CONNECTED magazine December 2013

DECEMBER 2013

DRIVING BUSINESS CONFIDENCE

36

CAMBRIDGESHIRECHAMBER.CO.UK

Building for the future

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CONTENTS |

Inside this issue 7

5

6-7

8

8

14-16

10-12

17

10-12

Chief Executive’s Comment Fenland Chamber News Huntingdonshire Chamber News Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber News

14-16

Peterborough Chamber News

17

Ely Chamber News

19

Cambridgeshire Chamber News

20-21

Events

22-23

Out & About

25

Ask the Expert: Temporary staff

27

In the Hotseat: Rachel Huxley from PECT

28

Policy Update

29

Chamber Updates

30

Update from the LEP

32

Charity of the year

34-35

HS2 ultra-fast rail line

36-37

New Members

38

39-41

Trading with Libya Sector Updates

22-23

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 3

| EDITOR’S COMMENT

Contributing this month...

Welcome A snap shot of our recent Business Focus exhibition can be found on the Out and About pages this month.

Once again the event was a success with some very positive feedback.

The Chamber recently launched a new Chamber Network hastag to help Chamber members find other members on Twitter. You simply search for #ChamberNetwork online and click on twitter names to follow and interact with other member companies. Follow the Chamber on twitter at twitter.com/cambschamber Bookings are coming in fast for our trio of festive events this December and we look forward to seeing you there. You can view the full event details on pages 20-21.

Michael Hellowell Eurotech International Group Chairman and CEO of a specialist technical services and equipment company to many countries worldwide.

Ian MacKellar MacKellar Consulting A freelance journalist with a background as business editor for a local newspaper.

Oliver Halls Method Creative Recent English graduate and journalist working for a local creative agency.

Do you follow us on Twitter?

Sadie Parr Editor, CONNECTED, s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

We regularly tweet Chamber news; follow us at @CambsChamber to be kept up to date with all the latest news.

DRIVING BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Chief Executive John Bridge OBE | Editor Sadie Parr | Creative Director Jillian Boys Publisher methodcreative.co.uk | Ebenezer House, Rooks Street, Cottenham, Cambridge CB24 8QZ | 01954 253060 | Print cambridgeprinters.co.uk Disclaimer Views expressed in CONNECTED are not necessarily those of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce.

Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.

Membership Development Officer Peter Watts 07545 697799 or Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 Cambridge Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Peterborough 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6FT. Tel 01733 370809 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk | www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

@CambsChamber Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

4 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

Our editorial panel: We would also like to thank Chamber committee members responsible for shaping the key topics this month and researching these features to better serve the readers of CONNECTED in this edition.

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S COMMENT |

Chamber

Idea Exchange

ONE of the many benefits of belonging to a membership organisation as wide and varied as the Chamber is the potential to access the far-reaching expertise and knowledge of other members who stand alongside you within our network.

We’ve recently been inspired to look for new ways to facilitate the sharing of that expertise and knowledge between members.

Our recent Business Women’s Brainstorming Lunches in Cambridge and Peterborough proved to be an excellent forum for sharing ideas and providing and receiving feedback on everything from existing marketing literature to new product ideas. It was billed as a dynamic and creative approach to networking, and the feedback received since the event has indeed highlighted how refreshing it was for ideas to be received and discussed in a productive and non-judgemental way.

Now we’re looking for new ways to help member companies share ideas that will enhance how their businesses operate on a day-to-day basis, and in the new year we will be launching a new initiative that we hope will do just that.

The Chamber Idea Exchange will match up companies according to location and their area of interest, facilitating dialogue between the two so that a member of staff from one can spend up to a day on-site with the other, learning about how their business operates and taking away new ideas and processes that they can implement within their own workplace.

Whether it’s new ways of working, introductions to new suppliers, efficiency savings or simply a different approach to problem-solving, we hope the scheme will allow businesses to learn from others who are willing to share their own knowledge and expertise.

This exciting new initiative enhances the role of the Chamber as the key facilitator of dialogue between member companies.

The Chamber Idea Exchange will bring together businesses with a common desire to share knowledge with others and improve their own working practices, all completely free of charge to members.

I would really like to hear your views on the concept, and would welcome your initial thoughts both before and after this new scheme is launched early next year. Please get involved as we are sure it can play an important role in fulfilling the ambitions you have for 2014.

John Bridge OBE Chief Executive, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

New initiative to enhance how businesses operate

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 5

| FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS

Fenland Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from Fenland

Fenland Chamber of Commerce

Fosters thrive in Fenland LAKEHOUSE Group acquired award-winning business Foster Property Maintenance Ltd (FPM Ltd) last month but founder John Foster is far from resting on his laurels.

The entrepreneur is nurturing plans for Foster Renewable Energies Ltd (FRE Ltd) and Foster Property Developments Ltd (FPD Ltd), over which he presides. He has ambitious plans for both, revealing: “We aim to turn these into £20million turnover p/a businesses within three years.”

If anyone can turn ambitious plans into

‘we’re forming ties with organisations to help us grow’ reality, John can. Founding FPM Ltd in 1976, son Steven left a stable role in 2003 to join him in creating today’s thriving enterprise, which boasts an annual turnover in excess of £50 million.

While Steve remains Managing Director, John is putting his skills to work

Business Park developed by Foster Property Developments

6 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

at the two remaining family businesses – Foster Renewable Energies and Foster Property Developments.

Foster Property Developments, established with the purpose of purchasing and developing land for residential and commercial development, has already developed a modern, two-acre business park with tenanted units. Looking ahead, John says: “We are on the cusp of major growth for new build housing – and our business is well placed to make the most of this.”

Foster Renewable Energies, created to address environmental issues, is in its third year of trading and goes from strength to strength. This success has been aided by £500,000 of Research and Development investment. The company’s expertise in energy-saving solutions means it is poised to grow when the government’s Green Deal initiative and Renewable Heat Incentive take off, which John assures us is only a matter of time.

FPM Ltd grew without advertising or networking, but now he acknowledges: “The time is ripe to grow our businesses and we can do this quicker by getting more involved with organisations. We’ve been forming

John Foster

ties with local authorities, such as Fenland District Council.”

But growing these organisations is wider-reaching than improving the bottom line. Growth will mean job opportunities for skilled operatives and the creation of a training school for future employees.

This involves working closely with Local Enterprise Partnerships to make a major, training funding bid. All proof that the Foster ambition is firmly thriving. n

FENLAND CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

College switched on to drivers’ needs THE switched-on College of West Anglia has installed charging points at each of its three campuses to help staff and students with electric cars keep their vehicles topped up.

These are for use by staff and students only as part of the college’s ongoing efforts to promote and enable sustainable modes of transport.

At the King’s Lynn Campus the college got

together with Wests of Kings Lynn to promote the new facility. On show were two electric vehicles for people to look at, ask questions and even take one for a test drive. There will also be points at the campuses at Isle, Wisbech and Milton, Cambridge.

To encourage uptake of EVs the college will be offering the first year charging completely free! n

Jack Caldwell, College of West Anglia, right, with a representative of Wests at the new charging point at King’s Lynn

Local firm goes from strength to strength AFM are pleased to announce the opening of their new offices in Southgate London.

AFM (1932) Ltd, are a healthcare developer and contractor who have recently secured several new projects, these include student accommodation (Huddersfield), 14 sheltered accommodation units (Essex) and the construction of two medical practices.

AFM are currently working on a multimillion pound state-of-the art care home for the elderly, which will create more than 100 jobs. The three-storey facility is on a twoand-a-half acre site in Peterborough. The home will have 78 spacious bedrooms with en-suites, a day care centre and facilities such as cinema room, gym, café, fully

licensed bar, library, hair/beauty salon and landscaped sensory gardens.

AFM recently completed the extension and refurbishment works at Old Fletton Primary School and Queens Drive Primary School in Peterborough and the completion of a new showroom and workshop extension to Ken Brown Motors in Harlow. AFM were commissioned to design and build this project which included a new 600 square metre extension and a new fully fitted out MOT bay and workshop along with a new valet bay.

Projects have also been completed for Sanctuary Housing, Colliers International and clinical refurbishments. n

IN BRIEF NOVEMBER2013 DECEMBER 2013 B2B offer CUB Cashflow advice Solutions expand CUB have Three more recently associates toured have therecently area offering joined B2B Cashflow advice to avoidSolutions overpaying taking on your the total energy. number Jodie Busby, to 19. Senior Account Manager as Karl CUB,Lanham, said: “Invoices Associate, are said: usually “These based appointments on estimated readings give us awhich greater aren’t regional coverage always asand accurate demonstrate when compared the continued to growthmeter actual in thereadings. independent Somecommercial businesses finance can overpay sector.” by between five – 15 per cent B2B every Cashflow year. Solutions have also been nominated “One wayfor tothe reduce thirdthe year riskrunning of for the Business Moneyfacts overcharging is to take regular Awards meter in the category so readings of Best that these Commercial can beBroker. compared to the bills you receive. The other alternative is to go down the route of using bill validation.”

Bill validation focuses on looking at a list of jargon terminologies which can be daunting such as your rate, standing charge, capacity charge, KVARH, CCL, VAT and FiT and RO to see if you have been billed correctly. CUB manage this by analysing your bills throughout your contract duration, pointing out the accuracies and inaccuracies on your invoice and rectifying them for you.

Jodie concluded: “It’s a great way of giving you the assurance that you’re only paying for what you have signed up for on your energy contract.”

Join the committee We are looking for members from this area to join the Fenland Chamber of Commerce committee which acts as a forum for discussing local issues, instigating ideas that would be of interest to other businesses, plus promoting Chamber events.

If you would be interested in joining us please contact Freda Kirchen by email at f.kirchen@cambscci.co.uk

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 7

| HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER NEWS

Huntingdonshire Chamber NEWS

Accountants expand team to meet town centre demand HAINES Watts Accountants has taken on Dawn Tyers as its first dedicated receptionist to cope with the level of interest from clients calling in off the street following a move to the town centre office. Dawn will give administrative support to allow for more efficient procedures and faster turnaround for clients as well as

manning the reception area.

Managing Partner Simon Laskey said: “Moving to a town centre site has had an amazing impact on our business. By having Dawn as the face of the business to welcome clients and potential clients we will be able to continue to offer this service as we expand.” n

(l to r) Carly Liston, Helen Hart, Neil Kirkman, Simon Laskey, Dawn Tyers, Kevin Murfitt

Award wins for Beacon BEACON Wealth Management Ltd won two awards at the Hunt Post Business Awards - Business Development award and Small Business of the Year.

Tony Larkins, Managing Director, commented: “The awards show how much Beacon stands out and how adaptive we can be with the changing financial environment. I am very proud of the company and team members.”

Beacon has also been recognised in the New Model Adviser’s Top 100 Independent Financial Advisers in the country. n

Collecting the Small Business Award

8 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

Huntingdonshire Chamber of Commerce

A round-up of news and events from Huntingdonshire

Nigel Donohue, WATA with Steve Gray, Training 2000

Training Provider wins International Award WEST Anglia Training Association (WATA), in partnership with Prospects College and Training 2000, beat the competition to run a Technical College of Excellence in Saudi Arabia under the ‘Expanding and Improving Technical and Vocational Education and Training in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Wave 2 Project’ which will see 26 new colleges built in Saudi Arabia.

Nigel Donohue said: “I am delighted that our concept has been recognised with the first ever innovation award.” n

IN BRIEF DECEMBER 2013 George Hay partner clocks up 25 years Barry Jefferd joined the firm in 1988 as tax manager, having trained with a City of London practice. In 1990 Barry was made a partner with responsibility for taxation throughout the firm and in 1994 became responsible for the newly opened office in Huntingdon.

A chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser, Barry specialises in the complete range of tax advice, with a particular interest in the capital taxes.

Apart from the world of tax, Barry is a Registered Auditor and heads George Hay’s team specialising in services for academies and is vice-chairman of Huntingdonshire Chamber of Commerce.

Commenting on his milestone achievement, Barry said: “The accountancy profession has changed significantly over the last 25 years and, indeed, the variety of work and the clients and colleagues I have worked with along the way have ensured that no two days are the same.

“In that time, I have been able to develop and grow George Hay’s tax practice which recently necessitated the appointment of a second tax partner due to the additional work we have been able to attract. I look forward to continuing to build on these strengths, as well as further developing newer areas.”

Barry Jefferd

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| CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS

Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber NEWS

Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber of Commerce

Primary School gets planting with Ridgeons THE timber division of Ridgeons has teamed up with one of its Swedish Sawmill partners, SCA Timber Supply Ltd, to provide three saplings to Kennett Primary School in Newmarket.

Pupils representing the School’s Council joined Ridgeons Forest Products Sales and Marketing Manager, Stephan Wait, and SCA Timber Supply Ltd, Area Manager Antony Considine, in planting the saplings at a carefully chosen spot within the school grounds.

As well as the planting, the whole school enjoyed a timber themed assembly, during which Antony talked to the pupils about The Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) certification.

Stephan Wait said: “We aim to support the communities in which we operate. We are very fortunate to enjoy strong links with Kennett Primary School and being able to plant these saplings and know that they will be there for future pupils to enjoy is very fulfilling.” n

Communication is our strength.

We listen. We understand. We deliver.

Pupils from the school’s council help with the planting of the saplings

Cake Club The Cake Club, held at Begbies Traynor Cambridge, celebrates raising a further £340.00 for Macmillan Cancer Support bringing the total raised to over £3950.00.

Recently an event was held with demonstrations from Natalie Hanlon from The Pampered Chef® who kindly offered to donate 15 per cent of all sales made that evening to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Natalie gave an extensive demonstration of the cookware and made salmon paté canapés and a salsa and avocado pizza. Everyone was then able to sample the delicious paté and pizza. n

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annpettengell.co.uk Pampered Chef demonstration

10 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Keeping it in the Family THE Cambridge property market continues to buck the national trend and alongside this the residential conveyancing team has continued to rise at Barr Ellison. Following a period of unprecedented growth, they have engaged the services of not one but two additional conveyancing staff as they seek to remain ahead of the curve.

They are delighted to welcome Paul Cooper to the Cambridge residential property team. Paul is a consultant solicitor with over 30 years’ experience and a passion for all things within the residential property landscape. Paul joins his son Simon who is already a conveyancer at Barr Ellison.

Helen Murphy, head of residential property at Barr Ellison Solicitors, said: “It is fantastic to have another bona fide expert on board as we continue to attract new clients as well as making sure that our existing loyal client base remains well cared for.”

Barr Ellison Solicitors always has an eye to the future and with that in mind

they have enlisted the services of property paralegal Adam McDonagh who joined the team at the end of August.

With guidance from Paul, Adam will become a top-class conveyancer, building upon his law degree and Legal Practice Course training.

“In the few short weeks they have been with us, Paul and Adam have become invaluable members of the team and I’m sure that we have some very exciting times ahead” says Helen. “Barr Ellison Solicitors always strive to provide the very best service to our clients and the newly strengthened team will ensure that this continues.”

Property Partner, Elizabeth Deyong, is delighted: “The residential property market in Cambridgeshire continues to do well and it is necessary for us to grow in order to keep up with demand. We anticipate continued market growth as a result of recent government initiatives, particularly in the Cambridge area, and the top-class talent which Paul and Adam offer will be a great benefit.” n

Helen and Adam sandwiched between the father and son duo Paul and Simon Cooper

IN BRIEF DECEMBER 2013 Alliance Française win award Alliance Française were awarded bronze accrediatation for Overall Customer Experience 2013 in a mystery shop programme run by Storecheckers, in partnership with Cambridge BID. Alliance Française were very pleased with the result: “We are working very hard to reach the gold award next year when the Tour de France comes to Cambridge.”

Alliance Française with their award

10th Anniversary of The Travel Clinic Ltd The Travel Clinic Ltd celebrate 10 years of providing quality healthcare to the travelling public enabling more than 50,000 people to travel safely.

In 2003 they saw a gap in the market for an expert clinic in Cambridge and set up in Mill Road, Cambridge, with just one nurse, the Managing Director, Mary Kedward and one receptionist. They now employ 12 nurses and four receptionists in two clinics in Cambridge and Ipswich.

During the 10 years they have received enthusiastic support from Dr Jane Wilson-Howarth, eminent Cambridge GP, zoologist, author and broadcaster on travel health issues.

Their mission is to help independent and corporate travellers to travel safely by protecting themselves against tropical diseases. Vaccines and malaria tablets are just the beginning; information on disease outbreaks and how best to protect oneself is also crucial.

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 11

| CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS CHAMBER NEWS

Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber NEWS IN BRIEF NOVEMBER 2013 New Head of Planning at Bidwells Bidwells has appointed Mike Derbyshire as its new Head of Planning.

Mike joined the firm in November as an Equity Partner. He has 25 years experience in both the private and public sector. He has dealt with major projects for a variety of clients. Particular highlights include the delivery of the London Clinic’s ‘Quantum Leap’ £300m scheme to expand and modernise their estate in and around Harley Street. Mike also has extensive regional experience.

“Mike’s experience of planning at a national level will be invaluable in Bidwells continued evolution. Taking us in to new sectors, strengthening existing and accelerating the establishment of new services” said Patrick McMahon, Senior Partner at Bidwells.

Mike said: “Planning is at a pivotal point where it is crucial to the growth of our economy. I am eager to play my part in Bidwells growing national reputation in order to help deliver the major schemes and activities that our clients need.”

New arrivals at Hewitsons Solicitor Laura Hales joined the team earlier this year and is an experienced residential property specialist who has worked in and around Cambridge for most of her career. Her recruitment is both a response to our recent high work levels and an investment in the team’s future. She has settled in extremely well and is already an integral member of the team.

Sue Powell has been recruited this year to our team of PA’s. Sue has considerable residential property experience, most recently with Encore Estate Management. She has slotted well into a very demanding role.

12 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

A round-up of news and events from across Cambridge & South Cambs

Cambridge & South Cambs Chamber of Commerce

Grants4Growth easy as 1, 2, 3 ROBERT J Barnes Car Repair have benefited from a Grants4Growth grant of £5,700 enabling the garage to install a state of the art four-wheel alignment machine.

The machine will enable customers to benefit from longer tyre life and safer,

greener motoring.

Operations Director at RJB, Matthew Cooper, said: “Winning the grant has enabled us to invest in our business’s growth, enhance customer service, reduce our environmental impact and project jobs.” n

Operations Director Matthew Cooper with the new four-wheel alignment machine

Pioneering collaboration THE Marshall Network has a track record of raising funds for good causes whilst connecting the diverse range of people who work for one of Cambridge’s biggest employers.

The Marshall Group has shown an interest in the work of Romsey Mill that goes beyond the traditional ‘Charity of the Year’ relationship.

With a grant from the Horner Foundation, Romsey Mill will support young people aged 16-21 who have failed to achieve A*-C GCSE grades in Maths and English, and are currently regarded as NEET (not in employment, education or training). Building on Romsey Mill’s expertise in working with young people who have disengaged from mainstream education, participants will have the opportunity to achieve Functional Skills (up to level 2) in Maths and English, develop their ‘work ready’ skills and gain an insight into local businesses.

Working with members of the Marshall Network, young people will be able to see ‘behind the scenes’ of this iconic Cambridge business through a programme of workshops, site visits and work experience placements co-developed with Romsey Mill.

Charity Green, manager of Romsey Mill’s corporate partnerships, says: “This initiative gives young people a second chance to achieve essential qualifications, boost their CVs and see first hand what local businesses do. It’s going to engage them in STEM subjects in a practical way, not just telling them how planes fly or how engines work, but showing them. ” Greg Nunn of Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group said: “It’s great that we can share our professional skills and expertise helping local young people who may not have excelled academically. We see this as a long term relationship that will benefit both Romsey Mill and Marshall’s.” n

Helping Businesses to Grow and Manage Change

At Anglia Ruskin University we are constantly striving to bring innovative Higher Education solutions to businesses so that they can develop their staff in effective and flexible ways.

Recently we have been told by companies that staff are looking for affordable courses that give them valuable and practical learning, which can be completed in a short time scale.

In response, we have developed these targeted courses, that are accredited University Diplomas, which develop practical business skills contextualised to the workplace.

Leading Business Development focuses on some of the core elements developed for our BA (Hons) Sales, which we designed exclusively with Harrods. Many companies are looking for that extra depth to their knowledge and skills that can make a difference to the bottom line; to help them attract a new client, ensure a profitable relationship, or develop enterprising new projects.

We designed our Leading Business Development course to help your organisation build the sales teams they need to thrive in a competitive market environment. The course is ideal for people whose role includes generating business from new or existing clients, where students will be able to choose from topics such as Key Account Management, Enterprise in Sales and Digital Marketing and Sales.

Build the sales team you need to thrive in a competitive market

Management to help your organisation develop and respond to the ever changing market environments.

Flexible tutor supported delivery in Peterborough or online Our specialist delivery teams guide learners through the programmes, ensuring that the learning is relevant and can be applied to real time business issues. These courses provide flexibility over where and when you study with the option for tutor support through the University Centre Peterborough or tutor supported online study.

Leading Business Change has been designed to equip individuals to respond to and lead change, helping to steer their team through the impact of organisational change. As your organisation prepares for a new landscape you’ll appreciate the need for effective planning and communication strategies as the journey in change unfolds.

Our accredited online course is ideal for managers who have responsibility for the development of change programmes and internal communications within their department or organisation. Students will be able to choose from topics such as Organisational Change, Strategic Management and Financial

To find out more about the accredited University Diplomas and other work-based courses contact Think Peterborough on 0845 196 6709 or visit www.thinkpeterborough. anglia.ac.uk.

Education for your Business With Think Peterborough you can gain: • Accredited qualifications for your workforce • Accelerated staff development • A flexible, earn-while-you-learn approach • A freshly motivated team • Access to academic expertise From NVQ through to Masters courses, we can help equip your workforce and your business - with the skills to prosper.

www.thinkpeterborough.anglia.ac.uk

Call: 0845 966709

Email: thinkpeterborough@anglia.ac.uk

| PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS

Peterborough Chamber NEWS

A round-up of news and events from across Peterborough

Peterborough Chamber of Commerce

Forest for Peterborough project

A Forest for Peterborough planting session

THE blossoming Forest for Peterborough project has a variety of opportunities for businesses to get involved as it continues its development during the winter planting season.

The 20 year Forest for Peterborough programme, spearheaded by Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT), aims to plant one new tree for each member of Peterborough’s population.

One company to already pledge support is Kitchen Range Foods, based in Huntingdon.

Process Improvement

Manager Robert McKenzie said: “Kitchen Range Foods are proud to be involved in Forest for Peterborough. It is at the heart of our corporate responsibility to give something back to the local community and ultimately the wider environment.

“Some of our staff live very close to the tree planting area we helped with. It’s great to think their children or grandchildren will have a fantastic wild area to explore, possibly climbing the trees that their family planted years before.” n

Buckles celebrates new brand identity BUCKLES Solicitors LLP recently announced a rebranding of its logo and launched a new associated brand strapline - ‘legally focused, relationship driven’ - as part of the company’s ambitious 10 year growth plan.

Over 50 partners, clients and other guests attended the evening drinks reception at Buckles’ Grant House offices in Peterborough, where Managing Partner Colleen Gostick said a few words in honour of the occasion. “There are some radical changes on the horizon for our profession. The Buckles rebrand is part of preparing ourselves for this new legal landscape and putting the firm in a better place for the future.

“We are building upon our established reputation for strength and excellence and this event gave us the opportunity to share our new plans with our clients and business friends.” n

Guests enjoying the evening event at Buckles Solicitors LLP

14 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

The public waiting to get their bikes marked

UCP target cycle theft CRIMESTOPPERS and University Centre Peterborough criminology students took a stance on cycle theft crime in Peterborough.

Working with the local police, the students offered free bike marking and provided information on ways to reduce cycle theft in the community. In total 15 bikes were securely marked to help deter cycle theft crime.

Aimee Neaverson, degree course leader, said: “They have worked very hard all summer to put this campaign together and I am very proud of what they have achieved. This was a great opportunity for the students to get involved in their local community.”

Ann Scott, Crimestoppers Eastern Region Manager, said: “We are very grateful to University Centre Peterborough students, for raising the profile about this crime type. The charity has many active and passionate volunteers, who give up time to promote the charity.” n

PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS |

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that you would like featured in these pages? Get in touch. tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Export! Export! Export!

CHRIS Taylor, Business Development Director of Eve Taylor® London Limited, was delighted to be invited by Barclays Bank Plc to participate at the recent British Chamber of Commerce International Trade Conference in London and participate as part of the panel discussing ‘Taking the Next Step in International Expansion’.

Almost 500 people attended along with headline speakers including Vince Cable MP (Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills) and Chuka Umunna MP (Shadow Business Secretary) each promoting the need

to get the UK starting to export more of its products and services worldwide.

Eve Taylor OBE commented: “Exports are critical to the UK’s success across the world; my company currently exports almost 60 per cent of its products worldwide. We are achieving some great results and opening new export markets every year. Helping to promote British innovation and expertise is important to me. We were delighted to be part of many recent initiatives with Barclays Bank Plc to help encourage British business to export more and create more new jobs.” n

Chris Taylor (centre) on the panel at the BCC International Trade Conference

Launch of new business Active8 Managed Technologies ACTIVE8 Managed Technologies is a Managed Print Solutions consultancy, specialising in Document workflow, bespoke solutions and cost control. This has formulated though the evolution of ideas and customer requirements seen by Active8 IT. Active8 IT are IT specialists and have been offering IT support and services to the local area since 2005.

This collaboration will help and assist local business to control cost with

leading technology.

This exciting new venture has created around 30 jobs to date which is a great boost for the local economy and businesses alike.

Active8 Managed Technologies are operating from its HQ and Logistical centre at Perkins Parkway Industrial Estate, Peterborough. In addition to this there are regional offices in London, Newmarket, Milton Keynes and Castle Donnington. n

IN BRIEF DECEMBER 2013 Agency welcomed as Institute ‘employer of choice’ Leading independent agency Anne Corder Recruitment has been chosen to be an Institute of Recruitment Professionals (IRP) Advocate.

Following the exam success of recruitment consultant Joanne Copeland, the agency now has six team members who have been approved for entry to the Institute.

The IRP Advocacy programme recognises those companies and agencies from across the country who invest in their people and staff through industry standard professional development.

Anne Corder said: “The team and I are delighted to have been accepted as Advocates of the IRP. It serves as an important reminder to our clients, candidates and other business associates of our credibility within the sector and our desire to deploy best practice at all times.

“From a personal perspective, it is rewarding to have the hard work and commitment to the ongoing development of our staff highlighted by such a respected body as the IRP.”

Joanne Copeland

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 15

| PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS

Peterborough Chamber NEWS

A round-up of news and events from across Peterborough

Peterborough Chamber of Commerce

Larkfleet presents pupils with books for new school library HOUSEBUILDER and developer Larkfleet Homes has presented a selection of books to Alderman Jacobs Primary School in Whittlesey as a ‘thank you’ to pupils who took part in a naming exercise for its new development.

Earlier this year, Larkfleet asked pupils at the school to come up with names that it could incorporate into Whittlesey Green, its new housing development in the town.

Larkfleet aims to use some of the suggested names for streets or areas in the new development.

Mayor of Whittlesey, Cllr David Mason, recently visited the school to officially open its new library and Larkfleet took this opportunity to present the selection of educational books to the school as a reward for the pupil’s participation in the naming exercise.

The library opening event and Larkfleet presentation coincided with the school’s ‘book week’ and many pupils and teachers dressed as their favourite characters to celebrate.

Larkfleet Marketing Director Helen Jones said: “Larkfleet enjoys working with local people and communities in areas where it has

Helen Jones, presents a selection of books to Alderman Jacobs Primary School

developments. The pupils came up with some great naming ideas for our new Whittlesey development and it is a pleasure to present these books which will be used by children now and in years to come. We hope to work with Alderman Jacobs Primary School and its pupils again in the future.” n

Promotion for communications consultant

Danny Mills with Shine Chairman Richard Astle

Danny Mills receives award EX-PREMIERSHIP footballer and BBC Radio 5 pundit, Danny Mills has received the prestigious ‘Outstanding Ambassador’ award from national charity Shine. The award recognises the amazing work Danny has performed in promoting the charity through his role as patron and his fundraising achievements. In the past year alone, Danny has raised £20,000.

Danny became a patron of Shine after losing his son Archie to spina bifida and hydrocephalus 11 years ago, and has been an avid supporter of the charity ever since.

Danny commented: “It is a fantastic honour to be recognised and I will continue to support Shine in any way that I can.” n

16 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

MARKETING communications company Metrix Marketing has promoted Hannah Thomas to senior communications consultant.

Hannah, 25, has been working for Metrix since 2009 and her promotion means she will now take on a more senior role in the management of client accounts. She will also become more involved in business development opportunities. Hannah will continue to use a variety of PR and marketing skills to help Metrix’s clients raise awareness, change opinions and generate sales leads.

Hannah said: “I am already enjoying my new role and increased level of responsibility within the Metrix team.

This is a great opportunity to become more involved in the management of client accounts and gain experience at a more senior level.”

Metrix Managing Director Mike Holland said: “Hannah has made a significant contribution to the business since she joined us and this promotion is both a recognition of that past contribution and vote of confidence in her ability to do more in future.” n

ELY CHAMBER NEWS |

Ely Chamber NEWS A round-up of news and events from across Ely

Ely Chamber of Commerce

Award success

Grey’s of Ely Ltd Managing Director collecting his award from Angela Rippon at the routeONE magazine Awards

Emerald Frog Marketing gets the Greenlight EMERALD Frog Marketing has been working with facilities management company Greenlight FM on their marketing strategy to support their six month radio advertising campaign on Star Radio.

Emerald Frog provided Greenlight FM with a Mini Marketing Plan to raise brand awareness. This is a new service launched for small businesses, which enables them to plan their marketing campaigns.

Domingo Negroni, Senior Facilites Manager at Greenlight FM, said: “Starting a new business with a concept that is not instantly understood is daunting enough on it’s own, but with Emerald Frog we have been able to raise our profile and deliver our message of what Greenlight FM is all about.

“The Mini Marketing Plan gave us a blue print of how to begin to communicate what Greenlight FM was all about in ways we had not considered. It was simple, straight forward and very valuable strategy.” n

GREYS of Ely Managing Director, Richard Grey, won Coach Manager in the National routeONE magazine Operator of Excellence Awards for the second year running.

The Judges said: “Our winner is someone who has consistently demonstrated that he has a keen eye for details, coupled with logistics planning that has enabled the successful delivery of several major projects and brought about a huge expansion for the business, plus award-winning recognition from within the sector and from outside bodies.”

On picking up the award Richard said: “To be finalist amongst the very best within our industry nationally is an achievement, but to be awarded the title for a second year is a truly humbling experience. While the award is for Coach Manager it is also a reflection and testament of all the hard work the staff at Grey’s put in to provide high quality coach hire.” n

Labour Tech embrace scheme RECRUITMENT specialist, Labour Tech Recruitment, has welcomed a Government scheme to help long term, out of work young people back into employment.

As part of the Government’s Youth Contract scheme, employers are able to take advantage of financial incentives if they recruit unemployed 18-24 year olds through Jobcentre Plus.

Keith Wilson, Managing Director at Labour Tech Recruitment, says: “The new WAGE incentive is a fantastic new initiative to help businesses realise the potential in recruiting young people who have been unemployed for six months or longer. We have strong links with the Job Centre in Ely and do what we can to place young adults in this category into employment as part of our contribution Keith Wilson to the community.” n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 17

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE CHAMBER NEWS |

Cambridgeshire Chamber NEWS

A round-up of news and events from Cambridgeshire

10 year anniversary CHAMPAGNE was the order of the day as the Courageous Success team celebrated a very special anniversary. Courageous Success is a people development company, with a unique and powerful approach that is transforming the way the world develops people. The

last 10 years has been a fantastic journey including: a rapidly growing team, a state of the art UK training centre and international growth with operations established in Australia and the US. n

Courageous Success team

Brand new look for Westfield Health WESTFIELD Health has revealed its new brand which includes a new logo and strapline – ‘Harder Working Health Cover’, as the market-leading company positions itself for the future.

Introducing the new brand, Westfield’s Executive Director Paul Shires, said: “Any new logo and visual identity needed to encompass and emphasise the values and strengths we stand for as an organisation.

The new-look branding has been designed to combine key company strengths including Westfield Health’s position as number one in the corporatepaid cash plan market, its unrivalled heritage and also its not-for-profit status.

Paul said: “The distinctive new look helps us stand out in a busy industry. Core colours of burnt orange and charcoal grey are striking, while our new logo is strong,

modern and confident, with the company initials combined in an eye-catching, single motif.

“Our new strapline immediately lets people know what we are all about and reinforces just how committed we are to our values, priorities and products.” n

IN BRIEF DECEMBER 2013 Customer Satisfaction award for Greater Anglia Abellio train operator Greater Anglia won a major national award for achievement in customer satisfaction at the British Quality Foundation’s UK Excellence Awards. The awards recognise excellence and achievement across all UK organisations in all sectors - public, private and voluntary. The judges recognised Greater Anglia’s progress in raising customer service standards, improving train performance and working with Network Rail to markedly reduce disruptive weekend engineering work. They were also impressed by the company’s initiatives to enhance the complete end-to-end journey experience for customers, by making ticket purchase easier, upgrading integrated transport links and other customer-focused improvements to trains, stations and customer information.

KISS appoints Financial Director KISS Creative Group has appointed Shona Molyneux as Financial Director.

Shona, a trained Chartered Accountant, commented on her appointment: “This is an exciting opportunity. I have been involved with small companies experiencing rapid growth as well as working with large multinationals which should enable me to support KISS’ step change in business growth.”

Simon Fryer, CEO at KISS said: “Shona brings a great combination of skills and experience to the senior KISS team. Our key driver for creating this new role is to help manage the growth we have experienced and to better support our current customers. Shona is a director with a proven track record in commercial and financial direction.”

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 19

| CHAMBER EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS Please visit the Chamber website for full details of all future Chamber events www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Your essential business calendar for the next month

ICT Roadshow The Chambers’ ICT Sector are on a mission to counter your ICT conundrums and are touring our informal networking evenings this autumn with their problem-solving roadshow. To take advantage of their expertise and receive free advice on how to make technology work more effectively within your business, simply come along to this or many of our other informal networking evenings between now and Christmas and our expert committee will answer your questions and share their opinion with you over a drink in the bar. See listing below for dates n

Pav Patel, centre, representing the ICT Sector

Networking Events SPEED NETWORKING BREAKFAST DATE Friday 29 November TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION KingsGate Centre, 2 Staplee Way, Parnwell, Peterborough, PE1 4YT MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Chamber Member Induction Mornings Cambridge DATE Tuesday 3 December TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Skills Funding Agency, The Business Centre, Station Road, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9LQ Peterborough DATE Wednesday 4 December TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Chamber offices, 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT PRICE Free to attend but please book in advance CONTACT Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk This event offers a whistle-stop tour of our complete benefits package, with the opportunity to find out more about the elements that interest you most. n

Informal Networking Evenings December 2013

Delegates networking at The Moller Centre, Cambridge

20 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

Wed 4

The Quality Hotel, Peterborough

5.00-7.00pm

Thurs 5

Holiday Inn, Impington, Cambridge

5.00-7.00pm

Mon 9

The Lamb Hotel, Ely

5.00-7.00pm

Wed 11

Waterfront Bar, Wyboston Lakes

5.00-7.00pm

CHAMBER EVENTS |

Christmas Events Business Women’s Christmas Lunch DATE Thursday 5 December TIME 11.45am-2.00pm LOCATION Orton Hall Hotel, Peterborough, PE2 7DN MEMBER PRICE £32.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £40.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT d.rivetti@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01733 370809 Exclusively for professional women this event promises a glass of wine and excellent company.

Guest speaker Rani Viknaraja has previously worked for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister before setting up her own business, K8 Data Protection Consultancy. Rani spends her time juggling working and looking after her grandchildren and is delighted to be able to share some of her experience.

Delegates will be on the move during each course so ensure you bring along plenty of business cards! n

photo by Mike Brown Photographic St John’s College 2012

Christmas Lunch DATE Friday 13 December Rani Viknaraja

TIME 12.00-3.00pm LOCATION St Johns College, Cambridge, CB2 1TP MEMBER PRICE £45.00 (plus VAT)

Festive Afternoon Tea DATE Friday 6 December TIME 2.30-4.30pm LOCATION Doubletree by Hilton Cambridge, Mill Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1RT

NON-MEMBER PRICE £55.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 209808 Join the Chamber in the festive setting of St John’s College Cambridge for our annual Christmas Lunch.

The event will include a charity raffle in aid of Shine. n

MEMBER PRICE £18.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £27.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 209808 Sponsored by: A variation on our normal Safari Networking, this event includes afternoon tea of festive sandwiches, scones, cakes, tea and coffee. n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 21

| OUT & ABOUT

Out&About Enjoy our monthly montage of events and happenings across the local area with this colourful round-up of gatherings. Make sure you send us your photos each month and we’ll include the best of the bunch! Email images straight to the creative team: connected@methodcreative.co.uk

Children in Need triathlon The Method team put its athletic feet forward with six other local businesses to take part in a Children in Need triathlon organised by printing specialists Domino Printing Sciences.

Barry is best baa none!

Barry Jefferd, partner at chartered accountancy firm George Hay, recently took part in an historic ceremony where sheep were driven across London Bridge.

22 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

OUT & ABOUT |

Team ‘Safe Local Trades’ raise £6,400 for charity Charity events organiser Eileen Le Voi, owner of Safe Local Trades, presents a cheque for £6,400 to Age UK Peterborough.

These funds will help them continue to deliver vital services to an ever growing population of older people in Peterborough.

John Lewis Fashion Show Anne Green, from Graham Construction, was winner of the handbag in the raffle at the Business Women’s Fashion Show.

Business Focus Over 500 visitors came to Business Focus at Peterborough Arena on Wednesday 16 October where 65 companies were exhibiting, a social media cafe, six seminars and a speed networking session.

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 23

ASK THE EXPERT |

Ask the expert: Job Specifications for temporary staff Jo Cox, Head of Recruitment at Labour Tech Recruitment, offers top tips in writing effective job specifications for temporary staff.

Whether you’re recruiting for a permanent or a temporary post, it’s essential that you have a proper and accurate job specification or description in place. Some busy companies may wonder if it’s worth the effort but only an accurate role profile will ensure that the right candidates are forwarded to you by recruiters.

The experience from day one is the same for a temporary staff member as it is for a permanent staff member. If the candidate is to be a productive one, they must have a reasonably good idea of what will be expected of them. And, going one step back in the process, your recruitment agency must have adequate information in order to select the right candidates for interview. A job specification is the easiest way of ensuring that everyone involved in the recruitment process has the same information.

Here are our tips on writing effective job descriptions for temporary posts:

1

Get feedback from an employee who is already doing a similar job. Supervisors often assume that they know exactly what their staff do but that isn’t automatically the case. If the vacancy is a standalone post, identify the job priorities that the business has identified and build the job specification around them.

2

Start with a general description of why you need the temporary staff member.

This will make it clear to the recruiter and candidates whether you require someone to lend a helping hand or to undertake work that has never been done before.

3

It’s always useful to describe how the temporary post relates to others in or outside the organisation. For example, to whom will the staff member report? Will there be contact with the public? Will the staff member be expected to attend team meetings? Providing these details helps the recruiter and candidates to get a sense of how the post fits within the company.

4

The job title and salary should give a good indication of the seniority of the post. However, you should also ensure that you specify the responsibility and authority levels that the temporary staff member will have. This will give your recruiter a better idea of the pool of candidates from which to draw a shortlist.

5

The main part of the job specification is a list of the main tasks and responsibilities of the job. Use similar job descriptions for inspiration - you can view many examples online – but ensure that the top three points really communicate the most important tasks. Also, don’t be tempted to produce a list that’s too long. Unless your temporary post is at a senior level, a list of 10 tasks is probably about right.

6

Consider including some requirements around the person that you’re looking for in terms of skills, knowledge and qualifications. If you’re stuck, start with the main core competencies that most employers want in their employees – communications skills, working within a team, IT abilities, flexibility and problem solving. From there, you can compare with the job specifications of other posts within the organisation that operate at a similar level to ensure that you are demanding the right qualities.

7

State how long you will need the temporary employee for and when they should be available to start. Is it to help out with a busy period, cover a maternity leave or because you need specialist assistance (if it’s a technical role)? Give the temporary employee realistic expectations of how long they should expect to be working with you.

By using a template based on the above points, it shouldn’t take long to produce a job specification that your recruiter can use – even if you need someone at short notice.

Even if the temporary staff member is with you for a few weeks, that still represents a significant additional cost that can’t be wasted by employing the wrong person.

A job specification will help to reduce that risk significantly. n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 25

From July 2014, a new conference venue is coming to Cambridge Great Hall at The Leys • 337 seat Theatre suitable for lectures, seminars, conferences, product launches and exhibitions • 5 break-out meeting rooms • Gallery space offering additional working areas • Dedicated main contact and technical support throughout your event • Free Wi-fi access throughout the site • Full catering sourced locally is available for your event • Complimentary parking on site For more information contact Claire Payne: 01223 508660 | cdp@theleys.net | theleys.net

SPECIAL REPORT |

In the HOTSEAT

Rachel Huxley Chief Executive, Peterborough Environment City Trust Leading the way in the field of sustainability, Rachel Huxley and the Peterborough Environment City Trust are working tirelessly towards making Peterborough the UK’s Environmental Capital.

“THE environmental and sustainable advances that Peterborough has made in recent years are nothing short of meteoric,“ says Rachel Huxley, Chief Executive of Peterborough Environmental City Trust.

The Trust, commonly known as PECT, is an independent environmental charity with a vision to creating a truly sustainable Peterborough. Founded in 1993, the organisation is now in its 20th year and has already seen much improvement within the city. “The EnviroCluster now supplies about 5,800 green jobs and produces about £560 million annually, so the sorts of things that we do can have a huge impact – very directly in that sense. We need to continue to work and grow on that success because that’s where the economy is increasingly moving.”

thousands of pounds simply through upgrading their lighting or insulating for example. Last year our consultancy services helped to save an average of £8000 per business.”

So why is it so important to get businesses on board when it comes to sustainability?

Rachel explains: “When we’re looking at our vision of creating a fully sustainable city, the private sector is fundamental to that. We can’t go any way to achieving our goal without working with businesses.

We’re creating an international blueprint for sustainability

Targeting Business PECT is probably best-known for being the mastermind behind the Investors in the Environment (iiE) scheme. Developed in 2010 alongside help from the private sector and the Chamber, the iiE is an environmental management system that was originally designed just for SMEs in Peterborough.

However, it soon began to attract attention from much larger organisations and is now active in 11 counties. “We see that growth continuing until we’ve achieved complete national coverage,” says Rachel. “We’ve had interest from European countries too, so it’s clear that we’ve found that the service really works for everyone. When we assess a business, we measure resource use, look at the processes involved and identify how they can be more resource efficient, it’s as simple as that. By helping businesses take simple steps, it has enabled them to make massive savings. We’ve had businesses that have saved

“Approximately 91 per cent of waste is commercially and industrially produced.

Only 9 per cent is household waste, so if we don’t work with businesses then we’ve got no chance of solving this issue. That’s the imperative, but the opportunity is that businesses can also save a huge amount of money by increasing their resource efficiency.

It is estimated that there is about £6.4 billion worth of savings that UK businesses could make by being more efficient. Also, a fact that’s often overlooked is that a city where people aspire to live is a huge benefit to business because if you want to attract a talented workforce and a wide consumer base, you need somewhere that people want to come and live.”

A Change in Culture When tackling the topic of sustainability, one area that cannot be ignored is transport. In

an age where business is no longer local, having access to fast and reliable transport is a necessity. Many people could not function without the use of a car, so how does this work in conjunction with a sustainable future? “I think it’s about a change in culture,” replies Rachel. “If someone is used to driving everywhere then they will find it very prohibitive and it will be difficult to get used to that process of change. However, a lot of places function without such amenities and they do so very successfully, and that’s because they’ve gone through that cultural change process. It may be a big part of the way in which we do business now, however in the future people will no longer expect to arrive by car, they will be of a generation that has grown up surrounded by sustainability.

However, for those of us operating in this day and age, the process of change will be difficult, which is why it’s imperative to start that transition now. Cars are a fantastic thing that have really improved the lives of many people who live rurally, but the number that we have of them and the amount that we use them is not sustainable.”

Creating a Blueprint Rachel concludes by saying: “One of the things that’s really exciting is that we’re creating a sustainability blueprint not just for Peterborough but nationally and internationally also. Over 50 per cent of us live in cities, so the majority of our impact comes from cities. If we’re going to solve this problem it’s going to be done from within. Peterborough is leading the way towards creating a sustainable future and we’ll be there every step of the way.

There are lots of other cities doing this as well and we learn from them, but we are at the forefront of this national campaign.” n CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 27

| POLICY UPDATE

Policy UPDATE Keeping you informed, representing local business

The Future of Apprenticeships OVERALL, Cambridgeshire businesses are supportive of apprenticeships but you tell us you find it difficult to keep up with the myriad changes taking place across education and qualifications - no sooner do you get the hang of one set of qualifications and the rules change.

You want apprenticeships to provide a quality vocational alternative to a university education and you welcome the opportunity to shape the apprenticeship programme, making it more responsive to your needs.

However, you are aware of changes that have taken place in schools’ curriculum which have resulted in many young people receiving little or no effective careers information, advice or guidance - Ofsted Report, September 2013.

You’re also aware that other changes have impacted on the number and quality of applicants for apprenticeship vacancies.

In particular, Raising the Participation Age

28 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

(RPA) and an increase in the number of sixth form places resulting in some young people being unaware of apprenticeships as a Post 16 option.

You tell us that not only do you want potential apprentices to have a good level of basic education, specifically English and Maths, but you also want them to possess good communication skills and a ‘can do’ attitude.

So, whilst supporting increased rigour and quality of apprenticeships and of empowering employers to set apprenticeship standards you have a number of concerns.

You want to know more about the funding of apprenticeships; you want to ensure that SME businesses are adequately consulted on the development of improved apprenticeship programmes; you want to ensure that schools are made accountable for informing young people about all the options available to them post 16 and you want a single, easily

understandable apprenticeship standard that fits your needs and produces high quality apprenticeship qualifications.

However, you don’t want Government to throw the baby out with the bath water.

Reforms to the apprenticeship programme need to build on its strengths. Most of you don’t have the capacity to deliver a full apprenticeship programme in-house and you value the expertise and support provided by the Further Education sector.

Generally, you welcome improvements to apprenticeships but warn that unless these improvements are coupled with improvements in the information, advice and guidance offered to all young people, changes to the apprenticeship programme alone will not deliver the improvements needed by business.

If you would like to contribute to the apprenticeship debate please contact Gill Prangnell at g.prangnell@cambscci.co.uk n

CHAMBER UPDATES |

Christmas opening hours

Chamber

The Chamber will close at lunchtime on Tuesday 24 December and re-open at 9.00am on Thursday 2 January.

Updates

Member Benefit Preferential rates for card acceptance services As a Chamber member you can take advantage of preferential rates for credit and debit card acceptance services through First Data Merchant Solutions. However you take cards – face-to-face, by phone or via the internet – there are a range of options to meet your needs.

Special offer for Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce members: • No joining fee for Chip and Pin • Preferential rates • Free, no obligation Merchant health check • ClientLineSM – online reporting tool

•B ritish Chambers of Commerce national endorsed service.

What you can expect • C omplete Payment Solutions – Chip and Pin, Virtual Terminal and E-Commerce • Simple application process •U K based call centres and payments experts to advise and support you • E xpertise in meeting PCI DSS Compliance standards • Merchant Cash Advance • Contactless Payments.

07703 888 702 and quote special offer code T907, lnathan@firstdatacorp.co.uk.

Alternatively, call 0800 652 5808 between 8.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday and qupte special offer code T907 to find out more about how First Data Merchant Solutions can help your business grow through electronic payment acceptance.

First Data Merchant Solutions is a trading name of First Data Europe Limited, a private limited company incorporated in England (company number 02012925). n

Next steps Contact your local expert Lee Nathan on

Export Documentation EXPORT documents will be processed at the Histon office until 12.00 noon on Tuesday 24 December.

The last date for Arab documents, or documents needing to go to any other embassy, is 11.00am on Thursday 19 December. After this time they will not be processed until Thursday 2 January.

Export documentation staff will be available to process any documents submitted online during our Christmas closure between 10.00am-12.00 noon on Tuesday 31 December. n

Export documentation

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 29

| CONNECTED MAGAZINE

LEP FOCUS

Keeping you informed and up to date

Skills planning for the future We need your views!

Understanding the complex skills needs of local businesses is something that the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership (GCGP) is putting at the forefront of their work as it launches a new Skills Survey for the LEP area.

THE new survey will provide the team with a valuable insight into the needs of local businesses before they launch a number of key skills projects, the first of which is the Local Skills Team Pilot covering Rutland, Peterborough, Fenland, and King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.

These Local Skills Teams will provide an on the ground resource to work with businesses, education, and training providers to bring business influence into the education and training arena. They will also enable businesses to access the information they need around skills through a single location.

The first pilot is due to launch shortly, with more Local Skills Teams planned to cover other parts of the LEP area in the future.

Mark Cooper, Skills and Business Growth Lead for the LEP, explains: “We are at a point where we have real influence over the delivery of vocational education and awareness of young people of the world of work. We also have several key projects that aim to pump-prime business-led skills provision throughout our area. So now is the ideal time for us to be going out and finding out more about local businesses skills needs and their take on the current provision.”

The Skills Survey builds upon the data

30 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

that the LEP has already gathered about the makeup of the local business community in terms of the different sectors, business sizes and more. The team also have access to real-time Labour Market Information, which is driven by an analysis of current online job advertisements. However, what this data doesn’t tell the LEP is what businesses really think and need.

To achieve this, the LEP Skills Survey has been built on two levels. First, the LEP are calling upon local businesses – like you - to complete a short online survey to let us know your views on the current local skills offer and your own business requirements.

Second, the LEP team will be pro-actively targeting specific sectors, which are important in growth terms to GCGP, with a telephone survey. These sectors change depending on where they are in our area in order to cover the differences in the geography. For instance Food Manufacturing is important in some areas but not others.

To participate in the Skills Survey please visit: www.surveymonkey.com/s/LEPSkills

Alternatively, if you would like to be involved in the more detailed telephone survey, please do let us know by adding a note at the end of the online survey.

We will report back the results in a future edition of Connected. n

Mark Cooper

CONNECTED MAGAZINE |

Future Business Centre the new home for social and environmental businesses in Cambridge OP AUTU ENING on Ki MN 201

HOW MINI IS YOUR TEAM? ELMS BMW and Method are challenging businesses in Cambridge to squeeze as many staff as possible into a MINI Paceman for the chance of winning a Christmas hamper of goodies for the whole team.

Between 18 November and 13 December Method will be visiting offices across the city in the gift-wrapped car, supplied by Elms Cambridge. The team will be capturing attempts to fill the MINI Paceman with as many people as possible and will share local companies’ capers on the Method Facebook page every week.

Elms Cambridge officially launched the MINI Paceman competition at the Cambourne showroom with 12 technicians from the workshop squeezing into the car.

The sporty and spacious MINI Cooper Paceman is ideal for companies looking for a stylish fleet car.

People who want to follow the competition’s progress should visit www.facebook.com/methodcreative n

WANT US TO VISIT YOUR OFFICE? email mini@methodcreative.co.uk or tweet @Method_Creative

ngs H 3 e Road dges

The Future Business Centre will be an enterprise hub that combines good business practice with the business of doing good. It will support start-up and early stage social and commercial businesses that deliver social or environmental benefits.

• A different kind of incubation hub • Specialist business advice • Flexible and affordable workspace • Cambridge Cleantech on site to assist start-ups • The place to grow ideas and make a difference – locally and worldwide

LP US E H U O Y N CA R G OA L? get U O H C A E R to are needed

hip nd sponsors r logo or Donations a art! Add you st t a re g a ff to nd get the centre o art project a y it n u m m ur co picture to o port. for your sup n o iti n recog

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Find out more at futurebusinesscentre.co.uk T 0845 456 2432 E hello@futurebusinesscentre.co.uk @ftrbusiness

futurebusiness.co.uk

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 31

| CHAMBER CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Are you up for The Chairman’s Challenge?

The Chairman of Shine’s Board of Trustees, Richard Astle, will be celebrating his 10th anniversary as Chair in 2014.

TO mark the occasion, Richard will be embarking on a year-long awareness and fundraising initiative, which was announced at the recent AGM and will be officially launched at a high profile reception in December.

Activities will include a wide variety of events and fundraising endeavours including running events, the first ever ‘Big Yellow Ball’, and the year will culminate with a sponsored trek, which will see Richard and his keenest supporters make their way across Morocco.

This appeal is a huge undertaking and we need Chamber members to support it as much as possible by getting along-side Richard, Director of Athene Communications, Peterborough.

If you are interested in attending the launch event at Shine’s national Head Office – 42, Park Road Peterborough, on Wednesday 11 December from 6.00-7.30pm – then please contact Louise Tyler on louise.tyler@shinecharity.org.uk or call 01733 421353 n

This appeal is a huge undertaking and we need Chamber members to support it as much as possible by getting alongside Richard, Director of Athene Communications, Peterborough.

chairmanschallenge.co.uk 32 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

Chair, Richard Astle, completes the 2013 Great Eastern Run for Shine

WE VALUE YOUR BRAND

Innovative brand communication experts.

Get in touch to share ideas on 01954 253060. @method_creative methodcreative.co.uk

| SPECIAL REPORT

Transport Focus

Fast track to the future Ian MacKellar reports on the proposed HS2 ultra-fast rail line

IN an interview last month with Alan Greenspan, Chairman of the US Federal Reserve for nearly 20 years, the BBC’s Today programme presenter Evan Davies described as ‘bleedin’ obvious’ the Fed veteran’s admission that central bank might have realised that Wall Street bankers – I paraphrase – would behave like feral cats if not regulated.

The same apophthegm might be applied to consultants’ KPMG’s assertion that Cambridgeshire could lose out to the tune of between £40m and £235m a year in economic output when the final stage of HS2, the proposed new

The rail industry thrives because the road network is so awful ultra-fast rail line linking London first with Birmingham and then with Manchester, Sheffield and Leeds, is built over the next 20 years or so.

The figures emerged from a Freedom of Information request from another BBC programme, and have been seized on by journalists who either don’t understand their relevance or context or who have a vested interest by virtue of living near the proposed line of HS2’s route.

If the consultants’ conservative estimation that HS2 would deliver benefits averaging £15bn a year or more are as unreliable as critics say, the estimates of the disbenefits are probably even more dodgy.

34 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

Look at the range, the scale, the context and the methodology. Then compare that with the benefits of building HS2.

But let’s first deal with the cost. If UK civil engineers are really telling the Government that it would cost £50bn to construct a couple of hundred miles of high-speed railway, HMG should ask the French, Germans, Japanese or even the Italians to pitch for the contract and build the trains.

Privatisation of Britain’s railways has brought huge advantages – for civil engineering companies, bankers, lawyers, bus operators. It has not been such a success for passengers, as anyone who has tried to make a connection at Cambridge, Peterborough or Ely since 1997 will testify. The increase in passenger numbers has been achieved in spite of privatisation, not because of it: the revival was forecast anyway, and on a greater scale.

But privatisation has massively ramped up costs, as the then Government was warned it would.

Railways are one of those sectors where the whole is massively greater than the sum of its parts – particularly the 111 parts into which British Rail was fragmented in the mid-1990s. The industry can no longer react

SPECIAL REPORT |

cohesively to even the least disruption. It thrives only because the road network is so awful. I’ll come back to that in relation to HS2.

The numbers produced by KPMG are not actually reductions at all: they are minor dents in expansion, probably equating to well under one per cent of current county GDP. And the range – £40m to nearly six times as much – suggests a wet finger in the air.

The methodology is explained and presumably accepted by official statisticians, but it takes HS2 in complete isolation from every other development – A14 upgrade, Northstowe, Alconbury, St Neots, A428 and a host of other projects yet to emerge that could be completed before HS2 is finished.

What KPMG is saying is that the line will bring greater benefits to areas close to its stations – just as the A14 upgrade will bring greater benefits to Cambridgeshire than it will to the Isle of Skye. Bleedin’ obvious!

There is no question that Britain needs additional railway capacity, and there is no point in building it to any standard other than high-speed,

because that is the signalling requirement for new railways in Europe – and that standard would be required of major upgrades to existing main lines.

In any case, the benefit to cost ratio of 2.3 – even at those ridiculously high cost estimates – makes the project a ‘no-brainer’.

Of course, it would have been good if the obvious route for a new north-south line were closer to Cambridgeshire.

Then we could perhaps have emulated Vendôme, a small town on the river Loir, 100 miles or so from Paris. When the French railway administration, SNCF, was planning its south-west TGV line to Bordeaux, the council in Vendôme offered to build a new station if SNCF would stop a few trains there.

So Vendôme is now a prosperous commuter town, 40 minutes from Paris. That obviously can’t happen in Cambridgeshire, but it’s probably the sort of thing KPMG meant.

What can happen, however, as Network Rail points out, is that HS2 will reduce the need for long-distance services from King’s Cross to Leeds and York, offering a stepchange improvement in services from Huntingdon, St Neots and the new station at Alconbury. The impact on the rest of Cambridgeshire is likely to be slight, even though the new station at Chesterton will already have delivered huge benefits.

What KPMG may also have been pointing to is that business travellers from Hertfordshire transferring to HS2 to get to Leeds will no longer stop for coffee at Brampton Hut. In the scheme of things, I think we may be able to live with that impact on the Cambs economy. n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 35

| NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

NEW Members

A warm welcome to our new Chamber members

NEW MEMBERS

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Avasara Ltd My Credit Controllers Ltd One Leisure St Ives Roxhill Developments Ltd Solas HR UK KONG KIT LTD

Trial Members OUR trial members continue to experience the benefits of membership for free and we are delighted to see these companies starting to convert to full membership as their two month trial comes to an end.

You can find out who our trial members are by viewing the online directory in the member’s area of the Chamber website.

Simply log-in and search by ‘Trial Offer’ in the drop down box for business type. n

One Leisure www.oneleisure.net One Leisure are managed

by Huntingdonshire District Council and run five leisure centres in Huntingdon, Ramsey, Sawtry, St Ives and St Neots. The centres have had major investment and facilities include Impressions gyms, Pure Day Spas, Basement Lanes tenpin bowling, pools, fitness classes and many sporting activities.

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CONNECTED MAGAZINE |

Would you like to become a Chamber member?

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Utsi Electronics Ltd

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CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 37

| SPECIAL REPORT

International Focus

Trading with Libya SINCE the end of the recent revolution, Libya again offers great prospects for many UK companies wishing to expand their exports into North Africa.

The Chamber is planning a programme to focus on specific export markets and Libya may well be included. UKTI are keen to support these events and involve other Libyan specialists. English is Libya’s second language so many of middle and senior management posts are filled with Libyans who have studied in UK universities and other UK institutions. In other words Libyans enjoy dealing with and highly regard UK companies.

Michael Hellowell, Group Chairman and CEO

of Eurotech International Group Ltd, has been constantly engaged in exports contracts with Libya since directing the establishment of the Engineering Faculty at Benghazi University, on behalf of UNESCO, in the early 1980s. His work, contacts and over 30 years experience has been with all 28 Libyan universities, over 20 oil and gas companies and, to some degree, technician training within the Ministry of Defence.

Companies interested in researching their Libyan export market potential are invited to contact Michael Hellowell at michael@eurotech.org or get in touch with Helen Bosett, Sector Co-ordinator at the Chamber on 01223 209815. n

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01223 237414 38 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

SECTOR FOCUS |

Sector Focus

Updates from Chambers Sector Groups

For any feedback, general information regarding the Sector Groups, or to contribute, please get in touch with Helen Bosett. tel: 01223 209815 email: h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk

ICT

Protect your data and protect your business with Online Backup HOW often do you backup your data? We’re not talking about your iTunes collection, you’ll recover from losing your beloved ABBA collection. We’re talking about your business-critical data, the data you use every day to conduct your business, pay your staff and liaise with clients.

Backing up is a pain; that’s why many businesses go at it halfheartedly, if at all. In this day and age why keep it as a manual task?

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Introducing online backup we have found to be the easiest way for a business to embark on a Cloud Computing strategy, looking at email services or even hosting their servers in the cloud, long term.

If you would like more information please pop down to one of the Chamber Informal’s where the ICT Sector will have an expert to field your questions or you can contact Ryan Hughes of Quest Cloud Solutions on 0845 521 6000 or email r.hughes@questcloud.co.uk n

ONLINE BACKUP

ICT Roadshow

Pav Patel, centre, representing the ICT Sector

THE Chambers’ ICT Sector are on a mission to counter your ICT conundrums and are touring our informal networking evenings this autumn with their problem-solving roadshow. To take advantage of their expertise and receive free advice on how to make technology work more effectively within your business, simply come along to this or many of our other informal networking evenings between now and Christmas and our expert committee will answer your questions and share their opinion with you over a drink in the bar. n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 39

| SECTOR FOCUS BUSINESS WOMEN

Meet Liz! This month we hear from Liz Villani, Managing Director of Courageous Success If you would like to feature here, contact Helen Bosett, Sector Co-ordinator, h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk

Q A

What do you do in business?

Q A

What are your top three tips for running or working in a business?

I run Courageous Success – an international people development company that is transforming the way that the world develops people.

1. Be who you are, not who or what you or others think that you should be.

2. Believe in yourself and those who work with you.

3. Have courage and keep close to the numbers.

Q A

What do you do to unwind?

When you have your own business it is an extension of you and so it can be a challenge to unwind. Ultimately I travel or spend time with my nine year old daughter – failing that a large glass of wine always helps!

Q

I f you could pick anyone to sit next to at a dinner party, who would it be and why?

A

Margaret Thatcher – everyone has their own opinion of her but imagine if everyone said what they really thought and believed in people, business and Britain so much – she was amazing.

HR & RECRUITMENT

Liz Villani

Q A

What value do you get from being a Chamber member?

It’s great to talk to other business owners and share ideas. When Courageous Success went international one of my first moves was to join the Sydney branch of The British Chamber of Commerce. I had instant friends. n

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE & CHARITY

Members demystified of procurement and bid writing

Illustration by Sam Taylor, FrogLife, www.samdrawsthings.com

AT a recent committee meeting the group were reminded of the purpose of employment and equality legislation by a historical article from the Law Society. Hard to believe today, but in 1913 a woman was not eligible to become solicitor as she was not technically defined as ‘a person’ under the Solicitors Act! Thankfully times have changed and now nearly 50 per cent of solicitors are female. n

40 | CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013

PUBLIC Sector Procurement and Bid Writing were demystified at a recent Chamber event held at West Anglia Training Association.

Gus de Silva, Procurement Advisor at Cambridgeshire County Council, gave an introduction to the procurement processes and the principles of good procurement practice as well as familiarising delegates with the Council quoting and tender procedures and the EU rules.

This was supported by Kevin Taylor of Pip Training who gave some key messages and tips for writing a successful bid. Kevin talked through a number of key points such as: get an understanding of what is being asked for and ask yourself if your bid would be deliverable, winnable and financially viable. Other things to think about would be a project delivery plan and how you are going to manage the project.

The slides from both presenters can be found within the Construction Sector or Social Enterprise and Charity Sector pages of the Chamber website. n

SECTOR FOCUS | INTERNATIONAL

Trading with Australia AUSTRALIA was the next stop for the Chambers’ International Sector when it was presented at a recent seminar.

A panel of informative speakers were able to show how well placed Australia is in the export world, where the opportunities lie and how to set your stall there. This was supported by Chamber members Chris Taylor of Eve Taylor London Limitedd and Nikki

Delegates at the event

Heyworth from Courageous Success, who are already successfully operating in Australia, were able to share their experiences of how they got there. One of the key messages from both was to do your homework and visit the country. UKTI are able to provide support and funding to enable this.

Mark Coulam of the National Australia Bank (NAB) gave an overview of foreign

exchange and getting the best currency rates for trading in Australia. NAB is the owner of Clydesdale Bank who sponsored the event along with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI).

If you were not able to attend but would like to view the slides, these can be found within the International Sector page of the Chamber website. n

Clydesdale Bank team with John Bridge (left) and Chris Kubicki (right)

LEARNING & SKILLS

World Champions at Sawtry Community College

Kieran Youngman

RECENTLY in Washington DC, Kieran Youngman, 17, became the 2013 World Champion for Microsoft ‘Word’ skilfully following in the footsteps of Rebecca Rickwood, another Sawtry student who won the Microsoft ‘Excel’ World Championship last year.

Against formidable opposition, particularly from Asian countries, Sawtry pupils demonstrated their proficiency. The school runs an ambitious after-school programme, the Microsoft IT Academy where many students take the opportunity to train and qualify as Microsoft Specialists.

As the school’s Associate Principal Alan Stevens said: “A GCSE in ICT is an English qualification but a Microsoft qualification is globally recognised and transferable anywhere in the world.”

Sawtry students realise that Microsoft qualifications give their CVs a competitive edge. The students know that Microsoft skills they learn at the college will help them in any career path they follow and achieving these qualifications boosts their confidence and self esteem.

Sawtry’s Microsoft IT Academy leads the way. n

CONNECTED DECEMBER 2013 | 41

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