.00pm

£160+VAT Members / £200+VAT Non-members Location: Zoom

Whilst continuously expanding the training offering, the Training department are always looking for new ideas for courses. It’s great to understand what topics will be most beneficial to local businesses.

For any suggestions, please email training@hwchamber.co.uk. More information about each training course and upcoming dates can be found on the Chamber website - hwchamber.co.uk/events-and-training-calendar

Exciting times for Hewett Recruitment

Hewett Recruitment is a leading independent agency with a big heart.

Owners Ben Mannion and Laura Hewett outline their vision for growth while staying true to the company’s original values.

With over 40 years in business, Hewett Recruitment has seen a sea of change in the jobs market. Today they’re more prepared than ever to help workers and companies navigate this ‘brave new world of work’ in the wake of Brexit and Covid.

The agency was founded by Louise Hewett back in 1980 when the business mainly focused on temp work.

When she retired, Ben and Laura took over the reins as company directors and have spent the last 18 months implementing their own strategy for continued growth while consolidating the agency’s ongoing success.

“We’ve actually known each other for 37 years since we started school!” Ben chuckles.

But while Ben had been with Hewett since 2009, Laura enjoyed a successful career in London, before moving back to her hometown with her young family in 2013.

“There’s been a lot of changes in the recruitment industry since I started,” Ben reflects. “We deal with a lot more compliance issues and red tape, in combination with current market challenges.

“There are so many vacancies and not enough people to fill them due to well-documented factors like Covid, Brexit and underinvestment in skills.”

He adds, “Permanent recruitment used to be a very small part of our business, but now we’ve got a 10-strong team, so it’s a more even balance.

And as Laura points out, “every single sector” is experiencing worker shortages. “We’d never really seen shortages in what is termed ‘blue-collar work’, but even that is under a lot of pressure now.”

Ben adds, “Many areas have been affected by the erosion of free movement and an ageing workforce near retirement - engineering being a prime example. We do a lot of networking and all companies have the same problems.”

So what’s the solution?

Laura points to the fact that up to 10 million people are “economically inactive, not working but not claiming benefits.

“I think part of the challenge is persuading people to work longer, and encouraging those who feel ‘locked out’ through disability or caring responsibilities to return to the workplace.

“There’s a lot of focus on flexible working, but businesses should consider more part-time roles too.”

Ben adds, “Our service is very personable, and we encourage clients to re-look at their recruitment needs every single time. They might be replacing someone in a specific role, for example a maintenance engineer, but do they need to employ exactly the same type of person on the same hours?

“It’s no longer a case of dusting off the old job spec and trying to find an exact match for a job which could well be outdated.”

Hewett has done a lot of consultation on workforce planning with local companies.

Ben explains, “We encourage our clients to look at a particular skills gap and the work involved. Is there anyone in the business who can do some of the work? Sometimes people can be moved around, and a different set of skills is actually required.

“Or, as Laura mentioned, part-time roles could be offered instead, opening up a whole new pool of candidates.

“We frequently recommend great candidates who don’t necessarily have all the relevant experience, but could bring something new to the role. Often, those candidates can be trained and the position becomes broader.

“The challenge is to make the role as broad as possible to find the most suitable person. Employers definitely have the right to go out to market with particular requirements in mind, but if those expectations aren’t met a month down the line, it’s time to take a step back and reconsider.

“The world of work has changed enormously over the last five years, and recruitment has to keep up!”

Employee needs have moved on too. As Laura points out, “Salary is usually the main consideration; it’s what encourages people to even look at a job.

“Flexibility is also a major factor, and hybrid working is still popular, but more people are asking to go back into the office, which is interesting.

“The pandemic was definitely a factor in recalibrating the work-life balance. People don’t want to ‘live to work’. They value their time much more now.”

In recognition, Hewet have increased their own annual leave allowance to 28 days plus bank holidays. “This type of benefit really ticks people’s boxes. It boosts productivity because they have proper time to relax and recuperate.”

Ben adds, “A job isn’t just about the pay and pension anymore. People want to understand the purpose of a business - in fact a recent McKinsey report says that 82% of millennials will check out societal and environmental credentials before applying for a job.”

And then there is the job market’s latest newcomer: artificial intelligence. While Ben believes AI will certainly have an impact, it certainly doesn’t signal the end of the human worker.

“AI will create new roles, but tech advances don’t have to be a bad thing. For example, as a business, we’re all about people and interpersonal connections.

“Technology can enhance what we deliver, but we’re proud of our personal service and relationships with clients. That’s something AI can never replicate - we’re not in the business of CV farming.”

Back to the present day, and Hewett‘s growth plans have taken root. As well as consolidating their presence in the three local counties, they aim to eventually expand along the M5 corridor with their specialisms in the engineering, commercial and IT sectors.

Laura adds, “Ben and I both worked for the business for a long time before taking over, so we knew what we wanted to do while holding on to the values that make our company special.

“We’ve got our B Corp accreditation which is awaiting audit, and our new structures have won us recognition from the Chamber as finalists in three of their upcoming awards.

“We’re also investing in a new IT and CRM system, plus our own recruitment drive is underway. There’s been a lot of change, but it feels good!

“One of our values is ‘We Create Value’, which involves us giving back to the local community through charity work and collaboration, and that will never change.

“We’re really excited about what Hewett can achieve in the next five to 10 years, and we can do it because we have the right people who share our values of integrity and doing business the right way.”

Our service is very personable, and we encourage clients to re-look at their recruitment needs every single time.

Ben Mannion

Laura Hewett and Ben Mannion, Owners, Hewett Recruitment

Worcestershire business looking to expand skilled workforce to futureproof operations

Worcester electrical specialists Rock Power Connections is a national success story with a ‘Mitie’ presence. With yet more growth on the horizon, they want to build on their greatest asset - their people.

Co-founder and Director Kev Sankar admits that his company’s first decade in business has been a whirlwind. “I thought we’d grow and have a great time, but never imagined we’d reach the level we’re at now.”

In fact, you could say that Rock Power Connections - which designs and builds high voltage electrical power infrastructure across the UK - has the best of both worlds.

“Rock is small, local and agile, but we also have a base at The Shard,” Kev says. “We draw on the benefits of large corporate backing, but we’re still family focused, and our values and behaviours haven’t changed since the early days.”

Since its acquisition by the Mitie Group 18 months ago, Rock Power Connections has completed some of its biggest projects to date.

These include the installation of EV charging stations at some of the UK’s busiest hubs and partnerships with high profile clients such as hi-speed rail network HS2 and Electric Highway Gridserve.

Rock has much to celebrate, with full order books, however, as with other successful companies, it faces an immediate challengethe high-quality skills shortage.

Kev adds, “It’s a huge challenge for Worcestershire, and we’re no exception. The green economy in particular offers us massive opportunities, but we are struggling to find the right people.

“Having the right people and culture has always been key to our success. Rock would not be where it is today without them. In fact, our employee value proposition is fantastic in terms of benefits, packages, learning and development.

Kev Sankar, Co-founder and Director

“Our focus continues to be on quality skills and training, and we believe that the Mitie brandcombined with our family friendly ethos - gives us that competitive edge.”

Rock has a range of roles on offer from sales and finance to civils teams and project management, but the main emphasis is on craft skills. Kev adds, “We’re looking for industrial and commercial electricians who we can train to become high voltage engineers.

“The problem is that they can’t get the qualification without practical experience. It’s a catch 22 situation which has been going on in the UK for years, and it’s something we’re currently working through with our own apprentices. It’s not the local college’s fault, it’s the way that apprenticeships are written up.

“Although Rock is well known locally, we hope that the kudos of Mitie ownership will help attract candidates who might otherwise not know about the career opportunities we have to offer.”

He continues, “Mitie employs over 70,000 people and with our career matrix, we work with our people to build and develop their career pathway and ensure they have the right training. Rock has always invested heavily in training but being part of the Mitie brand is on a whole new scale.”

Putting the current skills conundrum to one side, Rock is powering ahead on a path of exponential growth.

Its business has two main strands: making sure that critical electricity infrastructure is in place to keep our towns and cities running; and supporting the UK’s decarbonisation mission.

Kev adds, “There’s going to be a lot more Electric vehicle (EV) super hubs and ultra-rapid charging stations appearing at sports centres, train stations, airports etc, as well as service stations and garage forecourts.

“You can already see our hubs at Welcome Break and Roadchef service stations, and we’re just about to start on a big project at Worcester Garden Centre. We are also putting substations at new outlets for major retailers like Amazon, Lidl, and Aldi.

He concludes, “We’re certainly not stagnating, but we want to get the skills in now to futureproof our operations, and make sure the right support is in place to succeed in the industry.”

“There’s a lot to look forward to and achieve, so Rock Power Connections will always welcome high-quality job applications.”

For more information about career opportunities, email emma@rockpowerconnections.co.uk or call, 01905 456 384

From property to people

Essential updates for businesses across the region

With the new financial year well under way, we look at the essentials your business should be considering for the year ahead. Our expert lawyers provide their thoughts on why now is the perfect time to check your contracts are up-to-date, their top tips for commercial property tenants and the year ahead in employment law.

Spring-clean your contracts

Your contracts deserve to have a spruce up as much as your home does at this time of year. Here’s what you should be checking for:

• Ensure payment terms are still suitable for your business –and how this may impact cashflow

• Do your contracts auto-renew on the same terms you signed up for, and if they don’t is this acceptable?

• Review your termination position to see if you or your counterparty can ‘exit’ at any time for convenience

• Check your policies and handbooks are updated and that these can be amended from time to time

• Is your insurance up for renewal? It’s best to check the terms of the existing insurance and other provisions don’t nullify or invalidate your renewed cover

• Review service levels and KPIs to check they’re still accurate

• Remind yourself of what your liability is under contract. If your liability is limited, consider if these are appropriate for the risks involved

• Lastly, take time to check for updates to legislation in your industry.

Top tips for commercial tenants

Budget, power and flexibility – three things you should consider if you lead an innovative business taking commercial space.

Budget

It’s not just the annual rent and outgoings that are involved in taking a lease. You should factor in service charges towards annual upkeep and insurance of the building along with any estate service charges payable. SMEs are often asked to provide security in the form of a rent deposit equal to 3-6 months’ rent – this should also be in your budget. Lastly, beware of “hidden costs” - including dilapidation payments requested during or at the end of tenancy. It’s also important to consider what state of repair you need to keep the property in as repair costs can be substantial.

Power

Check you have sufficient power to carry out your business –particularly if you’re in the tech or life sciences sectors. While demand in these sectors has been high, it’s resulted in quickly built buildings which have not considered the infrastructure needed to support their tenants. For example, if the power goes down, will you have the option to use back-up generators?

Flexibility

How long will you need to operate from your premises? Is there sufficient space to grow or change as the business does? As a commercial tenant you should consider how long the lease should be, whether you need break rights included within it and if the landlord can provide more space if you need it.

Protecting your people - the year ahead in employment

Employment legislation could see significant changes this year.

Fire and rehire code of practice

The controversial practice of ‘fire and rehire’ is to be enshrined in statutory guidance, which tribunals will be obliged to take into account in any subsequent relevant proceedings. The government is consulting upon a draft code of practice for employers. If adopted, responsibilities when seeking to change terms and conditions include meaningful consultation regarding proposed changes, transparency in negotiations, without fear of dismissal, and considering suggested alternatives. Compensation is being increased by up to 25% in cases of unreasonable non-compliance with the code by employers.

Flexible working

Proposals for reform in relation to flexible working requests could see an abundance of changes impacting both employers and employees. These include:

• The right to request flexible working as a day one right for all employees, as opposed to the current 26 weeks an employee has to wait

• Employers being required to consult with an employee regarding alternative flexible working options if the request is refused

• Employees being allowed to make two requests for flexible working in a 12-month period

• The timeframe for employers to respond to a request being reduced from three to two months.

Changes to the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage

This April has seen increases to both the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage. There have also been increases in statutory sick pay, along with maternity and paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.

With these changes on the horizon, it’s important for businesses to know what they could find coming across their desks through the rest of the year.

To find out more, please contact:

Gurinder Hayer Associate, Commercial

T:

M:

E:

01905 746 466 07814 209 786 ghayer@hcrlaw.com

Rebecca Kirk

Employment and Immigration, Head of Hereford Office and Defence, Security and the Forces Sector

T:

M:

E:

01432 349 709 07805 627 430 rkirk@hcrlaw.com

Philip Parkinson

Partner, Head of Real Estate

T:

M:

E:

03301 076 554 07917 777 893

pparkinson@hcrlaw.com

www.hcrlaw.com

The Chamber Business Awards 2023

sponsored by Herefordshire Council

15 June 2023 | Worcester Arena, Hylton Road, Worcester, WR2 5JN

Ticket prices:

Single tickets – £109.00+VAT for Members | £129.00+VAT for Non-members

Table of 10 – £990.00+VAT for Members | £1,090.00+VAT for Non-members

Tickets can be purchased by emailing events@hwchamber.co.uk. Tickets include; a welcome drink, professional photographs, a three course meal, a table gift per person, access to the after party with free shuttle busses and four bottles of wine per table.

We are delighted to announce the 2023 Award finalists

Best Use of Technology sponsored by EBC Group

Hayward Wright Limited

Nifty Communications

Uncover Britain

Assure Technical

Rotherwood Healthcare

Charity Business of the Year, sponsored by Sanctuary Group

The Little Princess Trust

Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust

Wyre Forest & South Worcestershire

Nightstop & Mediation Service

Acorns Children’s Hospice

Courtyard Centre for the Arts

Commitment to the Community, sponsored by Malvern Panalytical

Specsavers Manufacturing and Distribution

Matcon Ltd

Milford Research and Consultancy Limited

DRPG

Hewett Recruitment

Employer of the Year, sponsored by Cargill Protein

DRPG

Ormerod Rutter Chartered Accountants

Rotherwood Healthcare

Hewett Recruitment

Malvern Panalytical

Excellence in Customer Service, sponsored by 3WH

Dawleys

Robert Welch Designs Limited

Hayloft Plants Ltd

Pat-Man 24/7 LTD

OLPRO Ltd

Hewett Recruitment

Excellence in Innovation, sponsored by Malvern Hills Science Park

Veg Life

Uncover Britain

BioPak

ONE Creative Environments (ONE)

Excellence in Professional Services, sponsored by Worcestershire County Council

BizSmart

EG People Development

New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE)

Real World Consultancy

Ormerod Rutter Chartered Accountants

Excellence in Sustainability, sponsored by Neoperl

Hayloft Plants Ltd

IONOS Cloud

Lyte Packaging

BioPak

Kimal PLC

Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace, sponsored by ISO Quality Services

Design in the Shires

Morgan Motor Company Ltd

Smile Box

Wye Cylinder Engineering (WCE)

REHAU UK & Ireland

Worcestershire County Council

High Growth Business of the Year, sponsored by Thursfields

Indra Renewable Technologies

Print Management Europe Ltd T/As PSE

Offline Marketing

Sherbet Donkey Media

Assure Technical

Apogee Associates Limited

International Trade Business of the Year, sponsored by Amcor Flexibles

UK Limited

Momentum Pharma Limited

OLPRO Ltd

VIEZU Technologies

Excool Holdings Limited

John Martin Design Associates Ltd. T/A JMDA Design

Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by ABE Ledbury

Lucart Hygiene Ltd

Armstrong Fluid Technology

Excool Holdings Limited

Malvern Panalytical

Micro Business of the Year, sponsored by Worcestershire Growth Hub

Pat-Man 24/7 LTD

We Are The Missing Link Ltd

BizSmart

Eva Capital Management

Nifty Communications

You Do Better

Most Promising New Business, sponsored by mfg Solicitors

CJC (Worcester) Ltd

Smile Box

Earth Hub

Sherbet Donkey Media

Craft Happy

Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Ormerod Rutter

FormusPro

New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE)

Heartbeat Manufacturing Ltd

Britannia Dynamic Logistics

Sutcliffe Insurance Brokers Limited

Worcestershire’s best tourism businesses crowned at Tourism Awards!

Tourism and hospitality businesses are celebrating after the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards 22/23.

A total of 37 finalists were shortlisted by expert judges, with 14 winners being awarded for their service to the sector.

Sponsored by Pear Communications, the glamorous awards evening hosted by comedian, actor and author, Hal Cruttenden, took place at Treetops Pavilion, West Midland Safari Park.

The evening represented a chance to commemorate the excellence of Worcestershire’s tourism offering, which is an important asset to the county’s economy and creates thousands of jobs.

Paul Robinson, Chief Executive of Worcestershire County Council said: “The Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards act as the perfect opportunity to celebrate the county’s visitor economy. Worcestershire’s diverse offering lures visitors from across the country who are seeking short breaks,

amazing experiences and great places to visit. The success of the event gives Worcestershire a platform at a national level with finalists set to be recognised at the VisitEngland Awards of Excellence. Congratulations to all winners and highly commended.”

The winners will now be automatically put forward to the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence for the chance for Worcestershire businesses to be highlighted at a national level.

Cosford finance event hailed a flyaway success

More businesses from across the Marches have been urged to take advantage of a £350million funding programme to help them grow at a hugely successful event.

Around 60 people attended the event –staged by the British Business Bank and the Marches LEP at the RAF Museum at Cosford – to hear about the range of different funding options available to businesses.

The event focused on funding available through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) - a collaboration between the British Business Bank and regional LEPs including the Marches - which provides commercially focussed finance through small business loans, debt finance, proof of concept and equity finance funds.

Tracy Sherratt, senior manager for the West Midlands at the British Business Bank, told the audience that £4.8million had been invested to date across the Marches by the bank.

“I really would urge more companies from the Marches to get in touch with us about

the funding available through MEIF, because the money is there and we need to get it to businesses in the region to help them grow.”

The event was part of an access to finance campaign being run by the Marches LEP and its business support arm the Marches Growth Hub, which has helped 4,150

businesses in the first half of 2022/23 alone. The British Business Bank is owned by, but independent of the government. It aims to drive sustainable growth and prosperity across the UK, and to help smaller businesses to become net zero by helping them to access finance.

How wellbeing can support recruitment and retention

Recruitment and retention have been more challenging than ever in recent years – yet there are still opportunities to bring on board (and keep) amazing candidates, as long as you’re prioritising employee wellbeing.

That’s the message from Anthony Burns, CEO of Health Cash Plan provider Paycare, who says they’ve seen businesses beginning to focus again on longer-term planning after multiple seismic changes led to the need for short-term fixes and temporary changes.

“At a time when employees were asked to be so resilient and flexible, we also saw how those working for companies which really valued their wellbeing fared much better in general. Then we saw businesses who weren’t so wellbeing-focused hit harder by what was dubbed the Great Resignation.

“And now? A company’s culture and the way managers look after their staff continue to remain a top priority for the majority of job-seekers, even above a decent salary. There are many reasons why, from the generational shift as Gen Zs begin filling the spaces left by the last tranche of retiring Baby Boomers, to the pandemic which opened employees’ eyes to the possibilities when it came to flexible working.

“At Paycare, we’ve certainly seen a rise in employees seeking treatment such as optical, dental, physio or chiropody – and we’ve also seen more companies wanting to put in place support which improves access and reduces the cost associated with healthcare.

“Employees who are looked after aren’t just happier and healthier, they’re also more engaged and more motivated – and more likely to stay within a company for longer. So in the short term, there may be an investment outlay (although it absolutely isn’t about throwing money at the problem, some of the most effective policies can be extremely low-cost) but this translates to real value for the team and for the company.

“An effective strategy might take a while to get spot on, and may need adjusting from time to time – but the benefits of truly supporting the health and happiness of existing and incoming staff are absolutely worth that effort.”

For more information, Paycare has a free Workplace Wellbeing Strategy guide available to download at www.paycare.org/workplace-wellbeing.

What you want is

• a bright, stand-out-from-the-crowd, professional website.

• an easily navigable and reliable e-commerce store.

• and fully functioning, CRM/ERP back-office support systems.

• all working in synergy and realising your business goals.

We are an established, family-run business in Herefordshire, offering to advise, build, optimize, host and develop your online presence … and everything required to support it … from the customer journey to cyber-security protection. www.wearethemissinglink.com

Movers & Shakers

Read about the latest movers & shakers for this issue.

Hazelton Mountford recruit two new starters

The growing insurance brokerage and Tenant Referencing firm, based in Worcester city centre and Evesham High Street, have welcomed two more team members.

Mike Maher and Abi Hill joined Patron Members Hazelton Mountford in March 2023.

Mike becomes a member of the Claims Department with many years’ experience. Mike started working

New head of agriculture and rural affairs at mfg Solicitors

Law firm mfg Solicitors has announced the appointment of partner Alex Phillips as its new departmental head for its agriculture and rural affairs division.

Alex is now leading the award-winning team which specialises in advising farmers, estate owners and landowners around sales, renewables, estate management matters and a host of services for rural businesses.

She replaces senior partner and the firm’s vice chairman Iain Morrison who has led the nationallyrespected department for ten years. Mr Morrison will continue to support rural and farming clients across the country.

for an Insurance Company in 1985 and has been investigating and handling claims since 1988. He is committed to ensuring clients receive a fair and prompt response to their claims.

Abi joins HM Referencing after 5 years’ experience in other lettings roles. Abi is very much looking forward to ‘getting stuck in’ and looking after agents and tenants alike. Discover more about the team’s Tenant Referencing service here.

For more about careers at Hazelton Mountford please go to their dedicated page.

Minster Micro appoints Deb Parton as Business Development Manager

Worcestershire IT and software provider Minster Micro has appointed a new Business Development Manager who will help drive the company’s latest growth phase. The Kidderminster firm has appointed Deb Parton to the newly created role following a series of regional client wins. It will see her focussed on identifying lead generation and business growth opportunities across the West Midlands and beyond.

Deb, who has held a series of sales and development roles in the IT sector throughout a 25-year career, will report to Minster Micro’s Head of Sales, Paul Taylor.

Deb Parton

Alex Phillips

Mike Maher and Abi Hill joined Patron Members Hazelton Mountford in March 2023

New Executive Chef for events venue Crumplebury

Herefordshire events venue

Crumplebury has appointed a new Executive Chef.

Kevin Barron joins the team from five-star Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Scotland, following a career in luxury hotels in Kenya and the Cotswolds.

Kevin, who has moved to the Whitbourne

Estate with his wife and two daughters, has ambitious plans for Crumplebury and its fine dining restaurant Green Cow Kitchens. His first launch, the Chef’s Table, opens exclusively to Crumplebury Club members on April 7, and then to the public on April 15. Twenty guests will gather at one table in Green Cow, dressed with flowers from the

Shooting reels welcomes new team members for an exciting 2023

Cutting Garden, and feast on five, seasonal courses celebrating the best of the home farm and estate, from organic beef, pork and lamb to homegrown vegetables and foraged culinary treasures.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have joined the team at a hugely exciting time for the estate,” said Kevin. “We’ve got some incredible foodie events planned.”

Shooting Reels is pleased to announce the addition of Molly and Josh to their team, bringing a wealth of talent and experience.

Molly joins the pre-production team, working with clients to create fantastic content that will leave a lasting impact on their audience. With her organisational skills and passion for storytelling, she is ready to take on all projects that come her way.

Josh has several years of experience in all things videography and photography. With his skills and creativity, Shooting Reels are excited to see how he will help the company develop and create even more captivating content throughout 2023.

“We’re thrilled to have Molly and Josh join our team,” said Ed, Founder of Shooting Reels. “Their talent and positive attitude will help us continue to deliver exceptional content for businesses all over the UK.”

Shooting Reels look forward to seeing how Molly and Josh will help the company continue to push creative boundaries and provide businesses with content to help them grow in 2023.

Shooting Reels is an award-winning content production company passionate about creating content that enables brands to achieve their business goals. Get in touch: https://www.shootingreels.com/

Students shortlisted in prestigious Nursing Times Awards

Four students at the University of Worcester have been shortlisted in the annual Student Nursing Times Awards.

Swathi Suresh has been shortlisted for the Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion, while Phillipa Mills, Sophie Prothero and Savannah Richards have all been shortlisted for Nursing Associate Trainee of the Year.

Robert Dudley, Head of the Three Counties School of Nursing and Midwifery at the University said he was incredibly proud of them all.

“We are thrilled to have four students shortlisted in these prestigious awards,” he said. “It is testament to their outstanding commitment and the valuable contribution they make to the communities they serve.

“As Nursing and Midwifery educators, we empower our students to think critically and

professionally about the challenges they face, so that they themselves can push for transformation and drive improvement in their services in the future.”

The prestigious Student Nursing Times awards

pay tribute to student nurses and midwives as well as the programmes and people committed to providing outstanding training and education opportunities. The winners were announced on April 28th at a ceremony in London.

Breaking up is hard to do…

Relationships between owners of businesses impacted by Brexit, Covid and increased running costs are under more strain than ever. When relationships break down, often the only realistic solution is for one person to exit.

The best option is to negotiate an amicable deal and seek legal, accounting, and tax advice at an early stage. The deal’s tax efficiency, structure, and whether any preliminary clearances are required, need to be considered.

Valuation is key. If the parties cannot agree on a valuation, an independent accountant’s opinion may need to be sought.

If matters are less than amicable, there may be other options available to achieve an exit. However, these are not without risk.

It is always possible to find a route forward with the correct advice. Please contact Clare Lang at mfg’s corporate team on 01562 820181 or via clare.lang@mfgsolicitors.com should you wish to discuss this or any other issues.

NMITE - Engineering a New Future: Strategic Plan 2023-2028

NMITE has come a long way since welcoming its first students in September 2021, with three student cohorts progressing through its distinctive engineering degree courses, and an expanding portfolio including an innovative Sustainable Built Environment Degree and industry-relevant short courses. In 2024, NMITE will celebrate its first graduates, and the institution has started its journey to meeting the conditions necessary to receive full degree awarding powers.

The NMITE estate continues to grow, with the addition of their purpose-built Skylon Campus and new city centre student accommodation.

NMITE’s new Strategic Plan covers 2023

to 2028, and encompasses significant aspirational milestones, including their long-term goal of achieving full university status. The plan outlines five core aims, over five years:

Academic quality and distinctiveness

Inclusive cohorts and successful students

Partnering for impact

Operational and financial sustainability, and

Skills for the future of work.

Read NMITE’s full strategic plan available at nmite.ac.uk/NMITE-strategicplan-2023-2028

Clare Lang

© Speller Metcalfe

Benefits of attending an International Trade Training Course

For this edition of BD, we sat down with Sue Grewcock of Exporter Services to discuss the new training courses - and how they can support your business for the trading year ahead.

How long have Exporter Services been providing International Trade Training? Exporter Services have been providing International Trade Training for the last 10 years.

What are the benefits of attending the training courses?

Benefits are wide ranging for delegates. For those new to International Trade, they can attend our beginners courses introducing them to the subjects in a simple way using a basic process flow and practical sessions. Whilst those with more experience can build on their knowledge and keep up to date with industry changes.

Which courses would you recommend for someone who is looking to navigate the world of international trade?

The suite of training courses that we offer allow delegates to start with the basics and then build

International Trade Forum

18 May 2023

This year, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce are launching a new forum!

The International Trade Forum will focus on the day-to-day dealings of trading internationally. This event will create an opportunity for those dealing with the time pressured and complex paperwork to come together and discuss the barriers, solutions, upcoming changes and how we can tackle challenges.

Hosted virtually, the Chamber’s International Trade Forum is the perfect platform to get together and discuss opportunities for improvement.

To register your interest for this free event, please contact internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk where one of our friendly team would be happy to discuss this further.

on their knowledge as well as specialise in certain aspects, for example Letters of Credit, Commodity Codes and Rules of Origin. I would recommend anyone wanting to navigate the world of International Trade to start with an Export course and then move onto Customs Procedures and Imports.

How would your courses impact on Members and Non-members’ day to day international trade activities?

Our courses allow Members and Non-members to ensure that when shipping goods they have all the correct documents to allow a smooth export or import of goods. This includes a fully compliant commercial invoice, licences where applicable and any other supporting documents. It will help them to understand some of the issues they may encounter and how to resolve them. And finally, they will have the tools to ensure customs compliancy is adhered to within their business, for example ensuring that proof of export is being managed and retained.

To enquire about our courses email internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk

UK Certificates of Origin now printed on plain paper

From Saturday 1 April 2023, all UK Certificates of Origin will now be printed onto plain paper! From this date onwards, you are no longer required to order your stationary from us.

New International Trade Courses to be delivered both virtually and face to face at our Worcester offices, these courses are open to both experienced and beginners in the international trade world.

International Trade Courses

Preference Rules of Origin (V)

9 May 2023 – 9:30am-12:30pm

Understanding Export and Export Documentation (V)

18 May 2023 – 9:30am-3:30pm

Understanding Commodity Codes (V)

24 May 2023 – 1:30-4:30pm

Incoterms 2020 (V)

31 May 2023 – 1:30-4:30pm

A Beginners Practical Guide to Exporting (F2F)

13 June 2023 – 9:30am-2:00pm

Customs Procedures and Documentation (Export) (F2F)

15 June 2023 – 9:30am-3:30pm

Import Procedures including IP/OP (V)

20 June 2023 – 9:30am-3:30pm

Methods of Payment and Letters of Credit (V)

21 June 2023 – 9:30am-3:30pm

Understanding Export and Export Documentation (F2F)

12 July 2023 – 9:30am-3:30pm

A Beginners Guide to Importing (V)

18 July 2023 – 9:30am-12:30pm

Please visit the Events & Training Calendar for the most up to date information about all of our upcoming International Trade Courses. Courses may be subject to change from the time of printing.

Meet Our International Trade Team

Our International Trade Advisors are on hand to support you with any questions you may have. For further details, please don’t hesitate to contact the team on 01905 673614 or email internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk.

Kayla Ball

Martyn Richardson

Emma Harris

People to do Business With

Bluebird Care Dudley, Wyre Forest and Malvern Hills

01384 297839

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/wyre-forest

Bewdley

Business Doctors

07767 228866

www.businessdoctors.co.uk

Tewkesbury

Calming Connections Ltd

07980 293322

Hereford

CJC (Worcester) Ltd 01905 381195

www.cjcaggregates.co.uk

Worcester

CKLD Ltd (Craig Kershaw Leadership Development)

07379 818512

www.ckld.co.uk

Cleobury Mortimer

Craft Happy 07980 663645

www.craft-happy.co.uk

Pershore

Davis Construction & Developments LTD

07979 781796

www.davisconstruction.co.uk

Redditch

eight three eight 01432 610838

www.eightthreeeight.co.uk

Hereford

Elston HR Ltd 07746 711975

www.elston-hr.com

London

Family Business Practice 01299 382000

www.familybusinesspractice.com

Kidderminster

Future Street UK 07776 177766

www.futurestreet.com

London

Helen Yandell Photography 0781 3 663475

www.helenyandellphotography.com

Droitwich Spa

Hereford Cathedral 01432 374200

www.herefordcathedral.org

Hereford

Holcombe Associates 07796 195495

www.holcombeassociate.com

Gloucester

Loz Boutique 07854 801250

www.lozboutique.com

Stourbridge

Maker & Wright 01684 567397

www.makerandwright.co.uk

Malvern

Print Management Europe Ltd T/As PSE Offline Marketing 01905 795700

www.offlinemarketing.co.uk

Droitwich Spa

Rees Foundation 01527 916559

www.reesfoundation.org

Droitwich

Rock Solid Consulting Limited 07725 956820

www.rocksolidconsultinguk.com

Worcester

Safe System Risk Management 07774 772575

www.safesystem.co.uk

Ross-On-Wye

Seosocial Limited 07597 247437

www.seosocial.co.uk

Malvern

SJC Security Installations 0121 7691064

www.sjcinstall.co.uk

Birmingham

T40 Digital 0121 295 8891

www.t40digital.co.uk

Solihull

Terri Pugh 07877 043350

www.terripugh.co.uk

Hereford

Two Farmers 01989 253133

www.twofarmers.co.uk

Ross-on-Wye

Vale Digital Copywriting Services 07969 787234

www.vale-digital.co.uk

Evesham

West Mercia Search & Rescue 07900 160819

www.westmerciasar.org.uk

Bridgnorth

Wood of Worcester Motorcycles 01905 617289

www.woodofworcester.co.uk

Worcester

Hewett Recruitment

The recently launched H&W Chamber of Commerce Business Manifesto identified a number of key priorities for businesses in the year ahead, with Workforce Planning once again making the list.

The “Skills Gap” has been on the agenda for some time now but has evolved against a backdrop of changing employee expectations and a constricted supply of labour. Now organisations are battling for talent on 2 fronts…firstly in identifying the people with the skills and values that they need…and then ensuring that their offering as an employer can match up with the demands of a modern day employee. Furthermore, these demands can be varied…from flexible / remote working,

dedication to mental health and well-being or candidates wanting to understand the purpose of a business before pledging their efforts to them.

Workforce Planning is evolving too…at its heart it starts with the leadership in an organisation establishing the values on which the business sits…this in turn will drive the recruitment and retention activity, creating a culture in which talent thrives as everyone works toward a common goal. It is not just about attracting talent but the right talent…the people who “get” your business and want to be part of it and help it succeed. A comprehensive approach to workforce planning may take some time but is vital to how businesses tackle labour market

A decade at Hazelton Mountford

A career in insurance can be a very rewarding experience at Hazelton Mountford and four members of the team celebrate a decade with the local Independent Chartered Insurance Broker.

At only 25 years of age, Ellie has already forged a career in insurance by joining Hazelton Mountford as an apprentice, working hard to gain her Diploma in Insurance and achieve her subsequent Senior Account Handler status.

Ellie says: “I’ve been able to gain valuable experience with all different types of insurance policies and understand how they work when a claim does indeed arise.”

Dan Tustin, Senior Account Handler and Operations Controller, agrees: “Wow 10 years at Hazelton Mountford or to put it into perspective, a quarter of

challenges both now and in the future. For more information around Workforce Planning to support your business please contact Ben Mannion on 01562 69090 or ben@hewett-recruitment.co.uk.

my life, and more than half of my entire career…Bring on the next 10 years!”

Andy Gormley celebrated 10 years with Hazelton Mountford in 2021 and was presented with a special plaque, a Red Letter Day gift and a team lunch at Centenary Lounge.

Nigel Webb believes that the key to the business’ success is the Directors’ vision of growing the business and retention of staff.

Simeon Chapman, Director, says: “It’s wonderful to see our team grow and flourish within our company and we strive to make a career at Hazelton Mountford a rewarding experience for all.”

For more about careers at Hazelton Mountford please go to: www.hazeltonmountford.co.uk/careers-athazelton-mountford.

L-R Andrew Gormley, Ellie Jones, Dan Tustin and Nigel Webb all celebrate a decade with the local Independent Chartered Insurance Broker Hazelton Mountford

People, planet, profit – show you care

Showing that you care about your local community is a great boost for business.

Business today is not just about profit –although that’s very important, of course. It’s also about being socially responsible and creating sustainable practices so that your customers, investors and society at large will see you in a positive light.

It’s also proven that employees are drawn to work for businesses with a good public

image, and getting actively involved in good causes is great for workplace morale. Encourage your employees to come up with great ideas for socially responsible initiatives, and make sure they are involved every step of the way.

Adopting corporate social responsibility is a win-win in every way: not only does it have a positive impact on the workplace, it’s brilliant for your brand because it attracts customer trust and respect.

Your business can demonstrate corporate social responsibility in lots of different ways: by raising money for charity, supporting the environment, championing good causes, and even creating good, transparent working conditions.

There’s no ‘right way’ to be a good corporate citizen … so why not start local, build community trust and add lasting value. The rewards are huge!

Walkers pave the way for thousands of pounds towards St Michael’s Hospice

Hundreds began British Summertime with a walk through Herefordshire’s beautiful countryside in support of a county charity.

The St Michael’s Hospice Big Spring Walk raised more than £12,000 for the Bartestree-based charity which provides palliative and end-of-life care across Herefordshire and beyond.

Despite overcast conditions, over 300 people of all ages, plus an impressive array of dogs, gathered beside the River Wye at Hereford Rowing Club before setting off on their choice of three circular routes – 5.5K, 12.5k and 17.5K - through Breinton and the surrounding area.

“It was great to see so many people turn out on a drizzly day,” said Carol Condie, who completed the 12.5K route. “It was a great walk, very well organised and lots of fun was had with friends. I will definitely be doing it again next year.”

On their return, walkers were treated to an entertaining display from the Paws for Thought Dog Display team.

“Everyone at St Michael’s would like to thank all walkers, our fantastic team of supporters

said

Celebrate the NHS 75th birthday by taking part in the Big Tea this July with Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity!

Can you hear the faint clatter of teacups across the nation? Water on the boil? That’s because it’s time for the NHS Big Tea 2023!

The NHS Big Tea is a tea-fuelled fundraiser raising money to help the NHS be the best it can be. We’d absolutely love you to be part of our brew crew. We want the whole of Worcestershire to be awash with tea in July. You could host yours on 5th July in celebration of the NHS’s 75th birthday or choose any date that suits you. Every cuppa you make and every tea bag and donation you squeeze will provide extra support for NHS staff, patients and volunteers in Worcestershire and help our amazing NHS go further.

If you would like to take part please get in touch and we’ll give you all the help and materials you need, so it’s as easy as one, two, tea!

For more information, please visit our website: wahcharity.org/celebrate-nhs-75

who helped marshal, plus our sponsors Two Farmers crisps for helping make this such an enjoyable day,”

Natasha Walshe, Events and Community Fundraiser at St Michael’s.

The Big Spring Walk was the first in the St Michael’s 2023 calendar. For more event details, visit: www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/events

Faun Zoeller UK committed to hire five apprentices in 2023

FAUN- Zoeller UK (FZUK) continue to foster the next generation of talent by hiring talent through apprenticeship schemes which sees candidates who have completed their schooling, college or university be fully integrated into the workplace. The group has recently taken on 1 of 5 planned apprentices this year. The newest member of the team has started in a finance role which will allow for their personal and professional development while they gain meaningful insight and experience in the workplace.

Georgia Howard started last month as finance apprentice having completed her degree at Derby University. It was down to the support of The Point Business Centre at Kidderminster College that Georgia found the role.

Simon Hyde CEO of FZUK and founder of The Power Up Mentoring Foundation, supports all apprenticeships and wanted to highlight

the misconceptions around apprenticeships as he commented; “There is plenty of stigma around apprenticeships, but things are changing fairly quickly now with a lot of companies looking at apprenticeships to help with the challenges of the workforce. Encouraging people into business through apprenticeships helps to future proof and make the industry you work within more visible to those within the local community and allows the company to develop home grown talent.”

FZUK is committed to hiring even more apprentices throughout this year from across the departments from sales, IT and engineering. They will continue to have a close working relationship with Kidderminster college as community is at the heart of the organisation.

Accountancy firm acquires leading design agency

Ballards LLP, a leading Worcestershire based firm of chartered accountants, has announced the acquisition of CreativeFolks Ltd, a well-established creative design agency based in Northampton. The move comes as Ballards LLP seeks to expand its service offerings and provide clients with a more comprehensive suite of services. The acquisition of CreativeFolks is part of the firm’s wider strategy to expand its service offerings and provide clients with a broader range of services relevant to wherever they may be on their business life cycle. The move also reflects the changing needs of clients, who are increasingly looking for a more holistic approach to their business needs.

James Syree, Chief Executive at Ballards LLP said, “We are thrilled to welcome CreativeFolks to the Ballards LLP family. Although providing accountancy and taxation services will remain our primary focus, we are confident that the addition of creative design services will help us to better meet the evolving needs of our clients and deliver even greater value to them.”

Kimal & Marizyme forge strategic partnership

Kimal PLC is delighted to announce its new strategic partnership with Marizyme, Inc. for DuraGraft®, the Company’s flagship product.

DuraGraft is an intraoperative vascular graft storage and flushing solution that prevents ischaemia reperfusion injury, which is the basis for vein graft disease; and Kimal will have exclusive distribution rights in the UK.

Matt Press, Kimal CEO, says, “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Marizyme to launch

Jon Clough, Managing Director at CreativeFolks said, “There are great synergies between the two businesses and we are very excited by the recent development. I think it shows our commitment to providing the best possible service to clients, and our willingness to evolve and adapt to meet their changing needs.”

DuraGraft in the UK. Kimal’s Vision is to provide treatment solutions that support best-in-class patient outcomes, and we believe that DuraGraft represents the best elements of this Vision. We therefore are extremely excited about bringing this innovative technology to coronary artery bypass graft procedures in the UK, and specifically launching a product that improves the outcomes for those patients undergoing this life-saving procedure.”

To learn more, please contact marcomms@kimal.co.uk

L-R Jon Clough(Managing Director CreativeFolks) James Syree (CEO Ballards LLP)

Pizza can do digital, do you fancy a slice?

Digital transformation is a critical strategy for businesses looking to thrive in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven market. It involves ensuring your business is maximising all the opportunities that the digital space has to offer, from operations and processes to customer engagement and marketing.

The world has become increasingly digital over the past decade, with the COVID-19 pandemic only accelerating this trend.

A recent report by McKinsey stated the pandemic has caused an acceleration of digital adoption by as much as seven years. Consumers are now much more comfortable with digital interactions than ever before, and businesses must adapt to meet their expectations.

Digital transformation can bring significant benefits to businesses, such as increased efficiency through streamlined processes, automated tasks, and improved data analysis. This leads to cost savings, increased productivity, and higher profits. Additionally, businesses can benefit from improved customer engagement by using digital technologies to connect with customers on a more personal level, providing personalised experiences that lead to higher customer satisfaction, increased loyalty, and ultimately more revenue.

A real-life example of a business that has successfully embraced digital transformation to drive growth is Domino’s Pizza. In 2009, Domino’s was struggling to compete with

other pizza chains and had a reputation for low-quality pizza. The company embarked on a digital transformation journey, investing heavily in technology to improve the customer experience. They introduced an online ordering system, a mobile app, and a digital tracking system that allows customers to track their pizza in real-time. As a result of these initiatives, Domino’s has seen a significant increase in sales and profits. In fact, their stock price has increased by over 4,000% since 2009.

Walmart is another case study that have embraced digital transformation over recent years. The retail giant now uses advanced data analytics to gain insights into consumer behaviour and preferences, enabling them to offer personalised experiences and targeted promotions. They have also invested in building an e-commerce platform, developed a mobile app that enables customers to shop, track their orders, and receive personalised recommendations, and invested in automating their supply chain, which has resulted in faster delivery times, lower costs, and improved efficiency. This has led to

Double win for regional R&D expert

Walmart’s e-commerce sales growing by 79% in 2020, and their online grocery sales increased by 300%.

Of course, these are two large corporates with resource to throw at such projects but there are many more light touch, but equally transformative, changes that can be implemented into businesses. So please feel free to get in touch with Digital Transformation Partner Sean Devlin to explore your options on sean.devlin@ballardsllp.com

for the “Rising Star” category of the prestigious Tolley’s Taxation Awards 2023. This award recognizes young professionals who have made significant contributions to the tax industry.

Gina Gardner, Corporate Tax Manager at regional accountancy firm Ballards LLP, has recently been appointed as Chair of the Severn Valley Branch of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT). As Chair, Gina will be responsible for promoting tax education and engagement among tax professionals in the region.

Gina’s appointment is a significant achievement, and it reflects her extensive experience in the tax industry and the comprehensive tax planning services she provides to clients. She has been an active member of the CIOT for several years and is particularly well known for her expertise within the field of Research & Development (R&D) tax relief.

In addition to her new role, Gina has been shortlisted

Gina’s expertise in R&D tax relief has been instrumental in helping businesses to identify and claim tens of millions of pounds of tax relief over the past few years. R&D tax relief is a valuable tax incentive that encourages innovation and growth by providing tax credits or cash payments to businesses that undertake qualifying R&D activities. However, many businesses are still unaware of the relief or do not fully understand the rules and regulations surrounding it.

Gina said, “I am thrilled to be appointed as Chair of the Severn Valley Branch of the Chartered Institute of Taxation. I am passionate about promoting tax education and engagement, and I look forward to working with tax professionals in the region to achieve the reinvigoration of the committee.”

Martin Adams, Tax Partner at Ballards LLP said, “Gina thoroughly deserves to be recognised as a Rising Star within the tax industry. We wish her the very best of luck in the pending awards ceremony”.

Please feel free to get in contact with Gina on gina.gardner@ballardsllp.com

Gina Gardner, Corporate Tax Manager

Sean Devlin, IT & Digital Transformation Partner

UK’s first nuclear submarine commemorated with lapel pin

HMS Dreadnought, the UK’s first nuclear powered submarine has been commemorated with a unique limited edition lapel pin which has been designed and produced by specialist badge maker Selcraft UK. The bespoke pin which was manufactured using metal salvaged from an aluminium storage bin from within the submarine, was commissioned by the HMS Dreadnought Association to celebrate the lives and service of those crew and submariners during its 20 years of active service.

The submarine which is also celebrating 60 years since being commissioned, remained in service until 1980 and holds many fond memories for those who have been part of its history. In particular, it’s famous trip to the North Pole in early 1971 and many other worldwide missions, the stories of which are held within the history of the metal of the limited edition lapel pins, of which only 200 have been made.

Selcraft are no strangers to high profile, special commissions with 50 years’ experience in designing and producing high quality badges, medals and insignia for a diverse range of clients across the globe. The skilled staff at Selcraft embrace the latest technology

and used their diverse knowledge to bring a challenging commission to fruition. For more information about the commemorative lapel pin produced for the HMS Dreadnought Association, please email Carl Huxley at carl@selcraft.com.

Signs Express Worcester celebrates 20 years of business

Signs Express Worcester recently celebrated its 20-year trading anniversary. This milestone represents a significant achievement in the company’s history, and it serves as a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of the team.

The business was established in 2002 by Phil Shellam, who had a vision of providing high-quality signage solutions to businesses in the local area with exceptional customer service. They invested in the latest equipment and technology to ensure they

REHAU UK continually invest and grow their talent base

Herefordshire-based REHAU UK has a long history of apprenticeships which extend across its manufacturing sites in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Runcorn and Heathrow, as well as a number of sales offices across the UK.

CEO, Martin Hitchin said: “To succeed as a premium supplier, it is necessary for us to not only deliver a high-quality product, but to continually invest and grow our talent base. Apprenticeships have been a key element of REHAU’s talent management strategy from our early days in the UK. Recently, we had the pleasure of celebrating a milestone of one of our longest serving apprenticeship employees.”

Dylan Roberts, who joined REHAU in 1990 as a Process Apprentice in Extrusion, completed his apprenticeship in 1993. Dylan then started working on a shift as an operator following his NVQ Level Three qualification. In June 2022, Dylan was promoted to Production Manager responsible for the plants technical departments and activities. Pictured with Dylan is Owain Cunnington, who joined REHAU in 2021 as a Technical Services Apprentice in the Quality Department.

could deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.

Unfortunately, Phil passed away in 2021, but the team and wife Lorraine Shellam were determined to ensure that the hard work Phil had invested in his business continued. They would like to thank local businesses in the area for their support. These include Oakland Air Control, Malvern Panalytical, the Royal Life Saving Society, Worcestershire Royal Hospital and many more.

Chamber Primary Health Plan with Westfield

Exclusively available to Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber Members, the Chamber Primary Health Plan starts from £6.74 per employee, per month and allows staff to claim money back, up to set limits, for things like sight tests and glasses, dental bills, therapy treatments and consultations. The plan also provides access to a range of valuable health and wellbeing services including:

DoctorLine – Speak to a practising UK GP or clinical pharmacist 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There’s even the option to have a webcam consultation.

24 Hour Advice and Information Line including up to six sessions of structured counselling

Expert Medical Opinion/Best Doctors

Gym Discounts

Westfield Rewards

Joint Networking Event with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber

The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber and Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber are joining forces to bring you a joint networking event!

Attracting Members from across two exciting regions, if you are looking for a way to build your network across the Midlands, create new connections and

Quest

As a Member you have free access to four essential services delivered by Quest, including ChamberHR.

Offering advice and support for anything related to HR and employment law, you have access to over 400 downloadable policies, forms, documents, letters, templates and fact sheets. For any business, large or small, access to appropriate HR advice and support will help you to look after your people.

Alongside ChamberHR, your Membership also gives you access to 3 other services:

ChamberHS – Health & Safety Support

Chamber Health & Safety gives you access to a dedicated helpline available during office hours. You can also download over 100 documents

potential referral partners, then we would love to welcome you to this Chamber event. Attendees will have the opportunity to introduce their business to other organisations from across these regions. To find out more or book your place, please contact our events team at events@hwchamber.co.uk or book online today.

including an online H&S check from the website. Insurance cover is included to help you defend health & safety prosecutions.

ChamberLegal

Receive advice from experienced legal advisors 24/7, 365 days a year. The website holds approximately 200 free downloadable legal documents for your business.

ChamberTax

ChamberTax gives you access to experienced tax and VAT advisors, available during office hours through the advice line. Insurance cover can help you deal with a full HMRC enquiry, aspect enquiries, PAYE disputes and VAT disputes.

Workforce Planning: Talent Attraction and Retention

Attracting and retaining talented employees is a critical aspect of any successful business. With the right talent, organisations can achieve their goals and grow, while fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Some key strategies to enhance your recruitment and retention processes are:

Create a compelling employer brand

Your employer brand is how you present your company to potential employees. It’s your reputation as an employer, and it’s essential to create a compelling brand that will attract the right talent. You can do this by highlighting your company culture, mission, values, and unique selling points.

When it comes to recruitment and developing your employer brand, you should use multiple channels to reach potential candidates. This could include job boards, social media, employee referrals, and networking events. By casting a wide net, you’ll increase the chances of finding the right candidate for your organisation- just make sure your brand messaging is consistent across all channels.

Streamline your hiring processes

The design of your Recruitment Processes is highly important. A lengthy and complicated hiring process can deter talented candidates from applying to your organisation. Make sure your hiring process is streamlined and efficient, with clear communication and prompt feedback to candidates. This will demonstrate your organisation’s respect for the candidate’s time and increase the chances of a successful hire.

Create a positive company culture and work environment

Recruitment and culture are intrinsically linked - a positive work environment is critical to retaining talented employees. You should strive to create a workplace culture that fosters collaboration, open communication,

and work-life balance. This could include offering flexible work arrangements, regular team-building activities, or social events that allow employees to connect outside of work.

Embracing Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are essential factors in attracting and retaining top talent. Employees want to work for organisations that value and respect their differences and offer an inclusive and welcoming work environment. Create a workplace that is welcoming and inclusive for people of all backgrounds will lead to endless benefits, such as better decision making, increased creativity, enhanced employee engagement and faster problem solving. McKinsey & Company ‘Diversity Matters’ Report, revealed a statistically significant connection between diversity and financial performance.

Attracting and retaining talented employees is essential to the success of any organisation. By creating a compelling employer brand,

BUSINESS DIRECTION

Business Direction, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people, with a total readership of over 10,500.

Please send all submissions to marketing@hwchamber.co.uk

MARKETING TEAM 01905 673600 (option 5) marketing@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL & SUBSCRIPTIONS

01905 673 639 hwchamber.co.uk/ business-direction

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

using multiple recruitment channels, and streamlining your hiring process, embracing the D&I agenda and creating a positive work environment, you’ll attract top talent and keep them engaged and motivated.

As Recruitment Experts, Hewett Recruitment have created a ‘Complete Guide to Talent Attraction and Retention’ full of actionable strategies and best practices to support your organisation in building a talented and committed workforce.

This free downloadable guide contains relevant and actional information to help you improve your recruitment and retention strategies, covering; the onboarding process, your companies purpose and values, leadership development, ESG and the topics mentioned above.

To download the guide, visit: hewett-recruitment.co.uk/talentattraction-and-retention-a-completeguide

Distinctive Media Group Ltd, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF distinctivegroup.co.uk

ADVERTISING

Angie Smith

Business Development Manager, Distinctive Media Group Ltd 0191 5805472 angie.smith@ distinctivegroup.co.uk

FEATURES EDITOR

Karen Southern karen.southern@ distinctivegroup.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher accepts no responsibility for omissions or errors within this publication. Editorial submissions are included at the discretion of the editor. The opinions expressed in articles and letters within this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. All offers, promotions and competitions appearing in Business Direction are the sole responsibility of the advertiser/ promoting party and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

CLOSE YOUR TALENT GAP

Access new skills and grow loyal employees

APPRENTICESHIPS

Expand your workforce with WCG, the largest apprenticeships training provider in the West Midlands, training 2000+ apprentices in over 60 sectors annually.

T LEVELS

Like the idea of an apprentice but need a short-term solution? Take on a T Level student for a 45-day placement and help them kickstart their career.

WCG now offers T Levels in:

• Business

• Construction

• Craft & Design (SEPT 2024)

• Digital Support Services

• Education & Childcare

• Engineering & Manufacturing

• Health

• Media, Broadcast & Production (SEPT 2024)

INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS

Trial a potential apprentice or employee by offering a work placement that’s completely flexible to your business needs.

Find out how WCG can help your business gain a competitive edge today by contacting our Business Development Team:

0300 135 6940 employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk

wcg.ac.uk/worcsemployers