Diamond Magazine Edition 23 – November & December 2023 by DiamondMag-gatwickdiamondbusiness

Edition 23 Nov & Dec 2023

The magazine for Gatwick Diamond Business members

Why you might be wrong about The 80/20 Business Consultancy The four ‘super’ actions for keeping on top of work email It's more than just a flight in Delta's premium cabins

Sponsored by

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GATWICK DIAMOND BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 Join us as we recognise the passion and talent of our business community We are delighted to announce that the plans for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2024 are well underway, and will be delivered at The Grand, Brighton, on Thursday 21st March 2024.

The Gatwick Diamond Business Awards first launched in 2009 and has grown in size ever since, becoming one of the south east’s most prestigious business awards.

The official launch of the Awards programme for 2024 took place on 4th October at the Diamond Alumni VIP lunch, at the Sofitel London Gatwick Hotel. The awards are now ‘Open for Entries’ for all businesses (not just gdb Members) located or operating in the Gatwick Diamond, and we are keen to attract a wide-range of entries.

A well-established highlight of the business calendar, the Awards celebrate the achievements of individual businesses and business people across a wide range of categories. Importantly, they also showcase the success of the Gatwick Diamond economic area as major driver of the regional and national economies.

HEADLINE SPONSORS

AWARD CATEGORIES & SPONSORS

Birketts LLP, Elekta Ltd

Apprentice of the Year - Chichester College Group

London Gatwick, The Arora Group

Business of the Year over £1m - EMW

PRE-DINNER RECEPTION SPONSOR Cleankill Pest Control

Business of the Year up to £1m - Crawley Borough Council Business Person of the Year - Richard Place Dobson Employee of the Year - Rosemary French OBE

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Employer of the Year - Reigate & Banstead Borough Council

17th November 2023

Environmental Culture Award - Elekta Ltd

Closing Date for Entries

December 2023 – January 2024 Judging Period

9th February 2024

Finalists Announcement

21st March 2024

The Gatwick Diamond Business Awards

PARTNERS Creative Partner - Storm12 Set Design & AV Production Partner - Avensys Ltd Event Organiser - Gatwick Diamond Business Media Partner - Platinum Media Group

International Business of the Year - JetBlue Manufacturing Business of the Year - University of Sussex Business School New Business of the Year - Platinum Media Group Professional Services Firm of the Year - WessexIT The Award for Best Flexible Working Practice - Flexibility Matters The Award for Community Contribution - Crawley Town Centre BID The Award for Customer Delight - TBC The Award for Innovation - University of Sussex

Entry Period: 4th October - 17th November 2023 Awards Night: 21st March 2024 Sponsors and Winners Celebration Breakfast: DATE TBC

Venue Partner - The Grand, Brighton

For more information, visit: WWW.GATWICKDIAMONDBUSINESSAWARDS.COM Diamond Magazine

@gdbizawards

Diamond Magazine

Welcome!

Welcome to the last edition of Diamond Magazine for 2023, packed full once again with inspiring news stories and articles from across the Gatwick Diamond Business community. This year seems to have flown by and with Christmas fast approaching, we are once again in full swing preparing for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2024 (now open for entries!) Our front cover showcases our vibrant new colour scheme, and on page 2 you can see full details of our valued sponsors and this year’s categories. We are of course extremely grateful to our sponsors and partners for their support, and with 16 categories to choose from, there should be something for everyone! If you haven’t entered or won before, perhaps 2024 will be your year?! Our Member Spotlight this edition shines on Grant Georgiades, MD of The Plan Group, a family-owned insurance

brokerage based in Redhill. Take a look at page 4 to read Grant’s views on the benefits of being part of the gdb community and find out which gdb event is Grant’s favourite! And on page 8 we announce our annual gdb Re-Energise Conference, taking place in January, with details of our 4 inspirational guest speakers coming very soon! Until 1st December you can take advantage of our early bird offer, providing an excellent opportunity for you to bring colleagues and/or guests along so they can all benefit from this positive kickstart to the new year. Please get in touch if you’d like to explore the new and more affordable sponsorship opportunities currently available. Following our AGM at the end of September we welcome some new and exciting additions to the gdb Executive Council. We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of them and our existing council members who together bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to benefit gdb and gdb members. We are particularly privileged to welcome our new Executive Council Chairwoman, Dee Mathieson, Managing Director of Elekta Limited. Her leadership and expertise will undoubtedly guide us towards new heights in the year ahead. Next year is the 70th Anniversary of Gatwick Diamond Business, and to celebrate we are planning new and exciting opportunities for our members. We started early with the recent launch of our brand-new website and hope by now you have discovered and are enjoying the benefits and features the new website has to offer. As this year draws to a close, I would like to thank you all for your support and commitment to gdb, and particular

thanks to those of you who have taken the time to promote gdb to your contacts, many of whom have gone on to join gdb. Our planned referral drive during December will encourage new members to join us, further enriching our business community for the benefit of everyone, so if you have any contacts who you feel could gain from being part of our membership, please let Mandi know and we will be happy to connect. Our thanks as always to Creative Pod for the design of Diamond, and to all of you who have contributed your news, inspiring stories and advice to this edition. And a special thank you to The 80/20 Business Consultancy for sponsoring this edition and for their interesting Strategy & Execution article on page 30. On behalf of the gdb Team, I wish you all a successful end to 2023 and a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas! Sally Brown General Manager

Follow @gdbmembership for the best networking in the diamond

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Name: Grant Georgiades, MD Business name: The Plan Group Ltd t/a Plan Insurance Brokers, Yellow Jersey Cycle Insurance, Pedal Cover and eavi Member since: 2018 Description: The Plan Group Ltd is an independent, family-owned insurance brokerage based in Redhill. It has specialist brands that provide commercial/SME insurance as well as niche personal lines products.

“The opportunities within the gdb are enormous!” 1. What appealed to you about joining gdb? We’re a family owned firm. I think that makes us especially keen to engage, support and work with our local community. gdb felt like a great way to make connections with that aim in mind. 2. What was the thing that surprised you about gdb? The team are so friendly and their energy is infectious! They never fail at any event to generate a feel-good factor. 3. What’s the biggest single thing you’ve got from being a member of gdb? As well as enjoying some really fun events, gdb has introduced my business to a really significant partnership opportunity with one of the largest businesses in the region. It’s still in development, so I can’t say too much more but hopefully it’ll prove successful and we’ll be able to announce the collaboration in the not too distant future.

4. What difference has being a member of gdb made to your business? We trade nationally across fairly specific sectors but meeting a wide variety of successful and substantial local companies has made me fully appreciate the fantastic business development opportunities that exist closer to home. 5. gdb puts on lots of different types of events - what’s your favourite? In my role I attend a lot of business awards but I have to say that the annual GDB Awards are a highlight of my calendar. The hosts are always tremendous value and the atmosphere in the room is so positive. And it’s great to see local firms you know and love receiving recognition. 6. What’s different about gdb compared to other networking you do? It’s rare to walk into networking events where people are so enthused!

7. What’s your top tip for getting the most out of networking? It’s easy to feel a little intimidated by the prospect of striking up a conversation with a stranger. So I always find it useful on the way to an event to run through a few conversation openers. Once you realise it’s only going to take a, “So what does your company do?” to get things going, it feels far less daunting. 8. Besides the events, what else do you get out of your gdb membership? Whenever we have some news like a new product launch or an industry award win the gdb team are great at promoting it across their various channels and publications. That really helps raise our profile within the community. www.theplangroup.co.uk

Need to Put Your Company In the Spotlight? Contact us for excellent advertising rates! diamondmag@gatwickdiamondbusiness.com

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UK non-doms: Is an exit plan required?

The outlook for non-doms living in the UK is becoming increasingly uncertain, with the Labour Party declaring its intention to abolish non-dom status if it takes control at the next UK General Election. UK resident non-doms could effectively

become domiciled, resulting in UK tax on worldwide income and gains and exposure to inheritance tax on worldwide assets. It is now time for non-doms to consider their options as we potentially move away from the ‘15 out of 20 years’ rule. Non-doms need a ‘Plan B’. If individuals decide to stay in the UK, what action may be taken to protect their finances? Detailed plans require careful consideration and take time to develop, so early planning is advisable. A review of individual personal and financial objectives is an essential starting point. For some non-doms, a change to their tax status is not the most important factor when deciding where to live and work in the future. For others, ringfencing their wealth and assets for the benefit of their families and the next generation is all that matters. Those committed to life in the UK should ensure they are making use of tax-efficient funds and reliefs.

If they intend to fund business in the UK it is worth making the most of Business Investment Relief. Utilising this scheme, which rewards entrepreneurial investment, means that taxable remittances may be sheltered. Now may be the right time to establish an Excluded Property Trust, which enable non-doms to place offshore assets in trust so they remain outside the scope of UK inheritance tax. This structure provides protection for those who are concerned about becoming domiciled at some future point. Future planning is key. UK-based non-doms should ensure that their non-dom status is put on record to be defended after death. Domicile should be reviewed regularly and we are experienced in assisting with domicile statements as appropriate. For more information on non-dom tax matters visit here. Menzies LLP

Let the fog clear in 2024 On 22 February 2021, Russia invaded Ukraine. It wasn’t a surprise to western powers as intelligence had seen the massing of troops, but it was too late to do much to prevent it. Go back 7 years. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea. The west recoiled. But pretty much sat on its hands. When that was the time to anticipate the future and communicate – in varying ways – and plan. Now to today. To October 7, when Russian backed Iran sponsored Hamas guerrillas helped Russia open another front in the battle for Ukraine. Back in February 2021, the west – as indeed were many others – were hard pressed to envisage Russia’s range of tactical actions should their invasion of Ukraine fail or appear to be failing.

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Yet this is exactly what this action is, tactical. Yes, it all requires foresight, when as the cliché goes ‘hindsight is of course better than 20/20 vision’. But isn’t this what any successful outcome hangs on? We can be lucky of course, and sometimes we are, but what brings companies down, what keeps us awake at night, what causes problems and stress, and worry is when we feel woefully out of touch and control. Let 2024 be a year when your feelings about your business switch to another gear. Better planning, better risk management and all in areas you’ve not yet considered. After all it’s a strange world out there and it all – in some way or another – touches you

and your business and will continue to do so. This is what we help companies do. Plan, anticipate, investigate, and prepare. www.8020consultancy.com

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Introducing our new Client Relationship Managers As a result of our continued success and recent merger with Energy Connection Services, our business continues to grow and we are pleased to introduce two new additions to the Control Energy Costs’ family. We are happy to welcome Client Relationship Managers, Nigel AddisonEvans and John Loizou, who will be further strengthening our client and partner development activity across the country. Nigel joins us from a supplier and consultancy background, helping both private and public sector clients to manage their energy and reduce their carbon footprint for nearly 20 years. He provides support and guidance to clients on carbon reduction strategies, compliance, renewables, fixed and flexible procurement for power, gas and water, as well as billing queries, siteworks and metering.

John has over 20 years’ experience in business development and account management, building long-term customer relationships and strategic partnerships. Over the years, he has built an impressive portfolio of key clients and national, blue chip organisations. With a wealth of expertise behind them, we are excited to have them onboard and look forward to the relationship they will continue to build with our clients.

The expansion of our team and merger with Energy Connection Services has also brought an unrivalled expansion to the services we are able to provide to our clients, covering every aspect, with the expertise to assist you at every step of the energy journey, from beginning to end. If you have any questions, please contact nigel.addison-evans@cec.uk.com or john.loizou@cec.uk.com

How video testimonials can boost your brand Are you looking for ways to increase your reach and get more customers? If so, have you considered the power of video content? By creating compelling videos combined with an effective strategy you can effectively engage with potential customers, drive leads and boost sales. With over 83% of video marketers saying that video helps them generate leads and with an audience that spends 19 hours, on average, a week watching videos online*, embracing video for business growth strategies makes

sense to help maximise your company presence online. From YouTube shorts to social media reels or taking advantage of livestreaming, these are all great ways to connect more effectively with potential customers. But where do you start with knowing what content to create? One tactic coming to the fore is video testimonials, which are known to engage extremely well and help to increase brand awareness. Video testimonials are powerful because they help build trust with prospects and customers alike. Viewers expect you to say great things about your own business, but when you see and hear another person’s positive experience, it feels more genuine than an advert or social post. Potential clients are clearly more likely to trust the opinions and experiences of their peers than to solely trust what a business says

about itself. Getting testimonials on your website, shared on social or embedded within email is key in helping attract more people to take interest in what your company has to offer. They are a great marketing tool as they can be edited and repurposed for multiple campaigns. They can also be used on third-party websites, or you can add to your Google My Business page, not only capturing the attention of your target audience, but improving your company’s reputation and visibility online whilst boosting brand awareness. If you need support in creating your video testimonials, chat with Smart Cow Marketing. www.smartcowmarketing.com/videotestimonials *Source: Hubspot

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gdb Re-Energise Conference 2024

We’re thrilled to invite you and your guests to join us at Stanhill Court Hotel for a morning filled with infectious motivation and powerful positive messages from our guest speakers. THURSDAY

18 JANUARY 2024

TIMINGS

STANHILL COURT HOTEL

08:30-14:30

STAN HILL. HORLEY, RH6 0EP

BOOK NOW

EARLY BIRD

£65+VAT INDIVIDUAL TICKET £300+VAT TABLE OF 6

EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFER RUNNING UNTIL THE 1ST DECEMBER - DON’T MISS OUT

Diamond Alumni VIP Lunch 2023 Wednesday 4th October saw over 100 previous Gatwick Diamond Business Award winners, sponsors, and partners at the Sofitel London Gatwick Hotel for our third annual Diamond Alumni VIP Lunch. The afternoon kicked off with a drinks reception followed by a delicious three-course lunch, after dinner speaker and the launch of the 2024 Awards, compered expertly by Steve Bustin of Get Your Voice Heard.

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Our guest speaker Matt Garman (The Corporate Adventurer) blew us all away with his recap of “The Toughest Row in the World”. It was inspiring to hear the highs, lows and lessons learnt from his challenging 49-day row across the Atlantic Ocean where his team raised over £100,000 for charity – incredible! Reflecting on the event, one attendee said, “An excellent launch for GDBA 2024, great opportunity to network with so many representatives of fellow gdb members, a hearty lunch and an inspiring after-dinner presentation”. We want to say a big thank you to our event partners: Creative Pod, Benchmark Reprographics, Arora Hotels and Avensys. We couldn’t bring you this event without the support of our fantastic sponsors – Richard Place Dobson (Headline) and BritWeb, Cleankill Pest Control, Imaginarium Learning and

Development, The Gatwick Diamond Initiative, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, Scaramanga Agency and Vazon Technology (Joint Event Sponsors). It was great to see so many of you there celebrating with us and we hope we can look forward to receiving your award entries in the coming weeks! www.gatwickdiamondbusinessawards.com

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Award win for UK Growth Coach: Best SME Management Consultancy in Sussex We are delighted to be able to share the exciting news with you that UK Growth Coach has just won the Best

SME Management Consultancy in Sussex at the Management Consulting Awards run by Wealth & Finance International! These awards strive to celebrate and commemorate leading experts in the consulting industry who have become so vital to the operation of modern businesses. The winners of the award must meet criteria or will display qualities that resound with current trends and expectations apparent in the Consulting industry set by the judging panel. Tim Rylatt: “We are thrilled to be recognised as Best SME Management Consultancy. As a company we take pride in helping SMEs to close the gap between their potential and real-world and real-world results. Business owners’ satisfaction, stress and happiness levels are closely linked to the performance

of their business, so we focus on the personal and professional ambitions of owners. This award is a testament to not only the quality and commitment of our business coaches, but also to our clients throughout the Gatwick Diamond area.” “Working with local businesses for over 15 years UK Growth Coach, have provided education, guidance, support, and accountability but the actions and responsibility lie with those we coach – the business owners. This award is therefore as much an accolade to the success and results of small and medium-sized business owners across Sussex, as to ourselves.” Please do get in touch with us if you need any further information on how we can help your business. tr.growthcoach.co.uk

Matthew Tyson, CEO at Richard Place Dobson Raises £1,850 for Local Foodbank Partnerships Through Thames Half Marathon Swim In a remarkable display of community spirit and commitment to making a positive impact, Matthew Tyson, the Managing Director of Richard Place Dobson accountancy firm, has successfully raised £1,850 for the Crawley and East Grinstead Foodbank Partnerships. This impressive feat was accomplished through a challenging half marathon swim in the Thames, drawing attention to the pressing issue of food insecurity faced by families in the Crawley and East Grinstead area. The funds raised by Matthew's challenge will provide essential food packages for families in need. These contributions will serve as a lifeline to those struggling with the increasing hardships brought about by recent times. The Crawley and East Grinstead Foodbank Partnerships have been tirelessly working to address the surge in demand for their services, driven by

the cost of living crisis. When asked about his motivation behind embarking on this ambitious swim, Matthew humbly shared, "The last couple of years have seen so many people badly affected that the dependency on foodbanks has greatly increased. As a business, giving back to the community is a huge part of our ethos and it’s so important for RPD and the Foundation to help raise awareness and support for the increasing number of less fortunate people." Richard Place Dobson and their sister charity, RPD Foundation, are both respected presences in the business community, and have always placed a strong emphasis on corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Matthew Tyson's inspiring initiative reflects the company's commitment to making a meaningful difference where it

matters the most. We are incredibly proud of Matthew's achievement in order to raise money for this cause. To learn more about RPD and what they do in the community, visit their website www.placedobson.co.uk/rpd-in-thecommunity.

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Your Voyage to Success I’ve just published a book “Your Voyage to Success: How to Ride the Crest of a Wave and reach your full Potential in Life and Work” on Amazon. As an empowerment coach, I’ve seen so much suffering when

people aren’t getting to where they want to be. It can be so frustrating when you don’t feel good enough, you’re stuck in a rut or in a past version of yourself. As a child I loved reading and writing, and I knew one day I would write my own solo book. I collaborated in two other books which went to No 1 and earlier this year sat down and penned my very own ‘version of success’. It was a very proud moment for me! I was an HR consultant for many years. Whilst working internationally and in the UK, I witnessed many toxic cultures. Leaders didn’t know how to inspire others and many colleagues were scared to speak up for fear of losing their jobs. Since then, I’ve coached many people who are paddling upstream, trying to balance

multiple priorities. In my own life I’ve had to overcome a difficult childhood and suffered burnout from working too hard. I battled to overcome limiting beliefs until I had intensive coaching myself and then studied coaching at Masters level. I now work on my own mindset every single day in order to become the best version of myself. ‘Your Voyage to Success’ covers mindset, self-sabotaging habits, selfleadership. Empathy, communication, work-life balance, goal-setting and empowerment amongst many other topics. I was so pleased when it reached no 1 on the Amazon charts and my wish is that it helps many others. For a link to the book click here. crestcoachingandhr.com

Menzies LLP is a full service accountancy firm delivering the complete range of accounting and tax compliance services, combined with strategic commercial thinking. We are headquartered out of London with regional offices in Surrey, Hampshire, Hertfordshire and Cardiff with a global reach through our HLB network.

FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS! You can find out more about Menzies on our website, menzies.co.uk. Or, get in touch with our local Leatherhead office:

DAVID CROWE

Accounts & Advisory Director dcrowe@menzies.co.uk

Diamond Magazine

The Newman Virtual Showroom Experience

The advent of augmented reality is a real game changer in some industries. It can help organisations to reach out to potential customers who might be too time-poor and unable to take time away from their business to make business meetings or visit showrooms for demonstrations. As buyers needs and tastes change it's important to

use the latest in tech advancements. The Sharp virtual showroom has been a welcome addition to the Newman portfolio. It’s an immersive and interactive environment designed for people to explore Newman’s Portfolio remotely. People can view the virtual showroom at their own pace. This experience enables the audience to browse and explore office technology anytime and anywhere. virtualshowroom.sharp.co.uk/ newman-business-solutions/ Access to the showroom can be via phone, laptop, interactive display screen or any device with internet and browser connectivity. Try it for yourself… it's pretty cool! How do I use Augmented Reality? Load the AR link (QR Code) on a

mobile device. Move your camera around to calibrate your device. Place the to-scale product in your environment and adjust as you like.

Of course, Newman still has a physical showroom too. The Newman team is always happy to arrange to meet in person to demonstrate the whole suite of workplace technologies. newmanbs.co.uk

Flagship Business Growth Fund supports the first business to commercialise new green solutions The first business has been awarded a grant from Crawley Borough Council’s flagship Greentech Business Growth Fund (GBGF), part of the Towns Fund Programme. The successful business will use the grant funding to further commercialise and scale up production of their existing green technology products, supporting decarbonisation efforts for businesses and homes in Crawley and across the UK. The council launched the GBGF earlier this year as part of its wider commitments to support local small business opportunities linked to the net zero carbon transition. Grants are available in three tiers – up to £10,000 in grant support to support start-up businesses and ventures, up to £50,000 grant support to help small businesses further mature greentech solutions and up to £175,000 matchfunded investment grants for the necessary investments required

to support commercialisation of greentech solutions at scale. The GBGF has a total investment value of £900,000 with multiple grant rounds running until the expected final allocation of funding in April 2024. It is open to all green-tech small businesses based in Crawley or those moving to Crawley and is being managed by Carbon Limiting Technologies, specialist advisors who have supported climate tech innovators across the UK since 2003. Councillor Bob Noyce, Cabinet member for Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change, said: “We are proud to demonstrate our continued commitment to achieving net zero climate targets through ensuring that Crawley businesses have the resources they need to develop the solutions we need as a community to make the transition to a greener, fairer society.”

Councillor Atif Nawaz, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development, said: “This first grant award is a significant milestone demonstrating what can be achieved at a borough level to support the growth of a local, greentech economy.” For more information on the grant scheme and eligibility criteria visit crawley.gov.uk/greentech

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Flight disruptions have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, affecting both airlines and passengers. Recognising these challenges, CMAC felt it imperative to carry out new research to assist carriers in identifying and understanding passenger pain points, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate dissatisfaction. This research aims to assist carriers in more effectively identifying and understanding passenger pain points, enabling them to take proactive measures to mitigate dissatisfaction. Our white paper explores: • The frequency and nature of disruptions

• How airlines typically respond to disruptions • Passenger sentiments and the lasting impact on brand reputation • Essential steps to creating better passenger experiences during disruptions. Click here to download the white paper. CMAC Group is a leader in managing flight disruption for airlines. We have a track record of innovation and excellence, successfully creating a more connected passenger experience during disruption. This has played a pivotal role in helping airlines protect their brand and reputation. CMAC is dedicated to breaking down the complexity of disruption

management and streamlining processes, delivering a fuss-free and reliable single-source ground transport and accommodation solution. We help airline clients deliver the best possible passenger experience, no matter the situation. If you would like to discuss your unique requirements, we encourage you to get in touch with CMAC’s Partnership Management Team at hello@cmacgroup.com Thank you for considering CMAC as your trusted ground transport and accommodation partner. We look forward to discussing how we can help keep your business moving. www.cmacgroup.com

Businesses: your county’s future workforce needs you! In August, the government announced that Upper Tier Local Authorities will take on all the formal functions held by Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) since 2011. For businesses, this will result in some practical changes and inherent opportunities. It means from 1 April 2024, Surrey County Council will have responsibility for business representation, strategic economic planning, and delivering government programmes relating to the regional economy across the whole county. This includes the Growth Hub and the Careers Hub services. Previously these responsibilities sat with two LEPs – Coast to Capital, which worked in east Surrey; and Enterprise M3, which worked in the west of the county. We are confident the bringing together of services will deliver improved economic outcomes on a Surrey footprint. We are building on strong

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foundations - and committed to a swift and efficient transition as we know that is what business needs. We will also ensure the voice of local business continues to be heard in economic decision making. The first part of this process is already underway with Surrey Careers Hub having gone live in September. The team has started work with the county’s secondary schools and colleges with the aim of ensuring every young person can find their best next step. As businesses, you can get involved by offering workplace encounters, support schools directly as an Enterprise Advisor, or strategically guide the work as a Cornerstone Employer. We know that businesses need a strong and agile workforce to thrive and grow. Working together with Careers Hubs and aligned to our wider economic interests we can support our businesses to secure the

workforce of the future. Can you support the work of Surrey Careers Hub? Email Careers.Hub@surreycc.gov.uk for further information.

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Digital Transformation's Driving Force: The Role of Specialist IT Recruiters The demand for top-tier IT talent is notably high in today's ever-changing digital landscape. Companies aiming to stay competitive must embrace digital transformation and require skilled IT professionals to do this. Salesforce recruiter Travis Powell observes: 'The market has been a little quiet from a Digital transformation perspective from my personal view. I have noticed many Digital transformation directors, CTOs, and Programme Directors open to work. Which demonstrates the shift in the market at the moment.' With innovations like AI and accessible programs like ChatGPT, companies must adapt to remain competitive. The global digital transformation market is expected to experience substantial growth, from $2.27 trillion in 2023 to an impressive $8.92 trillion by 2030. Following the lead of companies such as Oracle,

SAP, and Salesforce, organisations require the right IT talent to harness the full potential of these technologies and successfully execute digital transformations. Specialist recruiters are vital in this changing market, providing a service beyond the traditional hiring process. They specialise in identifying, engaging, and securing highly qualified IT professionals with the skills and experience necessary to drive digital transformation initiatives. These recruiters possess an extensive network and a deep understanding of the IT landscape, enabling them to match companies with the right talent efficiently. Collaborating with a specialist IT recruiter simplifies the hiring process and ensures that companies have access to a talent pool that aligns with their specific needs and objectives. It is a strategic investment that can

significantly impact the success of digital transformation projects. In conclusion, as the digital transformation market expands, the demand for specialised IT talent becomes increasingly significant. Companies should consider partnering with experienced IT recruiters to remain competitive in this evolving landscape. To gain a competitive edge in the IT talent race, reach out to the Ellis Recruitment Group team at contact@ellisgroup.com

Workplace AI: What’s Changed? Artificial Intelligence has reached a tipping point over the past year. In one of the Knowledge Hub sessions we have held at Sussex Innovation this summer, we heard from AI consultant Graeme Cox what’s changed, and what’s coming next. The important thing to realise, as Graeme told us, is that the definition of AI is constantly shifting. A decade ago, applications that are now commonplace - such as automation

tools, predictive analytics and personalised marketing – were considered the forefront of AI. In the past year, we have rapidly moved from machine learning simply recognising patterns, to generating recognisable text and images from prompts. Mass-market consumer software ranging from Microsoft Office, to Google Analytics, to Adobe Creative Suite are now being upgraded with in-built AI tools to speed up workflows and reduce repetitive manual tasks. The next generation of AI tools are predicted to take the technology much further, into every corner of our working lives. More advanced automation tools are already beginning to be capable of making autonomous decisions and recommendations, carrying out more complex tasks without requiring human time and skill to build from the

ground up. Improvements to Natural Language Processing are helping machines to understand much more complex queries and requests, and respond in more human-sounding language. These are the two major shifts that will start to make AI a much more practical productivity tool. If introduced smartly, the major benefit of workplace AI will be the technology’s ability to reduce administrative burden on employees, freeing their time to focus on more meaningful and fulfilling work. However, AI solutions also present a risk of negatively impacting on wellbeing and job satisfaction. Their implementation must be carefully managed to mitigate that risk. Written by Joseph Bradfield info@sinc.co.uk www.sussexinnovation.co.uk

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From Kitchen Garden to Kitchen…

Nestled within the 35 acres of stunning gardens, is our renowned kitchen garden. Situated at the top of a hill, the 1.5 acres of south facing ground is sheltered from the elements by a 12-foot-high wall and provides an optimum environment for the produce grown there, to thrive.

Everything that we grow in the kitchen garden is used by our Chef, and we are proud of the delicious, fresh dishes that we are able to produce, as a result. The other important crop that we grow are cut flowers, enabling our talented Floristry team to create the beautiful displays that can be seen throughout the Manor. The walls of the kitchen garden are built from local Sussex sandstone and took three years to complete from initial construction in 1898. Walled gardens such as these were commonplace when William Robinson resided at the Manor, producing food for the community, however, disappointingly, very few remain which is why we are extremely proud that we have been able to restore the

From kitchen garden straight to the kitchen, our chef will create innovative and enticing dishes for our guests to enjoy kitchen garden to its formal glory. In-keeping with William Robinson’s vision, many of our methods are as they were 100 years ago, which just adds to the magic of Gravetye. With the festive season edging ever closer, we are currently cropping a plentiful supply of vegetables in preparation, including parsnips, cabbage, kale, swede and sprouts, to name but a few. In fact, last year we produced almost 40

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kilos of sprouts! From kitchen garden straight to the kitchen, our chef will create innovative and enticing dishes for our guests to enjoy when dining with us. If you would be interested in visiting our kitchen garden and beautiful flower garden, join a senior member of our gardening team for a guided tour of the historic gardens at Gravetye from April until October. Garden tours are available when combined with a lunch reservation or as a resident of the hotel. In the coming months, however, please join us for lunch or dinner with business colleagues or loved ones, to celebrate the festive season and let yourself be enchanted by this beautiful Elizabethan Manor. For further information, please contact Emma Peplow, Events Coordinator. events@gravetyemanor.co.uk 01342 810567 www.gravetyemanor.co.uk

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Why do we procrastinate?

Procrastination occurs when we lack motivation and/or agency. Motivation is about the purpose and reward. For what reason or benefit does the action need to be completed? What will be different and better as a result of this action being completed? If we are not clear on our “why” we won’t take action. Agency is about having the belief and the tools to take action. Belief is about our self-belief, the confidence, know-

how and innate ability to get that action done. Having agency also includes having access to tools, resources and support (these could include actual tools, but also things like time, energy, financial means, support from family and friends) that practically help us to take action. Agency is about empowerment and action. The opposite of having agency is inertia and paralysis which stem from fear: fear of failure, fear of doing the wrong thing (not meeting someone else’s expectation) and even fear of success.

root of why you are not taking action: • Why/for what purpose am I doing this task? • What will be the outcome when I have achieved this task? • Why do I want X outcome? • What does [success/X outcome] look like? • How will I feel when I achieve X outcome? • How am I feeling now? • How do I want to feel? • What tools do I already have (skills, resources, knowledge, innate ability, access to other support, friends and family etc.) that will help me? • What else do I need to achieve X outcome/and how can I get it/them?

To overcome procrastination, we must look at both our motivation and our sense of agency. So if you are experiencing procrastination, try asking yourself these questions to get to the

victoria@integrityperformanceconsult ancy.co.uk integrityperformanceconsultancy. co.uk/contact

SASH Charity are excited to announce the launch of its first lottery 50% of every ticket sale will go towards supporting patients, families and staff across Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. How to sign up? Purchase your tickets via www.sashcharity.org/lottery Win prizes and transform lives! Not only could you win up to £25,000, but you will also have a chance to support our initiatives. Three ways joining the lottery will make a difference:

Supporting families and visitors: Families and visitors play a crucial role in a patient’s recovery. The lottery will help us to continue to create welcoming spaces, such as the transformed family room in our neonatal unit or our outdoor seating areas.

well-being in between busy shifts, such as providing shoulder and foot massagers to the Intensive Care Unit or supporting professional growth through reverse mentoring schemes. We couldn’t do these things without you – thank you.

Empowering our staff: Your involvement allows us to nurture their

www.sashcharity.org

Patient care: Lottery proceeds will go towards more projects in which we can go above and beyond and create moments of pure joy; such as weddings in a box for those who wish to get married, but are unable to leave the hospital during their recovery or live music for those with dementia.

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The 2024 Sussex Tech Week This major new event will take place at the Brighton Dome on June 3rd - 5th 2024. A first for the region, the event will attract over 2000 digital and tech companies per day in this first event of a five-year plan to harness the power of our incredible tech companies with an aim of bringing the sector together, for the benefit of all. The tech sector in Sussex is valued at £1 billion and this five-year plan will increase that to £5 billion by year three.

There is no UK sector not heavily reliant on technology and that reliance is increasing enormously every year and the Sussex Tech Week has arrived to consolidate, organise and support every tech firm in Sussex. Wired Sussex is a not-forprofit organisation and is the voice of the Tech, Digital and Media sectors across Sussex, along with the Brighton Fuse Box, a collaborative R&D space supporting digital entrepreneurs, tech visionaries and creative technologists with bold ideas. The Dome Concert Hall will be running the main stage with events, speeches, discussion panels, new product launches, government strategy sessions and much more, the beautifully restored Corn Exchange will house a major exhibition featuring

national and international companies, the Founders Room will be home to the Tech Angel Investment Network with over £10 million of investment funds available, and the Studio Theatre will be running the second stage. Sussex Tech Week is a partnership between Wired Sussex, Platinum Media Group, the Brighton Dome and the Digital Catapult with many more partners to be announced on December 1st. A range of exciting sponsorship, support and exhibition packages are available and for more information, please contact INFO@PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK to be involved in the most exciting tech and digital event ever to take place in Sussex.

business needs to be established for more than 2 years, trading and have recovery and growth potential. You can also access Growth Champions network of expert consultants across all fields. We can fully fund a day of specialist support from this network. Following a diagnostic review our Business Account Managers will be able to facilitate an introduction to an appropriate Growth Champion to meet your needs who will: • Identify obstacles • Set priorities • Create strategies & tactics for growth

• Signpost to relevant, local initiatives & organisations for support Let your contacts know so they can access the Government money that has been allocated to the Region. To register for funded business support, advice and guidance please ask them to register at www.c2cbusiness.org.uk/contact-us and then one of the team will be in touch. We’d be happy to discuss further and we look forward to working with you. jeremy.taylor@c2cbusiness.org.uk malcolm.brabon@c2cbusiness.org.uk

Funded business support As you may be aware, funding for the Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership will cease in March 2024. But the Growth Hub & Growth Champion services are still available & free of charge for qualifying businesses throughout the Gatwick Diamond, providing business advice, support and strategic leadership to help small and medium sized enterprises drive sustainable business success. Malcolm Brabon & Jeremy Taylor have recently been appointed as Interim Business Account Managers and, along with the rest of the Growth Hub Team and the Growth Champions, they would welcome the opportunity to help gdb members with their growth ambitions. We can help by identifying barriers to your growth and direct you to solutions from the very wide range of support available including funding, support programmes or specialists. To benefit from this funding the

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Enabling Independent Living At Home Kingsway Care were overwhelmed to be crowned ‘Business of the Year’ (up to £1million) at the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2023. So who are we and what do we do? Kingsway Care is the number one home care provider across coastal Sussex, offering a full range of Home Care services to enable our older

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and/or disabled clients to remain independent at home. Whether they need temporary or long-term care, we can support them to maintain their independence from age 18+ to 100 years old and beyond! Transforming Clients’ Lives Every Day: We have a proven track record of transforming Clients’ lives. For example, with Louis, our 21-year-old Paralympian Client, Kingsway Care support him to enjoy his independence while studying at Sussex University. By consolidating all his care needs into a two-hour daily visit, he feels freer and more independent without a live-in carer "cramping his style". We have loved witnessing Louis’s confidence and independence soar! The Kingsway Care Personal Touch: One of our CareGivers mentioned a long-time Client didn’t have any Christmas decorations. Our founder, Olly, is a huge fan of

Christmas, so he personally delivered and decorated a Christmas tree for June. Furthermore, we organised a private concert with our ‘Care Sectors Got Talent’ finalist, Jonathan, performing Christmas tunes in her living room. Sadly, June recently passed away but her team of ‘Yellow Angels’ CareGivers were proud to be the pallbearers on her final journey. Leaders in the Care Sector: We look beyond Kingsway Care and regularly speak out on the importance of respecting the invaluable work carers perform, as well as the need to professionalise the home care sector, making it an attractive career of choice. A well-paid, respected care workforce is essential for the benefit of everyone, as we’ve witnessed nearly everyone will need care for themselves or a loved one. And who wouldn’t want their care to be first class? www.kingswaycare.com

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Multi-Award-Winning Marketing Agency, Creative Pod Acquires Local Design Agency in Brighton & Hove, 2 Up Front

Creative Pod, an award-winning, fullservice marketing agency renowned for its innovative approach and numerous industry accolades in the

Southeast, is thrilled to announce its recent acquisition of 2 Up Front, a 15-year-old, highly-regarded local design agency in Hove. With this strategic move, Creative Pod has acquired 2 Up Front, taking on their clientele, and has seen the addition of two talented professionals to their growing team. Ian Highland is joining Creative Pod as a Senior Designer, and Megan Godber as an Account Manager. Matt Turner, the CEO of Creative Pod, said: “This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Creative Pod's journey. In the last couple of years, we have progressed from being a small sized agency, to a medium sized one, and with this we have seen continued growth, and commitment from the team in delivering Michelin-star marketing solutions to our clients in the Southeast and beyond.”

2 Up Front primarily focuses on providing digital design, print, and branding and over 15 years, they have built a loyal client base. As part of this merger, Creative Pod will offer an even more comprehensive range of services, covering all aspects of branding, design, marketing and strategy, all under one roof, and all for a fixed monthly fee. Nick York, Founder and CEO 2 Up Front, said: It’s been an absolute pleasure getting this deal over the line with Matt. I honestly don’t think I could have found a better and more suitable agency to look after my staff and clients, allowing me to enjoy pastures new. Thank you!”. If you would like to work with Creative Pod and find out more about their services, please visit their website and get in touch www.creativepod.uk.com

MHA VAT Team Lands in Gatwick MHA is new to Gatwick, having opened a new office at the start of 2023, but we are by no means new to helping businesses deal with the problems that VAT throws at them. I am a VAT specialist with over 30 years’ experience advising businesses on their VAT obligations. I have a team of 8 VAT specialists in Kent Gatwick region and we are part of MHA’s national VAT and customs duty practice which comprises more than 20 specialists. We want to help businesses in Sussex and Surrey avoid nasty VAT surprises. For many businesses, VAT doesn’t present too much of a problem. VAT is charged on sales at 20% and VAT incurred on costs is recovered. Simples! However, for some businesses VAT is very difficult indeed. For example, tour operators use what’s called the Tour Operators’ Margin Scheme (or TOMS for short) to calculate how much

VAT they owe, and the scheme is not easy to operate. Financial services and insurance sector businesses also struggle to get their VAT right because although they don’t charge VAT, they cannot claim VAT on their costs. VAT isn’t so easy for construction businesses who have to deal with deciding if they need to charge VAT on a project or not. If they get it wrong HMRC will probably make them pay penalties. Don’t worry though because we can help you. We advise businesses in all sectors from electronics to entertainment and hotels to healthcare. We can help if you have a dispute with HMRC, if you are having trouble importing goods into the UK or if you don’t know whether you should charge VAT on your supplies. Please contact us. We’d be happy to talk through any VAT issues you have. Contact:

Sue Rathmell sue.rathmell@mha.co.uk www.mha.co.uk

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IT’S MORE THAN JUST A FLIGHT #BuildingBusinessConnections

IN DELTA’S PREMIUM CABINS. Thoughtful details and special touches make every trip memorable.

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FIND NEW WAYS TO TRAVEL WELL . Delta is proud to offer a variety of signature products and experiences unlike

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anything else in the sky.

DELTA ONE®: LUXURY AT A HIGHER ALTITUDE • Individual aisle access, spacious 180-degree flat-bed seat with luxury in-flight bedding and individual aisle access • Larger entertainment screen, noise cancelling headset, Someone Somewhere handcrafted amenity kits • Premium lounge or Delta Sky Club® access and Sky Priority® airport experience1

DELTA PREMIUM SELECT: A SUPERIOR CABIN • Separate cabin featuring wider seats with additional legroom and recline, adjustable leg and footrests2 • Elevated dining experience and dedicated service touchpoints • High-resolution, larger seat-back screen with noise-reducing headset and Someone Somewhere handcrafted amenity kits • Sky Priority check-in, security and expedited baggage handling

DELTA COMFORT+®: IT’S SIMPLE, PLUS MEANS MORE • More legroom and recline2, seat at the front of Main Cabin • Dedicated overhead storage for carry-on items • Complimentary headset and amenity kit with eyeshade, ear plugs, toothpaste and toothbrush2 • Freshly prepared and locally inspired cuisine, snacks and complimentary alcoholic3 and soft beverages

DELTA MAIN CABIN: A HIGHER STANDARD • Greater flexibility, seat selection in advance or upgrades to a premium cabin • Individual entertainment screen, in-seat power, free mobile messaging4 and complimentary sleep kit • Complimentary meals, snacks and alcoholic3 and non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages

FREE MOBILE MESSAGING4

AVAILABLE WI-FI5

1 Sky Priority services include: dedicated check in, expedited security and baggage handling. Delta Sky Club or partner’s lounges: all Delta Sky Club rules apply to Delta Sky Club. To review the rules, please visit delta.com/skyclub. 2 On long-haul international flights. Seat configurations may vary depending on aircraft type and size. 3 Alcoholic beverages 21+ old, drink responsibly. 4 Available via iMessage, WhatsApp & Facebook Messenger; text and emojis only. 5 Wi-Fi is available at a fee, availability may vary depending on aircraft type. All information correct at time of publishing/printing. © 2023 Delta Air Lines, Inc. EMEAI/SC 10/23.

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Owning land as an investment subsidies are paid and made available to farmers and landowners. Many such schemes now focus on maintaining and increasing the environmental output of the land, whether through management of existing or creation of new habitats. The (albeit delayed) introduction of Biodiversity Net Gain to planning requirements adds further opportunities for landowners. Land has generally always been seen as a good investment, but have you ever stopped to wonder why and what headline benefits owning your own small (or large) part of South East England might bring? Income streams Following Brexit, swathing changes have been introduced to the way that

Succession planning Consideration should always be given to the next generation, and it is always sensible to ensure that your Will is up to date. Owning farmland adds another element to this as qualifying farmland can receive complete 100% relief from Inheritance Tax. There are a number of requirements to comply with to benefit from the relief and suitable tax advice should always be taken.

Development General Permitted Development exists to make certain types of development quicker and easier. One such option which is used frequently in respect of certain agricultural buildings is Class Q which enables development from agriculture to a residential dwelling. As with all points in this article, planning advice should be sought at an early stage before any works are carried out to ensure compliance with all requirements. There are many more benefits to owning land than the word limit of this article permits. As Jeremy Clarkson has said in relation to the purchase of Diddly Squat, “nobody’s making more land, so its as well to buy it” and once you have you can be truly outstanding in your field. www.birketts.co.uk

Time to get more personal Personalised marketing is a strategy used to create tailored content based on visitor data, including buying habits, needs, likes, dislikes and personal information. This data is then used to deliver content that is personal to that particular audience. Essentially, it’s all about delivering the right message to the right audience. In today's highly competitive landscape, companies can gain an advantage from applying personalisation to their marketing: • Enhances customer engagement • Improves customer loyalty • Higher conversion rates • Reduced unsubscribes • Valuable data insights Customers don’t just want personalisation, they demand it. 71% expect some form of personalised interaction and if this doesn’t happen, 76% are left feeling frustrated. So, how do you personalise your

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marketing? Start with data Collect as much information as possible on customer demographics, purchase history, website behaviour, and engagement metrics to develop detailed buyer personas, a topic we explored in a previous article. Note: Always prioritise data privacy and consent. Segmentation Segment your customer base based on common characteristics or behaviours, allowing you to create more targeted marketing campaigns.

platforms to deliver personalised messages at the right time and through the most appropriate channels.

Customised messaging Tailor your content and marketing messages to each segment by creating personalised product recommendations, email subject lines, or website content.

Key takeaway Personalisation is about making meaningful connections with consumers – a one-size-fits-all strategy isn’t good enough. It is fundamental to driving sales, boosting engagement, improving customer loyalty and overall business success.

Automation Leverage marketing automation

Read the full article at: scaramanga.agency/insights

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Celebrate in the heart of the Ashdown Forest this Christmas As the enchanting festive season draws near, a magical transformation graces Ashdown Park Hotel. Just as the winter's gentle chill weaves its way through the landscape, our beloved hotel transforms into a warm and captivating haven, setting the stage for a Christmas experience beyond compare.

Nestled amidst the picturesque East Sussex countryside, Ashdown Park Hotel boasts a rich history that traces its origins back to the 19th century. Initially constructed as a family home, our resplendent mansion has remained a cherished part of the local community for generations. Over the years, it has evolved into a luxurious country estate, renowned for its unwavering commitment to hospitality, timeless elegance, and the creation of indelible memories. Each passing year brings forth a wondrous spectacle as the holiday season approaches. Halls are festooned with the vibrant boughs of holly, and the alluring fragrance of freshly baked gingerbread dances through the air. Glistening lights bedeck the magnificent Christmas tree in our lobby, casting an inviting glow that beckons guests with open arms. It's a scene plucked from the pages of a storybook, a place where holiday dreams come alive.

But our dedication to crafting a festive wonderland transcends mere decorations. Our team of gifted chefs toil tirelessly to conjure a sumptuous Christmas feast that is sure to tantalise your taste buds. From the traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings to decadent desserts that could even make Santa's mouth water, every bite is a jubilant celebration of the season. Yet it is not solely about the culinary delights and the resplendent decor. At Ashdown Park Hotel, we hold a deep belief in the power of community, and during the holiday season, we labour to nurture a sense of togetherness. Be serenaded by carolers as you sip mulled wine by the roaring

fire, or partake in our festive events that unite families, friends, and even strangers in a tapestry of warmth and camaraderie that permeates every nook and cranny of our establishment. Here at Ashdown Park Hotel, our mission revolves around crafting cherished holiday memories. Our dedicated team stands ready to transform your Christmas and New Year's into an enchanting tapestry of magic, be it a family reunion, a romantic escapade, or a vivacious celebration with friends. Don't miss the opportunity to encounter the majestic deer that roam our sprawling 186-acre estate or embark on a brisk winter stroll through our idyllic grounds. Join us for a season of unforgettable moments. As we prepare for the arrival of Christmas and New Year 2023, we cordially invite you to embark on a journey of enchantment and boundless joy with us. Whether you're planning a festive escape, a Christmas gala, or a romantic New Year's Eve soiree, Ashdown Park Hotel promises to elevate your holiday season to an extraordinary level of magic. Visit our website at www.ashdownpark.com to explore our Christmas and New Year offerings, or simply give us a call at 01342 824 988 to secure your stay. Come, be a part of the enchantment that is Ashdown Park Hotel this holiday season. We eagerly await your arrival, ready to embrace you with open arms and share the sheer joy of Christmas with you and your cherished loved ones.

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Small Business, Big Dreams: How Business Mentoring Ignites Growth As a SME business owner, you know that growing your business is no easy task. It takes hard work, dedication, and a lot of sweat and tears. But what if there was a way to make the process a little bit easier? Working with a Business Mentor will significantly ease the challenges of growing your SME business and increase the value of your business, quicker. Here are five ways business mentoring accelerates your business growth: 1. Develop your business and leadership skills: A mentor imparts essential skills - like strategy, marketing, sales, and finance – from their extensive business experience. They will develop your capability to better equip you for leading your team through the constant changes that you will encounter. 2. Provide guidance and emotional support: As a business owner, having someone who understands your

challenges is invaluable. A mentor – your “challenging friend” - provides guidance, support, and motivation to keep you focused on your goals, through the highs and the lows. 3. Identify and overcome obstacles: Everyone faces obstacles in business, and they can come in from any angle, at any time. A good mentor helps you to identify these obstacles in the road ahead and craft strategies to navigate or overcome them. 4. Network Expansion: A mentor facilitates connections with industry peers, enabling you to expand your network, acquire new customers, and gain insights from others. 5. Be your accountability partner: Staying on your course in business can be very challenging. Through regular reviews, a mentor helps you remain accountable and ensures you stick to your goals.

When you put this all together, a sustained mentorship relationship becomes a real game-changer for SME business owners. In fact, it’s one of the smartest moves that you can make if you are serious about growing your business. Contact me directly for a complimentary discussion to explore further how UKBM can help you drive your SME business forward. www.ukbusinessmentoring.co.uk/ business-mentors/steve-drake

Steve Drake

£1M Digital Skills Bootcamps to help transform job prospects across greater Brighton Adults aged 19 and over in Greater Brighton and the surrounding area can now access a new range of free Digital Skills Bootcamps. This flagship government scheme is aimed at giving people the opportunity to build indemand, sector specific skills to fasttrack them into new or higher skilled job roles with local employers. Creative Process, the leading digital skills training agency for Greater Brighton,

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has announced that the first phase of its Digital Skills Bootcamps, developed in collaboration with local employers, are now open for applications. The flexible, fully funded, classroombased training covers a range of essential digital marketing, analytics and content software skills which are in most demand by local businesses. These include the new Google Analytics 4 and Digital Marketing Fundamentals certification as well as providing training in industry standard Adobe Creative Cloud software Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator. The Digital Skills Bootcamps have been employer designed to fast-track people into new careers or help them to get ahead in their current career. The bootcamps are being delivered with funding secured from the Department for Education as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, helping

everyone gain skills for life. They are open to all adults over 19, whether they are in full time employment, self-employed, recently unemployed or returning to work after a break. Employers can also put forward employees to attend a Digital Skills Bootcamp to gain skills needed by the business. Digital Bootcamps Employer Partner Quote: ‘We're committed to giving residents in Brighton better employment prospects. One of the ways we can achieve this is to help potential candidates into new training opportunities. The programme will also ensure that the businesses have access to a skilled workforce. We're delighted to be a Digital Skills Bootcamps partner’ Brighton and Hove City Council To find out more visit: Digital Skills Bootcamps info@creativeprocessdigital.com

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Wild about Wellbeing Spending time in green space or bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing. Doing things like growing flowers in the office or a window box, exercising or walking outdoors during your break, or feeding and watching the birds, can have lots of positive effects. It can: • improve your mood • reduce feelings of stress or overwhelm • help you take time out and feel more relaxed • improve your physical health • improve your confidence and selfesteem • help you be more active • improve your productivity and creativity • help you meet and get to know new

people • connect you to your colleagues and local community • reduce loneliness • help you feel more connected to nature The Wildlife Trusts are delighted to introduce the "Wild about Wellbeing" podcast. Season 1 embarks on a transformative journey, delving into the theme of "Nature in Mind". The episodes touch on critical subjects such as eco-anxiety, offering valuable insights into mental health, and unveiling the captivating influence of the great outdoors. Whether you’re commuting, working from home or out on a run or walk, tune into the podcast and enhance your wellbeing. www.wildlifetrusts.org/podcasts

To find out more about how your company can connect with nature to help employee’s wellbeing contact louisecolbran@sussexwt.org.uk

Elevating Excellence: Brookvex IMS Leading the Charge in Diverse Sectors

In the ever-evolving landscape of electrical, mechanical, and renewable energy solutions, Brookvex IMS has emerged as a beacon of success, demonstrating unwavering capabilities across multiple sectors, including Rail, Facilities Management (FM), Education, Commercial, and Social Housing. With a proven track record of excellence, Brookvex IMS continues to set new industry standards by consistently delivering top-tier services tailored to

the unique needs of each sector. Railway Innovation: In the rail sector, where precision and reliability are paramount, Brookvex IMS excels. Their electrical and mechanical expertise ensures safe and efficient rail operations, from power distribution systems to cutting-edge communication solutions. FM Efficiency: Brookvex transforms buildings into efficient, sustainable spaces in Facilities Management. Their mechanical and electrical solutions optimize energy consumption, enhance comfort, and minimize operational costs, creating environments that thrive. Educational Excellence: Within the education sector, Brookvex IMS has earned accolades for its commitment to creating safe, energy-efficient, and technologically advanced learning spaces. Their electrical and mechanical innovations foster an optimal environment for students and educators alike. Commercial Brilliance: In the commercial sector, where efficiency and sustainability are essential, Brookvex IMS excels in designing and

implementing systems that reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and boost productivity, all while minimizing environmental impact. Social Housing Sustainability: In social housing, Brookvex IMS champions sustainability by implementing renewable energy solutions that reduce carbon footprints and improve the quality of life for residents. Brookvex IMS's multidisciplinary approach and dedication to innovation ensure that its services remain at the forefront of industry advancements. As the world seeks sustainable solutions and improved infrastructure, Brookvex IMS stands ready to provide cuttingedge electrical, mechanical, and renewable energy expertise to meet the evolving needs of Rail, FM, Education, Commercial, and Social Housing sectors. Their commitment to excellence, combined with a deep understanding of diverse sector requirements, places them at the forefront of industry leadership, helping to shape a brighter and more sustainable future for all. www.brookvex.com

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Cleankill wins national industry award

Cleankill Pest Control staff are celebrating after being named Large Company of the Year at the 2023 National Pest Awards. The Large Company of the Year award recognises excellence and professionalism in the field of pest control. It puts a particular emphasis on customer service, breadth of solutions and a real commitment to staff development and was open to any pest control company employing more than 20 technicians. Commenting on the award, Cleankill Managing Director Paul Bates said:

“Winning this award against such stellar competition is another real achievement for everyone at Cleankill. Some of the other finalists were much larger than us so it was a big surprise to win. “We’ve always put our commitment to professionalism, exemplary customer service, the environment and our communities before profit and so to have this recognised by fellow industry professionals is really brilliant. “We are always looking at better ways to do business and improve our services. A good example of this is our falconry

team. When we started it in 2017, under the watchful eye of Alan Day, we knew it would be a highly effective, sustainable solution to the problem of nuisance birds. “Unfortunately, Alan missed out in the Pest Controller of the Year category at the National Pest Awards this year. However, to be shortlisted is a real achievement and we are all immensely proud of his achievements.” The National Pest Awards are organised by Pest Magazine, in association with the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), National Pest Technicians Association (NPTA) and PROMPT Register. They recognise, celebrate and reward excellence and outstanding practice across the industry. Cleankill has a range of accreditations including: SafeContractor; Achilles Health and Safety, ConstructionLine; ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and Altius Elite Vendor status. For a free survey or cost comparison go to www.cleankill.co.uk

St Catherine’s new hospice at Pease Pottage St Catherine’s will be opening the doors of its brand-new hospice and offering tours of its new home at Pease Pottage, to proudly show the local community what their support has achieved, The impressive new £19.5 million facility, on Grace Holland Avenue in the heart of the Woodgate development, will be opening to patients at the start of December and has been solely funded through donations from St Catherine’s dedicated supporters. Everyone is invited to book on a tour, or attend an open day, to witness firsthand the larger, modern 24 bed hospice. With much more space, the charity will also be able to care for more people who need palliative and end of life support in the community. Tours of the hospice will be running midweek from Thursday 2 November to Friday 17 November, with two tours

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a day at 10am and 2pm. Each tour will be limited to 20 people each. On Saturday 18 November and Sunday 19 November the hospice will be holding open days from 10am-4pm where visitors can explore at their own pace. Places for the tours and the open days can be booked on St Catherine’s website: stch.org.uk/tours Chief Executive Giles Tomsett says: “For 40 years, St Catherine’s has proudly provided our outstanding care at our Malthouse Road hospice in Crawley. But demand is high and we need to reach more people who need us. Our incredible new home will ensure that we can help more local people who are facing the end of their lives. “This project has been 10 years in the making and we hope local residents from West Sussex and East Surrey will take this opportunity to come and

visit, free of charge, and witness this impressive building that stands as proof of what dedicated community support can achieve.” To book a tour of the new hospice visit: stch.org.uk/tours. The new hospice address is: St Catherine’s Hospice, Grace Holland Avenue, Pease Pottage, West Sussex, RH11 9SF.

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How the new Extech Cloud website can help empower your organisation Extech Cloud has unveiled a new website, designed to provide a user-friendly experience, reflecting its commitment to excellence in IT support and Microsoft Business Solutions. “This marks a significant step forward in our journey to empower organisations and their people, across Sussex, Surrey, and beyond, as a proud Microsoft Solutions Partner.” says Extech Cloud Managing Director, Andrew Hookway. Extech Cloud’s Solutions Partner status is recognition of its expertise and capabilities in delivering Microsoftbased solutions. It signifies that the organisation has met the rigorous standards and requirements set by Microsoft, showcasing proficiency in providing and managing its products and services. “Being a Microsoft Solutions Partner is not just about the badge – it's about the value we bring to our clients,”

Andrew adds. “We stand at the forefront of technology solutions, leveraging Microsoft's cutting-edge tools to revolutionise the way businesses in and around Sussex operate.” Extech Cloud helps to harness platforms including Office 365 and OneDrive to Azure and AI, to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and drive growth for its customers. As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, Extech Cloud stays ahead of the curve, so its clients always have access to the latest technological advancements. “We empower organisations and their people to achieve more. We value the relationships we build with our clients.” Andrew explains. “Our new website showcases our services and reflects our dedication to our clients’ success. We understand that each organisation is unique, and that's why our solutions are tailored to your specific needs. With

our expertise, we don't just provide technical support – we become your strategic partner in navigating the intricate landscape of IT.” Extech Cloud's new website, designed by Worthing-based Molokini, provides a comprehensive understanding of its service offerings, from managed IT solutions to cyber security, and fibre broadband and phone services, and information to empower business owners to make informed decisions. www.extechcloud.com

Andrew Hookway

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Featured Article

The four ‘super’ actions for keeping on top of work email From inbox zero to turning off notifications, there is a lot of advice about how to manage emails at work.

From this, researchers identified four super actions: 1. Communicate work-email access boundaries: clearly state when you are not available to deal with email, stick to this, and don’t email others when they are not working. 2. Regularly check and review your inbox: delete, sort, and reprioritise. 3. Only use work email to send work-relevant communications. 4. Be civil, courteous, and considerate in work-email exchanges. Dr Emma Russell, Reader in Occupational and Organisational Psychology and Co-Investigator of the Digital Futures at Work Research Centre, who led the study, said: “Statista is predicting that an estimated 4.6 billion people will be using email by 2025. However, people have been subjected to almost 25 years of often contradictory advice about how to manage emails at work. “Our new research, based on a comprehensive analysis of 25 years of email research, shows that strategies to stay on top of work-email don’t have to come at the expense of your well-being. “The evidence shows that these four ‘super’ actions both reduce stress and improve productivity.” Find out more about University of Sussex Business School research at www.sussex.ac.uk/business-school Photo by Stephen Phillips - Hostreviews.co.uk on Unsplash

Photo by Unsplash+ with Getty Images

Now, a new study from the University of Sussex Business School aims to help people make use of the email strategies that are most likely to work, whilst also enabling employers to foster healthier and more efficient email cultures. Academics from the University of Sussex Business School, Loughborough University and ESCP Business School, Madrid conducted the research. They analysed 25 years of academic research to identify the four actions you should take to improve both well-being and productivity while staying on top of your emails. Published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, the researchers studied the findings from 62 empirical papers, using action regulation theory – essentially how we regulate our behaviour in the pursuit of different goals – to develop a framework that offers practical recommendations to both organisations and individuals.

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Sussex MBA

Put the latest management theory into practice with the Sussex MBA The Sussex MBA is built on four pillars to help you develop the leadership needed in today’s disrupted business environment: • digital work – the move to digital technologies and virtual work environments • innovation – develop new strategies to adapt to disrupted environments • resilience – ensure employee wellbeing and the sustainability of business models • policy – lobby and influence policymakers at local, regional, and national levels. Enhance your critical and strategic thinking and gain the practical skills to apply cutting-edge business theory. You will develop a range of management and leadership skills under the guidance of leading academic and industry experts. Flexible study options mean you can fit your studies around your work or family commitments and apply what you learn directly to your job. Study full-time in one year or part-time over two years, starting in January or September. Classes are taught on Fridays and Saturdays helping you schedule your time. To find out more visit: www.sussexmba.com

Flexible study options mean you can fit your studies around your work or family commitments and apply what you learn directly to your job.

Only those who can break through as “top sellers” feel it is sustainable Digital entrepreneurship on retail platforms: A way to formalise employment for young people in Nigeria and the UK This new study from the Digital Futures at Work Research Centre investigates the opportunities and barriers digital retail platforms offer to enable young people’s entrepreneurship as a sustainable income stream in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The study found that like any entrepreneurial endeavour, success and income depend on the sellers’ degree of engagement in terms of time and resource commitment. In the UK, only those who can break through as “top sellers” feel it is sustainable; others see it as a part-time role and a way to supplement their income, but they are not confident in transitioning to a full-time role without a guaranteed income. Evidence illustrated how for some young sellers, there was the possibility of building full-time careers and transitioning from online platforms to establishing physical stores and/or creating their successful e-commerce websites; for others, this remained a marginal side activity. Young people’s involvement with digital platforms offers the opportunity to acquire new skills (business, core work, and socio-emotional skills), develop existing ones and pursue personal growth. Some of the business skills they developed include marketing, budgeting/ accountancy, international logistics, problem-solving and customer service. Some of these skills were supported by the platforms, and others they learned independently. To read the full report, visit: www.digit-research.org

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Why you might be wrong about The 80/20 Business Consultancy

If I had a pound every time someone said, ‘oh you’re like a company doctor then’, I certainly wouldn’t be spending just the one week in the sun this Christmas.

Yet, although wholly wrong, I can see why it might be a soothing idea. After all, to be a doctor, would be to infer some higher knowledge of the inner workings of the company’s ‘body’. And what more soothing an idea could there be for someone who is struggling to understand why their business is not doing better. But let me tell you why this doesn’t work.

Extensive research shows the 2 things a business must get right - is strategy and then the ability to execute Just like the doctor saying ‘ah Mrs X, if you were to lose some weight, your back problem would stop’, or ‘but Mr Z, if you were to exercise some more your BMI and heart risk would drop’, when advice comes from someone else, someone outside so to speak, the chances of us adopting their idea is far less appealing than if we have the idea ourselves. Which leads me to WHAT IT IS we do, and why it works. Extensive research shows the 2 things a business must get right - no matter whether a small turnover business or a

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much larger one - is strategy and then the ability to execute. Put another way, an idea of where they want to go and the route to get there, plus the ability to then make a start and then manage the steps on an ongoing basis, even to keep going when things get rough. Yet the same research says that companies can rarely do both, certainly nowhere near as well as they need to do. Normally one side of the equation is stronger than the other and for various reasons. Which is why we help companies work out where the blockages are in strategy, and in execution. We do it by asking the right questions and challenging the teams to think of ways they can address what’s missing. And because we are highly experienced in business, we tend to know the right questions to ask.

They come up with their ideas and because they are their ideas, they tend far more often to then do something with them. But why do they need us to do this if they already have the insights? Simply because most businesses, and by extension, their people, are: • Subjective, not objective • Biased and judgemental • Blinkered to how things have always been rather than open and curious to new ways • Too busy to stop and face the uncomfortable questions that should be addressed, rather than prepared to take the time to think expansively This is where we are expert at what we do. We understand the people side of business and are happy to ask the uncomfortable question. Experience shows us that’s what gets people the results they want. So, be brave - give us a call in 2024. 07841 579 888 www.8020consultancy.com

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Showcase your business Businesses will have a unique opportunity to be in the limelight when the inaugural Gatwick Business Show is staged next year. Taking place at the Felbridge Hotel and Spa in East Grinstead, the event promises to bring together key influencers and decision makers with ambitious local businesses looking to grow. The show is the brainchild of Mike Monk, a veteran marketing expert and the founder of the Brighton and Hove Business Show which is in its third year. He will stage the event in partnership with Gatwick Diamond Business. Stands will be limited to 50 for the 2024 event, being held on Thursday, October 17. Bookings have opened and stand choices will be on a first-come, first-

served basis. Mike said: "There will be guest speakers and workshops during the day and we hope to create a real buzz about businesses in the Gatwick area. "The event is designed to ensure making new connections is effortless. It will also be very useful for generating leads and throwing the spotlight on businesses that have relevant products and services to offer. "It is a suitable platform for both established and new brands." A spokesperson for Gatwick Diamond Business said: “We are delighted to partner with Mike to bring the event to fruition. We believe it will deliver real benefits to both those who take part and the local economy.” The Gatwick Business Show will run from 10am to 3pm. Free parking will be available for both exhibitors and

visitors. Visitor registrations will open nearer Benefits Book the time. YOUR Connect with influencers & industry leaders Sponsorship opportunities STAND Build your brand effortlessly Network with potential clients areAll-day available now. Sponsors and lead potential with workshops, seminars more exhibitors will &receive extensive marketing exposure in the run-up to the event as well as after, ensuring it Contact Mike Monk on 07885 490266 delivers excellent value for money. If you want to get involved with Gatwick Business Show, visit www.brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk or email mike@brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 10AM TO 3PM

FELBRIDGE HOTEL & SPA LONDON ROAD EAST GRINSTEAD RH19 2BH

A guide to development finance What is development finance? Development facilities involve providing a loan to the borrower for the purpose of acquiring and developing a property. The loan is secured by the property itself and the developers rights under the construction documents. The lender will carry out thorough due diligence on the property and the planned development before funding is granted. The lender will consider: • The value of the site • The cost of the development • The exit strategy What is the legal process for a development finance transaction?

Once you have obtained a loan offer from the lender, lawyers need to be appointed. Once both parties are legally represented, the legal process can begin. The lenders lawyers will present the borrowers lawyers with the conditions precedent (CPs). The CPs outline the conditions that the borrower must satisfy before the borrower can request drawdown of the loan and the lender is obliged to make the funds available to the borrower. Standard CPs include: • A satisfactory report on title • Valuations and surveys • Discharges of existing security • Letter/certificate of non-crystallisation of floating charges • Land registry searches • Insurance • Borrowers lawyers undertakings

repayment. Even if a lender obtains a court order for the amount owed by the borrower, it does not guarantee repayment. In a typical development finance transaction, we often see the lender take out security provisions. This security is usually contained within an all-assets debenture given by the borrower.

What security will the lender require? The focus for the lender is to ensure

www.lewisdenley.com/insights/a-guideto-development-finance

Lewis Denley Solicitors’ advice The legal process and security involved in a development finance transaction is often complex and prolonged. Having an experienced lawyer to handle the process on your behalf will help expedite the matter. Please do not hesitate to get in contact with our Commercial Property team if you would like Lewis Denley to assist and advise on your development finance matter.

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Unlocking Potential: Empowering Others with Coaching Conversations

Leaders often tell us that their operational demands leave little time for the type of creative thinking they’d like to do. Developing coaching skills can empower your teams to come up with their own solutions, which can free you

up and potentially increase the levels of creativity and innovation within your organisation. Here’s our guide to getting started with a coaching-style conversation. 1. Cultivate curiosity. Instead of having your own solutions in mind, be genuinely curious about the other person’s ideas. 2. Ask open questions. Instead of a yes or no answer, ask open questions that invite consideration. 3. Let go of being right. While success in the past may have stemmed from having right answers, experiment with not knowing. 4. Trust your team. Know that your people can come up with great ideas given the space and support. 5. Practice listening. Listening is one of the most under-used skills, but it can be improved with practice. When someone else is speaking, tune fully into what

they’re saying instead of thinking about your response. When it’s your turn to speak, follow your curiosity and ask an open question about what they’ve just said. 6. Don’t let the first answer be the final answer. Practice saying ‘And what else?’ to generate more thinking. You’ll be surprised at what comes up. 7. Be discerning about when you use coaching skills. Coaching can and should sit alongside more directive approaches and training. Don’t worry if these skills don’t come naturally; it can take time to get comfortable with using a coaching style. To support you as you develop your skills, consider getting yourself some developmental coaching. To find out more about what we do at Kinkajou, including our coach-as-leader coaching, visit kinkajouconsulting.com

An opportunity to support your local community At Sussex Community Foundation we are committed to grant-making to enable and empower our amazing local charities and community groups. We are now excited to announce a huge opportunity to grow philanthropic support in Sussex even further with the Lawson Trust Endowment Match Challenge. How does it work? Until 1 October 2024, The Lawson Trust will add 50% to new donations to Sussex Community Foundation up to a maximum pledge of £500,000. Funds will be invested for long-term sustainability with a percentage of the capital used each year for grant-making to create life-changing impact for people across Sussex. Key Information on the Match Challenge • Donations must be given to endowment funds at Sussex Community Foundation.

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• The challenge is open to individuals & families, charitable trusts and businesses. • New donors can establish their very own fund with donation from £25,000 (or £100,000 if involved in selecting grants). • Existing fundholders can top-up from £10,000. • The maximum amount of match available is £50,000 per fund. • Donations from £10,000 will also be accepted into our pooled fund. This is an unrivalled opportunity to change Sussex for the better, for years to come, and get maximum impact from your investment. What next? Whether you’re considering working with Sussex Community Foundation for the first time, are an existing donor or provide financial, tax or legal advice for your clients, just get in touch to find out more. Contact: Stephen Chamberlain, Head Philanthropy,

stephen.chamberlain@sussexgiving. org.uk sussexgiving.org.uk/give-toyour-community/how-to-give/ lawsonmatchchallenge

Lunch Positive Brighton and Hove

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STEP INTO

AT THE AMERICAN EXPRESS STADIUM Make it a December to remember with delicious menus made from locally sourced produce, premium entertainment and top level customer service.

Friday 1st Dec | Saturday 2nd Dec Friday 8th Dec Friday 15th Dec | Saturday 16th Dec

Contact our experienced events team to book your place now. 01273 878272 eventsatbhafc.co.uk

Sunday 3rd December

events@brightonandhovealbion.com #BuildingBusinessConnections

#BuildingBusinessConnections

Watch This Sp_ce found inspiration through Diamond Mentoring with Tomango The Gatwick Diamond network has so many great businesses at different stages of their business journey. As a new business, and new to the network, we were keen to look at the Gatwick Diamond Mentoring Programme. We were matched with Mark Vaesen, Founder and Managing Director of Tomango. And we thank Joe Cheal from Imaginarium for setting up a brilliant match for us. The mentoring programme involves an initial call to make sure the businesses are a good fit and to establish how we will work together. We then booked monthly sessions with Mark to talk about our business challenges. We found the 6 sessions flew by. Mark was a great ‘critical friend’ to us to help us uncover challenges and opportunities. After each session we agreed things that we would work on over the next month. As busy business owners, setting those goals

worked so well for us to keep things moving to work on our business as well as in it. The partnership with Mark worked well as we have different working styles, so his methodical and considered approach was exactly what we needed to keep us focused on the strategy we wanted to work on. So, what happened after the 6

sessions? Well, we enjoyed working with Mark and learnt so much, so we are now working with Tomango on a more regular basis. If you want to find out more about The Diamond Mentors Programme, have a look at the Gatwick Diamond Business website www.gatwickdiamondbusiness.com/ diamond-mentors-programme

3 key shipping tips for Christmas business

The festive season is soon approaching. Have you thought about your shipping strategy? Christmas is a great time to maximise profits, but the busier sales period means increased workload, competition, and more active distribution channels. Failure to keep up to date with orders can harm your business reputation – so preparation is key! Plan for a successful Christmas by following our three essential shipping tips: Embrace automation You don’t have to do it all when it

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comes to shipping. Automating simple processes gives you more time to focus on other tasks and improve accuracy. If you’re sending a large volume of parcels from different e-commerce websites, manage them all in one shipping manager platform. The right platform means you quickly validate and process multiple shipments – saving you from manually inputting each order individually. Improve visibility You must keep customers informed throughout the buying journey because it improves their purchase experience, builds trust, and can ultimately lead to repeat business. Strengthening visibility includes live shipping rates, advertising final posting dates and providing free parcel tracking. If buyers can monitor the progress of their delivery through a tracking portal, it reduces the time spent answering shipping queries over

the phone or via email – essential during busy sales periods. Diversify delivery services You don’t want to rely primarily on one courier when sending many parcels. Diversifying your courier partners reduces the risk to your supply chain because if one delivery company experiences any delays or issues, you can quickly ship with another. Booking your parcel deliveries through a multicarrier shipping solution means you can also access a wider choice of UK and international courier services. Get ahead of the curve this festive season and visit uk.interparcel.com. With Interparcel, you can access a range of industry-leading couriers and costeffective delivery services, free business tools and parcel tracking – designed to improve your shipping strategy and grow your business.

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3 things every organisation can learn from charity communications me&you works with many charities, helping them with their brand, communication and marketing challenges. Through this work, we have started to notice a few key things that every charity does to really help get their message heard and motivate their audience into action. And the good news is - these techniques are effective not

only for charities, but for businesses and organisations of every shape and size. Firstly, you must be Relevant. Earlier this year, we worked with Bowel Cancer UK to raise awareness of the key symptoms during bowel cancer awareness month. Based around the headline #KnowTheHigh5, the campaign messaging was completely relevant to their target audience. From the campaign title, throughout the creative and communication, it was very clear what we were talking about and what we were asking the audience to do. As a result, Bowel Cancer UK exceeded their engagement targets during that month. Secondly, your communications should be Emotive. Look Good Feel Better is a charity that runs workshops for people going through the very traumatic process of chemotherapy, showing them

how to effectively apply makeup and wigs to help boost their confidence. Look Good Feel Better employ hugely effective storytelling techniques across their social media to raise awareness and attract workshop signups. And lastly, be Distinct. Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance really know how to stand out by using a strong, vibrant colour palette and creative visuals across all their marketing material. Their helicopters are easily spotted as they fly through the skies. So, being Relevant, Emotive and Distinct are three ways that can help, not just charities, but every organisation, create truly effective communications. If you want to know more, or would like help with your brand communications, email matt@meandyou.co.uk or visit meandyou.co.uk

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Development and Stakeholder Engagement As we head closer to the next General Election the call for new homes and infrastructure development across the region has never been louder. Silverstone Communications understands the critical role of stakeholder engagement in bridging the divide between progress and community well-being. Good development will only happen by finding common ground with all the stakeholders involved. “Development is a double-edged sword. While it promises growth, it can also lead to challenges, particularly when it overlooks the needs and concerns of the community. This is where stakeholder engagement enters the picture” says Geri Silverstone the Chief Executive of Silverstone Communications. Long gone are the days when developers could get away with Deciding Announcing and then Defending (DAD) their schemes. It has now been replaced

with a process that revolves around Listening to, Engaging with, and Learning from communities that will be directly affected by their development project. Engaging with these stakeholders is not merely a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative, reflecting the commitment of Silverstone Communications to responsible and sustainable development. Step1 – Listening. It involves actively seeking out the concerns, needs, and aspirations of the community. By listening to these voices, we can identify potential issues and areas of improvement. Step2 – Engaging. The bridge that connects the aspirations of business owners with the welfare of the community. It's about fostering open, transparent communication and collaboration. We facilitate discussions, provide information, and build a sense of shared ownership.

Step3 – Learning. Turning stakeholder engagement into an ongoing process. By actively incorporating feedback and insights, we ensure that our clients’ projects align with the evolving needs of the community. Development, guided by precision and effective stakeholder engagement, is a vehicle for a brighter, more prosperous future for all. www.silverstonecommunications.co.uk hello@silverstonecommunications.co.uk

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GIVE YOUR BUSINESS THE EDGE

The Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology are leaders in the provision of high quality, higher level technical education and training across a range of STEM occupations and industries.

Our institute is a collaboration between universities, further education colleges, and industry partners across Sussex and Surrey, working together to provide students with a new kind of education, designed to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow. EDUCATION PARTNERS

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RESKILL, RETAIN, RECRUIT The Sussex & Surrey IoT is dedicated to meeting the current and future needs of employers and people across our region and beyond.

HIGHER LEVEL COURSES AND APPRENTICESHIPS IN: ■

■ ■

■

Engineering & Manufacturing Technologies Digital Technologies Construction, Planning & The Built Environment Sustainable Technologies & Practices Leadership & Management

APPRENTICHESIPS ENROLLING NOW: Digital ■ Cyber Security ■

Data Technician

■

Software Developer

■

Data Analyst

Construction ■ Site Supervisor ■

Quantity Surveying

Leadership & Management ■ Operations/Department Manager

GET IN TOUCH TO GET STARTED

Website: sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk Email: info@sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk Phone: 01293 442249

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Benefits

Book

Connect with influencers & industry leaders Build your brand effortlessly Network with potential clients All-day lead potential with workshops, seminars & more

YOUR STAND

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 10AM TO 3PM

FELBRIDGE HOTEL & SPA LONDON ROAD EAST GRINSTEAD RH19 2BH

Contact Mike Monk on 07885 490266

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Employment and Notice Periods: What Are Your Options? It’s important to know your options when someone’s employment ends. Assuming notice will be required in order to conclude the employment relationship, the possibilities include: • Worked notice: the employee works their notice period and is paid as normal. By the last day of employment their notice period will have been worked (and paid) in full. • Waive notice: the employer and employee agree to reduce, or waive entirely, the notice period. This must be agreed by both parties. The employee’s notice period, and right to notice pay, is reduced/waived accordingly (different rules may apply if the employee is also getting an exit payment). • Garden leave: the employee is placed on garden leave for their notice period. The employee remains employed, and receives their usual salary and benefits,

but is not required to work. • Payment in lieu of notice (“PILON”): the employer terminates the employee’s employment immediately. Instead, they receive their full notice pay as a PILON (a PILON is often for basic pay only but this should always be checked). Keep in mind: • An employee is entitled to their full notice unless they have agreed otherwise. It’s also possible to combine the above: for example, someone works part of their notice period and is on garden leave for the remainder. • Don’t ‘double pay’: if someone works or is on garden leave for their entire notice period, they won’t also receive a PILON. • Always check the employment contract: some options should only be used where there is the relevant right in the employment contract/other agreement. Most well drafted contracts include

garden leave and PILON provisions. Normally, they’re exercisable at the employer’s sole discretion. As an employer, you should always (1) check the employment contract (2) consider the best approach to use and (3) confirm this in writing. If in doubt, get advice! www.pdt.co.uk

#StartUpSeptember Huge Success

The annual #StartUpSeptember campaign, pioneered by Let’s Do Business Group is designed to empower and support aspiring entrepreneurs and new businesses, with a dedicated programme throughout the month. This year's campaign featured an array of workshops, webinars, networking events, 1:1 support opportunities and free resources - all aimed at equipping

entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to succeed. Highlights of the campaign's success include; £544,000 approved and lent under the Start Up Loan Scheme to fuel the start-up ecosystem in our coverage areas During the month of September, Let’s Do Business Finance were able to approve and lend a massive £544,000 in funding to new businesses under the Government-backed Start Up Loan Scheme. 520+ Enquiries received for Start Up Support and finance under the Start Up Loan Scheme New and aspiring business owners got in touch about securing finance under the Start Up Loan Scheme and additional business support for their new business. 60 entrepreneurs supported to learn new skills through our free workshops A range of free skills-based workshops were available, with the aim to give aspiring entrepreneurs and new

business owners the tools to take control of their journey. Topics included Social Media Marketing, Business Planning, Finance and Accounting. 25 free 1:1 consultations delivered Business owners were invited to book a free 1:1 consultation with Business Coaches and Finance managers from Let’s Do Business Group and Let’s Do Business Finance, marketing experts from Let’s Do Marketing, and accountants from Ashdown Hurrey. These sessions provided the opportunity to ask any questions about starting or growing their business, and gain guidance on how to move forward. With the end of the #StartUpSeptember campaign for 2023, Let's Do Business Group is enthusiastic about the renewed sense of entrepreneurial spirit felt in the South East of England following a difficult period for enterprises in the last year. www.letsdobusinessgroup.co.uk

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Upcoming Events www.gatwickdiamondbusiness.com/business-networking-events

Tuesday 7th Nov: 12.00 - 14.30

Friday 24th Nov: 11.00 - 12.00

gdb Networking at Ease at Tottington Manor

gdb November Educational Seminar

This event is all about making networking straight forward and enjoyable. With a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, Networking at Ease is designed to help you break the ice and connect with other like-minded professionals. • £37.50+VAT for gdb Members • £47.50+VAT for Non-Members • Includes three course meal, tea/coffee. Thursday 16th Nov: 8.30 - 10.00

The gdb Business Breakfast Brought to you in partnership with Crawley College Crawley Town Centre BID, this monthly breakfast will provide a friendly, relaxed and informative environment for local businesses to network and improve their business profile. With guest speaker and a delicious full English breakfast. • £20.00 +VAT for gdb Members • £25.00 +VAT for Non-Members • Ticket cost for Crawley Town Centre BID Members will be covered by CTCBID (limited availability). Monday 20th Nov: 10.30 - 11.30

Membership Meet Up Whether you’re new to gdb, thinking about joining or an existing member who needs a refresher, these events are the perfect opportunity to get to know gdb, ask questions and learn more about the variety of member benefits available to you. • Free to attend

Join us for our November educational seminar brought to you by Kieran McNeil, Claire Scaramanga from the Scaramanga agency and Kevin Fournier, Louise Windsor from Sweetinburgh and Windsor. • This event is free for gdb Members and Non-Member Guests who have purchased a Members Meeting Guest Ticket. Friday 24th Nov: 12.00 - 14.30

gdb November Members Meeting at Copthorne Hotels Effingham Park Stay connected with the gdb Team and your fellow Members • Free for gdb Members • £25 + VAT for Non-Members Friday 1st Dec: 10.00 - 12.30

High Impact Public Speaking Due to a high level of interest in improving public speaking, we are offering a gdb Diamond Mentoring group session called: "High Impact Public Speaking". It will be delivered in-person by Joe Cheal of Imaginarium Learning & Development, who will be sharing some top tools, tips and techniques from 30 years' experience. • £15 + VAT

Get Connected with your Business Community through the Events Programme

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Networking

Thursday 7th Dec: 8.30 - 10.00

Tuesday 12th Dec: 12.00 - 14.30

The gdb Business Breakfast

gdb Christmas Lunch

Brought to you in partnership with Crawley College Crawley Town Centre BID, this monthly breakfast will provide a friendly, relaxed and informative environment for local businesses to network and improve their business profile. With guest speaker and a delicious full English breakfast. • £20.00 +VAT for gdb Members • £25.00 +VAT for Non-Members • Ticket cost for Crawley Town Centre BID Members will be covered by CTCBID (limited availability).

Join us for an afternoon of festivities and great networking over a delicious three course lunch. Connect with like-minded individuals in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere at a stunning venue. • £37.50+VAT for gdb Members • £47.50+VAT for Non-Members • Includes a festive 3 course meal, tea/coffee and mince pies.

CONNECTING BUSINESSES

Network with decision makers Generate leads Build your connections Raise your brand’s profile

BOOK YOUR STAND NOW

13 June 2024 10AM - 3pm Amex Stadium

07885 490266 #BuildingBusinessConnections

BRIGHTONANDHOVEBUSINESSSHOW.UK

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gdb welcomes new members Membership of gdb will help you raise your organisation’s profile within the Gatwick Diamond and build your business connections.

BA Euroflyer

ba.com/gatwick

Take off from London Gatwick Airport to 40 exciting destinations across Europe and North Africa with BA Euroflyer, a subsidiary of British Airways. BA Euroflyer combines affordability with the premium service you’d expect from British Airways. Euro Traveller (economy) fares include a generous cabin baggage allowance, a complimentary snack and water, free seat selection 24 hours

before departure, and exclusive lounge access for British Airways Executive Club Silver and Gold cardholders, offering exceptional value for money. Upgrade to Club Europe (Business Class) for priority check-in and boarding, lounge access, increased baggage allowance, more space and comfort onboard, a full meal service and earn more Avios and Tier Points.

Brighton and Hove Business Show

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk

A marketing and sales expert with over 30 years' experience, Mike Monk is an accomplished business mentor and events organiser. He founded the Brighton and Hove Business Show in 2021 and, together with Gatwick Diamond Business, will be staging the Gatwick Business Show in 2024. Passionate about connecting

businesses, he recently partnered with Brilliant Businesses to unveil the Tunbridge Wells Business Show 2024. Mike is considered a thought leader in franchising and supports brands from multiple sectors to grow their concepts through franchise models. From support to growth, he is a trusted and sought-after mentor.

Ellis Group

www.ellisgroup.com

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With over 20 years of experience, Ellis Recruitment Group is a trusted IT Recruitment partner, connecting exceptional IT professionals with leading global organisations. Our six brands provide talent solutions ranging from established technologies like Oracle and Microsoft to cutting-edge cloud solutions such as Salesforce and AWS. With our experience, a network of

top-tier candidates, and a passionate team, Ellis Recruitment Group is your ultimate IT recruitment partner. We're committed to collaboration and recently sponsored the Sussex Salesforce Community networking event launch led by our Sales Manager, Travis Powell. Discover how we can support your IT hiring experience.

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Unlock a world of business opportunities with Gatwick Diamond Business. For more information email mandi@gatwickdiamondbusiness.com

Northwood

www.northwooduk.com

Our offices are based in Crawley and Worthing and our entire team is made up of local professionals that are passionate about property. The offices can make decisions at a local level because we a locally owned, but we have the back-up and resources of the Northwood national brand behind us. We specialise in, management for

residential lettings properties, block management and property sales. However, what we are best known for is our Guaranteed Rent option for landlords looking to secure the same monthly amount 12 months of the year, without having to worry about rent arrears or void periods.

Sales Geek

www.salesgeek.co.uk

Sales Geek South London is a Sales Leadership and Training organisation that supports ambitious businesses who want to convert more paying customers. Who is it for? Business leaders who want to increase company revenue and don’t know how to do it. Where do we cover? South and Southeast London

including Croydon, Bromley and Kent What do we do? We give ambitious business leaders the ability to predict the future success of their business by hiring a Sales Director without the 6-figure salary, providing additional resource and sales leadership to establish successful sales functions and solid sales pipelines.

SCD People Solutions

www.scdpeoplesolutions.com

A workplace mediator is someone you hope you will never need. But interpersonal conflicts, misunderstandings or power struggles happen; and they can have a significant negative impact from impaired individual performance to team disruption and impaired organisational performance. Helping colleagues in conflict to return to a professional and effective relationship is my speciality. As a confidential, neutral

and objective dispute resolution expert I come into your business, virtually or in person with a short term mediation solution that leads to long term resolution. Reach out for a no obligation chat to discuss how SCD People Solutions can help your organisation.

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gdb welcomes new members Membership of gdb will help you raise your organisation’s profile within the Gatwick Diamond and build your business connections.

The Light Surrey’s newest entertainment venue has arrived From meetings and events, bowling to axe throwing, cinema to curling and so much more, we have it all under one roof here at The Light Redhill. Our unique venue offers and delivers premium meeting and events spaces for up to 250 people within our state of the art cinema auditoria. We offer exclusive use packages

redhill.thelight.co.uk

so you and your colleagues can have your own playground for the day. Give your colleagues an experience to remember and discuss your next event today.

Wingate Wingate’s passion is to simplify your financial future and help dreams become a reality. Independence is the cornerstone of Wingate’s practice, allowing us to offer unbiased, tailored solutions to our clients. Our independence ensures that our advice is solely driven by your best interests, fostering trust at every turn. At Wingate, trust is not just a word; it's our promise.

www.wingatefp.com

We prioritise the well-being of our clients above all else, working diligently to nurture lasting relationships. With a genuine care for our clients, we go beyond financial planning; we provide peace of mind, empowering you to achieve your financial dreams.

Referrals #goodpeopleknowgoodpeople We would like to thank the following members for referring gdb to their business contacts: • Matthew Tyson (RPD) and Lorrie Rose (Creative Pod) for referring stevensdrake solicitors.

Unlock a world of business opportunities with Gatwick Diamond Business

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Navigating a complex property deal? Let us guide you through the process. Commercial & Residential Property

Family Law

Private Wealth

lewisdenley.com #BuildingBusinessConnections

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Diamond Listing Directory

Welcome to your Diamond Listing Directory

The gdb member companies listed below have a Diamond Listing in the online gdb Members Directory. For a full list of gdb members please go to Members Directory And contact us to find out how to enhance your listing and raise your profile in PINK! Accounting / Financial Services Carpenter Box www.carpenterbox.com info@carpenterbox.com 01293 227670

Banking

Kreston Reeves LLP www.krestonreeves.com tracy.morrison@krestonreeves.com 01293 776152

HSBC UK www.hsbc.co.uk sarah.k.milligan@hsbc.com 07717 690813

Servo Private Wealth www.servoprivatewealth.com info@servoprivatewealth.com 01444 715200

NatWest personal.natwest.com/personal.html Andrew.Kettle@natwest.com 01293 643096

Airport / Airline Services

Business Consultants

BA Euroflyer www.britishairways.com/en-gb/ flights-and-holidays/flights/flightsfrom-london-gatwick-airport 03444 930787

Cultural Nexus www.culturalnexus.co.uk cecilia@culturalnexus.co.uk 07734 261813

Delta Air Lines www.delta.com salesuk.delta@delta.com 02076 600767

The 8020 Business Consultancy www.8020consultancy.com mcook@8020consultancy.com 08453 887888

jetBlue www.jetblue.com maris.kuklis@flyjetblue.eu 07494 749129

London Gatwick www.gatwickairport.com richard.lennard@gatwickairport.com 08443 351802

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Environmental Services Blue Planet Washing Solutions Ltd www.blueplanetws.co.uk jenna@blueplanetws.co.uk 07917 040044

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Cleankill Pest Control www.cleankill.co.uk enquiries@cleankill.co.uk 02086 685477

Worth School Lettings worthschool.org.uk/lettings 01342 710200

Hotels / Venues / Events

Insurance / Risk Services / Compliance

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club www.ashdownpark.com conference@ashdownpark.com 01342 824988

First Central firstcentralgroup.com jo.harrison@first-central.com 03330 432066

Brighton & Hove Business Show brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk mike@brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk 01273 286133

The Plan Group www.planinsurance.co.uk marketing@planinsurance.co.uk 02030 045572

Gravetye Manor www.gravetyemanor.co.uk info@gravetyemanor.co.uk 01342 810567 Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Plc www.millenniumhotels.com torsten.puck@millenniumhotels.com 01342 348800 The Arora Group gatwick.arorahotels.com gatwickreservations@ arorainternational.com 01293 530000 The Grand Brighton www.grandbrighton.co.uk info@grandbrighton.co.uk 01273 224300 Tottington Manor Hotel www.tottingtonmanor.co.uk reservations@tottingtonmanor.co.uk 01903 815757 Wilton Park www.wiltonpark.org.uk enquiries@wiltonpark.org.uk 01903 815020

IT Services / IT Support DabApps www.dabapps.com catrina@dabapps.com 07854 929506 Red River Software Ltd www.river.red info@river.red 08448 802357 Vazon Technology www.vazontech.co.uk info@vazontech.co.uk 07880 728209 Legal Services Birketts LLP www.birketts.co.uk Charlotte-Sloan@birketts.co.uk 02087 687000 DMH Stallard LLP www.dmhstallard.com enquiries@dmhstallard.com 01293 605000

#BuildingBusinessConnections

HCB Legal Limited www.hcbgroup.com victoriahazell@hcbgroup.com 01293 602892 Mayo Wynne Baxter www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk info@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk 01273 477071 Local Government / Public Sector

Chess Dynamics Ltd www.chess-dynamics.com sales@chess-dynamics.com 01403 249888 Pentagon Plastics Ltd www.pentagonplastics.co.uk sales@pentagonplasitcs.co.uk 01403 264397

Crawley Borough Council crawley.gov.uk 01293 438000

Sub-Cool-FM Ltd www.sub-cool-fm.co.uk hello@sub-cool-fm.co.uk 01293 223044

Logistics / Travel Services

Marketing / Media / PR

Cmac Group UK Limited www.cmacgroup.com paul.wait@cmacgroup.com 03333 580156

The Marketing Alliance www.themarketingalliance.co.uk hello@themarketingalliance.co.uk 02035 762955

Cubic Transportation Systems www.cubic.com/transportation krishna.desai@cubic.com 01737 782200 Gatwick Express www.gatwickexpress.com sophie.hill@gtrailway.com 03458 501530 ILG www.ilguk.com info@ilguk.com 08442 648000 Interparcel uk.interparcel.com gatwickdbusiness@interparcel.com 03333 000700

Manufacturing / Engineering

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Medical / Health / Wellbeing Elekta www.elekta.com Crawley.Accounts@elekta.com 01293 654378 Welland Medical wellandmedical.com SamJackson@WellandMedical.com 01293 615455 Office Services Benchmark Reprographics Ltd www.benchmarkrepro.co.uk olliehall@benchmarkrepro.co.uk 01293 922500 Brookvex www.brookvex.com michael.davidson@brookvex.com 02086 875560

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Regency Grove Communications Ltd www.rgcltd.co.uk enquiries@rgcltd.co.uk 03300 022222

Roffey Park www.roffeypark.com enquiries@roffeypark.ac.uk 01293 854020

SOS Systems Ltd www.sossystems.co.uk info@sossystems.co.uk 01293 562525

Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology www.sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk 01293 442213

Property / Planning Services

University of Brighton www.brighton.ac.uk/businessservices/index.aspx enterprise@brighton.ac.uk 01273 641039

Panattoni UK Developments Ltd www.panattoni.co.uk hwing@panattoni.com 01215 130000 Thakeham Group thakeham.com info@thakeham.com 01403 787300 Training / Education Chichester College Group www.chichestercollegegroup.ac.uk info@chichester.ac.uk 01243 786321 East Surrey College www.esc.ac.uk employerservices@esc.ac.uk 01737 788316

University of Sussex www.sussex.ac.uk information@sussex.ac.uk 01273 606755 Utilities Control Energy Costs Ltd cec.uk.com sales@cec.uk.com 01737 556631

Southern Water www.southernwater.co.uk 01903 272776

North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) www.nescot.ac.uk jkapsalis@nescot.ac.uk 02083 941731

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Diamond Magazine Edition 23 – November & December 2023

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