IoD Magazine Autumn Issue by Tilston Phillips

IOD autumn covers_Layout 1 26/08/2010 14:11 Page 2

suffolk

autumn 2010 www.iod.com/suffolk

olympic opportunities !

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 1

IoD suffolk

autumn 2010

contents

suffolk

autumn 2010 www.iod.com/suffolk

olympic opportunities !

front cover Our front cover features a CGI rendering of London’s 80,000 seat Olympic stadium See pages 26-27

IoD events

Thoughts from the chair

5 - 11

Across the region

Member profile

IoD news

Legal

15 - 16

Corporate news

A word from the accountants

19 - 25

Executive motoring

26 - 27

Olympic opportunities

Technology

IoD news

implications for businesses under the

Property

new regime.

Leisure

We also highlight the fact that millions of

36 - 37

Charities

pounds worth of opportunities are still up for

Business books

Mind your own business

secured contracts, others are being urged to

IoD committee and

seize the moment in what is described as a

new members

s the coalition government gets into full stride, we bring you timely expert professional

advice on some of the latest financial

grabs at the London 2012 Olympic Games. While some Suffolk companies have already

once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Our special report has full details of how local businesses can go about staking their

Publisher Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited enquiries@tilstonphillips.com www.tilstonphillips.com Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd Halesworth, Suffolk erratum: In the 2010 summer issue of IoD Suffolk Magazine we erroneously spelt franchisor incorrectly throughout Andrew Flemming’s article on franchises. We would like to make clear that this was a publisher error and apologise for any distress that was caused.

claim for a slice of the action and to ensure they do not miss out on what promises to be a lucrative spending spree. In addition, there is news of how the IoD Suffolk branch is gearing up for the future – investigating ways that it can become even more relevant to business in the 21st century. There are also details of a full programme of exciting events to tempt branch members and their guests in the run-up to Christmas. Plus… hit the road with us as we test-drive a couple of classy additions to the car line-up – take your pick from the new Audi A8, with its “iron-fist performance beneath a kid-glove interior” and the exhilarating experience of the all-new Jaguar XJ.

All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the prior consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The content of this magazine is based on the best knowledge and information available at the time of publication. All times, prices and details of events were correct at time of going to press. The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers, proprietors, the Institute of Directors or others associated with this production. © Tilston Phillips Magazines Limited 2010

All in all, with summer holidays rapidly becoming a distant memory, a busy autumn beckons and we wish all our businesses success in these still-difficult times. Jonathan Tilston

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 2

IoD events To help Suffolk Branch members to plan ahead and organise their diaries, this programme summarises the activities we have planned for 2010. We hope the wide variety will give you ample opportunity to entertain partners and guests and to get full benefit from your branch membership. All events are open to IoD members and non-members. For further information regarding our events visit www.iod.com/suffolk or call Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator on 07917 699498 or alternatively email: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk

november

september Tim Mills, our second speaker, trained with the 23.9.10

School of Analytical and Cognitive

18.11.10

Networking for Business

Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy and will

Real Beer Real Food Tasting Evening

Kesgrave Conference Centre

offer a fascinating insight into how our

Greene King Brewery, Bury St Edmunds

8.00 for 8.30am buffet breakfast

subconscious and behaviour can influence the

6.45pm for 7.00pm

(finish 10.30am)

way our personalities are projected in face-to-

(finish 10.30pm)

face situations and how other people interpret

Join the IoD Suffolk branch for an evening tour of

Networking, despite what some people think,

our mannerisms, as well as touching on how

is not about trying to make a quick close on a

to read face and body language and

sale, pressuring a fellow delegate for a

conquering anxieties. Be prepared to witness

meeting, or challenging yourself on how many

intriguing demonstrations of the power of the

business cards you can distribute over coffee.

human psyche.

and enjoy a welcome drink while exploring the brewery museum. The tour will start at 7pm with a visit to the mill room, malt stores, mash-tun floor and the fermenting rooms. You will then enjoy a tutored tasting in the Brewery Tap where

The benefits from effective networking are often long-term. It is about earning trust,

the Greene King Brewery. Guests will arrive in the visitors’ centre at 6.45pm to meet the tour guide

you will be served your meal while continuing to

october

making a positive impression and forging

sample Greene King’s fine cask ales.

relationships so that when an opportunity arises, you are one of the first to be informed.

14.10.10 Employment and Commercial Law

december

Our September breakfast event focuses on

Update with Jackaman, Smith &

maximising your ‘in-person’ networking time

Mulley Solicitors

7.12.10

and the new opportunities made available

Isaacs on the Quay

Open Evening

through online social networks. The morning

8.00 for 8.30am breakfast

Saints Winebar, Ipswich

will begin with Dean Wales, director at White

(finish 10.00am)

5.30 – 7.30pm

Space Public Relations, taking you on a

Join us for a pre-Christmas, informal reception

whistle-stop tour of the world of social

Join us for this informal breakfast and

with wine and refreshments. Don’t miss the

networks. Guiding you through some of the

networking event. Partners from Jackaman

opportunity to bring colleagues and guests to

most popular sites, he will cover social

Smith & Mulley Solicitors will provide a

hear more about what the IoD Suffolk branch

networking etiquette, benefits and pitfalls and

business briefing covering topical issues on

can offer its members. There will be a brief

illustrate how to conduct effective virtual

employment and commercial law.

presentation, highlighting some of the exciting events planned for 2011. Events

networking from the comfort of your desk. Stephen Firmin, JSM’s commercial partner, will

planned for 2011.

be joined by partners Mark Rowlands and Priya Nainthy. Mark has acted for a wide range of commercial property clients over several years. Priya, the firm’s employment law partner, has more than 10 years’ experience as an employment law specialist and is also a part-time employment tribunal judge. Tribunal Judge.

2010 programme is kindly sponsored by:

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 3

IoD suffolk

autumn 2010

welcome

thoughts from the chair

he general election which, of course, resulted in the first formal coalition Government since the

advantage of the significant spending before, during and after the Games.

Leigh-Ondrea Bendall has recently joined us and we are now looking for someone with PR experience to help the branch get its message

IoD Suffolk has also been supporting co-

across. If you are interested please let me know.

Second World War has already produced

ordinated initiatives to provide high-speed

By the time this issue of the magazine reaches

many proposals for business.

broadband throughout the county.

your desk, summer will be pretty well over and we will all be looking forward to Christmas. I will

Probably the most significant change so far has

In a modern economy an effective broadband

have competed (if thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the right word) in the

been the idea of replacing the regional

service is essential and Suffolk is very badly

Ipswich half-marathon in aid of EACH. Donations

development agencies with local enterprise

served. Our local MPs are very supportive and I

via justgiving are welcome.

partnerships on which business organisations

hope we can achieve a satisfactory outcome.

would be represented. Naturally, IoD Suffolk

www.justgiving.com/Paul-Winter0

intends to be part of the process of consultation.

The branch programme has continued to be

I hope that all local business organisations can

successful. Elsewhere in the magazine you can

provide real input into local decision-making.

read about our annual conference. This took a very different format from previous years and

Another area where businesses in Suffolk need to

feedback indicates that it was a success. We are

grab every opportunity is around the 2012

now planning the 2011 programme. Ideas from

Olympics. With less than two years until the

members about events are most welcome.

opening ceremony, Suffolk is well-placed to take

We are also looking to add to the committee.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 4

sound advice

for business • commercial property

advice you can depend upon

• corporate • employment • litigation

Jackaman Smith & Mulley

• partnerships

s o l i c i t o r s

Offices at IPSWICH 01473 255591 • DISS 01379 643555 FELIXSTOWE 01394 279636 • HARLESTON 01379 854455

www.jsm.co.uk

SIZE

matters In PR, column inches count. We’ve had no complaints!

CLEAR CONCISE CREATIVE

dean@whitespacepr.com 01473 228816 whitespacepr.com

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 5

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

across the region staff step out for ‘world’ tour Teams from Grant Thornton’s offices in

around a virtual tour of the world, comparing

Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds have set out on

their performance with more than 10,000

a 16-week ‘virtual’ journey around the world

teams.

sponsored by Jackaman Smith and Mulley

Explaining various obstacles to creativity, such

frenzy he also explained how their perceptions

Solicitors, London Stansted, Ensors Chartered

as the brain’s patterning systems and indeed

of consumers have changed and how that has

Accountants, Leema Risk Management and

the concept of creativity itself, he also

reflected in their product’s branding.

White Space Public Relations.

along with listing an assortment of creative

Herbert Industrial’s managing director Leigh-

For details of forthcoming events and

techniques that can be used to develop

Ondrea Bendall was the final speaker and she

membership of the IoD contact Caroline

solutions to business issues.

talked about her journey in transforming the

Kearney on 07917 699498

suggested various ways to overcome this

business from a company without direction to The first speaker of the morning was Jerome

a lucrative manufacturer. Explaining how

Mayhew, managing director, or ‘Top Banana’

innovation fails without customer focus, she

at GoApe. After explaining how the GoApe

described how, through marketing, she turned

concept was conceived, he spoke about how

the firm around by gaining knowledge and

creating a brand around the business and

insight into how the business could become

adhering to its values and principles has been

valuable to its customers again.

key to the firm’s success. There were opportunities throughout the He expressed the importance of positive word

event for delegates to vote on key subjects

of mouth and how GoApe has generated

from the speakers’ presentations with almost

that, not just through excellent customer

60 per cent agreeing that building your brand

experience but also through creative

was vital to the success of your business and

marketing. Describing how the GoApe Oscars

an overwhelming majority agreeing that

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:55 Page 14

legal

debt recovery in Scotland by Sarah Lock | Debt Recovery

s a business it may be

Some important changes to the court rules

arrangements between the countries of the

necessary from time to time

came into place in September 2008 and go

United Kingdom. Enforcement proceedings

to issue court proceedings to

some way into simplifying this procedure for

can then be issued, which may include:

recover an unpaid invoice. This can be done by instructing a solicitor,

issuing straightforward, undisputed debt proceedings against debtors residing in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Arrestment – any assets, usually money, belonging to the debtor owed or belonging to

using a debt collection agency or issuing proceedings directly with the

Claim forms can now be sent or “served” in

county court.

accordance with the usual court rules of

the debtor and in the hands of a third party, are frozen in the hands of that third party.

England and Wales. A special form is attached In England and Wales, the county court system

to the claim form, containing a statement of

Arrestment of Earning – where a fixed

is used to issue court proceedings. If you have

the grounds on which the creditor is entitled

proportion of the debtor’s pay is deducted by

an outstanding invoice and your debtor

to serve the claim form out of jurisdiction

their employers and sent to the creditor direct.

(customer) lives or is based in Scotland, different

without permission. This form must be filed at

rules will apply to issuing proceedings.

court and sent to the debtor with the claim form. In addition, the debtor has an extra

This often raises practical difficulties for a

seven days to respond to the claim from.

business, as in order to protect your company’s

Attachment – the inventorying of the assets of a debtor with a view to these goods being sold in satisfaction of the debt. Money, including cash, foreign currency, cheques, can also be attached.

cash flow, it is vital that you recover your

If no response is received to the claim form

invoices. It can be frustrating to incur further

within the time limit specified, an application

time and expense to recover a debt across the

can be made to the court for judgment. Once

As with any debt recovery action it is vital to

border in Scotland, yet there are various options

a County Court judgment has been obtained, it

ensure that the action remains cost-effective

available to you. Each case must be considered

is then possible to consider issuing enforcement

and that the debtor has the means to pay

on its own facts and any terms and conditions

proceedings if no payment is made.

before commencing legal action.

which apply to the contract. Consideration must also be given to whether the invoice is likely to

If your debtor is a resident in Scotland, it is

The whereabouts of the debtor’s assets may

be disputed and if so, where any trial may

possible to register the English judgment in

also be a major deciding factor when

ultimately take place.

the Scottish courts under the reciprocal

considering where to issue proceedings.

www.ashtongraham.co.uk Sarah Lock | Debt Recovery T: 01284 762331 | E: sarah.lock@ashtongraham.co.uk This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. You should not act or rely upon this information. Ashton Graham is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Ashton Graham Solicitors is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 50075.

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

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 15

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

corporate news

down with capital by Andrew Fleming, Partner, Blocks Solicitors

ne of the less noticed changes in the Companies Act 2006 has been the creation of easier ways to reduce share capital in a private limited company. This liberalisation may allow shareholders to withdraw capital reserves that may not be needed by the company itself.

Andrew Fleming

In the past, limited companies wishing to reduce

statutory accounts, management accounts,

share capital required court approval. Although

cash flow forecasts and other risk indicators.

this system remains in place, private limited

The statement needs to be accompanied by a

companies may now use a simplified non court-

special resolution by the members of the

based procedure. This involves the production of

company and there are filing requirements at

a solvency statement under section 642 of the

Companies House.

Act in which each of the directors state their belief that there are no grounds on which the

The procedure is easier, quicker and cheaper

company would be unable to pay or discharge

than applying to court and provided the

Reasons to reduce share capital include:

its debts in the next 12 months, taking into

solvency statement is given, creditors may not

• when a company's capital exceeds its needs.

account the liabilities of the company. The

object to the reduction in capital. Those

• to eliminate a deficit on the profit and loss

statement must be unqualified.

directors with complex trading companies may, however, baulk at the risks of getting it wrong.

account. • to create distributable reserves in order to

Great care needs to be taken in giving such a

be able to transfer assets or cash to

statement, since if the opinions contained in it

For more detailed information or for advice

shareholders.

are not reasonable, directors may face criminal

tel: 01473 230033

• to create a fund to allow the company to

sanctions. Directors should take informed

email: arf@blockslegal.co.uk

redeem shares.

accountancy advice and look carefully at

www.blockslegal.co.uk

disputes - do they have to end up in court Dilys Lloyd

by Dilys Lloyd, Consultant, Blocks Solicitors

agree to keep confidential all information which is

that dispute which has been taking up too much

disclosed in the mediation;

of your time, money and energy – think

flexible - it takes place at a time and location

mediation.Dilys Lloyd is an experienced

agreed by the parties, and can provide solutions

employment lawyer working as a Consultant

not available through the courts;

with Blocks and is a CEDR accredited mediator.

quick to arrange - rather than waiting months

flow forecasts and other risk indicators.

for a formal court hearing, a mediation can be

The statement needs to be accompanied by a

arranged as soon as the availability of the parties is

special resolution by the members of the

With the aid of a trained mediator, people who

known;

company and there are filing requirements at

are in conflict can explore ways of a mutually

usually successful – research shows a steady 75

Companies House.

acceptable way forward. The mediator remains

– 80 % success rate across a broad spectrum of

neutral and does not impose a decision, but

mediations

ontrary to popular belief, most lawyers do not encourage their clients to get involved in lengthy and expensive litigation. In some cases, it may be the only way of resolving a dispute, but there are alternatives - and one of these is mediation.

The procedure is easier, quicker and cheaper than applying to court and provided the solvency

assists the parties in finding a solution. The mediator will assist in recording the outcome

statement is given, creditors may not object to

Mediation is used in a wide range of commercial

of the mediation. This may be a document that

the reduction in capital. Those directors with

and employment disputes and the key

simply sets out the agreement reached in plain

complex trading companies may, however, baulk

advantages are that it is:

language or may be a more complex document

at the risks of getting it wrong.

voluntary – all parties enter into the mediation

which includes a commitment to obtain an agreed

process by agreement and can choose to bring it

court order.

email: dilys_lloyd@blockslegal.co.uk

to an end if they wish; confidential - the mediator and the parties

tel: 01473 230033

So, next time you are wondering how to deal with

www.blockslegal.co.uk

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 16

corporate news

renumeration planning: bonus or dividend? Nick Banks

frequent question presented by clients is whether to take a bonus or dividend. There are

a number of issues to be considered before giving the answer but often tax effect is the primary concern. In the emergency budget, the Chancellor, by increasing national insurance and reducing corporation tax, has swung the balance in favour of dividend.

to income tax in the hands of the shareholder,

Should you choose to re-structure your

treated as the top slice of income subject to the

remuneration following the budget then it is

rate applicable to dividends.

worth reviewing any permanent health insurance policies or similar since they may well pay out on

In recent years, owner-managers have

current remuneration but exclude dividends. Any

restructured their remuneration to comprise a

benefit may then be substantially less than

nominal wage up to the earnings threshold and

expected.

the remainder is drawn as dividend. If, as a director, you have a contract of employment then

Finally, do not forget that dividends do not

national minimum wage can apply.

comprise net relevant earnings for pension purposes and therefore if pension planning is

It is important that each interim dividend is seen to

part of your financial strategy an integrated

be paid correctly with the appropriate board

approach to remuneration planning is essential.

The drivers of the tax effect on bonus or

minute and dividend voucher produced. In making

dividend are national insurance and corporation

a payment, and especially in the current climate,

For further information please contact

tax. A bonus is a pre-tax deduction, securing

management information should be available to

Nick Banks

corporation tax relief but is subject to PAYE. A

demonstrate that there are sufficient distributable

tel: 01473 259201

dividend is a post-tax distribution and is subject

reserves from which a distribution can be made.

email: nick.banks@scruttonbland.co.uk

employment law advice for people who hate surprises Simon Quantrill

s a busy people manager you

Many people managers also want complete

These are just some of the reasons why we are

want timely and expert

peace of mind and opt for our

the employment law firm of choice for many

hrlegalindemnity option. As an employment

people managers.

advice which is reliable and

realistic when a workplace issue arises.

disputes indemnity insurance, hrlegalindemnity provides comprehensive

To find out more, or for a free quotation for

cover for legal costs and awards of between

hrlegalindemnity cover, contact us on

Quantrillsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; team of specialist employment

ÂŁ25,000 to ÂŁ150,000. There are no call

01473 688100 or enquire via our website at

lawyers will work with you to assess the merits

centres to navigate for a claim to be accepted.

www.quantrills.com.

of your case from the outset, discuss your

Just call us directly.

options, tactics and risks. With an agreed case

Also, sign up for our free hrlegalnews email

plan, kept under review as your case unfolds,

Combined with our hrlegal helpdesk service,

update bulletin at

there should be no surprises.

you can obtain immediate telephone, fax and

www.quantrills.com/employers/hrlegalnews

email advice and guidance with reassurance Your case can be won or lost on the quality of

guaranteed. We can provide assistance with

the case preparation. Quantrills ensure that

all types of employment disputes, including

all necessary steps are taken and at the

tribunal claims, High Court or County Court

appropriate time to progress your claim

claims, and conduct appeals to the

successfully and proactively.

Employment Appeal Tribunal and beyond.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 17

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

a word from the accountants

behind the headlines of the emergency budget By Malcolm McGready, partner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ensors Chartered Accountants

s we have all read, the headline for companies was a reduction in the rate of

The increase in employer national insurance

tax planning could save companies

announced by Labour will come into effect,

considerable amounts of money.

but its impact is being offset by an increase in the threshold at which it becomes payable.

We must also remember that tax was only one

corporation tax, costing the Government

Interestingly, this reduces the cost of lower-

side of the budget. A rebalancing of the

ÂŁ6.4 billion over five years.

paid employees, but increases the cost of

economy was inevitable at some point and the

higher-paid employees.

efforts to reduce the size of the public sector

It will leave the UK with one of the lowest tax

will have a knock-on effect for many

rates of a developed economy. The

One thing that particularly struck me was the

individuals and businesses. To many, it will be

Government hope that this will make the UK a

amount of work still to be done by the

a bitter pill to swallow. Only time will tell what

more attractive place to do business. However,

Government on the corporate side. Reviews

the longer-term impact of this budget on the

behind this headline sits considerable cost

concerning IR35, controlled foreign companies,

economy is.

implications for some companies, coupled

simplification of tax in groups and R&D tax

with uncertainty over future policy.

policy are all on the cards. The precise rules on the national insurance break for start-ups are

Capital allowances are being cut to pay for a

yet to be announced.

large part of the reduction in the corporation tax rates. For capital intensive businesses, this

The budget also saw mention of a

can have serious implications. For example, it

consultation on a general anti-avoidance rule,

will take 28 years to recover 90 per cent of

something other administrations have shied

the cost of an asset in the special rate pool.

away from in the past.

Generous deductions continue, however, for Finance directors and their accountants must

green investments. With this in mind, the timing and nature of company expenditure

keep their eyes and ears open as reviews and

should be at the forefront of directorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; minds

legislation develop over the coming months.

in the coming months to maximise available

Notwithstanding this, the changes already

tax deductions before the rules change.

announced mean that some straightforward

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

www.ensors.co.uk

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 18

your fu ture is

ou r

nfo rma on l chat b u pe sine rso ss or n al affai rs

%' + # (

%# ' !$%#) ! "' & ! " ! "' '% ' ) #$! "' ' ! " ! "'

ure fut

Fo ra

***

The fundamental principles of growth management apply to every kind of enterprise. Ambitious businesses and organisations wanting to grow, improve and become more profitable need to consider: how are we going to generate cash and accumulate funds? how will we manage the risks of driving the business? do we have a clear strategy for the creation of value (and eventual succession and exit)? is our team strong enough for today and will it be tomorrow? how will we monitor and manage our increasing wealth?

% '#

#% (%' % " #%! ' #" #" ' % + %#*' %# % !! #"' ' ' $ " ( '+ #" #% ! &' $ " ( '+ %' + # (

Call David King

Baker Tilly , Abbotsgate House , Hollow Road Bury St Edmunds , Suffolk , IP32 7FA

0845 612 0415 www.larking-gowen.co.uk Offices: Bungay • Claydon • Colchester • Cromer • Dereham • Diss • Fakenham • Holt • Ipswich • Norwich

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

$ + ' & $ + * ! ( %"$+ $( % $ + "$#"$ & ! ! $ + %&$' &'$ ! ! "( $+ ! $ + * ! "'!& ! & $ !"& '& "$ % '! $ & !! $( % ! $ &% & '& ) $ ! $& ! $ ' %& ! % & $ ! " !( %& !& % $( % '% ) $ $% " & !%& &'& " $& $ &" " $ "'!& !&% ! ! ! ! % ! #$"( & % !( %& !& % $( % & + $ ! ! !& ! ! &" #$"( $ + " & % '& "$ % # $& " & #$" %% "! % $( % ) ( ! $ ' & +& !! $( % '& "$ &+ &" "! ' & $ ! " !( %& !& '% ! %% & ( & %

Funny, but not everyone knows we insure local businesses. We do.

Call 01473 688466 for a quote or pop into the office at NFU Mutual Office, Harvest House, Alton Business Centre, Wherstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 2AX Agent of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited.

in Ipswich

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:28 Page 19

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

motoring

21 st century executive motoring

ith the assured move towards more fuel-efficient and lower emission vehicles,

many may be wondering what place leading top of the range car models will take in the future. However, as is explored across the following pages, ground- breaking engineering and technological developments mean that premium cars will not stand neglected. Established car manufacturers such as Audi, The soon to be launched Range Rover Evoque, that will emit under 130g/km of CO2, and deliver over 50mpg

Jaguar, Mercedes and BMW, have cemented their place in the transport industry mainly as a result of their top of the range models. These maintain an important part of the manufactures brand development and have established the companies as leading in their field. Such image conscious models have worked not only to boost the manufacturers’ image but also transfer a sense of style to their owners. Companies wishing to emit a professional, sleek and high class image therefore, will often have no problem forking out high prices for top of

the car’s alternator so it can be used to drive

invest in this sort of technology may see this as

the alternator at other times), smooth

an encouraging moment to do so – showcasing

aerodynamic shapes, the use of direct fuel

the best of our talent, both on the sports fields

injection and engine start stop technology

and off, could be a defining moment for UK

(whereby the car ‘shuts down’ the internal

businesses.

combustion engine to reduce the time the car spends idling and restarts when is needed) have all contributed to this.

the range cars for their employees. Indeed,

Research has found that the emissions from company cars have fallen six percent in the last seven years and is now generally lower than those of normal cars. Coupled with the fact that

executive motoring is a term that has long been

Publicising these aspects, it seems, has been key.

the average emissions of a standard car have

recognised by those understanding the

Looking to the future, it is thought that the

also dropped dramatically in the last few years it

importance of a business’s brand.

2012 Olympics will play an essential role in promoting the UK as leading nation in fuel

The industry is ever changing though, and with the government urging many to start thinking more seriously about fuel efficiency and carbon emissions, many may question the future place of models such as the Audi A8, the BMW 5 series and the Jaguar XF. Manufacturers however, have committed themselves to the project of fuel efficiency and lower emission rates wholeheartedly. With technology such as BMW’s ‘EfficientDynamics’ and Mercedes Benz’ blueEFFICIENCY, it seems that we are now able to buy into high-quality brands and benefit from top of the range engineering that delivers VED tax band savings, an impressive performance, longer service intervals and fuel savings. Aspects such as lightweight designs, recuperation (storing the electricity generated by

seems that together manufacturers and individuals are addressing the issue.

efficiency and low-emission vehicles. BMW is set to provide a fleet of 4,000 low emission vehicles

For more information about the new vehicle tax

to be used for this event and it is thought the

which comes into force next year and is based

emissions for this fleet will be, on average, less

on emissions rather than engine size, visit

than 120 g/km – significantly lower than the

www.directgov.uk/motoring

average 149.5 g/km. Companies wishing to What Car? recommends the BMW 318d ES as one of the greenest executive cars around

motoring

the coventry cat - redefined!

obody can fail to have noticed

V6 diesel version, models start at a business-like

the stylish new TV advertising

£56,900 and are available in four trim levels.

running for the Jaguar brand

As for the interior, despite the coupe styling, there is plenty of headroom in the rear of the cabin, which easily seats three adults in comfort.

Although the XJ is a four-door saloon, it has

The seats are leather-clad and, where the XJ is

more in common with a coupe. Forget the

the all-new Jaguar XJ, but nothing

fitted with the heated/cooling facility, the seat

traditional layout of bonnet, cabin, and boot; the

covers are perforated.

prepares you for the ‘wow’ factor of

car is sleek and streamlined. The angled, almost

and the fact that critics are raving about

seeing the car up close.

chamfered shape of the front end has more than

The screen dials behind the steering wheel are

a hint of Maserati Quattroporte. The sporty,

virtual and the rendering is exquisite. It has the

The current range of Jaguar cars replace the

chromed, mesh grille dominates yet the bonnet

added benefit of interacting with driver input to

somewhat staid models of a few years back in

contours are pure Jaguar and will make the

display the most important information.

revolutionary fashion, the company has clearly

traditionalists feel at home.

decided that it was time to return the marque’s core values and emphasise sporty over sedate.

The interior is very discrete and stylish, but when The side view is where the coupe effect is most

Stephen was ready to drive off in he can’t locate

visible. The shallow windows are surrounded by

a gear selector or parking brake! A press of the

aluminium brightwork and taper to form small,

‘start’ button makes everything clear - an

With that in mind we asked Stephen Bournes,

rounded quarter-lights at the rear. It’s the most

aluminium dial rises out of the central control

the owner of Southwold Pier, to see whether the

aerodynamic Jaguar built so far.

car lived up to the hype. We were driving the 3.0

panel, ahead of the electronic parking brake, presenting itself as the Jaguar Drive Selector.

IoD suffolk

spring 2010 Autumn 2010

Through coastal country lanes the active

Where's the argument against buying British?”

suspension system allows for a huge amount of

Marshall of Ipswich West End Road

feedback, while showing off the car’s agility,

Jaguar XJ Portfolio 3.0 V6 Diesel

Ipswich, IP1 2DZ

dynamics and handling, with a good bit of help

OTR £67,400

0844 243 5643

from the underlying ultra-stiff body. The use of the dynamic mode made an impressive difference. The instrument display goes red, while your seat belt stiffens and the six-speed auto transmission swiftly drops a couple of cogs. As Stephen exclaimed, “Dynamic mode brings it all together, the car feels like it tightens and the whole experience is exhilarating – it certainly is a beautifully serious piece of kit. The car has been great to drive and I’m sure Jaguar are right in their thinking that it would be impossible to get a young man in an old man’s car, and this car definitely feels it’s no longer the last refuge of the cravat-wearing, moustache-sporting, serial golfer.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 22

motoring

tomorrow’s technology today…

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 23

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

s manager of the Thorpeness

latest technology. There’s pre-sense basic, which

From the back seat, where Michael was being

and Aldeburgh Hotel Group’s

provides you with a comprehensive preventive

chauffeured, little of this was concerning him as

most iconic hotel, The Swan at

Lavenham, Michael Burn is well used to meticulous details. Who better to test

protection safety system that can detect an close the sunroof and windows, and activate the hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.

drive the new Audi A8, a car that is only replaced every eight years, so when the

links to the Satellite Navigation system to

has to make sure it's got everything

identify bends, junctions and motorway

Although potentially a car that you’d be more likely find yourself sitting in the back of, driving to the hotel from The Audi Showroom in Ipswich to Lavenham gave me ample opportunity to enjoy the refinement from a driver’s perspective. As you might expect at the top of the Audi range, the new A8 combines classic elegance with the latest innovations. It has a new level of luxury, thanks to exquisite attention to detail and an extensive level of standard specification: adaptive air suspension, luxurious leather seats, Audi Music Interface and HDD-based navigation including MMI Touch. I was driving the A8 4.2 TDI quattro SE, admired both for its meticulous interior and its all-weather traction, although the most popular A8 in Britain will be the 3.0 TDI Parking up outside the hotel, gave us both the opportunity to admire the car’s Teutonic lines as, from the outside the Audi impresses straightaway with its understated elegance. Described by Top Gear as a ‘modern classic’, it’s a car that gets you noticed for all the right reasons. As Michael noted, once inside its immaculate interior, with exquisitely stitched leather upholstery and myriad of brilliant surfaces it’s easy to forget that the car is bristling with the

As he commented, ‘There’s a great deal of leg room and head room, the centre arm rest has individual heater controls, and the option to

There’s predictive route data as standard, which

time comes for a new one, the company just right...

he was relaxing in the sumptuous seating.

imminent collision and tighten the seat belts,

stretches. The system then adjusts the transmission, lights and even the adaptive cruise control to provide optimum safety and comfort. The car is built on an aluminium Audi Space Frame, and along with new, high-performance engines such as the 4.2 TDI, it’s helped to reduce CO2 emissions across the new Audi A8 range by approximately 20%. And, of course,

scroll through the downloaded CDs . The comfort of the ride is fabulous and there is no discernible wind noise. The whole experience is a class act. It’s a car of substance, concealing iron-fist performance beneath a kid-glove interior.”

Audi A8 4.2 TDI quattro SE Model price £62,840 Options £23,970 Total OTR £86,810

you benefit from even more miles per gallon. Ipswich Audi With its refined comfort and sophisticated

2 Bath Street

technologies like optional night vision, the new

Ipswich IP2 8SG

Audi A8 is how Audi sees twenty-first century

O800 135 7228

luxury car travel.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 24

motoring

jumping on the ‘green’ bandwagon

s businesses and individuals are urged to cut their carbon footprint, how can your

company lessen theirs? For those companies thinking about investing in a new fleet of cars, a soon to be launched government initiative may help… With budget cuts rippling through our economy, it makes a refreshing change to hear that at least some of the government’s

The Audi A1, with carbon dioxide emissions of 105g, put this A1 SE model into band B where road tax is £20

promised initiatives will be going ahead. One that may be of particular note for businesses, especially those wishing to jump on the ‘green’

friendly cars. For instance, car tax rates have

but also a way to improve your company’s

bandwagon, is that recently announced by

changed to take into account CO2 emissions

image, prepare for future developments and

Transport Secretary, Philip Hammond. Assuring

rather than engine size, any cars with low CO2

benefit the environment.

the public that a grant of 5,000 will still be

emissions (accounting for 110g/km or less) can

available for those wanting to purchase a low-

qualify for a 100 per cent capital allowance

Weighing up the pros and cons of greener

emission vehicle from January 2011, Philip

and road pricing concessions for low-emission

transport is something many companies and

Hammond claims that the UK can be a “world

vehicles are also in place in some areas.

private fleet buyers may be doing a lot of soon and it will be interesting to see how the

leader” in green transport. Hailed as ‘the future of driving’, a ‘milestone’

market is transformed over the coming years.

The grant will be available to those wanting to

in vehicle production and ‘the way forward’,

buy private or business fleet cars and will

the electric car has been at the centre of much

For more information about the cars that are

discount 25% of the overall cost of a low-

media attention lately. Indeed, the ‘plugged in

eligible for the grant, please visit

emission vehicle, with a maximum of £5,000

places’ initiative, allowing cities to bid for

www.dft.gov.uk/olev.

available. Cars eligible must have met safety,

funding for the installation of the electric car

reliability, performance and warranty criteria

charging points, is also ongoing at the

and vehicles concerned include electric, plug in

moment. The government envisions that

hybrid and hydrogen fuel cars.

electric cars and low-carbon vehicles will soon be an everyday sight in the UK.

According to the details, there has been £43 million earmarked for the initiative, and

While the government is urging the country to

assuming the money doesn’t run out, the

invest in these vehicles, one point for

project will stay in place until March 2012. A

companies to bear in mind is that these cars

review will take place in January 2012 at which

are very expensive. Coupled with the increase

point the government will set the level for

of VAT due to come in at the same time as the

subsequent years.

grant, the savings can seem somewhat limited. Nevertheless, there is much to be gained from

Companies may be pleased to hear that there

a comprehensive review of your business’s

are also many other benefits coming into place

transport system. Greener ways of travelling

for those wishing to use environmentally

can not only work out to be a financial saving

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 25

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

motoring

buying a new car made easy

indacre Vehicle Sourcing does

retail outlet based at the Lindacre Land Rover

For more details please contact sales director

exactly what it says on the tin. So

Service Centre in Ipswich. Alternatively you can

David Chenery

visit their virtual showroom at

01473 461751 or 07885 277 400

if you are looking for a new or

used car they will do all the leg-work for

www.lindacreusedcars.co.uk. All their preowned vehicles are prepared to the highest

Lindacre Ipswich Ltd

you, leaving you more time to

standards. They are only offered for sale when

2 Farthing Road,

concentrate on your main activities.

they are confident that they meet the exact

Sproughton Ind Est,

criteria set in their pre-owned vehicle policy.

Ipswich,

Through their extensive contacts in the Land

Likewise, if you do not see what you are

Suffolk,

Rover dealer network they are able to source

looking for they will, through Lindacre Vehicle

IP1 5AP

both new and pre-owned models at very

Sourcing, find the exact car to match your

competitive prices. You will find their

requirements.

knowledge and experience of the Land Rover marque second to none. Lindacre Vehicle

Lindacre are also able to offer fully-accredited

Sourcing is not restricted to Land Rover, they

finance packages covering: hire purchase;

can also obtain all other major brands of

personal contract purchase; contract hire and

vehicle to meet your individual requirements.

lease hire. Lindacre Ipswich Limited is an

What is more they will also be pleased to take

appointed representative of ITC Compliance

your vehicle in part exchange.

Limited which is authorised and regulated by

In addition, Lindacre have their own used car

the Financial Services Authority.

LET US SOURCE YOUR NEXT VEHICLE Through our extensive contacts in the Land Rover dealer network we are able to source both new and pre-owned models at very competitive prices. You will Þnd our knowledge and experience of the Land Rover marque second to none. Likewise we can also source all other major brands of vehicles to meet your individual requirements. We will also be pleased to take your vehicle in part exchange.

LINDACRE USED CARS Visit our virtual showroom at www.lindacreusedcars.co.uk or call into the service centre for our latest stock of pre-owned cars. If you do not see what you are looking for we can through Lindacre Vehicle Sourcing Þnd the exact car to match your requirements. All our pre-owned vehicles are prepared to the highest standards. They are only offered for sale when we are conÞdent that they meet the exact criteria set in our pre-owned vehicle policy.

Lindacre Cars 2 Farthing Road, Sproughton Ind Est, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 5AP Tel: 01473 461751 Mob: David Chenery 07885 277 400

SO U

RCIN

E H I CL

Opening Hours Monday Ð Friday 08:00 - 18:00 Saturday 08.30 Ð 12.30

E H I CL

We are able to offer fully accredited Þnance packages covering: ¥ Hire Purchase ¥ Personal Contract Purchase ¥ Contract Hire ¥ Lease Hire

LINDACRE FINANCE

FI NANCE

www.lindacrecars.co.uk

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 26

opportunity

millions of pounds-worth of london 201 2 contracts are still up for grabs!

he London 2012 Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) is

urging small businesses from across the

UK to compete for millions of poundsworth of untapped Olympic opportunities. With a mind boggling array of goods and services required, LOCOG has begun procuring £700 million worth of opportunities, with £500 million of contracts expected to be awarded in the next year. The available contracts – which include sporting equipment, temporary buildings and licensing opportunities to produce, distribute and market London 2012 branded merchandise – are more likely to be suitable for small companies than the large construction projects that were tendered through the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA).

A quick look at some of the figures shows that the Games will require 70,000 uniforms for volunteers, 900,000 pieces of sports equipment, 100 tonnes of meat for the athletes, 200,000 seats, 380,000m² of temporary buildings and tents, 15,000km of toilet paper and 300 gold medals. Contracts awarded to date range from the supply of abseiling services for the installation of bird netting, to air quality monitoring, to the provision of portable toilets and the supply of wristbands.

ODA Chairman John Armitt said: 'Businesses of all types and sizes are helping to deliver the London 2012 Games. Companies should "seize the moment" and sign up to

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 27

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

CompeteFor, the online business dating agency, to be part of this once in a lifetime opportunity.'

CompeteFor (www.competefor.com) is the chosen website of London 2012 for the publication of Games-related contract opportunities. Once registered with CompeteFor businesses will automatically receive news of future tender opportunities.

Bruce Provan, Suffolk County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Skills and Economic Development, is keen to encourage Suffolk businesses to bid for work. He said 'There are still plenty of contracts relating to the Games that businesses in Suffolk can get involved

The company has been awarded two contracts

“The two contracts achieved to date have

with. Since Suffolk County Council began

by the Olympic Delivery Authority to provide

been of a reasonable size and have

promoting CompeteFor, over 1,400 Suffolk

training to long-term unemployed residents

successfully delivered training and

businesses have registered on the website and

within the 5 host London boroughs. The training

employment opportunities to local residents.

are now well placed to bid for work.

focussed on specialist communication skills.

Being published on CompeteFor has not only

'It's amazing how diverse the range of

Andrew Stevens, Managing Director for CNet

we would not have known about otherwise,

contracts is, and I would urge all businesses in

Training said: “Following news of the

but we now feel we are well placed to benefit

Suffolk to take a look at the CompeteFor

successful bid for London 2012 we

from similar opportunities as and when they

website to see whether there are opportunities

investigated what Games-related opportunities

arise in future.’

that they can bid for.'

would be available for businesses such as

meant that we have secured contracts which

A number of Games related contracts have

ourselves, and subsequently discovered

To date 76 percent of Games contracts have

CompeteFor.’

been won by small and medium-sized businesses with around half won by firms

already been won by Suffolk companies, including one by Sound Research Laboratories

“We found the CompeteFor website very

from outside London. Currently between 10

from Sudbury who won a contract relating to

accessible and easy to use and found

and 20 new opportunities are being posted

the acoustics in the aquatics centre and two

publishing our details on the system very

on CompeteFor each week.

by Cnet Training a technical training specialist

straight forward. We published on

located in Bury St Edmunds.

CompeteFor in November 2008 and have

CNet Training designs and delivers technical

three relevant contracts – two of which we

training programmes. With 16-20 employees

have been successful in winning.’

already had the opportunity to respond to

it achieves an annual turnover of £1.8 million.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 28

Services to Business at West Suffolk College W est Suf ffolk folk C Providing training to meet business needs… wit employers to provide quality We est Sufffolk folk College works with training that makes a positive diffference ference to their business.

$SSUHQWLFHVKLSV IRU DOO 7UDLQ WR *DLQ 6KRUW &RXUVHV 6NLOOV IRU /LIH

s2b@wsc.ac.uk www.westsuffffolk.ac.uk 01284 716246

0845 603 1585 sales@sourceoneconsulting.co.uk

www.sourceoneconsulting.co.uk

The Specialists in office interiors Based in Ipswich with branches in Cambridge - Letchworth - Newmarket

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 29

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

technology

business apps

Phones, iPod Touch and iPads are

Currency Converter Convert exchange rates

Intuit GoPayment accept credit cards

now synonymous with business

for over 180 currencies and 4 metals. Type

anytime, anywhere. Use your iPhone to easily

efficiency and this is due in no

conversion amounts using a custom big-

and securely accept credit card payments

button keypad.

wherever your business takes you. No more

small part to the diverse and

waiting for checks to clear, chasing invoice

increasingly sophisticated apps that

OANDA Rates® are used by corporations, tax

are available to download. In this

authorities, auditing firms, and financial

article we look at some of the best

institutions. They are daily filtered rates based

FileApp easily copy files on your device for a

free apps on the market.

on information supplied by leading market

quick look on the road. Powerful and yet still

data contributors.

very user friendly, FileApp will let you find the

If there’s not one here that does exactly what you want have you thought about getting your own custom app for your company? Or do you have the next great idea for an app or

payments, or missing sales.

document you're looking for within seconds. Remote Desktop lite enables you to have

Copying files over to your iPhone or iPod Touch

full, secure access to your work computer

takes place wirelessly (by FTP) or via USB

through wifi or the phones network (EDGE).

(cable) using DiskAid or iTunes File Sharing.

Using your iPhone, you can connect to your

a business plan to make money from custom

Windows Computer and see the files,

Quick Voice Recorder. QuickVoice is the

applications? If so then you’ll simply need to

programs, and resources exactly as you would

most popular, full-featured iPhone/iPad voice

enrol as an iPhone App Developer.

if you were sitting at your desk, just on a

recorder available. Record ideas, voice memos,

smaller screen.

voice email, dictation, lists, meetings, classes, or entire lectures! For professional,

See more at www.developer.apple.com Mocha Remote Desktop (RDP) provides

educational, and personal use...

Dragon Dictation is an easy-to-use voice

access to a PC running Windows XP

recognition application powered by Dragon®

Professional or Vista/Windows 7. HOME edition

Concur Mobile, travelers seem to always

NaturallySpeaking® that allows you to easily

or Windows 200x Servers cannot be used.

need access to adjust their travel plans when it isn’t easy to use a laptop that’s connected

speak and instantly see your text or email messages. In fact, it’s up to five (5) times

Call Recordings this record a call application,

to the Internet, such as in an airport terminal,

faster than typing on the keyboard.

allows any iPhone telephone call to be

in the back of cab, or in a hotel lobby. With

recorded.There are three ways to activate the

Concur Mobile, travelers can manage their

Genius Scan turns your iPhone into a pocket

recording feature and six ways to listen to the

travel itineraries and also keep track of out-of-

scanner. Fast and streamlined, Genius Scan

recordings. Recordings are archived for future

pocket expenses and receipts in a timely

enables you to quickly scan documents on-

retrieval. Calls can be downloaded at any

manner and within their company’s policies.

the-go, send the scans by email or whole

time. Where, the iPhone’s built in Google Maps

documents as PDF. Unlike other scanner applications, Genius Scan is lightning fast and

Documents Free iPhone's only light weight

app will find addresses, and most locations if

user input is kept to a minimum.

mobile office suite. This essential application

you know the name or address, but Where

It features smart page detection, perspective

allows you to edit and manage spreadsheet &

lets you pin down restaurants and attractions

correction, grayscale detection and image

text files on your iPhone. Works both online

without needing to know their name, or even

post-processing.

and offline. You can also synchronize files to

whether they’re classified as a pub, bar or

your Google Documents account and open

restaurant. If you use the Zipcar car sharing

files on your PC or Mac.

service, it can also help you book a set of

Line 2- Ideal if you have poor cell reception at

wheels and drive away, all using nothing but

your home or office or just want to reduce your cell bill. Your phone will automatically

WiFi HD Free Turn your iPhone into a wireless,

an iPhone!

detect the cheapest way to make a call - you

mobile external hard drive! Works over any WiFi

don't have to think about it, by adding a

connection. You can now share, copy, and

Further details:

second number to your iPhone that works

backup your files to and from your PC / Mac /

www.applestoreapps.com or itunes 9 for

over 3G, WiFi or Cellular networks with full

Linux / or another phone! Very easy to use.

free download of applications

iOS4 backgrounding support.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 30

Seckford Hall 9/3/10

10:32

Stimulate your senses

Dine in our boutique restaurant where Simon Barker and his team prepare modern British food sourced locally.

Wherever you sit you can enjoy the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures and interesting nic-nacs. In summer, dine alfresco and watch the harbour from our courtyard. Book a table now and enjoy. Reserve by telephone 01473 226789.

www.salthouseharbour.co.uk

salthouseharbourhotel

Page

Hotel & Restaurant

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 31

IoD news

driving the IoD suffolk into the future

een to establish the role that the IoD Suffolk plays in the business community and how we might adapt for the future, branch chairman Paul Winter recently organised a workshop for committee members.

century and, after a SWOT analysis, it was

Caroline Kearney on 07917 699498 or by

decided that a period of investigation will

email at caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk with

precede work on a detailed strategy for change.

your views.

Neil Prentice, public relations, marketing and magazine liaison officer, said: “It is imperative that we provide a modern and relevant

Paul said: “Since becoming chairman I have

approach in everything we do, so it was a

been eager to find out exactly what our

good idea to get the committee together for

members want from IoD Suffolk. The

this workshop. We are all very keen to get

workshop has helped make a start on our

moving, but gaining insight will play a vital

journey into the future.”

role in formulating our plans.”

He continued: “Now I am really looking forward

The committee will be carrying out telephone,

to receiving the thoughts of people who

email and post-event surveys to gauge opinion

currently interact with us and to keeping the

and gather feedback on what you are looking

channels open for feedback from both existing

for from IoD Suffolk, including the structure

and new members in the years to come.”

of the events programme.

Committee members came away from the workshop with a determination to make the

Alternatively, we would welcome your

IoD Suffolk relevant to business in the 21st

feedback now, so please do contact:

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 32

F A C TTO FA ORS

KITCHENS K ITCHENS CHENS

BAT BA BATHROOMS ATHR T OOMS THRO OMS

BEDRO BEDR BEDROOMS OOMS OMS

HOME HOME OFFICES

BESPOKE INTERIORS

A.P Laflin are the quality builder of Felixstowe, Suffolk. We pride ourselves on the quality of both service and workmanship. From small renovation work to large scale building projects, we have the expertise and experience to complete the work on time and to the highest standards.

t: 01394 270573

Designer ffitted Designer fitt itt ttteed d kitchens kitchens made made for or life or liife lif f

e: laflinbuilders@btconnect.com

www.laflinbuilders.co.uk Est. Over 25 years Extensions & Alterations • New Buildings • Structural Work • Fitted Kitchens & Bathrooms • Carpentry & Joinery • Plumbing & Electrics

THE QUALITY BUILDERS OF

come see come ee us us

Quality Qual Qua iitttyy ffitted itt tted ed iint interiors nteerior riors from fr from om Anglia Ang Anglia ia Factors FFaact ctor tors

Monday M ondayy to riiday 9am-5pm riday o FFriday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-4pm S Satur atturday day 1 10a 0am-4pm m--4pm

Have yyour Have our kitchen our kitchen chen designed designed and nd b built uilt to o meet meett the the needs eeds off yyour our hectic our mily life. ct rs design tted ed hecttiic family ffaami lifffee. Anglia Anglia Factors Factor Facto design luxury luxur uxur y fitted ffitt fiitt fit kitchens to m kitchens meet eett yo yyour our needs our nneeds. eeds.

34 Gloster 3 4 Glos loster er RRoad, oad, oad, Martlesham M Ma Mar rtlesham esham ham Heath Heath th IIpswich psw pswich swich IP5 P5 3 3RD RD

01473 0147 0 1473 36 610 10 192 1 19 9 92 aask as skk for for advi aadvice dvice ce

www.angliafactors.co.uk ww w www ww.ang .angliiafffaactor cto ors.co.uk s visitit us visit us onl o online nline ine

SUFFOLK

Uncover the finest new homes in the East of England

by Hopkins Homes

Desirable locations throughout Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex For further information please visit:

www.hopkinshomes.co.uk 24hr enquiry line: 01394 446860 sales@hopkinshomes.co.uk Photograph of a previous Hopkins Homes development.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 33

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

property

hopkins homes – east anglia’s premier award winning developer

opkins Homes is a privately owned company at the very forefront of residential

development in East Anglia. From the outset, James Hopkins’ vision was to create beautifully designed homes of

James Hopkins Executive Chairman, Hopkins Homes

character, style and substance. As James says "There's something about the look of older buildings that appeals to all of us. The design, the scale, and the feel - it's something many architects have forgotten. But not at Hopkins. Our approach is to take all the qualities which have stood the test of time to build homes that are easy on the eye and that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. We use the traditional approach as our platform and onto this build all the convenience, practicality and energy efficiency demanded by today's modern lifestyle. The result is a home that we and many of our

due to commence are projects in Felixstowe,

significant builder of quality homes, frequently

purchasers believe is a joy to own and to live in."

Framlingham, Kilverstone, Little Plumstead,

recognised by the NHBC in their Quality Award

Saxmundham and the refurbishment of the

Scheme which is the industry's benchmark for

Just as important to what Hopkins Homes

listed, former St Michael’s hospital building in

quality of a development in terms of build

build, is where the company build, and with

Aylsham, an exciting opportunity for the

standard and overall site management. Hopkins

strong East Anglian roots and traditional

company to demonstrate its extensive

Homes has also appeared twice in the Sunday

values, the company has expanded its portfolio

experience and expertise in sympathetic

Times Fast Track 100 list of the UK's top 100

of developments across East Anglia.

restoration and respect for sensitive renovation.

fastest growing companies. Furthermore, the company’s commitment to style and quality has

Not one to rest on its laurels, Hopkins Homes

been recognised both locally and nationally by

Homes developments including Halesworth,

remains very ambitious for the future and has

many within the housebuilding industry and is

Ipswich, Lawford, Southwold, Walsham Le

embarked on a programme of significant land

ably demonstrated by some of the accolades

Willows and Woodbridge in Suffolk, Aylsham,

acquisition, carefully selecting locations that will

and awards the company has received

Costessey, Harleston and Mulbarton in Norfolk

allow the company to further enhance its

including regularly appearing in the What

and Soham in Cambridgeshire. Three new

outstanding reputation for providing well

House? Awards list of winners, the NHBC Seal

developments are due to be live by the end of

planned homes and creating desirable

of Excellence Award and the highly coveted

the year; Scholar’s Quarter in the heart of

communities whilst at the same time

Housing Design Awards.

Norwich, Bell’s Grange in the Essex market

continuing to expand its horizons, moving

town of Bocking and The Stables, a niche

further into Essex, Cambridgeshire and

For further press information please contact

Hopkins & Moore development, in the

Hertfordshire; cementing the company’s

Jill Bryce on 01394 446921

picturesque coastal town of Southwold.

position as an un-rivalled regional developer.

or email: jill.bryce@hopkinshomes.co.uk

Moving forward, there are over 30 further

From a start in 1992 Hopkins Homes, together

web: www.hopkinshomes.co.uk

developments that Hopkins Homes are seeking

with the niche Hopkins & Moore brand, has

sales enquiry tel: 01394 446860

to bring forward, amongst those imminently

grown from a small local company into a

Currently, there are eleven active Hopkins

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 34

Let Ufford Park entice you... ...UFFORD PARK NEAR WOODBRIDGE IN SUFFOLK OFFERS MORE THAN JUST A CHOICE OF GREAT CONFERENCE ROOMS - IT UNIQUELY OFFERS PACKAGES TO REFRESH BOTH YOUR MIND & YOUR BODY

87 bedroom hotel 2 storey driving range Health Club & Luxury Spa 18 Hole, Par 71 golf course Team building available

Air conditioned banqueting & conference rooms (2-300) Tailored corporate golf & conference packages available Restaurant & Bar

For more information call 0844 477 1832 or visit www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

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

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:48 Page 35

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

leisure

plan your work and work your plan!

he recent victory by the relatively

In a similar way, the successful business

unknown Louis Oostheizen in The

operator will look into all the outside factors

Open Golf Championship,

that may affect the business, but will maintain

highlighted for me the importance of

the systems that have proven to be successful

having a game plan and seeing it

– from continuing regular communication

through. This resulted in a very

with its client base to development of new

comfortable victory over the best

products to suit the current market trends.

opposition in the world. It is no surprise that many successful business There is a lot we can all learn by adapting his

owners become successful golfers – with

approach within our own businesses.

many wishing that they could create more

Although we need to be aware of all

time for their chosen pastime! I have also seen

opportunities, how often are we sidetracked

that there are many successful golfers that

into moving down a different path to that which we started on? It is wise to look into new ways of operating; reducing costs;

become successful business owners in their own right by “planning their work and working their plan!”

maximising profit; training staff, as long as it does not take you away from your businesses core beliefs.

Stuart Robertson Head PGA Golf Professional The Doctorgolf Academy Best Western Ufford Park

The golfer has to be aware of wind strength

Hotel Golf & Spa

and direction, firmness of the ground

Woodbridge

conditions to determine how far the ball will

IP12 1QW

run, whether the shot is up or downhill, the

01394 383480

proximity and severity of any hazards and the

mail@doctorgolf.co.uk

likelihood of achieving a successful outcome -

Stuart Robertson

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 36

special day for army families

he owners of Southwold pier have treated 16 families from Colchester Garrison to a special day out.

the armed forces often jeopardise not only their own lives but the stability of their beloved families as well. They had great fun and it was an absolute

Stephen and Antonia Bournes were keen to

pleasure entertaining them all. “We hope

show their support for the troops for their

other businesses in the county will follow our

commitment, particularly while on tour in

lead. It is a small thing to give, when they

Afghanistan.

give so much.”

Antonia said: “Many of them have young

Skipper Marcus Gladwell from the town’s

families so it occurred to us that they would

lifeboat station helped to make the day

enjoy a day out on the pier. It seemed a small

special, offering free rides on the Coastal

thing to give when these men and women of

Voyager rigid inflatable boat.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 37

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

charities

glasswells focus turns to 201 1

urniture specialists Glasswells are

photographer James Fletcher will be coaching

Andrea Johnston, manager of Glasswells in

again providing support for the St

the students.

Ipswich, said: “We are keen to work with local businesses to encourage sales of the calendar

Elizabeth Hospice to create a

2011 Suffolk Calendar to raise money for the charity.

“I have been truly impressed with the ideas

from their premises.”

and creativity that the students have on tap. This is a tremendously-fulfilling project and I’m looking forward to seeing the end product

Using the opportunity to champion young

on sale,” said James

people, Glasswells commissioned three A-level photography students from Kesgrave High School to take a fresh view of Suffolk landmarks.

Glasswells will also be covering the cost of managing the production of the calendar, and they hope that businesses featured will sponsor a month, with all proceeds going to

And, offering his time free of charge,

the hospice.

At their 2009 Motor Show IOD Suffolk raised £1 500 in support of the East Anglian Air Ambulance. The cheque was recently handed over to the Nicola Whymark of East Anglian Air Ambulance

he East Anglian Air Ambulance charity was established in 2000 and runs two life saving helicopters 365 days a year.

Our service has developed at a rapid rate, so to reflect the changing environment and continue to provide the highest standards in medical provision our clinical crew are more highly skilled in order to be part of the

The service is vital in East Anglia as the region

ambulance team. This enables treatment to be

covers a vast area, much of it rural. With

given at the scene so patients’ benefit from

more than 5,000 sq miles, or 11% of the total

on-scene stabilisation that saves more lives

area of England, it contains some of its most

and spares thousands from serious long-term

isolated terrain making it sometimes difficult

injury.

for land ambulances to reach the scene of accidents and emergencies quickly.

Once the patient has received the essential on-

As with everywhere else, the roads in East

ambulances might then take over and manage

scene medical treatment the crew on the land Anglia are becoming increasingly congested,

the situation that frees up the helicopter and

leading to ever more road traffic collisions -

its clinicians so they can be deployed to

which already make up more than 50% of the

accidents and emergencies where these skills

incidents we attend.

are needed elsewhere.

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 38

business books

business books for autumn...

Employees First Customer Second: Turning Conventional Management Upside Down by Vineet Nayar

How They Blew it: The CEOs and Entrepreneurs Behind Some of the World's Most Catastrophic Business Failures

blowing sums of money, it looks at the

Harvard Business

characteristics of these leaders and the fine

School Press

line between hero and zero. "How They Blew

Published May 2010

It" is about the people at the heart of these

£17.99

business catastrophes. It is about what drives

One small idea can ignite a revolution just as a

them to succeed and then to fail. It is a

single matchstick can start a fire. One such idea

compelling examination of the rights and

- putting employees first and customers second

by Jamie Oliver and

wrongs of each case and it seeks to get into

- sparked a revolution at HCL Technologies, the

Tony Goodwin

the minds of the people behind the business

IT services giant. In this candid and personal

Kogan Page

disasters and ask 'why the hell did they do

account, Vineet Nayar - HCLT's celebrated CEO -

Published July 2010

that?' The characteristics of successful

recounts how he defied the conventional

£14.99

entrepreneurs include resilience and the ability

wisdom that companies must put customers

"How They Blew It" is a series of eye-popping

to learn from failure, and so the aim of "How

first, then turned the hierarchical pyramid

tales of entrepreneurs and business leaders

They Blew It" is ultimately positive. By

upside down by making management

who went from corporate gurus to financial

examining how business ventures can go so

accountable to the employees, and not the

disaster zones in rapid and humiliating

badly wrong, you can learn to avoid those

other way around. By doing so, Nayar fired the

fashion. Full of surprising details and mind-

mistakes in the first place.

imagination of both employees and customers and set HCLT on a journey of transformation that has made it one of the fastest-growing and profitable global IT services companies and according to "BusinessWeek", one of the twenty most influential companies in the world.

Beyond Business An Inspirational Memoir from a Visionary Leader by John Browne Orion Publishing Co Published February 2010 £20

Chapter by chapter, Nayar recounts the exciting transformed a national company, challenged

journey of how he and his team implemented

an entire industry, and prompted political and

the employee first philosophy by: creating a

business leaders to change. He takes us across

sense of urgency by enabling the employees to

the world on adventures that include going

see the truth of the company's current state as

toe-to-toe with both tyrants and elected

well as feel the 'romance' of its possible future

leaders, and involve engineering feats which in

state; creating a culture of trust by pushing the

many ways rival those of going to the moon.

envelope of transparency in communication

And he shares his views on the true purpose

and information sharing; inverting the

Once a lacklustre organisation, BP became one

of business and the leadership needed to

organizational hierarchy by making the

of the world's biggest, most successful, and

tackle the grand challenges of our era. It is

management and the enabling functions

most admired companies in the new

also a story of failure and human frailty as

accountable to the employee in the value zone;

millennium. John Browne, the company's CEO

Browne reveals how his private and public

and unlocking the potential of the employees

for 12 years, invented the oil 'supermajor' and

lives collided at frightening speed in full view

by fostering an entrepreneurial mind-set, decentralizing decision making, and

led the way on issues such as climate change,

of the world, prompting his abrupt

human rights and transparency. In Beyond

resignation as CEO of BP. A rich memoir,

transferring the ownership of 'change' to the

Business, Browne brings to life what he learnt

Beyond Business is a must for anyone

employee in the value zone. This book offers

about leadership in a tough industry. His story

searching for a refreshing, inspirational and

valuable insights for managers seeking to

encompasses the insights gained as he

human view of business and leadership.

realize their aspirations.

Please join us at our

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 9th October 2010

A co-educational Independent Day School for 2-18 year olds with boarding facilities. Scholarships and bursaries up to 100 per cent of fees available. A Christian School in the Lasallian Tradition. Belstead Road, Ipswich, England, IP2 9DR Tel: 01473 6980281 registrar@stjos.co.uk www.stjos.co.uk

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 39

IoD suffolk

Autumn 2010

mind your own buiness

avoiding own goals in the communications game

ow would you rate your

those around you and yet you may never

but, by then, the damage had been done.

communication skills?

come to realise how corrosive your actions –

For our high-flying friend the project was

or lack of them – can be.

clearly not top of his to-do list. For Mary,

If you are a boss, I am willing to wager you probably think you measure up pretty well. After all, people with the drive, determination and ambition to become captains of industry are unlikely to be backward at coming forward and reluctant to admit weakness in such a key area of the leadership skillset. But how do you know if you are as effective as you think – and hope – you are? Do you ever take the trouble to ask your staff and, even if you do, are they likely to give you an honest answer?

hungry to get her teeth into what had been I came across an example recently where a

sold to her as a key assignment, the response

boss was damned not for something he did

– or lack of – was demoralising and distinctly

but for what he failed to do.

demotivating.

This involved a middle manager, hand-picked

Unfortunately for her, the high flier held all

by her immediate superior to play a key part

the relevant data and without this

in a business review initiative at group level of

information poor Mary was powerless to act.

the organisation. Clearly this was a great

She did try to enlist the help of her immediate

opportunity for the middle manager (let’s call

boss but he was reluctant to rock the boat in

her Mary) to spread her wings in a wider

case it jeopardised his own place in the

environment and to make a significant impact

pecking order.

in what was perceived to be a project with major implications for the future success of

The lesson surely is that small acts of courtesy

the company as a whole.

don’t take much effort but can be crucial in maintaining motivation.

“Actually, we all think your communication skills are pants, boss,” is one of the least likely observations you are likely to hear from your team, unless they are on the fast-track to career self-destruction. England football supremo Fabio Capello’s

Suitably energised for the task by her immediate boss, Mary lost no time in firing

How long would it have taken the high flier

off an email (as instructed) to the project

to acknowledge Mary’s original email,

leader – a high flier by all account who

offering a brief explanation for the delay?

operates in another division of the company. Mary waited for a response, eager to get

Be warned, it is not just football managers

going as soon as possible.

who take their eye off the ball when it comes

clumsy mishandling of the recent decision to

to meaningful communication. And own

dispense with David Beckham’s services was

She waited and waited. A week later she

conducted in the glare of media frenzy – the

finally got a response, along with a few

ensuing brouhaha inevitable considering the

bullet-point headings on how the project

iconic status of the victim.

might develop. She replied immediately, thanking him for the helpful information and

Even allowing for Capello’s much-publicised

suggesting they arrange to meet to discuss

language difficulties, this was a spectacular

how things might best progress. Another two

communications own goal by any standard.

weeks elapsed before she heard any more, by

Fortunately for most bosses, they are not

which time her initial enthusiasm had

required to conduct staff relationships in the

evaporated almost without trace.

goldfish-bowl scrutiny of the world’s media. Nevertheless, poor communication

Obviously she still had to pick up the pieces

performance can send damaging signals to

when the exercise eventually got under way

goals can be expensive in any language. G C Armstrong

IOD autumn - all pages_IOD spring 10 SECT 1 03/09/2010 11:29 Page 40

introducing the IoD committee

Paul Winter

Chris Johnson

Chairman

01473 278403 tel email PaulWinter@ibs.co.uk

Sponsorship Officer tel 01473 279175 email Christopher.Johnson@nuffieldhealth.com

Ian Johnson

Graham Reid

Branch Membership Officer

01284 767670 tel email ian@selectofficefurniture.co.uk

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

Neil Prentice

Dawn Carman-Jones

Public Relations, Marketing and Magazine Liaison Officer

Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator

01473 228811 tel email neil@white-spacedesign.com

tel

01379 873181

email dawn@mercatus-marketing.co.uk

Dean Willingham

Catherine Chambers

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

Education Liaison Officer and Regional Professional Development Co-ordinator tel 01473 226645 email catherine@easilife.uk.com

Caroline Kearney

Leigh-Ondrea Bendall

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

tel 01440 711400 email leigh.bendall@herbertgroup.com

new members

IoD Pall Mall, London

IoD Suffolk Membership Benefits • IoD Travel Services

BTS Group Ltd

National Apprenticeship Service

Halley McCallum

Teresa Logan

East Anglian Air Ambulance

Southern Water

Richard Robinson

Leslie Dawson

Hydro International

Storm Recruitment Services Ltd

Chris Day

John Reynolds

Inntel Ltd

Suffolk County Council

Douglas O’Neill

Graham Dixon

IPPLUS plc

vrs Vericlaim UK Ltd

David Everett

Stewart Steel

Jonas Consulting

Waters Wye Associates Ltd

Scott Hutchinson

Gareth Evans

Merlin Claims Ltd

Jonathan Townsend

Richard Shanks

Kenneth Dowling

• IoD Car Rental • IoD Director’s Liability Insurance • IoD Professional Indemnity Insurance • IoD Home and Contents Insurance • IoD Health Plans

To find out more about joining IoD Suffolk branch... Please call Caroline Kearney, Suffolk Branch Administrator mob: 07917 699 498 email: caroline@iod-suffolk.co.uk www.iod.com/suffolk

For a complete list of the current affinity member benefits, please see

Institute of Directors Suffolk Branch 25 Wilding Drive, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 2AE

www.iod.com/speciallynegotiated

FOXWOOD exclusive ceramic, glass & natural stone tiles 729 Woodbridge Road Ipswich Suffolk Telephone: 01473 717717 www.foxwoodceramics.co.uk

The future of the luxury car has arrived. With the all new XJ from just £799* a month for business users, why wait to book a test drive? The all new XJ looks like no other car in its class. It performs like no other car in its class. And according to experts at Glass’s Guide, it will hold its value like no other car in its class. Yet its effortless performance and extravagant specification can be yours from as little as £799* a month (business users only) through Jaguar Contract Hire. Why wait to experience the future of the luxury car? Call us today to arrange your test drive.

0844 243 5643

MARSHALL JAGUAR West End Road, Ipswich IP1 2DZ www.marshallweb.co.uk/jaguar

OFFICIAL FUEL ECONOMY FIGURES FOR THE XJ RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 15.4 (18.3) – 29.6 (9.6); EXTRA URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 50.0 (5.6); COMBINED 23.4 (12.1) – 40.1 (7.0). CO2 EMISSIONS 289 – 184 G/KM. MODEL SHOWN: XJ 3.0 LITRE DIESEL FROM £53,900† ON THE ROAD. †ON THE ROAD PRICE. MANUFACTURER’S RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICE. FIGURES CORRECT AS AT 30TH JUNE 2010. *BASED ON A 36 MONTH AGREEMENT ON THE JAGUAR MODEL FEATURED, STANDARD SPECIFICATION, METALLIC PAINT, A MILEAGE OF 10,000 MILES PER ANNUM (30,000 MILES IN TOTAL), NON-MAINTAINED. INITIAL PAYMENT OF 6 MONTHS HIRE + VAT FOLLOWED BY 35 MONTHLY RENTALS AT RATE SHOWN + VAT. MAY BE SUBJECT TO FURTHER CHARGES DEPENDING ON THE CONDITION/MILEAGE WHEN VEHICLE RETURNED. FINANCE SUBJECT TO STATUS. GUARANTEES/INDEMNITIES MAY BE REqUIRED. THIS PROMOTION CANNOT BE USED TOGETHER WITH OTHER MANUFACTURER´S PROMOTIONS AND IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT PARTICIPATING DEALERS ONLY FOR NEW VEHICLES ORDERED BY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2010, OR WHILE STOCKS LAST. OTHER GOODS/SERVICES SUPPLIED BETWEEN THE DEALER AND THE CUSTOMER ARE NOT INCLUDED. CERTAIN CATEGORIES OF BUSINESS USER MAY BE EXCLUDED. JAGUAR CONTRACT HIRE IS PROVIDED BY LEX VEHICLE LEASING, TRADING AS JAGUAR CONTRACT HIRE, HEATHSIDE PARK, HEATHSIDE PARK ROAD, STOCKPORT SK3 0RB. WRITTEN qUOTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE ON REqUEST. ALL DETAILS ARE CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.