CONNECTED magazine November 2012

NOVEMBER 2012

Enabling Economic Success

EXPERT ADVICE EMPLOYMENT LAW ISSUES TO CONSIDER WHEN SETTING UP OVERSEAS

CAMBRIDGESHIRECHAMBER.CO.UK

FAMILY AFFAIR PETERBOROUGH FOCUS: EVE TAYLOR LEADS HER MULTI-MILLION POUND FAMILY BUSINESS FROM BRETTON

E’S THRE D W A CROOMPANIES

N CAL C THE LO G OUR REGIO N L I A T PUT NATION ON THE BER MAP CHAM

PLUS

20 PAGES OF YOUR NEWS AND STORIES meet this month’s new members CHAMBER CHOPS! SUPPORT THE ROBOT APPEAL

THE OFFICIAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE ULTIMATE BUSINESS NETWORK CONNECTED OCTOBER 2012 | 1

“I’d recommend The Cambridge based on their great rates, friendly service and the fact that I can trust them.”

Sarah Lucas, Business Account Holder, Histon Branch

We can play an important role in the success of your organisation and we look forward to building a lasting relationship with you.

Helping your business story happen www.cambridgebs.co.uk/sarahsbusiness

Savings

THE CAMBRIDGE Building Society

Mortgages

Insurance

Life essentials

The Cambridge Building Society, Head Office Administration Centre, PO Box 232, 51 Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8FF Telephone 0845 601 3344 www.cambridgebs.co.uk Email enquiries@cambridgebs.co.uk All communications with us may be monitored/recorded to improve the quality of our service and for your protection and security.

Follow us @cambridgebs

CONTENTS |

Contents 6

5

Chief Executive’s Comment

6

Eve Taylor (London) COVER STORY

6-8

Peterborough Chamber News

10 General Chamber News

11

12-13

12 16

11

Charity of the Year Cambridge Chamber News

14

Huntingdonshire Chamber News

15

Ely Chamber News

16-17

Out & About

18-19

BCC Business is Good campaign

20-21

New Members

Policy Update

23

24-25

Sector Updates

Ask the Expert

27

28-29

31

Events Local Business Accelerator

18

7

21 CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 3

| EDITOR’S COMMENT

ENABLING ECONOMIC SUCCESS

Welcome

Chief Executive John Bridge OBE Editor Sadie Parr Creative Director Jillian Boys

September was a busy month at the Chamber with the launch of the new magazine, the Cambridge B2B Exhibition, a full diary of networking events and the arrival of our new Events & Training Co-ordinator Karen Dawson.

We are really pleased with the all the comments we have received about our new magazine and are just as excited to be launching this edition at Business Focus in Peterborough.

Each month we plan to have a feature article from one our five local Chamber areas. This month our focus is on Peterborough and we highlight the work of Eve Taylor (London).

If you would like to be considered as our ‘feature member’ please get in touch; our next edition will focus on the Ely area. To share your news in the magazine, please email articles across to me directly at s.parr@cambscci.co.uk Articles should be no more than 200 words and we would appreciate it if you can send high-res photos.

Next month is our annual AGM in Huntingdon, please see details below.

Full details can be found on the Chamber website.

Publisher Method methodcreative.co.uk Ebenezer House, Rooks Street, Cottenham, Cambridge CB24 8QZ 01954 253060

Print Cambridge Printers cambridgeprinters.co.uk Cover Photo Eve Taylor (London) Ltd from the Barclays Bank case study campaign 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 For more details on the benefits and services available with Chamber membership, contact Peter Watts, Membership Development Officer, on 07545 697799.

Cambridge Office Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Fax 01223 237405 Peterborough Office 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6FT. Tel 01733 370809 Fax 01733 237437

Do you follow us on Twitter?

Sadie Parr Editor, CONNECTED

Advertise in CONNECTED and reach more than 3000 potential customers every month!

Contact Lorna Hopkins on 01954 253060 or email connected@methodcreative.co.uk

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

Prices start from as little as £75

2012 AGM NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the tenth Annual General Meeting of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and Industry will be held at the Old Bridge Hotel, Huntingdon on Thursday 22 November 2012 at 12.30pm for transaction of the following business: • Approval of the report of the Directors and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2012.

• Re-election of Director; In accordance with Article 55 of the Articles of Association of the Chamber, Christopher Walkinshaw who was appointed on 23 February 2012, in accordance with Article 43, offers himself for re-election by members.

• Re-appointment of Rawlinsons as auditors of the company.

• Authorising the Directors to determine the auditors’ remuneration.

The Directors Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2012 are available on the members’ section of the Chamber website. A proxy form can be downloaded from the members’ section of the website; this must be returned to the registered office 48 hours before the meeting.

By order of the Board Michael Tolond, Company Secretary 25 September 2012

4

| CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

Registered office: Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR

ENABLING ECONOMIC SUCCESS Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk @CambsChamber

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S COMMENT |

Chamber Last month the Chambers’ nominated Charity of the Year, Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), used its page in CONNECTED to invite Chamber members to support their Robot Appeal to safeguard the hospital’s robotic surgery programme.

Back in 2006 Addenbrooke’s was one of the first hospitals in the UK to introduce a robotic surgery programme to treat men with prostate cancer. It was led by Professor David Neal, a world authority on prostate cancer, and the incredibly precise procedure has brought many benefits to those affected by the condition.

The robotic surgery removes the cancerous prostate leaving behinds the tiniest of scars, with far fewer complications than traditional surgical methods and an assumption that most patients will return to their own homes the very next day.

As someone who has been personally affected by the issues tackled by the charity’s robot appeal, I understand how important it is to safeguard the robotic surgery programme.

When my own father suffered from prostate cancer my family witnessed first-hand the devastating effect that the condition inflicts, his ultimately untimely death coming prior to new robotic operation and enhanced facilities at Addenbrooke’s.

So you can understand the anguish of my wife Jenny and our family when we discovered that I too had fallen victim to prostate cancer, along with the memories the news evoked. It is hard to describe what reassurance the robotic surgery programme, and its exceptional ability to eliminate such a grave problem, gave to them.

Chops!

For every male, prostate cancer is a major cause of concern and the success of the Robot Appeal will continue to ensure that the best possible life-saving treatment is available. We are all so fortunate to have Addenbrooke’s and an internationally-renowned team on our doorstep, and will be welcoming Consultant Urologist Nimish Shah, a top specialist, to address members at our Christmas Luncheon.

Please join the Chamber in offering the ACT’s Robot Appeal your support. Chamber Chops takes its inspiration from the national fundraising appeal for prostate cancer, Movember, and invites men to raise funds by being sponsored for growing a moustache for the month of November. As well as helping to raise awareness of the appeal locally and contributing financial support needed to maintain the programme, it could also provide a focus for bringing your staff together behind a great local cause.

Or if growing a moustache just isn’t for you but you would still like to pledge your support, you can donate online by searching www.justgiving.com for ‘Chamber Chops’.

To find out how to help, please visit www.actcharity.org.uk/robot or call ACT on 01223 217757.

Thank you all in advance for your very welcome support.

John Bridge OBE Chief Executive, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

The success of the Robot Appeal will continue to ensure the best life-saving treatment is available

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

5

| PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS

Peterborough Chamber FOCUS A round-up of news and events from Peterborough

Export is key to future growth for Eve Taylor’s family business.

Feature by Kirsten Corrigan

‘THINK global but act local’ is the mantra of Peterborough’s Eve Taylor (London) Limited, the aromatherapy product and training specialist.

Built on the strong foundations of family values and Eve’s own hard graft over the past 50 years, the company extends a familiar warmth to its network of suppliers, distributors and customers to ensure everyone involved benefits from the team effort.

“We reinvest savings in products and controlling our costs,” explains Chris Taylor, one of founder Eve’s sons and the driving force behind the company’s strong international trade strategy. “As a family, the decision making process is short – if we think it will work, we give it a go. Some of the most recent innovations and product additions have been sourced by Eve herself – at 80 she is still at the cutting edge – as much as she was in the late 1960s.”

The company is expected to exceed £2m turnover this year and it’s likely growth will continue, consolidating the brand’s presence

in emerging markets across Asia and India. “We are always looking to expand our existing international markets,” continues Chris. “Asia is key to our expansion plans over the next few years – but as the world markets recover we also plan to be in a position to exploit these changes.”

Due to the ambitious – and strategic – nature of the company’s export plans, Eve Taylor has recently been chosen as a success story for a national campaign run by Barclays Bank to promote international trade. The press and online adverts show Eve Taylor OBE herself, alongside her sons, to highlight how the company is ‘doing its bit’ for the UK beauty industry and also for exports.

To support the adverts, there is also a video clip that gives an overview of the company and the part it plays in international trade.

You can view the ‘Export to Expand’ video on Barclays’ YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/barclaysonline n

EXPORT STRENGTH

PREPARING FOR GROWTH Chris Taylor is the man behind marketing and strategic growth for the company. He will be a speaker at the upcoming British Chambers of Commerce International Trade Conference, sharing his insight on exporting from Britain.

In 2004 Chris moved from a management role with Royal Institute of British Architects to the professional beauty market and joined the family business. He used his marketing skills to reposition the brand and drive sales 6 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

– particularly exports but also on home soil in the UK. Chris is committed to UK exports and believes we have the talent and expertise to compete anywhere. He has wise words for start-ups: “No business is immortal – you have to always work hard and innovate – and don’t take things for granted. Always be prepared to change and adapt to the market conditions – never allow yourself to be over-exposed to costs; control your costs or they will control you. Also don’t run before you can walk.”

Neil Collcott, Business Manager at Barclays in Peterborough says: “We’re particularly impressed with the company’s interaction with UKTI and its belief in exportled recovery. There are vast opportunities in the export market and we want to highlight success stories like Eve Taylor.”

Premium range puts Eve Taylor on the world map

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

Rawlinsons Girls (L-R) Gerry Onyett, Suzanne Ostler, Anne Davies, Tracey Richardson cross the Rutland Round Plod finish line

Rawlinsons teams plod 40 miles for charity A team of women from independent accountants Rawlinsons are celebrating after being one of only four teams to complete the 40-mile Rutland Round Plod event for charity. The endurance event, organised by Action Medical Research,

Toojays appointment Provider of management training & HR consultancy services, Toojays, has announced that Scott Young has been named as their new Business Development Manager.

Scott will be responsible for developing new business opportunities and promoting company growth through existing account management and new lead generation.

Lee Martin, Managing Director, says: “We are delighted to bring Scott on board with us and to welcome him to our team.

Scott has over 15 years’ experience and we have no doubt he will be a great asset to the organisation. We all look forward to working with him.” n

saw 11 teams setting out at midnight around the county.

Rawlinsons entered two teams, Rawlinsons Girls and Rawlinsons Boys with the challenge of raising a joint total of around £3,000.

While the Boys forged ahead at the beginning, it was the Girls who completed the course, as a team, after almost 18 hours of walking. Tracey Richardson said: “It was one of the hardest physical challenges any of us have ever tackled.” n

Marshall Toyota full house Peterborough’s Marshall Toyota garage in Boongate has a new management team in place ready to showcase the brand, famed for its hybrid vehicles.

Scott Jenkins – General Manager Scott joined Marshall Toyota from Volkswagen in Milton Keynes. He has been in the motor industry for 24 years.

Toby Littlewood - Sales Manager Toby has been with the Marshall Group for 12 years out of his 17 within the motor industry.

Angi Ward – Business Centre Manager Angi has worked within the contract hire/ leasing/broker area for 10 years and is able to help with any queries relating to company cars.

David Geraghty – Business Manager David has been in the motor industry for seven years, and returns to Marshall after leaving to gain further experience within a different marque.

Gerry Burnham – Service Manager Gerry has 40 years’ experience, starting as an apprentice in 1972 to becoming a Service Manager in 1992.

Being under the Marshall umbrella and with the new management team now in place, the Toyota dealership says customers will receive the best experience ever when choosing a new vehicle to suit clients. n

The new management team at Marshall Toyota

Scott Young joins Toojays to develop the business

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 7

| CONNECTED MAGAZINE

Strategic talent acquisition to ensure ongoing success We understand what makes a strong team and can help you build for the future.

Founded more than 30 years ago, we understand the needs of both growing and established companies. Our attentive and personal approach gives us a distinct advantage as an independent agency. Trust us to be your recruitment partner.

Call us today on: 01223 350234 Or email: jobs@annpettengell.co.uk

annpettengell.co.uk

8 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

PETERBOROUGH CHAMBER NEWS |

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

Legal eagle joins Winham Hughes to bolster growth Accountancy firm Winham Hughes has expanded its team in response to an increase in business activity.

Chartered accountant Helen Anderson has joined to provide a range of accountancy and tax services to the firm’s growing number of clients. Helen has a law degree and a strong industry background but is now relishing the challenge of working in a smaller company in a more flexible position.

She says: “Winham Hughes is a small but growing team so there is opportunity to get involved in many aspects of the business.” n

Sporting chance for proactive property firm Larkfleet Homes sponsored a match ball for Bourne Cricket Club as part of the company’s commitment to supporting local communities. Didie Kearns, a member of the Larkfleet sales team at the company’s new Abbeyfields development in Bourne, was invited to attend a recent first XI home match to present the sponsored match ball to Bourne’s captain, Pete Morgan.

Larkfleet Managing Director and keen cricket fan Karl Hick commented: “It is a

pleasure to support Bourne Cricket Club through this sponsorship. Clubs such as this which are run by volunteers for the benefit of the community are very important. Larkfleet is proud to continue to support local communities in any way that it can.”

Larkfleet is a keen supporter of the Bourne community and has donated funds to the Bourne Cricket Club in the past to support the development and success of the club. n

Clubs such as this which are run by volunteers for the benefit of the community are important

Helen Anderson joins Winham Hughes

Trio of new recruits Leading law firm Roythornes continues to grow with the appointment of three new solicitors.

Mike Matthews has joined the firm’s expanding Commercial team and will be working on business and contract issues with a wide and growing range of clients across the region.

Abbie Shipman and Paul HogarthBlood will both be working in the Private Client team which looks after the legal, tax and wealth management affairs of individuals including many farmers, landowners and business owners.

Senior Partner Paul Osborne said: “Mike, Abbie and Paul all proved that they had what it takes to work to the high standards we set.”

Larkfleet saleswoman Didie Kearns presents Bourne team captain Pete Morgan with the new match ball

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 9

| CHAMBER UPDATES

Chamber UPDATES

FX exclusive for members Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce announced a new partnership with Moneycorp, the foreign exchange and payments specialist, with the launch of a service to help international trade. Chamber Foreign Exchange is available to members, as part of an exclusive deal negotiated by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

The service allows businesses to make and receive overseas payments and hedge currency risk; for example by fixing rates in advance to help deal with currency fluctuations. In addition, businesses can benefit from competitive exchange rates, free online currency accounts, reduced transfer fees and fast, online transactions, as well as practical guidance and a foreign exchange health check of their FX requirements.

Contact Fiona Tester, International Trade Officer, for information on 01223 209803. n

An overview of news from your Chamber

Transporting dangerous goods Moving dangerous or hazardous goods by air, sea and road has become more difficult over the years with additional regulations and harsher penalties for getting it wrong.

Read our guide to hazardous goods: Classification: Your products have to be classified. There are nine classes which include explosives, gases, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidising substances, toxic substances, radioactive material, corrosive substances and miscellaneous dangerous goods. The product will require a UN number and proper shipping name. A packing group (PG) follows, from PG I to PG III. This is to differentiate that some of the same classes, even with the same UN number, are a greater danger than others. You will need to supply a Safety Data Sheet to the people dealing with your transport.

The following should be carried out by your Dangerous Goods trained transport department or freight team:

Labelling and Marking: The correct marking is required on the inner and outer packaging for transport. The type of labelling will be decided on the mode of transport being used. The inner packaging is dependent on if it is UN approved or not. Additionally the international approved labels to show the classification and any additional labelling requirements need to be clearly visible.

Packaging: With a few exceptions, in regards to samples and limited quantities, the packaging has to be UN approved and the packaging must match the requirement of the product.

Documentation: The individual completing the documents has to be trained by a competent authority.

Carrier and Country Exceptions: The transport department or freight forwarder will be aware that certain countries may have different rulings on some dangerous goods; this is the recipient country and countries the goods are transiting through. Different carriers, specifically airlines may also have restrictions in place.

Export clinic...

Have you got a query about export? Margaret Chadwick answers your questions.

Q

We are despatching an item to our distributor overseas and are not expecting any payment for this. Our distributor has asked us to show a low value as he does not want to pay import duty. Is it normal for duty to be charged even if the goods are free of charge, and is it acceptable for us to show a low nominal amount?

A

Import Duty and Tax at Destination is charged and due, irrespective of

10 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

whether or not the goods are free of charge.

If the import duty is ad valorem (based on value) then the percentage is applied on the customs value of the goods (in fact, duty is usually charged on the CIF landed value, therefore the valuation is made up by the value of the goods, plus the freight, plus the insurance). With regard to the value of the goods, Customs Notice 252 quotes the method to be applied when assessing this customs value. Method one explains the Transaction Value, method two explains

the Identical Value, method three explains the Similar Value etc. Do not be tempted to show a low nominal value, as this is fraud.

Be guided by Notice 252, show the correct valuation on your commercial invoice. It is quite correct and proper for destination customs to charge import duty on a new item that is entering and staying in their country, which in turn affects their market place. ‘Cards incorporating a magnetic stripe’ may be appropriate, which would be commodity code 8523 2100.

CHAMBER CHARITY OF THE YEAR |

Bringing

the new robot

to life

ROBOTIC surgery has been available at Addenbrooke’s since 2006 following funding from Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT).

Meet Nimish Shah, Clinical Director of Urology who has worked at the hospital for eight years and leads the clinical team that uses state-of-the-art robotic surgery to treat prostate cancer patients. He tells us more about his experiences of robotic surgery and how the new robot is making a difference.

What motivated you to work in urology?

It was having access to lots of different types of surgical procedures and innovative technologies. Urology has always kind of been at the forefront of grasping with novel technologies: keyhole surgery, robotic surgery and so on. It was just a real attraction in terms of going forward with that.

Do you have a typical day?

The whole week is reasonably varied, but there is a structure to it. For example on Monday afternoon we have a multidisciplinary team meeting where we discuss all major cancers that are referred to us

from across East Anglia. On Tuesdays I see patients who have a new diagnosis of prostate cancer to counsel and advise them on the management options that would be applicable for them, and on Thursdays I operate all day.

Do you get involved with research in your role?

My research is clinical research on outcomes following surgery. My team has written many papers on our success with robotic surgery. We were the first in the country to publish a paper on treating 500 patients with the robot and we’re just writing a paper about treating 1000 patients with the robot – we will be the first in the country to do so.

How has the new robot affected the treatment for patients?

It’s a huge step up in terms of the optics, the vision is so much better. It’s also much better because the robot has four arms instead of three. The fourth arm helps us retract the prostate, which not only takes away the need for a second assistant, because of its wristed instruments, but it gives you far better control of retracting the tissue so you’re even more accurate in dissection.

What is the process of a normal operation?

Nimish Shah is Clinical Director of Urology

It usually takes about half an hour to get the patient in the correct position and docking the robot in place usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Whilst this is all taking place the nursing and surgical team make sure that the robot arms are all draped with sterile drapes. The operation itself usually takes about two hours.

One of the real pluses to this operation is that patients can leave the next day, but we actually expect them to walk about a kilometre before they go home to make sure that they’re going to be okay to get away.

Why does Addenbrooke’s have such a strong national record for patient recovery?

We spent a lot of time training the surgeons and anaesthetists, but also the ward, outpatients and theatre staff, so everyone understood what was expected in terms of getting the patient back on their feet quickly.

How will treatment for prostate cancer develop in the long-term?

For the next 10 to 15 years I can’t see us moving away from the current treatments.

Perhaps we need to focus more on patients with high risk disease and look at the role of combined treatment such as robotic surgery and radiotherapy for those guys. n

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

By supporting the robotic surgery programme at Addenbrooke’s we hope to help the team continue to provide the best possible care for patients now and in the future.

For more information about supporting the robotic surgery programme please go to www.actcharity.org.uk/robot

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 11

| CAMBRIDGE CHAMBER NEWS

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

Euro finance for disabled young people scheme

IN BRIEF November 2012 Barr Ellison Solicitors welcome new team member Barr Ellison Solicitors welcome Simon Cooper to its Residential Conveyancing Team. Head of Residential Conveyancing Helen Murphy states: “Simon brings over 10 years of solid property expertise to the team and we very much look forward to working with him.”

La Dante team brings Italian culture to Cambridge

(L-R) Andy Kent, Daniel Allegne (student) and Richard Howitt Giulia Portuese-Williams of La Dante

Italian scooters dating back to the 1950s were on show to mark the launch of new premises for La Dante.

Classic Vespas and Lambrettas were displayed at Hawthorne Way, Cambridge, the new home for the La Dante Italian Cultural Centre.

Zing Corporate Events launches Organising scientific conferences in luxury locations, Zing Conferences was set up in 2007. With over 50 successful events to date, the team has now launched a corporate events division and unveils a new website this month.

Ellgia Recycling expands with strategic acquisition Ellgia Recycling Limited has acquired Lincolnshire-based company Carlton Recycling Limited. The company specialises in providing customers with recycling-focused solutions to divert waste away from Landfill.

12 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER

2012

A Bar Hill garage and social enterprise for disabled people has clinched European funding for its programme to enable disabled young people to become car mechanics.

Cambs Euro MP Richard Howitt announced the award during a visit to the garage, Andy’s Ark, on Friday 7 September.

Richard Howitt MEP who is a lifelong

disability rights campaigner, said: “Andy Kent and his Andy’s Ark Training facility at the garage helps disabled young people become car mechanics.

“I am delighted they have been successful in obtaining European Social Fund financial support (£12,000) to train 20 disabled young people practical skills around repairing cars between now and March 2013.” n

Atkinson Bolton scoops award

County Council wants to help you!

The national Moneyfacts Good Advice Awards took place on Friday 19 September. Following a rigorous judging process, the team was delighted to announce that Atkinson Bolton Consulting has been awarded Best Investment Adviser at the Awards.

Atkinson Bolton has over £250million of client assets in their management and care. Director Simon Gibson has also been featured in the New Model Adviser’s (NMA) Top 100. n

Cambridgeshire County Council through its Supporting Business and Communities Service wants to provide your business with quality bespoke advice and guidance.

A change in legislation now allows the County Council to sign a partnership agreement with your business giving legal certainty in the often complex world of European and UK consumer legislation for any advice given. Visit www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk n

CAMBRIDGE 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

Adept MD national chair David Smith, MD of Adept Software Consultancy has been invited by Microsoft to chair the UK chapter of the Dynamics NAV user group.

Working with the platform for over 14 years, David set up an independent group eight years ago and has steadily grown this to include members from across the UK. The group met every quarter to discuss important issues relating to NAV, to share advice and to overcome challenges together. A senior member of Microsoft attended most meetings, giving insight into current developments.

Microsoft is now taking David’s idea further and his expert guidance will steer the national group, hosted at Microsoft’s Reading office. n David Smith, Director of Adept Software

Celebration for top entrepreneurs Cambridge’s top 25 budding entrepreneurs took the plaudits at a special event organised by Cambridge News at the Doubletree by Hilton.

Chamber member Sally Guyer from The Cambridge Raincoat Company was one of the 25 nominated entrepreneurs.

Judges were from sponsors Barclays, Eversheds, PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Executive MBA at the Judge Business School.

Awards of specially-designed paperweights were handed out by David Fordham, chief executive of Iliffe News & Media, owners of Cambridge Newspapers, and Colin Grant, editorial director of Cambridge Newspapers. n

(L-R) Julie Crossley, Elisabeth Sneade, Robert Tiffen, Sharon Allison, Ian Barnard, Sue Bailey, Tom Ranson

Associate appointments announced Ashton KCJ Solicitors is delighted to announce a number of new Associate appointments from within the firm.

Seven members of staff across a range of departments have been appointed, having successfully completed Ashton KCJ’s Development Programme.

Congratulations go to Sharon Allison and Julie Crossley from the Clinical Negligence team in Thetford, Sue Bailey and Elisabeth Sneade from the Family department in Norwich and Cambridge respectively, Ian Barnard in the Ipswich Commercial Property team, Tom Ranson from the Personal Injury team in Ipswich

and Robert Tiffen, who works within the Dispute Resolution team in Norwich.

Seven members of staff have been appointed Ashton KCJ’s Chief Executive, Simon Smith says: “This underscores the strength and growth of the firm as we approach the first anniversary of our merger.” n

Inca Digital moves to expand manufacturing and enable future growth Inca Digital’s new manufacturing facility and head office in Cambridge was opened by the Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Hugh Duberly CBE, who last visited Inca in 2005 to present two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 13

| HUNTINGDONSHIRE CHAMBER NEWS

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

IN BRIEF November 2012 10 years service for Carli Carli Beary has reached a 10-year anniversary with Borney UK Ltd. She started at the company in 2002 to generate new business. In her first quarter she secured a £50,000 order which became one of the main accounts for Borney UK bringing in around £150,000 a year.

On her return from maternity leave in 2011 she took on the role of New Business Manager. Carli commented: “My new position was to promote the company and increase local awareness and I have done this through networking, exhibitions, donations and sponsorship. I have generated over 140 new customers in under 18 months!”

Borney UK Ltd is a manufacturer of printed display solutions including flags, flagpoles, signage, vehicle graphics, exhibition graphics and banners.

Cambridge Sensotec double Cambridge Sensotec is pleased to introduce Dynascan’s Seal Integrity and Leak Detection Systems. These low cost units can be used to test a variety of different packaging types.

The MediTest and FlexiTest units use a vacuum to measure the reactive

Sensotec brings two new models to the market

force generated by the pack to test its integrity. To enhance the functionality, Dynascan has developed software which not only reduces test cycle time but can test semi porous-packs.

14 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

Bright future for young director Chamber members BrightVisions have announced that Matt Bunnage has been promoted to Services Director at the St Neots-based IT support company.

A valuable member of the team, Matt has been instrumental in ensuring 100 per cent satisfaction across the company’s wide and varied customer base. The new role will now see Matt take more strategic responsibility for all services.

I am extremely grateful to see my efforts rewarded in this way Speaking of his promotion Matt said: “I am genuinely thrilled with my new role, especially having seen the past growth and knowing what lies ahead. I am extremely grateful to see my efforts rewarded in this way and to see a company of this type make this investment in me, but likewise I am delighted to make this personal commitment and investment to BrightVisions too.” n

A fantastic renovation project for Beacon

Beacon starts building work Beacon Wealth Management bought a Chapel in Kimbolton last December and after months of planning they have finally started building work, allowing them to expand.

Tony Larkins, Managing Director, commented: “We plan to bring the building back to its former glory outside, which has become very overgrown and unloved, and transform the inside to a two storey building to accommodate our expanding team.”

Beacon plans to recruit 14 new team members over the next two years, consisting of Paraplanners, Independent Financial Advisers and admin support.

Tony continued: “We are looking for a Paraplanner who is at diploma level minimum to help support our current and future Financial Advisers.” n

Bulk buying initiative unveiled Flex-Able Group has expanded its portfolio of B2B services to incorporate procurement and bulk purchasing services.

Targeting businesses, schools and other large organisations, FlexEproducts saves customers money by using its buying power to secure the best possible price.

The extensive product range already stands at over 10,000 products, from office stationery and furniture to janitorial supplies and catering goods. As well as lower prices, customers can also order

specialist items in large quantities and store excess goods in the company’s warehouse, calling upon them to be delivered at a later date when required.

Richard Vanbergen, Group Managing Director of Flex-Able Group, said: “We’ve already been using our relationships with suppliers and large warehouse facilities to provide select clients with great prices.

Now we’re rolling out those services across our customer base and the wider business community.” n

ELY CHAMBER NEWS |

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

The Ely ‘Christmas Crawl’ Following Ely’s Independents’ Day events this year, retailers in Ely are once again being asked to back another national promotion – the ‘Christmas Crawl’.

The event aims to raise awareness of local retailers and their products

The ‘Christmas Crawl’ is a national promotion from the Independent Retailer Champion. The event aims to raise awareness of local retailers, their products and services and attract new customers to reach new markets. Shoppers are encouraged to visit participating retailers to gather a number of markers enabling them to enter a prize draw. Details are collated and participating retailers have access to the contact database for future promotions.

Co-ordinated by East Cambridgeshire District Council, Ely Chamber of Commerce and Ely’s Traders Association, we are asking

shops and businesses in Ely to sign up to be involved in the ‘Christmas Crawl’.

Events such as the Cathedral Shoppers’ Carol Service will also be featured to promote the concept of a whole day visit to Ely. Posters and flyers will be distributed to shops and businesses taking part.

Participating retailers will be featured on www.visitely.org.uk

Want to join in?

Please call Ely’s Tourist Information Centre on 01353 662062 or e-mail: tic@eastcambs.gov.uk n

Audio visual installations for boardrooms, meeting rooms, lecture rooms, classrooms & auditoriums Projectors | Screens | Sound Systems | Control Systems | Cameras | Recorders | Signage

UT ABO A K S A G WUX HD & EENS, SCR TORS JEC PRO MERAS & CA

Contact us for a no obligation visit and quotation.

Call 01223 240944 or visit www.venue-av.com CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 15

| OUT & ABOUT

Out&About Enjoy our monthly montage of events and happenings across the local area with this colourful round-up of Chamber 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

B2B Exhibition 2012 Were you there? With a sell-out crowd and 300 visitors on the day, the annual B2B event was a great day for meeting local business people and sharing the buzz of an all-day exhibition. Many new contacts were made and it also coincided with the launch of the new CONNECTED magazine!

Photo credits: Mike Brown Photographic, Cambridge News and The Cambridge Building Society.

Comedy Night and Black Tie Dinner Construction Sector Event.

Over 120 people came together for the annual Construction Sector Comedy Night & Black Tie Dinner at the Great Northern Hotel, Peterborough on Friday 5 October. The event was sponsored by Redring Xpelair for the third year running and guests were entertained by comedian Lea Roberts.

Photo credits: Mike Brown Photographic.

16

| CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

Chamber HR event The Autumn Collection: Employment Law and HR Issues, 2 October at Holiday Inn, Cambridge. A panel of experts provided an update on the latest changes affecting a variety of HR topics.

Photo credits: Mike Brown Photographic.

OUT & ABOUT |

South Africa trade Hinchingbrooke House, 25 September. Expert international trade advice from the South African High Commission and UKTI South Africa.

Chamber Awards 2012 Regional winners announced. Congratulations to Pure Resourcing Solutions and Sepura. Both companies are now through to the national round. More next month!

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

17

| CHAMBER UPDATES

British Chamber UPDATES

News from the national BCC desk

Our business is

Good for Britain!

Three local Chamber member businesses have been highlighted as unsung heroes of the business world, after being chosen as case studies for British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) ‘Business is good for Britain’ campaign.

The campaign celebrates businesses working tirelessly to find new ways to connect with their audiences and strengthen their communities in tough economic times.

Method Creative, a strategic brand, design and digital communications agency and Beacon Wealth Management, an integrated independent wealth management company, were selected for their dynamism and contribution to the local economic hub.

Anvil Energy Saving Installations, from Huntingdon, was also selected and was noted for its strategic acquisition approach to capitalise on the renewables market.

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive John Bridge says all three businesses embody the entrepreneurial essence that is vital to allow businesses to thrive. “We are lucky that Cambridgeshire has bucked the trend and has actually continued to expand and develop during the recession. To be successful in such tough times, businesses need that extra spark and creative input to succeed. Method, Beacon and Anvil are all shining examples of companies finding solutions rather than focusing on problems,” he said.

View the case studies online at www.bccblog.co.uk n

18 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

why is ss BUsiNEFOR GOOD ?

BRiTAiN

the nesses) are They (busi new job creation engines of th that this omic grow . and econ nds upon country depe mp, Cameron

rt hon david r prime ministe

provides es wealth, force ring creat to its work Manufactu that one job nt, gives pride employme ly acknowledged four in and it is wide ring creates at least in manufactu ions.

Chamber support funct r of northern ireland

esses work ber busin services ber mem cts and ands of Cham er great produ pions of Uk, thous out, to deliv are the true cham Across the day in day is Good for Business tirelessly, with the world. These g ting how overcomin demonstra – and trade they are h economy, own words, how the Britis ss. , in their for succe Britain. Read nges and striving global challe in, it’s

for Brita forward isn’t just good We rely on Business jobs, for Britain. e growth, ss essential esses to creat s to expre thinking busin ies for individual rtunit and oppo and their talents. r s prime ministe themselve mp, deputy rt hon nick

Clegg

, membe whale pumps rce of Comme

ess in UK busin rtant role very impo nsion and We play a new projects, expa our 40% of to assist in ent; and over developm exported overseas. er of Chamb services are member of sheffield ong, wardell Armstr y & industr Commerce

etition, and comp to innovation social value that drive businesses just economic but ty.

It’s British ibute not s and socie and that contr oods, communitie tion bourh our neigh d mp, Leader

Ed miliban

of the opposi

rt hon oubt and ing self-d and own nagg ed aside myhas gained credibility beliefs. to have push ess that to my own I am proud to life a busin staying true rce fears to bring a short time, while ers of Comme e Chamb such respect in member of Cambridgeshir

is ive and it st – mic, it is posit of intere ess is dyna many areas – and Our busin g. We cover, research, tourism lly visually stron commercia n, education s conservatiople to others we are top-of-clas valid as an exam It is good to have ng a maki successful. as an example and businesses to the economy.

Chamber n doncaster contributio member of yorkshire

wildlife park,

s, giving individual oyment, e wealth for empl It helps creat e to spend; and . denc and older them confi more staff young e on Cambridgeshir member of by taking management, Beacon wealth rce of Comme Chambers

of our facture 100% n and manuwe employ over 200 that We desig – ensuring in the UK, garments use local suppliers omy. and UK econ people and to the local omy by we contributeg value to the econlocal staff, We are addinucer, by employing being a prodrting. hamshire notting hire and and by expo derbys member of david nieper, rce of Comme Chamber

e, method Creativ

o.uk/blog forbritain.c nessisgood www.busi wing, visit gro are ies w compan To hear ho

Businesses need that extra spark and creative input to succeed

CHAMBER UPDATES |

CASE STUDY 1

Anvil ESI Limited

CASE STUDY 2

Beacon Wealth Management Ltd

CASE STUDY 3

Method Creative

Tony Larkins started Beacon Wealth Management Ltd (BWM) in 2010 after he won Businessman of the Year with his first company Beacon Financial Ltd (which is still running) as he felt he had the confidence to launch a wealth Anvil ESI is looking to the future

Launched at the start of 2012, and with an established parent company behind it, Anvil ESI is a growing renewables operation with Stephen Birch at the helm. The new business specialises in the installation of energy saving technologies covering heating, electrical and renewables. As NICEIC Approved contractors and MCS accredited installers they carry out full design, installation, inspection, testing and certification of these technologies. Anvil can help with projects such as changing existing light fittings to new energy efficient LED models, upgrading heating appliances, installing a new solar photovoltaic system or providing an electric vehicle charging point.

“We need to overcome the ‘Anglo-Saxon’ short-termism and adopt a long term view to business.”

Method Creative leads with innovation

Beacon Wealth Management goes for gold

management company that offered a fee only practice at a fraction of normal financial adviser charges.

The winning formula at Beacon is a desire to put service above profits, placing clients at the heart of everything and an aspiration to have higher qualified staff than other companies.

“Becoming the first Chartered practice in Cambridgeshire and gaining recognition for our approach was a big achievement for us. ”

Setting up creative brand and marketing business Method Creative in the midst of the recession in 2008, Kirsten Corrigan knows it’s crucial her team’s ideas are effective for clients.

Method has grown steadily since it first offered marketing consultancy services in 2008 and is expanding its portfolio year-on-year. The team has worked with many exciting and inspirational companies from local start-ups to international players. Clients include global brands like Red Bull and Breitling. Kirsten says, “We think it shows smaller companies that we don’t need to be the biggest name out there to grow our business, we just need to be good at what we do”.

“I am proud to have brought to life a business that has gained credibility and respect in such a short time.”

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 19

| NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

NEW Members

A warm welcome to our new Chamber members

Cambridgeshire Target Shooting Association www.cambridgeshiresmallbore.co.uk The CTSA (founded in 1909) is the County Association for small-bore target shooting.

The County outdoor rifle range is located at Norman Cross near Peterborough and is used by members and clubs from the County and neighbouring regions.

The clubs are: Soke (Peterborough), St Ives, Kimbolton, March, Whittlesey, Gogs, Pye, Shelford, Cambridge .177 and Hereward Field target (Norman Cross).

Membership enquiries can be made online.

The clubs bring together people from all walks of life, young and old, with an interest in the sport. Matt Skelhon, 2012 Paralympic silver and bronze medals, started shooting in the county.

We are building a new indoor range at Norman Cross, which will be used by our national squads, especially the disabled shooting team leading up to Rio 2016.

Support for this project is urgently needed to help secure Sport England Funding.

NEW MEMBERS

Cartridge World (Cambridge)

THIS MONTH

www.cambridge.cartridgeworld.co.uk

Cambridge & Counties Bank Cambridgeshire Target Shooting Association Comms Supply Lillymays Marshall Toyota Modiriyat Ltd MS Electrical Services Peterborough Greyhound Stadium Peterborough Jobcentre Plus RJR Custom Installations Santander Corporate and Commercial Banking Simply Careers The Truckle Cheese Co.

There is a cheaper, high quality, local alternative for printer peripherals that not only offers massive savings on cartridges, but is also far more environmentally friendly. It’s called Cartridge World and their new look, fully refurbished store is back in business under new ownership. Based at 216 Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, Kevin Jones and colleague Joe Hall offer businesses and retail customers sound advice and excellent service. “We produce printer cartridges compatible with all major brands of printers for home, education and business use,” says store owner Kevin.

Lillymays Florist www.lillymays.co.uk With a background in sales and marketing and project management and a love of all things floral, I thought working with flowers and running my own business would be a match made in heaven.

The last two years have been without doubt the hardest of my career to date! In spite of the economic downturn and the lack of shoppers on the high street Lillymays has become a successful florist serving the East of

20 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

England, winning the Local Accelerator Award 2012. Whilst providing a general floristry service we have also focused on developing our wedding portfolio and as a result have now been entered for the Wedding Industry Awards 2013.

Not only do we have a high street shop located in the heart of Wisbech, our service is extended through our website which allows customers to buy flowers in the comfort of their own home at any time of the day or night.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS |

Would you like to become a Chamber member?

Get in touch today and find out the many benefits. tel: 01223 237414 email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

Modiriyat Ltd

MS Electrical Services

www.modiriyat.co.uk

www.mselectricalservices.com

MODIRIYAT is a provider of Professional Project Management services in the development of buildings. Our aim is to add value at each stage of the development. We manage projects of all building types from industrial to residential, from commercial to leisure.

We manage the entire process from pre-business case assisting with Land Selection, Tender & Award of preferred Consultants, Feasibility & Design development, Planning Approval, Cost Plan & Cost Analysis, Value Engineering, Risk Management, Tender & Award of the preferred Contractor, Construction Management, Post-Completion Defects and Coordinated Handover to end users.

The experience of our Partners have managed many projects ranging in values up to £1 Billion over the past 30 years.

MS Electrical Services is an electrical installation and specialist electrical safety testing company operating with over 20 years experience in all aspects of the electrical testing and installation industry. Installations within the domestic, industrial, commercial, educational, public and private health care sectors, as well as residential care homes are all areas of work covered by MS Electrical.

MS Electrical Services is an NICEIC

approved contractor for Electrical Installation Condition Reports, Initial Verification, Portable Appliance Testing and is also registered under the NICEIC Domestic Installer Scheme.

MS Electrical is also SAFEcontractor approved. This is a third party health & safety vetting company which operates an accreditation scheme. Companies must meet stringent health & safety working practices to be SAFEcontractor approved.

The Truckle Cheese Co www.trucklecheese.co.uk The Truckle Cheese Company – providing the country with quality Cheddar cheeses, blue cheeses and a selection of other fantastic cheeses in truckle form as well as chutneys, traditional pates, terrines, biscuits for cheese and stainless steel cheese accessories.

We are a local, privately owned and run company with our main aim being to provide quality farmhouse cheese truckles of the highest standard and other related products that our customers insist upon.

We provide gifts for businesses to give to clients or valued members of staff at any time of year. We have a selection of exclusive gifts which we can personalise

for your business, as well as luxury hampers and gift baskets.

We would welcome the opportunity to visit you or why don’t you come along to Oakington and visit us to sample some of The Truckle Cheese goodies!

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 21

| COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Award-winning service at

Robinson College The Conference Office team from Robinson College is celebrating its success at the international Meetings Industry Marketing Awards (MIMA) held in London at the start of October.

The College won the Bronze award for Best Brand Marketing Campaign – the only academic venue in this year’s prestigious MIMA shortlist. The team was lauded for its recent Service+ campaign which comprises a portfolio of different product and service offerings closely targeted to meet the needs of different clients using its conference facilities.

The annual awards were launched in 2002 to raise the standards of marketing in the meetings and events industry and are organised

by Meetings & Incentive Travel magazine.

Nick Milne, Catering & Conference Manager at Robinson said: “We are thrilled to have won a Bronze in these highly competitive international awards. It is an outstanding result to come third out of a total of 19 entries in our category and to succeed against tough competition from major global players with much higher budgets and resources than ours. Congratulations to all the team.”

A modern venue with traditional values at Cambridge’s Robinson College

State-of-the-art facilities and a contemporary approach marks out this Cambridge gem

To enquire about any of the invaluable services provided, call the Conference Office on 01223 332859 or email conference@robinson.cam.ac.uk

Rose McDonald receives the MIMA award for Robinson College

To complement the meeting, accommodation and catering facilities available at Robinson College, we are proud to offer a range of additional services: College+ • Off-site accommodation in local branded hotels to complement your in-College meeting and catering arrangements • We do all the administration including arrange for hotel check-in at College • Transport between College and hotel included • Now you can have residential conferencing in a Cambridge College anytime throughout the year Delegate+ • Online electronic tool for organisers to issue tailor-made event invitations • Manage delegates attendance from invitation through to day of their event • Online delegate booking system • We do the admin, you stay in control • Simple to use and access at any time so you stay in control Event+ • Your event support team • Name badges, Registration desk • Full Event Management if required Group+ • Versatile range of services and add-ons available for group bookings Association+ • Admin support in the lead-up to your event • Online delegate invitation tool • Online booking - delegates book and pay for themselves • Tailor-made packages and rates to suit you

robinson.cam.ac.uk 22

| CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

POLICY UPDATE |

Policy UPDATE Keeping you informed, representing local business

Get ready to

accelerate!

Work on the Speak Digital project continues apace. It was brilliant speaking to so many of you at the recent Cambridge B2B – as usual there was a real buzz.

Just in case you missed last month’s magazine and you don’t know about the Chamber’s Speak Digital project – designed to encourage local businesses to use social media to drive business growth – you can view last month’s article online or check out the Speak Digital item on the Chamber’s website www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk If you would like to get involved with the Speak Digital project and want to take part in a short market research survey, to help us understand how businesses are currently using social media, please get in touch with me: g.prangnell@cambscci.co.uk

As long as turnover is less than £40m you may be eligible for assistance Another way to drive business growth is to take advantage of a new service being offered to small and medium sized businesses called Growth Accelerator. If you are looking for new ideas to galvanise your business and wondering where to go to get business advice that isn’t going to cost an arm and a leg, then the Growth Accelerator scheme might be just what you need. It is a partnership between private enterprise and government. Once you sign up a Growth Accelerator Coach will work with you to discover what your business needs to achieve sustainable growth; help you to define a sustainable growth plan and through their networks open the door to business experts who will help you to drive your business forward.

As long as turnover is less than £40m you are likely to be eligible. The Chamber has been invited to put forward members who would like to find out more about the scheme.

If you think you qualify and want some more information contact Peter Watts: p.watts@cambscci.co.uk

Go green and save money!

Travel Plan Plus (TP+) is a scheme designed to encourage more people to commute by greener, cheaper and healthier travel modes. The TP+ project was established in 2009 and seems to have had considerable success. Last year’s Travel to Work survey revealed that commuter cycling had increased by six per cent and driving to work alone had decreased by eight per cent.

For those of us who work from

a variety of locations and live in villages poorly served by public transport, leaving the car at home is not really an option. However, as Investors in the Environment, Chamber staff members make an effort to share lifts when possible; I’ve used the Guided Bus to travel to the Histon office a few times and one of my colleagues regularly cycles to work in the village too. n

Thought about electric?

Or how about car-sharing?

TP+ has a couple of electric pool bikes they are willing to loan out to commuters so you can try the journey before investing in an electric bike. TP+ also has grant funding for employers installing an electric car charger point before March 2013. info@ travelplanplus. org.uk

If the thought of cycling in the rain or wind puts you off, you could think about converting to an electric car. TP+ has grant funding for employers wanting to install an electric car charger point – only available until March 2013. info@travelplanplus.org.uk

If you’d like to share your thoughts about any of these issues please get in touch: g.prangnell@cambscci.co.uk I look forward to hearing from you. n

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

23

| SECTOR FOCUS LEARNING AND SKILLS

Apprenticeships: Over 200 different opportunities When I started concentrating on apprenticeships a few years ago I, like many others, considered them to be the province of traditional trades like construction and engineering and had their roots firmly planted in the 1950s and 1960s. Whilst apprenticeships continue to serve these sectors with continued success and allow businesses and individuals to thrive with the development of technology and advancement, the world has moved on. The principle has been expanded to such an extent that it is now possible to be an apprentice in any form of employment. There are currently over 200 opportunities and this list is increasing all the time: from Agriculture and Horticulture to Accounting, Leisure and Tourism, Business and Administration, IT and Leadership and Management, and many more.

An apprenticeship consists of four components and is referred to as a ‘framework’: a) An NVQ to achieve a competence level b) Embedded functional skills c) Employee rights and responsibilities d) A Technical Certificate relevant to the job and sector.

There are different levels of outcomes from Intermediate (Level 2) up to Higher (Levels 4, 5 and 6) which is degree equivalent in most cases.

Apprenticeships have proven to improve productivity for business and reduce staff turnover, as well as providing the individual with a nationally recognised qualification. To find out more please visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk or phone 08000 150 600 for further details. Source: Andy Sanders, Cambridgeshire County Council n

Becoming the best in Business & Administration Cambridge Regional College has announced a Higher Level Apprenticeship in Business and Administration. This is a new qualification introduced from September 2012 as part of the Government’s drive to put apprenticeships at the forefront of practical vocational qualifications, as a result they are heavily subsidised and no loans are required.

Higher level apprenticeships are level 4 qualifications (equivalent to a foundation degree) and are tailored to business needs through an extensive range of options.

The qualification is candidate led, which means that whenever possible the college works around the candidate’s business schedule. This qualification will consolidate and further develop competent business administrators, so their contribution to the business is enhanced in a senior capacity.

The qualification is open to all ages and there are no formal entry requirements; however candidates are expected to have considerable experience of the administration procedures and work practices (to be determined by interview and assessment). The more typical route would be a progression from the Advanced Level Apprenticeship in Business and Administration (Level 3).

In order to qualify, candidates should not be receiving any other Government-funded training, must be employed and not have prior attainment of a Level 4 qualification or above.

Candidates must be British or EU residents.

Call Ray Hilton 07774 219865 or email rhilton@camre.ac.uk n

This will consolidate and further develop competence

COMMUNICATIONS

Communication

is all about conversations The recently announced Communications Sector Group is preparing for its first meeting in the next month, with encouraging interest from Chamber members who wish to join.

A common theme among those who wish to share in the discussion is that local companies are increasingly asking about the benefits of digital PR. This can include effective utilisation of social media

24

| CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

platforms as well as the use of blogger interaction and content sharing via professional sites such as LinkedIn. With a clear need to better understand the digital landscape, the Communications Sector will be working closely with Gill Prangnell to further the Speak Digital campaign in the coming months.

There are many reservations about the use and potential abuse of platforms

such as Facebook, and the Sector Group will focus on informing and leading with best practice for SMEs. We look forward to speaking soon... hopefully via the social channels.

SECTOR FOCUS | HR AND RECRUITMENT

INTERNATIONAL

State of mind focus There are no unresourceful people, only unresourceful states. How well you perform depends on which state you are in. Here are three tips to help you change your state: What we are thinking The pictures we make inside our head codes our experiences, so when you change the picture inside your head – it affects not just what you are picturing, but how you are picturing it. Think about a past positive experience.

Jackie Moyo, Ness M Care Services, talks with Teresa Baffa from Barclays

Our body and how we stand First of all change your body stance and move… anything that pushes different chemicals around your nervous system. Stand in a confident way – you then send messages to your mind that you are confident. So change your posture, your facial expression and don’t forget to breathe. Often when we are in a negative state we often hold our breath and forget to breathe.

Our internal dialogue Change your internal dialogue or self-talk – again you can change the content or the language. How about your internal critic speaking to you in the voice of someone you really admire? Move the location of the voices too, for example if it’s inside move it outside behind you or to one side, next to your right or left ear.

Change your thinking. Instead of saying “why does this keep happening to me?” ask “what can I learn from this situation?”

All states are caused by the interaction between your thinking patterns, physiology and neurochemicals Emotional freedom does not mean never feeling negative states, but being able to be aware of them and choose your response. All states are caused by the interaction between your thinking patterns, your physiology and your neurochemicals. Changing any of these can influence your state.

Source: Lorraine Warne, Advance Coaching Consultants

Time for Africa The Chambers’ International Sector held its recent event with an overview on the South African Market. Partnering with UKTI and Barclays Bank an impressive array of speakers was mustered including participation from the South African High Commission and a leading Trade Adviser from the British HC in Durban.

The event drew 40 companies from across the region. The South African contributors presented a compelling case for their home markets describing a country committed to massive infrastructure development, rising living standards and welcoming policies towards commercial partners. Barclays Bank delivered a clear picture of a strong economy with secure payment schemes available to the exporter.

David Sharp of Workplace Law described the intricacies of setting up an Employment Law company in South Africa and the benefits from increased trade and access to low cost but skilled labour.

David Newman of SupremeBeing, described how his clothing brand has become a market leader through local partnerships.

A country committed to infrastructure development

Next Generation Access for next generation business Support our campaign to bring better broadband to Cambridgeshire Register your interest at www.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk Contact your local Economic Development office to find out more

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

25

| COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Finding your way out of the recession could be simpler than you think...

It’s all about solutions!

In economic times like these when everyone is cutting back or just holding on, it’s the people with courage who stand to gain the most.

It has been said that owning a business is a lonely job; it’s especially lonely when you put yourself out on a limb - making plans and expanding in a recession.

All we hear on the news is a drowning economy, credit crunch, unemployment at an all-time high. This would have most entrepreneurs running for cover you might think? Actually many hardened small business owners are using this situation as an opportunity to expand.

Many long standing business owners will tell you that there is a lot of opportunity to be had in a recession if only you have the capital to take advantage. Those with cash can take the chance to grow while those without fall by the wayside. If only the financial institutions would lend to SMBs when it really matters maybe this would pull the UK out of recession; so that’s it - no cash equals no growth? Actually no. The more determined find a way to succeed, there are always solutions available, you just have to look.

All we hear on the news is that there is a drowning economy – but many hardened small business owners are using this situation as an opportunity to expand.

Many of these options are born of other entrepreneurs seeing a gap in the market and moving quickly to offer what businesses need. In times of recession many reputable as well as disreputable money lenders prosper as they also take advantage of the economy in the same way. Consortiums, investors and private wealth funds are an excellent way to raise cash providing you know what you are doing. Asking other business people for recommendations and referrals is a great way to work out which lenders are legitimate and appropriate for your needs.

0% schemes are another option. You can lease your company vehicles, your business premises and now even your IT/Office equipment using 0% schemes. Taking advantage of these solutions will help you build business and improve your corporate image with little or no risk attached.

Sign up to free local business forums or attend free local networking events to find out what is available to businesses in the local area. Use all free resources available to you and you might just be able to get ahead of your competitors during this challenging time.

For more information about 0% leasing of your IT equipment including full support please call 01480 446480.

www.dsm-itsupport.com 26 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

Servers are one of the many IT products that DSM lease to help growing businesses.

ASK THE EXPERT |

Ask the expert: Taking on staff overseas Roger James, head of the employment team at Taylor Vinters, advises employers on the pitfalls of employing staff overseas.

Q

I ’m thinking about expanding the business into overseas markets but feel there is a lot to consider. Is it particularly complex in terms of the legal side of the process?

A

Of all the decisions a developing business takes, expanding overseas can be one of the most important. Get it right and the rewards can be great, but there are risks involved and employment issues often carry the highest risk, both in terms of potential compensation costs and operational problems caused by the loss of a key individual.

Q A

hat should I consider when W employing someone to head up my business abroad?

if possible and consider using your UK based executives as directors of the overseas subsidiary as an alternative to an untested new recruit, at least initially.

Q A

Keep copies of all important documentation in your UK head office including employment contracts and leases. Diarise important dates such as lease renewals, equity vest dates and immigration deadlines: these may be useful for later.

Q

Ironically, to get things right at the start of an international working relationship, one has to wind forward to picture the end. Think about the issues and problems that might arise on a termination when appointing someone – especially when that person is to head up your business abroad. For example, know what is involved in removing any directorships, bank mandates and powers of attorney you might want to grant. Avoid having single directors

here would you advise we W keep important paperwork and admin files and how should we manage this from the UK?

I s there anything specific that I should be aware of with employment contracts in this situation?

A

It is vital to obtain an overview of employment law in the country in question. Do not simply use your UK contract overseas: this can have serious consequences. If, for example, you use a UK restrictive covenant in Germany you can unwittingly expose the company to a compensation payment of up to six months’ salary on termination, even if you do not want to enforce the covenant.

Q

o I need to provide additional D support to overseas workers from the UK?

A

The immigration situation will also need research if you are seconding someone from the UK, as will consideration of the support you will provide in terms of living accommodation and shipping of possessions.

Q

ill I need to prepare employment W contracts for overseas workers in a language other than English?

A

Some countries including France require that the employment contract is translated into the local language to be legally valid – even if between two English speaking parties. Employment law breaches in France can lead to criminal charges against individuals running a business.

Overlook technicalities such as this at your peril! n

Do you have expert, informative business advice to share? To be featured as the monthly expert in CONNECTED, contact Sadie Parr by email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Do you want to refresh your office furniture on a budget?

Young Lives has a range of second-hand high quality desks, chairs and other office furniture for sale.

We can also take any old furniture that you no longer want, which we will then sell on to support our charity.

Interested?

For a good deal and a new look remember Young Lives can help!

www.young-lives.org.uk

Email Corrina on corrina@young-lives.org.uk or call 01733 341345 Registered charity no. 1114745

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

27

| CHAMBER EVENTS

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

Chamber Christmas Celebrations Chamber Christmas Luncheon

Business Women’s Christmas Lunch

DATE 14 December TIME 12:00-3:00pm LOCATION St John’s College, St John’s Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TP MEMBER PRICE £40.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £50.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT Members can book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

An annual event in the ladies calendar is the Business Women’s Sector Christmas Networking Lunch. This Christmas Networking Lunch brings together business women professionals from across all sectors with the promise of a glass of wine, excellent company and a captivating guest speaker.

To book a place as a non-Chamber member please contact Karen Dawson on 01223 209808 or email k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk

The regal setting of St John’s College

The Chambers’ popular Christmas Luncheon returns to St John’s College this December.

This year’s guest speaker is Nimish Shah, Clinical Director of Urology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital. The event will include a threecourse Christmas lunch and a charity raffle in aid of The Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust, the Chambers’ nominated charity of the year.

Pencil Friday 7 December, 12.00-2.00pm, in your diary and further details will be confirmed in the next issue of CONNECTED and on the Chamber website at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

The September B2B event was a sell-out and attracted 300 visitors from the local business community to build upon the success of last year’s event. Organised by Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and Cambridge News, this event was a good showcase of local business

Sell-out B2B Exhibition draws Cambridge crowds Over 90 exhibitors showcased their products and services at the Cambridge B2B Exhibition last month held at Newmarket Racecourse.

There was a full programme of seminars and workshops taking place attended by the steady flow of visitors during the day. BT Business held a prize draw for delegates attending their seminar offering an opportunity to attend the O2 in London to see Andre Rieu and

28

| CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra.

The lucky winner was Tracey Hayes from Purple Haze.

Cambridge Building Society was the main event sponsor and took this opportunity to promote the launch of its exclusive business savings account which is available to all Chamber members.

Joy Mansfield, event organiser from the Chamber, commented: “This event was a sell-out weeks before the event took

place with a waiting list of companies wanting to exhibit. We would like to thank all our sponsors and Cambridge News. Plans are already underway for next year’s exhibition and the date will be announced shortly.”

The Cambridge B2B was organised by Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and Cambridge News with sponsorship from Cambridge Building Society, BT Business and Method Creative.

CHAMBER EVENTS |

Speed Networking Lunch DATE Friday 9 November TIME 11.45am-2.00pm LOCATION The Lamb Hotel, Ely CB7 4EJ MEMBER PRICE £22.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £27.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Safari Networking Breakfast DATE Friday 23 November TIME 7.45-10.00am LOCATION Holmewood Hall Peterborough PE7 3BZ MEMBER PRICE £15.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £22.50 (plus VAT) CONTACT k.dawson@cambscci.co.uk or www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Export Training Course Finance Options: Focusing on Letters of Credit DATE Tuesday 20 November TIME 9.00am -5.00pm LOCATION Chamber Offices, Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR MEMBER PRICE £225.00 (plus VAT) NON-MEMBER PRICE £275.00 (plus VAT) CONTACT f.tester@cambscci.co.uk or book online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Chamber Member Induction Mornings Peterborough DATE Wednesday 28 November TIME 9.30-11.00am LOCATION Chamber Offices, 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FT Cambridge DATE Thursday 29 November TIME 9.30-11.00am LOCATION Chamber Offices, Enterprise House, The Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR

Keynote speech by Kirsten Corrigan from Method Kirsten shares her experience of building a profile in the market and how social media plays a key part in the PR landscape.

PRICE Free to attend CONTACT Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk

Informal Networking Evenings November 2012 Mon 7, 21

Ramada Hotel, Peterborough

6.00-8.00pm

Thurs 8, 22

Holiday Inn, Impington, Cambridge

5.00-7.00pm

Mon 12

The Lamb Hotel, Ely

5.00-7.00pm

Weds 14

Waterfront Bar, Wyboston Lakes, St Neots

5.00-7.00pm

Tues 20

The Old Bridge Hotel, Huntingdon

5.00-7.00pm

Weds 28

Oliver Cromwell Hotel, March

5.00-7.00pm

Date: 24th October 2012 Time: 5.00-7.00pm Where: Anglia Ruskin University, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT Price: £15 per person

Tickets on ly £15 per p erson and space s are limited Book now !

Programme: 5.00-5.45pm Welcome drinks and nibbles 5.45-7.00pm Workshop with Kirsten Corrigan 7.00-7.30pm Networking

To book your place visit www.anglia.ac.uk/turningtables

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 |

29

| CONNECTED MAGAZINE B2B PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Perfect for corporate giftS! Pinnacle Chauffeur Transport Serious about UK Business Travel Cambridgeshire | Norfolk | Suffolk | Essex Contact Mark on 07854 491 219 or markpaflin@wedriveyou.co.uk Central Booking

T: 01223 234740

0800 783 4107 www.wedriveyou.co.uk

order online for christmas!

www.trucklecheese.co.uk

OCTOBER 2012

ADVERTISE IN

Build your business network and enhance your profile in the official monthly membership magazine of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. With advertising rates starting from just £75+VAT you can reach more than 3,000 business owners and decision makers on your doorstep.

MBER.CO.UK

CAMBRIDGESHIRECHA ENABLING

ECONOMIC SUCCESS

A NEW DAWN?

IS UPON US AND THE DIGITAL ERA MEMBERS WE’RE ASKING OUR THE CHAMBER TO GET BEHIND BARRIERS. CAMPAIGN TO BREAK

FOR AS LITTLE AS

£75

!

NERW H FRES

YOU UPDATED E AND MAGAZIN S THLY MON MEMBER FOR

Tel: 01954 253060

20

BUSINESS PAGES OF YOUR NEWS AND STORIES

PLUS WITH OUR GUIDANCE. CLINIC: GO GLOBAL

SECTOR EXPORT VOICES SHARE THEIR INDUSTRY LEADING GROW. YOUR BUSINESS S. EXPERTISE TO HELP YEAR CAMPAIGN CHARITY OF THE GET INVOLVED!

THE OFFICIAL MONTHLY

MAGAZINE OF THE

ULTIMATE BUSINESS

NETWORK

CONNECTED

OCTOBER 2012

|1

A helping hand with business efficiency when you need it most

Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Northamptonshire

te a r b e l e C ristmas Ch Registered Charity No. 1000412

with the Wildlife Trust!

We’re going Posh this year!

Join businesses from across the region for some festive fun & networking at Peterborough United football ground on Thursday 6th December, 2012 from 6pm.

You can secure your place at the best Christmas party of the season for a donation of just £10 per person, or £90 for a table of ten.

Contact Jo Glanville at jo.glanville@wildlifebcn.org or 01954 713 560 to make sure you don’t miss out!

WIN! a flyINg lessoN IN a CessNa in our silent auction, plus loads of other fantastic prizes!

All money raised will help the Wildlife Trust care for nature reserves across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire.

30 | CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012

Email: connected@methodcreative.co.uk

Contact us today if you run a business that would benefit from improved management systems.

505 Business Solutions can help with: • certification, regulatory and supply chain requirements • cost-driven continual improvements • managing customer and stakeholder expectations & feedback • updates to your risk management processes • enhancing staff awareness of your systems We are here to support companies across Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and our quick response could help protect you if your business management systems are letting you down.

assurance@505solutions.com

www.wildlifebcn.org

www.505solutions.com

BUSINESS COMPETITION |

WIN! £12K AD SPEND and expert mentor support

Buckle up as local business gets a boost!

As part of a national Newspaper Society initiative the Cambridge News has launched the Local Business Accelerators (LBA) campaign. The competition encourages entrepreneurs to succeed by winning a free advertising campaign and the chance to be mentored by television expert Deborah Meaden, who is supporting the initiative.

Businesses that have been running between one and five years can enter LBA for the

chance to win a highly valuable free advertising campaign in the Cambridge News plus mentoring support from local business leaders – giving the company a boost. The most promising businesses will go forward to the national stage of the competition to win a year’s mentoring from Deborah and an ad campaign from a top London agency.

Deborah, one of the regulars on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den TV show, said: “With last year’s LBA having demonstrated the unique power of local and regional press to provide a meaningful boost to promising young businesses, I am delighted to be supporting the initiative once again.”

Research conducted by Toluna and campaign organisers at the Newspaper Society has revealed that a third of owners of young businesses expect growth in the next 12 months.

Local business mentors for 2012 include James Pinchbeck from Streets Accountants, Kirsten Corrigan from Method Creative and Anglia Ruskin University’s Lester Lloyd-Reason.

Enter at www.accelerateme.co.uk by the closing date of November 16. n

Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden is on board

LAST YEAR’S WINNER

The Cambridge Raincoat Co. The Cambridge Raincoat Company Ltd was established in July 2010 by Sally Guyer, who has cycled in and out of Cambridge for over 17 years and first found independence on a bicycle when she was seven years old.

Sally won the LBA in 2011 and hasn’t looked back since as her distinctive clothing product has gained recognition around the world.

Sally has recently launched a menswear collection. cambridgeraincoats.co.uk n

Supported by

ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS Win free local press advertising Through Local Business Accelerators, Gadgets4Everyone’s Sam Hargreaves accelerated his gadget recycling business with free local press advertising and mentoring support.

For your chance to win the same, enter the Local Business Accelerators competition now at

www.accelerateme.co.uk

Local Business Accelerators is an initiative by the Newspaper Society (www.newspapersoc.org.uk) supported by the Business In You (www.businessinyou.bis.gov.uk).

CONNECTED NOVEMBER 2012 | 31

Are you looking to unlock your business potential?

Do you want to achieve results?

If so, then read on…

Building Business Success 20th November, Chelmsford Campus, Anglia Ruskin University.

‘How to achieve strategic growth for your business with Anglia Ruskin University and Team Results’ Interested? Register today at http://buildingbusinesssuccess.eventbrite.co.uk or call 0845 196 5057 for more information.

Anglia Ruskin University is proudly working in partnership with Team Results - the UK’s foremost experts in business growth, leadership development, training and coaching - to help companies and individuals achieve long-term sustainable wealth by unlocking the potential that exists within them and their business.

We are offering medium-sized businesses an opportunity to attend a high-profile event. We will be exploring how specific aspects of knowledge transfer, business growth, strategic management, and people performance can significantly benefit your business.

To profit from this event, please join us in Chelmsford on the 20th November for Building Business Success!

(Limited places available) A business event brought to you by:

In partnership with:

business.anglia.ac.uk

The event is free to attend, however a donation of £25 in support of our partner charity Kids Inspire will be gratefully received.

Please donate at justgiving.com/ Building-Business-Success-ARUKTP

3 | CONNECTED OCTOBER 2012