Thinking Business June 25

Chamber Business Awards

THINKING BUSIN E S S

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE

Opens for entry 9 June. See page 42

so do the risks

What we need to know to protect our IT systems. Page 24

n The Big Interview: Doug Bannister, CEO of Port of Dover p18

n Skills p21

n International Trade p36

n Chamber Events p40

n New Members p48

Tudor Price Chief Executive

Welcome to the latest edition of Thinking Business magazine!

I want to extend a huge welcome and thank you to our new Chamber Patrons, who were appointed at the latest Kent Business Leaders Dinner. We welcomed over 60 guests to the special dinner and revealed our new Patrons for 2025/26. They are Brachers LLP, Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd, Eurotunnel – A Getlink Company, Flowbird Ltd, MHA Baker Tilly,

Boosting the Kent economy

MidKent College, Nova IT Solutions, Stagecoach South East, Towergate Insurance Brokers, and the University of Kent. Thank you for your support. We look forward to working with you.

Ray Johnson, President of our Chamber’s Board of Directors, made a marathon effort to raise £150,000 for the Kent Association for the Blind. And he is not the only super runner at Kent Invicta – Paul Brooks, our Marketing and Events Manager, ran the Boston Marathon, raising £10,000 for Tedy’s Team. What an inspiration to us all!

Read all about the Port of Dover’s innovative plans to ensure it continues to be the port of choice.

Doug Bannister, CEO, tells us how the Port is using AI to make the UK’s busiest international ferry port run even more efficiently and engaging more with the local community to ensure Dover is an attractive place for investors. Is your cyber security fully protected? Have a read of our feature on the increasing cyber security risks to businesses. The British Chambers of Commerce recommends that the Government takes the lead to proactively engage with businesses, particular small businesses, to raise awareness of

the risks, something we completely support.

Dan Campbell, Director of iMicro, shares his story starting from tinkering around with computers as a child to building his own business as a Managed IT Services Provider. He shares some invaluable advice on cyber security and insight into the digital landscape.

Skills 25 was a fantastic event which completely surpassed my expectations. The summit’s speakers provided some powerful insight into the partnerships between business leaders and education providers to drive regional skills development through collaboration. We heard some real-life examples from businesses too. It has really created momentum in the conversation about how we can all best support young people to boost our economy here in Kent and Medway.

The UK and EU’s new post-Brexit deal, signed on 19 May, marks a turning point in UK/EU relations. A permanent deal to remove unnecessary checks on food and drink exports in both directions is a huge win and will cut costs, increase sales and reduce waste. The use of e-gates at passport control will also make life easier for

businesses who cross EU borders regularly, as well as being a boost for tourism.

Ensure that you have your say to the Government and the Bank of England in the Quarterly Economic Survey. The British Chambers of Commerce survey is the largest and longest-running independent survey of business sentiment and provides real insight into how UK businesses are performing. We have run the QES in Kent and Medway for over 20 years and our anonymised data is sent to the BCC to collate into a UK wide report. Find out how to have your say on p.39.

Keep an eye on upcoming events, including the Chamber Business Awards – entries open on 9 June –and the Kent Construction Expo on 2 October at the Kent Event Centre.

Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to seeing you at one of our next events.

Tudor Price Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

A marathon effort raises £150,000 for Kent cause

An incredible £150,000 has been raised by one man for the Kent Association for the Blind over 25 years of fundraising. And Ray Johnson, an ambassador for the charity, has no plans to stop there. The 61-year-old and President of Kent Invicta Chamber Board of Directors. has already signed up for the 2026 London Marathon, supported by corporate supporters Howden Insurance Group, The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, Brown & Brown, Allianz, Accommodation Shop, Damhurst & Co and WCI.

In an “amazing day” at this year’s event, Ray “cruised” the 26.2 miles (42k) at a relatively consistent pace, coming over the line at an “unexpected and fantastic” time of 4:34:49 – four seconds quicker than the previous year – making it his best since the 2019 event.

Ray said: “Not bad for a 61-year-old! The conditions were perfect but hot and there were a lot of runners walking. As always with over 50,000 other runners joining, there was a truly great atmosphere along with the spectators.

“It is always enjoyable seeing the wonderful London sights that helped me get round the course. Also seeing regular runners and supporters was helpful to push me on.”

Ray was delighted to find that the kind donations received this year took his total over the 25 years to £150,000 in aid of the Kent Association for the Blind.

He added: “Sincere thanks go to all who have contributed whether individuals or companies.”

Ray’s best time over the two-and-a-half decades was in 2002, when he ran the course in just three hours and 23 minutes. He is already looking forward to the 2026 marathon, which will take place in April next year.

Paul Brooks completes Boston Marathon, raising over £10,000 for Tedy’s Team

Paul Brooks, Marketing and Events Manager at the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, successfully completed the Boston Marathon on Monday 21st April 2025, running on behalf of Tedy’s Team. Paul achieved an impressive time of 4 hours and 36 minutes, all while raising over £10,000 for charity.

Tedy’s Team, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness and funds for stroke and heart disease research, was thrilled to have Paul as part of their team (and he was the only UK runner for the charity). His dedication and commitment to both the marathon and the cause were evident throughout his training and fundraising efforts.

“I am incredibly proud to have run the Boston Marathon for Tedy’s Team,” said Paul Brooks. “The support I received from friends, family, and work colleagues was overwhelming, and it motivated me to push through every mile. Raising over £10,000 for such an important cause makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

Paul’s journey to the marathon was marked by months of training and a strong determination to make a difference. His efforts not only highlight his personal achievement but also brings attention to the critical work being done by Tedy’s Team in the fight against stroke and heart disease.

The funds raised by Paul will go directly to supporting Tedy’s Team’s initiatives, including educational programs, community outreach, and research funding. These efforts are crucial in helping to prevent and treat stroke and heart disease, ultimately saving lives.

Practical Applications of AI Technologies for SMEs

This article explores how SMEs can harness AI solutions to increase business efficiency. For example, the challenges these types of business face are similar, including having fewer resources and small budgets, together with the threat of larger businesses overshadowing their work. As a result, there is a greater need for innovation which can be time consuming and is an additional business cost.

The Gartner report (2024) predicts that by 2028 “at least 15% of day-to-day work decisions will be made autonomously through agentic AI up from zero percent in 2024”. SMEs might, therefore, consider now how best to integrate AI into operational areas.

Improving Efficiency

Using AI to automate repetitive, and therefore time consuming, tasks will optimise processes. For example, AI tools can automate, data entry, invoices and customer support services by using chatbots. The benefit of using automation for these activities is that it provides time for employees to focus on higher value work such as strategy, and growth.

Forecasting

Predictive analytics can also help business owners to make use of historical data to predict or at least give some insight into forecasting sales trends.

Streamlining, scheduling and project management

Using AI to undertake tasks like diary scheduling reduces the time needed to juggle projects and personnel. AI solutions can also be deployed to analyse availability, helping to ensure resources are allocated efficiently and projects can be effectively scheduled and deadlines met.

Policy writing

Drafting and approving company policies can be a protracted process. As a business grows the need for more complex policies may also grow. AI tools can analyse existing policies and provide updates to ensure the business is meeting industry standards or is compliant, as well as to draft new policies with a raft of templates available which can then be tailored to the specific business need.

Client and customer care and marketing

AI analytics can be used to help SMEs better understand customer behaviour and preferences. Marketing teams can then use this information to produce informed strategy based on the customer journey. In other areas chatbots are commonly used to provide

Jonathan Masucci Corporate and Commercial Partner

customers with instant feedback to enquiries which in turn increases customer satisfaction and builds a sense of loyalty between the customer and the business.

Financial management

AI can assist in budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting reducing the risk of human error.

HR, recruitment and talent management

AI can be used to streamline the candidate sourcing and selection process. The initial sift stage can be undertaken by AI to match qualifications and ensuring a candidate has the necessary skills for a job role. In some cases, AI can now be used to conduct initial screening interviews.

For SMEs, integrating AI functions into operations means business leaders can instead focus on strategy, growth and other areas to ensure their business not only survives in an increasingly competitive market but is also able to thrive.

Jonathan Masucci is a partner at Girlings Solicitors in the Corporate and Commercial department.

When it comes to financial advice, it’s important to find someone you can trust. For the past 34 years we have been providing unbiased, holistic financial planning advice to clients and businesses across Kent. We are proud of our success, our independence, and our reputation of being a friendly, professional practice.

When it comes to financial advice, it’s important to find someone you can trust. For the past 33 years we have been providing unbiased, holistic financial planning advice to clients and businesses across Kent. We are proud of our success, our independence, and our reputation of being a friendly, professional practice.

Folkestone Office: 01303 273 273

Folkestone Office: 01303 273 273

Maidstone Office: 01622 238 230

Maidstone Office: 01622 238 230

ifa@financial-advice.co.uk

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www.financial-advice.co.uk

www.financial-advice.co.uk

PENSION FREEDOMS – ten years on

It is now a decade since George Osborne introduced legislation under the title of Pension “Freedom and Choice”. The rules, which were introduced in April 2015, gave people aged 55 and over more flexibility about when and how they draw their Defined Contribution pension savings.

Increased popularity

Flexi-Access Drawdown has rapidly become the most popular method of drawing a pension income. Under a Flexi-Access Drawdown approach, the pension holder has complete freedom to draw as much or as little from their pension pot beyond the normal pension age (currently 55) without restriction.

According to data compiled by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the 2023/24 tax year, 68% of those with pension funds valued between £100,000 and £250,000, who accessed their pension, did so via Flexi-Access Drawdown. Only 19% chose to purchase an annuity, where a guaranteed income for life is bought with the pension fund value. For those with pension values above £250,000, the popularity of Flexi-Access Drawdown is even higher, with 82% of individuals accessing their pensions using this approach.

It is easy to understand why Flexi-Access Drawdown has become such a popular option for those with more substantial pension savings. Adopting a drawdown approach provides the ability to adjust the amount of income drawn to a level that precisely suits the individual and can easily be adjusted to adapt to changes in financial circumstances. For example, the level of drawdown can be increased if additional income is required or reduced if income is not needed.

Furthermore, the income stream can be established as monthly payments, or ad hoc lump sums of income can be paid in addition to, or instead, of regular payments.

This means that Flexi-Access Drawdown can also be a powerful way of reducing an income tax liability, by adjusting the level of income withdrawn. This is proving particularly useful as Income Tax bands and the Personal Allowance have been frozen since 2021, and the State Pension is increased each year via the “triple lock”.

By adopting a Flexi-Access Drawdown approach, the fund remains invested, providing the opportunity to participate in growth in values over time. As a pension fund remains tax exempt when invested, it allows the accumulated savings to grow in a tax-efficient environment.

A key benefit of Flexi-Access Drawdown is that any remaining pension value held can be passed on to a nominated beneficiary when an individual dies. This contrasts with other options, such as pension annuities, where payments cease on the death of the individual, or their dependent. It is, however, worth remembering that pension death benefit rules are set to change from 2027, when the remaining value of a defined contribution pension will be added to an individual’s estate when Inheritance Tax is calculated.

Not without risks

Whilst it is easy to identify the reasons for the increased popularity of drawdown pensions, it is important to recognise that this approach carries ongoing risks. The most obvious is the potential for the withdrawals to erode or even exhaust the value of the pension, at which point the pension would cease to provide you with an income. The success of a drawdown approach will be measured by whether the rate of withdrawals taken is sustainable, and the long-term investment performance achieved.

Selecting an unsustainable rate of withdrawal is likely to reduce the value of the pension over time, if investment returns fail to match the level of withdrawal taken. As the pension value falls, the rate of erosion often accelerates, as the rate of return required to offset withdrawals becomes increasingly unrealistic. This effect can be exacerbated by significant movements in global markets, such as those seen during

the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic or at the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. If such a market shock occurs in the early stages of a drawdown strategy, this could further reduce the likelihood that the portfolio can meet the required rate of return to match the rate of withdrawal.

Adopting a drawdown approach will mean that a suitable investment portfolio will need to be constructed, and managed, which will incur ongoing costs. Such costs are not present when buying an annuity, due to the absence of an investment fund. It is also crucial that any drawdown retirement strategy is reviewed regularly, to ensure that it continues to meet any changes in circumstances, and the investments remain appropriate given variances in market conditions.

The power of tailored advice

The increased choice offered under the Pension Freedom rules also increased the complexity of the decision-making process, and this remains as true today as it was ten years ago. This is why it is important to seek advice which is tailored to your specific needs, objectives and financial circumstances.

Whilst Flexi-Access Drawdown is clearly the most popular option amongst many approaching retirement, it isn’t right for everyone. Annuities provide a guaranteed income and avoid the need for the ongoing risk and costs of managing pension investments. They do, however, fail to offer the flexibility that a drawdown approach provides, which many find invaluable.

© Financial Advice and Services Ltd 2025

This year’s Kent Invicta Chamber Patrons have been appointed in a presentation ceremony staged at the latest Kent Business Leaders Dinner. The dinner was hosted by Kerry Barber, Director of Research and Innovation Support, on Thursday 24th April 2025, in the Darwin Conference Suite at the University of Kent, one of this year’s Patrons.

Over 60 guests were welcomed by Tudor Price, Chief Executive at Kent Invicta Chamber, and Kerry Barber, Director of Research and Innovation Support at the University. Guests enjoyed a delightful meal focused on Kent produce, accompanied by wines from Biddenden Vineyards.

Before dinner, the Patrons for the 2025-26 term were announced. They were presented with prestigious certificates designed and produced by local businesses Oak Creative and Frameworx. Patrons represent key sectors in the county and organisations that support and service the local business community.

Tudor Price, Chief Executive at Kent Invicta Chamber, said, “I would like to thank all our Patrons for their commitment to the Chamber for the coming year.”

After dinner, Sarah Howard MBE, Chair of the British Chambers of Commerce, outlined the work that she and her team were conducting to amplify the key issues being raised by Members both locally and nationally, ensuring that policymakers, current and future, keep business and the economy foremost in their minds. Sarah highlighted the key policies being put forward to the government under the “where business belongs” campaign, which lays out in clear terms the steps needed to boost the UK economy.

The Kent Invicta Chamber Patrons for 2025/26 are Brachers LLP, Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd, Eurotunnel –A Getlink Company, Flowbird Ltd, MHA Baker Tilly, MidKent College, Nova IT Solutions, Stagecoach South East, Towergate Insurance Brokers, and the University of Kent.

Photography by Matthew Walker

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From immersive learning spaces to sustainability initiatives

Why teaching in further education is worth it.

A New Chapter: Why Teaching in Further Education is Worth It

David Bedward began his journey as an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) lecturer at MidKent College in September 2024. His path into teaching came after he started his career working in IT creating circuit boards. He then moved to France, where he lived for three years. Since returning to the UK, David has taught in private language schools and across a range of subjects, including Spanish, French, Drama, Dance, and Music.

What drew David to further education (FE) was the opportunity to work with young people who are still open to growth. “They’re at a stage where they’re still figuring things out,” he explains. “Even when they act like they don’t care, deep down they do—otherwise, they wouldn’t keep coming back.” David finds it rewarding building real connections with students, even those who start off distant or disengaged.

He describes the environment at MidKent College as welcoming and positive, with staff who are approachable and supportive. “It’s different from other places I’ve worked—there’s a real community here.” He’s also impressed by the college’s innovative approach, from immersive learning spaces to sustainability initiatives like solar energy use.

David believes his life experience enriches his teaching. Many of his students have come through extremely difficult circumstances, particularly in his ESOL classes. He sees their strength and resilience and works to create a supportive, fun atmosphere.

He recommends a career in FE. “Absolutely,” he says. “If you’ve got skills and knowledge to share, give it a go. You don’t have to be a traditional teacher—students value real-world experience. And helping someone take that next step in life? That’s incredibly rewarding.”

From Tools to Teaching: Steven Kent’s Journey from workshop to Classroom

Formerly a joiner in a Rochester workshop and a MidKent College apprentice himself, Steven found his way back to the college after a casual conversation with the technician from his course who was retiring. That moment sparked a new path—first as a technician, and now as a full-time Construction Skills lecturer.

Making the transition wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, I thought teaching would be easy compared to the intensity of manufacturing work,” Steven admits. “But the pressure is different—it’s not about hitting targets for production anymore, it’s about helping students succeed.” The rewards are more personal. Watching students grow in skill and confidence, find apprenticeships, and return to share their success stories has made the challenges worth it.

Steven has learned that teaching is a dynamic field. “In a trade, there’s usually a right or wrong way to do something. In teaching, it’s more about finding what works for your students—and that can be a learning curve.” This shift in mindset has been an enriching experience. He gets to stay connected to his craft—still working with tools and leading by example—while also shaping the future workforce.

For tradespeople curious about a career in education, Steven’s advice is clear: explore the opportunity. “If you love your trade, imagine how rewarding it could be to pass that passion on. You don’t need to start as a teacher—begin as a technician or even just have a chat with the college.”

The pay may sometimes be lower than onsite work at the start, but the benefits are consistent hours, a positive environment, and the satisfaction of making a difference. Steven says, “Teaching isn’t about stepping away from your trade; it’s about evolving it through helping the next generation.”

Tanbir Ahmed: From Solar Panels to the Lecture Hall

Tanbir Ahmed never expected to become a teacher. From university with an engineering degree, his first step was into the solar energy industry in Oxford.

After a year, Tanbir moved back to London and began private contracting work. But an unexpected injury—a torn tendon in his hand— meant he had to stop. Facing a long recovery, he took a temporary job in private healthcare insurance, to make the best out of a tough time.

Once cleared to return to work, Tanbir applied for engineering roles. An agency offered him a technician position at MidKent College. It wasn’t planned —but it was a foot in the door. “I started in a support role. Then an opportunity came up to teach a higher education engineering module. I didn’t see myself as a teacher, but I gave it a go—and something just clicked.”

Tanbir found the transition went well having had past experience running practical sessions for students during his time at the University of Greenwich.

Encouraged by supportive mentors including Jake, a welding lecturer, and leaders such as Stella Nedziwe-Maseya and Jane Le Poidevin, Tanbir took the step into full-time lecturing.

“I learned how to structure lessons, give meaningful feedback, and trust students to take the lead in their learning. That shift—from doing the talking to guiding them —was huge.” Tanbir loves being surrounded by engineering every day. “I studied this subject because I loved it. Now I get to pass that on to students who are in the same place I was.”

Teaching comes with challenges—especially around workload and adapting to each student’s path. But the rewards outweigh them. “Every day is different. The students, the colleagues, the constant learning—it’s dynamic and fulfilling. You’re not an engineer anymore—you’re a lecturer teaching engineering. It’s a different path, but worth it.”

Tanbir is now working toward his teaching qualifications and hopes to become an assessor. “In ten years, I see myself still in education, but even more skilled.”

https://www.midkent.ac.uk

Empowered Marketing, Together: Why I became We

“At We Do Marketing – formerly I Do Marketing – we understand the strategic thought and creative energy it takes to rebrand a business, because we’ve just done it ourselves,” says Lydia Mckeown,

Managing Director of

We Do Marketing.

“When I launched the agency in 2016 with a laptop and a clear vision, the name I Do Marketing was designed to empower business owners to take control of their marketing. Eight years on, that spirit of empowerment remains, but the business has evolved – and so has our name.

“So why the shift from I to We? Collaboration has always been at the heart of what we do. Our team becomes an extension of our clients’ teams, delivering strategic marketing that aligns seamlessly with their goals. The name change simply reflects the way we already work.

“Visually, the rebrand is about continuity with a twist. Our logo received a subtle update, changing just one letter. But our colour palette saw the biggest transformation – retaining our well-known purple while introducing vibrant new tones that speak to our creative growth. “Rebranding over 215 assets, launching a new website, updating our social presence, and re-signing the office wasn’t easy – but it was exciting. And just like any brand we work with, we loved the challenge of making sure every detail reflected who we are now.”

The Digital Evolution of Accounting: Beyond Numbers to Business Success

The accounting profession is experiencing a fundamental shift, driven by both technological advancement and evolving business needs. According to recent research by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), seven in 10 small firms have modernised their processes in the past three years, highlighting a growing appetite for digital transformation.

The British Business Bank’s 2024 report reveals that UK SMEs, which account for 99 per cent of all businesses, are increasingly seeking more than just compliance services from their accountants. A recent study by OnPay shows that 23 per cent of small businesses are likely to switch accountants within the next year, primarily seeking advisers who can provide practical business guidance alongside traditional services.

“The transformation is clear as digital adoption among SMEs has become crucial for growth and productivity,” says Keeley Walker, Associate Director at Brisan Accountancy.

“Yet, the opportunity for improvement remains significant. The FSB’s latest research indicates that whilst businesses are embracing technology, many still need support in translating financial data into actionable business insights.

“As we progress through 2025, successful accountants will be those who can bridge this gap - combining digital efficiency with practical business advice. The future of accounting isn’t just about organising numbers; it’s about working alongside businesses to drive growth through informed decision-making and proactive guidance.

“For small businesses in Kent and across the UK, this evolution represents an opportunity to gain not just a service provider, but a trusted business adviser who can help navigate the path to success.”

www.brisan.co.uk

Home Instead Maidstone –Personalised Care with Heart

Home Instead Maidstone is a familyrun business providing exceptional, personalised home care for older adults.

Established in 2012 by brothers Andy and Mark Craig, the business was born from a shared passion for making a real difference in people’s lives. Their mission has always been simple: to deliver the kind of care they would want for their own loved ones.

From their local office in Maidstone, Andy and Mark have built a trusted team of dedicated Care Professionals who offer support with warmth, respect and genuine compassion. Services include companionship, personal care, home help and full-time live-in care –all carefully tailored to meet the unique needs and wishes of everyone.

At Home Instead Maidstone, care is not just about tasks but about building meaningful relationships.

The team also specialises in dementia care, helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of memory loss with empathy and expertise. All Care Professionals receive indepth dementia training to ensure they provide consistent, reassuring support that promotes dignity and independence.

With over a decade of experience and deep roots in the local community, Andy and Mark remain closely involved in the day-today running of the business. Their hands-on approach ensures that every client is treated like family.

homeinstead.co.uk

How to Boost Email Sign-Ups and effectively use them for Marketing

Many business owners hesitate to grow their email lists due to concerns about staying compliant with data protection.

But with the right approach, it’s possible to build your database and run successful, compliant campaigns as Business Tamer’s GDPR & data compliance expert Judith Andrews explains:

1. Simple, compelling sign-up

Your website is the main sign-up touchpoint. Use clear calls-to-action like ‘Get exclusive tips’ or ‘Access special offers.’ Keep the form short – first name and email address is the bare minimum – and add reviews to demonstrate the benefits of signing up.

2. Drive traffic

Now you have a great sign-up form, make sure customers see it! Promote your form across social media and in targeted ads. Share helpful content like blogs, podcasts and videos to demonstrate your expertise. Partner with like-minded businesses to expand your reach.

3. Maximise visibility

Place your form where it’s most visible – the homepage, pop-ups, and blog post sign-offs are all great spots.

4. Opt-in and Opt-out

Be transparent about why you’re collecting data and how it will be used. Make opting out easy, and act quickly on unsubscribe requests. Keep your privacy notice visible and up to date.

5. Compliant email marketing

Always include your company details, a privacy notice and an unsubscribe link in every email. Use a clean, permissioned list and monitor for bounce rates and spam traps.

For more in-depth guidance, check out Judith’s new handbook, The Business Owner’s Guide to GDPR.

www.businesstamer.co.uk

Shaping thriving environments for the good of communities

Balfour Beatty Living Places collaborates closely with local authorities to deliver exceptional highways maintenance, street lighting, and public realm services. Utilising its “unrivalled” expertise, it aims to bring real, positive change to its customers and the communities it serves.

The company actively engages with local residents to understand their needs and help shape environments where local economies can thrive and grow. As leaders in sustainable working, diversity and inclusion, and social value, Balfour Beatty supports apprentices and ex-offenders in finding employment. The company says its commitment to sustainability is evident in the use of innovative materials, such as geopolymer-stabilised subbase layers and its mastic patching programme, which help reduce carbon emissions. Balfour Beatty also embraces new, innovative technologies to leverage the latest data, improving efficiency and productivity. Its Operational Control Hub is one example of how such technology is used to enhance services and deliver better outcomes for the communities it operates in. For more information visit: www.balfourbeatty.com

Balancing your brand and AI

In May 2025, the University of Kent hosted another inspiring Kent Business Summit. Oak Creative was there to stay connected to Kent’s challenges, opportunities and ideas. AI was the hot topic and we have summarised a few of the key insights of balancing AI and your brand.

AI is no longer a futuristic add-on, it’s embedded in how businesses operate, market, and grow. For SMEs, this isn’t about keeping up with tech giants but about using AI practically to boost efficiency. This offers some incredible benefits to the customer experience. Whether it’s streamlining operations or predicting customer behaviour, AI tools are now accessible and scalable.

When it comes to marketing, AI can deliver impressive outputs but it cannot replace strategy. Without clear objectives, strong brand foundations and customer insight, AI risks becoming noise not value. Authenticity still matters. Brands must lead with their voice and story because that’s what connects.

As one speaker put it, “AI wants good content. But great content still needs a human touch.” That means building human-led strategies that use AI to enhance, not replace, your creativity. AI might write a blog, but it needs human input to make it resonate.

Finally, as traditional search declines, websites must be optimised for AI discoverability, with smart structures and meaningful content.

The key takeaway? As the generation who will define how AI is used, we must lead with responsibility and originality. AI is a powerful tool but it’s the people behind the business that make it matter and who can ultimately facilitate brands to flourish in their marketplace.

www.oakcreative.co.uk

Leading the Way: Championing Female Representation in ICT

The technology sector in the UK has long faced challenges around gender representation. According to recent reports, women still make up less than a quarter of the IT workforce nationally – a clear signal that there is more work to be done to create a truly inclusive industry.

At BCS, they are proud to be leading positive change. With one-third of their team made up of talented women across all departments – both technical and non-technical – they are demonstrating that gender diversity in ICT is not only achievable but essential for innovation and growth.

From software engineers and cybersecurity specialists to project managers and client support experts, women play

a critical role in driving their success. Their perspectives, creativity and leadership help them deliver better solutions, foster stronger collaboration, and build a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.

But for BCS, representation isn’t the end goal, it’s just the beginning. They are committed to breaking more boundaries by continuing to encourage, support and promote female talent in IT. Through mentoring programmes, flexible career pathways and a strong focus on professional development, their aim is to inspire the next generation of women to see a future for themselves in tech.

For more informatoin visit: www.bcs365.co.uk

Runners flock to seaside for popular Furley Page Whitstable 10K race

Hundreds of runners and spectators headed to the coast when the ever-popular Furley Page Whitstable 10K returned on Early May Bank Holiday (Monday 5 May 2025).

Organised by Canterbury Harriers running club and Sporting Events UK, the Furley Page Whitstable 10K road race is now in its 25th year. The flat seafront course, which starts from Tankerton Slopes and goes out to Hampton Pier then turns round to end at the Waterfront Club in Whitstable, is known for producing fast times and attracts thousands of entries each year from runners keen to push for a personal best.

Prizes are awarded for the top three men and women, the best three-person team, and the best veteran in a variety of age categories, while all finishers will receive a T-shirt and a medal as mementoes.

Furley Page entered a team of eight runners for this year’s event and has sponsored the popular running race since 2022, with the Chair of Canterbury Harriers, Melanie Christodoulou, also a Senior Associate at the law firm.

Susan Jennings, Partner and Head of Corporate at Furley Page, said: “This year Furley Page celebrates its 300-year anniversary and as a leading regional law firm with a long-running association with the town, we are delighted to once again sponsor The Whitstable 10K race, following on from our

fantastic experience supporting last year’s competition. The Whitstable 10K is a uniquely popular seaside event attracting thousands of visitors to the town over the Bank Holiday to compete and support the runners.”

For more information visit: www.furleypage.co.uk

Winters Barns Celebrates a Triple Award Win and Exciting New Ventures

Winters Barns is proud to announce a remarkable start to 2025, having secured three prestigious accolades in the wedding and events industry.

We are thrilled to have been named ‘Event Team of the Year’ at the Kent Wedding Awards, and to have also taken home South East ‘Barn Venue of the Year’ and ‘Event Team of the Year’ at the highly respected Wedding Industry Awards.

These honours recognise our dedicated, passionate team who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional experiences for every couple. Our beautiful, historic barn in Canterbury continues

to be a much-loved venue for weddings, blending rustic charm with modern luxury. From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, we are proud to help create unforgettable memories.

Beyond weddings, Winters Barns is also a sought-after location for corporate events. We host conferences and private functions, offering tailored packages to suit businesses personalised needs. Our venue provides a unique, inspiring setting that balances professionalism with a warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Looking ahead, we are excited to launch our first-ever Christmas party packages in 2025, designed specifically for local companies. Whether you’re a small team or a larger organisation, our festive events will offer an exceptional way to celebrate the season together.

These award wins and new offerings reflect our commitment to excellence. Winters Barns remains a pillar of quality in Kent’s events industry, and we look forward to welcoming both new and returning clients throughout the year.

www.winters-barns.co.uk

How does Design influence Business Marketing?

Design is often the first point of contact your customers have with your business. Before they even read a word, your brand’s visual identity is ‘talking’ to them, says Howell & Hicks.

From your company logo, brochure and website to your social media graphics, signage and packaging, quality branding and graphic design help to communicate your company values, grab attention in crowded marketplaces, and build trust. And consistent, ongoing application of those designs influence peoples’ brand perceptions - and how likely they are to choose your products or services over your competitors. Most people agree that marketing campaigns built on strong visuals are usually more memorable.

But effective design isn’t just about looking good - although that obviously helps - it also highlights your most important brand messages, makes your customer offering easier to understand, and creates stronger emotional connections.

Businesses who invest in strategic design often report much better customer engagement, loyalty and sales figures. So, when you’re planning your next marketing activity, don’t just think of design as pretty decoration; when it’s properly aligned with your goals and objectives, and integrated with your wider strategy, it’s a powerful business tool that delivers genuine differentiation and competitive edge. www.hh-creative.com

Photo credit Jade Greenbrooke

Why We Chose Employee Ownership - and Why It Works

Four years ago, our founder and Managing Director, Gill, made a brave and generous decision. Rather than selling All Health Matters, she chose to pass ownership to the people who helped build it - and we became an employee-owned business.

Gill didn’t want to “sell up and walk away.” She wanted to step back while keeping the heart of the company intact. Employee ownership gave her a way to do just that, protecting the values she’d built the business on, looking after our brilliant employees, and keeping our clients in safe hands.

Since then, the change has been quietly powerful. We still do what we’ve always done -helping employers support the health and wellbeing of their people - but now we do it with an even greater sense of purpose. Everyone at All Health Matters has a stake in the company’s success. That means when we say we care, we really mean it.

Our clients often say they can feel the difference. It’s noticed in the way our team turn around reports quickly, deliver health surveillance with a smile and kind word for anyone who’s nervous, or support someone through a difficult referral. There’s pride in how we work and a shared commitment to doing a great job.

If you’re a business owner thinking about your next chapter, employee ownership is well worth considering. It’s a way to step back while keeping your values alive — and to thank the team who helped build your business by giving them a meaningful stake in its future.

And if you’re looking for a health partner who feels like part of your team, get in touch. We’d love to support you with all things employee health.

www.allhealthmatters.co.uk

Medical Detection Dogs supported by Ashford Rotary Club

The club had a packed house for a fascinating talk by James about the work of the dogs which his organisation trains.

He said: “The dog’s nose is the best bio-sensor we know of. Research carried out in 2014, indicated that dogs were capable of detecting tiny traces (around one part per trillion – the equivalent of one teaspoon of sugar in two Olympic sized swimming pools) of the odour created by different diseases.”

This leads to two distinct areas of focus:

• Bio Detection Dogs are at the forefront of innovative research into dogs’ ability to detect the smell of human diseases and save lives.

“We train dogs to detect and react to the odour of human diseases such including Cancer, Bacterial infections, Malaria and many more.”

The aim is to develop faster, more efficient and less invasive diagnostics that lead to better patient outcomes. One project even aims to explore the possibility of developing an app to be used on a new generation of smart phones to help users to detect disease.

• Medical Alert Assistance Dogs which support individuals with complex health conditions who have limited awareness of an impending lifethreatening medical event. The dogs warn their owner of imminent danger – thus saving lives.

Research

James informed us: “We are working with Dr Andreas Mershin, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of El Paso, on the development of an ‘electronic nose’ which will hopefully see us all one day with an app on our phones able to detect the odours of various conditions. That will, after all, be the pinnacle of using the dogs’ noses to deliver a fantastic outcome!”

“This is all medically and scientifically proven. All our programmes are initiated by NHS Trusts and University research departments, and involve very close collaboration with them.

Ashford Rotary - we are a growing club with lots of friendly members but we can always do with more! For more information search for ‘The Rotary Club of Ashford’

izzyPR comes home to ellenor

Faversham-based PR & marketing agency izzyPR has been working with ellenor – the hospice in Gravesend that’s close to their heart.

The short contract for interim PR manager was to cover a planned sickness absence, to ensure that the hospice’s stories were still being told.

Agency founder Sarah was especially pleased to be asked to provide interim help – almost 25 years after her grandad died at ellenor. Following his death, she also became a volunteer on the ward, serving the evening meal twice a week, plus, she organised and supported fundraising events.

The first job in November saw agency founder Sarah Hawes going back to her reporting roots, covering the opening of the new wellbeing centre,

built to offer therapeutic and wellbeing services to patients and their families too – because a life-limiting condition isn’t limited to affecting just the patient…other people need support too.

Sarah spent the day interviewing guests and accompanying Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins, to show her around and introduce her to

some of the families who were looking forward to using the centre. The opening was seen on BBC South East and stories in local publications were also secured.

izzyPR also produced and launched a new 24-page magazine, which they page planned and wrote, before taking care of design, proofing, print and distribution of 15,000 copies.

The brief was to shed more light on what ellenor provides for people locally, from retail shops, to counselling, to volunteering to the new night nurse service; to show that ellenor’s hospice care is much wider than supporting the last few weeks or days of life.

Visit ellenor’s website to read the magazine – ellenor.org.

Graham Chivers appointed Chief Executive Officer of Chartway

Chartway Partnerships Group, a land-led housebuilder operating across South-East England, is delighted to announce the appointment of Graham Chivers as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Graham joined Chartway in early 2024 as Chief Financial Officer and brings a strong track record of leadership in the housebuilding sector, with previous roles at Berkeley Group Plc, Crest Nicholson Plc and other major players in the industry.

In his new role as CEO, Graham will lead the business through its next phase of growth, focusing on delivering high-quality multi-tenure housing developments, driving value through partnerships and supporting the Group’s strategy to create sustainable communities where people thrive.

Chartway’s integrated business structure brings together several specialist divisions. These include housebuilding, timber frame delivering modern, sustainable construction solutions and Civil Engineering, which provides external and in-house infrastructure and groundworks expertise. Together, the divisions provide the Group with 47% of housing delivery capabilities, ensuring quality, efficiency, and value at every controllable stage.

Graham Chivers, CEO of Chartway Partnerships Group: “Chartway is built on a clear purposebuilding sustainable, high-quality homes and community placemaking. I’m excited to be stepping into the CEO role and working with our talented team and trusted partners to deliver on that purpose. Everyone deserves a safe, secure place to call home, and I look forward to leading Chartway to achieve that goal across the South-East.”

Keith Maddin, Partner at Cabot Square Capital, majority investor in Chartway: “We are pleased to appoint Graham Chivers as CEO. His sector experience and strategic mindset make him the ideal leader for the next chapter of Chartway’s journey. We are confident that under Graham’s leadership, the Group will continue to grow, innovate, and deliver homes that communities are proud of.”

Chartway Partnerships Group has a 16-year history of delivering affordable and private sale and rental homes in partnership with housing associations, local authorities, landowners and institutional investors, with a strong pipeline of developments and a vision rooted in quality, place and community.

For more information about Chartway please visit www.chartwaygroup.co.uk

A Landmark Year for The Big Cat Sanctuary

This year marks a significant moment in The Big Cat Sanctuary’s journey as they celebrate three major milestones.

In March, they launched their new Lion Rescue Centre, a state-of-the-art facility built to offer a second chance to five lions rescued from wartorn Ukraine. Rori, Amani, Lira, Vanda and Yuna had faced unimaginable hardship, including confinement in concrete enclosures and life amidst conflict.

“Thanks to the incredible support behind our £500,000 fundraising campaign, we have created a forever home with specialised habitats tailored to each lion’s needs, helping them recover and thrive in a safe, natural space,” says Cam Whitnall, in his new role as Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary based in Headcorn, Kent..

“We’re also celebrating our 25th anniversary, a tribute to the legacy of my grandfather, Peter Sampson, whose vision built a centre of excellence for big and small cat conservation on five pillars: conservation, rescue, breeding, welfare and education.

“To top it off, my mum and the Sanctuary’s Trustee, Lynn Whitnall, recently completed the prestigious Boston Marathon, her sixth World Marathon Major

and 30th marathon overall. Her sporting and conservation efforts have raised over £400,000 for both human and wildlife charities over the last 22 years, and her dedication continues to inspire.

“These milestones really highlight our commitment to protecting vulnerable cat species and making a lasting impact. As we look ahead, our focus remains on our five pillars doing everything we can to make sure every big and small cat gets the care they need and the future they deserve. It’s all about protecting their today to preserve their tomorrow.”

thebigcatsanctuary.org

Cut through the noise: Using AI where it actually matters

Kent-based branding and graphic design agency DayOne isn’t just experimenting with AI – it’s putting it to work. DayOne sees AI as another tool in the kit. It’s powerful, fastmoving technology, but it still needs a trained eye and a steady hand to get the best out of it, say the company’s designers.

DayOne is using AI “to support the creative process, not replace it,” saying it gives designers more freedom to explore ideas and push visual boundaries, helping them to deliver work that feels fresh and original. But, they add, it’s vital to understand that getting good results from AI isn’t a shortcut. It takes skill, time and judgement. And that’s where DayOne could help your company.

AI may not always save time or cut costs, but DayOne aim to use it to add value where it matters, by understanding its strengths, its limitations and how to keep quality front and centre.

To find out whether you could benefit, see dayonedesign.co.uk

Port of Dover’s innovative plans to ensure it continues to be the ‘port of choice’

Doug

Bannister, CEO of Port of Dover, talks to Sarah Dale about their ambition to continuously improve and how AI is helping to ensure smoother and quicker transitions through the UK’s busiest dock.

The Port of Dover is the busiest international ferry port in the UK, handling more lorries than all other UK ports, two million freight vehicles and around 10 million passengers a year.

It carries £144bn of trade, and a third of the UK’s trade in goods with the European Union..

“It is a very busy travel hub,” says Doug Bannister, CEO of the Port of Dover since 2019.

“The reason why the market and the people choose Dover is its unrivalled geographic position and proficiency and frequency of sailings, as well as being an optimum product to get to Europe from the UK, and that is timeless.

“It would be very easy for us to sit back and just count the vehicles going through, but we are looking to continuously improve. We are leveraging our leadership, technology improvements and sustainability goals to ensure that we continue to be the port of choice.”

Originally from New Jersey, Doug’s career in shipping has enabled him to live all over the world from the Netherlands to Australia, the US to the UK and he took the helm of the Port of Dover just ahead of one of the most difficult periods in recent history – Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

“It’s been one heck of a ride,” says Doug. “It’s thrown up a whole range of challenges.”

Last year, the Port, which has a long association with the Kent Invicta Chamber, completed its Port of Dover 2050 masterplan, a long-term plan to realise its vision to be “the UK’s most seamless, sustainable and tech enabled port”.

The plan, which was developed through strong engagement with stakeholders including customers, employees, port users and the Government, is to unlock the full potential of the Port, facilitating a 20 per cent increase in the value of trade handled to £173 billion (at 2023 prices) and creating new jobs. The Port currently employs 450 people with another couple of thousand working as contractors.

“Back in March 2022, we set out our sustainability goal of being net zero for 2025 – five years faster than any other port of the UK, so we are industry leading,” adds Doug.

Since 2007, the Port has reduced its carbon emissions by 98 per cent through an active programme of measures including solar energy panels, LED lighting, and using HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil) fuel for the fleet.

“We hit our target last year,” says Doug. “There is some gas in the older buildings, but we have active programmes to minimise that as part of our sustainability agenda. By 2030, scope 3 of our plan is looking at our supply chains. Beyond 2030, we want to have established ourselves as the world’s first high volume green shipping corridor.”

In March 2023, they signed a memorandum of understanding with their sister ports in Calais and Dunkirk to make their fleet of ferries fully electric.

One of the most revolutionary parts of the Port’s improvement plans is using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Eighteen months ago, they started a pilot trial using AI to predict traffic volume.

“One of the most exciting things we are looking at is AI,” he says.

“It predicts within 15-minute windows of arrival of vehicles and trucks, cars, coaches – and it is eerily accurate.

“Last August, which is a very busy time particularly for cars during the summer holiday period, its predictions were 98.08 per cent accurate. And it predicted a spike of truck arrivals in December, which we thought was a glitch, because there were no roadworks, no events, ships were sailing okay, and there were no issues in France, but

then at 11am on 12 December we had a spike in arrivals just as the AI software had predicted.

“We are using it more for both tactical and medium-term planning. It allows for better resource balancing and means that you can work confidently to move resources around the port to meet demand. It’s proving time and time again just how useful such tech will be. And ultimately what that leads to is smoother transit for everyone going through the port and crucially keeping it smooth.”

As part of its plans, the Port is working with Dover District and Town Councils to make Dover more

widely an attractive place to invest in as well as improving the town for residents.

Being a Kent Invicta Chamber member is also integral to keep abreast of the issues that matter to the people of Kent.

“Kent Invicta is a very active Chamber and they pull things from a national level to a local level,” he adds.

It has been a stormy time for the economy in recent years from Brexit to the Covid pandemic and the Port has endured several challenges.

“Brexit has created a lot of challenges for us,” he says.

“Operating in a post-Brexit environment, which is so reliant on borders running smoothly, presented a challenge. We have needed to invest in infrastructure and come up with new processes to handle that return of demand in a post-Brexit environment. Since the pandemic, we have now seen a return in our travel trade.”

Doug says the new Government’s ambitions have been “really advantageous” for the Port and the nation.

“We’re aligned with the Government’s ambition to create opportunities for people and reward our hardworking people, but the most recent changes are creating headwind,” he says.

“We must consider the cost of the excellent people that we have working down here. Port of Dover is a Living Wage employer, but we have got to think more about NI and other challenges that they’re proposing.

“One of the things that business likes is certainty. As long as you know what the rules of the game are you can play even if you don’t like it. Not knowing creates uncertainty, and there is a lot of high uncertainty around the world right now.

“The EU is the UK’s largest trading partner and has been throughout history. Through the very good work that our Government is doing in creating improvements, that’s going to allow us up and down the nation to have some certainty on where we may find opportunities for export and investment.”

Doug says they are continuously innovating to improve people’s experience of ferry travel.

“One of the expectations people have of travelling by ferry is they expect to get straight on, but at airports, you have to arrive two hours early, check in luggage, go through security and passport control, transfers etc, so it can take up to five or six hours on top of flight time, but wait times at the Port are much quicker.

“Last summer, through the improvements we made using AI and infrastructure we took our average from 43 minutes to 10 minutes, a marked improvement. Throughout the summer, Dover was also congestion free, but we are continuously looking at ways to improve.

“One of the things we piloted this Easter was a new regime for UK and French school groups to prioritise school coaches, reducing the time to 10 minutes for each coach using that scheme, and we will continue to build on that in the summer. It’s a good example of how we work with our partners.

“It would be very easy to sit back and watch the traffic go through, but we are constantly looking at ways to improve.”

❛❛ The EU is the UK’s largest trading partner and has been throughout history. Through the very good work that our Government is doing in creating improvements, that’s going to allow us up and down the nation to have some certainty on where we may find opportunities for export and investment.

CAREERS with an Apprentice or Work Placement

In today’s competitive business environment, finding skilled and motivated employees can be a challenge. Have you considered the benefits an apprentice or work placement student could bring?

Develop a Skilled Workforce

By hiring an apprentice, you can develop skills and behaviours tailored to your business needs. This ensures that your workforce is not only skilled but also aligned with your company’s goals and values. Similarly, offering work placements to students from Kent Training and Apprenticeships’ Study Programmes allows you to shape the future workforce by providing real-world experience and training.

Increase Productivity

Employing apprentices has been shown to boost productivity.

According to Kent Training and Apprenticeships, 72% of businesses report improved productivity as a result of employing an apprentice. Apprentices bring fresh ideas and perspectives, which can lead to

innovative solutions and improved processes within your organisation.

Work placement students can also contribute to this dynamic by bringing enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, which can invigorate your team and enhance overall productivity.

Enhance Customer Service

Apprentices can significantly improve customer service by bringing new thinking and enthusiasm to your business. Their training includes practical, on-thejob experience, which helps them understand and meet customer needs effectively. Work placement students, through their hands-on experience, can also develop a keen understanding of customer service, helping to improve interactions and satisfaction.

Foster Employee Loyalty

Businesses that offer apprenticeships often find that their employees are more motivated and committed to the organisation. Similarly, providing work placements can build a pipeline of loyal future employees who are already familiar with your business and its culture. This can lead to higher retention rates and a more dedicated workforce.

Support the Community and Future Workforce

By offering work placements, you are investing in the local community and the future workforce. You provide students with invaluable experience that can shape their careers and lives. This not only benefits the students but also

enhances your company’s reputation as a socially responsible and community-focused organisation.

Tailored Training and Recruitment

KT&A is one of the leading Training Providers in Kent. As part of KCC, we have robust procedures to ensure a high-quality, customercentric service. We specialise in apprenticeships in Customer Service, Business Administration, Early Years & Teaching Assistants. We will work with you to complete a full training needs analysis to help devise a bespoke training programme for existing staff, as well as developing a recruitment and development programme for new employees.

LOOKING TO ENHANCE YOUR WORKFORCE?

Then consider the benefits of an apprentice or work placement student

• Develop a skilled future workforce

• Increase productivity

• Enthusiasm

• Willingness to learn

• Supporting the community

With over 30 years experience Kent Training & Apprenticeships can help

SKILLS 25: A Catalyst for Workforce Innovation in Kent and Medway

Driving Regional Skills Development Through Collaboration

On 18 March, industry leaders, policymakers, and educators gathered for Skills 25, a landmark event focused on addressing workforce challenges and fostering meaningful collaboration across sectors. Hosted by the Kent and Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and funded by the UK Government, the summit provided a platform for discussing and shaping the future of skills development in the region.

Skills 25 was designed to equip businesses and education providers with the tools and strategies needed to navigate an evolving economic landscape. Throughout the day, discussions centred on key industries and the LSIP priority sectors - Construction, Manufacturing, Health and Social Care, Fresh Food & Horticulture, Education, and the Creative Sectors—highlighting the urgent need for workforce adaptability and forward-thinking solutions.

A major achievement of the summit was the strengthened partnerships between business leaders and education providers. Employers emphasised the importance of aligning training programmes with industry demands, ensuring that regional talent pipelines are equipped with the necessary expertise to support longterm economic growth. By fostering direct engagement, Skills 25 helped bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that businesses can access a workforce that is both skilled and resilient.

Expert Speakers Driving the Conversation

The event featured a lineup of influential speakers who provided valuable insights into workforce development and industry innovation. Tudor Price, CEO of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, served as host, guiding discussions and ensuring that key themes remained at the forefront. Attendees also heard from Lucy Druesne of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Jonathan Shaw of Kent Further Education, and key representatives from government, education, and leading businesses across Kent and Medway. Experts addressed critical issues surrounding workforce adaptability, innovation, and sustainable business growth.

Reflecting on the importance of the event, Lauren Edwards, MP for Rochester and Strood, emphasised the need for collaboration in tackling workforce challenges, “This event is a fantastic opportunity to bring everyone together across various sectors in Kent & Medway to talk about the skills challenges in our region and how we can work together to tackle them. This will help us deliver economic growth.”

Speaking on the day, Tudor Price expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s success and the impact it will have on workforce development across the region, “It’s been a fantastic day here at Skills 25, it certainly surpassed my expectations. We’ve had some tremendous speakers that have given some powerful insight, and we’ve had some fantastic examples from the businesses here around how they are addressing some of the challenges that they face. But I think, more importantly, it’s really created momentum and encouraged the development and maturity in the conversation around skills and how we can best support young people coming through so we can really boost our economy here in Kent & Medway.”

The passion for skills development was echoed by Cathal Taylor from O’Halloran & O’Brien, who highlighted the energy and commitment seen throughout the event: “What’s really impressed me about today is the passion that I’ve seen in the rooms. How people really want to tackle training to help the next generations.”

Embracing Innovation for a Future-Ready Workforce

Equally crucial to the discussions was the integration of emerging technologies and sustainable practices into workforce development. Employers and policymakers explored strategies for navigating automation, sustainability initiatives, and workforce adaptability, recognising that investment in innovation is key to maintaining a competitive edge. The event underscored the need for businesses to embrace new ways of working, enabling them to future-proof their operations while contributing to a more robust and dynamic regional economy.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), often facing unique challenges, also benefited from targeted insights into funding opportunities and workforce planning. By addressing SMEspecific concerns, Skills 25 ensured that businesses of all sizes have access to the resources and strategies necessary for attracting and retaining skilled talent.

Beyond identifying workforce challenges, the summit set a clear path forward, with actionable strategies designed to strengthen Kent and Medway’s economic landscape. The momentum gained from Skills 25 will continue, with preparations already underway for Skills 26, scheduled for 18 March 2026. This next event promises to build on the success of its predecessor, ensuring that workforce development remains a priority and that businesses and educators continue working together to drive meaningful, long-term impact.

Please use the QR Code to view our Skills 25 video, capturing the highlights from the day.

A L E X L E E Partner Company and Commercial Department a l e e @

N D O W N E R

If like me you have wondered how some of the grocery stores manage to get away with the “look-alike” branding for their products, or, if you are a brand owner, how you can protect your brand in the face of what be considered something of an onslaught of free-riding on certain brands’ reputation, then the Court of Appeal earlier this year provided some clarity (and protection) for brands and brand owners.

The parties to the case were Thatchers Cider Company (the brand owner) and Aldi Stores Limited.

T a u r u s T h e b r a n d i n g f o r t h e A l d i p r o d u c t d i f f e r e d f r o m t h e i r u s u a l

i n - h o u s e s t y l e , a n d a d d e d c e r t a i n

i m a g e r y . T h a t c h e r s s u e d f o r t r a d e

m a r k i n f r i n g e m e n t a n d p a s s i n g o f f .

A t t h e H i g h C o u r t , T h a t c h e r s w e r e

u n s u c c e s s f u l o n b o t h e l e m e n t s o f

t h e c l a i m f o r i n f r i n g e m e n t . S o ,

t h e y a p p e a l e d t o t h e C o u r t o f

A p p e a l . T h e m a i n p o i n t o f t h e

a p p e a l w a s c o n c e r n e d w i t h t h e

H i g h C o u r t ’ s f i n d i n g t h a t A l d i ’ s

p a c k a g i n g d i d n o t t a k e u n f a i r

a d v a n t a g e o r t a r n i s h t h e T h a t c h e r

t r a d e m a r k .

T h e a p p e a l s u c c e e d e d . I n e s s e n c e ,

t h e c o u r t d e c i d e d t h a t t h e r e c a n

b e a f i n d i n g o f u n f a i r a d v a n t a g e ,

e v e n i f t h e i n f r i n g i n g p a r t y w e r e

n o t i n t e n d i n g t o f r e e r i d e o n t h e

b a c k o f t h e r e p u t a t i o n o f t h e t r a d e

m a r k . T h e c o u r t a l s o f o u n d t h a t

t h e d e p a r t u r e f r o m A l d i ’ s i n - h o u s e

s t y l e a n d t h e i m i t a t e d e l e m e n t s o f

t h e T h a t c h e r s p a c k a g i n g s h o w e d

a n i n t e n t i o n t o c o n v e y t h a t t h e i r

p r o d u c t w a s “ l i k e T h a t c h e r ’ s

p r o d u c t , o n l y c h e a p e r ” T h e j u d g e

w a s v e r y c l e a r o n t h i s p o i n t s t a t i n g :

“ T h a t w a s a n u n f a i r a d v a n t a g e

b e c a u s e i t e n a b l e d A l d i t o p r o f i t

f r o m T h a t c h e r s ’ i n v e s t m e n t i n

d e v e l o p i n g a n d p r o m o t i n g t h e

T h a t c h e r s P r o d u c t r a t h e r t h a n

c o m p e t i n g p u r e l y o n q u a l i t y a n d / o r

p r i c e a n d o n i t s o w n p r o m o t i o n a l

e f f o r t s . ”

H e f u r t h e r d e s c r i b e d t h e A l d i

p a c k a g i n g a s b e i n g “ n o t i n

a c c o r d a n c e w i t h h o n e s t p r a c t i c e s

i n i n d u s t r i a l a n d c o m m e r c i a l

m a t t e r s b e c a u s e i t w a s u n f a i r

c o m p e t i t i o n ” .

T h e r e i s n o d o u b t t h a t t h i s i s a p r o -

b r a n d o w n e r s j u d g m e n t , a n d

p r o v i d e s s o m e c o m f o r t t o b r a n d

o w n e r s t h a t f r e e - r i d i n g o n a n o t h e r

b r a n d ’ s r e p u t a t i o n i s g o i n g t o b e

l e s s t o l e r a t e d b y t h e c o u r t s . I t

m i g h t a l s o b e c o n s i d e r e d ( a l t h o u g h

n o t b y t h e w r i t e r ) t h a t i t i s a g a i n s t

t h e i n t e r e s t o f c o n s u m e r s ( a n d

c e r t a i n l y A l d i c o n s i d e r t h i s t o b e

t h e c a s e , s a y i n g t h a t t h e y w i l l

p u r s u e a n a p p e a l ) .

I t i s a l s o o f n o t e t h a t a s p a r t o f t h e

c a s e m a n a g e m e n t p r o c e s s ,

d o c u m e n t s r e l a t i n g t o t h e d e s i g n

p r o c e s s c a n b e d i s c l o s e d ( o f t e n

q u i c k l y a n d r e l a t i v e l y c h e a p l y ) . T h i s m e a n s t h a t t h e i n t e n t i o n s o f

t h e a l l e g e d i n f r i n g e r c a n b e

b r o u g h t i n t o t h e l i g h t f o r

c o n s i d e r a t i o n a s w e l l r e l a t i v e l y

e a r l y i n t h e l i t i g a t i o n m a n a g e m e n t

p r o c e s s .

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Cover Feature | Technology

Digital landscape moves fast and so do the risks –but help is at hand with iMicro

From early beginnings in tech to leading a trusted, award-winning Managed IT services company, Dan Campbell, Director of iMicro, shares his story.

Dan has always loved computers and would describe himself as an “IT Enthusiast”.

“My mother bought my first computer when I was just six years old,” he says.

“It was a Commodore 64. I can still remember bringing it home, looking at the box and wondering in awe at what it could do. Not just a games machine, I spent many an hour learning the built in ‘basic’ programming language.”

As computers became more sophisticated, Dan’s “obsession for all things IT” grew. Any free time he had was spent either using a computer or learning about them – and as a teenager in the early 1990s, he built his first PC.

“A career in IT was a natural progression” he says. He began his professional journey as an IT Technician within the NHS and went on to ultimately serve as IT Director. During that time, he was responsible for overseeing IT infrastructure and support across every GP surgery in Kent and Medway.

Meanwhile, Dan also co-founded iMicro with a colleague back in 2006, initially as a small IT repair business.

“We saw a gap in the market to provide reliable, friendly and proactive IT support to third sector healthcare providers,” he explains.

“Over the past two decades, iMicro grew organically through reputation and results. Today, we’re a Managed IT Services Provider (MSP) supporting organisations across Kent and the South East, with clients in multiple sectors including the NHS, healthcare providers, professional services, accountants, law firms, manufacturing, and education providers.

“We believe in people-first IT. That means plain English, predictable pricing and a proactive service that prevents problems rather than just reacting to them. We’ve also invested heavily in cyber security and

automation, two areas that are critical for any modern business to stay protected and efficient.”

iMicro’s core service is managed IT support from day-to-day helpdesk support and device management to strategic IT planning, becoming their clients’ outsourced IT department. Other services include cyber security, including compliance-focused packages like Cyber Essentials certification; staff awareness training; advanced threat protection tools; cloud services (including Microsoft 365 management); VoIP phone systems; visitor and staff management solutions; and support for hybrid work environments.

“What sets us apart is our tiered support approach,” he adds.

“Not every business needs enterprisegrade cyber solutions, but every business does need some form of protection. So, we offer clear options from essential support for small teams, right through to fully managed infrastructure and compliance packages for larger firms.

“The idea that “I’m too small to be hacked” is not only outdated, it’s dangerous. This is one of the biggest myths in business. In fact, small and medium-sized businesses are now prime targets for cyber criminals precisely because they are often less protected.

“We’re seeing a rise in phishing attacks, invoice fraud and ransomware. Many of these are automated. Hackers don’t care how big you are. If your email systems, networks or endpoints aren’t secure, you’re vulnerable.

“One common objection we hear is cost, however, when you consider the average cost of a data breach for an SME in the UK is over £10,000 (without considering reputational damage), the value of prevention becomes clear.

“The good news is that there are manageable, affordable steps businesses can take. We help our clients build layered protection starting with Cyber Essentials, then adding in threat detection, secure backups and regular testing. We also train your staff, because human error is still the primary cause of data breaches.”

AI and automation are hot topics in the business world, but are there realworld benefits for local businesses?

“There is definitely a lot of noise around AI, but the impact it’s having is very real,” says Dan.

“At iMicro we’re already helping clients automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and boost productivity using smart tools. For example, using Microsoft 365 Copilot, we can help teams automate reporting, summarise meeting notes and even draft customer communications. In IT support, we’re using AI-driven monitoring to predict hardware failures before they happen, or to identify unusual behaviour that could be a sign of a cyber threat.

“Automation doesn’t mean replacing people. It means giving your team more time to focus on what matters. Whether it’s automating backup systems, onboarding new starters, or creating rules-based workflows, we’re seeing time and cost savings across the board.

“The important thing is not to be overwhelmed by it. You don’t have to ‘do AI’ all at once. We guide our clients through practical, step-by-step implementations that make sense for their business.”

Some business owners do not see the need to upgrade, which Dan says is understandable.

“But the digital landscape is moving fast, and unfortunately so are the risks,” he says.

“Outdated systems may be slow or unsupported, which creates

security vulnerabilities. They can also hold your team back from working efficiently, especially in hybrid or remote environments. A ‘good enough’ setup today might actually be costing you productivity and exposing you to risk.

“We often start with a free IT audit or cyber health check. This gives business owners an honest, jargonfree view of where they stand. It’s not about pushing unnecessary upgrades. It’s about baselining where you are today, showing what’s possible, and making sure your tech aligns with your business goals.

“Technology should support growth, not get in the way of it. Whether that means moving to the cloud, improving your internet resilience or tightening up data controls, we’re here to make it simple and cost-effective.

“My advice is: don’t wait for something to go wrong. IT and cyber security aren’t just technical problems, they’re business risks. The good news is that with the right partner, managing those risks becomes far less daunting.

“Start by getting visibility. Understand where you are today with your systems, policies, and risks. Then, focus on the basics. 1. Strong passwords, 2. Secure backups, 3. Staff awareness, and 4. Regular updates. These are the building blocks of good IT hygiene.

“After that, look at where technology could improve your efficiency or give you a competitive edge. Whether that’s automating a manual process or making your hybrid team more productive, we can help make that happen.

“At iMicro, we’re all about partnership. We don’t just sell services, we become part of your team. Our clients know we’re in their corner, helping them stay safe, efficient and future-ready.”

RaaS, Layers and Passwords

Our Patron member Nova IT Solutions tells us all we need to know to protect our IT systems

We have all heard of legitimate software as a service (SaaS). Ransomware-as-aService (RaaS) is a cybercrime business model operated through invite-only platforms or the dark web.

Ransomware software developers lease or sell their malware to technically skilled criminals, or ‘affiliates’, usually in exchange for a share of their profits. Organisations listed with 11–100 employees represented the largest share of victims, accounting for 35.6% of attacks. Globally, manufacturing is a highly targeted industry sector, with ransomware attacks reported at 68% in Q1 2025

It’s essential to engage a specialist to provide a cohesive integrated solutions to safeguard your systems, data and users through multiple layers of protection. A whole range of services and security above and beyond the standard patching, anti-virus, and backups is needed. Ideally this will Include a security operations centre (SOC) with security information and event management (SIEM) which will utilise AI agents, behavioural analysis, and human cybersecurity specialists with a centralised password manager.

This will elevate protection against attacks and help reduce the organisations cybersecurity insurance premium.

When looking for a trusted IT provider, it’s important to consider key credentials. Look for evidence of ISO standards that are UKAS-certified. These certifications are independently audited to ISO and UKAS requirements, and each comes with a unique certificate number to verify an independent audit.

For example, relevant standards include:

• ISO 27001:2022 - Information Security Management Systems

• ISO 22301:2019 – Business Continuity Management

• ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management

• ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management

In addition, IT providers should be Cyber Essentials certified and registered with the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office). https://www.novait.solutions

❛❛Organisations listed with 11–100 employees represented the largest share of victims, accounting for 35.6% of attacks. Globally, manufacturing is a highly targeted industry sector, with ransomware attacks reported at 68% in Q1 2025

Firms face increasing cyber security risk

Businesses face increased cyber security risks without stronger engagement with Government, warns the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

The recommendations in a report by the BCC are for ministers to:

• Carry out a cyber security awareness programme for businesses, particularly smaller firms

• Update the National Cyber Strategy

• Reform cyber security insurance to provide firms with better protection

• Address the shortage of UK cyber security professionals and support more training in all workplaces

• Engage directly with businesses to strengthen confidence in the UK’s digital infrastructure

The report was produced by the BCC’s Digital Revolution Challenge Group, drawing on expertise from businesses of all sizes and sectors, academia and think-tanks.

It advises that the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, due to be published this year, must be developed in full consultation with businesses. This is to avoid creating ‘an unnecessary burden for businesses’ and to ensure that firms

are ‘actively incentivised to report cyber breaches or attacks’. This will then support the Government’s growth agenda by strengthening cyber resilience.

Changes to working environments have created more IT challenges for businesses. BCC research has revealed more than half of firms believed working from home left their computer systems more exposed.

The report highlights an urgent need to tackle the current shortage of cyber security professionals, and the digital safety skills gap facing over half a million businesses.

Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Cyber threats against businesses are growing, and without coordinated action many SMEs

will remain at risk. Our report outlines some immediate actions for ministers to engage directly with firms.

“There is a lack of specialist digital security knowledge in many smaller companies. Government needs to take the lead and proactively engage with business to raise awareness.

“Businesses are keen to see the detail of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill in the coming months. The legislation must send a signal of confidence to the UK’s SMEs and not create unnecessary costs and reporting burdens.

“Cyber resilience isn’t just about protection; it’s about trust, innovation, and supporting the long-term growth of businesses.”

❛❛ There is a lack of specialist digital security knowledge in many smaller companies. Government needs to take the lead and proactively engage with business to raise awareness.

❜❜

Cover Feature | Technology

Getting Started with AI

Propelled by the explosive launch and subsequent popularity of highly accessible, free tools like ChatGPT, and the integration of these services into our lives through services like Microsoft Copilot, curiosity and fear around AI has skyrocketed in recent years.

We’re all repeatedly told about the myriad benefits of AI, and about the risks of nonadoption - so why are only 25% of UK businesses using this technology, and why do over 40% of businesses have no plans to adopt it, at all?1 What, exactly, are they missing out on, why could that turn into a big problem - and how can you avoid the biggest trap awaiting SMEs?

What do we mean by “AI”?

What is commonly referred to as “AI” is a family of technologies that combine data and algorithms at scale to support, enhance, or even automate decisions and the actuating of those decisions. This family includes natural language processing, machine learning, computer vision, and more.

Many of these technologies have been in popular use for decades. What has changed is scale: more data, better algorithms, faster computers with more storage and better connectivity, and lower barriers to entry have all contributed to the widespread availability of better-performing models at lower cost to end-users than ever before.

It is the unexpectedly high performance of these models, in generating sequences of pixels (images), waveforms (speech and music), and words (text) far in excess of peoples’ expectations and the performance of previous generations, that has captured imaginations and ignited new investment and excitement.

Why are SMEs slow to adopt AI?

Despite the many improvements of the current iteration of AI tools over previous generations, SMEs have been slow to adopt them. Lack of knowledge and skills, limited financial and human resources, limited ability to ideate and evaluate sufficiently compelling high-value or high-impact use cases, aversion to change, fear, poor quality data, limited time, and low risk appetite are all factors.

Cost, or rather demonstrable Return on Investment (ROI), remains a significant factor. Businesses typically deploy AI with either the intention of cutting costs and/or the intention of creating growth. The average investment of a business in adopting AI is currently around £12k for a small business and £480k for a medium business2. In a scenario where this investment comes out of existing profits with the expectation of creating growth, this investment represents around 10% of the median annual profit of a small business and 150% of the same metric in a medium business - so AI investments made by SMEs, far from being seen as longterm slow-burns, are under pressure to yield financial benefits quickly or fail fast.

This is a particular challenge for small businesses lacking the infrastructure, resources, and experience to establish performance measurement early and to artfully pivot when under-performance is identified. Similarly, in medium-sized businesses, potentially encumbered by inertia and elevated expectations, costs are skewed by a propensity to build solutions in-house rather than buy off-the-shelf.

What might happen if SMEs fail to adopt AI successfully?

Large businesses are sprinting ahead of SMEs, being much more likely than smaller firms to experiment with and adopt AI. While many initiatives are failing, the sheer volume of experiments means that some will eventually succeed - driving down costs, enhancing offerings, and opening up new markets; enabling these organisations to market and deliver their trusted enterprise-grade services to customer segments that previously would have been unprofitable for them, leaving SMEs priced-out and left-behind.

How can you avoid this trap?

The biggest blocker for many SMEs is a perceived lack of compelling use-cases for AI that combine affordable costs with tangible benefits to create meaningful ROI. The good news is that you don’t need to make a large financial investment in AI technology to start reaping the benefits - you just need to be structured and methodical in identifying where to get started.

Take, for example, this subset of tasks AI can perform:

If you list out the tasks that are executed in your business, can you categorise them according to these capabilities?

For each task, or sequence of tasks, can you estimate how much each costs you to execute, and how much value each creates? Which of these tasks would you like to do more of, and which would you like to do less of?

For your preferred 2-3 tasks from each extreme of the spectrum, what are the expected impacts, both positive and negative, of each? What are the risks?

It is on one of these tasks that you should focus your initial efforts to deploy AI - consider starting with the lowest-risk.

If you’d like some help and support performing this activity more comprehensively in your business, our BRIAREUS framework provides a robust basis for planning and executing AI investments, and can be tailored to most contexts and use-cases:

Would you like to know more?

It’s imperative that SMEs invest in building their knowledge and understanding of AI, start framing the opportunities for value creation in their organisations using AI, to consider the risks that AI poses to the organisation, and to start taking steps towards defining and executing a risk management plan in order to remain competitive.

If you’d like to discuss any of the topics covered in this article in more detail, including how to start creating value from AI in your own business or course-correct an AI or data investment that’s not delivering the return you expected, please reach out to alex@hecaton.consulting to arrange a no-obligation 30-minute chat.

About the author

Dr Alex Leathard (Hecaton Consulting) is an independent expert with over 15 years’ experience in digital, data, and technology, dedicated to helping SMEs unlock value from AI and data.

BRIAREUS was one of the three HECATONCHIERES in Greek mythology: hundred-armed giants known for their immense power and capability. hecaton.consulting

Cover Feature | Technology

Embracing Artificial Intelligence in commercial contracts whilst navigating the risks

Commercial contracts can be complex. In today’s digital age, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation continue to revolutionise various industries and commercial law is no exception.

AI provides enhanced contract analysis and risk management capabilities and its systems can review contracts for potential risks, noncompliance, and inconsistencies. Furthermore, AI-based contract negotiation tools offer a collaborative environment where parties can engage in real-time discussions and secure faster agreement. Machine Learning algorithms, for example, can analyse historical data and provide insights into negotiation levers, including typical terms and agreement points. They can also provide alternative clause suggestions, enhancing the flexibility and creativity of contract agreements. AI’s unique ability to process vast amounts of data is a game-changer in commercial contract management and it can identify patterns and trends in contracts, allowing businesses to make data-driven decisions.

These technological advancements offer significant benefits that can streamline processes, reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance decision-making, however, they also create serious potential risks and challenges. As competition grows and the demands of clients evolve, it is crucial that commercial law firms embrace AI and automation whilst navigating these risks in order to maintain ethical practices, protect client interests, and uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

Data privacy

One of the main risks associated with using AI and automation in commercial law revolves around data privacy and security. As these technologies necessitate accessing and analysing vast amounts of sensitive, confidential

or personal information, there is a potential for data breaches and unauthorised access. Ensuring data privacy and security is paramount to protect the interests of clients and businesses. Consequently, law firms in particular must ensure robust cybersecurity measures, data encryption, and strict access controls are in place to prevent unauthorised access or breaches and to protect client data, maintain confidentiality, and comply with relevant data protection regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Bias and ethical complications

AI algorithms are trained to use historical data which may contain inherent biases present in society. If the training data is biased or incomplete, AI systems can inadvertently perpetuate existing biases, leading to discriminatory outcomes. In commercial law, this bias can result in unequal treatment, unfair business practices, or unintended discrimination. Law firms and their staff must exercise significant caution when implementing AI and automation, from carefully selecting training data, regularly auditing algorithms to address potential bias and counteracting any negative ethical implications.

Legal liability and responsibility

Whilst AI technologies become more sophisticated and can greatly assist in contract analysis, due diligence, and legal research, they are not exempt from legal liability. Errors or omissions can and will occur due to the use of AI or automation and determining legal responsibility can become complex. For example, the interpretation of legal texts, such as statutes or case law, often involves nuanced reasoning and context-specific understanding. AI algorithms, whilst efficient in processing vast amounts of data, currently lack the ability to grasp the intricacies of legal principles fully and this raises concerns about the accuracy

and reliability of AI-generated legal advice or judgements. Law firms must, therefore, exercise caution when relying on AI systems and should implement transparency measures and obtain appropriate insurance coverage to help mitigate the risks associated with potential legal liabilities.

Limited human oversight

Overreliance on AI and automation can lead to complacency and a loss of critical thinking. Whilst these technologies offer significant benefits and can augment decision-making, it should not replace human judgement and oversight, and it is imperative that lawyers maintain their legal expertise and exercise their professional judgement at all times. Blindly accepting the output of AI algorithms without questioning or verifying can lead to costly errors, misinterpretation and oversight. Law firms and their lawyers must strike the right balance between leveraging AI technology and retaining their legal acumen to ensure optimal outcomes for their clients.

The introduction of AI and automation technologies has transformed the practice of commercial law, presenting new opportunities to law firms and their clients but also bringing about new and associated risks. As the commercial law landscape continues to evolve, law firms that harness the power or AI and automation can get ahead of the competition, deliver better results to their clients, and foster growth in an increasingly digital world. Striking a delicate balance between human expertise and technological advancements is key to harnessing the potential of AI and automation in commercial law while upholding the integrity and ethics of the legal profession. It is, therefore, paramount that the legal industry embraces this technological revolution to drive innovation and propel commercial law into a more efficient, accurate, and client-centric future.

Sebastian Jones, Partner in the Commercial team at Thomson Snell & Passmore

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An experience like no other

Get involved in our new employability platform, supporting the residents of Kent with gaining new skills at the same time as promoting your business for free.

The Digital Employability Experience project aims to target inequalities for Kent residents by providing an online employability platform to support them with essential employability skills as well as having a unique focus on essential digital skills.

We want to showcase local businesses and highlight the importance of key digital skills, regardless of which industry you work in.

This project also supports the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), with a focus (but not limited to) the key sectors of construction, manufacturing and engineering, fresh food and food production, health and social care and education.

Benefits:

• Promote your business and your industry free of charge with links directly to your website and any other relevant information

• Support the Kent and Medway LSIP

• Help increase the numbers of residents with essential employability skills, bridging the skills gap

• Decrease unemployment across Kent

• Increase localised knowledge of services

• Work towards reducing households in financial hardship

• Aim to support the reduction of people not in education, employment or training (NEET) across Kent.

What now:

Be part of our platform launch happening in September 2025 and help make this countywide initiative a success.

We have a great team working on this who will help get information about your business uploaded quick and easy.

To find out more and to book in a call, please email digitalex@kent.gov.uk

The DigitalEx project is the latest stream of work from Kent County Council’s Financial Hardship Team

In response to ongoing financial challenges for residents, the team is actively providing support to people facing financial difficulties. Initially established from the Helping Hands Scheme created in 2021, the initiatives, with technology solutions at their heart, have ensured comprehensive assistance to individuals and families in need.

Over the past four years, the programme has significantly impacted thousands of people. Key achievements include issuing over 180,000 awards of support through the Department of Work and Pensions-funded Household Support Fund, writing off more that £57,000 of resident debt, assisting people in securing employment and upskilling into higher-paying jobs, and establishing one of the country’s largest Digital Champions Networks. This work has resulted in being shortlisted for seven awards and has been strongly commended by the Department for Work and Pensions.

Debt is a major issue for many people trying to sustain basic living costs. To address this, the Kent Money Advice Hub project, delivered through Citizens Advice North and West Kent, offers a central hub for specialist debt advice, reducing triage times and providing high-quality, standardised support. Initially a pilot project funded by the Helping Hands Scheme with the establishment of five hubs, the project has now expanded with further Helping Hands and partner funding and is currently operating with 37 hub locations across the county.

Digital inclusion has been another area of focus for the programme. The Digital Kent team was established to improve digital inclusion and skills in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it has positively impacted over 15,600 residents through a range of collaborative projects, ensuring

individuals have the skills, access, and confidence to utilise digital tools in a meaningful way.

Partnership working has been key in ensuring effective and tailored support for individuals across the programme. An example of this is the ReferKent platform which was established using the Helping Hands scheme to facilitate effective referrals to organisations that can provide support, ensuring no one falls through the cracks. The system now has 289 organisations onboard with 1382 users actively able to use the system.

The work of the programme was scheduled to complete at the end of March 2025, but after attracting additional funding, the initial investment from the Helping Hands Scheme has been able to operate beyond the initial timeline and has been able to continue into this year without further investment required by KCC.

Further Information:

• KCC’s Helping Hands scheme was first started in 2021 for families and businesses adversely affected by the pandemic and has evolved with cost-of-living support

• The Household Support Fund is provided by the UK government’s Department for Work and Pensions to support residents in need of help with rising living costs and is administered by KCC

• Access support and advice around debt through the Citizens Advice Kent Money Advice Hub

• Find out more about the projects and schemes to support digital inclusion through Digital Kent

• Find out more about ReferKent and utilising the system as an organisation

• More information on cost of living support can be found at Kent Together

Jaguar: Where people are what makes the engine tick over nicely

A family-run cleaning business with a low turnover rate of just 15 per cent, says its success is all down to the support and respect afforded to its staff.

Jaguar Contract Cleaning Services Ltd, established more than 15 years ago, prides itself on holding a reputation for reliability, responsiveness and care.

The company provides cleaning services across a range of environments, including offices, schools and the communal areas of residential blocks, and aims to work efficiently and discreetly, ensuring minimal disruption to businesses’ day-to-day operations.

Jaguar says that what sets it apart is its people: it is a company that invests in staff and treats them with “the respect and support they deserve”. It says the low turnover rate enables it to maintain consistency and quality in the service provided to its clients. When cover is needed, senior team members, including director Justin, often step in themselves – a hands-on approach that ensures no compromise on standards.

Jaguar supports smooth transitions under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) regulations), working closely with incoming staff to align them with the company’s expectations and build strong working relationships from day one.

For its clients, Jaguar aims to make cleaning one less thing to think about. The goal, it says, is for your space to be clean, fresh, and ready – every day – with no hassle at your end.

For details, see https://jaguarcontractcleaningservices.co.uk/

Rebrand for property firm as market sees upturn

A newly rebranded property firm is expecting a boost to business as prospective buyers and sellers look forward to the anticipated interest rate reductions.

Anita Lewis, Director of Relocate to Kent, said the company is experiencing more enquiries to value properties, whilst data from Rightmove also shows an upturn in numbers in recent times.

Anita heads the company alongside Co-Director Beth Morgan. A recent rebrand saw the company change its name from Relocate to East Kent, better reflecting the company’s offer. The property finders and buying agents have also partnered with

Kent-based estate agents to list and sell property due to demand from existing clients who wanted the company’s expertise and service standards for their property sales.

Rightmove, the UK’s largest property website, published recently that there has been a new record asking price in the market, despite the increase in stamp duty.

April’s House Price Index showed a 4 per cent increase in sale instructions compared with the same period in 2024 as well as 5 per cent more buyer enquires. There was a national increase in average asking price of 1.4 per cent, whilst in Kent itself, that increase was 0.5 per cent compared with last year.

https://relocatetokent.co.uk

Businesses invited to celebrate ellenor’s 40th birthday with fundraising challenges

This year, ellenor is celebrating an incredible 40 years of providing hospice care, and the Gravesend-based charity is inviting businesses to be part of the milestone.

Starting in September, ellenor is challenging 40 businesses to join Challenge40, raising £400 over 4 months. It’s up to businesses how they raise the money, but ellenor’s challenge toolkit, given to every business who joins in, lots of ideas, plus the corporate fundraising team will be with you every step of the way, offering support, ideas, and materials to maximise efforts.

Businesses have from September 1st to December 31st to raise their £400 and a celebration event will be held in March.

And that’s not all! There are also some awards up for grabs, including:

• Top Fundraiser Awards – Gold, Silver, and Bronze

• Community Engagement Award

• Innovation Award

• Outstanding Achievement Award

Corporate Partnerships Manager Jemma Kemp, said: “If you’re looking for a way to boost staff morale, engage your team, and give back to your local community, this could be the perfect opportunity for you and your business.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what fundraising ideas are thought of – and to see what fun is had!”

Ready to make a real impact? Join ellenor in the Challenge40 and help us make their milestone unforgettable!

For more information visit: www.ellenor.org

Chapel House Estate reveals inside-outside celebration venue, The Glass Courtyard

Located in the countryside just outside Ramsgate, veiled by a bountiful orchard, lush paddocks and a walled garden, sits the sprawling Chapel House Estate. From corporate events and private celebrations to secluded staycations, this British venue provides a peaceful escape.

And the historic estate has now unveiled a unique new space for special celebrations –The Glass Courtyard. Seamlessly blending the indoors and outdoors, this light-flooded space features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, bi-fold doors and a retractable glass roof – all with a striking original oak frame at the centre.

Boasting views on to the surrounding walled garden and bordered by the estate’s flourishing wild apple orchard, The Glass Courtyard is ideal for a variety of intimate, relaxed events, from company retreats to product launches and from team building to networking receptions.

With a capacity of 100 standing and 60 seated, The Glass Courtyard complements Chapel House Estate’s five versatile meetings and events spaces, which include The Thorne Barn (capacity 150 seated, 200 standing), the Old Malt Granary (capacity 150 theatre-style), the award-winning number nine restaurant (capacity 34), the Green Room for smaller meetings and breakout sessions (capacity 22), and the Lounge Bar (capacity 50) which opens on to The Glass Courtyard.

Darren Ellis, Owner of Chapel House Estate, said: “Since our inception just two years ago, the Chapel House Estate has experienced remarkable growth, with clients appreciating our tranquil, rural setting, outstanding amenities, and top-tier food and accommodation.

“The stunning new Glass Courtyard will further enhance our meetings and events offer. Thoughtfully designed to complement the fabric of the surrounding buildings, this all-weather space beautifully combines contemporary elegance with rustic charm, providing a tranquil, nature-filled retreat and the ideal setting to unwind, collaborate and learn.”

Visit https://chapelhouseestate.co.uk/ for information.

Law firm sets the bar high for second year of fundraising after raising more than £6,500 in first effort

Kent law firm Whitehead Monckton is celebrating raising £6,544.17 in its first year of partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK, and has committed to a second year of support.

Whitehead Monckton, with offices in Maidstone, Canterbury, Ramsgate, Tenterden and Canary Wharf, selected Alzheimer’s Research UK as its charity of the year for 2024/25 through a staff vote and raised the significant sum through a programme of staff fundraising events and activities.

As one of the largest law firms in Kent, employing more than 120 staff, Whitehead Monckton is passionate about building a future without dementia. The decision to support Alzheimer’s Research UK for a second year has seen the firm raise the bar in terms of its programme of events, and the team has set its sights on reporting an even greater amount in its second year.

Some 25,937 people across Kent and Medway are estimated to be living with dementia currently. Alzheimer’s Research UK is striving for a cure by revolutionising the way dementia is treated, diagnosed, and prevented. With no treatments currently available on the NHS, there has never been a more pressing time to support dementia research.

Chris Longden, Managing Director of Whitehead Monckton, said: “We chose to support Alzheimer’s Research UK as Alzheimer’s is a disease which touches almost everyone’s family. It is also a disease which is still so little understood and there is a huge amount of work to be done in researching both prevention and cure.

“What a privilege it has been for us to play a small part in supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK and

supporting them has been, and continues to be, a fantastic way to engage our teams in fundraising through group and individual activities. A group of us also benefitted from a visit to a research lab at University College London, which was not for the squeamish.”

Shelle Luscombe, Regional Fundraising Officer for Kent & Sussex at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “On behalf of everyone at Alzheimer’s Research UK, I would like to say a big thank you to the whole team at Whitehead Monckton. Over the last year, they’ve raised an incredible amount through their creative and engaging fundraising activities, and we are so grateful. I’m very excited to see where we can take the partnership over our second year and beyond.

“One in two people will be directly affected by dementia – either by developing the condition themselves, caring for someone with it, or both. Thanks to your support, Alzheimer’s Research UK is accelerating progress towards a cure for dementia. Thank you for standing with us.”

https://www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk/

New Cardiac MRI service brings quality heart care to Kent

People across Kent now have access to rapid, high-quality heart assessments with the launch of a new Cardiac MRI service at Sevenoaks Medical Centre, part of KIMS Hospital. This expert-led service offers advanced, radiation-free cardiac imaging with no waiting lists, delivering specialist diagnostics.

Designed for individuals with symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness or dizziness, or those with a family history of heart disease, the service provides precise, comfortable MRI scans, interpreted by experienced consultant cardiologists. Anne Hatswell, Head of Surgical and

Cardiology Services, said: “The Cardiology Centre at KIMS works closely with Sevenoaks Medical Centre, The Royal Tunbridge Wells Clinic and LycaHealth Orpington to give cardiac patients a seamless experience; from initial consultations and tests through to treatment. The addition of the Cardiac MRI service at Sevenoaks means local patients can now access advanced diagnostics without delay.”

The newly installed high-resolution MRI scanner produces sharper images in less time, with freebreathing technology and a wider design for a more comfortable patient experience.

Visit bit.ly/cardiac-mri to find out more.

Rethinking loyalty to really reward both parties

Today, many businesses, both small and large, are rushing to launch loyalty schemes, signing customers up at the very first purchase.

Typically points-based and discount-driven, these schemes aim to reward repeat custom. But are they really fostering true loyalty, or just trading discounts for short-term sales? Do they even achieve a return visit?

The Insight House believes loyalty starts with understanding. True loyalty is built not by offering instant discounts, but by nurturing relationships that reflect customer behaviours, preferences and values. It’s about recognising the champions of your brand, not simply the biggest spenders.

Loyalty should be seen as a long-term conversation, says Angela Hall of The Insight House, not a series of short-term transactions. By using the wealth of data that

loyalty schemes generate, businesses – from independent retailers to multinational brands – can tailor rewards and communications that feel genuinely personal and meaningful. Importantly, loyalty doesn’t always need a monetary incentive. A simple “thank you”, timely recognition, or a personal gesture can often drive deeper engagement than a discount. For Kent businesses of all sizes, the opportunity is clear: rethink your loyalty strategy. Focus on connection, consistency, and value-driven dialogue. In doing so, your loyalty scheme becomes more than a marketing tool – it becomes a true brand differentiator.

The Insight House helps brands turn customer insights into long-term value. Because loyalty, when done right, rewards both sides.

For more information, see insighthouse.co.uk

True loyalty is built not by offering instant discounts, but by nurturing relationships that reflect customer behaviours, preferences and values. It’s about recognising the champions of your brand, not simply the biggest spenders.

A shining example of community support

A commitment to supporting its own local community is one of the driving forces of cleaning company Imperial Concierge.

Offering job opportunities to skilled professionals across the Kent Invicta area is vitally important to the company – as well as, of course, providing exceptional cleaning services, say bosses.

Imperial Concierge prides itself on its offer of high-quality cleaning services “with precision and care”. The company offers commercial and event solutions including office, retail and cafe cleaning, hotel and Airbnb cleaning, other business premises cleaning including following messy building and renovation work and cleaning services before, during and after weddings and other events to keep

the day flowing smoothly. In addition, the company offers residential services from regular housekeeping to post-event cleaning, ensuring homes are tidy, organised and welcoming.

And at Imperial Concierge, every contract it secures means the potential for more job opportunities for skilled locals in the Kent Invicta community. The company says it is committed to helping local families thrive by offering consistent employment, which in turn strengthens the local economy, contributing to a thriving, prosperous community.

For more information or to book a cleaning service, visit https://www.imperialconcierge.co.uk/

Unlocking the power of fundraising: Exploring auctionbased events

In an era where charitable giving is vital to the fabric of community life, fundraising has evolved far beyond traditional donation boxes and bake sales.

Organisations both small and large are turning to more dynamic and engaging methods to raise funds – one of the most effective being auctions.

Why auctions work

Auctions, whether silent, live, or online, offer more than a way to collect donations – they foster a sense of involvement and excitement. The competitive nature can energise supporters and often leads to more generous contributions.

Auctions are also a great platform forshowcasing your cause in an interactive setting where supporters can connect more deeply with your mission. For many attendees, participating in an auction can be a memorable and meaningful experience.

Choosing the right format

Not all auctions are created equal: the format you choose makes a difference. Silent auctions are ideal for formal events where guests can browse items at their leisure, whilst online auctions open the door to wider participation, traversing geographical boundaries. Live auctions, on the other hand, offer high energy and realtime excitement, perfect for lively larger events.

The Importance of

support

One of the common challenges many organisations face is not knowing where to begin or how to run an auction efficiently. Whether it’s sourcing appealing items, managing event timelines, or engaging attendees, having guidance from experienced partners can be incredibly valuable.

Small businesses like Backdrop Promotions and Bid4Charities work closely with fundraisers to provide tailored support, from strategic advice to hands-on assistance.

At its heart, fundraising isn’t just about reaching financial targets – it’s also about building connections. Auctions offer an opportunity to highlight local businesses, celebrate community generosity, and inspire collective action. With the right approach, fundraising can be both effective and deeply rewarding.

www.backdroppromotions.com

UK and EU must seize the moment with post-Brexit deal - BCC

Ahead of the EU reset summit on 19 May, the British Chambers of Commerce set out seven “vital changes” which need to be made to the Brexit deal to mark a sea change in the UK’s trade relationship with Europe so business can prosper.

This is based on four years of in-depth analysis and research by the BCC involving thousands of businesses. Their research found that in many cases the problems created by the deal, the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, have worsened since Brexit rather than improving.

Changes in the rules and regulations on both sides have created even more paperwork and bureaucracy. These fresh stumbling blocks have forced larger firms to invest in EU satellites to stay competitive. But for smaller businesses, which do not have big reserves of cash, many have had to give up.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “Businesses have spent four years trying to make the Brexit trade deal work, but they have been left fighting with one hand tied behind their backs.

“The additional red-tape and costs mean that, for many smaller firms especially, it has been an uphill battle to stay competitive.

“But this is not just about the hardship that British businesses are facing. We have Chambers in almost every EU state, and the stories they tell us are very similar.

“Tulips from the Netherlands have been left to rot, while stocks of frozen chicken pile up in warehouses waiting for a hard-pressed vet’s signature.

“The wider world of trade has also been upended by the introduction of US tariffs and every single country is scrambling to readjust to this new reality.

“If ever there was a moment for the UK and the EU to put aside past differences and work together to boost our economies then this it.

“We have spent four years researching and analysing post-Brexit trade. The seven changes we have set out are the ones business tell us matter most. It is time now for government and the EU to deliver.”

The BCC’ s top seven asks are:

• Negotiate a UK-EU deal which either eliminates or greatly reduces the complexity of exporting food and plant products for SMEs.

• Produce a balanced Youth Mobility scheme between the UK and EU, covering school visits and exchanges, and a time-limited ability to work for young people.

• For the UK to rejoin the Pan-EuroMediterranean (PEM) convention to align rules on raw materials and components that can be used in exports without incurring tariffs.

• Establish a supplementary deal, like Norway’s with the EU, that exempts smaller UK firms from the requirement to have a fiscal representative for VAT in the EU.

• Make a deal to allow UK firms to travel and work for longer in Europe and vice versa and provide mutual recognition of professional qualifications.

• Link the Emissions Trading Schemes of the UK and EU to avoid charges on carbon embedded in exports in both directions.

• Negotiate a formal Defence and Security Pact providing clear lines of co-operation and secondary agreements. Allowing UK companies to bid for defence procurement contracts in the EU, in consortia with EU partner companies on a ‘pay to play’ basis.

Research by the BCC found that two-fifths (41 per cent) of UK exporters disagree the Brexit deal is helping them grow sales and only 14 per cent of UK exporters think the deal is helping them.

Companies say the biggest barriers to exporting to the EU are customs procedures and documentation (45 per cent), export documentation (39 per cent), regulations and standards (35 per cent) and tariffs (33 per cent).

Awareness of upcoming changes in trade rules and regulations being made by either the UK or the EU are also alarmingly low, with more than three-quarters of firms knowing no details of much of the legislation.

The BCC’s TCA Four Years On report sets out 26 recommendations to improve UK-EU trade.

UK and EU sign post-Brexit deal

The UK and the EU reached a new deal on 19 May setting out post-Brexit relations on areas including fishing rights, trade and defence.

Fishing

The new deal will continue to give EU boats access to UK waters until 2038.

The 2020 Brexit deal, which saw the UK regain 25 per cent EU fishing quotas, was due to run out next year. The UK will continue to agree yearly quotas with the EU and Norway and issue licences to control who fishes in its waters.

A £360 million fishing and coastal growth fund was announced to invest in new technology and equipment.

Farming exports

In return for extending current fishing rules, the UK has secured a deal to reduce checks on food exports to the EU. Officials will drop some routine border checks on animal and plant shipments to and from the EU.

The new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement means the UK can sell raw burgers and sausages back into the EU for the first time since Brexit.

Defence and security

A formal UK-EU defence and security pact has been established.

UK and EU officials will meet every six months to talk about defence and foreign policy. Both sides will coordinate on sanctions, share more information and develop a space-related security policy.

The Government says the agreement “paves the way” for UK-based arms firms to access the Security Action for Europe (Safe) - a £150 billion EU fund providing loans for defence projects.

Youth experience scheme

The UK and the EU have agreed to co-operate further on a youth experience scheme, but this will be subject to further negotiations.

The Government says such a scheme “could see young people able to work and travel freely in Europe again” but would be “capped and time-limited”. It says the idea would mirror existing schemes the UK has with countries like Australia and New Zealand, where there is an annual quota of visas allowing people between the ages of 18 and 35 to work in each other’s countries for up to three years.

The UK is also negotiating to rejoin the Erasmus+ programme, which allows students to study or do an internship abroad.

Passport e-gates

British holidaymakers will be able to use e-gates at more European airports.

When Brexit ended freedom of movement, it changed the rules for people travelling to European countries. Now, British passport holders can’t use “EU/EEA/CH” lanes at EU border crossings

A new passport system will make it easier for UK pets to travel, ending the need for repeat vet certificates.

Carbon tax

The UK and EU will link their carbon markets to avoid taxes on carbon-intensive goods like steel and cement travelling between the UK and EU.

The Government says it will save £800 million in taxes and shield British steel from EU tariffs, thanks to a UK-only deal worth £25 million a year.

Unique amongst private healthcare providers, we are a Private Limited Company and a fully owned subsidiary of East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, with sites in:

• Ashford (William Harvey Hospital)

• Canterbury (Kent & Canterbury Hospital)

• Margate (Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother Hospital)

A New Era in Men’s Health

At Spencer Private Hospitals, Consultant Urological Surgeon Mr Georgios Papadopoulos offers the gold standard minimally invasive option the No-Scalpel, No-Needle Vasectomy.

It’s quick, low-risk, and virtually painless — all with no cutting, no stitches, and minimal downtime.

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy blocks the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm. The male ejaculation stays the same — but without carrying sperm which means that a pregnancy cannot happen. It’s one of the most effective contraceptive options available.

Why No Scalpel, No Needle?

• No Scalpel, no stitches: A single tiny puncture is performed

• Needle-free anaesthetic: Delivered by air pressure, not injection

• Fast recovery: Most patients resume light activity in 1–2 days

• Low risk: Up to 8x fewer complications than traditional methods

Mr Papadopoulos uses a gold standard technique called Open ended with fascial interposition, adding an extra barrier between the sealed ends of the vas and minimise the risk of post Vasectomy pain syndrome.

The Vasectomy is performed in a calm outpatient setting with expert aftercare.

Spencer Private Hospitals is proudly part of your local NHS trust, so your private care also supports public healthcare.

or call our dedicated team on 0800 987

The Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey

Many businesses, in particular small busineses, feel our voices aren’t heard and that those in power don’t hear our opinions. As Chamber members this doesn’t have to be the case.

As members, every quarter you receive an email in your inbox which, with a busy schedule, you may not pay much attention to. Yet this unassuming email is in fact a route to feedback and comment directly to local, central government and to the wider UK press and business community, The Quarterly Economic survey.

What is the Quarterly Economic survey?

The British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) is the UK’s largest and longest-running independent survey of business sentiment. Founded in 1989 and comprising of around 5,000 respondents each quarter, it provides unparalleled insight into how UK businesses are performing from quarter to quarter.

It provides a wealth of data on UK business conditions and is split into three publications:

• The Quarterly Economic Survey, providing an essential overview of UK business conditions.

• The Quarterly Recruitment Outlook, looking at the proportion of firms attempting to recruit and whether they are facing difficulties doing so.

• The Trade Confidence Outlook, looking at whether UK exporters are reporting a change in exports and sales each quarter.

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce has run the QES in Kent & Medway for over 20 years and covers the standard questions that allow comparisons over the years, as well as topical questions around the business climate of the time.

The anonymised data is sent to The British Chambers of Commerce who collate it into a UK-wide report on business confidence for the quarter and, in parallel, the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce completes a Kent and Medway-wide report from this data to disseminate to our members and key stakeholders.

The QES asks businesses if they have experienced a change in a range of indicators each quarter, including sales, exports, cash flow, investment, and recruitment, as well as topical issues. The nature of the survey, with the same questions over such a long period of time makes the data comparisons invaluable.

As the largest and most representative independent business survey of its kind in the UK, the QES is closely watched by policymakers such as the Treasury, the Bank of England and the Office of Budget Responsibility, while also attracting significant media attention.

With all this in mind, don’t lose out on the chance to both let us know how we can help you in terms of lobbying and members needs, but also let the government and economic powers of the UK know the business conditions on the ground in Kent and Medway and help get our voices, as a business community, be heard.

The QES can be found here* and is open from: Quarter 2 2025

Fieldwork Starts: Monday 12th May 2025

Closing Date: Monday 9th June 2025

Quarter 3 2025

Fieldwork Starts: Monday 18th August 2025

Closing Date: Monday 15th September 2025

Quarter 4 2025

Fieldwork Starts: Monday 10th November 2025

Closing Date: Monday 8th December 2025

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events, and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events, and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

With a mix of events held online and face-to-face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

With a mix of events held online and face-to-face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

Business Bites

Business Bites

Why Publish a Book?

Why Publish a Book?

Thursday 12th June 2025

Thursday 12th June 2025

Online via Zoom | 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Online via Zoom | 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: Free to Attend

In this upcoming session, guest speaker Mark Geyde from Interpro Solutions will take a look into the process of writing a book and explore the personal and professional benefits it can bring.

In this upcoming session, guest speaker Mark Geyde from Interpro Solutions will take a look into the process of writing a book and explore the personal and professional benefits it can bring.

Whether you’ve already written a book or are considering it, this session will guide you through the key steps of taking your book from creation to publication. Mark will also discuss effective strategies for marketing your book once it’s published, helping you maximise its impact for both you and your business.

Whether you’ve already written a book or are considering it, this session will guide you through the key steps of taking your book from creation to publication. Mark will also discuss effective strategies for marketing your book once it’s published, helping you maximise its impact for both you and your business.

Business

Talks

Business Talks

Thursday 19th June 2025, Wine Tasting and Tour

Thursday 19th June 2025, Wine Tasting and Tour

Members: £15.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £25.00 + VAT 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Members: £15.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £25.00 + VAT 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Come and network at our next Business Talks event, held at the Westwell Wine Estate.

Come and network at our next Business Talks event, held at the Westwell Wine Estate.

We will be having an informative guided tour of the vineyard followed by a tutored tasting session of their sublime wines.

We will be having an informative guided tour of the vineyard followed by a tutored tasting session of their sublime wines.

This event is well-suited to those of you who are passionate about great local produce and wine.

This event is well-suited to those of you who are passionate about great local produce and wine.

We look forward to offering you this unique networking opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with the local business community all over a glass of some of Kent’s finest.

We look forward to offering you this unique networking opportunity to build long-lasting relationships with the local business community all over a glass of some of Kent’s finest.

Business Walks

Business Walks

Tuesday 10th June 2025, Kent Event Centre, Detling

Tuesday 10th June 2025, Kent Event Centre, Detling

Tuesday 15th July 2025, Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay 10:30am - 12:00pm | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Tuesday 15th July 2025, Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay 10:30am - 12:00pm | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

It is well known that walking in nature can uplift your mental and physical well-being.

It is well known that walking in nature can uplift your mental and physical well-being.

With this in mind, why not come and join us for Business Walks and get ready to connect, collaborate and support other business owners, professionals, and employees through walking and talking.

With this in mind, why not come and join us for Business Walks and get ready to connect, collaborate and support other business owners, professionals, and employees through walking and talking.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

Chamber Connections

Chamber Connections

Tuesday 17th June 2025, Waterfront Leisure, Gillingham

Tuesday 17th June 2025, Waterfront Leisure, Gillingham

Tuesday 22nd July 2025, Churchill Square Business Centre, Kings Hill

Tuesday 22nd July 2025, Churchill Square Business Centre, Kings Hill

Thursday 7th August 2025, Eastwell Manor, Ashford

Thursday 7th August 2025, Eastwell Manor, Ashford

10:30am - 12:00pm | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

10:30am - 12:00pm | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community.

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

Kent Construction Focus Group

Kent Construction Focus Group

Tuesday 1st July 2025, Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford

Tuesday 1st July 2025, Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford

Tuesday 5th August 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone 7:30am - 9:30am | KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Tuesday 5th August 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone 7:30am - 9:30am | KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Business Walks

Tuesday 10th June 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Kent Event Centre, Detling, ME14 3JF

Business Bites – Why Publish a Book?

Thursday 12th June 2025 | 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Online via Zoom

Chamber Connections

Sponsored by A4G Chartered Accountant

Tuesday 17th June 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Waterfront Leisure, Gillingham, ME7 1UB

Business Talks – Wine Tasting and Tour

Sponsored by Brachers

Thursday 19th June 2025 | 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Westwell Wine Estate, Charing, TN27 0BW

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 24th June 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG) Tuesday 1st July 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking some of the top local business professionals from an array of invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants help you grow your business.

Business Walks

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

Tuesday 15th July 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay, CT6 7LQ

With a mix of events held online and face to face across Kent,

Kent Construction Focus Group

Chamber Connections

Sponsored by Mivvy Creative

Tuesday 6th August 2024 | Tuesday 3rd September 2024

During the morning, you will enjoy breakfast baps at Kent Invicta Chamber and a full English breakfast at the Village Hotel.

During the morning, you will enjoy breakfast baps at Kent Invicta Chamber and a full English breakfast at the Village Hotel.

The Village Hotel, Maidstone | 7:30am - 9:30am KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Tuesday 22nd July 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Churchill Square Business Centre, ME19 4YU

Virtual Business Networking

Hosted by members of the KCFG committee, Cheryl Causebrook and Ella Brocklebank, we bring you KCFG

Virtual Business Networking

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 24th June 2025 | Tuesday 29th July 2025

Tuesday 24th June 2025 | Tuesday 29th July 2025

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Tuesday 29th July 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

The KCFG group consists of companies in the Kent area involved in construction, such as architects, surveyors, contractors, construction suppliers, and land agents etc.

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG) Tuesday 5th August 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am

The Village Hotel, Maidstone, ME14 3AQ

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

KCFG provides a one-stop-shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

Chamber Connections

Thursday 7th August 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Eastwell Manor, Ashford, TN25 4HR

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers.

Produced by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

180+ Exhibitors

Networking Breakfast Gala Dinner Conference & Seminars

Meet the Buyer

Who will you meet at the Kent Construction EXPO 2025?

You’ll be joining 2,000+ industry professionals from across the construction supply chain, including:

Main contractors, developers and construction leaders exploring new suppliers, partnerships, and project delivery solutions

Architects, engineers, project managers and consultants shaping the future of the built environment through innovation and collaboration

Public sector procurement and planning professionals looking to connect with trusted regional providers and contractors

Specialist suppliers and service providers offering practical, proven solutions to support live projects and upcoming tenders

Whether you're looking to spark new business, stay ahead of the curve, or strengthen your professional network—this is where the South East’s construction industry connects.

Don’t Miss: Meet the Buyer at Kent Construction EXPO

Are you looking to expand your supply chain?

The Meet the Buyer event at Kent Construction EXPO offers a unique opportunity for construction developers and contractors to engage with pre-matched suppliers that align with their specific needs.

Booths are free for developers and contractors actively seeking to expand their supply network.

Secure your free buyer booth today – register for Free

Headline Sponsors and Event Partners include:

2025 Buyers include:

Crash Festival launches in Ashford: A new creative collision point for Southeast England

The inaugural Crash Festival will take place on the 28th June at The Ashford Cinema, bringing together industry-leading artists, animators, illustrators, and designers for a one-day explosion of creative inspiration and networking.

This groundbreaking event features an exceptional lineup of masterclasses including three speakers from Industrial Light & Magic, Spider-Verse animator Nikolaos Finizio, acclaimed illustrator Rob Flowers, Marvel and Dark Horse artist Laurence Campbell, Eisnernominated graphic novelists The Rickard Sisters, mixed media artist and author Greg Stobbs and many more.

“Crash Festival creates a unique space where creativity collides with opportunity,” explains Festival Co-Founder Will Hill.

“Crash Festival represents a commitment to building a sustainable creative ecosystem that benefits both established professionals and emerging talents.”

“We’re bringing world-class and local creative talent to Ashford to spark conversations, collaborations, and creativity.The day-long program includes presentations, panels, and interactive sessions exploring animation, visual effects, illustration, comics, and game design. Attendees can expect insights into the SpiderVerse animation process, behind-the-scenes stories from Industrial Light & Magic, and creative journeys from independent artists and major studios alike.”

Crash Festival aims to highlight Ashford’s position as an emerging creative hub while connecting local talent with international platforms.

The event will take place at The Ashford Cinema, centrally located at Elwick Place.

“We’re thrilled to have put together such an exceptional lineup of creative talent in our first year,” adds Thom Burgess, Hollywood Screenwriter and Co-Founder.

“We’re bringing world-class and local creative talent to Ashford to spark conversations, collaborations, and share the joy of creativity.”

Early bird tickets are available now from theashfordcinema. For more information, the full schedule, and ticket details, visit www.wearecrash.com

Solar Together relaunches offering local businesses a move to renewable energy

Businesses, residents and community groups across the Ashford borough and wider Kent can once again come together to invest in renewable energy through a group-buying scheme for solar panels and battery storage.

Solar Together helps participants feel confident they are paying the right price for a high-quality installation from trusted installers. Since the launch of the initiative in 2020, more than 280 solar PV and battery installations have been completed across Ashford.

Solar Together isn’t just for residents – local businesses and community groups can also take part. The group-buying scheme offers solar panels with optional battery storage and EV charge points, as well as retrofit battery storage for those who have already invested in solar panels and are looking to get more from the renewable energy they generate.

Applications are limited to 50 solar panels per property. The scheme allows businesses, homeowners and community groups to reduce their bills and help cut carbon emissions. It is free to register and there’s no obligation to go ahead with an installation. Ashford Borough Council is working with Kent County Council, in partnership with iChoosr.

As experts in sustainable energy, iChoosr are helping to make the transition to clean energy as cost-effective and hassle-free as possible.

Sophie Stiles, Climate Change Manager at Ashford Borough Council, said: “This scheme is a great way to help local business owners and residents navigate a move to renewable energy. Change to a new technology can be daunting and we hope the scheme gives confidence and support. It’s great to see so many people already embracing the benefits.”

How does it work?

• Businesses, householders and community groups can register online to become part of the group for free and without obligation.

• Approved UK solar PV suppliers participate in a reverse auction. They are able to offer competitive pricing as the volume, and geographic concentration makes it possible for them to realise greater efficiencies, which they pass on with lower prices for installations.

• After the auction, registered businesses, households and community groups will be emailed a personal recommendation which is specific to the details they submitted in their registration.

• If they choose to accept their recommendation, the specifics of their installation will be confirmed with a technical survey, after which a date can be set for the installation of their solar PV system.

• Telephone and email help desks are on-hand throughout the whole process which, together with information sessions, will allow businesses, households and community groups to make an informed decision in a safe and hassle-free environment.

iChoosr has been collaborating with UK councils since 2015 on its Solar Together scheme, aiming to accelerate the energy transition nationwide. The initiative aims to encourage people to partake in the collective purchase of solar PV and battery storage systems.

To date, Solar Together has installed over 39,150 solar panels in Kent and Medway, helping businesses and households avoid up to 3,470 tonnes CO2e emissions each year, with systems expected to last for around 25 years. This is equivalent to taking around 2,478 cars off the road every year!

iChoosr’s initiatives have been delivered in partnership with local authorities in five countries. More than 200 initiatives have led to 191,000 people installing solar PV or battery storage systems.

Welcome to our new members

BAR Productions

Chatham 07917 830373

barproductions.co.uk

Digital content production company

Bay System Solutions Ltd

t/a ITSA Bay Solution

Herne Bay 07974 004864

itsabaysolution.co.uk

Bookkeeping, accounting and MTD ITSA/VAT advisors

Bode Communications & IT Ltd

Maidstone 01622 535920

bodeit.uk

Helping organisations get the right IT Systems

Brian Yeardley Continental Ltd

Ashford 01233 500898

brianyeardley.com

Delivering logistic solutions across the length and breadth of the UK and Europe

Clean Your Site (CYS) Ltd

London 020 8450 5892

cleanyoursite.co.uk

A leader in the industrial cleaning sector, particularly in construction

Compass Coaching Rochester 07356 087489

compass-coaching-change.com

Coaching project managers to plan, manage and achieve successful projects

D2NA

Stoke-on-Trent 0330 159 5969

d2na.com

Delivering leading cyber security and managed IT services

Early Birds Ltd

Hamstreet 01233 333280

earlybirdsltd.co.uk

A bespoke property conversion and listed building renovation specialist covering the regions of Kent and East Sussex

Ecologia Environmental Solutions Ltd

Sittingbourne 01795 471611

ecologia-environmental.com

A multi-disciplinary site remediation contractor and solutions provider for contaminated land

Fastsigns (Tunbridge Wells)

Tunbridge Wells 01892 570481

fastsigns.co.uk

A custom sign and visual solutions company

Freed Accountancy Ltd

Ramsgate 07855 109718

freedaccountancy.co.uk

Accounting for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), sole traders and individuals

G&J Engineering & Erection Services Ltd

Gravesend 07849 356377

Engineering and erection services

Glosrose Group

Maidstone 01622 880669

glosrose.co.uk

Mechanical handling and construction equipment specialists

Hames & Sons Locksmiths

Whitstable 07713 118306

hamesandsonslocksmiths.co.uk

A fully independent, family-run business offering fast, friendly, and reliable locksmith services

Harbour Shipping Ltd

Whitfield 01304 211919

harbourshipping.co.uk

UK company operating full British and European freight and ferry logistics support services

Hard Rock CCS Ltd

Chatham 07896 832836

hard-rockccs.co.uk

Civil construction and surfacing

Home Instead (Maidstone)

Maidstone 01622 873414

homeinstead.co.uk/maidstone Home care in Maidstone

Home-Start Shepway

Folkestone 01303 244836

homestartshepway.org.uk

A volunteering organisation committed to promoting the welfare of families with young children

Impact Connect

Chatham 07564 068516

impact-connect.co.uk

Social campaigns, web design, web development and strategic marketing built to grow your business

Information Technology Support Services Ltd

Rochester 01634 471238

itsupportserviceltd.co.uk

Comprehensive IT solutions, from IT support and network security to cloud migration and cybersecurity

ISO in a Dash

Tunbridge Wells 07561 366660

isoinadash.com

Help to build easy to use management systems that makes ISO Certification fast and simple itrust

Sittingbourne 07718 088832

theitrustapp.com

Bringing a healthy and sustainable speak-up culture to organisations worldwide

JUNKJAM

Chatham 07973 525195

junkjam.co.uk

Transforming learning through rhythm and recycling

KDB Consultancy

Medway 07399 945716

kdbconsultancy.com

Professional bookkeeping and CFO services

Kent Insolvency Ltd

Herne Bay 01795 433655

kentinsolvency.co.uk

Licensed insolvency practitioners

Liftworks

Erith 020 8311 5880

liftworks.co.uk

Lift engineering including new lift installation, lift maintenance, lift modernisation, lift repair, 24 hour emergency call out facility and all other lift related services

Enhance Protect Connect

MailXpertise

Ashford 01233 427830

mailxpertise.com

A global ESP (email service provider), specialists in made-to-measure email and SMS solutions for marketing professionals

Maple Tree Marketing and Promotions Ltd

London 020 7101 4859

mtpromo.co.uk

Providing clients across UK, USA and Europe with branded and promotional merchandise

Medway Yacht Club

Rochester 01634 718399

medwayyachtclub.com

A community of passionate sailors who come together to share our love for the sport, the open water and the history of the River Medway

Ocean Counselling Training LLP

Rochester 01634 843733

oceancounsellingtraining.com

Offering an inclusive approach to a range of counselling services

Oliver Montague Ltd

London 0330 223 3119

A commercial finance brokerage, sourcing affordable cashflow finance for UK SME’s and guiding business owners through the process of obtaining finance

Penhurst Business Centre

Tunbridge Wells 020 7978 0100

penhurst.co.uk

Property management

Penstock Training

Lympne 07921 223052

penstocktraining.com

Expert trainers dedicated to delivering comprehensive courses that make acquiring new skills and knowledge both accessible and enjoyable

Precision Placements

Ramsgate 07526 082836

precisionplacements.co.uk

Building control recruitment

Qube Recruitment Ltd

Rochester 0800 468 1900

quberecruitment.co.uk

Independent recruitment consultancy specialising in the accountancy and finance, construction and engineering, transport and logistics

Sarah Drage & Co

Kent

07756 244463

sarahdrage.com

A boutique social media agency based in Kent curating content with purpose and intention

Seaward Photography

Canterbury 07785 323819

derekseaward.com

Commercial photography

Security and Electronic Solutions Ltd

Maidstone 01622 765366

saesltd.co.uk

Specialising in design, installation and maintenance of CCTV systems and intruder alarms, security gates and barriers, access control and attendance monitoring systems

Serverexperte Ltd

London 020 3468 1714

serverexperte.net

Providing comprehensive IT support to businesses of all sizes, from small start ups to large corporations

Signs & Imaging (South East) Ltd

Gillingham 01634 739009

signsandimaging.com

Manufacturer and printer of signage, banners and graphic decals

St Leger House

Maidstone 07590 989407

Air BNB/Wellness retreat

The Embroidered & Printed Clothing Company Ltd

Margate 01843 233116

epcc.co.uk

Embroidered and printed workwear, schoolwear, merchandise, sportswear and fashion

The Office Furniture Consultancy Ltd

Ramsgate 08437 075005

officefurnitureconsultancy.co.uk

Sustainable ergonomic workplace products

The Social Construct East Malling 01732 793057

thesocialconstruct.co.uk

Construction focused creative agency

TPH Plant Hire Ltd

Northfleet 01474 350000

tphplant.co.uk

Providing plant to all types of customers ranging from main contractors in the construction industry and all the large utility companies: water, gas and electricity and the trade and DIY market

Transworld Business Advisor

Gatwick 07878 949248

www.tworld.com

Connecting business buyers and sellers

TurkishLinks

Ramsgate 07799 331918

turkishlinks.org

The Turkishlinks team offers a fantastic research and business introduction and management service to help you carry out Business In Turkey

Tutor Recruiter Ltd

London 07356 095491

tutorrecruiter.co.uk

Providing tutors who deliver tailored, high-quality education across various subjects

Vistage International (UK) Ltd 07740 441932

vistage.co.uk

CEO coaching and peer advisory organisation

Wickham Diggers Plant Hire Kent

Westerham 01959 540999

wickhamdiggersplanthire.co.uk

A family run plant hire business. Hiring to the public for small domestic projects as well as main utility contractors and civil construction site

Philip Keet CEO Millennium Consulting (Millennium Business Technology Limited)

Following a traditional finance career in the City of London I decided that the fusion of finance and technology is where I wanted to work and so I set up Millennium Consulting to support customers with finance technology transformation programs. Starting in my basement office at my home in Farnham, Surrey I moved the company to offices in the City of London before relocating to Hythe on the south Kent coast.

What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

My first job was in my University gap year where I worked as a forklift truck driver for Albert Heijn, the Dutch retailer in Amsterdam. I earned around £120 per week.

What do you always carry with you to work?

I always carry my iPhone which manages my work life and enables me to stay in contact with colleagues, partners and clients.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

The biggest challenge we face is keeping pace with changing technology such as AI which is impacting how we and our clients operate.

If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?

I would reduce the tax burden on start-up businesses to encourage people to follow their dreams and set up companies which will support the UK’s success as a commercial power.

What can you see from your office window?

I can see the courtyard at the side of our offices and the gate leading out to Hythe high street.

If you could do another job what would it be?

I would be a travel writer visiting every part of the world to discover the beauty that exists and finding out about how people live.

As a business person, what are your three main qualities?

Tenacity, innovation and an interest in people and what motivates them.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

Not taking the steps needed to expand the company further into new related market areas.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Be prepared to work hard and go the extra mile in order to succeed. Don’t be afraid of failure as long as you learn from it and it helps you to achieve success in the long term.

Who do you most admire in business?

There are so many successful leaders across the globe which makes it hard to choose but I think for me it would be Steve Jobs as he overcame personal challenges and returned to make an incredible success of Apple.

Brachers celebrates three new Partners as part of annual promotions

Brachers, a Patron of Kent Invicta Chamber, has recognised the achievements of its staff with 10 promotions this year, including three new female Partners.

The law firm, which has offices in Maidstone and Canterbury, has shown its commitment to supporting staff to develop in their career and enabling the women to excel and lead within the legal profession. The newly promoted Partners are Angela Ruminski in Commercial Property, Emma Hegarty in Private Client and Abigail Brightwell in Employment.

According to the latest law firm data from the SRA, women make up 53 per cent of lawyers in the UK. At Brachers, 68 per cent of lawyers and 72 per cent of the total workforce are female, reflecting the firm’s commitment to the advancement of women within the business. Notably, two of the new Partners, Abigail Brightwell and Angela Ruminski, joined the firm as trainees. Their journey to Partner exemplifies the firm’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for career growth.

Alongside the three new Partners, Brachers celebrates five further promotions in its Legal Advisory teams. Kirsty Hancock in Private Client is promoted to Senior Associate, and Gemma Peatey in Family to Associate. Chloe Croft in Private Client rises to Senior Paralegal and two colleagues in the Debt Recovery team receive

promotions: Sachveer Singh Thandi to Senior Customer Executive and Ewa Piatek to Senior Compliance Administrator.

In its Business Operations teams, the firm has two promotions. Shelby Neat in Marketing is promoted to Senior Digital Marketing Executive and Joe Cordwell in Finance is promoted to Purchase Ledger Supervisor.

Joanna Worby, Managing Partner, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the promotions of our 10 colleagues and to welcome three exceptional women into our partnership. All of these promotions reflect the hard work, dedication and the significant contributions these colleagues have made to our firm. We are committed to supporting the career development of all our people and are proud to see such talented individuals rise through the ranks.”

All promotions are effective from 1 April 2025.

Boys & Maughan strengthens its leadership team

Boys & Maughan Solicitors has promoted three experienced lawyers, Andréa McCoy, Karen Perreau and Lucinda Parker, to the partnership, bringing the total number of partners at the firm to 17.

Andréa, a private client solicitor based in Ramsgate, is widely respected for her clear and pragmatic legal advice. Karen and Lucinda, both specialists in children law, have extensive expertise in handling complex cases.

In addition to these appointments, Boys & Maughan has introduced a new Associate Partner role, recognising the talent and ambition within the firm. Wendy Burgess, Kathleen Gray, Graham Tong and Zoey Arscott have been named as the first to take up these positions.

Further strengthening the firm’s senior legal cohort, Katie Smithson has been promoted to Senior Chartered Legal Executive, while Joana Daraskeviciute steps into the role of Senior Solicitor. All nine lawyers formally assumed their new positions on 1 April 2025.

Andrew Baker, Senior Partner at Boys & Maughan, said: “These promotions reflect the ongoing strength of the firm and our commitment to strategic growth.

“Our new partners, associate partners, and senior lawyers have made invaluable contributions to our success, and I extend my warmest congratulations to each of them. Their skills, dedication and professionalism are instrumental to our firm’s continued development.

“As we look to the future, it is crucial that we have the right people in key positions. These nine individuals will play a vital role in enhancing our services, mentoring colleagues and driving forward our plans.

“The creation of the associate partner role enables us to recognise talented individuals who are on track for salaried partnership in the near future. We will provide structured mentoring to support them in reaching that goal.

“We have always been committed to developing talent from within, and these promotions continue our long tradition of supporting career progression.”

With the right support, Port of Dover 2050: Empower Exchange has the power to facilitate a 20% increase in the value of trade handled to £173 billion (based on 2023 prices).

OF DOVER

Becoming the UK’s most seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port

Port of Dover 2050: Empower Exchange supports:

• A boost to UK trade and productivity

• A globally competitive UK maritime sector

• Delivery of ambitious net zero targets, spearheading the reduction of carbon emissions in the maritime industry

• Economic growth in Dover, Kent, and the UK through greater operational e ciency

• Zero queues and reduced congestion in Kent towns catalysing local regeneration

• New jobs and the opportunity for UK coastal towns to retrain and reskill their people for the industries of today and tomorrow.

Join us on our mission to unleash Dover’s full potential for the bene t of the nation. Visit portofdover2050.commonplace.is

Port of Dover 2050: Empower Exchange is our new 30-year plan that takes advantage of Dover’s unrivalled geographic advantage as the closest port to mainland Europe.