B4 Magazine Issue 54 - Focus Edition by B4 Magazine

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’s s re es hi in K ds us e E 24 or B in LIN xf g az OFF O din ag N & a M HIP O Le RS

B4 MAGAZINE ISSUE 54 SEPTEMBER 2018

FOCUS FOCUS ORM talk new beginnings, existing services, work in the local community and a look to the future.

UNIPART

W W W . B 4 - B U S I N E S S . C O M

KNIGHTS

BLENHEIM

B U I L D I N G B R I D G E S B E T W E E N B U S I N E S S E S

“For those who recognise the importance of networking, being a B4 Connector provides me with an opportunity to actively ‘meet, greet & introduce’ the many business owners and influencers who attend many of the informal evenings B4 hold throughout the year.”

Daren Elsley Business Development Manager | Mayfield Press

“I’m Brianna Elsley and I’m the owner of Buzz Digital Marketing, an Oxfordshire based digital marketing agency. I’m thrilled to be a B4 Connector - B4 is one of the only networking groups where you can build solid relationships and meet like-minded business individuals. B4 is full of talent and inspiration, and I can’t wait to be more involved in this great community.”

Brianna Elsley Managing Director | Buzz Digital Marketing

connector “You should never be too busy to meet someone new and being a B4 Connector allows me to meet lots of new people on a regular basis and connect them with the B4 network!”

James White Founder | James White Sales Success

proud to connect the B 4 community “I was delighted to be asked to be a Connector, as not only can I help B4 grow, but I can also increase awareness for Helen & Douglas House.”

Lucy Walker Community Fundraising Manager | Helen & Douglas House

“I consider collaboration to be key to the success of my business going forward and the opportunity of being a B4 Connector fits well with both my approach to networking and the growth of my company...”

Chaz Snell Founder | The Plastic Goldfish Company

“I am delighted to support the B4 community as a B4 Connector. It’s a natural fit for me as B4 is the business network for people and organisations sharing my values. So I’m delighted to help bring more of them together.”

“As a small business advisor/coach/ mentor/consultant, it is important that I have access to specialists in all business disciplines to whom I can recommend my clients unequivocally. B4’s membership provides an unrivalled selection of trusted professionals with a proven track record.”

David Croydon Director | Hilltop Consultancy

Grant Hayward CEO & Founder | Collaborent

connector

proud to connect the B 4 community Connectors are individuals in the B4 community who have shown their support and loyalty for B4 in one of a number of ways. They may have introduced another company to the B4 community or they might just be great at introducing guests to the community at B4 events. After all, there’s nothing worse than standing on your own at an event to convince you the community you’re thinking about joining is just one big clique. Or they might do both! So thanks to all of our Connectors for their support for B4 and our growing community of members. If you would like to find out more about becoming a Connector, call the B4 team today.

A: The Stables at The Moat, Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxon, OX25 3QL

E: info@b4-business.com

T: 01865 742 211

W: www.b4-business.com

“I’m the managing director of a busy web engineering company and part of my job is connecting related companies together. I feel very comfortable connecting people together. I’m very much for B4. It’s superb and highly effective. I am really happy to be a Connector because it gives me a chance to be more involved and to be able to give something back.”

Ed Hollingshead Founder | WebBoutiques

JOIN OUR GROWING B4 COMMUNITY TODAY Connect your business with over 600 members and raise your profile through our established B4 promotional platforms.

Magazine One word sums up B4 Magazine: Quality. Not only is B4 Magazine designed to the highest possible standards, the print finish is excellent and the magazine oozes style and sophistication. In terms of content, B4 covers a wide range of businesses from mainstream as well as niche sectors, providing our readers with excellent insight, opinion and advice. B4 is published bi-monthly and distributed to 3,000 business decision makers in Oxfordshire and beyond with a growing number of multi copy outlets.

Social Media

20,000+

Not only do we use Twitter and LinkedIn to promote everything B4, the real news we push out to the world is YOUR news. So if you post a press release on the B4 website, we’ll post it out to a network approaching 20,000 connections. Why not use us for specific campaigns where we can schedule your messages to go out to our growing networks? An increasingly effective platform for B4.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTIONS AND RISING

Website Connect on line with the growing network of B4 members through our excellent new website and post unlimited press releases, events, offers and job vacancies. You can also recommend and review other members, introduce members to each other, not to mention we will post any articles you have in B4 Magazine on the website. Get recognised as a business or an individual, build your following and establish yourself in the B4 community.

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B4 Classic Events: High quality sums up B4 events. Superb venues, excellent hospitality, access to some of Oxfordshire’s more exclusive locations and great networking. B4 Classic Events are not to be missed opportunities to relax and develop your networks. B4 Platinum Dinners: Connect with senior representatives from some of Oxfordshire’s leading businesses in some of our most spectacular locations. A great way to build and cement invaluable business relationships. Business In Oxford: Oxfordshire’s leading business to business networking and showcase event. Approaching in excess of 700 delegates with over 80 exhibitors and 50 presenters at BIO2018, make sure BIO2019 is on your radar. www.businessinoxford.com

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Events B4 EV ENTS

Video Video is proven as one of the most effective means of absorbing information and that’s why we use B4TV to capture the latest news and interviews with our members. Get to know our members and find out more about what makes them a success with B4TV. To get your message and personality across to our growing network and beyond, contact B4 and we’ll do the rest. All you’ve got to do is make sure you don’t fluff your lines...

WORLD CLASS & CONNECTED For more information please see p58

ADMIT

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Richard Rosser Chief Executive & Editor

Colin Rosser

welcome to 54 Welcome to B4 Issue 54 and to Nick Jones of Focus ORM who talks about his company’s first year in business and plans for expansion. We also hear about the wonderful work that Focus are doing in the local community.

Chairman

Given that this is our Giving Back issue it is highly appropriate that I am sat dressed as a convict writing this introduction from Oxford Prison having just raised £1,315 for Helen & Douglas House’s ‘Jail and Bail’ fundraiser. It just goes to show how much goodwill there is out there for local charities and Helen & Douglas are amongst the best, so thank you to everyone who has donated to all of us – the combined total as I write is fast approaching £9,000.

Keith Simpson

We have two covers for this issue with Philip Marsh, Managing Partner at Knights on one and the dynamic trio of Nick Jones (Focus ORM), Brendon Cross (STL) and Dr Mick Donegan (Special Effect) at the Twin Town 2018 Ball putting the icing on the cake having raised over £350,000 for Special Effect. Also featured in this issue are Blue Skye, Headway and Collaborent.

Senior Designer

Lorna Waterfield Production Manager & Assistant Editor

Rob Scotcher Design & Photography

Grab a slice of the innovation cake with OxLEP and enter our finance debate with Wenn Townsend, the first of a series of features in B4 tackling the thorny issue of business finance. Welcome to Tom Allen of Cazenove, our latest Platinum Members and we also meet the wonderful Emma C Browning. Freeths take us in to life post Brexit with applied futurist Tom Cheesewright and through an enjoyable summer on the water with the Corporate VIII’s challenge.

PARTNERS

Official E-mail Marketing Partner

Official HR Partner

Official Cloud Partner

We continue to introduce new initiatives at B4 having just held our first Masterclass with Jonna Mundy from YouHR at our B4 offices in Weston-onthe-Green. Masterclasses are an excellent opportunity for members to learn from the experts in the network and the are open to all Member employees, conservatively estimated at in excess of 20,000. We also launch PLUS ONE in association with Blenheim where we get charities and social enterprises connected with the B4 community. Finally, a word about Oxfordshire Voice. This is a ground-breaking collaboration between the public and private sector – thank you to everyone who has supported so far and for those of you who would like to get involved, please do get in touch.

Official Charity Partner

Emma Davis Enjoy Issue 54

ON THE

Marketing Executive

HILL

Visual Design Partner

Richard Rosser Editor Ed Rosser NXT

Sandra Dibling Client Experience Manager

More about B4 p4. What is B4? p5. Introduction, Meet the Team p8. Platinum, Gold, New & Renewing Members p13. B4 Events p15. B4 Advisory Board p16. B4 Membership Options p17. Explore B4 Welcome Brunches p20. B4 Good News

Official Stationery Partner

imagery Design | Print | Finish Tel: 0121 486 1616

Sue Rosser Credit Control

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Official Print Partner

B4 are proud to support Sobell House, our chosen charity for 2018.

O X F O R D S H I R E

Contents 37 30 Years with Headway: Show support for Headway Oxfordshire as they celebrate their 30th anniversary. 38 Responsibility to the Community: FOCUS take their responsibility to the community very seriously.

58 Find Your Voice: B4 is taking big steps towards a unified business Voice for Oxfordshire, read on to find out more. 63 Francisco Partners Invests in ByBox: ByBox are supporting growth development in the UK and US markets.

41 Twin Town: Twin Town succeed in raising £375,000 for charity SpecialEffect. 42 Giving Back for Common Goals: Business that’s good for Oxfordshire is good for your business.

lead 26 A New Look and Feel: Knights plc celebrates office refurbishment.

45 Accepting Our Responsibility: Chapman Robinson & Moore Accountants introduce voluntary charity work hours for employees. 101 Give Something Back: The King’s Centre talk about the challenge of the realities of business vs. giving something back.

30 FOCUS: Find out about new beginnings, existing services, and work in the local community.

spotlight 46 B4 + 1: Local charities and start-ups get involved with B4 with our new +1 initiative.

legal 64 The Shape of Things to Come: Read B4s coverage of Freeths’ roundtable discussion at their HQ. 67 New Family Law Firm in Abingdon: Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne LLP is a new niche family practice opening in Abingdon. 68 Raising the Bar: Hedges Law talk about how to protect your business assets on divorce. 70 Summer Promotions at Freeths: Freeths Solicitors is delighted to announce the promotion of nine of its outstanding lawyers.

48 Allen Associates: Read about how Allen Associates have been going from good to great. 50 A Vision for the Future: Visions, missions, strategies... it’s all a bit dull isn’t it? Not according to Bicester Vision.

news 20 Good News from the B4 Community

52 Start-Ups Win a Chance to Shine: Winners of Blenheim’s start up scheme get to retail their products at the palace. 54 B4 + T3 = 2W: G-SMATT takes stock and looks back at their amazing first year in Europe. 56 Small in size, big in ambition: OxLEP look at how SMEs can grab a slice of the innovation cake.

hr 73 Emma C Browning: Meet Emma Browning, providing professional, commercial and practical HR solutions

charity/csr 33 Out of this World: Award winning charity Blue Skye Thinking invites you to be part of an exciting new project.

events

34 Optimism for the Future: Helen & Douglas House need your support now more than ever.

75 B4 Masterclasses: We held our first Masterclass at B4 HQ in September, read on to find out more.

B4 76 B4 Event at Rhodes House: Read about our fantastic Classic Event at the stunning Rhodes House in Oxford.

107 Choosing the Right Web Agency: Digital Aid Consulting discuss how to ensure your money is invested successfully.

78 NXT Launch Event: NXT had a successful launch event at The Varsity Club earlier this year.

109 Tech Firm League: Seven companies in the Southeast win places on league table of UK’s fastest-growing tech firms 111 Making the Web Securee: Indulge Media talks about Google’s “secure web” revolution

finance 80 Barclays: A bright future for Plainlaw: Find out how Barclays helped Plainlaw through some difficult times. 82 Introducing Cazenove Capital: B4 met with Tom Allen of Cazenove Capital to talk about their role within the Schroders group. 84 The B4 Finance Debate: B4, in association with Wenn Townsend, will be discussing the financial issues businesses face.

venues 93 Welcome to Jurys Inn: Learn about this perfect base for adventures in and around Oxford’s fascinating historic city. 94 Bombay Sapphire Distillery: Explore the leafy home of all Bombay Sapphire gin, Laverstoke Mill. 96 Meetings Industry Association: Conference Oxford recently launched its membership of the Meetings Industry Association. 98 Newbury Racecourse: Check out one of the UK’s leading horseracing venues for your next event.

marketing 113 Your Brand Story: BrandAsylum is here to help you understand and shape your brand’s story. 115 Mayfield Press: Daren Elsley talks about how print is moving from being a ‘trade’ to a service-based industry. 121 Brand Connection: Creatives explore challenges the same as consultants, social enterprises and scientists.

Services 19 Unipart Wins Five Year Contract: The government has agreed a 5 year contract with Unipart as part of the new NHS Supply Chain.

education

116 Workplace Wellbeing: Aston and James talk about how the work environment has a huge impact on wellbeing and happiness.

87 Changing Schools: d’Overbroeck’s looks at the Pros and Cons of changing schools at Sixth Form

property 88 National Planning Policy Framework: Carter Jonas look at what has changed between the draft and the revised final version. 90 VSL & Partners: Check out the latest news and commercial properties from VSL & Partners.

technology

corp.life

102 Culture Club: CIS has developed an award-winning formula that provides first class service and support.

119 Corporate VIIIs: B4’s Richard Rosser recaps his rowing experiences... at least he didn’t capsize the boat!

105 Protecting Against Cyber Attacks: CQR talk about how no business is too small to be targeted by cyber criminals.

123 Victors: B4 recaps a visit to the Hamptons inspired, American cuisine restaurant and bar.

Contacts 126

Platinum & Gold Members PLATINUM

ON THE

Everything for the Workplace

HILL

2019 BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Become a part of the B4 Network today. Call 01865 742211, or visit www.b4-business.com

WORLD CLASS & CONNECTED For more information please see p58

B4 New & Renewing Members

GOLD

Bodleian Libraries U N I V E R S I T Y O F OX F O R D

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Event Stats

B4 CLASSIC EVENT AT MILTON HILL HOUSE

B4 ANNUAL OPEN EVENT AT WESTON LIBRARY

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Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3BG

11th June, 6pm-8pm

Milton Hill, Steventon, Abingdon OX13 6AF

19th July 6pm-8pm

149

HOST

Alice Ogilvie, Head of Venue Services at Bodleian Libraries

James Lake, General Manager, Milton Hill

ATTENDEES INCLUDING

• Explosive Learning Solutions Ltd • Global CTS • BrookStreet des Roches • Oxford CleanTech Ltd

• Hawkwell House • Bongo IT • Chapman Robinson & Moore Accountants • WebBoutiques Ltd

“We have been working with B4 for the last 6 years and we have benefited so much from our association. B4 offers us all so much and we have been delighted to host a number of B4 events both here and on the old Bodleian site across the road. It was great to see so many people in attendance and, as usual, B4 created a great atmosphere.”

“It is always a pleasure to host the B4 Networking Events. As ever, the turn-out was fantastic and it was wonderful to introduce new local business colleagues to our hotel.” – James Lake, General Manager, Milton Hill House

– Alice Ogilvie, Head of Venue Services, Bodleian Libraries

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SOCIAL STATS LinkedIn 40  2063  19  e-Newsletter 876 

DID YOU KNOW... The main research library of the University of Oxford.

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SOCIAL STATS LinkedIn 33  4223  3  e-Newsletter 901 

DID YOU KNOW... Surrounded by 22 acres of tranquil parkland and just 13 miles from Oxford.

SPECIAL EXPERIENCE

Entry to the Tolkien Exhibition

Drinks on the terrace and tours of the hotel.

WORLD CLASS & CONNECTED For more information please see p58

B4 CLASSIC EVENT AT BOMBAY SAPPHIRE DISTILLERY

B4 CLASSIC EVENT AT THE MANOR

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8th August 6pm-8pm

Laverstoke Mill, London Road, Whitchurch RG28 7NR

16th August 6pm-8pm

 Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, Bicester OX25 3QL

HOST

Michael Stevenson, General Manager, The Manor

Amy Dobson, Sales and Marketing Manager, Bombay Sapphire Distillery

ATTENDEES INCLUDING

• Blake Morgan • Finders Keepers • Helen & Douglas House • Ashmolean Museum

• Warpline • Everyman Legal • ArchOver • Neve’s Bees

“It is always a delight to host B4 networking events. The Manor has historically been part of the community and we see our involvement with events like the Classic Networking as an extension of this. At The Manor in Weston on the Green we love bringing people together whether for great family events such as weddings and birthday parties or business events such as conferences and networking.”

“the events provide brilliant exposure to other likeminded businesses and allows us to showcase our product. The partnership we have works seamlessly and I always look forward to the events.” – Amy Dobson, Sales and Marketing Manager, Bombay Sapphire Distillery

– Michael Stevenson, General Manager, The Manor

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SOCIAL STATS LinkedIn 21  1140  73  e-Newsletter 799 

DID YOU KNOW... Built for Osney Abbey’s bailiff, Weston Manor House is a late 15th/early 16th Century building.

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SOCIAL STATS LinkedIn 23  1151  5  e-Newsletter 852 

DID YOU KNOW... Every drop of Bombay Sapphire gin is produced at this historic distillery.

SPECIAL EXPERIENCE

Drinks on the terrace and tours of the hotel.

Tour of the distillery and cocktails.

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Forthcoming Events powered by

B4 Masterclasses are a great opportunity to learn and share expertise with B4 Members. There is a hidden wealth of knowledge within our community which deserves to be promoted. Hosted by B4 at our offices, Masterclasses run for 90 minutes and include networking, refreshments, presentation and Q&A.

B4 Masterclass with Pauline Siddons: Dealing with Differences Date: Friday 28th September 2018. 12:00pm - 1:30pm Pauline Siddons will be providing valuable insight on conflict management – addressing conflicts before they begin to escalate, saving you time and money. Learn how to use a simple model to give you choice when dealing with disagreements and put you in control in difficult situations where there is a difference of opinion...

B4 Masterclass with Opendoorz: How to find success through networking Date: Friday 5th October 2018. 12:00pm - 1:30pm Shoot/Silence/Dismiss/Disregard the person who refers to Business Networking as an opportunity to give out hundreds of their business cards, shake everyone’s hand effusively and work the room singing their own praises and regaling others with what they can do for them. Errrk! Professional Networking is about taking a more sophisticated, long term approach to developing robust business relationships. It involves building trust, credibility and a genuine desire to help and support one another. It explores synergies, values and shared ambition. It creates opportunities for new introductions, business growth, personal and business development, trusted suppliers and collaboration. It won’t happen overnight…

B4 Masterclass with Digital Aid Consulting: Appointing the right agency to build your website Date: Friday 12th October 2018. 12:00pm - 1:30pm B4 are proud to present our very first Masterclass from community member Digital Aid Consulting. Appointing a web agency to create your ideal website can be quite a daunting proposition, especially if you have had your fingers burned before. Having someone who knows the ropes, who can get you what you need and not leave you exposed is crucial. Stuart Gibson of Digital Aid Consulting will be providing invaluable tips on the following: • Creating a tight brief to ensure the agency understands what you want • How to choose the right agency • What to look out for in contracts and plans to ensure all work is completed as promised

Venue: B4 Offices, The Moat, Northampton Road, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire OX25 3QL Masterclass Agenda: 12:00-12:10 – Drinks reception | 12:10-12:15 – Introduction | 12:15-12:45 – Presentation | 12:45-12:55 – Q&A | 12:55-13:00 – Closing notes | 13:00-13:30 – Lunch and networking Please note: Places are limited to 10 guests. Register Today: www.b4-business.com/events

WORLD CLASS & CONNECTED For more information please see p58

B4 Platinum & Classic Events B4 Classic Event and Art Showcase at Freeths Date: Thursday 4th October 2018, 6-8pm Venue: 5000 Oxford Business Park South, Oxford, OX4 2BH

Dress code: Smart Casual Price: Free

Join B4 Members and Guests as we enjoy a fantastic event of networking with a showcase of art from Silverlining at Freeths’ headquarters in Oxford, along with great speeches from Sarah Foster of Freeths, Maggie Sargent of Silverlining, and Aidan Meller of Aidan Meller Galleries.

B4 Classic Event at TOAD Date: Wednesday 24th October 2018, 6-8pm Venue: The Oxford Artisan Distillery, Cheney Lane, Oxford, OX3 7QJ

Dress code: Smart Casual Price: Free

B4 and The Oxford Artisan Distillery (TOAD) invite B4 Members and their guests for a tour of this fantastic distillery, the first of its kind in central Oxford. TOAD is a true craft distillery; a rare species found in only a few very special places around the world...

B4 Classic Event at The Divinity School Date: Monday 29th October 2018, 6-8pm Venue: Catte Street, Oxford, OX1 3BB

Dress code: Smart Casual Price: Free

Join B4 Members and Guests for an evening of networking, guest speakers, drinks and canapés in the beautiful and historic Divinity School of the Old Library, part of the University of Oxford’s Bodleian.

B4 Platinum Dinner at Blenheim Palace Date: Tuesday 30th October 2018, 7-10.30pm Venue: Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PP

Dress code: Black Tie £150+VAT Price:

Join B4 Platinum Members for an evening of fine dining at the beautiful, historic and world-renowned Blenheim Palace. Dress code: Black Tie. Tickets for non-Platinum members are £150+VAT per head.

B4 Classic Event at Oxford Town Hall Date: Wednesday 21st November 2018, 6-8pm Venue: St Aldates, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1BX

Dress code: Smart Casual Price: Free

Join B4 Platinum Members for an evening of fine dining at the beautiful, historic and world-renowned Blenheim Palace. Dress code: Black Tie. Tickets for non-Platinum members are £150+VAT per head.

Visit www.b4-business.com to register for these events Please note for all events. The following conditions must be observed by all B4 members and guests: • If you are unable to attend a B4 event for any reason, please notify us in writing no later than 72 hours before the event • If we are not made aware of your inability to attend we will be charging a fee per ticket which will be passed on to our preferred charity for each particular event, nominated by the host. Fees as follows: -- With more than 72 hours notice there will be no charge made -- With less than 72 hours notice there will be a charge of £10+VAT made -- With no notice there will be a charge of £25+VAT made • Please note we regret there are no exceptions to our no-show / no notice policy. Failure to pay outstanding invoices will impact on your ability to attend future events as follows: -- Members: You have one “no notice” of a no-show allowance per annum for your company as a whole. Once this has been used then any registration privileges you are entitled to will be removed for up to two events and all future ‘no notice instances will be charged as per the rates above -- Non Members: You will not be allowed to register for future B4 events as a guest until your invoice has been settled • It is not appropriate to leave stacks of flyers or business cards on tables at the venue. Any found will be disposed of.

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Members Events B4 Members are encouraged to post their own events on the B4 website. Here is a selection of upcoming events from the network:

Customer Service Skills Workshop Date: Friday 28th September. 9am-12pm. Venue: Hampden House, Monument Park, Chalgrove, OX44 7RW Organiser: Think Inspire & Create Unlock the unique potential of each individual at work. A day long coaching session for leaders who want to increase the effectiveness of meetings, by teaching that meetings held in a Thinking Environment deliver a wide range of benefits.

Transforming Meetings Programme Date: Monday 1st Oct, 2018, 9am-4.30pm Venue: Oxford Playhouse, 11-12 Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW Organiser: Artesian Unlock the unique potential of each individual at work. A day long coaching session for leaders who want to increase the effectiveness of meetings, by teaching that meetings held in a Thinking Environment deliver a wide range of benefits.

Specialist event open to all to help people prepare for later life care Date: Wednesday 3rd October, 2018. 7-9pm. Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury RG14 2DRW Venue: Organiser: Gardner Leader The Inheritance Protection team at Gardner Leader solicitors is hosting a free ‘Faith, Hope and Clarity’ event on Wednesday 3rd October to give expert legal, financial and practical advice on preparing for later stages of life and care.

Headway Oxfordshire Annual Charity Golf Day Date: Friday 5th October. 8.30am-7pm. Venue: Frilford Heath Golf Club, Abingdon, OX13 5NW Organiser: Headway The Inheritance Protection team at Gardner Leader solicitors is hosting a free ‘Faith, Hope and Clarity’ event on Wednesday 3rd October to give expert legal, financial and practical advice on preparing for later stages of life and care.

Maximise profitability and cashflow by stopping the leaks Date: Thursday 18th October. 9-12am. Venue: Loyd Lindsey Rooms, Ardington Organiser: Chapman Robinson & Moore Never Seem to have the cash that your business deserves! Scrabbling around for cash each week or, dread the end of the month when all those wages and bills need paying. Want to learn how to increase cashflow in your business, need to stop the cash leaking out of your business or just want to understand why your business never quite seems to have the cash you need when you need it.

Visit /www.b4-business.com/member-event for more information on any of these events.

WORLD CLASS & CONNECTED For more information please see p58

B4 Advisory Board Dominic Hare Chief Executive - Blenheim | www.blenheimpalace.com

Dominic was born in Liverpool but, at 18, came up to Oxford to read Jurisprudence at New College. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant with KPMG, he spent the next ten years in corporate finance and investment banking, specialising in the media and telecoms sector. He is proud to have helped DJ Chris Evans buy Virgin Radio but also to have helped Bob the Builder buy both Thomas the Tank Engine and Barney the Purple Dinosaur. He has previously served as Finance Director at Blenheim Palace for 13 years and is now the Chief Executive Officer for the Blenheim Estate

Katherine Bertram Founder The Career Boutique

John Kennedy

Orhan Ertughrul EVP Europe G-Smatt Europe Media

Richard Venables Director VSL & Partners

Wendy Ball Head of Events Ashmolean Museum

Darren Aston Managing Director Aston and James

Colin Rosser Chairman B4

Richard Rosser CEO B4

Jonna Mundy CEO You HR

Lorna Waterfield Production Manager B4

Grant Hayward Founder & Director Collaborent

Richard Marsh

Mike Foster Commercial Director CRM

Stewart Elliston Freeths Principal Manager, Business Development

Helen Fallon Director Global CTS

Toby Newman Growth Advisor Grant Thornton UK LLP

Greg Barnes Director Breckon & Breckon

Nicola Poole Managing Director Hedges Law

James White Owner James White Sales Success

Andy Cowie Marketing & Business Development Director James Cowper Kreston

Jarl Severn Managing Director Owen Mumford

Gavin Jones Group Finance Director Owen Mumford

Edward Rosser Founder B4 NXT

Phil Southall Managing Director Oxford Bus Company

Jo Willett Managing Director Oxford Centre for Innovation

Bob Price

Cheryl-Lee Foulsham Business Manager Oxford Duplication Centre

Jayne Woodley CEO Oxfordshire Community Foundation

Sebastian Johnson Head of Innovation & Inward Investment Oxfordshire LEP

Claire Thompson Managing Director Papa Romeo Public Relations Ltd

Tim Wraith Corporate Partnerships Manager Sobell House

Phil Strachan Owner Strangebrew

Frank Webster Director FC Webster Consulting

Ian Roberts Owner Cashflow Creators

Frank Nigriello Director of Corporate Affairs Unipart

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Membership B4 has created a trusted community of businesses who have helped, and continue to help, each other grow. At its core, B4 provides the following to its community of members: Connections: Making trusted, long-lasting, mutually beneficial connections within the business community. These connections might be for business transactions, to overcome business challenges or create solutions to perpetuate growth; Profile: Increasing your business profile and gaining wider exposure for the services you offer; Knowledge: Sharing your expertise with the community and gaining knowledge from the community in return; Benefits: Perks

B4 and offers to brighten your day and for B4 to make your time as a member even more enjoyable; Progress: By bringing together the local business community and local government in a connected and collaborative environment (Oxfordshire Voice), we aim to be the catalyst for solutions to the challenges facing Oxfordshire businesses: transport, skills shortages, social & environmental issues and housing. There are a variety of ways to get involved with B4 and experience all of the great benefits on offer. Take a look at the membership options below to find a package which best suits your needs.

Membership Options & Perks Silver Membership

Gold Membership

Platinum Membership

Raise your profile via...

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP1 x single page in the magazine PP5% discount on any further advertising within the

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP1 x double page in the magazine PPLogo in the front of the magazine PP10% discount on any further advertising within the

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP6 x pages in the magazine PPLogo in the front of the magazine PP20% discount on any further advertising within the

magazine

PPPersonal and company profile pages on www. b4-business.com PPUnlimited uploads to the B4 website for press releases and more PPRetweets on Twitter when mentioning @ b4magazine PPLikes on LinkedIn when mentioning B4 Magazine PP5 professional headshots in the B4 Studio for 1 employee

magazine

PPPersonal and company profile pages on www.b4business.com

PPUnlimited uploads to the B4 website for press releases and more

PPRetweets on Twitter when mentioning @b4magazine PPLikes on LinkedIn when mentioning B4 Magazine PP5 professional headshots in the B4 Studio for 2 employees

Make connections via...

Make

PPAccess to B4 Classic Events PPAccess to B4 Dinners on application (subject to

separate charge)

PPAccess to NXT events for employees under 30 years old

PPAccess to a Welcome Brunch at B4 HQ PPIntroductions to other attendees before B4 Classic Events

PPNominate 1 x charity, social enterprise, school, or sports club to receive a free “+1” B4 Membership

Share your knowledge via... PPParticipation in Oxfordshire Voice surveys forming a report on business opinion for local government

Benefit from... PPSelected content posted on the B4 website will be shared via social media to an audience of over 20,000 PPUse of B4 logo (subject to terms and conditions) PPSubscription to weekly B4 e-newsletters PPSubscription to bi-monthly B4 Magazine PPAccess to all Knowledge Bank videos and articles when live PPAccess to free high res. photos from B4 events available on Flickr PPAccess to up to 50 Masterclasses

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B4 Membership is Application Only Visit www.b4-business.com/apply today to start connecting your business with over 600 members and raising your profile through our established B4 promotional platforms. Terms & Conditions apply

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B4 Explore

If you’re thinking about joining the B4 community and want to find out more about how you can get the most out of your membership, come and say hello at our brand new offices in Weston-on-the-Green.

At our Explore B4 days you will get the opportunity to: 99 Meet the B4 team and find out what we all do to help you get the most out of B4

Richard Rosser Chief Executive

Lorna Waterfield Production Manager

Keith Simpson Senior Designer

Sandra Dibling Client Experience Manager

Rob Scotcher Photographer & Videographer

Emma Davis Marketing Executive

99 H ear how you could get the most out of a B4 membership with a short presentation which will also outline future developments and initiatives 99 Meet other potential members and some of our B4 Connectors who can tell you how they have benefited from B4 99 Get a headshot in our photo studio – with our compliments to use for your own promotional purposes 99 Enjoy light refreshments with our compliments

Timetable Explore B4 meetings take place once a month between 11am - 12.30pm. Visit www.b4-business.com/events for upcoming dates. 11:00 - 11:10

Networking and drinks with other guests

11:10 - 11:20

Tour of B4 HQ and meet the team

11:20 - 11:45

Have headshots taken in the B4 Studio

11:45 - 12:30

Chat about B4 over tea, coffee and refreshments

Location B4 HQ, The Stables at The Moat, Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, OX25 3QL

Who can attend? Non-members who are interested in finding out about the B4 community. We will be running the Explore B4 days on a regular basis so if you would like to bring your colleagues (up to 3) then please do so and you can get headshots for everyone.

Interested? Visit www.b4-business.com/events for upcoming ‘Explore B4’ dates.

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B4 services

Katy Farrington

Unipart wins five year contract for new NHS Supply Chain The government has agreed a five year contract with Unipart Logistics as part of the new NHS Supply Chain, which aims to save billions of pounds and simplify the NHS goods-buying process. The contract is worth £730m over five years. Written by: Katy Farrington, Unipart Logistics

Unipart Logistics is the supply chain arm of Unipart Group, the Oxford-based manufacturing, supply chain and consultancy company. The logistics contract for Unipart is the biggest of 13 new national contracts forming the new NHS Supply Chain and will start in early 2019. Unipart’s responsibilities will include: • delivering medical devices and hospital consumables - other than medicine - to NHS trusts • warehousing • inventory management • order processing and delivery. A home delivery service will make up around 10% of the contract, which will allow some patients to receive supplies and be cared for in their own home. The Department of Health and Social Care anticipates the new supply chain will generate savings of £2.4 billion over a five year period. Until recently, NHS trusts in England could negotiate their own contracts for products such as bandages, gloves and surgical equipment. This has meant that neighbouring hospitals have often paid different prices for products from the same supplier. An example of this price variation includes the lowest www.b4-business.com

priced 12-pack of rubber gloves costing 35p, while the highest priced cost £16.47. Health minister Steve Barclay said: “Our long-term plan will see billions of pounds invested into the NHS, but we have to make sure that every penny of this is spent as wisely and effectively as possible.

be relied on to keep customer’s operations moving. Unipart Logistics doesn’t simply offer an off-theshelf solution. Supply chain specialists set out to understand each customer’s needs at every stage and then to engineer a supply chain that delivers against even the most demanding requirements, while ensuring the ability to retain strategic control.

“A modern health service shouldn’t involve 234 separate trusts spending time and money negotiating different contracts and prices for the same thing. That’s why our work to centralise how the NHS buys goods and services is crucial.

Unipart Logistics also offers a variety of commercial solutions including the provision of supply chain systems and consultancy support to help customers realise the benefits of outsourcing parts of their supply chain.

“By streamlining the process and freeing trusts up from having to do this, we will save staff valuable time, save huge amounts of money and be able to reinvest the savings into patient care and frontline services.” Unipart Logistics designs, operates and optimises complex supply chains for clients across a wide range of sectors on a local and global basis where excellent service is vital to their success. Among their clients are Vodafone, Sky and Jaguar Land Rover.

Unipart Logistics has helped engineer the supply chain for many of the world’s leading industrial companies. To find out more about how Unipart Logistics could help you, contact Katy Farrington: katy.farrington@unipart.com

As part of the wider Group, Unipart Logistics’ manufacturing heritage informs a deep understanding of the drivers of cost and service in complex supply chains. This includes award winning expertise in the design and delivery of resilient supply chains that can

 katy.farrington@unipart.com  01865 778 966  www.Unipart.com/logistics

B4 Good News Experience Oxfordshire Launch new Purely Pubs Walking Tour of the City Oxford Official Walking Tours, run by Experience Oxfordshire, have launched an exciting new Purely Pubs Tour of the City. This new tour is a modern twist on a conventional walking tour and a great opportunity to discover fascinating alleyways and cobbled streets while taking in several of Oxford’s most famous pubs. Ideal for anyone interested in not only the rich heritage of the city but also that of its traditional inns and taverns - with the bonus of being able to enjoy ‘a pint’ at the end.

Hayley Beer-Gamage, CEO says; “This is a fantastic new way to explore the City of Oxford and is a great new product development from the team. I am sure the tours will be very popular for both locals and visitors to the City and is a great addition to our tours portfolio” The tour can be booked for Private Tour Groups on request, at a time to suit. https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/ product/official-pubs-oxford-tour/

Support Positively Pink Oxford Helen Money Nutrition is proud to be supporting Positively Pink Oxford, a new breast cancer support group that meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at The Old School, Cumnor, OX2 9PQ at 7.30pm. The program is varied aiming to help people with or recovering from breast cancer learn about relaxation, make-up, exercise, healthy eating and more, There will also be opportunities to watch films together, enjoy theatre trips, share books, poetry, creative and arty skills. To find out more about Posivetly Pink visit www.positivelypinkoxford.org.uk

Pizza Pilgrims hunt for student ‘Pizza Taster’ to earn £1,500 and get FREE Pizza for a year event will be held on the 29th October to choose the winner. On 15th October the finalists will compete in a series of tasks, such as pizza box folding, pizza spinning and the victor will be crowned Pizza Taster. The Pizza Taster will be required to come in once a week with up to three friends to do free quality control pizza tastings, to act as a local ambassador for Pizza Pilgrims and given the task of creating an Oxford Pizza Special. www.pizzapilgrims.co.uk @pizzapilgrims on Twitter and Instagram

About Pizza Pilgrims

Pizza Pilgrims are on the hunt for a local student to fill the role of ‘Pizza Taster’ at their Oxford pizzeria. The Pizza Taster will be paid £1,500, and receive free pizza for a whole year. Applications for the position will open on the 17th September and will be open to all Oxford Brookes and Oxford University students. Applicants will be asked to create a promotional video explaining why they’re perfect for the role, then an

Pizza Pilgrims was born in a pub in Shepherd’s Bush in summer 2011 and is the brain child of brothers Thom and James Elliot who planned Pizza Pilgrims in the pub one night and the next day gave up their day jobs. They acquired a little 3-wheeled Piaggio Apé van, collected her from the south of Italy and spent six weeks driving her home. Along the way they learnt everything there is to know about pizzas, from some of the most famous pizzaoli in the world. They discovered dough in Naples, mozzarella in Caserta and basil in Genoa - and left no stone unturned on what turned out to be a six week “Pizza Pilgrimage” through Italy. Pizza Pilgrims published their first book, Pizza Pilgrims: Recipes from the Backstreets of Italy, in 2013

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B4 Simon Butler promoted to Associate Director at Lambert Smith Hampton Simon Butler has been promoted to Associate Director within the Property and Asset Management team of Lambert Smith Hampton. Simon has 12 years experience managing a wide range of commercial property including industrial, retail, office and business parks. Clients include Independent landlords, large investment funds and higher education establishments with instructions covering

Oxfordshire, Thames Valley and the South Coast. Kevin Wood, Head of Office said: ‘Simon’s promotion is well deserved and reflects the continued high level of service given to his clients’. The Oxford office located in Botley also provides Valuation, Agency, Building Consultancy and Lease advisory services via a dedicated, personable team of 16. www.lsh.co.uk

The Pink Palace Charity Ball Nikki Poole and Jackie Jarvis would like to tell you about this fantastic charity ball and auction taking place at Macdonald Randolph Hotel in Oxford on Saturday 29th September from 7.30pm until late. We would love for you to come along to this charity ball and auction, organised to raise funds for three women’s cancer charities: Breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer. Cancer has touched both of our lives and many of those close to us and we are passionate about raising funds for these worthy causes. Maybe you are someone who has also been affected by cancer, or know someone who has, and would like to do something to help. Our fundraising target is £10k and we need your help to smash it. The Pink Palace Ball has a special Bollywood theme in order to make the connection with our “Indian Challenge” - A pledge to cycle 500km from the Taj Mahal to Jaipur (which is known as the Pink City). We are both training very hard to keep up the pace,

which will be up to 100km per day. This is actually the first time Nikki has ever been on a bike! We are so grateful for the incredible support we have already had in securing some amazing raffle and auction prizes such as: A weekend at a beautiful apartment in the Italian lakes; A five night stay in a 5 star luxury boutique hotel in Sri Lanka; And a weekend in a stunning apartment overlooking the Thames, as well as a whole host of great meals out, luxury trips and other fabulous treats. Jackie has also managed to book the hilarious Jeremy Nicholas, who was one of the top comedy acts at the Edinburgh Festival this year, to be our auctioneer. It really is going to be an amazing night. Get dressed up to the nines, dance with a live band, mix and mingle with a whole host of Oxfordshire business people, and have some great fun bidding on the auction for a really worthy cause. A delicious 3 course Indian dinner and wine is also included with the ticket.

A number of Oxfordshire businesses have already booked tables of 10 for their clients and colleagues. Maybe you would like to do the same, or you can simply book tickets on an individual basis. To book your tickets please visit www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/pink-palace-charity-balloxford-tickets-43974140839

Social Saturday, when business really does make a difference Oxfordshire was awarded the attribute of being the first “Social Enterprise County” by Social Enterprise UK in recognition of the concentration of Social Enterprises based here, which is still growing fast. A Social Enterprise is a business like any other, but the main difference is that it reinvests most of the profits back into addressing the social or environmental cause it was set up to tackle. Social Enterprise UK, runs a campaign each year to raise the profile of Social Enterprises and the great

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work they do, encouraging everyone to Buy Social. Here in Oxfordshire, backed by key stakeholders including the universities, OxLEP and local authorities; this campaign is being deployed during w/ 8th October with a range of events, activities and MP visits culminating in Social Saturday on 13th October. So, watch out for your opportunity to get involved, or for more information, visit www.osep.org.uk or contact Grant Hayward – grant@collaborent. co.uk

B4 Good News Alan Hine relaunches as AR Hine Associates Experienced recruiter Alan Hine has relaunched as AR Hine Associates : His new business will continue to work finding clients great staff and candidates amazing jobs from his bright and airy office in Summertown. As well as finance and accountancy roles Alan will be able to source people for positions in other key business disciplines such as HR, procurement, sales and technology. In addition to permanent

recruitment he is able to offer interim and other flexible solutions and achieve desired results as soon as possible. Feel free to ask. You might be surprised what can be achieved. Please call 01865 339 313 or email alan@alanhine.co.uk www.alanhine.co.uk

The importance of SSL – Keeping your website secure Keeping your website safe is more important than ever. In recent months, Google has important steps to create a more secure internet. This includes penalising websites without a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificate - which is what ensures all data from your website and its visitors is encrypted and can’t be stolen. When an SSL certificate is not present, sites are now marked as “non-secure” in Google Chrome and other browsers. It could also mean your website will not rank highly with search engines

and in some cases, not let visitors in at all. At Alberon, we have helped many of our Oxfordshire-based clients stay safe and secure, not only through state-of-the-art hosting but by ensuring SSL certificates are issued. If this is something we can help your company with, please get in touch. Email: grow@alberon.com Call: 01865 794 009 Website: www.alberon.co.uk

You might be missing out! Do you try to avoid talking to other passengers? You might be missing out! Recently I met an Italian man on a plane, a sales director of a Swiss software company, with international clients and employees from many different cultures. He wrote to me a few days later; “My income is based on commissions. My success depend from others. It is a team work …We are telling the world we are a successful international company, but the reality is that we internally have difficulty to understand each other’s and this is

limiting our growth and success. …Your book was for me a kind of lantern in the middle of a cold winter night. I got light, some warm, inspiration. So, all in all, we urgently need your help.” How gorgeous - it was like a love letter to my book! And thanks to his enthusiasm and sponsorship, on Wednesday I will deliver a webinar to 140 people all over the world, on building business with cultural intelligence. www.culturalchemistry.com.au

Freeths expands its highly regarded family law team with new lawyer hire Freeths Solicitors is delighted to announce that it has recruited a family law specialist into its Oxford offices on Cowley Business Park. Joanne Thomas joins the firm’s UK top ranked family law team as an associate having previously worked at law firms such as Baxter Harries and BP Collins Solicitors. Joanne specialises in all aspects of family law, but

has developed particular expertise in advising on marital agreements, divorce, cohabitation disputes and financial matters arising from the breakdown of a relationship. She regularly advises on cases involving family businesses, inherited wealth and complex legal issues. She is also a member of Resolution, a national organisation of professionals committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes.

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B4 The Plastic Goldfish Company captures Venturefest 2018 in pictures

The Plastic Goldfish Company, an Oxford based commercial photography brand was commissioned to capture the 20th anniversary

year of Venturefest at the newly opened buildings at Oxford Brookes University.

come…’ - Chaz Snell, Commercial photographer and founder of The Plastic Goldfish Company.

The brief was to capture the essence of the event, speakers, delegates, the entrepreneurial community and the innovative work that was showcased there. Images were shared through official social media streams throughout the day to further promote the event.

To learn more and see some images captured on the day visit: https://venturefestoxford.com/news/ venturefest-celebrates-20-years-in-style/

‘It’s important that companies capture good, on brand imagery of their events - Not only is it important to showcase the success of the day, it’s key to promoting future events in years to

We capture people, places, events & spaces. For more information visit: https://plasticgoldfish.co.uk

Indulge Media appointes Matthew Heason to its growing team Digital marketing agency, Indulge Media has appointed Matthew Heason to its growing team in its Woodstock office. As a designer Mr Heason is responsible for website designs at both conceptual and final stages as well as branding, analysis of user experience, user interface design, content strategy and other creative work across a range of clients. Mr Heason is a Graphic and Media Design graduate and joined the agency having spent five years working in different creative environments. He

also has experience running creative workshops for some international brands and has delivered animations which have been displayed in London Waterloo. Mr Heason said: “I am thoroughly enjoying my new challenge. Among other things it’s great having the creative control over the look and feel of a website and the identity behind it. Often one precedes the other which ultimately affects the outcome, so it’s great to just do something fresh.” indulgemedia.com

Royds Withy King continues to climb legal rankings Royds Withy King, which has a large office in central Oxford, has climbed six places to be ranked 79 in the Lawyer’s UK 200 – an independently-researched league table charting the annual rise and fall of the UK’s law firms. Royds Withy King is gearing up for further growth with a strong sector focus and the development of specialist areas, including a Drone Law team led by partner and former RAF air traffic controller Philip Banks-Welsh, and a Brexit task force headed

by Norwegian partner Claus Andersen. Managing Partner Graham Street said: “We are delighted to have climbed further up the ranks of the UK’s top 100 law firms following another robust financial performance in our three main practice areas covering corporate and commercial, private client, and personal injury/clinical negligence. There is real strength in the diversity of our business and the range of services we are able to offer our clients.” www.roydswithyking.com

For up to date news from the B4 community, please visit our Press Releases page at www.b4-business.com/press-releases Want to see your news listed here and online? Contact us about B4 Membership today on 01865 742211.

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CLIENT SUPPORT AUDIT ACCOUNTANCY CHARITIES COMPANY SECRETARIAL CONSULTANCY FINANCIAL PLANNING FORENSIC ACCOUNTING MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS PAYROLL TAXATION TRUSTS

OXFORD 30 St. Giles, Oxford OX1 3LE Tel . 01865 559900 email . information@wenntownsend.co.uk CIRENCESTER 5 Gosditch Street, Cirencester GL7 2AG Tel . 01285 659778 email . partners@wenntownsend.net ABINGDON 10 Broad Street, Abingdon OX14 3LH Tel . 01235 548700 email . abingdon@wenntownsend.co.uk www.wenntownsend .co .uk

B4 Good News Climb Kilimanjaro for Helen & Douglas House Are you looking for a personal challenge? If you are why not take on the ultimate challenge for Helen & Douglas House and spend 7 days trekking to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This amazing trip will take place on 10th-20th October 2019. You will take the Machame Route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, which is considered the post scenic route and best for acclimatisation. Previous participants in the 2017 trek said ‘A once

in a lifetime opportunity’ and ‘The toughest trek I’ve ever done but by far the best.’ The money you raise for Helen & Douglas House will help terminally ill children, and their families providing medical, emotional and practical support. Come along to our information evening on Wednesday 17th October at 6.30pm to find out more. To book your place for this call 01865 799166.

Oxford BioMedica expands into former Royal Mail sorting office expanding biotech company.

The former Royal Mail sorting office in Oxford, renamed OxBox is to be given a new lease of life after being taken over by a rapidly

Oxford BioMedica has taken on the 84,000 sq. ft. OxBox development at Oxford Business Park on a 15-year lease in what is one the largest deals in Oxfordshire so far this year, according to commercial property agents VSL.

VSL Director Andrew Lockhart said: “This is fantastic and exciting news not just for BioMedica but for Oxford as a whole. This facility has been vacant for almost 10 years and an investment of this scale by a local company represents a huge vote of confidence in the local economy and its burgeoning biotech sector.”

This will see the installation of 45,000 sq ft of clean rooms, offices, warehousing and laboratories with space left over for future expansion.

Read more on www.b4-business.com

A new look and feel: Knights plc celebrates office refurbishment Knights, one of the UK’s fastest growing regional legal and professional services business, has invested in a complete office refurbishment as part of its growth here in Oxford. The 100-strong team enjoyed their first day at the new look two-level office with an official breakfast event back in June. Written by: Knights plc Photography by: Knights plc

A successful listing on the London Stock Exchange Knights the legal and professional services business successfully listed on the London Stock Exchange on Friday 29 June to become Knights plc. Knights was one of the first legal and professional services businesses in the UK to move from the traditional equity partnership model to adopt an Alternative Business Structure (ABS) in 2012. Knights’ flotation on the AIM market is only the fifth, and is the largest, listing in the UK to date by a professional services business. Commenting on the successful listing on the London Stock Exchange David Beech, CEO of Knights plc, said: “We are delighted to be joining AIM with a 26

We are looking “ forward to life as a listed company and keeping our new shareholders updated with our ongoing growth plans as we seek to build on the positive momentum we have generated in recent years.

”

David Beech, CEO of Knights plc

high-quality register of institutional investors that is testament to the strength of our business model. We are looking forward to life as a listed company and keeping our new shareholders updated with our ongoing growth plans as we seek to build on the positive momentum we have generated in recent years.”

What’s new in Oxford? Complete with a bespoke Knights 1759 Lounge for the team to enjoy time away from their desks, improved IT systems and a complete paperless concept, the site is one of the largest regional offices that Knights currently operates. As part of the refurbishment of Knights’ Oxford office, the site in Botley – formerly known as Midland

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House – will fittingly be renamed in honour of Sturge Taylor. Sturge Taylor, who sadly passed away two years ago, was universally admired and respected by the Oxfordshire business community. Sturge, bestrode the Oxford legal world for over 30 years and the new name will honour his commitment to Oxfordshire.

Attracting some of the best talent in the UK Phil Marsh, Oxford office leader for Knights explains how the focus and continued drive to attract and retain some of the UK’s best talent is central to the growth strategy for Knights in Oxford: “We’ve always had ambitious plans in Oxford and www.b4-business.com

We’ve always had “ ambitious plans in Oxford and we’re now seeing this come to fruition. The new look offices meets the needs of Knights’ team culture, working across two floors in an open-plan, high-quality environment.

”

Philip Marsh, Oxford office leader for Knights

we’re now seeing this come to fruition. The new look offices meets the needs of Knights’ team culture, working across two floors in an open-plan, highquality environment. “We’ve removed all paper from the building and our improved IT systems will allow people to work much more comfortably and collaboratively.”

Recruitment drive In the previous issue of B4 magazine, Knights reported its continued growth after making a number of key appointments in Oxford. The business now looks set to build on that growth with the refurbishment of its offices – allowing greater capacity and a modern working environment for its professionals to work from.

HELPING INDIVIDUALS DEVELOP SKILLS & NETWORKS

Engaging the next generation

b4-nxt.com ï&#x2026; B4NXT

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Challenge is an extremely positive initiative for our professionals “ toThegetCorporate behind. The Knights Oxford office is one of the largest regional offices within the company and we’re always looking for ways in which we can connect with the local community. Philip Marsh, Oxford office leader for Knights

Recent key appointments for Knights include Steve Nicholson who has joined the real estate team as a partner. Steve undertakes a mix of residential and commercial real estate work, with a particular expertise in leasehold enfranchisement. Steve acts for property owners and landlords, commercial and residential tenants, property investment companies, ground rent investors and asset managers. We also welcome Abigail Nicholls-May who has joined the dispute resolution team as an Associate. Phil added: “We don’t want to stand still and we’re currently interviewing candidates for a number of positions across our real estate, planning, education and litigation teams. The new look office will add further incentive in attracting some of the best talent in the UK.” www.b4-business.com

”

High Sheriff of Oxfordshire Corporate Challenge Knights have enjoyed their involvement with the Corporate Challenge over the last couple of months. Comprising of a Plankathon Flashmob, weekends of Parkruns, the largest team entry into the Oxford Town & Gown 10K, Hockey Festival and Oxlympics. The Corporate Challenge has been a unique opportunity to involve all at Knights in a calendar of sporting events focused on health and wellbeing in the work place. Commenting on the Corporate Challenge, Phil Marsh, said: “The Corporate Challenge is an extremely positive initiative for our professionals to get behind. The Knights Oxford office is one of the largest regional

offices within the company and we’re always looking for ways in which we can connect with the local community. By taking part in the challenge, we’ve been able to support several local causes.”

    

philip.marsh@knightsplc.com 01865 811 700 www.knightsplc.com @Knightsplc Knights plc

FOCUS

B4 met with Nick Jones of Focus Oxford Risk Management at their new offices in Seacourt Tower to find out more about new beginnings, existing services, work in the local community and a look to the future. Written by: Richard Rosser Photos by: Rob Scotcher

“We originally set up the company in July 2017 on the back of an MBO from Focus Oxford LLP which originated as far back as 1990. We were looking at exit clauses for the partnership and I came up with the brainchild of running the general side initially and that’s where we started. It was two or three years in the planning and we started on 1st July 2017, so we’re just over a year old.” Explained Nick. It’s not been a big move for the Focus team as they have transferred to the ground floor of Seacourt Tower in Botley, where the now separate financial services company is still based are still based. “We did originally set up to work from the same offices but it became clear we needed our own space, from an expansion point of view but also just because we were two very different businesses and we needed our own identity and our own set up. So we moved to the ground floor of Seacourt Tower and we’re delighted with our spacious new home.” The team have certainly fallen on their feet with a fantastic refurbished open plan office, with plenty of room to grow. There’s a wonderful, airy meeting room and excellent staff kitchen / breakout space. Nick is quite rightly proud of his new domain and there’s a contented atmosphere as the Focus team interact with each other and their customers in a friendly, natural way. This is a team which has grown up together, which plays to its strengths and with Nick Jones at the helm, the future looks bright. In terms of services offered by Nick and the Focus team, see below for more detail, but Nick provides a brief overview. “We’re a general insurance broker and we specialise in the life science industry but also throughout the SME market. We also have our high net worth private client work, thus encompassing pretty much the full spectrum of services that a general insurance company could offer. The life sciences and technology sector is key for us as we have a specialist team that works on that side of the business.

“Looking to the future, we are looking to build further services, touching on the IFA market without becoming full blown IFA’s. We’re looking at the protection business which includes building the team to deliver private medical insurance for the corporate and private sectors. For our corporate clients we will also be looking at death in service schemes and also key person insurance which, for us, is a hand in hand process of what we do, especially on the start ups. We want to offer the whole range of services rather than having to refer them into another professional body. It’s a cliché but we want to offer our clients a ‘one stop shop’ and provide as much as we possibly can for our clients.”

We would like to talk “ to new start ups, existing businesses, anyone who has general insurance needs. We have a wealth of experience at Focus and we would welcome the opportunity to talk to potential clients and start working with them

”

Focus are very active in the local community, having participated in the last two Twin Town Challenges and taken a keen interest in up and coming sports stars, as Nick expands. “We have always been a great believer in putting back to the local community. Our work of late has been focused on the superb Special Effect charity and, in particular, the Twin Town Challenge. We got involved with the sponsorship of the 2016 and 2018 events which have been great fun and incredibly worthwhile on many fronts. We also support a budding young local gymnast, Tiegan Trafford (see article later in this issue) who has just topped the regionals and who should get a position in the nationals. Further afield we are supporting Jack Willis who has come from Wasps Academy and

currently plays in the first team. Jack was offered his first England cap recently but was unfortunately injured shortly after in the Premiership semi-final, just before the team went out to South Africa, so hopefully his time will come again.” Nick would love to talk to you about how Focus can help your business. “We would like to talk to new start ups, existing businesses, anyone who has general insurance needs. We have a wealth of experience at Focus and we would welcome the opportunity to talk to potential clients and start working with them. We believe in long term relationships. We want to work with you to find out what you want and what you need, so do please get in touch and let’s have a chat.” Focus are B4’s insurers of choice and we cannot recommend Nick and his excellent team highly enough. Do get in touch for first class insurance advice and support.

AN OVERVIEW OF SERVICES COMMERCIAL INSURANCE Each business is different and therefore has different insurance needs. As specialists in the business insurance field, we pride ourselves in taking a different approach. We genuinely care about your business; we will take the time to understand how your business runs and only then will we offer you our advice and recommendations. With over 25 years of experience we regularly work with clients who haven’t received the advice they need, resulting in inadequate cover leaving the business exposed to potentially catastrophic setbacks should a claim occur. Commercial Insurance policies provided by FOCUS can include: • Asset Protection for your business equipment • Income protection for the loss of sales, fees,

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B4 lead

This is a team which “ has grown up together, which plays to its strengths and with Nick Jones at the helm, the future looks bright.

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research income etc. • Employers & Public Liability • Directors & Officers cover for the protection of personal assets & wealth of company directors • Cyber Liability • Professional Indemnity Insurance • Motor Fleet Insurance And for businesses in the Life Science, Technology, Healthcare and Medical Device industries, we offer specialist insurance advice.

CYBER & DATA RISK Cyber security and data protection must be considered as essential for all businesses. Hackers are not the only threat – today’s businesses rely on the internet for services such as online marketing, administrative functions, inventory management, credit card processing, and distribution controls. Any intrusion that disrupts delivery of these services can lead to brand and reputation damage, regulatory scrutiny, stakeholder dissatisfaction, and financial losses. On 25 May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect in the EU and across the United Kingdom. The GDPR replaces the Data Protection Act (DPA) and ushers in expanded rights to individuals and their data, and places greater obligations on businesses and other entities that process personal data with increased fines. FOCUS can help you find the right insurance solution to protect your business. Use our Cyber Risk Exposure Scorecard to work out your risk level.

PRIVATE CLIENTS Home Insurance Your home is probably your biggest investment – and most valuable asset. So, you want to be sure that your home insurance protects what matters most. As Independent Insurance Brokers, FOCUS has a

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dedicated team of specialists that can provide tailormade home buildings and contents insurance. We understand that every home is different and every person’s possessions are unique. Therefore, we don’t expect you to have an off-the-shelf home insurance package. We take the time to evaluate individual circumstances and provide bespoke home insurance solutions.

This can help with additional cars for young drivers, insuring prestige and collector’s cars, as well as offering much more cover than a standard motor policy. This is a cost effective alternative to insuring vehicles seperately. You’ll have one policy document, one renewal date and all drivers will maintain their own individual No Claims Bonus.

Policies can be arranged to include: • ‘All Risks’ worldwide cover, including theft, accidental loss and damage. • Specified cover for individual items guaranteeing you a speedy settlement, without quibble, following damage or a loss. • Cash or replacement option allowing you to replace an item with something similar from your own supplier, or keep the full cash settlement. • Cover for second/holiday homes – in the UK and abroad. • High single article limits.

PRIVATE LANDLORD INSURANCE Your rental property can be a great asset – and is likely to be a considerable investment. Therefore, you need to protect it with specialist insurance. Landlord Insurance can provide cover for events including fire, flood, accidental damage as well as malicious damage by tenants, theft, unpaid rent and legal disputes. A standard home insurance policy will not protect you if letting your property.

Watch B4’s interview with Nick Jones by scanning this QR code or by visiting: www.b4-business.com/b4tv

Most mortgage companies will insist that you have Landlords Insurance in place.

MOTOR INSURANCE & FAMILY FLEET FOCUS offers a bespoke way of looking at motor insurance. Family Fleet cover is especially useful as it takes into consideration the number of cars to drivers ratio, so can offer much better rates for multi-vehicle needs.

 nick.jones@focusorm.co.uk  01865 953 111  www.focusorm.co.uk

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to sell or let your property this Autumn weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to help so why not get in touch?

breckon.co.uk/contact-us

Thanks to our friends at Harcourt Arboretum.

B4 charity & csr

Be part of something ‘out of this world’ for Oxford’s John Radcliffe Children’s hospital Award winning Oxfordshire charity ‘Blue Skye Thinking’ invites you to be part of an exciting new project to enhance the experience of the 100,000 children being treated at The John Radcliffe Hospital each year. Children receive treatment for a range of conditions, including heart disease, childhood cancer, neurological disorders and specialist surgery, and many are understandably anxious, especially visiting the hospital for the first time. Written by: Victoria Marcham, Blue Skye Thinking Trustee Photography by: Sally Hall

Local boy Skye Hall was one of those children, and it is his charity ‘Blue Skye Thinking’ which is helping make his wish become a reality to “help others like me.” Skye’s Guinness world record breaking loom band chain is being made into a large scale interactive art piece which will be the centrepiece of the main atrium of The Children’s Hospital. It will provide a much needed visual focus and distraction for the children and their families; capturing their imagination, encouraging interaction and providing a welcome distraction during what can be prolonged and confined treatment stays.

You will be invited to the grand opening which will mark the 10th Anniversary of the Children’s hospital and commemorate what would have been Skye’s 10th birthday. In addition to this, your organisation’s name and logo will be added to a virtual cog on our website and you will receive a certificate and photograph of your personal cog. What’s more, you can even share your cog with your followers across social media. You can sponsor one of the interactive cogs at a cost of £500 (epic), or £250 (large) by visiting www.loomstallation.com If you want to find out more about the Blue Skye Thinking then visit www.blueskyethinking.org

Our space themed ‘Loomstallation’ will be made up of an amazing 200 limited edition cogs, and to help us make this vision a reality, we need local businesses to ‘sponsor a cog’ before our launch date on 5th November 2018. Half your sponsorship will go to the hospital project and half will go towards helping find a cure for childhood brain cancer, the biggest cancer killer of children, like Skye.

Your support in this project will truly make a difference to the children and families who use the hospital, often at very desperate times in their lives. One of the parents of a terminally sick child spoke about her time in The John Radcliffe Hospital with her little girl:

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“When Grace was allowed out of the room and off the ward, I used to pretend to kidnap her – we would sneak a wheelchair and hide her under a blanket as we drove past the nurses station, who would all pretend not to see us. Then, we would whiz down the corridors and up and down in lifts, in search of anything that might raise a smile. Making her giggle was priceless…. The mental well being of children is every bit as important as the medical treatment they receive.”

 contact@blueskyethinking.org  01242 262 731  www.blueskyethinking.org

Lily-Mae having fun making stars with Mummy at Helen House

Renewed optimism for the future Along with other charities, Helen & Douglas House has had its fair share of challenges in recent years, including the sad closure of Douglas House in June, where they cared for young adults. However, Helen House still cares for local terminally ill babies, children and teenagers at their Oxford hospice and in families own homes, so they still need your support now more than ever to raise £3m a year.

This wonderful local charity helps children like Lily-Mae, aged 5, from Witney who has Rett syndrome, which is a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development. Lily-Mae has been coming to Helen House since 2017 for short respite breaks.

New Chair of Trustees, Ian Blair shares his vision for the future Ian Blair, former Head of the Metropolitan Police, took over as the charity’s chair of Trustees in March this year.

Ian said ‘I believe that we have the right people, the right strategy, the right partnerships and vision, and that the charity will continue to evolve and thrive. ‘Helen House children’s hospice and specialist palliative care for babies, children and teenagers is now our focus, with the families and children we care for are at the heart of everything we do. We have had to make some very difficult decisions in recent years to ensure we remain here to support them at the most challenging time anyone can imagine. ‘We are also committed to ensuring that the money our supporters give us is used as far as possible to provide care and that the costs of running the organisation

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Stacey, Janet, Ian and Jasper in the art room at Helen House

Invesco Island in May raised a massive £24,000 for Helen & Douglas House

charity & csr

40 Barclay’s employees took over 6 Helen & Douglas House charity shops raising £6,000 in one day

Helen House is my daughter’s special “ place, to be safe, smile and be happy. A place for me to be mummy and to take ‘the carer’ role away. Life is precious and here we can make memories to treasure forever. Leanne, Lily-Mae’s Mummy

and generating further funds is carefully controlled. ‘Since I joined the charity 7 months ago I have been impressed by the commitment of the team at Helen & Douglas House and we are moving forward in this new era with much to be proud of, much to be thankful for and with renewed optimism for our long term future. ‘The vision of the Trustees for the future is for Helen House to lead the way in palliative care for babies, children and teenagers and to be a centre of care excellence. This is why the organisation was created, this is where the biggest need lies and where we can make an impact. ‘

Partnership opportunities for companies to work with Helen & Douglas House Survival Island This is a wonderful bespoke team building opportunity which also raises money for a great local charity. This 36 hour survival experience on a remote Welsh island involves a series of challenges testing you physically and mentally. “I took part as I wanted to do something which would take me out of my comfort zone. This event

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definitely did that and I learned some very useful skills and found the experience incredibly rewarding and enjoyable. Add to that the money raised for an incredible charity in Helen & Douglas House and it makes it even more worthwhile! I would recommend the Island challenge to anyone”. Kevin Gant, Head of Investment Management Group, Invesco Perpetual

Retail Challenge

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fictitious, of course) at 9am and then placed on trial. Participants will only be released when bail of £999 is reached using your connections to donate so you can get out of jail. If you are interested in any of these opportunities or would like to work with Helen & Douglas House, please contact Nicola Wilson, Corporate New Business Development Manager - nwilson@helenanddouglas. org.uk or 07852 633 966.

This is another fantastic team building opportunity where you also raise money for Helen & Douglas House. Your team will take over up to 6 of our shops, competing against each other to raise the most amount of money in a day. ‘It is a great Citizenship event we are doing and it’s a great feeling to be giving something back to the community. It is an important service by doing this for the charity especially in the current climate. I have been collecting on the streets and the positive affinity about the charity has been great.’ Kevin Rake from Barclays.

Jail & Bail – get locked up for a good cause This is a wonderful way to use your contacts to raise money for Helen & Douglas House in a days entertaining activity. What happens is 10 supporters are arrested and charged with their crimes (entirely

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fundraising@helenanddouglas.org.uk +44 (0)1865 799 150 www.helenanddouglas.org.uk @HelenAndDouglas @HelenAndDouglasHouse Helen&DouglasHouse

Meeting Rooms Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for Edwardian charm or a more modern atmosphere, the conference and meeting facilities at Howbery Business Park, Wallingford, are an inspiring location.

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For more information on our meeting, conference facilities and catering packages, please visit the conference section at: howberypark.com or call 01491 822411

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B4 charity & csr

CELEBRATE 30 YEARS WITH HEADWAY OXFORDSHIRE BY GIVING THEM YOUR SUPPORT Headway Oxfordshire, a charity that supports hundreds of people every year who have acquired brain injury within the Oxfordshire community, are encouraging individuals and local businesses to show their support by fundraising and choosing them as “Charity of the Year” for their 30th anniversary. Written by: Sharelle Holdsworth - Headway Oxfordshire

Sharelle Holdsworth, the newly appointed Marketing and Events officer, announced that they have big plans for the upcoming year, hosting new and exciting events, as well as taking part in even more fundraising challenges. “By choosing to give your support to a local charity, you get to see the impact in a very real sense, on the ground, in your own community. By supporting Headway Oxfordshire, you can see the difference you are making first-hand to those affected by this most complex condition. Living with a brain injury can often be a lifelong challenge, but with the right support and rehabilitation, individuals can relearn lost skills and new ways of coping, allowing them to maximise the potential of their lives going forward”. “A partnership between Headway Oxfordshire and your business will not only enhance team spirit but will also create lasting friendships. If you are looking to take on new challenges with your business, then choose Headway Oxfordshire”. On 5th October, Headway Oxfordshire are hosting their Annual Golf Day fundraiser at Frilford Heath Golf Course. In the past, the event has always been a success and this year is even more special to the charity, as they are celebrating their 30th Anniversary. There are still spaces available. As well as hosting fundraising events, the Headway www.b4-business.com

Oxfordshire team provide specialist and professional support services through a variety of projects including our Activity & Rehabilitation Centre, Community Support Team and Personal Assistant service. Practical and tangible opportunities are provided to improve rehabilitation outcomes and support people to maximise their independence and long-term community integration.

Our plans for the “future are really

exciting and will see us grow further and reaching more of those needing our support

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see today. I am hugely proud of our achievements and the tireless efforts of staff and volunteers. Our plans for the future are really exciting and will see us grow further and reaching more of those needing our support”. “Every year, 4,000 people a year are admitted to hospital with a brain injury and currently Headway Oxfordshire are only able to reach 10% of those people with the resources that we have. It would be great to be able to increase that percentage and we can do so through the support of individuals, families and businesses taking on fundraising challenges and choosing us as charity of the year”. For further information or to speak to Sharelle Holdsworth, please call 01865 670541 or email events@headway-oxford.org.uk or visit www. headwayoxford.org.uk.

Jamie Miller, CEO at Headway Oxfordshire

Jamie Miller, CEO at Headway Oxfordshire said, “over 30 years ago, in the absence of any formal services, a group of family members and carers came together for mutual support. This became a formal Headway group in 1988. Over the intervening years, we have grown into the highly professional organisation you

 events@headway-oxford.org.uk  01865 670 541  http://headwayoxford.org.uk

Responsibility to the Community Since FOCUS began back in 1990, we have taken our responsibility to the community very seriously and supported a number of local causes over the years. Focus Oxford Risk Management Ltd is keen to continue this work – both with our ongoing commitment to supporting local charity, SpecialEffect, and new ventures providing support to aspiring young sportsmen and women. Written by: Nick Jones & Lindsey Stribling

SpecialEffect and Twin Town Challenge We first came to hear about SpecialEffect in 2014 at business meeting. In the corner of the room was a banner about SpecialEffect. This got us talking about the charity and the Twin Town Challenge. I’m a keen motor enthusiast, so I was already excited about the prospect of the event and after hearing about the work SpecialEffect do, I was intrigued. I wanted to learn more, so I arranged a visit to SpecialEffect to see them in action. It was when I saw the StarGaze project that I realised I needed to get more involved with the charity. SpecialEffect help people with physical disabilities to put fun and inclusion back into their lives by helping

them to play video games. They do whatever it takes to help people with physical disabilities to enjoy games. By using technology ranging from modified joypads to eye-control, SpecialEffect find a way for people to play to the very best of their abilities. But they are not just doing it for fun. By levelling the playing field, they bring families and friends together and have a profoundly positive impact on therapy, confidence and rehabilitation. Registered Charity Number 1121004. From there, we became a main sponsor and put a team together to take part in Twin Town Challenge 2016. The weekend involved getting a car purchased for no more than £500 from Witney to Le Touquet and back, completing challenges along the way. The “Never Lose FOCUS” team just about completed

the trip in a 1983 Porsche 944 which was found in a farmyard in Somerset and had a somewhat dodgy radiator. Quite frankly, we had a blast – an incredible weekend and the most brilliant way to raise much needed funds for such a deserving charity. There was never a question about whether we would be back for 2018 – both as sponsor and competitor. This time we upped our horse-power in terms of style and comfort and completed the event in a ‘99 Jaguar S-Type 4.0, raising over £7,000 to date in the process. SpecialEffect means a lot to me because I’ve seen what they do first hand. Technology has the power

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We are proud to support Tiegan Trafford – an up and coming gymnast who we hope to one day represent Team GB at the Olympics. Tiegan, daughter of my PA, Michelle Trafford, is just 10 years old and in June retained her County Championship title for third year running and holds the British Champion title at voluntary level 4

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B4 charity& csr

SpecialEffect means a lot to me “ because I’ve seen what they do first hand. Technology has the power to do some amazing things, especially when it’s used to change the lives of those less fortunate

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to do some amazing things, especially when it’s used to change the lives of those less fortunate. I want to continue supporting the charity so they can carry on doing such valuable work.

Supporting aspiring and talented sportsmen and women Having played sport all my life, starting from the age of 6 years old when I was first introduced to rugby, I was given a lot of help and support along the way during my playing career. It was a natural progression to give back in many ways so I now coach and referee a local youth rugby team. Being around grass roots sports clubs, it became apparent the struggle that aspiring youngsters have in trying to reach their potential. It became an obvious route for my business to support young sports people in their quest for greatness. We are proud to support Tiegan Trafford – an up and

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coming gymnast who we hope to one day represent Team GB at the Olympics. Tiegan, daughter of my PA, Michelle Trafford, is just 10 years old and in June retained her County Championship title for third year running and holds the British Champion title at voluntary level 4. Tiegan trains for 19 hours every week, perfecting her skills on the vault, bars, beam and floor routines and has recently returned from a training session in Malta that she was selected for along with a small group of handpicked young gymnasts.

summer tour to South Africa – but sadly missed out after being injured during the Aviva Premiership Semi-Final against Saracens in May. FOCUS continues to support Jack through his rehabilitation and hope to see him back in the first team squad towards the end of the season and hopefully in an England shirt.

Tiegan is knocking on the door of Team GB and we hope that, with our support, she will soon be selected for the national squad. FOCUS also support Jack Willis of Wasps Rugby Club. A key back row player, Jack secured a regular starting spot during the 2017/18 season and won the February Premiership Player of the Month trophy. This was soon followed by the club’s Young Player of the Season Award. Jack was selected for England’s

 nick.jones@focusorm.co.uk  01865 953 111  www.focusorm.co.uk

go on, I dare you

B4 charity & csr

Twin Town Challenge raises £375,000 When 100 cars costing less than £500 left Blenheim Palace bound for Le Touquet in May, no one would have dreamt that they would succeed in raising £375,000 for the charity SpecialEffect. Written by: Jo Sensecall, Marketing Sense Photography by: Ric Mellis

At Le Grand Bal, the finale of the Twin Town Challenge 2018, Brendon Cross its founder and organiser looked out from the stage and proudly announced that Twin Town 2018 had exceeded its target and raised £375,000. The room erupted with cheers and clapping from the 400 guests, most of who had taken part in the event.

Once safely in Le Touquet, the Twin Towner’s enjoyed a traditional French hot supper and an evening of entertainment, quizzes and live music. Dr Mick Donegan of SpecialEffect shared a film about the charity and reminded everyone why they were taking part and what a different SpecialEffect makes to the lives of those with disabilities.

This was the third Twin Town event and it brings the overall fundraising total to £800,000. The money is for Charlbury based SpecialEffect to help more young people with disabilities to play video games and communicate using eye gaze technology.

Following the movie theme, Saturday saw the teams head off around Le Touquet making short films and doing a carpool karaoke style challenge, singing along to Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. On Sunday everyone went to Abbeville circuit where the teams undertook challenges on the track including car boxing, car jousting, car bowling and car fencing as well as a spin around the track following a pace car that went considerably faster than many of the £500 cars did!

One rainy Friday morning back in May, 100 cars costing £500 each lined up at Blenheim Palace, with 400 people in fancy dress, 30 marshals, a media bus, film crews, a bus of shame, 4 support vehicles and 2 teams of mechanics. It was the start of another amazing weekend of fun raising money for SpecialEffect. With a movie theme, cars and their occupants were dressed accordingly. The MGroup were Smurfs; Opendoorz came as 101 Dalmatians; ICE Oxford as Ghostbusters; Wellers as Men in Orange who had found Nemo; Smooga, First Sight Media and Everyman Legal all took the Jurassic Park theme (complete with inflatable dinosaurs); Aston and James were Power Rangers; STL followed a Harry Potter theme; The Rooflight Company were the Gatsby gang; not to mention a selection of Sumo wrestlers, James Bonds, 4 funerals and a wedding and Top Gun characters! Over in France the sun came out for the first challenge. The Le Touquet twinning team had set a treasure hunt along the coast from Calais to Le Touquet. The people of northern France watched in wonder as a procession of decorated cars including a London taxi, a hearse and a stretched limo drove through their peaceful villages. www.b4-business.com

The final night was a street party in central Le Touquet where we were joined by lots of French people and holidaymakers to dance the night away to the 11 piece band The Village idiots. With most people in fancy dress, Le Touquet probably has never experienced an evening like it since the last Twin Town Challenge in 2016!

but more than just having a good time and raising some money for charity we’re now firmly part of the Twin Town family which is a group of likeminded people with whom we can network, have fun and will be friends for life.” Brendon adds “Whilst TTC18 was fantastic fun, there is a serious reason for staging the event and I cannot thank the sponsors, the volunteers and of course the participants enough for their incredible generosity and unconditional support in helping us to raise £375,000 for this very special charity.” The last words rest with Dr Mick Donegan founder and CEO of SpecialEffect who thanked the participants and volunteers saying, “We are entirely dependent on donations to carry on our work, so events like this are our lifeblood. We cannot thank the organisers and the Twin Town community enough for their passion and generosity, which will enable us to help more people with disabilities to play to the very best of their abilities by using technology ranging from modified joypads to eye-control.” The good news is that Twin Town will be back in 2020…..watch this space for further details.

On returning to the UK on bank holiday Monday, the teams were joined by colleagues, family and friends at Blenheim Palace for tea and cakes and to relive stories from the weekend. Trophies were awarded to Everyman Legal who won the Bob Marchbank TTC Cup for most points and the Nick Walker Spirit of Twin Town Cup was shared by two of the volunteers Steve Evins and Rene Van Oeverlen both from STL. Fast forward to September 7th at Le Grand Bal, Brendon Cross, founder and organiser of Twin Town Challenge 2018, presented the Cally Robson Fundraising Cup to Oxford Products who raised over £8,000. Andrew Hammond of Oxford Products said, “We had the most amazing weekend on Twin Town

 support@twintown.org.uk  01993 220 666  www.twintown.org.uk

GIVING BACK OR SHARING FOR COMMON GOALS?

Business that’s good for Oxfordshire is good for your business Written by: Grant Hayward

Although I recognise and commend the focus this issue has on “Giving Back”, I’d like to be a little controversial about the subject….. In issue 52 I shared “The problem I have with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)”. I referred to the use of the word “corporate”, pointing out that almost all of the circa 30,000 registered businesses in Oxfordshire are SME’s or micro’s, so often don’t relate to the phrase yet many are doing so many great things in this regards. I also set out my view that the term is often misunderstood and underutilised. Similarly, “giving back” suggests to me a repayment or having taken something. What could that be? Is it about businesses offsetting “bad stuff” they are doing? Perhaps individuals clearing their conscience? Or philanthropy? The sort of “giving back” I see pretty much on daily basis is often far more than this.

Business as a force for good I was recently invited to a meeting of companies and other public and voluntary sector organisations to discuss the issue of homelessness and begging, including the impact it has on business and to the wider Oxford community and economy. There, I witnessed an acceptance that this is a complex challenge touching us all and a shared responsibility to do something to help develop collaborative and creative solutions, which the group is now committed to work together on. One of these threads is raising awareness of the true, underlying elements causing the problem. A new Myth Busting Fact Sheet has since been created by Homeless Oxfordshire following that meeting and an earlier visit by Richard Venables of B4 member, VSL in his capacity of High Sheriff. It was unsurprising that many of the businesses at the meeting were B4 members, reinforcing the ethos of the B4 network and the way it attracts like-minded people and companies – something that will be 42

supported by B4 Values, currently being developed. There is absolutely no doubt that people and companies truly to do give very generously of their time, money and resources. But the point I make is that we need to embed within our organisations a shared responsibility and use business as a force for good. Increasingly, more businesses are being formed specifically to help address social and environmental issues. Existing businesses too are embedding a greater purpose and an ethical approach into the heart of what they do.

Business partnerships, but not as you know it As vital as it is for the charities and social enterprise to access new forms of funding, partnerships between companies and these organisations have evolved to go far beyond simply fundraising. Businesses like B4 member, Hedges Law and Homeless Oxfordshire are good examples of how partnerships are developing strategies that grow both organisations because of a synergetic and aligned approach.

Hedges Law MD, Nikki Poole explains “At Hedges we place “purpose” at the very heart of what we do and see this is a key ingredient to our vibrant and thriving working environment. We are therefore delighted to have such a strong partnership with Homeless Oxfordshire and are very proud of the wide range of fundraising we are achieving, which has also been great fun. But the relationship has been really insightful resulting in the development of some creative ways to work together for common goals that we didn’t initially imagine”. Claire Dowan, Chief Exec of Homeless Oxfordshire describes their perspective; “Companies across the county are feeling the affects of the significant increase in homelessness. This includes the direct impact on business and the fact that more employees are at threat of becoming homeless. Here at Homeless Oxfordshire, we have been developing strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with companies like Hedges, who we are delighted to be working with, to help create a whole-society approach to addressing this crisis.” www.b4-business.com

B4 charity & csr

A joined up and collective approach These individual partnerships are extremely effective and valuable, but more needs to be done, to take this to another level. In Oxfordshire, we have some great examples through networks like Reciprocate (www. reciprocateox.org) and ROBIN (www.robinoxford. org.uk) that bring businesses together to support and help them share their skills and resources with others across sectors and develop the relationships and partnerships referred to above.

Homeless Oxfordshire

But also on a strategic level, OxLEP, local councils and the universities are also working on ways to ensure this very strong local economy is leveraged to help address the many challenging social and environmental issues before us at a time of reduced public spending and cuts in public services. As an example, the Oxford Strategic partnership, Economic Growth Steering Board is working with a group of leading local employers on ways in which Oxford can be a more Inclusive Economy..

B4 Values

Richard Venables, Reciprocate Chair

I am delighted to be working with the team at B4 on developing B4 Values. B4 is for business people who understand that success isn’t achieved by a ‘quick win’ or with a hard-sell approach. The B4 community encourages authentic ethos, collaboration and reciprocation and the B4 Value statement will underline the importance of trust, integrity and honesty to the B4 community. The ways in which members trade, look after their workforce, the environment and local communities are fundamental to their success as well as all stakeholders.

Nikki Poole, Hedges

Grant Hayward

So to sum up, I am certainly not suggesting anyone shouldn’t “give”, but no matter what size your business and whether you are already engaged in some of these opportunities, my firm believe is that a truly symbiotic and collaborative approach is far more powerful. This is at the heart of my work and voluntary activities, which I hope can help make Oxfordshire an even more successful economy and place to live and work – for everyone. If you have an interesting and related example, or would just like to know more or connect, please contact me at grant@collaborent.co.uk.

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www.b4-business.com

grant@collaborent.co.uk 07768 603 312 www.collaborent.co.uk @granthayward uk.linkedin.com/in/grantjhayward

Is Your Business Ready? If you are a business owner then please join us on our Brexit business seminar programme. This programme is designed to help you prepare for the issues that will affect your business post-Brexit.

Seminar Programme Thursday 13th September Technology: The shape of things to come (Speaker – Tom Cheesewright, Futurist) Thursday 4th October Brexit and Contracts: Heading off problems and dealing with disputes (Speakers – Freeths, Duncan Crine, Dispute Management Partner, and Rebecca Howlett, Commercial Partner) Thursday 1st November Intellectual Property: How to strengthen your brand proposition in a competitive market and protect your IP in new markets (Speaker – Freeths, Rebecca Howlett, Commercial Partner) Thursday 10th January 2019 Relocation, Relocation: Should you consider relocating your business operations? (Speakers – Freeths, Patrick Whetter, Real Estate Partner, and Clare Bellis, Real Estate Litigation Partner) Thursday 7th February 2019 M&A: Brexit-an opportunity to grow or achieve more value (Speaker – Freeths, Leon Arnold, Corporate Partner, and BCMS, Jonathan Dunn, Director) Thursday 7th March 2019 Competition and Trade: A view on the competitive landscape in respect of competition and trade law post-Brexit (Speaker – Freeths, Andy Maxwell, Partner and Head of Competition Law) Thursday 25th April 2019 Outlook for the UK and Global Economy following Brexit (Speaker – CBI Chief Economist, Rain Newton-Smith)

RSVP to Emma Roby emma.roby@freeths.co.uk 01865 781206

Venue Freeths LLP, 5000 Oxford Business Park South Oxford OX4 2BH

Timings 8:00am - 10:00am

B4 charity & csr

Accepting our responsibility to support the local community

Directors at accountancy firm Chapman Robinson and Moore (CRM) have committed to giving every staff member three hours per month to become regular volunteers at a charity of their choice. MD Tony Hobbs said; “As a firm, we accept our responsibility to support the local community with our skills, knowledge and experience. This is part of our underlying values at CRM. We agreed to make a commitment to an employee volunteering scheme that truly helps our team to support the causes of which they are passionate. We considered 3 hours per month to be a more realistic time to allow the team member to prepare and attend meetings. In addition to our individual commitments, this year we agreed to support a charity of the year and we chose Sobell House, a charity close to many of the team”

Jayne Lacny, Director at Reading Quest, said; “Tony has been a stalwart in terms of supporting us for the last 7 years. He has advised on financial matters to enable the charity to take a medium to longterm view on how best to survive in a competitive market. Tony has been instrumental in putting us in such a sensible financial position, guiding us through a 5-year Big Lottery project and the period of adjustment after it finished. Tony cares about the work we do. He has never wavered in his commitment. This mirrors the beliefs that his company and its staff has in supporting the local community.”

by OxLEP, is primarily to link the school with local businesses, contribute to developing an effective careers plan and develop the employability skills of the students. Stuart George, Head of Careers at DGS, said; “The school has been incredibly fortunate to have Mike working with us to develop school-business links and to provide some wonderful opportunities for our pupils. As we say to anyone who will listen... every school needs an EA, and everyone needs an EA who is like Mike Foster. We are hugely grateful for this support in developing the talents, confidence and aspirations of our pupils.”

Here are just some of the examples of how the team at CRM give back to the local community in Oxfordshire.

SSNAP

The Oxford Food Bank The Oxford Food Bank collects good quality fresh food from local supermarkets and wholesalers and delivers it for free to numerous local registered charities. CRM Director, Noel Heaven, supports the charity with the Treasurer and accountancy roles as well as attending Trustee meetings. Cathy Howard, Manager of the Oxford Food Bank said; “Noel has been an invaluable part of the leadership team at the Oxford Food Bank. He has provided both financial and management assistance since our inception.”

SSNAP, located at John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, is the charity dedicated to supporting the families of sick and premature babies. CRM Director, Alan Sowden, supports the charity as a parent volunteer, having benefitted from their help after the premature birth of his daughter at just 26 weeks’ gestation. Charity Director Emma Cantrell, said; “Our parent volunteers are a vital part of the support we offer sharing their expertise, support and understanding. No one knows better what it feels like to have a baby who is sick or premature than a parent who has had the same experience. We are so glad that Alan has given up his time to volunteer with us. It is especially beneficial to Dads, whose emotional needs are so often overlooked when going through these difficult and often traumatic experiences.”

Charity of the Year – Sobell House For 2018, CRM chose Sobell House hospice to be their charity of the year. They have organised cake sales, a tuck shop, reception collection tins, Christmas card sales, a fire walk and organised a race night at Holiday Inn. CRM are on target to raise over £5,000, whilst also attracting additional donations from their clients. Tim Wraith, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Sobell House said: “We are delighted that Chapman Robinson & Moore is supporting Sobell House as their Charity of the Year. We are incredibly grateful for their support” You can read more about CRM in the community at: www.crmoxford.co.uk/ about-us/crm-in-the-community/

Didcot Girls’ School Quest for learning

Didcot Girls School

Quest for Learning is a teaching and training charity that aims to inspire young minds struggling with literacy and numeracy. CRM Managing Director, Tony Hobbs, supports the charity with their financials, reporting and attends their board meetings.

Mike Foster has supported Didcot Girls School, in the voluntary role of Enterprise Adviser (EA), for over 3 years. He was the first EA to take up the role in Oxfordshire and now also supports other EA’s in supporting other schools. The role, supported locally

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 crm@crmoxford.co.uk  01865 379 272  www.crmoxford.co.uk

B4 PLUS ONE with Blenheim

Charles Caleb Colton coined the phrase ‘Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery’ and there’s certainly a lot happening at Blenheim these days which merits flattery. Under the expert leadership of CEO Dominic Hare, Blenheim’s 10 point plan is well on track and new ground is being broken at every turn. B4’s new PLUS ONE scheme is born out of a forward thinking embrace of local suppliers which Blenheim initiated at the turn of the year with Wonky Foods and which has been taken further with the FAB Accelerator programme.

Following B4’s interview with the then relatively new CEO, earlier this year, where he outlined Blenheim’s plans for the future, the appetite to work more closely with local suppliers was a plan which resonated with B4’s Richard Rosser. Dominic outlined how he was giving Wonky Foods, which turns imperfect food into tasty relishes, the opportunity to help establish itself by selling its product through Blenheim’s shop – a great opportunity for any supplier. Richard wanted to help and offered Wonky Foods a complimentary B4 membership, exposure in B4 and an exhibition stand at the B4 Classic Event at Blenheim earlier this year. But it wasn’t until Blenheim approached B4 to help promote the recent FAB Accelerator programme, where local suppliers pitched for an opportunity to be stocked in the Blenheim shop, that the penny dropped. Over fifty local suppliers applied for the sought after prize and these were whittled down to eight who had to present to a Dragons Den style judging panel in the height of summer. All eight were impressive in their pitches and this only served to make it an even harder decision for Dominic and his fellow judges. B4 had agreed to gift a similar package of exposure to the winner of the programme but Richard was so enthused with the quality of the businesses pitching that a B4 membership package was awarded to all eight. But why stop there, thought Richard. “We have had such good feedback since the FAB Accelerator event and it’s been fantastic to see the winners attending B4 events and making great connections to help them in their businesses. So we’ve decided to expand this programme beyond a handful of local suppliers to local charities, social enterprises, sports clubs and schools. We will also be awarding the occasional local supplier a complimentary 46

membership, at our discretion, where we feel this could be of benefit to them and the B4 community. It seems appropriate to tie the new B4 PLUS ONE membership to Blenheim so it will be known as ‘B4 PLUS ONE in association with Blenheim’.

Details of PLUS ONE Membership: Silver members can nominate one of the following for a complimentary B4 membership when they start or renew their membership (Gold and Platinum members can nominate at any time during the year). All nominations are subject to B4’s approval: • Charity • Social Enterprise • Sports Club • School • The PLUS ONE membership is for a maximum of one year, after which the member would need to become a full B4 member if they wanted to maintain B4 membership benefits. • PLUS ONE membership includes: B4 website account; B4 Magazine directory listing; access to all B4 Classic events and Masterclasses at no charge; ability to respond to Oxfordshire Voice surveys. • You cannot apply for a PLUS ONE membership – you are either recommended for one by another B4 member or B4 will offer you one. In all cases, B4’s decision is final subject to terms and conditions.

Here’s what some of the grateful recipients had to say about their B4 membership: www.b4-business.com

“As a start-up, being part of an established network such as B4 has many benefits. It is an opportunity to discuss the many challenges and growing pains of starting a business with people who have been through the same journey as you. The events are such a welcoming environment to meet people from all walks of business life and I never cease to be amazed at where a conversation here and an introduction there can lead.” Ashley Cavers, Co-Founder, The Wonky Food Company

B4 spotlight “We were delighted to be awarded a year’s membership of B4 as part of our Blenheim Start-up competition win. It’s been amazing to network with some fab (and nice!) people... and who’d have thought the very first person I met at my first B4 meeting was the original distributor of Burt’s Bees networking at its best!” Julie Macken, Deputy Queen Bee, Neve’s Bees

“PoppyRed Cake Company was given membership of B4 as one of the finalists for the Blenheim Palace competition for local startup businesses. The benefit of membership includes attending B4 networking events where we have met many other local companies and made useful contacts.” Julie Hedges, Cake Designer, PoppyRed Cake Company

www.b4-business.com

“

London offers a wealth of opportunity for businesses across every sector, and especially in recruitment. While there are a vast number of agencies already operating in the capital, there is a gap for a ‘different’ type of agency to exist, and we believe we fill that gap

”

How we went from Good to Great Our 20th anniversary We founded Allen Associates in 1998, with the mission of providing staffing solutions for Employers requiring HR, Marketing, Finance, PA/Administration, and Temporary workers in Oxfordshire. In the 20 years since then, we have placed thousands of Candidates with Clients, we have built long-lasting relationships, and we have developed a stellar industry reputation –with the result that we are now known as one of Oxfordshire’s leading independent Recruitment agencies. We are in disbelief at how quickly the years have flown by, but as the saying goes, ‘time flies, when you’re having fun’. We look back and feel humbled by what we have built. Over a celebratory glass of Champagne this summer, we reminisced about some of the highlights of the past 20 years, of which there are many. For example, we have grown our relationship with Oxford 48

Children’s Hospital and the OX5 run, which we have sponsored for 10 years. We have increased the size of our team from two to 17. We have promoted and developed our team members – Hannah Bush joined us at the start of her career almost ten years ago and is now a Divisional Manager, and Eleanor Bromage joined in 2003 as a Consultant and is now Associate Director and an integral part of the Senior Management team. We are also multi award winning and, additionally, have been an Investor in People (IIP) since 2001 and have achieved ‘Gold’ status in our last two formal assessments having been benchmarked and measured against 196 criteria! We were also recently a Finalist in the category of Best Company to Work For (up to 20 Employees) at the Institute of Recruitment Professionals (IRP) Awards – a fantastic testament to how hard everyone has worked.

Our London launch With the agency going from two of us to 17, we have progressed significantly in all areas, over the past two decades. However, we are still as ambitious now, as we were back in 1998. So, it was with huge excitement (and a bit of trepidation!) that we opened our London office in June of this year, to bring our knowledge, expertise and skills to Clients and Candidates in the capital. Located in the prestigious Chiswick Park development in West London, the new office team is being headed by me, as we look to build on a growing portfolio of Clients across the city. For anyone reading this and thinking that it was a bold move, you would be correct! Setting up our new London home has been something of a logistical challenge, as you can imagine. It’s also been a very intense time, as we throw ourselves into meeting new Clients and Candidates, into the London jobs www.b4-business.com

B4 spotlight

market, and onto the tube (yes, in that heat).

“

This has been a long time in the pipeline, and the whole Oxford team is hugely excited about our expansion.

So, it was with huge excitement (and a bit of trepidation!) that we opened our London office in June of this year, to bring our knowledge, expertise and skills to Clients and Candidates in the capital.

Talking of our fantastic Oxford team, they continue to match Clients and Candidates in Oxfordshire and this year is looking set to break all records. We have built up a huge number of deep and long-standing relationships with a huge range of businesses across different industries, and they remain the foundation of our success. So, whilst

we look forward to growing it certainly won’t be at the expense of those Clients and Candidates that have brought us to where we are today – and will take us to who knows where over the next two decades!

However, it’s been absolutely fantastic so far. London offers a wealth of opportunity for businesses across every sector, and especially in recruitment. While there are a vast number of agencies already operating in the capital, there is a gap for a ‘different’ type of agency to exist, and we believe we fill that gap.

www.b4-business.com

Things are changing in recruitment, with the rise of AI, a commitment to increasing the diversity within businesses and the ever-changing nature of the gig economy. However, one thing remains the same – our unwavering level of dedication to our work, our fair, honest and ethical approach, and the care we take when working out what motivates our Candidates and Clients, no matter what their priorities are. Here’s to the next 20 years!

”

 jobs@allen-associates.co.uk  +44 (0)1865 335 600  www.allen-associates.co.uk

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE Visions, missions, strategies…….it’s all a bit dull isn’t it? 50

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spotlight

are working with “theWetown’s diverse and active business community to make sure Bicester features prominently in the “trailblazer” Local Industrial Strategy being developed for Oxfordshire and the wider area across to Cambridge

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Bicester Vision is “ working, along with local businesses, cultural and community groups, to look at how to ensure the town centre continues to play an important part in Bicester’s prosperity, and provides a busy, bustling and thriving heart to our community

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But……..imagine, for a moment, if we didn’t have them, if there was no-one thinking about the bigger picture…..however much we all might think they’re getting it wrong! What if no-one was thinking about the skills that our children will need if they’re to be equipped for the jobs of the future, we all know how fast technology moves? What if no-one was thinking about the infrastructure that we need; road, rail, broadband, community buildings, schools, hospitals, employment space? What if no-one was looking at how we fit with our neighbours - north, south, east and west - and looking at how we all work together to get the maximum benefit for all?

surrounding area. At a workshop recently the Bicester Vision Board considered these very strategic issues and how the organisation can structure to continue to support the town, and attract more funding to support Bicester’s ambitions.

Bicester Vision is a public sector/private sector partnership committed to bringing people together to ensure the economic success of Bicester and the

Right here in the town, Bicester Vision is working, along with local businesses, cultural and community groups, to look at how to ensure the town centre

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We are working with the town’s diverse and active business community to make sure Bicester features prominently in the “trailblazer” Local Industrial Strategy being developed for Oxfordshire and the wider area across to Cambridge; an important piece of work if Bicester is to continue to prosper and attract high quality jobs and necessary infrastructure for those that live here.

continues to play an important part in Bicester’s prosperity, and provides a busy, bustling and thriving heart to our community. Supported by the active partnership of wonderful organisations that fund us, Bicester Vision runs a number of open meetings throughout the year that look at these strategic issues. Why not get involved?

   

info@bicestervision.co.uk 01869 324 244 www.bicestervision.co.uk @bicestervision

Blenheim Gives Start-Ups a Chance to Shine

The winners of a new start-up scheme aimed at encouraging entrepreneurs launched their product ranges at Blenheim Palace from the end of August. Writer: Stephanie Duncan Photographer: Pete Seaward

Neveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bees

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B4 spotlight Kathryn Croxson

of their prize, “ Asnotpart only have they

won the contract to supply their products to the retail areas at Blenheim Palace, they are also getting support with marketing, profiling and ongoing advice from business mentors.

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Chosen from 55 applicants, and eight competitive pitches to senior management, Neve’s Bees, which produces 100% natural beeswax skincare products, and designer and artist Kathryn Croxson, who creates a range of clothing accessories and homeware, have their items stocked in the Palace’s main retail area, the East Courtyard Shop. Visitors are able to buy Neve’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balms and Beeswax Hand Salve across their range of seven fragrances. As well as discover Kathryn’s silk chiffon scarves in three different sizes, beautiful leather bags, mugs and limited-edition kimonos from her signature bold print, limited edition designs. As part of their prize, not only have they won the contract to supply their products to the retail areas at Blenheim Palace, they are also getting support with marketing, profiling and ongoing advice from business mentors. Judy Bendall, Head of Retail for Blenheim Palace, said: “We are thrilled to be stocking the new collections from this great scheme. Both Neve’s Bees products and Kathryn Croxson’s accessories fit extremely well within our retail offering.”

www.b4-business.com

“Blenheim Palace receives almost 1 million visitors per year, meaning great exposure for the two local businesses,” she added.

are thrilled to “beWe stocking the new

collections from this great scheme. Both Neve’s Bees products and Kathryn Croxson’s accessories fit extremely well within our retail offering

collection of limited edition prints. Kathryn’s range encompasses womens fashion, accessories, textile prints, homewares, and artworks. kathryncroxson.com | #kathryncroxson

About Neve’s Bees Neve’s Bees products are made using beeswax from their bees in West Oxfordshire, smell heavenly and make your skin and lips feel lovely. Using 100% natural ingredients they create products which are a bit different from the norm. nevesbees.co.uk | #nevesbees

”

Visitors are able to buy the new products in-store now. Both companies will also work with the teams at Blenheim Palace to create new bespoke ranges for the East Courtyard Shop.

About Kathryn Croxson Kathryn Croxson is a true visual storyteller, she uses bold prints and Kaleidoscopic colours in her eclectic

 sduncan@blenheimpalace.com  01993 810524  www.blenheimpalace.com

“ It has been amazing

first year for G-Smatt; we are delighted with what we have achieved and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. The company’s most notable accomplishment to date was the provision of 13 of its G-Tainers to last month’s renown Boomtown Festival, held in Hampshire. Dr. Orhan Ertughrul - EVP Europe

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B4 + T3 = 2W I wonder how many of the readers of this magazine and members of the B4 group actually know the derivation of the name? Apparently, it comes from the organisation’s prime aim of, ‘Building Bridges Between Businesses’, which I think sums up what they achieve at each and every opportunity and through their various channels. Written by: Dr. Orhan Ertughrul - EVP Europe Photography by: Archetype Media Group

Looking back on our lives we can all recall occasions when we have been the ‘new kid on the block’, be that literally when moving to a new house and changing schools or just that first day at a new job or a new club or society that we have decided to join. There is such a mix of emotions; excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead; memories of what we have left behind, nervousness about are we going to be good enough, will we make mistakes, concerns over whether anyone will talk to us and doubts over own abilities to deliver. These feelings don’t change as we get older, although we may be a little better at managing them, and keeping them hidden.

Earlier this summer, G-Smatt celebrated is first anniversary and this month we will re-renewing our annual membership with B4. Because of the introductions made via this organisation we have built a team of trusted and invaluable suppliers and advisors, including ADS Creative Solutions, Chapman Robinson & Moore, Freeths and You HR, all of whom provide highly professional advice ranging from finance and property to branding and employment law. In addition, we have also had the chance to meet and trade with a diverse and inspiring range of companies and individuals. Hence the three Ts; teamwork, trade and trust.

It is certainly true that all of these have raised their heads at various times in the last 18 months whilst G-Smatt Europe has gone from being just a very long ‘To Do’ list to an award-winning company, employing 16 staff and with an exciting future ahead of it. But success like that doesn’t happen on its own.

It has been amazing first year for G-Smatt; we are delighted with what we have achieved and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. The company’s most notable accomplishment to date was the provision of 13 of its G-Tainers to last month’s renown Boomtown Festival, held in Hampshire.

Taking stock

The G-Tainers, a combination of smart glass in a modular steel system, were installed to form a multilevel, immersive theatre venue, known as Bang Hai Technologies, the headquarters of the “in world” Bang Hai Corporation and the hub for the event’s digital innovations. But it is not only the events industry where G-Smatt is starting to make its presence felt. The G-Tainers are the ideal solution for pop-up solutions and one of them was recently installed outside the Royal Exchange, London as part of this year’s London Festival of Architecture. Looking ahead, the company believes that it is only a matter of time before we will see an architect or developer with the courage and vision to install the architectural grade glass on a far larger scale as part of a commercial development. Something that will transform how people will interact with both the building and its surroundings. G-Smatt has received several plaudits and awards, including most recently Thames Valley Newcomer of

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B4 spotlight

Dr. Orhan Ertughrul - EVP Europe

the Year ‘Inward Investment’ Award – at the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce 2018 Business Awards. As a result, the company automatically qualifies for the national business awards, that are presented in the autumn and which recognise excellence in British business. Other awards and recognition that been received in the last 12 months, are: • Runner up – International Tech company of the Year, Thames Valley Tech Awards 2018 • Winner – Event Industry Product of the Year, Hire Awards 2018 • Winner – Technical Innovation Product of the Year, LCA Awards 2017 • Winner – Best Exhibition Stand, The Showman’s Show, 2017 The challenge now is to build on this initial success. This will require not only the continued commitment of G-Smatt’s own team of trusted and experienced staff, but also the development of the trading relationships that have evolved in and around Oxford’s business community. These have and will continue to deliver real support and value, enabling the company to continue its growth and development. In short building bridges between business where trust and teamwork ensure fair and productive trading results in winning ways! B4 + T3 = 2W

 info@g-smatteurope.com  +44 (0)1865 688 221  www.g-smatteurope.com

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Small in size, big in ambition & ideas How SMEs can grab a slice of the innovation cake No one says it’s easy turning your innovation, idea or creative solution into a business reality. Breakthroughs and changes can be time consuming, expensive and need careful research and specialist know-how. If you are a start-up or a small business entrepreneur such barriers often seem huge. So, a new £5.2 million programme to boost innovation in Oxfordshire’s small and medium sized business community (SMEs) is a positive initiative. Written by: Rod Macrae Photography by: OxLEP Business

www.b4-business.com

B4 spotlight Ideas and innovations are vital to the future of the Oxfordshire economy, so helping SMEs to acquire skills, build networks and access resources is an important investment. There is no shortage of ideas in small businesses, but too often what it takes to turn the idea into a reality seems out of reach. Amazing innovations happen at our universities and in bigger businesses’ because they have either the brains or the cash to invest, but there is huge potential for SMEs to join in too. The new programme, Innovation Support for Business (ISfB) is looking to help build the connections, knowledge and means to enable smaller business to innovate by offering tailored support packages. ISfB is open to enterprises launching a new idea into the market, applying innovations within their businesses or working collaboratively with research institutions. “It will make a genuine difference for entrepreneurs who might otherwise find it difficult to make their

Oxford City Council and Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Helen Brind, the Growth Hub Manager at OxLEP Business said: “The programme is open to any enterprise in Oxfordshire. And it is by no means exclusive to cutting edge or technology-based enterprises. With a few exceptions such as agriculture and fisheries, most sectors can participate. We want to hear from any entrepreneur looking to do something differently.” Recognising that no two projects are the same, the ISfB programme will meet with each client to understand their needs and develop a bespoke package of support for them. This can include one-to-one coaching and mentoring, workshops and Go-Create grants. The programme team is also facilitating access to specialist expertise, equipment and resources which are typically available only to larger companies. Such as the affordable Agile wet chemistry lab at Begbroke Science Park, which is now open for business, soon to be followed by a fully

What is the ISfB Programme doing for business? • Helping you to develop and commercialise new ideas • Supporting you to establish new links with researchers to develop for your business • Enhancing research and innovation infrastructure in Oxfordshire • Promoting business investment in research and innovation

What is available for your enterprise? • Go-Create Grants. • Coaching and mentoring • Workshops, seminars and masterclasses. • Access to equipment, expertise and resources

Want to find out more? Contact the ISfB team at: innovation@oxfordshirelep.com Follow us:

projects a reality” said Richard Byard, Director of Business Development at Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP). “Bigger companies are very good at this, but it’s not so easy if you are a start-up or a smaller business. They find it difficult to connect to the research facilities they need and to partner with research institutions in developing ideas.” “Through the ISfB programme, a smaller business will be able to get support to build relationships, access research resources and help to bring their new ideas to market.” It is a sentiment shared by Professor Chas Bountra, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Innovation at the University of Oxford: “The impact for Oxfordshire in terms of jobs, growth and prosperity will be visible to all. I want Oxford to rapidly become the innovation capital of Europe”. Half of the funding for the programme is coming from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Partners delivering the programme with OxLEP are matching the investment. These include the University of Oxford, Cherwell District Council, www.b4-business.com

kitted out Prototyping lab. The Bicester Eco Business Centre and the SmartOxford Incubator will also offer co-working space for entrepreneurs just starting out.

• Twitter: @OxLEPBusiness • LinkedIn: OxLEP Business • Facebook: OxLEP Business • Sign up to the OxLEP newsletter: www.oxfordshirelep. com/isfb

Helen Brind explained: “You can access outstanding support from experienced people with the relevant skills to match your needs. Our workshops, seminars and masterclasses offer insights to help in developing and commercialing ideas. Go-Create grants from £1,000 to £50,000 are also available for up to 33% of project costs. OxLEP’s Chief Executive Nigel Tipple says this is a significant initiative, encouraging SMEs to participate in the growth of Oxfordshire’s economy at a time when there is so much change. “It’s important that our SMEs are actively-engaged and aware of how they can be innovative; not just to support their own growth, but also Oxfordshire’s continued emergence as a genuine global asset.” Ultimately, this is a chance for SMEs moving from ‘potential’ to ‘actual’ innovation. To use an old phrase: an idea that stays on the design table is just that, an idea.

 innovation@oxfordshirelep.com  www.oxfordshirelep.com 57

O X F O R D S H I R E

In September 2017 the B4 focus group at Rhodes House concluded that B4 was well placed to represent Oxfordshire’s business community, to voice its concerns and to work together to create solutions for the challenges that all businesses face. A tall order, undoubtedly, but one we took on board. A year of meetings, discussions and further debate has passed and we are now on the cusp of launching Oxfordshire Voice, not just a representative voice of Oxfordshire’s business community, but also a brand to promote Oxfordshire’s vibrant and dynamic business community. There is so much going on in Oxfordshire that many of us are unaware of, so what hope have we got that the rest of the world is in tune with the latest developments in our own county? Oxfordshire has never had an economic brand, an identity which helps it to promote the wide range of excellent organisations that work within our county. Oxfordshire Voice will develop as a brand which Oxfordshire businesses can identify with and we will use promotional videos, advertisements and its own social media and website to help develop the brand and promote Oxfordshire’s economy. Oxfordshire Voice is a collaborative partnership bringing the local business community around the table with the local authorities (Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council and Oxfordshire LEP) to do the following: 1. Provide a greater awareness of the key challenges to all Oxfordshire businesses which threaten to stifle future growth

2. Inform the business community about the challenges the local authorities face in overcoming these challenges and provide updates on current and future policy plans and proposals 3. Work together to create solutions for the benefit of all public and private sector organisations 4. OV IS NOT a lobbying group. It does not promise change, it is a partnership of organisations working together for the benefit of Oxfordshire’s business community. Oxfordshire Voice aims to demonstrate to the wider business community that a collaborative approach can make a difference. The ultimate aim being to grow the partnership and engage as many Oxfordshire businesses as possible to demonstrate that Oxfordshire is truly ‘World Class & Connected’. Oxfordshire Voice has identified the four key issues affecting Oxfordshire businesses and will work to identify solutions to overcome issues: • • • •

Skills Social & Environmental issues Housing – Residential & Commercial Transport & Communication

By joining OV as a partner, you can help to shape the economic future of one of the UK’s most vibrant economic regions. Contact the OV team on 01865 742211 or e-mail Richard@b4-business.com to find out more

How Oxfordshire Voice will work Oxfordshire Voice is a growing partnership of public and private organisations which will work as follows:

Executive Board Which will direct the overall strategy of OV

Sub Group Boards for the 4 Key Issue Areas Which will lead on the Issues

Three Monthly Forums in 2018 Addressing key issues affecting Oxfordshire businesses – these forums will be promoted shortly and will help OV establish the format for 2019’s regular monthly forums

Three Monthly Forums in 2019 Addressing key issues affecting Oxfordshire businesses – open only to Oxfordshire Voice Partners

Business in Oxford 2019 An opportunity to engage the wider business community in further debate and solution finding

What are the Proposed Outcomes? SURVEYS Following the monthly forums, surveys will be issued to the B4 community for wider feedback on the issues raised and the B4 community will be asked to contribute its suggested solutions. BLUE PAPER A quarterly Blue Paper will be circulated to Oxfordshire Voice Partners and the wider B4 community which will comprise: • Findings of the Monthly forums • Findings of the surveys sent to the B4 community • Latest news from the local authorities to help brief the business community on current and future policy NEWS RELEASES Regular updates from the Oxfordshire Voice partners regarding latest developments relevant to the other partners. PR Local and national media coverage via our Communications Specialist, Simon Howson-Green, who’s current clients include BNPP, Merlin Group, PMI, Prudential, Chubb Insurance, Thames Water, Gov’t of Biscay, Apollo Tyres, Essar Oil, SAI Global, Value Retail

(Bicester Village) Thames Water, UNICEF, Human Appeal. Oxfordshire Voice partners will also be called on to provide comments to the local and national media as Oxfordshire Voice becomes a stronger voice for the local business community.

O X F O R D S H I R E

Support Thank you to the following who have supported Oxfordshire Voice to date, many of whom have confirmed to Oxfordshire Voice for the next three years: “Oxfordshire Voice is THE channel for businesses of all sizes to be heard, be informed and to showcase local successes to the rest of the UK and the world.” Grant Hayward, Director, Collaborent Ltd

“Businesses represent the wealth creating engine of our economy. Oxfordshire Voice enables business people to identify the best conditions for growth in our county to fine tune that engine.” Frank Nigriello, Director of Corporate Affairs, Unipart Group “Businesses in Oxford and Oxfordshire need to ensure they are heard by key decision makers. Oxfordshire Voice is filling a void, can only serve a positive purpose and it’s great to see local government and the business community joining forces.” Phil Southall, Managing Director, Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel, Carousel Buses & City Sightseeing Oxford

“With over 35,000 businesses in Oxfordshire, these businesses need to be connected so their voice can be heard. Without a voice, we, the business community, will not be able to progress together as a world-class and connected economy.” Stewart Elliston, Business Development Manager, Freeths “To date Oxfordshire hasn’t had a cohesive business voice. Oxfordshire Voice is an opportunity for local businesses to be heard on matters that really impact on business life.” Richard Venables, Director, VSL & Partners “It is vital that the Oxfordshire business community works together to influence the Government’s active industrial strategy and to secure the greatest possible benefits for our companies and our employees.” Bob Price, Former Leader, Oxford City Council

Messaging At a recent Oxfordshire Voice Board Meeting (thank you to Jurys Inn for hosting), the following key messages were agreed upon to help explain OV’s role: OV is a partnership of business people, elected officials, legislators and budget holders working together to create real opportunities for growth in the region. OV champions the needs of the business community to ensure it gets what it needs to prosper when it needs it. OV means anyone in our business community can make themselves heard. The people who need to listen to them are already available through OV. OV is a partnership of organisations who have a vested interest in the economic future of the region, a real forum for real people to exchange ideas and seek solutions to the issues facing the business community. OV is determined to make a real difference to the way the business community evolves mainly by turning conventional, stuck in the past, thinking on its head. OV is dedicated to giving businesses in the region a real say in shaping their surroundings and helping them grow their businesses. THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR SUPPORT

xLEP

driving economic growth

Oxfordshire Voice as a Brand Oxfordshire Voice is the economic brand for Oxfordshire, a shared brand that public and private organisations can relate to and use in their own promotional activities. The OV brand will be used in four distinct ways:

1. Promoting Oxfordshire: • Website • Social Media • Regular promotional videos • Advertisements

3. Media opportunities • OV partners to be used as spokespeople for OV as required to do so by local and national media

2. Communicating the work of Oxfordshire Voice • Website • Social Media • Video documentaries addressing the key issues affecting Oxfordshire • Regular News Releases issued by Oxfordshire Voice partners • Quarterly Blue Paper summarising the findings of Oxfordshire Voice

4. Partners of Oxfordshire Voice to promote their association • Use of logo in e-mail footers and on websites • Use of logo in partner own advertisements – ‘Proud to be an OV partner’ • Business Cards • Pin Badges

Get Involved

Have Your Say

BECOME AN OXFORDSHIRE VOICE PARTNER If you would like to find out more about becoming an Oxfordshire Voice Partner, contact Richard Rosser on 01865 742211 or email Richard@b4-business.com

If you have a burning issue that you would like Oxfordshire Voice to discuss at one of our Monthly Forums, please contact B4 with more information (details above).

BECOME AN OXFORDSHIRE VOICE OFFICIAL VENUE Join Pembroke College, Williams F1, Unipart, Saïd Business School, Jurys Inn, Freeths and more as an official Oxfordshire Voice venue where our monthly forums will be held. Contact the B4 team (details above) to find out more.

Or if you have some great solutions for problems which you would like to share with us, please let us know. If you think you should be invited into Oxfordshire Voice as one of our expert partners, please tell us why.

HELP TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF OXFORDSHIRE Contact the OV team on 01865 742211 or e-mail Richard@b4-business.com to find out more

Dine in the present surrounded by the past

Enjoy a unique festive dining experience in the medieval Divinity School, Oxford’s most stunning venue.

Friday 7th December 2018 7.00pm Champagne reception with canapés Traditional 3 course Christmas dinner with coffee and mince pies

DINING

To book, please contact Oxford Fine Dining 01865 728 240 • enquiries@oxfordfinedining.co.uk

B4 spotlight

About ByBox Established since 2000, ByBox has led the field service market with innovative supply chain solutions to keep the world working. With hundreds of customers across the globe, ByBox simplifies supply chains, improving security, reducing transport costs, increasing visibility and improving technician efficiency. Headquartered out of the UK, with offices in Burlington, Massachusetts, our solutions pair innovative technology and software with physical lockers, helping companies operate with less inventory while reducing cost. We ensure that parts are in the right place at the right time.

Francisco Partners Invests in ByBox Supporting growth development in the UK and US markets. Written by: ByBox Photography by: Vivacious Mel Photography

Oxford, UK. 06 September 2018. ByBox, specialists in smart locker technology and field service solutions, today announced a strategic investment from Francisco Partners that values ByBox at £221 million. The private equity firm backs ambitious technology-enabled businesses and will support ByBox’s expansion of its UK infrastructure and global deployment of its ‘Konnect’ app-locker solution. “ByBox is a great company with a clear and increasingly critical proposition. Its success comes down to great leadership, outstanding customer service and relentless development of its solutions. Listening closely to customers and really understanding market trends has made ByBox an extremely investible business,” remarked Deep Shah, co-president, Francisco Partners. Working with Francisco Partners will enable ByBox to accelerate the deployment of its ground-breaking app-locker technology both in the UK and across key global markets. ByBox’s app-lockers systematically address the core challenges of the field service supply chain. This should be welcome news to ByBox’s customers, who grapple constantly with how to permanently extinguish unnecessary costs.

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Petri Oksanen, partner, Francisco Partners commented, “We’re excited to help ByBox support its existing UK customer base with new offerings, accelerate its international expansion and penetrate new industries. Our growth experience will complement ByBox’s inventive nature and intelligent solution set in continuing to drive real customer value into the global field service market.” The transaction marks an exit for LDC, a mid-market private equity investor. LDC originally provided £37.5 million of development capital in 2016. In the last two years the business has grown significantly and doubled in value. “LDC are insightful and supportive investors who have worked closely with the ByBox team to formulate and execute a successful strategy. The next phase of this strategy is characterised by ongoing investment in our UK business as well as driving our international expansion. FP have a tremendous track record and will be ideal partners to help us deliver this growth,” commented Stuart Miller, co-founder and CEO of ByBox. “ByBox is a great example of a company with a winning combination of innovative problem-solving technology and fantastic customer service. Under

the impeccable leadership of Stuart and his team, ByBox has grown to become a real market leader in its field, two years ahead of plan,” said Alastair Weinel, investment director at LDC in the South. “Together, we’ve generated significant value and have opened the door for even further expansion. We know this ambitious management team isn’t finished yet and wish the team every success in the next phase of their journey.” “The world is increasingly dependent on technology. When the tech fails, the world stops working. So field service has never been more critical – which is why everybody at ByBox is so excited to be an increasingly critical part of the future solution set. The backing from FP allows us to go faster and to deliver the next phase of our ambition for our customers,” concluded Miller.

 info@bybox.com  +44 (0)2476 584 272  www.bybox.com

The Shape of Things to Come In Issue 53 of B4 we covered Freeths’ roundtable discussion at Pembroke College where we first met Tom Cheesewright, the founder of applied futurism practice, Book of the Future and creator of the Applied Futurist’s Toolkit, a suite of strategy and storytelling tools for agile organisations. Tom recently visited Freeths’ offices to present about life after Brexit and how his clients, including large multinationals, rarely discuss the ‘B’ word and that this presentation was something of a first. Written by: Richard Rosser

“I am an applied futurist and I work mainly for large corporations like BP and HSBC and various public bodies. I work with them to answer three questions: 1. What does our future look like? 2. How do we tell that story to our colleagues and our customers and in some cases our shareholders and future employees? 3. The thorny question – what on earth do we do about it? “I do this in a number of ways. Sometimes I will do a talk like this to the board or the leadership team or the sales teams to inspire some different thinking. Sometimes I will go in and do some more detailed work, consulting with them, developing ideas and strategies. Sometimes they will come to me and I will teach them how to do it for themselves. So people like Sky and Bacardi will come and find out more about the tools that I use in my job to take back to their businesses. “Amazingly, the one thing they have never asked about very little is Brexit. It has been raised in the Q&A at the end of talks but this is the first time I have been formally asked to talk about Brexit. The reason is quite surprising, best illustrated by an anecdote. Just after the referendum, I was doing a talk for the UK workforce of a very large German corporation, who have been a client for a few years. The vote has come in, and it’s not gone the way a lot of people expected. There were three hundred sales people in the room and I’m about to get up on stage and tell them that the biggest driver for change in the future is technology. “I’m a bit nervous about this because this is a company that is potentially going to have to re-do all of the certifications for its products, reorganise all of their trade deals, re-think all of the tax implications and do a huge amount of work

and it’s going to directly impact the three hundred people that I’m about to address. Their deals, their margins, their bonuses. “This company is big enough to have its own Head of Foresight and I actually grabbed him and took him to one side and said, ‘look, I still believe in what I’m going to say but I’m slightly nervous about this. I’m about to stand and tell these people that have had a massive shock in the political domain that technology is going to be the biggest driver of change in their future.

I think a lot of our “ politicians and a lot of

our leaders feel a little ‘Canute like’ at the moment. They’re not railing at the EU and what the EU may or may not do, they are railing at a much bigger tide, a much wider tide of change which has been happening for many years.

”

“He said, ‘no, no we completely agree. It’s a pain, but we just have to deal with it. All of our strategic planning is focused on what technology will do for our business in the long term not what Brexit will do in the short term.’ “And I’ve heard that sentiment over and over and over again. There are exceptions, of course. You may have heard the Chief Executive of Jaguar Land

Rover, Ralf Speth, recently at the Electric Vehicle conference where Theresa May announced the spectacular sum of £106 million towards making us a global leader in electrical vehicles. It sounds an impressive number, but on a global scale probably pales in comparison with what someone like China is ploughing into this. For example, one state in China leant £65 million to one company to increase the use of robots in its business and we’re talking about a national programme which is supposed to be transformative for £100 million! “Speth thinks a no deal Brexit could cost us £1.2 billion. There are companies here who are exporting for whom this issue might be higher up the agenda. But for most of my global clients it is difficult, it is challenging and they are beating up the government over the uncertainty – for example, you may have Jürgen Maier, the UK chief executive of Siemens, talking about it this summer. It’s a challenge but for most, it’s not the biggest challenge they are facing. “Nonetheless, it’s an important and challenging issue and it’s one we are all going to have to face. And it’s something none of us can really plan for at the moment. There is a great deal of uncertainty about who is going to be PM in six months time, what sort of deal will be proposed, what deal Europe will accept. But I can talk in terms of what the whole movement will mean. What it will mean to build more walls and break down connections. What it will mean to us to be separated away from this entity. “One of the analogies that came to mind when looking at the whole situation and trying to understand it was the story of King Canute. We all think we know the story of King Canute and the tide. How this arrogant king set himself against the sea and commanded it not to come in and was rather shocked and surprised when the tide

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B4 legal

disobeyed him and flowed around the legs of his throne. “I think a lot of our politicians and a lot of our leaders feel a little ‘Canute like’ at the moment. They’re not railing at the EU and what the EU may or may not do, they are railing at a much bigger tide, a much wider tide of change which has been happening for many years and one which will continue to happen whether or not there is a Brexit, no deal or otherwise. That tide is one of a shrinking world, of a level of globalisation and interconnectivity that isn’t about capitalism or about free market thinking but is largely underpinned by technology, first of all transport and, more recently, digital communications. We live in a world which is hyper-connected where I can source products, services, whatever I want from just about anywhere in the world in the space of a few clicks or maybe a few voice commands to Alexa. “Whatever we do in terms of Brexit and whatever Donald Trump does in terms of building walls and setting protectionist tariffs against China, we’re not going to reverse that trend. Not, as I say, because of some sort of global, free market conspiracy. It’s simply that our ability to move product, connect and communicate is moving at such an exponential rate. “There was a really interesting book a couple of years ago by Parag Khanna who is the Founder & Managing Partner of FutureMap. He wrote, or rather drew, a book called ‘Connectography’. It was a very visual book about re-mapping the world, not in terms of our historical ideas of geography but in terms of our connections between places. There was a very trite but simple and illustrative statistic which came out of it which is that there are now significantly more miles of connections than borders. Historical ideas of geography and space

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and place have broken down, in large part by our ability to move things very quickly, and more recently by our ability to move ideas and money very quickly. “So our politicians, and certainly those that believe in Brexit, have somewhat set themselves to face this tide. There may good reasons to do that, from both sides. But this tide overwhelms us, ultimately. “The real story of King Canute, who was known as ‘Canute the Great’ is that he set himself against the sea to demonstrate his lack of strength. When the sea didn’t stop he said to his followers ‘God is much more powerful than me, I have my limitations.’ I think some of our leaders are much more like this Canute. They are not necessarily doing this to demonstrate their humility, but they are absolutely aware of what is going to happen. They cannot hold back the tide but they are willing to go in to it to hold on to what power they have. When the tide comes in, they will say ‘it was the will of the people that overcame all.’ “As I said at the beginning, exactly what will happen remains uncertain. But uncertainty is increasingly the new normal. I work with clients to help them to cope with uncertainty and respond rapidly as soon as there is clarity. Part of this is about structure. The new generation of global giants are constructed very differently to the large companies of the past. They are networks of smaller components that can be constantly reconfigured to help them move quickly and adapt. Amazon is a prime example: every internal function of the company is wrapped in a layer of software making it into a stack of virtual Lego bricks. New businesses like Amazon Wine can be assembled by bolting one new brick to the existing services. And just as easily shut down if that idea doesn’t work.

about vision. Clients often struggle with medium term plans over the next 18 months to five years. They are fine with the a vision or the next financial period, but beyond that, and beyond their own limited knowledge of their specific industry, they struggle. With uncertainties like Brexit but more often with the changes forced on us by technology, we are being challenged to change more quickly. “If you want to overcome uncertainties in the future, you need to look for the external factors that are driving macro-level changes. Look beyond issues like Brexit to the bigger issues concerning global companies: primarily how technology is transforming their business. Look at the new choice and competition technology creates. Look at how it’s amplifying the power and productivity of each person in the business. Look at rising expectations for customer service and the speed of business decision-making. And look at the changing shape of our organisations, shifting from monoliths to networks. Consider these things and think about how they intersect with the issues in your business today. What are the points of friction you are facing, slowing you down, making you less efficient? Where these issues intersect with the macro trends is where you will find the next five things you need to focus on.”

 rebecca.howlett@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 082  www.freeths.co.uk

“Another key component of being adaptable is

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B4 legal

“ Each of our clients has

their own needs and we tailor our legal advice and packages to each situation. Some clients want to do everything themselves, except appear in court; while some want a full service and representation throughout their process.

”

New Family Law firm in Abingdon Written by: Emily Boardman & Ruth Hawkins

Photography by: Jacqueline Cross

Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne LLP is a new niche family practice opening on 3rd September 2018 in prestigious new offices in the centre of Abingdon. The three founding partners, Emily Boardman, Ruth Hawkins and Irena Osborne, were previously at Turpin & Miller LLP. The firm will offer legal advice and representation and mediators who are also practising solicitors. The partners and consultants all have established reputations for particular specialisms and many of them appear in both Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500. At Turpin & Miller LLP the family department, led by Emily, Ruth and Irena, won ‘Family Law Department of the Year’ in 2013 at the Jordan’s Family Law Awards. Our ethos is based on a strong commitment to support individuals in some of the most difficult and emotional circumstances of their lives: divorce and separation; disputes over children; involvement with social services, and domestic abuse. We have particularly expertise and sensitivity in dealing with some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Each of our clients has their own needs and we tailor our legal advice and packages to each situation. Some clients want to do everything themselves, except appear in court; while some want a full service and representation throughout their process. We offer competitive private rates, fixed fees where appropriate and legal aid for eligible cases and clients. www.b4-business.com

As individuals Emily and Ruth are both listed as notable practitioners in Chambers & Partners. Emily specializes particularly in representing parents in litigation brought by a local authority as a result of allegations of serious injury, sexual abuse or death. She also has a private adoption practice. Ruth also represents parents, children and extended family members in care proceedings and linked matters such as wardship. She is regularly appointed by CAFCASS to act for children in both care proceedings brought by the local authority, and occasionally within private law disputes, generally between their parents. Ruth is also our family mediator. Irena’s particular interest is in international family law and care proceedings with an international element. She is the only Slovene speaking care lawyer in the UK.

settlements, private children law and pre-nuptial agreements; as well as domestic abuse. She cofounded a local domestic abuse charity to support victims and has worked with a perpetrators programme. Claire undertakes work in all aspects of family law and she too has volunteered with domestic abuse charities. All our solicitors are members of Resolution – a national membership organization that promotes a non-confrontational, constructive approach to family law. We are delighted to be launching our new business in Abingdon, but we are not losing sight of the fact that we have reputations throughout Oxfordshire and Berkshire and beyond. We will be maintaining our links in Oxford and Reading and Newbury and can be flexible about seeing clients from outside of the Abingdon area.

The partners bring with them three consultant solicitors: Helen Bishop, Nel (Helen) Grimbleby and Claire Hardy. Helen deals with divorce, separation, financial settlements, private children law and pre-nuptial agreements. She is the author of ‘Jack’ – an illustrated fiction book to help children deal with the issues that arise out of parental separation. https:// www.amazon.co.uk/Jack-Helen-Victoria-Bishop/ dp/0957108885

 info@bholegal.co.uk  01235 425 500  www.bholegal.co.uk

Nel also deals with divorce, separation, financial 67

Raising the bar: how to protect your business assets on divorce. Hedges Law may be one of the oldest legal practices in the country, boasting as it does some four centuries of delivering legal services across Oxfordshire, but it is very much at the forefront of innovation when it comes to its legal offering. Written by: Hedges Law

Photography by: Jackie Cross

The firm’s latest hire may be a surprise to some, especially those in more traditional professional services practices: Elaine Strachan, a specialist family barrister of over 20 years call has come on board as the new Head of Family Law. Her particular expertise lies in cases involving high net worth individuals and complex assets including companies, partnerships, shareholdings, development property and investments. With over 40% of all UK marriages ultimately ending in divorce and the average age for divorce increasing year on year, it’s no surprise that business interests belonging to one or both spouses are often one of the central issues to be decided. We asked Elaine to provide some top tips to business owners who are concerned that their marriage may be coming to an end. How do you get your business prepared for what lies ahead? “How your business is dealt with on divorce can differ depending on matters such as whether one or both you and your spouse are involved in the business, and whether you are a sole trader or you have established a partnership or a limited company. As a business owner you will undoubtedly want 68

to minimise the impact of the divorce on your business. It is vital to take advice from a specialist family lawyer, not necessarily the company’s legal advisor, as divorce cases are dealt with in the family court, not the commercial court and the difference may be critical. It’s also helpful to be prepared to have an important conversation with your business partners at an early stage; they are likely to find themselves affected by a marital split and getting them on board (or at the very least, informed) may also be key.

court is likely “to The take a pragmatic approach, so where a business is the source of the family’s current prosperity, everything will be done to allow it to continue to be run successfully going forward.

”

Elaine Strachan - Hedges Law

In every divorce case one of the first steps is for the divorcing couple to exchange full details of their financial worth. As part of this disclosure exercise the courts routinely ask that business interests are valued and this can be a costly exercise. The main thing is to take a sensible and commercial view, doing everything possible early on to get a consensus as to the value of the business so that legal costs don’t escalate needlessly. The court is likely to take a pragmatic approach, so where a business is the source of the family’s current prosperity, everything will be done to allow it to continue to be run successfully going forward. We talk about ‘not killing the goose that lays the golden eggs!’ However, it can be the case that the business assets carry significantly greater risk than the other matrimonial assets and how this is factored into any settlement clearly then becomes very important indeed. This is particularly true of minority shareholdings for non-listed companies. The court will take a practical and sensible approach and each case is dealt with on its own merit. It is fundamental to ensure you are completely appraised of all of the indicators as to how your business is performing, so that relevant information can be provided to your lawyer and you can obtain the right www.b4-business.com

B4 legal

Elaine Strachan

The main thing is to take “a sensible and commercial view, doing everything possible early on to get a consensus as to the value of the business so that legal costs don’t escalate needlessly.

”

Elaine Strachan - Hedges Law

advice. It is also a time if you have not already done so, to develop a good working relationship with your accountant, who may also become an integral part of your Divorce Team. So, in summary:

ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES, TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND REALLY GET TO GRIPS WITH UNDERSTANDING WHAT INFORMATION YOU ARE GOING TO NEED TO PROVIDE YOUR LAWYER ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS Be ready to confirm to your lawyer: • What income does the business generate? • If the business is a limited company: what is your shareholding, who are the other shareholders and what restrictions are there on transferring or selling shares? • Does your spouse have a formal role in the business; e.g. shareholder, director or company secretary? • Is there a clear pipeline of future income and how secure is the future of the business? • What are the main assets of the business and what is their value? www.b4-business.com

“

With over 40% of all UK marriages ultimately ending in divorce and the average age for divorce increasing year on year, it’s no surprise that business interests belonging to one or both spouses are often one of the central issues to be decided.

best the benefits from the business can be shared while allowing the business to continue running successfully.” If you would welcome a chance for a preliminary walk-through of your business position on divorce or relationship break-up, do contact Elaine in confidence;

”

Elaine Strachan - Hedges Law

• Does the business have a pension? If so what is its value and is there a deficit which might affect the value of the business? • Is there capital in the business that can easily be extracted? • Would it be possible to borrow money against the business? Taking early advice is important. The key to reaching a fair financial settlement and avoiding long and costly litigation may well be to agree with your spouse how

    

Elaine.strachan@hedgeslaw.co.uk 01865 587 625 www.hedgeslaw.co.uk @hedgeslaw @hedgeslaw

Summer promotions announced at Oxford’s leading law firm Freeths Solicitors is delighted to announce the promotion of nine of its outstanding lawyers to senior positions; five lawyers have been promoted to Senior Associate while a further four lawyers were promoted to Associate. Written by: Freeths Solicitors Photography by: Emma Roby

Laura Hodgson, who sits in the firm’s topranked and highly regarded real estate team, has been promoted to senior associate. Laura handles acquisitions and disposals of freehold and leasehold properties, investment property, development with construction aspects, commercial landlord and tenant matters and real estate finance. Her clients range from SME’s to large corporate organisations, LLPs, partnerships, financial institutions, the public sector and a number of exempt and nonexempt charities. Laura Czapski has been promoted to senior associate and works in the firm’s UK top-ranked farmers and landed estates team. Laura handles agricultural and rural property work acting for farmers, landowners, charities and landed estates. She assists with sales and purchases of property, farms and land including conditional contracts and overage documentation. Catherine Bell has been promoted to senior associate and sits within the top-ranked clinical negligence team. Catherine is a solicitor-advocate

specialising in clinical negligence, with particular expertise in complex neurological claims. She represents both children and adults who have suffered brain damage as a result of medical treatment, including children with cerebral palsy. Catherine also handles a broad range of clinical negligence claims including obstetric and gynaecological injuries, spinal injuries, visual impairment, amputations and fatal claims. Patricia Grout, who is based in the firm’s UK top-ranked private client team, which is one of the largest teams in the South East, has been promoted to senior associate. Tricia specialises in financial management for clients under a physical or mental disability, including those who have received damages awards. When one of the partners has been appointed by the Court of Protection as a deputy or a personal injury trustee, she manages the matters on a day-to-day basis. Kirsty Southgate who also sits in the private client team at Freeths has been promoted to senior associate. Kirsty has a great deal of experience in drafting complex Wills, inheritance tax planning and

Estate administration. She has a particular interest in all mental capacity matters, such as drafting and registering Lasting Powers of Attorney and applying to the Court of Protection for Deputyship Orders. She is also appointed as a personal Deputy for vulnerable clients. Kirsty also assists with the creation, administration and taxation of trusts. Matthew Bacon has been promoted to associate and works in the highly regarded defendant personal injury department. Matt handles all types of personal injury claims including, road traffic accidents, employers’ liability, public liability, and product liability matters. He specialises in employers’ liability and public liability claims including claims for industrial disease. Tom Burgess is part of the UK top-ranked family law team at Freeths. Tom has been promoted to associate and specialises in family law with a focus on helping separating couples to reach an amicable agreement quickly. When going to court is the only option, Tom has extensive experience of contested court proceedings.

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B4 legal

From left to right, Kirsty Southgate, Joanne Edwards, Lauren Shaw, Matthew Bacon, Patricia Grout, Laura Hodgson, Tom Burgess, Catherine Bell, Laura Czapski.

Joanne Edwards is based in the firm’s highly regarded residential conveyancing team. Joanne has been promoted to associate. She is a licensed conveyancer specialising in residential property transactions and has vast experience in handling freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals, including re-mortgages, first registrations of title, deeds of variation, assents and transfers of equity. She regularly deals with transactions ranging from £300,000 to over £3 million. Lauren Shaw, who also sits in the firm’s UK topranked farmers and landed estates team has been promoted to associate. Lauren has a wealth of experience across a range of property matters. She regularly acts for developers in relation to site sales and acquisitions, landlords and tenants, and financial institutions. Lauren also specialises in property finance and project finance for farm businesses. Sarah Foster, managing partner at Freeths’ Oxford Office, commented, “I am proud to announce news of our summer promotions. Our culture and values are very much about rewarding staff for

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I am proud to “ announce news of our

summer promotions. Our culture and values are very much about rewarding staff for enthusiasm, energy, and for their entrepreneurial approach to solving clients’ problems. We pride ourselves on looking after our clients’ best interests and providing them with a service that is second to none.

”

enthusiasm, energy, and for their entrepreneurial approach to solving clients’ problems. We pride ourselves on looking after our clients’ best interests and providing them with a service that is second to none. These promotions recognise the hard work and commitment of these lawyers. I look forward to announcing further promotions in the future.”

 sarah.foster@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 000  www.freeths.co.uk

Sarah Foster, managing partner at Freeths’ Oxford

B4 hr

EMMA C BROWNING PROFESSIONAL, COMMERCIAL & PRACTICAL HR SOLUTIONS When I asked Emma what it is that she does in her HR consultancy business, she surprised me with her answer! “It’s a question I’m often asked as many people still think of HR as the role that just deals with sorting out the people problems, but it’s so much more than that! A good HR professional will work closely with the management team or owners to understand their business goals fully and work out a people strategy to help them deliver those goals. We work with business owners or management teams to create the right environment for their people which will help them grow a thriving and profitable business where its people are at the core of their success. This will also ensure they can attract, retain and develop the best people for their business, because a great business needs great people. As we work this way with our clients, about 80% of what we do is what I call pro-active HR, that’s helping ambitious SME’s in Oxfordshire to reach their business potential through their people as we have described. This approach means we have very few people problems or issues to resolve. However, when we do have these types of issues to deal with, we have over a century of hands on experience in our team to help you resolve any employee relations issues with the minimum of fuss and disruption, allowing you to get on with the day job.

So how do we go about this? Firstly, we start with a full audit of your people processes and practices to understand exactly what you are doing/not doing from a people perspective, and what needs to be introduced, or improved upon, also ensuring that you are meeting all employment legislation too. We agree what the priorities are and we then work with the management team and employees to create bespoke people processes and practices that are unique to their businesses and by involving all parties. We make sure that we have the buy in from everyone before a new or amended process is implemented. Or we specifically coach or train managers/Directors and business owners to improve their people management skills to make sure they get the best from their people. And of course, we also work with businesses to resolve any serious people issues they may have, www.b4-business.com

quickly, fairly and with the minimum of disruption and fuss.” MD at a Scientific Company in Oxfordshire: “Reviewing our Business Plan, and the reasons it wasn’t quite happening, I realised we had not properly engaged our most important asset – our people. I started working with Emma a year ago and it was immediately apparent that she has a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of people and how their performance at work can be improved. She has coached me, as well as key members of my team, and in a short period we have learnt a great deal. Emma is very engaging, very hands-on – she challenges, but is always professional when she does so. With Emma’s help we are now developing a ‘people strategy’ which is already helping us to deliver our business goals.” Business Owner Oxfordshire: “We have been working with Emma for the last year to specifically work with us on developing our people skills and helping us to improve morale in the business. Emma has been an invaluable source of honest and practical advice to us and has had a significant impact on building morale and developing people management skills with our Team Leaders.“ HR Manager at Oxfordshire business providing afterschool clubs and summer camps: “We began working with Emma last year following a recommendation for her professional, thorough but also very personal approach, and we have not been disappointed. Emma is a pleasure to work with, she has helped us tighten up our HR policies and procedures to ensure we are in line with employment law, and is always available to offer support when needed. She has recently helped us through some tricky and very sensitive situations, which we would have struggled to manage properly without her support.

and Change from Oxford Brookes Business School. All of the team are highly qualified HR professionals, who are all members of the CIPD and have similar qualifications to myself. But it’s not just about the certificates on the wall, it’s about working in the real world and putting things into practice too! We have over 100 years’ of hands on real life experience as a team, and we guarantee that whatever it is you need help with in relation to your people, we have the expertise and experience to help. We are practical and commercial and have a real passion for what we do, plus we are told we are fun to work with too!

Who do we work best with? • Ambitious businesses with 5 – 80 people that are looking to grow and recognise the need to have good people policies and practices in place to ensure they succeed and reach their goals • Or businesses that are struggling in some way and who realise it may be down to their people! We will work with them to understand why this might be and help them to create and implement a plan to resolve their people issues, which in turn will improve their business • Or businesses that want in house training or 1:1 coaching to help their managers to develop and improve their people management skills • HR teams or Businesses that need specialist help on a specific HR project”

Watch B4’s interview with Emma by scanning this QR code or visit: b4-business.com/b4tv

Emma’s workshops for her clients are always informative and well presented, and we appreciate her regular newsletters giving us updates on employment law plus tips and news on a range of HR issues. I don’t know how we managed before enlisting Emma’s help!”

So why work with me and the team? “I am a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, and have a Post Graduate Degree in Human Resources and a Master’s Degree in the Management of Innovation

 emma@emmacbrowning.com  01280 848 415 / 07766 741 738  www.emmacbrowning.com

Just relax... we’ll take care of everything Your property fully managed for the first year for just 5%* NOPS is a local family Oxford business, we care for your property like our own. You can speak with Debbie on

01865 318547 * TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

N O P S , 4 8 W A L T O N S T R E E T, J E R I C H O , O X F O R D O X 2 6 A D

Telephone: +44(0)1865 318538 • www.nops.co.uk

The B4 Masterclasses Begin The first of our B4 Masterclasses was presented by B4 Platinum members, You HR, at our new offices in Weston-on-the-Green. A fantastic opportunity for B4 members to learn from an expert and an opportunity for our masterclass presenters to engage with potential customers, the B4 Masterclasses are here to stay so why not get in touch to find out about becoming a presenter. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other B4 members and get an updated photo for your B4 profile in our new photographic studio. their talk and we also send out a survey to provide feedback to the presenter.

Costs None! There’s no cost to present and there’s no cost to attend – it’s a B4 member benefit.

Who are the masterclasses open to? Any employee who works for a B4 member. We reckon, conservatively, there are in excess of 20,000 employees so why not send your staff along for some free training?

What have we got to look forward to? So Why Masterclasses?

We already have over 50 masterclasses lined up for 2019 and hope to have doubled this by the end of the year.

With the exception of Business in Oxford where B4 members have the opportunity to present on one day in the year, we have never had a platform for B4 members to promote their services to the B4 community. There is a wealth of expertise in the B4 community so we thought it would be a great idea to set up regular masterclasses at our fabulous new offices, just off the A34 near Bicester.

About YouHR Jonna is a Human Resources and Organisational Development professional. A fellow member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (FCIPD) with over 20 years experience across both public and private sector, from the NHS and RBS to Centrica and the Royal Mail. In 2010 Jonna set up the consultancy to address the need for a personalised approach to HR solutions more aligned to differing client business needs.

The Format It starts well in advance of the actual masterclass with a 2 minute HOW TO video shot with the presenter in the B4 studios. We then use that video through social media to engage potential delegates to sign for the masterclass up to two months later.

If you are interesting in hosting your own Masterclass at B4 HQ get in touch today on 01865 742211 or email info@b4-business.com

Promotion of the masterclasses will make it clear: a. Which businesses should register – what business sizes, from specific sectors where applicable and who in the business should register b. What level of knowledge is assumed – is this a beginners class or is there a level of knowledge assumed The masterclass itself lasts for 90 minutes and includes networking with the other delegates, the presentation itself and Q&A. Depending on the time of day, we also provide all refreshments. The presenter will provide a FACT SHEET summarising

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where things are going wrong. Please contact Jonna (details below) if you would like a copy of the FACT SHEET from this presentation.

Good Practice Employment with You HR Many SME’s don’t have HR support or realise the invaluable benefits of engaging such support to ensure their most important asset is managed, their staff! Like other services provided (IT, Finance, Legal) engaging HR expertise is a vital component of any business to assist in navigating, developing and proactively advising the right way forwards to enable development in your business and for individuals’. All too often HR is engaged at a point

 jonna@youhr.co.uk  01491 820 752  www.youhrconsultancy.co.uk

B4 events

FANTASTIC B4 CLASSIC EVENT AT RHODES HOUSE On 6th September B4 members and guests enjoyed an evening of networking with drinks and canapés at the stunning home of the Rhodes Scholars, Rhodes House. With a pre-event Masterclass from Hayley Monks of Think Inspire Create who presented guests with a wonderful and appropriate topic for discussion: “The Future of the Workforce - Does the quality of the human interaction become more important as automation grows?”. Photography by: Rob Scotcher

Isabelle Barber, Business Development Manager of Rhodes House commented: “It’s always such a pleasure to welcome the B4 community to Rhodes House. We have become great friends with so many B4 members who hold their events at Rhodes House during the year and there’s always such a wonderful atmosphere when B4 are with us.”

About Rhodes House

B4’s Richard Rosser added: “The B4 Classic Event is always a highlight of our networking calendar and we must be fast approaching double figures for this annual fixture. We are always warmly welcomed by Isabelle Barber and her team and we would like to extend special thanks to Sophie Wadey, Ross & Ross and Majestic Wine for their support this year. We look forward to returning in 2019.”

For nearly a century Rhodes House has been the gathering place for Rhodes Scholars and distinguished guests. Now, the House is available so that others can enjoy the peace, quiet and unique atmosphere of this venue. It is ideal for both corporate and private events, for large and small functions.

A hidden delight situated in the heart of Oxford, Rhodes House is a beautiful venue steeped in history – ideal for dinners, business meetings, product launches and weddings.

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New and Existing Members in Attendance

6TH

SEP Forthcoming B4 Events B4 Platinum Dinner at The Cherwell Boathouse : Oct 2 2018 @ 7:00pm 10:30pm



Scan to see the event photos:

B4 Classic Event & Art Showcase at Freeths : Oct 4 2018 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm B4 Masterclass with Open Doors: How to find success through networking : Oct 5 2018 @ 12:00pm - 1:30pm Explore B4 : Oct 10 2018 @ 11:00am 12:30pm B4 Masterclass with Digital Aid Consulting: Appointing the right agency to build your website : Oct 12 2018 @ 12:00pm - 1:30pm B4 Welcome Brunch : Oct 17 2018 @ 11:00am - 12:30pm B4 Classic Event at TOAD (The Oxford Artisan Distillery) : Oct 24 2018 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm B4 Classic Event at Divinity School : Oct 29 2018 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm B4 Classic Event at Oxford Town Hall : Nov 21 2018 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm www.b4-business.com

   

admin@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk +44 (0)1865 282 599 www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk @rhodes_trust

Addis Law ads advertising & design solutions Alberon Ltd ANPR Consulting Ltd AR Hine Associates BAGP Blenders Brasenose Business Services Brown Creative Chapman Robinson & Moore Accountants Cherry Picked Residential Charity Ninja CIS LTD COEL CQR Consulting Ltd CRS Document Solutions Cultural Chemistry Databasix UK Digital Aid Consulting Empiric Partners LLP Experience Oxfordshire FC Webster Consulting Ltd Forty3 Consulting Frederick Jewson Garbott Ltd Glue Films Harvey Fuchs Consulting Hedges Law Helen & Douglas House Highfield Business Associates Limited Hine Solicitors Ian Bridge Consultancy Limited Juicy Designs Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel Knights PLC Mark Carrington Mayfield Press Metro Bank Mulholland Landscape Consultants Museum of Oxford Neve’s Bees Oxford Abingdon Hotel Oxford CleanTech Oxford Sciences Innovation PoppyRed Cake Company Prime Energy Fitness Proficio Solutions RCM Richardsons Robin Swailes Design & Development Sobell House St James’s Place The Plastic Goldfish Company The Wonky Food Company Viavi:be Health Gym Warpline Webboutiques Limited Whitley Stimpson Ltd Wildbore & Gibbons Willow Innovation Ltd. You HR Consultancy Zanzi Digital

FIRST NXT EVENT A GREAT SUCCESS Guests were blown away by the first nxt event for under 25â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s held on friday 6th july.

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B4 events

Scan to view the event photos

The Oxfordshire event, which took place at The Varsity Club, was a resounding success with guests attending from across the county. The visitors ranged from creative, entrepreneurial and professional backgrounds. All welcomed the opportunity to meet up with business professionals aged between 18 - 25, working across a range of sectors and make vital connections. For many guests this time away from the office was a valuable resource enabling them to equip themselves with the latest information on how to grow, engage and utilise social media platforms with Matilda Rose, Founder of That Oxford Girl. Matilda, with over 21.8K followers on Instagram, has built a very influential brand in Oxford which has seen her sign a publishing deal as well as working with many high end brands.

Edward Rosser, Founder of NXT added: “Thank you to everyone who attended the first NXT event, it was great to see so many young people from different professional backgrounds attend. Also thank you to Tilly Rose aka That Oxford Girl as well as The Varsity Club who both made the event special. I’ll look forward to seeing you at the next one.”

WHO ARE NXT? A network of 25 year old’s and under from creative, entrepreneurial and professional backgrounds. NXT aim’s to engage this demographic by hosting events which consists of value adding keynote sessions, as well as the chance to grow and develop individual networks.

Matilda Rose, Founder of That Oxford Girl commented: “A brilliant launch for the NXT’s young person’s network - buzzing from start to finish.” In addition, many guests had the chance to enjoy the spectacular roof terrace views available at The Varsity Club, alongside the selection of drinks and cocktail deals provided by the fantastic bar staff.

 info@b4-nxt.com  01865 742 211  www.b4-nxt.com

“ A brilliant launch for the NXT’s young person’s network - buzzing from start to finish. ” Matilda Rose, Founder of That Oxford Girl

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Barclays: A bright future for Plainlaw If Oxford solicitor Philip Horn thought bringing his daughter into the family business would allow him to take a bit of a back seat as he approached his 60th birthday, it proved to be a miscalculation.

“I was thinking of focusing on networking and lunches with clients, but the year Emma joined the firm, turnover increased by 30%, so the whole team – including me - is now working harder than ever,” he said.

“What usually happens is that they start by giving us a reasonably small piece of work and then, once they see what we can do, they begin using us for bigger contracts.”

While Oxford graduate and City-trained Emma has added to the firm’s skill set, the increase in work reflects the customer focus and responsive nature of the whole team at Plainlaw Solicitors, which specialises in commercial property, high-end residential property and, latterly, construction work, which is becoming a major growth area for the firm.

One such new client is an overseas development company that is building student accommodation in UK university towns. Disappointed with their London lawyers, the business asked for recommendations and was pointed in the direction of Plainlaw.

Philip believes the impressive growth reflects the fact that more and more businesses are looking to distribute their work among a number of firms in order to spread any risks – and realising that larger, City firms don’t always live up to their higher price tag, particularly when it comes to service. “On a number of occasions we have been approached by businesses that have been unhappy with their big-name solicitors and have been recommended to us by one of our existing clients,” he explained.

“After an initial meeting they took a chance on us and gave us some work,” Philip recalled. “It was a demanding project so we got everybody involved, and they were so pleased with the result that we are still working for them.” Locally, Plainlaw has a number of important clients, including Oxford BioMedica and RM Group, based at Milton Park. Black & Decker UK is another big name on the client list. Plainlaw also provides specialist services to a number of in-house legal teams

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B4 finance

that don’t have the expertise to tackle commercial work. “Working for other lawyers adds an extra layer of challenge to the work, but the repeat business shows we are keeping the clients happy,” Philip commented. Not surprisingly, it was the realisation that his existing bank was no longer giving him value for money that prompted Philip to move the Plainlaw account to Barclays, where Relationship Director Barry McGuinness now provides valuable support to the fast-growing firm. “We were with another high street name, but one that had moved away from relationship banking. Their software meant we were virtually doing our own banking, which was fine until they wanted to raise the price considerably without providing any more of a service,” said Philip. “We knew Barclays were well thought of amongst Oxford’s law firms and understood the requirements of the legal profession and so we switched, and have not looked back since. “We are pleased with the service and with the support we get from Barry as our relationship director. He understands the business and is always on hand if we need him.” In another example of Plainlaw’s broad client base, the firm also acts as a ‘virtual real estate department’ for a number of US firms that need UK-based expertise when dealing with property over here. “It’s another area where we are picking up work that the larger London firms might expect to be doing, but we are being recommended by one US corporate to another, and that is always the best way to build a client base,” Philip explained. The growth in the client base is particularly impressive for a firm that comprised just Philip and a legal secretary working in his dining room until just seven years ago. After qualifying in 1984, Phillip spent 15 years working in London before taking the opportunity to join Manches and move to the calmer atmosphere of Oxford. A few years later he decided to set up his own firm in the city he had grown to love. “I wanted to avoid the traditional approach of using my own name and I also wanted the name to provide a clue to the service. I chose Plainlaw to reflect my aim of giving straightforward ‘what you see is what you get’ advice,” Philip recalled. In another break with tradition, Philip is open about the fact that he is there to help his clients, not just to tell them what the law says. “There is a split between academic and commercial lawyers and we definitely see ourselves in the commercial camp,” he said. “There are those who

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just lay out the facts, but we know that if a client comes to us for advice they expect to at least be guided in the right direction, even though we stop short of making the decision for them.”

for the necessary form, they didn’t have one. “They were a bit stumped,” he recalled. “They knew the rules had changed but they hadn’t got any paperwork for me to fill in.”

From 2002 until 2003, Philip and his secretary worked from home, something Emma, still at school at the time, remembers. “I’d come home and dad would be in the dining room with papers spread everywhere,” she recalled.

After overcoming the administrative hurdles Plainlaw became only the fourth alternative business structure in the UK – and Debbie and Sue were partners. “We beat the corporates and the firm is stronger because of it,” Philip said. “I’m rather proud of that.”

Expansion began that year with the arrival of partner Brendan Rolle-Rowan and continued in 2013 when Philip “finally” persuaded former colleague Stephen Stratton to move over from Manches and join him.

One other member of the Plainlaw team has made an important contribution to the growth of the firm.

Meanwhile Emma’s dining room introduction to the life of a lawyer had clearly had an effect, at least subconsciously. She studied history and politics at Jesus College, Oxford from 2007 and then – with no pressure from dad – did a law conversion course.

was thinking “ofI focusing on

networking and lunches with clients, but the year Emma joined the firm, turnover increased by 30%, so the whole team – including me is now working harder than ever

”

Philip Horn - Plainlaw

Emma trained at City firm Withers, which is well known for its expertise in private client and family law, but despite having specifically avoided her father’s area of expertise she found herself qualifying as a member of Withers’ commercial property team. A year later, in February 2017, she joined Plainlaw. While Emma is the fourth fee-earning partner at Plainlaw, there are two other non-lawyer partners in the firm, Practice Manager Debbie Horn – Emma’s mother – and Head of Finance Sue Bedford. Such a situation used to be impossible. Until five years ago only lawyers could be partners in a legal firm, but the arrival of the alternative business structure model changed the rules. Philip was – and remains – so passionate in his belief that every employee needs to have their say in how a business is run that when the new structure came in, he was quick to take advantage of it. So quick, in fact, that when he contacted the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority on day one to ask

Femke Bakker came to the UK in 2006 after working in Dubai and was taken on by Philip as a paralegal and given a training contract. To make sure she benefited from the necessary breadth of training, Philip seconded her to other law firms, where she picked up new skills. Femke qualified in employment law, but after practising with another firm for a time she rejoined Plainlaw as a property lawyer. “Femke has gained some useful experience in construction law which dovetails nicely with our existing commercial side and has given us a more holistic approach,” Philip said. “We are now doing more and more work with construction businesses and have a useful additional service to offer our corporate occupier clients.” Philip believes the future is bright for Plainlaw, which could be looking at another year of expansion and increasing turnover. “We don’t like to rest on our laurels and we are always looking for high quality candidates to join our growing team,” he commented. “Who knows what the future will bring?”

 philip.horn@plainlaw.co.uk  01865 240202  www.plainlaw.co.uk

 barry.mcguinness@barclays.com  07766 361 277  www.barclayscorporate.com Barclays Bank PLC is registered in England (Company No. 1026167) with its registered office at 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP. Barclays Bank PLC is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No. 122702) and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Barclays is a trading name and trade mark of Barclays PLC and its subsidiaries The views expressed in this article are the views of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Barclays Bank PLC Group nor should they be taken as statements of policy or intent of the Barclays Bank PLC Group. The Barclays Bank PLC Group takes no responsibility for the veracity of information contained in the third party guides or articles and no warranties or undertakings of any kind, whether express or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information given. The Barclays Bank PLC Group takes no liability for the impact of any decisions made based on information contained and views expressed

An Introduction to

Cazenove Capital Cazenove Capital Portfolio Director, Tom Allen, visited B4TV to give readers an overview of the role Cazenove Capital plays in the context of the wider Schroders group. You can see the full interview at the link on the right hand page. Written by: Richard Rosser Photography by: Rob Scotcher

‘Cazenove Capital is the wealth management arm of the Schroders Group and both companies have been around for approximately two hundred years and are well known, institutional city companies. Schroders took over Cazenove Capital back in 2014 and the combined companies now manage £44 billion between them. “There are seven of us in the Oxford office comprising three portfolio managers, three assistants and our PA Jacky Dines.” Cazenove Capital offers a full range of services to their clients when managing their money, from ISA’s to pensions to offshore investment bonds, trusts etc… Tom is at pains to make it clear that all clients are treated as individuals at Cazenove Capital. “Our clients often come to us without really knowing what their needs are and what they are trying to achieve. Having these key conversations enables us to ensure they are making full use of their tax allowances and associated benefits and the income they require is being delivered on a regular basis.

“We potentially portray an image of the typical Cazenove Capital client as having a wealth of £30-40 million which is far from the truth. We deal with a huge range of clients from business leaders, to professionals, entrepreneurs and college professors… all people who have accumulated wealth and saved over their lifetime. We start investing for clients at £500,000 and there are a surprisingly large number of people who meet that criteria and if you do, you should feel very comfortable about coming to Cazenove Capital to talk about your long term investment needs as you will be in very good company.” In terms of challenges to Cazenove Capital, without wishing to mention the ‘B’ word, Tom is very clear in that Cazenove Capital’s role is to deliver for its clients, year in, year out. “The markets are relatively high at the moment so finding value in those markets is becoming increasingly difficult, although not impossible.

It is certainly harder than in 2008 and 2009 when the markets had tumbled. But there’s no hiding from the fact that we are entering a period of uncertainty with global economies, potential trade wars and the ‘B’ word as you say all having an effect. We have to make sure that portfolios are positioned in such a way that they are protected if we do see any issues, but also ensuring we are achieving good returns for our clients in the long run.” In a world of data at our fingertips, we are all experts on what is wrong with us before we go and see the GP, so does the same apply in the financial world of investments and does Tom find he is having to placate an increasingly knowledgeable clientele who are telling him and his colleagues what they are expecting? “It’s an interesting question and very relevant and, yes, we do manage expectations and do tell our clients they have to be realistic about the returns they can expect. We also illustrate that, over the past ten years, our clients have had decent returns at all

We deal with a huge range of clients from business leaders, to “ professionals, entrepreneurs and college professors… all people who have accumulated wealth and saved over their lifetime ” 82

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B4 finance

Watch B4’s interview with Tom Allen by scanning this QR code or by visiting: www.b4-business.com/b4tv

Our clients often “come to us without really knowing what their needs are and what they are trying to achieve

”

illustrate that, over the past ten years, our clients have had decent “ We also returns at all risk levels. Ensuring that our clients’ expectations are realistic ”

risk levels. Ensuring that our clients’ expectations are realistic and met is one of our key roles. We’re not in the business of promising the world and failing to deliver.”

An overview of Cazenove Capital’s key services Investment Management Our first investment is in understanding your objectives. We take the time to get to know our clients’ circumstances, priorities and ambitions. We use our long-standing experience and expertise to choose the investment solutions best able to deliver continued prosperity, responsibly and securely. • Award-winning investment management that delivers results • A dedicated team that understands your personal objectives • Access to the research capabilities of the entire Schroders Group

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Wealth Planning

Our wealth planning specialists sit at the core of the expert team we assemble around each of our clients and are entirely focused on helping you to meet your goals. We take a holistic approach - considering your wealth as a whole, covering areas such as: the structure of your investments; retirement plans; and whether your lifestyle and the needs of your family should be protected by insurance. We always focus on growing your wealth and preserving it for future generations.

future goals. We are committed to offering every existing client the banking services they need. From mortgages, bridging finance, and lending against investment portfolios, to cash deposits and foreign exchange - we have a variety of banking services available exclusively to clients.

• Lending solutions for complex situations • Simple cash administration for peace of mind • Foreign exchange services

• Expert knowledge of pension and tax changes • Seamless interaction with both investment managers and wealth planners • Holistic planning that ensures your investments are structured efficiently

Banking Services By offering clients the ability to bank with us we provide a suite of services, all focused on meeting our clients’ long-term needs and achieving their

 tom.allen@cazenovecapital.com  +44 (0)1865 811 360  www.cazenovecapital.com

The B4 finance debate brought to you in association with Wenn Townsend Wenn Townsend partner Tony Haines wants some clarity about finance and how his clients can access it to fuel future growth. With some financial experts claiming we are on the verge of another recession, combined with seemingly never-ending uncertainty surrounding the implications of Brexit, businesses in need of finance to grow are, according to Tony, finding it increasingly difficult to find a way through the changing lending criteria which banks put in their way. Over the next year, B4 will tackle these finance issues, find out what the key challenges are for businesses, ask if our criticisms of the lenders are valid and look at what other sources of finance are open to business owners as they plan for the future. Written by: Tony Haines Photography by: Rob Scotcher (portrait)

Tony quips that, “There has always been a bit of a view that banks are keen to lend when you don’t need it but when you need it, the going gets tough.” Whether that’s true or not, Tony speaks from the experiences he has heard through his large customer portfolio at Wenn Townsend, one of Oxfordshire’s leading and most respected Chartered Accountants. “It’s difficult these days because, from what I and other partners have seen, there are a rigorous set of rules that the banks impose, which is fine as it’s their money and I know it’s ten or eleven years ago since the financial crisis, but we are still reeling from the banking crisis and companies are finding it harder than ever to access finance. I don’t think anyone realised how deep the crisis was at the time, but obviously, with hindsight, it was very precarious and it’s not a place we want to go back to. Having said that, lending criteria changes too frequently. The lending criteria is given to clients when they apply for finance and before they know it, the goalposts have changed. Certainly in my experience this has happened with one or two of the High Street lenders.” Claims Tony. “We still have the problem that whilst a manager knows a client, cases still get 84

passed up to Head Office and quite often local agreements are overturned. Its normal for owner managed companies to give personal guarantees – this has always been the case - but quite often the link between salaries and dividends is something that a lot of bank staff seem to find difficult to understand. Frequently an owner manager will have a low salary and high dividend to be more tax efficient and avoid, legitimately, paying NI. They apply for a loan but the lender will look at three or four times their salary only, which might only be £7 or £8,000 although their total package might be in excess of £50,000. “Dividends, as far as banks are concerned, aren’t earned income. If you’re dealing with providers who can’t accept the total take from a company then I think we have a problem. They should have staff capable of understanding that an owner manager who splits his or her income between him or herself and their spouse to be tax efficient is actually earning more than they give him or her credit for. “There are all sorts of legitimate tax efficient arrangements for couples that are penalised when it comes to looking at financing. You might have a client who has had two or three years of heavy pension premiums that would otherwise www.b4-business.com

B4 finance

The Finance Debate Timetable Timings

Magazine Issue or Other

Issue in Circulation or other relevant dates

Details

By end of September

Survey to be circulated to B4 members

Survey closed mid October

SURVEY: YOU AND BANK FINANCE

Before end of September

Roundtable at B4 offices

N/A

Up to 8 B4 member businesses invited to the B4 offices for discussion about finance – findings to be included in Issue 55.

Before the end of October

B4 Magazine Issue 55

Mid November

Survey findings and summary of roundtable discussion

Before end of November

Roundtable at B4 offices

N/A

Up to 8 B4 member bank representatives invited to the B4 offices for discussion about finance – findings to be included in Issue 56.

Before the end of December

B4 Magazine Issue 56

Mid January

Summary of roundtable discussion

Before end of January

Roundtable at B4 offices

N/A

Up to 8 B4 member guests invited to the B4 offices for discussion about alternatives to traditional forms of finance – findings to be included in Issue 57.

Before the end of February

B4 Magazine Issue 57

Mid March

Summary of roundtable discussion

Before end of March

Roundtable at B4 offices

N/A

Up to 8 guests invited to the B4 offices for discussion about finance – findings to be included in Issue 58. An open discussion to include invited guests.

Before the end of April

B4 Magazine Issue 58

Mid May

Summary of roundtable discussion.

Before the end of June

B4 Magazine Issue 59

Mid July

Interview with Tony Haines to recap on the series to start again.

go into their own bank account but for tax efficiency they have decided to make pension payments for one reason or other, but these amounts aren’t taken into account by a lender. It’s difficult to get past some of those issues when a company and the bank manager that assists the company understands what they are doing, but head office rejects the application further down the line because they don’t take all of the facts into account.” Tony has known people use credit cards to get cash deposits to put down on house purchases and with credit card debt at its highest level since 2007, has the public learned its lesson? Arguably not. It’s down to the individual and to be fair to the banks, they have had to get tougher because of past experiences. But the debt that has built up will take time to turn around. There are alternatives. Boutique Banks are appearing as an alternative to the traditional High Street lenders. There are also banks with a new approach such as Metro which has just opened in Oxford and which appears very much open for business. Even crowdfunding has become a reliable source of finance. So is Tony wrong or are the banks right to adopt a draconian / ever changing approach to lending? Have you had problems applying for finance or can you shed light on why the banking system, seemingly, adapts the rules to deliberately make it hard for you to borrow? Do you even regard traditional banking as core to your business operations or have you found reliable alternatives?

www.b4-business.com

Through a series of surveys, round tables and open and honest debate, B4, in association with Wenn Townsend, is just looking for clarity. This isn’t a witch hunt, it’s a straightforward look into helping all businesses understand what the banks are looking for when it comes to lending and giving us all the facts so we can accept when things don’t quite go to plan. It’s also an opportunity for the banks to educate the business community and help in the long run.

Let’s get to the bottom of the issues so we can all be better prepared to invest our time efficiently in growing our businesses at a time when time is of the essence for all of us.

There has “ always been a

bit of a view that banks are keen to lend when you don’t need it but when you need it, the going gets tough

”

So if you’re interested in taking part in the surveys, these will be dropping into your in boxes over the next year and the findings reported in B4. We will be inviting relevant parties to our roundtables to debate the issues further but please do let us know if you would like to attend any of the meetings, with priority given to B4 members.

 information@wenntownsend.co.uk  01865 559 900  www.wenntownsend.co.uk

AWARD WINNING ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS

ARCHITECTS

•

SURVEYORS

•

CONSULTANTS

•

SINCE 1933

Sectors • Education • Health • Community • Residential

St Thomas House 6 Becket Street OX1 1PP

Photography • Charlotte Wood • Matt Livey

info@gbsarchitects.co.uk +44 (0) 1865 305130 www.gbsarchitects.co.uk

B4 education

Changing schools at Sixth Form: the Pros & Cons It is easy to think as a parent that we have lost the “influence” game when our offspring are mid-way through teenage years. It can be quite tough to be objective and to remember that it is normal for teens to challenge parents’ values, beliefs and practices, as a way to assert independence and, put simply, to test parents. Written by: Emma-Kate Henry, Principal of d’Overbroeck’s Photography by: David Tett

A potentially defining moment in this process has always been during the month of August, which provides many pupils and parents with a big decision following the euphoria or, luckily less often, disappointment of GCSE results day. Is it any surprise that today’s sophisticated teens are keen to consider an educational change at a time when they are very aware of a technologically fast-paced, dynamic and ever-changing world around them? It is true to say that the days of a seamless, automatic transition into the Sixth Form are over for a myriad of reasons but not least because young people are seeing a world beyond where changing roles or jobs or even careers is increasingly frequent and, often, encouraged. At d’Overbroeck’s we are a successful 11-18 co-ed school but are very fortunate to have a thriving, large and high-achieving Sixth Form, as part of that offering, where we welcome a substantial number of new students. These are both day and boarders and those who choose to move to us from other independent and state schools locally, from other parts of the UK and from abroad. I was fortunate to join d’Overbroeck’s as Principal in 2017 at a time when a brand new site and boarding house, exclusively for Sixth Form, was poised to be ready for the start of the academic year. The planning and execution of this development in North Oxford, was no mean feat for my predecessor to achieve.

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Although state-of-the-art facilities may support a pupil’s decision to move schools or, indeed, to remain on familiar territory, it is a widely held belief that the “deal-breaker” is the perceived quality of the teaching and the interactions and rapport between staff and students. After all, this period is defined more than most by outcomes and, generally, being able to secure a route to the next highly competitive phase of education. At this stage of their education, young people want to be treated as “grown-ups” too and the mutual respect between students and teachers at d’Overbroeck’s is clear as soon as you visit. You are as likely to find a teacher holding open a door for a student as you are a student opening a door for a teacher. You are likely to see teachers and student chatting about work and studies in the café or at lunch. Our Head of Sixth Form, Alasdair MacPherson attests that the reasons students choose to remain or switch for these vital two years are, of course, as different as the individuals joining us. Those who are part of d’Overbroeck’s will see a common thread I believe though, as the robustly distinctive ethos here is fuelled by laughter, a shared sense of purpose and a vibrancy and enthusiasm that is so motivating for students and staff alike. The love for the school is effusive and high levels of confidence, without arrogance, is palpable in our students. In part, this is achieved by the bespoke pastoral care on offer, which includes each student being supported by a Director of Studies (Personal Tutor) and the benefits of a broader education, for

which our sector as a whole is known. I believe that our relative social informality, lack of contrived hierarchy and superbly qualified teachers, are at the heart of our success and this is because, fortunately, our students in the Sixth Form tell us so, time and again. So do their parents. So, in my professional capacity I admit I feel overjoyed when students opt to remain for Sixth Form and equally can feel a sense of disappointment if we “lose” one to another environment but, I have grown to realise, it is also important to listen to teenagers when they express a desire to explore alternative options. Their reasons could be solidly prosaic or they might be more complex but, if we are in the business of claiming we want young people to be independent thinkers, resilient and that our role is to assist them in reaching their goals and aspirations then we should communicate effectively with them and their parents to support them making the right choice. For further information, please contact Sarah Jex.

 sarah.jex@doverbroecks.com  +44 (0)1865 688 652  www.doverbroecks.com

JAMES BAINBRIDGE

Head of Planning & Development, Carter Jonas Six years after the Government consolidated 1,000 pages of national policy guidance into just 50, an updated version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has recently been published. A draft version was released in March 2018 resulting in more than 29,000 consultation responses. So what has changed between the draft (NPPF1) and the revised final version (NPPF2), and what opportunities does this present? Written by: James Bainbridge Photography by: Aurelien Langlais (portrait)

There are a number of definition amendments and clarifications in the glossary and subtle text throughout but little of substance has changed on the big ticket issues of Green Belt, Heritage and Town Centres. The parts that have seen most change relate to housing and the Development Plan. Local Planning Authority (LPA’s) responses may have had some sway in amending unachievable expectations but the Government’s clear ambition to ‘deliver more homes’ is still predominant throughout NPPF2.

Good design has been significantly strengthened as it is ‘fundamental to what planning and development should achieve’. Early liaison with LPAs is promoted and entering into voluntary Planning Performance Agreements for large and complex projects. The use of collaborative workshops as one way of achieving early engagement with local communities is suggested. These requirements have the potential to frontload the development process resulting in a more lengthy pre-application process but potentially fewer resident objections and a more streamlined determination period. Reference to Garden City Principles

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B4 property

key addition “inANPPF2 is the requirement for LPAs to ensure quality is consistent from approval to completion

”

Local Planning Authority “(LPA’s) responses may have had some sway in amending unachievable expectations but the Government’s clear ambition to ‘deliver more homes’ is still predominant throughout NPPF2

”

for large scale development has been reinserted following its omission in NPPF1. A key addition in NPPF2 is the requirement for LPAs to ensure quality is consistent from approval to completion. This could result in more detailed submissions and less LPA flexibility on planning condition discharge. It could also vary the perception of what constitutes a non-material amendment. Is this the end of post consent value engineering? A finer detailed point is the inclusion of a footnote setting out that the Government’s accessible and inclusive standards should be used in housing policies where there is an identified need. This requirement will to be factored into development appraisals at an early stage. NPPF2 has scaled back the percentage of small sites that should be allocated in a Development Plan and Brownfield Registers from 20% to 10%. Sites must not be larger than 1 hectare. NPPF2 promotes the use of Local Development Orders for not only small sites, as per NPPF1, but also for ‘medium’ sized sites therefore confirming the acceptability of brownfield developments of 10 plus units on sites less than 1 hectare in size. There is a clear intention for optimising density in city and town centre locations that are well served by public transport. This is a new addition and reflects sentiments of the draft London Plan.

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Acknowledgement of the timescales to deliver large scale development is recognised and it asks for identification of measures to support delivery. The revised NPPF seeks to clarify the role of Neighbourhood Plans following significant litigation. It sets that strategic policies should establish a housing requirement figure for designated neighbourhood plan areas and there should be no need to review this at examination stage. The intention here must be to speed up Neighbourhood Plan Examinations.. A subtle change in wording in NPPF2 sets out that planning obligations ‘must’ only be sought when they meet the CIL Regulation. This compares to ‘should’ wording in NPPF1. This clear position should make the process more transparent for the Applicant and LPA. It also sets out that the onus is on the applicant to justify a viability assessment and the weight to be given to it is a matter for the decision maker. As up-to-date policies that set out the contributions are assumed to be viable, viability assessments in this case could carry less weight. NPPF2 omits an entire paragraph on when the presumption in favour of sustainable development should apply if an authority cannot meet its five year supply of housing- the legal interpretation of this is one to watch. It also amends the wording of ‘Strategic Plan’ to ‘Strategic Policies’ and ‘Local Plan’ to ‘Non-Strategic Policies’. This is perhaps to avoid perceptions of the defunct regional planning. The only real change in NPPF2 relating to the Green

Belt, is the strengthening of the need for ‘fully evidenced and justified’ exceptional circumstances in which to amend Green Belt boundaries. Support of high tech industries and the knowledge economy is emphasised whilst greater flexibility and diversity in town centres is encouraged to deliver ‘a positive strategy for the future of each centre’. This can be through identifying a range rather than a fixed set of use classes. Lastly, the section on environmental issues has been amended in NPPF2 to be in line with the obligations and provisions in the Climate Act 2008. The word ‘enhance’ has been incorporated a number of times in reference to areas of outstanding natural beauty and amendments have been made to definitions of Veteran and Ancient tree and the Bird and Habitats EU Directives have been removed from the glossary. If you would like to discuss this or any other property matters please contact me, or a member of the Carter Jonas team.

 james.bainbridge@carterjonas.co.uk  01865 404 406  www.carterjonas.co.uk

NEW BARCLAY HOUSE Botley Road, Oxford, OX2 0HP TO LET 3,469 – 15,680 sq ft Newly refurbished office space with ground floor reception area with offices at first and second floors. With excellent access to Oxford City Centre and train station.

5 FENCHURCH COURT Bobby Fryer Close, Oxford, OX4 6ZN TO LET 927 sq ft Fully refurbished mid terrace unit with large mezzanine located to the rear of the estate in Ring Road location close to trade/ retail units.

4630 KINGSGATE Oxford Business Park, OX4 2SU TO LET 8,089 sq ft Extensively refurbished high quality self contained office building set in mature landscaped surrounding. New air conditioning and LEDs.

SEACOURT TOWER West Way, Botley, Oxford, OX2 0FB TO LET 1,704 sq ft Refurbished suite in the Tower with views over Oxfordshire. New air conditioning and LEDs.

unrivalled local and regional expertise Richard Venables rvenables@vslandp.com Tom Barton tbarton@vslandp.com Duncan May dmay@vslandp.com

news Last unit remaining in successful Didcot scheme power supply and parking to the front. The new development forms part of the Former Williams F1 engineering and development site with existing occupiers including Screwfix, Digipress, Lombard Medical, Endeavor Engineering, Sofea and Didcot Plumbing Supplies. Tom Barton, director at agents VSL & Partners, said: “There is a high demand for property in Trident Park as this is the only trade focused park in Didcot. It is a sensitively landscaped and welcoming environment, and also provides on-site Centre staff to assist with any operational issues and on site catering provision which has proved popular with both occupiers and customers. “It is in a prime position just over a mile from the town centre but with easy access to the A34 and major motorways as well as the rail network. “Such has been the demand, asking rents are now £10psf, compared to £8 per sq ft being achieved a year ago so potential occupiers need to act quickly.” A speculative development in Didcot has proved highly successful with just one unit remaining. The new cluster of units, completed in January this year by Formal Investments, cover 16,000 sq ft at Trident Business Park, Didcot and has proved

popular with new trade and retail occupiers including Topps Tiles, Toolstation, City Electrical Factors and Signs Express.

For further information, please contact Tom Barton on 01865 848488 or visit www.vslandp. com

The single remaining property covers more than 2,000 sq ft and features loading doors, three phase

VSL agency team scoop industry award for the ninth time Commercial property consultants VSL & Partners has been recognised once again by The Estates Gazette online service - EGi in its annual competition for the country’s Most Active Agent. Leading property publication, Estates Gazette Interactive (EGi) named VSL & Partners Oxfordshire’s best performing commercial property agency and awarded the firm Most Active Agent and Dealmaker of the Year in its 2018 deals competition. The EGi deals competition is an independent survey conducted by their research team, which covers commercial property transactions across all property types including industrial, office, retail and leisure. It is designed to establish the agents completing the largest volume of deals throughout the year. Once again, it was VSL’s dominance in the office and industrial markets, which helped it secure the Most Active Agent title for another year. Across

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Oxfordshire, VSL completed deals in the industrial, office, retail, land and investment sectors involving 106 deals from June 2017 to July 2018 for its clients. Duncan May, associate director at VSL & Partners said: “We are delighted to have won both ‘Most Active Agent’ and ‘Most Active Deal Maker’ awards for Oxfordshire and it’s great to see our results receive such prestigious external recognition. VSL has won these awards nine times in the last ten years which underlines our continued strength and detailed knowledge in the Oxfordshire Market.

have recently achieved £32.50 per sq ft.” VSL & Partners produces market reports providing a valuable insight into commercial property market activity in the Oxfordshire region. For further information or to speak to one of VSL & Partners experts, please call 01865 848488 or visit http://www.vslandp.com

“The Oxfordshire commercial property market has experienced record levels of transactions in both the office and industrial market totaling over 1.6m sq ft - the highest level for over ten years. 2018 has seen a slowdown in take up but we still anticipate levels to exceed the five-year average. Despite the slowdown we have seen rental growth across the county, particularly in Oxford City Centre where we

B4 venues

Welcome to Jurys Inn Step inside Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue, located on Godstow Road, our four-star Oxford hotel is just a short drive from the city centre. Following a £13m refurbishment Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue is the perfect base for adventures in and around Oxford’s fascinating historic city, whether you’re staying for one night or an entire week.

Our 240 Stylish bedrooms feature the Exclusive Jurys Inn DREAM Bed and • Complimentary Wi-Fi • En-suite bathroom • Flat screen TV with Freeview (Sky TV in Executive rooms) • Air conditioning • Trouser press, iron and ironing board • 24-hour room service • Work station • Hair dryer We understand the importance of business and with our very own purpose-built conference centre, with 20 fully flexible meeting and event spaces our hotel is committed to being the perfect venue for your meetings, conferences, training, awards dinners and other social banqueting events. This picturesque city offers a romantic setting for your wedding, and our Oxford hotel understands the importance of finding the perfect venue for the special day. The team works to tailor every detail to your wedding plan, so whether it’s elegant and understated or classic and extravagant, our team will ensure everything is done exactly the way you want it. Juvenate Health and Leisure Oxford is our featured Health and Leisure Club, with our extensive fitness www.b4-business.com

suite, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, as well as studio classes, our fitness amenities will help you to be as fit as you feel.

“

We understand the importance of business and with our very own purposebuilt conference centre, with 20 fully flexible meeting and event spaces our hotel is committed to being the perfect venue

”

Providing a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere whatever you fitness level, our team of fitness experts will be on hand to provide you support and guidance during your stay. If you are looking for a health club that provides excellent facilities at affordable prices, take a look at our membership options and join online today. Get your day off to a great start with our signature breakfast. Choose from a traditional cooked or light Continental selection. Enjoy a selection of fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, juicy burgers, wholesome pasta dishes and more from our Coopers bar menu.

Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue is home to one of the most celebrated restaurants, Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse, Bar and Grill. The restaurant combines British and French influences to serve up perfectly-cooked dishes and hand-crafted cocktails, all in the stylish surroundings of our Oxford hotel. With an extensive yet carefully-designed menu, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you opt for classic dishes and modern fusion cuisine in our featured restaurant. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal for two or a celebration with friends, the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar and Grill looks forward to welcoming you. We have 250 complimentary parking spaces on-site to make it convenient for all hotel guests to park whether staying overnight or just for a few hours.

 jurysinnoxford@jurysinns.com  01865 489 988  www.jurysinns.com/hotels/oxford

BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Sitting in the leafy conservation area astride the River Test near Whitchurch in Hampshire, just 60 miles from London and 40 miles from Oxford, lies Laverstoke Mill – the home of Bombay Sapphire.

Written by: Amy Dobson (Sales & Marketing Manager, Bombay Sapphire Distillery)

Laverstoke Mill’s legacy is as chequered as it is intriguing; the site was once owned by infamous monarch, King Henry VIII and was also the very place Henry Portal manufactured bank notes for the British Empire in the 18th century. Now, following renovations by Heatherwick Studio, Laverstoke Mill is the spectacular location where every drop of the world-famous Bombay Sapphire gin is produced with the utmost care, skill and creativity. BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Distillery is situated within a beautiful Conservation Area right on the doorstep of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – a unique and breath-taking landscape of rolling hills and tranquil, ancient woodland in the centre of southern England. With the River Test, one of the purest chalk-streams in the UK, flowing through the distillery grounds, it provides an invaluable home for the many native species inhabiting the river and surrounding 94

Photography by: Hype Photography & Iwan Baan

wetlands, from brown trout to otters, kingfishers to herons. The origins of Laverstoke Mill can be traced back to 903 AD but the first official records show Laverstoke Mill was a corn mill marked in the Domesday Book of 1086.

“ Named after the British

Raj, because gin and tonic was the drink of choice for Queen Victoria’s soldiers in India – as the quinine in tonic repels mosquitos

”

On a tour of the Bombay Sapphire distillery, guests can learn about the rich history of Laverstoke Mill. As a paper mill which pioneered the watermarking process, in the 1700s the Mill ran a very successful business, supplying bank note paper for the Bank of

England and the British Empire. The Mill was founded by Henry Portal (or Henri de Portal) who was a French Huguenot, who smuggled away to England in a wine barrel to escape persecution in France. Bombay Sapphire sought to bring high-quality goods manufacturing back to Laverstoke Mill, after the last bank note left in 1963. The distillery experience aims to rectify any confusion about Bombay Sapphire – a gin which is British to the core. It was named after the British Raj, because gin and tonic was the drink of choice for Queen Victoria’s soldiers in India – as the quinine in tonic repels mosquitos. Sipping on a gin and tonic became an extremely enjoyable way of preventing malaria. BOMBAY SAPPHIRE acquired Laverstoke Mill in 2010 and began redesigning and renovating the site in 2012. Working tirelessly with the multi-award-winning British design and architecture firm, Heatherwick Studio, Bombay Sapphire turned Laverstoke Mill into a state-of-the-art sustainable distillery that highlights the natural beauty and industrial heritage of the site. www.b4-business.com

B4 venues Heatherwick Studio creatively integrated the machinery and equipment with the site’s natural beauty. As a result, Laverstoke Mill now perfectly showcases the unique Vapour Infusion distillation process and the ten exotic botanicals that go into every drop of Bombay Sapphire. These botanicals can be explored in their natural state in the stunning Heatherwick Studio designed Glasshouses – a perfect juxtaposition to the surrounding Georgian and Victorian architecture. With sustainability at the heart of every consideration during renovations, every effort was made to ensure that not only the ecology of the ground was respected but the production process of the gin was as environmentally sound as possible. Heatherwick Studio restored twenty-three of the historic Victorian and Georgian buildings. New courtyards and gardens were also carefully designed to preserve the existing natural habitat. Throughout the 19th century, the paper mill at Laverstoke used the River Test to power its operation, by waterwheel and later by water turbine. The water turbine has since been restored and works alongside solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems to contribute to the distillery’s sustainability credentials.

sustainability, the BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Distillery was awarded the highly prestigious BREEAM “Outstanding” Award for sustainable design. Laverstoke Mill is the first distillery and first refurbishment project to ever win such an accolade. Launched in 1987 at a time when it felt like the gin category had reached its lowest ebb, Bombay Dry gin’s Master Distiller, Michel Roux, and entrepreneur, Ian Hamilton, bravely took on the challenge to fashion a new gin that was beautifully refined to enthuse the discerning cocktail crowd and be distinctive enough to attract a new generation of gin lovers. Inspired by the 100% Vapour Infused single shot dry gin recipe from 200 years before, created by Thomas Dakin, Roux and Hamilton experimented with different recipes and combinations, until they arrived at the answer. They would build on the recipe for BOMBAY DRY gin by adding two new, crucial botanicals: Cubeb Berries from the island of Java, Indonesia, and Grains of Paradise from Ghana, West Africa. These exotic additions beautifully complemented the existing eight botanicals of BOMBAY DRY (Juniper Berries, Almonds, Lemon Peel, Liquorice, Orris, Angelica, Coriander and Cassia Bark) and delivered the final distinctive floral and peppery notes

While most gins boil their botanicals directly in the spirit to achieve their flavour, the distinctive taste of Bombay Sapphire gin is created using the Vapour Infusion process. At Laverstoke Mill, the taste of Bombay Sapphire is made by suspending the 10 exotic botanicals above the spirit in perforated copper baskets during distillation. That way, as the heated spirit vapours rise, they’re gently infused with all the rich aromatic flavours the botanicals release. Uniquely distilled, everything comes together to give Bombay Sapphire its smooth and complex taste. Tours of the Bombay Sapphire Distillery are available to book online at https://distillery.bombaysapphire. com , and for enquiries about corporate events, private parties, gala dinners or product launches, please contact events@bombaysapphire.com

 events@bombaysapphire.com  01865 489 988  https://distillery.bombaysapphire.com

To recognise its uncompromising dedication to

“ Bombay Sapphire turned

Laverstoke Mill into a stateof-the-art sustainable distillery that highlights the natural beauty and industrial heritage of the site

”

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Conference Oxford joins the Meetings Industry Association Conference Oxford, the official enquiry point for venues within the University of Oxford and its colleges, recently launched its membership of the Meetings Industry Association (mia), marking another successful year of promoting Oxford as a leading conferencing and events destination for corporate clients. Written by: Conference Oxford

Pembroke College Boardroom

Conference Oxford is the central point of contact for anyone looking to host a residential conference, day meeting, gala dinner, Christmas party or a wedding, in the atmospheric surroundings of the University of Oxford. Representing 65 college and University venues, including libraries, museums and ceremonial halls, Conference Oxford offers businesses the chance to network, entertain clients, celebrate their achievements or launch their products amongst the history and prestige of the ancient ‘dreaming spires’, combined with modern facilities featuring the latest audio-visual technology. The majority of venues are centrally located, allowing delegates to take advantage of Oxford’s excellent transport links and attract clients and visitors from all over the UK and beyond. The world-famous University of Oxford provides event organisers with unparalleled choice: 65 unique venues with a total of over 7000 bedrooms and 500

Sheldonian Theatre

individual meeting spaces, ensuring that whether you are looking for an oak-panelled boardroom, a stateof-the-art auditorium, an accessible exhibition space or a unique fine dining experience, Conference Oxford is well placed to find your perfect venue.

“ We are delighted that

so many of our wonderful academic venues have achieved AIM Accreditation, highlighting the high standard of their facilities and conference teams Marie O’Connor, Head of Conference Oxford

”

Rather than having to contact each venue, their bespoke enquiry system allows you to send a single enquiry to all of their member venues, saving you valuable time! Having experienced a period of rapid growth in recent years, the free venue-finding service now receives over 3000 enquiries a year, generating in the region of £20m to support the work of the University and its colleges and opening up their wonderful and unique facilities to the local business community. Joining the mia, one of the fastestgrowing associations in the MICE sector, represents a natural next chapter in the Conference Oxford success story. Membership of the mia means Conference Oxford venues will be able to take advantage of the wide range of benefits the Association has to offer. These include increased sales opportunities, excellent industry networking opportunities and preferential

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B4 venues

Hosting an event in Oxford? Let Conference Oxford help you find the perfect venue… Conference Oxford is the central point of contact for anyone wishing to host an event with the University of Oxford and its colleges. Their service is free, available to all and includes: -----

A free venue search among their 65 venues An easy-to-use enquiry system Bespoke site visits arranged Support and advice provided should you need to use more than one venue for your event -- Information on useful external facilities and suppliers, locally and further afield Why use the University of Oxford and its Colleges: -- Centrally located -- Unparalleled choice -- World-renowned facilities

St Hugh’s College

Exeter College

rates for training and professional development events. These opportunities will complement the work Conference Oxford does in promoting Oxford at local and national business exhibitions. In addition to their new membership, Conference Oxford venues have also secured AIM accreditation. AIM is the nationally recognised scheme which benchmarks a venue’s professionalism and quality against a strict array of criteria, examining areas such as the quality of facilities, accessibility, legal compliance, customer value proposition and experience, ethical code of conduct performance and best practice standards. By holding AIM accreditation Conference Oxford venues can assure event managers that the facilities and services they offer meet the exacting standards they are looking for. Marie O’Connor, Head of Conference Oxford said: “We are delighted that so many of our

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Oxford Playhouse. Photo: Geraint Lewis

wonderful academic venues have achieved AIM Accreditation, highlighting the high standard of their facilities and conference teams. Our venues have worked extremely hard to demonstrate to the rest of the events industry that Oxford University is a leading conference and events destination. We are looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the Meetings Industry Association” To launch its membership Conference Oxford held a party in The Master’s Garden of Pembroke College. Over 60 guests, including representatives from the newly-accredited venues, enjoyed a sparkling reception with canapés and a cake specially made to mark the occasion. Also in attendance were Mia Butler and Jane Owen from the mia, Mike Naworynsky, OBE, Chairman of Conference Oxford and Richard Rosser, Chief Executive of the In Oxford Group.

Jane Longhurst, Chief Executive of the mia, said: “We are thrilled that Conference Oxford has joined the mia. We know they will benefit greatly from the support and events that, as a member, they will now have access to. Achieving AIM accreditation will set these venues out from their competitors ensuring that meeting and event bookers can rest assured that the service and facilities are of the highest standard.”

   

enquiries@conference-oxford.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 190 www.conference-oxford.com @confoxford

NEWBURY RACECOURSE Newbury Racecourse is one of the UK’s leading horseracing venues also offering unique and flexible conference and events facilities and being one of Berkshire’s most picturesque and relaxing wedding venues, perfect for your special day! The site can hold conferences, exhibitions, private dinners, meetings, weddings and outdoor events, all set against a unique backdrop. With an abundance of space and four individual buildings, Newbury Racecourse can accommodate for most desired events and ceremonies.

Conferences

Weddings & Civil Ceremonies

Our conference facilities are suited to a wide range of business events from meetings of less than 50 delegates in our traditional Royal Box to conferences attended by 1,000 delegates in our Grandstand Conference Suite. Whether you choose our Day Delegate Package or a bespoke alternative, our experienced team will work with you to accommodate your every need. Our 42 syndicate rooms are in close proximity to the main conference suite and can accommodate up to 120 delegates.

Newbury Racecourse is one of the most distinguished wedding venues in the South of England with glorious views over the Berkshire countryside. With four unique suites, each with there own distinctive character there is something for everyone. With the recent redevelopment in place, Newbury Racecourse is now proud to offer the newly purpose-built Owners Club as a light and contempory wedding venue. The Owners Club can seat up to 220 guests and has glorious views over the parade ring and beautifully maintained lawns. We also have the expansive Racegoers Suite which can seat up to 550 guests offering panoramic views of the racecourse and The Royal Box that can seat up to 40 guests for a more intimate ceremony.

Exhibitions If you are looking for a unique exhibition venue outside of London with easy access, an abundance of free parking and large, flexible facilities, Newbury Racecourse is for you. Using recent technology such as Pay on Entry systems, Newbury Racecourse can accommodate all size exhibitions across a variety of spaces. As well as having café/bar facilitates, 24 hour access and on-site security.

Location Filming Here at Newbury Racecourse we excel in providing a high quality location for a variety of film projects. We can accommodate small TV advert productions

and big budget shows in a range of settings, from kitchens and bars to the extensive indoor space in our grandstand. Sizeable filming spaces within easy access of London are hard to find, especially ones that aren’t under a flight path. We have an abundance of free car parking and are in a very convenient location with the M4/M3 being close by. You also are within an hour’s drive of Heathrow and Southampton airports, plus we have our very own mainline rail station with direct trains to London Paddington and Reading on-site.

Bespoke Events Organisers regularly combine our indoor facilities and outdoor spaces for bespoke events such as summer family fun days, team building activities, product launches, classic car shows, national gaming events and concerts. For indoor events, each of the racecourse’s three grandstands have unique characteristics that can be matched to each individual event requirement. Our dedicated events management team will identify the most appropriate

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B4 venues spaces and facilities, and assist you in creating and delivering a successful and impressive event.

Corporate Racedays Now over 100 years old, Newbury Racecourse is one of the UK’s leading horseracing venues with a rich heritage. With race days taking place on 30 days throughout the year, including a number of weekend and summer evening fixtures, why not organise a business event with a twist and combine it with racing? Our dedicated hospitality team works closely with our corporate events team to deliver you the very best service, ensuring you get the most out of your day. For those looking for opportunities to promote their business, one of our sponsorship packages can be added to your day to achieve brand awareness, both leading up to and on the day through various media channels.

Dining

With race days “ taking place on 30 days throughout the year, including a number of weekend and summer evening fixtures, why not organise a business event with a twist and combine it with racing?

”

Our award-winning catering team is renowned for delivering a first class dining experience on race days and we carry that same dedication and service through to private dining events. Our spacious dining facilities can accommodate up to 550 guests for dinner dances, charity fundraisers, business lunches and private celebrations. We offer a flexible choice of menus from buffets to five course banquets and can create bespoke menus based on your unique requirements.

The Lodge Accommodation The Lodge is Newbury Racecourse’s hotel, which is home to 36 bedrooms each with individually designed décor. Whether you are here on business or leisure you will have everything you need for an enjoyable stay. All the rooms have luxury thread cotton bed linen and Super King sized voyager beds, with a thousand individually pocketed springs offering a comfortable night’s sleep. Accompanied by a delicious menu choice and a pleasant outdoor terrace area ideal to socialise or unwind, The Lodge is perfect for a relaxing stay and friendly service. We are a lot more than just a racecourse and with so many reasons to bring people together, whether it be a conference, wedding or private party, why not try the many colours of Newbury Racecourse!

 events@newburyracecourse.co.uk  +44 (0)1635 40015  events.newburyracecourse.co.uk

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christmas party menu starters Wye valley oak smoked salmon with saffron aïoli and pickled shallots Cotswold game terrine with fig chutney and brioche Roasted parsnip soup with curry oil and crème fraîche (V) Wild mushroom arancini with Oxford Blue cheese mayo and rocket (V)

main courses Roasted Norfolk bronze turkey parcel with sage and cranberry stuffing Cornish lemon sole with mussel broth and a braised fennel fricassee 24 hour braised Shorthorn beef with parsnip purée, rösti potato and black kale Butternut squash tart with fromage blanc and sautéed mushrooms (V)

desserts Christmas pudding with kirsch cherry compote and rum sauce Bitter chocolate nemesis with raspberries and toasted pistachios Soya milk panna cotta with brown sugar roasted bananas Selection of British cheeses with oat biscuits

Freshly brewed coffee, tea, fruit infusions & mince pies

www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk

Tel. 01865 728240

enquiries@oxfordfinedining.co.uk

B4 charity & csr

Michelle Fernandez

The King’s Centre Oxford, helping you give something back Balancing the commercial realities of a business with giving something back can be a challenge for many companies. Written by: Michelle Fernandez, General Manager Written by: Jon Lewis

It is no different at The King’s Centre, Oxford, the largest multi-function venue in the south Midlands. However, our unique business model empowers us to give back consistently and effortlessly helps others do so at the same time. The King’s Centre, Oxford was founded with charitable aims and is a not-for-profit organisation. A large part of our profits from hiring out our 30,000 square feet of space funds charity work in Oxfordshire and enable us to host community groups and events. Therefore, when you book The King’s Centre, Oxford, you are directly helping us give back and supporting your own Corporate Social Responsibility targets. Balancing our commercial targets, while remaining faithful to our charitable and community ethos is a unique challenge our team relishes. Our building is owned by Oxfordshire Community Churches and all profits from the venue are used to maintain it and support charitable work. Our giving back commitment includes running four support centres for the homeless in Oxford, via Edge Housing. We have also invested in community projects at Tyndale Community School and The King’s School. At the centre we host numerous community groups at charity rates, including Family Fun, a regular group for parents with young children, monthly community events and Rainbows, Brownies, and Guides. Our wider team have recently joined a scheme to create www.b4-business.com

welcome boxes for Syrian refugees which is used to provide practical information and products to help make the start of their life in our community easier. The coffee we serve to our guests is produced by Redemption Roasters a project based at Aylesbury prison to help young offenders successfully reintegrate into society. They are trained in professional roasting and barista skills and sales of coffee at the King’s Centre, Oxford, helps towards funding the scheme.

“

Our giving back commitment includes running four support centres for the homeless in Oxford, via Edge Housing. We have also invested in community projects at Tyndale School and the Kings School.

”

We have also joined Sugar Smart, Oxford and have adjusted our recipes to reduce sugar content and provided free water stations for visitors to use. The partnership aims to encourage a healthier, greener and fairer food system that supports the local economy. Additionally, we are pleased to be partnering with Bucks, Berks and Oxon Wildlife Trust which helps enhance wildlife in the area. We are currently working on a project with Oxford City Council to host company team away days which incorporate doing voluntary work at our local nature

reserve at Grandpont with BBOWT. This year we will be hosting Oxford’s biggest Christmas lunch in partnership with The Oxford Food Bank in which volunteers will serve more than 400 guests a hearty Christmas dinner. The purpose of the event is to bring the community together to celebrate Christmas. If you are interested in helping this special event please contact info@ oxfordfoodbank.org Our venue space is flexible and is used for anything from major events and conferences and wedding receptions through to intimate meetings and company training days. We are blessed to be able to make a difference to our community and you can do the same by booking your events, meetings and away days at the King’s Centre, Oxford. Michelle Fernandez is the General Manager of The King’s Centre, Oxford.

 bookings@kingscentre.co.uk  01865 297 400  www.kingscentre.co.uk

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Culture Club By empowering its staff and creating a structure for their success, CIS has developed an award-winning formula that provides first-class service and support to its own customers. B4 spoke to Founder and Managing Director, Neill Lawson-Smith.

2018 has been a memorable year for CIS, with the managed services and IT solutions provider already having picked another award as it continues upon its trajectory of becoming Oxfordshire’s primary IT support company.

A strong work ethic sits at the core of everything CIS does, with Neill revealing a culture of consistent over-achievement where staff are remunerated for their efforts.

At the recent annual Vale 4 Business Awards the firm picked up ‘Employer of the Year’ with its approach in terms of sales strategy and product development also being recognised as CIS also took its place as a finalist in the ‘Large Business of the Year’ category.

Our subscription “model allows our

Neill puts that continued success and further recognition down to the hard work of his staff and what has been a detailed five-year strategic plan. “The staff here are the company’s greatest asset and we empower our people to make decisions in the best interests of our clients every day,” he explains. This, he says, stems from recruiting a talented team with specific career paths and goals and controlling all the aspects of the business in-house. Creating a structure for success is key and Neill can often be found leading by example, taking a hands-on approach in assisting staff on a day-to-day basis with accounts when help is needed. “We approach every change with staff sensitivity in mind and one of our favourite questions is, “What could we be doing better?” he explains. “This always brings out great ideas and enables staff to have their say.”

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customers to predict and forecast their usage, which they can scale to suit their needs. And that allows us to provide the best possible solution for their requirements

”

“This drives exceptional staff loyalty which is conveyed to our customers and ultimately drives customer retention with our staff. In recent years retention rates have averaged 96%,” he says. Neill isn’t afraid to look outside of the business either when it comes to delivering upon his vision and driving evolution throughout the firm.

Part of this saw him seeking external influence in the form of business mentors to coach and lead the executive team as he set out to bring new methods and ideas to the table. This has been reflected in the company’s rapid growth from six staff to 29 in just six years, as turnover eclipsed £2.9m in 2017. And while CIS has grown organically by 30% yearon-year during the last 5 years, that expansion has also been buoyed by multiple acquisitions. Growth has also been fuelled by the launch of vigorously tested new products around ultrasecure IT solutions and private cloud in particular, where CIS now offers services such as VoIP, file storage application, site monitoring, application and system hosting, backup and disaster recovery to be consumed on a monthly basis. “Our subscription model allows our customers to predict and forecast their usage, which they can scale to suit their needs,” says Neill. “And that allows us to provide the best possible solution for their requirements.” In that sense, CIS is somewhat of a rarity in the managed services space, owning a wide range of bespoke solutions including its own private cloud housed in a former nuclear bunker. Neill views private cloud as one of the key growth areas in the IT sector and says that this is something CIS will be looking to harness further as the firm

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B4 technology

looks to build upon its early success there within key verticals.

purchase parts of services individually to suit their needs.

“As early adopters of cloud we are in a strong position to push further growth across areas such as professional services, where we supply private cloud solutions to the likes of solicitors, accountants, architects and engineering firms to name but a few,” he adds.

“We are strongest when a company takes all of our services and allows us to deliver and manage the entire CIS IT managed services suite,” says Neill. “From connectivity, through telephony, to IT security, cloud and support, we have it covered for the client.”

With GDPR having “come into force in May, encryption is becoming more prominent to ensure data security. This solution delivers better than every other market offering, believe me, we tested them all

”

Neill says that CIS is unique in that all its products and services are modular, where it can build these and own them itself. This means companies can buy entire products and services from the firm, or

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With an already impressive list of industry accreditations, including certificates from Sophos, Microsoft, Veeam and VMWare, CIS prides itself on being an innovative and responsible IT solutions provider dedicated to constantly improving its own processes. Neill says that the EU’s new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will play a huge part in the firm’s expansion too as it moves through 2018 and beyond. “Our product offering has expanded to offer an extensive encryption platform which will help towards organisations’ compliance with the GDPR,” he adds. “With GDPR having come into force in May, encryption is becoming more prominent to ensure data security. This solution delivers better than every other market offering, believe me, we tested them all.” However, it is one of the firm’s latest standards that Neill is most proud of, with CIS having recently achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification for

Information Security Management. “I regard that as our greatest success during the past 12 months,” he says. “Again, this came as a direct response to the needs of our customers and reaffirms our commitment to security and data protection in an ever-evolving environment.”

Talk To Us For a no-obligation chat with one of our experts about your IT requirements, please get in touch.

 solutions@cisltd.com  01367 700 555  www.cisltd.com

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Conference@OxfordSaïd

Your future is our business The combination of stunning spaces, impressive technology, award winning food and unbeatable locations makes Saïd Business School, the centre for Oxford’s conferencing

• • • • •

Professional and friendly customer service and dedicated AV support Accessible central England location with world-class attractions of Oxford Excellent transport links Variety of meeting and seminar rooms Ideal for teambuilding and summer events

Park End Street

Egrove Park

•

State-of-the-art facilities

•

Rural, parkland setting

•

City centre location

•

All year round residential availability

To find out more about our facilities across these two sites: www.sbs.oxford.edu/conference Email conference@sbs.ox.ac.uk Telephone 01865 288846

B4 technology

How a cyber-attack can kill a small business overnight! A security specialist at CQR with over 20 years’ experience in Information Technology. Specialising in penetration testing, forensic analysis and proactive defense. Advising business on all aspects of Information security to avoid many of the common pitfalls that can result in reputational, financial damage, or loss of intellectual property Written by: Giles Rothwell

Cybercrime is becoming a day to day reality for all businesses, however small businesses can be especially vulnerable for a number of reasons. Small businesses usually have a long list of competing priorities and security rarely makes it to the top of that priority list. The fallout from some form of cyber-attack can be a financial loss, reputational damage, or loss of intellectual property. To any business these can be damaging, embarrassing and costly, but to a small business they can be fatal. Financial losses tend to have a more significant impact on smaller businesses. Reputational loss can be even harder to recover from as it takes time to regain customer confidence, if you are left with a toxic brand the business may never recover. Many startups are based on a unique idea or product, if that product or concept is stolen or copied, the projected market may become smaller, less profitable or even uncompetitive. One of the biggest myths in Information security is that it has to be complex, expensive and restrictive, however when done properly it should not be. If good information security practices are embedded in a business from the start, they simply become part of the culture, evolve with it and protect the information assets from the start. If your business beats the odds and survives its infancy without a major incident, trying to retrofit the same principles at a later date can become more expensive, more www.b4-business.com

complex, distracts from other core activities and in some cases simply fails. As a first step to gain an understanding of your business vulnerabilities you should complete a formal cyber security assessment that includes a penetration test (assesses the security of IT systems and networks). This assessment will provide the cyber roadmap to address any areas of weakness and allows your business to proactively manage your cyber security.

“If a business thinks that it’s too small to matter to cybercriminals, then it’s fooling itself with a false sense of security.” Brian Burch, Symantec

There are some simple steps to safeguard your business against common cyber-attacks and threats and are easy and cost effective to implement: • backup your critical data regularly; • apply antivirus, security updates, and patches to operating systems, software, mobile devices and applications; • use multi-factor authentication and strong passwords; • limit administrative accounts supported by the

appropriate access controls; • use encryption products for laptops and PCs; • have cyber security and privacy policies and a cyber incident response plan; • always educate staff, suppliers and clients with a cyber aware culture. The best way to protect your information assets is by implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) and enables certification to the Information Security Standard ISO 27001. Implementing an ISMS is not complex nor costly, it protects your business against attack and involves identifying and managing risks by implementing simple common-sense practices to mitigate those risks. If all that seems a little daunting, do not be afraid to get some advice. At CQR we pride ourselves on building long term relationships by providing the right advice at the right time to help your business protect its information assets and enable your business to grow in a safer world.

 enquiries@cqr.com  01993 812 835  www.cqr.com

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Tripp Hearing is a leading healthcare practice which has earned an excellent reputation in Oxford and the surrounding areas for providing a wide range of digital hearing aids as well as for their microsuction ear wax removal clinic.

Ears feeling blocked?

Tripp Hearing understand that hearing loss and tinnitus can interfere with your quality of life and they recognize that it is essential that you receive the care, attention and expertise to find the best solution to solve or manage your hearing impairment.

Tripp Hearing offer the very latest in hearing technology. From completely invisible, to rechargeable or titanium. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you find the right solution for you.

The Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Clinic has specialised nurse practitioners who can remove wax in a safe and gentle way. Even the most problematical ears can be helped and the procedure is essential if traditional syringing is not appropriate.

Looking for a digital hearing solution?

Phonak VirtoTM B-Titanium

When a super discreet hearing aid is titanium strong, life is on

Phonak AudĂŠo B-R

When you can enjoy 24 hours* of hearing with one simple charge, life is on * Accelerated capacity lab testing at room temperature

Tripp Hearing 39 Corn Street, Witney, Oxfordshire OX28 6BT 01993 222 888 Tripp Hearing Sandford Gate, Clarendon Business Centre Sandy Lane West Oxford OX4 6LB 01865 910202 www.tripphearing.co.uk | enquiries@tripphearing.co.uk

B4 technology

Finding the right agency to build your website A study by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills reported that 74% of SMEs self-assessed their ability to use digital technology at average (52%) and poor (22%). In contrast, in their 2017 Digital Index, Lloyds Bank identified that small businesses with high digital capability are now two-and-a-half times as likely to see an increase in turnover. Digital technology is becoming increasingly recognised as a key enabler of growth for businesses and websites are primary examples of this technology. However, if you are the owner of a small or medium-sized business who is time poor or has limited digital skills and experience, how do you ensure that your hard-earned money is invested to successfully support your growth aspirations? The success or failure of any website project can usually be traced back to the effort that was put in during the early stages of the project. For any business looking to invest in a new website, particularly those looking to partner with an agency, consider the following areas to help you get off on the right foot

Create a clear website brief A website brief is a document that should paint a picture for an agency of your vision for a new website. It should include information about your business, your customers and your objectives for the new website, i.e. how it needs to support your overall business ambitions. It should also summarise the functionality required and any external systems (CRM, etc.) that it may need to link to. Finally, it should describe the agency selection process you will follow.

Research your ideal agencies Before you send the website brief out, research what your ideal agency would look like. Consider your own culture and values to help inform this. Engage your peers to seek recommendations for agencies they have worked with in the past. Specifically, consider factors such as size, experience and location which can generally be found via an agency’s website. Once you have a shortlist of agencies, send them the website brief and ask them to respond declaring themselves in or out of the selection process.

Picking the right agency For those agencies that want to be involved, arrange to meet them at their offices. This meeting is an opportunity for you to see where they work and meet their team, as well as an opportunity for the agency to ask you questions about the proposed project.

Don’t be afraid to ask and don’t sign unless you are happy.

Providing Digital Aid to SMEs Digital Aid was started to provide digital expertise to SMEs that have limited digital experience. With this support, business owners can have peace of mind and increased confidence in their digital investments. If you are looking to start your own website project and need support we’d love to talk to you. Alternatively, come along to the B4 Masterclass on the 12th October where I will talk about this process in more detail.

Once you’ve met all the agencies, ask them to submit a final proposal for the project, along with a copy of their contract. You will use these to select your preferred agency partner.

Be clear on what you’re signing up to Once you’ve selected an agency, review the contract

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to fully understand what you’re agreeing to. In many cases, the agency will provide their contract for use which may include details that you are unfamiliar with. The right agency will be happy for you to ask questions and will see it as within their interest to ensure that both parties are clear on the specifics.

 stuart@digitalaidconsulting.com  07788 446 259  digitalaidconsuting.com

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HALLOWEEN

trick or treat Your property fully managed for the first year for just 5%* NOPS is a local family Oxford business, we care for your property like our own. You can speak with Debbie on

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B4 technology

Seven Southeast companies featured on tech firm league table Words by: Trevor Treharne

Published on the 9th September, the 18th annual Sunday Times Hiscox Tech Track 100 league table ranks Britain’s private technology, media and telecoms (TMT) companies with the fastestgrowing sales. The seven companies headquartered in the southeast of England (compared to 12 last year) have grown their sales by an average of 136% a year over three years to a total of £120m, and together they now employ more than 500 people. The seven companies include five new entrants to the table. Among them GlucoRx works exclusively with the NHS, providing diagnostic and treatment technology for diabetes. Its products include blood glucose meters and insulin pen needles and it claims to have saved the NHS £150m in the past three years. Sales hit £24.9m in 2017. Another new entrant is Gigaclear, which has connected more than 16,000 rural customers to broadband in 22 counties. It is developing a full

thanks to the fearlessness and determination of those that run them. We have great admiration for the talented entrepreneurs that make up the companies on this year’s Tech Track 100.”

fibre network in rural locations across the UK and plans to connect an additional 300,000 properties within the next three years. The companies in the Southeast appear with businesses from around Britain, including currency transfer provider TransferWise, peer-to-peer lending platform Funding Circle and online entertainment community LADBible Group. Past stars range from travel search engine Skyscanner, which was bought by Ctrip, China’s largest travel company, for £1.4bn in 2016, to listed takeaway website Just Eat, now worth £5bn.

The national picture The full league table was published as a 10-page supplement within the business section of The Sunday Times, both in print and in the digital edition, and on www.fasttrack.co.uk

The Tech Track 100 is sponsored by Hiscox, Barclays, BDO, BGF and N+1 Singer, and compiled by Fast Track, the Oxford-based research and networking events firm.

 trevor.treharne@fasttrack.co.uk  01865 297 016  www.fasttrack.co.uk

Steve McGerr, head of direct commercial at Hiscox Insurance UK, commented: “Tech businesses in southeast of England are thriving

Private tech companies in the southeast of England with the fastest-growing sales – ordered by location HQ location and county

Rank [2017 rank]

Company Activity

Annual sales growth over 3 years

Sales £m

Staff

Year end‡

Comment

Wokingham Berkshire

95 [59]

CitNOW Video software developer

52%

*11.6

Dec 17

Has more than 8,000 installations in franchised car dealerships in 45 countries

Basingstoke Hampshire

CensorNet Cloud security software developer

210%

*7.5

Dec 17

Has more than 4,000 customers, including McDonalds in France and the European Central Bank

Abingdon Oxfordshire

2 [25]

PsiOxus Biotechnology developer

312%

53.1

Dec 17

Received a $15m milestone payment from its development partner Bristol-Myers Squibb in December

Abingdon Oxfordshire

Gigaclear Internet services provider

130%

7.4

210

Dec 17

Has connected more than 16,000 rural customers to broadband in 22 counties

Chalgrove Oxfordshire

E3D Online 3D printer developer

69%

*5.8

Apr 18

Has grown its export market to account for 75% of its total sales

Guildford Surrey

Trustpay Global Online payment provider

110%

*9.8

Mar 18

The Premier Lotto in Nigeria uses the firm’s platform to prevent money laundering

Woking Surrey

GlucoRx Diabetes product manufacturer

66%

24.9

Mar 17

Claims to have saved the NHS £150m in the past three years

‡ Financial year end of latest available accounts

www.b4-business.com

* Supplied by company

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p s v Ch :// id ec yo eo k u t t ou u . ou t b e r ou /o he r G re o7 : pH eS Pl g ht t

COME AND STAY AT

SHELDON GRANGE A Truly Unique Property Sheldon Grange is an ideal venue for lavish, exquisite parties as well as high class corporate events. The property is able to comfortably sleep up to 26 guests in luxurious accommodation. In addition to this the venue lends itself to Christmas parties, corporate hosting, special occasions, reunions, hen/stag parties. The venue has ten bedrooms and nine bathrooms (seven of which are en-suite) and a further three WCs. Seven of the bedrooms are located in the main house (occupancy of 19 guests). There is also additional accommodation incorporating a self contained flat that offers a one bedroom ensuite living space with additional double sofa bed and a separate guest suite that offers a further two bedrooms. We also let these as stand-alone properties, ideal for smaller parties. This truly unique property boasts an open plan living space stretching over 10,000 sq. ft. With over seven acres of gardens, paddocks and woodlands, there is ample space for marquees, tents or even a stage should an event require one. Sheldon Grange is located in Frilford Heath, Oxford and is situated next door to a 54-hole championship golf course. Sheldon Grange also features a huge swim spa and mini gym. The house is fully equipped with the latest in modern technology including air source heating, photo voltaic panels, superfast fibre optic connection and intelligent led lighting with multifunction switching. Despite utilising some of the newest materials available throughout the house; every consideration to the environment has been taken.

Sheldon Grange, Oxford Road, Abingdon, OX13 5NW 07949 266418 danielle.walker@sheldongrange.com www.sheldongrange.com

B4 technology

MAKING THE WEB SECURE There’s a revolution taking place online that intends to make the web more secure for everyone. It’s being spearheaded by Google and should be understood by all website owners. Written by: Paul Wood Photography by: Simon Campbell

The revolution involves five letters: HTTPS. You see them every day and most of the time probably never give them much thought. Since July this year however, Google has taken a small but significant step to change that. It involves branding websites that aren’t using HTTPS as ‘not secure’ and this can have consequences ranging from security to the public perception of your brand.

What is HTTPS? HTTPS is a way of making websites more secure. Usually, websites are delivered via technology called HTTP. HTTPS adds an ‘S’ that stands for ‘secure’. On HTTPS, all data is encrypted. Encryption means that no third party can access, tamper-with or otherwise affect the data that is travelling from point-A to point-B. HTTPS involves adding a layer of security by requiring the communication between your visitor’s web browser and your website’s server to be validated by something called an SSL certificate.

What is an SSL certificate? An SSL certificate is a type of digital certificate. It’s something that the owner of a website can obtain, verify and install on their website in order to make it more secure.

It helps to achieve three things: Firstly, it helps to verify the identity of the website owner. When a web browser travels to your website, the SSL certificate sends confirmation from the website’s server to the user’s browser to confirm that they are indeed trying the access the correct website and not a fake. It can do this because the process of obtaining a valid SSL certificate involves

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carrying out verification checks so that the issuer of the certificate is satisfied that you are the owner of the website. Secondly, the SSL certificate guarantees confidentiality for both parties. It does this via encryption of data meaning that only party-A and party-B can read the data that is passed between them.

By being seen as “ ‘secure’, your customers will continue to trust your website. You’ll also be improving the security of the web overall by making it harder for scammers to mess with data sent to and from your website

”

it harder for scammers to mess with data sent to and from your website. In addition to this, Google has long-since confirmed that by having your site on HTTPS you will benefit from a (small but still useful) boost to your SEO efforts – Google rewards secure sites.

How do I get one? This very much depends on where your website is hosted and what type of certificate you need. Many web hosts offer an SSL solution, sometimes free, sometimes paid. In addition, there are different types of SSL for different types of sites. Running multiple websites that enable customers to send personal data? Chances are you’re going to need to look at a more advanced type of SSL certificate. If you’re in any doubt, the best bet is to speak to an expert. At Indulge we have launched and managed hundreds of secure sites and can source and install SSL certificates for all types of website.

Thirdly, the SSL certificate guarantees that the data passed from point-A to point-B is exactly what it is supposed to be and hasn’t been tampered with, altered or otherwise combined with something unexpected.

Do I need an SSL certificate? Every website owner should apply for and setup an SSL certificate. The most obvious driver for this is that if you don’t, Google will mark your website as ‘not secure’ when people use it in the Chrome browser (the most popular browser I hasten to add). By being seen as ‘secure’, your customers will continue to trust your website. You’ll also be improving the security of the web overall by making

 hello@indulgemedia.com  01865 686 093  www.indulgemedia.com

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Customer Services Skills

Nurturing relationships with your customers is a crucial part of running a successful business. In this age of automation and innovation, caring for your customers has never been more important. For the attendees, this workshop helps them deliver better customer service, whether face-to-face, on the phone or by email. WHAT WE’LL COVER • Define what great customer service experience feels like • Appreciate why delivering great customer service is so important – and why it’s part of everyone’s job • What’s in it for you – why it will make your life easier • Loving what you do – how your attitude and behaviour influences outcomes • How to understand what their customers want and value • Different communication skills - adapting to the customer interaction

LEARNING OUTCOMES • Understanding the impact and influence you have and how to apply this to create positive outcomes • The value of listening to understand v solution-based service • Techniques for adapting to different customer interactions You will get workshop handouts and a copy of Raving Fans book by Ken Blanchard to take away!

Call on 0844 414 6056 or email us at info@thinkinspireandcreate.com

www.thinkinspireandcreate.co.uk

B4 marketing

WHAT’S YOUR BRAND’S STORY?

Your brand tells a story. Every time a client or customer experiences your brand they’re left with a sense of who you are, what you do and how and why you do it. BrandAsylum is here to help you understand and shape those perceptions, and communicate what makes you different and better in the most memorable and compelling ways. Written by: Andrew Hancock Photography by: Rob Scotcher

Testimonial: GDS (a global lighting design and

manufacturing company) - has worked with BrandAsylum on numerous occasions and a variety of projects with us where his services have exceeded our expectation. The guys at BrandAsylum understood immediately what we were trying to achieve and came back with several workable solutions. I would recommend BrandAsylums services to any company who need a complete range of creative solutions and value for money. Matt Lloyd, Managing Director, Global Design Solutions Ltd

Andrew Hancock - Brand Asylum

BrandAsylum is an integrated, full-service brand communications agency. We help UK and overseas brands grow sales, loyalty and brand equity - simply, cost-effectively and quickly. Whether we’re creating or refreshing a brand, or designing and writing websites, brochures, videos, advertisements, posters or social media campaigns, we always start from the same place: gaining an understanding of your brand, your customers, your values, your vision and, vitally, just what it is that makes you get out of bed in the morning.

and verbal communications across a full spectrum of channels.

We’ll look at what your competitors are doing and, if possible, we’ll find out what your customers think and feel about you. We’ll gauge and evaluate the difference between your perception of your brand and your customers’ perceptions….and there’s almost always a difference.

Traditional: Connect more with your customers, create refreshing, engaging, cutting-edge assets for your business. At BrandAsylum we’re passionate about all things print and video. And we’ve got the expertise to deliver a complete range of engaging, tailored print, graphic design and video solutions for your brand to ensure that your business stands out from the crowd. Everything from brand books and advertising campaigns to brochures, posters and video.

That way, you can be sure that you’re targeting the right people with the right messages at the right time. And you’ll know that the visual and verbal languages that give your brand personality are truly authentic to your values.

Integrated Brand Communications No matter how simple your message might be, there are more ways than ever to express it. Getting your messaging coordinated across all of today’s media can seem dauntingly complex. Our experience and expertise mean we can seamlessly integrate visual www.b4-business.com

Digital: Is your website engaging, reaching the right people and leaving the right impression? Just as importantly, how sure are you that it’s also integrating seamlessly across desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile? At BrandAsylum we offer a complete range of engaging web and digital solutions across all marketing channels, including website and email campaign design, copywriting, build and management, delivery and tracking.

Social: Wherever you are, social media is where it’s @. So when you need to tweet it, post it, share it, like it, follow it, join it, comment on it or engage with it, we can help ensure that social media is a pleasure, rather than a minefield. At BrandAsylum we are able to help guide, deliver and create engaging cross-platform social media content and campaigns for you, whether big or small.

About BrandAsylum: Andrew Hancock founded BrandAsylum in 2008 after spending over a decade working through the ranks of some of the UK’s biggest advertising and design agencies in London. Andrew’s passion is ‘It’s the idea that matters’, and he and his team work closely with clients to not only deliver campaigns, but also advise strategically on the bigger business picture. He has a trusted team of writers, designers, directors and developers to call upon and believes that a fundamental part of what he does is all about creating long-lasting client relationships built on trust. To find out more about what BrandAsylum does, how we work and who we’ve done it for, call Andrew Hancock.

BrandAsylum LTD

The ideas to engagement agency

brand. design. digital. social.

 andrew@brandasylum.co.uk  07713 327 357  www.brandasylum.co.uk 113

grow your business At Alberon we’re all about helping you do what you do even better. We work with you to design and deliver a website or bespoke software that makes your organisation more effective. Our technology is designed to work for you, and we’ll be on hand to ensure you continue to get the best results. For more than 10 years, we’ve been making businesses, schools and charities in Oxfordshire more efficient and profitable. We can do the same for you. Call 01865 794009 or email grow@alberon.co.uk

the software and web solution specialists

www.alberon.co.uk

B4 marketing

“ It’s about having a team of

passionate and experienced people behind you, all pulling in the same direction and all acutely aware of the importance of these projects to our customers.

”

Daren Elsley - Mayfield Press

Mayfield Press

Having been in this interesting, diverse and challenging industry for 30 years, the one constant for a successful business has been providing ‘excellent service’. What has changed is print moving from being a ‘trade’ to a service-based industry, which has fundamentally altered what ‘excellent service’ means to us and to our customers.

Written by: Daren Elsley Photography by: Rob Scotcher

It’s more than a friendly voice on the phone or cheerful delivery driver helping put large amounts of boxes in the right place (and sometimes print can be a lot of boxes). Yes, these things are still important, but we also need to become part of our customer’s team: advising, suggesting and providing clear, confident guidance at any stage of a project. It’s about having a team of passionate and experienced people behind you, all pulling in the same direction and all acutely aware of the importance of these projects to our customers. Print is full of questions, from “how will my photographs reproduce,” to “will it arrive in time for my meeting.” Our job is to be one step ahead of this. We’ll provide proofs, and sample prints on your chosen materials, if required. We’ll communicate throughout the process, making sure that we meet our delivery commitments to you. We understand things don’t always go according to plan, so we’re flexible and will offer alternative suggestions when artwork deadlines are missed, or delivery plans need to change at the last moment. Yes, we’re fortunate to have a huge print engine behind us. State of the art equipment, a 24/7 production hub and our own dedicated large format business, delivering and installing across the UK. We have in-house mailing solutions, helping our customers reach their customers across the www.b4-business.com

world. We have FSC environmental accreditation, ISO14001, quality standards ISO9001 and colour management ISO12647. These all underpin our service and enable us and our customers to flourish in this high-pressure industry.

“ We understand things

don’t always go according to plan, so we’re flexible and will offer alternative suggestions when artwork deadlines are missed, or delivery plans need to change at the last moment.

”

We also have hugely experienced teams supporting each other and our customers:

ensure our work is produced in the most efficient and logical way possible; • Press minders, specialist finishers and installers all keeping an expert eye on your work as it whizzes through our factory, with quality control checks at each production stage. You’re good at your job and we are good at ours – we’ve been perfecting this for over 25 years and print is not as straightforward as people tend to think. We just make it seem that way, by listening; by questioning; by understanding. Then getting it right. We care - it’s obvious whoever you speak to here. We get to know you, your business and how best to support you. We suggest and provide brilliant ideas backed up by well thought-out planning. This is what we think real customer service should be and is how we provide brilliant print solutions delivered with the Mayfield quality commitment.

• Dedicated Account Managers liaising with customers for clear, concise communication; • Studio teams advising customers on file suitability and flight checking every file to prevent problems during print and finishing; • Production teams working round the clock to

 daren.elsley@mayfield-press.co.uk  01865 714 715  www.mayfield-press.co.uk

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WORKPLACE WELLBEING

FROM SIT-STAND WORKSTATIONS

Promoting an active workplace...

Join the sit-stand revolution...

Your working environment has a massive impact on your everyday wellbeing and happiness. Many of us are now working much longer hours, skipping our lunch breaks and sitting for longer than ever; up to 10 hours a day for some!

Our bodies are designed to move. Sitting for prolonged periods of time means our muscles are inactive and our metabolism slows down. This leads to a greater strain on the heart, increases the risk of blood clots, cancer and obesity, and increases our susceptibility to mental health issues. This is why we actively promote movement at work to ensure employee wellbeing!

It’s finally being recognised that sitting at a desk all day has a serious impact on health and wellbeing. A staggering 60% of workers claim that sitting for too long has affected their performance at work. This epidemic is costing businesses money; a whopping €73 billion per annum across businesses in Europe through illness and absenteeism. By incorporating active working you can promote better workplace wellness. Active working ensures your staff are looked after and reduces the amount of sick days taken. Let us help you become recognised as a employer who values your staff. This will naturally help improve your employee retention.

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It’s recommended that we move for at least 2 - 4 hours each day. A workplace that incorporates movement throughout the day is much more productive with higher overall employee health levels. Maintaining an active cycle of movement incorporating both sitting and standing throughout the day has long term health benefits. Standing whilst working can help with calorie loss, stretch muscles and help relieve back pain reducing the effects that prolonged sitting has on your body.

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B4 services

If you are looking to save money and enhance the service levels you are currently receiving, then use the local choice, Aston and James. WRITTEN BY: DARREN ASTON

TO ELECTRONIC SIT-STAND DESKS

Our range of sit-stand workstations and desks give you the flexibility to easily incorporate movement into your daily routine. Our range of sit-stand desks are easy to use, with multiple adjustment settings, providing effortless transition between sitting and standing. The the perfect solution to introduce active working into your day. We stock all major sit-stand brands including Fellowes and Elev8. With a variety of options available to try, you’re sure to find the right product for your workplace. If you’re thinking of improving your office, why not visit our dedicated furniture showroom and witness this product in action? You can see first hand how our sit-stand desks will help you achieve a happier, healthier workplace.

 sales@aston-james.co.uk  01993 706 900  www.aston-james.co.uk

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Everything for the Workplace

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Corporate VIIIs with Freeths One of the highlights of many Olympics over the past twenty to thirty years has been the GB rowing team powering to Gold – seemingly always early on a Saturday morning – leaving plenty of defeated crews in their wake. What a sight it is to behold, eight rowers in perfect sync, gliding over the lake, relentlessly in pursuit of their prize. So it was an easy decision to take part in this summer’s Corporate VIIIs….’yeah, I can do that, no problem.’ B4’s Richard Rosser recaps his rowing experiences….at least he didn’t capsize the boat! Written by: Richard Rosser

When the e-mail dropped one Friday afternoon, I immediately thought ‘that’s for me’. Training twice a week after a day in the office was quite appealing and having rowed in Abingdon School’s novices some thirty years ago, I naively accepted the challenge! ‘You’ll be fine’ claimed Freeths’ Stewart Elliston, with absolutely no foundation for such a bold statement. Under the expert tutelage of our coach, Caitlin Armstrong, cox, Keith Hollis, and assistant coach Paul Roworth – all eight of us were taken, step by step, through the minutiae of rowing, the intricacies, the secret to balancing the boat, the need to keep in time, the implications of slight movements here and failing to square the blade there…..each and every session! As the finals of Corporate VIIIs approached, we seemed to go forwards one session and then two steps back the next. But, it was great fun…I think we all quite enjoyed seeing poor old Keith getting exasperated as each 118

week went past, but credit to Keith, Caitlin and Paul, they all gave us something we never deserved to have…belief. We actually went into that first race

One of the joys “ of coaching a group of beginner rowers is seeing how they progress as a team and how each individual brings different attributes and skills to the boat.

”

thinking we could win the whole damn thing! So, after over ten outings on the river at City of Oxford Rowing club, two visits to ‘the tank’ at Abingdon School (an indoor rowing experience for those of you wondering what on earth I’m talking about) and some very smart t-shirt printing, we thought we were ready. We’d practised the course, not a lot, but we’d managed to improve on our initial time for the 300 metre course of 1 minute 49 by a good 22 seconds. Come the day of the Regatta, we walked the course (well the towpath), to get a feeling for the start ‘up river’ so it wasn’t such a surprise. I’m not sure if it helped the others but I was as nervous as a five year old at the dentist when it was our turn. We came level with our opponents and before we knew it, we were off. A very messy start by both crews but we were in the lead! But we were only half way and things started to go wrong. Watching the Olympics, you see that point where the two www.b4-business.com

B4 corp.lifestyle

Comments: “One of the joys of coaching a group of beginner rowers is seeing how they progress as a team and how each individual brings different attributes and skills to the boat. It reminds us that while each oarsman has their individual strengths and weaknesses, it’s how they use those as part of the crew which will ultimately make the boat go fast.” Caitlin Armstrong, Research scientist at Oxford Biotrans and volunteer coach, City of Oxford Rowing Club

“Freeths Solicitors has taken part in the Corporate VIII’s Rowing Challenge for many years. We use the Challenge as a team building activity for staff and the intermediaries we work with. We find that through rowing, people develop much stronger working relationships with their colleagues and intermediaries. It’s because of this inclusiveness, Freeths is proud to be part of this annual event.” Stewart Elliston, Principal Business Development Manager, Freeths

“What a fantastic experience training twice a week for 5 weeks (on the River Thames), blessed with an outstanding team, great weather (on the whole), and a very patient coach and cox.” Balvinder Jaj, Partner, Freeths boats are neck and neck but somehow parallel (depending on the camera angle)…well our lead was slipping and their boat was pulling away. As we got close to the boathouse, the cheers of the two to three hundred crowd came into earshot, but it wasn’t enough….we’d lost our first race and poor Cassy (at stroke – the front of the boat) had injured herself. Race two and I was thrust into stroke…I was to set the pace, basically like asking a five year old to hold a US Presidential Press Briefing…hang on…!? Anyway, back to the race and we were up against the eventual runners up, Perspectum Diagnostics and the fact that we didn’t win the competition is all the evidence you need that we didn’t win the race, despite the support of one of the Reaction Engines team – thank you. Our third and final race was much the same, a loss, but we got a rousing reception from the crowds on the river bank…thank goodness the www.b4-business.com

Brits love a trying loser! Despite our clean sweep, it was a great experience, making new friends and finding out our own individual strengths and weaknesses. My advice is to give it a go…just don’t let me anywhere near your boat! Thanks to the coaches, Freeths, City of Oxford Rowing Club and the rest of the crew.

“Rowing is about working together and having fun at the same time. No individual can win on their own, but they can be detrimental if left unchecked.” Keith Hollis, Finance Systems Manager, Oxford Policy Management Limited and volunteer coach, City of Oxford Rowing Club

“The rowing was a fabulous way to be on the river in our beautiful city. It was great to be part of a team all pulling together in the same direction with the same intention, I loved it and miss it already.”

 chairman@oxfordrowingclub.org.uk  01865 242 576  www.oxfordrowingclub.org.uk

Michelle Arnold, Individual Banking Manager, Handlesbanken

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Find your

DREAM

University of Oxford venue for any occasion

Conference Oxford Call 01865 276190 or email enquiries@conference-oxford.ox.ac.uk www.conference-oxford.com

A place to... MEET

Photos: Chris Andrews Publications, Oxford University Images / Bodleian Libraries

SLEEP

EAT

CELEBRATE

B4 corp.lifestyle

Written by: Matt Smart, sculptor

The most popular TED Talk, by Ken Robinson, is about creativity as an undervalued force for coping with our future. To thrive, we need solutions. Creatively, artists explore challenges the same as consultants do, social enterprises, and scientists. We are all together in moving onwards. Artists get little funding. Everyone should love their work, and needs to sustain it, if it has merit.

LOGO POWERED In August I installed this logo for ‘Rocket Recordings’ record label. The Rocket was in the UK’s flagship record store of Rough Trade Records. The huge store is in Shoreditch, the UK’s capital of hipsters and street art. It’s near Petticoat Lane in East London, where I bought gold and silver when I when I was 10, and worked weekends on a jewellery stall. In 1981 I made £130, then blew it all on (toy) cars. With personal income we can own, achieve, or share.

A PLACE WITH A VOICE Oxford is rooted in heritage, while looking to the future. We all are. For next year, a group of us are organising an exhibition about how the past shapes us. My input includes brick forms, reflecting how the land and history is layered with emotional phases. These ripple into what we build: homes,

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work teams, and technologies. Colours affect our mood, influencing how we cooperate. Being aware of influences is useful in creating solutions. An Oxfordshire ceramicist is creating pitfired archaeological dining sets, with original stories etched into them, that enact how our past influences actions and emotions. Context is crucial in business.

STRATEGIC EXHIBITS Contexts of business and daily life include deep challenges. “In a world divided by politics, artists are using their work to react and protest. ‘The Great Divide’ asks if we can come back together in the face of division.” - This is the premise of a show at Oxford’s OVADA until 28th October, curated by a New York artist. Brexit looms, and global warming means sea horses are turning up in the Thames, the cost of thriving is rising as if it’s climbing a ladder to escape the lava and floodwater, and America is divided. These are inspirations to do our best. I am showing wall-hang sculptures conceived when I performed, this summer, at Europe’s biggest Street Art festival. There may be a sequel OVADA show in 2019, focussing on solutions. There are pieces I want to make and exhibit on all these themes, and more. The lava figure was to be in the ‘Place with a Voice’

exhibition, but it was bought, and is now on display in Australia.

PRICE POINT AND INVESTMENT The street artist ‘Pure Evil’ has opened a gallery at the highly gentrified end of Shoreditch. Stencils sprayed onto a canvas start at £1,500. That could be an indicator of quality, or the UK Street art’s brand power in a few overseas markets. It will not greatly support the endeavours of one’s city. Sometimes it is assumed that artists have fun, and need no further reward. In South London for 2 years, in my “spare time”, I started and ran a gallery on very low budget, representing artists with diagnosed psychiatric conditions. Many found it hard to represent themselves. If it were just a matter of asking for handouts then we are all missing the point of shared messages and support. If you believe in Ken Robinson’s TED Talk, consider sponsoring an art show. If you see merit in an artist’s work, consider partnering in artists’ ventures.

 @mattsmartart  www.MattSmart.org  www.mimiepoterie.com/artwork

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VICTORS ROLLS Spicy Ahi Tuna Kimchi cabbage, avruga caviar Teriyaki Beef Charred tenderstem broccoli, enoki, wasabi Flamed Salmon Avocado, fried lotus root, ikura Avocado Dragon (v) Smoked tofu, red pepper, marinated hijiki

FROM THE RAW BAR

VICTORS

Tuna Tartare Guacamole, salsa, chilli, sesame crisp Prawn Ceviche Coconut & mint salad

Overlooking our beautiful city in the impressive new Westgate development is Victors…and it’s already stolen my vote for great food, superb atmosphere and excellent service. A first class addition to Oxford. B4’s Richard Rosser recaps on a visit to the Hamptons inspired restaurant and bar serving a menu of modern American small plates.

RAW BAR PLATTERS FOR THE TABLE

Written by: Richard Rosser

Popcorn Chicken Buttermilk fried, chipotle mayonnaise

Lil’ Lobster Rolls Warmed brioche, garlic butter, aioli Coconut Tempura Prawn Chipotle mayonnaise

SMALL PLATES TO SHARE Fillet of Sea Bass Thai baked, wok fried vegetable Asian Style Crispy Duck Special rice Rib Eye Steak 10oz

This was our second visit to Victors and it seemed we already had ‘our table’ as we were seated in exactly the same place as we were back in May for an enjoyable lunch. The wisteria clad interior at Victors is a masterclass in itself, adding something special to an already sophisticated location for lunch or a romantic dinner. It was a busy Saturday night and the bar was already three deep with smartly dressed clientele who evidently saw a visit to Victors as a special occasion in itself. Slick, professional service is in abundance at Victors. Knowledgeable and engaging staff make the Victors experience a pleasure…let’s face it, there are enough run of the mill restaurants where the staff make it clear their jobs are hard work. The staff at Victors take the time to explain how it works, share their favourites and keep the food coming. That’s how it works at Victors…tapas sets the wrong impression but you order a variety of dishes – see some of our

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favourites below – and it comes when it’s ready. But despite the fact that the tables are packed, the food arrives in a steady, welcome flow with each new dish accompanied by a ‘wow’ and an ‘ooh’. Tasty, well presented, filling…what more can you ask for. Food at Victors is an art, but it’s all topped by the sharing dessert…a man mountain of all things naughty…think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meets Nouvelle Cuisine. Accompanied by sparklers and envious gazes from all that it leaves in its wake, this was a feast in itself and more than a match for two who had already indulged beyond the point of no return. As the live violinist (accompanying the latest hits) meandered through the candlelit tables, we tucked in like two naughty school-children, delving into ice cream, sorbet, chocolate and an endless supply of lip-smacking deliciousness. Augustus Gloop would have been in his element….but we were beaten. With our daughter’s favourite Dragon Fruit

accompanying us, we made our way home leaving what is fast becoming Oxford’s favourite hot spot behind us. If you’ve not been yet, you’re missing something very special. Book now to experience #thevictorsway

 info@victors.co.uk  01865 689 064  www.victors.co.uk

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Need to freshen your Design, Video, Photography or Website?

Call us on 01865 742 211 or see www.hothdesign.co.uk

B4 Distribution Partners

B4 Magazine is delivered to the desks of named, key business decision makers. However, we are also proud to work alongside the following great establishments in order to bring B4 Magazine to more readers: Abingdon and Witney College Acanthus at Macdonald Randolph Hotel ads advertising & design solutions Aidan Meller Galleries Alberon Ashmolean Museum Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant Aston and James Office Supplies Banbury Road Medical Centre Barclays Beard Construction Begbroke Science Park Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons Bicester Roofing Bicester Village Blake Morgan LLP Blenheim Palace Bloxham Mill Bodleian Library Bombay Sapphire Distillery Breckon and Breckon Brethertons LLP BrookStreet Des Roches LLP Carter Jonas Cazenove Capital Management Chiltern Railways CIS Ltd City Sightseeing Clinic 95 College and County Conference Oxford Corpus Christi College Examination Schools Executive Alarms Ltd Experience Oxfordshire Finders Keepers Findlay Chauffeur Service FOCUS Oxford Risk Management Ltd Freeths Grant Thornton UK LLP Grove Business Park G-Smatt Europe Haiku Consulting Hedges Law Helen and Douglas House Helen Money Nutrition Hilltop Consultancy Holiday Inn Oxford Howbery Park James Cowper Kreston London Oxford Airport Macdonald Randolph Hotel Malmaison Oxford

Minuteman Press Newbury Racecourse North Oxford Property Services Old Parsonage One St Aldates Owen Mumford Oxford Brookes University Oxford Brookes Venues Oxford Bus Company Oxford Business Park Oxford City Council Oxford Duplication Centre Oxford Fine Dining Oxford University Rugby Football Club Oxfordshire LEP Pembroke College Penningtons Manches LLP Rhodes House Richardsons Chartered Accountants Ridge and Partners LLP Ridgefield Consulting Royal Oxford Hotel Saïd Business School Savills Savvy Group Shaw Gibbs Sheldonian Theatre Sobell House Tara Tripp Hearing Care The Career Boutique The Lady Nuffield Home The M Group The Manor Thompson and Terry Recruitment Turpin and Miller LLP Unipart VSL and Partners W Lucy and Co Wallers of Oxford Wellers Wenn Townsend Whitley Stimpson Ltd Wiseman Gallery You HR

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“ Over the past six years, since we

became part of the B4 network, B4 Magazine has provided us with excellent editorial opportunities to help raise the profile of Howbery Business Park. We are now distributing B4 Magazine to all of the Park’s 50+ businesses and organisations

”

Donna Bowles, Estates Manager, Howbery Business Park

Holiday Inn

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B4 is a well put together, informative and professional magazine with relevant content for all local businesses. In order to help B4 reach a wider audience, why wouldn’t we be a distributor?!

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Jo Radford, Sales Manager, Holiday Inn Oxford

And many more...

If you would like to stock B4 Magazine for your visitors, please get in touch today on: 01865 742211 or e-mail: lorna@b4-business.com

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O X F O R D S H I R E

Contacts Directory

Platinum Member

ADVICE.......................................................................................................126 BUSINESS SERVICES...............................................................................127 CONFERENCE, EVENTS & VENUES..................................................127 EDUCATION........................................................................................128 FINANCE....................................................................................................128 HEALTH & LEISURE...............................................................................128

ADVICE ACCOUNTING Wenn Townsend P Tony Haines Partner 01865 559 900 OXON www.wenntownsend.co.uk James Cowper Kreston P Andy Cowie Marketing & Business Development Director 01189 590 261 OXON www.jamescowperkreston.co.uk Wellers P Debbie Austin Partner 0333 241 6000 OXON www.wellersaccountants.co.uk Grant Thornton UK LLP P Wendy Hart Managing Partner 01865 799 899 OXON www.grant-thornton.co.uk Grant Thornton UK LLP P Jim Rogers Assurance Partner 01189 559 114 BERKS www.grant-thornton.co.uk Chapman, Robinson & Moore P Mike Foster Commercial Director 01865 379 272 OXON www.crmoxford.co.uk Whitley Stimpson Ltd G Jonathan Walton Director 01494 448 122 BUCKS www.whitleystimpson.co.uk Whitley Stimpson Ltd G Stuart Haigh Director 01869 252 151 OXON www.whitleystimpson.co.uk Shaw Gibbs G Peter Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Partner 01865 292 200 OXON www.shawgibbs.com Critchleys 01865 261 100 OXON www.critchleys.co.uk

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Gold Member

HR..................................................................................................................128 IT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS............................................................128 MANUFACTURING................................................................................129 MARKETING & DESIGN..........................................................................129 PROPERTY & BUILDING.........................................................................129 R&R..........................................................................................................130

Seymour Taylor 01494 552 125 BUCKS www.stca.co.uk

Hilltop Consultancy 01844 237 450 BUCKS www.hilltopconsultancy.co.uk

Auditel 01865 582 888 OXON www.auditel.co.uk

Sandler Training 01608 611 211 OXON www.oxford.sandler.com

Richardsons Accountants 01844 261 155 OXON www.richardsons-group.co.uk

Active Education and Training Ltd 01865 594 325 OXON www.oxfordactive.co.uk

Rees Russell 01993 702 418 OXON www.reesrussell.co.uk

Explosive Learning Solutions 01235 861 805 OXON www.explosivelearningsolutions.com

BUSINESS ADVICE

Endeavour Consulting 07711 825 005 OXON www.endeavour-consulting.co.uk

James White P Sales Success James White Managing Director 0800 046 1651 OXON www.jameswhite.business Diane Wilkinson G & Associates Ltd. Diane Wilkinson Managing Director 01865 430 470 OXON www.dianewilkinson.co.uk Haiku Consulting G Joy Le Fevre 07885 066163 OXON www.haiku.consulting Artesian Transformational Leadership Ltd G Nick Chatrath Managing Director 07961 306294 www.artesiangroup.co.uk Lucy Tulloch Coaching 07810 205 781 OXON www.lucytullochcoaching.co.uk Forty3 Communications 07980 898 834 OXON www.forty3consulting.co.uk Libreea 01183 800 856 OXON www.libreea.co.uk Oxford Professional Consulting 01865 436 791 OXON www.oxfordprofessionalconsulting.com Libreea Ltd 01183 800 856 www.libreea.co.uk

Leading Edge Coaching 01488 638 119 OXON www.leadingedgecoaching.co.uk Two One Services 07730 927 888 OXON www.facebook.com/twooneservices The Career Boutique 0845 520 4010 OXON www.thecareerboutique.com Cultural Chemistry 07944 636 091 OXON www.culturalchemistry.com.au Coaching Mindset 07843 291 975 OXON www.coachingmindset.co.uk Collaborent 01865 881 047 OXON www.collaborent.co.uk Mark Carrington 07939 642 169 www.jmarkcarrington.co.uk Vistage International (UK) Ltd 01489 770 200 www.vistage.co.uk Exalta 01803 712 411 www.exalta.co.uk ANPR Consulting 07434 962 871 www.anprconsulting.co.uk

LEGAL Knights P Philip Marsh Oxford Office Leader 01865 811 700 OXON www.knightsplc.com Hedges Law P Nicola Poole Managing Director 01491 839 839 OXON www.hedgeslaw.co.uk Freeths LLP P Sarah Foster Managing Partner 01865 781 000 OXON www.freeths.co.uk Gardner Leader LLP G Derek Rogers Managing Partner 01635 508 080 BERKS www.gardner-leader.co.uk BrookStreet Des Roches LLP Paddy Gregan G Partner 01235 836 655 OXON www.bsdr.com Royds Withy King G Lucy Nash Associate Solicitor 01865 792 300 OXON www.roydswithyking.com Everyman Legal 0845 868 0960 OXON www.everymanlegal.com Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne LLP 07867 334 231 OXON www.bholegal.co.uk Blake Morgan LLP 01865 248 607 OXON www.blakemorgan.co.uk Penningtons Manches LLP 01865 722 106 OXON www.penningtons.co.uk Brethertons LLP 01295 270 999 www.brethertons.co.uk Lewis Silkin 0207 0748 494 OXON www.lewissilkin.com David Parry Employment Law 01993 848 247 OXON www.parryemploymentlaw.com

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Blandy & Blandy 0118 951 6800 BERKS www.blandy.co.uk

UCARE 01865 767 777 OXON www.ucare-oxford.org.uk

Moorcrofts LLP 01628 4700004 www.moorcrofts.com

Berkshire Vision 0118 987 2803 BERKS www.berkshirevision.org.uk

Addis Law 01865 339 457 OXON www.addislaw.co.uk

Headway Oxfordshire 01865 326 263 OXON www.headway-oxford.org.uk

Crossland Employment Solicitors 01235 841 506 OXON www.crosslandsolicitors.com

CLEANING SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES ARCHIVE & STORAGE Oxford Duplication Centre Cheryl-Lee Foulsham G Managing Director 01865 457 000 OXON www.theduplicationcentre.co.uk

Oxford CleanTech Ltd Jose Gouveia Managing Director 01865 596 105 OXON www.oxfordct.co.uk

Excel Dry Cleaners 01865 511 773 OXON www.exceldrycleanersofoxford.co.uk

CRS Document Solutions 01235 555 531 OXON www.copyrightsystems.co.uk

TRANSPORT Findlay Chauffeurs G Claire Hickson Managing Director 0845 644 7099 OXON www.findlaycs.com London Oxford Airport 01865 290 710 OXON www.londonoxfordairport.com

TRANSLATION Conversis 01869 255 820 OXON www.conversis.com

WH Mobile Valeting 07979 480 886 OXON www.whvaleting.com

TRAVEL

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

City Sightseeing P Jane Marshall Transport Manager 01865 790 522 OXON www.citysightseeingoxford.com

BUSINESS SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT Aston & James Office Supplies Ltd P Darren Aston Director 01993 706 900 OXON www.aston-james.co.uk

Security Exchange 01491 683 710 BERKS www.securityexchange24.com

OxfordshireLEP P Richard Byard Director of Business Development 01865 261 433 OXON www.oxfordshirelep.com

Not Just Travel 0800 530 0621 OXON www.notjusttravel.com

PERSONAL ASSISTANTS

ForPOS 01865 820 925 OXON www.forpos.co.uk

Bicester Vision G Graeme Laws Partnership Manager 01868 324244 OXON www.bicestervision.co.uk

MJF 01895 909 000 OXON www.mjf.co.uk

Reciprocate 01865 798666 http://reciprocateox.org Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group 01753 870 500 BERKS www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk

CATERING SERVICES

CHARITIES

NETWORKING GROUPS

The Cocktail Service 01865 251 431 OXON www.thecocktailservice.co.uk

Sobell House P Tim Wraith Corporate Partnerships Manager 01865 857 067 OXON www.sobellhouse.org Bloodwise G Matt Lawley Head of Sports Events 02075 042 231 OXON www.bloodwise.org.uk Helen & Douglas House G Lucy Walker Community Fundraising Manager 01865 799 150 OXON www.helenanddouglas.org.uk Oxfordshire Community Foundation 01865 798 666 OXON www.oxfordshire.org Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust 01865 775 476 OXON www.bbowt.org.uk

www.b4-business.com

B4 Magazine P Richard Rosser Editor 01865 742 211 OXON www.b4-business.com Opendoorz 07818 453 105 OXON www.opendoorz.biz The Oxford Business Network 01865 379 272 OXON www.oxfordbusinessnetwork.co.uk Business Buzz 0844 358 5800 OXON www.business-buzz.org The Professional Matchmaker 07952 791 083 OXON www.theprofessionalmatchmaker.co.uk

Conversis Claire Gabbey Virtual Assistant 07982 845 966

CONFERENCE, EVENTS & VENUES

Oxford Fine Dining 01865 728 240 OXON www.oxfordfinedining.co.uk

CONFERENCE VENUES Rhodes House P Isabelle Barber Business Development Manager 01865 282 599 OXON www.rhodeshouseoxford.com Blenheim Palace Hospitality Dominic Hare P Chief Executive Officer 01993 813 874 OXON www.blenheimpalace.com/hospitality Cumberland Lodge G Daren Bowyer Chief Operating Officer 01784 432 316 www.cumberlandlodge.ac.uk

Bombay Sapphire Distillery Amy Dobson G Sales and Marketing Manager 01256 890 090 BERKS distillery.bombaysapphire.com Stoke Park G Nick Downie Head of Communications 01753 717 171 BUCKS www.stokepark.com Pembroke College G Ellen Brady Head of Events 01865 276 484 OXON www.pmb.ox.ac.uk/Conferences Hartwell House Hotel G Matthew Johnson General Manager 01296 747 444 BUCKS www.hartwell-house.com Venue Services, Bodleian Library G Alice Ogilvie Head of Venue Services 01865 277 224 OXON www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk The Examination Schools Kay Miles G Events Manager 01865 276 905 OXON www.examschools.ox.ac.uk Howbery Business Park G Donna Bowles Estate Manager 01491 822 305 OXON www.howberypark.com Egrove Park G Martin Garside Conference Manager 01865 422 757 OXON www.sbs.oxford.edu/conferencing Horticulture House G 0333 003 3550 OXON www.hta.org.uk Whateley Hall 01295 253 261 OXON www.accorhotels.com Oxford Brookes Venues 01865 484 612 OXON www.brookes.ac.uk Events @ Ashmolean 01865 610 406 OXON www.ashmolean.org/venue-hire Sheldon Grange 07949 266 418 OXON www.sheldongrange.com Culham Conference Centre 01235 466 494 OXON www.culhamconferencecentre.co.uk Conference Oxford 01865 287 378 OXON www.conference-oxford.com

127

Contacts Exeter College 01865 279 600 OXON www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/conferences

Abingdon & Witney College 01235 216 394 OXON www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

Handelsbanken 01296 489 892 www.handelsbanken.co.uk

The King’s Centre 01865 297 400 OXON www.kingscentre.co.uk

Oxford International Study Centre 01865 201 009 OXON www.oxintstudycentre.com

Metro Bank Oxford 07855 097 403 wwww.metrobankonline.co.uk

Oxford Town Hall 01865 252 195 OXON www.oxfordtownhall.co.uk

EQUIPMENT HIRE Moonlite Productions Tom Rowlands P Head of Business and Production Manager 01296 488900 OXON www.moonlite.co.uk Oxford Event Hire 01865 760 158 OXON www.oxfordeventhire.co.uk That Event Company 01844 215 857 OXON www.that-event.com

EVENT PLANNING Tina Rosser Event Solutions 07470 343226 OXON Sound Advice 020 7229 2219 LON www.soundadvice.uk.com

EVENTS Business in Oxford 2019 P 01865 742 211 OXON www.businessinoxford.com Oxfordshire Business Awards OXON www.oxfordshirebusinessawards.co.uk West Oxfordshire Business Awards 01993 220 690 OXON www.woba.org.uk Cowley Road Works 07816 681 704 OXON www.cowleyroadworks.org

FINANCE

HEALTH & LEISURE

ADVICE

FITNESS

Cazenove Capital Management P Tom Allen Head of Oxford Office 01865 811 360 OXON www.cazenovecapital.com

Prime Energy Fitness Ltd 01869 352 000 OXON www.primeenergy.org

Cashflow Creators 01865 920 581 OXON www.facebook.com/cashflowcreators ArchOver 020 3021 8100 OXON www.archover.com Pro-Eco Ltd 01323 400 800 SUSS www.pro-eco.co.uk RIFT Group 01233 653 002 KENT www.riftgroup.com Proficio Solutions Limited 07795 180 795 www.proficiosolutions.co.uk Daniel Kitchen Ltd 01865 511098 www.dankitchen.co.uk

INSURANCE FOCUS Oxford Risk Management Ltd P Nick Jones Managing Director 01865 953 111 OXON www.focusorm.co.uk Spencer Insurance 01235 868 535 www.spencerinsurance.co.uk

GOLF Frilford Heath Golf Club P Alistair Booth Director 01865 390 864 OXON www.frilfordheath.co.uk

HEALTH CARE Clinic95 P Maria Hardman Business Manager 01865 241 661 OXON www.clinic95.com Tara Tripp Hearing Care P Vincent Tripp Practice Manager 01865 910 202 OXON www.tripphearing.co.uk

SPORT Oxford United Football Club 01865 337 505 OXON www.oufc.co.uk

WELLBEING Helen Money Nutrition G Helen Money Owner 01865 339 672 OXON www.helenmoneynutrition.com

Twin Town Challenge 01993 220 666 www.twintown.org.uk

BANKING

HR CONSULTANTS

Oxford United FC Community Trust 01865 783 236 www.theoxfordacademy.org.uk/ Oxford-United-Community-Trust

Barclays Corporate Banking Trevor French P Head of Business and Corporate Banking 0800 015 4242 OXON www.barclayscorporate.com

You HR P Jonna Mundy Owner 07703 719 464 www.youhrconsultancy.co.uk

Cornbury Music Festival 020 7229 2219 www.cornburyfestival.com

EDUCATION d’Overbroeck’s G Peter Talbot Bursar 01865 688611 OXON www.doverbroecks.com

128

HSBC G Ian Nash Head of Business Banking, Thames Valley 0845 850 174 OXON www.hsbc.com NatWest 01865 305 175 OXON www.natwest.com

Light Bright Communications 07811 180 388 GLOC www.lightbrightcommunications.co.uk Think Inspire and Create 0844 414 6056 OXON www.thinkinspireandcreate.com Emma C Browning Ltd 01280 848 415 www.emmacbrowning.com

RECRUITMENT The Career Boutique 0845 520 4010 OXON www.thecareerboutique.com Gold Star Recruitment 01993 225 075 OXON www.goldstarrecruit.co.uk Change to A R Hine Associates 01865 339 313 OXON www.alanhine.co.uk Finance.work 01865 657 657 OXON www.finance.work Better People Ltd 01491 836 632 OXON www.betterpeopleltd.co.uk Global CTS 01235 209 154 OXON www.globalcts.co.uk Boys and Girls Promotions 01865 595 707 OXON www.boysandgirlspromotions.co.uk Selective Recruitment Solutions 01235 462 900 OXON www.selective-group.com Berry Recruitment 01865 777 733 OXON www.berryrecruitment.co.uk

IT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS TELECOMMUNICATIONS STL Communications Ltd 01993 777 113 OXON www.stlcomms.com Orange Stripe Telecommunications 0845 241 7772 OXON www.orangestripe.co.uk

IT SERVICES Computing Information Systems (CIS) Ltd P Michael Wellborn Manager of Sales and Marketing 01367 700 555 OXON www.cisltd.com CQR Consulting G Simon Glover Operations Manager 01865 987182 www.cqr.com Databasix 07777 610 900 OXON www.dbxuk.com JP IT Solutions 01672 552 340 OXON www.jpitsolutions.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

B4 Security Exchange Ltd. 01491 683 710 BERKS www.securityexchange24.com

SeeLocal 01295 817 611 OXON www.seelocal.co.uk

Buzz Digital Marketing 07834 363 815 OXON www.buzzdigitalmarketing.co.uk

Bongo IT 01865 988 217 OXON www.bongoit.co.uk

CORPORATE IDENTITY

Zanzi Digital 01865 595 260 OXON www.zanzidigital.co.uk

QPQ Software 01235 522 516 OXON www.qpqsoftware.com

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT Digital Aid Consulting P Stuart Gibson Digital Strategy Consultant & Founder 07788 446259 www.digitalaidconsulting.com Alberon P Tim Ault Managing Director 01865 263 220 OXON www.alberon.co.uk WebBoutiques Ltd 01865 883 852 OXON www.webboutiques.co.uk

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT Smokin Donut 01844 212577 www.smokin-donut.com

MANUFACTURING Owen Mumford P Jarl Severn Director 01993 812 021 OXON www.owenmumford.com G-Smatt Europe G Orhan Ertughrul Executive Vice President 01865 688 228 OXON www.g-smatteurope.com Unipart G Frank Nigriello Director of Corporate Affairs 01865 383 339 OXON www.unipart.com

MARKETING & DESIGN ADVERTISING B4 Magazine P Richard Rosser Managing Director 01865 742 211 OXON www.b4-business.com In Oxford Magazine P Colin Rosser Chairman 01865 742 211 OXON www.inoxford.com

www.b4-business.com

Recognition Express P Andy Olejnik Managing Director 01295 257 611 OXON www.re-oxfordshire.co.uk Strangebrew P Phil Strachan Director 07770 753 975 BERKS www.thinkbrandnotbland.co.uk Brand New Dawn 01865 400 640 OXON www.brandnewdawn.com Build Your Brand Story 07850 198 681 OXON www.buildyourbrandstory.com Brand Asylum 01235 828 508 OXON www.brandasylum.co.uk

DESIGN House on the Hill P Keith Simpson Senior Designer 01865 742 211 OXON www.hothdesign.co.uk Brown Creative 01235 762297 www.browncreative.co.uk

FRAMING Isis Creative Framing 01865 203 420 OXON www.isiscreative.co.uk

MARKETING The Social Managers 07505 903 334 OXON www.thesocialmanagers.com Heart of Business 07801 293 022 OXON Marketing Sense 01865 883 579 OXON www.marketing-sense.co.uk ADS 01993 885 125 OXON www.adsoxford.co.uk OJI Marketing 07463 994 834 OXON www.ojimarketing.co.uk Angus Grady 01442 876 038 OXON www.angusgrady.com

Juicy Designs 01367 820 929 OXON www.juicy-designs.com

MEDIA/DIGITAL Imageworks 01865 865656 OXON www.imageworks.co.uk Indulge Media 01865 686 093 OXON www.indulgemedia.com

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Studio8 P Clark Wiseman Managing Director 01865 842 525 OXON www.studio-8.co.uk Five on a Bike G York Woodford-Smith Video Producer 01494 868 409 OXON www.fiveonabike.com Frederick Jewson 07817 395 660 OXON www.frederickjewson.co.uk The Plastic Goldfish Company 01865 861 875 OXON www.plasticgoldfish.co.uk Glue Films 01235 819 187 OXON www.gluefilms.co.uk Digital Gold HQ 01235 819 187 OXON www.digitalgoldhq.com Warpline 01235 841 503 www.warplinefilms.co.uk

PRINTING Carbon Colour 01235 438 938 OXON www.carbon.co.uk Minuteman Press 01865 247 010 OXON www.oxford.minutemanpress.co.uk KMS Litho 01608 737 640 www.kmslitho.co.uk Mayfield Press 01865 714715 OXON www.mayfield-press.co.uk Fine Print 01993 777 450 OXON www.fineprint.co.uk

PUBLIC RELATIONS Cerub PR 01494 461 784 OXON www.cerubpr.co.uk Papa Romeo PR 07811 339 577 OXON www.paparomeopr.com Spacecraft Consulting 07968 081 128 OXON www.oconsultancy.com Avril Chaffey PR 01488 608 898 BERKS www.avrilchaffeypr.co.uk

MARKET RESEARCH Nielsen 01865 742742 OXON www.nielsen.com

PROPERTY & BUILDING ARCHITECTURE Gray Baynes + Shew 01865 305 130 OXON www.gbsarchitects.co.uk

BUSINESS PARKS Oxford Innovation Ltd P Jo Willett Managing Director 01865 261 400 OXON www.oxin-centres.co.uk Milton Park Nancy Leadley Marketing Manager 01235 865 555 OXON www.miltonpark.com Bloxham Mill 01295 722 800 www.bloxhammill.com

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS VSL and Partners P Richard Venables Director 01865 848 488 OXON www.vslandp.com Carter Jonas P Scott Harkness Partner 01865 511 444 OXON www.carterjonas.co.uk Lambert Smith Hampton G Simon Butler Associate Director 01865 587 713 OXON www.lsh.co.uk Marriotts 01865 316 311 OXON www.marriottsoxford.co.uk

129

Contacts COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SERVICES

Mulholland Landscape Consultants 07734 253 579 OXON www.mulhollandconsultants.co.uk

Milton Hill House 01235 831 474 OXON www.miltonoxfordshire.co.uk

The Wonky Food Company 07596 488 518 OXON www.wonkyfoodco.com

PMS Oxford 01865 407 554 OXON www.pmsoxford.co.uk

Jurys Inn Oxford 0203 564 5225 OXON www.jurysinns.com/hotels/oxford

Chadlington Brewery 07967 210 151 OXON www.chadlingtonbrewery.com

Digitizelectric 01865 517 018 BERKS www.digitizelectric.com

Peter Brett Associates LLP 01865 410 002 OXON www.peterbrett.com

Royal Oxford Hotel 01865 248 432 OXON www.royaloxfordhotel.co.uk

GALLERIES

ESTATE AGENTS

Kingerlee 01865 840 000 OXON www.kingerlee.co.uk

Hawkwell House 01865 749 988 OXON www.hawkwellhouse.co.uk

Breckon & Breckon P Keith Stacey Managing Director 01865 244 735 OXON www.breckon.co.uk

COEL 01865 986 822 OXON www.coel.uk.com

Oxford Spires Hotel 01865 324 324 OXON www.oxfordspireshotel.co.uk

PROPERTY SERVICES

CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT

Savvy Maintenance & Renovations P Stephen Dunne Director 01865 920 020 OXON www.savvy-group.co.uk

Newbury Racecourse P Tracy Skinner Head of Sales 01635 40015 www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

CherryPicked Residential 01865 339 546 OXON www.cherrypickedresidential.co.uk Wallers of Oxford 01865 435 175 OXON www.wallersofoxford.co.uk

LETTING AGENTS Breckon & Breckon P Greg Barnes Director 01865 201 111 OXON www.breckon.co.uk North Oxford Property Services G Robin Swailes Director 01865 311 745 OXON www.nops.co.uk Finders Keepers 01865 302 308 OXON www.finders.co.uk College and County 01865 722 722 OXON www.collegeandcounty.biz Chesterton Yeates 01865 338 080 OXON www.chestertonyeates.co.uk

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS Kempton Carr Croft G Rob Kerrigan Chartered Surveyor and RICS Registered Valuer 01628 771 221 BERKS www.kemptoncarr.co.uk Ridge and Partners LLP 01993 815 101 OXON www.ridge.co.uk Solid Structures 01608 690 858 OXON www.solid-structures.com

Bicester Roofing G Michael Staniford Managing Director 0870 264 6454 OXON www.bicesterroofing.co.uk Darke & Taylor Ltd G Simon Newton Managing Director 01865 290 000 OXON www.darkeandtaylor.co.uk A1 Plumbing & Heating 01865 327 732 OXON www.a1ltd.co.uk Marriotts Chartered Surveyors 01865 316 311 OXON www.marriottsoxford.co.uk

R&R ACCOMMODATION Macdonald Randolph Hotel P Simon Drake General Manager 0844 879 9132 OXON www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

The House 01865 724 433 OXON www.housebar.co.uk The Duke of Cambridge 01865 558 173 OXON www.dukebar.com Sam Strange Magic G Sam Strange Owner 01865 742 211 OXON www.samstrangemagic.co.uk Oxford Castle Unlocked 01865 260 666 OXON www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT Lamplighter Drama 0844 879 4418 www.lamplighterdrama.com Creation Theatre 01865 766 266 OXON www.creationtheatre.co.uk

Aidan Meller Galleries 01865 727996 OXON www.aidanmeller.com

RESTAURANTS Pizza Pilgrims 01865 808 030 OXON www.pizzapilgrims.co.uk Pierre Victoire 01865 316 616 OXON www.pierrevictoire.co.uk Marco’s at Mercure Eastgate Hotel 01865 248 332 OXON www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk/restaurants /marcos-oxford The Crown 01993 813 339 www.thecrownwoodstock.com

SHOPPING D.R Light Frame Designs 01993 898 084 OXON www.drlightframedesigns.co.uk OXC 07837 244 826 OXON www.oxcuk.com Blackwell's 01865 333 536 OXON www.blackwell.co.uk Alexandra Roman 01295 721 629 OXON www.alexandraroman.co.uk Westgate Shopping Centre 01865 263 600 OXON www.westgateoxford.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK SUPPLIES PoppyRed Cake Company 07493 081 012 OXON www.poppyredcakecompany.co.uk

The Manor at Weston on the Green G Michael Stevenson General Manager 01869 350 621 OXON www.themanorweston.com

Neve’s Bees 07891 633 356 OXON www.nevesbees.co.uk

Marriott Courtyard Oxford South 07741 910 400 OXON www.marriott.co.uk/hotels

TOAD 01865 767 918 OXON www.spiritoftoad.com

Oxford Abingdon Hotel 01235 553 456 OXON www.oxfordabingdonhotel.com

Maestria Brands 01865 818 664 OXON www.maestriabrands.com

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