Norfolk Voice 33

voice

norfolk

How young talent takes the path into work.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH APRIL 2016

When it comes to advertising, branding, print and digital, we do things a little differently.

Working in close partnership with our clients, we apply our unique creative and strategic skills to fill the gaps they can’t – and help them achieve even greater success.

We call it ‘the missing think’.

osbornenash.co.uk 01603 699954 | info@osbornenash.co.uk 68f swan yard, king street, norwich nr1 1pg

Contents 03

04/05

06

08/09

10/11

14/15

16/23

24/25

26/27

28/31

32/35

36/39

40/41

42/45

46/49

51

52/53

54

CONTENTS

Welcome!

If you feel that the Norfolk Chamber network is spending a considerable amount of time talking about ‘Bridging the Gap between Business and Young people’… you are wrong!

We are no longer talking about it, but actually engaging with Norfolk’s young people and getting them inspired as to the opportunities they have open to them.

A well run Norfolk school year 11 survey showed that, as a group, they were very pessimistic about their future. As a business community we are well placed to change this by working with schools and colleges in a coordinated way. There is much good work happening already but the Chamber feels that we have a part to play and are starting to play hard!

We highlight a couple of examples in this issue. The career events members are helping us to deliver – see page 10. We do need a lot more of you to offer your help so please do get in touch. Our main interview in this issue, page 26, is by a remarkable young man involved in one of our Young Chambers, whom any business would love to employ but we are unlikely to get that chance as he is destined to be running his own growing business!

Trading internationally is a great way to expand your markets and as a former international buyer I am definitely biased.

However it takes time and tenacity to make it work. Although many of our businesses have the latter, the former is more of a challenge.

There are significant changes to UKTI under discussion once again, but you can be assured that the Chamber is there to help answer your queries and provide country information, training and the documentation advice you need – see page 14. The rest of the network is also there to share best practice with you including which dodgy bars to avoid!

As a Chamber we are staying neutral on the EU referendum but we will be providing you with the balanced information you need, as a business, to make your decision one way or the other, which will include a face to face debate – see page 47.

CHAMBER NEWS

MEMBERS NEWS

CHAMBER POLICY

BUSINESS SUPPORT

MEMBERS NEWS

COVER FEATURE

FOCUS ON FINANCE

MEMBERSHIP

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

NEW MEMBERS

VIEW FROM THE BOARD

MEMBERS NEWS

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

THE BIG INTERVIEW

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

CHAMBER EVENTS

THE LAST WORD

CHAMBER’S GOLD PATRONS

Norfolk Voice is a Norfolk Chamber of Commerce publication.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

elinor.goodhead@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2384 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ADVERTISING

Norwich Office: 9 Norwich Business Park, Whiting Road, Norwich NR4 6DJ Tel: 01603 625977 Fax: 01603 633032

John Neilson, Commercial Director Distinctive Publishing, Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 07813 874 970 email: john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk

ALL EDITORIAL AND GENERAL ENQUIRIES:

I hope you enjoy this issue.

Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss email:deangriss@btinternet.com

DISCLAIMER: Distinctive Publishing or Norfolk Chamber cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Norfolk Chamber.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

3

Listening to Norfolk’s young people.

As part of my role as President of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, I sit on a number of committees and groups which are hopefully shaping and trying to influence the future of Norfolk.

Without a doubt the majority of the people who are involved in these committees are of a certain age, and generally above 35, and the majority above 50.

Whilst those of us close to 50 or over may think ourselves as young at heart and have the wisdom and voice of experience, we are potentially making decisions which could effect future generations and the potential successfulness of our young people whether they stay in Norfolk or not. All without a real clue at what really motivates them, interests them, or even how to communicate with them.

With some major changes coming up on the local and national political agenda, such as Devolution and BREXIT, it is essential that we make sure our

4

young people really understand the issues that they will face and that in considering the way forward they also have a strong voice, which is listened to and understood.

The Chamber, as part of the Bridging the Gap campaign, is promoting the Young Chamber initiative throughout schools and colleges, to try and develop better links between business and schools. The aim of this is not only to ensure that young people fully understand their career options but also that businesses and business leaders get to hear what is concerning young people.

Over the next few months and definitely before we vote in June, I think it is worth all of us speaking to a young person on what they think about Europe. If you don’t have one yourself and some are lucky enough to be in that position, then volunteer for one of the Norfolk Chambers up and coming career events, which are being held in partnership with local schools and colleges, see page 10 for details.

Jonathan Cage

President, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce

New Year networking success.

In January, 70 Norfolk Chamber members joined us for a Business Breakfast at the Great Yarmouth racecourse, where they were led through ‘How to Network Successfully’

by Ian Hacon, of Yellowbrick Road Solutions.

First Ian asked them to create a ‘Twit Pitch’, restricted to a maximum of 140 characters, which was then put into practice during a twist on a popular Chamber activity.

Trailed for the first time, delegates participated in ‘Speed’ Safari Networking. In groups of 4-6. They had six minutes at each station and moved four times, allowing them to network with up to 24 different people. The activity was a great success with many saying they had run out of business cards!

Another trail was the addition of a Networking App; Presdo Match, which creates an interactive networking experience.

Attendees can view a visual delegate list pulled directly from Linkedin, send messages to other delegates and schedule appointments, making

following up after the event quick and easy. Following great feedback of the app, we will continue to implement its use at future events.

To take advantage of these great networking opportunities, book now for our next Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast 7th April. www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/GYBBApril

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

ChamberNews

Members strike with new connections.

On Thursday 28th January we took over 20 lanes at Hollywood Bowl Norwich for a competitive evening, with 150 members joining us for our annual bowling challenge.

The challenge was even bigger this year as we increased the team sizes to 8 per lane, totalling up some high scores. The evening was filled with plenty of laughter and a relaxed atmosphere for delegates to make new connections.

Taking the Super Bowl Challenge 2016 Trophy back to the office this year was Tank Replacement

Services, with an average score of 119.125 (total score 953). The extra decimal place worked in their favour as team Natwest came close second with an average score of 119 (total score 714).

Tank Replacement Services seemed to have a winning streak however as team member Daniel Copplestone

won top score of the night with an overall score of 182!

The evening was enjoyed by all, with some even staying behind for a few extra bowls. Our fun After Hours Series doesn’t stop here though, coming up we have a Cocktail Evening and a Quiz Night Challenge.

More on page 46.

Chamber proud to sponsor Norwich & Norfolk Eco Awards.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the Norwich & Norfolk Eco Awards and, in particular, sponsor the Small Business Award.

a commitment to being environmentally friendly.

Upcoming technology will provide new opportunities to develop a sound eco approach. I am looking forward to hearing about what the business community have been able to achieve this year towards our communal goal of being more environmentally friendly.”

The awards celebrate organisations, groups and individuals who have made an environmentally-friendly contribution to the city and/or Norfolk in the last year.

The nominations closed in February, and we are delighted to have received so many entries! We look forward to the awards ceremony at the Forum, Norwich, on Saturday 12 March 2016. For more information, please visit www.norwich.gov.uk/ecoawards.

Recognising the hard work of small businesses, in this case a commitment to adopting a sound eco approach in their business activity, is something the Chamber is passionate about. We’ve been providing help and support for the region’s commerce for 120 years; we are always there for businesses of all sizes, but increasingly we have seen a growth in small business and start-up members who we are tailoring our support for.

Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber, said: “Norfolk’s businesses have always demonstrated MARCH/APRIL 2016

I am looking forward to hearing about what the business community have been able to achieve this year towards our communal goal of being more environmentally friendly.

Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

5

MembersNews SMS relocate to Beacon Park.

Best employers seminar attracts business people.

More than 100 business leaders from across East Anglia took part in the Best Employers Eastern Region employee engagement seminar, which also raised over £2,000 for two local charities

6

The event was arranged as part of the ongoing Best Employers Eastern Region initiative, organised by professional recruitment specialists Pure Resourcing Solutions (Pure) along with people development and psychometrics experts Eras LTD. It attracted high profile guest speakers including Sharron Pommells, head of operations at Virgin Management, who discussed the productivity benefits of making your employees feel as important as your clients.

Participants also heard from Cathy Brown, part of the national employee engagement group ‘Engage for Success’, who discussed the business costs of not having engaged staff. Local guest speaker Steve Turpie, business transformation expert and founder of ASD1 Limited in Bury St Edmunds, covered techniques on building a deeper connection between employees and their company.

SMS, a subsidiary of Alderley plc, have relocated to larger premises at the prestigious Beacon Park business park in Great Yarmouth.

Freebridge makes Sunday Times Best Companies List.

Freebridge Community Housing has made the ‘Sunday Times 100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to Work For’ list for the third year in a row.

The West Norfolk based housing and community organisation, which featured on the list in 2014, and 2015, has once again appeared in 2016. Freebridge has also retained its One Star accreditation meaning the organisation is ‘very good’ at employee engagement’.

Through the Best Companies process, Freebridge employees were able to share their thoughts

on the organisation through a confidential survey. In addition, Freebridge also completed an extensive questionnaire which provided an overview of its working practices and culture.

The process assesses companies on themes such as Leadership, My Team, Wellbeing, Personal Growth, Giving Something Back and My Manager.

Freebridge will now use the feedback from the Best Companies process to improve employee satisfaction and continue to make Freebridge a place where people want to work.

Norfolk staff value career opportunities above pay.

Staff are putting interesting work and good management ahead of salary when it comes to job satisfaction, says the acclaimed Cooper Lomaz annual salary survey 2016 for Norfolk.

Now in its 11th year, the in-depth report by independent recruitment consultants Cooper Lomaz, which has offices in Norwich, compares salaries and analyses trends in Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex in the key sectors.

It reports that salaries and job opportunities are continuing to rise as the economy recovers and says that salaries are only placed third when it comes to employee job satisfaction, sitting behind an interesting job and good management.

Skills shortages in some sectors mean employees are benefiting from a bidding war of salary offers as their existing bosses try to retain their services.

SMS have named their new £3 million headquarters Starling House after a major contract win which marked the beginning of SMS’s ongoing success in the manufacture of topside equipment, such as hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical control systems for major subsea EPCs and North Sea oil and gas operators.

The new building occupies a prominent 100,000sq/ft. plot allowing SMS the capacity to continue servicing the needs of its expanding client portfolio globally as well as the introduction of new product lines.

The larger purpose built facility comprises spacious bespoke offices and meeting rooms and a workshop designed for operational testing complete with modern observation zones for improved safety and a built-in overhead lifting crane.

Dave Howlett, Managing Director of SMS, said: “The new facilities have been purpose built for our needs to allow us to continue to work efficiently and deliver technical excellence to our clients. These new facilities along with the strong and talented people here at SMS will ensure we meet the rising global demand for our products and services.”

Raise your business profile through our website and social media. Follow us @norfolkchamber

Average salaries in Norfolk were £30,992, compared to £31,193 in Suffolk, £33,951 in Essex, £34,453 in Northamptonshire, £37,754 in Cambridgeshire and £41,908 in Hertfordshire.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

AdvertisingFeature

‘Nobody understands the skills employers need better than the employers themselves’.

English Apprenticeships: Our 2020 Vision Norfolk County Council Community Learning Services (NCLS) are leading the way in supporting the government’s, newly published vision for the future of English apprenticeships. These significant reforms support their target of recruiting 3 million new apprentices in this term of office.

Nobody understands the skills employers need better than the employers themselves and the vision ensures employers will be in the driving seat.

New funding from April 2017 will see the introduction of an apprenticeship levy, putting employers at the heart of paying for and choosing their apprentices. A new digital Apprenticeship Service, will support the funding changes; will be easy to use and implemented in late 2016.

As we move towards this new 2020 vision NCLS will continue to work closely with Norfolk businesses to support them through the changes and continue to offer quality

apprenticeships, for new and existing staff at all levels, up to level 5.

Norfolk Community Learning Services are looking for highly skilled and qualified managers and leaders with extensive experience in a business and management to work for us in the delivery of Apprenticeships. If you have an interest in training and developing our future workforce and available on a part-time or full time basis, we would be pleased to talk with you at our National Apprenticeship Week event:

English Apprenticeships: Our 2020 Vision Executive Summary

At Wensum Lodge, 169, King Street, Norwich. NR1 1QW on 15th March 2016 @ 2.30- 5pm.

Link to article: www.gov.uk/government /publications/apprenticeships -in-england-vision-for-2020 To discuss apprenticeship opportunities and reforms in more detail please call: Heather Habbin – Apprenticeships Programme Manager on 01603 306566 or email ncls.apprenticeships@norfolk.gov.uk

Norfolk

Recruit an Apprentice Find out more about our tailored on and off the job training programmes to build the skilled workforce your business needs.

Get inspired get involved Get In

www.norfolk.gov.uk/adulteducation 0344 800 8020

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

7

Pure awarded Gold by Investors in People.

8

Aircraft engine that carried 2.1m passengers to inspire next generation of engineers.

KLM UK Engineering & KLM Cityhopper have jointly presented an ex-Fokker 70 Rolls Royce Tay620 aircraft engine to University Technical College Norfolk.

The engine will remain on display during 2016 for students and teachers to promote aviation

and inspire students to lead the way to careers in aviation industry.

The engine flew 26 years of revenue service at different airlines, and since 1996 operated for KLM Cityhopper (formerly Air-UK / KLM-UK).

Next host for the engine will be the International Aviation Academy in Norwich, which will receive the engine early 2017 when the new facility is commissioned.

Aston Shaw Partner with Nwes to offer free advice.

Local accountancy firm Aston Shaw are teaming up with national enterprise agency Nwes to deliver free business advice sessions.

The sessions will provide advice to all businesses, particularly start-up companies seeking to get their business off the ground.

Mark Noakes, Director, said: “We want to drive forward local businesses in our area and give back to our

IiP is an internationally-recognised framework which helps organisations to improve their performance and realise their objectives through the effective management and development of their people.

This prestigious award is described

by IiP as an achievement of ‘world class best practice’ and is only given to organisations which can demonstrate excellence in developing and supporting staff to achieve high performance.

The IiP award is held by 15,000 organisations across 75 countries in the world and the Gold award is only held by 3% of these companies.

Lynn Walters, Director at Pure Resourcing Solutions, said: “We’re proud to continually support and celebrate other local employers who demonstrate outstanding levels of employee engagement through our Best Employers Eastern Region initiative. So it’s very rewarding to also receive our own accreditation, judged by independent assessors, in recognition of our own company’s commitment and passion to ensuring all our team is fully engaged.”

Norfolk Chamber exclusively deliver the Investment in Young People Award in Norfolk. Read more on page 11.

Leading the sessions will be Lisa Vincent from Nwes, who will be based in Aston Shaw’s newly acquired Head Office in The Union Building every other Tuesday to provide independent advisory to all range of businesses.

The sessions will be free of charge and available to anyone seeking independent, no-strings attached advice.

Pure (Pure Resourcing Solutions) has been awarded the Investors in People (IiP) Gold standard, and has been praised for being a ‘great employer and an outperforming place to work’

community, so we decided to team up with Nwes to offer our advice and expertise to the local people who need it, but may not be able to afford it.”

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

MembersNews Customised win three awards.

Rachel Duffield

Norfolk museum learning officer shortlisted for award.

VisitEngland, the national tourist board, has announced the shortlist for the Tourism Superstar 2016 award and Rachel Duffield, Learning & Engagement Officer at Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse near Dereham, is one of only 11 names on the national list, and the only representative from the East of England.

The campaign recognises the dedication and passion of those working in the tourism industry and is awarded to an individual who goes above and beyond

the call of duty to ensure visitors to England have an unforgettable experience.

Rachel has certainly been doing this in her guise as ‘Moaning Martha’, fictional inmate of Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse whose gossipy monologues about life in the workhouse – delivered in an authentic Norfolk rural accent – have been engaging and entertaining visitors of all ages and abilities for the past seven years.

Active Norfolk calls for workplaces in Norfolk to get more active in 2016.

Across England workers take on average 5.31 sick days per year.

NHS research has shown that those who are physically active are 20% less likely to take a sick day and are 27% more likely to return to work quicker if they do.

Workplaces across Norfolk are being urged to support the 2016 New Year Workplace Challenge.

Last year more than 1,000 people from 70 businesses were signed up to take part in the challenge, logging 25,000 hours of physical activity.

This year Active Norfolk wants even more people to get involved, and as an easy way of introducing more physical activity into your life are suggesting workers ‘revolutionise their lunch break’.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Time is often cited as a barrier to participation in sport with many workers spending 8 – 9 hours at work in sedentary positions.

With this in mind businesses are being asked to encourage their employees to get active on their lunch break and save one sick day per employee per year. Just adding a brisk 30 minute walk to the middle of each working day would get most people up to the recommended level of 150 minutes of physical activity a week.

Customised received three awards in the 2016 HDL awards.

HDL is the company’s chosen home automation system which they have been installing in clients’ homes and businesses for more than three years due to its reliability, flexibility and highly desirable keypads.

Receiving ‘Installer of the Year’, ‘Dealer of Distinction’ and ‘ Best Lighting Design’ is a reflection of a lot of hard work, a good relationship with HDL UK and some fantastic projects that the company completed in 2015.

The rewards reflect their dedication to installing the best in smart home technology, maintaining high standards in all installations and working with clients to make a difference to their homes or businesses.

Translation company helps good causes.

Monica Machado Translation Services is contributing to social causes in Africa In the last quarter of 2015, the highlight was a couple of projects included in the Company Social Responsibility (CSR) project.

Under the CSR scope they were able to offer discounted rates to a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) operating in Angola.

NGOs play a very important role in society and it is extremely important to support their efforts in doing this.

Therefore, Monica Machado Translation Services will help

as much as possible, by offering top-quality translations at a very competitive rate.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

9

Your Future Career Events.

Since our last edition, we have gone full swing into delivering Your Future Career Events!

10

We have held events at Sprowston High School, and Attleborough Academy, helping over 500 students learn from local business people about what their career could hold.

Right from the start, our vision was to deliver events which were not the same old exhibition style career events which have been done previously, but to engage students as much as possible.

We developed workshops based on subjects the students had identified an interest in, such as engineering, health and social care, technology, and

“I found out more information about apprenticeships, and a website where I can look for new openings. It’s helped me decide if I want to go to sixth form, college or an apprenticeship” Year 11 student, Jack Lincoln

science. There were also apprenticeship workshops and speed networking sessions run throughout the day.

We were really pleased to hear the schools found the events useful and challenging for their students. Jackie Bircham, Head of Work, Learning and Life Faculty at Sprowston High School, said: “A move away from the format of stands in a hall to speed networking was an ambitious one…however the buzz in the rooms was brilliant, students really engaged in some meaningful and inspiring conversations that have got them really thinking about their futures, and keen to act on the advice that they received.”

This is all part of our campaign to bridge the gap between business and young people. We will continue to work with schools through our Young Chamber program.

“During the speed networking we got the chance to speak individually to people in the world of work. This was a brilliant opportunity, as they gave us advice on what an employer would look for, so therefore what we should do” Year 11 student, Jake Hatch

“The event allowed me to ask real “That was so much fun - can I do it business owners how they got into again?” their job and if they liked it. They helped me choose between a job and Year 12 students, Olivia Pedley and Lauren Barnett an apprenticeship” Year 11 student, Chloe Edwards

Norfolk Chamber presents: Young Chamber for schools.

The Young Chamber membership package allows schools to benefit from Norfolk Chamber’s reach with local and national businesses. We aim to bridge the gap between the world of education and the world of business.

Young Chamber will provide access and sustained relationships for schools to local businesses to develop skills such as communication, team work and resilience, and offer real-world careers advice through guest speakers, career events, forum, mock interviews and relevant activity.

We have four packages that schools can take advantage of, ranging from a standard to a premium package. There is also an option to add a Young Chamber Council to your school. Schools already operating a Young Chamber Council are Aylsham High School and Sprowston High School: you can read both the student and teacher perspective in this edition’s Big Interview (pg 26) and Last Word (pg 55) features.

For more information on how to become a Young Chamber School, or to create your own Young Chamber Council visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk or email: bridgingthegap@ norfolkchamber.co.uk

If your business is interested in getting involved, please email bridgingthegap@norfolkchamber.co.uk.

We are currently planning more dates April-June.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

ChamberPolicy

MPs call for strong business voice to help Norfolk grow. help our MPs achieve results in our region and get projects over the line.

The third topic about how we can raise the aspiration of our county’s young people and develop their skills was discussed by Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman and Norwich North MP Chloe Smith.

The first discussion was from North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb and North West Norfolk MP Henry Bellingham about improving Norfolk’s links nationally and globally.

Chloe Smith felt the importance should be “work insights not just work experience”, and she shared her support for the Chamber’s ‘Bridging the Gap’ campaign.

Norman Lamb said: “This is the moment to be investing in our essential infrastructure; rail, roads, and broadband.”

Norfolk Chamber was delighted to welcome over 180 delegates at our annual MPs Event on Friday 5th February. Over six years this event, has grown in influence both with Norfolk’s Nine MPs and our members.

Henry Bellingham said he was pleased with the government’s support “to encourage and nurture new companies” through the new enterprise zone announced for King’s Lynn. He also encouraged local businesses to be “ever more

ambitious and innovative for export opportunities.”

Next up to the stage were Broadland MP Keith Simpson, Great Yarmouth MP Brandon Lewis, and South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss, who discussed economic growth.

Liz Truss encouraged delegates to learn from the earlier campaigns to help push for A47 improvements: “I would suggest we work with all the businesses in this room to make as much noise as possible…What was really successful with the A11 campaign was we had businesses by the side of the road saying ‘We need this’.” She also called for more support to improve the Norwich to Cambridge rail line, and Ely North Junction, to help West Norfolk get half hourly services into London.

The event was held at Sprowston Manor, who kindly sponsored the event along with Norse, Abellio Greater Anglia, and Lloyds Bank.

The host for our event was Emma Hutchinson, Political Correspondent from ITV News Anglia.

There was a resounding message that a strong business voice can

Caroline Williams said: “We should never underestimate the power and influence of the Norfolk business community’s voice and opinions.

The Norfolk Chamber and its members will take the lead on behalf of the business community to help our MPs and local authorities get a number of projects over the line.”

11

New to Norfolk: ‘Investment in Young People Award’.

As part of the Norfolk Chamber’s campaign to ‘Bridge the Gap between Business and Young People’, the Chamber is delighted to announce that we are now able to offer to Norfolk businesses the opportunity to gain the prestigious ‘Investment in Young People Award’ (IiYP).

This national award will recognise and celebrate the important work done by companies that help young people gain employability skills and prepare them for future employment.

By gaining this award, and proudly displaying the IiYP business mark, it will make your business stand out as an employer of choice, demonstrating that you are making a real difference to young people’s lives in your local community. The IiYP mark is exclusive to companies MARCH/APRIL 2016 MARCH/APRIL 2016

that have been successful in meeting the required standard.

Businesses have a crucial role to play in developing a young person’s understanding of the world of work and in helping them to gain the all-important employability skills needed to help them be successful in their future career. The Business and Education survey results, conducted by the British Chambers in 2015, showed that employer engagement has significant benefits for young people, such as a greater awareness of soft skills that businesses value.

Caroline Williams, CEO at Norfolk Chamber, said: “We have undertaken the IiYP assessment and Norfolk Chamber is delighted to have been awarded the IiYP business mark. I would encourage

any of our members, who are working with young people, to apply for this nationally recognised award and help show the commitment of the Norfolk business community to our future workforce.”

To qualify for the award you will have worked with a local school, college or education provider by engaging in activity that helps students for a better understanding of enterprise and businesses whilst gaining a range of employability skills. Any sized business working with young people can apply, as long as they can evidence their activity against specific criteria.

Visit www.youngchamber.com/iiyp to find out more and complete the Application Form.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MembersNews

50 Years in Consultancy.

Example project at UEA In 2016 MLM celebrates its 50 years in consultancy and this also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s remarkable history with some exciting companywide celebrations planned for throughout the year.

12

The company began in 1966 when John Lusher and David Maddocks, both in their thirties, decided it was time to quit their jobs and set up their own Structural Engineering Consultancy in Ipswich. Six years later they were joined by Colin Matthews Maddocks, Lusher and Matthews was founded.

From its humble beginnings, MLM has gone on to capture both regional, national and international markets. It now operates out of 12 UK offices and has a turnover of more than £31 million.

MLM is one of the largest privately owned engineering, environmental and building control

consultancies in the UK, employing 375 staff at its offices in England and Wales, as well as its offices in Ireland, Brazil and Finland.

The business is delighted to have retained it’s ‘100 Best Companies‘ one star accreditation in 2016 and is currently working on over 9,000 live projects with an overall value in excess of £1.5billion in the UK and overseas.

Our local Norwich office has been serving the construction industry in Norfolk for over 12 years and focusses on Structural Engineering, Building Services Engineering & Building Control. We have worked on prominent and renowned projects in Norfolk, such as; The UEA, The Narthex, The Britons Arms, Queens Hill, Castle Mall and many more.

2016 set to be a big year for Future50 member Indigo Swan.

With ambitious growth plans and a strong focus on local business, Indigo Swan is set to make a splash in Norfolk this year.

2015 was a fantastic year for the business; sales were up 40%, they recruited four swans, MD Emily Groves was named IoD Young Director of the Year (East of England) and they were awarded “Most Trusted Consultancy” and “Best Small Consultancy of the Year” at the National Energy Live Consultancy Awards (TELCAs) in London.

Chief Plan Hatcher James Wortley said: “We believe in a better way of managing energy. Our focus is taking the headache out of managing energy and energy

the Future50 and our excellent client retention, and we are excited about building upon this in 2016.”

The company plans to double turnover by the end of 2017 and increase the flock to 20 swans. They are currently recruiting for a Client Guide to help clients reduce their energy headache and have at least two more positions coming up this year.

contracts and giving our clients the information they need to make better business decisions.

“We have been recognised for our innovative and customer focussed approach with a number of awards,

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Managing Director Emily Groves said: “Attitudes are as important to us as skills when we recruit.

We look for people who fit with our values, Be Trusted, Be Responsible, Be Effortless and Be Exceptional.

“Innovation is at the heart of culture, we are always looking for a better way, so it is essential we find new people who push the boundaries and challenge the status quo.”

Businesses urged to volunteer on Give & Gain Day. Businesses across Norfolk are being urged to sign up to the world’s only annual day of employee volunteering Give & Gain Day. Run by the charity Business in the Community the day encourages businesses to give staff paid time to volunteer to help local good causes.

More than 30,000 people are expected to take part in activity, which takes place on Friday 20th May. Give & Gain Day gives local community organisations, social enterprises and schools across Norfolk the benefit of volunteered resources, skills and knowledge from business.

On Give & Gain Day 2015, businesses donated time worth £2.37 million, which highlights the growing appetite amongst business to help their local communities prosper.

The benefits to business of employee volunteering are demonstrated by a recent survey from NCVO and CIPD, which found that 81% of those who took part in volunteering reported increased community awareness, 65% had increased communication skills, and 59% reported an increase in confidence. 65% of respondents would be more likely to work for an employer that encourages and promotes volunteering, yet 39% said their employer did not support volunteering.

Companies can get involved with Give & Gain Day on the 20th May by visiting www.bitc.org.uk/ giveandgainday #Giveandgain

Be part of Norfolk’s premier business network

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

AdvertisingFeature

Access for all.

Peter Harper, Head of Digital Development at integrated marketing agency osbornenash in Norwich, discusses the case for investing in web accessibility.

We’ve come a long way with issues of access and discrimination in the last 20 years.

community, early technological limitations made it tricky to balance accessibility with the delivery of a compelling experience. And with the assumption that accessibility is difficult and costly, questions arise over ROI – “surely it’s better to spend that money on the majority of users”?

The bigger picture

13

Questions over the cost of accessibility therefore need to consider that it can benefit everyone, rather than just those with disabilities.

Accessibility and the law Perhaps most importantly, there is now a legal obligation to make your content accessible.

n Code that is semantic and validated is more likely to render correctly, ensures that search engines index your content, and future-proofs your site.

The introduction of the Disability Discrimination act in 1999 ensured that all service providers must make provision for accessibility, with later clarification that this applied equally to websites. The Equalities Act 2010 is even more explicit – all services, however delivered, must not discriminate against users by denying them access.

Such views are rare today. What was once enforced through law is now the natural order of things – an accepted norm. People recognise that everyone benefits from making services easier to access.

n Rich media with alternative consumption methods allows people with slow or unstable connections to understand what’s going on without having to wait.

While the law is still relatively untested, the RNIB has pursued legal action – most notably when they took BMI to court in 2012. As all defendants have settled out of court, no case law yet exists in the UK.

The web, however, has lagged behind.

n High levels of contrast can help people with visual impairments, but also ensures your content is more legible in bright sunlight.

It is, however, only a matter of time – the same W3C standards that underlay UK legislation have been tested in other countries. A case in

Once upon a time, complaints about accessibility concessions such as ramps and textured paving were commonplace, with the suggestion that the money would be better spent making improvements for everyone.

While accessibility has always been important in the digital

MARCH/APRIL 2016

We can see that, once again, accessibility provision can improve the experience of all users. For example:

Australia in 2000 against the Sydney Olympic organisation led to a fine of $20,000 and forced compliance.

While a 2004 case against Ramada and Priceline in the US led to forced compliance and a fine of $77,500.

So is the additional expense of ensuring full web accessibility justified? Well, as it unlocks the true potential of your online presence and makes it easier for everyone to use your site, definitely. And with the possible threat of legal action if your site is not fully accessible – unquestionably.

For more information or advice about accessibility integration, contact osbornenash on 01603 699954 or visit osbornenash.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

From left to right: Roy Dallison, Ximena Florian, Julie Austin, Anh Luong

14

Delegates learn about opportunities in South East Asia.

On Tuesday 26th January, over 35 delegates joined us to learn about new opportunites in the Philippines, plus how the Overseas Business Network and Chamber connections can help.

The Holiday Inn provided a spacious setting where delegates were able to network over tea and coffee, followed by 3 presentations from expert speakers discussing the key areas of trade in South East Asia; Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Norfolk Chamber’s International Trade Manager, Julie Austin welcomed delegates to the event and thanked UKTI for sponsoring the event before introducing Ximena

Florian, Overseas Business Network Advisor UKTI East of England.

Ximena explained to delegates who the Overseas Business Network are and what services they can provide to UK companies.

Next up we had Anh Luong, Vietnam Overseas Business Network Partner, who went into great detail about what Vietnam and Malaysia are looking to invest in. Anh explained that whilst sectors such as education, retail, manufacturing

are great opportunities to the UK there are still challenges which companies will face when trading with these areas.

We then took a short break to give delegates the opportunity to discuss what they had learned, and enjoy tea and cake!

The second half of the event was split into two more presentations in which Ximena Florian covered trading opportunities in Indonesia and Singapore, followed by a

presentation from Roy Dallison, UK Representative of the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines, who discussed the opportunities the Philippines offer and also shared some success stories of UK companies trading in the area.

We closed the event with a short Q&A, after which many delegates took the opportunity to talk further with the speakers and get in some final networking to make new export contacts.

Want to grow your overseas business? – Norfolk Chamber can put you in touch with British Chambers of Commerce overseas – contact the International Trade Team on 01603 729706 or export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

InternationalTrade International Trade Training Courses.

We here at Norfolk Chamber know how difficult it can be to keep-up-to-date with the world of International Trade and so to help you achieve success in this field we put on a variety of specialised training courses.

Whether you’re just getting started or feel you need a refresher, these sessions will help to boost your understanding of the subjects.

Translation and Interpreting Service.

Forthcoming dates and topics: April 2016 6th

Import Procedures*

May 2016

Research has shown that language differences are a significant barrier to International Trade but with the Norfolk Chamber’s Translation and Interpreter Service, they don’t need to be.

4th

Agents and Distributors*

4th

Inward and Outward Processing Relief*

Our translation service can help you communicate effectively with your overseas clients in their native languages to help your business flourish.

automotive, aerospace, information technology, legal, software or medical technology.

5th

Creating an Export Strategy*

For overseas communications, whether by way of face to face meetings or conference calls, we can arrange for an interpreter to assist.

June 2016

Whatever your translation needs, from introductory letters through to product manuals, we can meet your requirements in a quick and efficient manner.

Our translators are highly qualified linguists, translating into their mother tongue and are specialised in different sectors or disciplines such as

It’s all part of a service designed to give you the confidence and credibility to make your business a success abroad. And that sounds good in anybody’s language.

Hear from Chamber members why they trust our service…

The Norfolk Chamber provide an excellent service and are always happy to go the extra mile to ensure the accuracy of the translations we receive.

Charlotte Ludkin, Permastore Ltd

Wow – so quick.

What a great service.

We have used Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Translation facilities and find them prompt, very helpful and accurate. Our Company would certainly use them again.

Patricia Marcus, KSG Limited

16th

Letters of Credit / Methods of Payment*

30th

e-zCert Workshop

Courses marked with * form part of the British Chambers of Commerce Accredited Courses, which can result in a Foundation Award Certificate upon completion of 6 courses.

If you have a delegate who wish to book onto six courses we can offer a 10% discount for bulk booking. Please talk to the Team for more details.

Please take a look at www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/ export to book.

Fiona Walker, Steeles Law

Do you find language a barrier to doing business overseas?

Our international trade team are here to help: 01603 729706

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

Did you know you could get 25% off training through the ETIP Scheme? Visit norfolkchamber.co.uk/etip

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

15

BusinessSupport

A changing landscape.

Outsourcing business support services is providing a boost to the local economy, creating and preserving jobs, particularly at a time of such dramatic change.

For instance, companies providing such services are stepping in to carry out work in traditional local and central government areas as councils and Whitehall departments slash budgets in the likes of back-office functions, HR and marketing.

Not only has that led to more work being outsourced to the private sector but we are also seeing former public sector employees setting up their own businesses to offer their expertise to a whole new range of clients.

One big advantage of outsourcing business support services is that SMEs can pick and mix the kind of services that they require.

They may already have a selection of specialist skills in-house and require additional support on only a few specific elements of a project.

Going out of house to specialist business support companies allows them to bring in those skills as and

16

when required. It makes sense to do so. Very often, a small business does not have in-house specialism in all the disciplines it requires and battling on without seeking expert help can turn out to be a false economy.

Take HR, for example. Workplace legislation changes at such a rapid rate that a SME needs specialist support to ensure it does not fall foul of employment law.

Finance is the same. SMEs need expertise in such a complex area of business and it often makes sense to buy it in.

Marketing is another example. Companies can try to do the work themselves but it often makes sense to bring in professionals who can write compelling copy, source professional images, communicate with the media and harness the power of social marketing platforms to raise their clients‘ profiles.

Administration is another popular area of business support; whether it be administrative support, office management or providing business premises, it can save a lot of time and effort to buy it in.

Is Solar Power Still a Viable Option?

As the Government continues to reduce the financial incentives for Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels, the question is, is Solar Power still a viable option?

The Government has now switched financial incentives from domestic to commercial systems making them ideal for businesses that use large amounts of electricity. The rate for installations between 10-50kws is now at the highest rate. This form of energy is undoubtedly the most economical and environmentally friendly way of reducing your long-term energy costs and carbon footprint. Furthermore, the new feed-in-tariff rate is still index linked and will give you a higher return than most other secure investments.

Battery storage is here! If electricity is used in the evening, these products capture energy generated during the day for use as required and can also be retrofit to existing installations.

For those businesses that already have a Solar PV system, there are products and services available to make your system more efficient.

For example:n Smart Energy controllers downloaded to your mobile can enable you to remotely manage your appliances more efficiently. n Hot Water controllers that divert surplus power to heat your hot water. n Electric and Hybrid cars are also becoming more popular and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points can now be easily installed on your premises. n Finally, simply by replacing your existing lights with LED bulbs you can reduce your electricity bills further.

Visit www.greensolarfootprint.co.uk and click the Department of Energy and Climate Change link for more information on environmental tax relief.

There are various grants and funding available. Please contact

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Green Solar Footprint for cost comparisons and a consultation.

Tel: 01603 700342 07587152857 / 07881934438 admin@greensolarfootprint.co.uk www.greensolarfootprint.co.uk

solar MARCH/APRIL 2016

WORK RELATED STRESS The cost of work related stress to the economy is estimated at ÂŁ6.5bn a year. That equates to approximately 10.4 million work days lost to stress each year.

But increased sickness absence levels, costly though these are, are not the only concern; stressed employees may come to work disengaged, tired, unmotivated and ineffective. Mistakes will be more frequent and your business could face reputational damage, not to mention the costs associated with rectifying errors.

It makes good financial and business sense for employers to actively promote positive mental health for all staff members. If your team are well supported, well-motivated and enabled to manage the stresses and strains of everyday life it will be easier to retain staff

(thus reducing recruitment costs) and your business will reap the benefits.

At Realise Futures Network we can offer a comprehensive package of support to any organisation large or small. A wide range of options is available in this crucial area. Why not book our stressbusters team to spend a day on site; meet your staff, give personalised advice or alternatively try our manager workshop to empower your leadership team to become effective in recognising and managing stress in the workplace. Talk to us now about how stress is affecting your business!

For more information please call Deborah Williams on 01473 275956 or 07738704757

AdvertisingFeature

Jo Pyman and Jamie Playford Directors of Leading Strategies

18

Could your business benefit from a helping hand?

The team at Leading were recently approached by the owners of a North Norfolk restaurant who had been struggling financially following a decline in customer numbers.

During the first meeting, Jamie Playford, Licensed insolvency Practitioner, conducted a full review of the company’s financial position and determined that whilst the company was experiencing short term cashflow issues, the business remained viable.

Therefore a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) was proposed which would help the business to restructure, improve its cashflow and repay creditor debts at a much more affordable rate.

Whilst the implementation of the CVA dealt with the financial problems the business had been experiencing, the owners recognised that in order to get things fully back on track and return the business to a profitable position, underlying operational issues would still need to be addressed.

The owners decided to engage the team at Leading Strategies to help them make the significant changes required to give the business the best chance of success. In the first instance, Jo Pyman, Director, conducted a full review of

the overall business to identify the key challenges and problem areas. These included: n Failure to comply with existing employment and health and safety legislation n Lack of financial KPI’s and monitoring procedures n Underperforming, unmotivated and untrained staff n Tired premises that were unwelcoming to customers n Lack of direction and leadership Following the review, it became clear that unless action was taken to address these issues, the business would continue to struggle and potentially fail.

We proposed and implemented a full turnaround plan which was designed to tackle each problem area. As a matter of urgency, we helped the business owners to meet their compliance and legal obligations, removing the level of existing risk.

We also helped the business owners to implement a range of reporting mechanisms, as well as provide them with a cloud based accounts package. This has enabled them to closely monitor their financial position and also undertake actions such as negotiating improved credit terms with suppliers.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

In addition to the above, we have also conducted a full staffing review in order to understand not only which resources are required but to identify the skills and experience that already exist within the business. This review enabled us to produce a series of job specifications, employee contracts, individual training plans and appraisal system documentation which will assist the owners with monitoring performance and ensure staff are appropriately trained. Feeling much more in control of the business, the owners are now providing clear direction and leadership meaning staff are much more positive and motivated.

Finally, having conducted a full branding review, we are in the process of co-ordinating a full premises refurbishment to ensure the environment is in line with customer expectations. The client says “working with Jamie and Jo at Leading Strategies has been a fantastic experience. The help, advice and support they have given has been so helpful and it is fantastic to see some really positive changes happening at our business. We are now extremely optimistic about the future.”

For more information about how we can help your business, please get in touch today.

0800 246 1845 / mail@leading.uk.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016

BusinessSupport

Stop pinching your customers and start keeping them.

We can all recognise how important it is for companies to take a strong approach when addressing customer loyalty. It’s all about building the relationship between the brand and the customer, which is not always easy to do, especially with consumer behaviour becoming more and more difficult to read.

According to a recent survey by Verint (info.verint.com/LP=2418), there were three common reasons customers give for switching brands: cheaper pricing, a bad customer service experience, and mistakes that have been made which have not been quickly corrected.

know CRM systems were built for this exact reason. You have all your customers’ details to hand, you know the last time you were in touch with them and when you’re planning on calling them next. This data gives your team the information they need to start building a relationship with your customers.

Having a great product will, as you know, help immeasurably with that first reason —if your customers believe you have the best product around, they won’t mind paying a little extra for the quality.

But there is a lot of other information your company holds on your customers, most of which is going to be siloed away, available only to certain departments. This is where a good CRM system, like OpenCRM, can help you go the extra mile.

Training your staff to provide great customer service is obviously vital, but giving them the tools they need to provide this service is equally important. Similar tools and training will also help your team build lasting relationships with your customers.

And it’s these two points where a CRM system can really make the difference to your customer retention strategy.

Building a strong relationship with each of your customers starts with basic organisation and we all

MARCH/APRIL 2016

There are some obvious examples for how a very broad and deep CRM can make a real difference: only your marketing team knows who’s interested in a new product, only accounts knows when someone is paying on time, and only the support team knows when a customer isn’t happy with a product.

Imagine if your sales team could see that the person they’re about to call is having some trouble with a feature or has been engaging with that latest marketing email. They could offer some free training as a

gesture of goodwill or bring up that new product you’re in the process of launching, maybe even offering an early bird discount because they’ve paid their last three invoices early?

It’s these simple gestures that tell your customers that your team is interested in them and invested in building that relationship. It also makes them feel special, supported, and valued.

Using a CRM system that fully integrates with all of your departments will give you a rich, detailed, and most importantly, a full history of your customers’ dealings with you.

By being able to manage the whole breadth of your customers’ experience with your company, you can better understand where the pain points are, addressing these issues before your customers even consider shopping around for a new provider.

If you have any questions about OpenCRM, please get in touch. I would love to hear from you. Find us at www.opencrm.co.uk or drop us a line at hello@opencrm.co.uk

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

19

AdvertisingFeature

Getting the best out of your staff.

If your business is large enough to have employees, treasure them. With the right people in the right places, your employees are the most important asset your business has.

To get the best out of your staff, they need to know you value them.

But with the day to day focus on operational needs, it’s all too easy to let staff motivation fall down your list of priorities.

However, taking care of employee engagement should form a key part of your strategic planning, not be an afterthought. Jonathan Madden, from Joules Resource Management, explains: “To keep your staff motivated you need to identify what makes them tick and provide the right environment to nurture them. This is particularly important during times of business change where people can be pushed into situations they’re not comfortable with.

20

Key to success is ensuring that all staff have a clear understanding of a future that they see as secure and sustainable, so they have the willingness to change with you.

Poorly motivated staff results in high

staff turnover and a direct impact on the bottom line.”

Jonathan works with businesses to help them grow. A big part of that is working directly with the employees to ensure any transitions are smooth and that the workforce feels valued.

“Listening to your employees is as important as listening to your customers. When I go into an organisation, I need to get employees to open up and discuss any problems with me. I can then come up with a strategy to resolve any issues. Communication is key.”

Education is another vital part of staff motivation. A motivated employee is confident that they have the support and the skills they need to complete their job. And the other important ingredient?

“Recognition. A big motivator for staff is having their hard work recognised. A simple ‘thank you’

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Jonathan Madden when someone achieves an agreed goal can go a long way, but is all too often forgotten!”

joulesresourcemanagement.co.uk to find out more about how Jonathan can help.

Jonathan can help identify and nurture talent through coaching and mentoring. These foundations might not seem tangible, but you will feel the positive change within your organisation and see your business grow. Visit

MARCH/APRIL 2016

BusinessSupport

Electrical Inspection Solutions are a Norwich based family run Electrical testing & Installation company who cover most of the UK. In order to raise our profile within the Chamber we are offering fellow members of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and readers of Voice magazine a completely FREE and very valuable offer for a limited period only.

In order to comply with the law all employers MUST ensure that their Electrical installations are safe. Therefore to help with with compliance we are offering a Completely Free Thermographic Survey** of your electrical distribution boards (normal cost £400).

These Surveys employ the use of Thermal Imaging cameras that detect faults that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

They are without doubt a very useful tool in Electrical safety practices.

An increasing number of Insurance companies are now insisting that Thermograhic surveys are carried out as a condition of continued cover.

A full report will be issued FREE of charge.

For further information regarding Thermographic Surveys please go to :- www.eisukltd.com/thermographic_surveys.html In addition, if requested, we will carry out a no obligation completely FREE visual Electrical assessment of your Electrical installations and advise accordingly.***

Telephone 01603 821035 www.eisukltd.com E-mail admin@eisukltd.com ** Maximum 10 distribution boards.

21 DEDICATED TO HELPING SMALL & MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESSES ACHIEVE THEIR VISION

We don’t just coach, we get on the pitch!

Business Doctors is a business support network, dedicated to helping small and medium sized businesses achieve their vision.

Drawing on extensive business skills and experience, Business Doctors provides ‘hands on’ support to business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

owners enabling them to overcome their individual challenges and helping them to achieve their aspirations for growth.

If you think your business could use a helping hand, contact us today or simply complete our free, no obligation health check.

Do you think your business could use a helping hand?

Contact us on:

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AdvertisingFeature THE UEA INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME HELPS LOCAL ORGANISATIONS RECRUIT TALENTED STUDENTS AND GRADUATES We offer a simple and mutually beneficial solution to help you fill a skills gap, work on a project, or try out new staff before taking them on yourself. We’ve been supporting local organisations to recruit interns for over six years. We look forward to speaking to you about how best to work with your business.

CLICKERS ARCHERY - GRAHAM AND ALEX

ARE YOU A LOCAL ORGANISATION?

We ensure it has never been easier to recruit a student or graduate. We draft the advert and contracts, and even provide the payroll service – all you have to do is pay an invoice, support the student and reap the benefits. It’s minimal paperwork and hassle free.

We even have a limited number of subsidies available for eligible organisations, so speak to us now to find out if you qualify.

If you have a project you haven’t got around to, or a skills gap to fill, and want to use the fresh insight a student intern can bring, get in touch with us now on 01603 593917, or on internship@uea.ac.uk.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

CLICKERS ARCHERY is a local employer that has already benefited from our summer internships, recruiting History student Alex Morris to work on their marketing.

Graham, Director of Clickers Archery said ‘we would recommend the opportunity to any potential employer. For us it is a no-brainer and a win-win situation for both parties.’ Alex even went on to work part time with Clickers through his degree.

The internships can be part-time or full-time throughout the year. They can be from a few weeks up to a year long. We fill internships in a wide variety of sectors, completing a broad range of projects.

While we fill internships throughout the year, there are key times when there are more students and graduates available to work with you. Many students finish their degrees in June and September, so this is a great time to find new talent.

We work with businesses in many different ways and there is no one size fits all solution.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss how we can work with you.

CONTACT THE INTERNSHIP TEAM BY CALLING 01603 593917 OR EMAIL INTERNSHIP@UEA.AC.UK

22

Thevoice-feb16.indd 1

11/02/2016 14:59

The Personnel People | 12 All Saints Green | Norwich | Norfolk NR1 3NA | Tel: 01603 761717 | Fax:01603 761581 | www.personnelpeople.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH/APRIL 2016

BusinessSupport HIT REFRESH office furniture for all budgets

0333 3448 774

info@meridianofficefurniture.co.uk www.meridianofficefurniture.co.uk

We create great.

The Enterprise Centre Great ideas, great work, great results

The regional green business hub in a creative exemplar low carbon building. We offer:

With us it’s the client first, last and in-between. We listen hard, think hard and we want to end every project knowing we exceeded expectations.

• Inspirational space for events, meetings, creativity workshops and exhibitions • CPD accredited seminars from leaders in their field • Innovative conference venue with the latest AV Technology • Flexible range of tenancy options and associated business support programme

Be in touch to find out more theenterprisecentre.roombookings@uea.ac.uk 01603 591366 theenterprisecentre.uea.ac.uk Managed by

creativesponge.co.uk 01603 622766 Design • Branding • Digital

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

23

CEO moves up three places.

Brian Floringer and Paul Williams

Lovewell Blake expands network.

East Anglian-based accountancy firm Lovewell Blake has signalled further expansion with the acquisition of a longstanding firm in Ely, Youngman & Co.

24

The move, the firm’s first into Cambridgeshire, will add a tenth office to its network.

Lovewell Blake partner Brian Floringer will head up the Ely office; Mr Floringer is also responsible for the firm’s Bury St Edmunds office.

Youngman & Co staff will transfer to Lovewell Blake, and will continue to work from the same Ely offices,

under the Lovewell Blake banner. Youngman & Co founder, John Youngman is set to retire.

Paul Williams from Youngman & Co, who together with the rest of the team will join Lovewell Blake on 1 February, said, “We are delighted to become part of one of the most respected names in accountancy in the region, and of a firm which shares much of the ethos of the team here in Ely. This move brings one of the most respected names in accountancy into Ely, whilst retaining the people and the service which our clients value.”

Georgina beats more than 16,700 other trainees worldwide in latest exam.

Norfolk Chamber members can get their news stories in this magazine for FREE by uploading them to www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Accountancy Age has recently published its Financial Power List 2016 with CEO of The TaxAssist Group Karl Sandall being recognised as the 47th most powerful figure in the finance and accountancy world, up three places from 2015.

Karl and TaxAssist find themselves in illustrious company with Lin Homer, Chief Executive of HM Revenue and Customs taking the number one slot and Mark Carney Governor of the Bank of England four places above Karl at number 43.

Accountancy Age is one of the leading resources for finance, business and accountancy news, features, advice and resources for accountants and other UK finance professionals. Every year they produce a ‘Power List’ of the most influential and powerful hitters in the accounting and finance world for the year ahead.

M+A Partners Georgina Lemmon has been studying for her ACCA qualification since September 2014 and in her Corporate Reporting exam taken last December she scored higher than 16,700 other trainees worldwide who took the same exam. This was Georgina’s seventh exam out of eleven and she has been in the top 2% for the previous six.

Georgina said: “I am so pleased to be the global prize winner for this exam from the December 2015 sitting.

I had been warned before starting my ACCA exams that this was going to be a tough paper, therefore I am delighted to have done so well. It is very motivational to face such a challenge and in turn be rewarded for all the hard work you put in.”

Karl Sandall

Georgina Lemmon congratulated on her award

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

Accountancy Age listed the reason for Karl’s inclusion in the Power List as follows, “The coming year is likely to be pivotal for Sandall and TaxAssist as the firm embarks on an ambitious international expansion plan, taking in five branches across Australia, before turning its attention to Canada, Scandinavia and the US.” Karl is listed alongside his Executive Management colleagues Sarah Robertson, Phil Sullivan and Ray Clarke and the TaxAssist franchisees, who make up the UK’s largest network of small business specialist accountants.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

MembersNews

Two key appointments for city youth charity.

First group of young people complete new BBC digital traineeship.

Chief Constable Simon Bailey

The OPEN Youth Trust (OPEN) on Bank Plain has recently appointed Chief Constable Simon Bailey and Mark Jeffries as patrons, joining The Rt. Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich and Richard Jewson, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk as fellow patrons.

As Chief Constable Bailey is National Police Lead on Child Protection, it is an entirely appropriate appointment for a charity whose mission is to provide opportunities that make a difference to the lives of young people in Norfolk.

Mark was the Senior Partner of national law firm Mills & Reeve until last year but remains a consultant whilst also holding non-executive board roles at the Department of Education, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, R G Carter and NW Brown.

Following his recent visit to OPEN, Chief Constable Bailey was impressed with its plans for the future, saying: “I like OPEN’s ambition that every penny of profit raised through the venue’s live music, conferences and events will fund its youth drop-in facilities and, through programmes such as Your Life, the charity is giving young people challenged by low self-esteem, bullying or disadvantage the confidence and life-skills to find work and follow their passion.”

MARCH/APRIL 2016

City College Norwich has celebrated the success of its first eight trainees to complete the eightweek BBC Make It Digital traineeship.

The young people were presented with certificates by BBC Look East presenter Susie Fowler-Watt at an event held at MINT in The Forum.

Mark Jeffries

John Gordon-Saker, Chief Executive of OPEN said: “I’m thrilled that the Chief Constable has agreed to become a Patron.

Our youth workers are in a good position to support vulnerable young people but, in light of the recent report on sex abuse by the Children’s Commissioner for England, I am keen to develop closer links with schools, social services, other children’s charities and the police in order to eradicate this horrific crime. Patronage is a two way street and we will do everything we can to support the Chief Constable in his vital work.”

Talking of his appointment as patron Mark Jeffries said: “OPEN plays a vital role in providing facilities and delivering services for young people in Norfolk. I am delighted to be able to support the energetic team there who are working so hard to deliver the benefits of education, industry and commerce working together.

There is enormous potential for the future.”

The new traineeship has been developed by the BBC, in conjunction with the Department for Work and Pensions, in recognition of the vital part that digital skills play in a huge range of job roles across all business sectors and organisations.

Trainees spent four weeks at college getting to grips with topics such as how to use social media platforms

effectively, producing multimedia content for web sites, search engine optimisation, branding, budgeting, marketing and project management.

They then undertook a threeweek work placement with an employer which gave the trainees the opportunity to put their skills into practice and gain valuable experience.

The traineeship concluded with a final week in college, where the trainees completed a team challenge, involving a live digital broadcast, bringing together the skills they had developed during the preceding seven weeks.

Each trainee is moving on with a digital portfolio of their work and – as guests heard at the celebration event – greater self-confidence and a clear focus on securing a job or an Apprenticeship place as their next step.

CloudSpark Solutions achieves Microsoft Silver Competency.

CloudSpark Solutions Ltd, the Great Yarmouth based IT specialist serving Norfolk and Suffolk, has achieved Silver Small and Mid Market Cloud Solutions competency, demonstrating its ability to meet Microsoft customers’ evolving needs in today’s dynamic business environment.

To earn a Microsoft silver competency, partners must successfully demonstrate expertise through rigorous

exams, culminating in Microsoft certifications.

To ensure the highest quality of services, Microsoft requires multiple customer references for successful implementation and customer satisfaction.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

25

Business and Enterprise Ca Chamber CEO Caroline Williams with Aylsham Young Chamber students Dominic Harvey, Fenton Roberts, Beth Meyer, and the Head of Business and Enterprise Emmalucy Auber, at our Audience with Norfolk Schools in November 2015

26

Much of this edition is dedicated to Norfolk’s young talent so we asked Dominic Harvey, Business and Enterprise Captain at Aylsham High School to offer his thoughts on the world of business.

How and why did you become the Business and Enterprise Captain?

I have had a passion for enterprise and business since I took Business Studies in Year 9. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about the subject, including the teaching.

It inspired me to get involved with the school’s Young Chamber and not only did I learn a lot, I also made great acquaintances with all of the YC’s members and business teachers. I felt that getting Business and Enterprise captain would be the best way to not only show my expertise in business but also my interest in the subject. So three years later, when I was writing my prefect letter, I applied for the role of Business and Enterprise captain and to my delight I received it.

Tell me about the Young Chamber at your school.

Our Young Chamber is led by an executive committee that makes the majority of the decisions for what the

rest of the Young Chamber will do. For example, the committee may decide it is time for another “BOOST Day”, Business Breakfast or an educational visit. After the decision has been made one of the sub groups, for example the communications team, will be in charge of making sure everyone who needs to be contacted is. We also run a successful business inside of the school called “Pencil Case”. This consists of school students, usually not on the committee, spending a few lunchtimes selling stationery items at our stall. As you can imagine this is a great for both the experience and the profit!

What is the best thing about Young Chamber at your school?

My personal favourite event that our Young Chamber runs is the annual Business Breakfast. I enjoy this event the most because it is a great chance for me to meet and network with many local business people, hear inspirational speeches and sometimes a free bacon roll!

What did you find most useful about ‘An Audience with Norfolk Schools’ event last year?

I am always grateful for any chance to participate in public speaking and ‘An Audience with Norfolk Schools’ gave me a great opportunity to practice this in front of a large audience, which really helps me become more

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Dominic Harvey

MARCH/APRIL 2016

BigInterview

aptain looks to the future.

Aylsham Business and Enterprise Captain

comfortable in public speaking situations which will be a great skill for me in the future.

What did you take away from the event?

My biggest take away was how many small and large businesses alike were willing to help school students and teenagers. Everyone I talked was really amazed at the work our YC does and many wanted to get involved with us. It really made me realise how willing so many businesses are to help young people.

How would you like businesses help you understand the world of work? Do you want more work experience, or something completely different?

I think the best way to learn anything is to “Find an expert, and do exactly as they tell you”. And when it comes to learning about whatever it is you want to learn, the best way is to do it is just that. Find a business or a mentor whom does exactly what you want to learn or do and follow their instruction and advice EXACTLY. I think that offering mentoring, which can be in the form of work experience, is the best thing a business can offer to help you.

What advice would you give to a business who has never worked with students before?

My advice would be, when working with a high school (or college) student, you need to find one of the many motivated people. If they are MARCH/APRIL 2016

motivated and want to do well they will be willing to do anything you ask them, whether that is organising paperwork or just sending emails.

If you find the right person, they will definitely be an asset to your business.

I also hope to achieve this and his continued advice and guidance is of great help to me.

How would you change the school day or curriculum to help students be better prepared for work?

I don’t have any particular preference to where I want to live in the future. While I definitely do want to visit the rest of the world I don’t have any real need to move outside Norfolk. I think the main incentives for living somewhere is the cost, scenery and location to family.

Luckily, Norfolk is cost effective to live in, my family is located here and I personally appreciate Norfolk’s small villages, big fields and forests.

I think the biggest mistake schools make is forcing students to take subjects they don’t want to. This does not mean I think students should do whatever they want, rather they should be able to take the subjects they enjoy and excel at. Doing this would result in many more motivated young people who are specialist in their fields.

What are your hobbies outside of school?

Being in my final year, I have spent a lot more time doing schoolwork but I still find time to experiment with business ideas and ventures.

Who do you admire most in business?

While I have met many incredible business people already, I most admire my mentor Siam Kidd.

Siam is lives locally in Norfolk and is a self-employed financially free entrepreneur and Forex trader.

I admire him for not only for his dedication to his business but also for how he went from being practically broke to financially free in less than five years. Through my own businesses and investing

Do you want to stay in Norfolk for your future career? What would give you more incentive to stay locally?

What do you want to do when you leave school?

After I leave high school I will be attending City College in Norwich to study for a Business diploma. I hope to use my spare time during and after city college to setup my own businesses and continue my trading. My goal is to reach financial freedom by the time I am 25 by doing this.

How easy did you find it learning to network?

Networking came naturally to me and I didn’t find it particularly difficult to learn. This is likely because I am a confident person and I have always been very talkative since I was young. This made it easy for me to learn to network.

“If you want to be a better networker I think you should try changing your mind-set from, “what do I want to get?” to “what do I want to give?”

What tips do you have for other students If you want to be a better networker I think you should try changing your mind-set from, “what do I want to get?” to “what do I want to give?” This often can lead to more interesting conversations as you aren’t trying to lead it for your own need rather help them out.

This is great to do as in the long time you will usually find they will be happy to help you in the future with whatever you need. One of my favourite tips I learned just a few months ago was about knowing when somebody wants to leave a conversation. This works well when they are standing up because if their feet are pointing away from you they are subconsciously moving their body. If you are really serious about learning more about networking, I would highly recommend “How to make friends and influence people”

by Dale Carnegie.

Read more from Aylsham High School in the Last Word, page 54, with Emmalucy Auber.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

27

How young talent takes t A key part of the Norfolk business world’s focus, supported by the Chamber, is encouraging the next generation of talented young people to find jobs and develop careers. We asked Chamber members how their emerging talent got to where they are today.

28

Move into tax adds up for Christina

Life in the fast lane pays off for Adam

For Christina Futter, joining Norfolk chartered accountants Lovewell Blake when she was considering a career continued a long-held interest in finance.

Adam Little’s journey into work has seen him go from being a student in Norwich to the glamorous world of motor-racing in Barcelona,

Tax Trainee Christina, who joined the firm when she was eighteen and is now twenty, said: “I’ve always prepared my parents’ rental accounts, since they bought their properties, so I decided to look into which part of the finance sector interested me the most.”

“I liked the look of the challenge that came with tax - there are so many conditions and exceptions to every rule so that everything changes depending on the individual situation you are looking at.”

“My Great Grandad worked at Lovewell Blake so I’d always known about the firm. I walked into the

reception for my interview and it just felt like home.”

“Being a trainee, I only have limited experience, so whilst I help out where I can, I don’t have the expertise to control larger scale planning jobs or specialist areas such as IHT or VAT, but I am learning as I go along.”

“My advice to other people in the same situation is be confident, be curious and get experience.”

“I think peopleskills definitely help in this profession so where you might not be able to get work experience in the exact area you want, I would suggest getting a summer job. I don’t think it matters too much what you’re doing, what’s important is that you’re able to reflect on what skills you’ve learnt during your time there and what you could improve on in the future.”

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

The 25-year-old, who comes from the Dereham area, left Norwich School of Arts with a degree and took on an internship at local agency Creative Sponge, where he is a designer working on everything from advertising campaigns to making films.

He said: “I knew what I wanted to do and had heard of Creative Sponge so got in touch. I think the biggest thing I had to adapt to when I started work was managing my time.”

“At university you are given weeks to work on a project but here it can be a matter of hours to complete something.”

“I do use a lot of what I learnt at university but you have to learn how to adapt it to what the client requires and the budget available.”

One of the highlights came in 2015 with the trip to Spain. He said: “We were working with a Formula Three team and they were doing some testing in Barcelona so I ended up being part of the team that went out to make a film for the website.

I enjoy what I do and am keen to go on to achieve more senior positions in my career.”

MARCH/APRIL 2016

CoverFeature

the path into work.

Bringing history to life the inspiration for Kindra University of East Anglia introduced us to alumni Kindra Jones, 27, has one of the more unusual stories, having set up her business The Lady Knight, dressing up in period costume to bring history to life.

She said: “My journey to where I am today was a bit of a strange one, it certainly was not an option presented to me by my careers advisor at school!”

“Although I was fascinated by history as I grew up, I always thought my job would be in mathematics or science, history didn’t seem to have many options to me. In my teens I took up fencing and through that met a friend who introduced me to the world of re-enactment. It was great fun, but my path was still focused on science. However, two weeks into my A-levels, I realised it

wasn’t really the right thing for me and switched to the social sciences completely.”

“Having spent five years adamant I wanted to be a vet, suddenly I had no direction just as all my friends were deciding what journey they would take.”

“Deciding to follow my heart rather than my head I gained a 1st class BA in history at Bath Spa University, with my dissertation on the development of armour during the fourteenth century.”

“Doing a PGCE a couple of years later at the University of East Anglia cemented what I wanted to do with my life and in 2014 I launched The Lady Knight drawing on my strengths this combined my fascination with history, love of learning and enthusiasm of teaching

to create a business that aims to make history accessible to all.”

“Most of my work is with castles, historic homes and museums, but as a performer my work covers a huge range. I have helped source costume, props and extras for film and media, provided meet and greet for corporate events, and present talks with a difference!”

“The past year has seen my links with local museums grow and I will be continuing to build on that and strengthen local links. This year will see my first book published on the history of Norwich, with my second due out in 2017 on chivalry.”

29

Ed realises a lifelong ambition

Uncertainty followed by right career

For Rural Surveyor Ed Plumb, agriculture is in the blood having grown up on the family farm in Norfolk.

Apprentice Software Developer Lewis Leeds came to his chosen career after several years of not knowing what he wanted to do.

Today, aged 29, he works for Norwichbased property and business consultants Brown and Co, advising clients on everything from housing schemes to barn conversions and creating rural businesses.

He said: “I grew up in farming but the family farm was not really big enough to support all of us. My brother has skills more suited to practical agriculture so he works on the farm and I help out on the business side.”

“I was keen to stay involved in agriculture, though, and although

MARCH/APRIL 2016

some people tend to fall into this job, I had always wanted to work in land management so I trained to become a Rural Surveyor.”

That meant four years studying for a degree in rural enterprise and land management followed by a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors qualification.

Ed said: “The job is really enjoyable. We are very busy and a lot of what I do involves helping farmers who have a strong connection to the land making it easy for me to relate to them.”

“I am also involved in identifying areas that can be used for housing, including affordable housing schemes. The job really suits me.”

Now he works for software services provider Naked Element in his home town of Norwich and is convinced that he has found the career for him.

The 19-year-old said: “I left high school at sixteen not really sure what I wanted to do and that continued at sixth form, where I was actually studying for a BTEC Sports Diploma.”

“Even when I left college I was still not sure but I had always been interested

in computers, software and IT so I decided to apply for an Apprenticeship.”

Just over six months into a Level 3 Apprenticeship, with the option of a further year on Level 4, he said: “I like being on an Apprenticeship because you can learn as you go.

I do everything from blog posts to developing code.”

“We help companies improve their efficiency with a cohesive software solution, and I really enjoy it.”

“I was not sure it was the right career for me when I started but after two weeks I was enjoying it so much that I knew it was right.”

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

How to get exporting right: The need to export has never been more important for the UK economy and that is evidenced by the success of many companies in Norfolk.

Many of them are already taking advantage of export opportunities and showing the results that are possible if businesses get their planning right.

30

Laura Chandler, Director of HiBreeds International Ltd, an exporter of millions of fertile British hatching eggs based in Norwich: “This business requires tenacity and perseverance. Our business is 100% export.

There are times when we are incredibly busy and there are times when the market conditions are against us or demand is low and this can have a knock-on effect on our output.

It is at times like these when we can really concentrate on tapping into new markets and making contact with potential future customers.”

“Over the past few years we have relied heavily on Norfolk Chambers International Trade department for the certification of all our export documents. The Chamber have a great team and provide many useful training days and courses, some of which we have attended.”

“My advice to new exporters is to persevere. Not everything will go in your favour. We always try to trade

our way out of any difficult patches we may face.”

“Our business may periodically face reduced turnover, but it only takes a few tentative exports with new customers and soon your reputation for reliability and efficiency will be established and this will provide the building blocks for a great exporting future.”

John Ward, Shipping Manager of Fendercare Marine, global supplier of marine products and services, based in Seething, Norfolk: “When looking at successfully exporting, you should select and research your market and demand for your product.”

“You should use correct marketing strategy and ensure that pricing is competitive and that conditions on sales orders are mutually acceptable and achievable, i.e. deadlines/delivery times. You should also agree in advance on payment terms and ensure you get paid!”

Over the past few years we have relied heavily on Norfolk Chamber’s International Trade department for the certification of all our export documents. The Chamber have a great team and provide many useful training days and courses, some of which we have attended Laura Chandler, Director of HiBreeds International Ltd

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Fendercare Marine team “Anyone seeking to export should understand shipping/documentary requirements of country concerned.

It makes sense to appoint an efficient carrier/agent and provide after sales service/ follow up business for future orders.”

Steve Dorling, Product Manager, PIL Membranes Limited, King’s Lynn: “When exporting, you need to research your chosen market to decide the correct selling price.”

“To ensure you have the correct product to meet the needs of your target export market, you also need to research competitors but also conduct market research with your consumer. You need to research where and how you are to sell your product based upon the results of that market research.”

“You need to package and promote your product effectively, paying attention to translation from local speakers and acceptable

advertising, and you have to be aware of legislation, regulation and product standards for your chosen market.”

Jo Beales, Sales Advisor at Tobar Group Trading Limited, said: “We started off exporting to Scandinavia about 25 years ago. It was our very first export catalogue. There was an agent, called Bo, who approached us as they thought our products would sell very well in their country. Things just grew and grew from there.

Bo is now retiring, and I work very closely with him and attend trade fairs with him in Sweden to keep raising the awareness of Tobar and to give me an excellent opportunity to meet our customers face to face.

We have very recently bought Bo’s company and we now call it Tobar Scandinavia (original I know!)

We also have a company in France, can you guess the name?.....exactly MARCH/APRIL 2016

CoverFeature

tips from Norfolk members.

Top 10 destinations for Norfolk exporters (outside of the EC) (October 2015 – Jan 2016)

UAE Saudi Arabia Egypt Kuwait Qatar India HiBreeds team, left to right, is Sarah Vincent, Laura Chandler, Nick Chandler and Richard Savage

Oman Turkey Swizerland

Tobar France! This company has taken us by storm and they are now working with massive companies in France like LGR. We are increasing our footprint around Europe and have a few distributors to help us keep up with the demand. This works very well for us, we obtain close contact and have an excellent relationship with them.”

Julie Whiskens, Logistics Manager, PIL Membranes Limited: “An export sale is only successful when you have sold your customer the correct goods, prepared the correct paperwork to avoid delays and additional costs, delivered the goods on time and then, crucially, received full payment.”

gain the right advice. Even those most experienced at exporting need guidance occasionally!”

Julie Austin, International Trade Manager at Norfolk Chamber, said: “Norfolk Businesses are exporting their products and services and during 2015 the Chamber stamped documentation for goods valued at £68.7m.

“Demand did slow down a bit during the latter part of 2015 but we are seeing a rise again during the first part of 2016.”

“To achieve all of this consistently it is crucial that people with the right skills are employed by a company.”

Although the most recent report from the British Chambers of Commerce, released in November 2015, did reveal a drop in export growth and confidence among UK exporters, the organisation’s Director General has urged companies to continue to seek out opportunities.

“Exporting issues are often ever changing and sometimes not ‘black and white’ to solve but all can usually be resolved with experience and knowing where to

Export sales (+7) and orders (+3) balances fell to their lowest levels in more than six years, according to the Quarterly International Trade Outlook, but export orders

remained constant for just over half (54%) of UK businesses and 50% reported that export sales have remained the same as in the previous quarter.

Phil Couchman, CEO, DHL Express UK, said: “Some areas of the UK – in particular Scotland, the North East and Northern Ireland – are showing strong growth in export volumes. However, with most regions experiencing declining volumes and the UK’s trade gap recently reaching an all-time high, it’s more important than ever that we concentrate on supporting more British businesses to export.

“The UK’s relentless demand for imported goods means that we need to work hard to significantly boost exports and strike the right balance.

“As the UK focuses its efforts on exporting as a way of securing the future of our economy, DHL will continue to support businesses and ensure that more and more organisations feel comfortable in taking that first step overseas.”

The International Trade Team at the Norfolk Chamber are always available to assist businesses who want advice and guidance on exporting and they can be contacted on 01603 729715.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

31

China

Exporting is crucial as the economy recovers.

The invoice values for the exports supported by documentation stamped

by Norfolk Chamber of Commerce for the period was £48,940,096.

“Norfolk Businesses are exporting their products and services and during 2015 the Chamber stamped documentation for goods valued at £68.7m. Demand did slow down a bit during the latter part of 2015 but we are seeing a rise again during the first part of 2016.”

Julie Austin, International Trade Manager at Norfolk Chamber

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

AdvertisingFeature

Are you ready for Auto Enrolment? #DontIgnoreIt. I am delighted to have recently joined SG Corporate Services and to be working with an established company who have been advising businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk for over 15 years.

32

I have joined at a very interesting time as we approach the period where the majority of small/ micro businesses will need to set up a compliant workplace pension scheme to meet their auto enrolment responsibilities.

In addition, we are finding that many employers are widening the employee benefits they provide to staff to improve staff retention and employee satisfaction, for example Death in Service and Group Private Healthcare.

AUTO ENROLMENT WE’LL HELP GUIDE YOU IN SAFELY Here at SG Corporate Services, our aim is to give every employer, no matter how small, access to a professional, independent service that will implement an Auto Enrolment solution on time.

Here are a few lessons we have learnt over the past two years from working with other employers on how to approach Auto Enrolment and what you can do to make it a worthwhile and simple addition to your business - as opposed to it being a nuisance.

Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts to help you meet your obligations as an employer:

Do n Communicate and raise awareness of the upcoming workplace pension with your staff well in advance – posters are available from The Pension Regular’s website or messages in their payslips can be effective. n Speak to your payroll provider/ bookkeeper if your payroll is outsourced and find out how they are facilitating the assessments and communications. You may find that they may are not able to provide anything, or they may charge you an additional fee each month n Even if there are no staff to enrol, employers still have legal duties, one of which is completing a declaration of compliance with The Pension Regulator.

For a free no obligation quote, please contact our Corporate Services team.

Don’t n Leave it until the last minute to act. The fines issued by The Pension Regulator can be as high, typically £400 followed by a daily charge of anything between £50 and £10,000. n Think that you can implement your scheme at the last minute.

Either you should take all the necessary steps at least 6 months in advance of your ‘staging date’ or alternatively if you do postpone action you must be prepared to pay your adviser more for the privilege. You do have the ability to postpone your staging date by up to 3 months or bring it forward, providing you have notified the Pension Regulator, but this does not in any way relieve you of your duty to implement a scheme.

You should consider whether you are going to provide the minimum

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

contribution you are responsible for or offer a higher level of contribution. It is worth noting that you can pay different levels of contributions for different staff. The minimum contributions are currently at 1% for employers, however this will be increasing to 2% in April 2018 and 3% in April 2019.

Here at SG Corporate Services we have created a service specifically for our small and micro business clients that is cost effective and provides a complete service that will ensure you have a compliant workplace pension scheme in place by your staging date.

The service includes advising and setting up the most suitable pension scheme to liaising with your payroll provider to ensure the assessment and communication is completed correctly.

Ryan Oates DipPFS BSc, Corporate Services Manager

T: 01603 760866 E: enquiries@sgcorporateservices.co.uk www.sgcorporateservices.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Focus onFinance Understanding the difference between vehicle trackers.

The latest car registration plates will be available from 1 March and with attention focused on the motor market I wanted to highlight an issue that often comes up when discussing insurance with clients.

Tracking devices have become a lot more sophisticated in the last decade, but with so many to choose from and so many now installed as standard, it’s difficult to know exactly what you’ve got.

For over 20 years vehicle security systems have been independently accredited by an organisation called Thatcham Research and there are eight categories that these systems can fall into. Categories five, six and seven relate specifically to tracking systems, with category five being the most sophisticated.

So what’s the difference?

Category five The system will automatically detect unauthorised movement, notify the police and enable street level tracking and remote immobilisation of the vehicle.

Category six You’ll have to inform the police of the theft, but the system lets them track the vehicle and immobilise it remotely.

Category seven The system will locate the vehicle to a general area and a hand-held device can then pinpoint its location.

The exact criteria for each accredited category can be found on www.thatcham.org.

Car theft has fallen dramatically in the UK, but it’s become a lot less opportunistic and a lot more targeted towards prestige and luxury vehicles. Having the right tracker will make it possible to secure the most appropriate insurance and make it more likely you get your car back if it’s stolen.

For more information on anything raised above or to discuss your business insurance arrangements please contact Hugh J Boswell Managing Director, Peter Foster, on 01603 723581.

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors

Buy-to-Let Landlords Landlords need to be aware that from April 2017 tax relief on mortgage costs is to be restricted to the basic rate of tax. Landlords of residential properties have benefited from tax relief on finance charges, such as mortgage interest for many years. The reduction in the relief for finance costs for landlords will be phased in over four years from April 2017 and could be an expensive change for higher rate and additional rate taxpayers.

Deductions from property income will be restricted to: n 75% for 2017 to 2018 n 50% for 2018 to 2019

n 25% for 2019 to 2020 n 0% for 2020 to 2021 and beyond In addition, from April 2016, the ‘wear and tear allowance’, which allows landlords to reduce the tax they pay (regardless of whether they replace furnishings in their property) will be replaced by a new system that only allows them to get tax relief when they replace furnishings.

With the government review on pension contributions mid-March expected to restrict tax relief for higher and additional rate taxpayers, care will be needed to ensure providing for the future is in the most tax efficient manner.

Wayne Goddard FCCA ACA (Director of Newman & Co. Chartered Accountants)

4b, Church Street, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4DD T: 01379 640640 | E: diss@newmans-online.co.uk

W: www.newmans-online.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

33

Tax On Dividends – A Disaster Or Opportunity?

April 2016 sees changes to the rules on the taxation of dividends, which will have a significant impact on the amount of tax that business owners pay. Until now, owners of private limited companies have effectively been able to draw dividends tax free while their income is in the basic rate band. There was additional tax to pay, of course, when reaching higher rates but, for many years, it has been very tax efficient to draw money from a company by dividend.

With effect from 6 April 2016, the first £5,000 per annum of dividend income (in most cases) will be free of tax but, beyond that, dividend tax will add 7.5% to the liability in each tax band.

Winners & Losers Investors with modest income from shares are likely to see an overall tax cut. However, it is clear that most business owners will be paying more tax than before.

Minimising The Tax Impact We, at Knights Lowe, have been talking to our clients over the past few months about minimising the tax impact and, in particular, putting plans in place before 5 April 2016 by considering the following:1. Historically, it has been favourable for a director/shareholder to take dividends rather than salary. This is because a dividend is paid free of national insurance, whilst a salary or bonus can carry up to 25.8% in combined employer and employee contributions.

Salaries are tax deductible for the company whereas dividends are not.

In future, we believe that dividends will still offer a tax advantage compared to salaries, although the financial benefit will be reduced.

2. The £5,000 annual dividend allowance is available. Therefore, share ownership should be reviewed. On occasions, it might be justifiable to include spouses and other family members.

3. It may be preferable to trade as sole traders or partnerships after 6 April 2016; particularly where profits are modest.

However, in most cases, continuing to trade as a limited company will still be cheaper.

4. Pensions may be a way of getting money out of a company in a tax efficient manner in future. Indeed, because of the relaxed rules for drawing money from pensions at retirement age, this is an important opportunity in itself.

5. It may be possible to pay a bonus dividend before 5 April 2016. There are many issues to consider including the best use of income tax bands and ensuring that the company has sufficient reserves to pay such a dividend. There are also a number of pitfalls but many of our clients are taking advantage of this one-off opportunity to extract money from their company before the new tax is introduced. However, we only have until 5 April to use this tax planning. After that, it will be gone.

So What Will You Do? If you have profits in your company and would like to explore the opportunity of extracting them in a tax efficient manner, please contact us urgently for a completely free of charge, no obligation meeting to consider your situation. After all, some of the tax planning will not be available after 5 April. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ If you would like a review of your business and tax position, please contact Neil Sandry for initial advice. All of our first meetings are strictly on a “no cost / no obligation basis”.

Neil is Knights Lowe’s Company Secretary & Client Services Director and joined the firm in 1988. Neil specialises in dealing with sole traders, partnerships and the smaller limited companies. He also has expertise in helping set up new businesses and looking after clients' taxation matters.

Email: neil@knightslowe.co.uk Eldo House, Kempson Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7AR Tel: 01284 701 300 The Beeches, 30 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3AG Tel: 01842 826 100 www.knightslowe.co.uk

Focus onFinance HMRC ‘Making Tax Digital’ In the March 2015 Budget, the Government set out their vision for a transformed tax system.

By 2020 they plan to have the tax system fully digitalised in order to eradicate bureaucratic form-filling, unnecessary time delays and to provide taxpayers with access to digital accounts.

HMRC have set out a timeline for implementing this new tax system, through which they plan to reduce the number of self-assessment tax returns filed from 10.2 million currently to around 2.5 million in 2019; ultimately replacing them with ‘Digital Tax Accounts’.

There are a few important points to note from these planned changes: Firstly, by 2018 most businesses, including the self-employed and landlords, could be required to report their income quarterly, rather than annually through a tax return.This will no doubt come as a shock to some!

Secondly, by 2019 any Capital Gains Tax due on the disposal of residential property is to be paid within 30 days; instead of 10 months after the tax year ends.

Michael Morter, By 2020 taxpayers will be able to see Tax Manager their complete financial picture through these digital accounts.They will also be able to set overpayments of one tax against under-payments of another, giving the impression they are paying a single tax.

Much of HMRC’s plans for ‘making tax digital’ is still under consultation and we will be keeping track of the changes. HMRC say 86% of tax return preparers already file online, but what about the other 14%, many of whom chose not to file online, or simply do not have access to it?

For more information contact Michael Morter at Larking Gowen on 01603 723630 or at michael.morter@larking-gowen.co.uk This article is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this article may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. ©Larking Gowen.

35

I believe that creating financial independence from your business is one of the most

significant issues facing business owners today. I have the experience and expertise to help you successfully secure and enhance the financial future of your business by offering specialist advice in a wide range of areas. This includes careful consideration of the following important questions:

Business planning is the key to your future success

• • • • •

Do you have plans to exit your business?

Is using your business to fund your retirement a sensible strategy?

Is your business a lifestyle or does it have value?

Have you created a safety net?

Are you sure you qualify for 100% business property relief or will your business assets be liable to Inheritance tax?

• Do you have a business Will*?

• Have you carried out a Business Liability Assessment?

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time.

The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Exit Strategies and Will writing involves the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place. Wills are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. *

To discuss how to plan successfully and create financial independence for your business, contact me today:

MARTIN VINCENT WINNER

AWARD WINNER 2015

Associate Partner

Tel: 07725 971543 Email: martin.vincent@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.martinvincent.co.uk

PA RT N E R S I N M A N AG I N G YO U R W E A LT H The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Grow your potential with an apprenticeship.

Great Yarmouth College is a leading, local provider of apprenticeships across all industry sectors. In the past few years it has grown its number from 150 to over 600 placements with approximately 400 employers.

36

It has bucked the trend of a decline in recent years through its strong links with local employers and appropriate selection, placement and assessment of apprentices.

There are a number of private training providers in the area but a few, critical factors contribute to GYC’s success:

n Assessors are directly employed by the college and are industry trained n Centralised management and co-ordination of apprenticeships leads to consistent service delivery n GYC undertake regular visits and can flex their approach to meet employer needs n GYC provide clear progression routes and advice and can support apprenticeships from level 2 right up to higher apprenticeships at level 4 and 5 plus we are developing degree apprenticeships at level 6.

Training&Education

Degree apprenticeships: Higher and degree apprenticeships are a great alternative to university, these apprenticeships include the achievement of academic and vocational qualifications and learning from Level 4 upwards.

Degree apprenticeships are the latest model to be developed as part of higher apprenticeship standards, with apprentices achieving a full bachelor’s or master’s degree as a core component of the apprenticeship, They combine both higher and vocational education and fully test both the wider occupational competence and academic learning, either using a

fully-integrated degree co-designed by employers and Higher Education Institutions, or using a degree plus separate end test of professional competence.

GYC is constantly developing its degree apprenticeships. As a degree apprentice you will receive training (both on and off the job), a salary and the opportunity to really start moving your career forward with real work experience for your CV. All without paying hefty tuition fees or running up student debts.

Contact Great Yarmouth College to register your interest and discuss opportunities in your area.

Tel: 01493 657722.

Explore an apprenticeship with GYC Employer benefits • Future proof your workforce • Influence the skills development of your apprentice • Provide local young people with the chance to train, learn and earn in a real life working environment • Provide progression opportunities • Harness young talent and fresh ideas

ct Conta us ! today

01493 657722 | employerservices@gyc.ac.uk | www.gyc.ac.uk

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH/APRIL 2016

“Over the last 15 years, we have worked with CWA to deliver bespoke Apprenticeships.

We know that the future of our 'future professionals' is in safe hands with them.”

Confus e about t d change he s to appren ticeship s?

CWA ar e here to help !

Paul Davies, Creative Director Top To Toe, Wisbech

Reduced staff turnover - Greater productivity Increased employee satisfaction - Lower recruitment costs

cwa.ac.uk/apprenticeships 01553 815280 MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

KING’S LYNN - WISBECH - CAMBRIDGE

AdvertisingFeature

ILM Level 7 Certificate in Leadership and Management – Residential Programme.

27th June until 1st July 2016 – The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk Richard Branson recently said that organisations should “Train people well enough so they can leave but treat them well enough so they don’t want to”. The key to this is understanding how to engage with your employees and how you lead and motivate your team.

Would you like to learn more about the latest trends in Leadership and Management and how these can make your Employee Engagement Strategies successful? Then this course could be right for you.

Who is it for?

38

This Post Graduate qualification is designed for motivated senior managers and leaders who are required to satisfy the needs of their business stakeholders on a day to day basis alongside developing their own personal brand.

This course is run by industry experts from the world of business, some of whom are also currently engaged in projects at Cambridge University and Cranfield School of Management.

What does it cover?

Investment in the Decision Making Process and the Creation of Added Value.

Module One – The Leadership Context.

This includes topics such as Organisational Mapping, Stakeholder Engagement, Leadership Styles across Different Sectors, Organisational Culture, Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Module Four – Research The final module prepares participants for their Enquiry Based Research Assessment and looks at Research Methodologies, Personal Planning, Reflective and Action Learning.

Module Two – Theoretical Approaches to Leadership.

In this module you will examine such areas as Leadership v Management, Traditional Leadership Models including Trait, Behavioural and Contingency and more advanced approaches such as Transformational Leadership, Servant, Ethical and Multi-faceted Leadership and Emotional Intelligence.

Following the initial training, delegates will conduct an enquiry based assignment, researching a current issue within their business before utilising the strategies they have learnt to find an effective resolution.

Module Three – Evidence Based Decision Making.

This area of the programme considers Evidence Based Decision Making Models, Critical Incident Analysis, Using Return on

Assessment

What our customers say: One Suffolk Business Owner commented: “I am really enjoying the programme and I find that I am using elements of the programme every day in my business.”

Those attending the programme have identified the business benefits as being:

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

n The ability to think and act strategically n Having employees who can make informed evidence based decisions n Motivated staff who create and maintain a high performance culture n Self-aware employees who take responsibility for selfdevelopment n Managers who embed their leadership and management development in real work n Cross fertilisation of ideas and practices

Where is it?

This programme will be run on a fully residential basis at the Angel Hotel, a 4 star boutique hotel in the centre of the historic market town of Bury St Edmunds. The town has a richly fascinating heritage with a combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and the glorious Cathedral and Abbey gardens. The town also

boasts a prestigious shopping area, an award-winning market, plus a variety of attractions including the Theatre Royal and The Apex.

For prices and more information on this course please contact: Linda Dennison at Develop Anglia, West Suffolk College, Out Risbygate, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RL Telephone: 01284 716246 or email: linda.dennison@wsc.ac.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Training&Education

Why Apprenticeships and good training makes sense.

For employers, apprenticeships present the perfect opportunity to find the next generation of young workers.

With more than 80 different types of apprenticeship available, covering everything from Providing Financial Services to Creative and Digital Media, Modern Apprenticeships now go far beyond traditional trades and offer a great career start for both men and women.

For employers of all sizes looking to attract new young talent, fill vacancies or simply plan for the future, Modern Apprenticeships offer a great way of ensuring their business has the skills it needs to grow.

Three quarters of Modern Apprentice employers report improved productivity as a result

of employing apprentices, while 71 per cent said Modern Apprentices improved service or product quality – so the benefits to businesses are clear.

In addition, investment in training can be the difference between a company surviving and a business that takes advantage of the opportunities as they open up. Train your staff to spot those opportunities and anything is possible

So investing in training is important because: It allows improved recruiting and holding onto staff. When people know that a company believes in their personal development, they are more likely to join and stay with that company for a longer period of time It allows improved output. A well trained team that wants to stay

with company produces stability and results in a more productive, enthusiastic and motivated workforce It can fit in with the company’s aims. Training should fit in with the company’s strategic plan.

Training should help employees

develop both technical mastery and interpersonal skills such as effective communication, dispute resolution, quality management and team building, and it should be wrapped up within the company’s strategy for growth.

39 ceships Apprenti attract ou y help nt to le ta new ness si u b r you

deliver Poultec y n natio all ed recognis tions qualifica

Delivering excellence in

   

Management Management Management Leadership Leadership Leadership

Help with Recruitment Programmes tailored to your business needs High quality training Tutors with industry experience

Human Resources Resources Human Human Resources Learning & Learning &Development Development Learning & Development

Poultec Training has established a reputation for delivering high quality, industry specific training on a regional and national basis, with high calibre, knowledgeable staff and excellent resources.

We deliver a wide range of Apprenticeships in... l Business & Administration l Butchery l Contact Centre l Customer Service l Engineering l Hair & Beauty l Hospitality & Catering l Information Technology l Leadership and Management l Manufacturing l Poultry Production l Retail Short courses are also available in... l Health & Safety l Food Safety l First Aid l Management l Butchery l IT l Team Building

Contact one of our advisors for more information or to arrange a meeting tutors Poultec ustry have ind and ce n ie er p ex ge knowled

PTL0194

Specialists supported distance within approved learning materials.learning with approved learning materials.

Interactive group workshops Facilitated by expert tutors delivering locally based * by expert tutors delivering locally based Flexible, individual approach * Facilitated approach expert from a centre team with over Experienced tutors * Flexible, individual 20approach years fromAnglia a centre team with over * Flexible, individual Based inexperience.

East 20 years experience.

Blue Sky Professional Development Blue Sky Professional Development

Passionate about Training & People Call 01362 850983 Email enquiries@poultec.co.uk Visit www.poultec.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2016

* *

South Green Park, Mattishall, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 3JY

Cavell House Blue Sky Development Cavell House BlueProfessional Sky Professional Development St Crispins Road St Crispins Norwich Cavell Henderson Business Centre, 51 House IvyRoad Road, Norwich NR5 8BF Norwich NR3 1YERoad St Crispins 01603 251558 NR3 1YE 01603 821177 Norwich www.blueskypd.co.uk www.blueskypd.co.uk 01603 NR3821177 1YE office@blueskypd.co.uk www.blueskypd.co.uk 01603 821177 office@blueskypd.co.uk

* ILM Delivering real value for business

* ILM Delivering real value for business

office@blueskypd.co.uk www.blueskypd.co.uk office@blueskypd.co.uk

* ILM Delivering real value for business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

CHAMBER HR

Access to ChamberHR is free of charge. We invest in this service so you’re protected and supported. No need to pay for HR Or employment advice, and you receive free access to over 440 Documents, including contracts of employment.

24/7 Telephone advice n No need to book a call n No limit on the length or amount of calls

Online Database of Documents n Over 400 documents to view n You can download the documents as many

times as you need Use it today

01455 852037 www.chamberhr.co.uk

@norfolkchamber

O D S ’ T LE INESS S U B Join the Norfolk Chamber today.

We can help you:

Meet new customers

Tap into training

Find free legal advice

Make county wide connections.

We host over 70 networking events each year from business breakfasts to after-hours get-togethers for our 900+ business members.

Our members share knowledge and expertise with each other through regular free Chamber sessions. Topics cover: social media, marketing, sales, management, and much more.

Our unlimited 24/7 legal & tax advice lines are an invaluable service to help save you money in the long run. Plus, get free legal expenses insurance worth ÂŁ670,000.

Raise your profile with ours

Receive helpful HR Resources

Develop International Trade

Our website attracts over 8,000 visitors each month.

Find an immediate audience and promote your business for free on our website, social media channels and magazine.

No dedicated HR department?

ChamberHR includes a 24/7 advice line and a comprehensive database of documents, policies, and letter templates – free for members. Or attend our expert HR Forums.

Our dedicated international team offers advice on trade, logistics, and country documentation requirements.

And members enjoy 50% off export services.

To find out more and join online visit:

www.norfolkchamber.co.uk

Or contact us on 01603 729704 or membership@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Influence key policy makers As a member you have the opportunity to join with other like-minded businesses to influence policy makers and ensure that the business voice is heard loud and clear at a local, regional and national level.

AdvertisingFeature

Great Yarmouth Outer Harbour – Image: Mike Page

Great Yarmouth Town Centre

42

Beacon Park

Growing opportunities in Great Yarmouth.

As the new financial year approaches, Great Yarmouth Borough Council is reviewing the area’s key economic and infrastructure developments over the last 12 months – and looking forward to further business opportunities in the year ahead.

The borough council is committed to working with partners to create the conditions for private and public investment, ensuring the borough and wider region is best placed to capture sustainable growth and its benefits for local businesses and communities.

During 2015/16, much investment has focused on Beacon Park. In December, the borough council, in partnership with Norfolk County Council, opened to traffic a new £6.7m link road, which connects the A12 at Beacon Park, directly to the A143.

In addition to improving traffic flows across the south of the borough, benefitting businesses and residents alike, the A12/A143 link road has opened up land immediately to the north and south of the route to be developed with 850 homes, a primary school, shops, open space and further business areas.

The business park itself is a rapidly-growing hub for expanding companies, thanks to investment from the private and public sectors.

Beacon Park is part of the Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft (New Anglia) Enterprise Zone, which provides a range of benefits for energy-related businesses to help them grow, including a discount on business rates of up to £275,000 over five years, simplified planning, and super-fast broadband.

A range of high-specification office and industrial units are currently available and interest is expected to grow further thanks to the enterprise zone’s extension, which was announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement.

Recent occupiers include energy sector businesses Cebo UK

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Ltd, Magma Products, Elmdale, Pentagon Freight Services, Conductor Installation Services, Probe Oil Tools, Specialised Management Services (SMS), and STS Defence.

During the last financial year, other parts of the borough have seen evidence of the real confidence in Great Yarmouth’s growth prospects.

Peel Ports, which already operates some of the largest ports in the UK and Ireland, bought the Great Yarmouth Port Company at the end of 2015. The borough council looks forward to working with Peel Ports to continue to make the most of the port’s and the borough’s unique opportunities.

Earlier in the year, energy logistics provider, Peterson, in partnership with environmental solutions provider, Veolia, announced a £1m investment in the development of a new gas platform decommissioning facility at the Outer Harbour.

There was investment in offshore wind too, with the Dudgeon Offshore Wind Farm project welcoming its first personnel to Great Yarmouth

ready for the newly-constructed operations and maintenance base in the river port to support offshore construction.

This last year has also seen additional investment to boost footfall and trade in the town centre.

There has been private sector investment in Great Yarmouth’s central area, with Edinburgh Woollen Mill buying the former Coop unit in the Market Place, more retailers moving into Market Gates shopping centre, and an extensive £3m refurbishment of the landmark Havenbridge House, which has attracted new occupiers.

The borough council’s Town Centre Initiative, supporting this growth, has included better marketing, visual improvements, a weekend free parking trial, and enhanced events, including a very popular real ice rink over the festive period.

Businesses interested in moving to Beacon Park can contact the joint sole appointed agents; Bycroft Commercial (01493 844489) and Arnolds Keys (01603 620551), or visit: www.beaconpark.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2016

EconomicDevelopment&Regeneration Where do you find world-class companies, investment opportunities and an enterprising future?

Great Yarmouth. Achieve your potential.

• • • • •

Enterprise Zone with business rate relief for 5 years* High spec office and industrial premises at Beacon Park Capital investment grants available through New Anglia Assisted Area status Dedicated enterprise programme and business advisors *subject to eligibility criteria

Stephanie Pimlott Business Liaison & Development Officer stephanie.pimlott@great-yarmouth.gov.uk 01493 846108

www.great-yarmouth.biz

43

YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SPECIALIST

TO LET

PRESTIGE OFFICES TO LET

Breckland Business Centre (Dereham), St Withburga Lane, Dereham

Turbine Way, Swaffham PE37 7XD

– Multiple occupancy business centre – 99 sq ft - 1142 sq ft (9.2m2 - 106.10m2) – Prestigious serviced offices – Viewing highly recommended – Centre of town location with access to A47 – Private and public parking – Flexible terms – EPC Rating: D

CONTACT US:

MARCH/APRIL 2016

Offices located on the EcoTech Business & Innovation Park, Swaffham – 208 sq ft – 370 sq ft (19.3m2 – 34.4m2) – Prestigious Serviced Offices – Easy access to A47 – Viewing highly essential – EPC Rating: C

01362 656378 / 656210 commercial.property@breckland.gov.uk www.breckland.gov.uk/businessproperty

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

© Mike Page

Norwich’s Premier Business Location Available for immediate occupation, 8,460 sq ft of superb refurbished Grade A offices in two suites of 3,630 and 4,830 sq ft, as well as plots for industrial and commercial use.

Contact Roche Chartered Surveyors to arrange a viewing.

broadlandbusinesspark.co.uk

James Allen or Graham Jones

Norwich’s Premier Business Location

NPS Norwich Ltd

To Let Commercial Property in and around Norwich Retail – Industrial/Storage – Office

Variety of Units To Let Mile Cross Business Centre, Norwich Workshop Units of varying sizes Outside Compounds & Covered Storage Office Accommodation Coach & Lorry Parking with washdown facilities

For more information please call Jill or Jenny on 01603 227966 / 7 www.nps.co.uk

Diary Dates.

Networking Events After Hours: Cocktails & Canapes

46

Where: Bond, Norwich When: Thursday 17th March, 18:00 – 20:00 What: Shake up your networking in March and join us for a night of informal conversation over Cocktails & Canapes. Following the success of previous years, Norfolk Chamber’s After Hours Cocktail evening returns on Thursday 17th March 2016.

Unwind after a hard day’s work, try your hand at cocktail making and create great business connections in a relaxed setting.

Members only event.

Great Yarmouth Business Breakfast Where: Great Yarmouth When: Thursday 7th April, 07:30 – 09:30 What: Join us in Great Yarmouth for a morning of business networking over a delicious breakfast in the relaxed setting of the Cliff Hotel. We invite guests to hear from expert Fred Rogers, Subsea Protection Systems about how to develop and adapt your company to continue success within the ever changing global economy. Along with a full English breakfast and opportunities for networking, businesses can learn from a local success story. This members only event.

After Hours: Pub Quiz Where: The Unthank Arms, Norwich When: Thursday 21st March, 18:00 – 20:00 What: Join us for an evening of informal networking as we challenge you with a test of your knowledge through the years in our Pub Quiz. To commemorate our 120th anniversary, our Pub Quiz will take you on a journey through a variety of questions covering the 19th century through to the present day. With a history, music and celebrity round, there’s something for everyone at this fun filled networking event. Book now for the chance to be crowned Norfolk Chamber’s Quiz Night Champions!

Members only event.

Better Connected: A Norwich Business Breakfast Where: Norwich City Football Club When: Thursday 28th April, 07.30- 09.30 What: Join us for breakfast and networking as we explore how businesses can be better connected through the use of innovative technologies. Guest Speaker Craig Davies, Target Cloud Consulting will ‘revolutionise the way your business thinks about cloud’ by providing an insight into the type of services that can very quickly transform your sales and marketing, increase productivity and provide business edge. Book your place today to hear expert advice on how you can implement the use of digital innovations and reap the rewards.

For more information, to see a full list of events, or book now visit: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Developing Futures: A West Norfolk Business Breakfast Where: Dukes Head Hotel, King’s Lynn When: Friday 6th May, 08:00 – 10:00 What: At our first West Norfolk Breakfast of the year, you will have the opportunity to hear from two speakers on the Downham Market Centre for Advanced Knowledge Engineering. First, John Beer, Chief Executive of Aventa Capital who are heading up the development, will speak on the progress of the project and its future. Secondly, speaking from The College of West Anglia, Mark Reavell, Executive Director Partnerships will talk on their involvement in the project. Hear how they are working to towards a new university technical college on site, specifically designed to mould the future workforce for the businesses of West Norfolk.

Norfolk and Cambridgeshire Chamber Members only.

HR Forums HR Forum June Where: Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road When: Wednesday 22nd June, 14:00 – 17:00 What: Join the Norfolk Chamber for an afternoon of accessing specialist knowledge essential for any HR Professional or business owner. Open to all businesses.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

ChamberEvents

EU Referendum debate comes to Norfolk.

How will you vote?

Norfolk Chamber will be holding a debate in the lead up to the EU Referendum vote on 23 June to give businesses clear information on the viewpoint from both sides of the argument.

This will be one of the biggest choices facing the British electorate in a generation. We want to give you the opportunity to hear from both the Remain and Leave campaigns, and have the chance to ask for the clear evidence and information that businesspeople need in order to make an informed choice at the ballot box.

Save the Date When: 10 June 15:00-17:00 Where: Norwich Open to all businesses

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

A recent poll from the British Chambers of Commerce highlights over two-thirds (69%) of the senior businesspeople in the East of England, have revealed that the outcome of the Prime Minister’s renegotiation was unlikely to change how they will vote - despite large majorities saying they are familiar with the objectives of the renegotiation package.

Views vary between categories of business, with those exporting only to the EU expressing the strongest support for “remain”, while those exporting only outside the EU expressing the strongest support for “leave”.

“The findings suggest that for businesspeople, this is a question of in or out — not renegotiation. Business remains divided on Europe, and business leaders’ views reflect the size of their firm and their export interests, rather than the current political debate. They 47 are making rational economic choices based on their own interests.”

Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber

Raise your business profile with event sponsorship.

Norfolk Chamber is renowned for organising high quality business events and caters for every person and business. Our 70 events are attended by over 3,000 delegates each year with all including the opportunity for networking.

Whether you are looking for training, networking, briefings on topical issues, or want to entertain clients, we have an event for you and your business.

Why sponsor a Norfolk Chamber event? n A cost effective way to gain valuable brand exposure for your company

Event sponsorship varies according to the type, size and nature of the event.

HR Forum - held quarterly and are delivered by experts for HR professionals or SME business owners responsible for the legal & HR aspects of the business.

Business Breakfasts – held quarterly in Great Yarmouth and Norwich and twice a year in West Norfolk. Featuring a keynote speaker of particular interest to the business community and plenty of networking opportunities and activities.

n Take advantage of the exposure that the Norfolk Chamber media channels can reach

Large Scale Events – The Norfolk Chamber hold a number of large scale, high profile events throughout the year that feature national speakers and boast influential delegate lists. These range from half day conferences, to the largest business to business exhibition in Norfolk held annually at Norwich City Football Club.

n Let the experienced Norfolk Chamber events team organise an event for you whilst you reap the benefits of being an official event sponsor

Exhibit at a breakfast – There are exclusive opportunities for Chamber members to exhibit their business at Chamber events subject to availability.

n Benefit from your company branding being on event publicity and PR produced by the Norfolk Chamber for a growing network of Norfolk businesses

MARCH/APRIL 2016

For a fully tailored sponsorship package, or to book a stand at a forthcoming event please contact Philippa Bindley, Events Manager on 01603 729703 or philippa.bindley@ norfolkchamber.co.uk

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Celebrate 120 years with Norfolk Chamber.

The event will take place at the historical Norwich Castle Museum on Thursday 19 May 2016, from 6pm, with drinks on arrival, canapes and entertainment throughout the evening.

With only 200 places available at this event, those wishing to attend need to register on Norfolk Chamber website and pairs of tickets will then be randomly allocated in prize draw. Tickets to the event are free but are restricted to one pair per person/company.

To mark Norfolk Chamber’s 120th anniversary, a celebration event will take place in May to thank members for their continued support.

Ticket registration opens on 15 March with allocated tickets announced on 15 April 2016, members will then need to confirm their place.

For more information about sponsoring this event please contact Philippa Bindley, Events Manager on 01603 729703 or email philippa.bindley@norfolkchamber.co.uk

Digital and Technology Event.

Delegates engage with digital tech

48

Save the date Wednesday 21st September 2016, 8.30am – 1pm The Space, Norwich This is a ticketed event for member and non members. To book a place, exhibit or sponsor visit www. norfolkchamber.co.uk/ events

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

The Norfolk Chamber Digital & Tech event returns for the sixth year running on Wednesday 21st September at The Space, Norwich.

do not possess basic digital skills’.

The research also found that ‘there is a positive link between digital skill levels and turnover growth’ and businesses may therefore be ‘missing an opportunity to deliver a better, more efficient service to their customer’.

According to a survey produced by Go ON UK the digital skills charity, ‘A quarter of SMEs report that they

As part of our continued commitment to business, Norfolk Chamber will deliver an interactive

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

programme of seminars and workshops exploring how we can develop and support digital skills within businesses to improve productivity and increase revenue.

A positive finding in the survey was that East Anglia has the ‘highest levels of basic digital skills’ alongside Scotland and Greater London. As we strive to develop and support these skills within

local businesses, we also want to take this opportunity to celebrate Norfolk’s success.

Hear from the industry leaders making waves in the tech/digital industry. Learn from real life case studies and get practical advice to take your business forward.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

ChamberEvents

Grow through Chamber Sessions.

Covering a wide range of topics, our expert members are here to deliver you free, weekly training to help your business and yourself grow through their top tips.

Learn direct from those who live and breathe their topics daily through their work. Available at both breakfast and lunch to suit your diary, held in the Norfolk Chamber Norwich office, don’t miss out on these free opportunities to better your business.

Be Better at Growing Your Business Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Tuesday 19th April, 08:30 – 10:00 What: During this session, Roger Pemberton, Action Coach will give you the chance to step out of your business and get focused.

You will walk away with concrete ideas on how to increase your business profits, make your team more effective and get a grip on your time management. You will leave this practical seminar with a clearer direction and new tools to achieve your goals faster.

Be Better at Getting Seen Online Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Tuesday 26th April, 08:30 – 10:00

What: This session will look at various ways to help businesses get seen online. What is SEO? What is PPC? Why should we use Social Media for our business and how the use of customer demographics will improve your results? Jonathan White, Traded Network, will teach you the most effective marketing solutions for your business that will increase your brand awareness and generate new sales leads. Gain expert tips to take away and implement into your business, which could make a significant difference to your online presence.

Be Better at Business Blogging Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Tuesday 10th May 2016, 08:30 – 10:00 What: In this interactive session, Huw Sayer, Business Writers Limited

For more information and to see a full list of events visit: www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events

MARCH/APRIL 2016

will discuss ways to improve your business blogging. He will look at why you should blog, what you might blog about and how it can help you build your brand. He will also discuss how blogging should fit with your sales, marketing and social media strategy. This session will include practical tips on content and style for aspiring bloggers and those responsible in managing external writers.

Be Better at Public Relations Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Thursday 12th May 2016, 12:30 – 14:00 What: This workshop will explain why it is vital in today’s highly competitive and increasingly media savvy world for every organisation to have a proactively managed public relations strategy in place. John Haschak, Partnership Plus will focus on media relations giving delegates an insight into how it

operates and the confidence and ability to engage with journalists for the benefit of their own organisations.

Be Better at LinkedIn Where: Norfolk Chamber, Norwich When: Thursday 9th June 2016, 12:30 – 14:00 What: Marketing strategies for your business are wide and varied. Every year something new comes along for you to get your head around and fit in with your current marketing effort.

Nobody is great at everything.

Social media is expanding all the time and getting the message through the noise can be hard.

That’s where LinkedIn can cut through and offer some real gains, learn how in this session with John Davy, Dojo Media Consulting.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

49

MembersNews Hugh J Boswell awarded Chartered Status.

Norwich Business Women’s Network choose NCF as Charity of the Year.

Norfolk Community Foundation were be selected as the Norwich Business Women’s Network (NBWN) ‘Charity of the Year’ in 2015.

The long running networking group established the ‘NBWN Community Fund’ which raised a staggering £7,800 which was awarded in the form of grants to four different community projects and as a contribution to Norfolk Community Foundation to support their administration and development costs.

The Foundation and the charities supported received the cheque at the network’s Christmas lunch.

The grants were awarded to: City Response, Norfolk Homemakers Furniture Project, Time Norfolk and New Routes Intergration.

Hugh J Boswell Insurance Brokers, based in Norwich, Suffolk and London, celebrated the start of 2016 by being presented with Chartered Insurance Broker status.

The prestigious ‘Chartered Insurance Broker’ is an exclusive title only awarded to firms which meet rigorous criteria relating to professionalism and capability and this comes at an opportune time with the company celebrating its 110th year of trading in 2016.

Peter Foster, Managing Director of Hugh J Boswell, said: “Achieving Chartered Status is a proud milestone for us and it demonstrates the hard work and commitment we have provided our customers, partners and employees over the years. Professional development isn’t something we pay lip service to, but strive to embed within our business’ culture from top to bottom.”

50

Left to right, Jeremy and Sheila Waller of First Edition with Cintra CEO Jerry Froggett

Cintra buys First Edition as spur to growth.

Cintra Translations has purchased language services agency First Edition, fuelling the companies’ own growth by supporting their clients’ success here and in export markets.

diverse Norfolk businesses operating here in what is one of Europe’s fastest growing and most dynamic regions. We look forward to considerable growth in our market share.”

Announcing Cambridge-based Cintra’s purchase of First Edition, Cintra CEO Jerry Froggett, said: “Quality is in the DNA of both companies. We have in common a consistent emphasis on quality and trust that has earned both companies many loyal clients here and internationally.

First Edition Translations Director, Sheila Waller, who owned and ran the company from 1997, will play a key role in realising that vision for growth. She commented: “Our shared commitment to quality and integrity is fundamental to our plans for the future.”

“Now with First Edition on board, Cintra is exceptionally well-placed to offer a wider range of translation and interpreting services to the many

The companies will continue to trade as Cintra Translation and First Edition Translations respectively with no immediate plans for a change of business entity.

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Only a small percentage of insurance brokers across the UK have achieved Chartered status making it a highly exclusive award reserved for the leading firms in the industry.

We will match donations made to the Chamber’s 120th commemorative Community Fund, in partnership with NCF. Visit our website for details.

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

MARCH/APRIL 2016

View from the Board

Balancing a busy diary.

City Council, to focus on key issues.

High on the agenda has been the problems caused by traffic ‘gridlock’.

Because I run a business I was able to bring the experience of my own staff to this question, and the truth is that many commuters are coming into Norwich from rural areas and need the use of their cars.

What we need, therefore, is for the people to have a voice, and for those in influence to listen to it. I’ve been working on opening up that channel, which I must say all partners have been very receptive to and fully supportive.

In this issue we ask Peter Foster what’s been in his diary recently as he balances being Vice President of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Norwich Chamber Council, a school governor, and Managing Director of Hugh J Boswell Ltd. As you might expect, that diary is quite full!

Two of the things I’m passionate about are communication and making things happen. They’ve been common threads running through much of what I’ve been doing in both my Chamber roles recently.

As Chair of the Norwich Chamber Council, I’ve been meeting with the Highways Managers at Norfolk County Council, and the Norwich

I’m very keen, and have been working towards, creating ‘Action Groups’ rather than ‘talking shops’. It’s essential that we draw up action plans with measurable and attainable goals, and then implement those plans to meet our objectives.

I can bring my own professional network into play for the benefit of the Chamber. It helps in attaining those objectives because I can find suppliers who can fix a problem, or deliver reduced costs. And, of course, I can recruit Chamber members!

This link between business and the Chamber is vital and our Board now reflects that.

I’ve also been meeting with Norwich BID. The Business Improvement District (BID) is a really progressive organisation, with local businesses at its core. My goal is to help align the Chamber with the BID so that we can, through enhanced communication, bring the Chamber’s influence to bear in supporting it.

as much as they can out of being in the Chamber.

That sounds like a lot of meetings I guess! What’s important is that I use every opportunity to engage with local government, the business community and Chamber membership to create real benefits and progress for our region.

Wearing my Vice President of Chamber hat I’ve met with public transport providers to discuss how better to communicate the travel options to local business people.

People tell me I’m a ‘hands on’ sort of chap. I’m happy with that, because right now I’m getting stuck in to the task of adding value to every aspect of Chamber membership, and what it delivers.

I’ve also been working closely with our Senior Management Team and Board colleagues to develop the Chamber’s strategy. Our plan is to create a more proactive strategy, aimed at not only encouraging new members, but also getting existing members more engaged in our activities, and ensuring that they get

And, of course, I’ve been quite involved in being a Managing Director! That’s without my work as a school governor. I see that role as very important, and it keeps me in touch with young people; something we believe in very much as a Chamber. It makes for a busy life. But I wouldn’t want it any other way!’

“What’s important is that I use every opportunity to engage with local government, the business community and Chamber membership to create real benefits and progress for our region.”

UEA Graduate Trainee Management Scheme a talent pipeline.

MembersNews The University are now in the third year of running the Graduate Trainee Management Scheme (GTMS). The GTMS is a free recruitment service for local organisations within the East of England area and is exclusive to their Norwich Business School graduates. In addition, many students will have had summer internships with major employers, part time jobs, competed for employability prizes or been involved in various university societies. These graduates can hit the ground running and will be able to make an immediate impact with your business.

The university provide a mock assessment centre experience and shortlist the most suitable candidates to participating companies.

We work in partnership with the fully resourced careers service and experienced interviewers from within the business school. Successful graduate appointments are paid at market rates, circa £20,000 pro rata.

This free service can save up to £5000 in recruitment and advertising costs and the reason we offer this is simple. We do all the leg work leaving you to do what you do best – run your business.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

51

3AAA Norwich 01603 660995 3aaa.co.uk/norwich Apprenticeships

Aylsham High School 01263 733270 www.aylshamhigh.com Education

East Coast Hospice 01493 718707 www.eastcoasthospice.co.uk Charities

Intern First 07894 081221 www.internfirst.co.uk Recruitment

Affinity 01603 663093 www.affinityagency.co.uk Website Designers

BonBon Communications & Events Ltd 07775 733444 bonboncommunications.com Marketing

EcoRainSolutions Ltd 01953 425123 www.ecorainsolutions.co.uk Ecology

Nelsonspirit 07881 915660 www.nelsonspirit.co.uk Coaching & Mentoring

Age UK Norfolk 01603 787111 www.acnorfolk.org.uk Charities

Business Doctors (Norwich) 01692 404191 Consultants (Business/ Management)

Ferguspartridge 01263 824250 www.ferguspartridge.com Graphic Design

Norfolk Safety CIC 07802 721834 www.Norfolksafety.org Training Providers/Services

Amber Dew Events Ltd 0800 5642220 www.amberdewevents.co.uk Events Management

CloudSpark Solutions Ltd 01603 673160 www.cloudspark.co.uk Information Communication Technology (ICT)

Future Councils 07771 363731 www.futurecouncils.co.uk Media

Outspoken Delivery 01603 327387 www.outspokendelivery.co.uk Courier Services

Animus Scisco Limited 0792 1141859 www.animusscisco.com Consultants (Business/ Management)

Cross Media Print & Digital Solutions 01493 650619 www.cmpds.co.uk Marketing

Holkham Events Ltd 01328 710227 www.holkham.co.uk Events Management

Realise Futures CIC 01473 238 605 www.realisefutures.org Social Enterprise

Applied Acoustic Engineering Ltd 01493 440355 www.appliedacoustics.com Manufacturing (General)

Diesel Dynamics Ltd 0800 043 1610 www.dieseldltd.com Energy

Human Business Ltd 03330 118999 www.human-business.co.uk Training Providers/Services

Seaglaze Group Limited 01603 720745 www.seaglaze.co.uk Manufacturing (General)

52

Human Business

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MARCH/APRIL 2016

NewMembers Shaun Coleman Consulting 07795 035360 Consultants (Business/ Management)

Chamber Membership give you access to a number of great benefits such as: n Free HR and Legal Advice n Networking events n Free Company promotion

Target Cloud Consulting 07801 034233 www.targetcloudconsulting. co.uk IT Services

n Free training sessions n Free Legal Expenses Insurance n Free HR Templates and Documents To find out more or to join please visit www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/membership

TTMA - The Traditional Media Agency 07801 597230 www.ttma.uk Media

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce Committed to Business

53

How to write the perfect brief: save time and money.

With a good brief you’ll save time (both yours and your supplier), you’ll get a response in line with your expectations and you’ll no doubt save money (less time spent on determining what is needed and more time spent on doing it). And of course you’ll be seen to be a client who knows their product/service inside out and can convey it effectively – always something to be proud of and not as common as you’d think.

Francesca de Lacey, Managing Director of JMS Group

As we all know, time is money, and there is nothing more timeconsuming than the back and forth that happens when a brief to a supplier is lacking.

The supplier either has to ask a multitude of questions to be able to respond accurately (with a quote, an idea, a script etc) or they just play a guessing game and inevitably disappoint the client and themselves.

MARCH/APRIL 2016

I’ve been taking client briefs for well over ten years and I’ve learned a thing or two about what is a good client brief and what isn’t. So below is a selection of my top tips for writing a brief for your supplier, and although my experience is based in TV, Radio and Video production, I think many of the points apply to all sorts of suppliers.

Consider the supplier’s viewpoint - think about why you are sending the brief. What is your end goal, what do you want to achieve? Whatever the answer, keep that in mind when issuing the information. Don’t forget the recipient may know nothing about your business at this stage. So consider them ignorant and offer information accordingly.

a kind’, in fact you may be one of a thousand offering what you do, however you will have your Unique Selling Points and you need to share these. Are you the biggest? Do you offer a guarantee? Ask yourself ‘why should a customer use me over a competitor?’ and answer it in the brief.

Choose one call to action – the needs for this will vary depending on the medium, but we always state for TV and Radio that you should stick to one call to action so as not to confuse.

Two at the most, but I would suggest you don’t bother including a telephone number unless it’s extremely simple and catchy – it just won’t be heard or seen. Mobiles are a bit of a no-no for the same reason, plus they sound less professional.

Stick to a website or Facebook name if preferred.

Include other relevant information - we don’t wish to drown in pages of information but it’s better to have far more info than just a couple of lines. This could be links to your website, copies of your press advertising, branding guidelines, even examples of other advertisers you admire / hate to help guide creative.

Highlight your USPs – we like to think that our business is unique but most are not ‘one of

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

LastWord Name: Emmalucy Auber Position: Head of Business and Enterprise Company: Aylsham High School Aylsham High School is a high performing school with a specialism in Business and Enterprise. We are a member of the Aylsham Cluster Trust, we work in collaboration to transform education for families and children in the Aylsham area.

I have been Head of Business and Enterprise at Aylsham High School for 10 years. Before entering the teaching profession, I worked with the John Lewis Partnership in a variety of roles including distribution system management, department store retailing and in the Waitrose food groups.

54

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

My first job was for both my parent’s businesses from a very young age. Indeed, at eighteen months old I would be in my mum’s hairdressing salon removing hair rollers from willing ladies. At the age of 6 I progressed onto word processing job estimates for dad’s building business at £5 an estimate.

What do you always carry with you to work?

The priority items in my bag include; my Staff Journal, iPad, pencil case, lip balm, staff ID badge, school keys and I am never without my travel coffee mug!

What is the biggest challenge facing your school?

The biggest challenge currently facing my school would be reacting to changes in Education and examination and how this affects the day to day job of teaching and assessment. The move from GCSEs graded at A*-G to 1-9 has been challenging to determine what does a C look like in the new framework. Coupled with the move to measuring schools and student attainment in line with a predetermined progress score

MARCH/APRIL 2016

rather than the traditional A*-C %.

All of these challenges are forcing teachers to have to make big changes in all aspects of their day to day work.

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

If I were Prime Minister for the day there are many things I would love to change, however in the area of business and education I would make Business Enterprise education compulsory for all. I would make a period of Work Experience a compulsory activity for all students so they fully understand the needs of modern day business, equally I would like all employers to spend time in schools to fully understand what goes on. Business and Enterprise education is essential to equip students with the skills and knowledge of how they will impact upon our society, working together in partnership is the key to ensure our world benefits.

What can you see from your office window?

I am really lucky in that I have one of the nicest teaching rooms at

Aylsham High. The windows to the right overlook the main school field, with an imposing view of Aylsham Church on a clear day.

To the left is our school’s Remembrance Garden. Both views allow me to the see seasons change as well as being a fantastic vantage point for school life.

If you could do another job, what would it be?

Two of my biggest passions in life are music and exciting trips. If I could do another job, I would love to be a tour manager for a band or music artist.

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

My three biggest qualities are empathy, effort and determination.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

My biggest mistake so far has been not taking advantage of a great opportunity that was presented to me.

I urge all my students to grab those opportunities and not miss out; “it really really really could happen. When the days they seem to fall through you, just let them go.”

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Never be afraid to fail, give everything a go with all your effort.

To fail is just the first attempt in learning, we sometimes need to fail to create learning opportunities for the future. By failing we are able to assess why it’s happened so to be able to make corrective decisions and learn from experience for the future.

Who do you admire most in business?

I was really fortunate to have an incredible manager at the start of my career at John Lewis Blakelands, Richard Ledgeway will always be an inspirational business manager to me in how he got the best out of his staff. In a wider aspect Richard Branson continues to be a fantastic icon for students in being a recognisable national figure.

He personally replied to an email one of my students sent him, with advice about being a successful business person for an Enterprise project we were running in class!

NORFOLK VOICE • THE MAGAZINE OF NORFOLK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Because no business comes as standard, we only offer the exceptional.

Our insurance experts can tailor cover to your precise individual requirements. With professional advice we can often improve your cover and still bring premiums down.

Trust us to protect your business; with a 98% service rating on Feefo, our customers already do.

Talk to us today on 01603 218000

Speak directly to our team

01603 218000 www.alanboswell.com Alan Boswell Insurance Brokers Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. 98% Feefo score - 1243 out of 1267 clients reviewing our service ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ 02/02/16