Havering Business Awards 2016 Entry Pack

Havering Business Awards

PROUD ACHIEVEMENTS

ENTRY PACK WWW.HAVERINGBUSINESSAWARDS.CO.UK

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Havering Business Awards 2016

Proud to celeb Are you proud of your business and its accomplishments?

Now in its 12th year, the Havering Business Awards encourage innovation, entrepreneurship and community spirit through rewarding and recognising business excellence in the borough.

Digital technology is revolutionising the way we do business, and we are keen to recognise and promote businesses who have been innovative in the way they have a digital project or campaign.

The Awards are free to enter and are open to all businesses located within Havering and eligibility is based on the criteria for each of the categories; demonstrating the diverse nature of business within the borough.

I am always impressed with the achievements of our local business community and the standard of the entries in these Awards is always very high.

We have changed some of the categories this year to reflect the ever-changing dynamic of our business culture, and we have made the Business of the Year category only open to 2016 winners. We have also introduced a Highly Commended category which is only open to 2016 finalists – giving everyone an additional chance of becoming recognised for their success.

We have also opened up one of the categories, Digital Innovation, to any business based in a London borough.

The Awards have a range of categories suited for any successful organisation to tell their story; from large private and public companies through to thriving entrepreneurial businesses, promising start-ups and established SMEs. It makes me proud that there are so many successful businesses in the borough and I can’t wait to find out what has been accomplished this year.

Councillor Roger Ramsey Leader of Havering Council

Havering Business Awards

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brate success Key Dates Entries Close

24 June

Category Sifting

w/c 27 June

Field Judging Visits

w/c 11 July

Ratification Lunch

w/c 25 July

Finalists Announced

29 July

Gala Awards Ceremony

7 October

Growing Business of the Year 2015 Halls of Ivy Beauty Academy Ltd Sponsor; Haines Watts Innovation Award 2015 Metro Security (GB) Plc Sponsor; Coborn Engineering

Why enter? w All finalists receive publicity and recognition

of achievement throughout the borough and beyond, including a spotlight in the Romford Recorder and Time 107.5 FM w Winners also receive the accolade of being

judged the best of the best in their field w For the opportunity to boost team morale

and reward staff for their contributions to the company w Finalists will receive two free tickets to the

Gala Awards Evening on 7 October 2016 w Winners have the opportunity to make

a short speech to guests attending the dinner which include key business people from across the borough

w Winning organisations will have their

name and company details appear on the Havering Business Awards website for at least 12 months after the Awards Ceremony providing free advertising to the whole of the Havering business community w PR opportunities with the Havering

Business Awards logo redesigned to include “winner” and “finalist” that can be used on all literature used by your organisation w Winners receive a photograph, certificate

and bespoke award as a momentous reminder.

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GUIDELINES TO HELP WITH YOUR ENTRY

Gala Awards Ceremony

Ensure that your application is clear and concise. Remember the judges are looking at a considerable number of entries. You need to make an instant impact.

The Awards Ceremony will be a glittering gala to celebrate business success and is attended by over 300 business leaders, entrepreneurs, politicians and media representatives.

• To start, closely review all the categories available and determine which is appropriate for your business.

The evening will provide an opportunity to network and to celebrate the Awards.

• Ensure that you take time to complete your application form. A considerable amount of thought is needed when deciding which information tells the best story.

If you are chosen as one of the three finalists in each category, you’ll be allocated two complimentary tickets.

• Read the entry criteria and ensure that you understand what the judges will be looking for. Stick to it!

• Understand the category you are entering and tailor your information to suit.

• Evidence base everything you state.

You cannot just state that you have achieved something; you must prove your statement.

• Ensure that you keep to the word count.

If you are asked for 200 words, stick to it.

• Presentation is key!

• Remember to “market” your company.

Include samples of publicity material, press cuttings and other relevant material.

Be innovative.

• If you are referring to your website, ensure that you include print screen copies.

Remember, judges will only be judging on the material you submit.

• It is important to be able to evaluate anything that you have introduced into the business. Pinpoint how these changes have improved your profit, customer base, costs, staff recruitment/retention, etc. Ensure that you measure any improvement.

Additional tickets are available at £80 each (+VAT).

T 01708 432047 www.haveringbusinessawards.co.uk

Our host for 2016 We are pleased to have Time 107.5 FM hosting the 2016 Gala Awards Evening.

Time 107.5 FM is the only local commercial radio station for Havering and surrounding boroughs.

A truly local station providing local news, travel and weather reports along with a selection of your all time favourite music.

At Time 107.5 FM they provide something for everyone by playing a wide selection of music with specialist shows to appeal to all ages.

Their news output is focused on local issues that affect local people.

They support local businesses by providing affordable advertising campaigns that reach over 25,000 local people.

• Don’t forget to showcase your business.

Be proud of what you have achieved!

• Check your entry before submission; ensure all the relevant paperwork is included.

• Ensure that you meet the deadline date – you don’t get a second chance!

• If you have any questions, please ask.

Contact the Awards Line on 01708 432047.

www.haveringbusinessawards.co.uk

Mark Dover

Havering Business Awards

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The Awards Venue for 2016 CEME Conference Centre

is an ultra-modern events and meetings venue offering innovative, flexible solutions for all your meetings requirements from their POD Theatre to small meeting rooms, conference, exhibition and outdoor space. CEME can host product launches, presentations, award ceremonies, training seminars, conferences, exhibitions and cater for 800 delegates.

All 27 rooms have the latest AV technology, Wi Fi, natural day-light and special inclusive rates. CEME is ideally located for Docklands and City with excellent transport links, free parking for 600 cars and is a ‘Centre for Excellence’ through ‘Accredited in Meetings’ Gold quality standard with the MIA – the only Gold venue in East London or Essex; membership of Conference Centres of Excellence; and World Host for outstanding customer service.

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Awards Categories for 2016

The Award categories recognise the success and ach

1. Apprentice of the Year

2. Business Person of the Year

This Award is open to an apprentice who has shown outstanding progress and commitment to their own personal development, and their progression on a recognised learning scheme.

The judges will be looking for evidence of where an apprentice has made a significant contribution towards their workplace.

This Award acknowledges a managing director, owner or manager who has achieved significant success in their business during the past 12 months, showing strong leadership and business acumen.

Entry Criteria • The apprentice must have been employed by the current employer for a minimum of 8 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business employing the apprentice must be based in Havering •The apprentice must be enrolled in a government funded and regulated Apprenticeship scheme delivered by contract and approved training providers • The apprentice must be able to demonstrate consistent dedication to their training and development and a positive impact on the business they work for • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Monday 11 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Explain your role, key duties and responsibilities within the workplace • How you have applied your learning in the workplace, and provide examples of your personal contribution that you consider demonstrates outstanding performance • How you have contributed to your employer’s overall organisational success, using specific examples and/or measures of your personal impact • Your greatest personal achievements to date, and why you believe these are noteworthy • How your apprenticeship has impacted on you, especially in terms of your ambitions and motivation • Why do you deserve to be named Apprentice of the Year?

www.haveringbusinessawards.co.uk

Entry Criteria • The entrant must be the owner/manager/ managing director of a successful business or vital part of a not-for-profit organisation for a minimum of 3 years • The business must be based in Havering • They must be able to demonstrate consistently high levels of business skills and acumen • They must be able to evidence that they have brought financial and non-financial benefits to the business through their efforts • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Friday 15 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

•Demonstrate how your leadership and management skills have driven the business forward • Explain how you have developed and implemented a clear strategy and vision • Explain how you have implemented plans to achieve growth and improve profitability • Demonstrate the steps you’ve taken to exceed customer expectations • How have you raised the profile of the business?

• Provide evidence of endorsements by a business colleague, partner and/or client.

Havering Business Awards

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hievement of individuals and businesses of all sizes, their growth and potential.

3. Corporate Social Responsibility Excellence Award

4. London Digital Innovation Award

This Award aims to recognise any Havering organisation that puts Social Responsibility and CSR at its core.

This applies to all organisations, large and small.

This Award aims to recognise the most innovative and forward thinking use of digital technologies in the design, construction or operation of the built environment. This is the only Award open to all businesses based in a London borough.

Entry Criteria • The organisation must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before 24 June 2016 • The organisation must be based in Havering • The organisation must be able to demonstrate a current, effective and comprehensive CSR programme that is credible, results driven, addresses your core business function and reinforces your commitment to operating in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible manner • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Tuesday 12 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Explain how you have supported your employee’s well-being • Provide evidence of how you have reduced your carbon footprint • Explain how you have improved sustainability in the workplace • Provide evidence of how you have engagement in your local community • Explain how you protect the natural environment • Demonstrate your supply chain management process • Provide evidence of good governance, management and continued commitment to sustainability • Provide evidence of future planned activities to change processes • Provide evidence of benchmarks of successes with an emphasis on whole-life impact of products and services • Explain how you encourage clients and third parties to incorporate CSR in their processes, services and resources.

Entry Criteria • The organisation must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The organisation must be based in a London borough • The organisation must be able to demonstrate a successful, original and impactful digital project or campaign (i.e. the use of the internet, websites, mobile phones, social media and digital marketing) • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Wednesday 13 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Provide evidence of how a digital innovation has delivered genuine, measurable benefits within the last 12 months • Provide evidence of where a new website or social media/digital marketing campaign has been a real success • Provide evidence of the implementation of a new digital strategy or system and its impact on the business, its employees and its customers.

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5. Employer of the Year This Award aims to celebrate organisations seeing the best return on an investment in people; recognising the employee strategy that best attracts, retains and develops talent – and how it contributes to sustainable growth and being an employer of choice.

6. Excellent Customer Service Award This Award aims to recognise those constantly striving to exceed customer expectations, industry leading standards of service, and innovation around customer experience.

Entry Criteria

Entry Criteria

• The organisation must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The organisation must be based in Havering and employ more than 2 full-time equivalent employees • The organisation must be able to demonstrate how the design and implementation of a Human Resources Policy (or equivalent) has created a stimulating and supportive workplace, with a well-motivated, well-trained, ambitious, innovative and integrated workforce • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Tuesday 12 July.

• The organisation must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The organisation must be based in Havering • The business may deliver either a product or service, and may operate from the high street or an office, or online • The organisation must be able to demonstrate the highest standard of customer care and service by adopting a positive and focused approach to meet their customer needs • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Friday 15 July.

Entry Questions

Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• How employees are engaged in strategy goals and the business values • How human and supporting resources have been optimised to achieve and sustain commercial and competitive success • How investment in people and initiatives have created a more collaborative culture • How leadership and management has driven commercial performance and secured sustained financial improvements • How innovation and operational excellence has been optimised • Provide evidence of staff development, training, retention and recruitment.

www.haveringbusinessawards.co.uk

Entry Questions

• Demonstrate how the customer’s needs are at the heart of the business • How do you balance and fulfil the needs of the customer within the commercial restraints of the business?

• Are there goals and objectives for future development of your customer service policy?

• What is your after sales/on-going service policy?

• Give evidence of customer satisfaction, testimonials, customer feedback forms, etc • How much of the business is referrals and how do you monitor this?

• Explain your complaints process and how negative feedback is used to improve your product/service.

Havering Business Awards

7. Growing Business of the Year This Award is for businesses that can show a growth in turnover and profit and either employees, products or services, over the last 12 months.

Entry Criteria • The business must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business must show a high growth revenue and profit over the last 12 months • The business must be based in Havering and be a commercial, profit-making business • The organisation must be able to demonstrate how profits have been re-invested to maintain and secure significant future growth • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Thursday 14 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• What is your growth over the last 12 months in revenue, sales profit and market share?

• Give examples of growth in personnel/strategic partners.

• What plans are in place to sustain significant on-going growth?

• Is there adequate funding through profit reinvestment to maintain and secure growth?

• What changes will be required within your business to manage the increased growth?

• What obstacles have you faced in developing your business and how have you overcome them?

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8. Innovation Award This Award aims to recognise the use of innovation in a business, or for production of an innovation product or service.

Entry Criteria • The business must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business must be based in Havering and be a commercial, profit-making business • The innovation must have been developed/ introduced within the last three years • The organisation must be able to demonstrate the quantifiable benefit, both actual and projected, against key performance indicators for the business. For example, but not limited to: – Development of a new market (e.g. for a start-up) – Growth in sales/increase in throughput – Reduction in cost, energy use or waste – Reduction in delivery times – Increase in customer satisfaction – Increase in staff efficiency and satisfaction.

• The judges will balance the scale and ambition of the innovation with the size, scope and maturity of the business • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Monday 11 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Identify the nature and scope of your business • Explain the nature of the innovation that has been developed/introduced • Set out the business case for developing/ introducing the innovation • Explain how ‘open innovation’ and collaboration may have been relevant • Demonstrate how its use has benefitted your organisation • Explain how you measure the results • Demonstrate a plan for continued implementation and development.

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9. New Business of the Year

10. Retail Business of the Year

This Award aims to acknowledge a new business that has achieved significant success within its first two years of trading.

This Award focuses on the retail business, both traditional and online, and highlights the relationship with the consumer. Entrants should show high levels of customer care as well as an innovative or entrepreneurial approach to building the strength of the business.

Entry Criteria • The business must have been trading for less than 24 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business must be based in Havering • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Friday 15 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Explain the nature and scope of your business, including why the business was started • Provide evidence of how your business has performed in relation to your business plan • Identify the financial success of the business in relation to growth in turnover and profit and loss • Demonstrate your vision and strategy for future development • Demonstrate knowledge of the market in which the business operates • Explain why you believe you are a successful new business.

www.haveringbusinessawards.co.uk

Entry Criteria • The business must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business must be an independent retail business based in Havering • The business may be a retail outlet, a market trader, an online business or combination of all • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Tuesday 12 July.

Entry Questions Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Explain the nature and scope of your business • Demonstrate how you understand and meet the needs of your customers • Explain how you respond to specific needs • Demonstrate how you have been innovative in adapting to the changing customer culture • Demonstrate your vision and strategy for future development • Explain why you believe you are a successful retail business.

Havering Business Awards

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11. Small Business of the Year

12. Business of the Year Award

This Award is designed for sole traders or businesses with five employees or less, that are making an impact within their field.

This category will be awarded by the judging panel and is only open to the winners of each of the other categories. Each winner will be automatically considered. You cannot nominate yourself.

Entry Criteria • The business must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months before the closing date (24 June 2016) • The business must be based in Havering and be a commercial, profit-making business • The business must have less than five employees • Finalists must be available for judges to visit on Thursday 14 July.

Entry Questions

The judges will be looking for the business that best represents Havering in terms of its success, its commitment to the local area, its contribution to the local economy and its role as an ambassador representing the area on a wider stage.

Entry Criteria • The business must be a Havering Business Awards 2016 winner, and based in Havering.

Please answer each of the following questions in no more than 200 words.

• Demonstrate a strong business plan with a strategy and vision for the next 5 years • Provide evidence of business growth over the last 12 months • Demonstrate clear leadership and management with the ability to drive the business forward • Demonstrate a good understanding of the market and arrangements to respond to change.

• Explain your engagement in business-tobusiness activity • Provide evidence of funding arrangements and investment plans for the business.

13. Highly Commended Award This category will be awarded by the judging panel and is only open to finalists of each of the other categories. You cannot nominate yourself.

Each finalist will be automatically considered, after the winners have been chosen.

The judges will be looking for the business that was considered worthy of recognition for its success in their related category.